You head of down the corridor and leave the door behind.  You go about 20' before the maze turns left and then another 20' and turns right.  Another 30' gets you to a 4 way intersection.  RockJaw indicates that straight ahead is the best path and so you go that way.  This goes on for a while, taking the direction RockJaw indicates at intersections.  He is even able to lead you away from a golem threat.
   You start down a long path and after about 50' you notice a large figure ahead, it just stands there.  It is a golem, probably Mithril but you are not sure.  It looks to be 70' away.

"Seems he is waiting for you."  says RockJaw

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 1):

Shorty continues forward cautiously.  At about 40 feet he pauses and says hullo.

Aztar continues to mark the trail wanting to have a way back if something were to happen to their guide.  When they spot the golem just standing there, the alchemist seems a bit perplexed, 'Do we need to fight this one then?'

In reply to Shorty (msg # 2):

The golem continues to stand motionless as Shorty approaches.

--DM2

In reply to Aztar (msg # 3):

"Must fight" says Rockjaw "Guardian of the exit."

Actions?

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 5):

Shorty pulls out cracker and his black sword but stands for a minute looking at the golem and finally asks,   "Does us'n really needs fight?  Me hads ta break udder pretty golum.  Not wants ta breaks youse too.  Maybe jus lets us go trew door?  Maybes?"  Shorty waits for a reply

Aztar grips the staff and moves up and waits for Warwick to get into position over head, 'Shorty.  It's the magic of this place and the key we need will be inside one of the golems.  The golems aren't permanently destroyed.  We could face the same one numerous times.'

In reply to Aztar (msg # 7):

Warwick floats above Shorty and Aztar.  "Any preparatory spells we should cast?  Potions we should take?  AFter our earlier experience, that is."

He looks over at Rockjaw.  "Can ye fight the golem and win?"

In reply to Aztar (msg # 7):

Shorty shrugs.  "Dis one wait so me gives it chance.  Only fair."  Shorty reaches into his pouch to squeeze his new rubber ball before moving forward.

In reply to Aztar (msg # 7):

Trysk asks the group telepathically, *Why are we taking this golem's word that he was sent by Dualis?  Could he be leading us astray?*

In reply to Trysk (msg # 10):

Morteft says, "I need to probably relearn my spells since I am not much of a buffing mage."

He will cast stoneskin on Shorty and mirror image on Warwick.

*first thing I did was check with Dualis about RockJaw. He confirmed that he sent him.   He's never been good on communication and letting people know his plans, so it's not surprising he didn't mention the possibility before we left.*

Aztar looks a Morteft hopefully wondering if he has anything to help the alchemist...

In reply to Warwick (msg # 8):

"If I fight I will lose my sense" replies RockJaw to Warwick

"It is adamantium" he mentions a few seconds later.

--DM2

In reply to Shorty (msg # 6):

The golem makes no reply and continues to wait.

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 13):

Trysk raises an eyebrow, "That's not good..."

In reply to Trysk (msg # 15):

Shorty glances around and asks, "bees ready?"

In reply to Shorty (msg # 16):

"Aye, lad," answers Warwick bobbing up along the ceiling.

In reply to Warwick (msg # 17):

Shorty moves in carefully doing his best to keep the Golem's attention on himself.  Sighing at the need to smash the pretty metal, Shorty leads with cracker his rubber ball enhanced flurry of strikes.

(Craker 12 hitting AC -12 for 23,
Black Sword 13 hitting AC -15 for 29 points,
cracker 13 hits AC -13 for 25 points,
black sword 2 hits AC -4 for 26 pts
and black sword again 11 hits AC -13 for 25 points)
This message was last edited by the player at 02:23, Wed 27 Aug 2014.

In reply to Shorty (msg # 18):

Before Shorty can attack, the golem shoots forth a gray beam from its left eye.  The beam spreads into a cone eventually engulfing everyone.

Save vs spells at -1.

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 19):

OOC:  10 which saves

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 19):

Trysk rolls a 15, which should save.

In reply to Trysk (msg # 21):

Warwick rolled a 8 which doesn't save, unless his wisdom bonus of +3 comes into play, then he does save.  Not clear to me if it's factored in or not

In reply to Warwick (msg # 22):

Morteft rolled a 2 so he had a total of 1. He made it. : )

In reply to Morteft (msg # 23):

OOC: not sure what happened to Todd, maybe he missed a post

Warwick will get his dwarf bonus against magical attack which means he saves.  Wisdom will not help in this case.

Morteft just stands there and watches, un-moving.

Shorty, Trysk, Joe and the Chest also save.

Shorty moves up to attack, swinging both his black sword and The Cracker.  Five clangs ring out, the first two strikes seem to bounce off while the other three strike solid.

Warwick moves to attack, the golem animates in reaction to Shorty's attacks moving with surprising speed.  The golem is able to deflect Warwick's strike.

Aztar makes his save and reluctantly moves in to attack with the golem staff.  As with Warwick the golem is able to deflect the first strike, the second one hits but as with Shorty's first strike it seems to bounce off.

The golem swings both both arms striking Shorty with a solid blow, 38 pts, the second strike aims for Warwick but just misses.

Joe, RockJaw and the Chest wait.

Trysk?

Coming up, round 2.

Actions?

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 24):

Morteft yawns. "You know, maybe you should use something besides the staff, Aztar. Tha way all of us could attack. Otherwise, I just have to sit here being bored."

He will watch the corridor for any other enemies and remove lint from his pouches, pluck his ear hair and do some spring cleaning on his back pack.

He looks up and says, "Would it be offensive if I took a nap while you guys worked on this thing?"

He turns to Rockjaw. "Is this type of golem vulnerable to any particular magic? They all seem to be affected by one spell only."

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 24):

Shorty grunts a little as he is punched but seems more concerned that his weapons are bouncing off than anything.  He bears down a little harder this time as he continues the barrage of blows.

(Black Sword 10 hitting AC -12 for 31 points
Craker 5 hitting AC -5 for 30 points,
 Black Sword 5 hitting AC -7 for 29 points,
 cracker 9 hits AC -9 for 33 points,
 and black sword again 15 hits AC -17 for 30 points)

In reply to Morteft (msg # 25):

Trysk doesn't even bother to attack, knowing that his weapons and spells will probably have little to no effect.

Trysk asks Rockjaw, "What other things can you sense with your abilities?"

In reply to Trysk (msg # 27):

Warwick activates his enhanced strength from his axe and activates the cold function.  He attempts to fly behind the golem.

OOC:  wasn't sure if Morteft was still moving the way the last post read...

'if you want to be up here in me lee, you are certainly welcome to the staff.  I despise brute force and would rather find a more elegant solution.'

OOC:  thanks for the reminder about joe... Should have tried him first!

 'Joe.  Do you think you can hit the golem without hitting us?  Might be worth trying since your power isn't magic.'

Aztar will take several more swings with the staff hoping to do some decent damage to it.

In reply to Trysk (msg # 27):

"It has multiple special attacks." replies RockJaw

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 30):

Trysk nods, "That's nice, but I asked what other abilities you had.  But you might as well tell me also what special attacks it has."

In reply to Trysk (msg # 31):

RockJaw makes a slight turn toward Trysk.  "Sir, you asked 'What other things can you sense with your abilities' so I noted some things.  Was there another inquiry I missed?"

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 32):

Warwick chuckles from above.  "He's right lad.  Ye're query was imprecise."

In reply to Aztar (msg # 29):

Joe looks a bit nervous.  "I don't know if I can narrow my beams that much.  I think I need more room."

--DM2

In reply to Warwick (msg # 28):


Shorty, Warwick and Aztar attack the golem with Warwick making a try to get around the golem.

Shorty swings and similar to before his first 2 strikes seems to bounce off, while the others strike solid.

Aztar wades in with similar results as Shorty, the first strike bouncing off.

You do not have time to contemplate the effect as the golem attacks, and Warwick attempts to dodge the swings he finds he cannot make it to the back so he attacks where is and strikes twice, again the first bounces off.

The golem does show signs of damage but still seems strong.

A thin beam of green shoots forth from 1 of the golems eyes, aiming at Shorty.  Save vs spells.

The golem swings its arms hard and fast, striking both Shorty and Warwick.  Shorty takes 37, Warwick gets hit for 33 but since he is 'floating' he also gets knocked back against the wall, taking another 2 pts as he bounces off the wall.  Warwick is able to shake off the stunning effect.

From far behind you can hear a thumping sound, Trysk turns but sees nothing yet.

Actions?

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 35):

Morteft says to Joe, "Could you trust me to teleport you to the other side of that creature, Joe? If so, I can give you a clean shot."

In reply to Warwick (msg # 33):

Trysk harumphs at Rockjaw, "I did not mean on the golem.  I meant, what other things can you sense in general?  For example:  magic, treasure, traps, undead, etc.  Also, what what special attacks does the golem have."

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 35):

Trysk uses Clairvoyance to scan the intersection(s) down the hallway.

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 35):

Warwick attacks again.  "Keep at it, boys!"

Seeing little other option, Aztar continues to swing the staff, hoping to hurt the golem more and get past the battle...

In reply to Aztar (msg # 40):

While waiting on Joe, Morteft will try to teleport no error 5 feet closer to Joe to see if teleport will work at all within line of sight.

In reply to Warwick (msg # 39):

<<OOC:  Not seeing my last post in the stream so will try to combine both responses here.  Shorty rolled a 10 if I remember correctly and only needed a 3 so he saved>>


Shorty ignores the flash of light muttering something about dumb sparkly things.  But the second strike does seem to gain his attention.  Shorty really misses his wondermous magic glove.  Before attacking again, Shorty yells out.  "Joe maybe gets udder one come from behinds?  Maybe Joe ken hurts it?"

Shorty begins another flurry of blows

  <Black Sword   6   Hits AC -8  for 27 points,
   Cracker       4   Hits AC -4  for 34 points,
   Black Sword   3   Hits AC -5  for 28 points,
   Cracker      16   Hits AC -16 for 27 points,
   Black Sword   6   Hits AC -8  for 29 points
New Dice suck>>
This message was last edited by the player at 23:21, Mon 15 Sept 2014.

In reply to Morteft (msg # 41):

Morteft finds he cannot Teleport.

--DM2

In reply to Shorty (msg # 42):

Shorty still takes 10 points from the green light.

His next set of attacks are less effective as perhaps the last golem strike seems to have stunned Shorty some, only 2 strikes are solid this time.

Warwick attacks hitting hard but it just bounces off.  He looks at his axe wondering.

Aztar makes his attack run and as before his first attack bounces off but the second is solid.  The golem seems heavily damaged but still functioning.

RockJaw: "The golem has the ability to negate the first strike of any weapon in a sequence."

Turning the corner and coming down the far hall is a Stone golem.

Joe says, "I will see what I can do to that rock golem."  Joe take a few steps forward and raises his hands, two bright green beams shoot forth from his palms streaking down the corridor and striking the Stone golem in the chest.  The golem is engulfed in light for a second or two and then can be seen to be heavily scorched but still moves forward.

The metallic golem attacks, but with only 1 arm this time and strikes Aztar with a glancing blow, 22 pts.

At this the chest 'leaps' into action and using its lid and body like a mouth grabs the golem by one leg.  The golem is off balance.

Actions?

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 44):

Trysk stays back and sighs, "I'm woefully unprepared for this place."

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 44):

"Well, I ain't got the ability to hit multiple times.  So, let me tackle the other golem.  Joe, see if ye can help with the big boy."

Warwick flies at the stone golem swing his axe with all his might.

In reply to Warwick (msg # 46):

Warwick flies back the other way toward the stone golem.

Joe: "Not sure what I did wrong."

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 47):

"Ye didn't do nothing wrong, lad," says Warwick as he flies at the stone golem.  "Could be that this here golem is resistant to yer green beam."

In reply to Warwick (msg # 48):

Morteft will attempt to cast passwall at the feet of the stone golem.

Aztar looms down at chest and seems a bit perplexed but the sight of a chest biting a golems leg is almost enough to make the alchemist laugh out load.    Regardless, he grips the staff even tighter in his hands and lays into the golem, hoping to either finish it off or possibly knock it over.

In reply to Aztar (msg # 50):

Shorty grins down at the chest as he begins another attack.  Shorty mutters as he swings, "Dis be like fighten King.  Gets all beats up."

<< Black Sword  17 hits AC -19 for 28 Points,
   Cracker      11 hits AC -11 for 28 points,
   Black Sword   9 hits AC -9 for 27 points,
   Cracker      17 hits AC -17 for 32 points
   Black Sword   4 hits AC -6 for 27 points>>

In reply to Morteft (msg # 49):

The Passwall spell seems to have no affect, the maze is probably resistant.

--DM2

In reply to Shorty (msg # 51):

Both Shorty and Aztar hit the golem, with the same bounce affect as before .. and then .. rather suddenly .. the golem disappears .. apparently swallowed by the chest or perhaps more like slurped down!


On the other side the stone golem marches to the group with Warwick flying swiftly to meet it.  He prepares his axe for a mighty blow.  The golem begins to swing an arm.  Warwick strikes the golems chest hard which is followed by an explosion of dust, dirt and small pebble cloud, enveloping Warwick.

The cloud hangs in the air for quite a while, 15-20 seconds, and then begins to settle.  After another 30 seconds or so you begin to make out the outline of Warwick, hovering in the air.  The cloud continues to settle, both on and off of a very dusty Warwick.

Joe asks, "Does that normally happen?"

The chest, sort of, burps.

At present no other golems are seen.

Actions?

--DM2

Aztar had been trying to keep a quick eye on the other battle and seems completely stunned when the two events occur.  Between chest eating a golem and the other exploding,,he's at a loss for words for a good half a minute.

'No, that is not typical.  I would assume thst your blast all but destroyed it,altering its material makeup and then warwicks axe  destabilized it.   Very interesting Indeed.'

Aztar looks down at chest, 'that was quite the surprise.  Thank you!  Is it gone?  Did it by chance leave a key with you?'

The alchemist looks to the group.  'Well, this is certainly getting a bit more interesting.   Hopefully one of them has the vault key.'

In reply to Aztar (msg # 54):

Warwick coughs, sneezes and then burps.  "Excuse me," is his only remark as he hangs in the hair blinking.

Finally, he slides his axe away and begins to brush dust off of himself.  Warwick looks down at Joe.  "Laddie, if ye can do that to all the golems, this place is a going to be a breeze."

In reply to Aztar (msg # 54):

"Uh, ok."  is all Joe says in reply to Aztars explanation.

The chest does not say anything, does not spit out a key either.

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 56):


Shorty looks down at chest with a frown.  "Us chops it ups an youse gets snack?  How's come waited too long.  Youse just get even cause me wants to has people gets in you fer ride."

In reply to Shorty (msg # 57):

The chest just 'sits' there and burps again.

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 58):

Shorty sighs, leans back against the wall and mutters something about hurting lots.

In reply to Shorty (msg # 59):

Warwick floats back down to the ground and ambles over to the chest.  Addressing it, he says, "Can ye open up so I can get some healing potions, please?"

In reply to Warwick (msg # 60):

Trysk examines the remains of the stone golem to see if there's a key.

In reply to Trysk (msg # 61):

There is no key near the remnants of the stone golem.

--DM2

In reply to Warwick (msg # 60):

The chest 'regards' Warwick and opens it's lid, revealing the potions that were placed into it.

Forgot to mention, 20' behind the metal golem is a door.

--Actions?

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 63):

Warwick grabs some healing potions, handing a few to Shorty.  "I know, ye'll heal, but this will hurry up the process."

Once he has grabbed enough he says to the chest, Thank ye.  And nice job on the golem."

He then drinks the potions until he is healed.

Aztar grabs a couple of potions himself and then turns to RockJaw, 'Is that the door we need?  We'll still need a key, so I assume that means continuing around the maze until we find another golem to fight?'

In reply to Warwick (msg # 64):

Shorty drinks the potions

In reply to Aztar (msg # 65):

"Yes and yes." RockJaw replies to Aztar.

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 67):

Trysk sighs, "Well, I guess we should container to look for the golem with the key."

Warwick floats over to Trysk.  "Lad, are ye feeling okay?"

In reply to Trysk (msg # 68):

"We must go to the next section."  says RockJaw in a reply to Trysks comment.

--DM2

With a slight sigh, Aztar checks to make sure everyone is healed and then will start moving in the direction RockJaw indicates.

In reply to Aztar (msg # 71):

Shorty follows

In reply to Warwick (msg # 69):

Trysk nods, "I'm fine.  Just feeling a little out of my element for this place."

Trysk follows the group to the next section.

In reply to Trysk (msg # 73):

You all move to the door.  There does not appear to be anything special about the door, other than it is an obvious door as you can see the outline and you can see a large ring that can be pulled to open the door.

Trysk gives it a once over to check for traps, he finds none.

Shorty pulls open the door.

Beyond is a hallway, you think, the walls, ceiling and floor are completely black, totally opposite to the previous section.  As with the previous section there is no contrast so it is quite difficult to see edges, corners or what ever.  Any light seems to be absorbed by the the area.  You think that once the door is shut, you would be in complete darkness.

The only other thing of interest is a golem of gleaming silver like metal, making it easily seen in contrast to the area around.  It looks to be about 30' away.  It does not move.

Actions?

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 74):

Trysk eyes the golem and then the door, "Anyone got a torch and a continual light spell?  This place reeks of a trap, unless we can lure the golem to us."

Aztar walks over to chest and asks for a light rod.  When chest opens, Aztar grabs a stick that he strikes on a metal object which then begins glowing.   He tosses the light stick through the door to observe what happens.  'I'm not sure it's specifically a trap, but rather just another section of the maze and a new challenge to deal with. '

Turning to RockJaw, he asks,'can you sense your way through the next section of the maze or does it take some time to attune yourself as we move into the dark zone?'

In reply to Trysk (msg # 75):

Shorty examines the golem with a frown.  "Fights in dark not goods.  Me practice lots, but be bad in lotta people's.  Bees easy hit friend when swinging hard."

In reply to Aztar (msg # 76):

The chest does as Aztar asks and opens up.  The light is bright, until Aztar tosses it into the other section.  It now appears quite dull, similar to a single candle.  It is as if the area absorbs light rather than being devoid of light.

RockJaw responds, "I will attune soon, then I can guide.  I sense the golem is a questing golem."

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 78):

"What is a questing golem?" asks Warwick, having never heard of the term.

In reply to Warwick (msg # 79):

"It will ask a riddle."  RockeJaw replies to Warwick. "If you answer correctly, you can pass.  If you answer incorrectly, then it attacks."

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 80):

"Ah, I see.  Thank ye."

In reply to Warwick (msg # 81):

Trysk sighs, "I guys we should approach it then."

Trysk begins search for traps as he heads slowly towards the golem.

In reply to Trysk (msg # 82):

Shorty stays to the front to protect his friends

In reply to Trysk (msg # 82):

Trysk leads the group toward the golem.  He has difficulty scanning for traps as it is difficult to even know if you are putting your foot down on a solid surface.  You make it to the golem, taking it slowly to go the 30' to get to it.

When you get near the golem a metallic voice will come from it.

"For passage beyond, answer correctly, 'Alone I am a singularity, with a brother I am liner and as a trio I am planar.  What am I?'"

Actions?

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 84):

Warwick smiles and whispers to the others.  "I know this one.  It's a point."

Aztar nods, 'I agree with your answer.  Go ahead and state it out loud'. The alchemist grips the staff just in case but is fairly confident the answer is the correct one.

In reply to Warwick (msg # 85):

Shorty just looks confused

Warwick nods, clears his throat.  "Golem, the answer is a point."

In reply to Warwick (msg # 88):

Trysk nods and awaits the golem's response and action.

In reply to Warwick (msg # 88):

The golem simply disappears.

There are two ways to go, the golem was at a T intersection.  Each path goes 20' before turning .

RockJaw says: "I have not been tuned to this section yet."

Actions

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 90):

"How long will it take ye to tune yerself?"

In reply to Warwick (msg # 91):

Trysk uses Clairvoyance to see around the corner of both corridors.

In reply to Warwick (msg # 91):

"A few more minutes"  RockJaw replies.

--DM2

In reply to Trysk (msg # 92):

Even without the psionic static of the place it would be difficult to see anything as everything is black.  But you perceive no movement.

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 94):

Trysk sighs, "Psionics seem useless here.  Think it's worth casting Wizard Eye to look around?"

'Its probably easiest to just wait a few minutes for RockJaw to attune and then he'll be able to guide us.'

In reply to Aztar (msg # 96):

"I am out of wizard eye but will learn more of them once we rest."

In reply to Aztar (msg # 96):

"I am now attuned" RockJaw announces.  "Where would you like to go?"

Actions?

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 98):

Trysk asks, "Don't we need to know where the door is first and then get the key?"

'Agreed.  I would like to find the door to the vault and then work back from there.  No reason to destroy a guardian, have the key and not know where to go to use it.'

In reply to Aztar (msg # 100):

RockJaw replies "My apologies sir but that cannot be done.  The door in this section is an in-det ermin istic gateway" he says with some difficulty "to the next section, which may or may not be the vault."

--DM2

'So, you can get us to the door but can't be certain where it leads?  That sounds good enough for our next destination then.  If you can tell where the guardians are, please guide us through the labyrinth where we have to fight the least number of them.'

In reply to Aztar (msg # 102):

"I can guide you to the door, but the guardians will be an unknown." says RockJaw  "Until I see them."

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 103):

Shorty shrugs.  "Never know who gonna hits more hard til fighten done.  Shows door please."

In reply to Shorty (msg # 104):

RockJaw directs you through this section of the maze.  This section is more difficult on the senses as you cannot tell when or where your foot will land.  At points some of you will 'accidently' bump into a wall as you cannot be sure of where the wall is in relation to yourself.  Light of any kind just gets absorbed by the surfaces of this section.  Joe will glow a little bit but even that does not help much as he looks like a ghost floating around.

You just follow RockJaw hoping he gets you to the next door quickly.  You make numerous turns, left, right, right again and this goes on for about 15 minutes.  At one point RockJaw must stop and direct you thru a 4 way intersection or some of you may have missed the turn.

Finally you come around a corner and go a few feet and then RockJaw stops.  "Golem" he says.

You do not see anything up ahead.  But perhaps you do or just your mind playing tricks.  You think you see two pin pricks of light up some where in front of you; but there is no way of knowing how far.

They do not move, forward, back, up, down or anyways.

Actions?

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 105):

<<OOC: welcome to my world where the mostly blind run into walls and other painful objects on an hourly basis.>>

Shorty grunts and takes a protective position at the front of the group.  "Dis nots gonna bees fun.  Member me takes big swing.  Nots wanna be bery close."

'Rockjaw.  Are you able to tell the type?  Do we need to engage it, or answer a riddle?  Is there any other path through the maze to avoid it?'

In reply to Aztar (msg # 107):

"This is the only way and you will need to fight.  It appears to be Mithril; but it does not move to attack.  It is 30' away."

--DM2

Aztar ponders for a minute, 'Joe, If you don't think it's hurting you, do you want to fire a blast at it before we move in?'

In reply to Aztar (msg # 109):

Trysk draws his frostbrand and uses Locate Object to see if there is a Mitril Golem within 120 feet.

In reply to Trysk (msg #

Shorty asks, "Maybe ken makes lite magics on golum so ken finds?"

In reply to Aztar (msg # 109):

Joe:"I suppose I can try" answering Aztar with a little trepidation.  "Need to make sure every one is out of the way.  Perhaps I should move up front."

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 112):

Shorty stands close behind his friend Joe in case Joe needs help if the golem charges

In reply to Shorty (msg # 113):

Shorty will move out of the way to let Joe get in front, which is a little difficult in this light absorbing area.  Joe is now at the front off the group, having moved a couple of steps in front of everyone just in case of misfire or whatever.

A couple of things happen at that point; 1 a couple of you see a Warwick drop from the 'sky', landing with a thud.. no damage and missed everyone, 2 Trysk notices a small vibration in the floor.

The golem does not move .. yet.

Actions?

--DM2

Aztar frowns, 'I wonder what else this effect is negating other than Warwicks flying.   RockJaw.  Can you tell anything about this?'

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 114):

Was the vibration from when Warwick landed?

Can Trysk detect where the location of the vibrating floor?  He senses a floor trap of some kind...

In reply to Trysk (msg # 116):

"Ouch," comments Warwick, picking himself off the floor.

In reply to Aztar (msg # 115):

RockJaw does not respond right away .. "It appears that the maze is adjusting to me, I can't determine what the trap is or even if there is a trap but I can still sense the golem and the door."

--DM2

In reply to Trysk (msg # 116):

No the vibration was from something under the floor as if some trigger being set.  You are not sure of the mechanism or actual nature of the trap yet.

--DM2

In reply to Trysk (msg # 116):

OOC: Maybe my last post was missed so I am renewing.

Trysk gets down on the floor feeling his way around as it is very difficult to even see the floor.  After about 10 minutes he finds a very slight groove with his fingers in the floor.  Continue to feel he can detect that it is square about 4x4 inches.  He believes he can pry up the little section.

The golem still has not moved.

Actions?

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 120):

Trysk tells the party to hold up and begins to pry up the 4x4 square carefully.

In reply to Trysk (msg # 121):

Morteft will keep an eye on the golem.

Aztar continues to hold and listen to the advice of others.  Being in a place where he has little understanding of the situation and even less options to help is extremely frustrating and so he remains silent.

In reply to Trysk (msg # 121):

Trsyk is able to pry up the piece with some effort as it was secured with a kind of tooth arrangement, the individual teeth fitting together to secure it.  Beneath it is not as difficult to see since it is not the same as the floor and he can tell it is a spring loaded mechanism, probably what he heard click.  If he deciphered the trap correctly, if the trap is tripped, the floor would rise, rather quickly, into the ceiling.

The other thing is that if one other person moves off of the floor section they are on, the trap would be triggered .. he thinks.

One more thing, Joe is probably not on the trapped section.

Actions?

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 124):

Trysk works on disarming the trap, it is a delicate mechanism but not as much as the door traps he was working on sometime ago.  The main difficulty is the lack of light which adds a little more guess work to the proceedings.  However after about 10 minutes work you hear him let forth a sigh indicating his success.

Another indicator maybe that the golem has begun to move toward the group now.

Actions?

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 125):

Shorty says softly.  "Joe dos trick now den gets a hind Shorty."  Shorty readies his weapons

In reply to Shorty (msg # 126):

Joe shrugs at Shorty's encouragement and raises both hands toward the golem.  The bright florescent beams from each hand shoot forth, producing an eerie light in the dark corridor.  You see the golem before you light up, a blackish silver color, which is moving forward with easy strides.  One beam hits it in the chest and the other in the head.  The metal of the golem in both places melts and then quickly solidifies again but maintains a low green glow.  The head is now a misshapen lump and the chest has drooped to make the golem appear to be an overweight barkeep.  Even so the golem moves forward but now the pace is staggered.

Some of you, who have interest in the phenomena of the cosmos, notice the the walls,ceiling and floor are now freckled with a green glow.  Joe's attack has even caused damage to the corridor probably due to its light absorption properties.

Joe turns, "I don't think I stopped it, can someone else help, please." Joe shrinks back from the on coming golem.

Actions?

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 127):

Warwick slips in front of Joe.  "Stand back with the chest, lad.  Ye did good.  Real good."

Warwick waits for Shorty to attack and then slips forward and attacks the golem's legs.

In reply to Warwick (msg # 128):

Shorty does his best to move well ahead of Joe and Warwick to insure that his blades do not clip the wrong target in the darkness.  Shorty focuses on the golems new green glow.  Shorty again leads with his black sword.  <<OOC: thac0 lowered to assume blind fighting.  Cracker 3 hits ac-1 for 27, cracker 10 hits ac -6 for 19, sword 18 hits ac -16 for 29, cracker 13 hits ac --9 for 22, and sword 12 hits ac -10 for 25>>

Aztar seems distracted by the glowing walls for a moment but then grips his staff and waits for an opening to attack.

If shorty and Warwick have it under control, or there is no room for him, he continues to wait.

In reply to Aztar (msg # 130):

Shorty moves forward, both weapons swinging hard and fast.  The golem still appears shaky and Shorty is able to move 20' to the golems 10'.  They meet with a clash.  Shorty hits with both first strikes; however pulling his weapons back he almost loses his grip as the weapons get stuck in the golem.  He is able to pull The Cracker free but not his black sword.  The golem swings clumsily and misses.
    Shorty continues to pull on his black sword but to no avail, with a little desperation he starts slamming The Cracker into the golem to help free his sword.  After 2 more hits the golem starts to fall with Shorty hitting it twice more by the time it hits the ground.  Still the sword stays 'stuck' in the golem.

Actions?

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 131):

Warwick shakes his head.  "Well, that ain't good."  Warwick checks to make sure the golem has stopped moving before he gets any closer.

In reply to Warwick (msg # 132):

Morteft will say, "Let me try something." He will cast passwall on the remains of the golem. "Since it is no longer a golem, I might be able to phase out the material."

'I'm not sure it's destroyed. All the other golems have dissolved to nothing once defeated.  I would see if several more blows finish it off and it dissipates like the previous ones have.'

In reply to Warwick (msg # 132):


The golem has indeed stopped moving.  Warwick moves in closer and can see that maybe a fifth of the blade is embedded in the golem.

--DM2

In reply to Morteft (msg # 133):

As before the Passwall spell as no effect in this place, even on the inanimate hunk of metal that was the golem.

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 136):

Shorty bends over the golem.  He looks carefully at the crack where his beloved sword is wedged.  He attempts to slide his fingers into the crack and using all of his enhanced strength, pull the crack wider so he can extract his sword.

In reply to Shorty (msg # 137):

Warwick moves forward.  "Lad, let me see if I can find some flaws in the stone to figure out how to extract the sword."

In reply to Warwick (msg # 138):

OOC: This is a mithril golem, sorry, thought I mentioned that.

Warwick inspects the area.  He notices that the sword is 'stuck' in the chest region where the metal had been melted by Joe's attack.

--DM2

In reply to Shorty (msg # 137):

Shorty cannot find any crack between his sword and the golem.  It looks similar to a hot knife in butter and the butter freezing.

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 139):

OOC:  You probably did.  Okay, metal, rather than stone...

Warwick peers at the golem.  "Lad, we may need to re-melt the golem.  That's how yer sword got stuck.  The metal had melted when ye attacked and it hardened when yer sword hit it.  Me gauntlets can generate heat, but I don't know if it would be hot enough to melt mithral."

'I can dissolve some of the mithril but would need to know how strong the sword is to make sure I don't damage it in the process.   I'm still confused why the golem is still here.  If it's not going to disperse like the others, we should take the mithril with us once we have the sword free.'

In reply to Warwick (msg # 141):

Shorty tries one last tactic before he gives up. Meh grabs the hilt of the sword and mutters, "mes know sword bees smart.  Ken maybe uses Magic ta get self free?  Youse ken take Shorty place ken maybe take self outs of golem?"  Shorty holds on to see what happens.

In reply to Shorty (msg # 143):

Shorty begins to feel warm, actually fairly hot, he begins to sweat. This seems to be only happening to Shorty.

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 144):

Shorty keeps his grip and tries to pull the sword free

In reply to Aztar (msg # 142):

Trysk offers, "Perhaps it has the key..."

In reply to Shorty (msg # 145):

Trysk watches with interest, but takes a few moments to also examine the walls.  Are they still glowing green or has that faded?

In reply to Trysk (msg # 147):

So far the spots have not faded, they are still emmiting a greenish glow.

--DM2

In reply to Shorty (msg # 145):

The sword still does not pull free but Shorty seems to be sweating profusely now.  Much more then you would think for what he is doing.

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 149):

Shorty releases the hilt and sits back with a sigh.  He looks to Warwick for suggestions and then stares at the golem wondering how he is going to carry it around until he can free his sword.

In reply to Shorty (msg # 150):

Shorty continues to sweat.

--DM2

In reply to Shorty (msg # 150):

Joe walks over. "Um, I'm sorry Shorty.  I guess I did that, don't know my power yet."  he looks around the group.  "Should I blast it again?"

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 152):

Morteft says, "Give it a try...maybe it will melt it enough that the sword can be withdrawn. Shorty, why don't you release the sword until he melts the golem a bit more."

In reply to Shorty (msg # 150):

Warwick shrugs.  "No idea, lad."

In reply to Morteft (msg # 153):


Joe shrugs and then goes over to the hunk of metal that was the golem.  He puts his hands near the x-golem and at either side of the sword.  He takes a breath and 2 glowing green beams emanate from his hands.  The metal starts to glow and then you can see that the sword starts to slowly fall over as the hold of the metal is temporarily released.  It does not appear it will fall all the way though

Some more spots show up on the corridor sections.

Actions?

--DM2
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:18, Thu 29 Jan 2015.

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 155):

Rock Jaw says: "I can sense a change happening in the maze, I do not know what it means however."

Actions?

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 152):

Shorty looks at Joe and grins.  "Bees okey dokey Joe.  Not hurts.  Just makes smell like sweaty ogre.  Me get dat way ebery fights."  Shorty moves aside so Joe can try to get the sword back.

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 155):

Shorty reaches across to see if he can pull the sword out while the metal is soft

In reply to Shorty (msg # 158):

Shorty quickly grabs the sword and is able to pull it free with a jerk.  As the sword pulls free completely the x-golem disappears but no key is left.

All is quiet.

"To the door?" inquires RockJaw

--DM2

Regarding the maze changes, 'can you sense if it is good or Ill towards us?  Do you believe it's because of joe's power?  Just trying to determine if we should have him use it more, or stop.'

Regarding the door, 'yes.  Let us continue.  I'd lie, to get through this and get out of here sooner than later.'

In reply to Aztar (msg # 160):

RockJaw pauses a moment seeming to consider Aztars question.  "I believe the maze is adjusting to Joe, yes.  Cannot tell what it is yet, I do not believe it is ill."  he continues "Follow me to the door, it is not that far."

more to follow

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 161):

RockJaw moves on and you all fall in behind, leaving the green speckled area of the maze.  RockJaw slows at the turns to make sure everyone maintains a sight line with everyone else, as the darkness of the maze makes movement difficult.  After about 20 minutes however you begin to notice that the light less black is beginning to become a dark gray.  As you go on further the gray gradually increases and you can begin to make out the walls, ceiling and floor.

You turn a corner and before you, 50' away, is a large golem.  It does not look to be of metal or stone.  It appears to shine with an inner light, producing a rainbow effect that gives it an aura.  You would say that the golem is made of some sort of crystal.  In it's right hand it holds a large sword that looks to be made of the same material as itself.  In its left hand it holds a strange item, a feathery 'whip', each feather extending 3' from the 'pommel'.

The golem begins to walk towards you.

RockJaw: "This is a new golem." pauses "It has a reflection defense.  I will try to determine the weapons abilities."

Actions?

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 162):

Warwick draws his axe and floats up towards the ceiling.  "Too bad I don't have a hammer.  Looks like that'd be the best weapon against this crystal golem."

'Be careful with that whip.  It resembles my whip of cocatrice feathers that is able to petrify a person.'

'I do have potions that protect from petrification but without knowing for sure if that's what it does, I'm not sure if we should use a couple of them or not.'

In reply to Aztar (msg # 164):

"If we get hit with petrification, do ye have potions that can remove it?" asks Warwick.  "Cause, I didn't pray for that spell."

'I believe I have two stone to flesh potions.   I haven't run into anything in awhile that petrifies, so haven't had the components to make more.'

In reply to Aztar (msg # 166):

"Well, then, save them for using on me and I'll have to pray for the spells to remove it from anyone else."

In reply to Warwick (msg # 167):

The golem comes close to engage, swinging both the whip and the sword.  Joe will fire two green beams, 1 from each eye.  The beams hit the golem which seems to absorb the energy and redirect in all directions and now glows an eerie green as it gets to the party.  A few seconds later Joe screams "OWWWW"  His arm is burned.


Actions?

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 168):

Tryst asks Rockjaw, "Did this golem have any weaknesses?"

In reply to Trysk (msg # 169):

"None." RockJaw replies

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 170):

Warwick engages his enhanced strength and switches his gauntlets to their cold mode.  He keeps close to the ceiling, trying to get in close, here he'll take a swipe at the golem's head.

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 170):

Shorty moves forward to block the golems approach muttering something about not wanting to be a rock.  Shorty hesitates for a half second as he actually listens to Warwick.  He grasps cracker in his left hand but instead of grasping his favorite sword hilt, he grabs the handle of a very large Maul.  Shorty mutters some more as he tells the maul, "Better be hittin good dis time."

<<Maul of Titans 15 Hits AC -9    for 34 Points,
  Cracker        17 hits AC -13   for 27 Points,
  Maul           10 hits AC -4    for 31 points,
  Cracker         9 hits AC -5    for 29 points>

'Looks the maze has adapted and won't be harmed by joe's blasts any longer.   Joe, thanks for,trying but just stay behind us for now.'

Aztar grasps the golem staff and also moves up, 'chest.  If I turn to stone, please present a stone to flesh potion for the group to use.'

In reply to Shorty (msg # 172):

Both Shorty and Warwick engage the golem.  Both Warwick and Shorty are able to hit and do damage; but simultaneously they both take damage as well.  Warwick takes 19 damage and Shorty takes 61.  Shorty stops his attacks after 2 hits.  The golem swings its whip and sword, the whip misses Warwick but the sword hits Shorty for 13 points.
   Make a save vs spell.

The golem does appear to be damaged.

Actions?  Will you continue to attack normally?

--DM2

In reply to Aztar (msg # 173):

As Aztar moves up toward the golem, Joe looks at him, "Aztar, why did I get hurt when I attacked the golem?"

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 175):

Shorty shakes his head as he pulls back a bit.  "Nots fair.  Bees like mirror.  All hurt bounce back.  Nots like dis."   Shorty lets cracker slide to the floor and pulls his black sword.  "Makes all better please now sword."  if he has time, Shorty will make one careful strike with the maul.  <<19 hits AC -13 for 25 points>>

Aztar turns to joe, about to say something when Shorty answers the question quite well.  'It does indeed seem to be some sort of defense that reflects, or returns, damage, in an equal amount to what was done to it.   I assume the best way to deal with this is to split the damage between many of us.'

Turning to RockJaw, 'any suggestions?   This could get quite costly for us.'

In reply to Aztar (msg # 177):

"Hope we got lots of healing potions," remarks Warwick as he attempts to chop one of the golems legs off from behind.

In reply to Aztar (msg # 177):

Tryst ponders aloud, "If only there was some way to have it attack itself or reflect its attack back upon itself..."

In reply to Aztar (msg # 177):

RockJaw twists his head back and forth.  "I cannot attack it, but perhaps there is some way you can attack with me."

--DM2

In reply to Shorty (msg # 176):

Shorty strikes with the maul and is immediately struck for 25 points.

Warwick also attack but the blow only glances off unluckily or luckily.

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 181):

Morteft moves up behind Shorty. "Keep hitting it. I will heal you as you fight."

He starts putting Keoghtom's on Shorty.

In reply to Morteft (msg # 182):

Shorty grunts still waiting for the swords healing to kick in.  "Ken makes betters fast or makes better slow?  Needs know how fast ta hits it."

In reply to Shorty (msg # 183):

Warwick attacks again, trying to break one of the legs.

Aztar sighs and moves up and also engages the golem, hoping to finish the thing off as quickly as possible.

In reply to Shorty (msg # 183):

Shorty starts to feel better as he is healed for 50 points.

--DM2

In reply to Aztar (msg # 185):

Aztar moves in quickly and strikes the golem hard doing noticeable damage.  Aztar however winces in pain sustaining 15 points of damage.

The golem swings next both sword and whip.  The golem tries a backward thrust attempting to hit Warwick but misses.  The sword strike hits Shorty for 19 and needs to save vs poison at -2.

Warwick is able to strike next, hitting once and feeling the pain of his strike, 14 points.

Joe hesitates not wanting to hot anyone, or the golem for that matter.  The chest 'trots' up next to Aztar and waits.

RockJaw says: "Shorty, use The Cracker, it is the best against these golems."

Actions and Shorty's saving throw.

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 187):

Warwick floats backwards a bit, casting a cure serious wounds upon himself.  Once that's done, he attacks again.

In reply to Warwick (msg # 188):

Shorty shrugs off the blow (<<16 saving throw>>.  But is unable to change weapons at the moment so continues with the black sword and Maul although at a much more measured pace of damage.

<Maul 8 hits ac -2) for 45 points,
Black Sword  9 hits ac -9 for 24 points>>

In reply to Warwick (msg # 188):


Warwick backs away and heals himself for 15 points.  He then gets ready to get back into the action, however he first notices that they are in a T hallway.

--DM2

In reply to Shorty (msg # 189):

Shorty takes measured swings at the golem, perhaps too easily as the Maul misses but the Black Sword strikes and he is struck for 24 points in return.

Morteft stays behind Shorty as best he can, he is able to make contact for a brief time and Shorty is healed for 30 points!

The golem then rears back and breaths a blast of cold.  All but Warwick are caught in the blast.   Take 32 damage save vs Dragon Breath for half,  apply protections

The chest looks as unpleased as a chest can be.

Actions?

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 191):

Trysk dodges the breath weapon with a 16.

Trysk draws his frostbrand and tries to get behind the golem to use Object Read on it.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:17, Tue 10 Mar 2015.

In reply to Trysk (msg # 192):

Warwick attacks the golem once again.  He tries to hit the same leg again.

Aztar will continue to stand firm and engage the golem with the staff wanting to dispatch the thing as quickly as possible.

When the cold blast washes over him, he literally seems more invigorated and continues his assault.

Anyone that remembers Aztar's history or understands the symbol on his headband realizes that he has an affinity for the elemental power of cold and apppears completely unaffected by the blast.

'Chest, you might want to move back.  You can always produce the potion and they can bring it to me.'

In reply to Trysk (msg # 192):

With so many bodies in the way it would be difficult to get behind the golem without being able to fly.

Morteft is protected from the breath weapon by Shortys bulk so he takes no damage.

--DM2
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:14, Tue 10 Mar 2015.

In reply to Aztar (msg # 194):

The chest 'looks' at Aztar and it gives him a 'look' of "I dont think so", this is mainly apparent since the golems right leg is now in the chests 'mouth'.  The golem regards the chest for a few moments before attempting to strike it.  This delay gives everyone an opportunity to attack.
   The barrage of attacks is enough to bring the golem to its knees, well knee as the chest is up to it's right thigh now.  One final thump on the head by Shorty dooms the golem and it shatters in a glittering rainbow display, mostly greens.

Floating in mid air is a large silver key.

Results of the battle:
  Aztar takes 21 points
  Warwick takes 25
  Shorty takes 42

Actions?

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 196):

Warwick hangs his battle axe on his belt and pats the chest affectionately.  "Next time, we should let the chest go first."

"Chest, can ye give us some healing potions?  We're a bit beat up."

In reply to Warwick (msg # 197):

Morteft will heal people as much as he is able.

In reply to Warwick (msg # 197):

Shorty shakes his head before putting his weapons away and reclaiming cracker.  He accepts any healing happily.  He points to the key and says, "Somebody gets metal door lock thing.  Me not wants.  Neber figers how to use."

'I have access to a heal spell once a day.  If anyone is injured enough that it's worth using now, I will use it for you.  Otherwise, I'll take hold off healing myself and see how much worse this place gets before I need it.'

The alchemist looks down at chest, 'you are an interesting being.  Thank you again for coming with us and helping with our opponents.'

Aztar takes a step forward and grabs the key,'I believe we now have an hour or else we shall have to continue wandering and engaging golems to find another, so I suggest we hurry.'

'Rockjaw.  Can you continue to guide us towards our destination?'

In reply to Warwick (msg # 197):

The chest will open up revealing the healing potions within, currently there are 12.

--DM2

In reply to Aztar (msg # 200):

The chest quickly opens and closes its lid in response to Aztar, it then 'sits' and waits for the next move.

Aztar reaches for the key, there is nothing extraoridnary about its appearence except for the size, about 8 inches long and about 1/2 inch thick.  To Aztars surprise the key feels warm when he touches it.  As he holds it he believes he can feel heat pulsing from it as if it has some internal energy.

RockJaw says "The door is ahead, maybe 20 minutes to get there."

Joe would appreciate some healing.

The journey to the door is actually uneventful.  The walls continue towards a lighter gray as you went.

The door itself is the same color as the walls but outlined in gold, there is no keyhole however, just a silver cirlce in the middle of the door roughly 5 inches in diameter.

RockJaw was a little off it took 21 minutes.

OOC: Let us work out the healing before going further.

Actions?

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 202):

Shorty would have used his white marble on the most injured member of the part.  21 minutes equaled 21 points.

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 202):

Trysk examines the silver circle.

In reply to Trysk (msg # 204):

Looks to be of pure silver metal fused into the door, not an insert.  No traps are detected.

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 205):

Trysk raps the inside of the silver circle and asks, "Chest, do you know how we use the key to open the door?"

In reply to Trysk (msg # 206):

Trysk strikes the solid silver, nothing happens.

At Trysk's question, the chest just 'stares' at Trysk.

--DM2
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:20, Thu 09 June 2022.

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 207):

Warwick chuckles.  "Lad, ye might ask our golem friend here.  Name's Rockjaw, in case ye forgot."

Warwick hands Joe a couple of healing potions and downs a few on his own.

In reply to Warwick (msg # 208):

Morteft says, "Let's place the key against the circle and try putting it into the area."

He offers to take the key and do so.

Aztar silently hands the key over to Morteft and waits to see what he can discover.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:12, Thu 12 Mar 2015.

In reply to Aztar (msg # 210):

Shorty looks around the group and shakes his head.  "Bossy dull is tells how open door.  Member.  Me not loud help cause Shorty not so smarts.  Crept when use magic marbles makes smart.  Gots to do what dull is say or him bees bossy gin."

Ooc: and that's as far as Shorty light bulb goes for illumination

In reply to Shorty (msg # 211):

OOC: Does this forum have a search function? I can't find it if so. Don't want to search through all the threads to find that.

In reply to Morteft (msg # 212):


If there is I do not know of it.  But I will find what Shorty refers.

--DM2

In reply to Morteft (msg # 212):

Some things that were mentioned

Celestron:
"The walls of the vault are as thick as the doors.  You cannot force your way in, you must use the key."


Seems I am having trouble finding the other one.  I will find it though.

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 213):

we are talking shorts memory here as I am sick.  Grin


 Am

In reply to Morteft (msg # 212):

Morteft has the key.  What will he do with it?

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 216):

Trysk asks Morteft, "Is there any writing or marks on the key?"

In reply to Trysk (msg # 217):

No writing or marks are on the key.

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 218):

Warwick walks forward to Morteft.  "Lad, let's try this together."  He pulls Morteft a few more steps to the door and holding part of the key with him, they touch it to the silver plate.

In reply to Warwick (msg # 219):

Morteft and Warwick hold the key and touch it to the silver plate.  Once this is done the door just fades away revealing a well lit room, 20x30 with no apparent doors or other openings.  The room is plain and similar to the first section of the maze, all white.

"Thru there."  announces RockJaw.

Actions?

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 220):

Morteft moves in. "Thanks Warwick." He smiles.

In reply to Morteft (msg # 221):

"Aye, lad.  We started this thing together, figured combining our talents again might work."

In reply to Warwick (msg # 222):

Shorty follows the group inside watching for trouble

'Remember, we were warned of a guardian of the vault.  Some sort of dragon creation.  So, it's great that we've made it this far, but we still have one other major obstacle before we will have access to the vault doors.  I'm not sure what comes next as far as this room with no apparent doors, but just be as prepared as you can.

In reply to Aztar (msg # 224):

You all walk in the the room, Trysk being the last as he does one last inspection to be sure all is well.  Once you all cross the threshold the door disappears and becomes a wall.  You all look around wondering what next.  Ten seconds later an opening appears in one of the walls.
Beyond is a very large room, appears somewhat circular from your perspective from inside the access room you are in; you can see 3 large silvery black doors at the far wall.  Each door looks to have some sort of symbol above it.  The walls and the floor are a light gray and smooth, no ceiling is apparent.  The room appears empty.

Actions?

--DM2

Aztar takes in a deep breath, holds it a minute and then Slowly let's it out.  'Any preparations to make?  I'd like to go into this with a strategy with the best plan we can.  Anyone have anything Dualis gave them that might help?'

The alchemist holds out his hand holding the staff toward Morteft, 'I'd prefer to fight a living foe with my companion Silver, so if you'd lie, the staff, feel free to take it.  Otherwise I will store it in chest.'

In reply to Aztar (msg # 226):

Warwick clears his throat.  "Is everyone completely healed?  If not, grab a potion.  We'd best go in at full strength."

In reply to Aztar (msg # 226):

Morteft takes the staff. "Thank you. If we run into another golem, it would be nice to be of use."

In reply to Aztar (msg # 226):

Trysk asks, "Do we know what type of dragon to expect?  Strengths or weaknesses?"

In reply to Warwick (msg # 227):

I will consider that all of you are back to full HP.

--DM2

Reciting from memory, Aztar replies...

The abomination of which I speak is an experiment of those same golden age mages.  They wanted to make a formidable guardian and they succeeded.  Combining dragon,  ancient beasts known as dinosaurs on some worlds and a bit of themselves they created a creature with the form of a dragon.  The creature has many powers of a dragon; but also characteristics of the others.  Dragonkind curses the mages that did this and we have vowed to destroy any we find."


'To get past the guardian you should prepare as you would to face a dragon, from what I know, against one of the energy type breathers.  They are rumored to be as intelligent as Gold and have magical ability to even surpass them; so be aware of extra magical traps once in the vault. '

In reply to Aztar (msg # 231):

Shorty pauses briefly to consider his many past battles with evil dragons.  He removes the Dualis amulet and replaces it with his old favorite.  "No Burn now>" he mutters.  He then pulls out his purple and white marbles and tosses them above his head.  He continues to mutter what appears to be a long memorized list. "One fer getting better n one fer no getting magic hurts."  He finally looks to chest holding out his pack and maul and Axe.  "Hold fer please chest.  Shorty not need."  Shorty then adjusts a shield so it covers his back and then pulls his black sword and cracker.  He gives his trusty red ball a couple good squeezes and heads for the doorway.  He pauses and looks back.  "Nots follows too closer.  Member.  Nots too closer.  Shorty gonna gets hurt lots.  Bees okays.  If too closer.  Dragon gets spit on ebrybody.  Shorty do afore.  Kills lots big dragon afore.  If close den ebrybody gets dead.  If just Shorty, be live.  Den youse gets to hits after dragon go spits.  Kay?"   Shorty looks around like this is something he has a lot of practice in.

Shorty begins to walk forward again.  Shorty looks back to make sure he has room to get in trouble and if the rest give him a head start, he will yell out as he nears the chamber.  "Times ta die little wormy.  Shorty gonna kills now."

In reply to Shorty (msg # 232):

Shorty makes his preparations and you can all feel Shorty's mind unlink from yours when he removces the Dualis amulet(which may be a good thing, sorry that was too tempting).

He then enters the large room and gives a look around, turning in a full circle.  He remains upright and unharmed.

OOC: I will wait for all to enter before I describe the room.

Actions?

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 233):

Trysk, not knowing what to expect, casts Shield, Wizard Eye and Minor Globe of Invulnerability.  He then turns invisible and draws his frostbrand as he follows Shorty into the room.

Morteft casts a series of spells on himself.

He says, "Stay within 10 feet of me and I will protect us as much as I can from the breath weapon."

He pulls out a ring and says, "This is a ring of spell storing. Does someone want to use it? You can cast haste
on the group with it."

OOC: He casts mirror image, non-detection, stoneskin and polymorph self on himself. He activates his rod of alertness.

'Morteft.   Dualis gave me a scroll of a spell that will allow you to cast twice as many spells as usuall.  If you  have a lot of offensive  spells, this might be the right time to utilize the scroll.  But I defer to you and if you think it's the best use of the scroll.'

In reply to Aztar (msg # 236):

Morteft says, "That sounds pretty nice. I do have a ring of wizardry so I don't know if it would work in conjunction with that."

In reply to Trysk (msg # 234):

Once inside the room, he will activate his rod of alertness and cast Vocalize.

'The spell is not about memorizing more spells, but rather being able to cast two spells in the time it normally takes you to cast one.  So, you'd be twice as effective in battle.'

OOC:  cast 2 spells / round.

In reply to Aztar (msg # 239):

Morteft says, "Wow, that is great. I will gladly accept that. Any idea how long it lasts? I don't want to cast it too soon."

He takes the scroll and examines it for a description and details about how long it lasts.

In reply to Morteft (msg # 240):

The spell Selen's spell speed lasts 1 round per level.  You know Dualis is at least an arch-mage.

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 241):

Warwick says, "Before ye all go running off, let's let Reorx cover ye all with his blessings."  He casts prayer on the group and then bless.

In reply to Warwick (msg # 242):

Warwick casts the Bless spell and you all get a positive feeling.

The rest go into the room.  The chest plops down just inside the room.  Once all are in the room, the door you came thru disappears.

The room you enter is very large and circular.  The walls are grayish as well as the floor.  You see no ceiling, you can see up about 30' before it becomes dark.  There are doors at regular intervals around the room, total of 12.  These doors are silvery black in color, are 10x10 with no locks, handles or hinges of any kind; they are perfectly smooth.  Above each is a symbol on a round black stone (1 ft diameter) the symbols consist of curving lines.
    The doors are 20' apart from each other and the room is at least 100' in diameter.

Actions?

--DM2

Aztar pulls out a scroll and reads it before drawing Silver from his sheath and stepping into the room.

'Well, this certainly appears like the ante chamber to the vaults that was described.  We were warned to only open one door at a time, but I had thought we would have to engage the guardian before opening one, so I'm a bit perplexed by this room.   Be wary of any magical traps between here and the doors.'
This message was last edited by the player at 02:27, Wed 18 Mar 2015.

In reply to Aztar (msg # 244):

"Which door should we pick, lad?" asks Warwick floating near the ceiling once more.

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 243):

Trysk examines the 12 does for traps and to better understand the symbols.

'There is no way to know which door has the artifact holding Rigel.  We'll have to open them one at s time and inspect wa h one, being sure to always put it back and close the door before opening the next.  However, I would still be cautious as we were told we'd have to defeat the guardian so it's porbably just waiting til out guard is down.'

In reply to Trysk (msg # 246):

Trysk starts to look at the doors in turn and assuming a clockwise pattern.  The first door he looks at he finds no traps, actually nothing of any kind.  The door seems like one piece of perfectly smooth metal.  The symbol above the door has a couple of swirly lines surrounding a small circle or dot.  The symbols are a silvery color.

The next door is the same as the previous.  The symbol above has 3 swirly lines surrounding a circle or dot.


--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 248):

Morteft says, "I feel there is some danger nearby. Be ready..."

He steps closer to the group. "Be within 10 feet of me."

'If there is a drsgon, wouldnt it make more sense to spread out?  What protection do you have if we're in close proximity to you?'

'Also, what divination are you using to sense the danger?  Dualis gave me a scroll of foresight but it's proving quite useless in this place.'

In reply to Aztar (msg # 250):

Morteft says, "Precognition is what i am using."

In reply to Morteft (msg # 251):

Warwick floats closer to the group and further from the ceiling, not sure how high Morteft's protection extends.

In reply to Warwick (msg # 252):

You all move in near each other at Mortefts request.  Then you all start looking around as if expecting an attack.  Five seconds go by, then 10 and nothing happens.  Until 13 seconds...

A section of the floor below you explodes sending rocks flying in all directions (excpet down).  The rock shrapnel strikes everyone, 14 points; save vs breath weapon for 1/2.

As you recover from this you can make out the sound of a low mumble - for relative position consider yourselves at 3 o'clock and the noise at around 7 o'clock.

The spell casters hear something akin to spell-casting.

Actions?

--DM2

In reply to Warwick (msg # 252):

Knowing dragons, Shorty moves quickly towards the source of the noise.  Hoping to get there before the dragon can finish.

OOC:  Shorty did not save, but is wearing the shield of missile attraction across his back should that help any.

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 253):

BTW, the explosion left a 1' deep, 3' diameter hole in the floor.

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 255):

Warwick manages to get his shield up to ward off some of the damage.

"Do we leave it to Shorty or should we all get there?"

In reply to Warwick (msg # 256):

Morteft says, "Let's keep up with him. We aren't going to kill this thing from afar."

He follows after shorty.

In reply to Morteft (msg # 257):

Trysk is unable to dodge the rocks, but is saved by his Stoneskin spell.  He follows the others toward the sound of the spellcaster and will attack with a psionic blast if appears to be a living creature and no one is in the way.

He will cast Magic Missile otherwise.

In reply to Trysk (msg # 258):

OOC: Morteft made his save for 1/2 damage.

In reply to Trysk (msg # 258):


For the most part with several of the group moving forward toward the sound there will probably be someone within the path of the Psionic Blast, the Magic Missile needs sight to hit, you cannot see the thing.

Also, anyone's Stoneskin that was active when the explosion happened is now gone.  You were all it by multiple rocks, each rock counting as a single attack in effect.

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 260):

Sorry, I meant that Tryst will still move forward, but cast Magic Missile (instead of using psionic blast) when he sees the spellcaster.

In reply to Trysk (msg # 261):

You all move toward where you hear the sound.  Shorty makes it there first, swinging hard where the sound seems the loudest.  He follows through much more than he usually does as he hits nothing but air.  His swings almost spinning him around.  When the rest of you see this you all stop where you are, not sure if something is before you or not.  Then the sound in front of Short stops, this is followed quickly by an acid rain, the floor exploding again underneath you and a Fireball coming down from above.

The acid rain causes only 1 point initially unless you have resistance to acid, the exploding floor does another 14 points and the Fireball explodes; however Morteft is able to absorb the energy, a further however is that appears to have taken a toll as he looks to be almost stunned.

You begin to hear chanting from another part of the room, this time at the 12 o'clock position.

Actions?

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 262):

Tryst activates his Rod of Alertness to detect invisible and evil.

In reply to Trysk (msg # 263):

Shorty reaches into his pouch and pulls out a brightly glowing coin and throws it up towards the ceiling.

In reply to Shorty (msg # 264):

The coin flies upwards, bright light against the back drop of the dark above.  Once it reaches 30' it looks like just a torch and quickly is gone from sight.  Three seconds go by, 4, 5, no coin comes back.

The chanting continues.

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 265):

Warwick pulls out his own coin, casts silence on it and tosses it at the chanting.

Speaking quietly, but quickly, Aztar throws out a theory, 'I'm wondering if the enemy is actually on the ceiling and there's some sort of reverse gravity with a darkness field that we can't see through.'

Aztar closes his eyes for a moment and those close to him feel a small wave of energy wash over them.  'I've erected an inertial barrier that should minimize the exploding floor, but we need to figure out where the enemy is.'

'Morteft, are you okay?  Is absorbing the energy usually stressful on you?'

In reply to Aztar (msg # 267):

Morteft sighs. "No, I am just weak from it. I can't do it again...at least for a while."

'Interesting.  Then, we should probably move apart as these attacks seem designed to weaken our defenses and appear to be succeeding so far.'

In reply to Aztar (msg # 269):

Morteft nods.

He runs about 20 feet from the group and then points his wand of doom fire at the sound if the room seems big enough to avoid hitting the party. If not, he will cast a lightning bolt toward the sound.

In reply to Warwick (msg # 266):

Warwick tosses the coin toward the noise, it bounces a few times and you do not hear the chanting now.

--DM2

In reply to Morteft (msg # 270):

Morteft moves away from the rest of the group pulling a black wand from his cloak.  A small fireball shoots forth and moments later erupts into a greenish fireball at the 12 o'clock position.

Nothing appears after the fireball dissipates.

Shorty, in the meantime, continues to swing at the air, just in case the tricky dragon is still there.

--DM2

In reply to Morteft (msg # 270):

The acid rain continues, all take 2 points this round.

The area around Aztar, Warwick and Trysk now feels extremely hot and dry as the moisture is pulled from your bodies.

48 points, save for half.

Joe just stands there looking around, and the chest is running around the room.

Then Shorty's coin, a full 30 seconds later, falls back to the floor returning as it left, first as torch light then full brightness once it is within 30' of the floor; which it hits and bounces, spins and finally comes to rest.

Actions?

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 273):
  He also tries sniffing out his foe
Shorty tries going to the opposite side of the room from the sound.

Aztar takes his own advice and moves to his own space in the room, activating a talisman around his neck and takes to the air to move up towards the darkness to see if there is anything that can be determined about what's above..

In reply to Trysk (msg # 263):

The rod reveals nothing about the area.

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 276):

Warwick, making his save, says, "This is getting ridiculous.  Where is this creature?  I'm going to have a look up."  He scoops the glowing coin from the floor and heads up.

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 273):

Trysk fails his save and turns into a dead withered husk, unless his frostbrand is able to save him with its Heal ability.

In reply to Trysk (msg # 278):

Yes, it can.

You are back to full -2.

--DM2

OOC:  Scratch my earlier post since Trysk would collapse before Aztar got very far.

The alchemist sees Trysk fall just as he's about to move away to give the enemy less target, pauses, grabbing a vial from one of the bandoliers on his chest and shoves it down his throat.

OOC:  Potion of Extra Healing (isn't that what the strongest 1st edition potion is called?

Over the telepathic link, *I'm almost certain that whoever is attacking us has to be above the darkness somehow throwing their voices to make it sound like they are down here with us.  Plus, too many effects going off for it to be one creature I think.*

In reply to Shorty (msg # 274):

Shorty moves to another side of the room in hopes to hear more noise.  He also sniffs the air which has a heavy acidic smell.  No clues there for Shorty.

--DM2

In reply to Aztar (msg # 280):

Yes it is, healed 19 points.

Max ESP range is 90' so in theory it may work.

--DM2
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:01, Thu 09 Apr 2015.

In reply to Warwick (msg # 277):

Will Warwick still fly up if Aztar does not?

--DM2

Assuming nothing else changes within a few seconds, Aztar closes his eyes and focuses his thoughts upwards trying to sense if there are any minds in the room other than those of his companions.  Its a stretch, but at this point, he needs to try to pinpoint the enemy one way or another.

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 283):

Yes, Warwick will head up.

In reply to Warwick (msg # 285):

Warwick get very close to the darkness, then he hesitates momentarily and hovers.

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 286):

Trysk moves away from underneath the darkness and uses his psionic Clairvoyance to see what's on the other side of the darkness.

As Aztar reaches his mind upwards,meh suddenly winces, 'there is definitely a strong psiomic mind above the darkness.  I'm under mental attack now.  We should either all work a coordinated attack or get up there and deal with it physically.'

Taking a small amulet off from around his neck, one of many of the same color, he reaches it out towards Shorty, 'this will let you fly for awhile if you want to go hit something.'

In reply to Aztar (msg # 288):

Warwick calls down.  "There's a psionic being up here.  I could use yer help!"

In reply to Aztar (msg # 288):

Shorty likes flying so will use the amulet and join Warwick.

OOC. Wifi is shaky in the Sea of Japan.  Move shorty as needed

In reply to Shorty (msg # 290):

Shorty takes the amulet and stands there waiting.  It becomes clear that he is not quite sure how it works.  He looks to Aztar.

A moment later, up at the dark area along the wall, at about the two o'clock position, you begin to see a green snout slowly emerge, followed by the rest of the head and the beginning of a neck.  The reptilian like head is slender and somewhat elongated and sports two large horns, each look to be about 2 feet long and extend straight at a slight (20 degree) angle from each other - looking more like antenna than horns.  The eyes are a deep green and it sort of gives a little smile, long white teeth are noticeable.

Actions?

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 291):

"Any of ye going to do anything?" asks Warwick heading towards the snout, drawing his axe.

Aztar quickly adds, 'put it around your neck and touch it.  You'll be able to fly after that.'

Aztar studies the opponent carefully for a few moments to make sure it appears to be real before acting against it.

In reply to Aztar (msg # 293):

Aztar detects no illusions, it appears real.

--DM2

In reply to Warwick (msg # 292):

The creature continues its decent as Warwick moves toward it, apparently taking little interest in him.  The creatures neck extends out of the darkness, it is long and as green as the head.

Then flying out of the darkness comes a giant disembodied hand, about 8' in length, heading towards Warwick quickly and intercepting him, wrapping itself around Warwick and holding him in the air.  Warwick struggles to escape the hand.

Actions?

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 295):

Trysk casts dispel magic on the hand.

In reply to Trysk (msg # 296):

Warwick activates his enhanced strength and attempts to break the hand's grip.

In reply to Warwick (msg # 297):

Morteft casts slow on the dragon and then follows that with lightning bolt.

In reply to Morteft (msg # 298):

Warwick struggles against the huge disembodied hand but does not seem able to break free.

The creature continues moving out of the darkness until it's body begins to appear.  The neck is some 15' long.

Morteft casts 2 spells in quick succession using the benefits of Selen's Spell Speed.  The first spell, Slow, has no visible effect.  The second, Lightning Bolt, strikes the somewhere near the base of the neck, but it may no move to avoid.  The energy crackles around the creature but it's motion seems unimpeded.

Trysk casts Dispel Magic at Warwick in the hopes that he can free the dwarf.  The hand hold Warwick disappears!  Those paying attention to the dragon see a quick look of shock and annoyance.

Shorty, getting a quick instruction from Aztar, takes to the air toward the 'dragon'.  The dragons body and 'feet' start to emerge.  The feet, at least the front ones look more like human hands than claws of a dragon, the 'fingers' are somewhat long and slender having 3 digits and 1 'thumb'.

Before you can study any closer the dragon breaths a blast of blue white energy, spreading out in a cone, engulfing Shorty as he flies and then striking Aztar, Trysk and Joe.

Save vs Dragon Breath, protection vs fire or electricity is no help.

Actions?

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 299):

Morteft pulls out a ring and puts it on. He uses it to cast Cone of Cold at the dragon.

He will follow that will a haste on the group.

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 299):

OOC - Since Tryst moved away from the other earlier, I'm assuming the dragon can see invisible creatures or just happened to have Tryst in the area of effect.

BIC - Tryst rolls a 5, so his magical protections and quickness are not significant enough to prevent him from taking the full brunt of the dragon's breath weapon.

In reply to Trysk (msg # 301):

In the aftermath of the breath Shorty smokes slightly and flies gently past the dragon into the darkness, then you hear a thud.  The creature continues to move forward down the side of the wall revealing part of the body, showing an ornate brown straps that crosses at the chest and goes around the shoulders, a large emerald is at the point where the straps cross.

Joe appears to be unharmed by the breath, in fact he seems charged up. "Wow!  That felt great."

The chest is making no move and it 'sits' down at the 9 o'clock position.

OOC: Waiting on a couple of things till I go further.

Warwick is flying toward the creature, Morteft is casting, Trysk has fallen to one knee and seems dazed.

--DM2

OOC:  Did something seem odd that Shorty would just fly into the darkness vs head at the dragon?  Did the breath stun him possible?

'Joe, want to take a shot at the dragon and see how it reacts to your energy?'

Aztar moves away from anyone else, wanting there to be enough distant to minimize who it can attack with breath or reach at the same time.

In reply to Aztar (msg # 303):

Joe looks over at Aztar, "Ok, I will blast it."  Joe extends both hands toward the 'dragon' and two bright green beams burst forth at the 'dragon', both hit it squarely in the chest.  The 'dragon recoils slightly at the strike, closing it's eyes.  When the beams stop you see no physical damage done, although it does appear to glow slightly.
   The creature opens it's eyes and returns to moving down the wall and 'smiles', then speaks.

"Interesting, a different wavelength, how wonderful."  it says in a deep but curiously melodious voice.  The creature's body is maybe half way out.

OOC: New round, I have Morteft casting Cone of Cold then Haste, I will assume the CoC will be aimed to keep Warwick out of it.

Warwick is attacking with his axe.  Still going toward the snout?

Trysk and Shorty are stunned.

Joe shrugs at Aztar, "Uh now what?"

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 304):

Morteft will not catch warwick in the cone. Thanks! :)

In reply to Morteft (msg # 305):

Morteft casts Cone of Cold at the beast catching it's lower left side in the cone.  Unfortunately the cold does not seem to affect the creature; more of magic resistance than cold resistant Morteft believes.

He then follows up with Haste and the party feels a rush of adrenalin and speed.  The sped up Warwick is able to attack the monster 3 times.  He is able to strike good solid blows twice; however no damage appears to have been done and the creature just ignores Warwick for the moment.

The creature moves further out of the shadows; it does not appear to be as bulky as most dragons you know, perhaps closer to the gem dragons in stature.

Actions for Aztar?

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 306):

Morteft frowns. "Parley?"

Aztar seems to literally be lost in thought trying to run through his inventory and see if there's anything he has to help with the creature, but it's hard to think when being psionically attacked.

OOC:  no action...  Can't think of a single thing to do to help with this battle.. Aztar is way outside his comfort zone and really can't figure out what he has to help...

In reply to Aztar (msg # 308):

Trysk snaps out of his stunned state and sees the creature coming down the wall.  Warwick is attacking it. Shorty flies out of the dark and looks ready to attack.

The creatures front legs reach the floor and at this point it stops, looks at those near him, Aztar, Joe, Trysk and Morteft.  It does not pay RockJaw any head.

Actions?

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 309):

Warwick holds his attacks.  "Do ye agree to parley?"

Aztar attempts to make sure he is far enough away that another breath weapon has minimal affect on the group.  He does seem to regain some focus, though he still seems deeply lost in thought.  He makes no attempt to attack and rather waits to see what the creature does with Morteft's request.

In reply to Aztar (msg # 311):

Over the telepathic link, Warwick sends, *Lads, this guy has quite the sword strapped to his back.  So, we've not seen anything yet.*

In reply to Warwick (msg # 312):

Shorty sees the creature nearing the group. "No hurts friends."  he yells and swings with his black sword and his other sword.  His sped up form looking like a blur.

Without any movement; the sword, that Warwick just told you about, appears in the creatures right 'hand', and gripping the sword in it's 'fingers'.  The creature twists around and deftly parries each of Shorty's blows.  In size it appear to be a bastard sword.

Actions?

--DM2

Aztar snaps out of his unfocused gaze and quickly looks up at Shorty, 'Shorty!  Stop please!  I believe we can get through this without fighting the guardian'

After a pause, he calls out again, 'Trust me for now.  If I'm wrong,,there's plenty of time to fight.'

In reply to Aztar (msg # 314):

Shorty will hold his strikes with the black sword and cracker.  But he stays on the opposite side of the creature from Warwick.  If it comes to a fight... it will have to be really good to parry both sides.

In reply to Shorty (msg # 315):

The creature speaks again, its deep tones seem to reverberate around the room.  "As I remarked before, call off the gnats before there are .. complications .. if you wish to parley."  he looks toward Morteft and then to Aztar.

"Your amusing flanking maneuver is of little concern to me, Shorty, amusing name too on so many levels.  Return to your biped locomotion state, Warwick as well.  I could incapacitate your fellow gnat and stop you before you even swung, Shorty." a chuckle

"This is your last warning."

Actions?

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 316):

Warwick shrugs and floats back to the ground.

Aztar, realizing that shorty probably doesn't comprehend what is being said, calls out, 'Shorty.  Please follow Warwick and land back,on the ground. I don't think there is a way we could win this battle with force.'

In reply to Warwick (msg # 317):

Shorty bristles a bit at the gnat comment.  He knows bugs.  But the rest goes over his head.  "Youse make up lotsa funny word.  Silly dragon thing.  Just cause big not need acts so portent.  Lotta ogre be big den me too."

Shorty looks over to Aztar.  "If'n sure.  but me not lets him hurt.  Nots dis day."  Shorty follows Warwick to the ground.  But he doesn't let down his guard.

In reply to Shorty (msg # 319):

The creature watches Shorty go back to the floor, and then it reaches back and puts the sword back in its scabbard.  "Very nice.  Just a moment."  It continues coming down from the wall, revealing the rest of itself.  The tail is about 30' long, overall the creature is about 100' long.  It continues to look at Morteft and Aztar as it gets to the floor.  It makes a slight turn so as to face you all.  It then sits down on its hind quarters and front arms just hanging down and it's tail wrapping around the bottom.  It then unfurls its wings which where previously flat to its body, each wing is about 25'.  "Ah, that is better."

It then gives you all a look before stopping at Morteft.  "Mageling, you wanted to parley.  So, why are you here, why have you invaded my home?"

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 320):

Morteft bows and says, "We are on a quest, my Lord. I think my friend Aztar can explain it better than I can at the moment." He looks to Aztar.

Aztar takes a step forward and address the guardian, 'A companion of mine is trapped in one of the artifacts.  We have come simply to free him.  We have no intentions of removing any of the gems from this vault and apologize for intruding, but there seemed to be no other path to the vault and time is of the essence.'

In reply to Aztar (msg # 322):

The creature stares at Morteft briefly and then looks to Aztar.  "Yes, we thought of that earlier.  Are you the leader then of this little band?"

--DM2

Aztar had never really considered the group to have a leader but for purposes of this mission, it might seem that he was since he was personally affected by Rigel's loss.  He looked at the others briefly to se if anyone objected to him making the claim that he was.  'We work as a group but I am the motivation behind this mission so it's safe to say that I can speak for the party in this matter.'

In reply to Aztar (msg # 324):

Morteft nods in support.

In reply to Morteft (msg # 325):

"Aye lad, go ahead," encourages Warwick

In reply to Warwick (msg # 326):

Trysk looks around nervously.

In reply to Trysk (msg # 327):

"I shall take that as a consensus." says the creature  "Now, who is this companion of which you speak?"

--DM2

'His name is Rigel and he is a sapphire dragon.'  He pauses for a moment before asking a difficult question, 'Are you aware of the time shift that occurred that returned one of the orbs to the vault that had previously been taken?'

In reply to Aztar (msg # 329):

"Very much so." it replies "Other than the ones who broke in last time, the theft you mention, you are the first to breach these walls in 672 years.  The time shift, as you say, is still proceeding and I have been watching.   I also know of your 'friend' who came under the Orb's influence.  The state of an artifact is not changed in the time realignment even though its position might."

It looks you all over again.

"Hmm, you are aware of the anomoly but perhaps not your role in it.  You have not known this Rigel for long yet you chose to risk all to free him?  Your compainions chose as well?"

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 330):

Morteft nods. "That is correct. We all decided to help."

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 330):

Shorty looks at the dragon creature and replies.  "Rigel dragon fight fer us gainst  king troll.  We fight fer him be free."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:59, Tue 05 May 2015.

'Our role?  I wasn't aware we had a role.  We are only aware of the changes because of where we were at during the event.  Otherwise I wouldn't even have known what happened to Rigel.'

'As for helping him, he and I came to arrangement some time ago and I view him as an ally if not even a friend.  Although I grant you the  situation is a bit unique.  I cannot tolerate people being wrongly imprisoned and so I do all I can to free those that I'm able to.  So, that is why I am here.'

As the others speak, Aztar stand silently for a moment.  His fear has slowly started to fade and been replaced by curiousity and he's genuinely curious where the conversation is leading.

In reply to Aztar (msg # 333):

Warwick bows low to the dragon.  "Aye, Lord.  We are here of our own free will, knowing what we knew of the dangers here.  And the guardian, which I guess is ye."

In reply to Warwick (msg # 334):

The creature is silent for a moment "Interesting, quite different from my last visitors.  Much more ill intent, and not meant for your Rigel.  Troublesome he is."

A moments pause ... and then remarks

"You have a strong group, the dark one is a specialist who could get thru most traps, a competent mage of some renown, the muscle who lives nearby, a warrior/priest with an interesting ancestry, a power-man yet to understand his potential and the chemist who has engaged some of the strongest beings of this world.  Most of you also have mental gifts although in this case it may have been a detriment.
    However, you are lacking in some key areas.  The golem is not yours, somehow it has been able to link to this facility and entered after yourselves.  Some of your items provide links to other minds.  The secrets of this place are well hid or lost in time, it would take decades of research to discover even bits."  pause

"You are being aided by an outsider, are you not?"

--DM2

Feeling it would be foolish to lie at this time, plus seeing little reason to hide the fact, Aztar speaks up again, "Yes.  The golem is support from an arch-mage known as Dualis."

"He is not allowed to enter because of a deal with the dragons but was able to provide us some support before entering as well as sending RockJaw to help guide us to this spot."

"The items that link our minds should be sufficient to allow one of us to open a vault door as we were told it requires a single focus to be able to open a door."


Aztar is extremely curious to know what happened with the last visitors, but hestiates to ask any questions, rather simply answering questions for now.

In reply to Aztar (msg # 336):

Morteft says, "What other group? What happened to them? Perhaps we should have a meet with them."

Aztar raises an eyebrow at Morteft's question, "I believe he's referring to the troll king and his black cloud that stole the orb that was used on Rigel."  Since Morteft broached the question, the alchemist continues, "Though I would be curious to hear the story of what happened with them in here."

In reply to Aztar (msg # 336):

It listens without movement or expression. "Ah, a name.  I would have thought a arch-mage to keep themselves shrouded as they do.

Yes, the dragon council, a tiresome bunch.  'Noble' to a fault.  They are concerned and afraid of what is contained in this tower, in someways myself more than the Orbs.

The items of which you speak you will most certainly need to gain access to the Orbs, only a very few have the ability on their own."

--DM2

In reply to Aztar (msg # 338):

"You are correct" he says to Aztar "The troll king, as you say, was somewhat trivial along with his companion mage.  The true power in the room was the black cloud, which is the form the Avatar of Set took, a powerful god who has taken notice of this world.  It was the Avatar which got them thru the maze and allowed them to open the vault doors to take the Orb.  It used them as pawns; however it was beyond our power with which to deal.  The Avatar manipulated events and was nearing the culmination of its schemes when an out-worlder mage cast a spell of incredible power to change the course of events on this world causing the time realignment.  It was an incredible wonder to behold.
   Since the troll king, in essence never, existed the Orb returned to where it was prior to him gaining access to it; but as I mentioned its state did not change and so Rigel remained within."

--DM2

Aztar shrugs, 'I doubt  it's his real name but one he uses most of the time and I do not wish to deceive you so am being as forthright as I can in the situation.

Aztar nods regarding the time change, 'it was quite confusing to us for a time as we didn't understand what had happened and why we weren't affected until later.  It's amazing that you are so in tune with what happened and aware of what happens outside the vault.'

Hearing Rigel's name returns his focus, 'so, is there an issue with us retrieving Rigel from the orb and being allowed to leave?  We truly don't wish to disturb you or this ancient place any more than is necessary, though I admit I am curious about what you know about us and the role you spoke of that we play in all,of this.'
This message was last edited by the player at 04:12, Thu 07 May 2015.

In reply to Aztar (msg # 341):

"That is my main self-imposed purpose now, to observe this world, to chronicle if you will.  Given where I am and the uniqueness of my being I am able to be aware of both timelines in a similar way to you, most of you anyway.  Being in the Tower of High Energy Magic gives me unique resources to allow me to monitor this world.
   My original purpose, from my creators, still compels me and since they are long since gone, barely a memory to a few; so now I watch, learn and prepare for visitors .. along with a friend."

he pauses.

OOC: More to come, feel free to comment on the above if you want.

--DM2

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 342):

Morteft saids, "That sounds like a very noble vocation. Lonely, but you have a friend. Is your friend here?"

In reply to Morteft (msg # 343):

Warwick eyes the being.  "Yer sword is sentient, isn't it," he says making it a statement, not a question.

In reply to Warwick (msg # 344):

"Yes it is." in reply to Warwick "and my friend."  to Morteft, the creature holds out his 'hand' and in an instant the sword appears in it.  "Neuron, the Mind Sword.  A gift from the visitor of 672 years ago.  I am Seletos, master of this tower and city."

--DM2

In reply to Aztar (msg # 341):

"Set is his real name, he wants all to know it and be afraid.

I am gratified that you are truthful, it is also why you are still alive.  I knew why you were here and I wanted to see if your words would match."

--DM2

'The master of the tower?  Are you one of the original mages that built this place empowered into a blade?  I've never heard of a sentient blade with psionics... Quite unique.'

Turning his attention back to the guardian, he asks,'your original purpose still compels you...  Does that bother you or with your self created purpose, are you content here?  I'm as opposed to forced servitude as I am imprisonment so just curious if you could be free from this place, would you leave?'

Aztar wasn't really sure where his questions were going but he felt the need to ask them and learn more about this unique being.

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 346):

Morteft nods. "Fascinating. So, just the two of you in this tower and city? I suppose it must be wondrous to explore, though."

In reply to Ron, The DM (msg # 345):

"Aye, that's what I thought.  I've never seen anyone draw a weapon so fast."

In reply to Aztar (msg # 347):


Seletos: "No I am not one of the original mages nor is Neuron.  I was created by the original mages, Neuron is from another world.  I am master of the tower for I am the only one left from the Golden era. There are a few creatures that roam, travellers visit the city from time to time.  There are even those who live on the outskirts."  he looks at Shorty after this comment  "but no other remains from that time.  At least not on this world.  I have been in this tower for over 1000 years.
   Neuron is indeed psionic as am I, as some of you have wondered.  Similar to a Holy Avenger and a Paladin, Neuron's true powers are revealed in the hands of a psionic.  Neither you nor your special weapons need fear for your safety while we are at peace."

OOC: I will try to keep certain threads of questions separate to allow those thoughts to complete, so I will be splitting up answers along those threads and I will circle back to other questions as I go.

--DM2

OOC:  Sorry.. misread the post about the sword saying his name and then "master of the tower".  Didn't realize part was the sword and part was the dragon...

I'll try to keep my posts shorter and not ask too much at a single time to avoid confusion...

"I have rarely used my psionics as a weapon so I'm always a bit surprised when I'm attacked mentally as soon few enemies possess the gift.  I am please that our meeting has been able to turn peaceful and not simply because of your obvious advantage over us.  I always prefer intellect to force."

In reply to Morteft (msg # 348):

"Not really wonderous" Seletos in reply to Morteft.  "I never physically leave the tower as I mentally roam and there is more fascinating things on the outside.  This city is just a shell now."

--DM2