Back at the Eel
Subject More on the cells
I will write this up later, but Sysyphys can only talk to Ally, not to any one else. If this person is a druid, it would normally be possible for the druid to cast speak with animals and be able to understand.
Here is the SRD on speaking:
Speak with Master (Ex): If the master is 5th level or higher, a familiar and the master can communicate verbally as if they were using a common language. Other creatures do not understand the communication without magical help.
From: Kevin
Subject More on the cells
Mark, your descriptions so far have been pretty detailed - that little guy has great senses.
Has he been able to sense what type of material the door is made of? Wood, metal, stone??
If he does not know (or has not sent back that impression) so be it.
From: Mark
Subject More on the cells
The door going into the hallway with the cells is iron and so are the doors going into the cells themselves. In fact, the cell doors themselves actually have iron frames that are built into the walls. That is why the fit is so tight.
From: Mark
Subject Back at the Eel
Sysyphys sends back a picture of a landshark trying to squeeze through the eye of a needle and then send Ally of picture of the mage with his head in a postion that Ally is sure even a contortionist could not reach. The image brings a little laugh to the mage's lips, but he stifles it and tells the snake to hang around and get an idea of how many people come and go from the cells. He also gives an image of looking at the rest of the cellar area. The snake give a mental sigh and heads off on the rest of his mission.
The rest of the day goes quickly. Sysyphys checks in every few minutes and before long he is heading back out of the cellar. He passes by the rats nest and tastes that the rats are gorging on the body of the fallen leader. They chitter and hiss at him as he enters, but one loud hiss from the snake is enough to make them back down. Sysyphys is glad for this because there is now over 50 rats in the chamber and he is not sure if he could out last them all.
When Ally gets off work he heads down the path towards the gate he is supposed to use. At one point he steps a few feet off of the path, looking like he is adjusting his boot. As the sleeve of his robe lies on the ground, he feels Sysyphys slither up his arm. The snakes cool skin soothing against his arm. Ally stands again and heads back to the Eel.
OODM: Derek you and the others can discuss what Sysyphys found out at dinner. Ran will have a few minutes before he has to leave for his shift.
From: Kevin
Subject More on the cells
Just wanted to know. Thanks.
From: Derek
Subject More on the cells
That was more or less the idea, that he would hiss under the door and 1) if there is a druid in there and 2) if he can use his magic, then he could communicate with him. The 'hello' hiss was just to get his attention and let him know there is an intelligent animal down there trying to communicate with him.
Also, what of the pine smell? Any similarity to Salix's smell?
From: Derek
Subject Back at the Eel
Allistair explains everything that he found out from Sysyphys's adventure during the day. "He wasn't able to get any closer than the door, but despite all the dried blood, filth, and human waste, he was able to detect a pine-like smell that reminded him of Salix's smell. I think that's about as good of proof as we need to know that at least one of the druids is being held there. Whether its the Stormfather or not is still anyone's guess."
"So how do we want to do this? Sneak in as much as possible and then use the mocker's diversion to try and escape? That's probably our best bet, but where to hide after we get away from the Mayor's home could be a problem."
From: Kevin
Subject Back at the Eel
Harp says to the others "I don't know what to think now. I ended up getting switched to different duty today - hauling bodies out of the Mayors house here in town and taking them out to the estate. They did not smell or feel like dead bodies - just like someone who was not awake. And, we did not pick them up from the main house - we got them from one of the out buildings. Don't know if we should be worried about that or not."
From: Randy
Subject Back at the Eel
Ranthir arrives for guard duty and finds himself positioned at the gate at the rear of the house on the family side. He joins a group of 3 men, one a corporal who looks to have some minor experience with the sword, at least enough to avoid hurting himself. The same could not be said of the other two.
Ranthir makes small talk with the guards, getting a feel of their loyalty to the mayor and the possibility of getting them to take a bribe and turn the other way. He does not sense that they would be likely to risk their job and the perks that they enjoy from it. Discussion of these perks are nearly enough to make Ran blow his cover as they discuss the things they are allowed to do to any female servant who enters the grounds. He grits his teeth, not wanting to ruin the plans that were being laid. Justice would more than likely fall on these guards when the plan went into motion and Ranthir would not hesitate to administer that justice with his sword.
Through the night Ranthir observes that there are 4 guards at each gate and two wandering patrols of 3 guards each. He tries to time the wandering patrols as best he can to get an idea of the best time to strike. On top of the posted and wandering guards there are also at least two officers on duty who spend their time in the barracks unless they are doing rounds. There are a total of 5 officers on staff and those not on duty sleep in the barracks with about 20 daytime guards.
All of the guards other than the officers are pretty inexperienced and do not pose any real threat. It seems to Ranthir that the mayor keeps his home secure more through intimidation than an actual skilled guard.
Ranthir also learns that the mayor is gone to his estate for the next several days and the guard seems to be more relaxed than he had seen them up until now.
As morning comes, so does the change of the guard. The set up during the day seems to be about the same as at night. Ranthir leaves the grounds as most of the others hea to the barracks. He makes his way back to the inn and joins the others for breakfast. After relaying the information he was able to acquire in the night he adds his ideas of what they should do.
"I think that we should make our move tonight. Get the mockers to set up the distraction at the front entrance. That should draw the patroling guards to the front and hopefully the officers and any guards awoken from the barracks. If we're lucky some of the men at the rear gates will go too. I'll let you guys in the gate at the back and we can make our way into the house by force if I can't find a way to get the keys from one of the officers
"I haven't thought this through fully yet but here is what I have so far. Stage one - Once I am on duty, Surin approaches the rear gate invisibly and makes some noise, nothing major, but enough to get someone sent out to check it out. While the gate is open, he sneaks in and finds one of the officers to steal the keys from. Once he has the keys, he will hide out somewhere near my post until the next stage of the plan. Stage two - The mockers set up the distraction at the front entrance. That should draw the patroling guards to the front and hopefully the officers and any guards awoken from the barracks. If we're lucky some of the men at the rear gates will go too. Surin and I will take care of the guards at the rear gate and open it up to let you guys in. Ally should have something big ready in case any guards have noticed what we are doing here." Ranthir stops here to take a drink.
"Stage three - We enter the house and head to the basement. I don't know anything about what might be happening in the house at night but I imagine that any guard inside the house are of a much higher caliber than those posted outside. I did not see anybody come out of the house throughout the night. I hope that any significant people have gone with the mayor and will not be around anyway. Stage four - We get out. This may be more difficult but I do have an idea. If we can get back outside and near one of the walls then perhaps the rope trick spell might give us the chance to get over the wall. We could hide in the portal and wait for an opportunity to slip out unseen."
Ranthir laughs bitterly and adds "That is of course not all going to work out like that but we need some sort of plan. What do you guys think?"
From: Derek
Subject Back at the Eel
"I think the plan is workable," Allistair says, "but I want to know what the others think. I'm a little concerned about the possible lack of keys. That final door the druid was in was well-made and very strong, and I assume the lock is just as good of a quality. Even if Surin could pick the others, I doubt we can get in that last door without a key."
OOC: I think the idea of hiding in the rope trick is potentially very powerful. Even if we can't escape immediately, if we can get inside a rope trick unseen we can virtually disappear for seven hours - and that is a VERY long time game-wise. Plus we could use it to get over the wall as Ran suggested, which is also useful.
Ran's plan
Subject Ran's plan
"That's not a bad idea Ran. But, wouldn't it be great if we could all sneak in like Allistair little snake? We could come at them from inside the prison when they weren't looking. Couldn't we get a couple of us on the inside somehow?? I don't know how, maybe teleport one or two of us like the druids did to get us here, or turn one of us into a worm, or maybe a snake like little Sysphys here, or maybe a rat -no one would notice a rat or two crawling their way aournd down there."
From: Jason
Subject Ran's plan
"I agree that it would be ideal if we could enter in undetected. Remember that if the Stormfather is not being kept here, but rather at the estate, we'll have tipped our hand if we go in in force. Ideally we would want to sneak in. Of course, if that's not possible I'm not averse to fighting our way in, preferably while the Mayor himself is gone."
From: Kevin
Subject Ran's plan
OOC: Mark, would Allistair snake be able to give us a basic map/description/layout? I understand that he idea of size will come from a differnent point of view, but I hope he would be able to give us general ideas. He did spend a number of hours looking around.
Also, can we determine where his entrance hole is in relation to the main house?
From: Mark
Subject Ran's plan
His ability to match the underground layout with the upstairs outside layout. Sorry he is just a snake. You can get a very general idea from the write up.
From: Jason
Subjet: Ran's plan
Just out of curiosity, how many of the people in our party would have met or even recognize Stormfather Acer besides Salix?
From: Mark
Subject Ran's plan
None. Of the eight people in the party only Salix has ever met him. If I remember correctly.
I will have to check the archives and Karl might also have an idea.
The only time it might have been possible is before the party went on the mission to the Testing Grounds. At that time Salix went from 4th level to 5th level and Karl wrote up a very nice scene covering it. I do not think, however, that the Stormfather met any one else in the party.
From: Mark
Subject Ran's plan
Sorry my home connection is giving me problems.
The snake has limited ability to match upstairs with the underground layout. You can put together a basic layout from the description. It will not be perfect. I am trying to tred a fine line between what the Players HB says familiars can do and what I think they should be able to do as they and their masters get more powerful. I am going to offset that some by this.
From: Kevin
Subject Ran's plan
OOC: I understand about the internal map. Can he give us a general idea of where the entrance is to where Allistair dropped him off (he did have to get back to where he met Allistair). Also, can he estimate the time it would take him to make a direct trip (not stopping to kick some more rat ass).
From: Mark
Subject Ran's plan
The entrance to the rats warren is several hundred feet from the house. He figures it would take 5- 10 minutes to get back now that he knows the way. That is assuming nothing gets in his way.
From: Kevi
Subject Ran's plan
But it is inside the walls of the compound? I got that impression from the write up, but just wanted to confirm it.
From: Mark
Subject Ran's plan
He thinks it is.
Ideas
Subject Turn
I am waiting for Karl/Josh/Porter to check in and see if they want to add anything to the discussion.
From: Karl
Subject Ideas?
Salix listens to the various suggestions. "It sounds like there is definitely a druid in the cell that Ally's snake found in the cellar. I couldn't say whether it is the Stormfather or not. Was there only one occupied cell?" Salix turns his gaze to the corner, his hand on his chin, thinking. "I agree we should not tip our hand if we can avoid it. If the druid prisoner isn't the Stormfather, we will need to check out the estate outside of town next. Stealth is our best ally. That doesn't mean we can't or shouldn't use the Mocker's distraction."
"I could take the shape of a snake or even a largish rat, and then reduce myself a size, and follow Syssiphus back through the warren and into the cellar. I could probably shape the stone around the door enough to get it open, but then we have the problem of getting the Stormfather (or whoever) out."
"Does anyone else have any ideas?"
From: Karl
Subject Ideas
"You did say the doors were metal, right?" Salix confirms. "Rather than shaping the stone around the door, I could perhaps more successfully corrode the door itself and break in."
From: Porter
Subject Ideas
Mund says "I don't have any ideas that haven't already been discussed. I ain't never been much of a tactictizer. You let me know how I can help, and I'll do it."
From: Porter
Subject Ideas
Mund continues "Remember, I'm really good at climbing, and can sneak about pretty good too."
Making plans, polymorph, divination
Subject Making plans
Surin pipes up "Ok so do we want the diversion to help us escape? How do we let the Mockers know when we want it? Do you need me to do anything else?"
From: Mark
Subject Doors
There were three types of doors. The door that was near the stairs was an old wooden door.
The second door the snake found was a more solid wooden door bound with iron.
The last two doors, the one leading into the cell area and the cell doors themselves are iron with iron frames.
From: Kevin
Subject Doors
Mark, if this is asking for too much detail, just say so.
Does the iron frame go around all 4 sides of the doors, or just the uprights and top? Is the threshold metal or stone? The viper might know since he tried to crawl over one when they almost opened the door on him.
From: Kevin
Subject Making plans
"Salix, would it make any sense for you to change into a snake and go take a look with Sysiphys? You know, go scout the jail, make sure the stormfather is there, figure out where the rat hole is, that type of thing? I would hate to make a rush on the house and then find out the cells are actually in a building we haven't even been in yet."
From: Karl
Subject Making plans
"That is a good idea. Ally, do you have any protective spells that might help if I end up having to fight my way out?"
From: Jason
Subject Making plans
"I'm not so sure that is a good idea. The only thing we know for sure about what we're up against is that it seems capable of capturing or killing druids far more powerful than any of us. Perhaps someone else could go if Allistair can change them into a snake to follow Sysiphys?"
From: Mark
Subject Doors
The snake is not sure if it goes all the way around. It was on the bottom and both sides, at least.
From: Randy
Subject Making plans
"With all due respect, I don't think we want to waste another night scouting things out. The mayor could be back in a day or two and we want to be out of there before he gets back. I have been holding back already and I don't think I can do much more guard duty before some of the comments and actions of the guards cause me to commit violence against them anyway. I say we commit to going tonight. I don't care how we get in there, but we need to do it now! I don't care who is in the cell there, they are suffering and we need to free them. If it is not the Stormfather, we move on the estate next."
Ranthir's face is turning a darker shade of red and his brow is furrowed in anger.
"I will go along with whatever plan you choose but if we don't move tonight I cannot promise that my sword will not taste the blood of the guards anyway."
From: Mark
Subject Making plans
I love it when he gets all manly. :)
From: Karl
Subject Making plans
"Then let's hear a good plan from you!" Salix snapps, then looks away, immediately regretful. "Listen, if we have a plan that relies solely on stealth and divine/arcane power, we will fail if there is indeed a force that dampens or prevents such use. On the other hand, a forceful entry will probably kill any chance of infiltrating the estate, if we find that the Stormfather isn't in the cellar of the mansion. So either way we are taking a chance. I don't need you to say 'Do something now, but don't do *that*'. But if you have a better plan, I'm ready to hear it. We need a way to get the strongest force with the most varied talents inside as quietly and surreptitiously as possible.
As for being a druid, I'm not sure we've been singled out by this mayor except insofar as we are the closest threat. I've been here for
From: Randy
Subject Making plans
Ran takes a breath.
"Forgive me Salix. There are enough problems here that I don't need to be adding to them."
He pauses, and then adds
"Perhaps we combine the two plans. I go on guard duty as planned. However many of us as is possible to shrink down to snake size come in with me as syssyphus (sp.) did with Allistair. The miniturized people enter the house with our snake friend and do what they can on the inside. The Mockers stand by waiting for a signal so that we can make our escape when those on the inside have found their way out."
A further idea entering his head he asks,
"Allistair, can that whisper spell you cast keep us communicating with some on the inside and some on the outside? If so, those on the inside can let me know if there are problems and we can improvise from there."
Ranthir looks to Salix and adds calmly but with confidence,
"There is going to be a risk of blowing our cover regardless of what we do. I believe that if the Stormfather is alive then he is most likely in the cell that we know about and that it is worth the risk for us to do this."
From: Randy
Subject Making plans
"Salix, I also did not mean to imply that you should not be using your powers to help. I am starting to believe that the only reason the druids have been the ones to go missing is because they are the only ones who cared enough to try to end the depravity in this gods forsaken town. I may not be full of wisdom but in my opinion you are not in any more danger because of who you are than any of us are."
From: Jason
Subject Divinations
Is anyone else unable to log into sakeriver? I can log in, but then when I go to the next page I'm logged out again. I wanted to update my character sheet but haven't been able to.
IC: "I'm not sure I entirely agree that the druids have only been singled out because they were the only ones nearby taking an interest. Or rather, I'm not sure that it makes any difference to us; whatever the reasons, it is clear that Salix of all of us would be the most vulnerable if caught in the mayor's house."
OOC: Mark, I've been wondering about the divination spell recently. The way its worded, it doesn't seem that its object would be Acer specifically. That is, it seems Ragnar could ask "If we enter the mayor's mansion, will we find Stormfather Acer there," and have a reasonable expectation of it being answered even if something stops people from scrying on the dungeon. Would Ragnar know better, or would that be his impression too?
From: Mark
Subject Divinations
You have to logon twice from the character sheet page.
Since Ragnar just got access to the Divination spell he does not have any real experience with it. It looks like it might be useful in this situation. :)
From: Derek
Subject Polymorph
OOC: Can Ally can polymorph people small enough to get through the hole?
From Polymorph spell description: This spell functions like alter self, except that you change the willing subject into another form of living creature. The new form may be of the same type as the subject or any of the following types: aberration, animal, dragon, fey, giant, humanoid, magical beast, monstrous humanoid, ooze, plant, or vermin. The assumed form can't have more Hit Dice than your caster level (or the subject's HD, whichever is lower), to a maximum of 15 HD at 15th level. You can't cause a subject to assume a form smaller than Fine, nor can you cause a subject to assume an incorporeal or gaseous form. The subject's creature type and subtype (if any) change to match the new form.
So does this mean Ally can polymorph people down to size Fine? According to this chart, that's 6 in. or less, so Ally's polymorph could easily make people small enough. However, it also says it functions like alter self, which limits size changes to one smaller or larger. Which is it, Mark?
Ally only has two 4th level spells, so he could cast polymorph on two people only. The duration of the spell is 1 min/level, so they would have 7 minutes to get through the hole into the basement. However, Ally also has Gaseous Form, which could get other people inside. Gaseous Form limits you to a movement of 10, but it lasts for 2 min/level, so hopefully that would be enough to get inside. That is a level 3 spell, however, and we might want a couple of Fly spells left over for the Stormfather and one other to fly out of the city as soon as we get him outside.
Ally also has Invisibility, of course, and Rope Trick at level 2.
Does Kal have any spells that can help with a stealthy entrance?
From: Mark
Subject Polymorph
Well the snake is a tiny creature and he fit just fine. You also trade off speed with size. A fine creature moves very slowly on the ground compared to a Medium size creature.
The snake said it would take about 15 minutes for him to go from the entrance to the rat warren to the entrance into the cells, and that is without any rats getting in the way.
I will look at the polymorph spell and see what I come up with.
From: Kevin
Subject Making plans
Derek, what was the spell Allistair used to talk to all of us when we first showed up in the forest when we arrived here?
From: Derek
Subject Making plans
That was 0th level Message. The spell description is here:
http://www.d20srd.org/srd/spells/message.htm
From: Mark
Subject Message
I am almost positive that the Message spell need line of site. That was why Surin was not affected by it since Ally could not see him.
From: Kevin
Subjed: Making plans
Oh well, that won't really help us.
IC: Harp listens to everyone arguing and trying to come up with a plan. " If I can put my two cents worth in, I think trying to combine the two plans is a good idea. I like the idea of having someone on the inside when we do this. But, we have to allow us time to get ourselves prepared - Allistair and Salix may not have what we need prepared. Lets try to work out a way that we can have Salix go with Sysiphys into the cells, and then Mund, Kal, Ragnar and the rest of us can work out a way to get into the complex so we can help out if needed."
From: Porter
Subject Making plans
"How long has the stormfather been out of contact? It's been a long time. I don't think one more day of lookin' round is gonna make much of a difference for him, but it sure could keep us from gettin' killed."
"Personally, I like not dying. I've done it every day of my life so far. I don't wanna break my streak."
From: Randy
Subject Message
OOC: I think so too, but Ran doesn't know that.
From: Porter
Subject Making plans
If we're trying to magick everybody into the mansion tonight, you might want to consider using invisibility, a relatively low-level spell, on Mund. Despite what the character sheet says (It keeps messing up Mund's skills), he's got good climb and move silently skills.
Unfortunately, Surin doesn't have good climb skills, or I'd suggest doing the same thing for Surin.
From: Jason
Subject Making plans
"I can truly sympathize with the difficulties Ranthir is having associating with the other guards, but I agree with Mund. We simply don't have enough time to make a plan before Ranthir has to report back for duty.
"I am able to ask Heironeous for small, specific pieces of advice. I've never attempted to do so in the past, and it takes some preparation, but if we are willing to wait until tomorrow night, I could ask if Stormfather Acer is in the mayor's house. We could take the day tomorrow to make an actual plan, as well as getting some extra rest so that we'll be alert during the night."
From: Porter
Subject Making plans
"Let's talk about the plan. So far, we've come up with several ways of getting us inside. That's good. We're inside, we kick some butt, find the Stormfather."
"Then the mockers make a distraction for us. That allows us to escape."
"But even with that distraction, I reckon there's a good chance that somebody will be following us when we leave. How do we get away not just with our lives, but hidden again?"
From: Derek
Subject Message
It was my understanding that Message only needs line-of-sight to target the individuals when the spell is cast, and that afterwards it doesn't need line-of-sight, it only needs an unblocked path between the individuals and have those individuals be within range. (The rat-hole would be enough of an unblocked path, but the length might go out of range of the spell, not sure)
It didn't work with Surin before because he was already invisible when Ally cast Message, so there was no way to target him. If Message had been cast first and then Surin made invisible, it should have still worked.
From: Derek
Subject Making plans
Allistair nods. "That's a big worry of mine, too. Once we get the Stormfather outside, do we just go back to the inn and hope no one identified us? We can't just run out of the city since the gates will be closed. If no one's following us we might make it back to the inn, but suddenly appearing at the inn in the middle of the night will be more than suspicious, since no one goes out at night here."
OOC: Does the room we're staying in have an outside window? Could we enter and leave by that window so that no one will know we ever left?
IC: Allistair continues, "If we can get out of sight for a few minutes, we could climb inside a rope trick and hide for hours. However, if we can get out of sight for a few minutes, we might as well run away. I think hiding in the rope trick would be a good last resort if we get barricaded into a room or cell."
From: Porter
Subject Making plans
"Maybe we could run around the corner and then jump up in your tricky rope, then come down when it's day again."
From: Derek
Subject Making plans
"Like I said though, we can't just jump in it. We have to climb in one at a time, so we need a minute or so being out of sight for us to 'disappear' by using it."
From: Kevin
Subject Making plans
Harp asks "can you cast spells while in the rope trick thing? Couldn't you make yourself and the stormfather fly somewher or something as you leave there?"
More plans
Subject More plans
Allistair nods. "I believe I can do that without a problem. I could make the stormfather and myself fly and be invisible. Or if he can change himself into a small animal, he could just ride on someone while they do the same. But if he could freely use his powers, he wouldn't be in this mess, would he?"
From: Kevin
Subject More plans
"Oh, right. I forgot about that" Harp says slightly ashamed. "Well, I could carry him if I was with him. He probably doesn't weigh much more than Salix and i could carry him all day."
Windows and spells
Subject Turn
Sorry I did not get anything done over the weekend. My youngest had his birthday and we spent many hours playing the OOTS board game.
I will work on a turn this afternoon. Any more discussion on what the party wants to do?
From: Jason
Subject OOTS game
That game takes entirely too long. And yet, I played it again just a couple days after the first time. I just have to say, Roy rocks.
From: Derek
Subject Window
As far as I can tell, we haven't really decided what to do yet.
What about my question on the window to our room in the inn? Can we get in and out through the window? Would that be a viable way to get to the street for our night raid?
From: Mark
Subject Window
It would be viable for anyone not wearing armor. The window of the room backs up to an alley way, but the room is on the second floor.
From: Porter
Subject Window
In this case, does light armor count as no armor?
From: Mark
Subject Window
Well I would check the armor check penalties for moving silent. The DC may not be very high, so Mund, with his 11?move silent and the special armor he has would probably be ok.
However, Rangar will be Durkon.
From: Jason
Subject Window
Ragnar may look like Durkon, but Ragnar also prepares the silence spell every day, and is more than capable of casting it on himself if need be :) That would help Harp and everyone else get up there silently as well.
From: Derek
Subject Window
Surely even with armor it should be possible with a rope, right?
From: Derek
Subject Window
Ahh... OK.
From: Derek
Subject Spells
Allistair needs to know exactly what spells he needs to get memorized for the raid. I think he has enough to pull this off, but just barely. Here's what I'm thinking of having him memorize:
1st) MM, Obscuring Mist, Expedient Retreat, Sleep, Reduce
2nd) Invisibility x2, Rope Trick x2, Web (might be useful for shaking pursuers)
3rd) Fly x2, Gaseous Form x2
4th) Polymorph, Summon IV
I'm not too sure about the polymorph, since a tiny creature won't be able to move quickly enough to get through the rat tunnels in time. I think we can get through with Gaseous Form though (right, Mark?) If nothing else, as long as we can get the stormfather away we can have Harp pick him up, have me turn him insivible and flying and have him fly out of the city. (or at least back to our room) Then the rest of us can hopefully make it back safely.
Can Salix animal-shape into a small enough animal to make it through the tunnels? With a reduce spell? In that case, at least Salix and 2 others (Gaseous Form x2) can make it through the rat tunnels to the dungeon. I'm thinking Surin and a Meat-shield (Harp or Mund) to either extract the Stormfather or open the door for the rest of us to go down in force. Then we use the Mocker's diversion to high-tail it away, with the last resort of someone carrying the stormfather away while flying and invisible, and the rest of us hiding in a rope trick.
From: Jason
Subject spells
Just so you know, Ragnar and Harp can both cast Obscuring mist, so if there's another spell you want to prepare, we can cover that one.
Right now I'm thinking for Ragnar,
0)Light, Read Magic, Mending, Guidance, Detect Magic x2
1)Protection from Evil, comprehend languages, hide from undead, sanctuary, shield of faith, command
2)Aid, Shield Other, Status, Silence, Shatter
3)Helping Hand, Stone Shape, Magic Circle/Evil, Dispel Magic
4)Divination, Holy Smite, Summon IV
I welcome suggestions. I'm also sending this because I can't update my spell list on sakeriver for some reason, so Mark needs to know what Ragnar has prepared.
From: Porter
Subject Spells
Do we have anything to protect us against scrying? 'Cuz even if we escape back to the hotel room, I don't want them to just follow us there with their Tivoed crystal ball.
From: Jason
Subject Spells
I can cast obscure object, which would obscure one "object" from being scryed on (presumably I would cast this on Acer.) It lasts 8 hours, and even if they scryed on one of us, they wouldn't see Acer. I don't know if a person counts as an object for purposes of this spell?
From: Jason
Subject Spells
Also, I'd like to mention that Ragnar will go looking for the material components for divination. It requires incense and a sacrifice appropriate to Heironeous worth 25 gp all together. I have no idea what an appropriate sacrifice would be, but presumably Ragnar would.
From: Kevin
Subject Spells
Derek, if we have 2 people go in with Salix, how do we get the Stormfather out? fight our way out while the others fight their way in?
Harp will have the following selection of prayers ready - Bless, Hide from Undead, Shield of Faith, Prot. from evil, Bulls Strength and Spiritual Weapon.
If we want to use 1 gas form to get Harp in with Salix, and then have the viper touch the Acer to turn him and let him leave with Salix, Harp will gladly stay behind. He can take the 2-3 gaurds that are there, and then use his Hide from Undead to just walk his way out.
A possible scenario - Salix wildshapes into a small viper. He then reduces animal on himself (Natural Spell) to become a tiny viper. Allistair throws mage armor on him (+4 A/C). Surin forges orders for Allistair to be on the grounds at night with Harp as his "escort". Harp and Allistair head onto the grounds, let the vipers head for the hole.
When they get there, Allistair gas forms Harp, and Harp and the snakes move out full speed to the dungeon. Harp can gas through any holes or cracks so once they get to the dungeon area he should be able to find Acer's cell. Salix and Sysiphys slilther their way there, using stone shape as needed where the spacing around the door is too tight for them to fit. Once they reach the cell, Salix turns human talks to Acer, Sysiphys touches Acer, Salix wildshapes back, and they boogey out of the cell back the way they came. Harp waits for the guards to come, takes them out, does his hide from undead, and works his way out. When Salix and the others get out of the snake hole, Allistair can invisible he and the stormfather and fly themselves out of range. Ran and the others can create/use the diversion to keep attention away from Salix and Allistair.
What we need to know is where is the rat hole the snakes are going to use and what type of cover is there around there for Allistair. Harp will suggest one more day/night of in depth recon.
But if the rest of the group wants to go tonight, he will go.
From: Kevin
Subject Spells
I just read the Hide from Undead spell. It covers 1 person per level and lasts 10 min/level. For Harp, he could make 3 people invisible to undead for 30 minutes. Harp, Salix and the Storm Father could just walk out. If they encounter any guards, Harp can take them out.
It saves us having to get back through the maze. Harp does not even have to get into the cell. Just Salix and the viper.
I know, what I've written is confusing and poorly thought out. Just trying to throw out some ideas.
I may say too much, but Harp will go with what ever plans Salix decides on.
From: Jason
Subject Spells
Did we determine that the prison was guarded by undead? I'm preparing hide from undead based on the rumors of a priest of Nerull, but I don't think its safe to say that one could simply walk out of the cell with that.
From: Kevin
Subject Spells
the write up from the vipers inspection described 4 creaturs in niches on the way toward the cells that smelled of death. They were separate from the guards. Given the death cults presence, would not be reach to have undead guards.
From: Kevin
Subject Spells
I think it is time for Salix to mash up a plan from all the options he has been given.
Speak to us fealess leader. Your minions hunger for your guidance.
From: Jason
Subject Spells
Gotcha. I was thinking of something on the verge of death, not something undead, but you could be right.
Incidentally, Ragnar is preparing the helping hand prayer... when he casts it, it will find the person he specifies, appear to them (and only them) and lead them to Ragnar by the most direct feasible route.
From: Karl
Subject Spells
Salix asks, "In the event that there is an anti-magic field present, what alternative do we have for opening a metal door in a metal frame?"
"Aside from that concern, I like Harp's, er, Hack's suggestion best. He and I go into the cellar by way of the rat warren, get the Stormfather, and leave through the door, if possible. We can take out any guards on the way as we encounter them. Once out, Ally and whoever else he can manage, flies out with the Stormfather. I can wildshape and fly out on my own."
From: Porter
Subject Spells
"Without magic, there's two ways to open a door. Either you have a key, which we don't have, you pick the lock, which means Surin, or you bash it down, which means Hack or me."
"I like your plan, but I'm a-thinkin' we need to plan for backup in case it's needed. I'd like to jump over the fence and wait in case you need help, but Alley's invisibility spell only lasts a few minutes."
Plans, spells, wildshape and polymorph
Subject turn
Sorry I did not write anything up last night, but you guys were having such a good time planning I wanted to wait to see what you all decided.
From: Kevin
Subject Today or tomorrow
"The big question is if there is a way that they have kept magic from being used in the cell.
Salix, I know you want to get in there ASAP, but I really think one more day of getting better information is the thing to do. You could go search around with Sysiphys to get an idea of where the rat hole is on the grounds, you can get into the cell area and see if magic will work down there, we can try to detect you and Sysiphys while you are in there to see if the cells are where we think they are, Ran, Ragnar and the others can finish the plan to get us out of the compound once we have the Stormfather free. Surin can work on forging the orders we need to get us around the grounds (or he can steal the keys in case we need them). There is still a lot to work out so we can succeed."
From: Mark
Subject Questions
There have been so many e-mails on Friday and yesterday I think I might have forgotten to answer some questions put to me.
Please, if there is any question about a spell or something you need answered let me know.
Here is one I remember. The message spell is line of sight to start, but Derek is right, it need an unobstructed path after that , upto the range of the spell.
Salix wildshape can only get him to small size, so he can become a small snake(5 feet long) instead of a tiny snake (2-1/2 feet long). He might very well be able to fit in the rat tunnels, but is unlikely to be able to fit under the doors into the cells.
From: Kevin
Subject Questions
Would Salix, if he has the Natural Spell feat, be able to cast Reduce Animal on himself to make him a tiny viper?
From: Mark
Subject Wildshape and natural spell
By RAW yes. But I am not a big fan of the natural spell feat, as I have heard of several instances where it really over powers the druid.
I think I have talked to Karl about this. For example, the Reduce animal spell has verbal and somantic components. How does a snake do the hand gestures?
Salix does have the natural spell feat and I will allow it at this time. However, I reserve the right to put some limitations on the feat in the future. For example, I may limit the spell level it can be used with. Something like, natural spell can only be used on 1/2 your normal spell level, so he could use it for level 1 and level 2 spells, but not level 3 or 4 right now. When Salix got more powerful then he could use some higher level ones.
This is a discussion I will have with Karl, but for now, he can do Reduce Animal(Level 2 druid spell) when he is in wildshape.
From: Kevin
Subject Wildshape and natural spell
Thank you.
From: Kevin
Subject Plans
"Well, while I am in the gas form, I can slip through the door if needed. You can return to regular shape, either rust the door off the hinges or rust out the lock or shape the stone around the frame such that I can push it out of the wall. If worse comes to worse, we can wait for the guards to come, you and I can take them out, and then we use the keys. If Surin can steal the keys, so much the better. But, I want to make sure we know where the rat hole is in the compound and try to make sure the cells are under the main house. Ragnar should be able to help us do that.
Once we get the Stormfather out of his main cell, I can hide us from what I are undead creatures that are also guarding the dungeon. Again, this is something you could check if you were to go in with Sysiphys tomorrow and scout around some more. But if you want, we can go tonight."
From: Mark
Subject Wildshape/polymorph
Ok it seems that WOTC has made some changes to the polymorph/wildshape ability.
First the updated Wildshape ability of the druid:
At 5th level, a druid gains the ability to turn herself into any Small or Medium animal and back again once per day. Her options for new forms include all creatures with the animal type. This ability functions like the alternate form special ability, except as noted here.
Then the description of wildshape:
A creature with this special quality has the ability to assume one or more specific alternate forms. A true seeing spell or ability reveals the creature's natural form. A creature using alternate form reverts to its natural form when killed, but separated body parts retain their shape. A creature cannot use alternate form to take the form of a creature with a template. Assuming an alternate form results in the following changes to the creature:
The creature retains the type and subtype of its original form. It gains the size of its new form. If the new form has the aquatic subtype, the creature gains that subtype as well.
So by the rules as they are now, if Salix took the form of a small snake, Ally could throw a Reduce person on him and make him tiny. Salix would not need to have Reduce animal.
I hope this is clear.
From: Kevin
Subject Spells
OOC: The only problem with the reduce person is it is only 1 min/level, where reduce animal is 1 hour/level.
From: Kevin
Subject Spells and plans
OOC: Given Mark's recent determinations (on Wildshape and Natural Spell), I would like to propose the following plan:
The group spend one more day making preparations for the rescue and escape. During the next day, Salix should Wildshape into a small viper and then reduce animal on himself into a tiny viper. Allistair can cast Mage Armor on him to help protect him and Harp could cast Status on them so he can sense where they are during the day. Salix and Sysiphys should slither up with Allistair and the two snakes can drop off when he gets to work just like Sysiphys did the day before. Salix will be looking for refences in the compound so they can figure out where the rat entrance is. He and Sysiphys can then spend most of the day looking around the jail, and seeing if magic works in the cell block area, etc. He and Sysiphys exit the same way they came in (Sysiphys can kill some of the rats if he wants just to whittle down the number).
Ran, Kal, and Ragnar could work out a plan to enter the grounds with Mund and Allistair, while Surin works with the Mockers to create a diversion AFTER we have Acer out and forge the orders for Harp to attend Allistair.
The night of the escape, Salix does his Wildshape and reduction, and they slither up Allistair sleeve. Harp joins Ally into the grounds, they get to where the rat hole is. Allistair casts gaseous form on Harp (and he imbues it on Sysiphys as a touch spell). Harp floats along as he follows the two snakes into the cell area. Harp will float into the cell with the Stormfather. Salix shapes back to normal, uses Rusting Grasp and/or Stone shape on the cell door, hinges and/or lock, with Harp helping from the inside. Once open, they pull the Stormfather out, gaseous form him. We then have two options - we can all fight our way out (using Hide from Undead) or Salix and wildshape and reduce back to a tiny viper and he, Sysiphys and Acer can leave the way the group came in and leave it to Harp to fight his way out. Harp will have surprise and he is pretty sure he can take out the guards. It is up to Salix.
Once outside, they hook up with Allistair. Mund or Harp can carry Acer. Allistair casts invisibility and fly on both himself and whoever is carrying Acer. They fly about 1/2 mile (assuming 40 ft/round since whoever has Acer probably has a heavy load) and land, Ally does his rope trick, and they climb up and hide for the next many hours.
The rest of the group can make/use the diverson on the other side of the compound to give the guys plenty of time, assuming we know where the cell block exits or where the rat hole is.
Enough from me. Take this an do with it what you like. I always over plan, much to the dismay of my brother and fellow gamers.
I really need to do some realy work now.
From: Mark
Subject plans
I guess you did not read what I wrote. The Salix still has the Human type, not animal, so he can not use Reduce animal. He has to use reduce person.
From: Kevin
Subject Plans
Sorry, I total spaced on that.
OK, Karl, I will leave this up to you. I gues we could have Allistair put Reduce Animal on Sysiphys as a touch spell and have the viper touch you when we get close to the cell area?
Any one want to pipe up, or are you all bored of this and just want to do something?
From: Derek
Subject spells
As long as Salix and Harp can get through the rat tunnels to the basement, it isn't really so critical that Salix be able to slip under the first few doors, is it? Harp can materialize and Salix return to normal size, and you can bash the guards, get the keys, go get the Stormfather, and get back out. If undead show up Harp can take care of them with his spell, and Sysyphys will still be along for a gaseous form on the stormfather if needed.
From: Kevin
Subject Spells and plans
Agreed.
Lets see what Salix wants to do.
From: Ashley
Subject Plans
Hi all, I'm back from my camping-imposed exile. Surin will follow Salix's lead and is willing to do whatever is needed, even if it means turning into a swirling ball of gas.
From: Karl
Subject Plans
Except if he wants to get back out and ally isn't there to reduce him again.
From: Karl
Subject Spells
How will Salix get re-reduced to get back out again?
From: Karl
Subject Spells
OOC - I'm talking about for the scouting tonight (assuming we do that). We can't bash guards and stuff if we're just scouting.
On the other hand, that's a good arguement for doing it all tonight rather than scouting another night.
IC - Salix says to Harp, "I'm not sure of the value of scouting again. Does it really make a difference where the cell is? Also, either there is or isn't an anti-magic field active. Either way we should go prepared with the possibility that there is."
From: Porter
Subject Plans
"I'm still concerned about having so few of y'all in there in case it goes bad, but I don't have a better idea."
From: Kevin
Subject Plans
You have a very good point. Set it up the way you want and we will go with that.
Spell ruling, divination and final plans?
Subject Spell ruling
Ok I did some research last night on the Polymorph/wildshape/reduce person/reduce animal.
I see no reason to change the polymorph/wildshape spell as it is written in the book.
So, the polymorph/wildshape does change your type. In the case of the wildshape, Salix takes the type of an animal while in that shape. He can cast reduce animal on himself while in that shape since it is only a second level spell.
I need someone to give me a final answer as to what the party is going to do. Since Salix is the leader, I will let Karl make the final decision.
As a note to all the other players, I do have plans in the future, to tailor adventures to each player and have them be the leader for that adventure. It might be a few years until we get to your character, but it will happen if you stay with me. Harp has already had his turn and this is Salix's turn.
From: Mark
Subject spell ruling
Ragnar can find incense in town easily enough. The sacrificial item might have to be some personal religious item he is carrying, maybe some small blessed item. I will alot him two such items at this time. Take the gold piece value off of what he is carrying in gold.
Let me know if that does not make sense.
From: Kevin
Subject Spell ruling
The small finger on his left hand should do the trick. It would sort of limit you to 4-5 divinations before you have regeneration cast on yourself. lol.
From: Karl
Subject Final plan?
Unless someone has a serious objection, then Salix will decide to attempt the rescue tonight. He and Sysiphus will sneak through the rat warren with Harp in gasseous form. If possible, he'd like to take Surin with them (but I don't know if there is a way to get him in as well).
Salix will wildshape and reduce animal to get inside. He will try to rust through the door, unless they have had to take out guards on the way who happen to have keys.
The Mockers should be ready with their diversion. Ally will fly the StFthr out as described in Kevin's writeup, Salix will wildshape into a bird and fly out with them. The others will leave the city as quickly as they are able and meet at a predetermined spot the next day.
Is everyone OK with this? Am I forgetting anything?
From: Jason
Subject Final plan?
Three questions come to mind-
1) "Tonight" is in just a couple of hours right? IIRC, its evening right now and Ran is supposed to go on duty shortly.
2) When you say a predetermined spot, how far away are you thinking? Just a general idea. The rest of us will probably not be able to get out of the city at night, because they probably close the gates.
3) If Harp is caught on his way out of the house and can't bluff his way out, where will he run to?
The only other thing is that Ragnar will cast Status on Harp before he goes so that he knows if they need to run in and rescue him.
From: Kevin
Subject Final plan?
In the words of Judge Mills Lane in Celebrity Death Match, Lets Get It On.
From: Jason
Subject Final plan?
Actually I just saw that Ragnar can cast it on two subjects, so he'll cast status on both Harp and Salix.
From: Porter
Subject Final plan?
Brilliant!
From: Kevin
Subject Final plan?
Cool. You can track where we are as well.
Mark, I have updated Harp's spell list as well
From: Randy
Subject Final plan?
"The only thing I think is missing from what you stated is having that message spell cast before you guys go in. It might not last long enough and you may get out of range but if not it may be a good way to let us know if you need help or want us to signal the diversion. Or am I misremembering that spell? Is it one way communication only?"
"Oh, and where will Kal, Mund, Ally, and Ragnar be waiting? I think that they should be near the entrance that I am guarding as that is the most likely exit for those on the inside since it seems like you won't be able to leave through the rat warren. Or am I missing something? I'm starting to feel pretty tired and I'm not keeping everything you guys are saying straight."
Ranthir listens as the plan is finalized and then stands up, rubbing his eyes as he does.
"I need to get some sleep before my shift tonight. Wake me if there are any changes to the plans that I need to know about."
OOC: I think that this conversation is happening over breakfast. Ranthir joined the party after his last stint at guard duty and hasn't slept yet.
Mark is this right?
From: Mark
Subject Final plan
That is correct. The snake went in yesterday, then Ally went to the inn. Ran spent the night on duty and reported in before Ally went to work the next morning. It is now morning and Ally has to go to work soon.
Luckily the house employees are not on the same shift schedule as the guards.
From: Kevin
Subject Final plan?
So, Salix could change into a tiny viper and go wiht Sysiphys to find out where the rat hole is, etc?
Maybe Allistair can follow the snake when Ally goes on his lunch break.
From: Derek
Subject Final plan?
Mark, has Ally had time to memorize all the spells he needs for the caper?
From: Mark
Subject Final plan?
I will say yes, by the time the caper happens. He got a full nights rest. He has not had time to change any spells but he can spend some time tonight before the party goes on the mission. I assume that the party wants to wait until well after dark?
Now that this is brought up, when does the party want this to happen?
From: Jason
Subject Final plan?
Oh good, I misunderstood what time of day it was currently. In that case Ragnar wouldn't have even suggested waiting until tomorrow night, since he can cast Divination during the day.
After Ally goes to work and Ran goes to bed, Ragnar will go out and buy that incense. Then he'll come back, retire to his room, and use his Divination prayer. The text of the spell is below, I'm thinking that Ragnar will ask "If we search the Mayor's house here in Bodentown, will we find Stormfather Acer?" I'm open to suggestions on the wording. Then he'll take a long nap in the afternoon so that he can stay awake during the nighttime.
Similar to augury but more powerful, a divination spell can provide you with a useful piece of advice in reply to a question concerning a specific goal, event, or activity that is to occur within one week. The advice can be as simple as a short phrase, or it might take the form of a cryptic rhyme or omen. If your party doesn't act on the information, the conditions may change so that the information is no longer useful. The base chance for a correct divination is 70% + 1% per caster level, to a maximum of 90%. If the dice roll fails, you know the spell failed, unless specific magic yielding false information is at work.
As with augury, multiple divinations about the same topic by the same caster use the same dice result as the first divination spell and yield the same answer each time.
Material Component: Incense and a sacrificial offering appropriate to your religion, together worth at least 25 gp.
From: Kevin
Subject Final plan?
OOC: Mark, Harp will ask Salix what the Stormfather looks like. He will also let Salix know that since Harp will only have a limited amout of time in the gas form, when they get to the cell block area, Harp will go ahead of the snake and wisp into the cell they believe Acer is in so Harp can see if he is actually in there. If something wrong happens, Harp will just wait in the cell until the guards make their normal stop and then Harp will attack the guards when they open the cell. Salix can respond how he wishes if we get to the point guards are around.
From: Derek
Subject Final plan?
Come to think of it, Ally could just gaseous form into the cell, materialize, pick up the Stormfather, cast gaseous form again, and come back out. Of course if anything goes wrong Ally would be in a real pinch...
From: Mark
Subject Final plan?
Ally would need three gaseous forms then. One for him to get in and two to get him and the stormfather out. The spell allows gear to change form, but I will not let you carry another whole person. I consider that a violation of the spirit of the spell.
Otherwise Ally could pick up a couple of people and then turn them all in to gas.
Remember, the spell only works for 2 minutes per level and the person can only move at 10 feet. You can take a double move but you can not run, so the max you can do per round is 20 feet. So the max distance you can go in 14 minutes is 2,800 feet.
From: Kevin
Subject Final plan?
I don't think the spell will let you gas form that much additional material. You could gas form the StormFather in addition to yourself, but now you would need to throw it 3 times. And if there is some type of antimagic in there, you would be SOL.
From: Derek
Subject Final plan?
Alright. From the information I got from Sysyphys's adventure, does Ally think that 2,800 feet is enough to get into where the cell was, or at least get out of the rat holes?
From: Derek
Subject Final plan?
According to the spell description for Rope Trick: "Creatures in the extradimensional space are hidden, beyond the reach of spells (including divinations), unless those spells work across planes." So we could also put the Stormfather in a rope trick for a few hours after the raid, and scrying and such would not be able to detect him.
Mark, is there an official ruling on whether the edge of the invisible window of the Rope Trick spell is 'sharp'? i.e. since the dimensional window is infinitely thin when looked at edge-on could it be used as an invisible blade that would cut someone if they walked into it? Although it makes sense according to the spell, I could see why it would be disallowed as making a 2nd level spell too powerful. I'm not necessarily thinking of an immediate use, but if allowed it could be useful in the future.
From: Mark
Subjet: Spell ruling
Probably it is enough. Distances seem longer when you are smaller, but the snake spent alot of time searching around and taking his time. If he speeds through the path he knows he can probably make it faster than the 10-15 minutes. However, there is a chance he could be ambushed if some rats got up the courage.
Anyone in gaseous form though would only move at 20 max, so the snake not be able to go at full speed. The snakes normal speed is 15, double move of 30 and run of 60.
From: Mark
Subject Spell ruling
No the edge is not a weapon, it is not sharp. There is no solid edge. The people would just walk by it.
From: Jason
Subject Divination
Returning to his room, Ragnar prepares himself and his room for the prayer. Finding the room to be suitably arranged, he kneels down, closes his eyes, and begins to meditate on the circumstances in which he and his companions find themselves. They are directly in the service of Heironeous, Ragnar reminds himself, even if some of his companions have other motivations. That was important. He thinks through the plan they had put together for rescuing the druid. All of it was contingent upon whether or not the StormFather was actually there. And that was something they would not be able to discover without tipping their hand, unless they had divine help.
Finally satisfied that he has the plan straight in his mind and that it is the best that they could do, he settles down on the floor in the proper position and begins the chant, incense wafting through the air. In a small circle in front of him lies a small prayer chain that had been given to him by the first cleric to declare his support for Ragnar's desire to become an official cleric of the temple at Gorn. It was not worth much but it did have some sentimental value.
Time seems to fade as his chanting continues and he hears a strange voice echoing his own. Soon the two chants are coming in unison and then the other voice stops. Ragnar stops as well. "Ask the question." comes a voice from beyond. Ragnar isn't completely sure who the voice belongs to, but he has no trouble keeping his tone humble and respectful as he asks "If we search the Mayor's house here in Bodentown, will we find Stormfather Acer?"
The voice replies immediately. "The path to the Stormfather leads through the cellars of the Mayor's house."
"Through the cellars? Does that mean that..." but the vioce is already fading away. Feeling the presence fade, Ragnar opens his eyes. The prayer chain has vanished, but the rest of the room remains unchanged. It seemed that not too much time had passed since he had begun.
***
A little while later, Ragnar relates what he had learned to Salix (and whoever else is with him at the time.) "I think we need to prepare for the possibility that the Stormfather may not be immediately behind that door. If the cellar is only the beginning of the journey, then perhaps we should all go in together, for we have no idea what will be found underneath. It should be possible for you to return as you had planned, only bringing Harp out if there is no druid to be found. In that case, I would suggest going in in force tomorrow night, using the Mocker's diversion to get in together."
OOC: That assumes the Mockers are willing to be prepared two nights in a row; Ragnar could accompany Surin to meet the Mockers, and since he can feel the movements of Salix and Harp through the status spell, he would know if they want the diversion tonight (if Harp is left behind) or tomorrow (if Harp comes back with them.)
From: Ashley
Subject Final plan?
I'm thinking they wouldn't mind, they'd just want to get paid extra.
From: Karl
Subject Final plan?
Based on this new information, and what it might imply, Salix thinks it might be a good idea for them to go in force. If there is any chance at this point to arrange that tonight, he will want to. If not, and it has to be tomorrow night, Salix will suggest that he and Sysiphus go alone on another scouting expedition. In the second case, he will have Ally set up Sysiphus with the spell to turn someone into mist and cast that on Salix when they get to the door they think the Sfather is in. He will propose this to the group, if this takes place before anyone leaves. If not, he will discuss this with Harp and whoever else is around.
OOC - I guess at this point I need to know when this new news is given, and if there is time to change their plans.
From: Jason
Subject Final plan?
This news would have been given mid-morning. We could probably come up with a plan for going in in force, but most of the spellcasters have prepared their spell lists with this plan in mind.
Mark, what are the rules on changing spells? Is it possible to swap out spells if you spend some time midday, or do you have to wait the full 24 hours, or what?
From: Mark
Subject Final plans?
You can spend time changing spells as long as you have not used them. For example, you have used the divination for the day, so you can not replace that one.
From: Karl
Subject Final plans?
Would anyone significantly change their spells? To the point where they couldn't go in force if we chose to "tonight"?
What do you guys think about another night of casing the place and "in force" tomorrow night? Salix is eager to go tonight, but he would listen to reason.
From: Jason
Subject Final plans?
Given what Mark just wrote, which I suspect you didn't see, that's not really an issue. We have all afternoon to change our spell list if we desire. Ragnar probably will make a few changes.
More scouting? and broken internet
Subject Final plans?
Harp will keep his list the same and will go along with whatever Salix decides to do. He is not worried about going at night, since he can see just fine in the dark.
OOC: It is too bad that the only two that can see in the dark are the two who will make the most noise (Harp and Ragnar). Oh well.
From: Derek
Subject What spells?
So should Ally go with the spells I suggested before? (minus obscuring mist, I suppose) How many gaseous forms vs. fly do we need? How many invisibility vs rope trick? Improved invisibility vs. polymorph?
From: Jason
Subject What spells
It seems to me that if we're going in in force, we won't really want to send anyone in via gaseous form at all, would we? Or do we want to have teams working in from both ends? That would make a little sense actually, because the inside team could make sure that no guards go down to move the prisoners from wherever they're held, and they would probably also be able to help the outside team find their way down. Considering that the only way we *know* goes down to the prison is the rat hole.
So it basically depends on how Salix wants us to go in I think.
From: Karl
Subject More scouting
Mark, is it OK for your purposes if I just say that Salix will decide to do one more scouting tonight with himself and Sysiphus. He'd like to take one other person, probably either Surin or Harp, but only if they can come up with a way to get that other person in and out without tipping their hat. The problem I see with that is that either Ally will have to cast something to get them through the rat hole and have Sysiphus cast something to get them back through, or that person has to have casting ability themselves. (Maybe it would be good to take Ally, himself, instead ??)
Based on things that have been implied by the divination and our illustrious DM, I'm thinking another scouting tonight and full force tomorrow. We would only need the mocker's distraction tomorrow night. We should go in tonight after dark. Salix, sysiphus, and Ally, if he's willing, (or Surin, or Harp, if we can come up with a feasible way to get someone in and out secretly. (i.e. no guard killing or alerting)
I'm offline except for briefly tomorrow morning. Kevin can speak for Salix based on the above if there are more questions that have to be answered.
Sorry for the delays. Been extremely busy with my mom lately.
From: Mark
Subject More scouting
It is perfectly ok for Salix to say he wants to eye ball the cellars up close and personal. Salix and the snake are the easy ones. Gaseous cloud would be a second way in but you would need one to get in and one to get out.
From: Kevin
Subject More scouting
Mark, we can have Allistair "imbue" Sysiphys with a touch spell (gaseous form). After they get inside, whoever joins Salix can turn back to normal, look around, and have the viper touch him for the way out.
Karl, remember, it is going to be dark out, and the snakes do not have darkvision. Mark, can Sysiphys find his way back in the dark using scent (even though it does not show up as class feat?).
From: Kevin
Subject More scouting
Mark, if I am being to cheesy on this request, just say so.
If Harp was carrying a small viper on his person (sort of like Allistair carries Sysiphys) would that creature turn gaseous if gaseous form was cast on Harp?
From: Mark
Subject More scouting
Scent is a feat for snakes.
From: Mark
Subject More scouting
If it were a normal small or tiny viper animal I might allow it. But Sysyphys and any wildshaped or polymorphed is actually a special creature, and so I would not allow it.
From: Kevin
Subject More scouting
No problem.
Ok, with Karl's permission, Salix will pray for Reduce Animal (at least 2 times) stoneshape and rusting grasp. He will ask Ally to imbue Sysiphys with Gaseous form.
Salix will wildshape just before they leave the inn and head for work. Salix can be on Harp or Allistair. When they get inside the compound, Allistair can let Sysiphys down and follow him to where the rat hole is - if he gets stopped, he can just say he heard something and was trying to see what it was. Once they are alone, Salix can reduce animal on himself, Allistair can cast Mage armor on Salix and then cast gaseous form on Harp. Ally, Salix and Harp should now have a good idea of where the rat hole is in relation to the house. Harp follows the two snakes as they make their way to the cell block. When they get to the cell hallway, Harp will gas into the cell to see who is there, and then gas back out to talk to Salix. We can wait to see if they get that far before I go any farther.
Ok???
From: Mark
Subject More scouting
It will be a while before I can get to this.
From: Kevin
Subject More scouting
Tonight sometime???
From: Porter
Subject Broken internet
I'm sorry I haven't been around. My internet broke yesterday afternoon, and I just got back online. I'll read through the 31 Kalevan messages and respond ASAP.
From: Kevin
Subject Broken internet
So, your'e the one who broke it. Shame on you. Don't you know how to take care of your toys???
ha, ha.
Two snakes and a gas
Subject Update
Sorry I have not gotten the update out. The lady who works with me called in sick today so I have to do her stuff today as well. I have started the re-write of Salix and Harp and the snake, but have not finished it yet.
From: Mark
Subject two snakes and a gas
Ally curses a bit, knowing that he will be late to work, but there is no way around it. Salix needs time to meditate and ask for the blessing they will need for the day. Ally spends his time telling Sysyphys what to expect and imbuing the snake with the gaseous form spell. The snake hisses back, letting his master know that he can handle it. The little snake was looking forward to working with the nature priest. All animals held druids in high regard, even those in the service of mages. Soon Salix is done and he lies down on his bed. As Ally and Harp watch his form shimmers and melts into that of a 5 foot long snake. A few seconds later the snake moves, its tongue flicking out. The tongue touches the top of its head and the snake starts shrinking. Soon there are two tiny snakes in the room. Ally reaches down, casts the mage armor spell on Salix and the two snakes climb up his arms and under his robes. The mage nods at Harp and the two head out to the Mayor's house.
The two pass through the employee's gate 15 minutes later. Harp starts the act they had planned and pushes the mage to the ground, like they are having an argument. When Ally falls, the two snakes slither off. The mage picks himself up and he and Harp start having a bit of an argument. The two work themselves around the side of a large bush, one that blocks the view from the house and the others on the grounds. Ally quickly chants the spell for gaseous form and touches the 1/2 orc. Harp seems to dissolve in front of him, leaving only a slight mist. The mage whispers "Hurry, you only have 14 minutes. Find the other two and move like the wind." The haze, much like the morning fog, drifts off towards the yard where the snakes had been dropped off. Ally hurries to his office, ready to get in trouble for his tardiness.
Luckily for Harp, it is a still morning. He drifts across the yard, a bit bewildered by the sensations. How can he see when he has no eyes? How does he breathe? How does he hear? He is so immersed in his thoughts that he almost misses the two snakes weaving and bobbing in the yard. Finally they catch his attention and he drifts over to them. Salix hisses at Sysyphys to lead the way and the three head down the tunnel. Harp finds it odd to not be able to see in the dark. He follows the hissing of the snakes and they move as fast as they can. It is fairly easy at first, really, since there is only one way for him to go. He is also able to tell when another tunnel has joined since he can feel a part of him want to drift off and fill the new open area. However, he follows along and they are soon at the large nest where Sysyphys had beaten the head rat the day before. There are many rats here again today, but when they sense two snakes the rats back off and leave plenty of room.
Harp has been trying to keep count of the seconds, since he knows that to return to his normal form now would mean instant death. From ahead he hears a hiss and he soon finds himself in a stone hallway.
Harp looks around and to his left, about 20 feet away, is the door he was expecting. To his right about 25 feet away is the other door. Harp floats over to the door and passes under the sill with ease.
The next room is about 40 x 40 with openings in the east and west walls near the north side. There is a large table with several chairs here along with a few desks and cabinets. There are also 4 alcoves with odd creatures in them. They are about 6 feet tall with a massive build. The skin is blood red, with distended veins spread across its livid skin. The eyes are empty of intelligence but there is an evil light to them. They stand at attention in the alcoves, covered only in torn loin clothes.
Harp tears his attention from the forms and heads to the far wall. He looks down both openings. The one to the east has a solid metal door so he floats over that way and through the cracks around the door. He waits for a few seconds as Salix and Sysyphys squeeze themselves between the floor and the iron door. Soon they are through, short a few back scales, and the two snakes and the mist head down the hallway.
Sounds of suffering can be heard through the cells doors they pass. These doors are much better made then the first door. Metal frames surround the opening and the doors themselves are solid iron. Harp watches as Salix and Sysyphys slither up to the door and taste the air coming from it. Salix's head bobs up and down and Harp takes this as his signal to enter. Even though the space is very tight, Harp finds it very easy to make his misty form flow through the gap between the door and the frame. He is quickly in the room. There is a form there, covered in torn and battered robes.
The form is missing its hands, feet and eyes. The hand and feet have been amputated and cauterized while the eyes have been obviously burnt out with hot irons. The wounds are just now starting to heal, but they are red and angry. The chains are pinned through the forearms and the shins of the creature. Harp moves his form down close to the face of the person, trying to make out who it is.
OODM: I will let Kevin take it from here.
From: Derek
Subject Two snakes and a gas
Now we're getting somewhere. I guess being in that state would make it a little hard to use spells, wouldn't it?
From: Porter
Subject Two snakes and a gas
To the pain!
From: Kevin
Subject Two snakes and a gas
I will write up a response when I get home tonight.
From: Kevin
Subject Map
Mark, can I get a map of what we have seen of the dungeon area? Harp knows (and I need to know) the layout and how likely sound is to travel and what doors and how much space there is in the area.
I have to go eat dinner, run some errands, take Pat to his overnight, and then I will write up something later on
From: Mark
Subject Map
Here is the map of the cellars. The red doors are the iron ones. The one cell that is show complete is the one where Harp and the prisoner is. The strange creatures are the large "A"'s on the map.
let me know if you can not read the map.
I am going to a movie tonight so there will not be anything else from me tonight.
From: Kevin
Subject Map
Mark, is the green square the rat hole we came out of?
From: Mark
Subject Map
It is actually not the whole square, but I do not know how to get the graphic I want to show up. However, the rat hole is at the juncture of the wall and the floor in that square.