[IC; PF]Towers & Tyrants

[Sir Shadow]

Towers & Tyrants:- Prologue -

The journey thus far...


Leaving your homeland was hard, but after spending your entire life as a pawn in the political machinations of your home, you understood the reason behind it. Your father had arranged for you to act as a diplomat or ambassador in the city-state an old friend of him was now the ruler of and sent you on your way with little more than your belongs, his blessing, and your handmaiden--a young lizardfolk woman by the name of Kiran.

Once you crossed the border, you were truly left to your own devices. Following your father's directions, you purchased passage on a merchant ship up the coast of the Charnal Sea...

Getting passage on a ship heading north was hard, but not harder than fighting a guide through the swamps. Though your coin was starting to dwindle, you didn't dare try to take any work on the off-chance someone might get too good a look at you.

Even summoning the young inevitable was a dangerous gamble on your part with how little you were able to sound-proof the room of the small tavern you were staying in. Luckily, she was willing to hear your tale and was interested in learning how it would end. With a simple ritual to bind yourselves together, you then had an eidolon at your call which would prove useful during your voyage on the Charnal Sea...

To say your voyage was dangerous would be a terrible understatement. Almost immediately after it set off, the ship was beset by a terrible storm that threatened to capsize you. Luckily, the crew managed to keep the Virtuous Wench afloat while you and the rest of the passengers remained below deck doing all you could to keep your food in your gullets...

Though the tumultuous weather did lessen its barrage to a minor squall, the sea itself became no less perilous as your ship became the target of pirates! After your second stop at port, in the middle of the night, the ship came under the assault of another vessel bearing a black flag emblazoned with a simple simian skull.

The both of you find yourselves aiding the defense of the ship against Vanara, Samsarans, and Sahuagin of all things, while the crew does their best to cut the mooring lines and grappling hooks from their ships. Though the battle was intense, the two of you were able to ply your various abilities to ward off the danger and save the lives and cargo aboard the vessel.

Inspired by Henti's skill at arms, Thard makes a clumsy, yet earnest attempt to ingratiate himself to her and she finds his awkward social interaction strangely charming... plus she had no companions out here beyond the borders of her home country aside from her handmaiden, Kiran. In conversation over the next few days, the two find out that they are both heading to the same destination.

Thard explains the job advertisement sent out by Sharif Azir, and Henti begins forming an idea of how she'll be able to earn some spending cash--and perhaps some acclaim--for herself while she is a guest of the Sultan. Reaching the closest port on this sea to Tel Sharim, you two part ways with the Virtuous Wench and arrange to join up with a caravan heading east out across the desert...

Fortunately, for all of you, caravans heading east from the port of Pessalistra are fairly common. The jungle surrounding the city quickly gives way to harsh desert wasteland as you set out. In the course of getting to know your fellow travelers and over-hearing conversations, you discover there are quite a few other hopefuls looking for work as a 'diver' in Tel Sharim among the travelers.

During the trip, Henti and Thard might notice an older looking, reserved gentleman of statuesque appearance among the caravan, and likewise, Valdr may have noticed the regal Henti and the shifty look Thard who was never seen far from her... emphasis on 'seen'.

As you pass through small outposts and even an oasis city or two, nothing greater than a strong breeze troubles the caravan, and even the veterans of this route comment on how good the weather is. In addition, you find that the trade route is lightly patrolled by armed guard on horseback. The days worth of travel pass quickly until you stand before the towering gates of Tel Sharim...

In the city, the Sultan makes a big show of welcoming you to the city with a feast. The food is a surprisingly good attempt at the traditional food to your homeland and is just similar enough to give you a shade of homesickness. Still, your bed is much nicer than anything you've slept in during the past week and you're finally able to wash away the grit of the road in the enchanted baths of the Palace.

Over the course of a week, Henti was treated to tours of the menagerie, acrobatic shows, and other various forms of idle entertainment. Of course, she wastes no time in cornering Azir and enquiring after his current venture. He tells her that he'd be more than happy to take her on and that she should come sit in on the 'diver class' he has going on for his fresh batch of new recruits...

At the palace, Thard finds himself temporarily separated from Henti as he finds quarters in the 'Diver' barracks. Many of the others there are fresh recruits like himself, but there are a few veterans.

If he takes the time to walk about the city, he finds that it is a bustling place. The market is packed with different vendors selling the wildest wares from all corners of the map, and many taverns booked full with adventurers passing through getting drunk and telling their tales.

There are also several libraries, studies, and arcane observatories in the richer district, and many beautiful temples where priest extol the virtues of their ideology while aiding the sick and infirm. Agricultural areas are nearer to the oasis where farmers and druids work together to produce crops and keep aviaries.

After about a week of waiting for more recruits to show, Thard is notified of a 'diver class' being offered for the rookies to prepare them for the interior of the Tower...

When Valdr arrives at the palace, he hands over the letter to the guard. After reading the summons, you are left waiting for a few moments until a Captain of the Guard arrives to announce that, unfortunately, the Court Mage is out of the city due to an urgent matter that recently came up. However, as you were invited by the Nawaren himself, the Sultan has extended the offer to stay in the guest quarters of the palace until his return.

Assuming Valdr accepts, he finds the guest quarters are simply opulent and the enchanted baths of the palace wash away the soreness of the road. You are also given access to the royal library and find some interesting topics to read over, though most of the collection mainly covers exotics beasts and exhaustive historical records.

Roughly a week after you arrive, you are invited to dinner banquet by the vizier, Ja'far al-Brahamin, who it appears has taken a bit of interest in you as an unexpected guest. The quality of the dinner and entertainment is exceptional, and the conversation is fairly light. You manage to regale several of the guest with tales of far of lands and old conflicts, before it comes to your attention that Sharif Azoth Azir is also an attendee of tonight's festivities.

Later in the evening, you catch his attention and explain that while you were at the palace as a guest, your primary reason for coming all this way was the Garden Tower. Azir, at first deflects, your curiosity by stating that he wouldn't to upset the Court Mage if his acquaintance became injured, but you persist and after some pressure, he finally gives in and invites you to join in on the briefing he plans on giving to his new divers tomorrow...

Though you had crossed the borders of your country on more than one occasion for different assignments, this was the first time you had traveled so far... and on camel-back none-the-less. The desert is expansive, dry, and hot, and while you could certainly state the qualities of the geography that caused it to become this way, experiencing the natural phenomenon was an entirely different matter.

The lack of monetary support from the Academy was going to make this rough, but you knew that when you first proposed it. Without anyone else getting in your way or looking over your shoulder, you could claim all the accolades when a breakthrough was made... plus, you preferred to work alone anyways.

Still, the desert was hot in a lot more ways than you had anticipated. Several tribes had assaulted the group you were traveling with, and though they proved little more than a nuisance, you worried that their forays would delay you. The traders didn't bat an eye though, they expected this, and a bomb or two from you helped to keep the meetings brief.

When you arrived at the palace, you were escorted to a short meeting with Sharif Azir who looked over your resume with a smirk before accepting your offer so long as you abide by the rules he set for his divers. Speaking of which, he was going to have a short briefing for them tomorrow...

Over the course of the week, Feisal followed his typical duties as more and more new faces showed up at the palace. Though the majority of them were kept in diver's barracks that Azir had set up, a few of them appeared to be a guests of the palace.

One that caught his attention was a grim looking older gentleman who was supposedly invited to the palace Court Mage, Nawaren, himself. He was even allowed to stay in one of the guest quarters of all things. Coincidentally, he arrived on the same day as a royal from the south, a woman with snake-like features that carried herself well.

You later overheard Jannat, a member of the Sultan's Harem, speaking with a few other lady's commenting on how she saw a Shadowkin among the Sharif's new divers and 'he had look of a runaway slave about him'.

Near the end of the week, a young servant brings you a note from the Sharif notifying you of the upcoming diver's class...




Towers & TyrantsHow Does Your Garden Grow


Date: Granite 7, 189 AC, Year of Battered Blades
Location: Sultan's Palace, Tel Sharim

You all find yourselves gathered in a lecture hall filled with with dozens of applicants and hopefuls that have traveled from far and wide to answer Azoth Azir's job offer. However, most of them look far less capable of following through with their dreams than you do. More than a few look like farm-hands or stable-boys hoping to make it big. Rusty armor seem to be in fashion, and many of the weapons they carry have seen better days. However, that is not to say there aren't a few imposing figures that stand out like yourselves.

There is a low murmur of chatter in the room, but the air is tense with anticipation. The door on the far wall of the stage in front opens with a slam and an enormous man--human with a dash of Goliath or ogre blood by the looks of--leans down to move squeeze himself through the doorway. Dressed in the garb of the Palace Guard, he casts an imposing figure and looks across the room with a look that reeks of disapproval.

However, he crosses his arm and turns to the side, allowing a pale-skinned man with dark hair and gleaming eyes to step through. The fine quality fo his cloths, the jeweled dagger tucked through the sash at his hip, and the regal confidence in his eyes and posture are more than enough to tell anyone here that his is the Sharif, Azoth Azir. His appearance elicits a few gasps from those in attendance, and with a smirk he moves to stand at the center of the stage, shadowed my the mountain of a man who comes to a halt several feet behind him.

"Friends!" The young man calls out, "Associates! Future employees! I welcome you all to Tel Sharim, the glittering jewel in the heart of the dessert... The Sirin call of treasure and wealth has called you all here, no doubt with dreams of nobility and ease of a life to come as you make your fortune here...

His smirk fades slightly, "But... some of you might not make it past your first 'night' in the Garden of Fangs. Past the portal of the Tower, danger looms from every nook and cranny, only growing deeper as you dive farther and farther into the depths. This is no game, my friends, no dainty walk through the field. The gold you earn here will be well earned with blood, perhaps with your lives if you are not careful...

"With that out of the way..." He grins, "Let's get down to the nitty gritty, eh? In a few moments, my good friend, Seeker Isaac, will give you some do's and don't's of the Tower, but first, I'll be going over your arrangements while you're in our employ...

"You will each be offered a bed in the barracks and a locker for your personal belongings. Meals will also be provided as well as minor medical attention--non-magical, of course. These services will run you forty gold pieces a night--" There is a round of gasps and a few exclamations around the room-- "But you are free to find lodging elsewhere in the town.

"Now... for your payment. As new hires, you will receive fifteen gold each day that you are in Garden, which, if you stay for the full duration each night, will amount to seventy-five gold every time the portal opens. In addition, you are allowed to keep any loose currency you come across as well as any non-magical gems or ores you find. Non-magical weapons, armor, and other various objects are yours as well.

"Magic items, however, are property of the Sultan. You will receive a reward--a finder's fee, if you will--in the amount of fifty-percent of its fair market value as currently estimated by inflation and appraisal by our scholars. Additionally, when applicable, you will be given the opportunity to purchase said items at with a twenty-five percent discount before they go to market or service for the Sultan... I believe that covers everything... You're up, Isaac."

A thin, gangly young man with close-cropped hair wearing a simple brown robe and carrying a massive tome steps forward. You were so engrossed with the Sharif's explanation and flair, that you didn't even notice him enter the room. He bows slightly to you all and places the tome on a lectern before addressing you.

What follows is a brief, yet informative, primer on the basic functions of the Tower and the Garden of Fangs within. Each night the Tower's portal opens for one hour during which the Garden may be entered. Due to how time fluctuates within the garden, that means everyone will have five full days within the tower to explore and scavenge for treasure.

From what the exploratory parties, led by the massive man who is introduced as 'Toma', have found, there is a sort of pattern to the floors and areas of the towers based on the first room that is generated each night. From this, certain dangers can be extrapolated and anticipated, and the Seeker says he will be glad to inform you each night should you ask, but there are too many permutations to cover in the time given to him.

As far as dangers go, this Garden has a predilection for plant-based creatures and poison traps, though more typical Garden fair like golems, magical beasts, aberrations, and oozes are know to make appearances. The core exploratory party will only travel as deep as the 2nd floor, or 'room' as they are sometimes called, in order to ensure that anyone able to come back in time will have a safe path back to the entrance.

Seeker Isaac closes his tome with a dry thud and asks dully, "Are there any questions...?"

[ylvathrall]

Valdr sits at the edge of the room and sips at a cup of dark, bitter tea while he waits for the presentation. He showed up early, of course. Barring exceptional circumstances, he always shows up early. Some habits are hard to break.

He's pleased to find that the Sharif is as deft a speaker here as he was at the banquet. A touch callous, perhaps, but Valdr suspects he would be so as well. He knows all too well how easily that can happen, when death is common, and if this group is typical he thinks death must be everywhere in Azir's life. Not all of those present seem so fragile, of course. He recognizes a couple from the caravan that presented themselves rather well, and there are some few others that are worth considering as potential allies within the Garden. But for the most part they seem as raw as any recruit, back in the war, and like those recruits they don't seem to grasp that they're here only to die and hopefully, in dying, gain some slight advantage for those who can actually capitalize on it.

No, Valdr doesn't wonder that the Sharif is callous. If anything, the man must be a remarkable actor to muster up as much compassion for the new recruits as he does.

When Isaac finishes, Valdr raises one pale hand, holding his tea in the other. "A question, if I may," he says. "You mentioned that the Garden takes on a sort of pattern each night, based on the first room. What forms do these patterns take? Have they been analyzed mathematically?"

[Estralita]

Feisal stood respectfully, listening intently to their mission. This expedition would help prove to his father, to his teachers, to everyone, that his techniques were worth using. And that he was a warrior.

At the moment, he had no questions, but Feisal was open to hearing the answers to other's questions. More information was always good.

[Morbis Meh]

The overbearing warmth of the midday sun seemed to be a common concern for the peasants hustling about the city but Lian Min found it to be quite agreeable with her temperament. The dry air did nothing to affect her already cracked skin and the worried gazes directed her way gave her a smug sense of satisfaction, it was obvious her kind were relatively exotic to these parts which was a pity since this place seemed to be made for her people. Upon arrival she was prepared to barter room and board before arranging a proper meeting but it would seem her presence was already noted by the ruling body. Efficiency was a quality she admired but the lack of protocol was displeasing to her since she was accustomed to rigid formality which in her mind was the very foundation of civilization and any nation that didn't exhibit it was not worth acknowledging. Upon meeting the Sharif, Liang Min presented her identification along with her accurate curriculum vitae and during the brief exchange she took time to access what would be her supervisor for the duration of this project. The man's carefree demeanor aggravated her sensibilities but it was not her place to criticize her superior thus she internalized her judgments and resolved to avoid interaction with the Sharif when it was possible to do so.

The next day to say the least was even more disappointing than the first, the fact that the common rabble were allowed to even stand in general proximity to her was nothing short of insulting but she already came to the conclusion that most of these fools would die shortly after entering. She did make note of a few beings that may be worthy of coming to a collective agreement with but this was not the time for such talk considering the Sharif decided to parade about like a strutting peacock. The collective awe of the simpletons only increase the tiefling's ire, the fact that they were impressed by such an individual only demonstrated how lowly this culture was. Liang wasn't sure which bothered her more: being forced to stand next to the dregs of society or having her academic pursuits being muddled with ignorant greed. She bit her tongue, stifling any uncouth remarks and continued listening to the remainder of the briefing. The accommodation offer was interesting, it was indeed quite expensive compared to a local inn but the security of the location was certainly welcomed yet having to be in the same room as cretins was equally repulsive. She would simply wait and see what they would decide, it was highly probable that they would find other places to reside in so they could save more money and a large number probably wouldn't return.

Listening to the other man was somewhat useful, knowledge was power and it seemed that he was aware of some of the dangers present within the gate and Liang could tell by the stupefied looks of the commoners that most had no idea what of the creatures were. The man who spoke up was a delightful reprieve, she could immediately tell he was an academic and would be in her best interest to collaborate with him as she studied the inner workings of the gate. She made a mental note to pull him aside later and begin a discussion of the theories behind the gate itself.

[lostsole31]

Thard remains quiet, though looking over to Henti to see if she has any questions.

[Sir Shadow]

The Seeker's head swivels to look in Valdr's direction and slowly pushes his glasses up. With an audible creek, his tome opens again he scans several pages before finding what he was looking for. "The most common first room encountered in the past year of diving was a large mud-flat. From this position, it general deviates in two direction... into a dungeon or into a floral maze, and from there it can branch into a half a dozen more direction.

"As for tracking or analyzing a pattern, many other researchers have attempted to find a scheme in the generation off the Garden's rooms and have not discerned any. Likewise, we have examined everything from the stars to the dates to the weather and have far been unable to find a link."

Isaac looks around the room briefly, "If there are no further questions, then you are free to go. I will look forward to seeing you in the courtyard by the Tower come midnight."

[Estralita]

Feisal pondered for a moment, then gestured to the Seeker. Just one more question sir. Do we have any idea what the treasures of the Tower are? Any records of what was lost, or what previous expeditions have seen, but were unable to retrieve?"

[PSinger]

Henti listens to the exchange, but has no questions of her own, leading the planning to smarter persons than she.

[ylvathrall]

Valdr nods as Isaac answers him, and takes another sip of tea. It sounds as though they've kept decent records, in any case, which is of some value. He makes a mental note to see if he can gain access to those records, and perhaps conduct his own analyses. He's certain that the Sultan has arranged for talented scholars to examine those records, but it's always possible that they overlooked something.

Other than that, he pays some attention to the continuing discussion, but mostly he's already beginning to plan out what preparations he should make, now that he knows more specifically what to expect within the Garden. Plants, and poisons...neither of them is a specialty of his, sadly. A trip to the market might be in order; surely he can find something there, an item, a spell, something that will be of use.

What time of day is it currently?

Also, can I make checks to know generally what defenses and weaknesses those creatures have? I have a +8 modifier to all knowledge skills, so I think taking 10 should at least get me things like "an awful lot of those creature types are immune to mind-affecting effects."

[Morbis Meh]

Liang noting that she would have nothing to gain by staying among these sad excuses for adventurers promptly exits the room and goes to the inn she currently resided in so she could begin her preparations for the evening. She accounted for all the elixirs and prepared her explosive reagents for accessibility knowing very well that it would be very necessary once inside the 'garden'. She was comforted by the fact that plants were going to be common since they were quite susceptible to her alchemical reagents but in all truth she wished to find a suitable specimen to bring back with her for further study. Any bit of evidence and knowledge she could garner in this expedition would aid in her final report for the Academy and if she were to discover something profound she may be able to coax some funding from the board of directors. With all of her equipment ready for tonight's venture, the tiefling took the remainder of her free time to rest before she went into the gate.

[Sir Shadow]

"The Garden contains a number of different treasures. They range from things as mundane as well-crafted weapons to magic wands to wondrous trinkets," Isaac explains briefly, "There have been objects seen by our divers but not taken due to the danger involved in extracting them, but we wouldn't know what properties they had without examining them."

It's roughly 2 PM. I'm of the opinion you can't take 10 on roll that you can't retry, but I'll say that you either know what the weaknesses of these creatures are or it'd be simple enough to ask anyone/read a book. So yes, Valdr knows what strength/weaknesses the creatures may have based on their Type.

[Sir Shadow]

The hall slowly empties as different groups go their way to prepare for the coming night and rest up before the Portal Tower opens. Soon enough, however, the sun falls to the horizon and dips beneath the horizon. As the night grows long, more and more arrive in the courtyard, a few you hadn't seen earlier, included.

By the look of them, they appear to be fairly more expereinced than the rest of the group that had gathered earlier. However, if they are all that remains of the previous group of divers to heed Azir's call, then the it was either a much smaller turn-out or only about one-fifth of them had enough grit to stay.

As magical lights brighten the face of the Tower, various groups move and various groups and alliances start forming before your eyes. You consider for the first time, perhaps, that teaming up with others to increase your chances of success or survival might behoove you.

[Estralita]

Feisal looked up at the tower, almost shaking in excitement. Soon he would embrace his destiny, and prove himself. Failure was not an option. He would succeed, or he would die.

[ylvathrall]

Once again, Valdr shows up early and stands at the edge of the courtyard. He's freshly rested and excited to see the Garden for the first time, making him somewhat more animated than usual.

He's still quite aware that this situation isn't his specialty, though, and seriously considering who might be useful to offset that. Eventually he decides that at the very least having someone to keep the monsters off him would be a good idea; that is, after all, basic tactics. And thus he approaches Feisal, since that man at least asked a question at the meeting earlier. Not the most interesting question, but it was something. And Valdr recognized him from around the palace, as well.

Thus, as they are waiting, he walks up to the other man and nods. "Good evening."

Spells prepared:
0-level: Detect magic (2 slots), acid splash, mage hand
1-level: Enlarge person (school), mage armor, stumble gap, grease

[Morbis Meh]

Liang Min wakes up for her nap and loads up Jessy who promptly hawed in her face, seeming to protest her master's course of action. The tiefling glares at the animal and promptly shoves a sugar cube in its face which thankfully is enough to silence it for the time being. Moving onward, the scholar reaches the portal and promptly pulls out a leather bound book along with an ink pen then furiously begins to write observations about the exterior along with a detailed drawing. She knew it would not be of much use but she had to be thorough and document everything for her report and who knows maybe a connection would become apparent later.

She noticed the person from before who seemed to be a scholar like herself and he was talking to another person but Liang ignored them for the time being, the less she had to participate in social situations the better for everyone involved.

[Estralita]

Feisal smiled at Valdr. "It is a good evening." he said, nodding in response. "We've got a real challenge ahead."

[ylvathrall]

"Oh, undoubtedly," Valdr says, watching the tower closely. "I was wondering, however, whether you might be interested in facing that challenge with company rather than alone. I noticed your blade, you see, and you obviously have some skill with it. My own talents are...more effective with allies than alone, perhaps, is how I would phrase it."

[PSinger]

The 6'7" tall nagaji looks down at the strangers, but keeps her counsel. She has said stupid things before, and would rather be thought of us dumb instead of proving the point for them.

[lostsole31]

Standing at a hair over six feet tall, the stick-thin man with solid gray skin and yellow, pupilless eyes, and violet hair has as dour a mood in general as the strangers have faith in their comrades. His studded leather armor, while of exceptional make, is sized as thin as such armor can normally be made for that tall of a creature. It is not entirely enough as even the quality of armor does not quite equal the quality of fit on someone that really does look like a gray version of a walking stick insect (missing a pair of limbs).

"It's about time for this show to start, don't we think?" he mutters.

[Sir Shadow]

As the minutes tick by, various groups seem to form, though you see more than a few stragglers are either disinterested or not quite socially adept enough to fit into a group. For the most part, people seem to avoid Thard and Henti, not sparing more than a sidelong glance at either. Liang Min and Valdr find themselves only meeting a rare curious gaze, likely because of their unique appearance amid the others gathered here. Anyone that had a passing interest in Feisal is soon turned away by Valdr's advances on the young man.

From your vantage points, you can see a sort of 'check-in' gate by what appears to be a the blank wall of the tower. In fact, you hadn't seen any sort of entrance to the massive structure since you arrived, but sure enough as the moon reaches its zenith, blue arcane sigils light up the side of the tower. The script rolls up and around the side of the structure, nearly filling the entire surface with its frantic, chaotic message. There is a sudden burst of azure light as the outline of a door appears and a deep rumbling shakes the courtyard. The once-solid wall of the Tower splits as seams appear and two massive doors swing inward, revealing a glowing blue portal within.

Groups and individuals begin milling toward the entrance, forming a rough line for the check-in gate where you now notice the Sharif and his enormous body-guard. Several other members of the palace guard seem to be in place to ensure that order is kept. Then again, perhaps they're making sure nothing escapes the Garden; you recall hearing tales about how some Towers practically spew creatures out every night, making the areas around them unsuited for civilization.

As the divers ahead of you check in, each group approaches the blue gate and passes through it in a shower of light particles.

While waiting in line as a rather diminutive individual approaches you. A dwarf dressed in dark leathers and a cloak saunters up and gives you a wink, "Oy there laddies, noticed the two o' ye chatting earlier. Thinkin' about teaming up and splittin' the goods, eh? Might'n ye need another dagger or two? I'm a fair hand at spottin' traps too, if'n I say so m'self." You see several daggers strapped across his chest and a crossbow hanging from his shoulder.

The others in line give you a wide berth, likely because Henti is rather intimidating. You notice a few odd characters giving you a look every so often, but nobody seems like they're of a mind to approach.

(( Am I right in thinking you're actually bringing the donkey along? ))

The tiefling scholar gets more than a few odd looks, but no one really approaches her. It might be that she's dragging a donkey along or the fact she doesn't seem dressed to go 'adventuring'...

[ylvathrall]

Fascinating, Valdr thinks, watching the glyphs fly past too quickly to really process. I must find a copy of that writing, or make one. Is it the same on every night and every Tower, I wonder, or does it change?

Out loud, he says, "I had proposed such, yes. As I was saying to my associate, I have some talents myself, but they are more effectively applied with allies than alone. Shall we walk as we talk? Time is wasting, and in this business time is always short."

[Estralita]

Feisal nodded slowly. As much as he would like to show his mettle alone, it was more important that he succeed at retrieving the items. And allies, particularly allies with different skill sets, would help ensure it would happen."That sounds like a good idea. As for me, I am a spellsword, adding magic to my marital combat. However, I am perfectly capable of using my magic and sword separately, if necessary."

[lostsole31]

"I bring joy and cheer to the children of the world," says the shadowy man flatly. "Sadly, that doesn't work here."

[Morbis Meh]

Liang Min quietly approaches the other scholar and stops shortly behind him, the mule whined loudly announcing her presence but she ignored it and spoke out loud "Interesting manifestation, script is draconic in origin but the characters are unintelligible possible an ancient form of magic but maybe arranged in a more archaic form due to and ancient dialect. I have recorded it along with my observations of the tower, I would like to get inside before the... treasure seekers get inside to sully the place but alas their greed is more prevalent than their logic. A pity really, it is somewhat akin to watching a herd animal being led to the slaughter."

[ylvathrall]

"Are you from another region?" Valdr asks, glancing at the tiefling who is approaching him. "Because while I do not know the customs there, in this language it is customary to pause between distinct thoughts. Doing so makes it easier to comprehend one's statements. In any case, there's little use in speculating from such a distance."

[Morbis Meh]

Liang eyes widen for a moment "My apologizes, I did not to come across as unclear, it is not a custom of my nation just my lack of social ability. I tend to think before I speak and the results are normally less than appealing for the majority of people I encounter. As for first hand experiences I concur though it is best for me to hold back from running into the fray for safety reasons. I generally work with rather volatile materials which is not something one should bring in a crowd of people, though I suppose that reason does not grant me permission to complain about the practices of others." She does her best to confirm to the proposed societal norms and pauses before continuing on a different subject matter "I observed earlier that your interests seem somewhat academically inclined which resonate with my own interests thus I would like to formally propose collaboration between us. Generally it is better to work in larger groups with diverse skill sets but it is always reassuring to work alongside a fellow scholar and maybe in a more appropriate setting we could discuss our subjects and potential goals."

[Sir Shadow]

As Liang Min and Valdr talk, the dwarf looks from one to the other before turning toward Feisal and pointing over his shoulder at the tiefling, "I swear she ain't speakin' common, lad. Anywho, th' name's Tavis Mumozrul-slag, and I know a thing'r two about dungeons and traps. I've an interest in forming a group, just big enough to keep th' shares of the treasure nice and fat, y'know? Too many and et's 'ardly worth the trouble."

While you speak, the line progresses steadily toward the mouth of the Tower's gate. Past the check-in area, you can see people milling about in front of the azure blue 'gate' waiting. Once you step in front of the check-in, you find several men dressed similarly to Seeker Isaac taking roll and making notes in large tomes. A quick glance over the paperwork tells you that, in addition to names of those entering, they are also keeping track of diving parties that had formed.

The robed man looks up and eyes the group, "Names please, and are you all together?" He gestures at those gathered around with a quill and his gaze lingers a moment on Henti and Thard before glancing back down at his book.

"What d'ya say, eh?" Tavis asks, "A little cooperation could be lucrative."

[Estralita]

Feisal blinks,slowly considering the pros and cons of the situation. If he went on his own, or with only a group of 2, he'd show to the world his strengths more clearly. No one would accuse him of attaching himself to someone more skilled and not earning his victories. On the other hand...

"Yes, that is true. But that depends on being able to get though the garden and bring back the treasure. It seems to me the more skilled members we have in the group, the better chance we have of surviving. We cannot spend money if we are dead, after all." Feisal steps forwards with the others as he spoke, ready to join with them.

[ylvathrall]

Valdr regards the robed man for a moment, then nods. "My name is Valdr," he says. "And yes, we are working together. The four of us, at least. I don't believe I've made the acquaintance of these two," he indicates Henti and Thard, "though I'm not necessarily opposed. They look like interesting company, if nothing else."

[Estralita]

Feisal considers for a second, then nodded. "Yes, four." He turns to Tavis. "Perhaps five. Is that a number you're comfortable with?"

[Morbis Meh]

Liang Min immediately looks down at the dwarf with a slight frown "Are you insinuating that your grasp of the common tongue is in some way superior to my own because from my own observations you are either inebriated or lack the vocabulary to speak in anything other than slang. As for wealth it is a subject I care little about but cooperation on its own could very well mean that we all leave this place safe and sound." She approaches the gate and responds to the inquiry "Prefect Liang Min and as far as I can surmise I will be indeed traveling along with the rest of these people." Which may or may not result in the formation of a migrane.

[PSinger]

It was only by happenstance that she found herself by these condescending persons, each attempting to secure an alliance while maneuvering to prove their intelligence or social prowess, just like in higher courts as her home. As above, so below. It is exhausting, and something she can't get escape. Oh, well. Hopefully, they have the wisdom their minds and mouths seem to be hiding. She realizes, though, that in court or in war she requires the counsel of the learned.

"I am Ambassador Henti Hisstah," she says simply with a strong but supple voice. "I care as much about the nuances of the Common tongue as will our enemy. I speak - if I am understood, I have succeeded. Only pedants care about the commas. I am here to fight for glory and riches, though my fellow here - Thard the Thorny - and myself have, through blood, learned the need for many skilled hands. Will you join us and profit from each other?"

[lostsole31]

Thard doesn't say anything, simply standing at Henti's side with his features somewhat marred by the evening's darkness, as if at times being slightly erased and redrawn, but only slightly.

[Sir Shadow]

"Aye, lad," the dwarf mutters, "As long as ye aren't planning to drag a dozen dregs across the Garden, we've an accord."

As Tavis puts his name in, the scholar quickly writes in a small, neat hand. With the group in an agreement, he adds a small annotation beside each of your names before tapping the feathered quill on the desk. "Very good, please proceed to the staging area. The gateway should be charged shortly. Good luck."

Your group shuffles forward toward the glowing blue gate where other parties are checking their equipment or going over plans for once they're inside. Though there are several smaller groups, the majority of them do seem nearly twice the size of yours. While there is something to be said for safety in numbers, the take from any treasure they manage to plunder would be divided a great deal.

Though you hadn't noticed it at first, a low, throbbing hum fills the area around the azure portal. You can feel the magical vibrations in the air, and Liang Min's donkey brays nervously, clearly uncomfortable with his current situation. All at once the humming intensifies as the runes swirling around the tower seem to brighten suddenly. The script that had been sprawled across every surface is quickly sucked across the sides of the tower and into the swirling gate which brightens until it is a blistering white.

Dazed, you're forced to look away for just a moment before the light dies in an instant. Blinking spots out of your eyes, you turn back to where the gate once stood to see a doorway of pure black. Looking into it, past the doorway, you can see silver mote of light far in the distance--like you were looking up into the night sky. At the front of the pack, the more experienced divers immediately step through the gate, and following their example, there is a mad rush as the others move to enter the rift.

Though the Tower's gate is easily wide enough for four chariots to pass through, the number of people trying to move through at once does cause a bit of a bottle-neck. People step aside and cast nervous glances toward Henti as she stalks forward, giving you all a bit of purchase. Liang Min, however, nearly had to drag her donkey toward the gate and through it...

The surface of the gate has a light tension to it, but pushing your way through the 'membrane' is not difficult. Immediately after passing the barrier, your eyes are assaulted again by the light of day. Above in a clear, blue sky, three suns beam down on a wide open plain which is completely filled with green shrubbery that reaches up to your knees. Beneath your feet, you feel moist loamy soil as your feet sink about an inch into the ground. Around you other groups are looking around with wonder-filled eyes while other more adventurous ones are already striking out.

Looking back from where you can, you see large stone columns forming a doorway where a similar starry portal sits between. Though the plains seem to roll endlessly in all directions you do see some aberrations on the horizon. In several directions you notice small patches of forest marring the otherwise even landscape. Several groups are already forcing their way toward several of those landmarks.

While you get your bearings, the enormous Toma steps through the gate and takes a sniff. On his back is an enormous pack and several others in similar garb step through carrying more equipment. The last in their train is Seeker Isaac who glances briefly around before opening his tome and making several notes, "Mmm, the Plains of Elysium? Again so soon?"

[ylvathrall]

Valdr seems particularly affected by the intense light. Even after managing to recover his senses, he's stumbling a bit on the way through the barrier. Must remember to bring shaded goggles next time, he thinks to himself.

Once on the plain, he mutters a quick incantation. As usual he laments how slow and fumbling he is over it. Too much time spent training at magics of war, and not enough with those of knowledge, until now his chance of ever changing that was a slim one.

But he manages to cast the spell, and then looks around curiously.

Casting detect magic, concentrating on anything interesting.

[PSinger]

Henti, overhearing Seeker Isaac, asks, "Where is Elysium? I have never heard of it. I'm not schooled in geography, but I don't recognize the name of that land from heraldry, either."

[Morbis Meh]

Lian Min grunts as she drags the stubborn @ss across the thresh hold, next time she would drug the damn creature so it would be more pliable to her will. Once inside she takes a moment to take in her surroundings before immediately whipping out her journal and jotting down every possible detail but raises her head when Toma begins speaking "What does that mean? What are we going to expect to see? How frequent does this particular area manifest? I need details man!"

[lostsole31]

"Elysium. Huh. We are in a different world. We are in a place of nutters and where so-called benevolent deities resided, but that doesn't mean that the many wild beasts that hunt here now about philosophy," explains Thard.

[Sir Shadow]

Seeker Isaac looks slightly scandalized as Liang verbally assaults him, "C-calm yourself, woman! I'm a scholar not an almanac!" After a moment he seems to collect himself and sighs. "Though," he concedes, "I did say I would answer any questions... very well--Toma!"

The massive guard reaches into the bags on his shoulder and pulls out a lectern, of all things, and with a slight squish, drops it onto the ground. With a flourish, Isaac rests his book on the surface and scrolls through several places, "Now... While your Shadowkin friend has gotten the gist of it, we have no proof that these are in fact the remains of the plane of Elysium. It is simply what we have termed it for convenience sake... specifically, these plains are filled with celestial creatures--mostly rodents--which are none too dangerous for most divers. The real dangers here are the oozes and carnivorous plants that lurk amid the vegetation.

"As for frequency, this floor has appeared first seventeen percent of the time and is always followed by the Darkest Dungeon on the second floor. During the truly random orders that we have encountered, the Fields have also appeared as the second floor and fourth floor." Isaac closes the book and rubs his chin thoughtfully. Toma, for his part, looks impatient to get moving.

[Estralita]

For the first few moments, all Feisal could do was stare in awe. He was actually here. It was real. Not that he ever doubted it was real, but actually seeing, feeling it-

The other's conversation brought Feisal back to his task. "Anything else we need to know or should we just head out?"

[PSinger]

"Yes," cuts in Henti. "Keep your blades sharp and your wits sharper."

[PSinger]

"Books," says Henti, looking to the group's several scholars. "Mentioned were plants and oozes. I'm sure we're not talking dandelions and molasses, so give us a basic idea of what to expect. Don't burden us with specifics of this or that special type - we can get to that, and I doubt the rest of us would remember. Just something to get a feel for how to prepare. That done, we'll head out. We're only on the garden's doorstep, but that doesn't mean the rest will be kind enough to come to us .... yet."

[lostsole31]

"One can argue about various oozes and molds, especially since many molds and fungi share some similar qualities, but those who study the flora of underground have a better chance of telling you about oozes, jellies, puddings, and such living filth," starts Thard the Thorny. "Here are some very basic things you need to know, and it's mainly common sense, assuming we're talking about monster plants and not poinsettias. They're hardy. Not necessarily hard to kill, but hardy enough. They are photosensitive, which helps them grow toward the nutrients of the sun. However, this translates to their being able to 'see' because of variances in light, probably at the same acuity as an animal, but not being able to see in the dark; surprisingly, and counter to prevailing thought, they do not sense prey via vibrations in general ... though several specific species do. They do not possess minds at all like ours, even if they are intelligent, so attempting to use mind-control powers don't work. Finally, just based on an entirely 'alien' physiology, they are immune to several things which might be common dangers for us. While some plants have a dormant stage, they do not sleep; nor are they affected by sleeping magics. Poisons, obviously. They don't possess nervous systems or muscles like us, so they really can't be paralyzed or stunned."

[Sir Shadow]

Seeker Isaac hums to himself and nods very slightly as Thard finishes speaking, "Again, the Shadowkin has most of it where oozes and plants are concerned. One thing you might note is that oozes are generally resistant to slashing weapons due to the nature of their bodies. As far as other dangers go, I'd suggest you not eat any vegetation you find unless you've seen one of the celestial creatures here eating it. On that note, you should only hunt the celestial fauna if you are confident you can slay it swiftly, lest it call more of its kind for aid."

Toma picks up the lectern and replaces it on his pack before grunting slightly. Isaac looks at the man, somewhat irritated, "Ah, right you are, we should be going." He turns back to you, "One last thing. If you find a set of stairs leading down, do not enter them. It will be the passage to the second floor, and since this is your first Tower dive, it would probably be best if you did not stray from this floor. However, if you do find it and manage to run into us before we have, we would see that you are well rewarded for that information."

[Estralita]

Feisal nodded suppressing a sigh on the Seeker's instructions.Only one level. What could the find here that others hadn't. Still, he knew his duty. "Best foot forwards." Feisal stepped onto the floor and began the expedition.

[PSinger]

Henti figures the scholar knows something she doesn't about which direction to go, so she is fine with Feisal's lead. She follows.

[lostsole31]

Thard follows Henti.

[Sir Shadow]

Toma, Isaac, and their men begin marching toward one of the forests on the horizon that none of the other groups have headed to yet. The last few stragglers come through the portal and begin milling about, inspecting their surroundings.

[Sir Shadow]

The group sets out to the 'south' of the gate toward an empty horizon. As you travel, it feels as though the plains roll endlessly in every direction, you soon notice that the 'suns' have not moved at all even though it seems like hours have passed. After four hours of stomping across soft earth, you still feel fairly refreshed; there is a constantly cool breeze and the air is probably the cleanest you've ever breathed.



Feisal
15


Thard
9


Liang
7


Henti
12


Valdr
11



Abruptly, Feisal motions for the group to halt before indicating a plant ahead of you that seems out of place. After he points it out, of course, Thard, Liang Min, and Valdr easily identify it as a whipweed. As you discuss this, Henti notices the sunlight glinting off of something tangled in its vines.

[PSinger]

"Wait," warns Henti, looking at the vines and drawing her falchion. She points to that glinting with her sword. "Thard, the metallic something in the vines. Check it out."

[lostsole31]

"Yeeaaahhhh," says Thard, hoisting his crossbow in that direction. "Not the greatest eyes here, but I have a fix for that, if you have a minute."

Thard begins concentrating .... unless something happens in the interim, it will take him a full minute before he's ready.
Now that she's pointing the specific area out, does Thard see anything? Perception is a whopping, earth-shattering [roll0]

[Sir Shadow]

The light in this area is a lot brighter than you're used to, and the ground is so choked with vines and other brush that you aren't able to make anything out.

"Now that ye mention it, I do think I see somethin' o'er there," Tavis squints toward the plant, but he shakes his head, "Can't make anything out though."

[PSinger]

While Thard is doing his bit, Henti will slowly move towards the glinting metal. She will look for danger ... (incl detect evil) ... and then with her falchion lift the branches away from whatever it is she is seeing.

[Sir Shadow]

Aside from the Whipweed, there is no immediate danger that Henti can detect with her various senses and abilities. As she inches forward, she notices the plant shudder, as if in anticipation. She would have to move within range of the plant's vines in order to actually reach the object.

[PSinger]

"I sense no ill mind, but this thing seems like it is waiting for me to come closer," she says, backing off. "What's a good way to kill the weed while maintaining safety for us?"

[lostsole31]

His meditative chant complete, Thard gathers his power by aligning his chakras and internally resonating vital energies at an appropriate frequency. A light from the center of his head, his heart, and his lower abdomen shine, and he opens his mouth and eyes for more light to pour forth. And it does seem to actually "pour" forth as if the light was an ethereal liquid that roils from him to coalesce into a shape in front of him. It layers thick as if making a column of stone, and from that column branches forth four limbs that take the shape of arms even as the upper part of the light takes that of a squarish head. The bottom of the column splits into legs, and by the end of things, an immensely powerful, lifelike construct close to 7' in height stands afore Thard. The four-armed brute wears leather armor, is outfitted with a filled backpack and bedroll, and has four shortswords in scabbards at its belt. A mystic symbol is engraved on its forehead, and that same symbol is a deep purple shared on Thard's forehead. It stands at the ready.

Thard takes a look at the weeds, but gets no closer. It's been awhile since he studied botany, his foci leaning to the more mobile creatures.
K: Nature [roll0]
The magics and the tell-tale linkage between Thard and this creature, repleate with twinned markings, identify what might have been mistaken as a thief to actually be a summoner. Not a conjuration specialist, but a man who uses pure will-power rather than intellect to summon creatures from beyond. The twin-marked creature is a construct of a summoner's will and connection to powerful outside forces that is known as an eidolon, a unique type of creature that reflects its master's preferences in an unfailing servant. Eidolons are outsiders and are as manifold as there are summoners to summon them.This particular eidolon is a four-armed mixture of living and construct creature known as an inevitable. Inevitables are the enforcers of Law in the cosmology of the universe.

[Sir Shadow]

Tavis lets out a low whistle of appreciation for Thard's light show, "Weel now, ain't that fancy?"

Thard's check reveals the basics of the Whipweed as described in its monster entry. In particular, he knows they are slow-moving, carnivorous plant creatures that generally attack anything that moves within range, roughly 15' feet from its central mass. Aside from that, the creatures are known to be able to detect movement at a much farther range through their various sensory organs.

[lostsole31]

"Stay away from it!" shouts Thard as he backs up and takes out his crossbow. "It can uproot itself and move about slowly. Three tendrils are nasty - 15' range. They have a debilitating poison. Shoot it at range, and prepare for it to start coming towards you."

Thard, at a range of 30', his eidolon following, takes a shot at the weedwhip and then reloads.
Attack [roll0], damage [roll1]

[Estralita]

Feisal got into a defensive position, reluctantly pulling out his rapier. This was not the time to work on mastering the scimitar. He didn't immediately charge, instead enchanting his weapon and checking to see if the item the plant grasped was magical in nature

Swift Action making his rapier +1 with his Arcane Pool
Standard Action casting Detect Magic.

[PSinger]

Henti trusts Thard's judgment, and there is no honor to be had against a plant by going toe-to-tendril. She is at a range of 30', takes out her bow, and shoots.
[roll0], damage [roll1]

[ylvathrall]

Valdr sighs and stops thirty feet from the plant as well. The weedwhip is a fairly minor threat, relative to the rest of the Garden. Not, he thinks, worth the use of one of his greater spells. But it needs dealt with the same as the rest, and he can assist in that task without necessarily expending a significant amount of his own magic.

Thus, staying back at the very edge of his range, he flicks his fingers and murmurs a few words, conjuring up a bit of acid to throw at the plant.

Stopping thirty feet away and casting acid splash.
Ranged touch attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1] acid

[Sir Shadow]

The plant seems to recoil under the barrage of spells and weapons. It shivers as soil falls off of it and uproots itself before slowly retreating away from the source of the attack. Where it had sat, you see several dry, cracked bones and a few tufts of cloth--evidence of long-dead victims.

The source of the shining you had previously noticed is a length of ivory decorated with gold inlay that catches the light of the suns. From this position, Feisal is able to determine that it has an aura of faint conjuration, but is unable to ascertain any other information without a closer inspection.

[lostsole31]

Does Feisal mention what he divines?

[Estralita]

Feisal's heart began beating faster. "It has a treasure!" In his excitement, he walked forwards, charging his sword with lightning before attempting to release is in the plant.

Screw Poison, there's treasure to be found!
Using Spell Combat to cast Shocking Grasp, then stepping forwards and attacking.

[roll0] (unless it's a metal plant of some sort :smallwink: )
[roll1] ( 1d6 for weapon damage, 2d6 for Shocking Grasp)

[Sir Shadow]

As you enter it's field of awareness, the plant snaps to attention like a predator suddenly aware of a tender morsel! In his eagerness, Feisal looses his footing on the soft ground and nearly trips in the thready plant fibers! Though he avoids tumbling, his thrust goes wide and the creatures moves away from the wide swing. it vines tense, ready to strike!

[ylvathrall]

Does he not listen at all? Valdr thinks, watching Feisal run headlong at the weedwhip. The wizard shakes his head and flicks another globe of acid at the plant.

Moving to 30 feet from the weedwhip, casting acid splash again.
Ranged touch attack: [roll0]
Acid damage: [roll1]

[PSinger]

Henti closes to 30' (basically keeping pace with the weedwhip) and shoots at it again.
[roll0], damage [roll1]

[lostsole31]

Thard reloads and shoots his crossbow again at the plant.
[roll0], damage [roll1]

EDIT: NICE! Too bad plants are immune to crits, but at least it definitely hit.

[Estralita]

Feisal was slightly embarrased by his miss, but forged on nonetheless.

Since Shocking Grasp is a touch spell, Feisal is still considered "holding the charge" until he hits. So if he hits this round, the plant takes the Shocking Grasp damage from the last post. Anyway, Attack!

[roll0]
[roll1]

[Morbis Meh]

Liang watches the over eager adventurer dash in head first towards the carnivorous plant she becomes mentally weary, something akin to what a child care provider would feel, then begins recalculating the situation. So if he dies that wouldn't be so bad, we still have a decent sized group to draw on and this type of behaviour would more than likely result in others getting hurt along the road but then again the others would probably want to have a memorial or something..... Oh gods what if they ask me to speak?!?! I have nothing formal to wear, I didn't even know him how could I prepare anything that wouldn't make me look cold and uncaring causing others to distance themselves from me. I cannot wander this bloody maze on my own because this stupid mule is being a nuisance and in short order I will need some dupe to carry my supplies.... wait is going on again... drat we still have to kill said plant that plans to eat the aforementioned adventurer.

Snapping out of her inner monologue, Liang gingerly strides forward until she is within throwing range and gingerly tosses a bomb at the area nearest to the plant, aiming so she will not hit the one named 'Feisal', thus negating the oaf's body from blocking the target.

So moving until within 20ft then throwing a standard bomb at a square next to the plant so it will take splash damage (it will also only have an AC of 5 so really hard to miss XD ) and using precise bombs to miss Feisal.

to hit (vs AC of 5 for hitting an unoccupied square) [roll0] point blank shot!
Splash damage is equal to 7 fire damage

[Sir Shadow]

As the plant readies itself to strike, the decisive strike from Thard and the fiery explosive chucked by Liang Min manage to extinguish its life. The being shudders several times before it falls limp, and the leaves shrivel and die as the it wilts before your eyes. Searching the area around where it had been sitting, you find several piles of bones. Two are clearly from humanoids, though the state of decomposition is far too great for you to tell what race or gender they were, and the rest are just the remains of large rodents.

You manage to collect some loose gold and silver coins, but the real catch is the wand that had caught your eye. It is a length of ivory roughly eight inches in length with gold detailing wrapping around it. Feisal is able to determine that it is able to summon weak creatures, but, curiously enough, only ones that are good-aligned. Valdr confirms his diagnoses, but adds that such a restriction on the item could possibly lower it's total value in the eyes of your employer.

Tavis shrugs, "Ets only been a couple hours. We've plenty o' time t' find more loot."

Everyone receives 100 xp each!

Loot:
12 gold pieces
46 silver pieces
Wand of Summon Monster I (Good Only) 48/50 charges

[PSinger]

"Thard, that wand sounds right up your alley, though I understand if you defer philosophically," says Henti. "What other interest is there for the wand?"

[ylvathrall]

"The wand goes to our employer," Valdr says, glancing over the bones. "Unless you really think that a trinket is worth his anger if he finds we've broken his rule on magical items. Shall we continue, then? There seems to be little else here of interest."

[PSinger]

The Ambassador nods slowly and says, "I am aware of our contract with our employer, and the idea was not for keeping. However, things were a little fuzzy on the use of objects found while in the garden and before return. Usage before remanding custody over is no more than a stronger investment in our - and by extension, the sultan's - expedition."

[lostsole31]

"Let's worry about that when it comes to that," says Thard. "I can argue both sides, but for now let me focus on practicing my own magics. If we are in extremis and lacking in resources, it will be important then. In the meantime, may I be the one to carry it? I would like to study it if we have any downtime."

[PSinger]

Henti nods her head thoughtfully. "Fine, let's move out."

[Morbis Meh]

Liang Min allows the others to argue semantics, if they wanted to violate the terms of their employment that would be their problem and she would not interfere. The remark concerning downtime made her snicker slightly "Do you really think we will have much time to sit around while we are in here? This place is a giant death trap and anytime not spent sleeping would be better served keeping watch unless you wouldn't mind being ambushed and mauled." Though it is a shame the plant withered so violently... I would have liked to collect a sample for future analysis but alas I am without luck.

[Estralita]

Feisal's face burned as the plant withered in front of him. He was unsure if any of his attacks had bothered the plant at all. Magic, fighting; just pick one, and stick with it. Otherwise you'll make a mess of things. Feisal shook his head hard to get the condescending voice of one of his teachers out of his head. He was going to make this work.

The tiefling woman's voice brought him back to the present, where he still had work to do. "In any case, maybe we can discuss and travel at the same time?"

[ylvathrall]

"I suggest that we focus on one," Valdr says sharply. "Unless you would prefer to be distracted the next time we encounter a weedwhip, or something much worse. And as we are not here for the purpose of conversation, may I again suggest that we resume travel?"

[Sir Shadow]

With Valdr's final decree, the group stirs and begins moving in the same direction as before. The minutes pass silently and you soon notice trees in the distance. Within the hour, you reach the line of tall oak trees which over sweet relief from the suns above. Once under the canopies, you can hear the sound of running water nearby.

Around this time, hunger begins to set in as the group realizes that most of you have not eaten since dinner.

[lostsole31]

Thard's four-armed eidolon stands guard while the kayal bends down to drink from the hopefully cooling waters ...

[PSinger]

While the group stops for a drink, Henti is going to see if she can't tell if there are any stains of sin and darkness anywhere .... starting with the water itself. (Detect evil)

[Morbis Meh]

Liang Min rummages through the saddlebags on her @ss and takes out a trail ration and her water skin, she daintily nibbles on the rather bland foodstuff but keeps a close eye on what is happening around them. Personally she would have waited longer to stop but if she wanted to remain in the good books of these people she may as well take a small break.

[Sir Shadow]

As the group moves deeper into the wooded area, you find a moderately-sized river winding slowly through the area. The light flickering through the the branches and leaves overhead plays along the water, and though she is busy munching on rations, Liang Min somehow manages to notice a large alligator hovering the water nearby. Before she can warn Thard, the beast erupts out of the water and... latches its teeth into a nearby antelope!

The creature thrashes and fights for a moment before its pulled down into the water. A quiet settles over the area before the donkey brays nervously, backing away from the water. Though you were only able to glimpse the two animals for a moment, you noticed they both had a celestial nature.

[PSinger]

Henti says a twofold prayer: first, gratitude for having seen such blessed beasts; second, that such blessed beasts do not remember more the side of them that are "beast" when we're nearby. We don't need a similar brush with the divine.

[lostsole31]

At first, Thard feels a jolt of shock and fear go through him, but he can't move from his spot. It's not a craven paralysis, but rather fascination. He is a student of nature, believing it to help him be more capable at his own pursuits. He watches the manner in which the crocodile attacks, angles, and the like, cataloguing its power mentally for the future. Such a creature, if he can gain strength enough, just might be worth learning how to conjure in the future.

[Estralita]

Feisal jumped a bit, seeing the attack, but then nodded. Even celestial animals needed to eat. "Shall we continue?"

[PSinger]

Assuming everyone gets whatever water they need/ want, "Let's move out."

[Sir Shadow]

"Where to?" Tavis asks, "I din't exactly like the idea of fordin' a river with the likes o' that in it."

[lostsole31]

"Who says we have to?" asks Thard. "We are looking for a direction for adventure. Let's enjoy being near a water source. We'll have constant access, but anything in the Garden that might want to cause trouble will also need water. We could walk in circles on the open plains for nary an encounter, but with the river our chances for interesting encounters increase - and plants need water as well. We were told we'd find more of them.

"Now, normally going upriver if you are near a source will deal with more mountains and more specialized vegetation. Heading downriver normally leads to wetter lands and greater biodiversity. I'm good following the river either way."

[PSinger]

Henti nods. "Good advice. Let's head south, then. Move out."

[lostsole31]

Thard and his servant follow Henti downriver.

[Sir Shadow]

With the newest heading decided on, the group heads down-river for some time, albeit a safe distance from the water. Traveling through the lightly wooded area, you see many wild creatures such as antelope, apes, and various birds. None of them seem particularly interested in your group and move to avoid your path once they notice your approach.

Though the suns above do not move much, if at all, to tell you the passage of time, you continue walking for roughly an hour and a half before you come upon the ruins of what appears to have once been a pair of towers. The toppled structures sit on each side of the river with a vine-covered bridge between them, crossing the waters.

[PSinger]

Henti looks at it, then to the group. "Any of you have any knowledge of bridges or anything to tell if it's safe?"
Read: Anyone with Perception to check for traps or Knowledge (engineering) to judge stability?

[Sir Shadow]

Tavis scratches his chin thoughtfully, taking a look at the bridge, "I know stonework, but it's hard to judge at this distance. I'd need a closer look."

[lostsole31]

"Okayyy," says Thard. "Get closer."

[Sir Shadow]

In order to get a better look at the bridge, you would likely need to enter the ruins. You could also possibly scale the outside of the tower's ruins around to the bridge.

[PSinger]

"Let's investigate," says Henti. "It's why we're here."

[Estralita]

Feisal nodded. Those ruins looked like they could have secrets buried inside. Possibly important secrets. It was no less than their obligation to explore them.

[Sir Shadow]

As the group moves toward the entrances to the toppled tower, you find that once a thick wooden door barred entry, but it has been since torn off its hinges and lays ruined next to the vine-covered walls. Inside, you see that the ground level appears mostly intact though sunlight does stream through gaps in the stonework. Though Tavis points out that he does not spot any traps near the entrance, the inside of the tower would impose more constricted areas and it is safe to assume that some creature might make the ruins their abode to find relief from the suns.

Who will be taking point on entering the tower? I'd like a rough idea of each person's position in line, front/middle/back.

[lostsole31]

"Tavis," Henti says, "I want you in front checking for traps or dangers. I will be right behind you. Thard? You and your ... thing ... take rear guard. The rest of you scholarly types, fit in the middle as best suits you. Any questions?"

Thard nods and says, "Sounds fine to me."

[Estralita]

Feisal nodded, and took his place in the formation. He quickly swept his eyes over the entrance, looking for any traps of a more magical variety.

Casting Detect Magic on the entrance.

[Sir Shadow]

Tavis gives Henti a nervous smile, but doesn't argue; he crouches low to the ground and moves into the structure with barely a sound. As the group moves inside, you get a better look at the interior. The first room is roughly rectangular in shape with very sparse furniture which is covered in moss. The remains of books can be seen on several shelves, but they have long since rotted to uselessness. Vines cover the walls, and the air has a very earthy smell.

A quick search through the room reveals nothing of interest, and as you move through the door on the other side, you find a hallway leading to your right and left.

[lostsole31]

Henti will motion to Tavis' right.

[PSinger]

Henti motions to the right.

[Estralita]

Feisal turns to the right as well, heads to the front of the group. He was not going to skulk in the shadows here.