the end of the corridor is quite warm...

In reply to Narrator (msg # 1):

Clarence asks his 'guests' why this area is so warm...

In reply to Clarence Montague (msg # 2):

Anton shrugs. "Furnace room for the Calorium.... watch out for that door, it gets hot."

"Thought t'e bathhouses were still abandoned, who's keepin t'e furnaces runnin?"

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 4):

"We try not to go through here without bringing something nice to burn,
like frankinsense or fragrant fruitwoods,
as an offering, and cause that stuff is expensive,
 only when we have to."
This message was last edited by the player at 11:17, Mon 25 Oct 2021.

In reply to smuggling thug (msg # 5):

"Are there fire elementals or some such there?"

"Ugh!  The Brothers always said those were evil to the core."

"An 'offering' to whom?"

Jareth places his hand near, and then on (if it's not too hot first), the door to test the heat through his gloves.

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 8):

"They looked like a man on fire, would heave balls of flame at us if we had nothing."

In reply to smuggling thug (msg # 9):

"Maybe need to to hose him down..."

"So, bullies, with fireballs.  Bullies were one of the reasons I made my first bow.

"Jareth, what does it take to kill one of those?  Silver, I'm guessing?"

"Sounds like Flame Lord.  Not sure we can kill it, without someone dyin.  Ya arrows be next to useless Mario, is weak to water, it's basically an uppity fire elemental.  Probably bound t'e furnace, probably highly upset by this.  Huh, this be t'e first time kinda wish Marie were with us, she's a fire mage an pretty tight with t'e Bronze City by fy recollections."

He stands there letting the heat soak into his glove for a moment.

"This might be where turn back, if what we seek part t'e Flame Lord's purview... gonna be a rough fight."

He let's his words stand a moment, "Could try parlaying.  Flame Lord might trade for somethin," he turns back to face the group, "so what say, wanna try talkin with an elder fire elemental what's been bound an is probably pissed about it?"


OOC:  01:45, Today: Jareth Mooncalled rolled 12 using 3d6.  Hidden Lore (Elemental) 11 (default).
/sadtrombone.mp4
01:54, Today: Jareth Mooncalled rolled 13 using 3d6.  Will 15, resisting Psionic Backlash from defaulted skill failure.

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 12):

"Not a fight I want, to be sure."

"I'd rather talk than fight something like that, no question.  But what might a Flame Lord want, other than freedom?  And how would we free it if that turns out to be needful.  Not to mention, what might such a one do once freed, after being imprisoned for heaven only knows how long?"

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 14):

"What would it take to get some fancy incense or whatever for this hothead?"

"Incense isn't hard to come by -- probably a dozen or more places to get it in Artisan, or you can get it blessed by at least a couple temples.  The Brothers used to always get it from Frank.  Never figured out which Frank that was, though."

"Take goin upstairs to buy some.  T'ere opportunity cost to it.  Time.  Who stays, who goes. Etc."

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 17):

"What do you plan to do in the meantime down here?"

In reply to Clarence Montague (msg # 18):

this can be accomplished in about two hours- if hasty in the market.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 19):

whoever runs needs to make a scrounging roll to find such things quickly, as they are probably in the temple district market.

additionally they must pass the leeches twice...

OOC:  If* anyone is leaving, let's not get ahead of ourselves.  Jareth is waiting on a few others to speak up before he pulls the trigger on either "go in and talk first" or "go topside to get incense".

*Yeah, we probably are, just want to give Joc and Nodwin a moment to interject before we make that decision.

I have little which would inconveniece this fire being.

[Private to GM: She again tracks the silver, to ensure it is through the door where the fire beings stay.]

In reply to Jocelyn Lemru (msg # 22):

occ Nodwin would negotiate,  but is a swayable npc

[Private to Jocelyn Lemru: the silver is close, maybe 10 yards away]

"I see two excellent options for needing to pass the leeches twice: Jareth with all his anti-leech gear, and another way out.  One of those we know exists.

"Then again, I don't like the idea of sending anyone all that way back to the surface, and then returning down here, alone."

He turns to Anton.

"Is there another way out from here without passing the leeches, or getting tangled up with the fire lord?  Or have we, as the Brothers used to say, painted ourselves into a corner?"

In reply to Narrator (msg # 23):

Question to GM

[Private to GM: Cool, but in which direction? Into the flames of whatever? Somewhere else?]

In reply to Jocelyn Lemru (msg # 25):

Anton Shrugs. "There might be another way back toward the rooms beyond the furnace, we usually took this route to avoid all of the dead that linger near the Tepidarium.  we would have to go back out, around, and up, but there are heavy doors bound with chains, and full of dead. it was easier to bribe the burning man to get there."

In reply to smuggling thug (msg # 26):

"Dead or undead? Are they zombies, or worse?"

"Sealed in since plague days no doubt.  Eit'er t'ey zombified or makin t'e boneway for ghouls."

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 28):

"Likely what we are looking for will be there anyway..."

"I recall the ghula being difficult to kill, and coming in bunches.  I really need to find a way to get my quiver upgraded to silvered arrows, at least."

He shakes his head.

"Plague walkers, not so big a deal, unless there are a lot of them.  Any way to tell which are there before unchaining the door?"

"'Fore go unchainin t'e doors in our imagination, let's decide we're gonna try talkin with t'e Flame Lord or get some fancy incenses, or what."

Not the least interested in the undead, even less than his flame lord.

In reply to Jocelyn Lemru (msg # 32):

"Right. Except that silver here is likely to be claimed, but silver with the dead could be ours..."

What use is silver to a being of fire? It has a low melting point and is not useful as a tool or much else.
Buying things is unlikely a need.  I should think glass and steel are more value to such a being.

In reply to Jocelyn Lemru (msg # 34):

"Perhaps he is saving up to buy his freedom? If he has it, that is. I think the silver is more likely with the dead though."

In reply to Clarence Montague (msg # 35):

"Who would he be buying it from? Doubtless he has been a prisoner since the baths were first opened, centuries ago."

OOC:  Does the door open inwards or out, and is there space to move to either side of it in case the Flame Lord starts chucking fireballs out of it once Jareth opens the door?

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 37):

the door opens out, and there is at least a yard of cover to either side

"Nodwin, Jocelyn take t'ese two an stand over here, so ya can shut t'e door.  Broderik, hang out here t'e ot'er side with me case it free willed enough to come t'e door an need persuading back inside.  Gonna crack it open an take a peek, maybe get it speakin, see what be what."

Once everyone moves out to either side, etc, Jareth will indeed crack the door open and peek through the gap.

(Unless it's locked, then he'll let Mario at it)


OOC:  We've hit Jareth's threshold of patience (Impulsive)... now is the time of doin stuff!

Mario takes a position where he'll be able to see through the opening as soon as the door clears the frame, while his right hand locates a silvered arrow by the grooves on its nock -- and waits to see what happens when the door opens.

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 40):

Clarence get ready to guard...the door?

She does as asked

He stands where asked, shield up and axe back and ready to swing if need be.

In reply to Brodak (msg # 43):

a blast of heat escapes through the crack in the door; there is a dull red glow from within,  as if from a forge.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 44):

Clarence will let those who want to talk do so...

Mario squints against the radiance.  "Bread done yet?"

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 46):

The door screeched as you opened is, and there is some movement within.

Jareth press over against the wall to present as small a profile as possible (also to give Mario room) and calls out, "Flame Lord, do ya ken t'e common tongue of this land?"

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 48):

a ball of flame sails through the doorway, striking the door at the far end of the corridor.

"Who dares disturb me?"

So you wish to spend the rest of your existance in here undisturbed?

Mario ducks a little when the fireball shoots past, then recovers to his ready position -- bow raised, but not aimed, and right hand on the nock of the arrow he'll use next (in this case, one of the silvered ones).  In this position, he tries to make out any details of the elemental in order to have an aiming point.

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 51):

Clarence, not having wanted to talk to this guy, stays well back, preferably behind a wall. He likes light, but this guy takes it to extremes, and this is confirmed by the fireball sizzling past.

"Ah, good, ye ken t'e common tongue, I be conversant in ot'er tongues if be more conducive to parlay in t'em.  Fy name is Jareth Mooncalled.  Understand ye normally allow travelers through if t'ey bring pleasant incense or fragrant woods to burn, however we have none.  T'us seek to discuss optional terms for safe entrance such to parlay passage for fy group."


OOC:  Diplomancing the Flame Lord...  his Xeno-Cultural Familiarity ignores up to -3 Cultural penalty from the Flame Lord (Jareth somehow does know how to speak politely to former residents of the City of Brass - hopefully our Flamer here doesn't hate it's own reference culture...).

13:01, Today: Jareth Mooncalled rolled 10, 11 using 3d6,3d6.  Diplomacy 15 Influence Roll and Reaction Roll.
Potentially Good Reaction.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:12, Sat 13 Nov 2021.

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 53):

"You bring me no gifts...why should I let you pass?"

Jareth just shakes his head, then responds, "Right now just talkin find out what gifts ya prefer an if t'ere any ot'er thing might have that ya might accept.  Aside from fragrant woods, resins, an incense, what ya want for sworn safe passage?"

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 55):

"Release from this tedium! Can you grant me that?"

"Is that possible?  Is it safe?"  Mario's voice is barely above a breath.

Quietly to Mario and the group, "Unsure."

Then into the other room more loudly, "Not sure fy skill is up to that great task, but, if ya swear on t'e City of Brass an your place within t'e Hierarchy ya won't harm me while I am in that room, I'll come look an assess yer bindins to see if such be within fy capacity."


OOC:  22:15, Today: Jareth Mooncalled rolled 1 using 1d2.  Evens - Charitable, Odds - Decidedly Uncharitable (Bloodlust).
unfortunately... I don't think Jareth has any means of actually offing this guy if he attacks us, this could go very, very poorly, if it does go poorly.

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 58):

"Enter then!"

there is a rattle of chains...

Jareth opens the door fully to get a good look into the room, "Do you swear t'en?  T'e honor of t'e City an it's Lords be well regarded."


OOC:  Yeah, Jareth is making some bullshit up right here, but it is a thing in some worlds... just not sure about this one... ;)

As Jareth opens the door, Mario leans left and right, trying to get a good look at the flame lord and pick a stance with a shot past Jareth (in case it's needed).

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 60):

"Those scoundrels can all freeze in Hel!I have called to them and been ignored.... once free I shall make them pay!"

"Hmmm.  Well, lore concerning t'e City of Brass be inaccurate, t'en, have to update t'e fellows.  So be it, I'll take a look.  Make no promises, ye been trapped here long as I suspect, was by someone with power."

Jareth cautiously enters and takes a good look around as he does so, careful to not cross any bindings or sigils on the floor, ceiling, or walls.


OOC:  Mmmmph.  Die roller, I calls shenanigans on thee.
02:26, Today: Jareth Mooncalled rolled 14 using 3d6.  Carefully observing the area.  Observation 13, Traps (Spotting) 15.

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 63):

there are great iron furnaces, and between them idms a man made of fire... chained at both ankles and the waist with great orichalcum  links, running down to a staple of orichalcum set in a slab of adamantine.
flame drips down the wrathful features of this being, who even now is raising a ball of flame in its palm.

"Ya want out here?  Ya put that fireball away."  Jareth continues to look around, "Orichalcum chain, stapled adamantine floor slab.  That's tough one alright."

Seeing no sigil work, he steps to the orichalcum staple and crouches to get a closer look at the staple and chain, "Maybe alkahest."


OOC:  Any markings on the staple or chain?  Sigils, mystical enchantment symbols, etc?

And what do you mean by adamantine?  That's not a material defined in DF/RPG.  Is it "tougher stone"?

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 65):

Those with Thaumatology  and Alchemy  know:
adamantine is unbreakable stone, created the same way as orichalcum with the essential earth, earth to stone casting, and takes a lot of energy.

adamantine is glossy black like obsidian, and can only be worked with shape stone or orichalcum tools.

orichalcum can be worked only by magic.
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:18, Fri 26 Nov 2021.

"Okay, t'e staple an chain be not enchanted here, allow fy approach to examine shackles at ya waist an wrists?  T'ey be similar, t'en this be somethin can do somethin about."

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 67):

the pyromaniacal fiend smiles evilly.

"Come closer, and touch the chains."

Seeing the flame lord raise his fireball, Mario fixates on that missile, ready to (try to) shoot it out of the air or the flaming hand if he tries to launch it.  His right hand rests firmly on the nock of a silvered arrow (in case of a sudden target change), his bow rises slightly.

OOC: Held attack against the fireball, triggered by raising it into a throwing position.

As Jareth approaches he says, "If ya attack me, no one will let ya free.  I probably t'e only aside from yaself that thinks ya imprisonment be wrong an feel any need to do somethin about it."

He moves close enough to get a good look at the manacles and the waist cuff, without touching the being made of living fire.  "Now move ya arm like so," he indicates to turn it, "yeah, no sigils."

He stands up and backs a few feet away from the Flame Lord, "Okay, no enchantments can see, fy friend be wizard who can shape metals, I can go bring t'em here, set ya free in a day or two.  Can ya return to t'e City of Brass on ya own?  Or do ya need help crossin t'e planes to get ya revenge?"


OOC:  Of course this post is predicated on the FLame Lord not blowing a Self-Control roll, doing something stupid, and bungling the whole deal... if it does attack when Jareth gets "too close", I'll be happy to edit.

And of course teh chains not being enchanted against Shape Metal spells...

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 70):

barely containing itself, the burning man mutters
"I may need to make a few visits before returning home. Get these off me and you shall pass."

"T'e wizard is nay here, need to leave an retrieve t'em.  Hold tight, be back once find t'em an are prepared for t'e rooms that lay beyond.  Hear tell t'ere's whole mess o' zombies."

Jareth takes another look around, making sure he hasn't missed anything, and heads back into the other room where everyone is waiting.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:19, Sun 28 Nov 2021.

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 72):

"Well, what is the verdict?"

Jareth starts to close the door and once it's closed enough he cannot be seen, but still open enough to allow himself to be heard by the Flame Lord, he motions with a finger across his lips and a shake of his head, "Need to find that metal shapin wizard, or buy scroll of metal shapin, till t'en, fy recomend no cross that room."  Door closes.

"He's in fiery spirits an wants to kill bunch o' folks real badly."

He points back down the corridor and pantomimes talking, then heads back towards the storage rooms.

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 74):

"Like I said, prefer to deal with a bunch of walking dead..."

He follows him down the corridor.

"I guess someone else would notice if we just flood that room -- and would that even put out his flames?"

"Probably not, once figure how make sure goes back where it belongs, t'en we go ahead an free it."

"I think I'd rather see it dead, but that's probably out of our reach, too.  My arrows probably won't even hurt it.  Jocelyn's fireballs are likely to heal its hangnails."

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 78):

"Kind of need a fireproof or fireproofing mage...have you made promises you can't keep?"

Jareth gives Clarence such a look that is indicepherable through the mask, goggles, and hood, "Fy promises always kept.  Nay, shapin metal magics easy part, know few mages for it.  Resist fire simple as well.  T'e makin sure can send it home immediately before lights half o' Northport afire t'e hard part."

Jareth waves his hand, "Well, maybe not hard, per se, but damnably tricky."


OOC: At some point we should get to a door and on the other side are more leapin leeches...  couldn't quite drag this out to have eleven leeches leaping be a timely theme... but I tried my best.

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 80):

getting someone to shape metal should not be hard...one of your number was taught that secret.

Indeed, but I do not know extinguish flames or create water. if he is as volatile as Jareth describes, i am less interested in aiding him.

In reply to Jocelyn Lemru (msg # 82):

"If he has been chained up so long, no wonder he is volatile, maybe even a little crazy. But still not so sure I want to free him. What promises did you make him?"

Jareth just shakes his head and continues towards the door leading into the leaping leeches corridor.

Narrator:

one of your number was taught that secret.

OOC:  Yes, I remmber.  It's why msg #74 was written the way it was.  I reread these threads every year or so to stay on top of Jareth's Eidetic Memory.  Having the threads downloaded is almost as good as taking notes.

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 84):

Clarence goes over to the barrels to smear himself with salty fat...

Mario also gives himself a fresh coating.

"Jocelyn, do you need help with this after last time?"

No, Thank You, I can manage.   She smears it anywhere skin could be exposed. then sheilds her eyes.

In reply to Jocelyn Lemru (msg # 87):

with Jareth leading your greasy, squinting team, you make your way through the leech infested corridor,  a few squishy things striking you in the faces as you go.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 88):

But none of them sticking?

In reply to Clarence Montague (msg # 89):

the leeches slide off the salted fat, you make it yo the other door.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 90):


npc'd
"Sorry guys, I just realized I had a stick of incense, but we could do with a fistful more. I can pray for resist fire too, once I visit the temple."

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 91):

Clarence will look around in the room past the leeches for a barrel of salted fat...

Jareth makes sure the door is firmly shut, "Okay, that's good, an with t'e mage we know what can shape metal, that deals with two of t'ree problems.  T'e big one, sending it home immediately.  An no Clarence, made no promises, an more tellin neit'er did t'e Flame Lord.  Which be why if pass this way again, we need be prepared."

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 93):

"Ah, good. No troublesome promises then. Should we try the undead way instead? Sounds safer..."

"T'e zombies are past t'e Flame Lord.  On t'e ot'er side. We need to cross it's room to get t'ere be what I'm sayin."

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 95):

"I thought they was the alternate route, no?"

He just shakes his head, removes his mask and pushes his fey goggles up on his forehead, takes a rag out of his pocket and wipes his face.  "T'ese things always press into fy orbital bones, should probably see about gettin t'e paddin restuffed."

He looks around rights the table, picks up the spilled coins (pocketing them) and cards, the cups.  Tips a small barrel upright and sits down.  "Mario, CLarence, ya should sit t'em boys down t'e ot'er room, tie t'eir feet toget'er so t'ey ain't try go nowhere, block up t'e door good too.  I need to rest a spell, an t'en we discuss where go from here."
This message was last edited by the player at 05:30, Sun 12 Dec 2021.

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 97):

Clarence will nod, and do so. Who has extra rope?

Seeing Clarence looking around questioningly, Jareth says, "Look around, probably be rope one t'ese boxes or casks.  If not, use what is already bein used or turn t'e clot'es t'ey dead into strips for bindin."

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 99):

"Ok, boss."

He checks around for ropes first in the area... should he roll, or would they be obvious?

In reply to Clarence Montague (msg # 100):

make a scrounging roll, per-4 to come up with something

In reply to Narrator (msg # 101):

Rolled twice (second time due to refreshing a crash, if to be honest). First time was very average (1 over IQ, scrounging at default). Second time a critical success (natural 4). Over to GM!

Mario looks in other storage containers from Clarence, but comes up empty.

[Private to GM: 19:34, Today: Mario Crowfoot rolled 12 using 3d6.  Scrounging (Default 7) looking for more rope.]

In reply to Clarence Montague (msg # 102):

Clrence finds rope and shackles of the ball and chain variety

In reply to Narrator (msg # 104):

and will begin applying them as directed.

Mario assists Clarence with securing the prisoners.

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 106):

with the prisoners secured,  ehat isyour next move?

"While we rest, might want reassess t'e situation vis-à-vis t'em two what now ken too much of our affairs.  T'e first thing t'ey gonna do is report T'e Plumber about our interest in this area an that we wack 'em."

Wonder if they might be wanted for other things?

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 108):

"As I said before, they know too much. We should keep them, or bury them. Or let the flame lord roast em."

Mario frowns.

"The brothers used to say 'Two may keep a secret, if one of them is dead.'  Can't say I disagree, though I don't like the idea of murdering them in cold blood, either."

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 111):

"Even if you kill us, da Plummer will know what you did. He has his ways."

OOC:  Jareth is holding off and waiting for Brodak, Mel, and Nodwin to weigh in before he proceeds (also for his FP to recover).  I know their answers aren't likely to have changed from previous, but well...

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 113):

npc'd
"Exactly how would he know how this went down even if you were dead?"

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 114):

"O dunno. he goes to a place and asks it what happened,  says some words... then he just knows."

"Yeah, magic.  Don' sound like necromancy, which was fy first thought, but kennin' magic.  Probably read t'e history t'e place.  Hard to block that, probably only handful of mages in t'e city that could.  Maybe, one or two priests.  T'e Plumber probably can o' course.  Almost easier just to block magic use t'e area... an dependin on exactly what t'e Plumber usin, might only be givin 'im t'e show an not t'e tell.  Or t'e ot'er way round.  Or somethin else.  Hard to ken without more specifics."

Mario listens as Jareth thinks out loud.

"So, the Plumber is a wizard, or some sort of magician at any rate.  Magicians die as well as anyone else with an arrow in their eye.  Trick is to get the chance to shoot."

It would seem we should talk with this plummer, we seem to have similar interests and don't need t be working at cross purposes.


Brodak & Mellarill remain silent.

In reply to Jocelyn Lemru (msg # 118):

"Maybe we should all go together, so he can see we were attacked by his goons then. The idea has credit..."

"'Fore we speak t'e Plumber, need more intelligence.  Ain't somethin rush into on t'e say a couple of thugs."

Jareth pauses, then continues, "Before we move on, need decide if enough change warrant t'ese two's deaths.  T'ree votes for termination, myself, Clarence, an Mario.  Ya five ain't voted in yet, Nodwin, Jocelyn, Brodak, Mel, Charlene?"

At Charlene's surprised look he responds, "Ya gonna have to live t'e decision same as us.  I'd even give Lefty vote if any but me could figure out what's she's sayin..." "interrupting squeak!"

"No, summoned physical manifestations o' fy psyche interactin with t'e metaplanes do not get votes."  Akimbo pokes his head out of the coat pocket, "Dok-dok chitter agitated squeak!"  "Because it'd be double votin that's why!  An besides no one else can even understand ya on account ya refusin to learn t'e lingua franca, so anythin I'd say'd be suspicious, now pipe down."

His head disappears and things start getting tossed out of the pocket, thieves picks, a small stone, errant coins, dead mouse, etc, Jareth sighs and starts collecting them and putting them in different pockets, "Just ignore him, he doesn't like bein reminded how this all works."

Mario goggles a little at Jareth's interaction with Akimbo, then waits for the rest of the group to give their input.

Jocelyn shakes her head No, I can't kill in cold blood and I am strongly against it.

Brodak shakes his head too, Dun nuttin' , no kill fer nuttin'

Ah fuck, they is jus' doin' a job, can' kill 'em fer that.

In reply to Mellarill (msg # 124):

"Mel, if their job involved killing us, why not? If that was NOT part of their job, then killing them for trying to kill us is legit.

Perhaps holding them hostage while we talk to their boss might be a much better way to go."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:31, Mon 03 Jan 2022.

"We ain't positioned for t'e takin captives.  An it's strategically worse than just lettin 'em go.  Plumber ain't gonna care we got two his men tied up somewhere, an if he do, we ain't strong enough keep 'em when t'ey come knockin after 'em.  So if we ain't killin 'em, we'll just have to unti 'em when we're done restin."

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 126):

"Ah, but he can use truth sayer to confirm that they are the ones who attacked us, if he is at all concerned about morality at any level."

"Pretty big 'if', Clarence.  Morality takes a back seat to money and power with most folks who make a living by crime.  Guy gives you trouble?  Kill 'im.  Need him, but he gives you trouble?  Kill someone he cares about, or depending who he is and how he thinks, just threaten them."

Mario shakes his head.

"And we're on the way to becoming like them.

"Jareth, it's probably too late now, but I think we probably shouldn't have started after that silver in the first place.  Our first thought was right -- it was somebody's stash."

"Probably in with t'e zombies, but yup, out of our hands for good now."

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 129):

"Yeah, we should do the right thing. But lets not forget, these guys attacked us for no good reason. Perhaps we should just hand them over to the guard? But they will still name us to that amoral criminal boss..."

"For that matter, the guards might decide that us opening their door without knocking was a good reason.  Turning them over to the guards doesn't seem advantageous to me."

We found them by happinstance, likely unwise for them to have fought us, but they paid for that. We could both have left each other alone, as neither of us got much out of the fight. I say send them on their way and let plummer know we aren't into his business. Leave it lie, OR, if he wants to make someting of it, we can go that route. I would bet he is a guild member though, and the guild doesn't like interrnal squabbles.

In reply to Jocelyn Lemru (msg # 132):

"If the guild does not like internal squabbles, who is to say they will not punish us instead of him? I am guessing his is no average member..."

The guild doesn't punish for accidental brushes, now were we to continue to mess with another guild team, then they might get ugly. If this Plummer is not a guild member, then he'd be an independant and the guild doesn't much care for those.

In reply to Jocelyn Lemru (msg # 134):

"If the guild believed our brush was accidental, and If he is not a guild member. Al lot of ifs..."

In reply to Clarence Montague (msg # 135):

"Helpless prisoners ought not be treated the same as Rabid evil cultists. Vejovis is for justice against tyranny."

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 136):

"I wouldn't  judge someone based on who they work for, I have had gigs with some questionable characters, and it was just a job."

"Once again t'e fates be smilin on you two.  Right, t'en we untie 'em when we leave once we're rested back up."

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 138):

"I appreciate that.
you know we gotta tell him what went down.
  He has stuff on us, we can't run because
 he will find us.  The last guy who ran out on him...it wasn't good and we had to watch."

In reply to smuggling thug (msg # 139):

"Yeah, I get that. But he can't be trusted to deal fairly with either you or us, so identifying us to him is a big problem. If there was a way to change your memories, that would solve both our problems."

"Clarence, seriously.  We lettin 'em go, no furt'er aggressions upon 'em.  Beside, Plumber reads t'e room, he'd be up in here toot-sweet layin t'e mojo down just to check t'eir story.  Just gonna have let this area go, mark off limit."

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 141):

"You are a fool if you think the plummer really cares about the truth, but it will be your funeral, shortly before mine, I suspect."

"Everyone has their weak spots.  If the Plumber comes after us, it'll be our responsibility to introduce him to his.  Not a fight any of us want, maybe not one we can win, but he'll know he's been in a fight."

"Clarence, stop bein foolish.  Course t'e Plumber cares about t'e truth, for no ot'er reason than ascertain whet'er subordinates be lyin or not.  Won't like as matter when decides how deal with us, but he cares bout t'e truth.  No one in power gets t'ere bein stupid, an when idiot inherit t'e crown, t'ey don't stay in power.  An when t'e Plumber comes, aim to avoid fightin.  Find out what wants, figure out how to give it.  Fightin crime boss be last resort."

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 144):

"You are taking me out of context. He cares about finding out the truth, but it will have little effect on his response to us. As far as we are concerned, he will make up his own truth, and it will unlikely be in our favour. It is much better for us he does not know our names, rather than having to 'negotiate' with him by finding his weak spot."

"That ship sailed.  Make yer peace with it, t'e Plumber has first names, kens we in t'e Guild, kens why we here, etc.  Hells, t'e fucker can just magic out where we sleepin givin bit of time."  Jareth emphatically gestures, "So make yer peace with it, or slit pair of throats an walk away.  Cause don't think most us will keep workin with someone what goes drastically against t'e group will, an t'ere ain't no use arguin an discussin furt'er front t'ese two who are gonna relay it."

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 146):

Clarence just shrugs, and hopes he never gets to see his fears come true.

In reply to Clarence Montague (msg # 147):

"So, are we coming back to trade with the flamung guy, or going for an alternate route?"

"Need to reassess once left this room, with t'ese two guys who are gonna repeat everything we say to t'eir boss."

Jareth sighs, "So why don't we sit quietly until done catching fy breathe an t'en we head back to base?"


OOC:  GM I'm willing to do a "skip forward 40 or so minutes" montage of queitly waiting if everyone else is.

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 149):

are you leabing them there, or taki g them someplace they willbe lost at?

OOC:  Untying them and leaving them here, but I have a few words to say to them as we go, just making sure no one else has anything they want to do before we skip to it.

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 151):

carry on

In reply to Narrator (msg # 152):

Waiting for our leader...

When he finally feels like he's got his breath completely back, Jareth motions for the two to be untied, "Right, we're leavin.  Now, you two wait bit before headin out to report.  Eit'er ya poke yer heads out an t'ese two," Jareth indicates Mel and Mario, "spot ya, be filled full of arrows."

He stands and motions for the group to set out.

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 154):

Clarence frowns, but says no more and departs as directed.

OOC:  Hey bossmang, do the thugs have any parting quips before we head out of earshot of them?

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 156):

"He is gonna do for you all, and youbtoo Anton!"

In reply to smuggler (msg # 157):

"An something might gappen to you on the way, Simeon, so stick to the facts as pertain  "

Jareth just shakes his head, "Anton, let t'e Plumber know, if we come to him, it be to make reparations.  If we don't come, it's cause we're hidin an keepin our lips shut."

He gives Anton a nod and moves to the door, "Right, let's move out an leave t'ese two to work out this out alone like."

"Yes, let's."  Mario readies the single ordinary arrow from his quiver, and nocks it to the bow.

"Be seeing you guys."

He watches the pair while the rest of the party gets under way, then slowly turns to follow, looking back over his shoulder just before going out of sight.

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 160):

Heading back up?

Jareth will lead the group back to where the meteoric iron was found and try to stifle any discussion until he reaches that point with "Let's not discuss where t'e Plumber can over hear."

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 162):

Clarence does not feel like discussing it anyway. What is done is done...he follows the leader in silence.

We should try to gather up that meteor, even the dust may make a blade better.

"It makes magic not work -- how would it make a blade better?  Is it especially hard or tough?"

It can be and it makes magic not work, which can be useful against magical protections.

In reply to Jocelyn Lemru (msg # 166):

"I have heard some creatures are magical. This can be very useful against them. I wonder how it works against Fey?"

"Well, as long we keep it away from me.  I don't like it when my quiver quits producing arrows and the light stones go dark."

"Depends on t'e Fae.  Some it can kill fairly quickly if t'ey can't shed it or leave a dead area, some are barely affected at all.  T'e common ones ya see about town?  Pixies, Leprechauns, an t'e like?  Dead within an hour trapped in dead mana area or shackled with enough meteor iron."

Jareth waves everyone in close and speaks softly, "Wanted to wait till was here on account this place harder t'e Plumber to scry our conversation.  We headin back or explorin out furt'er?  An say anything important softly so th'e words don't carry."

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 169):

"Ah prefer to explore. Not sure.about our reception when we get back, so be good.to find a few surprises." he answers softly.

"Reception should be fine when we get home, ain't no time for no ot'er reception be arranged.  Unless t'e Plumber has contacts in t'e Guild, which case, that's just bad luck for us."

"Do we need rest, healing, or supplies?  If not, I'm inclined to explore another direction."

"Don't ken anyone was injured.  Anyone against headin back an scoutin different direction?"

Hardly, let's go looking a bit.

In reply to Jocelyn Lemru (msg # 174):

once out of the underbaths, you can head left or right down very narrow corridors,  or back the way you came.

"One of these, or back past the room with the ventilating shaft?"

"Oh, and who has another light stone?  Or did they all quit and we're down to torches and lamps?"

I can make Light stones if need be.

"T'ere more to explore closer in to home.  Let's at least move back t'e ventilation room."

In reply to Jocelyn Lemru (msg # 177):

"Light is my speciality. I too can make light stones."

"I agree -- three more passages just from there, not to mention the vent shaft itself.  Let's get our lights relit and see what else is to be dealt with."

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 180):

you head past the intersections and back to the vent room opposite the base of the wellshaft. the corridor continues onward, and branches to either side.

"A left here would be south, take us more or less under our own holding."

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 182):

i missed a bit about the meteor: I believe a crude bronze grill had been placed over the hole, and the metal itself was about a level below; the covrr was about a foot and a half accross... it emwas buried deep in the last thread.

"Agreed Mario, south let us ken what below our holdings."

Narrator:

i missed a bit about the meteor: I believe a crude bronze grill had been placed over the hole, and the metal itself was about a level below; the covrr was about a foot and a half accross... it emwas buried deep in the last thread.

OOC:  We recovered the chunk itself (Brodak kept insisting on carrying it, so despite Jareth not handing it over on camera, he had to have as he's cast spells since then), but there was a bunch of micro-fragments embedded in the surrounding stonework.  We've discovered that Divine Shape Stone can move it, but it would have taken a lot of time to retrieve all the "meteor dust" and "fragments" so we left the embedded debris (for now, Jareth has plans to get it later... as with all his plans this might never come to fruition).

Also, reminder, Mario has the keyring acquired from the smugglers, unless he decided to give it back.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:12, Sat 26 Feb 2022.

OOC: thanks for the reminder, Jareth, I'd completely forgotten the keyring, what with jumping leeches and a fire lord and all this talk of the Plumber...

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 185):

having travelled north to the baths, you are heading south past the stepwell and the airway, yes?

OOC: I thought I recalled the silver being to the east, and going to the baths because that corridor led approximately the right direction.

Still, let's take a left, which then would be west.

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 187):

you are heading straight past the stairs, or making a left just past them?

I was suggesting making a left just past the stairs -- but there were half a dozen other people with me just now...

OOC:  Yes, we're still with you Mario, just letting you take over leading as you have the Absolute Direction sense...

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 190):

Just holding the light and following along...

In reply to Clarence Montague (msg # 191):

the lefthand turning is fairly narrow, 2 yards wide, with a barrel vaulted ceiling.
It continues ahead about 10 yards before turning left again

He moves forward cautiously shield up and axe ready.

"Hmmm.  Back toward the baths, more or less."  Mario continues cautiously.

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 194):

As you advance, you can see that the leftward turning branches to the right as well.

"Okay, if we keep straight, we're headed more or less back toward the baths, turn here and we're going east.  Preferences, or should we cast lots?"

Well I don't seem to recall another tunnel at the baths, so maaybe we should search to the end, then we can check out the right tunnel.

"Or least far enough see if turns, branches, or goes up or down."

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 198):

"If they do not likely go far, then quickly checking them might be a good idea."

"Northward it is, then, for now."

OOC: about how far east did we come before that left turn?

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 200):

you went west from the baths about 100yds before making the turn

OOC: The baths were north, we came back south and turned left, that should be east unless we're in Oz.  Or am I confused again?  Or are the baths back to being east from the stairs and gate?

I intended to ask how far we'd gone in the narrow passage before the first left turn that led to the fork to the right...

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 202):

Thank you. The baths were North, you headed south toward the stairs and turned left(west). the western passage heads 20 yards before turning North.

this passage is fairly narrow, 2 yards wide... right begore the baths there werepassages east and west that were a yard wide.

OOC: Once again, unless we're in Oz, going south and turning left heads us east.

Just trying to be sure a) Jareth's map doesn't get holes erased into the parchment, and b) we're actually going where we think we're going.  Twenty yards east of the main passage that separates the gate with the Kilroy inscription and the ventilator shaft with the damaged fan below, we turned left (north) again, then came to a passage forking off to the right (east).

There seems to be a consensus to continue northward for the moment.

I (the player) don't have Mario's built-in compass (as I learned after moving to North Carolina where streets aren't straight and change names every mile or so) but I've got a pretty decent memory...  ;)

Do you think that changes south of the equator? Care to explain how?

OOC:  Everything is backwards and upside down in Oz.  Australia too... I mean they willingly eat vegemite there.

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 206):

Not all of us. Some of us are not insane...

I expect we have all eaten a few Veggie Mites in our time on earth.

In reply to Brodak (msg # 208):

that northward passage looks like itmight run parallel to the baths, although it would probably link up with the yard wide east/west passage immediately before the entrance.

Mario speaks quietly.  "Let's get a good look down there to the right before we put it behind us, maybe even toss a light stone down that way.  I think we're going to cross the narrow way from just outside where we met the Plumber's men before long."

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 210):

"I should have a spare or two on me."

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 211):

Clarence will create one if there are none spare, though he will throw an old one and keep the new on.

[Private to GM: Continual Light, rolled 3 under skill. When did we last rest to recover energy? He will create a daylight strength one if he has fp.]

In reply to Clarence Montague (msg # 212):

clarence should have the FP at this time.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 213):

Then he will throw the stone he is holding and cast continual light on the lantern hook in his buckler.

Jareth consults his notes and the sketched maps he's been making, "Got ways to go 'fore this get back t'e bathhouses, probably doesn't even go all t'e way through from here."

After peering down the side branch where Clarence tossed the light stone, Mario nods to Jareth.

"May not, but we won't know until it does or doesn't.  I think whoever built these passages -- the Romans? -- didn't make them to actually get anywhere."
This message was last updated by the player at 09:49, Mon 07 Mar 2022.

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 216):

If we are not heading down there, Clarence asks about retrieving the stone...

"Well no, an yes.  T'ese are maintenance tunnels an start of t'e storm drainage, some more like grand causeways, stretching across t'e city, interconnecting, allowing travel from one side t'e ot'er.  But most are built service local districts an neighborhoods.  An I believe mostly built by t'e goblins what were here before humans moved into t'e city.  I suspect the majority of t'e old goblin holdings are below t'e storm runnoffs, warrens and towns, who knows what is down t'ere now.  Trolls I gather."

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 216):

Are you going around to see, or not?

In reply to Narrator (msg # 219):

Sensing they are not going there, Clarence will retrieve his light stone while Jareth decides.

OOC:  Currently letting Mario take point and find the path.

Mario will keep cover on Clarence during the light stone retrieval, then continue northward.

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 222):

Once the stone is recovered, Clarence will stay near the front to illuminate the way ahead.

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 222):

the northward passage does tie in at a 4 way intersection with the very narrow western one, which heads east before turnin north again. ahead is a door.

Mario points down the leftward way.  "We know where that goes."  He then nods toward where it continues to the right.  "Check this one before we try the door?"

Jareth nods at Mario, and keeps taking notes in his cribbed shorthand.

"Okay.  That still looks a little narrow for Brodak and his axe."

He looks around for Charlene and beckons to Clarence.  "Let's go look around the corner so we don't get surprised."

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 227):

the space is 1 yard wide by two high. Thrusting weapons only.

the turn leads to a longer northward passage that leads out of sight... well past the area of the baths.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 228):

Clarence will stow his shield first and draw his knife, glowing brightly. This looked up close and personal...then he will lead the way to the narrow ledge.

"Clarence, I don't know that we need to worry about this, I just wanted to avoid surprises while we examine the door.  Let's back out to the others."

Once back to the main group, Mario relays what's there, and then looks to Jareth and Nodwin.

"Do we want to open this door?  Or is it likely to be more of the Plumber's people?"

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 230):

Clarence pauses after stowing his shield and drawing his knife to hear the response.

Jareth pitches his voice softly, "Listen first for minute, if ya don't hear nothin, should check it out."

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 232):

Clarence listens carefully...

[Private to GM: Rolled 2 over per]

Mario does so as well.

[Private to GM: 04:11, Today: Mario Crowfoot rolled 14 using 3d6.  Per (11) listening at door.]

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 234):

neither of you hear anything at the door...

In reply to Narrator (msg # 235):

Clarence, knife ready and shield at his back, looks over for direction.

Mario looks toward Jareth, then Nodwin, one hand on the door handle.  He barely mouths the words, "Open it?"

Jareth takes holds his mapping tools firmly in his left hand, preps his shortstaff in his right, and nods for Mario to go ahead.

Mario tries the door first, and presuming he finds it locked, takes out his picks and sets to work, taking his time.

[Private to GM: 03:55, Today: Mario Crowfoot rolled 10 using 3d6.  Lockpicking (11 + 1 extra time).]

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 239):

The bronze faced door opens with a squeak. within is a warm damp room that smells of mold. it seems to be only a few yards wide. and in addition to some leaky pipes, the metal rungs of a ladder are fi ed to the rear wall, and ascend out of sight.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 240):

"Want me to climb up to check it out?"

"Take look about first, but yes, that's good idea."

Jareth will lean into the room to look along the floor, walls, and ceiling for runes or hand prints before waving Clarence in.  Then he takes notes on the room.


OOC:  00:06, Today: Jareth Mooncalled rolled 12 using 3d6.  Traps 15.  Brief look around the ladder room from the doorway. – [roll=1647662793.47721.240880]

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 242):

no sign of cursed writing, except for a bit of latin scratched into the wall

Satis hoc mihi reddere non stercore

there are signs that a box of some kind was next to the writi g, but it is long gone.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 243):

"Someone didn't like their job; apparently they weren't paid enough for this shit."

In reply to Nodwin Zideqick (msg # 244):

"Why? What does the sign say?"

"'Xactly what Nodwin said, 'I am not paid enough for this shit'", Jareth enunciated the translation carefully, instead of with the lyrical, but sloppy cant he usually employs.  Meanwhile his attention remains occupied by taking notes on the room and squinting up the ladder.  "Latin ha'n't been spoken, let alone writ, by lower class here fer so damn long, that poor underpaid sod prolly carved that hundreds years ago."

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 246):

the ladder aeems to end in a ladderwell with a lid chained in place, like many others you have seen.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 247):

"Right. Maybe we should leave it and move on then?"

"The Brothers always conducted services in Latin -- or at least, that's what they said, and it sounded a bit like this.  I couldn't understand more than a word here or there."

"Priest and leadership types always try to separate t'e common man from t'e powers what be.  Philosopher once said, keep t'e words t'e Gods out of t'e mouths of peasants an ye keep control t'e peasants."

He finishes his notes and nods to Mario to continue leading the exploration.

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 250):

Clarence will follow Mario as he continues on.

Mario looks around the room for other exits than the ladder.

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 252):

this room only has the door and the ladder

"Okay, unless we want to go up, likely to an area that connects to our basement on that level, it looks like we'll want to backtrack and take that first left to go further east.  Jareth?  Nodwin?"

"Backtrack.  Can figure out where this come up later."

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 254):

"Wouldn't that lead up to the baths, you know, just before and above where old firepants was heating up the furnaces?"

"Can't be sure without consultin t'e maps..."


OOC:  Have we traveled that far again?

"You could be right, Charlene.  We're east of the furnace, and just a little south."

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 257):

this is correct. the ladderwell probably leads to a staff area adjacent to the caloreum.

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 258):

Mapping done?

"Interestin, but let's double-back."

Mario makes a show of sniffing the air.

"I guess we don't need baths that badly."  He winks broadly.  "Okay, back to that last side path, that'll take us further east and then north again."

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 262):

that passage is slightly wider, barely 4 feet wide. just enough space for Brodak, but not for him to swing his axe.

marching order?

In reply to Narrator (msg # 263):

How much overhead room? Can he swing overhand?

In reply to Brodak (msg # 264):

Clarence near, if not at, the front, with the lights.

Mario will precede Clarence, to have the light behind him rather than in his eyes, and will keep his bow at the ready while he proceeds slowly.

In reply to Brodak (msg # 264):

this space is 4 foot by 8, so no real room to swing. Does brodak at least have a knife?

In reply to Narrator (msg # 267):

Actually no!, But he does have a Prodd, so he can carry that leveled in front of him.

In reply to Brodak (msg # 268):

that works!


ahead is an area of damp, a long puddle reflecting your light

He pauses short of the puddle and looks it over carefully. May be deep, may not be water.

Mario also stops before entering the puddle.  "I agree.  Too much stuff down here wants to eat us for me to just go wading -- and in half dark like this, a person could step in a hole without seeing it."

Use Stick

"Good idea."  The young archer unslings his quarterstaff, and slings his bow in its place with the lightstone on the upper nock above and behind his head.

"Let's go, slowly."  He starts by probing into the edge of the puddle and raising the wet end of the staff to examine the liquid, by eye and scent.  Water?

[Private to GM: 07:42, Today: Mario Crowfoot rolled 5 using 3d6.  Per (11) checking that the water is water.]

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 273):

it is water... although the stone pave
below is slick, making for bad footing.

the left hand wall is damp andasmall trickle of water isflowi h into the puddle

In reply to Narrator (msg # 274):

Clarence follows the other two, keeping the area well lit.

"Hmm.  I wonder if they have to make up lost water in the baths frequently?

"This seems to be just water, but watch your step, I don't know what grows down here in the dark but it's slippery."

Mario continues forward slowly, probing ahead of himself as he goes.

"Be mindful case this water also infested with leeches."
This message was last edited by the player at 18:38, Sun 03 Apr 2022.

"Good point, Jareth.  Brodak, keep an eye on my ankles and calves, along with the corridor.  Don't need bloodsuckers helping themselves.  And someone behind Brodak watch his legs and feet."

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 278):

"I can watch out for that..." he offers, looking at their ankles...

In reply to Clarence Montague (msg # 279):

so far,nothing bites.... as long as you move slowly you can get through

In reply to Narrator (msg # 280):

Clarence will follow the others, lights held high and eyes wide open.

Mario continues forward at the slow pace required to probe the floor, while keeping a watch ahead.

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 282):

your staff touches on an opening...

"Hold up!"  Mario raises his staff to a horizontal guard position to prevent Brodak from passing.

"I found a hole of some kind."

Once sure Brodak and those behind him have stopped, he probes for the edges of the hole.

Is the water clear, like water that's been standing undisturbed often is, or murky?

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 284):

Clarence holds the light so all can see...

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 284):

this is standing water... the hoke is 2 feet by 1 foot wide.


anyone have photographic memory?

OOC:  Hello, not Photographic, just Eidetic, so it's only a +5 not a +10 to memory rolls....  suppose I'll just make a roll then...
10:59, Today: Jareth Mooncalled rolled 15 using 3d6.  Eidetic Memory roll 20. – [roll=1649429948.96089.240880]

Not exactly 'crushing it' but a solid MoS +5.

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 287):

in the lair of the plummer's men, there was a small cookstove made of a bronze grate and a few bricks- the grate probably fit this hole

"That's hazardous -- more so with the standing water.

"Clarence, have you got a spare light that'll sink?  Don't think we'll get this one back.

"Wait, let's see if there's something we can tie it on."

Mario starts scanning the walls and ceiling, looking for hooks or projections a light could be strung from.

"Anyone got some string?"

[Private to GM: 20:33, Today: Mario Crowfoot rolled 11 using 3d6.  Per (11) looking for something to tie a light onto.]

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 289):

"The light stone we had before...it is expendable.  But the light spell can move underwater to..."

He creates a small light and sends it into the depths.

[Private to GM: Rolled 5, 6 under skill, cast light.]

In reply to Clarence Montague (msg # 290):

the rectangular opening seems to have something jammed into it that is preventing the drain from clearing this water.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 291):

"Probably another body...what can clear that?"

How far down is the blockage?

In reply to Clarence Montague (msg # 292):

typically, a crowbar or hooked polearm is used. whatever it is is about a foot below the level of the floor.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 293):

Anyone have anything like that? Any kind of hook?

"I had some rope, but we left it with the Plumber's men.  Never had a hook."

Ok make some room , out of my way, lets see this hole...  Hmmm. OK I am going to try and lift whatever out of the hole, you guys make sure it doesn't fall back in the hole.


[Private to GM:  19:23, Today: Jocelyn Lemru rolled 5 using 3d6.  Levitate (add pwer until it comes up).  Skill 14]

"Okay.  Clarence, can you sidle past the hole or should I?  One on each side and we'll get a grip on it when it comes up."  As he speaks, Mario slings his staff to free his hands.

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 297):

"I can"

He sidled past the hole, slinging his shield and getting his knife ready to stab into the blockage the heave it out.

"Okay, Jocelyn, I think we're ready."

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 299):

something rises out of the hole with a loud screeching squelch!
It is a dripping dark bundle, an the opening of the drain creats a loud rushing whirlpool, those close make a DX roll to stay upright.


the bundle took some fp to raise, it appears to have been one of those maned rats that went in headfirst and couldn't pull itself out.

Breathing a bit harder Yeuuck!

Planting his feet wide to let the water pass between, Mario levers his staff under the rising mass, trying to keep the water from sucking it back down.



[Private to GM: 17:25, Today: Mario Crowfoot rolled 12 using 3d6.  DX (to keep footing in the drain whorl) (13).]

"That explains that.  Just hold it aside t'ere Mario, let this drain bit so don't get sucked in again."

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 303):

the whirlpool continues for a few seconds before draining down to an inch or so.

make one st roll to keep the rat thing from bei g sucked back down

Mario makes good use of his leverage to keep the drowned rat from going back into the drain.

[Private to GM: 17:34, Today: Mario Crowfoot rolled 8 using 3d6.  ST to keep the maned rat corpse out of the drain (12).]

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 305):

the last of the water gurgles away, and you are able to set the drowned rst thing down. it is bloated and looks readyvto burst.

Mario lowers the bloated animal corpse once the water flow drops off.

"Well, I'm certainly glad I didn't step into that."

Once he's sure the rat is on solid flooring, he reslings his staff and brings his bow back into hand.

"I wonder where that water drains to?  We aren't that far above sea level, are we?"

"No doubt t'e storm sewers below.  Should back off an let Mario pop this from afar, don't want quills shootin into anyone."

Jareth herd Nodwin, Melarill, and Charlene back to give everyone else room to back a safe distance away.

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 308):

Clarence is able to stay upright, assisting Mario in getting the thing out, using his knife to hold the thing and try to throw it to one side with Mario. Once it is up, he will try to move away as well...

[Private to GM: Both DX and ST rolled 2 under]

"Good suggestion.  I've got no desire to get punctured, or find out if those quills have held their venom through the soaking."

Mario back off (returning the way we've come) to either twenty yards or the last corner and waits for everyone else to be at a presumed safe distance or around the corner as well before launching an arrow at the bloated thing.

[Private to GM: 04:15, Today: Mario Crowfoot rolled 11 using 3d6.  Bow (18 + Acc 3 - 6 Range).]

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 310):

there is a loud bang, and multiple rattling sounds, and a metallic  'clink'

approaching. you can see quills everywhere, the scattered bones of the rat, and a rotten finger with a gold ring

"Well, look at that.  Indigestion, you think?"

Mario picks his way carefully through the rat remains, holding his breath, and picks up the rotting finger.  He examines it to see which way will be easiest to separate the ring from its grisly contents as he returns to the corner.

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 312):

Clarence moves back cautiously, holding the light high.

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 312):

the fing avulses off the finger, sloughing off most of the meat from the bone

"Ugh!"  Mario's face twists in disgust as he kicks the bone and whatever's still attached to it toward the drain.

Is there still that inch or so of water around the drain?  If so, he'll move forward again and, mindful of the quills and rat bits, try to rinse the ring (and his fingertips) clean enough to put the ring away in his pouch.

"I wonder what happened to the rest of whoever that was?  Getting a finger bitten off wouldn't generally kill you, I'd think.  Getting too close to one of those rats might, though."

"Probably died something else, maybe even buried down here.  T'en got nibbled by t'e rats."

Face still scrunched up by trying not to breathe through his nose, Mario replies, "Yeah, okay, that makes more sense.  Been dead a good while, and being inside a rat didn't help."

He holds up the ring for a closer look.

[Private to GM: 07:27, Today: Mario Crowfoot rolled 8 using 3d6.  Per (11) examining gold ring from dead maned rat.]

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 317):

"Not sure I want to know. Let's keep moving."

In reply to Mario Crowfoot (msg # 317):

the ring appears to be of good quality- might be worth around $4200

"Nice!  Jareth, put this on the list, we'll see about fencing it after we check it for magic, but we don't need to do that now."  Mario puts the ring away in his pouch for later and, bow ready, once more moves forward, skirting the hole carefully.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:58, Mon 25 Apr 2022.

"Noted."

Jareth also notes the missing storm drain grate and the location.

In reply to Jareth Mooncalled (msg # 321):

as you advance, Mario suspects that you have passed the baths, or at least the furnace of the calorium

In reply to Narrator (msg # 322):

Clarence just keeps the area well lit...

OOC: Jareth, do we have an up to date sketch map?  We're still heading East, AFAIK, but I'm uncertain how far we've come from that last corner.

OOC:  Ah, sorry no.  I've been too busy at work and then tired from insomnia after work to maintain even the sketchiest of sketch maps.  I keep meaning to get in here on a day and get up-to-date... but then I forget.