New Frontiers #59

[GM Mad]

New Frontiers #59

Opikus’ Lair:

The living areas of Opikus’ lair have been explored and still no sign of the wounded dragon. Apart from the mirror you used to reach this place, the only other way out appears to be a magical portal located inside the mouth of a large demonic-looking sculpture.

Eight spell books are found on the desk and they are believed to belong to Opikus and are now being used by Ember. It is decided to take the books and move them to prevent Ember from regaining them. Chareos goes to collect them until interrupted by Lord Sharadin.

“Place them in this,” the Archmage says as he hands Chareos a large bag. “It’s a Bag of Holding and will make the task easier.”


While this is going on, Lord Validar steps back through the magical mirror and returns to the orc caves. He notices the oppressive atmosphere instantly and chokes slightly on the thick haze. All has been quiet on that side of the mirror. Sherry and Terry have yet to return from their flight with Ivy and Lyonessa’s bodies.

The spell books are gathered up, placed in the Bag of Holding, and then taken through the mirror for safe keeping.

"There must be some way in, besides the obvious teleportation spell. Although, we have to consider that Ember has another of these Mirror portals at whatever location he was teleported away from the cavern battle. Keep your eyes out for any other entrances which may appear at any time. Discounting that and assuming that Ember IS on the other side of this 'demon portal', is there some way that we can examine the other side of this portal first or some way to learn where it goes short of the obvious, simply crossing over? Is there some way that one can go through to see what is there and then return on their own power or somehow communicate to us, in the case this is a one way portal only?"

"What is your suggestion, Lord Sharadin?"

“I doubt that this portal is just one way,” Lord Sharadin intones. “Too inefficient to be part of the main living area. Notice how worn the rug before the mouth is? Many feet have passed this way, most likely in both directions. Unfortunately, we’ll have to brave passing through the portal blind.”

“I’ll go first,” Silvarn states, “just to be safe. Be back in a moment.”

Before anyone can object, Silvarn leaps into the portal and is gone. About ten seconds pass and then Silvarn returns.

“There’s a matching sculpture on the other side, so this is how one gets in and out. The area beyond appears to be deserted. Follow me.”

Passing through the demon’s mouth, while disconcerting, is painless. A heartbeat later you emerge from a magic sculpture and are in another place within this Crystal Tower. The walls, floor, and ceiling are all crystal quartz. Daylight floods in from overhead while the red/orangish glow can be seen from the floor.


The chamber itself is vast, easily 70’ wide and 50’ deep. The bones of numerous goblinoids fill the chamber. They all appear to be kobold-sized. On the wall opposite from the demon sculpture, there is a door with an open passage on either side. The reason for this arrangement immediately becomes clearer as you look closer.

Behind the door is another passage and it runs parallel to the open ones. There are numerous arrow and bolt slits between the passages. The middle passage is essentially a gauntlet were bowmen can fire on intruders from either side through the arrow slits. Fortunately, the area is now deserted and a lone door can be seen at the far end of the gauntlet hallway.

Silvarn leads the way to the far door. The elf maiden steps through the door and vanishes! A few beats later she comes back through the door, seemingly from out of nowhere.

“Another, more mundane, portal,” Silvarn reports. “Come.”

Passing through this door, the Guardians move into yet another area of Opikus’ Lair. The walls, floor, and ceiling are all transparent crystal once more. This time, however, you quickly realize that the door you just arrived through is inside a crystal maze! Multiple ways lead away from your location. None appear any more appealing than the other.

“Ember is near!” Silvarn whispers to those near her. “Prepare yourselves. The final battle is just moments away!”

[GM Mad]

City of the Dead:


Having visited their respective temples, Lyonessa and Ivy return to the patiently waiting Hasverion.

Returning to him, Lyonessa will say humbly, "I'm sorry to have had any doubts of your regal and honorable nature. I will carry your message for you in whatever means you need to impart it to me."

Once back, Ivy will say, “It appears that I owe you an apology, Hasverion of Heironeous. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for tolerating my foolishness. You may do as you requested. I would be happy to carry any message that might help your son and us in the future. I am ready when you are.”

“That’s quite all right, ladies,” Hasverion will gallantly state. “I bear you no ill will. Let us begin as the time draws short. Relax and set free your mind. I will make this as painless as possible.”

Reaching out, Hasverion will touch a finger to the foreheads of Lyonessa and Ivy.

“When the time comes, the thoughts I am implanting into you will rise up and you will utter those words aloud. Until then they will slumber and be all but forgotten. Fare thee well…”

As his finger touches your forehead, there is a flash of bright light from all around Hasverion and you manage to catch a glimpse of his true form. A pair of white feathery wings emerges from his back and Hasverion’s features take on a radiance that no mortal could hope to match. In that moment you both know that you are in the presence of a powerful being of goodness. Awe overcomes each of you at the beautiful sight you are seeing.

And then you get the sensation that you are falling. The light gets dimmer and dimmer until it finally becomes dark once more…


Slowly, your eyes force themselves open and you find yourselves lying in warm, comfortable beds. The room you are in appears to have been someone’s quarters. A fire burns in the fireplace and it makes the chamber feel toasty.

Then you become aware of someone hovering close by. It is an older woman wearing the robes of a Priestess of Azrella.

“Welcome back,” the woman smiles. “I am Olivia of Azrella. You’re within the walls of the Duke’s Fortress in Corunglain. Don’t try to move just yet. Your bodies have been through a very traumatic ordeal. You’ll need to rest and heal. So relax. You’re in very good hands.”

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

According to my notes no one has a Detect Evil spell available to use on the sculpture. Lord Acerion can detect evil as part of his paladin abilities. Should he make use of this talent, he’ll not find any evil on the demonic sculpture.

Silvarn can determine the general direction to go to run into Ember. It’s also the only direction you can go in at the moment. There are immediately two openings into the maze away from the door you arrived through. It’s impossible to say which one will lead to Ember. It’s also likely that more and more ways to go will be encountered as you move deeper into the maze.

Ivy and Lyonessa are now back among the living. As per the Raise Dead spell, each has lost 1 point of constitution. I’ll let you know just what Hasverion wanted you to remember when the time comes.


Hit Points:

Chareos - 45 of 57
Corley - 29 of 52
Ivy – 1 of 56
Laucian - 43 of 64
Lyonessa – 1 of 42
Rathlar - 50 of 68
Sherra - 32 of 38
Valena - 44 of 50
Validar - 72 of 76

Now what?

[Grondar]

Grondar:

Wordlessly, Laucian joins Grondar and Lord Acerion in standing guard over the demon-portal while the others explore Opikus' home. Grondar is certain that the three of them can hold the room for as long as it takes the others to return, should they be attacked.

"<Quite well now that I can breathe,>" Sherra replies in dwarvish with a smile on her soot and sweat-covered face.

Grondar nods, a stern look on his face. <"That is good. Your command of our language is improving quickly.">

“No need to apologize”, Aria shrugs. “I’d rather be known for my deeds than the past glories of my father and family. Actually, I’m one of Arak’s daughters. I have a sister named Gilana. She’s a mean one and something of a black sheep in our clan. The less spoken of her the better.”

"I can understand your feelings on both matters," Grondar says with a nod. "Once we are done here, the further plans we have made should offer you more than sufficient opportunity to create your own legend among our people."

“I’ve heard tales that those who wear armor crafted from the skins of dragons gain a resistance to what that dragon breathes. So plate mail from a red would protect against fire.”

"That would be quite the glorious momento from this battle to have. Surely everyone would be impressed by such an obvious display of dragon hunting." Still, Validar is somewhat disgusted by the talk that is bantering back and forth of eating an intelligent foe. It seems so base and uncivilized.

"That sounds a useful quality to have," Grondar replies. "I wonder, could other items - such as a cloak - be make from it that would provide similar protection?"

"There must be some way in, besides the obvious teleportation spell. Although, we have to consider that Ember has another of these Mirror portals at whatever location he was teleported away from the cavern battle. Keep your eyes out for any other entrances which may appear at any time. Discounting that and assuming that Ember IS on the other side of this 'demon portal', is there some way that we can examine the other side of this portal first or some way to learn where it goes short of the obvious, simply crossing over? Is there some way that one can go through to see what is there and then return on their own power or somehow communicate to us, in the case this is a one way portal only?"

"I really don't know, Lord Validar," Grondar shrugs. "Perhaps the mages can provide an answer.

"There are two possibilities to consider: the 'portal' is decorated in an evil manner and simply a decoration for a sick, evil man or the portal has some actual evil qualities. Do any of you clerics have the ability to Detect Evil remaining?"

“Sadly no, I do not have that blessing at my disposal.” he adds grimly.

Grondar shakes his head. "Nor do I, Lord Validar. Of the miracles granted to me by Berronar, all I have left are a couple Hold Persons and a Dispel Magic."

While they are talking, Ember's spellbooks - some or all of which may have belonged initially to Opikus - are gathered up and transported to the other side of the portal to get them out of Ember's reach. Moments later, Silvarn renders both Validar's caution and questions moot, as she leaps through the demon-mouth. Returning moments later, Silvarn lets them know that it is safe to pass through. Thus, the group gathers their things and continues on, following Silvarn. The more he sees and hears of her, the more Grondar suspects that she may be a dragon herself, of the silver variety naturally.

They emerge into a spacious cavern, though not huge to the perspective of a dwarf who has seen Rockhome. The only obvious exit is at the end of a corridor set up as a killing gauntlet. Grondar has seen similar arrangements before used by his kin.

Once again following in the footsteps of Silvarn, they pass through another portal to arrive in a gleaming crystal cavern. The place is arranged as a maze. Silvarn notifies them immediately that Ember is present and lurking nearby! After no more than a few dozen steps, they arrive at what is like but the first of many forks in the path. Grondar looks at Validar, Sharadin and Silvarn to determine their tactics at this point.

[Lyonessa]

Lyonessa:

Lyonessa is relieved that Hasverion is not upset at their initial lack of trust. She does her best to relax and allow the message to be sent to her, which seems surprisingly easy. Things start to get strange after that, but she catches a glimpse of the angelic being that Hasverion apparently is. "Beautiful..." is all she manages before slipping away into darkness.

“Welcome back,” the woman smiles. “I am Olivia of Azrella. You’re within the walls of the Duke’s Fortress in Corunglain. Don’t try to move just yet. Your bodies have been through a very traumatic ordeal. You’ll need to rest and heal. So relax. You’re in very good hands.”

"What, oh..." Lyonessa mutters as she tries to get her bearings. She was about to move when Olivia advises against just that very thing. She relaxes back into the comfortable bed.

"So... so did I die?" Lyonessa asks clumsily. There seems like she should remember something, but it makes no sense in her mind. Obviously she's not in the cavern anymore, although she remembers most of that.... "Ivy! Is Ivy here too?" she asks suddenly, remembering the battle pretty vividly all of a sudden.

[Argent]

Argent:

Walking up behind Argent, Chareos pinches her lightly on her arm and says, “Calm yourself Argent,” with an easy smile, “there is still a dragon to be dealt with. Afterward we can see to all that is available to us here.”

“AAAHHH!”, Argent cries out in complete surprise. So intent was she on the dragon’s horde that she was unaware that someone was beside her.

“Sorry,” she calls out sheepishly.

Turning to Chareos she’ll lightly slap him on the shoulder. Its clear in her face that she's not angry at the actions of her fellow mage. “Don’t scare me like that! I very nearly cast Magic Missile at you!”

Sherra smiles at Argent, relaying to her in that smile that she was thinking the same thing. However, the dead body does put a damper on the regalness of it all. Still Argent appears undaunted by the whole thing and continues on with wanting to claim this as her new home.

Argent will smile back as she realizes that they are on the same wavelength. Finally it looks like there’s something that the two of them have in common. Argent hasn’t spoken all that much to reserved scout.

"Chareos and Argent, remove those books to the cavern so that we can transport them out of here." Suddenly a dark thought captures Validar's attention. Without another word, he will step back through the portal to the cavern.

“Place them in this,” the Archmage says as he hands Chareos a large bag. “It’s a Bag of Holding and will make the task easier.”

Argent will hold the bag open so that Chareos can put the books inside. He is, after all, the strong one here!

Once the spell books are safe, Argent will follow the others through the tacky portal to what lies beyond. She’s near the back of when they reach the maze and then Silvarn says that Ember is near.

“If he’s in the maze, he must have changed back into Opikus!”

“That goes without saying,” Argent silently realizes. “After all, he can’t fit into the main living area in dragon form, so changing back was a must.”

Should manage to see Ember or Opikus, she’ll cast Magic Missile at them.

[Ivy]

Ivy:


For the briefest moment, Ivy sees Hasverion as he truly appears and is in awe of the glorious sight. Then everything changes and Ivy feels as if she’s far away…

Then you become aware of someone hovering close by. It is an older woman wearing the robes of a Priestess of Azrella.

“Welcome back,” the woman smiles. “I am Olivia of Azrella. You’re within the walls of the Duke’s Fortress in Corunglain. Don’t try to move just yet. Your bodies have been through a very traumatic ordeal. You’ll need to rest and heal. So relax. You’re in very good hands.”

"So... so did I die?" Lyonessa asks clumsily. There seems like she should remember something, but it makes no sense in her mind. Obviously she's not in the cavern anymore, although she remembers most of that.... "Ivy! Is Ivy here too?" she asks suddenly, remembering the battle pretty vividly all of a sudden.

Somewhat disorientated, Ivy takes a bit longer to recover. “I think I’m over here”, Ivy calls out from the next bed over. “We must be back given how bad I feel. How long has it been? Are the others here too? What did I miss?”

[Aria Stonehand]

Aria:

"He was obviously one of the group that did not disappear on their legendary final battle. I obviously have no idea what stories your father may have told, but the group completed some truly glorious accomplishments. They are all heroes in the truest sense of the word."

“Hmm--- maybe pappy didn’t exaggerate as much as we all thought. Anyway, he was a commander of the Rockhome forces during the war. From my understanding that group went their separate ways during that time. It was a small chapter in his life.”

"I can understand your feelings on both matters," Grondar says with a nod. "Once we are done here, the further plans we have made should offer you more than sufficient opportunity to create your own legend among our people."

“That is true. Unfortunately, we can’t just abandon Corunglain either. It’s crucial in stemming the tide of scum from the Broken Lands. Without it, orcs and their ilk would run wild down in the area we’d be exploring.”


Grasping her axe tightly, Aria ambles through the demons mouth and finds that there are even more areas to this strange lair seemingly carved from quartz crystal. That strange elf leads the way and then she says that the enemy is near and the human who cooks believes that he’s turned back into a man again.

“Standard mage tactics”, Aria states. “Rush’m and keep him from casting spells. Hack'm until they stop moving!"

[Laucian]

Laucian

Passing through this door, the Guardians move into yet another area of Opikus’ Lair. The walls, floor, and ceiling are all transparent crystal once more. This time, however, you quickly realize that the door you just arrived through is inside a crystal maze! Multiple ways lead away from your location. None appear any more appealing than the other.

“Ember is near!” Silvarn whispers to those near her. “Prepare yourselves. The final battle is just moments away!”


As the Guardians and their companions move through the second portal it quickly becomes apparent that they are to be put through a maze. An old saying comes to his mind from his tribe as he squats near the entrance of the maze looking at which is more traveled or less which ever is harder to determine.

“When wounded the prey becomes the hunter and the hunter becomes the prey.” he mutters to himself, as he looks for trail of passage.

Once the others move into the maze Laucian will soon follow towards the middle of the column. All the while dropping plant seeds so that they may find their way back.

[Chareos]

Chareos

“AAAHHH!”, Argent cries out in complete surprise. So intent was she on the dragon’s horde that she was unaware that someone was beside her.

“Sorry,” she calls out sheepishly.

Turning to Chareos she’ll lightly slap him on the shoulder. Its clear in her face that she's not angry at the actions of her fellow mage. “Don’t scare me like that! I very nearly cast Magic Missile at you!”

Letting out a laugh Chareos watches Argent’s face as she jumps a few feet from his antics. She rounds on him and lightly slaps him in the shoulder: Between the laughing he says, “I am sorry. It was well worth the risk to see you jump that high.”

Argent will hold the bag open so that Chareos can put the books inside. He is, after all, the strong one here!

“Thanks,” he says as he puts the spell books within the bag of holding.

Chareos will then make ready to follow the others into the maze. If Ember or Opikus rear their ugly head he will put a magic missile into them.

[Acerion]

Acerion:

"There are two possibilities to consider: the 'portal' is decorated in an evil manner and simply a decoration for a sick, evil man or the portal has some actual evil qualities. Do any of you clerics have the ability to Detect Evil remaining?"

“Sadly no, I do not have that blessing at my disposal.” he adds grimly.

Grondar shakes his head. "Nor do I, Lord Validar. Of the miracles granted to me by Berronar, all I have left are a couple Hold Persons and a Dispel Magic."

"None of you need worry about not having the right magics at your disposal my friends," Acerion declares. "I am attuned to detecting the stench of evil, and that is one thing the demonic-looking portal does not posses."

Even if it was tainted with evil, Acerion doubts the lady Silvarn would have heeded any warning. She seems set in the goal to confront and defeat Ember regardless of consequence to herself or anyone travelling with her. Surely, a deeper mystery has yet to be revealed about her.

Silvarn returns and everyone follows her through the portal. Since it does not radiate evil, Acerion thinks no further on it and steps through without hesitation. Finding ourselves in another part of Tower, we are quickly hurried through yet another portal, finally arriving at what appears to be a maze.

“Ember is near!” Silvarn whispers to those near her. “Prepare yourselves. The final battle is just moments away!”

"Good then," is all Acerion will say as he tightens his grip on his axe once more. A simple maze can not stop this final confrontation, so its existance seems pointless to the paladin. Once Ember/Opikus shows himself, Acerion will move forward to engage him in close combat.

[Sherra]

Sherra:

Sherra nearly forgets that we are tracking down a very dangerous foe with all the finery of the tower surrounding her. She comes back to reality upon hearing the group will be going through that eerie crystal, seemingly a portal of some sort. Biting back a desire to scoop up a small fortune for herself, she goes through the portal only after most of the others have already gone.

Moving through a different part of the tower to yet another portal, although this one is not designed in the same fashion, causes Sherra to wonder aloud, "I wonder why these are so drastically different? To confuse possible invaders?"

On the other side, she spots Laucian searching the ground, probably for tracks or anything to give a clue as to which path to take in the maze, and moves up next to him.

As the Guardians and their companions move through the second portal it quickly becomes apparent that they are to be put through a maze. An old saying comes to his mind from his tribe as he squats near the entrance of the maze looking at which is more traveled or less which ever is harder to determine.

“When wounded the prey becomes the hunter and the hunter becomes the prey.” he mutters to himself. As he looks for trail of passage.

"I couldn't agree more," Sherra replies softly. "Find anything?" she'll ask Laucian.

“Ember is near!” Silvarn whispers to those near her. “Prepare yourselves. The final battle is just moments away!”

Doubting how effective her bow is going to be against the dragon, unless he isn't in dragon form when they find him, Sherra still draws and prepares an arrow. She will move with the rest of the group and be prepared to fire as soon as a target presents itself.

[Validar]

Lord Validar -

"The important thing is that we can engage Ember/Opikus with as many individuals and as many attacks as possible. We need to stay together enough to concentrate our damage, while also staying far enough away from each other to not fall victim to either area effect spells or even dragon breath."

"If any of you have any defensive spells left, it would be best to cast them now, I should think."

"I suggest the best fighters lead the way. If any one is unable to attack, get out of the way of others. Anyone who can attack from back ranks should prepare what they can. With no idea where the enemy is or how long it will take to find him, it is nearly impossible to try and create any tactics more advanced than try to kill him as quickly as possible."

Sharadin, Silvarn, do you think he is aware we are here? If not we could set an ambush here or on the other side of the portal, but I would guess our presence is already known."

[Validar]

Party Order:

Sharadin:
Validar
Aria
Argent
Laucian

Silvarn:
Corley
Acerion
Chareos
Grondar
Sherra

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

Having passed through two portals, the Guardians have reached a crystal maze. Silvarn reports that Ember is near, most likely back in the form of Opikus.

”Sharadin, Silvarn, do you think he is aware we are here? If not we could set an ambush here or on the other side of the portal, but I would guess our presence is already known."

“He knows,” is all that Silvarn will say before she darts off down the left- hand maze opening.

“Half of you follow Silvarn, the rest with me,” Sharadin calls out, as he moves down the other maze opening.


While that is going on, Laucian tries to determine which of the paths has seen more travel. This is problematic, as the crystal doesn’t show wear and tear like normal floors would. The only real clue is small bits of dirt left behind from others walking past. Neither opening seems any more appealing than the other.


Lord Validar splits the Guardians into two groups and you chase after Lord Sharadin and Silvarn. Surprisingly, the two paths merge very quickly only to split up again. Silvarn continues on the left-side track, while Lord Sharadin is on the right.

The separate groups move deeper into the maze and at various times you can catch glimpses of each other. The Crystal Quartz is transparent enough to allow light to filter into the lair, but obscure enough to cover fine details. You can see shadows from the other group as they move along, but no specific features.

Silvarn emerges from the maze into a large chamber with Lord Corley behind her. Up ahead, Ember disguised once more as Opikus comes into view on the other side of the chamber.

“You silver..,” Opikus begins to curse until cut off by Silvarn.

“He’s here!” the elf maiden calls out. “We’ve got him! Now you shall die!”

“With the new magicks at my disposal it is you that shall now die! Behold the power of Spell Sequencer!”

Silvarn advances on Opikus but cannot reach him before his spell is cast.

Some thirty feet away, Lord Sharadin enters the same chamber trailed by Lord Validar. Due to the position of the walls, they cannot directly see Opikus/Ember.

Opikus’ spell explodes on top of Silvarn in a tremendous display of sound and energy. What appears to be a fireball is centered on Silvarn and the roaring fire is flung outwards from the point of origin. The intense heat washes over Silvarn and she is lost from sight. Lord Corley is next and those who can see him will note that a bluish/silver glow comes over him once more.

The crystal quartz walls that separate the others following Silvarn-- Lord Acerion, Chareos, Grondar, and Sherra-- melt underneath the intense heat. Lord Acerion is also washed over by the intense flames, but is also protected by the silvery-blue aura and suffers no ill effects. The fire also burns away some of both the floor and the ceiling, creating circular depressions in both.

Lord Sharadin is along the outer edge of the spell and is thrown to the floor by the blast. The fire stops short of Lord Validar’s position. More of the crystal walls are melted away, enough to allow passage through.

But that’s not the only effect of the horrible spell cast by Opikus! At the same time as the Fireball explodes, a Lightning Bolt thunders into existence as well! The bolt is quickly obscured by the Fireball, but most can see it streak out of the fire cloud before fading.

The Lightning Bolt hits both Silvarn and Lord Corley. This time there is no protection and the young nobleman collapses to the floor. Silvarn is also down, but remarkably seems not only coherent, but is trying to regain her footing!

[GM Mad]

The Duke’s Fortress:

Meanwhile over in the Duke of Corunglain’s fortress, Ivy and Lyonessa have returned to the land of the living.

"What, oh..." Lyonessa mutters as she tries to get her bearings. She was about to move when Olivia advises against just that very thing. She relaxes back into the comfortable bed.

"So... so did I die?" Lyonessa asks clumsily. There seems like she should remember something, but it makes no sense in her mind. Obviously she's not in the cavern anymore, although she remembers most of that.... "Ivy! Is Ivy here too?" she asks suddenly, remembering the battle pretty vividly all of a sudden.

“You were away for a while,” Olivia answers diplomatically. “Your friend is here as well.”

Somewhat disorientated, Ivy takes a bit longer to recover. “I think I’m over here”, Ivy calls out from the next bed over. “We must be back given how bad I feel. How long has it been? Are the others here too? What did I miss?”

“I am unsure just how long you were away. Lord Sharadin’s daughters, Sherry and Terry, brought you here within the last half-hour on a flying carpet. I do not know the fate of your companions. In the meantime, I shall be tending to your needs and trying to make your recovery as relaxing as possible.”

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

Your turn! If you can line up Opikus in your sights without a wall blocking you, then you can directly attack with ranged weapons and spells. Otherwise you’ll need to move. Even if you can’t directly see him, you can note his shadow through the crystal quartz.

A combat map has been added to the reference page and should be self-explanatory. The blue bar on the map over Silvarn and Lord Corley shows the path of the Lightning Bolt. The walls that were melted are removed from the map already.

Hit Points:

Chareos - 45 of 57
Corley - -4 of 52
Ivy – 1 of 56
Laucian - 43 of 64
Lyonessa – 1 of 42
Rathlar - 50 of 68
Sherra - 32 of 38
Silvarn – 50 of 85
Valena - 44 of 50
Validar - 74 of 76

Now what?

[fanchergw]

[OOC: From looking at the map, am I correct in assuming that Grondar cannot see Corley clearly from his current position?

Also, is -4 hit points dead, or could he be helped by some quick healing?]

[Validar]

Lord Validar -

Lord Validar is not thrilled with the inability to have a suitable set of tactics in place. The group is basically left to rush the wizard / dragon when they find him and have to split up to do so. Half the group follows Lord Sharadin, while the rest follow Silvarn.

Their progress is similar and in several places, one group can see the other as they make their way to the center of the maze. At least there seem to be numerous ways to get to the same place. The maze is also not completely opaque as it allows shadows of movement to be seen through the walls.

Soon there is some shouting, and Lord Validar comes up behind Lord Sharadin just as a Fireball explodes. Sharadin goes down from the blast, but it stops just short of Validar's position. At the same time, a Lightning Bolt rips out and knocks Lord Corley to the ground. He appears to be unmoving and may be stunned or even dead. "Complete your mission," a voice shouts in Validar's head, as he looks at the fallen form of his friend. It is only a brief moment before Validar is in motion.

The area around the Fireball blast is melted away, opening the area up to the group. Seeing this and the possible congestion that may result in rushing Opikus, Lord Validar puts his trust in the group's healers. Grondar especially is likely to see to their fallen friend.

Lord Validar will circle around the fallen Lord Sharadin, hoping for another path to their enemy. The maze has been fairly open with few dead ends, so Validar trusts in that continuing and there being numerous ways to reach Opikus. Aria is likely to charge straight forward and the other group seems to have a clearer attack path, based on the strike coming from Opikus. Perhaps Lord Validar will be able to catch their enemy from the rear or flank unawares. It could be enough to turn the tide of the combat. There is little time for group tactics now, so slipping away at this point should not hinder his allies.

Lord Validar tries to find a shadowy form of Opikus through the crystal maze, using his Keen Eyesight based on where the attack came from. He will not go far though if another path does not turn up.

[GM Mad]

[OOC: From looking at the map, am I correct in assuming that Grondar cannot see Corley clearly from his current position?

Also, is -4 hit points dead, or could he be helped by some quick healing?]

There's no reason that Grondar couldn't move a little bit just to see what happened up there. Given that there was multiple spells going off it would only be natuaral to do so. Corley is prone, so it is easier to see him. I have no problem with Grondar being able to see him. Without moving you can see their shadows through the walls and tell that someone is down. Move a little and you can see just who it is.

The main purpose of my note regarding who can see Opikus was for those who could directly attack him at range without having to move. A little movement is allowed in combat even with a No Move action.

Death's Door is used in my games. That means that Corley is very badly hurt, but not dead yet. He'll loose 1 HP per round until -10 is reached and death occurs. All anyone needs to do to stabilize him is either cast a cure on him or even just bandage his wounds. That'll raise him up to 1 HP. From their he can heal or be healed normally.

[Laucian]

Laucian

"I couldn't agree more," Sherra replies softly. "Find anything?" she'll ask Laucian.

Somewhat fustrated Laucian sighs, “No this quartz shows no sign of passage. One is as good as the next!”

Moving quickly through the maze he sees images of the other group until shouts are heard and then a loud explosion, which Laucian surmizes to be a Fireball given a wall was melted away then a lightning crack.

Casting a glance down where the lightning striked, Laucian sees the prone figure of Lord Corley as well as a struggling figure of Silvarn. Ember lies before them perhaps getting ready to send yet more spells at them.

Laucian’s heart and mind races as to what to do: none have challenged Opikus yet nor can he safely get to Corley.

Going on pure instinct Laucian goes through the prayers needed for his Dust Devil spell and begins to chant the incantation. If he is able he will drop the Dust Devil right on Opikus in the hopes of spoiling his spell until the others can reach him.

(OOC Im assuming that the wall that was there is no longer blocking Lau's Line of Sight. Let me know if I am correct and I will repost as needed.)

[Chareos]

Chareos

Shielding his eyes from the blast of fire and sound Chareos looks through the shadow of the smoke to see Opikus standing on the other side of the clearing. Wishing to close the distance between the two as well as attempting to get cover as well, Chareos moves forward near the Quartz wall. When close enough to the wall he will cast a Magic Missile at Ember.

[Acerion]

Acerion:

Silvarn emerges from the maze into a large chamber with Lord Corley behind her. Up ahead, Ember disguised once more as Opikus comes into view on the other side of the chamber.

“You silver..,” Opikus begins to curse until cut off by Silvarn.

“He’s here!” the elf maiden calls out. “We’ve got him! Now you shall die!”

Moving up behind Silvarn and Lord Corley, Acerion hears the exchange between Ember and Silvarn. Silver? Silver what? Acerion thinks to himself, but there's no time to seek further answers. Ember releases a deadly spell attack, and Acerion braces for the worst.

The crystal quartz walls that separate the others following Silvarn-- Lord Acerion, Chareos, Grondar, and Sherra-- melt underneath the intense heat. Lord Acerion is also washed over by the intense flames, but is also protected by the silvery-blue aura and suffers no ill effects. The fire also burns away some of both the floor and the ceiling, creating circular depressions in both.

There is nothing to brace for, as it turns out. He catches a glimpse of the silvery-blue aura he has seen before. Praise Heironeous and the Gods of good he offers up silently. However, the devistating spell is far from over. A lightning bolt lashes out, hitting Silvarn and Corley directly. The results are devistating.

The Lightning Bolt hits both Silvarn and Lord Corley. This time there is no protection and the young nobleman collapses to the floor. Silvarn is also down, but remarkably seems not only coherent, but is trying to regain her footing!

Corley isn't moving and Silvarn is slow getting to her feet. There is no time for delay. Acerion has seen the toll among his friends and companions grow too high. He leaps into action without any further thought.

"Grondar, see if there is anything you can do to save Lord Corley!" Acerion calls out as he takes off, rushing towards the disguised Ember.

"Not this day, dragon! It is over, you will claim no more lives! This paladin of Heironeous will be your doom!" Acerion calls as he rushes Ember/Opikus brandishing his axe menacingly. Hopefully he will close the distance before the dragon can bring any powerful magics to bear upon him or his companions.

[Lyonessa]

Lyonessa:

“You were away for a while,” Olivia answers diplomatically. “Your friend is here as well.”

Lyonessa smiles at Olivia's choice of words despite both of them knowning what happened. Still, she lies back and relaxes, listening to what Ivy and Olivia talk about. She's heard of Lord Sharadin (really, who hasn't?!) and the fact that Ivy and her are in the Duke's fortress means things turned for the better above ground as well. If none of her other friends are here, then Lyonessa remains hopeful that they are all fine.

Having nothing else to do but wait for eventual word, and of course to heal, Lyonessa begins to compose a ballad of the recent battle in her head. It's a shame she wasn't able to witness the outcome first hand, but can add those pieces in when time permits.

[Argent]

Argent:

Argent follows the others as best she can through this strange crystal maze. All this physical exertion just isn’t her thing and she’s panting before too long. All of the sudden voices are heard and while she can’t hear everything that is said, she does hear this:

“With the new magicks at my disposal it is you that shall now die! Behold the power of Spell Sequencer!”

“What’s a Spell Sequencer?” Argent thinks to herself. The thought of new magicks definitely gets her attention!

Then what sounds and appears to be a Fireball AND a Lightning Bolt go off on the other group! Is that what a Spell Sequencer is? A way to combine spells and have them go off together! Nasty, nasty! I want it!

Most everyone scatters and it’s everyone against Ember/Opikus. Looking ahead, Argent can see Lord Sharadin getting back to his feet, while Lord Validar rushes forward. A figure can be seen through the crystal that she surmises to be Opikus.

Argent will step into the main combat room and try to move to put Opikus into her line of sight. Then she’ll cast her specialty, Magic Missile, at him!

[Aria Stonehand]

Aria:

Aria chases after the human lords with her battleaxe and shield in hand.

“Wait up! We dwarves aren’t made for running around like this!”

As she rounds yet another corner in this stupid maze—- what is it with mages and mazes anyway??-- an explosion of fire goes off up ahead.

“At last! That means that fire-breathing lizard is close by!”

After determining the direction of Ember, Aria will scream out a dwarven battle cry and charge ahead! Once in sight, she’ll attack with her battle-axe.

[Ivy]

Ivy:

“I am unsure just how long you were away. Lord Sharadin’s daughters, Sherry and Terry, brought you here within the last half-hour on a flying carpet. I do not know the fate of your companions. In the meantime, I shall be tending to your needs and trying to make your recovery as relaxing as possible.”

“Lord Sharadin?” Ivy repeats. “When did he show up? It seems like we missed a great deal!”

Like most, Ivy knows who Lord Sharadin is. She even met him in passing with Elspeth at the Salavarian Estate.

Satisfied for the moment, Ivy lays back and tries to relax. Then a thought comes to her. Where’s her belongings?

“Olivia, was our gear brought back with us? I had a very special mace blessed by Azrella herself. I wouldn’t want to lose it!”

[Grondar]

Grondar:

“Hmm--- maybe pappy didn’t exaggerate as much as we all thought. Anyway, he was a commander of the Rockhome forces during the war. From my understanding that group went their separate ways during that time. It was a small chapter in his life.”

"He wouldn't need to exaggerate," Grondar says. "He is known as a great hero among our people for a reason."

“That is true. Unfortunately, we can’t just abandon Corunglain either. It’s crucial in stemming the tide of scum from the Broken Lands. Without it, orcs and their ilk would run wild down in the area we’d be exploring.”

"Don't worry," Grondar replies, "I have no intention of leaving the work here unfinished."

"None of you need worry about not having the right magics at your disposal my friends," Acerion declares. "I am attuned to detecting the stench of evil, and that is one thing the demonic-looking portal does not posses."

Grondar nods. "That is good to know, Lord Acerion. I will try to remember that, as it relieves the need for that spell among the rest of us."

Lord Validar gives a brief strategy review. Unfortunately, none of Grondar's few remaining spells would be useful at this moment. Besides, they are likely to end up being needed for healing before this is done. At Lord Sharadin's decree, the group splits into two, following Lord Sharadin and Silvarn into the maze where Silvarn assures them Ember awaits.

As they move through the bright crystal maze, there is a tension among many of the Guardians. They know that this battle will be fierce, and the dragon has the advantage of knowing the area. If it can find a way to split the two groups and attack them one at a time, it would swing the odds even further in its favor.

It is not long before they find the dragon, which appears to be ready. Immediately, it lashes out with a powerful spell, or combination thereof - it is hard for the dwarf to tell for sure from where he is. What he is sure of is that someone goes down hard; he cannot tell who from where he is standing, but Acerion's cry answers that question fast enough.

Not waiting a moment longer, Grondar races to the large warrior's side. It takes but a moment to realize that Lord Corley is not long for this world without help; Grondar wishes the proud warrior had accepted the potion when it was offered. Placing his hands upon Corley's smoking chest, the dwarven priest converts one of his remaining Hold Person miracles into healing [CMW].

[Sherra]

Sherra:

Grondar nods, a stern look on his face. <"That is good. Your command of our language is improving quickly.">

"<Well that happens when one has such a good teacher,>" Sherra responds in dwarvish, then adds, "<grumpy,>" upon seeing his stern look.

Somewhat fustrated Laucian sighs, “No this quartz shows no sign of passage. One is as good as the next!”

Not knowing what to say, she touches his shoulder lightly and smiles at Laucian. Nothing further can be done as we quickly break up into two groups and start moving through the maze at a fast pace. Sherra keeps looking behind her to make sure no one sneaks up on us after passing numerous branches within the maze.

The sounds of spells exploding ahead turns Sherra's attention forward, and she hears Acerion call out that Lord Corley is down. Readying an arrow, Sherra picks her way up until she has an alley to fire down. Willing her armor to mimic her surroundings, she pulls back on the bowstring and will fire arrows as fast as she can at the dragon-in-mage-form.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

The Guardians engage Ember/Opikus once more. Using a previously unknown spell, the Dragon/Mage unleashed the combined effects of a Fireball and a Lightning Bolt at Silvarn. The silver-haired elf maiden was damaged and a bit woozy after the attack. Lord Corley wasn’t as fortunate and he went down.

The Guardians scramble forward to attack the mage before he can cast yet another spell. Chareos takes several steps forward and casts Magic Missile. His three missiles streak across the distance between him and the dragon in human form. All three simply fizzle out as they strike, causing Opikus no harm.

Grondar dashes to Lord Corley’s side and casts Cure Moderate Wounds on the prone warrior. The magic closes Corley’s wounds and stabilizes his condition. However, he remains unconscious, but is no longer in danger of dying.

Argent and Laucian backtrack a few feet and gain a clear view of Opikus. (There were walls blocking sight there before Opikus took them out with his Fireball.) The Invoker casts her own Magic Missile and five of the sparkling projectiles are issued forth. Each strikes Opikus and causes him a great deal of pain.

Sherra lines up a clear shot and fires a pair of arrows. Unfortunately, both shafts simply bounce off of Opikus.

Lord Acerion reaches Opikus and buries his Axe of the Valorous into the evil dragon. Tremendous damage is done and Opikus stumbles back a few steps. Blood spews freely from the wound.

Nearby, Laucian’s Dust Devil swirls into existence. However, he keeps it at bay so as to not hinder the direct attacks upon Opikus.

Lord Validar circles in from around the side and slashes at Opikus with his blade. The blade drives deep into Opikus’ side and more of the dragon’s blood is spilled.

From the other side, Aria comes rushing in screaming a dwarven battle cry. Her axe embeds itself into Opikus’ chest and he goes down in a shower of blood. It is clear that the dragon’s death is near.

In the background, Lord Sharadin assists Silvarn to her feet and together they approach.

Lying on the ground, blood flowing from his mouth, Opikus coughs a few times and then speaks.

“I may be dying… but I won’t be going alone,” Opikus gloats. “This whole place… Will plunge… into the Ring of Flame… All of you… Will burn!”


Opikus chokes for a moment and then his head falls to the floor. Unexpectedly, his skin begins to become redder and his body ripples. He’s starting to change back into his true dragon form!

“Back to the mirror!” Lord Sharadin calls out in alarm. “We have to leave now!”

[GM Mad]

The Duke’s Fortress:

Lyonessa and Ivy continue to recover after their trip to the afterlife. After a time, Ivy has a question.

“Olivia, was our gear brought back with us? I had a very special mace blessed by Azrella herself. I wouldn’t want to lose it!”

“Yes, it was. However, I don’t recall a mace such as the one you speak of. I’m confident I would have felt the Blue Lady’s touch on it. I will find out for you. Just relax.”

As Olivia goes to leave, there is unexpectedly a scratching at the window. Perched on windowsill is Dusk! The owl peers into the room with its wide eyes. After being assured just who the owl is, Olivia opens the window and lets Dusk in. The owl will land near Lyonessa and coo at his mistress.

GM Notes:


Opikus is reverting back to his true gigantic dragon form upon death. I’d move quickly to avoid being crushed against the enlarging dragon and the walls of the maze!

Hit Points:

Chareos - 45 of 57
Corley – 1 of 52
Ivy – 1 of 56
Laucian - 43 of 64
Lyonessa – 1 of 42
Rathlar - 50 of 68
Sherra - 32 of 38
Silvarn – 50 of 85
Valena - 44 of 50
Validar - 75 of 76

Now what?

[Validar]

Lord Validar -

After the effects of Opikus/Ember's impressive combination spell attack fade, the Guardians move to attack while Lord Sharadin and the enigmatic Silvern recover from the devastation. Knowing some of his companions, and wanting to avoid any congestiton on the shortest attack lane, Validar moves around the flank in an attempt to get an attack in from the side.

The maze has been rather open rather than one that has lots of closed paths. That works to his advantage and quickly he sees another opening into the area where Opikus/Ember awaits.

Lord Validar smiles as Lord Acerion connects with his battleaxe and blood covers the front of Opikus robe. Staggering back from the powerful blow, Opikus becomes and even easier target for the noble warrior and Lord Validar's sword bites deep into the dragon-as-mage's side. Aria the dwarven warrioress soon drops the enemy with her own axe swing. Opikus / Ember crashes hard to the groud, covered in his escaping life essence.

Lord Validar is somewhat surprised with the ease in which the dragon fell. Granted he was already wounded, but everyone assumed that he would be prepared for a potential rematch. In any case, there is also the feeling of relief that the group won without more casualties, providing Lord Corley still lives.

Lying on the ground, blood flowing from his mouth, Opikus coughs a few times and then speaks.

“I may be dying… but I won’t be going alone,” Opikus gloats. “This whole place… Will plunge… into the Ring of Flame… All of you… Will burn!”

Opikus chokes for a moment and then his head falls to the floor. Unexpectedly, his skin begins to become redder and his body ripples. He’s starting to change back into his true dragon form!

“Back to the mirror!” Lord Sharadin calls out in alarm. “We have to leave now!”

"Lord Sharadin! Can you teleport some of us out of here? That will be an easy way to get some of us away! Silvarn? What about you?"

"Anyone who can cast a fireball to open up more of this maze would be greatly appreciated!" Lord Validar yells. He is fairly certain that his own mages are out of such spells, but perhaps Silvarn has some abilities he isn't aware of.

[GM Mad]

"Lord Sharadin! Can you teleport some of us out of here? That will be an easy way to get some of us away! Silvarn? What about you?"

"I will try after we get clear of Ember! The spell requires direct physical contact with those going with me!"

Lord Sharadin continues to help Silvarn and both try to clear the area of the rapildy growing Ember. They are heading back the way you came by way of the shortest path-- through the walls that Ember burned out earlier with his Fireball.

[Validar]

Lord Validar -

"Very well!" Validar answers in response to Lord Sharadin. He quickly heads to Grondar and Lord Corley. A quick glance sees that Lord Corley still lives.

"Thank you, my friend," Validar says as he hoists the wounded warrior over his shoulder and quickly heads after the rest of the Guardians. "Let us move with all haste we can muster!"

Once clear of the rapidly expanding dragon form, Validar will pause for the briefest of moments. "Sharadin, if you can teleport, take Lord Corley here, Argent, Aria, Lord Acerion and Chareos with you if you can manage them all. The rest of us, keep moving!"

[Chareos]

Chareos

The Guardians scramble forward to attack the mage before he can cast yet another spell. Chareos takes several steps forward and casts Magic Missile. His three missiles streak across the distance between him and the dragon in human form. All three simply fizzle out as they strike, causing Opikus no harm.

Moving forward Chareos utters the words for his spell. Three Magic Missiles come into existence and speed toward their target. Sadly they merely fizzle out as they approach. Thankfully his fellow Guardians’ attacks are well placed and the Dragon-mage soon lays upon the ground with its life-blood staining the quartz below.

With a few gasping gurgling breaths the form of Ember says,

I may be dying… but I won’t be going alone,” Opikus gloats. “This whole place… Will plunge… into the Ring of Flame… All of you… Will burn!”

Opikus chokes for a moment and then his head falls to the floor. Unexpectedly, his skin begins to become redder and his body ripples. He’s starting to change back into his true dragon form!

“Back to the mirror!” Lord Sharadin calls out in alarm. “We have to leave now!”

The horror hits hard to Chareos as he realizes what that orange red glow just may be….

As orders are given Chareos hauls butt to the mirror, or waits for Sharadin to cast his spell when the time comes to teleport them out, if he is one of the lucky ones.

[Laucian]

Laucian

Sherra wrote
Not knowing what to say, she touches his shoulder lightly and smiles at Laucian. Nothing further can be done as we quickly break up into two groups and start moving through the maze at a fast pace

.

Laucian feels something touch his shoulder and looks in reaction. Seeing the raven haired women smile, he returns her smile not knowing what to say, so he doesn’t and rises to his feet.

Stepping back where the fireball hit Laucian sees Opikus waiting ahead for the attack to come. Chanting his prayer an Air elemental (Dust Devil) comes into effect near Opikus. Laucian holds it there as he realizes that the fighters are already there hindering the mage from using his devastating spells.

Turning back to Lord Corley, Laucian give a smile as he sees Grondar by his side healing the young noble. “You did well, my friend,” he says to the dwarf.

Sadly the victory is short-lived as Sharadin calls for everyone to head for the Mirror. Stowing his bow so that his hands are free Laucian runs for the portals and then the Mirror at top speed. If he sees someone fall he will quickly help them up and get them moving using inspiring words to drive them on.

[Grondar]

Grondar:

"<Well that happens when one has such a good teacher,>" Sherra responds in dwarvish, then adds, "<grumpy,>" upon seeing his stern look.

Grondar stares at the human woman for several seconds as he digests her comment. Suddenly, he bursts out laughing. <"I'm not grumpy,"> he says. <"I'm stern, wise and authoritarian - like any good teacher should be."> From his tone and expression, it's hard to know whether he's serious or not.

Amidst the battle, Grondar lays Berronar's healing beneficience on his gravely-wounded comrade. Corley's body mends itself just enough that survival is assured, at least as long as there is no further injury.

Turning back to Lord Corley Laucian give a smile as he sees Grondar by his side healing the young noble. “You did well my friend.” he says to the dwarf.

"Thank you, Laucian," Grondar replies. "Though your comments truly belong to Berronar, as it is her power that has healed our friend."

Not far away, Acerion, Validar and Aria follow Argent's magics in bringing about the quick downfall of their enemy. The dragon was mighty, but incapable of standing before their combined power. As Ember dies, he informs them that the entire area will succumb to flame. Even worse, he is reverting to his native form, which may well crush them before they can flee!

In response, Lords Sharadin and Validar issue orders for leaving and everyone begins to scramble back toward the portal through which they arrived.

"Thank you, my friend," Validar says as he hoists the wounded warrior over his shoulder and quickly heads after the rest of the Guardians. "Let us move with all haste we can muster!"

Validar snatches up Corley before Grondar can do the same and runs off toward the exit. Being the fastest, the dwarf takes the rear position to make sure that everyone else gets out alive. If any appear to be too slow or unable to navigate the rough ground, Grondar will scoop them up in his powerful arms and carry them on his back as he moves to the exit.

[Lyonessa]

Lyonessa:

As Olivia goes to leave, there is unexpectedly a scratching at the window. Perched on windowsill is Dusk! The owl peers into the room with its wide eyes. After being assured just who the owl is, Olivia opens the window and lets Dusk in. The owl will land near Lyonessa and coo at his mistress.

Lyonessa almost falls out of bed with the excitement of seeing Dusk! Wincing at having moved too quickly, Lyonessa stumbles over her words to let Olivia know that Dusk is her familiar.

"Hello my friend," she says lovingly as Dusk lands near her. "I'm glad you didn't abandon me fearing I was lost." Lyonessa once again thinks she should be able to remember something more about what happened, especially knowing what the afterlife might bring for the devout. Nothing comes to her mind still, so she merely says softly, "Praise Mystra."

[Acerion]

Acerion:

Lord Acerion reaches Opikus and buries his Axe of the Valorous into the evil dragon. Tremendous damage is done and Opikus stumbles back a few steps. Blood spews freely from the wound.

"That's holy steel," Acerion says to Opikus as he wrenches his axe free, viewing the damage it has wrought. He spots Validar and Aria move in and deal devastating blows, and then the battle is over. Acerion stares down at the broken body of Opikus as his friends and companions close around.

“I may be dying… but I won’t be going alone,” Opikus gloats. “This whole place… Will plunge… into the Ring of Flame… All of you… Will burn!”

Opikus chokes for a moment and then his head falls to the floor. Unexpectedly, his skin begins to become redder and his body ripples. He’s starting to change back into his true dragon form!

“Back to the mirror!” Lord Sharadin calls out in alarm. “We have to leave now!”

Without a moment's hesitation, Acerion turns and runs as fast as his armored form will carry him. He spies Validar picking up Corley and continue moving. Grondar apparently was able to save the young noble. He nods appreciation to the dwarf, but is unable at the moment to spare any lengthy praise.

Once clear of the rapidly expanding dragon form, Validar will pause for the briefest of moments. "Sharadin, if you can teleport, take Lord Corley here, Argent, Aria, Lord Acerion and Chareos with you if you can manage them all. The rest of us, keep moving!"

Acerion will pause only long enough to see if Sharadin can indeed teleport those mentioned to safety. If not, the paladin breaks into a run again in an effort to be clear of this place completely.

[Sherra]

Sherra:

Grondar stares at the human woman for several seconds as he digests her comment. Suddenly, he bursts out laughing. <"I'm not grumpy,"> he says. <"I'm stern, wise and authoritarian - like any good teacher should be."> From his tone and expression, it's hard to know whether he's serious or not.

Sherra just smiles warmly at her friend. Hearing him laugh is definitely one of the best sounds she can recall hearing in a long time, especially considering the tense situation they are in.

Sherra lines up a clear shot and fires a pair of arrows. Unfortunately, both shafts simply bounce off of Opikus.

Sherra shakes her head at the ineffectiveness of her shafts. Thankfully the warriors have closed the distance and quickly cut Opikus down before any more spells can be used.

“Back to the mirror!” Lord Sharadin calls out in alarm. “We have to leave now!”

However, it seems even in death, the dragon will prove to be fatal to them if they don't make haste. She couldn't hear what the dragon's dying words were, but it is enough to make Lord Sharadin cry out for them to leave immediately. Sherra turns and quickly makes her way back through the maze. Being at the back on the way in, she now finds herself effectively leading the others on the way out. Thankfully we didn't go too far into the maze, so Sherra's pretty confident she can backtrack quickly and correctly. She will still be wary for any creatures that might be lingering about hoping to ambush them during their flight.

[GM Mad]

Post Closed