The Frontier #104
The group hands out most of the magic items and prepares for the next step in the exploration of the pillars.
Both Bright eyes, Mercy's Owl, and Sheba, Zynara's python, note something odd about Padraig. There's a new scent with him. They cannot determine what it is.
Once more, the trio of scouts makes their way down to the artifact.
The journey begins at a simple well in Gateway. New construction has been added so that a platform can be lowered to the caves below.
The platform sets down on a wooden dock constructed 40' out into an underground lake. From here, the path takes you into a series of winding passages. All of which eventually converge at two different points.
The first point is the entrance to the Tomb of the Gatherer of Souls. The other leads into the pillar room itself. Both these rooms are connected.
Inside the Tomb, those new to down here see a huge, armored figure on a stone slab. It lies as if dead.
The pillar room is a large cave. Six pillars make up the artifact. Runes of magic and those of the Elder Tongue cover their surface.
(To simplify matters, consider the formation of the pillars to that of a clock face. Each odd number represents a pillar: 1,3,5,7,9, and 11. The pillar at 3 o'Clock points west. Nine is east.)
Pillar 3 leads to the ruins.
Pad casts a spell at pillar 3 and the whole artifact begins to glow a blue color. Peals of lightning arc across the whole artifact. The scouts enter and disappear.
The scouts arrive at the pillar formation in the ruins.
This formation is in the same style as the one under Gateway. Again, the odd clock numbers represent pillars. Here is a list of the believed locations in Elder and Common:
| # | Elder word | Believed Location: |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cruth | Northending |
| 3 | Wolde | Shadowkeep |
| 5 | Radle | New Keln |
| 7 | Sokob | Unnamed Island |
| 9 | Magus | Gateway |
| 11 | Lenic | High Watch |
Pad casts another spell on pillar #7 and the scouts vanish once more.
By now, the scouts are used to the effects of being teleported. Only the annoying blue flash remains.
Once your eyes clear, you find yourselves standing on a pillar formation that like the other two. However, this one is in the middle of thick tropical jungle!
The jungle is alive with sounds and motions. Exotic birds fly pass giving the new arrivals only a curious glance. Plants and vines have overgrown the pillars.
Taking a closer look around, you begin to see the crumbling outlines of buildings. The formation appears to be in the ruins of a city that was been reclaimed by the jungle.
You stand in the middle of what once was a great plaza.
The air is very hot. You each break out into a sweat.
No threats present themselves. Only birds and smaller animals can be seen. It appears that no one has been here for quite sometime.
Suddenly, a pair of lips appears on a rock close to the pillar. It shouts a few words in a language that the trio cannot understand. Once finished, the lips disappear...
Spectrum's Comments: Although never mentioned in game, the ruined city once belonged to the Nithian Empire. See the Clash of Empires game for more on Nitha.
SUBJ: Padraig (R) FROM: GM Shifty 08/15/91 S#: 50155
"Well, that was a Magic Mouth spell. Question is do we wait and see if someone answers the call or do we pop out of here? If the natives here aren't hostile, our leaving after setting off their alarm might be considered provocative, especially if time later we reappear with a large party."
SUBJ: Fiben Bolger FROM: FatalCharm 08/15/91 S#: 826633
Well, in case Fiben gets asked to help explore the pillars, (and he hopes so, Exploring is one of his greatest joys) he will remove his Leather Armor and store it in his Chest in his room.
"I wish someone with a pack horse or with loads of strength would carry it for me, so I could put it on after I cast my spell if I need it."
Did I say Fiben bought Sheaf Arrows? I can't use them, silly me. I meant I bought 120 Flight arrows, 20 of which are in my quiver and the other hundred in my back pack.
"Well, I all I can do now is wait, and hope I get to see some action soon. Until then I'll wait in my room, less someone starts thinking I'm too gabby. Oh they already think I'm gabby?"
::shrug::
"To each his own."
SUBJ: Claudius.. (R) FROM: GM Falcon 08/15/91 S#: 800728
After talking with Stephanie (E-mail), Claudius comes forward the day before the explorations:
"Armon, take the philter (of persuasiveness). It's probably best if you do the talking should we need it."
"Arocken, you can have the chain +4 if you want it.. at the price of your chain +1, of course. The choice is yours."
"Canery, the scroll/prot-poison is yours. Tania, the scroll vs. magic is yours."
"Dani, the potion of vitality is yours. Fiber, you may have the invisibility potion. Rooster, you can have the potion of fire resistance."
"Including the facts that Zy's rod of security, and my mage scroll are considered communal property (right?), that leaves us fairly balanced.. at least as balanced as we're going to get without major restructuring. Any objections to this?"
Not being among the explorers on the island, Claudius waits patiently for the return of the scouts.
SUBJ: Armon FROM: Omni Tuens 08/16/91 S#: 816993
Armon takes the philter with a smile. "My thanks...I'll make sure I use it wisely... or at least at an opportune time."
Armon is let's out a small gasp as he suddenly materializes in the hot jungle, and quickly loosens his shirt. "Let's not leave...yet. You two might want to get some place not too obvious for a few minutes. That way, if someone comes to greet us, they'll see me. If someone comes to hurt us, they'll see only me...make sense? After that, we can look around if nothing happens."
SUBJ: Dani FROM: Thwap 08/17/91 S#: 830895
Dani tucks the potion gently away in his robes to make sure it's available should someone have need of it.
"Thank you for entrusting this to me, though I would suggest in the future that you screen your new members a bit further before you entrust your healing to them.. But 'tis not my place to judge your actions."
Prior to leaving Gateway, Dani will be certain to get stocked up with food as well as any healing herbs he might be. The rest of his funds he'll leave in his room under lock and key 'til he decides he has need for it.
Dani
Dani will carry 2 Cure Light Wounds spells, as well as a Weighty Chest spell, if you're using the Tome of Magic that is. ;) If not, make it a Curse spell. :)
SUBJ: Stephanie FROM: Schar 08/17/91 S#: 829308
I stand back and let Claudius handle the handing out of our excess goodies.
"At least that's finally taken care of. On to other business."
When we go down to the pillars, I make a special point to tell the new members not to touch the Gatherer of Souls.
"It's not dangerous as long as its not disturbed. Give him plenty of room."
After we reappear in the jungle I draw my sword and wait to be attacked. When the rock with lips speaks, I almost hit it with my sword, but decide not to.
"It's really hot... I feel the sweat running down my back. I agree with Armon. Let's wait a little bit and see if anyone shows up. If not, then we'll go back for the others. Okay?"
I stand watch, just waiting for something to happen. After a time a thought hits me.
"Padraig, is there anyway to know how long the magic lips could have been there? Hours? Days? Weeks? Years? This place appears to be deserted for a long time."
SUBJ: GM Notes: (R) FROM: GM Mad 08/17/91 S#: 809875
Ten minutes pass for the scouts and still no sign of life above animals. Fifteen and still nothing.
The Tomb of Magic is used. As are the class Handbooks.
SUBJ: Rooster 1 (R) FROM: ShadowFoxx 08/17/91 S#: 459015
ZZzzzzzzzz ::snort:: Huh?...
Lifting his hat, Rooster sees the potion gently rising & falling on his chest...
Thinking the Seekers are really getting ON in years, since they display such hearing loss... he decides immediately to take another tack...
After all, he plans neither to explore the Elemental Plane of Fire nor any of the Hells... neither does he plan on challenging any Red Dragons nor Salamanders to arm wrestling... such is NOT HIS style...
Picking it up gently & waving it enticingly in one hand & his Dagger in the other ( a man's gotta do what a man's gotta DO... :> ... you know what you want - you go after it single-mindedly & without cease...:> ), Rooster calls out...
"Step raht up, La-dees 'n Gen'l'men, what we got here is one Gen-u-wine (prob'ly) Po-Shun of... um... Fahr Re-ziz-tince...
"Those hankerin' t' sashay amidst FireBalls step raht this way...
"If YEW TOO, wan' walk acrost Hot Coals of a Mornin' 'fore BreakFast... yew come t' th' raht Place...
"ALL we be lookin' fer in trade is One Gen-u-wine (fer Certain) Magic Lantern Spell to be put on this Dagger Raht Hyar...
"One tahny li'l Perm'nint Spell of no reel account & 'iss hyar Gen-u-Wine Po-Shun can be YOUR'N... step Raht This Way... hur-ra Hur-Ra HUR-RA ... 'iss offer cain't las' LONG...
He'll wave them around for a moment of two, then place both on his chest & pull his hat down & start to snore once more... He figgers if anybody's interested they know how to reach him... ;>
SUBJ: Padraig (R) FROM: GM Shifty 08/17/91 S#: 795249
"No, Steph. There's no easy means of telling how long ago that spell was placed there. But, it looks like nobody's home. Let's 'port back and bring forward the others."
"Wonder if this place has any beaches?"
SUBJ: Zynara FROM: Tora 08/17/91 S#: 477336
Upon hearing the request (forgot who) for a continual light on the dagger, I smile and say, "I have one I can cast for you, but that potion is yours to hold onto for the moment. Now, since the power of a continual light eats at the object it is placed on, where do you want the spell cast upon your weapon?"
When Sheba informs me of the new smell with Padraig, I wait till I can ask him in private, "Sheba says you have a new smell to you. Is it something that I can know about, or would it be safer if I didn't know?"
SUBJ: Tania FROM: Enchantres 08/17/91 S#: 485458
I am genuinely surprised when Mage Claudius and Lady Stephanie hand me the scroll. It's all I can do to keep from jumping up and down in excitement. But I feel the now familiar hand of Dani on my shoulder. 'I know, I know, control my excitement. It's not easy.'
When Mage Zynara comes in with a python of all things wrapped around her shoulders I go pale. I have the incredible urge to yell 'SNAKE!' at the top of my lungs. But remembering how I overreacted when I first saw Mercy. 'Sheba? Your familiar, Lady?'
I spend the entire journey down to the pillars by observing everything. Lady Stephanie peeks my curiosity when she speaks of this Gatherer. 'It appears to be a simple suit of armor. I don't see anything dangerous. Interesting.'
I watch in silent awe as the explorers disappear in a display of magical power. 'Neat! When do we get to try this?'
Mad, are Healing Packs from the Arms and Equipment Guide available in Gateway? If so, I wish to purchase one.
SUBJ: Padraig FROM: GM Shifty 08/18/91 S#: 464691
In response to Zynara, "What Sheba smells is my new familiar. I'm keeping it invisible for its protection. I'll have it drop the spell so you can see what it looks like. Might as well show it to everyone else, too. Don't want them shooting it by accident."
SUBJ: Rooster again FROM: ShadowFoxx 08/18/91 S#: 460904
Radar-Ears Rooster "Locks On" to Zynara's Offer in "Track while Scan" mode & his hat pops up & he's off leaving Carl Lewis gasping in the Dust...
Screeching to a Halt in front of her, Dagger & Potion in Hand, he asks once more if she SURE she doesn't want the thing for those times when she might add a pinch too much of this or that to some experiment "acookin' in 'er retorts"...
IF not... oh well... :> ... he tells her he is now in her debt & ANYTHING he's got (or can "get") is ALL hers... her wish is his command... etc etc etc... :> ...
He'll tell her IF she can "slice 'er that thin", he'd just like the 2/3 of the blade from the tip up to be alight... he doesn't want to take any chances with stray beams sparkling forth to give away his position when its in it's sheath...
If she can do that... Yeeeeee-Haaaaaaa!
He'll "sashay 'round" the undoubtedly amused Conjurer for a moment before shaking her hand vigorously with a spritely "Thankee... Kin'ly" & dart back to his spot to sheath the Dagger, pack the potion carefully, pull down his hat & continue the ZZZZZ parade while awaiting "the Word"... a big smile on his face & a song in his heart... :>
(Nothing Succeeds like SUCCESS... ;> )
SUBJ: GM Notes: (R) FROM: GM Mad 08/18/91 S#: 819072
Almost half an hour after leaving, the Scouts return to under Gateway. They quickly relate what lies ahead and tell all to get ready.
Which route are you going take to the island, Pad? Same as before or try it from Gateway itself. (Also, pillar 1 from the island lead back to Gateway. Easy to figure out if you draw the whole thing out.)
Also, what spells did you burn to power the artifact?
Healing packs are available in Gateway.
SUBJ: Arocken FROM: Wildchilde 08/18/91 S#: 850261
"Seems like a fair trade to me Claudius" Arocken will take the +4 chain and leave his +1 for whomever it would most benefit.
Arocken will then retire to his room and polish both his new blade and his new Armour preparing it for the adventure to come.
+++++++++++++
Arocken will wear his leather armor whenever they are traveling. Donning the Chain only when he know that battle will be forthcoming. (assuming he has the time)
SUBJ: Fiben FROM: FatalCharm 08/18/91 S#: 517956
When Fiben hears of their destination, he immediately perks up.
"A Jungle you say?! I can't believe my luck! I must have done something right to please the gods! Now maybe I can actually find something I've been looking for. And in case I do, I'm packing extra rations, preferably bananas if I can find any."
Fiben accepts the Potion with much gratitude. "Steph, Claudius, anything I can do to repay you, just let me know. By the way, can anyone tell me anything about this Invisibility potion? Like how long does it last? Any penalties or risks to using it?"
Fiben then sticks the potion into his belt pouch for quick easy access and stands ready to go.
SUBJ: Mercy (R) FROM: Mastiff1 08/19/91 S#: 49216
Still packing his backpack, Brighteyes flies in hooting about something. He finds that it has to do with Pad, and logically he approaches Stephanie to see if Sheba has detected something different about Pad. He will accompany her when she talks with him. "Hmmm.. wise decision." he says thinking about Tania reaction to him and Sheba.
Mercy will pace back and forth waiting for the scouts to return. When the scouts come back, will write down what they saw and the pillar info.
SUBJ: Padraig (R) FROM: GM Shifty 08/19/91 S#: 44971
Since I don't want to burn out my spell list with unnecessary jaunts, the scouts will return to Gateway directly from the island. Pad suggests that the group try to get to the island directly from Gateway, to conserve spell power.
My starting spell list for the day was:
3x MMissile, Color Spray, Comp Language
Web, Mirror Image, Know Alignment, Strength, Invisibility.
2x Fireball, Dispel Magic, Fly, Slow.
Ot's Resilient Sphere, Wall of Fire, Polymorph Others, Polymorph Self.
Cloudkill, Wall of Force, Teleport, Wall of Iron.
The Invisibility was used on his homunculus. To power the 3 trips he used Slow, Web, Strength, and 2 Magic Missiles.
How many total people do we have to bring through the grid? Pad'll be willing to throw a 4th or 5th list spell, but he would prefer if the other spell casters took some of the load themselves.
SUBJ: Claudius... FROM: GM Falcon 08/19/91 S#: 788615
"Since we can get back safely..", Claudius speaks upon the scouts' return, "I think we should all go. That way if there IS something down there that's hostile, we'll be in a position to face it. Even if not, it'll be worth a quick once-over, especially since winter doesn't seem to affect it."
Claud will use his L2 spells to help power up, and his L1s if there is some discrepancy in power needed. Hopefully the rest of the mages will come thru with some small part. He will save his L3 (fireball) at all costs unless it's for the teleport home.
SUBJ: Stephanie FROM: Schar 08/20/91 S#: 462370
After returning to the ruins and the announcement that we are all going this time is made, I seek out Claudius.
"How shall we go about this? I mean remain as one large group to explore and go in smaller ones? I'd say go in smaller ones since we can cover more ground that way."
"No thanks are necessary, Fiben. Just do your best to uphold the honor of the Seekers. [Sheesh! Now I'm beginning to sound like Validar! ;D]
SUBJ: GM Notes: FROM: GM Mad 08/20/91 S#: 818037
Pillar 3 from Gateway leads back to the Island. (Pillar 11 from the island leads back to Gateway.)
There will be another new PC showing any time now, upping to active count to 13.
SUBJ: Zynara FROM: Tora 08/20/91 S#: 47491
Sheba:
When asked if Sheba is my familiar, "She was my pet to begin with. When I cast my spell to find a familiar, a new link opened up in our friendship. Warning, Sheba likes practical jokes. Just ask our halfling." I end with a small giggle.
Dagger:
There is no problem with the light. It effects only a small point. Smaller than the area you want covered, so I will cast it on the very tip of the blade. In time, it will eat the point and if the blade is sharpened on the point, you do run the chance of destroying the spell. If that happens, I will be happy to replace it while in town.
Padraig:
"I like the idea of hiding your familiar with the invisibility. To bad I can't trust Sheba to not pull any practical jokes or I would ask you to do the same for her."
For the trip:
"Might I suggest we spend a night here so that our scouts can regain their spells? It may prove extra beneficial at some point."
Spells:
Spells for trip: Burning Hands, Chill Touch, Enlarge *2, Mount; Melf's Acid Arrow *3; Flame Arrow, Vampiric Touch, Fly
SUBJ: Tania FROM: Enchantres 08/20/91 S#: 810615
Tania nods her understand when Mage Zynara speaks of Sheba. 'A must unusual familiar.' In spite of having learned this, I still give Sheba a wide berth.
I get excited once more when I learn that we shall be leaving soon. 'I'll cast my single mage spell to help work the artifact, if you wish it Mage Padraig. It's not as powerful as you more experienced mages so it won't be missed as much.'
The Frontier #105
The Seekers as a whole use the Elder Artifact under Gateway to travel to an unnamed island. The mages power up the artifact and the group is ready to go!
Those unfamiliar with this mode of travel find it rather unsettling. You skin tingles slightly and the flux of energy temporarily blinds you. The blindness wears off in seconds, but is still unsettling.
The Seekers reappear on the pillar formation on the island. Nothing has changed since the scouting group left. The Jungle remains full of life and sound.
A Magic Mouth does not greet the group this time.
SUBJ: GM Notes: (R) FROM: GM Mad 08/22/91 S#: 516550
Everyone is now on the island. How do you intend to go exploring?
Also, are you going to follow Zynara's suggestion to wait a day to allow the mages to regain spells are go back the same day. If you did not wait, then post what spells were used to power the artifact. You need 13 spell levels to transport the group. If you did wait, I'll also need to know your new spell lists in addition to what spells powered the pillars.
Rooster discovers that the light from his dagger can be seen through his sheath.
Fiben is unable to locate bananas in Gateway. One merchant does mention that they get very little in tropical fruits this far north. The best chance to even come across bananas would be in Kingsport, a large port city in the southern tip of the Kingdom.
Now what?
SUBJ: Tania (R) FROM: Enchantres 08/22/91 S#: 503034
I am excited as our adventure begins. After hearing about the conditions at the other end of the teleporter and providing I get the time, I'll change clothes to something more suitable. A dark green blouse, wide brown belt and matching green shorts and soft boots should do for the jungle.
Once we do arrive, I look around having very little else to do. 'How do we proceed from here? This is my first adventure. Wow.' I'll then be quiet and fall the instructions given to me by our leaders.
I'll still use my Magic Missile to help work the teleporter. Just trying to help out my fellow mages! ;D
SUBJ: Fiben Bolger FROM: FatalCharm 08/22/91 S#: 473324
On arriving, Fiben drops to his knees for a few moments to gather his wits.
::Retch::
"Uuuuggghh, I hope this form of travel is something one can get used to."
After he gathers himself together, he approaches the party to ask a favor. "Could you all keep your eyes pealed and notify me if you see any monkeys hanging around any of these trees? Especially a Black Howler, them being the biggest and strongest, But most any Cebid would suffice. Eventually when we go back, I plan on taking one back with me."
Well, Fiben is waiting for orders from the team captain. "Hmmm, wonder if any of those old buildings still have treasures inside I could scarf up, er, I mean discover?"
SUBJ: Armon (R) FROM: Omni Tuens 08/23/91 S#: 48764
Armon wanders around restlessly, playing with a dagger as the entire party teleports over, and 'adjust' to the process. He makes small talk willingly with anyone who he can find. Once everyone is across, he speaks up.
"Well bosses, I say we split up. How we gonna divide out?"
SUBJ: Zynara FROM: Tora 08/23/91 S#: 22595
When we transport over (I will help power the pillars if it is decided we won't be giving our scouts a chance to recover. If we do spend the night, I will help if it is needed but would prefer not to.), It takes a little time to adjust (only 2nd time through them).
Once I am adjusted, I check my equipment and spell components. Hopefully someone will have come up with a plan of action by then. If not I make a suggestion, "Why don't we clean up one of these buildings so we have a base to work out of. Then we can check the city out. Once that is done, then we can search the bigger area around the city. Does it sound like a plan?"
SUBJ: Claudius.. FROM: GM Falcon 08/24/91 S#: 805265
Over the next few days, Claudius proves to be a grand-master at organization. It's the more subtle qualities of leadership he has trouble with..
However, once at the island, he listens to all the comments quietly. He dabs his forehead with a sweat-soaked sleeve, and steps forward:
"Okay.."
"Zynara is right. A building is a good idea, it'll give us a chance to rest up, furthermore if we are attacked from outside, we might gain some strategic advantages."
He points at the first building that comes to mind: "If anyone has a detect traps spell, now is the time. Other- wise, would you do the honors Bernice? I also want some volunteers to quickly recon this town.. don't go into any buildings, just make sure it is, indeed uninhabited."
Spells:
1) 5*Magic Missile
2) 3*Flaming Sphere (Donated to artifact)
3) Fireball , Lightning Bolt
"Okee?"
SUBJ: Arocken (R) FROM: Wildchilde 08/24/91 S#: 463329
The Elven ranger seems rather sullen in the time before the group prepares to depart from the portals. When the word is given to depart Arocken shows but definitely not ready to travel.
"I am afraid that I cannot accompany you on this journey. I am needed elsewhere. May your gods protect you."
With that the lithe elf climbs aboard his steed, armor glittering in the sun and rides off for lands unknown.
Spectrum's Comments: And just like that, Arocken left. He turnes up next in New Frontiers.
SUBJ: Fiben FROM: FatalCharm 08/24/91 S#: 815701
"I know I shouldn't be jumping in here again before others have a chance to speak, but...
"Though I like the idea of having one of the buildings for a base, is that a good idea before, those who need to, re-memorize some spells? Even if no one is around anymore, The Magic Mouth is quite an indication that whomever used to be here, left some magic behind. These buildings could be full of traps and curses.
"If we stay the night to rest, I volunteer for watch duty with my Elvin Vision and stealth. I'll have to stay 90' away from the party to listen for surprises. Any Elves (or halflings. we have any?) who wish to join me, are appreciated, as long as they have no metal armor on. Makes to much noise."
Fiben makes a mental note to buy some Weapon Black when he gets back. If there is any moonlight tonight, this shiny sword is gonna flash like lightning soon as he unsheathes it.
SUBJ: Stephanie (R) FROM: Schar 08/25/91 S#: 826351
I sigh disappointedly when we return and are not attacked right away.
When Claudius starts giving out orders, I walk to his side and tap him on the shoulder.
"No Bernice, Claudius. She stayed behind. Rooster, Fiben, time to show your stuff. Scout the area out and find a good place to use for a base. Don't go to far away. Let's check the immediate area out. No one goes wandering off by themselves. Be careful."
Once a spot is located, I'll deposit my extra equipment there.
"Now that that's done, let's take a look around. Again, no one goes by themselves. Stick together."
SUBJ: Rooster 1 FROM: ShadowFoxx 08/25/91 S#: 477711
To Zynara ::wiggling his hip to show the light shining thru (as a glow?)::
"Hey, Ma'am... they got Mag'cal Mal-prac-tiss hyar!?... :>... whut's THIS!?...
"Thas al-raht, little lady... not yore fault, I reckon ::looking suspiciously at the sky... ;> ::...
"Jus' hafta get me a metal scabbard whens we get back t' GateWay, I 'low...
He'll take the offending dagger & unceremoniously dump it into his pack - which he shucks... he'll take nothing on the Scout that he wouldn't have if selected earlier...
To Fiben :: with a whack on the poor Elf's shin ::
"One Halflin' raht here, FurBall, bes' crank up thet vaunted Elven vision o' you'n a mite better'n THET... :>
To Claudius & Steph - he had his mouth open to respond to Claudius call for Bernice when Steph saved him the trouble... :>...
"Ah'm ON it, Ma'am... C'mon if yer a'c'min', FurBall...
"If'n we gonna pick a buildin', le's pick a nice one in purty good shape, eh?...
To Armon ::eyeing all his new shiny new magical type stuff::
"Hey, SongScreecher, wanna c'mon 'long to make shore us scrawny lil' folk don' get ourse'fs kilt?...
"I NEVAH turns down an offer frum Bi-i-ig Stro-o-ong Hu-mangs (or reas'nable facsim'lies thar-of... :> ), even Tav'rn Crawlin' Lounge Lizard Crooners sich as yourse'f... :>...
Rooster will move out toward the building selected by the Honchos (make it a nice comfortable looking ruin, eh?... :> ), with Fiben & Armon (maybe? - he was in a hurry to split up... :> ) in tow...
SUBJ: GM Notes: (R) FROM: GM Mad 08/25/91 S#: 478365
Most of the buildings have collapses and crumbled away beyond usefulness. One good location is spotted. It is a good sized building in relatively good shape. Its roof is still intact, but it is covered by many vines. Removing the vines is a chore.
The inside of the building consists of a huge room, with several smaller rooms off of it. There are three exits, 2 regular entrances and one spot where the wall has collapsed. Whatever this place was used as before cannot be determined. Any furniture that was once inside has since rotted away. Only the stone buildings themselves remain.
You set up your camp without any problems. The only moment of alarm was when Sheba sneaked up on Tania and she let loose with one of her patented screams.
How do you plan to explore the ruins? Who's going with who??
Also, the new post won't be up until next Saturday due to uncontrollable circumstances. (IE, work ;)
But, I'll post an update once you decide on how you are going exploring.
SUBJ: Fiben FROM: FatalCharm 08/25/91 S#: 834941
Before the building is picked out:
Fiben is pleased to have been selected to Scout for a base. Flicking his long black hair back over his shoulder, he glares at Rooster. "Furball eh? Listen half-pint, you just see if your stubby little legs can keep up with me, ok?"
After the building is picked, Fiben grumbles, "Shoot, I suppose it's also our job to clear these stupid vines away. This isn't what I had in mind." ::sigh:: "Ah well, I'll consider it my chance to begin repaying my debt to the seekers."
To Rooster, "Hey half-pint, your dagger sharp enough to cut this stuff? If you can't reach, we can trade for moment and you can use my sword" ::snicker::
To Claudius and Steph: " Despite how it may sound, I'm always honored to work beside another Thief such as myself. (Though I prefer to call my self an explorer, and a living shadow) But anyway, if we split up, I think it best that you split me and Rooster up so each party (if there are 2) has one of us to help look for traps or other surprises. It was just far to easy moving in here, and I have the constant feeling we are being watched. I don't trust this place."
Before the groups split up, Fiben takes his signal Whistle out of his Backpack and puts it in his Belt Pouch with the potion, In case he finds trouble and needs to signal for help quickly.
SUBJ: Armon (R) FROM: Omni Tuens 08/26/91 S#: 798061
Armon scouts around the area, wishing he had been given more freedom during the exploring of the ruins. Once a spot is decided upon, he approaches 'da bosses' again.
"Okay, we have a place the mages can hide in. Can the rest of us go ahead and scout 'round, now? Please?"
SUBJ: Claudius.. (R) FROM: GM Falcon 08/26/91 S#: 477913
Claudius will blush at his gaffe (Bernice), and become quiet as people start speaking up.
Finally, after the building is found and cleared, he regains his nerve:
"Okay, I suppose now is the time for us mages to rest and recover those spells we lost. We'll need one-two guards in case anyone tries to sneak in. Every- one else can go explore, but stick together in one party. If anything comes out to grab ya, yell loudly."
"Sound fair, Steph?, others?"
SUBJ: Carnery FROM: Cirius 08/26/91 S#: 849051
The Silent Druid stands near the edge of the party keeping his eyes and ears open for any signs of trouble. He seems to be looking more and more at home with the group as time goes on, yet he remains solitary. As of yet, he offers no opinions on the group's course of action.
SUBJ: Dani (R) FROM: Thwap 08/26/91 S#: 14844
"I will volunteer to act as a guard for those of you needing to rememorize spells. The way I see it, we should have at least one or two healers, Myself and Tania, where we may be found if needed. This is not to volunteer Tania t'stay behind, of course. :) ::Looking at her:: You may, of course, wander where you wish.. Oh easily-excitable one." ::Grin::
Dani then settles down near the entrance of the building and takes a book from his backpack in which he proceeds to write.
SUBJ: Mercy FROM: Mastiff1 08/27/91 S#: 838345
"I'll come with ye, Armon if you'll have me. That is unless our leaders wish my to stay."
Mercy waits to see what our leaders have to say. "Maybe you should organize the exploration parties" he says to Stephanie and Claudius.
SUBJ: Stephanie (R) FROM: Schar 08/27/91 S#: 511398
I am just getting ready to take my chain mail off when Dani volunteers to remain behind.
"If that is what you wish, Dani, so be it. Everyone who is going exploring let's get a move on. Group outside in a few minutes."
After retrieving my longbow and a quiverful of arrows, I seek out Claudius.
"I take it that you are remaining here? I'll take the group and search the area around the base, okay?"
Once we are ready to go...
"Rooster, Fiben you got the point. The rest of us will follow from a distance. Please be careful!"
SUBJ: Padraig FROM: GM Shifty 08/27/91 S#: 850440
Pad sends his homunculus on a high scouting flight to get the lay of the land. After that, he tells the invisible creature to patrol about 200 yards out from the party's base camp.
Pad will have cast a Wall of Force to help power the teleporter. If the other mages didn't contribute enough to finish the powering up, he'll add a Mirror Image.
When the building is picked as the base camp, Pad asks Claudius and Steph if they want the hole in the wall to remain, or if they'd prefer to have only the door to guard. If they don't want the hole, Pad will first clear everyone out of the building in case there's an accident. Then, he'll cast a Wall of Iron on the outside of the building, so it covers up the hole.
As the scouting parties range out, Pad casts a Fly spell on himself, so he'll be able to reach anyone who calls for help as quickly as possible.
SUBJ: Tania FROM: Enchantres 08/27/91 S#: 845503
I scream 'SNAKE!!' at the top of my lungs when I suddenly see the snake sliding up my leg. In a flash I run across the room and climb as high as I can.
When I learn that it was Sheba and recalling that Mage Zynara said that it liked to play tricks my face turns beet red. 'Sorry everyone....'
I cheer up noticeable once it is decided to go scouting. 'You got that right, Dani! I wouldn't miss this for anything. You're a peach!' I give Dani a kiss on the cheek on my way out.
Grabbing my gear, I meet Lady Stephanie and the others outside. I follow her lead and try not to wander off. But there are so many interesting things to see! It will not be easy! ;D
SUBJ: Claudius.. FROM: GM Falcon 08/27/91 S#: 840842
...frowns when Pad begins talking of walls of iron. Tactics means nothing to Claudius, but it sure makes a lot of sense. He tells Pad to go fer it.
Once inside, when Pad starts casting spells on himself Claud will wander over rather waspishly. "You too, Pad. Rest now, we can cast spells later."
SUBJ: Rooster 2 (R) FROM: ShadowFoxx 08/28/91 S#: 793759
Rooster is ON it... stomping out to stand by Steph & wait for Fiben to "fall in"... AFTER he dumps that 2 1/2 tons of gear (at least... :> ) he was carrying when they left...
If Carnery is not going to remain behind, then he should be available to check out any real "skinny" places as Rooster's heard Druids are real slithery in the "weeds"...
As to direction... Rooster will "propose" to Steph that they do a clockwise pattern (from where they stand facing the base) working out, checking everything 'til they reach the first edge of the ruins... then they can be fairly sure of no immediate lurking surprises...
After that... they can take stock & decide from there...
He will take out one vial, & , ver carefully, apply the contents to one arrowhead & the 1st 6" of shaft... he'll keep this one nocked... making sure he doesn't get any on his fingertips or gloves...
When Fiben shows up, he'll tell him to take the left (Rooster's "blind" side - & in this case, the outside of the circle)... he will ask the explorers NOT to crowd them, but to "stay close" within "hollerin'" distance... & to be as quiet as possible...
He will work out some quick hand signals with Fiben, so they don't have to talk... & tell Steph if they need Carnery (if he comes) he'll give 3 "snaps up"... 1 if he needs HER... if this is acceptable, (& Fiben has dumped his home away from home... :> ), he'll nod to the Elf & they'll move out... slowly & cautiously, Rooster's beady little eye in constant scan mode...
SUBJ: Padraig FROM: GM Shifty 08/28/91 S#: 507002
Pad just grins at Claudius, "That spell will last for hours. I'm planning to rest now, but I was just preparing a little for contingencies before I did."
SUBJ: Zynara FROM: Tora 08/28/91 S#: 787916
Zynara will stay with the rest of the mages and rest. It should be interesting if the others get into trouble. They will be depending on the mages for protection. :D
SUBJ: Fiben FROM: FatalCharm 08/29/91 S#: 808449
Fiben smiles in amusement at Rooster suddenly barking out orders. But the fact is, his plans are good, so I don't dispute them. But to keep Rooster from getting to big of a head, I simply reach down and pat him on top of his head, "Good idea half-pint". Then I loosen the straps on my over packed backpack, and drop it to the floor, just missing Rooster's foot.
I take position on Rooster's blind side making sure my potion and Signal Whistle are still safe in my belt pouch. I Make sure my vest is covering my tunic well, so the bright silver trim doesn't show and flash attention in the sunlight.
I do have one disagreement with Rooster. Should you have that arrow Knocked? I'm not so sure we should appear so outwardly aggressive per chance we should stumble onto any inhabitants. Don't necessarily want to find out just yet how well that Stoneskin spell works. If you insist on it though, I might as well keep my bow in hand, arrow knocked, too.
Here's a hand Signal for ya.
"By the way, we stand a better chance at avoiding any unwelcomed surprises if the rest of you stay at least 90' away.
Ok, Let's go!"
SUBJ: Stephanie FROM: Schar 08/30/91 S#: 498533
Steph nods her understanding when Rooster presents his ideas on the scouting.
"Go with it, Rooster. The rest of us will hang back a short ways."
As I follow the front men, I'll have my bow in hand. Arrows will remain in the quiver for now.
Spectrum's Comments: Next time: The Seekers begin to explore the ruins.