[IC] First Voyage: In Fire And Ashes

[Pol Detson]

White Tower, scrying chamber
- Preparation to planeshift..
…10…9…8…

Citadel Mitrul, war room
All mages gathered in the room were nervous. The alarm was pro forma, but the first planar shift was historical event and everyone wanted to witness it..
…7…6...5...
- Everything’s ready, warmaster – young abjurer reported – now we need to wait..


Pyramid of Eyes, inner sanctuary
…4…3...2..
- The moment we are been waiting for. High Exarch will be pleased.
-One step closer to t..
- We all know it. Please, spare us the sermon.

Fearless’ captain bridge

...1...0...

Sebastian Mercier sat in the captain's chair when the reality winked out and weave of oppressive heat hit the Fearless. The next second Planar Adaptation Array compensated for the Plane of Fire hostile environment.

The captain bridge was wonder build by diviners of Pyramid. The crystal dome showed in real time three-hundred-and-sixty-degree view around Fearless. On command, it could zoom on the chosen spot with better accuracy than any eye-glass Sebastian held in his life.

Now it showed breath-taking, impossibly bright sky and endless, churning ocean of lava below.

[dascarletm]

Sebastian Mercier (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1004842) sat in his chair for a moment to compose himself. He was completely overwhelmed by the images he saw from the bridge. Perhaps he was a simpleton at heart, but he felt as though he needed to see this for himself. He looked to one of the lesser officers on deck.
"Once we are stable, tell any crew that can leave their station to gather on deck, I wish to address them in person."

He waited a moment longer fiddling with the signet ring his mother gave to him long ago. Sebastian exited the command deck, and climbed atop the highest vantage point that still overlooked the main deck.
He stood there letting the hot air rush past his face. Though the ship would protect him, the air still felt unnaturally hot, and impossibly dry. It was unlike anything he had ever felt before, and it excited him. This was the feeling of freedom, this was the feeling of adventure. It had been too long since Sebastian had even flew on a skyship let alone captained one, and the experience made him smile broadly. It cracked through the demeanor of stern calmness he wanted to project despite his best intentions.

He awaited for the crew to assemble, and mentally prepared himself for his coming addressment.

[whoiam]

OOC: Ninja ex postfacto:smallcool:

[Pol Detson]

Fearless, captain bridge

The young officer - Navigator Aoife Varalia - was redhead, but extremely talented and competent with all magical items.
"Sir, we are stable. All systems are working. I'll consult the charts and instrument to plot the course to the primary objective." she reported.

"Sir, yes sir!" one of the soldiers saluted and marched to inform everyone about captain' order.

Fearless' Arcane Laboratory

The informal custodian of the lab - an awakened reven Nav conteplated the mess of early launch. The current manifestation of the mess was big, iron-wrought chest sitting in the smouldering ruin of perfectly good table.

The chest contained several magical items, potions, scrolls and wands assigned to the Fearless crew. It was also protected by custom wards and the key wasn't on the ship, because someone managed to displace it. The first try was unsuccessful. What was worse, the captain wanted all of the crew, including artificers, on main deck.


Yes, you have additional gear for the expedition. If you menage to break into the chest without destroying all of it:smallwink:.



Fearless Main Deck

Eigra stood on deck, waiting for the captains' speech and her mind wandered back to the last night' dream. A intensely clear vision. Narrow bridge over sea of lava guarded by black dragon. But Eigra didn't feel threatened by the monster, no, the sense of danger came from flames and molten rock. The bridge was not a bridge, it was a hundred blades fitted together to make a scoffold. The dragon spoke of gold, and gold and gold...


The crew assembled, more than hundred men and women awaiting captain Sebastian Mercier words. The excited artificers, somber clerics and wizards, silent and disciplined soldiers lined in perfect formations like on parade.

[whoiam]

"There's no use, we're going to have to break in," Nev notes, almost sad at the thought. Then again, it was a nice piece of worksmanship... which was also a large part of the reason it was a problem. And part of the reason she was currently perched on the chest's lid.

"Smashing it might work, but only if we really want to shatter all the potions... hm. You, " gesturing to a first artificer with a wing, "go ask around the other spellcasters. We'll need everyone that's prepared a Dispel Magic today. Then you, " and a second, "see if there's anyone on the crew that knows how to pick locks. And if not, grab a couple of the strongest regular crew you can find, and some crowbars. We'll use the Dispel Magics to keep the wards inactive, and then pick or break our way in while they're down."

As the message-bearing soldier arrived, she nodded in their direction. "Yes, like that one. Just need a couple more..." But she was interrupted by the message.

"Ah, right, up on deck, everyone. Hmm... this might work out, after all. If everyone's gathering up there, we should be able to grab our volunteers all at once!"

With that, Nev launched herself off the chest lid, and lead the way up towards the deck. Flight got her around fast enough that the crew hadn't all made it up when she arrived (she could outfly her colleagues, at the very least), so she had time to pick herself a nice railing spot to perch on, and stare out at the new plane they'd found themselves in.

KRAA!

Humans used flags to announce 'I claim this land!'. Ravens used signature calls. And while even Nev would admit the flags lasted longer (unless you tried planting them in the infinite lava sea...), the call was a lot more satisfying.

Besides, she was the first Raven who ever got to give her call on the Plane of Fire. Probably. Such a ...shiny... plane it was, too! She had to keep reminding herself she couldn't take it and decorate her nest* with it. No, not even a little bit. Lava tended not to play well with nests. Or Ravens, for that matter.

But the deck was still filling up, so she reluctantly turned around on her railing, and watched the bridge.



*Nev's nest being a wicker basket a little larger than she is, lined with what appears to be a cut down portion of a duvet, and perched on a shelf in the workshop. Let's be honest, she'd be lost in a regular bed!

[Mousedigits]

Talenel Alendi stands perched on the tall ledge, looking out over the city. Nearly six hundred feet away, pulling out of port, is the Fearless. Taln would feel awed at the majestic sight if he wasn't so nervous. Ayr, this is about the time you tell me that this is a stupid idea, right? he thinks to his psicrystal, who was nestled in his pocket.

Yes, sir, traditionally that time would be about now. However, this time, I'm as on-board with this as you are.

Great. Let's get started.

Taln then backs up to the far edge of the building. Without further ado, he runs forward and leaps off the building. The wind whips at his face, his cloak billows behind him. Below him, a couple hundred feet down, are those who came to see the Fearless' first launch. As he falls, the people below start pointing to him, shouting for others to get out of the way. Then, when Taln is only 20 feet off the ground, he snaps his fingers. Suddenly, he disappears- and re-appears 480 feet away. He falls for a bit more, then stabilizes and floats for a few seconds. He looks out at the ship, and sees a sphere of energy beginning to form around it. Crap! We've gotta go. It's already begun the jump!

Without spending any more time thinking, Taln keeps flies to his target, using teleports along the way. By his estimate, he had about 10 seconds to get to the ship. 3 seconds passed. 5 seconds. 7 seconds. As the ninth second passed, Taln passed through the spherical cloud of energy surrounding the ship. Exhausted, he fell to the deck. He lay there for a few seconds, dazed, before getting up to find a small crowd around him. He dusts himself off, then looks to someone who looks to be of fairly high ranking. Ahem. Erm, do you happen to know where I could find Sebastian Mercier?


Perhaps sneak wasn't quite the right word. :smalltongue:
In getting aboard the ship, I used:
3 second-level spells (Fight, swift) (one used to stop my falling, the other two for movement)
My Lesser Dragonmark of Passage (Dimension Door)
Both uses of my Least Dragonmark of Passage (Dimension Leap)
That moves me 640 ft, enough to get to the ship.

http://pre09.deviantart.net/e747/th/pre/f/2013/311/7/5/warmage_by_azeltas-d6tde7y.jpg

This is about the closest I could find to an image of him. Taln doesn't usually have a hood up, and his eyes don't glow. Also, he uses a two-handed sword, as opposed to the one-hander in the picture.

[Silver Night]

Eigra

Before they transit:

Eigra cases Magic Vestment on herself, using her Rod of Extend. She will use divine spell power to try and increase the effect.

Divine Power check: [roll0]
-1 turn undead
She will do the same with Resist Energy (Fire), though without the extending
Divine Power check: [roll1]
-1 turn undead


After the transit:

Eigra is shocked from her reverie by the ocean of lava below. She steps sharply away from the rail. She can already feel her full plate warming around her, but she feels a chill - fire being one of the few things that can easily injure her. She will have to consider the dream more closely later (parts seem clear, parts still obscure. But then that's always the way.) For now events on deck provide a welcome distraction from the fire all around. She smiles as she recognizes the raven - Nev? - who seems to run things in the lab, and then she sees a hubbub around a figure she doesn't recall being there just before transit.

[dascarletm]

This is to see if I notice Talenel's daring boarding, or notice the people staring at him to be out of place.
Spot:[roll0]
Sense Motive:[roll1]

Sebastian stood there watching the crew gather on the large open deck. He saw Nev and remembered hearing that the ex-familiar of one of his uncles would be on board. Sebastian had never met any of his family, and was curious as to what they were like. However, he had waited long enough, any more standing up here staring at the crew and they would think him mad.
Perform (Oratory)[roll2]
"Crew of the skyship Fearless! Congratulations on becoming the first known people of our plane to come here, to this land of fire and magma. I am your captain, Sebastian Mercier previously of the skyship Endless Horizon." He looked down at the hilt of his sword, Lightning's Edge, given to him by Gerard.

"As you may know I was never a member of Selcheress' navy, I was never a member of her army, I was a free captain. I never sailed under any rules, save the rules me and my crew held to one-another. For many of you, this may be very different to what you are used to, but it is not the rules and regulation of command that keep a ship flying. It is Trust. Trust in your crewmates, and your ship. Without it we are nothing more than people shooting along aboard a large pile of wood. No, a ship is more than that. A ship is something greater than the sum of its parts, and trust brings that forth. It keeps her flying when she ought to fall, and keeps her sailing when you would think there is no way she can keep going. Trust is everything, and without it, especially here, we are sure to fail. Usually this trust is built over many months of sailing together, but we have no such luxury."

Sebastian paused to look over the crew once more. Many of them were soldiers. Would they accept his way of flying?

"I however trust in every one of you. You have all been hand-picked by The Ninth Assembly itself, and if that isn't a testament to your skill, to your aptitude, I don't know what is. I am certain you no doubt look out at this land and see death. I see it differently. Where I see fire, I see freedom. Where I see magma I see adventure, and where I see smoke, I see opportunity. People will look back one-hundred years from now at us, and they will not lament at our failure. No, they will look back and say they went where no one was meant to, and they didn't just make it... they triumphed!" He paused one last time, gauging the reaction of his crew.
"Selcheress want us to retrieve some gems, Lifefire Gems. So, we will sail there, get them, and go home. I don't know what will be awaiting us here, but I know we will overcome anything this plane can throw at us. All hands, steel yourselves, get back to your stations, and let's go where no one has gone before us!"

He awaited the crews reaction, hopefully they would accept him as their captain despite his lack of military upbringing. He addressed a crewmember near him, "Would you ask Eigra and Nev if they would come speak with me in the captain's quarters once they have a free moment?"

Assuming I noticed him with that roll, I'll extend my invitation to "our unexpected guest" to the crewmember as well.

[Pol Detson]

Talenel could congratulate himself for the successful boarding until the first volly of magic missiles hit him. The guards on deck reacted with equal speed and ruthlessness. Before he could absorb the shock, three blades pointed at his tattooed face, and white-robbed wizard was at the ready with wand. Alendi coudn't quite match name to the face, but he definitely seen him before in White Tower.


You take 17 dmg from magic missiles.


"Don't you dare to move!" gray-haired soldier with sergeant insignia on his breastplate shouted "hands where I can see them!

"Telanel?" the white wizard asked puzzled. Telanel "what are you doing here?"

When Telanel spoke about captain Mercer wizard shrugged and pointed toward captain bridge. The famous privateer exited the place moment later. More and more people gathered to on the deck while the guards pointing swords at psionic warrior didn't relax for a moment. It was a stalemate of sort, because all the crew was coming on the deck, so there was no point on escorting the intruder below.

The captain was preparing to give a speech to the whole crew. He looked directly at Telanel and surrounding men, but it seemed that situation was under control.

Sebastian Mercer speech wasn't the greatest he had delivered in life, but he was skilled and charismatic orator. The crew listened and cheered when he spoke of trust, freedom and triumph. They might not know him personally, but his reputation as a captain in Long War was legendary - and many of those men seen the last years of fighting. He could count on their loyalty.

After the speech he adressed the crewman, who imminently saluted and went to fetch Nev, Eigra and 'unexpected guest'. The last one came with four guards, three sword pointed at his back and nervous wizard fallowing soldiers.


All players are in captain's quarters.

[Silver Night]

Eigra

Still in her more corridor-friendly human guise, Eigra makes her way to the captain's quarters. She gives the raven a friendly nod and eyes the unexpected guest with curiosity. "Reporting as requested."

[whoiam]

"Well, this one's new, " Nev chatters, mostly to herself, as she flies over to examine the intruder... and then sits on the top of his head, and starts checking her feathers. After all, with all those swords to his throat, he's probably not going to be able to make much of an effort to stop her, is he?

"I would have expected more fire from someone who made it aboard in this place, wouldn't you? So how did a non-fire-person get out here?"

Nev had not been able to see him board (she'd been below decks until the message after the jump), and had guessed entirely wrong about how and when he boarded.

[Mousedigits]

Talenel barely had time to get up before being hit by the missiles. He grimaces in pain, bending over. Ugh, I'd forgotten about those. At the soldier's prodding, he responds Just a second, let me regain my composure. Damn that hurt. He seems very unconcerned about the swords pointed at his face. To the White Tower mage, he simply asks Have I seen you before? Just as the mage begins to introduce himself, Mercier begins to speak. Quiet! We'll save introductions for later. After the speech, he nods in approval. Just as the rumors say.

When the messenger comes to ask Taln's presence to the captain's quarters, he finds Taln arguing with the guards about being brought to the captain. Upon hearing that the captain has requested his presence, he sticks his tongue out at the head guard. He frowns, however, at the order for the guards to come with him.

Upon entering the cabin, he looks around, gauging the faces of the others gathered in the room. In particular, he finds the raven rather amusing. That amusement fades quickly, however, when the bird perches atop the bald man's head. He gives Sebastian a hard look. Captain, with all due respect, could you please keep your pet parrot under control? Bird claws are not particularly healthy for the scalp.

[dascarletm]

Entering the room you see that it was designed for modest luxury, however you can see it has been set up far more humbly. There is a single bed, a writing desk with chair, and a small table with four other chairs around it. In front of each chair is a cup with tea leaves in it. Sebastian pours hot water from his percolator into each as the three enter the room. He motions for everyone to sit at the table. Initially ignoring Talenel he addresses Eigra and Nev.

"I'm sorry that hot tea isn't going to be the most appropriate drink at probably the hottest place we could be, but here you go nonetheless. Oh, and Nev, is not my familiar I'll have you know, she is actually the top artificer aboard this ship. Eigra and Nev, I wanted to ask you if you'd be willing to join me as the ground-crew when we reach the gems. I don't know what we'll find there, and if you'd rather stay on the ship I understand. However, I looked over the records of everyone on this ship leading up to our jump, and you two stand out as a cut above. In fact if you are willing I'd like you as my Top Lieutenants. You'd still have all your normal duties of course, but should I be incapacitated, or worse, you'd have rank on the ship. You would also take a role closer to alongside me than below me. I don't offer this easily under most circumstances, this will have to be the exception and I could really use your help. What say you?

He awaits their reply and addresses Talenel after. Standing up allowing the hilt of his blade to show.

"Now you... You're not from this plane here, you're from Selcheress aren't you? You'd best explain yourself, because this isn't your average skyship. Walking the plank here wouldn't bode well...

[whoiam]

"...Parrot...?"

Oooh, that one hit a nerve. Nev shifted her weight onto one foot, balled up the other one, and kicked down with it. It doesn't do any damage (she'd struggle to cause serious injury even when she was using her talons, let alone when she's not!), and lands... with about as much force as someone tapping you on the shoulder to get your attention.

"Hey, Monkey!" Let's see how he likes it! "You know parrots can't actually talk, right? They can learn to mimic the words, but you can't actually have a conversation with them." Nev then wanders to the front of Taln's scalp, and leans forwards, ducking her head down to give him an angry glare. It would work better if a) this pose didn't leave her head upside-down at the top of Taln's vision, and b) you could pull off a human 'annoyed' expression with a Raven's face.

Giving up, she moves on. "Oh, Monkey, before I forget: You don't happen to know how to pick locks, do you? Some genius lost the key to one of our supply chests already!" Straightening up, she glances over at her captain. "And no, it wasn't me this time. There's no keys lining my nest, and I checked my caches, I haven't stored any keys for the hard times to come when wild keys are in short supply. Someone else lost this one."

Almost as an afterthought, she adds, "Sure, I'll join the ground team. Just don't expect me to carry too much. I don't have those giant muscle piles to move around on like you mammals do..."

[Mousedigits]

To Sebastian: I assume one of those chairs are for me? I could use a seat after the exhilarating adventure I've been on. He moves towards one of the seats, and assuming the move doesn't earn him a poke from a sabre, he'll pull the chair out from under the table and sit down. He then picks up the cup, looking at it in distaste. Anyone want this? Not much for tea, myself. If nobody takes him up on his offer, he shrugs and sets the cup back down. Then he looks at the captain. Yes, I'm from Selcheress. And, yes, I know that this isn't the average skyship. Hell, I'm the entire reason for that. You see, as our white-robed friend (who has yet to introduce himself to me) over there likely knows, he gestures to the White Tower mage, I'm the one who built the Planar Breaching Engine. Well, I couldn't have done it without my friend here. With that, he reaches into his pocket and withdraws a small, yellow crystal. He then withdraws his hand from under it as spindly, electric legs appear underneath it, keeping it about four to five feet above the ground. Meet Ayr, my best friend and the best assistant you can find.


He'll do everything standing, aside from offering someone his tea.


Everyone hears a bright, cheerful female voice in their head. Hello, all!

Anywho, you wanna know why I'm here? Because I should've been on the roster all along. That was one of the biggest reasons I decided to do this project, especially on the pay they gave me. But nooo, they pulled me off at the last minute. Well, I decided I'd come along anyways. Of course, they probably saw me flying towards the ship before we disembarked, so when we return they'll likely be waiting to take me from this beautiful ship. However, until that happens, I plan on making the most of this little expedition. I'd like to join your ground team. Believe me, I'll make a valuable member. Despite my status as a scholar, I'm also well versed in the art of the sword.


Not only that, the voice in their heads says, but you'll have the benefit of a telepathic communications network. Do you know how much easier it is to communicate with fire elementals when you don't need to worry about mistranslations?

To Nev: Well, I don't remember ever hearing any bird besides a parrot talk. Then again, I've never seen a black parrot. Maybe you're some kind of mixed-breed? Ah well, point is, bird claws are still not very healthy for the scalp, as I said earlier. So, if you would please disembark from my cranium. He then crosses his arms, waiting for Nev to move from her perch, he continues. As for picking locks, I'm afraid I can do no such think. However, I wonder how this lock would fare against a splash of acid...


Right now, I'm picturing Taln as a person in his 30s with the cynical attitude of someone in their 80s and the patience of a toddler. :smalltongue:

[dascarletm]

"Well now that is interesting..." Sebastian says trailing off into thought. He ponders the situation for a moment and drinks from his tea looking at Talenel intently.

Sense Motive on Talenel's words: [roll0]

"When I was but a boy my mother and I were traveling aboard the skyship Endless Horizon. We were passengers, well... more of guests really. I was never allowed to help around the ship, the captain, Gerard was his name, didn't want me getting hurt. For years I kept asking to help and was rejected over and over again. However, one day I didn't ask for permission, I just started to work; I didn't care what the punishment might be. The captain saw me, and didn't say anything I was expecting. Gerard merely critiqued my work, telling me how I might improve. I respect a man willing to take what he wants despite what anyone else may say. I'll have you with the ground crew per your request. I do however expect you to help out aboard the ship. If you truly are responsible for this ship I assume you won't have any difficulty."

He finishes his tea, "Oh and I didn't catch your name."

[Pol Detson]

The white wizard bowed his head and re-introduced himself just after Taln pointed:

"I am Farran White. We met just before the Fearless project started." he said. The 'White' monicker signified that he was an unwanted child, orphan or bastard abandoned on White Tower' property and raised by the wizards.

"Our humble intruder was, in fact, responsible for key theoretical work on our Engine." Farran confirmed to the captain.

The old sergant didn't let his eyes off Taln. He cleared his throat and asked: "May I speak freely, my captain?" he waited for permission and continued:

"I was in the Last War. I've seen things. Soldiers losing control of their own minds. Demons wearing flesh of common folks and children. White wizards broken and compelled by spells to burn innocents alive. Are we sure that we shouldn't throw him overboard and hit him wit big cannon just to be sure?"

[whoiam]

"Aw, but it would be such a waste of a good perch! I always wanted a carrying monkey, and now I've found one, you want to throw it overboard? Although..." Nev takes off from Taln's head... and attempts to land on his hovering psicrystal. "This floating rock is kinda cool... I'd almost be tempted to steal it and let you toss the monkey, but I don't think that would work out. You're a Psicrystal, aren't you, Ayr? A little fragment of the Monkey's mind, given substance. Though it's probably best we not speculate too long on how.... different... you are to the rest of Monkey..."

[dascarletm]

"I'd be lying if I hadn't considered it sergeant, but if you'd like to explain to The Ninth Assembly yourself that the man who designed this ship's engine is dead, by all means throw him overboard. I however would strongly recommend against upsetting them."

He turns back to Taln, giving him his full attention.

[Mousedigits]

As our esteemed captain has said, throwing me off wouldn't be a good idea. The entire reason they kept me behind -sorry, tried to keep me behind- is because they didn't want their head engineer for this project dead. A wiser man than I might have heeded their wishes.

I apologize. My name is Talenel Alendi, or Taln for short. As far as my duties aboard the ship, I was thinking that I would take up residence in the Engine room. Considering I built the thing, I can easily keep tabs on it and make sure it's not gonna blow up on us. Did you know that there's a gauge on it specifically to tell how likely it is to suddenly open a rift to the astral plane, sucking all matter within a 100 foot radius into the rift, and causing the ship to implode upon itself? Yeah, we did our best to make sure that that gauge stays firmly at zero.

Ayr says to Nev Indeed, I am a manifestation of my master's more scholarly side. However, I am not necessarily restricted to scholarly thoughts. I am a being with independent thoughts from Talenel's. Due to my being a part of his mind, however, my independent thoughts and his independent thoughts regularly coincide. At least, they do when those thoughts are of the scholarly variety.

[Silver Night]

Eigra

Eigra sips her tea and grins at Nev's antics atop the newcomer's head, "I accept, Captain. I hope I can live up to your faith in me. Oh, and if we are to all work together, you should each have these." She places 3 rings on the desk, made of a shiny whitish metal. They don't appear to be magical for anyone who can sense that sort of thing, and they match a band that Eigra is already wearing, "These are the focuses for a spell which allows me to assume some of the injuries that would impact any of you. Generally one at a time, but if you have the rings already it will make it easier to cast the spell when needed. There is one other thing..." She describes her dream, "I have learned not to dismiss such things, as sometimes it is the way that Chandra chooses to speak through us."

The rings wouldn't take up a magic item slot, as they are just the focus for a spell (and as far as I can tell, just have to be in the possession of the character in question, not necessarily worn.

[dascarletm]

Sebastian picks up the ring, examines it for a second, and then tosses it into the air catching it, the metal shining as it spins. He puts it on his left little finger, "Hopefully we won't be needing to use this, but nevertheless good to have."

Upon hearing about Eigra's dream he thinks for a moment and frowns. "I've learned the hard way in the past to always listen to omens or portents. Sadly I don't know much of my draconic heritage... the black ones, they aren't the variety that likes fire are they? I thought that was the red ones. I know your dream said there is nothing to fear, but I'd rather us be prepared for it just in case. Does anyone know much about black dragons, or have a way to defend against them? Also, I want everyone to have a means of flight, even if it is temporary, no exceptions. I don't want to see my crew falling to a horrible death out here." He looked at Nev, chuckled, "That shouldn't prove difficult for some of us."

[Silver Night]

Eigra

"I have the natural ability to fly as well. I can also cast fly, ah, on the fly as needed, if required. Still, best if others can do it themselves when I'm not nearby."

[Mousedigits]

Very well, then. Talenel says as he puts the ring on, trying out fingers to see which one it fit on best.

As for flight, I can utilize short bursts of it, though nothing long term yet. However, if I fall off, I have other means of getting back up. A good half of which I wasted trying to get on this ship. Which brings another question: When are we going down to the surface? I'd like to rest for at least a day and get my resources back. It's not like we're in a huge rush, right? It will also give me a chance to look at this chest the parr- er, raven, was talking about.

[whoiam]

Nev goes on to land on the table, next to the remaining ring. She pecks at it, in a rather... unenthusiastic... manner.

"...I always wanted a large, heavy anklet, " she notes, rather drily. "Well, if it's for my health, I'll have to see if I can pad this thing to fit one of my legs comfortably. I assume just carrying it won't work, it has to be worn?"

[Silver Night]

Eigra

As the ring isn't magical in and of itself, it may not matter. I've never tried the spell with anyone non-humanoid in shape.

[dascarletm]

"Excellent. Sergeant you can leave Taln to me. Consider him my guest until we get back to Selcheress. You can be on your way, and thank you." He turns to the four. "I'm going to check in with our navigator on the command deck. If you'd like to join me you may."

Sebastian then puts away the cups that have been drank or are left untouched with care, making sure to clean them out first. He however, places them haphazardly with no sense of organization in a drawer. He looks around the room, nods, and gets ready to head up to the command deck with whoever wishes to join him.

[Silver Night]

Eigra

Eigra goes along - she is curious as she hasn't spent much time on the command deck. "Do we have some idea of where we need to go?"

[Pol Detson]

Sergeant opened his mouth as if to argue, thunk better of it, and just saluted. "Sir!" , he and his men exited the officers rooms. The sergeant gave Talenel Alendi a look that could only mean "I'll be watching you, potential doppelganger".

Nev knew, because of her perch in artificer lab, that providing flight for hundred person crew would be near to impossible with current manpower. Artificers could produce many items magical and alchemical, but even simple wand of fly would have only 50 charges.

Sebastian returned to the bride . The technicians and officers saluted. Redhead Aoife reported the calculations:


"We are 173 miles off. But the conditions are better than expected, without rains of fire or visible ash-clouds, sir. We should be able to fly at full speed. "


I didn't include the reaction to Nev, Eigra and Taln.. but assume that technicians on the ship recognize Taln and are very confused right now. :smallwink:

[dascarletm]

Sebastian smiled and nodded to Aoife, "Thank you Aoife. Looks like smooth sailing." He looked at the surrounding area for anything out of place, or anything of note.

"I don't want anyone letting their guard down. This seems to be going almost too smoothly."

Sebastian paces, though not nervously. He seems to move with purpose, as though he feels he is missing something.

[Silver Night]

Eigra

Now that we are on the same plane, I can cast a Divination either now or once we are in sight of our target to help guide us forward. Of course, the trick is always asking the right question.

[dascarletm]

"Hrm... I suppose we should ask something pertaining to what we saw in your dream. Sebastian turns to the others. "Or maybe we ought to wait till we are there. Thoughts?"

[whoiam]

"If it's just a mundane ring, I could get one of the wrights to make one that actually fits me instead..." Nev grabbed the ring with her beak, fully intending to fly it down to the lab then and there. But a nagging voice in the back of her head suggested she would be forgetting something.

"Oh!" Came her now-rather-muffled voice. "Totally-not-a-monkey? You wanted a look at the chest, right? Well, follow me. It's just sitting in the lab, taunting us with it's sturdy construction and breakable cargo." Seeing no reason to stick around anymore (Sebastian and Eigra having already left), Nev flew back down to the workshop/lab. But at human walking pace, so she couldn't lose Taln.

[Mousedigits]

Taln follows the group up onto the bridge, his psicrystal companion trailing along. He looks out the window at the huge expanse of fire and lava before him, feeling awed. He'd been able to see it before, of course, upon landing on the ship. However, being able to soak it all in was exhilarating.

Regarding the divination, Taln shrugs. I suppose it's a matter of risk. using our divination right now would foreshadow anything currently there, but if we use it when we arrive at our destination, we stand to gain more useful information. Unfortunately, I'm not the one to ask about risks. I am, after all, the one who just risked falling to his death to board a ship heading to a place likely more dangerous than any other human has been.

At the mention of the chest, Taln's eyes widen a bit. Ah, yes, I'd forgotten. Captain, if you'll dismiss me, I'm going to see about that chest. Taln then leaves without waiting for a response from the captain.

Upon seeing the chest in question, Taln frowns. Yes, this could be problematic. I've little experience with lock picking. Little need for it when one can teleport, you see. Taln examines the lock. If it's a padlock, the first thing he tries to do is cast Ray of Frost on it, hopefully making it more brittle, then trying to break the lock with a hammer. ([roll0] Strength check, plus any bonuses from the Ray of Frost and hammer) If that doesn't work, he tries acid splash, doing [roll1] damage. If that shows promise, he'll keep casting it as necessary, up to 4 more times. If that shows signs of damaging the contents or just not working, he pauses in thought. Then, his eyes widen. Ah, I've an idea! Okay, here's how this is going to work.


Look though the keyhole to establish line-of-sight to the inside of the chest.

Now, the next part depends on whether you think psicrystals can grab items.
If so:
Use Psionic Dimension Hop to teleport Ayr into the chest.
Have Ayr grab some and teleport her back.

Else:
Teleport Nev into the chest (using the spell Dimension Hop, which is a touch spell, as opposed to personal like Psionic Dimension Hop) have her grab things, use Share Powers (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/psionic/classes/psion.htm#sharePowers) with Ayr to use Dimension Swap to swap Ayr and Nev's positions, putting Ayr inside and Nev outside, with the stuff. Lastly, use Share Powers and Dimension Hop to get Ayr out.

If the second plan ends up being the only option, he'll say: Of course, if you don't want to go through with it, you'll go from parrot to chicken.

[dascarletm]

I think waiting till we arrive will be best Eigra.
He sits in his chair, though he does not relax. Sebastian sits as though he is ready to leap up at any moment, as though he felt he may need to. It could make a lesser man anxious just at the sight.

Keep a weather eye, crew.
He frowns and continues giving small orders and performing any minor tasks required to keep the sailing smoothly.

[Pol Detson]

Fearless Arcane Laboratory

The chest was made of adamantine under hardening spell and had three locks built directly into the chest- first made of the same metal, seamlessly merged with the chest. Second lock made of riverine, its precise working obscured by an color-changing spell.Thrid was made of glass. The keyholes were not two-sided as door would be, so Taln was unable to establish visual to the inside of the chest.


Consider this to be a separate scene that is starting before the next part. There is around 9 hours of sailing as the random distance of 173 miles would be ~8.5 of flying.


Fearless Captain Bridge

The sailing was smooth for the last almost nine hours. Captain job was de facto limited to waiting, as nothing obstructed the way through the impossibly bright sky over lava. The occasional geysers and fire-eruptions on the lava-sea surface were safely many miles below.

"We have a visual contact with the target!" one of the technician said. The monotonous landscape around and below Fearless made it hard to spot, but the magical crystals offered help. Technician calibrated the vision and the flat surface of screens showed an island or maybe a mountain with multiple peaks - half-submerged in magma, besieged on all sides by weaves of lava. The fires run through the jagged peak.

"What is that?!"

The point close and above geometrical centre zoomed on the screens.


It was movement. Surrounded by mountains peaks, under bright sky. It looked a bit like a giant, swirling flock of birds or a tornado. Like enormous spindle, shooting into the sky.

Up close, it was giant iron fractal. Rotating rims, scythes, pendulums, gears and eccentrics. Parts swirled around each other, through each other, past each other. At times it looked like astrolabe, sometimes spindle, sometimes a clock mechanism.

Hoops began to slow down, scythes and pendelums changed trajectories, and the object began to change shape like a monstrous puzzle wrought from iron elements and gears. Huge shapes spun with -what the crew could only image - a deafening screech, then lined up one against the other, forming a flat cylinder, bristling with huge rivets, It was motionless, but only for the moment. Its bottom surface split, turning into a tangle of rotating parts.

It ripped into the ground below. Dust and gravel flew into the air as the cylinder rotated faster and faster, then the tornado of dirt truly obscured the view.

[dascarletm]

"What in the nine hells is that?" exclaimed Sebastian. He stood up at its sight, and watched perplexed. He composed himself as it began to burrow into the earth.
"Don't tell me the gems are on that thing." He looked to the crew for answers as he thought about his next move.

If the rest of the ground crew isn't there at that point he will send for them

[Silver Night]

Eigra

Eigra frowns at the monstrosity below and tries to see if she recalls it from her (admittedly limited) studies.


Don't think she has much to contribute for opening the chest, unless you need someone fairly strong, or healing if someone gets injured trying to open it. To try and identify or get information about the mass of metal parts:

Knowledge (The Planes) [roll0]
Knowledge (Arcana) [roll1]

[whoiam]

Fearless Captain Bridge
"...It's a drill, isn't it?" Nev, not really one to get too lost in the question of how or why it got here, goes straight for it's current status. "Oh! That's probably why we could scan such a surprising concentration of gems. That thing's probably mining for them, and we detected it's take..."

[Pol Detson]

Fearless Captain Bridge

Eigra couldn't identify the whirling mass of steel on sight, her best guess was that it resembled something out of Clockwork Nirvana of Mechanus.

"It's more than a drill. It's competition." Navigator Aiofe chimed in, thoughtful. "If our diviners could find it, others could do it too. We probably can expect more interested parties coming to harvest the gems."

[dascarletm]

So it's a race then?
Sebastian said with determination and a wide grin. He spun around turning to the crew, hand on the hilt of his blade.
Crew! Bring the Fearless as close as she can get to those gems. Ready the guns, and everyone to their battle stations. Hold your fire less they fire first.

He draws his blade with a flourish, and faces the screen again looking over the city-scape.
Ground crew, let's get ready and meet on the main deck... We have some competition.

[whoiam]

"Not necessarily, " Nev added. "It's only a race if it's undefended. If it's original builders are still using it, this is more of a pirate raid..."

Although the way she was hopping along the rail to get the best possible view of the target suggested that Nev wasn't objecting in any way to their plan to rush in and grab shinies. Just being pedantic while she waited to get close enough...

[Mousedigits]

After failing to infiltrate the chest, Taln shrugs and gives up. It's not within my capabilities right now, unless you want me to bash it open. Maybe once I've grown a bit more experienced in my use of teleportation, we can see about retrieving the items that way. With that, he retreats to his quarters to regain his expended resources.

-Nine hours later, on the bridge-

Taln had been brought from his maintenance in the Engine room to the Bridge at the request of the Captain. He remains fairly quiet through the meeting, until their competition is revealed on the screens. His eyes go wide with wonder, and his mouth hangs agape. Then, realizing how stupid he must look, he quickly regains his composure. Competition indeed. I think I remember seeing something like this in my studies... Ayr, does this look familiar to you?


Taln: [roll0] Kn. Planes to identify
Ayr: [roll1] Kn. Planes to identify

Taln follows Mercier to the main deck, but not before stopping by his quarters to change into his armor, and grab his sword.

[Silver Night]

Eigra


Eigra travels to the main deck, "If you will permit, I can help enhance us in case of any upcoming fight or, you know. Lava." Once they are close enough that contact is likely imminent, but while still far enough away they won't be disturbed yet, she casts her spells.



Conviction, Mass boosted with Divine Power ( Check: [roll0] ) and extended via Rod of Extend (+3 Morale bonus to saves for 220 minutes) Eigra will cover the ground crew and 7 additional crew members

Resist Energy, Mass (Fire) boosted with Divine Power ( Check: [roll1] ) and extended via Rod of Extend - Eigra will cover the 4 members of the ground crew, and then as many additional crew (8) as possible (Resist Fire 30 for 240 minutes)

Planar Tolerance (As Avoid Planar Effects but 8 hour duration) Eigra will cover the 4 members of the ground crew, and then as many additional crew (4) as possible

Benediction probably on Nev and Sebastian, but let me know if either of you don't need it - you guys seem to have the lowest saves though (+2 luck bonus to saves for 8 hours, and can be discharged to give a reroll on 1 save, skill check, or attack roll)

Shield Other for Nev and Sebastian (Again, unless you guys think it would be more useful focused on someone else.) (+1 deflection to AC and +1 resistance to saves. Half damage from wounds and attacks that deal HP damage (Eigra takes the other half instead)

[dascarletm]

Err... yes, Nev.
Sebastian stands on the main deck, wind blowing his hair, and billowing his cloak. He nods to Eigra.
I'm certain we will be needing it.
He readies himself as the ship approaches the target.

[Pol Detson]

The captain's orders were sent to the crew, but the officers on the bridge had a certain problem.

"Sir?" Navigator Aiofe asked "there are no crystals visible on Earth pocket' surface. Should we chart the course to the closest place on which we can land or to the... anomaly?" she pointed the iron monstrosity.

Teln didn't recognize the iron construction. It could be something from Mechanus, but it was far less symmetrical than anything native to Plane of Order. The ogre magi cleric casted the divine spells without problem.

Silver Night, all buff are noted.

[dascarletm]

Without hesitation Sebastian turned to Aiofe and said,
Chart a course as close to that thing as possible. If there is opportunity, perhaps we can board it. If not find us somewhere to land.

He looked to the rest of the ground crew.

I hope to board that mining vessel and loot whatever they've uncovered, gems or otherwise. I'm sure it will be dangerous, and I have no idea what is guarding that thing. If you want to back out, now is the time. I won't hold it against you.
He gave them a determined yet comforting smile to punctuate his sentiments.

[Pol Detson]

"Aye, aye sir!" Navigator returned to her duties, changing the Fearless course.

The crew entered in the full preparation mode. All sixty fighters with support from clerics, wizards and artificers come on main deck. The artificers and wizards got wands of avoid planar effect at the ready to shield all crew leaving the safety of the ship.

The last dozen or so minutes brought them closer and closer to the 'mining vessel'. The iron elements on top were in constant, but rather slow movement. As the Fearless sailed closer and closer, the noise of grinding steel and moving gargantuan gears became louder and louder.

"Captain, we have an movement from the target!" one of bridge' crew reported. Indeed, the surface facing the Fearless changed, split in almost half and dozens of flat panels shifted to create something akin to short drawbridge.

On it single human-sized figure slowly walked. The crystal screens on Fearless zoomed on it. It was an metal armor, animated full-plate filled with smaller gears. The armor was golden and polished, in stark contrast to the dull grey-dark iron of the whole construction.

[dascarletm]

It seems they wish to parley.
Sebastian sheathed Lightning's Edge and faced the crew.
Keep holding your fire, but be at the ready.
Addressing the ground team
Does anyone know how to speak... er, whatever that creature speaks?

[Mousedigits]

Does Taln get anything from his knowledge checks earlier?


Taln nods to Sebastian when he says he wants to move onto the vessel. Making the first move, eh? They've likely already noticed us, so we've no benefit of surprise. However, striking first may provide a substantial advantage.

When the drawbridge extends from the mining vessel, Taln looks with interest. Well, I suppose if it wants to negotiate, we should return the favour. We could end up with a powerful ally. As for communication...

Ayr's bright voice bursts into everyone's heads. Remember when I said there were many benefits to telepathy?

Taln smiles. One such benefit is that telepathy requires no common language. See, telepathy doesn't really convey speech, but concepts and ideas that the mind then subconsciously converts to speech. We can use Ayr as a middleman. Or, in this case, middlecrystal.

[dascarletm]

Sebastian smiles and says jokingly, "Well, I knew you'd be useful Taln, but I didn't expect Ayr to be so much more useful." He points to the psi-crystal, "I may have to see if I can keep you on permanently."

Moving where he could easily board the craft, "Perfect. Let's meet this metal creature." Sebastian then readies himself to meet the representative from the craft below.

[whoiam]

"As I understand it, they operate not that dissimilarly to familiars or Homonculi - they're only truly useful when operating in concert with their... 'partner'."

Nev appears to be talking mainly to distract herself from what's to come - she keeps giving little fluttering motions with her wings, as though she keeps biting back the urge to fly ahead...

...In truth, she's actually quite enthusiastic about sticking her beak into this strange drill thing they've found. Less so about being the first one off the ship, though...

[Silver Night]

Eigra

Eigra lifts slightly off the deck, prepared to move down with the others.

[Pol Detson]

The Fearless was manoeuvred in the place designated by the captain, a short distance from the temporary construction.

The selected crew members landed on the iron draw-bridge. The gear-armour remained motionless until the group come close to it.

Something starts to rotate inside armored clockwork construct, gears shifted between iron bellows. It didn't move
head, it did not change a unspecified direction of it face to look at the captain and delegation, and yet behind the plate, between the noise and clatter, rasping voice in inhuman unison was formulating consecutive syllables, words, sentences.

"This is the message from my, tkkkkkt, master to the crew of the spotted flying ship, tkkkkkt, you are too late. The elemental anomaly was claimed by me, tkkkkkt, return to your ship and sail away, tkkkkkt.


Ok, the method of crossing the last 60 feet (swift fly distance?) I am assuming you are going to land on bridge and not shout from the deck of ship.. all the little detail can be changed of course.

[dascarletm]

That's perfect, I'll knock off a swift fly from my list, though technically you can move 120ft. on a swift fly, but 60ft. is better. :smallbiggrin:

Sebastian with his hand on the hilt of his blade had jumped from the ship to the walkway, cape billowing as he did. A quick flick of his wrist and he flew the distance landing gracefully.

He listened to the creature almost bewildered as it began to speak. As it spoke of already claiming the treasure his stance shifted. To those who would notice, he no longer stood as a man wishing to engage in discussion, instead he stood like a predator. Almost like a wolf that had spotted its next meal.

"Shame. Here I was hoping that our first contact would go peacefully... I'll give you a choice," Sebastian said drawing Lightning's Edge, "You can hand over the... anomalies, or we can take them by force. What say you?

[Pol Detson]

Ok. So.. the final decision is 60 or 120 ft?


The answer was formulated after about ten seconds of waiting in tension. The gears started their motions and the scrape of interlocking gear teeths produced the inhuman voice.

This is the message from my, tkkkkkt, master to the crew of the flying ship, tkkkkkt, I do not yeld to empty threats. I can hold what I have claimed, tkkkkkt, by force if necessary. I do not seek confrontation, but I will, Tkkkkkt, defend myself, my home and my prize, tkkkkkt. You are nothing more than rust on my fingers.

Be- Tkkkkkt -gone.

[dascarletm]

Sorry for the confusion let's say a nice even 100ft. to be safe.

Pitty.

Sebastian looked to the rest of the ground crew and whispered as he readied to rush the mechanical servant.

I don't see a better opportunity to enter the ship than them opened up like this. Shall we?

[Mousedigits]

At Sebastian and Nev's teasing, Taln frowns but says nothing. He if focusing intently, almost as though meditating. You notice Ayr is quiet as well.
He is gaining Psionic Focus, and also storing it in Ayr.

When he snaps out of his state of concentration, he says Sorry about that. I was simply mentally preparing myself in case of combat.

When the time comes to board the other vessel, he grabs Ayr and stows her in what appears to be a specialized pouch on his belt, just below his breastplate and hanging off his left side. He'll fly down with the others, landing much more gracefully than his last time boarding a ship. Upon landing, He takes Ayr back out. She floats beside him.

Taln listens to the conversation between the captain and the machine. As things start going south, and Sebastian draws his blade, Taln draws his massive Falchion from his back. He quickly falls into a combative stance.

Sebastain says I don't see a better opportunity to enter the ship than them opened up like this. Shall we?

After you, captain, responds Taln.


[roll0]

[whoiam]

[roll0]


Nev will follow the others over to the bridge. But only follow: She's well aware her size (and age, for that matter) makes her poorly suited to getting into combat, and will therefore keep behind her three colleagues.

She will, however, call her Expeditious Messenger up as well (as the only one of her homonculi that has innate flight) in case they need a scout, and Taln's psicrystal doesn't fancy the sneaking.

[Silver Night]

Eigra

If she has time before combat proper begins, Eigra will cast Divine Favor on herself.

Init: [roll0]

[Pol Detson]

You go first and get surprise round (Eigra can cast Divine Favor in this). Assume that the bridge is 15 ft wide and around 80 ft long from where you stand to the open entrance.



The answer come when they considered the next move:

"This is the message from my, tkkkkkt, master to the crew of the flying ship, tkkkkkt, save your pity. Metal don't need your compassion, Tkkkkt, all is needed of you is to depart now. "

[Mousedigits]

Taln responds to the machine. All right, you can tell your master that we will retreat to our ship.

He then vanishes, supposedly teleporting back to the ship. A second later, however, he reappears behind the mechanical contraption, sword raised.


Move action: Use Dimension Leap to teleport behind the machine. Range 15 feet.
Swift (If needed): If 15 feet doesn't get me behind the machine, manifest Psionic Dimension Hop for 1 pt, range 10ft. If that still isn't enough, add distance at a cost of 1pp per 5ft until I get behind him.
Standard: Attack.

Using the Improved Psionic Weapon feat, to add +4d6 untyped damage to my attack.
Using Arcane Channeling with Shocking Grasp, adding +5d6 electric damage to my attack and (I assume) +3 to hit.

[roll0] to hit, 18-20x2 crit (assuming that you rule that constructs can be critted, a la Pathfinder)
[roll1] slashing, [roll2] untyped, [roll3] electric.
If crit, add:[roll4] slashing, [roll5] untyped, [roll6] electric.

[dascarletm]

Sebastian charges flourishing Lightning's Edge as he does and shouting, "I will be leaving this ship, but when I do, it will be with the gems in hand!" His left hand emits a green magical energy, leaving a trail following his movement. He places the hand on his chest as he moves, allowing the energy to wash over him.

Reaching the construct, Sebastian strikes the front of the creature as Taln strikes the back. He thrusts with his blade and braces the back hilt with his left hand, hoping it will find something "vital" to the creature.


Sebastian moves up on the creature (surprise round), and uses quick-cast to cast Bull's Strength. (If the distance is too far he will use a combination of moving during his full round, and/or using swift expeditious retreat to cover the ground.

At the creature; Use helm of tactics (swift) to add +2 damage with flank for 10 rounds to myself and all allies within 60ft. Power attack for -4 and channel a shocking grasp with the attack.
Attack Roll: [roll0] (Crit 15-20) (Breakdown: 1d20+10(str)+8(BaB)+1(Weapon)+2(flanking)-4(PA))
Confirmation: [roll1] (if possible even)
Damage: Base[roll2] + Electricity[roll3]
If crit possible add: [roll4]

EDIT: Add +3 to attack for shocking grasping a metallic creature (forgot that)

[whoiam]

Nev flies to a vantage point above the unfolding battle, and, unwilling to dive-bomb it with her tiny little talons, attempts to hit the clockwork man with a Ray of Enfeeblement.


[roll0]
[roll1]

[Silver Night]

Eigra

Eigra moves forward into battle after casting Divine Favor. If the clockwork creature is close enough she will try and hit it with her sword, as one does.




Attack: [roll0] (Including Divine Favor and flanking)
Damage: [roll1] (Including Divine Favor)

[Pol Detson]

The messenger construct stood no chance against concentrated onslaught of heroes. The armor was cut to pieces and gear were scattered over the temporal bridge..

The large iron fortress moved, making horrible noise as massive parts started to accelerate.. and the bridge dropped from under your feet, loosing it connections, each segment splitting in four, five, six... shifting into rotating blades.


Everyone on bridge made their reflex save and takes 14 HP slashing damage. Nev is not affected.

If you don't fly you are in the free fall right now.

[Silver Night]

Eigra

Eigra grunts as she is slashed, and at the same time feels wounds opening that would have been Sebastian's.

She takes a total of 21 (nonlethal) slashing damage, Sebastian only takes 7 damage. If that save was reflex for half, then due to Prescient Sense (from Divine Oracle) she instead takes no damage except the 7 shared from Sebastian.

She flies toward the surface of the fortress.

[dascarletm]

Sebastian tumbles backwards as the bridge falls out from under him, dodging in air some of the large blades, but one connects with his left arm. For a moment he is almost surprised at how unharmed he was from it, then remembers Eigra's spell, and makes a mental note to thank her later. He flicks his wrist and begins traveling towards the fortress as well.

Is the fortress directly below us, or is it to the side? If it is to the side of us, is it within 120ft?

If it is below us, he uses feather fall to descend safely, otherwise he uses swift fly to travel to the fortress.

[whoiam]

With nothing she could do to help the others (she's not got a flying spell prepared, and isn't nearly strong enough to lift one), Nev and her Expeditious Messenger both fly towards the point on the fortress where the bridge had, moments before, connected to the main body. Time for a peek inside...

[Mousedigits]

Taln suddenly feels the ground beneath him disappear. Looking down, he sees the fiery red ground of the Elemental Plane of Fire, many feet below him. He then looks up to see a massive blade swooshing towards him. With a yelp, he dodges the blade, moving just far enough to escape with nothing more than a graze. Then, after regaining his wits, he casts Swift Fly and follows the others, grabbing Ayr on the way.

[Pol Detson]

The swift fly spell carried Taln and Sebastian toward the entrance. Nev fly with them..

But before they reach the doorway, the small green ray of disintegration canon slash across the moving gear and the horrible
"CRRRRRRRR!"

The machinery parts ground to a halt, the force jamming and disturbing ongoing transformation. But it appears that it re-organize itself again to compensate for damage..

The captain with his companions landed on iron floor in corridor. Sets of identical doors, eight total, lead from walls on both sides. They were immediately welcomed by a hail of steel-tipped bolts from the walls. The fortress was defending itself.


12 HP Damage to Sebastian.
8 HP Damage to Nev and Taln.

[whoiam]

It doesn't take many bolts to the wing before Nev starts to think 'maybe it would be better if I wasn't in the firing line, here'. Without any obvious firer she can use magic on (and thinking she probably doesn't have the time to try manually disarming all these firing mechanisms - if such was even possible on a machine that re-arranges itself so), she settles for leaving her Expeditious Messenger just outside the entrance... and casting invisibility on herself, hoping that whatever was targeting her was doing so visually.


Casting invisibility on herself and then changing location, and hoping the bolts aren't just blind-fired around the room.


"We should leave," the voice comes from the homonculus outside, just in case there's a sound sensor in here... "I don't fancy flying down whoever knows how many shifting corridors in search of something we don't know how to reach."

[Silver Night]

Eigra

"I may be able to divine the location of the gems, if we can find a spot with some cover where I won't be getting shot."

[dascarletm]

Reluctant to back away, Sebastian heeds the advice of his crew and runs back towards the ship, and if able jumps off and swift flies towards his ship.

[Silver Night]

Eigra

Eigra backs out, shielding the others as much as possible.

[Mousedigits]

Taln follows Sebastian, Swift Flying to the ship.

[dascarletm]

As he returns, he looks to Nev and says, "I hope you have an idea on how to get those gems. I won't be returning home without them!"

[whoiam]

"Oh, nothing too special, " the still-invisible Raven replies. "But that entry-way has clearly been prepared for 'unwanted' visitors. So that's not the way we want to go in. We could look for another entrance... but let's be honest, they'd likely have the same problem. On the plus side... well, this ship's got cannons, no? Seems the sensible approach is to guess which part of the inside we're aiming for, and try blasting a hole straight there."