The Lair Wednesday May 7th, 2003 2:52:59 PM
The party heads into the dragon's lair as Hobbes casts his locate spell. The spell comes off, and Hobbes feels drawn to the crown over there closer to the water.
Feng hunts about for dragon tracks or the like. There are plenty of gouges in the floor all around the chamber from its claws. He notes that they have not iced over. However, there were no tracks in the passageway the party followed. Of course, if it flew...
Feng realizes that the chamber is larger than his detect evil spell can cover. If he stood in the center of the chamber it wouldn't reach either end.
If Rond uses detect magic, his senses are nearly assaulted. There are all sorts of magical items in the room.
Arien starts casting spells from scrolls. [if everyone could post the list of spell effects on them in their name field, that would be handy. Consider that Arien cast any scrolls you gave him, but when combat starts, if it doesn't say it by your name, then it isn't working.]
Feng [Detect Evil 60'] d20=7 Wednesday May 7th, 2003 10:07:19 PM
Feng slowly makes his way around the chamber leaving the others to deal with the treasure. He tightens his grip on his double axe in nervous anticipation of the worst yet to come. Feng tries to listen for any heavy breathing by a hidden dragon. [listen check 7]
Bill Troublefinder [3 Hrs: Str 16; Dex 25; Con 19; HP 81; AC 25; 90 Min: Fly; 1 day: Endure Elements (Cold); 50 min: Prot. fr Elements (Cold, Fire); Det. Magic] Thursday May 8th, 2003 1:15:28 AM
[As stated earlier, Bill empowers one person to fly - give some feedback, friends, so we know who that is.] Bill wears his ring of blinking, but does not activate it for the time being.
He takes a moment to inspect again the interior of his bag of holding, to ensure the things he might want to withdraw from it are accessible.
"Hobbes - would you like to say a prayer for us before we begin our explorations?" He waits long enough for the cleric to do so. [Note - he's not asking for the prayer spell, necessarily, just for a good word of petition and intercession. :-) ]
Bill picks up William, and suggests he stick with Arien for the time being.
The nomad then flies near the ceiling, learning what he might from closer inspection of the cavern's roof. He'll take a moment or two to inspect one or two of the lights - and find out whether all is ice, or a mixture of icicles and stalactites. Does he note fracture lines? After a bit he detects magic along the ceiling. Although his primary action at the moment is to examine the ceiling, every few moments he sweeps his eyes throughout the cavern. His path takes him in the general direction of the icy pool.
Renik (Invisible, Str 22, Dex 23, Con 17, HP 75, AC 24, Flying, Endure Elements (Cold), Prot. fr Elements (Cold, Fire) ) d8+1=7 d20+16=20 d20+26=33 d20+10=29 d20+10=17 d20+10=23 d20+2=21 Thursday May 8th, 2003 2:37:43 AM
Renik, still feeling the ache from the failed blink, quaffs a healing potion to restore himself to full health (CLW+1 potion: 7 HP cured).
Then, still invisible and flying, he moves out silently into the vast chamber, his every sense alert to danger, scanning the place for signs of their goal (and any other likely looking loot too).
He takes care to avoid straying underneath the stalegtites, and keeps a regular eye on the movement of his companions.
He pays particularly close attention to the icy lake, wondering if Dragons can hide underwater. He studies this area carefully.
Rond (Cat's grace +4, Endure cold) Thursday May 8th, 2003 2:44:29 AM
With no real evidence that the party is in trouble, other than for thinking it can take on a dragon. Rond does not prepare for anything like the rest of the group. Though he does make his potion of haste ready in case he needs it.
"If no one wants the fly, I'd suggest Hobbes so that he might be able to touch and heal us whereever we are"
Hobbes (Protection from Elements, Cold) Thursday May 8th, 2003 5:44:32 AM
Hobbes continues following the pull of the forked twig trying to maintain his concentration. As the group around him gets more tense, so does Hobbes a little. He mutters something which sounds of the gods and divine tongues, sufficing for a prayer to most people most likely. In actuality, it is the utterence of another spell. [Protection from Elements - Cold]
Finishing that, he nods to Rond's words and puts the Potion of Fly in his pouch.
[Feng has Endure Elements - Cold and Endurance cast on him as well]
Knock, Knock, Knocking (DMJK) Thursday May 8th, 2003 11:11:12 AM
Bill checks out the ceiling. They all look like icicles to him. He doesn't see any fracture lines either. Of course there are quite a few. It would take a good bit of time to check them all. The icicles with lights detect for magic, but nothing else.
Renik and Bill both see that the lake has a layer of ice over it. They'd have to actually go and check it to see how thick it is. If the dragon is hiding in the water, he's been in there long enough for it to freeze on top of him. Of course it is up against the cavern wall, who knows how deep it is, or if there's a cave down there filled with air, or if it heads underground and hooks up to another mountain, or if its filled with crazed mermaids. It's hard to tell much of anything except its an iced over pool of water and that there was no lake outside the mountain, at least not right at the base.
Renik wanders around looking for loot in the ice stalagmites (they're all ice, if there was a word for an inverted icicle, I'd use it.) He sees all kinds of interesting loot, a sword, lots of gold, is that a diamond? Surely not, it's way too big. The ice is clear and has been kept that way somehow, but it still distorts anything inside so you can't see it perfectly.
Bill empowers Hobbes to fly, while the cleric follows his rod and finds his goal. Near the pond, completely encased in ice, he finds the sword and the crown.
Feng doesn't hear any kind of heavy dragon breathing, but he does hear some sort of clanging noise in the corner. Everyone hears it pretty fast.
Investigation reveals another of those small doors behind a thin layer of ice. It's roughly in between the entrance chamber and the lake. Something is on the other side of it trying to get it. It doesn't seem like a dragon, and Feng doesn't get a feeling of evil.
{I've put up a rough map of the chamber. The main entrance is on the bottom edge. The lake is the blue spot in the top. The iced over door is on the left side. The blue spots are the ice columns on the floor. The bright blue spot is the ice column with Hororot's goodies inside. There are no marks for icicles on the ceiling. There is one for every floor spot plus a few extra. I'll put characters on the map after the next post. Keep in mind the scale. It's a huge chamber. You can't move all the way across it in a round of combat. Oh, yeah. The link for the map. Ice Cave Map 1}
Tratain;(Endure Cold, Bull Strength) d4+1=3 Thursday May 8th, 2003 2:51:52 PM
There are a few more loud knocks on the Door then they cease for a moment, some muttering can be heard from behind the door if you listen carefully [Bull's Strength]. Two more loud knocks and the door flies open shattering the thin layer of ice covering it. A human lands in a heap with a loud WHUMP and an oooof.
Tratain stands up and brushes himself off. He looks up and freezes for a moment, stunned to find anyone other than himself wandering around the mountain. He quickly composes himself.
"Umm, Hello there. I wasn't really expecting to find anyone wandering around the mountain here. Well some dwarves actually but you all don't look like dwarves."
Draax (Bull Strength +4, Str 23) d4+1=4 Thursday May 8th, 2003 5:01:58 PM
Draax drinks a potion of Bull Strength (+4) and smiles as he feel the surge of strength flow through his body.
Draax freezes for a moment when he hears the sound and listens to make sure that it was not his imagination. As he looks around at the looks on everyone's faces he is sure that it is for real. Readying his sword and shield, he heads over to where the sound is coming from. He takes his eyes from the door and looks over at Feng hoping that his detect evil will give some indication if it is the dragon or not. When the door burst inward Draax jump back a few feet and raises his shield in a defensive manner. As he notices the human getting off the floor, Draax stays in a defensive stance, not knowing if a dragon has the ability to polymorph into a human. Draax again, looks towards Feng to see if he detects any evil on the human.
When the stranger speaks Draax seems to relax although his nerves are still on edge. "Dwarves? I guess we could say the same about you. I am Draax by the way, well met"
Until he is given the OK, Draax will keep his shield half raised and keep the stranger at least a sword length away.
DMJK Thursday May 8th, 2003 8:18:33 PM
Tratain is our new character, played by Joe.
I'll let everyone roleplay the entrance/greetings as you see fit, then I'll step back in when it seems appropriate.
Feng Thursday May 8th, 2003 10:27:47 PM
Feng shakes his head indicating a negative response. He lowers his weapon slightly and gazes at the human. He man not be evil but alarms go off in the half-orc's head.
"You caught us by suprise as well. Perhaps you could give us the short version of how you ended up behind that door?"
Bill Troublefinder [3 Hrs: Str 16; Dex 25; Con 19; HP 81; AC 25; 90 Min: Fly; 1 day: Endure Elements (Cold); 50 min: Prot. fr Elements (Cold, Fire); Det. Magic] d6=2 d6=2 d6=6 d6=5 d6=1 d6=5 Friday May 9th, 2003 1:48:11 AM
Bill thinks about yelling down to Hobbes something about the icicles. However, since several of the sharp things are a few hundred feet directly above the cleric on the ceiling, he chooses discretion - and flies down to where Hobbes is. His detect magic still active, he focuses for a few moments on the crown and sword. He withdraws from his pocket a flask of alchemist's fire. He motions for Hobbes to step back, his fingers to his lips, then looks upwards to the ceiling, making a motion with his fingers as though drawing them to a sharp point. He also points toward the frozen water, signaling to Hobbes to keep a lookout.
Hovering just above and to the side of the mound of ice covering what he assumes to be Hororot's stolen treasure, he unstoppers the flask, and pours the contents over the ice, moving backwards away from the flames to observe what kind of job it does at melting the covering of solidified water. [2+2=4 hp of fire damage over a 12-second time span.] If it is at least a tiny bit effective, he repeats the experiment with a second flask of alchemist's fire. [6+5=11 hp fire damage to ice.] If adequate to melt the ice about the crown and/or sword, he takes up the item(s). If a bit more is needed, he'll try it a third time [unless it is obvious this method is not particularly effective] [1+5=6 hp fire damage to ice, total 21 hp fire damage to ice from three flasks]. If this procedure is working, but needs a few more flasks (not a dozen more - but maybe, say, three to five), he will apply them in a similar manner, guided by the results and his intellect - and any words of wisdom that Hobbes may have to offer. [OOC: Now that he's set off a huge trap, right?]
Meanwhile, he says to William, and through him to Arien and any members of the party within 60' of the mage, 'Hobbes found Hororot's crown and sword. My thanks to Gargul for the direction he gave his cleric. Am trying to melt the ice which encases it. Will put in bag after I wrap the sword - as soon as we get it out. How are things over there?' He also, inwardly, gives a nod towards Wardd for the find.
Being way over on the opposite side of the dragon's lair from the newly opened door, Bill may be vaguely aware something is happening there, but his focus at the moment, now that the original objects of their journey are within reach, is to recover the artifacts before being diverted elsewhere.
Arien (Protection from Elements:Cold, Mage Armor) Friday May 9th, 2003 2:58:12 AM
Arien finishes up casting the scrolls and moves into the dragon's chamber. He positions himself between the three central pillars of ice and the pillar to the north of the cluster. Arien watches the water since it seems so out of place, liquid water here where it was so cold. As he waits he casts Mage Armor on himself. For now Arien simply acknowledges the human with a nod of the head. Arien wasn't about to let himself be caught by surprise if he could help it.
Rond (endure cold, cat's grace +4) Friday May 9th, 2003 3:14:31 AM
Moving across the chamber and following Hobbes, Rond comes up short when the door is opened. Rond comes to full alertness when the door comes crashing open. When it turns out to Tratain, Rond relaxes a little bit.
Realizing the amount of sound that the opening door created, Rond thinks that either the Dragon is not here, or if he is, he knows about the group now.
"Do you know anything of where you are?" After pausing a second to hear the new comers response Rond will then introduce himself. "You can call me Rond, though we don't have much time for niceties right now. We would prefer not to meet the occupant of this chamber. We want to get out of here quickly. So if you'll excuse us we need to finish what we're here for, and then be heading out."
Renik (Invisible, Str 22, Dex 23, Con 17, HP 75, AC 24, Flying, Endure Elements (Cold), Prot. fr Elements (Cold, Fire) ) d20+10=19 d20+10=25 d20+26=30 Friday May 9th, 2003 7:43:59 AM
The rogue, still flying and invisible, watches the developments below him with interest, but does not participate. There will be time for introductions later, assuming they all live through this. For now he can serve the team best by remaining unobserved and watchful.
He remains near the center of the chamber, quitye high up, keeping a careful eye out for trouble (Spot 19, Listen 25, Hide 30).
Tratain (Bull's Strength, Endure Elements Cold) Friday May 9th, 2003 9:42:32 AM
Tratain Relaxes a little at the greetings, He is wearing a plain white robe secured by a belt at his waist, though he is clearly wearing armor underneath it. On his belt are a small case, a pouch, and a quiver holding several Bolts. A greatsword is strapped across his back with his pack. A Holy Symbol hangs from his neck, a Shield that has had continual flame cast upon it.
"Of course I know where I am, you don't come to the Scab by accident." He says Smiling. "This is or rather i should say was the citadel of the Smoking Mountain Dwarves, though they seem to be gone now, thier halls are empty, with nothing to indicate they were here except for the craftmaship used to create the underground Citadel, none can match the work of dwarves when it comes to shaping stone, actually you are the first people I have seen in the 3 days i have been exploring the Citadel."
"I left Plateau City Many months ago on a journey to meet these dwarves, It was rumored they had an Item in thier possesion...something Important...and i came to see if it was true, but I find for some reason that the dwarves have vanished, but according to my magic the item is still here, i followed the locating magic this way until i reached that door." Tratain Indicates the door behind Him. "I believe what i seek is in this chamber, or at least close by."
Tratain Continued Friday May 9th, 2003 10:03:52 AM
My Name is Tratain, by the way, Tain if its more comfortable or you need me in a hurry.
OOC - Can't believe i forgot to put my name in the last post :) And hello everyone
He did what with the alchemist's fire? - DMJK Friday May 9th, 2003 2:21:10 PM
Arien decides there isn't much that unusual about the pool. It is frozen over afterall, and most deep bodies of water don't ever freeze solid.
Since Tratain's holy symbol is visible, most of you, particularly Feng and Hobbes would be able to tell that it's a symbol of Domi.
My assumption is that Draax, Feng, Rond, and Tratain are near the new door.
Renik is flying up near the ceiling roughly in the center of the chamber.
Arien is near the three central pillars watching the lake.
Hobbes is near the ice column that he believes holds Hororot's crown, and Bill pulls out his flask of alchemist's fire in the ice cave and proceeds to pour it. As soon as he opens the stopper, the alchemical mixture comes in contact with the air and lights on fire. The vial gets hot instantly, and starts to burn Bill's hand. The heat makes it hard to handle effectively. (1 pt dmg, fort DC 15 to keep from spilling it all over yourself. reflex DC 15 after that to pour it in the suggested manner.)
Bill Troublefinder -To Melt the Ice [3 Hrs: Str 16; Dex 25; Con 19; HP 81; AC 25; 90 Min: Fly; 1 day: Endure Elements (Cold); 50 min: Prot. fr Elements (Cold, Fire); Far Hand] d20+12=30 d20+11=30 8d6(5+4+2+5+3+5+4+6)=34 Friday May 9th, 2003 3:13:43 PM
As Bill is protected for up to 12 hp of fire damage per round, the heat does not really bother him. [Note: Prot. fr Elements (Fire). Fort save 30; Reflex save 30.]
He looks up at Hobbes, and smiles. "Hmm - need to modify my approach a bit," he says quietly.
Another idea occurs to him, and he cuts more of the clean canvas, covers the ice with it, and gets some of his firewood, and lays it on the canvas about the ice-encased artifacts. That way, the flasks should help set the canvas & wood on fire, and provide additional melting power. The wood should outlast the canvas, of course.
He also cuts off, from one of his untreated tarps, a strip of canvas. He wraps the canvas around each flask before pouring it, so that the heat generated by the chemical reaction is absorbed by the cloth, and continues as he planned. He keeps the cloth away from the mouth of the stopper, wrapping it around the lower end of the flask. If, however, for some reason the flames cause problems, he will use the minor power far hand to manipulate the flasks and distribute their contents. He quietly counsels Hobbes to step back, and keep an eye out for falling icicles.
[Keeping the rolls for flasks #2 & 3 of d6=6 d6=5 d6=1 d6=5, and adding to them as much of the heat energy as may be required from up to four more flasks, as above with 5+4, 2+5, 3+5, and 4+6 fire damage. Remember, Bill has intelligence of 18, and I don't. He's going to go with something that works, and modify and refine his approach to be as efficient and effective as he can, using successive approximation as needed.]
Draax (Bull Strength, Str 23) Friday May 9th, 2003 7:13:32 PM
Draax listens as Tain greets the group and is greeted in return. He turn his eyes towards what use to be a door and a smile comes to his face.
Pointing toward the door. "Hey Tain is it? Tain is that a way out of here? You do know that this is the lair of a dragon? Anyway like Rond said, this is not the time for full explanations, but I am definitely interested if you know a quick way out of here."
Arien (Protection from Elements:Cold, Mage Armor) Saturday May 10th, 2003 3:34:47 AM
As Bill works on the items Hororot sent them for. Arien still keeps his senses fully alert, watching all the exits. He most definetly does not want to be caught unaware in the lair of the beast.
Renik Saturday May 10th, 2003 5:37:19 PM
The Rogue continues his arial surveillance. He hopes to himself that Bill has plenty more canisters of alchemists' fire. That diamond looked incredible, and the other things just left lying around...
An avaricious grin settles upon his invisible face.
Feng Sunday May 11th, 2003 10:19:31 PM
Feng steps forward to examine the new door. He is confident that the others will watch Tain. Feng normally doesn't care much for powerful magic unless they are needed to stop a great evil, but letting it fall into a white dragons hands isn't a good idea either.
Rond Monday May 12th, 2003 3:53:54 AM
Rond stands over 6 feet tall. With his own greatesword strapped to his back, along with a backpack on his back. Rond is carrying rather lightly from what you tell. Wearing his leather armor looks to be like he's not feeling the weight of the armor at all. Currently his one hand as a potion (haste) in it and the other has a scroll in it (fire shield).
Rond comments to Tain, "As long as what you seek is not over there" indicating where Bill is working " then we'll have no problem. Once we are away from here we might have more time to talk as long as you are friend and not foe"
Hobbes Monday May 12th, 2003 6:18:27 AM
Hobbes doesn't know what exactly Bill is doing as he begins his lengthy preparations with the fire and he is most definite he doesn't wish to find out directly. He moves around the ice column to make sure the locate object is indeed pointing there and then takes a wide birth toward the other half of the party with Tristain.
The tall cleric walks firmly toward the newcomer, his black plate armor now a bit frothy from the cold. He also wears a large helm, a long black and silver cape and is immersed in highly decorated and warm-looking black ceremonial robes.
"An Eye of Gargul am I. If you be friend, then what do you know of the dragon that resides here?"
Hobbes keeps his eyes wandering about the cave and doesn't stand in a clump with everyone but off to the side.
The Best Laid Plans - DMJK 7d6(3+5+2+6+4+2+1)=23 d4=3 Monday May 12th, 2003 10:23:18 AM
Some of the party starts making introductions to Tratain. Bill starts stacking up his firewood and canvas. He's pretty sure a fire on the wood would work, but he sets the canvas to it ignite more quickly. Hobbes grows a little impatient watching and moves over to meet the newcomer.
AS Bill gets an armload of wood out of his portable and Hobbes is about halfway across the chamber, the iced over lake booms explosively. It cracks and little shards shoot upward, and the dragon bursts through the ice.
It doesn't appear to have already known that you were all in its lair because it doesn't come in attacking everyone, but it immediately sees Bill with his armload of wood. It's right by him, and everyone else is so far.
It breathes directly at Bill as it tries to figure out what's going on. (23 points of frost damage, which the protection from cold spell promptly absorbs. reflex DC 25 for 1/2)
The Fear (DMJK) Monday May 12th, 2003 11:11:19 AM
The creature is deadly and imposing. Pure white like the snow, the light glimmers off its polished scales. Polished to reflection, they reflect the chamber like mirrors. Freezing drops of water drip down its back and off its wings.
The thing radiates power, and as it breathes on Bill, you all find yourselves in doubt. Can this mighty beast defeated?
Bill, Hobbes, Arien, and Renik are close enough, they need to save vs. Dragon Fear DC 19 or be shaken for 4d6 rounds.
Bill Troublefinder -To Melt the Ice [3 Hrs: Str 16; Dex 25; Con 19; HP 81; AC 25; 90 Min: Fly; 1 day: Endure Elements (Cold); 50 min: Prot. fr Elements (Cold, Fire)] d20+11=30 Monday May 12th, 2003 11:37:08 AM
Bill had in the back of his mind that the frozen pool was one likely entrance for the dragon. He was a bit concerned that Hobbes decided to move off, leaving him alone with Hororot's treasure, and left to his own resources for defense. Oh, well, let's get on with getting this thing melting down - and keep an eye out, Bill, since no one else is doing so.
The sound of cracking ice is distinctive. There was the year that the river froze over, and he and his friends had walked across and back to test it. Bill had made it back, and Buppo, and Borbo. But Carty and Frullin, along with his sister Nelki, were just about to shore when they all heard a sound like a spine cracking - only lots louder. Rays of cracks shot out, centered on Frullin, the biggest kid in the group. Carty jumped away, and almost made it to shore - we couldn't figure out why he didn't slip. But Nelki grabbed Frullin around the waist - and then the two of them sunk down. Luckily, it was only a little over Frullin's head, and he knew how to swim pretty well.
This memory shot through Bill's head as the ice broke up, and he looked over, almost expecting to see Frullin and Nelki going down. Nope, not them. It's a dragon. Quite a bit bigger than Frullin, for sure.
Hmmm - it's sucking lots of air into its lungs. Big lungs. Look at its sides swell up. Bill - wake up! It's gonna blast you!
With the logs in his arms, Bill brings those up to cover his face - the least protected part of his body at the moment - and manages to reduce the amount of the white dragon's icey breath that reaches him (Reflex save DC 30, damaged halved to 12, all 12 points absorbed by protection from elements, cold.)
After the cold blast passes, Bill realizes he needs to move quickly. What could help him more in doing so but his potion of haste? He takes it from his pocket (free action), and downs it. With the additional partial action the potion gives him, the little nomad takes a deep breath and dimension doors. Where? Right to the interior of the white dragon's left lung.
Bill Troublefinder - Will save vs. Dragon Fear d20+13=23 Monday May 12th, 2003 11:42:22 AM
[Was writing my post before your fear save post.]
Though it's big and fearsome, the plucky halfling is not overcome by fear of the dragon (Will save 23).
Renik (Shaken, Fly, Protection From Elements (Cold and Fire), Invisible) d20+2=9 4d6(2+3+1+4)=10 d20+16=23 Monday May 12th, 2003 3:27:00 PM
Renik turns, and his eyes widen in horror. Dear Gods of the Wold, the size of that thing! (Failed Will save, Shaken)
He feels the icy grip of horror about his heart, but even as he contemplates fleeing he sees his friends rush to join the fray. He cannot let them down! They will stand or fall together!
Swooping silently and invisible over the creature he lands in a position near the monster's hindquarters that will allow him to flank the dragon with one of his companions.
Then he downs the potion of Haste he was holding, and draws his second shortsword, ready to attack.
Move Silent 23
Tratain: AC 24 Bull's Strength +3(19str), Endure Elements Cold, Sheild of Faith Monday May 12th, 2003 5:12:31 PM
"A Dragon's lair you say? I haven't seen or heard of any dragon." Tratain hears the ice cracking and see's the Dragon Burst out of the Ice lake. "Oh that dragon..."
Tratain then Casts a Spell of Protection upon himself (Shield of Faith) and draws his Greatsword, ready to fight the dragon or cover the retreat through the door whichever his impromptu allies decide upon.
Hobbes (Protection from Elements - Cold, Prayer ) d20+9=22 Monday May 12th, 2003 6:20:15 PM
Hobbes hears the slam of the ice breaking behind him and knows at once what has caught up with them. He grabs hold of his holy symbol in his gloved hand and prays. It starts softly than rises to a shout, "Gargul et 'vas sivant Oules jein!" [Prayer]
Remembering he is in flight now he finally does so. Not high, but merely floats inches above the ground back away from the dragon. (But not too far from Tretain.)
Feng Monday May 12th, 2003 10:07:25 PM
Feng curses under his breath. He had let his guard down and now the dragon had arrived. Feng speaks the command word and his axe bursts into flame. Saying a prayer to the gods, Feng runs over to attack the dragon.
Draax (Bull Strength, Str 23) Monday May 12th, 2003 11:41:11 PM
At the sound of the cracking ice, Draax quickly turns and points his bow. He freezes for a second as he realizes what he is aiming at. For some reason the first thing he thinks about is that they did not get any of the treasure yet. He berates himself for letting he mind wonder, telling himself that he must be spending too much time with Renik.
Keeping his bow aimed at the dragon, Draax moves closer ensuring that he is within bow range before he attempts to fire off a shot.
Arien (Protection from Elements:Cold, Mage Armor) d20+4=22 d20+5=22 5d6(4+6+6+5+5)=26 Tuesday May 13th, 2003 2:31:15 AM
Arien watches as the dragon bursts out of the lake and focuses on Bill. Arien smirks and sets things into overdrive. Activating his boots of speed Arien falls into casting a spell, shouting the last words of the invocation Arien sends a fireball at the dragon.
(26 damage, spell dc: 22)
Rond (endure cold, cat's grace +4) Tuesday May 13th, 2003 3:25:26 AM
Hearing the crackling and breaking of the Ice, Rond comes awake with action as the Dragon emerges.
"So much for doing it the easy way." Rond mutters.
Concern floods Rond as his long time friend is attacked. without thinking Rond quaffs the potion of Haste.
IF Rond can he'll read off the scroll fire shield. If he cannot than he'll start to close with the Dragon. (ooc don't have books with me right now, unsure what I can do)
Rond notes that the stranger doesn't hesitate to join the fray.
Dragon Attack! (DMJK) Tuesday May 13th, 2003 10:14:26 AM
Bill gets blasted, and then he attempts to dimension door into the dragon's lung. Not having a clear conception of dragon anatomy, Bill's spell fails. He attempts to dimension door into the lung, but some odd bit of dragon anatomy gets in his way. Instead of finding himself inside the dragon, he finds that he winds up on the astral plane. He's floating in emptiness. (Will save DC25 to return to the prime plane at a random location within 100 ft)
The party sees the dragon breathe at Bill, and then he disappears.
Renik moves into place.
Across the room, Tratain casts his spell and draws his sword.
Not having ever reached Tratain before the ice broke, Hobbes casts his spell and floats back away from the dragon.
Feng lights up his axe and begins the long charge toward the dragon.
Draax focuses his shot and attempts to move close enough for short range.
Arien blasts the massive beast with a fireball.
Rond drinks the haste potion and uses the extra partial to cast fire shield. (which version?)
[Out of time. I'll finish up with the dragon's actions and the results of the fireball later today when I get a chance. We're in finals week, and it's screwing up my schedule.]
Hobbes (Matt) Tuesday May 13th, 2003 5:12:11 PM
[OOC: Just a reminder to both DM and all players that PRAYER is UP! Don't forget. It may mean the difference between life and death. ;) Also Feng, (not sure why you keep forgetting this) you have Endure COld and Endurance on you.]
Dragon Attack! pt 2(DMJK) [Hobbes' roll to beat dragon SR] d20+8=28 [Arien's roll to beat SR] d20+8=14 [bite attack] d20+22=37 2d6(3+2)+5=10 Tuesday May 13th, 2003 6:17:09 PM
Hobbes invokes Gargul's protection, and he grants the party his aid. His hands wrap and protect, and provide a measure of insulation from the dragon fear. Furthermore, the dragon fails to resist the spell, and Gargul turns his back upon the creature.
Arien's fireball explodes and shakes the icicles on the ceiling. Several fall and crash to the floor beneath. Fortunately for everyone, the icicles that fall are all above the stalgmites on the floor. Ice shatters and shoots shards everywhere, but no one is actually impaled. A side effect of the drop is that several of the pillars containing treasure are burst open. Gems and jewels are flung about the room. The pillars containing Hororot's crown is one of the ones smashed.
Fortunately for Arien, the triple pillars he's standing near seem well attached and do not fall.
Despite the carnage of the spell, the dragon resists. It doesn't seem to suffer from the flames at all. However, it seems to take minor damage from the ice shards.
The dragon moves to attack. With Bill out of the picture it focuses on Hobbes. It continues its upward flight from the bursting out of the pool and flies across the room and swoops down at the cleric. The neck strikes out fast like a snake and the huge horse size head filled with dagger like teeth snaps down. Hobbes supresses a scream as the fangs tear through his body. [AC37,dmg10]
The dragon crashes to the floor in the center of the room and screams out in triumph. It rises up on its hind legs and stares wickedly at the charging Feng.
[rolled SR for Hobbes and Arien for their spells to affect the dragon. For any future spells cast, please roll your own. I estimated caster level's at 8, which is probably high for Arien, but I didn't want to look it up. The roll is d20 + caster level.]
added new map. Letters indicate character placement. Blue dots indicate area of icicle collapse. ice cave map 2
Arien d20+5=23 d20+5=25 5d6(3+4+3+6+5)=21 5d6(5+3+6+5+6)=25 Tuesday May 13th, 2003 6:50:44 PM
Moving with supernatural speed thanks to his boots Arien casts two more fireballs at the dragon.
(SR checks: 23,25 Damage: 21,25 Save DC: 22)
Feng (Prayer, Endure Elements Cold) d20+31=45 d20+18=32 d8+17=22 d6=1 d6=4 d20+10=27 d8+9=12 d6=3 Tuesday May 13th, 2003 7:16:34 PM
OOC: Thanks for the reminder and also anybody within 10ft of Feng gets a +4 bonus to fear save from his aura of courage.
As Feng approaches the dragon he takes a gamble. Counting on the dragon to assume that his orc blood makes him stupid, Feng uses his ring of jumping and leaps 10ft into the air. [jump check 45 = 10ft] If he is wrong, Feng realizes that he coud be leaping right into a claw or the dragons mouth.
He calls upon the divine power that the gods blessed him with hoping to hurt the evil creature before him. He looks the dragon in the eye, showing no fear. His flaming axe spins in an arc at the white dragon.
[1st attack smite evil: hit ac 32 for 26 total damage. Used a hero point to reroll the d6 fire damage.] [2nd attack hit ac 27 for 15 total damage]
Tratain: AC 24 (Bulls Strength(19 str); Endure Elements Cold; Shield of Faith; Prayer) d20+2=6 d6=4 Tuesday May 13th, 2003 8:11:23 PM
Tratian goes through the gestures and Incants of another spell(Summon Monster IV). A Floating ball of Light(Lantern Archon) appears 40 feet away to the front and a little off to the left of Tratain. It flies to within 30 feet of the dragon and fires(If able) its Light Ray at the Dragon(Ranged Touch Attack hits Touch AC 6 for 4 points of damage). Tratain then advances towards the dragon as much as he is able.
Draax (Bull Strength, Str 23, Prayer) d20+3=8 d20+3=23 d20+15=20 d20+10=27 d6+5=11 Tuesday May 13th, 2003 8:54:47 PM
Draax moves within point blank range of the dragon and fights off the dragon fear (used hero point to reroll save 23). He fires off his first shot, watches his masterwork arrow goes flying away and wonders to himself how he can miss something so big by so much (hit AC 20). He takes a deep breath before firing off his second shot (hit AC 27 for 11 dmg if hit) hoping to get better results.
Kim - OOC question Wednesday May 14th, 2003 1:55:58 AM
How big is the dragon? What are its dimensions? On the map, based on the scale, it looks to be 120-130 long. Is it longer, shorter? I need to know this to determine Bill's next action.
Rond (haste, endure cold, cat's grace +4. fireshield (protecting against cold), prayer) Wednesday May 14th, 2003 3:13:52 AM
Continuing to worry about his friend, Rond hopes the dragon doesn't intend to move any more. Rond will read his summon swarm spell (effective lvl 19) and direct the creatures to attack the dragon's eyes. Once he's done with the scroll Rond will continue to close. Rond says a quick prayer to Wardd hoping that the swarm might effectively blind the Dragon.
If Rond gets close enough he'll pull his greatsword and activate its flaming ability. If not close enough to engage the Dragon next round, Rond will hold off.
Renik (AC 29 (Dodge, Haste) HP 75, Prayer, Shaken, Fly, Endurance, Bulls Str, Cat's Grace, Protection From Elements (Cold and Fire)) d20+13=15 d20+13=33 d20+13=14 4d6(1+3+5+5)+6=20 d20+8=15 d20+13=31 4d6(5+1+4+6)+6=22 4d6(2+6+5+6)+18=37 Wednesday May 14th, 2003 5:35:22 AM
(OOC: JK, I posted last time that my flight move was towards the rear of the dragon, but the current map still shows me still at the centre of the cavern, around 50 feet from the dragon, which was my starting position. I'm going to assume Renik is within 15 feet of the dragon and behind it, as per my previous post. It's your call, or course! :-)
The invisible Rogue mouths a silent prayer to Wardd, then leaps forward to attack, adopting a flanking position with Hobbes and/ or Feng.
His face twisted into a savage grimmace he rams his twin shortswords into the back of the dragon's hind leg with all the force he can muster, seeking out those areas where the Dragon's scales are thinnest (Sneak Attack). As his blows land he pops back into view, his Invisibility spell ended.
Once his attack is done the Rogue backflips away until he is just out of the dragon's range, dodging, weaving and ducking to avoid any retaliatory strikes.
(OOC: First Move: 15' in partial action (Haste). First Blow: hit AC 15, used Hero Point to reroll, AC 33 crit threat, missed, dmg 20 HP. Second Blow: Hit AC 15, miss. Third Blow: hit AC 31, dmg 22. Second Move: (Spring Attack) 15' to outside of dragon's reach, maintaining a flanking diagonal. Tumble: To avoid AoO during second move: 37.
Hobbes (Prayer, Protection from Cold) d20+9=24 d20+8=15 d20+8=23 4d8(1+2+4+5)+8=20 d8=7 d8=6 Wednesday May 14th, 2003 6:45:21 AM
Hobbes cringes and is dropped to the floor from the dragon teeth. He grumbles and gimaces, wondering how he managed to end up at its head so quickly, then shouts at the dragon, "It is TIME thou learneth thy Garglian Lesson! Unatte Etlif O't Jlik Mon!"
He touches the dragon hard on the snout. [Spell: Inflict Critical Wounds, Casting Defensively [Succeed with 24, needed 19] Touch Attack 15, Spell Resistance roll 23. Using 2 hero points to reroll 2 crappy dice. Total Damage: 30]
He then prays to Gargul quietly as this is about to hurt.
(DMJK) Wednesday May 14th, 2003 10:18:06 AM
It's like 120 feet long, but 30 feet or so is tail. And a lot of the rest is head and neck. So it has a pretty good strike radius. For ease of use, the A&G are definitely all body. The O&N are tail, and the D&R are head and neck. Maybe some body in part of the R. Use your imaginiation a bit.
And Bill's next action is getting back to the prime plane in a random location. He doesn't get to pick where he reappears.
Bill Troublefinder d20+13=26 Wednesday May 14th, 2003 12:25:05 PM
[Will save 26 (successful) for random relocation on the prime material.]
Dragon fight (DMJK) [d100 for Bill's random location] d100=20 [fireball save 1] d20+10=22 [fireball save 2] d20+10=19 [large icicle falling] 6d6(6+4+5+6+5+6)=32 [smaller icicles falling] 3d6(6+5+6)=17 [aid on Arien] d8=3 [swarm damage] d4+6=10 [save vs inflict] d20+11=28 d20+22=32 2d6(6+6)+5=17 [snatch Feng] d20+11=19 [right claw Hobbes, possible crit] d20+17=27 [left claw] d20+17=27 [dmg rt claw] d8+3=8 [dmg lt claw] d8+3=9 [left wing] d20+17=26 [right wing] d20+17=27 [left wing] d6+3=6 [right wing] d6+3=6 [tail slap] d20+17=32 d20+8=15 Wednesday May 14th, 2003 5:31:51 PM
Arien casts his fireballs. The dragon's wings deflect much of the blast of the first one from its body, but the second one catches it spot on.
The beast howls in pain as it roasts in the fire.
The explosions from the fireballs shake more of the icicles down from the ceiling. A gigantic icicle above the triple pillars near Arien come down this time, and while the mage isn't impaled. He is caught in a storm of shattering ice as the shards fly through the air. (32dmg, reflex DC15 for 1/2).
Two smaller columns near Rond, Draax, and Feng also fall. The shards bite into heroes and dragon alike. (17 dmg, reflex DC15 for 1/2)
Feng uses his ring to leap through the chaos and attack the dragon. Using the ring and jumping keeps him from being able to make the full attack. So, he is only able to hit it the first time, but the blade of his axe bites deeply. The paladin's lands right in front of the dragon.
Tratain summons the light archon and shouts commands at it. It has thoughts of its own and flies down to check on Arien. It casts Aid on him. [3 hp, +1 to rolls] Then it scoots off.
Draax's shoots his 2nd arrow through the dragon's left wing, and the creature howls. It doesn't seem to hurt the creature too terribly though.
Rond summons his swarm. Insects appear and swarm over the dragon's head. Rond finds that he has absolutely no control over the bugs once they appear, but the bugs roughshod over the dragon. They seem to be running over its head, but how much impact they have is hard to say. More than anything, they seem to really make it mad.
Rond moves in close and draws his sword.
Renik launches his sneak attack and becomes visible. He feels he gets two solid blows in. However, he has some trouble tumbling while flying. He's not used to making his moves on the wing. He winds up floating upside down, though roughly where he intended.
The dragon snarls at Hobbes as the cleric casts his spell. The dragon pales visible, as Hobbes touches it.
Bill reappears flying horizontally looking down at the ice about 15 feet off the ground.
The dragon, which is hobbily wounded and really ticked off goes ballistic.
It strikes at Feng and bites down hard. [AC32,dmg17] It clamps down and does not let go. The paladin is stuck fast in its jaws.
The dragon rakes Hobbes with its right claw. The talons slash through his armor like it was butter. [AC27, dmg 8]
With the left claw the dragon swats at the advancing Rond. The blow is hard, and he struggles to stay on his feet. [AC27,dmg9]
The dragon slaps the two men before it with its bony wings too. The left wing slams Rond [AC26,dmg 6] and the right one hits Hobbes [AC27,dmg 6].
As it focuses most of its attention forward, the dragon's tail snakes out and slaps Renik. [AC32,dmg15]
Arien (Protection from Elements:Cold, Mage Armor) d20+10=20 d20+5=21 d20+5=25 6d6(4+2+1+4+4+3)=18 6d6(3+4+6+6+2+1)=22 Wednesday May 14th, 2003 5:49:16 PM
Arien launches himself backwards as the icicle comes down he rolls as he hits and comes up near the pile of ice from the shattered icicle. Grinning wildly he launches another pair of fireballs at the beast, these two however came from scrolls he retrieved from his magical haversack as he tumbled.
(Relflex save: 20, evasion; SR checks: 21,25; damage: 18,22; Save DC:22)
Renik ((AC 29 (Dodge, Haste) HP 60, Prayer, Shaken, Fly, Endurance, Bulls Str, Cat's Grace, Protection From Elements (Cold and Fire)) d20+13=19 d20+13=16 20+8=19 d20+13=22 d20+13=32 d20+13=15 d20+18=27 4d6(3+6+3+6)+6=24 d20+18=33 Wednesday May 14th, 2003 6:13:01 PM
Renik, his head ringing with the force of the dragon's tail blow and his stomach in knots of terror, grits his teeth and continues to attack. The fury of their opening assault has seriously hurt the beast, he is certain. If only they can keep up this pressure before the dragon starts to thin their numbers!
He weaves through the air, getting to grips with these airbound gymnastics (Tumble 27), then hacks at the beast once more. His first two blows sail wide (1 Hero Point used and wasted), but his third bites home with deadly effect (24 HP dmg, 2nd Hero Point used, crit threat missed).
Then he reverses course rapidly, again weaving in the air to avoid any parting shots (Tumble 33).
Draax (Bull Strength, Str 23, Prayer, HP 70) d20+6=15 d20+15=33 d20+10=18 d6+5=11 Wednesday May 14th, 2003 9:01:26 PM
Draax notices that his arrows are doing little damage to the dragon, but decides to fire a few more before he does the inevitable.
He takes his eyes off the dragon for a second to get out of the way of a flying ice shard (saved DC 15 takes 9dmg) and tries to ignore the fragments that hit him. He fires off a couple of more arrows as he watches the dragon go into a rage (AC 33, 11 dmg). Realizing how much fun the others are having in close quarters with the beast, Draax prepares himself for his close encounter.
Tratain: AC 24 (Bull's Strength(19str);Endure Elements Cold; Shield of Faith; Prayer) d20+12=26 d20+14=16 Wednesday May 14th, 2003 10:37:56 PM
Tratain Thinks to Himself I really Should Learn how to talk to that little guy so I can get him to do what I want, well at least he's helping
Tratain Charges the Dragon (Save Vs. Fear 26) refusing to let its Huge size intimidate him, and attempts to strike the Dragon with His Greatsword (OOC: Not sure If i can reach this round If i can I'm Charging so effective AC is 22) but connects with nothing but Air.
Feng (Endure Elements: cold, Prayer, HP 48) d20+9=25 Wednesday May 14th, 2003 11:04:58 PM
Doing his best to dodge the ice shards [ref save 25], Feng doesn't notice the Dragon's jaws clamping down on him until it's too late. Groaning in severe pain feng curses himself for allowing himself to be distracted. Gripping his flaming axe in both hands, Feng stabs down hard into the soft tissue below the dragon's tounge.
OOC: Unsure of attack or damage considering his situation. I am picturing Feng bitten at the waist, half in and half out.
Bill Troublefinder, who does not easily give up [3 Hrs: Str 16; Dex 25; Con 19; HP 81; AC 25; 90 Min: Fly; 1 day: Endure Elements (Cold); 50 min: Prot. fr Elements (Cold, Fire); Hasted; My Light; Blinking] d10=7 d10=7 d10=6 d10=3 d100=60 d6=4 d6=2 d6=3 d6=6 Thursday May 15th, 2003 1:54:43 AM
Bill looks in the direction of the noise of combat as he activates his ring of blinking. He flies toward the dragon and aims for its side, trying to figure out where its lungs are, based on his past experience of seeing dragons, and the motion of the rib cage of the dragon as it breathes - and adjusted a bit based on his experience of a moment ago. He activates my light as he draws near, and blinks just as he gets near to the bright white scales along its rib cage. Entering the ethereal plane, he penetrates as far into the interior of the magnificent beast as he is able, going up to 18 feet into the center of its body, pulling his knees toward his chest so as to make himself more compact, and hoping to find the cavity of one of its lungs. Maybe even its stomach. If there is an interior cavity large enough for a small halfling (3'6" when he stands up tall, perhaps 2'6" when his body is wrapped up more like a ball) to fit in, he does so. With the light of his eyes providing him some feedback even when on the ethereal plane, he will contort his body to fit an odd nook or cranny, if such is possible. Once inside, should he succeed at his attempt, his hand goes in his pocket.
If 18-20 feet was not far enough to get into the lungs, stomach, intestine, or some other open cavity of the dragon, then Bill will be expelled into the nearest open space - whether an open lung or the like at up to 35 feet inside, or to the exterior of the dragon. The damage he will take in such an eventuality will be a function of how many five-foot units of solid matter he passes through. 4,2,3,6 are damage rolls for successive 5-foot units. [Please ignore d100=60 - that was to see the results of an action which, I realized, must wait at least until next round.]
If he does suffer damage as the result of blinking forwards or backwards, it may be that the dragon will suffer like damage.
Rond (haste, endure cold, cat's grace +4. fireshield (protecting against cold), prayer) AC 22 HP 54 d20+9=23 d6+4=7 d6+4=8 d20+12=16 d20+12=16 d20+12=24 d6+4=5 d6=3 d6=4 d20+7=9 d20+7=12 d20+7=9 d20+7=23 2d6(4+3)+4=11 d6=3 Thursday May 15th, 2003 4:31:49 AM
Reflex save=23 for 8 points. (would fire shield negate this? (I'm assuming no since this is impact damage, not cold damage).
15 points taken from Dragon. Dragon takes two fire shield attacks for 15 points (d6+4 for standard wizard casting of fireshield (d6 +1/lvl no stated max))
Snarling in return Rond really hopes that Wardd heard him earlier as he tries to attack the Dragon. Swinging his Greatsword at the dragon, Rond snarls in frustration when he cannot connect. Rond then hopes that the group is doing better overall than he is. Seeing that Feng is in trouble Rond uses his remaining movement to try to help Feng out of his predicament. (if previous attacks can connect with snout, then he'll jump at that).
party results (DMJK) [FB save 1] d20+10=30 [FB save 2] d20+10=26 [lantern atk1] d20+2=16 [lantern atk 2] d20+2=6 [lantern dmg 1] d6=4 [feng] d20+14=18 [ring against dragon SR] d20+8=11 [FS against dragon SR] d20+5=12 [FS against dragon SR] d20+5=17 Thursday May 15th, 2003 1:50:47 PM
In his hasted madness, Arien fireball's the dragon twice more. Caught in the dragon's mouth, Feng has to rely on the dragon's reflex to stay out of the blast. The dragon saves each time (so Feng does too).
Hobbes and Rond are also in the area of the blast. [save DC 22, dmg 18,22]
The two fireballs disperse the swarm that Rond had summoned.
Renik smacks down hard on the dragon, but not as hard as he would have liked. No sneak attack. It knows you're there, or it wouldn't have smacked you.
Draax shoots another arrow at the dragon and then moves into close quarters. Hopefully Arien won't fireball him too.
Tratain charges bravely, but his blade won't bite through the dragon's scales.
His archon pops up over his head and blasts the dragon with its light rays though. The first ray strikes and seems to do a little damage.
Rather than try to break free, Feng struggles to attack the dragon. He has little luck.
Bill tries to blink into the dragon, but its natural magic resistance forces him back.
[fire shield wouldn't negate shard damage, does hurt dragon though from when it attacked. I'll add in the dmg. The heat version won't protect from the fireball]
Rond tries to help free Feng, but he has little success.
dragon's turn (DMJK) 6d6(6+6+4+1+5+1)-1=22 Thursday May 15th, 2003 1:59:57 PM
The dragon flings Feng across the room. The halforc sails about 60 feet and crashes into one of the few remaining ice columns with a sickening thud. [22 dmg]
Then the creature leaps into the air and spreads its wings.
AoO for Rond, Tratain, and Hobbes. Not Renik since he tumbled out of the way and not Draax since he hasn't engaged in melee yet.
As it flies, it summons a fog cloud centered around Arien. The mage can't see more than 5 feet through the dense stuff.
Then the dragon beelines for the main exit. It sweeps its wings back and flies over the group before it and out into the main passageway.
You can chase it if you want.
Tratain AC 24 (Bull's Strength(19Str); Endure Elements Cold; Shield of Faith; Prayer) d20+14=30 2d6(2+5)+9=16 4d8(6+7+6+2)+7=28 Thursday May 15th, 2003 2:22:51 PM
Tratain attempts to strike the Dragon as it tries to flee (AoO Hit AC 30 - 16 points of damage)
Seeing as how he will never catch a Dragon in flight Tratain will run over to Feng and try to see if he is all right, and will Heal him if he needs it. I will cast Cure Critical wounds on Feng if he accepts it, and I am able to do it this round - Healed Feng for 28
Tratain : One More thing Thursday May 15th, 2003 2:39:38 PM
Tratain will also Intercept the Next attack ment for Feng.
OOC: I'm not sure which way feng was thrown and which way the dragon was going, but if I can get there and the dragon attacks him again I take the Next Hit, (Protector Ability)
Renik d20+11=23 d20+7=15 d20+11=27 d6+6=12 Thursday May 15th, 2003 3:29:45 PM
"Don't let it escape" yells the rogue, racing after the fleeing beast. As he sails through the air at full speed, his swords poised to strike he cries "It's hurt badly! Now is our best chance to kill it, before it can hide or heal! Hit it with everything you have! More fireballs! More arrows! Bill, hit it with your sound blast!" The rogue doesn't realise in his excitement that Arien is effectively blind.
If he manages to catch the dragon after his move he attacks again, striking home only once (AC 27 for 12 HP)
JK Thursday May 15th, 2003 4:42:50 PM
Map as of the end of my last post. Dragon is heading out that entrance and moving very fast. Rond and Bill are at the edge of the fog. It rises up 20 feet. Renik is above it.
Draax (Bull Strength, Str 23, Prayer, HP 70) Thursday May 15th, 2003 10:33:06 PM
Draax draws within melee range of the creature and then watches it fly toward the exit. He would not have believed it if he has not seen it for himself, the thing was actually running. He takes off after it; skimming the edge of the fog, but knows he is not fast enough to catch it. He hopes someone can slow it down long enough for him to catch up.
Feng (Endure Elements: Cold, Prayer, 54hp) Thursday May 15th, 2003 11:03:36 PM
"Much appreciation Tratain. You have proven yourself to be a good and noble person. Now let us hurry before the beast returns." Feng rises to his feet and looks around the cavern.
"My friends let us fill our packs with all we can and be gone before the creature returns. It might be best to complete our quest and return to finish the dragon at a later time. Now that we know what we are up against, we can prepare better and we need to get back to the meeting place before it is too late."
If the dragon truly leaves and isn't turning around for a charge, Feng will start filling his pack. He thinks about grabbing the sword and crown but those items would be safer in Bill's hands.
Note for Arien - the fog does not affect William, who easily can see through it (-Kim) Friday May 16th, 2003 3:01:31 AM
[Bill earlier explained in the hearing of all that William can see quite well in a 40' radius. William is with Arien.]
Bill Troublefinder [3 Hrs: Str 16; Dex 25; Con 19; HP 81; AC 29; 90 Min: Fly; 1 day: Endure Elements (Cold); 50 min: Prot. fr Elements (Cold, Fire); Hasted; My Light] d20+7=12 d20+11=23 Friday May 16th, 2003 3:53:15 AM
Ending his fruitless blinking as the dragon slides by on its exit beneath him, Bill, fairly close to Renik, flies by him, passing him the portable hole. "Take this. I'll be in touch."
Bill dimension doors to the surface of the circle of ice the party spent so much time arguing about earlier, several hundred feet above the large tubular shaft the dragon now enters.
At a point roughly ten feet from the center, the halfling invokes the power that so many times before shook the ground, knocking down those standing upon what they thought to be a stable surface. He stomps the ice, setting up a violent vibration from where his foot lands, outward in a cone twenty feet wide. [Spell effect not subject to spell or power resistance, vis Psionics Handbook, p. 101.] The psychokinetic shock rattles the ice [presumably], causing large chunks of it to break the smooth symmetry, and fall down with ever-increasing speed, second by second approaching terminal velocity as the pieces pass through the air of the long passageway.
[And, JK, if one stomp does not do it, but only serves to weaken the ice, Bill follows up with a second stomp three seconds later. Only if the first does not quite do the job.]
Bill hopes that some of the ice meets with the ascending dragon.
Not waiting around too long after breakup, Bill pulls from his bag of holding his specially prepared canvas, keeping it wrapped neatly, and bundling it gingerly on his chest [dex check 12 to handle it with care, and avoid breaking the enclosed alchemist's fire and tanglefoot bags]. Grateful for the added strength in his arms due to the scroll Arien read for him, the nomad begins flying down the shaft, ready to deploy the canvas on the ascending dragon. Beams of light shine brightly from his eyes.
While all this goes on, he maintains telepathic contact in quick bursts with psicrystal William, letting him know, and through him, all within 60 feet of Arien, what he is doing. [i]'I'm breaking the upper ice. Renik - bring the others. The white may come this way, or may decide to change shape, and go through the dwarfs' passageways. We must pursue.'[/]
[Although this may be premature - IF Bill meets up with the ascending dragon - 23 is the ranged touch attack for the tarp vs. the dragon. I don't know whether any bonuses might accrue for the huge size of the target. Recall the tarp has embedded tanglefoot bags, alchemical fire, lamp oil, many slits in the canvas, which may easily catch on scales and such, also ropes and light lead weights, and a few pieces of firewood. Bill intends, whether as part of the attack, or as a followup, to take hold of the dragon somewhere on its scales, and hang on for all he's worth. Hey, if it tries to swallow him, that's fine, too!]
Rond (haste, endure cold, cat's grace +4. fireshield (protecting against cold), prayer) AC 22 HP 23 d20+9=27 d20+9=13 d20+9=14 d20+12=32 d20+12=32 2d6(4+6)+4=14 2d6(1+3)+4=8 d6=3 d6=2 Friday May 16th, 2003 4:54:04 AM
(one save, one hero point, no save. 9+22 for 31 points damage.)
Caught by surprize by the fireball that Arien launched. Rond is able to dodge only one of the two fireballs. Rond stares at the after image for a second as he didn't think Ariens fireballs would get that big!
Mumbling under his breath, "I'm beginning to really not like some spells"
Realizing that the Dragon is trying to take off Rond calls out, " Where's that tarp trick we were so worried about?"
Worried about trying to keep the creature on the ground, Rond has an instant of clarity as he strikes truly on the Dragon with this greatsword. Critical Strike for 22 points of weapon damage. 3 or 5 points of fire damage.
(ooc I didn't think the fire damage would double, but rolled it just in case).
Glad that he's at least hasted, Rond does his best to keep up with the Dragon, if not attack again. "How about a fireball in the exit?".
If the Dragon for sure is going to outdistance Rond with no problems, then he's going to worry about scooping up the crown and sword, and then follow afterwards.
Hobbes (58 Damage, Prot. from COLD, Prayer) d20+2=19 d20+10=11 d20+3=18 d20+3=19 Friday May 16th, 2003 6:33:12 AM
Hobbes stares wide-eyed and protective ready for another thrashing as the dragon flees...and lets him! He regains his composure and flies back to the location of the crown quickly....VERY quickly. He makes a diligent search for both it and the ivory hilted sword. Once he finds them, he picks them up and holds on TIGHT.
[Search 19 Spot 11 Stupid 1!!!!!!! Hahaha]
As he stands there, his face as black as his armor, he contemplates the immense pain of the burns on his body and how friendly fire isn't...
dragon flight (dmjk) Friday May 16th, 2003 12:14:58 PM
Tratain fires a parting shot at the dragon and runs over to help Feng.
Renik starts to chase after the dragon, but despite his flying potion, he has no hope of catching it. He realizes that there are few creatures in this Wold that move faster than a dragon in flight. Renik makes it to the far side of the fog, but the dragon makes it out the door.
Draax runs a few halfhearted strides after the fleeing dragon, but he quickly realizes that he has no hope of chasing it down while he's on foot.
Feng, healed by Tratain, gives a quick little speech and starts randomly snatching up loot.
Bill finds that with Renik moving full speed ahead after the dragon, that the rogue doesn't really have the time to stop by to accept the portable hole. He can drop it or bring it with him. Then he summons up the dimension door. The other end lies at the far end of how far a gap Bill is able to bridge, and he steps through. After stepping through the dimension door, Bill has a brief moment of disorientation, and despite the haste, he is unable to cast stomp this round, much less get out the tarp.
Rond takes his parting shot, then he and Hobbes scramble to find the crown and sword. It'll take a minute to find again. There are junks of ice covering everything in that section of the cave.
The dragon heads out the door and angles upward. Presumably it's flying up the shaft toward little Bill, but it could be doing anything.
dmjk Friday May 16th, 2003 12:17:40 PM
I'm not going to redo the map this time. Renik made it to the far side of the fog. Tratain moved over by Feng. Rond and Hobbes moved over by where Hororot's goodies are supposed to be. Bill is up on the ice, and the dragon is out of the chamber, somewhere in the shaft.
Draax (Bull Strength, Str 23, Prayer, HP 70) Friday May 16th, 2003 4:40:58 PM
Draax curses under his breath as he realizes that he cannot catch up to the dragon. He does not believe that the dragon has quit the fight and letting it recover would be a terrible mistake, but he knows that there is nothing he can do about that right now. Still mumbling under his breath, he looks over at Feng and begins picking up any weapons, jewel, gems, and items that he can find. He places any weapons that will fit in his Quiver of Ehlonna is the quiver and any jewel, gems and items in his backpack.
Hobbes [Protection from Cold, Prayer] Friday May 16th, 2003 5:22:36 PM
Hobbes pauses his search as the pain is getting a bit much. He takes small jar out of his pouch and starts spreading the contents over his face. He visibly looks relieved when he is through.
[Using a dose of Keoughtom's Ointment. Healed up]
Tratain AC 24 (Bull's Strength(19str); Endure Elements Cold; Shield of Faith; Prayer) Friday May 16th, 2003 10:27:47 PM
After Seeing to Feng Tratain heads after the Dragon to see if it really is gone or just hiding a little around the corner, He slows as he approaches the shaft not wanting to give the dragon the element of Surprise if it should turn out it didn't just keep on going.
Arien (Mage Armor, Protection form Cold, Haste) d20+6=20 Saturday May 17th, 2003 2:37:16 PM
After finally getting his bearings in the fog cloud Arien bursts out and looks around wildly to see the dragon's tail as the beast flew into the passage and away from the party. With the aid of his boots Arien speeds after the beast, pulling another fireball scroll out of his haversack as he does.
Renik ((AC 29 (Dodge, Haste) HP 60, Prayer, Shaken, Fly, Endurance, Bulls Str, Cat's Grace, Protection From Elements (Cold and Fire)) Sunday May 18th, 2003 5:09:06 PM
The rogue blinks at the speed with which the dragon makes its gettaway. "Wow! Those things can move!" he whistles.
He sees the fallen hole left by Bill, and swoops down to retrieve it. Then he too flies after the dragon, hoping that they can do some more damage before it gets away and heals itself. He sheaths his swords, and readies his bow instead.
Feng (Endure Elements: Cold, Prayer, 54hp) Sunday May 18th, 2003 10:29:50 PM
As Feng gathers loot he listens for a rush of air that could come from flapping dragon wings.
Bill Troublefinder [3 Hrs: Str 16; Dex 25; Con 19; HP 81; AC 29; 90 Min: Fly; 1 day: Endure Elements (Cold); 50 min: Prot. fr Elements (Cold, Fire); Hasted; My Light] Monday May 19th, 2003 12:55:37 AM
At a point roughly ten feet from the center of the horizontal ice wall, the halfling invokes the power that so many times before shook the ground, knocking down those standing upon what they thought to be a stable surface. He stomps the ice, setting up a violent vibration from where his foot lands, outward in a cone twenty feet wide. [Spell effect not subject to spell or power resistance, vis Psionics Handbook, p. 101.] The psychokinetic shock rattles the ice [presumably], causing large chunks of it to break the smooth symmetry, and fall down with ever-increasing speed, second by second approaching terminal velocity as the pieces pass through the air of the long passageway.
[And, JK, if one stomp does not do it, but only serves to weaken the ice, Bill follows up with a second stomp three seconds later. Only if the first does not quite do the job.]
Bill hopes that some of the ice meets with the ascending dragon.
[If the first stomp was adequate for ice breakup, Bill immediately begins this next action.] Not waiting around after breakup, Bill pulls from his bag of holding his specially prepared canvas, keeping it wrapped neatly, and bundling it gingerly on his chest [dex check 12 to handle it with care, and avoid breaking the enclosed alchemist's fire and tanglefoot bags]. Grateful for the added strength in his arms due to the scroll Arien read for him, the nomad begins flying down the shaft, ready to deploy the canvas on the ascending dragon. Beams of light shine brightly from his eyes.
While all this goes on, he maintains telepathic contact in quick bursts with psicrystal William, letting him know, and through him, all within 60 feet of Arien, what he is doing. 'I'm breaking the upper ice. Renik - bring the others. The white may come this way, or may decide to change shape, and go through the dwarfs' passageways. We must pursue. Watch for falling ice.'
[Although this may be premature - IF Bill meets up with the ascending dragon - 23 is the ranged touch attack for the tarp vs. the dragon. I don't know whether any bonuses might accrue for the huge size of the target. Recall the tarp has embedded tanglefoot bags, alchemical fire, lamp oil, many slits in the canvas, which may easily catch on scales and such, also ropes and light lead weights, and a few pieces of firewood. Bill intends, whether as part of the attack, or as a followup, to take hold of the dragon somewhere on its scales, and hang on for all he's worth. Hey, if it tries to swallow him, that's fine, too!]
Rond (haste, endure cold, cat's grace +4. fireshield (protecting against cold), prayer) AC 22 HP 23 Monday May 19th, 2003 2:02:30 AM
"Assume he's coming back and get healed up as we get the crown and the sword. As soon as we have the sword and crown in hand lets consider leaving and hoping that he doesn't care too much about one or two items."
Rond then continues to search & move towards where the crown and sword are.
Pursuit (DMJK) 3d4(3+2+4)+3=12 Tuesday May 20th, 2003 11:30:08 AM
Tratain, Renik, and Arien pursue the dragon and head out into the chamber as Bill shatters the ice up above.
The ice gives way with a loud crash after cracking into small pieces and tumbling into the darkness below. Bill notes that the spiral ledge catches the outer edges of the ice, and only the center falls all the way down. Bill gets his tarp close to his chest and flies down behind the ice. The beams of light making him quite visible in the darkness.
Draax and Feng scramble for loot as Hobbes heals himself with the ointment. Rond continues looking through ice chunks for the crown and sword.
Following the dragon, Tratain, Renik, and Arien find that it didn't go very far afterall. It has perched on the spiraling ledge of the shaft about 100 feet above the ground level, directly opposite the entrance to the cavern.
It shrieks when it sees them approach and it blasts Arien with a magic missile as soon as the mage is partially visible. (12 dmg) Then they see it glance up the shaft and hiss. There is some sort of light way up there, and its coming down.
It would take about 8 rounds for someone to run up the spiral to get to where the dragon is, fewer if hasted. Renik could make it in a round.
Bill is 500 feet above the dragon. Flight is 90 feet per round, and it isn't increased by haste or anything since it's a spell effect and not natural movement.
Arien d20+5=20 5d6(6+2+5+5+5)=23 Tuesday May 20th, 2003 12:43:50 PM
Arien grimaces as the magic missiles hit him and targets the dragon with the spell off his scroll, another Fireball.
(SR Check: 20, Damage: 23, Save DC: 22)
Bill Troublefinder Tuesday May 20th, 2003 1:54:26 PM
[OOC: From the Fly power description (underline added): "The power's subject can fly at a speed of 90 feet (60 feet if the creature wears medium or heavy armor). The subject can fly up at half speed and descend at double speed. The flying subject's maneuverability is good. Using the fly power requires as much concentration as walking, so the subject can attack or manifest powers normally."[i] Thus, Bill's descent is at least 180. I [i]think the haste would increase the speed, but won't argue that point.]
As Bill continues his descent, he again warns his companions via William of the approaching ice. 'Stay to the sides - ice falls in the center.'
He is prepared to alter his course one way or another should the dragon try to fly past him.
Renik (AC 29 (Dodge, Haste) HP 60, Prayer, Shaken, Fly, Endurance, Bulls Str, Cat's Grace, Protection From Elements (Cold and Fire)) d20+13=20 d20+8=19 d20+13=27 d8+3=8 Tuesday May 20th, 2003 4:01:22 PM
Heading William's warning, Renik is glad he'd readied his bow, the rogue lets fly with one arrow after another.
It takes him acouple of shots to find his range, but the third arrow finds its target (AC 27 for 8 HP).
"Keep hitting it!" he yells. "We've got it on the ropes!"
He calls back to his companions in the ice cavern "It's in the shaft! We're going to need backup, guys!"
Draax (Bull Strength, Str 23, Prayer, HP 70) Tuesday May 20th, 2003 4:47:58 PM
When he hears Renik's call, Draax secures whatever treasure he found, grabs his bow and runs towards his companions.
Feng (Endure Elements: Cold, Prayer, 54hp) Tuesday May 20th, 2003 7:30:41 PM
Feng follows Draax when it has become clear that his companions won't stop until the dragon is dead. He would like to just leave without further confrontation but must do what he can to make sure nobody dies.
Tratain AC 24 (Bulls Strength(19str); Endure Elements Cold; Shield of Faith; Prayer) Tuesday May 20th, 2003 7:49:45 PM
Tratain readies himself incase the dragon should fly back down, if it does he will attempt to attack it.
Rond Wednesday May 21st, 2003 12:57:22 AM
(ooc If I follow the map correctly it's at least 200 feet to the entrance to where the dragon disappeared.)
If Rond can hear Renik calling out, Rond will answer, "You'll have to drag it back to where those of us on foot can reach it. Otherwise it's going to take a little while for us to catch up to you guys."
If Rond doesn't hear what Renik calls out, then Rond will continue to look for the sword and crown, but keeps his eyes and ears out for if the dragon returns.
Hobbes (Prayer, Protection from Cold, Flying) d20+10=19 d20+2=10 Wednesday May 21st, 2003 5:26:19 AM
Wisely staying out of the friendly fire area, Hobbes continues to help Rond look for that blasted crown and sword! (Spot 19 Search 10)
DMJK [fb save] d20+10=28 [claw atk] d20+17=33 [claw dmg] d8+3=10 [bite] d20+22=24 [bite dmg] 2d6(6+2)+5=13 [claw] d20+17=27 [lantern] d20+2=18 [lantern dmg] d6=2 Wednesday May 21st, 2003 10:26:44 AM
The fireball blasts the dragon as Renik peppers it with arrows, most of which seem to bounce off.
Bill races down with net in tow.
The dragon glances upward sizing up its situation. Then it turns and leaps at the group in the doorway just as Renik says it's on the ropes. The rogue has time to think about what happens when a frightened dog is backed into a corner, and he translates dog to dragon just as it swoops down right at Arien and snatches him up in its right claw. [AC33, dmg 10]. Then it bites the pesky fireball man [AC24, dmg 13]. Held in the right claw, Arien will have difficulty getting out another scroll, much less reading it.
It swats at Renik with the other claw, but the nimble rogue tumbles out of the way. [AC27]
Tratain's summoned archon steps up to defend everyone from the powerful dragon and zaps it with its mighty light ray for 2 pts damage.
Tratain can have an extra set of attacks with his next post since he held them.
On the far side of the chamber, Rond and Hobbes keep hunting for the crown. Hobbes sees the crown, there under that big chunk of ice. Maybe the sword is by it.
Feng and Draax run full out toward the doorway. Just to be nice, they'll make it next round.
Tratain AC 24 (Bull's Strength(19str); Endure Elements Cold; Shield of Faith; Prayer) d20+14=25 2d6(5+6)+9=20 d20+9=23 2d6(4+5)+9=18 d20+14=17 d20+9=23 2d6(1+3)+9=13 Wednesday May 21st, 2003 12:27:42 PM Attacks from last round As the Dragon Swoops in and grabs Arien Tratain tries to strike it (Hit AC 25 for 20 Damage,and AC 23 for 18)
{i] This round [i/] Tratain Continues his assault upon the Dragon hopeing it will fall soon (Hit AC 17, no chance :) and AC 23 for 13)
OOC this should be round 6 of 7 for the Lantern Arcon
Renik (AC 29 (Dodge, Haste) HP 60, Prayer, Shaken, Fly, Endurance, Bulls Str, Cat's Grace, Protection From Elements (Cold and Fire)) d20+18=31 d20+13=32 d20+13=17 d20+8=27 d6+6=10 d6+3=6 d20+13=31 d8+4=7 Wednesday May 21st, 2003 4:14:09 PM
(OOC: Not sure if Renik gets an AoO as the Dragon swoops towards him; if so fires an arrow that strikes home (AC 31 for 7 HP).
Renik whips out his twin shortswords and lashes out at the dragon striking twice (Draws swords in partial action, then full attack, AC 32, missed crit for 10 HP, AC 27 for 6 HP).
Even as a savage grin twists his features he feels himself begin to slow back down to normal speed; the Haste potion begins to fade (Hasted this round, not next).
Arien (Mage Armor, Protection from Cold, -1 hp) Wednesday May 21st, 2003 8:11:03 PM
As the dragon's maw speeds at Arien he stares at it a moment before remarking with a faint smile, "Well this was fun." As the teeth tear his body the color drains from his face and he slumps back against the claws holding him.
Bill Troublefinder [3 Hrs: Str 16; Dex 25; Con 19; HP 81; AC 29; 90 Min: Fly; 1 day: Endure Elements (Cold); 50 min: Prot. fr Elements (Cold, Fire); Hasted; My Light] d20+3=21 d20+7=18 Wednesday May 21st, 2003 10:23:24 PM
As he continues his fast descent, Bill observes in sharp relief the red and yellow light from the fireball reflecting off the dragon's white scales. Is that Renik down there? One arm holding fast to the tarp (strength check 21, dex check 18), and the other he uses to reach into his pocket. He withdraws a feather, and tucks it carefully into his waistcoast. The flying psionn again takes the tarp in both arms, taking hold of the key lead ropes for the unfurling he anticipates in the near future.
He again concentrates to see if he can tell whither moves the dragon.
Draax (Bull Strength, Str 23, Prayer, HP 70) d20+14=34 d20+14=24 d20+9=23 d6+5=10 d6+5=11 d6+5=6 Wednesday May 21st, 2003 11:54:43 PM
If he gets within firing range, Draax will pull two of his magical +1 usable arrows and shoot them at the dragon (AC34, 10 dmg if not crit, 26dmg if crit). Seeing Arien's limp form in the dragons mouth guides his first arrow for a direct hit. He tries to mark the area where his second arrow falls as it flies pass the dragon.
Rond (haste, endure cold, cat's grace +4. fireshield (protecting against cold), prayer) AC 22 HP 23 Thursday May 22nd, 2003 1:05:20 AM
(ooc no comment on whether Rond heard the call)
Rond continues to rummage around and assist Hobbes with the finding of the objects. Rond doesn't realize how serious the situation might be out in the tunnel.
Hobbes d20+2=14 4d8(4+7+8+3)+8=30 Thursday May 22nd, 2003 3:15:42 AM
Hobbes immediately shouts, "There it is, Rond! Help me with this!"
He then notices Ronds unusual coloring of red (blood), white (frost) and black (fireball). "You too, eh?"
He lays a gentle hand on his back and utters some healing words. [Cure Critical Wounds for 30 hp on Rond]
He then tries to grab it or lift the ice off, whichever he needs to do. If it's a matter of lifting he will assist Rond in that (not the other way around.) [Assist successful on strength check. Rond gets +2 on his "lift ice" roll. Then again if Rond doesn't lift it Hobbes' 14 will hopefully do it.]
JK - ooc Thursday May 22nd, 2003 11:26:40 AM
[egad, I've lost my post-it with the dragon's hitpoints. Let's see, it had about 387 left. No. no. That's not right. Dang it. It isn't in the trash. Where could it be? I'm not going to add it back up. We'll just be guessing generously, about 50 points in the party's favor I imagine.]
Lantern Archon (jk) d20+2=11 d20+2=20 d6=1 Thursday May 22nd, 2003 11:33:19 AM
The mighty archon blasts away with its heavenly light ray. The dragon reels in agony. (1 dmg)
The lights help Bill make out the form of the dragon on the floor of the shaft. He can tell its closed in combat with some of the party.
Dragon Fight (dmjk) [ice fall] 4d6(5+4+2+3)=14 [claw damage] d8+3=7 [bite] d20+22=28 [claw] d20+17=34 [claw dmg] d8+3=9 [wing] d20+17=28 [wing dmg] d6+3=8 Thursday May 22nd, 2003 11:56:36 AM
Renik, Tratain, and Draax dish out what damage they can. In such close quarters, they're able to see just how serious its wounds are. It's bleeding profusely and has some rather serious looking burns. Nevertheless, it hasn't given up the fight. Indeed, it seems all the more desparate to survive. The three know without a shadow of a doubt that if the whole party had attacked the creature when it swooped at Arien, the creature would be dead now.
Then Bill's ice shower hits. The dragon's too large a target to dodge out of the way, but it's magical hide is clearly touger than all but the largest chunks of ice.
Closed with the dragon, Renik and Tratain are also in danger. (14 dmg, Reflex dc15 to negate)
When the first batch of ice hits, the dragon unleashes a quickened gust of wind up the shaft without a second thought. The gust whips any secondary ice particles into the walls of the cave, and it causes Bill some difficulty in flight. Worst of all, the wind threatens to unfurl Bill's tarp before he's ready. (Str dc 15 or lose the tarp)
Apparently still miffed about the fireballs, the dragon squeezes the unconcious Arien in its claw (7dmg).
Then it savagely assaults Tratain and Renik. It tries to bite Renik, but the nimble rogue dances away from the jaws of death.
It strikes at Tratain with its other claw, and the magical talons pierce right through his armor (AC34, 9dmg)
It strikes Tratain with the left wing. He feels a rush of wind as it nearly slaps him to the ground. (AC28, 8dmg)
It is unable to hit anyone with the other wing.
Feng arrives.
-----------------------------
Apparently oblivious to the life and death struggle at the chamber entrance, Rond and Hobbes pull the crown from the ice. When they pull it free, they also discover the sword. Finding the items was the difficult part, they are easily freed. Each item is cool to the touch, presumably because they were recently encased in ice.
Lantern Archon (jk) d20+2=3 d20+2=18 d6=4 Thursday May 22nd, 2003 11:59:00 AM
Never one to give up on people in need, the bobbing lantern fires away with more light blasts. The dragon's scales simply deflect one away, but the other strikes. This time the dragon truly does wince in pain, and it gets a look of fear in its eyes for the first time.
Tratain AC 24 (Bull's Strength(19 str); Endure Elements Cold; Shield of Faith; Prayer) d20+17=29 d20+12=25 3d8(2+4+1)+7=14 d20+14=25 2d6(4+4)+9=17 d20+9=14 d8=6 d20+7=9 Thursday May 22nd, 2003 12:29:06 PM
Tratain Oblivious to everything but the Dragon and the Mages plight is quite surprised when a big chunk of ice hits him on the head.(Failed Save with a 9)
Seeing the Dragon viscously squeeze the unconcious mage, Tratain tries something drastic, he is going to attempt to heal Arien while he is still held in the Dragons claws (Casting Cure Serious Wounds Defensivly 29 vs DC 18, Rolled 25 for touch attack on Arien if needed to actually hit him with the spell Healed Him for 19 (rerolled the 1 on the healing almost forgot)
If that is impossible Tratain will just attack the dragon with his sword. (First attack hits ac 25 for 17 damage, Second Attack Misses)
Bill Troublefinder [3 Hrs: Str 16; Dex 25; Con 19; HP 81; AC 29; 90 Min: Fly; 1 day: Endure Elements (Cold); 50 min: Prot. fr Elements (Cold, Fire); My Light] d20+3=19 5d4(1+2+2+4+3)=12 5d4(1+4+3+3+2)+9=22 d20+9=29 Thursday May 22nd, 2003 3:52:03 PM
[Was posting, when a book next to my PC fell on the Escape key. Had rolled a nat 20, for 23, on str check. But this will do.]
Bill's grip on the tarp remains firm during the end of his descent (Str check 19).
The halfling's flight takes him to about 60' above the ground, the dragon's body occupying some space above that. Bill lets go with a cone of sound. He targets the white dragon's body, attempting to avoid any friends he discerns in the area. He augments the 60' diameter cone (Fortify Power), adding half again the sonic damage done by the cone, for 18 hp damage to the beleaguered dragon (save vs DC 30 for half damage). [Power Resistance (same as SR) DC 30 - should be a d20+10, rather than +9. Power level 3 plus Dex bonus of 7 for +10. Ignore 5d4+9.]
Renik (AC 25 (Dodge) HP 60, Prayer, Shaken, Fly, Endurance, Bulls Str, Cat's Grace, Protection From Elements (Cold and Fire)) d20+11=23 d20+13=17 d20+8=11 Thursday May 22nd, 2003 5:20:36 PM
Renik dodges the falling shards of ice with ease (Ref 23), diving into a roll that brings him in close to the dragon's flank. This time though his attacks lack power, and he is unable to penetrate the creature's scales (AC 17 and 11: aargh!).
"Don't miss, Feng!" cries the rogue, furious at his own ineffectiveness and seeing his half orc companion racing into the melee.
Seeing the approaching lights above him in the shaft and hearing the sonic blast he yells he calls "Go, Bill! Blow that thing's eardrums out!"
To his missing companions he screams "Rond! Hobbes! Where in the Planes are you? We need you NOW! Arien is down! What in Alemi's name do you think you're doing?!?"
The rogue is desperate, furious and elated, all at the same time.
Feng (Endure Elements: Cold, Prayer, 54hp) d20+12=32 d20+12=32 d20+7=27 d20+7=27 d20+7=22 3d8(4+8+3)+24=39 d6=6 3d8(7+5+3)+24=39 d6=1 d8+8=10 d6=1 Thursday May 22nd, 2003 10:22:03 PM
Time seems to crawl by as the battle he thought was over raged on. He thought themselves lucky is chasing the dragon away but never thought that the dragon could have been caught let alone anybody wishing to continue fighting such a creature. Perhaps there was a lesson to learn in all of this. He would have to think about it later. Now it was time to end this. The burly half orc spun his flaming double axe with practiced ease. He gripped the weapon with both handsd and swung with all his might.
[OOC: In all my time in the wold I've never had numbers fall like this. Maybe it is fate's way of saying that the dragon is supposed to die.]
[Crit hit for 45, Crit hit for 40, and hit ac 22 for 11]
Rond (haste, endure cold, cat's grace +4. fireshield (protecting against cold), prayer) AC 22 HP 53 Friday May 23rd, 2003 12:03:42 AM
Quickly snatching up the crown and the sword, Rond exclaims, "We've found the items! I thank you for the healing Hobbes, but now lets go find the others and get out of here!"
As Rond hears the crashing of the ice he picks up his pace wondering what has happened out in the entranceway.
Draax Draax (Bull Strength, Str 23, Prayer, HP 70) d20+15=33 d8+8=14 Friday May 23rd, 2003 3:57:16 AM
Draax drops his bow, pulls his sword and charges the creature. He use the momentum of his run to enhance the power of his swing (hit AC33 for 14).
Hobbes (Fly, Prot Cold) Friday May 23rd, 2003 4:36:36 AM
Hobbes nods curtly to Rond then frowns and looks backat something: a glimpse of rapid movement across the cavern as Renik's screams drift to his ear. Like a flash he is soaring the cavern. On the move he draws a potion out of his pouch which he holds in one hands and outstretches his other hand in a motion of healing magic. He flies straight to the doorway into the cavern to assess the situation but he does not go into the shaft just yet.
To the victors go the spoils (DMJK) Friday May 23rd, 2003 11:46:27 AM
Tratain manages to heal Arien and yanks the fireball man from the jaws of death.
Clutching his precious tarp to his side, Bill blasts the dragon from above while Feng and Draax rain down blows.
The party's assault proves too much, and the dragon succumbs to its wounds. It collapses in a bloody heap in the doorway. The hapless Arien is still clutched in the creature's claw. The thing has a deathgrip like a vice. [str DC 25 to pry him loose]
The lantern archon dances about happily and disappears in a brilliant flash of light.
Hobbes and Rond arrive in time to see that the battle is over. They have the crown and the sword, but the rest of the dragon's treasure lies scattered about the now dragon-free chamber.
The dragon gives one last shudder. Then, as if on cue, the lights in the chamber wink out and everything becomes pitch dark again.
Tratain's anvil is somewhere in there in the dark.
Arien Friday May 23rd, 2003 2:14:33 PM
The stuck elf wiggles about a moment while cursing the dragon before remembering about a potion he has in his pack. Contorting a bit Arien manages to get one arm back and after a bit of fumbling get his hand into the haversack, where he summons the potion into his hand. Breaking the seal on the potion with his thumb, Arien gulps down the potion and sighs in relief as he becomes ethereal. He shifts his incopreal body out of the dragon's clutch easily and settled himself nearby. "Well is anyone going to turn the lights on?"
Bill Troublefinder [3 Hrs: Str 16; Dex 25; Con 19; HP 81; AC 29; 90 Min: Fly; 1 day: Endure Elements (Cold); 50 min: Prot. fr Elements (Cold, Fire); My Light] d20=11 d20+7=15 Friday May 23rd, 2003 7:44:55 PM
Bill, just about to unfurl the tarp and blanket the dragon with it manages in the nick of time to belay the action (figured 1-10, he unfurls, 11-20, he does not). He swoops to a landing on the dragon's back as the last breath goes out the old beast's nostrils. For a moment, he stands still, contemplating the massive body of this magnificent creature. He sighs - feeling a mixture of shared triumph with his friends over this evil beast, and sorrow that something so huge and wonderful and full of life a moment ago is now dead.
But, ever the practical one, his moment of contemplation is brief. "Is everyone all right?" he asks. "Where are Rond, Arien, and Hobbes?"
'Hey, William, where are you? Where is Arien?'
"Hey, Renik. 'Zat you, Feng? Saw your axe bite deep there. Hi, Andraaxius. Uh, hello, mister," he says to the newcomer, eyes still shining bright.
"Whoa - there go the lights." Bill takes a moment to carefully repack the fumey tarp into his bag of holding (Dex check 15 to keep from busting up the alchemical flasks). He pulls out four sunrods, and strikes them together. He takes them to his friends. (Each sheds light in a 30-foot radius, and lasts for 6 hours.)
After passing out the sunrods (Renik, Feng, and Draax), he approaches the stranger. "My name is Bill. Have you seen an elf who was casting fireballs?"
A worried look crosses his face, and he looks toward the dragon's mouth. "He's not ... in there -- is he?"
========== [OOC: No one can see or hear Arien, since he is ethereal, unless they have means to see on to the ethereal plane. Arien can see and hear any on the material plane within 60 feet of him. If my understanding of etherealness is correct, that is.]
Yep, that's right. -jk
Renik Saturday May 24th, 2003 7:15:49 AM
The rogue's eyes gleam in the light of Bill's sunrods.
"Congratulations, my friends, we've done it!" he grins. "We actually killed a dragon! Feng, that final blow was amazing. Where did Arien vanish to? He was fantastic, he roasted Frosty nicely. Phew! What a rush!"
He turns to the newcomer and extends his hand. "Thanks for your help, friend. And thanks for saving Arien, that was mighty brave of you. There's many that would have simply fled on seeing a dragon come bursting through the ice. My name's Renik Dacour, it's a pleasure to meet you."
He looks back into the great chamber and his grin broadens. "Well my friends, it looks like we've got an entire dragon hoard to search!" He waves Bill's portable hole, and continues "and we even have something to put it all in! Now, if anyone can cast detect magic on the area, we can be sure we don't miss any of the magical goodies. And we're going to need to get any items still encased in ice out somehow. Bill, I have a feeling using the alchemist's fire trick may damage the things we are trying to retrieve. What do you think?"
Lighting his way with the sunrod Renik makes his way back into the great chamber. He picks through the shattered ice with great care, extracting what items he can, and noting the locations of those he can't. He makes sure he heads back to that enormous diamond he saw earlier. Until he is sure what he is dealing with he doesn't put anything into the hole, he simply makes a pile of all the recovered items.
(Search 25 (taking 20))
As he searches he whistles happily to himself.
Hobbes Sunday May 25th, 2003 10:25:04 PM
Hobbes lands inside the doorway and watches this magnicifent ferocious immense creation die. As all goes quiet and the party begins to stir, Hobbes walks slowly across the shaft and kneels beside the beast, rests a hand on its scales, and recites a small prayer.
"Great Eye, Curate of the Dead, Take thee your Brother, this magnificent beast Draconis Albeoere to his home and in his journey be blessed by your divine guidance."
He remains there a few minutes, simply staring at it. Very quietly he remarks, "Rond has them, Renik."
Tratain 3d8(2+3+3)+7=15 2d8(3+1)+7=11 Monday May 26th, 2003 12:34:04 AM
Tratain Says to Bill "Hello Bill, Indeed i did see an elf stuck in the dragons claws a moment ago, but i don't know where he is now, i could have sworn it was going to take at least three people to pry him loose from there." and he Answers Renik "I am glad i was able to help, it is true that most people probably would have run when confronted by the dragon, but it goes against my code to abandon those in need when it is in my power to help. And to answer your question, I am able to cast detect magic if needed."
Tratain continues "As i was saying before the excitement, my name is Tratain, Tain if you need me in a hurry. I left plataue city many months ago on a quest to find the dwarves that inhabit these mountains. I learned that they had in their possesion an important item, an Anvil, called the Anvil of the Gods. But it seems the dwarves are gone, probably driven away by that dragon, but my location magic tells me that the Anvil is still nearby. It is probably in the Dragons Horde somewhere."
He then Heals himself [Cure Serous Wounds for 15, Cure Moderate Wounds for 11] and offers healing to anyone else who needs it. And then goes off to search the Dragon's Horde, looking for the Anvil, but adding everything he collects to Renik's growing pile.
Draax d20=14 d20+2=15 d20=10 Monday May 26th, 2003 8:52:38 AM
Draax runs to the mouth of the dragon and is as perplexed as everyone else as to Arien's disappearance. "I hope the dragon did not swallow him when it finally fell." He replays the scenario over in his mind and he is sure that he saw Arien still in the thing's mouth after it was laying dead on the floor. He searches the mouth area one last time using the sunrod that he got from Bill before coming to the conclusion that there is some magic evolved and he figures that the other magic users of the party will have a better chance of locating him. He pull his magic reusable arrow out of the beast and checked it for any damage (rolled 14 for dmg check on arrow) and it seemed to be in good shape. He goes in the direction of the other arrow (search 15, arrow not dmg if found, 10 for dmg check).
Draax acknowledges Renik's words and Bill's greeting. He goes back to treasure gathering duty and adopts Renik's style of putting it in a pile. Seeing Tain heal himself, Draax stops his treasure gathering for a second to look at the other beat up members of the group. He says the following, more thinking out loud than as direction to his comrades.
"Everyone should heal up as much as possible. We still need to get back to the safe cave and with our carrying devices being filled with treasure, we will not be able to use the same method that we used to get here."
Not really worrying if anyone was listening to him or not, he returns to gathering whatever weapons, gems, and jewel that is currently not stuck in ice.
Rond Monday May 26th, 2003 12:06:38 PM
Rond catches up with the group just in time to see the death of the dragon. Concern flashes over his face as he says, "What happened I thought the Dragon had fled? By the way we have the crown and sword. But like Renik has now said, with nothing stopping us, as far as we can tell, what's to stop us now. All we have to watch for is our window for when we'll be transported back."
Noting that Arien is not within seeing of the sun rods that Bill has just passed out Rond comments, "Do we need to tear that beast open to make sure we can put Arien to rest, if that is what has happened? Are we going to want to recover parts of this beast for spell casters, or what not?"
Listening to Tain's comments Rond says to Tain, "Do you think that the Dwarves should be contacted about what has happened here?"
When Rond gets all the business activities done with, he'll shudder and suddently realize that was the first real straight forward battle that he's had in a long time. Rond quickly puts all his gear away as he goes and sits down for a second.
Bill Troublefinder [3 Hrs: Str 16; Dex 25; Con 19; HP 81; AC 29; 90 Min: Fly; 1 day: Endure Elements (Cold); 50 min: Prot. fr Elements (Cold, Fire); Blinking] d20+18=21 d20+18=29 d20+18=25 d20+18=20 d20+18=28 d20+18=28 d20+18=20 d20+18=27 d20+18=36 d20+18=37 Monday May 26th, 2003 12:36:15 PM
"Very pleased to meet you, Tratain. You showed great courage," Bill says, looking up at him. "A stranger who comes to the aid of others at risk of his own life, as you have, I count as a friend. Excuse me, though - we have to find Arien."
Bill decides he's may have to look inside the dragon. He starts blinking, and looks around at his friends. "I'm gonna take a --" just then, he spots Arien, sitting a few feet away. "Hey, Arien!" he says to his friend. "Guys, guys - he's here - right there," he points to where Arien sits. "On the ethereal plane." Bill's speech, though, cuts in and out for all but Arien, as he blinks between the material and ethereal himself.
He asks Arien if he knows how long he will remain ethereal, and suggests he do a bit of local exploring. "Do you want to check out what's in the pool of water?" he asks the elf. "I'll stay blinking for a while, so you can communicate through me to the rest of us." Bill pulls out a few more sunrods, so that everyone who wants one can have one. He gives one to Arien, too. He hands his wand of cure light wounds to Hobbes, and suggests he do what he can to get everyone back up to snuff.
Bill checks on Renik and the others who are gathering magic and treasure. "Good idea, good idea. We want to make sure that we don't put any extra-dimensional things in the portable hole - so we'll check out everything before putting it there. Maybe space things out a little, instead of piling one thing on top of another. Easier to examine that way. Excuse me for a bit."
Bill returns to the dragon, and spends a fair amount of time looking it over, examining the scales, and its proportions, and wings, and tail, and neck and head. He pulls out the journal he uses for sketching, and draws pictures of the dragon from several angles. He examines the wounds the dragon received, and tries to see what was effective, and what was less so.
After doing that for a while, as well as committing to memory (ten autohypnosis rolls: 21, 29, 25, 20, 28, 28, 20, 27, 36, 37) various aspects of the dragon's physiognomy, Bill goes to check out the growing pile of treasure. He detects magic / psionics on the collected items, spending enough time on each one to get as good a feel as he can for the type and strength of magic upon it, remarking on what he discerns to those around him.
After that, if further work is needed to collect things, he will dedicate himself. He suggests knocking down some more of the icicles from the ceiling so as to get through the icicles on the floor.
the spoils (dmjk) Monday May 26th, 2003 1:16:41 PM
Eventually Arien becomes visible again, and the party scrapes together a good sized pile of loot. There are quite a few magical items though you don't know what any of them do*, and Renik appraises the gems.
Enjoy.
hororot's crown (does not detect for magic) hororot's sword (does not detect for magic) +2 thundering longsword +3 shortsword +2 returning dagger +2 scythe +3 longbow +1 holy arrows (19) mithril shirt (nonmagical) +3 breastplate engraved with a griffon in flight +2 studded leather of silent moves +1 large steel shield SR13 potion protection from elements, cold (7) potion of cure moderate wounds (7) ring of protection +3 ring of feather falling staff of charming (42 charges) boots of the winterland periapt of wisdom +2
gold pieces = 2450 platinum = 320 3 emeralds worth 1000gp each 45 assorted gems worth 50gp each 19 assorted gems worth 100gp each
*For convenience, I've identified all items, but you'll need to identify them all at some point. Whether in the catacombs or by identify or lore is up to you guys.
the dragon carcasse (dmjk) Monday May 26th, 2003 1:18:20 PM
And will anyone do anything with the dragon as Rond suggested?
Arien Monday May 26th, 2003 2:44:17 PM
"I believe that when we get back to civilization I'm going to buy you and Feng a drink." Arien says to Tratain as he holds his hand out to shake. After greeting the man Arien turns back to the rest of the group, "Just how much longer do we have before we have to be back? If we have time I suggest we rest here for the rest of the day, rest and heal as it were. Thats also a good idea Rond, lets slice this beast open, maybe take a trophy or two. Feng how would you like a nice set of dragon fangs on your helmet? Besides that we should definetly get the treasure stowed away so that we can move quickly."
Arien takes of his haversack and pats it, saying, "This little beauty functions something like that hole of Bill's except that of course its not a hole, I can carry quite a bit of the treasure in here and Bill's hole could likely carry the rest, that way none of us would be weighted down. Anyway lets get working here, I'd like to find out just what all this stuff is."
Feng Monday May 26th, 2003 7:50:29 PM
Even with the victory Feng doesn't look happy. "There is no need for praise. In fact I should be apologizing to you all. I thought it would be satisfactory to only drive the beast away. My hesitation to act could have cost somebody their lives. For that I am sorry."
OOC: Thats a lot of loot. Now are the totals listed the dmg value or the catacombs value?
They were DMG totals. You'll lose a good bit of value if you trade them. -jk
Draax Monday May 26th, 2003 10:50:38 PM
Draax smiles as he looks at the pile of treasure. He helps with the cutting of the dragon, making sure that he puts two of the white's scales with the treasure.
"I wonder if we can use the way that Tain got in as our way out?"
Tratain Monday May 26th, 2003 11:24:21 PM
Tratain says "A good drink would be nice when we finally get back to civilization, its an awefully long walk back to plataue city though." And answers Draax "The dwarvern caverns are quite extensive, i haven't explored all of them but im sure theres an exit to where you need to go, if its somewhere i have explored already, i would be happy to take you there. After i find the object i came here looking for, I don't supposed anyones seen an Anvil somewhere in all this ice?"
Tratain then goes back to looking for the Anvil, and will cast locate object if necessary to find it. And while Searching, he calls out, does anyone need any healing still, i have a few moderate and light healing spells i can still cast today.
Rond d20=10 Monday May 26th, 2003 11:40:52 PM
Watching Renik head out and hearing him whistle Rond smiles slightly and says, "Feng why don't you go with Renik and see what you two can find out there. Maybe you can keep him from being too happy."
"Tratain, we have a quicker way to get back if you wish to come. It is probably the least we can do for you help here."
Seeing as how Draax is anxious to cut up the Dragon Rond will help out as best he can. Before they do any major work on the beast, Rond finds tiny parts of him to try cutting to see what works best. (greatsword, greatsword flaming, paring knife, stalagtite...etc... working on the tail, the tiniest teeth, etc...)
the anvil (dmjk) Tuesday May 27th, 2003 12:47:47 AM
After a little more looking, Tratain finds the anvil. It is made of adamantite and detects strongly for magic. As to what it does or how it works, no one has any idea.
cutting the dragon (dmjk) Tuesday May 27th, 2003 1:25:00 AM
Rond finds that it pretty much takes a magical blade to cut through the dragon's hide. Anything else requires way too much work. However, the greatsword is a little unwieldly to do any fine cutting with. Flaming doesn't seem to make cutting any easier, but it does make it a little easier to get himself burned.
Renik Tuesday May 27th, 2003 2:24:48 AM
Nothing Feng does can stop Renik from being too happy. His eyes dance with avaricious delight as he examines the spoils. "Cheer up, big guy!" he grins. "It all got a bit crazy trhere for a while. But we're all safe, and just look at our reward!"
"Tratain, do you mean these tunnels extend for miles underground? Hey Rond, you never know, there may be a tunnel that heads back towards the rendezvous point with the wizard! Bill, do you have that map handy?"
He shows Tratain the map. indicates their rendezvous point, and their current location.
He takes advantage of the holy warrior's healing offer, then starts to pack away the treasure.
Bill Troublefinder [3 Hrs: Str 16; Dex 25; Con 19; HP 81; AC 29; 90 Min: Fly; 1 day: Endure Elements (Cold); 50 min: Prot. fr Elements (Cold, Fire)] Tuesday May 27th, 2003 5:37:33 AM
"Feng, if you go for a dragon's treasure, you'll usually have to go for the dragon, too. I'm glad you've got such strong shoulders, Feng. He might have taken some of us out if you hadn't finished him off so convincingly. Now stop kicking yourself. I wasted a lot of time trying things against the dragon that just didn't work. But we did it, and we're all alive."
Eventually noting the problems his friends have in slicing the dragon, Bill picks up the magical (+3) shortsword from the gathered magic. "Here - try this, Rond" he suggests.
He gives Renik the maps. "Would love to check out the dwarfs' tunnels. Nice anvil, Tratain."
"Say, Hobbes & Renik - since we can fly for a while longer - how about if the three of us run in a grid pattern along the ceiling, knock down what we can, and see if we find any more magic up there - or uncover something else below."
Bill will quickly sketch out a pattern to follow. He detects magic/psionics during his flight, and knocks down what he can - ensuring none are below him as he does so. After dropping additional icicles, he surveys the floor, seeing what they may have overlooked, and using the wand of prestidigitation to organize things neatly.
"Anyone want to go underwater to see what's down there? I'll go. Someone want to join me?" Bill asks.
Hobbes Tuesday May 27th, 2003 6:56:14 AM
Hobbes takes the wand from Bill and nods. He then goes around to everyone to give them a "physical". (Heal checks all around.) Then he touches those in need on the head with the wand as many times as it takes. From the dragon, Hobbes cuts off a bit of the dragon's mane under its chin and carefully removes two of its smaller teeth.
Hobbes Tuesday May 27th, 2003 6:59:56 AM
After Hobbes is done with all this, he will help Renik and Bill do any flyby searching needed. He'll probably need another fly by this time which he casts on himself.
more searching (dmjk) Tuesday May 27th, 2003 11:58:58 AM
There's nothing else to be found in the chamber.
As near as Tratain can tell, the dwarven tunnels are only in or below this particular mountain.
If anyone wants to remove a part of the dragon, make a craft (skinning) skill check [or similar] for each item that you want. This will determine if you get the item intact and how much of the surrounding area you damage. DC will vary by item. Teeth are at the low end and internal organs are at the high end.
Rond d20+8=10 d20+8=24 d20+8=22 d20+8=9 d20+8=16 d20+8=16 Tuesday May 27th, 2003 3:38:03 PM
Rond very carefully using the short sword that Bill gave him, Rond works on cutting out two teeth and 4 scales if he can. (Knowledge nature? 10 (tooth), 24(tooth), 22(scale), 9(scale), 16(scale), 16(scale))
While he works he asks, "How many more of any of these should I get?"
Renik Tuesday May 27th, 2003 4:33:26 PM
Back from his flying exploration, Renik points at the pile of treasure. "Well, I say we get this lot packed. Then, after a rest to replenish our spellcasters, we should get moving. Our mission is accomplished, we have a rendezvous to keep, and we have no idea what dangers may await us on the return journey. We need to rest, and then get moving."
Renik starts packing the items neatly away in the portable hole and anywhere else folks with magical carrying devices have space. Then he unfurls a thick blanket from his pack and curls up underneath it, allowing his battle-weary body some brief respite.
Feng Tuesday May 27th, 2003 10:09:06 PM
Feng takes the opportunity to sit down. He feels the exhaustion creep in as the adrenaline fades.
"This may have been a successful battle but it is not something I wish to repeat. Next time we might not be so lucky."
Tratain d8+5=11 Tuesday May 27th, 2003 10:56:32 PM
Tratain Says "I would be very greatful if you could get me back to Plataue City quicker, it was a very long and dangerous walk here. Also I have a Favor to ask, could i place the Anvil in your Portable Hole for transport back to the War Cathedral? I am afraid i have no means of transporting it myself, I did not come here initially to bring it back with me, I merely came here to see if the information i found about it being in the dwarves possesion were true. I do not want to leave it here for another Dragon or who knows what to find and claim."
"Do you wish to rest here? or perhapse in the Citadel through the door? It seemed abandoned when i was searching through there before, but i can't promise that i wasn't lucky not to run into anything."
Tratain then heals himself back to full health, and heals Renik [Cure Moderate
Draax d20+1=17 Tuesday May 27th, 2003 11:03:20 PM
Using his magical longsword, Draax gives Rond a hand cutting the beast.
He looks over at Tain's newly acquired anvil, "Nice, it seems that we all got what we were looking for. What are your plans after we get back to the city?"
Tratain - Continued 2d8(2+5)+7=14 Tuesday May 27th, 2003 11:03:56 PM OOC: Darn, hit submit by accident, and if theres a way to Modify the post i can't find it :)
Tratain Heals Renik [Cure Moderate for 14] and Says I have several more spells available if needed, one Serious, one Moderate, and two Light healing spells left if you would like to save your wand.(Cure Light - 1d8+5, Cure Moderate 2d8+7, Cure Serious 3d8+7 if needed, you guys can roll them and I'll Mark them off if they are taken)
And as far as resting, I wear a ring that sustains me so i need very little sleep, if someone would stand guard for a few hours while i rest, i can then watch while others rest if needed.
Bill Troublefinder d20+5=17 Wednesday May 28th, 2003 7:24:25 AM
Bill assists with the dragon chirugery, helping with the detail work as he is able. [Used bonus from knowledge (nature), to assist Rond in extracting whatever items we choose to extract. Bill will suggest taking time & care (take 20) on the organs in the head and neck.]
[The following skills may be of some use in this endeavor: Autohypnosis (strong ability to concentrate and remember) +18; Concentration +24; Heal +6; Knowledge (Nature) +5; Search +6 (incl. +2 from magnifying glass); Speak draconic (not that he'll talk with the dead dragon, but, in learning draconic, one learns much about dragons); use rope +7.]
Eventually, the halfling grows weary, and offers to take a turn sleeping.
Hobbes d20+1=21 d20+1=14 d20+1=13 Wednesday May 28th, 2003 8:27:38 AM
[21 and 14 on teeth. 13 on slicing off a bit of dragon mane (beard)]
"Rond, you've still got the items? Are they safe?"
Hobbes then wanders placidly through the rest of the cavern until it is time to either rest of go.
hacking up the dead dragon - dmjk Wednesday May 28th, 2003 12:35:43 PM
While watching Rond make a mess of things until Bill slows him down, Hobbes has a brief thought that cutting off bits of the dead dragon might be offensive to Gargul.
Still, after the initial results. Rond gets 2 teeth (and a nasty cut on his palm from slipping while trying to cut out the first one), he gets 3 scales. One came off clean, one was damaged too badly to be of any use, and the other two came with a good bit of dragon gunk on the bottom, but that can be cleaned up.
Hobbes gets his two teeth, and while he doesn't perfectly preserve the dragon mane, he gets a passable specimen.
Tratain heals up some of the groups, and Renik seems concerned about packing up the goods and getting out of here.
Tratain Wednesday May 28th, 2003 10:40:09 PM
Tratain Says Smiling "Well First, i think i'll take a long bath in some Hot water, ive spent months on the road, alot of it in the Cold, I'd just like to be not Cold for a bit. After that I have no Definite plans, I have got an adventerous streak, I'd like to think ive gotten wiser in my travels, but i always seem to end up in the middle of nowhere looking for something, or doing something, just look where i ended up this time."
Feng Wednesday May 28th, 2003 11:00:19 PM
Feng sits back and waits for the sound of the dragons minions or some other danger. He finds it hard to believe that they beat a dragon.
Rond Wednesday May 28th, 2003 11:25:03 PM
"We ran into a giant on the way in, so that's what we're looking for on the way out. I'm thinking that we could possibly rest, with watches, before going back to the rondeveus."
Renik Thursday May 29th, 2003 6:00:38 AM
Renik rests while he can, and takes his turn on watch. He seems deep in thought, and says little. Once they are all rested and ready to move out he shoulders his pack, secures his gear, and takes up a point position as the party depart.
Draax Thursday May 29th, 2003 6:17:26 AM
Draax listens to Tain and nods His head in agreement about taking a bath as soon as they return. "Do you have any idea of what you will do with the anvil?"
After waiting for Tain's answer Draax will take a watch before getting some rest.
Hobbes Thursday May 29th, 2003 6:59:13 AM
Hobbes looks distraught for the rest of the evening and when not resting spends his time on his knees in prayer.
He is conscious of Gargul's disapproval of his actions and prays in his mind and in his heart in answer.
"Forgive me, Great Eye. I do not wish to desecrate the vessel of such a spirit, nor do I wish to use it for wealth, but I wish to keep these so that I do not forget what I have done today. To help destroy such a creature in its own lair no less has filled me with pride and with awe. But it is also something I do not wish to do again...and I never want to forget that..."
Hobbes' Prayer (DMJK) Thursday May 29th, 2003 10:30:45 AM
Hobbes feels peace with his decision, but also a sense that he shouldn't allow further desecration of the dragon.
The party decides to rest. Where? Dragon lair? Citadel? Somewhere else?
Renik Thursday May 29th, 2003 6:13:10 PM
Renik is happy to sleep in the dragon's lair, reasoning that it's the one place no right-minded wandering critter is likely to venture. However if the party wish to rellocate, he doesn't protest overmuch.
Rond Thursday May 29th, 2003 8:26:06 PM
Looking around at the group and their preparations to sleep for the night, Rond suggests, "Renik, Tain, and Draax take 1st. Arien and Hobbes take 2nd, Bill and I will take 3rd. We should head out at first light, I think. We not expecting this thing to have a mate are we?"
Feng Thursday May 29th, 2003 10:08:07 PM
Feng places his hands on his chest and lets the healing energy flow into him. [lay on hands]
"Say if we can get a fire going how about roasting some of that dragon? Not many people can say they have had roasted dragon."
Tratain Thursday May 29th, 2003 10:38:07 PM
Tratain Answers Draax "I will leave the Anvil with the Leaders of the War Cathedral and they can decide what to do with it. I suppose they will store it someplace secure and attempt to figure out its magics and keep it safe until such a time as it is needed again."
Upon hearing Ronds watch order he says "Might I suggest someone else takes the first watch in my stead, I wear a ring that sustains me, I require only about 2 hours of sleep each day. I would prefer to rest first, that way I can stand guard the rest of the night. But either way is fine with me, in any case, I will only be asleep for around 2 hours. When i sleep really makes no difference to me but Since i am going to be awake anyhow it might be better to let others rest if needed."
Draax Thursday May 29th, 2003 10:57:46 PM
Listening to Tain, Draax thinks that the man is a true explorer. Not many adventurers would turn over such a valuable item for research. "You should think about sticking with us for awhile. Our lives might not be as exciting as your, but as you can see we do have our moments."
Draax takes his watch and positions himself to have a good view of the possible entrances, but especially keeps an eye on the hole in the ice where the dragon emerged from.
Bill Troublefinder Thursday May 29th, 2003 11:25:55 PM
Before his flying wears out, Bill asks if someone will help him go back up and retrieve the stuff he took out of the portable hole earlier (leaving inside the tunnel near the top of the mountain). If all is well in that regard, he puts it all back in the hole, using the chests and such to store such things as no one claims for the moment or puts in other containers.
Bill says he'll go ahead and try out the boots. "And if they swallow my feet or something, or turn me into a pine tree - just tie me up and toss me into the portable hole."
He is pleased that he does not turn into a pine tree. "They're warm and comfy," he announces.
Before lying down to rest, he explains to Tratain that he has a little, brave friend and crystal counselor, William. He further lets the adventurer know that the psicrystal can communicate telepathically. "So, if you 'hear' his voice inside your head, don't be afraid." He looks up at the fellow dragonslayer, then down at the pretty crystal in his hand. "William, meet Tratain. Tratain, meet William."
For his part, taking the 3rd watch with Rond, plus the bonus of having Tratain awake with them, sounds terrific. "Okay, night, all!" Bill, tucked into his sleeping bag, is snoring within minutes, with his psicrystal, William, warm in the palm of his hand.
During third watch, he lets Rond hold on to William. While keeping eyes and ears alert, he mentally communicates with the group's leader, and with Tratain, if the latter is within 60' of Rond, letting them know anything he picks up - and chatting about the events of the previous day, and asking Rond whether they should all fly back to the teleport site, and whether there might not be a whole bunch of frost giants waiting there to pelt them with stones, and how good the hot tea is going to taste as soon as that pot of water gets to boiling, and whether they want cinnamon and sugar in their morning gruel, and how he wants to invite Tratain, too, to his birthday party in Windhorn Hamlet ... and other halfling conversation.
The next day (DMJK) Friday May 30th, 2003 11:19:27 AM
The night passes peacefully, and the next day comes. All spells, notably those protecting you from the cold, have expired.
It's time to get back to the rendezvous point to meet Woodcock.
Bill Troublefinder Friday May 30th, 2003 11:32:49 PM
Bill has a warm breakfast prepared for everyone, and hot tea. He even has an extra place setting for Tratain. "Glad I bought one extra. Never know when you're gonna have guests."
After cleaning up as well as he can, Bill says, "I can enable pretty much everyone to fly. I know it's not your favorite thing to do, Draax, but it should allow us all to get back pretty quickly. After doing that, I won't have a lot in reserve, but that's okay. Any other suggestions? If so, let's hear 'em. If not - line up - oh - I just thought of one thing. What if, on the way out of the tunnels, there are some giants lying in wait for us? Well, even if there were, I suppose if we're flying, they're not going to be able to pelt us with rocks or ice balls for too long." Lest he complicate matters more with his speculations, Bill decides to close his mouth, and see what his friends have to say.
However, then he remembers something. "Oh, I've got some more scrolls with spells to help keep us toasty in the cold. Six of 'em. Arien, will you do the honors to those who need them? For myself, I feel warm enough. Hey - is everyone healed up?" He gets his wand of cure light wounds back from Hobbes, asking how many charges he used. He hopes there are at least a few left, "in case of emergency."
[Can someone figure up the wounds, the healing done to date with layings on of hands and curative spells? Then figure how many charges of the wand would be needed to get everyone back up to full? Bill didn't suffer any damage in the battle, but several did. -Kim]
Renik (Back to max HP from Tratain's CMW) Sunday June 1st, 2003 5:11:56 AM
Accepting both Flight and the Protection against Cold with gratitude, Renik eats in silence, deep in thought. He packs his gear, and heads back out with the rest of the party.
As they get outside the tunnel network and back into the open air, Renik breathes deeply. It's good to be back out on the surface, away from the sinister ice caverns of the white dragon.
Arien Sunday June 1st, 2003 8:29:05 PM
Arien accepts the scrolls from Bill and proceeds to use them on everyone who needs them. "Flying seems to be the best course of action for the moment. The faster we get back to civilization the faster we can finish our task."
(Arien currently has 9 hp, I think he's down about twenty points or so but I don't have the exact amount with me since I'm not on my computer. So likely 3 or 4 charges from the wand would bring him back to full.)
Tratain Sunday June 1st, 2003 11:10:10 PM
In the mourning Tratain refreshes his Endure Elements Cold Spell, and busy's himself doing anything that needs to be done, helping pack any treasure that wasn't all loaded into the portable hole the night before etc.
Tratain takes the offered Tea and Breakfast from Bill and says "Thank you Bill, You are most generous, especially to a person you have know for less than a day, warm tea is just what i need after all that time in the cold. Hopefully my next adventure will take me someplace a little warmer."
Rond Monday June 2nd, 2003 12:17:55 AM
(Rond is down 54 hp's)
Spending his time with Bill, Rond silently rolls his eyes as Bill finds the smallest things to talk about.
In the morning Rond will shiver with the loss of the endure cold spell. As soon as the spell ends Rond digs up the next scroll to be used. Commenting after Bill is done, "We probably want to do our best not to bring attention to where we are meeting Woodcock. So it's either low and fast, or go out in a big circle. comments?"
Hobbes Monday June 2nd, 2003 3:16:02 AM
Hobbes awakes bright and early to prayer and a new day. He also briskly makes sure everyone that needs one has an Endure Elements Cold on them. He nods to the flight idea as he buttons up his garments around his mouth and ears. "Let's get out of here."
Draax Monday June 2nd, 2003 4:15:48 AM
Draax takes the some of the offered breakfast and packs up his gear after all the treasure has been secured. "Sounds like a plan Bill, I have nothing against flying I just prefer to keep my feet on the ground, but this does seem to be the best solution to avoid the giants."
He stay alert while the others are receiving healing as he wait to leave.
DMJK Monday June 2nd, 2003 11:59:53 AM
The group prepares has breakfast and makes plans to get back to the rendezvous point.
So the group is flying back?
[I'll assume everyone has endure cold after Hobbes post, but post where yours comes from so we can cross off scrolls, spell slots, etc.]
Renik (Flying, Prot from Cold) d20+10=26 Monday June 2nd, 2003 3:15:09 PM
Accepting Flight and Protection from Cold from Bill, Renik moves out with the rest of the party, flying low and keeping a good look out for signs of danger as they head back towards the rendezvous point. Having seen how Frost Giants set an ambush, he keeps a particularly close eye on any suspicious mounds of snow (Spot 26).
Renik has spent much of the night lost in thought, and when the party awake and move out his brow remains furrowed. He looks troubled, though increasingly determined.
Finally he seems to reach a decision. He moves to Rond's side as they fly along, and says in a low voice so that only Rond can hear;
"Rond, I consider you to be my comrade and my friend. We have faced many dangers together you and I, and you have always shown courage and skill.
But of late I have started to have concerns that our group sometimes fails to act to its full potential. We don't work sufficiently for one another, and our teamwork lets us down. We have survived unscathed thus far, but I fear it is only a matter of time before our lack of organization gets someone, maybe even everyone, killed.
Now to my mind the responsibility for forging a close-knit, cooperative team lies with the leader. And I have grown increasingly convinced that your style of leadership is not the best method of achieving that goal. So I'd like to propose that we let someone else take a shot, and see if they can resolve the problem. I'll be honest, Rond, I'd like to take on the job myself, but the choice of leader should be for the whole group to decide.
I say that first we determine who wishes to be put forward as a candidate. There will be some amongst us who will not want the job, I would guess. So you, I, and whoever else wishes to would stand. Then we each have a vote (those standing would vote for themselves), and we decide on the leader between us. It may be that the group wish to keep you as leader, in which case I shall retract my challenge, and not repeat it.
I hope this does not cause a schism between us, Rond. You have my respect and my friendship. I speak only because this is a matter of life and death, and (Wardd willing) I believe I can help improve the odds in our favour.
Well, my friend? What do you say?"
If (and only if!) Rond agrees to the vote, Renik will explain his thoughts to the others, and offer himself as a candidate for election.
If Rond does not agree, Renik will continue the discussion in private.
Feng Monday June 2nd, 2003 5:55:10 PM
In the morning Feng does his best to heal Rond's wounds [lay on hands for 24].
"I wish I could do more but my energy will be exhausted until tomarrow."
Hearing Renik's challenge Feng decides it would be a perfect time to help Bill gather the equipment.
"Bill flying sounds like a good idea. I will help you collect the equipment so we may be off."
Feng didn't understand why anybody would want a leadership role. He has a hard enough time keeping himself along the right path let alone other people.
Kim - OOC Monday June 2nd, 2003 5:59:45 PM
Friends - if I weren't on the road, with limited time at the PC, I'd do it myself. Please, will someone add up (and fess up to) all the healing that has, or has not been done, so we know where we're at in that regard?
JK or Carl - feel free to delete this post as soon as someone has taken care of the issue.
Bill Troublefinder (full hit points, warmed by boots of winter wonderland, or whatever they're called) d8+1=9 d8+1=5 d8+1=5 d8+1=3 Monday June 2nd, 2003 6:09:31 PM
Just before leaving the dragon's lair for good, Bill walks once entirely around the large white dragon. "Goodbye, dragon," he says with a measure of respect and awe.
He looks at all his friends to see if any still are injured. He discharges four cures from his wand on Arien (+22 hp). "There, you look much better." And asks those with the means to heal up any who need it.
Once all is ready, and all are ready, Bill explains, "All right - If you have medium heavy armor or heavy armor - take it off and stick it in one of our bags. It'll slow you down flying." He then enables as many to fly as want it, then himself last.
Tratain Monday June 2nd, 2003 7:22:04 PM
Tratain Says "How far is it to the meeting place? I feel very uncomfortable removing my armor in a place like this. If it isn't a long ways off i'd like to leave it on. If moving faster doesn't save a couple hours at least of travel time, i don't believe it to be worthwhile to remove my armor. Without it i am very much defenseless. If we do happen to run into something along the way, I would like to be protected."
Draax (Ring of Warmth) Tuesday June 3rd, 2003 5:17:33 AM
Draax agrees with Tain about removing his armor. He feel vulnerable enough flying...he would not want to fly around paranoid also. He wants to be granted the ability to fly, but does not remove his armor.
Rond 47hp (endure cold, fly) Tuesday June 3rd, 2003 11:00:02 AM (ooc) Rond is currently down 30 and Taking 5 points as the average from the CLW wand. It will take 6 charges to get us back up to full. JK let me know if you have any problems with this reasoning.
"I prefer to use the wand because we're not out of the thick of things yet. If you choose to keep your armor on it could slow us down since we don't want the group of us to be separated."
Rond quaffs the potion without hesitation. He's anxious to get the sword and crown back to the spirit.
When Renik approaches Rond and comments to him privately, Rond smiles at Renik and whispers, "My decision to become leader was a reluctant one at the time. But no one else wanted the job so I took it. I do not mind handing the reigns over to you. I just hope you don't lose your mind if people decide to go against your wishes, as they seem want to do. But lets wait until we're back in civilization to worry about this"
I've sent out the e-mail with our current items. Please see e-mail for current requests from me
Woodcock's Party (DMJK) [rolls for Rond CLW] d8=4 d8=1 d8=7 d8=5 d8=8 Tuesday June 3rd, 2003 11:34:37 AM
As the party flies back to meet their teleporter, they see an explosion of fire. After Arien's recent demonstration back in the cave, none of you have much trouble recognizing a fireball spell. It's up on that ridge there... just where you're supposed to meet Woodcock.
On getting closer, you see the charred smoking corpse of a frost giant lying on a rock outcropping. Five giants are beating on some sort of invisible wall that surrounds the mage. Safe behind his force dome, Woodcock seems unconcerned, at least for now.
[only 5 CLW charges needed for Rond]
Tratain d4+1=5 Tuesday June 3rd, 2003 7:07:13 PM
Upon seeing that the man in the force dome isn't in immediate Danger, Tratain suggest that they back away to a safe distance to begin preparing for the battle to come.
"Bill" he says, "Can you use your little friend to speak with that man and see if he needs our help?"
Assuiming that the Man does need our help, and the group does back away a little bit to prepare, Tratain casts several spells upon himself [Bull's Strength +5 Str, Shield of Faith]
"I also have other spells available if needed, I can cast another Bull's Strength, and an Endurence, as well as another Shield of Faith and Magic Vestment."
Feng d20+14=17 d20+9=12 Tuesday June 3rd, 2003 10:56:19 PM
Feng activates his flaming orc double axe and flies in to attack one of the frost giants. [hit ac 17? and definately miss on 12]
Arien 5d6(5+4+2+6+5)=22 Wednesday June 4th, 2003 12:06:25 AM
"Hmm I do believe I'll follow suit." Arien says with a grin as he removes his last fireball scroll from his haversack. Arien aims the fireball so as to catch as many of the giants as possible in the blast but still miss the paladin.
(Reflex save DC 22, 22 damage)
Rond (Fly, Endure cold) hp full d20+11=19 2d6(5+4)+4=13 d6=2 Wednesday June 4th, 2003 1:54:53 AM
Hearing Arien starting to cast, Rond holds for a second, in order to let Arien cast his spell. As the giants come out from under the blast (I hope you missed Woodcock! ;) ), Rond will try to fly up behind one and squash it into the force shield using the flaming Greatsword. He wants to lift the Giant off the ground, so that as Rond bounces off he'll clear the force shield, and the Giant will not. (trying to avoid damage to Rond).
AC 19 (hoping for surprise ;) ) 15 points dam (2 for fire)
(ooc if anything, imagine Superman using a greatsword for batting practice!)(didn't think I could get 2nd attack in.)
Bill Troublefinder (Flying) 5d4(3+2+2+3+1)=11 d20+8=15 Wednesday June 4th, 2003 3:27:44 AM
"We take time, that gives them time," is all he answers Tratain.
Bill goes for a cone of sound - coming in from whatever side and direction allows him to get the most giants and avoiding his compatriots. 'X' number of frost giants take 11 hp damage, Reflex save vs DC 15 for half.
[Mapette, please?]
Renik d20+25=36 d20+12=31 d8+4=6 3d6(3+3+6)=12 3d6(5+4+5)+15=29 d20+10=17 Wednesday June 4th, 2003 4:26:42 AM
As soon as he sees the giants the rogue moves instantly into cover in shooting range, blending almost seamlessly into the snowy surroundings (Hide 36, Move Silent 17, moves to within 30' of the giants and hides).
"Well, it wouldn't have hurt to buff up a little before getting ourselves into such a dangerous battle" the rogue whispers back to Tratain. "But the die is cast now. Let's hit them hard and fast!"
And he lets an arrow fly with deadly accuracy into the back of one of the giants (AC 31, Sneak Attack, 18HP Dmg).
William the PsiCrystal Wednesday June 4th, 2003 4:37:32 AM
The tiny gem communicates with the embattled wizard.
"Fear not, friend wizard, my redoubtable comrades come to your aid! Like shadows of light they strike, silent and deadly!
Bill's sonic attack shatters the air, Arien's fireball goes off with a boom, and various warriors race into battle.
"Well, deadly, at any rate."
Draax d20+13=32 d20+8=18 d8+3=8 d8+3=9 Wednesday June 4th, 2003 4:50:48 AM
Draax takes aim as he hovers a safe distance away from the giants. Being use to the group's tactics he waits for everyone to fire off their area of affect spells before he shoots a couple of masterwork arrows at a giant.
Draax will shoot at any surviving giant that was caught in the spells cast by Bill and Arien. (Hit AC 32 for 8 dmg and AC 18 for 9 dmg)
Hobbes Wednesday June 4th, 2003 6:23:38 AM
Hobbes furrows his brow as he sees it is Woodcock under the dome, but is very thankful that he is holding his own.
Raising his symbol over his head and advancing until he is 30 feet from the giants and also within range of the party (to get everybody). He intones the words for Prayer yet again.
[If this isn't possible then party first but since Feng can attack this round I'm assuming we're it's possible to get both.]
DMJK 18d8(1+2+7+3+4+7+5+6+4+3+8+7+8+4+3+1+1+8)=82 d20+8=21 Thursday June 5th, 2003 11:10:54 AM
[sorry for missing yesterday]
The party launches its firey and rather noisy attack, and the giants start to regroup to fend off the new enemy.
They look slightly burned and a little ticked off, but there's still plenty of fight. The leader raises its sword ready to whack Feng's head off, but then...
With the giants distracted, Woodcock dispells his force dome, which kept him nice and safe from the fireball, and casts some spell.
Whatever it was wasn't noisy or flashy, but all five giants fall over dead. They look all dried out and sort of hollow.
The wizard looks at everyone, "Thanks for providing a distraction."
He scans the horizon for a second, "No dragons chasing you? Good. Ready to leave?"
Rond Thursday June 5th, 2003 1:35:30 PM
Thinking to himself, no wonder he didn't seem to concerned about this place. Seems he might have been worried about us.
"No. The Dragon is taken care of. The Dwarves can probably now reclaim what was theirs. We have one extra to transport. We found him inside and he was helpful to defeating the Dragon." Rond indicates Tain, letting Tain decide if he wants to say anything.
Bill Troublefinder d20+16=32 d20+19=22 Thursday June 5th, 2003 1:46:57 PM
[Spellcraft 32 to discern nature of the spell Woodcock cast, Knowledge, Arcana 22 to pick up any extra info.]
"Hi, Mr. Woodcock," Bill chirps. "Sure, we're ready. Looks like we're all more or less on time."
Renik Thursday June 5th, 2003 5:55:51 PM
The rogue stows his bow and brushes back his hair with the aid of a small mirror retrieved from somewhere about his person.
"Quite some display, Mr Woodcock. Remind me never to cross you." smiles Renik with a wink.
"Are we ready to leave? Let me put it this way; the only ice I plan to see in the forseeable future will be in my Green Gnomish on the rocks. Let's get back to civilisation and a nice warm tavern before my toes freeze."
Feng Thursday June 5th, 2003 10:13:49 PM
Feng floats in a state of disbelief. He had seen magic before but nothing like that. He would have to give magic users a highler level of respect in the future.
Tratain Friday June 6th, 2003 1:47:08 AM
Tratain Greets Woodcock and Says "These fellows tell me you may be able to transport me back to civilization along with them, would that be possible, its a long walk back."
Hobbes Friday June 6th, 2003 4:08:30 AM
Hobbes' eyes brighten. "Gargul certainly sends his help in unsuspecting packages! We thank you for your punctuality and your" he glances at the giants, "effectiveness. We are most assuredly ready, good sir."
Hobbes glances over his shoulder once more not completely trusting that they are actually alone with no more adversaries.
Draax Friday June 6th, 2003 10:17:08 AM
Draax lands by the wizard and looks around at the old man's handiwork. He is very impressed by the effectiveness of the wizard's last spell. He scans the area for any other signs of trouble as he waits for the wizard to transport them back.
Moving right along - DMJK Friday June 6th, 2003 11:31:42 AM
Bill recognizes Woodcock's spell as the one known as horrid wilting, a necromantic spell of considerable power.
Woodcock dismisses his spell casting as nothing, and while he remains commited to his original contract for the rest of the party, he thinks 100 additional gold is in order for an extra "passenger."
Assuming the fee is paid, he transports the group back to Floating City. He bids everyone good day and goes about his business.
In the Big Float, Tratain has the opportunity to visit the War Cathedral. After telling about the adventure, the high priest persuades him to leave the anvil there instead of lugging it all the way to Plateau City. Those who wish are able to pop into the Floating City branch of the Catacombs and do some shopping or pop down to the Giggling Ghost for some drinks. (if you want to do something else, email me)
After a little relaxing and running of some errands, cheap passage is quickly found back to Windhorn Hamlet.
You arrive in early afternoon, and it seems there's nothing left but bringing Hororot his crown and sword.
Tratain Sunday June 8th, 2003 6:15:16 PM
Tratain Glady pays the 100 gold for passage back to the Floating City, he gives Woodcock a Gem worth 100gps.
After Leaving the Anvil at the Cathedral Tratain says "Thank you friends for your help in completing my quest, I would Like to return the favor and help you finish yours if you will have me along."
Assuming they agree, Tratain then goes and finds his hot bath and gets himself cleaned up, then helps the others with anything they may need to do.
Feng Sunday June 8th, 2003 9:05:43 PM
Feng relaxes in a room glad to be out of the great chill. Looking at his share of the treasure hoard he contemplates going to the catacombs.
OOC: Feng might depending on hom much he gets or is the mail I recieved before about the proposed plan an official mail?
Draax Sunday June 8th, 2003 9:37:14 PM
Draax relaxes in his room still finding it hard to believe that the group actually killed a dragon. He wonders if he should locate the local bard and tell the tale while it is still fresh in his mind. Although Draax will not mention the dead king in his tale he knows that the story will not be finished until they return the sword and crown to the dead king, so Draax decides to hold off praising the group's accomplishments.
Bill Troublefinder Monday June 9th, 2003 1:21:10 AM Floating City Caring for the widow and orphan While in the Floating City, Bill lets his friends know that he's going to look up Groyle's wife and her son, Evan. "Y'know, the widow of the guy in the barfight."
He takes her two pouches, one with 50 gold pieces and the other with 50 silver pieces inside. "I'm sorry, ma'am, you've lost your husband, and little Evan here his father. Just wanted to offer some practical help. Is there someone in town you trust, who might be able to help you watch over your boy, and make sure he gets a good education?"
Bill will use part of his time in town to see what he can do to get some sort of decent people to help support Groyle's widow (whose name he, I hope, gets) and son. He definitely looks for such assistance outside of Drummond's gang. He does not wish to contribute to any further association with such rogues and the family of the dead man.
Should he find someone who appears to be an honest benefactor (getting what references he can in the little time he has), he entrusts 200 gp to that person or organization, letting them know that, from time to time, as he is able, he expects to check in to see how Evan is doing in his studies, and how his mother fares. He gives the address of a bookshop in Plateau City that he uses for some of his correspondence, should someone desire to get hold of him.
Catacombs He also drops off at the Catacombs a shopping list of miscellaneous material components and items he has been assembling over the past few months, and sees about scheduling the use of a pocket plane for a while.
Windhorn Hamlet - Home, Sweet Home Hororot King Once back in Windhorn Hamlet, Bill suggests they take care of fulfilling their promise to Hororot. "Though, we'll want to have some sort of protection against spectres and the like before we pop down there.
"Hobbes, I don't want to have my insides shriveled again by those evil critters. Anything you can do to protect me from them? I mean, us? 'Course, maybe we'll be lucky, and they won't show up to bother us, again. But, just in case, I don't want you off feeding your horse while I'm surrounded by those wavery things. You gonna stick with us down there?"
Rond Monday June 9th, 2003 2:08:27 AM
Once back Rond will spend a little time in the catacombs making some purchases.
"We could certainly use the company. Especially after the way you helped out Tain!"
Once back in the Hamlet, Rond looks forward to completing their quest with Hororot.
Renik d20+5=11 d20+10=19 d20+15=18 d20+25=26 Monday June 9th, 2003 3:16:19 AM
Renik nods at Rond's words to Tratain. "Aye, you're a more than capable set of extra hands, my friend. It would be our honor to have you along. You know, you might want to consider sticking with us full time. We tend to work in Plateau City, and you strike me as a man with the skills to excel in our line of work. I'd give it some thought."
"So, off to see Hororot then." He examines the sword and crown. "Poor old fellow, I hope these bring him the rest he craves."
Before they leave Renik asks Bill if he can carry William, so as to keep the party informed of his scouting progress.
Once the party move out Renik will scrout ahead, moving into the Catacombs the way the party left them, carefully checking for any signs of occupation (Search 11, Spot 19, MS 18, Hide 26). Should he encounter something he will retreat as fast as possible, warning the others of the danger via William.
Bill Troublefinder Monday June 9th, 2003 10:58:33 AM
"No!" Bill says of Renik's suggestion that he scout ahead. "Not unless Hobbes can make you invisible to undead." Is that a slight tremor in Bill's lower lip?
If Hobbes can do that for Renik, then he does let him carry William. He really prefers, though, that they all travel together in the graveyard tunnels.
Caring for the widow and orphan (dmjk) Monday June 9th, 2003 12:29:51 PM
When Bill visits Groyle's widow, she slaps him as hard as she can, throws his money in the street, screams, "We don't need your guilt money!," and slams the door on his face.
He doesn't have much better luck finding a benefactor. The widow's friends don't take too kindly to the hafling (one even tried to stab him), and no one else seems to care.
the cemetery (dmjk) Monday June 9th, 2003 12:32:49 PM
Some make it to the catacombs, and the group seems to enjoy Tratain's company. And everyone thinks of going to see Horrorot and ending this quest.
As the group heads to the cemetery, nothing seems unusual. No undead leap upon the party to suck out their entrails. No assassins fire poisoned darts out of the brush. No giants rain down a hail of boulders.
It's a peaceful night, just as one would have expected before the necromancer set up residence in the catacombs.
Still, perhaps some protection from undead wouldn't hurt, and did Bill just insult Hobbes?
Bill Troublefinder d20+5=22 Monday June 9th, 2003 7:22:05 PM Wrap up of Floating City Other widows and orphans Bill uses his wand of prestidigitation to collect the scattered coins. He decides that Groyle's wife perhaps got the sort of husband she deserved, though he does feel sorry for the boy, Evan. She was wrong, too, about it being guilt money. He feels no guilt whatsoever about the thug Groyle's death. He brought it upon himself, and Bill did not have a hand in it. Oh, well, perhaps he should have been more circumspect in how he went about seeing about provision for the family of the dead drunken fool.
He recalls having met a few years back in the Catacombs a woman who covered her face. He later learned she ran an orphanage here in Floating City. So, he asks around about her - Flaust, it was, and, if he finds her, introduces himself, gives her 250 gp and 50 sp (260gp value total) for the care of orphans and widows in the town. He explains briefly the situation with Groyle's widow and son Evan, as well as warning her about the ruffians in the neighborhood (as if she needs such warning), and wishes her well in her work.
If he does not locate her or someone he trusts to find her, he does not disburse the funds.
Windhorn graveyard As soon as the group is ready to descend, Bill accompanies them. Right in the middle of the group. He activates clairvoyance in order to look ahead, above, below, to the right and left, just in case there are spectres who are lurking about. He thinks it might be safe to stick near Feng.
Feng Monday June 9th, 2003 8:20:16 PM
In the graveyard Feng walks in front. If there are undead about he should be in front. If undead do decide to show themselves he can try to send them away.
"I'll take the point. Just in case if there are any undead around."
Tratain d4+1=2 Tuesday June 10th, 2003 12:50:41 AM
Tratain follows along with the group, when they reach the cemetary he casts Bull's Strength upon himself(+2 Str).
He says "Are we expecting any trouble here? You seem a little nervous there Bill. I also can cast another Bull's Strength and an Endurence if anyone would like them."
Draax Tuesday June 10th, 2003 12:53:55 AM
Draax goes with the group under the graveyard to return the crown and sword. He gets in whatever formation the group deems necessary.
Rond Tuesday June 10th, 2003 2:44:41 AM
"It's hard to say from what we've experienced. Bill here got attacked by spectres when we came in. We met a couple of other nasties before we met Hororot.
We're trying to make sure that we're not going to meet anything that we cannot handle as a group."
Renik Tuesday June 10th, 2003 3:36:54 AM
"Ah, Bill, you worry overmuch!" grins the rogue, but nonetheless he takes Bill's advice. "I suppose it would make more sense to have Feng lead the way."
As they continue their journey Renik pulls his shortswords clear of their scabbards. He tries not to gaze in avaricious glee at the magnificent craftsmanship of his new weapon. He swishes through the air once or twice, marvelling at its perfect balance and swiftness. "I shall call you Chill" he whispers to the blade "after your previous owner."
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