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“Year 431 of the Imperial Age. It had been nearly 500 years since the armies of Ghul, the Skull King, the Half God, ruled the lands today under the dominion of the Lion-guarded Throne with armies born out of fire and darkness. In time, just as storms finally come to pass, so did this age of pain. The Great Empire of Tarsis rose out of its ashes, and peace came to Palastan. As the new city of Ptolus grew in the shadow of the Spire, rumours of great riches underground spread throughout the region. A new generation of would-be heroes made its way to the area, in search for gold and glory…”
– The Praemal Tales.

You have been waiting for quite some time now. How long it has been is rather hard to tell. The night is well advanced. It would be nigh impossible to spot the moons or stars in this wretched weather, anyway. You hear the rain slam against the roof of the inn, and occasionally see a sudden flash of lightning contrast everything in the room in shades of black and white. Water is pouring out of the gutters outside like dozens of small waterfalls drowned into an ocean of wind and fury.

Nice welcome, to be sure. You wonder if this is usual weather for the area. Whether you arrived to the city gates, were thrown out of a tavern after some trouble was stirred, or you finally made it to port through the storm, none of you could really escape the very common surprise visitors express once they spot the Spire. It is so tall, so huge; it dominates the landscape in such a way as to make it impossible to miss, even in this awful weather. Had you been able to see beyond the heavy clouds now covering the sky, it would still have been imposing enough to hide a great number of celestial bodies from your sight.

Lightning again, followed a few seconds later by the very low growl of thunder rolling high above. You remember making your way to the city. You remember spotting the camps of various delvers scattered throughout the landscape, away from the Imperial eyes guarding the fortress of Dalenguard and the Church looking upon such activities with a patronizing disdain so characteristic of Lothian’s prelates. Some of the constructions were already made of stone, some using ruins left from the times of Ghul to build around a home for themselves, while others started from scratch, using the characteristic mix of stonework foundations and lumber for upper levels that made Palastani houses so distinct. There were of course many tents around as well, most of them owned by newcomers who were, like yourselves, called to that part of the world to strike it rich, and fast.

That’s when you found the kids. Or rather, that’s when they found you. They were little beggars sent to search for volunteers. Dangerous job, they said. Everything would be explained once you met the boss. A warm meal and fresh ale would be provided.

You followed them, and that’s of course how you ended up here. In this tavern, or chapel, judging by the coloured glass above your heads – what was the name again? The “Gold Ladder”, was it? You can easily figure out why the “Ladder”, judging by the enormous 20-foot wide hole in the floor behind the bar (what’s with all the ropes and equipment stored near that well, exactly?). As for the “Gold” part well, you sure hoped the coin would be there to prove it.

Everything is clean and pristine here but for a thin layer of dust covering the tables and counters. It doesn’t seem like the tavern was ever open, though it does feel abandoned for some unknown reason. It is too nice in here. Too damn quiet. You throw a look at your chaperon waiting like you for his boss to come back. A geriatric dwarf with a long white beard and ice cold blue eyes, as it were. He seems weary and tired, though you can see he is hiding it to make it seem like he would be able to take you all in a fight if he had to. Ah! Dwarves: the more these guys grow old and weak, the more they stay the same.

You keep on waiting, and look at the assortment of “heroes” gathered in this room…

DM: Please describe/introduce yourselves and indicate roughly where you are standing in this room (“near the bar”, “by the southern door”, etc. have a look at the map below). You can talk to each other if you want to. You are currently waiting for the inn’s owner to come back from an errand. The very old dwarf here is waiting like you are (he is standing behind the bar, near the well), all the while keeping an eye on you.

If you have any question, don’t hesitate to ask them in the fresh OOC thread I just created (http://www.therpgsite.com/showthread.php?t=18732). Game on, people!

Click on the map for a higher resolution
(http://enrill.net/images/play-by-posts/maps/Black-ladder-MR-400.jpg) (http://enrill.net/images/play-by-posts/maps/Black-ladder-MR-800.jpg)

_______

Ptolus/AD&D Threads on the RPG Site
Pre-game Chat (http://www.therpgsite.com/showthread.php?t=18639)
Player Characters (http://www.therpgsite.com/showthread.php?t=18708)
Experience Points (http://www.therpgsite.com/showthread.php?t=19491)
Out-of-character thread #1 (http://www.therpgsite.com/showthread.php?t=18732)
Out-of-character thread #2 (http://www.therpgsite.com/showthread.php?t=20947)
People and Places of Ptolus (http://www.therpgsite.com/showthread.php?t=18805)
In-character thread #1 - The Gold Ladder (http://www.therpgsite.com/showthread.php?t=18731)
In-character thread #1a - Delbaeth (http://www.therpgsite.com/showthread.php?t=18765)
In-character thread #2 - Underground (part 1) (http://www.therpgsite.com/showthread.php?t=18798)
In-character thread #2b - Limbus Sanguineum (http://www.therpgsite.com/showthread.php?t=19278)
In-character thread #2c - Limbus Sanguineum Redux (http://www.therpgsite.com/showthread.php?t=21240)
In-character thread #3 - Back to the Surface (http://www.therpgsite.com/showthread.php?t=19691)
In-character thread #4 - Davin's Arrival (http://www.therpgsite.com/showthread.php?t=21050)

A cloaked figure standing at the rt. end (facing it) of the bar, dripping wet.  Casualy looking at the other folk gathered from the deep hood of my stormcloak...a wry smile playing across my lips at the motley assortment...wondering,whom shall Charlathan smile upon?

With this gathering I am glad Tudd is here to watch my back...as I do likewise.
wondering if Mead will be served...soon...

Friar Othos enters the building, escaping the downpour.  Behind him, one or two humanoid shapes still linger behind.  In his sodden state, the friar's rough robe exaggerates his bulky shape; the dwarf is stout and plump even for his race.  As he makes his way towards the "bar" his long strides cause his tin begging cup to clang noisily against a humble cooking pot.  It would almost be comical were it not such an obvious ruse: His armor is clearly visible through the damp and a vicious morning star comes swinging loose as he adjusts his belt.

Approaching the bar, Friar Othos nods to the hooded figure but turns his attention to the aging dwarf.  He addresses him in Dwarven:

(Dwarven) "May the Builder bless you and your kin.  I am Othos Stoneshield, Fourth of my name.  I wonder if you might tell me something about this structure?"

And, to no one in particular during a silence, in Common:

"It sure was a long hike, getting here.  I wonder if that really is a bar or if it just looks like one?"

A heavily muscled individual wearing a travel-stained robe with wet cloak thrown over his brawny shoulders sits at the head of the table in the lower-left-hand corner of the room (as you look at the map).  Around the table sits a party of workingmen; one is carefully sorting through a pile of torches, flasks, candles and a tinderbox, checking them all to ensure that the wrappings are still dry.  Likewise, the other two pass a length of rope across the table, making sure it's hempen knots are at least undamaged by the water.  Two armed-and-armored spearmen watch over the pile of gear in the corner behind.

Ylarum scans the room, on the lookout for the prospective employer.

"Wait here, lads.  I'll see if friend dwarf barkeep knows who we might be seeking.  Liir, Dallow, Snave, make room - Tarm, Json, bring chairs 'round."

When he approaches the bar and spies the dwarven holy servant and barman speaking together, he bows - still keeping his eyes up, however.

"Father.  Ostler.  Pray forgive my interruption, but I and my retinue yonder were told to come here, to seek employ.  Do you know of anyone arriving, or indeed are you looking for sell-swords?"

Clearly, the dwarf did understand what Otho told him in his own language. Considering his question carefully, he simply points out in Common: "I am Cadfan."

He sighs. "This is the Gold Ladder, lad. A place for you to dine, drink and enjoy the company of others like you. Of course, it is a temple of Ollom, God of the Keg, a place where you can get access to whatever is down below, and get supplies for your trips, should you need some, as well. But don't go around telling that to them good men of the Church. Can't say they really approve of other gods and delvers settling within the city walls, if you get my meaning."

He winks at Otho, and then addresses Ylarum after he approached the bar and asked his question. "My mistress will be back soon. She will explain everything, though we are indeed looking for some fine young representatives of the 'adventuring' kind, that is a matter of fact."

Ylarum bows again and returns to his table.

"We wait for the nonce, lads.  Rope nice and dry?  Good.  Mark my words, you two," here Ylarum indicates his footmen, "once we've got our haul, if you wish to sign on for another venture, I'll see to it you're fitted out in ring hauberks and iron shields.  Gi' ya each a sword, too, Gods willing..."

Affter watching the human go back to his table I approach and nod to the newly arrived Dwarf,noting the armor and weapon (in deep and gutteral common)  "Been wondering that myself" looking to the barkeep..."Cadfan is it?I'll be having a Mulled mead as quick as you like,and something for this fellow (indicating Otho) if he will have it..?" as I throw the coin onto the bar.

"Nothing warms the bones like mulled Mead. How fare you this storm- wracked eve master Dwarf?"

Othos beams at Cadfan: (Dwarven) "Blessed be the walls of Ptolus.  Here the meek find shelter and even the Gods carry kegs.  Blessed be the name of Ollom if we should find something to quench our thirsts as well.  It is a pleasure to meet you."

He then turns to face the approaching figure (Runch) and smiles at him: "How fare I?  I am burdened with wet, with sin and with curiosity about our employer.  Yet all would be satisfied if I could but wet my parched lips."  He grins again.  "I am Friar Othos of the Stoneshield Clan.  I trust you too are waiting on our host?"

Smeads, a thin well dressed male showing a hint of an elven parent in his ears. He enters the room and glances around, taking note of everyone in the room. Hearing the dwarf behind the bar explain the situation he moves to the north east corner of the room and takes a chair from that table, moves it closer to the wall and sits with his back to the wall.

He waits for the owner.

Gareth

I stand for a moment at the door, listening to conversations and catching the names of everyone I can. I let my fellow Shoal Elves get in, while I quietly check everyone for visible purses. Fat purses. I have some debt to pay to Nimten.

After I manage to get some water out of me, I sit by the bar, and greet everyone with a friendly "Well met, you all." After that, I address the old dwarf.

"Cadfan, aren't you? My name is Gareth, and I'm glad to meet you. Could you inform me how can a soaked wet person get some mead and ale? The Shoal Elf over there (point to Nimten) is taking the tab for me. Also, where does that hole lead?"

Once I get the drinks and answers, I'll sit with the Shoal Elves.

Ulas Xegg, a man of athletic build in red-dyed studded leather armor and a black rain-cloak, enters, pulling off his sodden hood to release a shock of straw-colored hair that defies any ordered arrangement. He looks about the room, shakes his head in resignation, and claps friar Otho on the shoulder in greeting, before seating himself by Ylarum and his entourage, then burying his gaunt face in his hands.

"Ah! What did I drink last night? It is like devils have pissed in my brain."

He looks up at the warrior and says,

"Gods of hell, Plainsman, have you brought every last one of your illegitimate sons along with you?"

He sighs heavily, then watches the hirelings as they sort and prepare, then continues,

"At least yours can work. Mine only send their mothers, asking for money. My friend, I would buy you a drink, had I not bought the last I could afford sometime past midnight."

He settles down into his chair, but fidgets with unease.

Glancing across the room and speaking across the room, a bit too loudly to Ulas: "I hope she was worth it Ulas.  After the tragedy with the horse outside of town I'm afraid you're down to your last ride for now."

Quote from: winkingbishop;418521Glancing across the room and speaking across the room, a bit too loudly to Ulas: "I hope she was worth it Ulas.  After the tragedy with the horse outside of town I'm afraid you're down to your last ride for now."

"The memory is vague at best, so for the comfort of my heart I will elect to assume she was. How are you, Dwarf?"

After listening to the exchange with the man in red armor.  

" Well,if there is anyplace to relieve you of said burdens this is it!" as I indicate the barrels of spirits and the depictions of Ollom. "Spirits and absolution are oftimes bedfellows."

"I am Runch,late of the temple of Charlathan.Well met!" as I give a slight bow to Otho,letting the wooden sigil of Charlathan hang into view.

"As to our potential benefactor, I have not to say." as I shrug.

Quote from: thedungeondelver;418444Ylarum bows again and returns to his table.

"We wait for the nonce, lads.  Rope nice and dry?  Good.  Mark my words, you two," here Ylarum indicates his footmen, "once we've got our haul, if you wish to sign on for another venture, I'll see to it you're fitted out in ring hauberks and iron shields.  Gi' ya each a sword, too, Gods willing..."

Your men take you at your word. You can see a glint in their eyes. They obviously react well at any announcement of your part that their condition might improve.
___

Cadfan ignores your remarks for a moment. He grabs a few mugs and places them on the counter. He then seizes a few clay pitchers and walks away from the bar. He is wearing leather working pants, large boots, and an apron over a suit of old chainmail (!). He starts pouring liquors from the gigantic barrels lodged in the alcoves around the well (the same alcoves with pannels of colored glass high above). He moves from barrel to barrel, and comes back to the bar, placing the pitchers next to the mugs. He nods to Runch: "This one's the mead, lad."

He doesn't seem to mind Runch's (or Tudd's, for that matter) ancestry a bit. He might be too weary, or just ignores it. He might hide it very well too, now that you think of it.

"You can keep your coins, all of you. This is on the house. You are going to need a little kick where you're going."

DM: Awesome. Don't hesitate to keep interacting with each others. This is an occasion for you to show what your character is about before the adventure kicks in (and for everyone to catch up with the fact the game started as well). So, don't hesitate and go crazy.

Quote from: Benoist;418534"You can keep your coins, all of you. This is on the house. You are going to need a little kick where you're going."
 

Clapping and rubbing my hands together as the mead is set.
"Many blessings upon this house."

I pocket the coins,raise my mug to Otho and the busy Cadfan then hold near my breast and give silent thanks to Charlathan for this gift of (free!) mead before quaffing deep.

"ahhh" wiping lips with my sleeve as his comment sinks in...

Rissthil Tanlithrin walks into the Gold Ladder with the rest of his fellow ex-crewmen from the crippled Dawnbreaker.  He looks up at the vaulted ceiling and stained glass windows with mild curiosity.  Once inside the building, he finds a table with the rest of his elven kin and unloads his wet gear onto it.  He shakes and stamps off the excess water, and then takes off his oiled leather cloak.  He splays it out over the back of a chair to dry properly.

Can't waste gear by letting it stay wet! Rissthil fondly remembers his grandfather scolding him as a young elf aboard ship.

The elven sailor took a good look at the other groups of people gathered here.  There was a large number of men here, and they all had gear ready to go.  He also mentally makes note of the two half-orcs who look vaguely similar, and the two dwarves here as well.

This must be something fairly big, Rissthil casually thinks to himself as he takes note of the number of people gathered.

While he busies himself with getting his wet cloak off and putting his gear down, he listens to the conversations going on around him in the room.

Once Cadfan sets out mugs and drinks on the bar, Rissthil walks over to the bar and stands near Gareth.  He takes a mug and pitcher and pours himself some mead.  

After he pours himself a mug of mead, he sets down the pitcher and looks up to the others gathered near or around the bar and says loudly so that he could be heard, "Greetings, prospective co-workers!  I am Rissthil Tanlithrin.  I am most interested and intrigued now about our mysterious employer and the proposed job."

Belching..."Well met Rissthill." as I raise my mead in his direction,finishing with "Runch." barely audible around the mug...

Rissthil smiles and nods toward Runch as he also puts his mug to his lips and takes a good drink of the mead.  He takes a moment to taste it before he swallows.  Satisfied that it wasn't bilge swill, the elven sailor drinks freely.

Smeads gets up and approaches the bar, accepting a mug of mead. I take it and raise it, nodding toward everyone else gathered.

"Well met all, some of you I know from our ill fated ocean trip. I am happy to have my feet on land again."

The door slides open only so wide as to let a cat in; through the crack comes a tiny, unarmed elf in a red cloak. Standing maybe 4'6" and weighing somewhere around 70 pounds, a small shoal elf lifts back his hood and looks around for others of his kind. Spotting a few, he walks that way coughing a little.

Ylarum raises his fist in greeting to the gathering adventurers in the room, then turns back to his crew.  

"Fellows, I see someone else is buying our drinks tonight, or at the least the house is carrying the tab.  A pint all, but keep a clear head.  Kos knows what the evening has in store for us.  All equipment squared away?  Good!  Good lads, all.  Let's sup, then."

Assuming Tudd is with his brother, here's the map using the tokens showing your positions in the room as I understood them (with the grey circled NPC behind the bar being Cadfan). See the Player Characters' thread for the tokens and who's who (you might as well get used to them; for those who don't have a pic for their characters yet, [Ru]] is Runch, and [Ga] is Gareth). Sigmund (Tudd) hasn't posted yet, and you guys might want to interact a little bit more with each other or Cadfan. That, and it's the week end too. So I'm going to wait a little bit longer before moving on.

(http://enrill.net/images/play-by-posts/maps/GL-MR-800-01.jpg)

Quote from: Lilaxe;418573Smeads gets up and approaches the bar, accepting a mug of mead. I take it and raise it, nodding toward everyone else gathered.

"Well met all, some of you I know from our ill fated ocean trip. I am happy to have my feet on land again."

I raise my mug to smeads and toast to that.

"I always knew that getting a honest job would be a terrible idea. It almost killed me!"

Rissthil also raises his glass to Smeads' toast and to Gareth's quip, and takes a drink of the mead.

After he sets the mug down from his drink, Rissthil asks Cadfan, "is this possible job a legal one?"

The elven sailor gestures to the other elves with a sweep of his arm and continues, "we are newly arrived to Ptolus, and perhaps not well versed in the laws of the city."

Cadfan snorts at the mention of city laws: "The true concerns of the Commissar and his men are unknown to most people of Ptolus. They just stay in and around Dalenguard. I'm guessing they're still afraid Ghul might return from the dead or something, but who really knows, right?"

"Originally the Church did not approve of the construction of the city around Dalenguard. Still doesn't, as far as I know. So it started out as legal as legal might be when the Emperor of the Church looks down upon you waving his finger around." Cadfan starts laughing at the image, but the laugh soon morphs into a deep cough.

When it stops, and he has had the time to catch his breath, the dwarf goes on: "So delving isn't exactly legal, but it's not like the Empire's envoys can do something about guys like you and I showing up everyday at the gates or the docks to search for some gold lying around. This place isn't 'legal', certainly not inside the city walls, but if we don't make too much trouble for the citizenry, there's no reason for them to intervene."

"Nah. It's the Brotherhood of the Sword that keeps things from getting ugly with the populace, really. It's a group of war veterans who pledged allegiance to the Church in exchange for a pardon, though the Church itself considers them to be borderline heretics. So they go about town and keep the peace, while the prelates are busy playing politics with the rich and powerful of the place."

Rissthil looks the old dwarf in the eyes, nods, and says genuinely, "thank you for your straightforwardness, Cadfan.  I appreciate it."

"Oh it's quite alright, my lad."

Cadfan smiles, but then, a perplexed look comes upon his face. "I have a question myself, if you don't mind me asking. How come are you elves around these parts? Have you come to join Iridithil's home?"

After draining the mug in a few long,gulping swallows and placing it upside down upon the bar I lean towards Otho saying "A fine bit o'fadoodle that." as I give a slight nod and raise my brows in the direction of Smead and the others.

"Now I can see your a devout fellow." as I point to his begging cup then look to his weapon before continuing "If you don't mind me ask'n, hav'e taken to thigging as part o a vow?"

Othos swiftly drains his first mug and fills his second.  Wiping off his mouth and beard, taking in Cadfan's exchange with the others he says: "Well, it all sounds well and good enough that we go down there for sport.  Probably good for the city in the long run anyway!  We can't have things crawling their way up on helpless folks."  Turning to face everyone and no one in particular with a wide smile, "Isn't that right men?"

Ylarum, to his men, sotto voce:

"Typical.  Holy men playing at politics, making heretics out of honest workingmen.  Meanwhile likely as not this whole city is sitting on enough unplundered loot to keep the lot of them in whores and bejewelled mitres until the Gods themselves return..."

Snave snorts noisily. "I'm guessin' that the robes, Sir. Those preachin'-folk, they secretly wish they were the whores taking in the sweat and money for their own pleasure, see, so they blame others for their sins."

The others laugh.

Quote from: Benoist;418871Cadfan smiles, but then, a perplexed look comes upon his face. "I have a question myself, if you don't mind me asking. How come are you elves around these parts? Have you come to join Iridithil's home?"

Rissthil smiles and waves his hand dismissively as he candidly says, "no, I don't mind.  We were all sailors aboard Captain Felnarthir's ship, the Dawnbreaker.  We suddenly found ourselves dead center in a freakish white squall.  They usually don't happen so far north, but this one seemed to single us out as it smashed into us.  Old Captain Felnarthir got us and the Dawnbreaker through it.  However, the Dawnbreaker was severely damaged and we limped into the Bay of Ptolus.  The Dawnbreaker is going to be in drydock for quite some time, and so the Captain released the crew here to make their own way."

The elven sailor takes another drink of his mead, and, as he sets down the mug, he asks the ancient dwarf, "who is Iridithil, or what is Iridithil's home?"

Cadfan shrugs: "No idea who that Iridithil fellow might be, but his name was given to the elves' compound outside the city walls. That's how they call it - 'Iridithil's Home'. So I thought you folks might have been headed there, somehow."

Quote from: Benoist;418871"Oh it's quite alright, my lad."

Cadfan smiles, but then, a perplexed look comes upon his face. "I have a question myself, if you don't mind me asking. How come are you elves around these parts? Have you come to join Iridithil's home?"

I drink calmly, and answer: No idea about any Iridithil, but I like them - pointing my fellow elves - and I wanted to see the Spire. Has anyone climbed it?

Quote from: Imperator;419025I drink calmly, and answer: No idea about any Iridithil, but I like them - pointing my fellow elves - and I wanted to see the Spire. Has anyone climbed it?

"Oh yes. Some folks did try to climb it of course. Nobody's returned to tell the tale, though."

The dwarf nods thoughtfully. "Me thinks the grounds of Goth Gulgamel - Ghul's fortress - are not as dead and silent as folks think they are. Maybe that's why the Commissar's men are so busy these days? And that's only half-way up the Spire! Who knows what's in that dreadful castle on top of it?"

DM: There are actually two fortresses located on the Spire, indeed. One half-way up, Goth Gulgamel, and the other at the top of the Spire, looming over the whole area. All sorts of wild legends circulate about the latter, none of them very cheerful, as one might imagine.

Quote from: Benoist;419026"Oh yes. Some folks did try to climb it of course. Nobody's returned to tell the tale, though."

The dwarf nods thoughtfully. "Me thinks the grounds of Goth Gulgamel - Ghul's fortress - are not as dead and silent as folks think they are. Maybe that's why the Commissar's men are so busy these days? And that's only half-way up the Spire! Who knows what's in that dreadful castle on top of it?"

DM: There are actually two fortresses located on the Spire, indeed. One half-way up, Goth Gulgamel, and the other at the top of the Spire, looming over the whole area. All sorts of wild legends circulate about the latter, none of them very cheerful, as one might imagine.

"Let us cut to the chase, master dwarf. Tell me about the legends of the treasures over there." I wink and smile.

THUNK, "OWW", Tudd grunts as his shield slung over his back slides forward into the back of his head. He shuffles around on his hands and knees next to Runch, occasionally poking a small bug attempting to crawl back under the bar. "Hey brudder... is this one 'a them things what might crawl up and bother folks? Don't look too tough ta me... should I smash it?"

Quote from: Imperator;419037"Let us cut to the chase, master dwarf. Tell me about the legends of the treasures over there." I wink and smile.

The dwarf laughs. "Because you think a midget like you is going to face the dangers of Jabel Shammar and win the day were dozens, if not hundreds, have failed before you? HA!"

"You make me laugh, laddie. That's well worth another round." Cadfan then proceeds to refill whoever's around to listen.

"That fortress on top of the Spire is the Dread One's, they say. Not Ghul's, mind you, no, but another Dark Lord's, long, long before the Half God ever set his greedy eyes on the Spire. Tales go that the Dread One was a good man once, but something made him change for the worse. Something to do with artefacts of power he tried to keep away from the world for its own good, I heard. He then tried to cover the lands of Second Darkness, and well," the dwarf waves his arm around, "with that stinking weather out there, you might think he'd succeeded!"

Just as the dwarf finishes his sentence, you can hear a door opening somewhere beyond the right-hand side of the room. A gust of wind roars for a moment, and then the door is shut again.

The door to the kitchens opens (right-hand side of the room, to the North East) and a cloaked slender figure comes in. The person takes off her hood and reveals a pretty, long female face with thin eyebrows, emerald eyes and long, dark auburn hair. She starts saying: "They won't have it, Cadfan..." and then stops dead in her tracks, realizing she and the dwarf are not alone.

(http://enrill.net/images/play-by-posts/tokens/NPCs/Angharad-token.png)

"Who in the Hells are these people?!"

The dwarf walks towards her: "The mercenaries the children found, Angharad."

She looks at the lot of you, incredulous, and then mutters to herself: "Gods be praised... We are not alone, then."

(http://enrill.net/images/play-by-posts/maps/GL-MR-800-02.jpg)

Nimten watches the woman for a long moment, and then goes back to listening quietly, staring at the back of his own hand, as if looking through it.

Ylarum stands, gesturing at his henchmen to stay seated.  He approaches the woman and regards her briefly before speaking.

"Ylarum the Doomed, goodlady.  What undertaking aren't you alone in, now?"

"The Doomed..."

She seems to consider the possible implications of such a title absentmindedly for a moment. Then, she suddenly snaps out of her reverie. She proceeds towards the bar. Cadfan tries to stop her gently with his hand on her arm, but she shrugs it off. She reaches the well and stares at it: "This... is our undertaking, now."

She turns towards you all. "We need to save them. The friars. My uncle - he is the owner here. It has been days now. I wonder..."

She seems to fight a few tears back, but stands strong. She clenches her fists and pushes her voice with determination as the words come out of her mouth: "I need my uncle back. I need you to get down there, retrieve all those you can find, and kill whoever did this to them!"

(OOC: is she implying down this hole directly or in a general sense?)

Quote from: thedungeondelver;419097(OOC: is she implying down this hole directly or in a general sense?)

DM: She seems to be alluding to the hole directly. :D

"Do you know how deep it is and what the immediate layout at the bottom is?"

Quote from: thedungeondelver;419100"Do you know how deep it is and what the immediate layout at the bottom is?"

Cadfan answers first: "Five hundred feet. Maybe more. It's hard to tell. I've been there once. There's a large circular room at the bottom of this shaft, some smaller rooms around, and a large corridor leading to a strange door about... two hundred feet away? Maybe?"

Angharad cuts in: "My uncle bought this ruin some time ago and built the inn around it. He intends to use it as a gateway to the underworld, taking fees from would-be adventurers, that kind of thing. He went down, and found that whatever was down there, a shrine to some forsaken God or something, needed to be investigated first. He ... had helped some brothers of St. Fharlang escape the questions of the Church... and they proposed to help him investigate what's down there in return."

She takes a breath, and goes on: "I do not know what happened. About three days ago, they were down there exploring the place. And then something happened. There was a huge explosion, flames came back up here, in this room, for a brief moment."

"Only Delbaeth made it back. It's our alchemist here. He's an elf. He came back up, flying, and..." Angharad stops.

It is Cadfan who finishes the sentence. Amazingly, the dwarf's eyes seem to be watering as he says: "The elf. His entire body was burning. Like a torch. I put the flames out. But... I don't know if he's going to make it."

"The platform and ropes that were linked to this pulley there," as he points to the roof directly above the well, "everything's gone. Stayed down there, with everybody else."

Five hundred feet down? Rissthil wonders to himself as he starts walking over to where Angharad and Ylarum are standing.  

He smiles genuinely at Angharad and says, "greetings Goodlady, I am Rissthil Tanlithrin.  I am truly sorry for your pain and suffering of late."

He motions back toward the hole and then the ceiling with his hand, and continues, "however, this job is a serious undertaking.  Well, I don't mean to seem callous, but what are you offering as compensation?"

She smiles, then sighs, cynical, but neither frustrated nor angry. "It is alright. I did not expect you to work for naught. I am sure my uncle would welcome his rescuers and reward them handsomely, probably in the hundreds of imperial thrones*. Maybe more."

"You would get a significant cut of whatever would be found directly down there as well. The particulars would be up to my uncle, since he's the owner of this place, but I assure you: Bertold is no selfish man. He would not rob you of any reward you would have earned."

"I'm afraid I can't promise much more at this point. If ... Well. If something happened to my uncle, we will still be able to talk about it when you decide to come back to the surface."

* DM: Imperial Gold Coins.

"Mistress," says Ulas,

"My blade is at your beckon call."

He stands, then bows neatly.

"Forgive me - I am Ulas Xegg, a swordsman of some small talent. Now, before we descend, was there anything else you learned from poor Delbaeth?"

He approaches more closely, and leans against the wall for support.

Slipping clumsily from his stool, Friar Othos nods at Ulas' words.  "Yes indeed.  Pray tell us of his condition or if we could aid him somehow before our departure."  Clearing his throat, Othos continues, "I am Friar Othos, a sworn Son of Mocharum the Dwarf Lord.  If we should tend to him, only say the word.  After all, he may have information vital to all of us, this party and your uncle included."  

It is Cadfan who answers: "He is resting in my care, in this very building. He is healing, or at least his flesh is. But somehow his mind seems to slip away. He is delirious. His words do not make much sense..."

"Maybe they should see him, Cadfan."

Cadfan winces. "Fine. Who's coming with me?"

Quote from: Benoist;419167It is Cadfan who answers: "He is resting in my care, in this very building. He is healing, or at least his flesh is. But somehow his mind seems to slip away. He is delirious. His words do not make much sense..."

"What did he say? Senseless answers may later make sense when the right question arises."

Quote from: Cole;419168"What did he say? Senseless answers may later make sense when the right question arises."

"I will take you to him. You and the Friar. But that's it! Alright?"

Quote from: Benoist;419169"I will take you to him. You and and the Friar. But that's it! Alright?"

"If you can recall his discourse to memory we need not disturb his rest."

Rissthil nods in acknowledgment toward Cadfan at his words.

He turns back to Angharad, smiles, and says, "that is fair and agreeable.  Thank you for your kindness at my crassness."

Cadfan tries to remember: "Something about colors and rainbows. He kept going on about that. 'Too many colors, burning rainbows, things swirling, begging me to stop everything from moving, something like that."

Quote from: Benoist;419176Cadfan tries to remember: "Something about colors and rainbows. He kept going on about that. 'Too many colors, burning rainbows, things swirling, begging me to stop everything from moving, something like that."

"Did he make any utterance that sounded like even part of the description of a place?

Quote from: Cole;419177"Did he make any utterance that sounded like even part of the description of a place?

Cadfan puts his hand on his beard and thinks. "I... can't say I remember anything like that, no."

"I am but a dabbler in the Arcane Art," Rissthil says thoughtfully, "but, there are spells that might cause such descriptions of their visual effects."

Looking at Ulas, Rissthil says, "if you can, try to verify if the explosion was caused by them or something else.  If he was the alchemist, then maybe the explosion was an accident."

Quote from: Drohem;419196"I am but a dabbler in the Arcane Art," Rissthil says thoughtfully, "but, there are spells that might cause such descriptions of their visual effects."

Looking at Ulas, Rissthil says, "if you can, try to verify if the explosion was caused by them or something else.  If he was the alchemist, then maybe the explosion was an accident."

"Friend elf, I have little hope the explosion was mere mischance - I am reluctant to disturb the wounded man further, in truth. And I think there would be little verifying - only hoping to hear stray snippets that might prove relevant later."

Ylarum's examining what's left of the elevator mechanism - how much rope is left?

Quote from: thedungeondelver;419215Ylarum's examining what's left of the elevator mechanism - how much rope is left?

The mechanism itself seems to be in working order, though the apparatus does seem to have taken a bad hit somehow. The rope attached to the mechanism seems to have snaped at some point. Fifty feet or so are left on it. About a hundred more feet of rope are lying on the ground near the hole, as well as a variety of tools including a saw, pikes, shovels, hammer, wedges, pulleys, nails and the like.

Quote from: Sigmund;419041THUNK, "OWW", Tudd grunts as his shield slung over his back slides forward into the back of his head. He shuffles around on his hands and knees next to Runch, occasionally poking a small bug attempting to crawl back under the bar. "Hey brudder... is this one 'a them things what might crawl up and bother folks? Don't look too tough ta me... should I smash it?"

"Ah, scuse me." Turning away from otho and squating down at Tudds query "Tudd,(making sure he looks at me before continuing) now you leave that crawl'r be (as I point one knobby finger at the bug in question).

"Sometimes the littlest have the most ta be warry of (recalling one of Charlathans precepts)."

" 'Sides,might be one o' Olloms elect or someones ancestor. You wouldn't go an offend these fine folk now would ya?!" I ponder as the critter struggles against Tudds finger for a moment before continuing "Now lets stand up and tend to the chinwagg'n."

I put my calloused hand to the well worn shark-skin hilt of my longsword and rise in time to see the Lady enter. Kicking Tudd lightly and hissing " Quick like!" I listen in rapt attention as the tale of woe unfolds...looking at those gathered,gaging their mettle...

"Well, a five hundred feet deep hole is really interesting, and surely it deserves attention. I can't speak for my comrades, but I am interested in knowing more about what happened down there, and finding your uncle seems a noble endeavor. Count me in, milady."

I turn to Rissthil: "My friend, tell us more about what magics could cause that. I think it can be key to our success."

Nimten speaks for the first time. He seems shy, and doesn't make eye contact with anyone.

"If we find them, how will we get them out? I possess magic that could help to carry someone, but not more than one, and not altogether alone. 500 feet is a long way to climb with half a dozen possibly wounded people..."

A moment later he adds, as if i were necessary, "and I'm not a good climber."

Quote from: Cranewings;419243Nimten speaks for the first time. He seems shy, and doesn't make eye contact with anyone.

"If we find them, how will we get them out? I possess magic that could help to carry someone, but not more than one, and not altogether alone. 500 feet is a long way to climb with half a dozen possibly wounded people..."

A moment later he adds, as if i were necessary, "and I'm not a good climber."

"I'm afraid building a new platform is out of the question. It probably would take too much time, and the people down there may not have that much.

I think we should haste. What do you think?" I say, adressing everyone loudly.

Quote from: Benoist;419169"I will take you to him. You and the Friar. But that's it! Alright?"

"Ulas and I shall see to him then, when you are ready," Friar Othos states gravely.

Quote from: skofflox;419220"Ah, scuse me." Turning away from otho and squating down at Tudds query "Tudd,(making sure he looks at me before continuing) now you leave that crawl'r be (as I point one knobby finger at the bug in question).

"Sometimes the littlest have the most ta be warry of (recalling one of Charlathans precepts)."

" 'Sides,might be one o' Olloms elect or someones ancestor. You wouldn't go an offend these fine folk now would ya?!" I ponder as the critter struggles against Tudds finger for a moment before continuing "Now lets stand up and tend to the chinwagg'n."

I put my calloused hand to the well worn shark-skin hilt of my longsword and rise in time to see the Lady enter. Kicking Tudd lightly and hissing " Quick like!" I listen in rapt attention as the tale of woe unfolds...looking at those gathered,gaging their mettle...

"Ok Runch," Tudd gives the bug a last glare as he rises, shaking his finger at it when Runch turns away. He straightens and adjusts his shield and armor, then stoops to grab the wicked morningstar he had left lying on the floor. He catches sight of the female as she talks and says in a loud whisper, "Hey brudder, she's got red hair. That's a big hole in tha floor."

Rissthil gives Ulas a quizzical look as he thinks to himself, huh?  Just a minute a go he wanted to question the badly burned Delbaeth, and now he doesn't want to disturb him?

Rissthil was concerned with the practical nature of getting men and equipment down a five hundred foot hole, and getting everyone and everything back up out of the hole intact.  

Seeing Ylarum walk near the hole and damaged mechanisms for the platform, Rissthil walks over nearby as well and looks at the remaining equipment.

Responding to Gareth's comment about the platform, Rissthil says, "I think that in the long run it would be wise of us to rebuild the platform.  Trying to climb down five hundred feet with equipment and just ropes is dangerous enough, but asking a dozen people to do it one after another is going to be pushing our luck.  Also, as Nimten pointed, getting injured men back up with just ropes is going to be difficult.  Being hasty here can compromise our safety greatly."

"As far as magical effects and spells," Rissthil addresses Gareth's question about magic, "I was thinking out loud.  Delbaeth mentioned rainbows and color coupled with explosion and fire and so I was thinking that his description might indicate some kind of magical effect that deals with prisms and light.  Many spells of the Illusion Discipline produce such visual effects."

Rissthil sighs and says, "but, as I said, I am just a dabbler at this point in the Arcane Art and only know that such spells exist."

Clearing his throat wetly, Friar Othos grumbles, "Please, show us to your injured comrade.  Rissthil, is it?  Would you care to join me and Ulas to lend us your expertise, all your modesty duly noted?"

Quote from: winkingbishop;419309Clearing his throat wetly, Friar Othos grumbles, "Please, show us to your injured comrade.  Rissthil, is it?  Would you care to join me and Ulas to lend us your expertise, all your modesty duly noted?"

Ulas follows, wordlessly.

Quote from: Drohem;419301Responding to Gareth's comment about the platform, Rissthil says, "I think that in the long run it would be wise of us to rebuild the platform.  Trying to climb down five hundred feet with equipment and just ropes is dangerous enough, but asking a dozen people to do it one after another is going to be pushing our luck.  Also, as Nimten pointed, getting injured men back up with just ropes is going to be difficult.  Being hasty here can compromise our safety greatly."

"As far as magical effects and spells," Rissthil addresses Gareth's question about magic, "I was thinking out loud.  Delbaeth mentioned rainbows and color coupled with explosion and fire and so I was thinking that his description might indicate some kind of magical effect that deals with prisms and light.  Many spells of the Illusion Discipline produce such visual effects."

Rissthil sighs and says, "but, as I said, I am just a dabbler at this point in the Arcane Art and only know that such spells exist."

"My friend, rebuilding a platform of this size will take us probably the biggest part of a day. I don't think the people trapped down there have that much time, if any. I suggest that we try to create at least some kind of provisional platform for our first foray. Time may be of the essence."

After that, I stick close to Rissthil.

Ulas and Othos leave the room to visit Delbaeth the elf. They follow Cadfan and leave the room through its south-western door (left-hand side of the room on the map). Othos (wikingbishop) and Ulas (Cole), see this thread (http://www.therpgsite.com/showthread.php?t=18765) (as well as Rissthil, if he wants to follow them).

Quote from: winkingbishop;419309Clearing his throat wetly, Friar Othos grumbles, "Please, show us to your injured comrade.  Rissthil, is it?  Would you care to join me and Ulas to lend us your expertise, all your modesty duly noted?"

Rissthil looks to Cadfan and shakes his head negatively as he says, "no, thank you, but I'll respect Cadfan's decision to only let two of us see Delbaeth.  I'll wait here with the others."

Quote from: Drohem;419359Rissthil looks to Cadfan and shakes his head negatively as he says, "no, thank you, but I'll respect Cadfan's decision to only let two of us see Delbaeth.  I'll wait here with the others."

"Rissthil, my friend, while these good people check our injured brother, maybe we could ask the remaining people to start working on the platform. If we're to descend safely and try to rescue those people, we better get moving. That man over there (pointing to Ylaruam) has several retainers, we have many hands available"

I wait for Rissthil to take the lead. If he doesn't, I'll move from group to group asking for hands to rebuild the platform.

"I have some experience with complex mathematics. I... I think I could be of some use." Nimten lightly walks over and begins inspecting the device, looking for a shortcut to get something operational.

1d20=14 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2777224/)

OOC - If I remember right, you have to roll under your attribute to do any kind of skillish type activity right? I'm definitely under on a 14.

Rissthil looks at Gareth and smiles, and then turns to Ylarum and says, "Gareth has a point.  It's time to get to work on this platform.  Will your men do this kind of work?"

Addressing the two half-orcs, Rissthil asks, "what say you, Runch and Tudd, are you willing to do some construction too before we descend into the deep dark below?"

Quote from: Cranewings;419365"I have some experience with complex mathematics. I... I think I could be of some use." Nimten lightly walks over and begins inspecting the device, looking for a shortcut to get something operational.

1d20=14 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2777224/)

OOC - If I remember right, you have to roll under your attribute to do any kind of skillish type activity right? I'm definitely under on a 14.

DM: Actually, no. There is no such rule in the game, and I try to keep these kinds of "skill rolls" to a minimum, mainly because this is one of the defining aspects of AD&D for you to tell me what you do, and for me, as a referee, to determine what it accomplishes. When I think the outcomes are just not clear and may vary depending on what you described to me, then I may ask you for a die roll. If I do so, I am actually more likely to use my own resolution system (tweaked from my OD&D rules), which I'm going to explain in the OOC thread.
___

Inspecting the mechanism, you feel it actually is operational. You determine it would take some amount of abuse for it to fully break down. With the right amount of pulleys and ropes, and a functional platform or basket, it might carry about four loaded people without problem. The hit the machine took earlier seems to have damaged its casing superficially, for the most part.

Nimtem looks at the device thoughtfully for a few minutes and says, "I think this thing is in better shape than we are giving it credit for... most of this damage is superficial. It can still carry about 3 or 4 people without a problem. We could probably still improve it if we have time."

Rissthil looks at Nimten and says happily, "now, that's the spirit."

"See, just a little bit of spit and polish is needed, and we'll have it in working order double quick," he says to everyone else around.

Quote from: Sigmund;419265"Ok Runch," Tudd gives the bug a last glare as he rises, shaking his finger at it when Runch turns away. He straightens and adjusts his shield and armor, then stoops to grab the wicked morningstar he had left lying on the floor. He catches sight of the female as she talks and says in a loud whisper, "Hey brudder, she's got red hair. That's a big hole in tha floor."

Putting my hand on Tudds shoulder,drawing closer to whisper "Aye,true on both accounts.Now be polite to the lady,she is in needs of help and we a job.Lets go introduce ourselves." Pulling on his arm a bit I walk to Angharad. Bowing deeply "M'lady, I am Runch and this is my brother Tudd." I gently pull him to the fore as I glance briefly at the yawning entrance and the piled equipments.

Turning back to Angharad,spreading open my cloak to expose the amulet of Charllathan and my weaponry "Having some skill in arms and furtherance to the afflicted.We are yours if you'll have us, as it seems likely both talents may be required in this task you set." as I gesture to the shaft.

(After receiving her reply...)

Quote from: Drohem;419366*snip*
Addressing the two half-orcs, Rissthil asks, "what say you, Runch and Tudd, are you willing to do some construction to before we descend into the deep dark below?"

Drawing close to the edge,peering into the dark pit before answering as I rub my chin distractedly "Yes,yes."I go examine the gear strewn about,nudging the piled rope with my foot and turning the crank a few times before walking over to the large kegs set in the wall...rejoining Riss. and Nim. I gesture to the kegs  "Mayhaps there are some empties about that we could make use of,Ollom willing?" with a slight raising of an eyebrow...

Quote from: skofflox;419397I walk to Angharad. Bowing deeply "M'lady, I am Runch and this is my brother Tudd." I gently pull him to the fore as I glance briefly at the yawning entrance and the piled equipments.

She nods gently towards you as she tries to follow the deliberations going on around you.

Quote from: skofflox;419397Turning back to Angharad,spreading open my cloak to expose the amulet of Charllathan and my weaponry "Having some skill in arms and furtherance to the afflicted.We are yours if you'll have us, as it seems likely both talents may be required in this task you set." as I gesture to the shaft.

She waves as to dismiss any doubt you think she would have about your ability to face the present situation. "Any help is more than welcome."

"Runch, is it? Given I have no way to speak for my uncle and set guarantees of reward for you and your companions beyond what my beliefs tell me to be true, I am more than grateful you decided to stick around and help us in this endeavor."

(How much loose rope is there lying on the floor?)

Quote from: thedungeondelver;419430(How much loose rope is there lying on the floor?)

About one hundred feet. Plus the fifty feet still tied to the machinery.

"My skill with magic will be of no help getting us down the shaft, however my skill with math tells me 100 plus 50 does not equal 500. I think we will need to locate some more rope, quick like"

(how thick is the rope? Im assuming it's not "normal 50' hemp rope", type rope)

Quote from: Lilaxe;419450(how thick is the rope? Im assuming it's not "normal 50' hemp rope", type rope)

DM: This is actually standard hemp rope. There were actually several ropes linked to the pulley, then at different small metal hoops around the well, linked to different areas of the platform (see the map (http://www.therpgsite.com/showpost.php?p=419069&postcount=40), where the small dots around the well indicate the positions of the hoops).

(http://store.colemans.com/cart/images/3355.gif)

Quote from: Lilaxe;419450"My skill with magic will be of no help getting us down the shaft, however my skill with math tells me 100 plus 50 does not equal 500. I think we will need to locate some more rope, quick like"

(how thick is the rope? Im assuming it's not "normal 50' hemp rope", type rope)

"There must be a rope-seller within a short walk."

Othos returns to the main hall.  "Well, how goes the progress?"  Looking around at various persons around the hole, he frowns.

(OOC: what time of day is it?)

"As this rope is standard fair used with pulleys, maybe we have enough between us? If not I can run to the nearest shop to purchase some more.."

Quote from: Lilaxe;419506(OOC: what time of day is it?)

"As this rope is standard fair used with pulleys, maybe we have enough between us? If not I can run to the nearest shop to purchase some more.."

DM: It is well past midnight (around 3:00 AM actually). It is Earthsday, on the 23rd of the month of Blessing.

Angharad nods: "I could help you with that. I know the rope-maker in question, the one who provided these ropes in the first place, and he's not living too far from here. We could wake him up, if need be. Gods, if we need to wake up the whole town, just tell me so, and it shall be done!"

Rissthil shakes his head negatively as he says, "I don't own any rope, unfortunately."

Asking everyone gathered, "does anyone else have some rope?  Let's gather all we have together, and then we can see how much more we'll need for the job."

"Then you can go and ask the ropemaker for whatever else we'll need," the elven sailor says to Angharad, "it would be best if you went to him since you know him, and given the late hour."

Angharad agrees: "That I can do, if some of you come with me. I have a cart and horses in the stables, but not necessarily the arms to carry the supplies you need to it."

"I can come along to help load the wagon"

"Thank you." She smiles at Smeads and then ponders: "So... what is it that we will need? How many feet of rope? Is there anything else we need that we could get at the same time?"

"Assuming pulley systems, and the depth, I would say a couple thousand feet of rope would be needed...were there any plans for this lift drawn up and maybe kept on file?"

Quote from: Lilaxe;419674"Assuming pulley systems, and the depth, I would say a couple thousand feet of rope would be needed...were there any plans for this lift drawn up and maybe kept on file?"

"You mean.. to get the platform that crashed down the well back, somehow? We would need to reach whatever's down there first, and for that, we would need to have something to hold people getting down, a few at a time..."

Quote from: Benoist;419694"You mean.. to get the platform that crashed down the well back, somehow? We would need to reach whatever's down there first, and for that, we would need to have something to hold people getting down, a few at a time..."

"For that, might it be best to lower down two at a time directly on a rope?"

I approach Angharad and wait patiently for her to finish talking with Smeads before speaking "'Scuse me m'lady, mayhaps there be empty kegs about?" as I gesture to the large kegs in the alcoves...

Quote from: Cole;419697"For that, might it be best to lower down two at a time directly on a rope?"

"Might indeed. Depends how long it would take to take down ..." She quickly counts the lot of you, "fourteen of you down the well, two at a time, versus more, but using some type of basket or something that could hold more..."

Quote from: skofflox;419701I approach Angharad and wait patiently for her to finish talking with Smeads before speaking "'Scuse me m'lady, mayhaps there be empty kegs about?" as I gesture to the large kegs in the alcoves...

Her eyes grow round. "I... didn't think of that! Could that be worked out, you think?"

Cadfan the dwarf finally comes back to the main room: "I think that'd be feasible, girl. Emptying one of the kegs would take perhaps an hour. Then we'd have to prep it somehow. Cut it, secure it using some metal bars maybe. I could use the forge for that. Shouldn't take more than 2-3 hours to get that going." He looks at all of you. "What do you lads think?"

Ulas turns toward Nimten and says,

"You're a mathematician, you said? Which effort would prove quicker?"

He pauses in thought, then addresses the group.

"Should we send down scouts on a rope while the keg is being prepared?"

"I wasn't thinking rope for the whole platform, just a simple pulley set up for a bucket. Easier to control and less muscle strain. It will still require at least 2 lengths of the holes depth, so 1000 feet of rope,or 2000 to be absolutely sure and have backup incase anything goes wrong"

"I have a spell available to me today, which calls forth a force which will act as an as an invisible servant. I could go down in the first bucket with a guard, summon my servant and with simple commands have him scout the room and check for an ambush. It can open doors, look in chests and if it finds something or not I can have it make a sign indicating safe or not"

"I'm imagining the servant picking up a rock in one hand if clear, or a rock in each hand if not clear"

(OOC - the spell description is vague as to how the servant can communicate with me)

Quote from: Lilaxe;419794(OOC - the spell description is vague as to how the servant can communicate with me)

DM: The unseen servant doesn't communicate because it cannot: it is a mindless force that performs basic tasks for you. It would not be able to judge whether there is an ambush or not. It just performs tasks like opening a door or carry stuff around with you, and cannot move beyond 30 feet away from you.

Quote from: Benoist;419709Cadfan the dwarf finally comes back to the main room: "I think that'd be feasible, girl. Emptying one of the kegs would take perhaps an hour. Then we'd have to prep it somehow. Cut it, secure it using some metal bars maybe. I could use the forge for that. Shouldn't take more than 2-3 hours to get that going." He looks at all of you. "What do you lads think?"

(at Cadfans mention of "Emptying one of the kegs"...) Resting my hand on Tudds shoulder as we walk towards the kegs "Ahh dear brother, methinks I see that gleem in yer eye! Now, I know you get a powerful thirst, but I don't think he ment empty that way!"

Turning back to Cadfan "Regardless of the way down, we must allso give thought to  back up,with injured or otherwise. Do you not have an empty already about,surely the followers of Ollom give regular attention to their spiritual obligation?"

(overhearing this part of the discussion, Ylarum frowns a bit and examines the underside of the table - is it one central leg or four (or more) outer legs?)

Quote from: thedungeondelver;419826(overhearing this part of the discussion, Ylarum frowns a bit and examines the underside of the table - is it one central leg or four (or more) outer legs?)

DM: The tables are made of planks about half-an-inch thick cut in a round pattern (a table being about 7 feet wide or so on its eating/drinking surface) nailed to a square wooden frame under the table, with four strong feet (about two inches-and-a-half wide at the base nailed to the square, and an inch-and-a-half thick when they reach the floor) nailed at each corner of the square.

"Right, enough of this silliness about draining barrels.  We'll drain one when we get back."

Ylarum flips a vacant table over and sizes it up.  

"Two, back to back, ought to fit.  Need some securing...Dallow, the rope."

Ylarum ties the rope around the legs (picture the ring ropes on a boxing ring, except crossed over in the middle) until he's out of lengths of rope, tying it off firmly (strength 18/85!) to one of the legs.

"Now...back over...pardon me, goodfolk.  Take it out of my pay..."

At this point he seizes another unoccupied table and a saw and makes short work of the legs, setting them aside.  He places that table top on the floor, then places the "basket" he has constructed directly on top, making sure that the planking of the two tables intersects rather than runs parallel (so it forms a # shape with the planks, essentially).  Ylarum then nails the two platforms together, enthusiastically over-engineering the nailing (but not so much as to split the wood), briefly flipping the contraption back on the "basket" table's legs briefly to hammer the protruding nails-tips at angles so they won't easily be pulled out.

"There.  A fine breeches' buoy.  When you get the rope, m'self and Snave will go down first.  Enough room for two and gear, maybe three lightly armed and armored.  Probably take a few hundred pounds.  Sit, hold on to the ropes, and you'll be fine."

Ylarum twangs the rope once and thinks to himself Dammit, I know Liir and Dallow are going to need that cursed thing down there.  I just know it.  Oh well...

(Ben are you getting how I have the rope wrapped around the legs?  It's not forming an "X" across the middle of the table, but rather if you looked side-on at the legs it would appear thusly: |X| )

"Hmm."

Ulas looks over to Ylarum and says,

"It might at least be good for a trip down for one or two while the keg is being emptied."

Quote from: thedungeondelver;419848"There.  A fine breeches' buoy.  When you get the rope, m'self and Snave will go down first.  Enough room for two and gear, maybe three lightly armed and armored.  Probably take a few hundred pounds.  Sit, hold on to the ropes, and you'll be fine."

"Ah! Very good. Now how shall we be lowering this down?"

Quote from: Cole;419852"Ah! Very good. Now how shall we be lowering this down?"

"The rope, when it's gotten tied off here, here, here and here on each leg, comes to a point at the top.  It'll sway a bit but anything would.  If you're worried about the rope slipping on the legs, it comes to me now to cut up one of the other legs into four pieces and hammer it on crosswise on each of the legs, as a cleat.  Yes, I'll do that..."

Ylarum proceeds accordingly.

Quote from: thedungeondelver;419854"The rope, when it's gotten tied off here, here, here and here on each leg, comes to a point at the top.  It'll sway a bit but anything would.  If you're worried about the rope slipping on the legs, it comes to me now to cut up one of the other legs into four pieces and hammer it on crosswise on each of the legs, as a cleat.  Yes, I'll do that..."

Ylarum proceeds accordingly.

"An excellent addition!"

Cadfan looks at Ylarum's craft, and seems impressed. "I'm guessing this could hold for much more than one trip. Maybe you could start getting down once we get more rope, and while you're investigating down there, I'll build a larger platform I'll send down when I'm done, or you'll use when you're back up, whichever comes up first?"

Angharad walks towards the door: "You'll need the ropes. I'm going." (assuming Smeads is going with her here)

"Once we've enough rope, Snave 'n me'll go down together.  Then Liir and Json, after that Tarm and Dallow at the last.  I'd rather have the balance in fighting-men but I want these lads down quick.  Building another bucket for the most of us to come up in, quick like, is a good idea.  The getting down don't bother me much.  It's the getting back up in a hurry as needs be that worries me."

Quote from: thedungeondelver;419858"Once we've enough rope, Snave 'n me'll go down together.  Then Liir and Json, after that Tarm and Dallow at the last.  I'd rather have the balance in fighting-men but I want these lads down quick.  Building another bucket for the most of us to come up in, quick like, is a good idea.  The getting down don't bother me much.  It's the getting back up in a hurry as needs be that worries me."

"If you want your boys down there with you first, I won't argue. I will guess at the danger by how many different screams there are."

Ulas looks down into the well, then continues,

"Not that I would dare to slight a plainsman's valor in the face of death. If I hear five screams, I will trust that you bravely died in silence."

Quote from: Cole;419862"If you want your boys down there with you first, I won't argue. I will guess at the danger by how many different screams there are."

Ulas looks down into the well, then continues,

"Not that I would dare to slight a plainsman's valor in the face of death. If I hear seven screams, I will trust that you bravely died in silence."

"You can insult as well as you can count."

Quote from: thedungeondelver;419864"You can insult as well as you can count."

"I mean not to insult, merely to eulogize."

Ulas scratches his head.

"If I could count, I would likely have more money."

DM: lol

"You will need a scout that can actually think and speak, and who has the ability of seeing in the dark. Also, you all weight too much with all those muscles and armor and weapons. I should go down on the first group, so I can do the reconaissance."

Gareth inspects Ylarum's craft, to check its safety.

(Smeads will go help get the rope)

OOC: I'll ask about a spell before I describe what I can do with it next time. Was hoping to just use it to open some doors or move things to spook out anything that might be waiting.

Othos examines the constructions, scratches his beard and nods with something like admiration.

"Folks, I have no doubt we have the talent and the brains to build an elevator to reach the top of the Spire.  However, time is still our enemy and this contraption looks like it will get us down there once we've enough rope.  Instead of trying to rebuild the platform, perhaps we should consider recruiting our fellows and extra hands to begin fortifying some sort of camp or stronghold at the bottom of the well for us while we carry on.  After all, if we are being chased by a horde of goblins and trolls (and their elf comrade assures us they are down there), it won't matter what sort of luxury elevator we have if we have no time to use it."

Quote from: Lilaxe;419925(Smeads will go help get the rope)

OOC: I'll ask about a spell before I describe what I can do with it next time. Was hoping to just use it to open some doors or move things to spook out anything that might be waiting.

DM: I'm sorry about that (I made sure to double-check before posting). What you were thinking of is more akin to the Aerial Servant (6th level clerical spell). The fact the magical force summoned with an Unseen Servant is mindless is the key here, along with the further limitation that it cannot move more than 30 ft away from you (the radius of the spell, centered on you, though you can move during the duration of the spell, and thus, the servant with you). It's still a very useful spell to open doors and chests when there is a doubt, carry a lantern or loot, whatnot. It performs small tasks that don't require any thinking or cognition on its part, in other words. Don't hesitate to send me a PM whenever you feel like asking a question, want some clarification on my take on this or that spell, or whatnot. Additionally, since the spell doesn't exactly do what you expected it to, I understand if you want to switch it for another spell you find more to your liking. Just let me know via PM before you guys get down the hole. :)

Rissthil just stood back and out of the way when Ylarum started working on the tables, as the elven sailor quickly realizes what he was attempting to do with them.  

"Fine by me," Rissthil answers when Ylarum suggests that he and his men go down first.

Quote from: Drohem;419961Rissthil just stood back and out of the way when Ylarum started working on the tables, as the elven sailor quickly realizes what he was attempting to do with them.  

"Fine by me," Rissthil answers when Ylarum suggests that he and his men go down first.

"But my friend, they will need a sorcerer as much they will need a scout. Both of us should go down on the first run. We don't need lights as badly, so we'll be less conspicuous."

Tudd peers down into the hole, glancing at the kegs with a wistful expression occasionally. "I wanna go down in tha hole, can we go down in tha hole brudder? It looks fun."

Quote from: Cole;419712Ulas turns toward Nimten and says,

"You're a mathematician, you said? Which effort would prove quicker?"

He pauses in thought, then addresses the group.

"Should we send down scouts on a rope while the keg is being prepared?"

"I'd like to see the basket built while we have time. I'd have a hard time climbing back up, and we need the basket for injured people. It will take about the same time either way."

Quote from: Sigmund;420002Tudd peers down into the hole, glancing at the kegs with a wistful expression occasionally. "I wanna go down in tha hole, can we go down in tha hole brudder? It looks fun."

Looking down into the hole next to Tudd "Most assuredly.Fun o'plenty by the looks of this crew."

Walking back to the midst of the others "Gentlemen this talk of a few going down to scout troubles me as all our talents may be called upon forthwith.The single rod is easily broke and all that...and as for this," as I toe the construct "I have my doubts."

Looking to the volunteers "Let us be prudent and rig a safety line to these brave souls." Looking to Angharad as she prepares to go get rope "Mayhaps extra rope may be acquired, m'lady, if it pleases you to do so."   with a slight bow...

Quote from: skofflox;420056Looking to Angharad as she prepares to go get rope "Mayhaps extra rope may be acquired, m'lady, if it pleases you to do so."   with a slight bow...

DM: Angharad actually just left with Smeads to get some more rope. :)

Quote from: skofflox;420056"Gentlemen this talk of a few going down to scout troubles me as all our talents may be called upon forthwith.The single rod is easily broke and all that...and as for this," as I toe the construct "I have my doubts."

Agrees with a grunt and a nod.  "Well, I don't like it much myself.  I'm here to lend my hands and my great girth to keep the rope steady when it arrives though.  But I do agree.  I would prefer we all be down there at once.  Their injured Delbaeth warned that there will be quite a lot of dangers below.  It is some sort of old temple or shrine below.  The initial party seems to have roused a horde of goblins and trolls as well."

Ylarum speaks:

"You can doubt it all you like - I trust it, though.  Any of you formerly waggoners, or coopers?  No?"

Ylarum balances the contraption between two tables, climbs up, and steps in the middle.

(here's hoping the DM don't terminally humiliate me...)

Quote from: thedungeondelver;420190(here's hoping the DM don't terminally humiliate me...)

DM: LOL Nope. It actually can sustain your weight without trouble, it seems. :D

Quote from: thedungeondelver;420190Ylarum speaks:

"You can doubt it all you like - I trust it, though.  Any of you formerly waggoners, or coopers?  No?"

Ylarum balances the contraption between two tables, climbs up, and steps in the middle.

(here's hoping the DM don't terminally humiliate me...)

I stand by his side and look at him smiling. "Time to go down, my friend."

nodding as Othos speaks.

I raise my hands in a supplicating gesture towards Ylarum.
"The horde may very well be roused yet." dropping my hands...  
"I understand the need for action but shall we spend ourselves in un-due haste?."

After waiting for a while, you hear a cart stopping by the inn's kitchen. Angharad and Smeads are back with 2000 feet of rope, which they bring back into the main room (with some of your help, I assume).

You work on the basket, the ropes and machinery, and finally are set to start your descent into the depths of Ptolus.

DM: See OOC thread for you to confirm who's going on what trip.

DM: For those going down, the adventure goes on on that thread. (http://www.therpgsite.com/showthread.php?t=18798)

For the various trips down and who goes when, see the OOC Thread.

"Seems to me that we should look to all possibilities that may arise." Indicating Otho and myself "If we are to go down piece-meal perhaps one with healing skills should be amongst the first? Let us hear out master dwarf as he spoke with the elf who has been down and back before making a plan in haste,we may need to adjust what we take down!?"

"My concern was having a light to see by, carried by someone unencumbered enough to run and keep up with me if need be.  As to these fellows," here Ylarum gestures at his bearers and men-at-arms, "my chief concern is having men immediately on hand with spare equipment, and a vanguard for protection.  This pit is a furlong or so deep, and swift hands on yon windlass will at best put us all down there in an hour, perhaps.  Regardless, I'm going down first trip, whomever else comes must bring a light."

Ylarum begins to tie rope lengths to each of the four leg-posts.

"Liir, Dallow, Snave, Json, Tarm...you'll come down in later waves."  

(DM: is there simple tin candle-holder maybe on the wall?  one with a shield or globe?)

Rissthil helps other pull the make-shift basket up from the depths of the hole.  Once it's back on top, he gets into the basket with Runch.  

As the basket is begins to be lowered he quips to the others, "don't worry, Runch and I will save some leftovers for you."

==============================================

OOC: the d100 roll = 25 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2782714/).

Quote from: skofflox;420473"Seems to me that we should look to all possibilities that may arise." Indicating Otho and myself "If we are to go down piece-meal perhaps one with healing skills should be amongst the first? Let us hear out master dwarf as he spoke with the elf who has been down and back before making a plan in haste,we may need to adjust what we take down!?"

Othos calls down the hole after Runch: "Goblins and trolls!  They may possess some explosives!  Beware any unusual doorways until we are all gathered. We will speak more after the descent!"

Quote from: winkingbishop;420731Othos calls down the hole after Runch: "Goblins and trolls!  They may possess some explosives!  Beware any unusual doorways until we are all gathered. We will speak more after the descent!"

Quote from: Benoist;420729Trip 3: Ulas Xegg and Othos.

"Well, Othos, once again it seems you and I together are to go to hell in a hand basket."

Othos grins: "Well, look at that Ulas.  Thick as thieves, you and I.  It is a good thing indeed that times have been so lean on the road.  I think I've lost a few stone since I last left home.  Mayhaps I should visit the privy and shed yet another to guarantee our safe journey?"

Quote from: winkingbishop;420743Othos grins: "Well, look at that Ulas.  Thick as thieves, you and I.  It is a good thing indeed that times have been so lean on the road.  I think I've lost a few stone since I last left home.  Mayhaps I should visit the privy and shed yet another to guarantee our safe journey?"

"Seven devils, dwarf! Do you want to ensure my retching in the basket?"

Quote from: Cole;420746"Seven devils, dwarf! Do you want to ensure my retching in the basket?"

"Not at all.  But we could all use a good laugh before facing almost certain death," Othos says as he watches the basket descend with the previous party.  He looks up with a wink and a smile.

Quote from: Drohem;420575Rissthil helps other pull the make-shift basket up from the depths of the hole.  Once it's back on top, he gets into the basket with Runch.  

As the basket is begins to be lowered he quips to the others, "don't worry, Runch and I will save some leftovers for you."
Before continuing I look about for a pole that is near as wide as the hole as I can handle. I will cut something down if need be. I will use this to keep the basket from developing  a sway...
Throwing said pole (if I found one!) onto the basket first I climb carefuly into the basket "Thank you Rissthil." After I set my feet wide I extend my hand to help him enter the basket then crouching low,holding the pole between the ropes. I chuckle at Rissthil's quip as I get the balance of the contraption.

==============================================

OOC: the d100 roll = 25 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2782714/).

Quote from: winkingbishop;420731Othos calls down the hole after Runch: "Goblins and trolls!  They may possess some explosives!  Beware any unusual doorways until we are all gathered. We will speak more after the descent!"

Looking to Rissthil after Othos's comment "Trolls,well that buggers all!"

Quote from: Cole;420733"Well, Othos, once again it seems you and I together are to go to hell in a hand basket."

:rotfl:

Rissthil, Runch: is any of you guys carrying a light source?

Quote from: Benoist;420819Rissthil, Runch: is any of you guys carrying a light source?

no...60' infravision I think?

DM: As the Elf (Rissthil), sure. Remember standing near light sources do spoil your Infravision, however.

Quote from: Benoist;420826As the Elf, sure.

isn't infrav. mucked up by other heat generating light sources? (damn lantern)
:mad::p

DM: Precisely why I am asking. :D

Quote from: Benoist;420828DM: Precisely why I am asking. :D

:hmm:
bodes ill...;)

Quote from: Benoist;420819Rissthil, Runch: is any of you guys carrying a light source?

No, Rissthil isn't carrying any active light source.  He has a couple of torches in his backpack, but he doesn't have one in hand or currently lighted.

Quote from: skofflox;420829:hmm:
bodes ill...;)

*shrug*
I don't see the big deal, really.  Once they're lowered about 30'-50' down the 500' shaft, then Rissthil will be able to use his infravision on the way down since he'll be out of the ambit light from the The Gold Ladder.  Once we reach the bottom, we'll be near the lantern and able to see within its light source.

Quote from: Drohem;420837*shrug*
I don't see the big deal, really.  Once they're lowered about 30'-50' down the 500' shaft, then Rissthil will be able to use his infravision on the way down since he'll be out of the ambit light from the The Gold Ladder.  Once we reach the bottom, we'll be near the lantern and able to see within its light source.

Roger that! Runch has 60' infrav. as well.
I was just ribbing Ben.!
'scuse my frivolity...:o
:)

Quote from: skofflox;420797Looking to Rissthil after Othos's comment "Trolls,well that buggers all!"

A serious look crosses Rissthil's face as he looks at Runch and says, "indeed, trolls are nothing to sneeze at.  Perhaps we should light a torch once we reach the bottom."

Tudd sits on the edge of the hole with his feet dangling over, looking forlorn as he awaits his turn to descend.

Rissthil and Runch are going down the well at this point. Apart from a few bumps as the basket progresses, everything goes well for them (http://www.therpgsite.com/showthread.php?p=420891#post420891).
___

Cadfan comes closer to the well. He asks to those of you still up in the main room: "I shall work on that replacement platform with the kegs. Is there anything else you'd need us to do while you are away? Maybe preparing supplies? Something else?"

Quote from: Drohem;420848A serious look crosses Rissthil's face as he looks at Runch and says, "indeed, trolls are nothing to sneeze at.  Perhaps we should light a torch once we reach the bottom."

Grumbling about seat of the pants expedition I reply..."Torches are good,having a bit o' oil would be best. How'z yer supply of flamibles?"
as I handle my sword hilt and peer into the gloom below.

Quote from: skofflox;420932Grumbling about seat of the pants expedition I reply..."Torches are good,having a bit o' oil would be best. How'z yer supply of flamibles?"
as I handle my sword hilt and peer into the gloom below.

Dude, go to the Underground thread (http://www.therpgsite.com/showpost.php?p=420891&postcount=12), now. You've arrived. :)

Othos stares down the pit impatiently as he waits for the basket to arrive.

"Ulas, do you have plenty of fuel for your fires?  Anything else we should scramble for before we depart?"

Quote from: winkingbishop;421020Othos stares down the pit impatiently as he waits for the basket to arrive.

"Ulas, do you have plenty of fuel for your fires?  Anything else we should scramble for before we depart?"

Basket arrives.

With some difficulty, Othos heaves his girth into the contraption and waits for his companion.

Assuming Ulas follows, you are now going down. Nothing particular happens during your descent (Ulas rolled d% and got a 45 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2782729/)). Arrival pending.

Quote from: winkingbishop;421020Othos stares down the pit impatiently as he waits for the basket to arrive.

"Ulas, do you have plenty of fuel for your fires?  Anything else we should scramble for before we depart?"

"I've got an empty wallet. That counts, right?"

Ulas pulls on his hood and climbs into the buoy when it arrives.

Ulas and Othos, you're up. See the Underground thread (http://www.therpgsite.com/showpost.php?p=421097&postcount=33) (you're both in the basket coming down from the ceiling!).

Tudd smiles as he spots the beetle he was peering at a few minutes earlier crawling along the edge of the pit. Poking at it with his finger, he grins, then frowns as the creature clings to his index finger. He moves his hand over to his shield and allows the beetle to climb on to it's edge. He then begings humming a hymm from the Charlathanite church Runch taught him as he watches the rope attached to the basket descend.

The rope actually stopped its movement. Tudd hears a shout coming from down below, and a loud, guttural growl. He sees some light. Something's happening!

"Tudd, it is only 150, I bet you could go down a rope hand over hand and get down there in no time."

Nimten starts looking around for a way he can get down their in a hurry.

OOC - Are their rafters I could throw a length of rope over, then tie myself to one end and get three or four people to hold the other and lower me down? With my pack I weight less than 100 pounds.

Quote from: Cranewings;421373"Tudd, it is only 150, I bet you could go down a rope hand over hand and get down there in no time."

Nimten starts looking around for a way he can get down their in a hurry.

OOC - Are their rafters I could throw a length of rope over, then tie myself to one end and get three or four people to hold the other and lower me down? With my pack I weight less than 100 pounds.

Tudd is one strong fellow. He could climb down by the force of his arms, using the shaft with his feet and grasp to lower himself down faster (basically letting himself fall down, breaking periodically with his hands on the rope and feet on the walls of the shaft)?

There are metal hoops all around the hole. Cadfan could lower you down, Nimten.

"Cadfan, if you don't mind," Nimten hands him a length of rope while making a quick harness for his shoulders with the other end, "if I go limp, be a good fellow and pull me back up?"

Soon as we can, I'm going to start down. I imagine Tudd will be ahead of me sense he doesn't need to tie a harness on.

OK. Cadfan understands the danger of the situation. At first, Ylarum's henchmen want to help, but he stops them before they do so. He reaches for a potion he's got with him at all times (!), and drinks it. He then helps Nimten and the others prep the rope and starts to lower the Magic user down ASAP.

As he is being lowered, Nimten thinks about how nice it will be if the enemies in this pit are susceptible to his Sleep spell, and how much it is going to hurt if he has to take a go at it with his staff.

Leaping to his feet, Tudd runs over to the rope used to lower the basket and, slinging his shield and morningstar over his shoulders with leather straps, grabs the rope in his gloved hands and starts sliding down the rope. Using his feet as well, Tudd slows only to keep from actually causing himself damage, yelling, "I'M COMIN' BRUDDER! ME AND THE BUG'R COMIN'!"

Quote from: Sigmund;421410Leaping to his feet, Tudd runs over to the rope used to lower the basket and, slinging his shield and morningstar over his shoulders with leather straps, grabs the rope in his gloved hands and starts sliding down the rope. Using his feet as well, Tudd slows only to keep from actually causing himself damage, yelling, "I'M COMIN' BRUDDER! ME AND THE BUG'R COMIN'!"

[OOC: Awesome! Reinforcements! :D]

Nimten and Tudd, both roll 1d100 each!

Cadfan rolls 1d100, lowering Nimten down the well: 52. (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2785293/)

Cute: 1d100=52 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2785705/)

LOL

The ride is pretty rough. Cadfan is basically using the sole strength of his arms pumped with whatever magic juice he ingested to lower you down the hole. He lets you basically fall for a while, and suddenly catches the rope, and on. And on. But you manage it pretty well! It's like you and Cadfan are in perfect synchronicity or something.

;)

Awesome. Readying a knife to cut loose.

Quote from: Benoist;421459Nimten and Tudd, both roll 1d100 each!

Cadfan rolls 1d100, lowering Nimten down the well: 52. (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2785293/)

Die roll for Tudd

Rolled on: 2010-12-01 03:41:39.702088
1d100 → [93] = (93)
 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2786219/)

Ooooooh! :D

You are going down the well MUCH faster than Nimten. You hit your head at some point, lose your grip and fall down the well like a cannon ball! Roll me another d100, Tudd!

Quote from: Benoist;421725Ooooooh! :D

You are going down the well MUCH faster than Nimten. You hit your head at some point, lose your grip and fall down the well like a canon ball! Roll me another d100, Tudd!

[OOC: This is going to hurt.]

I think so. He's a big fellow though! We'll see!

Quote from: Benoist;421725Ooooooh! :D

You are going down the well MUCH faster than Nimten. You hit your head at some point, lose your grip and fall down the well like a cannon ball! Roll me another d100, Tudd!

Die roll for Tudd

Rolled on: 2010-12-01 09:02:21.880603
1d100 → [28] = (28) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2786412/)

Smeads is laying down looking down the well, waiting for his turn to go down...

Hey! Awesome! :D

Ylarum's henchmen take care of you, Smeads. They take a second set of ropes and start lowering you down the well after Tudd and Nimten. They are using a somewhat similar technique to Cadfan's (that is, they basically let you fall for a while then tighten their grips on the rope, then again, again, as fast as they can), but as a team effort, not an individual effort.

Roll 1d100, Smeads!

Quote from: Sigmund;421747Die roll for Tudd

Rolled on: 2010-12-01 09:02:21.880603
1d100 → [28] = (28) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2786412/)

You fall SO Fast and try to get back a grip on the ropes several times, failing at it just as many times. It seems like an eternity. You finally try again, and succeed. You squeeze the rope with all you got. The sudden break almost dislocates both your shoulders. You take 7 points of damage (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2786418/), fall for the rest of the (short) way and land on something soft...

Quote from: Benoist;421754You take 7 points of damage (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2786418/), fall for the rest of the (short) way and land on something soft...

[OOC: Ouch. Hope he fell on top of one of those fuckers. Not the big one in flames.]

Quote from: Benoist;421754You fall SO Fast and try to get back a grip on the ropes several times, failing at it just as many times. It seems like an eternity. You finally try again, and succeed. You squeeze the rope with all you got. The sudden break almost dislocates both your shoulders. You take 7 points of damage (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2786418/), fall for the rest of the (short) way and land on something soft...

"Ugh... RAAAAAA....... OWWW!" Tudd roars as he slips down the rope and lands heavily, then checks to see if the beetle is still on his shield.

Quote from: Imperator;421767[OOC: Ouch. Hope he fell on top of one of those fuckers. Not the big one in flames.]

OOC: Am I ever so glad I specified I was avoiding that part of the dais in my last declaration phase...Sorry about your luck bro

1d100 → [80] = (80)

    http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2786483/

Thinks to myself: I hang on tightly and hope these hirelings know their tip afterwards depends on how gently I land....