IC. The Spiral in the Night 3.5

[Sandviper]

You have travelled for many days, leaving the Realm of the Dales behind and entering into the wilder area of the Borderlands. Farms and towns have become less frequent and travellers few. The road has climbed higher as you enter the forested and mountainous country, it seems that you are traveling through the mountain it self, You now move up a narrow, rocky track.
A wall of natural stone is on your left, the path falling away to a steep cliff on the right. in the distance the only thing you see its tundra, there is a small widening ahead, where you finally seem to find the end of this path, now the night it's at it best a chill wind crawls trough your spines as the lonely road its traversed only buy the 5 of you.
after a couple of hours finally you seem to be approaching your destination, and its definitely not the town you expected The black and golden cloaks that cover the men-at-arms who guard the entrance shout at you to give your names and state your business. behind them, a great fortress with an only spiral tower standing and many other just shattered around, you can count up to 15 on them. the manssonry its charcoil black, as if it were burned All along the top of the wall you see curious faces peering down at you some of them eager to welcome new champions, but ready with crossbow and pole arm to give another sort of welcome to enemies.

Welcome to the Spiral fortress the last outpost in the north.

[Animidest]

Ansraelus shuffles nervously. "A-Ansraelus, sir, of...of Ilsevel. We, er...The objective of our current enterprise..." He trails off, giving pleading looks at the more glib members of the party.

[Techmagss]

A winged, armoured Paladin hovers a few feet above the group, his presence dominating, though it is clear he is not the leader. He speaks in a clear, open voice, without panic or delay, though there is a hint of anger, arrogance and almost resentment towards the very-human guards.
I am Sianne. I am an Aasimar Paladin of Pelor. Stand down.

[Man on Fire]

Right after the winged warrior finish talking, a girl in eye-catching outfit stepts in and waves to the guards, smiling friendly. Her green skin and facial features betray she is an Orc, but for her species she looks suprisingly unthreatening, small and even, in human standards, attractive. If her careless approaching of the guards didn't ruin majestic effect Sianne tried to accomplish, her words surerly did.
"Hiiii! I'm Slan, I play on violin, sing and tell stories. And I'm much prettier than the guy who had a celestial in a family." She points dismingisingly at paladin behind her as she speaks. "Anyway, we heard you guys have trouble so we came to help."

[Techmagss]

The Aasimar's hand twitches when the Orc came in with her ridiculous outburst, whether in disgust that this lesser being ruined his persuasion or anger that he is allowing her to go through with it. He continues flapping up and down, staring at 'Slan' with silent judgement- he had not bothered to learn this damn thing's name til' now, and it'd be burned into his memory forever. All her fault, most likely.
Ruin what I had going, why don't you just smack your head against the gate, for Pelor's sake...

[Sandviper]

One of the guards steps forward as the winged creature finish speaking, a majestic halberd in one hand... he was just about to speak back to the paladin but instead looked at the orcish girl... Well, you must be their leader i assume. quickly he takes a look at the reaction on the "celestial"... and continues Sure you are, look how you put him on his place. everyone arounds starts laughing ok so... you must be the ones answering our call, welcome to the black blizzard fort. Capt. Azel has been expecting you... go to the spiral, he'll fill you in.

[Haluesen]

Draven held his cloak around him as the otehrs spoke, not really seeing any moment to interject. Unlike the paladin he did not have his wings showing right now; he'd prefer to keep from looking too overtly supernatural. He looked to the others as the guards finished, the only things showing under his hood being his gleaming eyes. "Well then, I suppose that is that." He muttered nonchalantly.

[Techmagss]

Grrh... Sianne's wings continue flapping up and down, slightly more aggressively. He begins to follow the party, drawing his greatsword out of it's scabbard only slightly. The drudgery of the Church's assignments!

[Animidest]

Ansraelus lets out a breath he was unconsciously holding, and visibly relaxes as the attention of the group and guards falls elsewhere. He follows the rest, staying close to the group, particularly Slan. Worried that the guards suspect him of lying due to his stutter, he gives what he thinks to a be a reassuring smile to the "majestic halberdier" as he passes.

[Man on Fire]

"Why thank you. You're very nice." Slan Smiles to the guard with majestic hallberd. "Lets go, guys. Your leader commands you!" Shetells to her commrades in overly dramatic way to show she doesn't seriously mean it. She wouldn't really like a leader job, too much hassle and bossing people around.
As they walk, she speaks to Sianne. "Cheer up. You're much more cute when you aren't frowning. Which, I have to admit, isn't very often." She pauses for a moment. "You aren't mad I said I'm prettier than you, right? Don't let that eat you. I mean, yeah, I'm straight nine out of ten but you're still soild eight and three quaters." She smiles happily and friendly, betraying she means no harm with these words.

[Techmagss]

Oh, yes, I'm very jealous of your rather feminine outfit and lack of wings. The Paladin goes onto say: Why do you have such revealing armour, anyway? It's rather impractical and rather silly. No one likes things like that in my church, anyway. Doubt that guard's part of my church, can see one advantage in things like that. He chuckles to himself. Clearly, he was the superior being in this situation, and must act like it. In any case, I ask you all if you beings would not mind me handling the negotiations? I am... Let's say, 'respectable'. You are all very powerful- the paladin grins at this point- But I am more noble and trustworthy. Someone akin to myself cannot break their word to someone once they've made it.
Breaking into a full-on smile-one the group would not have seen for a long while- his eyes widen. He scans the area.

Casting Detect Evil and analysing the area, checking the alignments of everyone except the party.

[mote]

The nighttime shadows coalesce around Sirix's tiny form and he fades into view after the party passes the guards. He grins at Draven, "I prefer to announce my presence on my own terms. Comes with our line of work, right Drav old buddy?"

In shadowy illumination Sirix can gain concealment as a free action. I can roll a hide check if necessary, Sand - I just figured I'd throw in some flavor since I'm posting late.

[Haluesen]

Draven smirked and pulled off his hood after the guards were passed. Since his only real unnatural trait was his eyes, he felt safe being able to walk around causally here without suspicion. "Indeed partner. The less we are seen or known, the better we are at what we do. Even when what we do changes somewhat." He looked to Sianne and chuckled a bit. "Though to fly is truly very enjoyable...I may join out holy ally in the skies later."

In response to what the paladin had said, Draven nodded in agreement. "I can mostly agree with such a course of action. You certainly won't see me trying to sway the populace." He chuckled a bit again at his light joking.

[Animidest]

"Ah, yes. I can corroborate," Ansraelus says to the warlock, glad to have something to add to the conversation. "To repudiate gravity and touch the sky is verily one of this world's delectations, though I have no experience with wings...It appears to me to be rather enervating."
Turning to address the man flying above, he adds, "I have no qualms with leaving negotiation to you, Holy Warrior. It takes no great perspicacity to discern my lack of talent in that area."

[mote]

"Negotiate away, O Respectable One," Sirix says wryly. "Just make sure you negotiate a respectable sum."

[Sandviper]

You cast detect evil, and no one here irradiates evilness.

How much concealment does he sirix gets?

the fortress inside its, much bigger than it appears on the outside, you can see its very well organized, and most of the people inside are soldiers, or at least wear the golden and black uniform. they let you walk freely, and from time to time, some one greets you in the way. As you keep walking, towards the spiral, you realize its bigger and bigger and odd looking, not quite sure why.... standing at the botton there are 7 soldiers in black and golden, and one female in a pure black suit of armor with a golden helmet.

The female voice, speaks out loud It´s good to see that you have finally arrive, now let´s not waste any more time and get this over with. Come on in, step in to my office. the female and 5 Soldiers step into the spiral tower, there is a magical circle in the ground, she steps on in and dissapears. 3 of the guards follow her, and the other two await right next to it. The captain it´s waiting... please step in to the circle, it will take you to her office at the top.

[Techmagss]

Very well.
The group Paladin flutters over to the circle and lands, his plate armour making a heavy *clunk* sound. Despite this, he seems unencumbered, nodding to the rest of the party as he prepares for a trap or to be teleported.
Come on, move it. We need to get this done. Come on, now.

[Haluesen]

Draven sighs a bit at the 'hurry along' attitude the soldier and Sianne seem to have, preferring to take his time with something fairly important. "I suppose we go then. Prepare for a bumpy ride, at least." He grins as he jokes, and steps into the circle.

[Animidest]

Emitting a brief whiff of a familiar but unrecognizable smell and concentrating for a moment, Ansraelus manifests Detect Hostile Intent (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/psionic/powers/detectHostileIntent.htm), and, after another moment's deliberation, steps into the circle.

When a psionic power is manifested, there is some sort of display, which can be auditory, visual, olfactory, material, or mental.

[Man on Fire]

"I'm getting this a lot from other Orcs, you know? Like, there was this berserker and she was big and scary and wore black armor and it was really getting on her nerves so I had hard time working with her. You two would get along, he was all serious too." Slan laughs when their Paladin points out their outfit. "The thing is, I'm not really a fighter. And this isn't an armor. I know little magic, can talk my way out of trouble and do few other tricks so I'm always good help to the guys who do punchy stuff, but I wouldn't hit a house with a cannon." She shrugs. "I'll leave fighting to you, our brave hero, and then sing songs about your glorious victory. Or an elegy if you fall. But they're sad so don't do that, okay? It would be mean to make cute girl like me sad, I'm sure your god wouldn't approve of it."
When it's time to step into the circle, Slan does it without hesitation. She is many things, but suspicious is not one of them.

[Techmagss]

Rright, you do that. You've been singing all the way here anyway, I think I'm getting only slightly used to it. Slightly. The Aasimar's smile breaks down into a calm expression.

Knowledge (Religion) and Knowledge (Nobility) checks.
[roll0] Religion
[roll1] Nobility
Both are to determine who rules this place and what religion they are.

[mote]

"Suppose they wouldn't have us trek all the way here just to kill us with a circle," Sirix says, shrugging. He follows the others into the circle.

[Sandviper]

Rright, you do that. You've been singing all the way here anyway, I think I'm getting only slightly used to it. Slightly. The Aasimar's smile breaks down into a calm expression.

Knowledge (Religion) and Knowledge (Nobility) checks.
[roll0] Religion
[roll1] Nobility
Both are to determine who rules this place and what religion they are.


There's no record in your memory of any religious organizations, neither you see any holy symbols, or family crest's. right now you can't tell.

when every one is in the circle, it just takes but a second and suddenly, with a bright golden shine and some weird buzzing you find your selves in a circular room, illuminated by 20 torches circling around the room, its about 60 ft across, you can see 8 arrow slits. its not heavily decorated, mostly you see black and golden standards, some chairs by the arrow slits, and one only paint of a duel between two knights, one it's a one handed male, fighting with a mace, in a silver armor with a white cloak and the other one it's on a black suit of armor and a golden cloak, fighting with a two handed bastard sword, in the middle of the room you can se a round table with 8 seats. Each occupied by a knight, including the female with the golden helmet.

The female stands up, followed by everyone else and addresses to you Thank you for answering to our call, right now you must be wondering who we might be, and why you haven't heard from us, We are an ancient organization lost over time, most wouldn't even remember us, such is the case of the current realm.. but that's not important.

We are the Everwatch knights, sons of Helm, the vigilant one, he of the unsleeping eyes. As such, it's our duty to keep the balance within this world, we can't favor no sides, nor good, nor evil, but we must ensure, that the equilibrium it's not broken by unfair powers. Hard at it sounds, it get's worst, we can't directly intervine, unless a full blown out disbalance have been created, so we need "pawns"... in this case you.

[Techmagss]

The paladin takes his position above the ground once more upon reaching the room.
Ahem.
I am Sianne, Paladin of Pelor and a Knight myself-only of a different order, of course. If I may ask, why take us all away, around one hundred miles to make us pawns? Were you unable to simply recruit from the local villages?
What you have said is drastically different from what the Church assigned me to. I am aware I am on probation and must remain in an obedient position, yet I am morbidly curious as to why they would 'loan out' one of their best Paladins to a church of another God?
Sianne speaks in a rather majestic yet not too loud tone as he looks down on the mere mortals, silently judging them.

[roll0] Diplomacy, to act diplomatic and represent the party in a good light.
[roll1] Sense motive, see what they're up to.

[Haluesen]

Draven stands and listens to the knight's speech, arms crossed over his chest as he makes a hum of thought. Though he does smirk a bit at Sianne's mention of 'best paladins', amused at his very high view of himself; no doubt the noble man likely deserved it either way. But aside from these little things, he just waited and listened to the people who were better with words.

[Animidest]

Ansraelus, though visibly irked at the paladin's self-centered speech, decides to remain silent, shifting from foot to foot. He knows that he would be of no help in this situation, besides monitoring the guards and golden-helmeted female telepathically.

I take it no one (within 30 feet) has "hostile intent"? If anyone does, I'll be the first to know. I also can't be caught flat-footed for the next 100 minutes. Just in case negotiations go south. Very south.

[mote]

Sirix leans casually against the wall, letting the paladin do the talking. He makes no apparent signs of casting a spell, but his eyes take on a faint blue glow as he examines the room for any ongoing spells.

Casting Arcane Sight w/ Silent Spell
My Conceal Spellcasting trick hides the somatic component with a Sleight of Hand check (vs the Spot of anyone paying attention)
Sleight of Hand: [roll0]

Just want to make sure no spells are being cast on us

[Man on Fire]

Slan, for once in her life, decides to stay quiet and just observe the situation. Not that she doesn't have a lot to say, she would love to chat with these mysterious figures all day and night. But she wants to see how Sianne will handle things. If he mess up she might always step in, it won't be different from how she often handled negotiations with some dumb big Orc warlrod insisting he'll do it. And who knows, maybe this guy actually can do better than the average Orc?

[Sandviper]

The paladin takes his position above the ground once more upon reaching the room.
Ahem.
I am Sianne, Paladin of Pelor and a Knight myself-only of a different order, of course. If I may ask, why take us all away, around one hundred miles to make us pawns? Were you unable to simply recruit from the local villages?
What you have said is drastically different from what the Church assigned me to. I am aware I am on probation and must remain in an obedient position, yet I am morbidly curious as to why they would 'loan out' one of their best Paladins to a church of another God?
Sianne speaks in a rather majestic yet not too loud tone as he looks down on the mere mortals, silently judging them.

[roll0] Diplomacy, to act diplomatic and represent the party in a good light.
[roll1] Sense motive, see what they're up to.


As you reach the room, and step out of the magical circle, your spread your wings and try to hover obove the ground once more, but its highly uncomfortable, the ceiling its a coal shape... reaching 25ft at the center above the circular table. and only 10ft right by the borders. as you try to catch fly you kind of look clumsy doing so, like a bird trapped in a small box. You quickly return to the ground as you have no room to fly around.
Sianne, did you notice any villages, to our surroundings?... One of the Knights sitting at the table said...This is the last outpost, in the north, so there is no other trace of civilization near by.... just us.
Thank your Sir Luken, the female with the golden helm interrupts the knight. and continues The reasons why your order, sent you Sir... are beyond my knowledge, and truly it's non of my business what internal conflicts of opinion, as for if you are indeed one of "the best paladins" your order has to offer, being in probation though... it's not a good presentation statement, for one of the "best".
But... pay close attention to the opportunity that i present here... and you may prove your worth, not only to your order, but to your self also. This might be the most difficult task that you have faced yet...


Ansraelus, though visibly irked at the paladin's self-centered speech, decides to remain silent, shifting from foot to foot. He knows that he would be of no help in this situation, besides monitoring the guards and golden-helmeted female telepathically.

I take it no one (within 30 feet) has "hostile intent"? If anyone does, I'll be the first to know. I also can't be caught flat-footed for the next 100 minutes. Just in case negotiations go south. Very south.

You don't detect any hostile intents...


Sirix leans casually against the wall, letting the paladin do the talking. He makes no apparent signs of casting a spell, but his eyes take on a faint blue glow as he examines the room for any ongoing spells.

Casting Arcane Sight w/ Silent Spell
My Conceal Spellcasting trick hides the somatic component with a Sleight of Hand check (vs the Spot of anyone paying attention)
Sleight of Hand: [roll0]

Just want to make sure no spells are being cast on us.

you successfully, conceal your casting ... and see yourself surrounded by magical auras, all around he room. on the walls, floor, the magic circle, every one of your comrades, every single one of the guards, and knights in the tables.

[Techmagss]

The paladin seems rather insecure now that he is not flying, yet his massive wings unfurl anyway, most likely for persuasion purposes.
No need to add effect. Simply point us in the direction you need us to go. Preferably not straight home. I believe the entire group is listening to your offer.
He seems quite in a rush to get back into the air, but he continues simply staring down in judgement of the nonbelievers. His face is the essence of boredom, fury and resentment.

Diplomacy, to try and keep them convinced and lead them on a trail that they think they're gonna win us over. In other words, manipulating.
[roll0]

[Sandviper]

You can see, some relief on some of the guards, as you are finally on the ground, the knights on the table sit quiet and the Golden Helm lady speaks up once again Very well then.. straight to the point. Beyond this point.. you'll enter what its called The defilenothing lives beyond this point, no animals, no people, no tribes... about a a forth night ago, a massive black dragon came through this zone, surprisingly for us... didn't even bother to look at us, or attack us... it was headed north, we lost him from sight after, he entered the mountains to the north.. it was something rather... uncommon.

There is an old road less a road, and more a dry, sandy river bed.. its ancient course cuts through the hillsides, creating steep canyon cliffs on both sides, space vegetation and thorny bushes top the highlands, you could even stumble upon some menhirs on the way... but except for occasional vegetation, the entire area... its devoid of life.
Almost 60 miles following up this trail, there is an ancient tower, left abandoned hundreds of years ago, some kind of Dragon revering cult and a mad wizard with money, that's where we suppose the lair of this dragon is... but beware, cause you'll probably won't end up fighting just a dragon... there's something evil, our oracles have spoken, a curse of ancient evil and dark power haunts this place.

So what we ask from you, its to investigate this place, and hopefully success on defeating it.

she pauses for a moment, and awaits for an answer.

[Haluesen]

Draven nods with her words then decides to speak up for once. "Ancient evil and dark power you say? That's more than somewhat vague. Still, it's a chance to rid the world of some danger, and hopefully get something in the way of reward from this beyond just gratitude. Mysterious evils always have things of worth. So regardless of what the others here say, I'm certainly interested to aid your people here." He wore an eager grin as he thought of the possible challenge and excitement that lie ahead.

[mote]

Sirix nods at Draven. "Agreed. I trust we can help ourselves to whatever items we find in the tower?"

While speaking, he casts a nonchalant glance at Sianne and sends him a telepathic message: "This whole place is brimming with strong magic, my friend. Try not to get too...uh, paladiny on them."

[Animidest]

"Sounds fascinating," says Ansraelus, almost to himself. "An abandoned edifice, a dragon's horde, an enigmatic, unspecified evil...This has all of the facets of a quintessential adventure."

[Man on Fire]

"If entire area is devoid of life, I'd like some rations, you know? It would be stupid to walk so long without any food." Slan points out. "Oh, and we're taking whatever we found in the tower, yes. Because you guys were so secretive, I don't like it and it was very mean of you." She adds, making a face of wronged child. "By the way, any chances for a dinner or something before we head out? I know it's urgent but I refuse to fight a dragon and ancient evil on an empty stomach. No, seriously, I knew few Orcs who got killed because they went hungry to battle."

[Techmagss]

The Orc is right. You all may not be able to survive without food. I trust you will be supplying us with... Well, supplies? Practical equipment and food, such as camping gear, would be perfect. The Aasimar nods, clearly right.

[Sandviper]

The girl with the golden helmet nods...Very well then, I'm assuming that you are in for the challenge. after hearing your requests, and with out much thought That's the least we could do, of course you'll have rations and basic equipment for camping, does 5 days per person, sounds enough? The woman closes her eyes for a second... and says, The sun it's almost up.. opening her eyes, she continues, You better hurry and get your things ready, if you want to get there with some daylight left.



Each one gets 5 day of trail rations (good), plus a backpack with 50ft of rope, one 10ft long pole, a sleeping bag, 3 torches.
Besides, they give you 5 potions (total), x1 lesser restoration, x1 invisibility, x2 Cure Moderate Wounds, x1 Resist Energy (acid), one for each one of you. your Pick.

[Animidest]

Ansraelus goes to pick up his supplies. He inspects the contents of the backpack, and then dumps it into his own Handy Haversack, but he leaves behind the 10-foot pole and bedroll, as well as the backpack itself.

"Another can take the pole and roll if they so desire. I require them not," he says to the group.

Turning to Miss Golden Helmet, he adds, "Are we...expected to subsist on only potions with regard to liquid nourishment? Er, that is, I mean to impart that we...Well, I assume that there is no potable water in the Defile..."

"On the matter of potions, I'll take this one," he says to the party, picking up a potion of CMW, "as I can ameliorate the wounds of others, yet not my own."

[mote]

Sirix takes the pole, rope, and rations, as well as a potion of Restoration. "That should do for me. I prefer to travel at night, truth be told, but I know I'm in the minority there."

[Techmagss]

Sianne nods, looking through the pack. He seems almost insulted by the invisibility potion- a noble being such as himself should only accept open combat! He offers it to Slan, before taking the rest of the gear. He barely seems winded.
Sing songs while you're in this petty invisibility. It'll drive them insane.
Speaking of insane, what are we going after first? The cultists or the dragon? Either way, I'm fine. Going to guess cultists, since we've been talking about the tower. We need to, also, start working on plans. You, psion, you said you can heal. Keep me alive, and I'll keep you all safe. Sound like a plan, mm? Just keep me in the front. The Aasimar nods, almost patronisingly.

[Animidest]

"My name is Ansraelus," grumbles the cerebremancer. "Furthermore, I shall endeavor to keep all of you alive, including yourself, flying palaver—er, paladin. As for a legitimate battle plan, Sirix and I shall inhibit our opponents with magic and psionics, while you lacerate them with that large sword of yours, Draven blasts them with eldritch rays, and Slan...provides musical accompaniment? Or perhaps she is a bard of the terpsichorian variety..."

[Sandviper]

The golden helm lady Sits down for the first time in the round table since you guys arrived Great honor shall this quest bring to your names and souls, brave warriors you are indeed. You diserve nothing but the out most respect, just by taking this chance to aid the people of this realm, by facing the unknown. All i can add it's.. thank you for this noble act, and hopefully you'll succeed on this quest, or have an honorable death trying. Looking back at you Ansraelus as you start talking she adds if there is no more to add... i wish you, The best of luck she opens her eyes, which are glowing in a faint tone of gold and everything around you guys, starts glowing yellow, you feel a chill down your spine, everything goes blinding bright and you find yourselves in an empty room, exacty the same as the one you where in... but only the five of you are in there.

[Haluesen]

Draven, who had previously stayed quiet through the others debating over supplies and items, looks around the now empty room and smirks. "Nice trick, that..." He comments and looks to the others. "If no one cares for the resistance potion, I would like it. Could be handy. Otherwise I'm happy with whatever's left. Beyond that, we should be off shortly. I agree with the idea of traveling while there is still some light. Any objections?"

[Animidest]

Ansraelus smiles at Draven. "Not here. I am eager to undertake this adventure. Does anyone else require more time?"

[mote]

Sirix stands up straight, unfazed by the sudden teleportation. "Ready when you are, gentlemen."

[Techmagss]

The Aasimar's wings extend further, stretching out.
Very well, then. Let's mo- wait, how do we get down?
He seems rather unfased yet curious. Sianne nods, waiting for the go-to for the rest of the party before clunking down and out of the spiral.

[Man on Fire]

"I'm pretty ure our nice hosts will show us the exit." Slan assures their Paladin. "Would be kinda silly if the brave saviors of the world got lost so earl, right?"

[Sandviper]

The room you now stand, its pretty much like the one you guys were, but instead of the magic circle there is a door... if you go out side of the room, you realize you are not longer at the fort, But in some old, forgotten, and ruined outpost. there´s only to standing buildings.. the one you just came from, that its a two story tower, the second one with a massive hole on the western wall. and what you could assume its some stables, there use two be one more building but its completly destroyed, a small stone wall goes aroud the complex, with two wooden doors shattered in the ground.
no sings of recent battle, no tracks, no life in the proximity... you are definetly in the defile, you see how, there are cliffs standing to the east and west, standing at 300ft.

[mote]

Sirix steps out of the room and eyes the cliffs in either direction. "I guess the only way to go is north. Makes me nervous though, only one route to the enemy. We should keep our eye out for any side trails, or caves and trees for cover." He quietly calls his knife to his hand. Embedded in the hilt is a disturbingly real-looking eye.

Still checking for magic auras while arcane sight is up (10 min).
The knife gives me +5 initiative, but it's not much use beyond that (my little secret! :smallwink:)

[Haluesen]

Draven nods to Sirix, glancing around at the change of scenery. "I agree with this. I'm not that keen on the idea of only having one choice of where to go. I'll keep looking and employ what magic I can." He then makes a few quick gestures with his hands, and sprouts white and blue wings from his back. Another few motions and his eyes glimmer with a strange light.

I'm assuming that since we're out of combat he can use whatever invocations he needs to.
Celestial Flight gives fly speed equal to his land speed
See the Unseen gives 60 ft. darkvision and see invisibility

[mote]

Forgot this: If we're moving down the road, I'll roll to see if I can spot any alternate paths
Spot: [roll0]
Knowledge (Nature): [roll1]

[Animidest]

Ansraelus smiles at Draven and Sirix. "I trust that your combined vigilance shall assure our security. Nevertheless, I shall continue to monitor our surroundings telepathically." He pauses for a moment, concentrating, before tapping the spidery crystal contraption on his shoulder.

Ansraelus is manifesting Share Pain (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/psionic/powers/sharePain.htm) on his psicrystal. Detect Hostile Intent (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/psionic/powers/detectHostileIntent.htm) will continue to function for the next hour and a half or so.

[Techmagss]

Remember, I have flight. Can get to places most of you- except this Draven fellow- cannot. The Aasimar draws its blade from a scabbard; the sword has a golden glow about it as well as an etch of an Archon embedded into the hilt. Nodding once at Draven, he assumes his rightful place aboveground as he begins to hover.

[Animidest]

"Anyone who wants to fly can do so; they need only request the spell from me." Ansraelus pauses for a moment, pondering. "Though, I would ask not to request my spells for frivolous purposes."

[Man on Fire]

Slan is about to say something with a big smile on her face when Ansraelus speaks about flying but once he adds being cautious with it she just looks down dissapointed.
"Well if we need to I can summon some animals to help if anybody has any requests or something."

[Techmagss]

Tilting his head, the Aasimar makes a strange incantation, almost akin to a prayer. Without warning, a Warhorse, fully armoured and glowing with blue and gold, materialises in front of him. I assume one of us will be left on the ground. This is no matter, my steed will serve the unlucky one.
The paladin's eyes light up brighter than they usually are.

Casting Detect Evil.

[Sandviper]

Very well, you exit the building you were transported to, and everyone makes their own preparations, talk about cautions and alike, afterwards you walk headed to the north. And as you move forward, in different positions and by different terrains, the cliffs to your sides reach an impressive hight of 500ft, so tall the light almost doesn´t touch the road.
Unfortunetly you don´t find any alternate paths, and except for occasional vegetation, the entire area seems virtually devoid of life. Sirix you know thanks to your knowledge Nature, that this area has been so throughly hunted that possibly no animal life remains. Tracks,droppings and other signs of animals are minimmal and if found at all... are a few years old.

After some 4 hours of traveling, you notice how the road drops so deeply into the earth that the cliff walls on either side block the direct sun light,except during noon hour. You reach the edge of the dropping and realize it goes for an impressive 1600 ft downwards, and see what the defile shelters... An spire stands equidistant from either canyon wall (500ft), and reaches about 300ft from the broad base to the jagged tip, still shadowed by massive cliffs on either side. the tower diameter is a little over 100ft.

The stony fang thrusts up from the canyon floor, wider at base, and slowly narrows towards it apexs, where it terminates in jagged stone splinters. Though its tip must be at least 300 ft above the canyon floor, the cliffs on either side are easily 5 times as high cloaking the spire in shadow. Its sides are carved with stone gargoyles, faces,porticos, ledges and other baleful textures. A small stone structure abuts the spire right at the western side of the base.

[Techmagss]

Sianne seems moderately surprised at the height of the spire. Sighing, he says to the group:
Come on. Let's move, cultists won't kill themselves!

[mote]

"I'm sure we're all ripping to get inside, Sianne old boy, but I've never been one for knocking on the front door. Let's check out that structure sticking out on the western side. Maybe it's a backdoor?"

[Haluesen]

Draven looked up at the tower thoughtfully as he floated along with the group only a few inches off the ground, then his eyes turned to the smaller structure. "It may be just as defended but at least it can hold less than the tower itself seems to. I'd encourage investigating it as well." His eyes lingered between the two buildings while he focused on them.

Using his Detect Magic to get as much information as allowed, with more time spent looking at the smaller structure and at the gargoyles on the spire.

[Techmagss]

Sianne beckons for the group to follow as he walks down to the spire, muttering something before speaking in a loud voice:
Friends, we may have to use the front door. I cannot see any way in other than it. Allow me to lead you in, and I will light the way.

[Sandviper]

Ok, you find a way to climb down the spire... it takes you quite some time. but you manage to do this, sienne leading the group takes you to safe ground.
In front of you low, dry mortared building squats against the west side of the spire, its a single story structure, obviously quite old, but does not share the quality stonework of the tower. a single dark opening provides access on the buiding's western side. there is no sign of anything... around you, except for your company.
as you approach you take a glance into the shadowed interior, revealing several humanoid forms, if you count them.. a total of 14, lying facedown in the loose earth as well as two coyotes, there vultures and numerous small vermin.
a sharp charnel reek strongly hints at the truth, this forms lie so still because they are dead. the scent is accompanied by a dim melody impossible to place, that haunts the interior.

[Animidest]

Ansraelus is clearly bothered by the gruesome sight, and clearly trying not to show it. "Are those...the cultists? And if I recall, we were informed that fauna was scarce in this region. How unusual... It would behoove us to be prudent here; what ended those fellows may still be operational."
He closes his eyes for a moment, calling upon psychic energies.

Manifesting Inertial Armor (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/psionic/powers/inertialArmor.htm), fully augmented. It gives AC, similar to Mage Armor.

[Techmagss]

The paladin sighs at the gruesome sight. Even if these people were evil, this was a rather tragic end.
It wouldn't be right to leave them to the buzzards without a proper burial, cultists or not. But we must press on.
He mumbles a short prayer, before trudging his way towards the door of the tower. He quite clearly means to bust it down and destroy anything inside: by the people, for the people.

[mote]

Sirix grimaces at the sight of the corpses in the small building. "Hold on a minute, Sianne. I'd rather investigate this before we're struck from behind."

He walks up next to Ansraelus and the shadows swirl around him, making his form nearly imperceptible. "Not too fast," he tells the wizard, "I'll check for traps before we enter."

Activating Cloak of Shadow for 25% miss chance and attempting to stay hidden in the shadows as I move toward the building and search for traps near the entrance.
Hide: [roll0]
Search: [roll1]

[Sandviper]

sirix you don´t find any traps in the door

[Techmagss]

Sianne finishes his prayer, getting ready to rush at the door. Is it clear?!

[mote]

Sirix pulls a finely engraved metal rod from his haversack. "Ready when you are, point man."

Holding my Rod of Enlarge Spell just in case

[Techmagss]

Sianne attempts to kick down the door and spot any enemies or cultists inside. Should he not notice, he lands and drags his greatsword in anyway.

Rolling for Init.
[roll0]

[Man on Fire]

"My my, I was in some creepy places but this one really takes the cake. And probably eats it too." Slan jokes nervously. Upon seeing dead bodies is drops a bit more silent, but doesn't seem much shocked. After all, she might be an odd Orc, but she is still an Orc. Dead bodies aren't new thing. However, she stays a bit behind and attempts one trick with them.
"Is this kind of magic, magic, magic? Is this kind of magic, magiiiiic?" She sings, looking at the bodies.
If her spell doesn't detect anything, she turns towards Ansraelus
"Hey, could you help me search for them?" She asks. "Don't give me that look. Yes, it's disrespectful and disgusting and dirty and yuck, but maybe we find some clue to how they died."


Cast Detect Magic on the bodies
If nothing dangerous detected, search [roll0]

[Animidest]

Ansraelus looks back at Slan nervously. "Well, I...um...While I possess no great skill in scrutiny, I do...uh, I will help."

Assuming that Slan didn't detect magic and did indeed turn to me for help, Search [roll0]

[Techmagss]

Upon booting down the frail wooden door, Sianne immediately storms in and examines the room for any hostiles. He yells out, in a taunting manner:Hello?! Forces of good here to deliver a giant-sized order of death to you evil cultist types! You can come out now, I've challenged you to a fight to the death and thusly if you come out I am able to kill you and not show any mercy! Alternatively, surrender now and hold your hands in the air!
Come, let's make this quick!
He beckons his companions inside.Stop desecrating those bodies and get in here! Now!

[Sandviper]

Sienna when you burst open the door... quickly ansraelus and slan, enter the door... followed by you. As soon as you guys enter.. you can hear in the room an ominous music playing. it's very subtile you don't realize it's there... until it's too late.

please roll a will save.

The room its not too big.. it's about 40ft x 40ft.... definitely not the same quality of work as the spire next to it.. there is no doors, windows, decorations, beside the dead bodies. there it's some kind of overgrown vines, on the walls floor and around the bodies.

[Techmagss]

Sianne simply listens to the piano music.

[roll0]

He grins, searching for the source. Your foul sorcery affects me not! Press on, friends.
His hands alight into a glow as he casts both Detect Evil and Protection From Evil.

[Animidest]

Ansraelus, already ostensibly creeped out by the sepulchral atmosphere, jumps at hearing the music.
Initiative: [roll0]
Will: [roll1]
Also, Spellcraft [roll2] to determine the spell effect that I'm saving against. (DC 25+spell level)

[mote]

Sirix hesitates just outside the door as Sianne shouts.

"What's the problem?" He yells, "A spell? A trap?"

Holding my action till I get some info to assist effectively

[Haluesen]

Draven looks at the mess around the spire with a look less like disgust and more like concern. "I have no remorse for the deaths of cultists. But this situation is rather odd...checking them may indeed be helpful." However as he tries to assist those others in checking the bodies he first sighs at Sianne's abrupt entrance to the place, and then turns to the building as he hears some sort of commotion. "Whoa, what's happening in there?" Draven holds up a hand, magic crackling from his fingertips as he warily watches the scene.

Also waiting for info from the others before acting. Sorry, I'm not sure what else to do here exactly with my being gone for a few days.

[Man on Fire]

Will [roll0]
Also, [roll1] Knowledge Arcana to recongize the magic effect
Also, what about our corpse searching?


"That music, something is wrong with it. And I don't just mean that it sucks." Slan picks up her violin and prepares starts playing. She cannot counter whatever the song is doing, but she can shield herself a bit. She starts playing and singing

The thing I treasure most in life cannot be taken away
There will never be a reason why I will surrender to your advice
To change myself, I'd rather die
Though they will not understand
I won't make the greatest sacrifice
You can't predict where the outcome lies
You'll never take me alive


Casting Ruin Delver's Fortune to Gain a +5 luck bonus on Will saving throws and immunity to fear effects for [roll2] turns
Also, if necessary, initiative [roll3]

[Sandviper]

You both feel exactly the moment when you start hearing this music... there is something wrong with it, you suddendly feel how your body stops reacting to your commands and gets into a catatonic state. you fall prone next to the bodies. this happens just before searching the bodies.

Sienne you overcome a weird feeling that was traversing trough your body... and manage to keep on moving looking for cultist to chop down. You hear two dull sounds behind , as you turn back... Slan and Ansealus are lying in the floor completly catatonic, the blackvaines start moving slowly towards the droped PCs... there are no evil creatures in this room, nor windows of door that you can see.

for the ones outside... you see how sianne burst the door, rushes in, and finds nothing. ansrealus and slan, follow quickly but fall catatonic, by the bodies. No signs of cultist or doors inside this place.

[Techmagss]

Sianne looks back at the two fallen. Vile sorcery! He beckons those outside in, warning them to 'steel themselves'.
Foul magic is at work here. Get inside and assist those fallen. I will find a way further in.
And with those words, he starts searching for a door to the next room.

[mote]

"Looks like she finally found a musician worse than herself," Sirix muses as he sees the two drop to the floor.

"Keep near me, Drav. If it's a sound-based effect, this should block it. Just watch my back." He waves his hand over the tip of his knife, and all the sound around them suddenly drops away and they stand in perfect silence. He steps into the room and begins casting a spell over Slan.

Casting Silence on my dagger. Should negate all sound & sonic effects in a 20 ft radius around me.

If nothing happens in the mean time, I'm casting Dispel Magic on Ansraelus in the next round (he's got free telepathy, right?):
Dispel Check: [roll0]

Here's a Will save in case my Silence doesn't work: :smalltongue:
Will: [roll1]

Spells Per Day:
Lv0: 6/6, Lv1: 7/8, Lv2: 8/8, Lv3: 7/8, Lv4: 5/6, Lv5: 4/4

[Sandviper]

Sirix you enter to assist your fallen companions, as you enter the whole room goes quietly, the fallen are restored to normal muscle tone. both exhaling deeply, as they're released from what ever witchcraft was affecting them, mean while sienne its trying anything to find a secret door...but unsuccessfully.

Sienne, take a search.
Sirix, take a search and know History.

[Man on Fire]

"Ouch, my everything." Slan stands up and takes out her violin. "Clever litte guy this one who put it. Too bad I don't know a song to counter it." She eats few swearwords about that one music teacher who said it was not optimal choice.
"So some other stuff must do." She starts playing and singing. First a song for herself (the one in previous post) and the one for everyone.

We're a small crowd left to rotten, there's not many hard souls left
As our foe is growing stronger, will we fade away?

Will we be broken, will we go down?

No! We'll never fall we're the masters of the world
Get up let's break those chains now and party all night long
No! We'll never fall we're the masters of the world
Get up let's break those chains now and party all night long


First Ruin Delver's Fortune on herself like before for +4 to Will saves and fear immunity, then go and mantain inspire courage for +2 to everyone against charm and fear effects.

[Animidest]

"What happened...? I do not understand, I am wont to have particularly strong mental intransigence against spells, and that one I did not recognize...We may be dealing with recondite and powerful sorcery here."
He gets up quickly and looks around.
"What is the current state of our plan?"

[Techmagss]

There is no door to the next room or stairway up. Kindly help me find it.
Sianne motions, yet with no luck.

[Haluesen]

Draven flies in behind Sirix, a look of slight alarm on his face. Of course the two woke up easily enough it seemed, so that look didn't last so long. "It seems that some magic assaulted you two. We need to help Sianne find a way to continue through this place. With that said, he brought back the piercing light to his eyes and scanned around the room to look for anything unable to be seen to normal vision.

Still has darkvision and see invisibility from before, using Detect Magic to aid in looking around
Search= [roll0]
Spot= [roll1]

[Animidest]

"Very well. I shall assist." With those words, Ansraelus begins poking around the room, looking for secret doors and the like.

Search: [roll0]

[Sandviper]

Ansrealus...you breath heavily since being released from what ever held you catathonic. as you walk trough the room looking for an door... but nothing seems to be in here. this building was build after the tower was already here.. that would explain the lack of comunication between the two... and the diference of quality of work.

[mote]

Seeing the others' futile attempts to speak and play music, Sirix raises a finger to his lips in a shushing gesture then shrugs. He sends a telepathic message to Sianne, "Seems like a dead end. Some kind of site for ritual sacrifice maybe? Sorry to waste your time."

He kneels down to examine the bodies on the floor. Perhaps they have some kind of distinguishing marks or accessories on them?

[Man on Fire]

Seeing how her music gets eaten by silence, Slan tries to communicate with others. Then she realizes her voice is muted too. So she tries to do a panthonime, urging others to leave this place. She ends up looking like performing some sort of wierd dance.

[Haluesen]

Draven rubs his forehead and makes a quiet sigh. He utterly forgot about magical silence. So, his words unheard, he continues to glance around the room but doesn't seem to see anything of interest. He looks to Slan and her gesturing, and slowly nods. If the others wish to look around so be it, but he was certain that there had to be more in the tower itself. As for whatever had knocked the two out for a moment, best to leave it be. He flew outside again.

[Techmagss]

Sianne simply exits from whence he came, hovering back into the air once more as well as searching for another door.

[Animidest]

Ansraelus, realizing the futility of this little veture, says, "__________________________________________________ _____________," and walks back outside, shaking his head.

[Sandviper]

Sienne takes the door back to defile zone outside the tower....and immediately notices something, the air is totally different, its now cool and misty (no concealment), as you look upwards to the sky... there are some weird cloud formation, dark and ominous, you can see some lightnings crossing them.

the rest of you exit the room...feeling the sound coming back to your ears.

Sirix you exit last, and when you walk past the corpse nearest to the door, a small shine catches your eye... and next to it, the corpse is holding something in his hand. its a wrapped papper...with some shaky writting that says.. ¨flee..fool, lest it will take you¨. you search the body and find a pouch of 23pp.

[mote]

Sirix shoves the note and coins into his belt pouch. "Poor bastard," he mouths silently. He steps out of the building, releasing the Silence spell as he does so, and looks up at the grim sky. "Suppose we'd better find a way in before that storm hits us."

[Man on Fire]

"Phew! How good is to talk again!" Slan proclaims loudly. "We need to find a way to stop that evil killer magic music if they try it again. As I was trying to say, I don't know song to counter it, so if you guys have any ideas, I'm all ears."

[Animidest]

Ansraelus paces back and forth, thinking. "We could have our resident defalcator slip in, under cover of magical silence and possibly invisibility, find the magic trap, and disable it. I take it you are indeed versed in Disabling Devices as well as Trapfinding, Sirix?"

[Sandviper]

The clouds on top of the tower start to get darker and darker as does the mist on the ground you dont see any doors on the tower and the jagged crown at top. you guys think that might be the only way in.. from the top.

[mote]

"Well, I could give it another shot, but I don't think I can disable it without killing that vine and that's not really my specialty."

Sirix reaches into his pouch and pulls out the note. "Plus, I found this in the hand of one of the corpses. Seems to suggest there's naught to find in there but ignominious doom."

He looks up at the tower, "I'd rather see if we can find a way in there. I don't like wasting spells without a sure bet."

[Animidest]

"There is such a phenomenon as too much deliberation. Our time is limited." Ansraelus unsheathes his adamantine dagger and attempts to cut the black stone that makes up the outer wall of the spire.

[Animidest]

When stone falls away to reveal stone, and stone again, and then a wall of force surrounded by a very thin Anti-Magic Field, which is a barrier impassable to all means save Mage's Disjunction (and extradimensional travel), Ansraelus says, "I feel very strongly that we have no course of reasonable action save for entering through the apex of the spire."

[mote]

"Well, it was a good thought," Sirix grins. "Looks like it's up we go. I shouldn't have any trouble climbing - does everyone have a means of getting up?"

EDIT: Was gonna ask Sianne for a lift, but I figure spider climb will be safer :smallwink:

[Techmagss]

Nodding once and looking slightly annoyed, Sianne flutters his wings briefly and flies upward, circling around and waiting for his companions to catch up.

[mote]

Sirix reaches into his satchel and retrieves a vial containing a magically preserved spider. It kicks and wriggles as he pinches it up by a leg and drops it into his mouth. A moment after he swallows, his hands and feet begin emitting a mild purple glow. He latches onto the side of the tower and begins climbing upward.

(grossly) casting Spider Climb (http://www.dandwiki.com/wiki/Spider_climb) :smallwink:

Spells Per Day:
Lv0: 6/6, Lv1: 7/8, Lv2: 7/8, Lv3: 8/8, Lv4: 4/6, Lv5: 4/4

[Man on Fire]

"Whait for me, I need to call my ride." Slan picks up her violin and starts playing and singing
"We ride on the wind
we ride through the sky
like unholy birds of war we fly
we bring agony and insanity
Once blessed by the light
now serving the night
and soon cursed by every man on earth
We follow our lust, in no god we trust
Come join us
Leave this world behind and you will find satisfaction
fight on our side you cannot hide from us forever more"
Once she is done, a large Hippogriff should be standing before her and she would politely ask him to carry her after the others.

Casting Summon Nature's Ally II to summo Hippogriff

[Animidest]

Ansraelus sighs sheaths his dagger, and mutters "Maybe someday I will be able to consider that 3012 gold well spent..." He then mutters some more, waves his hands about in a manner that would seem silly to non-spellcasters, and rises into the air, following the group.

Casting Fly

Is this common courtesy to the DM or just a thing mote does? Whatever, it seems like a good idea.
Spells-- 0th: 6/6, 1st: 8/8, 2nd: 7/7, 3rd: 5/6, 4th: 5/5
Power Points: 71/86

[Sandviper]

Slan as you see Sienne flying to the top... you summon your hippogriff and race him to the top.. beating him. as you celebrate on top... from the mounstruos dark clouds that formed on top of the spiral.... a Massive lighting bolt, strikes you.

Please guys roll for initiative.


[roll0] Please roll a reflex, I´ll let you know if you succed for half damage.

[Man on Fire]

|"Ouch! What are you doing?! Do I look like an enemy to you?! Do I look like I'm going to fight somebody?! With that clevage?!" Slan yells angirly. She orders her winged pet (hippogriff, not Sianne), to stay on guard and attack anyone who would show up to harm her. She pats it on the head softly, as a lullaby singing few short words "Stand up be strong, Know right, know wrong, Forever hence believe
yourself. And when you feel the pressure, The strain is hard to measure, So in your sheer endeavor, Forever hence believe yourself. Stand up be strong, Know right, know wrong, Forever hence believe
yourself."


Casting Bull's strength on hippogriff, increasing it's STR to 22.
hippogriff defends Slan, would any opponent show up.

[Sandviper]

Ok sirix you climb up you´ll arrive next turn to the top. Draven and Sienne you finally reach the top (doing a full move), you see on top of the spire.. between the picks of the jagged crown there it´s a roof. the ceiling its around 60 ft diameter, with a 40ft x 20 ft whole in the ceiling. There are more lightnings coming down from the cloud. But this time no one gets hit. Ans you get there next turn.

Sirix you are up. (round 2)

[mote]

Sirix pulls a small item from his component pouch and vanishes from sight.
He dashes toward the hole and looks inside it. Can I see anything/anyone down there?

Casting Invisibility.

Spells Per Day:
Lv0: 6/6, Lv1: 7/8, Lv2: 6/8, Lv3: 8/8, Lv4: 4/6, Lv5: 4/4

[Man on Fire]

Slan still stays in defense, keeping hippogriff close to her and ready to defend her. She starts playing melody that ease her wounds, and revitalize her body with healing energy.

hippogriff still defends Slan
Slan casts Cure Moderate wounds on herself curing [roll0] of damage.

[Animidest]

Upon reaching the apex of the spire and finding no obvious foes, Animidest calls out to the team, saying, "The bolt that hit Slan here was the product of a Call Lightning spell, exclusive to druids. Since this druid was able to target our operatic comrade here, he must have line of sight to us, and therefore vice versa. We should locate and terminate this caster before we are cast upon yet again."

Ansraelus looks around before squinting angrily at the offending cloud, and his eyes briefly flash with a silver-white color.

Making a spot check (move action) to see the druid [roll0]
Also manifesting Dispel Psionics on the Call Lightning (it works on magic too). Dispel Check: [roll1]

Spells-- 0th: 6/6, 1st: 8/8, 2nd: 7/7, 3rd: 5/6, 4th: 5/5
Power Points: 66/86

[Techmagss]

If he is to have his wings clipped by lightning, so be it. Sianne flaps his wings before swandiving into the hold, sword sheathed, for now.
Announce thy presence!

[Haluesen]

Draven lands at the top of the spire with the others and looked around, after taking in what Ansraelus said. "Druids were something I didn't expect up here..." Aside from his deadpan comment, he scanned around the top of this tower with his see invisibility to check if perhaps the foes was simply out of sight to them here.

Spot check is neccesary
Spot= [roll0]