Elfquest #6

[GM Mad]

Elfquest #6


The elves have survived the first pass by the manticores, managing to slay one of the beasts in the process. The other two gracefully swing back around and are flying back for more! As the manticores bear down on them, the elves prepare to attack again with arrows and magic.

Thanks to the enhanced range of his Hunter’s Bow, Laucian fires first. Two more shafts are fired and once again two more hits are scored. The pair of arrows impact into the breast of the manticore that was wounded earlier. The second shaft is the killing one and the monster harmlessly plummets from the sky, well away from the barge and the wreck.

Nariya and Valena fire next. Both of the elfin maidens score only one hit on the remaining manticore.


Down on the wreck, both Kylie and Lia tread carefully as the deck has become much steeper. Both prepare to bring magic into play as the lone manticore flies closer. Lia gets her attack off first and invokes a granted power given to her by Eilistraee. A group of four Magic Missiles are launched and unerringly slam into the manticore.

A heartbeat later, Kylie finishes casting her Lightning Bolt. The stream of electrical energy collides with the Manticore and the beast is slain. Its lifeless carcass falls and impacts on the mountainside below the wreck. A slight tremor is felt from the beasts’ impact.

However, this is enough to cause the already treacherous wreck to give way! Kylie and Lia quickly grab hold of their ropes as the deck literally drops away from them! The ship splits completely in half and the remains tumble down the mountainside kicking up a large cloud of dust in the process and nearly drowning out all other sounds in the process.

Lilia just barely flutters out of the hold before the ship goes down. She’s struggling to carry what looks like a large furnace in the shape of a man-sized black dragon. With Kylie and Lia’s help, Lilia is able to bring the object up to the barge.


Sherwood decides to move on right away, as his time for controlling the barge is nearing an end and he needs to find a safe place to land. Within half an hour, the barge is out of the mountains in flying over wooded foothills. Spotting a clearly large enough to land in, Sherwood sets the barge down. The last rays of light are beginning to fade and it will be night soon.

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

You’ve survived the wreck and managed to land safely once more. The only thing you managed to salvage is the chest that Kylie found and the odd-looking furnace. The furnace is in the shape of a black dragon. Its rear legs and tail form the furnaces support. A fire burns in its belly in spite of there being no fuel. The front paws from the top of the furnace, where a pan would be set for cooking. In its jaws there is a thin book.

You’ve managed to land safely. Going to continue on during the night, or examine your prizes further instead? You’re in a hilly, wooded region, some 15 miles from the small village of Crowlerd.

Or you could try to go back to the wreck and salvage further.

XP’s have been updated on the private Roster page. Nariya has made 6th level Ranger.

Hit Points:

Laucian - 62 of 68

Now what?

[Laucian]

Laucian

Thanks to the enhanced range of his Hunter’s Bow, Laucian fires first. Two more shafts are fired and once again two more hits are scored. The pair of arrows impact into the breast of the manticore that was wounded earlier. The second shaft is the killing one and the monster harmlessly plummets from the sky, well away from the barge and the wreck.

Drawing another arrow from his enchanted quiver Laucian fires an arrow at the flying wounded beast. His aim is true as it slams into the side of the Manticore, his second shot soon does the same. Though his second shot proves to be the manticore’s undoing as it falls from the sky in the death’s embrace.

“Then there was one.”

He eyes the last manticore as the others arrows are thrown at it, two strike their target but still it comes on. Several magics are let loose from below robbing the beast of its last breath, as its momentum carries it beneath the barge and wreck.

He breathes a sigh of relief for a moment then hears very large commotion and dust begins to fill the air. He calls out to Talen, “Are the others okay?” his words are lost within the enormous noise. Concerned for the others, he makes his way toward Talen and helps steady the lines as he peers over seeing two shadows before the dust cloud.

The others are soon aboard with Lilia toting a Large man-dragon stove, Laucian shakes his head at his clansman, as a smile etches across his face, “Lilia you really must learn to pack lighter.” noticing her tired expression. "What is it?"

With the danger pasted Sherwood presses on, Giving Laucian a temporary reprieve to remove his tunic. His Torso with a few paintings and old scratches and scars are etched about his frame. Taking bandages up he soon wraps his wounds tying it off with his teeth and hand. He then places his armor back on.

Once landed the topic of staying or leaving comes to pass, Laucian puts forth his opinion. “I think it best if we move on, Most of us need little sleep to function, which we can get while traveling. Though if we do stay here the night we might as well try scouting and securing a perimeter.”

[Lia]

Lia

Moving forward to get the manticores in better view Lia watches as one plummets from the sky, yet the second comes on relentlessly.

These beasts are determined, but it will avail them not. She silently says to himself as she begins to call upon the granted powers of her faith and is soon rewarded as four magic missiles erupt from her hand and fly at the manticore, a split second later a lightning bolt sizzles the life from it as plummets below.

A trimmer is soon felt and purely on instinct Lia grabs her rope as the floor drops from below her! Looking over she sees Kylie has done the same. Signalling to Kylie she points to her and makes an ok.

She soon pulls herself to the barge and sees Lilia struggling with a Black object, she helps the mage the best he can and sets it down near the center of the barge and collapses on the deck from the whole experience!

“Well I don’t want to do that again!!!” she exclaims, looking to the others, “I hope life isn’t always this active in your worlds.” as she tried to catch her breath.

After Sherwood sets down the barge several options are put forward. Lia states, “I would like to go back to the wreck and see if anything survived. There was a room I couldn’t get open among the cabins. Perhaps it was locked magically and the room somehow survived….” she trails off looking at the mages. “Though if we do leave could we not mark the location of the barge and come back after our quest?” she asks hopefully.

[Kylie]

Kylie:

The two remaining manticores wheel about and come for another pass. Though she cannot see who fired what arrow from where she is, the volley from the barge slays one of the manticores, which plummets down the mountainside.

Just as she's releasing her Lighting Bolt, a brace of Magic Missiles flies past and into the remaining manticore. Before it can shake off the effect her own magic sizzles through the air, electrocuting the hairy beast. Unfortunately, it slams into the mountain close enough to the ship to shake it loose.

The ship splits into pieces and begins to carreen down the mountainside. Kylie's enchanted ring activates almost immediately, giving her plenty of time to grab her robe. Looking over, she sees that Lia has managed to grap her rope as well and gives Kylie an OK signal. Kylie returns the signal and begins climbing toward the railing of the barge floating above them.

Once aboard, Kylie draws up the rest of her rope and the small chest attached thereto. Moments later, a creature struggles toward the deck carrying a large black object. They soon realize that this is Lilia in a different Polymorphed form and they help her aboard. When they get a good look at it, the object is shaped like a dragon, and appears to be a magical stove of some sort. There also appears to be a book of some sort wedged into its mouth. "Anyone know what this thing is?" Kylie asks. "Perhaps we should take a look at that book; maybe it will tell us more."

Sherwood brings forth the question of their next action. "I agree with Laucian. That created quite a commotion and is likely to bring others to investigate. I do like Lia's notion of marking it on our map and maybe investigating later. Lilia or I can take the Crown for now. We can evaluate what we found while we continue on."

[Sherwood]

Sherwood:

Fortunately, Sherwood’s wand is not required during the second pass. Arrows take care of the first Manticore and magic downs the other. The danger is seemingly over for a moment, but then they hear the wreck breaking up down below!

Rushing over, Sherwood can see Kylie and Lia climbing back up. Lilia comes out of the hold bearing a large metallic object that looks very much like a man-sized black dragon. Everyone makes it back up on deck safely.

Knowing that time is short, Sherwood moves on to find a place to land. Once a suitable location is found, Sherwood eases the barge to the ground and removes the crown.

Once landed the topic of staying or leaving comes to pass, Laucian puts forth his opinion. “I think it best if we move on, Most of us need little sleep to function, which we can get while traveling. Though if we do stay here the night we might as well try scouting and securing a perimeter.”

After Sherwood sets down the barge several options are put forward. Lia states, “I would like to go back to the wreck and see if anything survived. There was a room I couldn’t get open among the cabins. Perhaps it was locked magically and the room somehow survived….” she trails off looking at the mages. “Though if we do leave could we not mark the location of the barge and come back after our quest?” she asks hopefully.

Sherwood brings forth the question of their next action. "I agree with Laucian. That created quite a commotion and is likely to bring others to investigate. I do like Lia's notion of marking it on our map and maybe investigating later. Lilia or I can take the Crown for now. We can evaluate what we found while we continue on."

“I concur, we should move on. Do not forget what our ultimate objective is. While this diversion was interesting, it does not help us reach the Sylvan Realm. I think we would hard pressed to find the wreck again especially in the dark. We’ll record its location and try to find it at a later date.”

When they get a good look at it, the object is shaped like a dragon, and appears to be a magical stove of some sort. There also appears to be a book of some sort wedged into its mouth. "Anyone know what this thing is?" Kylie asks. "Perhaps we should take a look at that book; maybe it will tell us more."

“It is magical,” Sherwood states as he looks over the strange furnace. “I’ve only heard second hand stories about things such as this. But given where it was found, I think they were right. I believe it is what the Alphatians call a Spell Engine, an object that is powered by magic that performs several pre-determined functions. If that is correct, then this was how that ship was able to fly. It’s a more powerful version of the Crown we’ve been using. Maybe even faster too.”

After a moments thought, Sherwood will hand the Crown to Kylie. “Lilia, you’re the scholar amongst us, you study the book in the dragon’s mouth and see if you can make sense of it. Do not attempt to make use of the furnace, as we don’t know if it will interfere with the crown or not.”

“Kylie, you’ll pilot the barge for the next trip. Continue on a due west course. (Sherwood will pick out a star in the sky for her to fixate on.) Simply head towards that star there and you’ll be fine. Before long we’ll be out over Lake Amsorak. I don’t know if you can reach the far shore or not. If you can, do not and I repeat, do not land near the large city on the far side. That is the ruins of Old Elcadan and it is a very dangerous place. But I suspect that you’ll have to set down on the lake or an island instead. Lilia or Talen will take over right away to keep us moving.”

“Just be careful and use common sense with the items you salvaged. I’m going to get some sleep.”

[Lilia]

Lilia:

Unaware of what is going on outside, Lilia struggles with the large magic item she’s found. The strain is tremendous, but the Elf Maiden is able to carry the object out of the ships hold. At a fortuitous time as well as the ship breaks up and tumbles down the mountain!

“A little help would be appreciated”, Lilia calls out, the strain clear in her voice. With the help of Lia and Kylie the object is lifted up to the barge.

The others are soon aboard with Lilia toting a Large man-dragon stove, Laucian shakes his head at his clansman, as a smile etches across his face, “Lilia you really must learn to pack lighter.” noticing her tired expression. "What is it?"

“I’m not sure, but it is magical. It may be useful to us.”

"Anyone know what this thing is?" Kylie asks. "Perhaps we should take a look at that book; maybe it will tell us more."

“It is magical,” Sherwood states as he looks over the strange furnace. “I’ve only heard second hand stories about things such as this. But given where it was found, I think they were right. I believe it is what the Alphatians call a Spell Engine, an object that is powered by magic that performs several pre-determined functions. If that is correct, then this was how that ship was able to fly. It’s a more powerful version of the Crown we’ve been using. Maybe even faster too.”

“A Spell Engine,” Lilia repeats in astonishment. She’s heard about such a thing, mainly from Lara and Kharyna, but both were not very forthcoming about what it exactly was. Perhaps now they have one in their possession!

After a moments thought, Sherwood will hand the Crown to Kylie. “Lilia, you’re the scholar amongst us, you study the book in the dragon’s mouth and see if you can make sense of it. Do not attempt to make use of the furnace, as we don’t know if it will interfere with the crown or not.”

“A logical course of action,” Lilia agrees. “Kylie, can you determine if there are any traps on this furnace? I’ll attempt to study this book.”

Once Kylie has determined that there are no traps, Lilia will gently try to remove the book from the dragons’ mouth. She’ll try to see of the book is also magical, as they might have trapped it before opening it up. If not, then she’ll try to decipher the tome.

[Valena Feador]

Valena:

Calmly, Valena aims and fires her bow. Only one of her shafts hit the target. The other perhaps buffed off course due to the winds. No matter, as the last of the monsters is removed by multiple magicks from below. The threat is over in short other and Valena keeps watch as Lilia, Kylie, and Lia a brought up from the wreck.

With the danger past Sherwood presses on, Giving Laucian a temporary reprieve to remove his tunic. His Torso with a few paintings and old scratches and scars are etched about his frame. Taking bandages up he soon wraps his wounds tying it off with his teeth and hand. He then places his armor back on.

Seeing that Laucian was wounded, Valena will step up to them. “I can heal those if you wish, Forest Brother. A more permanent solution than letting time heal them.”

Valena will remain on watch and rest as dictated.

[Talen]

Talen:

Talen’s eyes dart back and forth, from the ropes holding his sister and Kylie down on the wreck and to the attacking monsters. Both monsters are quickly and efficiently dealt with, but the wreck begins to fall away!

“It’s falling!” Talen calls out and grabs both ropes to try and steady them.

He breathes a sigh of relief for a moment then hears very large commotion and dust begins to fill the air. He calls out to Talen, “Are the others okay?” his words are lost within the enormous noise. Concerned for the others, he makes his way toward Talen and helps steady the lines as he peers over seeing two shadows before the dust cloud.

Before Talen can realize it, Laucian is by his side and takes control off one of the ropes. Finally the girls make their way back up, helping Lilia carry a large object! Like everyone else, Talen has no idea what it is and even Sherwood’s theory of it being a Spell Engine just leaves him in the dark.

It is decide to continue on with their flight and that Lilia study the book to the strange furnace. To excited to sleep, Talen will move closer to Kylie.

“Hi. Hope I’m not disturbing you. I was wondering what you found in that chest you brought up. Anything interesting?”

[Kylie]

Kylie:

Getting Lilia and the strange magical stove onboard proves to be hard work; Kylie finds herself breathing heavily from the exertion. It takes some minutes to settle her breathing.

Sherwood agrees with the majority opinion that they should continue on. He gives the Crown to Kylie, with instructions to fly them directly west toward a star that he points out. Kylie nods and places the Crown on her head. Concentrating for a moment, she causes the barge to rise into the air and begin moving in the indicated direction. She will continue gaining altitude until they are well above any trees that she can see in that general direction.

“It is magical,” Sherwood states as he looks over the strange furnace. “I’ve only heard second hand stories about things such as this. But given where it was found, I think they were right. I believe it is what the Alphatians call a Spell Engine, an object that is powered by magic that performs several pre-determined functions. If that is correct, then this was how that ship was able to fly. It’s a more powerful version of the Crown we’ve been using. Maybe even faster too.”

Sherwood's information is both surprising and fascinating. A Spell Engine that may provide flight capabilities! She's heard of a Spell Engine before, but this is her first opportunity to learn about and work with one first-hand. "So once we master it, we may be able to replace the need to use the Crown, right? That would certainly help us retain our spell abilities for other purposes."

“A logical course of action,” Lilia agrees. “Kylie, can you determine if there are any traps on this furnace? I’ll attempt to study this book.”

"Certainly, Lilia. I've give it a look." Kylie will verify their flight direction, then turn her attention to the magical furnace. She'll examine it for any evidence of traps, occasionally rechecking their heading to make sure they don't stray off-course. If by chance she finds anything, she'll attempt to disarm it. Once her work is complete, she'll notify Lilia of the results.

“Hi. Hope I’m not disturbing you. I was wondering what you found in that chest you brought up. Anything interesting?”

"Hello, Talen," Kylie replies with a smile. Strangely, she's starting to find him kind of cute in a young-guy kind of way. "Actually, I've been so busy, I haven't had a chance to check yet. Let's fix that."

Kylie retrieves the chest and sits down with it in front of her. First, she examines it carefully for traps; if any are found she will do her best to disarm them. If she gets this far without incident, she will attempt to open it, picking any lock if necessary. As she works, Kylie will periodically look up and verify their course, ensuring that they are still heading toward the designated star and maintaining sufficient altitude.

[Laucian]

Laucian

Seeing that Laucian was wounded, Valena will step up to them. “I can heal those if you wish, Forest Brother. A more permanent solution than letting time heal them.”

“Aye that would prove more beneficial. Thank you Valena.”

As the others pour over the Dragon looking furnace, Laucian takes up his bow and remains on guard duty until it is time for him to retire. Upon raising in the morning Laucian will go about his daily rituals upon completing them he realizes Ehlonna has granted him access to greater spells!!

[Nariya]

Nariya:

Taken down by arrows and magic, the manticores are slain. However their fall causes the wreckage to come loose and plummet. Reaching the edge in a rush, Nariya sees the others clinging to the ropes. She will help haul them up.

They managed to acquire a few items from the wreckage, but Nariya is only mildly interested. She returns to scanning the sky in case more manticores are about. Then she catches a glimpse that takes her full attention.

With the danger pasted Sherwood presses on, Giving Laucian a temporary reprieve to remove his tunic. His Torso with a few paintings and old scratches and scars are etched about his frame. Taking bandages up he soon wraps his wounds tying it off with his teeth and hand. He then places his armor back on.

Admiring the view, Nariya isn't sure why Laucian is making a public display, until she realizes he is injured! It seems she isn't the only one to notice however.

Seeing that Laucian was wounded, Valena will step up to them. “I can heal those if you wish, Forest Brother. A more permanent solution than letting time heal them.”

“Aye that would prove more beneficial. Thank you Valena.”

"Of course she can," Nariya mutters to herself, then returns to watching the skies.

[Laucian]

Laucian

With the danger pasted Sherwood presses on, Giving Laucian a temporary reprieve to remove his tunic. His Torso with a few paintings and old scratches and scars are etched about his frame. Taking bandages up he soon wraps his wounds tying it off with his teeth and hand. He then places his armor back on.

Admiring the view, Nariya isn't sure why Laucian is making a public display, until she realizes he is injured! It seems she isn't the only one to notice however.

Seeing that Laucian was wounded, Valena will step up to them. “I can heal those if you wish, Forest Brother. A more permanent solution than letting time heal them.”

“Aye that would prove more beneficial. Thank you Valena.”

"Of course she can," Nariya mutters to herself, then returns to watching the skies.

As Laucian begins to rewrap his bandages to put them away he catches Nariya’s gaze. He notes the admiration in her eyes but something else…..jealousy?…..as Valena offers to heal him. After Valena is done her healing, He redone his armor and take up his bow.

“Are you hurt?” he asks genuinely concerned for her. Taking her hand in his and gazing into her eyes. Upon hearing she is okay He lightly kisses her hand. “ I wouldn’t wish to see you hurt or troubled.” he adds with a smile.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

The elves have slain the manticores and departed the wrecked ship. The battle caused the vessel to tumble down the mountains, further destroying the ship. Sherwood piloted the barge onward and found a save place to land in the foothills at the base of the mountain.

It is decided to continue onward with Kylie piloting the barge. Lilia is given the task of examining the book that came with the strange black dragon furnace. Sherwood turns in for the evening while everyone else either rests or takes guard posts.

Once satisfied that she is on course, Kylie examinees the black dragon furnace but finds no traps on it.

Lilia examines the book held in the dragon's mouth. She determines that it is not magical. The book is very old and some of the pages have crumbled away. The writting is an older style of Alphatian, but Lilia can comprehend it for the most part. The book informs her that the dragon furnace is a Spell Engine Mark Six and that it was specifically designed to be used onboard a vessel. (Specifics in the GM Notes.)


After traveling about 25 miles, the barge comes to Lake Amsorak. This lake is the largest body of water that most of you have ever seen. It is easily over 100 miles wide and across. The lake seems calm enough this night and no vessels are spotted sailing on its waters.

Next Kylie turns her attention to the chest she liberated from the wreck. The chest is examined for traps, but none are found. Next she tries to pick the lock, but fails. Strangely enough, the lock looks almost brand new. It doesn't show any aging from lying in the wreck for so long. Talen offers to try to pick the lock, but he too fails.


Kylie begins to feel the effects of piloting the barge and is forced to land on the lake. It is still a few hours before dawn, so Talen takes the Crown and continues to move the barge forward. There is a noticeable difference in speed from when Sherwood controls the barge to when Kylie and Lilia control it. There's another such gap between Kylie and Talen. His speed is only about half of hers. (Or about 25% of Sherwood’s.)


Near dawn the barge comes in sight of land. You've crossed Lake Amsorak! To the south are the ruins of a large city. This must be the one Sherwood warned Kylie about last night. Talen moves away from the ruins and lands on the plains some twenty miles away.

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

The dragon furnace is a Spell Engine Mark 6. A Spell Engine is an item that absorbs magical energy, either from spells cast into it or magic items consumed by it. This energy is stored in the engine and unleashed as directed by the Engineer. The Engineer has to be able to cast mage spells in order to control a Spell Engine. The brighter the flame inside the Engine, the most magical energy it holds.

Gaining control of a Spell Engine is similar to that of the Crown. Simply touch it for a few minutes and then the Engine will bond with that Engineer. From that point on, the Engineer can mentally make adjustments to the Engine. Rearranging how the Engine is being used and turning powers on and off. Remaining in contact with the Engine is not required once bonded to an Engineer. To change Engineer's simply have another mage make contact with the Engine for a few minutes. Controlling the Engine takes as little concentration as the Crown does. The mages full attention is only required to make changes. The Engineer’s spells are not drained while controlling the Spell Engine.

The designation of Mark 6 determines just how much power the Engine can hold and the maximum level of spells the engine can convert into fuel. In this case, the highest-level spell that can be cast on the Engine is 6th.

Mark 6 also refers to just how much magical energy the Engine can make use of per hour. For this one it is 150 active points. You are not required to make use of the full 150 points that is just the maximum that can be used. The maximum amont of spell energy the furnace can hold is equal to 100 times its active points. So 15,000 points are the maximum for this Spell Engine. (A Spell Engine is a lot like a Champions Multipower for a large END battery.)

Either casting spells on it or having magic items consumed by it charges the engine. The energy gained from mage spells is equal to the spell level squared times 100. A first level spell gives the engine 100 pts, a second level spell 400 pts, a 3rd level spell 900 pts, and so on. Magic items consumed by the furnace give it a point value equal to the items XP value. For instance a Dagger +1 has an XP Value of 150, so 150 pts would be gain by the furnace for consuming it.

The Engineer is always aware of just how much energy is left in the Spell Engine and how much energy it is consuming. If there is not enough energy to sustain a power, the Engine will turn that power off.

Each Spell Engine is unique and was constructed for a particular task. This one was to give locomotion to sailing vessels. This carry out this task, this Spell Engine has 3 standard functions and 1 special function. Here are functions:

Life Support - This creates a regenerating air envelope around the vessel that will keep out hostile environments. It provides comfortable conditions and will protect against heat/cold extremes and radiation. In space, it also generates artificial gravity and effectively levitates the vessel. It also protects the vessel from the stresses of flying and going high speeds.

The base cost for Life Support is 30 pts. The size of the vessel being protected increases this cost. To use this on the barge it would cost 55 pts. For the curious for the galleon you found the engine on it cost them 85 pts. This cost is the minimum needed to create a protective envelope around the vessel. It can be made larger if you so desire, but it will take points away from other things.

Flight - Flight is measured in MV's (Move). 1 MV is equal to traveling 24 miles in 24 hours, essentially 1 mile per hour. (24 miles is used as the standard size game hex is 24 miles. On the smaller maps 3 hexes make a 24 mile hex.) Each 1 MV of flight costs 5 pts from the engine per hour. Flight only provides forward thrust as Life Support actually lifts the ship into the air. (The ship travels in the direction the front bow is pointing.) The ships sails are used to change course.

Using standard Life Support you could move the barge at a rate of 19 MV, assuming full power is used. That would be 19 24-mile hexes in a continuous 24-hour period of use. Without Life Support, the full 150 pts can be used for Flight, giving you a MV of 30. It is faster but provides no protection from the elements and stresses of traveling that fast.

Faster Than Light Travel - This is only used out of the atmosphere and allows travel out amongst the stars. Space flight costs 10 pts per 1 FTL per hour. 1 FTL is equal to 1 light year, thus a vessel traveling at this rate would travel at the base speed of light. Each additional FTL doubles this velocity. With FTL 2, a light year could be traveled in 180 days. 90 days with FTL 3 and 45 days with FTL 4, and so on.

Ship Invisibility - This is the last function of this Spell Engine and is a special one. When activated, it renders the ship invisible to the naked eye. This power works much like Life Support. There is a base cost and this cost is increased by the size of the vessel you are trying to conceal. Base cost is 5 pts per hour. To cover the entire barge would cost 30 pts per hour. (It cost the galleon 60 pts.)

And that’s the lowdown on Spell Engines!


Valena completely healed Laucian’s wounds. It’s the next morning and you’re on the western shores of Lake Amsorak. If anyone checks, the lock on the chest is indeed magical.

Now what?

[Kylie]

Kylie:

Once they are well up in the air and travelling westward, Kylie turns her attention to the iron dragon furnace. It doesn't take long to determine that there are no traps in place on the thing. Lilia retrieves the book from its mouth and begins reading.

A little later, at Talen's prompting, Kylie investigates the small chest. Checking carefully, she finds not indication of any traps. She cannot help noticing the pristine condition that the chest is in; this seems very strange for something so old, and may indicate the presence of magic.

An attempt to pick the lock proves fruitless. Talen tries as well, and has no better luck. "Thanks for trying," she says to Talen. Kylie shakes her head, stymied by the lock. "Magic, perhaps?" Her earlier suspicion drives her to use her innate ability to sense magic. Not too surprisingly, she finds that the chest does indeed radiate magic. "Yup, magic," she says with a look at Talen. "I suspect magic will be needed to open it." She will have to make adjustments to her spell repertoire the next day.

Starting to feel drained from piloting the barge, Kylie lands it on the lake. Handing the Crown to Talen, she heads off to bed.

When she wakes, Kylie prepares a meal for everyone, then checks to see how far they've gotten. Since she needs so little sleep, Talen is still at the helm. Having some time, she begins relearning her spells. With the prospect of trying to open the chest ahead of her, Kylie swaps a Knock spell for her usual Web, and a Dispel Magic for the Haste she had been carrying. Once the chest has been opened, she can always revert to her previous spell selection.

A little later, Talen reaches the end of his strength and seeks a place to land. Off to the south, Kylie sees what must be the ruins Sherwood warned them of, and urges Talen to land as far from them as he can manage.

"So what have you learned about this Spell Engine, Lilia?" Kylie asks. She has a basic idea what they do, and knows this one is probably designed for flight, but she hopes that Lilia has extracted more details from the book. Of course, she's curious about her chest, but this is more pertinent right now. The sooner they can put this thing to work, the better for all of them.

[Nariya]

Nariya:

“Are you hurt?” he asks genuinely concerned for her. Taking her hand in his and gazing into her eyes. Upon hearing she is okay He lightly kisses her hand. “ I wouldn’t wish to see you hurt or troubled.” he adds with a smile.

"No, I was not hit," Nariya replies plainly. She smiles however when Laucian takes her hand and kisses it. "I am glad you were not horribly injured and the wounds mended so easily," she says. "I do not wish you to be hurt either."

Near dawn the barge comes in sight of land. You've crossed Lake Amsorak! To the south are the ruins of a large city. This must be the one Sherwood warned Kylie about last night. Talen moves away from the ruins and lands on the plains some twenty miles away.

Having taken some sleep during this part of the voyage, Nariya spots the ruins just before the barge moves away from them. She smiles at the hopes that the land will someday reclaim all of that city, erasing the blight of the structures completely.

Nariya will eat lightly and keep a watch, quickly patroling their landing spot to check for signs of recent travel. If satisfied nothing has been about recently, she will return to the barge and await to see what happens next.

[Lilia]

Lilia:

Kylie determines that the furnace is not trapped in any obvious manner. That out of the way, Lilia removes the book and studies it intently seeing if her talent for recognizing enchantments, but none is found. To her surprise the book is written in Alphatian, but an older dialect. Some of the words she's not familiar with, but can gleam their meaning from how they are used.

"So what have you learned about this Spell Engine, Lilia?" Kylie asks. She has a basic idea what they do, and knows this one is probably designed for flight, but she hopes that Lilia has extracted more details from the book. Of course, she's curious about her chest, but this is more pertinent right now. The sooner they can put this thing to work, the better for all of them.

"It is amazing," Lilia will say, setting the book aside for a moment. "Judging by the style of writing in the book, this Spell Engine is very old. Maybe hundreds of years old. The Alphatians are far more advanced than I ever suspected. It is a somewhat humbling prospect. They are masters of manipulating magical energy."

"This furnace is indeed a Spell Engine and one that is made to make sailing vessels fly. It uses spell energy or consumes magic items to power it. The one who bonds with the furnace can control it, but it does not drain spells from you. You just control it and monitor it. There would be no reason to land, for instance. We could fly continuously, as long as the engine had power."

"The engine can do several things. Create an envelope of calm and comfort around the vessel and make it fly. There is something about travel out of what they call the 'atmosphere', but it doesn't make any sense to me. I could be reading it wrong. And it can make the vessel invisible! This should make our journey much easier!"

"What we'll need to do is mount the furnace to the barge. Secure it down with nails or bolts. Then use magical spells to power it up and keep it operational. It’ll take a lot of spells as it appears to be depleted of energy."

[Talen]

Talen:


After traveling about 25 miles, the barge comes to Lake Amsorak. This lake is the largest body of water that most of you have ever seen. It is easily over 100 miles wide and across. The lake seems calm enough this night and no vessels are spotted sailing on its waters.

Talen takes in the sight of the lake in awe. This must be hundreds of times bigger than the lake back in the Lost Valley.

“Is this an ocean?” He wonders. “Its so huge!”

"Hello, Talen," Kylie replies with a smile. Strangely, she's starting to find him kind of cute in a young-guy kind of way. "Actually, I've been so busy, I haven't had a chance to check yet. Let's fix that."

Talen can’t help but smile back in a goofy sort of way. “Maybe there’s something interesting in there?”

An attempt to pick the lock proves fruitless. Talen tries as well, and has no better luck. "Thanks for trying," she says to Talen. Kylie shakes her head, stymied by the lock. "Magic, perhaps?" Her earlier suspicion drives her to use her innate ability to sense magic. Not too surprisingly, she finds that the chest does indeed radiate magic. "Yup, magic," she says with a look at Talen. "I suspect magic will be needed to open it." She will have to make adjustments to her spell repertoire the next day.

Talen just watches and doesn’t interfere as Kylie examines the chest and tries to pick the lock. “I’ve had some training in picking locks. Perhaps I might be able to open it?”

Kylie agrees, but Talen has no luck either.

“Frankly I’ve never seen a lock like this before. Maybe it is magical.”


The rest of the evening passes quietly. During the night Kylie wakes him to pass the crown on to him. It seems that we’ve landed on the water. Taking up the Crown, Talen lifts the barge off and continues westward. In spite of his best efforts, the barge does not as fast for him.

Morning comes and we finally reach the other end of the lake. A city is spotted, but he remembers cousin saying to avoid it. So Talen sets the barge down some twenty miles to the north in a grassy plains area.

“What is that city we avoided? Why is it dangerous?”

[Kylie]

Kylie:

Talen can’t help but smile back in a goofy sort of way. “Maybe there’s something interesting in there?”

"I sure hope so," Kylie says with a grin.

When her attempt fails, Kylie lets Talen try as requested, though his luck proves no better than hers. They both quickly come to the conclusion that it may be magical.

---

Kylie listens carefully as Lilia describes what she has learned about the Spell Engine. However, several questions pop into her head.

"Lilia, you mentioned 'one who bonds with the furnace'. What does that mean? How does someone bond with it? Also, do the spells that feed it have to come from the bonded person, or can they come from anyone? How exactly do you feed it spells and magic items?"

After considering for a moment, Kylie speaks up again. "I have a Potion of Climbing and a Ring of Truth that I could probably donate to the Engine, unless someone wants them. I guess I could even toss in a couple of minor enchanted daggers."

Kylie takes a look around, including Sherwood in the scan. "So who do we choose to bond to the Spell Engine? Lilia knows the most about it at this point; perhaps it would make sense to choose her. What do the rest of you think?"

“What is that city we avoided? Why is it dangerous?”

"Sherwood called it Old Elcadan, but I don't know anything more than that. Perhaps he can tell us more about it." Kylie has the sinking feeling that she probably should have learned something about it during her training, but missed it due to lack of interest at the time...

[Lilia]

Lilia:

"Lilia, you mentioned 'one who bonds with the furnace'. What does that mean? How does someone bond with it? Also, do the spells that feed it have to come from the bonded person, or can they come from anyone? How exactly do you feed it spells and magic items?"

“The book calls this person the Engineer, which I would guess means they control the Spell Engine. The bonding process is not that different from the Crown. You wear the crown and it bonds with you. You take it off and someone else wears the crown it bonds to them. With the Furnace, a mage just needs to touch it for a few minutes. Once you feel a connection to the Spell Engine, you become the Engineer until another takes your place. We would still need to work in shifts, but no longer would your spells be drained away in process. The Engineer just determines what changes are made to the way the engine is functioning. It’s not as maneuverable as the Crown. The barge will only go ‘forward’, but sails can be used to change course, just like a regular ship.”

“Only mages can be the Engineer too. The spells to power it can come from any mage. The more powerful the spell, the more energy that Engine gains. Magic items are simply put into the furnace where they are consumed and their magical energies absorbed. I get the impression that it is not as efficient as raw spell energy. You simply target your spells at the furnace. The Spell Engine simply absorbs the magical energy unleashed before the spells effect can take place. So even Fireballs can safely power the engine.”

“The engine can put back out a certain amount of magical energy per hour, but can hold much, much more in it. The Engineer will be aware of this and can monitor it. All the Engineer does is essentially watch over the process. It’s not more involved than using the crown, probably less as it doesn’t drain spell energy.

Kylie takes a look around, including Sherwood in the scan. "So who do we choose to bond to the Spell Engine? Lilia knows the most about it at this point; perhaps it would make sense to choose her. What do the rest of you think?"

“It would continue to be a group effort, Kylie,” Lilia answers. “Presumably a task shared by you, me and Sherwood, with Talen filling in as needed. We four are the only ones here who can control this Spell Engine. I can control it first, since as you say I’m more knowledgeable on the subject. Before we do anything we must first empower the Engine. That will require many spells.”

[Sherwood]

Sherwood:

After rising, Sherwood finds that Talen is now controlling the barge. The lad seems to be doing fine, so Sherwood lets him continue until they reach land. Lilia excitedly reveals what she read in the book. Kylie asks some questions that Lilia answers.

“I’d say it’s worth the risk to at least try to see if the Furnace can get us to the Sylvan Realm faster. If it works as described, we can just simply fly high overhead on a direct course. No need to worry about crossing Vassa now, as we wouldn’t have to land. From the sound of it, we’ll just need to keep feeding the engine spells to keep it running.”

“Let’s spend a few hours here getting ready. That’ll give our rangers a chance to stretch their legs. Lilia and I will power up the Engine with our spells, but we’ll keep Kylie and Talen’s in reserve. That way if something does go wrong with the engine, either one of them can use the Crown to bring us back down safely.”

After considering for a moment, Kylie speaks up again. "I have a Potion of Climbing and a Ring of Truth that I could probably donate to the Engine, unless someone wants them. I guess I could even toss in a couple of minor enchanted daggers."

“That’s up to you, Kylie, but I’d at least hang on to the weapons.”

"Sherwood called it Old Elcadan, but I don't know anything more than that. Perhaps he can tell us more about it." Kylie has the sinking feeling that she probably should have learned something about it during her training, but missed it due to lack of interest at the time...

Sherwood is not surprised by Talen’s query, as his cousin has very little knowledge of the outside world. Nor is he really surprised by Kylie’s missing this lesson.

“A long time ago, before there even was a Kingdom of Cynalon, a group of idealistic young Alphatians formed a group called the Fellowship of Mages. They left their native lands with the idea to establish a place of enlightenment, where knowledge could be freely shared with others. They built that city down below and called it Elcadan, which is Alphatian for Enlightenment.”

“The Fellowship did many great things. They defeated a band of evil mages who called themselves the Lich Lords. They helped rule Vassa and served the Witch-King Zhengyi. Each of the Lich Lords wears a vile artifact called collectively the Crowns of Eternal Night. The Fellowship battles the Lich Lords and defeats them, leaving them imprisoned in a city called Oos. The Fellowship takes possession of the Crowns and locks them away in Elcadan.”

“Amongst its wonders, Elcadan is an enchanted city. The Fellowship placed citywide magicks upon it that affects all within. These are primarily protection magicks from what little we know. For instance, if anyone fell a Feather Fall spell would automatically safe them from death. This ancient process was called ‘Laying a Mythal’. We have no idea how this is even possible, again only illustrating just how advanced the Alphatians are to us.”

“The story goes that the Fellowship slowly fell under the influence of the Crowns and fell into madness. One of their numbers is said to have opened a gate to the Abyss and a swarm of demons came forth. Those demons are said to be there to this day, but they remain imprisoned there by the protective Mythal. We can pass through this field freely, but demons cannot. Many a brave adventurer has cone to Elcadan to recover the treasures believed to be there and not returned.”

“The members of the Fellowship went their separate ways. Most became liches themselves and built deadly dungeons for protection. Among there membership was Acerack, who built the deadly Tomb of Horrors. Demara, an enchantress who specialized in making magical garments. Halaster, who built the expansive Undermountian dungeon that lays under Itheldown Island, the largest island in Lake Amsorak. Varalla, who became the infamous Lich-Queen. Gaz who built who was trying to build the Tower of Magic, and so on.”

“Those who did survive the fall of Old Elcadan, built a new Elcadan along the Streel River. The tower of the mage guild was the first building there. The city rose up around it, but it never matched the grace and wonder of the original.”

“The demons are still in Old Elcadan. That is why we are avoiding it.”


If everyone else is in agreement, Sherwood will ask Lilia to cast her spells into the Spell Engine to get the process started. Once he has memorized his magicks, Sherwood will add his own spells to it.

When we are ready to go, he’ll ask Lilia to lift the barge up just off the ground. We’ll then move it manually so that it’s pointed in the direction towards the Sylvan Realms. After that, take off!

“This should be interesting!”

[Kylie]

Kylie:

Lilia does a good job of answering her questions. The process for using the Spell Engine to fly the barge becomes fairly clear. Still, the issue of steering it continues to bother her. Thus, she asks one more question. "Since the Spell Engine cannot be steered in any way but up and down, and we don't have any sails, do you think it would be possible to use the Crown to steer when needed while letting the Engine move us forward? We shouldn't need to do this much, but it might come in very handy when necessary. Of course, I guess we could just turn the Spell Engine off and fly entirely by the Crown when the need arises. Still, it might be good to have the extra speed available at such times."

“It would continue to be a group effort, Kylie,” Lilia answers. “Presumably a task shared by you, me and Sherwood, with Talen filling in as needed. We four are the only ones here who can control this Spell Engine. I can control it first, since as you say I’m more knowledgeable on the subject. Before we do anything we must first empower the Engine. That will require many spells.”

"Okay, I think I understand now. I didn't realize that the bonding process was so simple and that we could trade off so easily. Since we can, that should make this very easy. Now we just have to find some way to attach it to the barge; I don't remember if we brought any heavy nails. Did we?"

Kylie likes the sound of Sherwood's strategy. If they can fly high and fast enough, they should encounter little danger and reach the Sylvan Realm that much faster. It also makes sense to keep some of them able to use the Crown, as well as retaining some spells for defense in case they should run into some problems. "Sounds like a good plan to me."

“That’s up to you, Kylie, but I’d at least hang on to the weapons.”

"Okay," Kylie replies. "I'll wait until my first stint as the Engineer. If no one has shown an interest in the Potion or the Ring by then, I'll donate them to the Engine."

Kylie listens to Sherwood's tale of Old Elcadan. There is so much of the history of this land that she never really paid attention to. She hadn't thought it of much use or interest at the time, but had never expected that she would become embroiled in this kind of mission, either. The shortsightedness of her youth is starting to haunt her in a big way. Perhaps it is time to begin trying to alleviate that.

"The city is full of demons?" Kylie asks, struggling with the concept. "I hope the Mythals that keep them contained never fail! That would be disastrous!" The thought of a horde of demons running loose scares Kylie; just thinking about how many people would be killed makes her fell queasy.

Eventually, they get the Spell Engine secured somehow and are ready to depart. Climbing back aboard the barge, Kylie watches as Lilia bonds herself to the Spell Engine and she and Sherwood feed spells into it. When Lilia is ready to try lifting off, she sends a quick prayer to Tymora in hopes that this works...

[Laucian]

During the flight Laucian takes his rest awakening when the Lake and ruins came into view. “Old Elcadan,” he states with a bit of spite in his voice. Talen soon voices concerns regarding the dangers ruins which Sherwood soon answers,

“Those who did survive the fall of Old Elcadan, built a new Elcadan along the Streel River. The tower of the mage guild was the first building there. The city rose up around it, but it never matched the grace and wonder of the original.”

“The demons are still in Old Elcadan. That is why we are avoiding it.”

A thought comes to elfin priest, “Is it possible for a demon to break free of that which binds it here?” he asks curiously.


Setting the barge on the grassy meadow, Laucian gathers up Onyx and steps off the barge to the grass below. Sherwood soon let’s them know they will be here for a time.

“Let’s spend a few hours here getting ready. That’ll give our rangers a chance to stretch their legs. Lilia and I will power up the Engine with our spells, but we’ll keep Kylie and Talen’s in reserve. That way if something does go wrong with the engine, either one of them can use the Crown to bring us back down safely.”

A smile begins to play about his face, one of joy as he can feel the earth beneath his feet for a while.

Looking to Nariya, “ Shall we make sure the perimeter is secure then see what we may find?” he asks. If she agrees Laucian will place Onyx down, urging him to do the same. If any trouble does come to pass Laucian will have Onyx Hi tail it back to Sherwood indicating that trouble has been found and in what direction.

[Lia]

Lia

“Is this an ocean?” He wonders. “Its so huge!”

“I don’t think it is an ocean brother, Grandmother said they had waves that crashed angerly at its shores.”

Lia takes her rest and when she wakes begins to go about her rituals to the Dark Maiden. Off in the distance a old ruined city lays before them. Her brother asking why it is wise to stray from it.

Lia listens intently on the subject of the Fellowship of mages. “ Such power can only corrupt oneself.” she mutters under her breath.

“Most?” she asks quizzically. “Then not all fell to the vileness of these crowns?” she asks curiously.

Lia will do her best to be of help to the others during there time on the ground. Though she makes it a note to take in the surrounding area, noting the different plants and animals that live about, if she spots any. While waiting for the rangers to return she will sit with in the grass near the barge and merely listen to the solice and serenity of her surroundings.

[Kylie]

Kylie:

During the time they spend on the ground near Old Elcadan, Kylie will take another crack at the chest she found. First, she will try her Knock spell to see if that helps with picking the lock. If not, she'll try Dispel Magic.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:


The barge has set down on the grassy plains to the north of the ruins of fabled Old Elcadan. The land is level, but the grass has grown unchecked and is nearly six feet high in some areas. The average is about three feet.

Laucian, Nariya, Onyx, and Valena go forth to scout out the area moving in separate directions. Lia explores the fauna immediately around the barge and notes many plants here that do not grow in the Lost Valley.

Sherwood moves the Spell Engine into position under the direction and eye of Lilia. Nails, part of the barge repair kit, are used to secure the furnace to the deck inside the covered area of the barge. Lilia bonds with the Engine and begins to feed it her spells. Surprisingly, her spells in memory more then fill up half the energy the Engine can hold. The flame inside begins to burn brighter in response. Sherwood will only need to cast a few spells on the Engine to fully power it.


Elsewhere on the barge, Kylie casts Knock on the chest she found on the wreck. In response the lock pops open and Kylie quickly removes it. She slowly opens the chest and finds a wide variety of contents, seemingly more than the chest should be able to hold.

Right on top is a large book 12” wide, 18” high, and 2” thick. The book is heavy, about 25 pounds in weight. There is no lettering on the outside of the book, and surprisingly the inside only has ten pages! There is no writing and there is only 1 picture on each of the ten pages.

The pictures are not what you expect. The first picture shows strawberries on it. The second has some strange dark liquid on it. The third has shows a dark powder. The fourth has something that looks like Elfin Trail Mix, a collection of nuts and dried fruits. The fifth page is empty. The sixth page has what Kylie would guess to be a whitish cream, but it appears to be solid and not a liquid. The seventh page has apples on it. The eighth page has what appears to be a variety of hard candies. The ninth page shows a clear liquid. The last page appears to be peaches.

Remarkably, when you touch the picture your hand passes through it! Reaching into the first page, Kylie pulls out a real strawberry! It smells wonderful and is delicious if eaten.

Underneath this book is a smaller book with a flowing, elegant script on it. No one can understand the writing, but the style seems vaguely familiar. The book seems to be a private diary.

Next to the diary, neatly wrapped up in a piece of expensive looking clothing is a shiny silver key.

A collection of neatly folded clothes is next. They are four very expensive and brightly colored dresses with the accompanying accouterments. (Hose, shoes, gloves, etc.) The cloth is some of the finest Kylie has ever touched. Best guess would have the dresses fitting a woman of about 5’ in height. The dresses are green, blue, red and lavender in color.

Lastly, on the bottom of the chest are 6 small sacks. Five of them hold gold dust and the other is filled with pearls. About fifty pearls in all.


Elsewhere, Valena moves through the tall grass. She parts the grass before her and spots something on the ground up ahead. Moving closer, she realizes that there is a skeleton laying in the grass! The skeleton is that of a regular bi-ped, two legs, two arms, etc, but from its rib cage it is clear that the skeleton has been crushed. Valena spots nothing else in the area.


On the other side of the barge, Nariya, Laucian, and Onyx are out scouting. Suddenly, Onyx reacts to a small sound you heard amongst this sea of grass. The hair on the tabbies back stands on end and it hisses loudly.

Laucian and Nariya can make out a soft rustling sound out amongst the grass. Nariya can’t quite place it, but Laucian can.

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

The barge has no sails, as they were not thought to be needed when you originally left.

Lilia’s compliment of spells provides the Spell Engine with 8,700 points. That just leaves 6,300 to max out the Engine. Sherwood can reach that total with just a few spells, 2 5th level spells and 1 4th level for example.

Once fully powered, the Spell Engine will operate for 100 hours before running out of fuel. To replenish the Engine, Sherwood would only need to cast a 4th & a 5th level spell into each day to replace the power consumed during that day.

The unknown writing in the diary has been encountered before. But where?

Now what?

[Kylie]

Kylie:

Sherwood locates some large nails and the Spell Engine is attached to the barge. Lilia pours her whole complement of spells into the Engine, then announces that it is more than half full already! Only a few of Sherwood's spells will be needed to reach it's maximum capacity.

The Knock spell does it's job quite efficiently, bringing a huge smile to Kylie's face. She opens the box with a sense of wonder at the opportunity to explore the contents of this chest from so long ago.

There is an amazing assortment of items in chest. It occurs to Kylie that all of this shouldn't have been able to fit in so small a container! Perhaps this chest has similar properties to a Bag of Holding, or to her own Girdle.

The large book is fascinating. Ten pages, each with an image of a different type of food, beverage or something similar. And the pictures are so lifelike! Kylie can't help trying to touch one of the strawberries, only to find that her hand actually reaches into the picture and can pull out a strawberry! She checks the picture again carefully to see if it is any different from before she removed the strawberry. Does one appear to be missing? The temptation being more than she can suppress, Kylie takes a small bite of the strawberry. It's delicious! She'll offer the rest of the berry to Sherwood.

Next she takes the time to investigate each of the items on the other pages. Some she clearly recognises, but others she doesn't. Kylie will dip the tip of her finger in each of the liquids and taste just a drop in an attempt to identify them. She'll also pull out a small pinch of the powder to sniff, feel and taste. She even touches the creamy stuff to see what it feels like.

<Assuming she survives the taste-testing...>

Next, Kylie pulls out a smaller book that looks like a diary. The language isn't familiar, but the writing style looks to be. After searching her mind for anything similar, Kylie will take it around to show to each person on the barge to see if anyone recognises where they might have seen it before.

Below the diary, Kylie finds a collection of clothes so beautiful as to rival Argent's. Squealing in delight, she holds each dress up and presses it to her body, trying to determine if they would fit her. If not, she'll see if they fit any of the other women on board. Of course, Kylie checks the fit of the shoes and gloves as well.

Underneath everything else, Kylie finds several small bags. One contains a collection of beautiful pearls, and the others are filled with gold dust! This may be as much money as she has ever seen in one place in her life!

After showing everything to the rest of group, Kylie spreads them all out in front of her. Since the large book is obviously magical, she sets that off to one side with the chest. Then, Kylie calls on her innate ability to sense magic to see if any of the remaining items are enchanted.

[Laucian]

Laucian

On the other side of the barge, Nariya, Laucian, and Onyx are out scouting. Suddenly, Onyx reacts to a small sound you heard amongst this sea of grass. The hair on the tabbies back stands on end and it hisses loudly.

Laucian and Nariya can make out a soft rustling sound out amongst the grass. Nariya can’t quite place it, but Laucian can.

As Nariya, Onyx and himself are scouting, a soft rustle reaches his hears nearby. Looking about he catches a glimpse of his cat, hair raised and spitting wildly and loudly over the soft sound.

As the sound continues on Laucian’s eyes narrow and a metallic hiss of his own soon is heard. He chances a glance at Nariya seeing her not realize what lies in the grass before them.. “Snake, and a big one to if I’m not mistaken.” he utters quietly, As he motions to his cat spitting and hissing wildly.

Not taking any chances Laucian call upon his faith and casts his flameblade spell. If the snake is as big as he think it is he will urge Onyx to run back to the barge as quickly as his paws will carry him and bug Sherwood to follow..

[GM Mad]

Quick Answers:

She checks the picture again carefully to see if it is any different from before she removed the strawberry. Does one appear to be missing?

The picture shows literally dozens of strawberries. As far as you can tell it does not look any different.

Sampling of other pages:

Page 2 shows a dark liquid. When touched, it feels warm, but does not burn. It has a very pleasant and sweet taste to it. (It’s melted chocolate, something Kylie has never tasted before. Perfect for dipping strawberries!)

Page 3 has a dark powder. When smelled, it has a strong roasted aroma to it, but tastes simply awful if sampled! (It’s ground coffee.)

Page 6 shows a hard whitish cream. It is cold to the touch, but the substance will slowly melt. It has a rich flavor that is very enjoyable. (Vanilla ice cream anyone?)

Below the diary, Kylie finds a collection of clothes so beautiful as to rival Argent's. Squealing in delight, she holds each dress up and presses it to her body, trying to determine if they would fit her. If not, she'll see if they fit any of the other women on board. Of course, Kylie checks the fit of the shoes and gloves as well.

The dresses seem to be close to Kylie’s size, as they would to everyone else here. The shoes and glioves will fit any of the ladies who try them.

After showing everything to the rest of group, Kylie spreads them all out in front of her. Since the large book is obviously magical, she sets that off to one side with the chest. Then, Kylie calls on her innate ability to sense magic to see if any of the remaining items are enchanted.

All the clothing in the chest is enchanted.

[Kylie]

Kylie:

The dark, syrupy liquid has an intriguing flavor that Kylie finds quite pleasant. Similarly, the cold creamy stuff is delicious! She'll have to come back to those again later!

The brown powder is horrible, though. Kylie spits the gritty stuff out of her mouth as quickly as she can. Still, the smoky, bitter flavor seems to cling to her tongue. It takes her a few moments to recall, but Kylie figures out that this must be coffee. She's never liked it herself, but she encountered it while apprenticed to Jallarzi - or maybe it was Rat...

As best she can tell without trying them on, it looks like the dresses might fit all of the women on the trip. Some of them might be a little big for Nariya, or a little small for Valena, but they won't know for sure until they try. However, since her ability shows the dresses to be enchanted, it would probably be best to learn about the enchantments before actually donning the garments.

Kylie loads the dresses into her arms and seeks out Lilia. "Hi, Lilia. I found these dresses in that chest from the wreckage back there. They all appear to be enchanted. When you have the time, would you be willing to try to determine what those enchantments are?"
_________________________________________________________
Is the clear liquid on page 9 water?

[Sherwood]

Sherwood:

Lilia does a good job of answering her questions. The process for using the Spell Engine to fly the barge becomes fairly clear. Still, the issue of steering it continues to bother her. Thus, she asks one more question. "Since the Spell Engine cannot be steered in any way but up and down, and we don't have any sails, do you think it would be possible to use the Crown to steer when needed while letting the Engine move us forward? We shouldn't need to do this much, but it might come in very handy when necessary. Of course, I guess we could just turn the Spell Engine off and fly entirely by the Crown when the need arises. Still, it might be good to have the extra speed available at such times."

“I honestly don’t know if what you suggest is possible. I do know that when it comes to magic items with overlapping effects that one of them is usually suppressed. Typically only one works, so I am hesitant to try to use the Crown and the Spell Engine at the same time. Not without testing it first close to the ground.”

“Was there anything in the book about this, Lilia?”

"Okay," Kylie replies. "I'll wait until my first stint as the Engineer. If no one has shown an interest in the Potion or the Ring by then, I'll donate them to the Engine."

“Given how easily we filled up the Spell Engine, you might as well hold on to those items. No need to destroy them if it’s not necessary.”

"The city is full of demons?" Kylie asks, struggling with the concept. "I hope the Mythals that keep them contained never fail! That would be disastrous!" The thought of a horde of demons running loose scares Kylie; just thinking about how many people would be killed makes her fell queasy.

A thought comes to elfin priest, "Is it possible for a demon to break free of that which binds it here?" he asks curiously.

“The Mythal has held for some 850 years so far. Just how long it will hold is anyone’s guess.”

"Most?" she asks quizzically. "Then not all fell to the vileness of these crowns?" she asks curiously.

“No, they all fell victim to the Crowns. Most became Liches, but not all. Demara, for instance did not become a lich and is believed to have been killed centuries ago.”

Sherwood moves the Spell Engine into position under the direction and eye of Lilia. Nails, part of the barge repair kit, are used to secure the furnace to the deck inside the covered area of the barge. Lilia bonds with the Engine and begins to feed it her spells. Surprisingly, her spells in memory more then fill up half the energy the Engine can hold. The flame inside begins to burn brighter in response. Sherwood will only need to cast a few spells on the Engine to fully power it.

Sherwood lugs the dragon shaped furnace into the cabin easy enough. (He’s pretty strong without any magical enhancement.) Once set it is nailed to the floor and Lilia bonds with it. Her spells power much of it and only a few of Sherwood’s higher level spells are needed to finish it off.

“I’ll keep the Engine fully powered, as it’s not to much of a drain to me. I’ll only need to cast one 5th level and one 4th level spell per day on it. It’s not a problem for me, as I possess a Ring of Wizardry that doubles the number of 4th and 5th level spells I can know. Everyone else can select spells for adventuring once more.”


Kylie opens the chest she found and discovers a variety of items inside. A book that appears to be able to hold food and drink in it and keep them in an unchanged state. Fashionable clothing that is enchanted, a diary, a key, and some wealth.

The temptation being more than she can suppress, Kylie takes a small bite of the strawberry. It's delicious! She'll offer the rest of the berry to Sherwood.

“That is good,” Sherwood remarks. “This book might take care of all our food worries for the journey. Maybe we should try to put some of our perishable foods in that empty page and see what happens?”

Is the clear liquid on page 9 water?

Sherwood takes a taste of the clear liquid will pronounce it to be fresh water.

“Our unknown benefactor was obviously a lady of some taste who like her sweets. I cannot be sure, but perhaps the magic on those dresses allows them to mold to the wearer or perhaps they don’t get dirty. Demara was said to make enchanted clothing of that nature.”

The writing in the diary looks familiar. We’ve seen it before, that same elegant elfish script. Then it comes to Sherwood.

“Twin forks! That writing resembles the writing on that magical chest we found in Lothar’s possession back in Twin Forks. We were never able to open it, although we learned that it held a Star Crown. Maybe this key opens that chest? Perhaps that chest came from this wreck? It must have fallen down the mountains and was found down below.”

(That was back in New Frontiers #13-15.)

[Lilia]

Lilia:

“Was there anything in the book about this, Lilia?”

“I am familiar with what Sherwood speaks. When two magic items that do the same thing are in action, typically only the stronger one works. I agree that mixing the two is not advised.”

“The only thing in the book on the subject is that when using multiple Spell Engines, that each engine does a separate task. No overlapping. For instance if we had a second Engine, we could use one to create the sphere of calm around the barge and make it invisible. The second could be exclusively used for flight. That would make our journey very short!”

Sherwood puts the Spell Engine into place and it is nailed to the deck. The Elf Maiden’s spells fill over half the Engine and that comes as a surprise to her.

“The engine is over halfway powered now. You won’t need to use many spells to finish it off. A full power the Engine will run for 100 hours. If a few spells are cast on it per day to replace what we use, then we should be able to maintain a continuous flight.”


While that is going on, Kylie opens up the chest she found and finds some wondrous things. A book that holds fresh food, some magical dresses, and a key.

Kylie loads the dresses into her arms and seeks out Lilia. "Hi, Lilia. I found these dresses in that chest from the wreckage back there. They all appear to be enchanted. When you have the time, would you be willing to try to determine what those enchantments are?"

“Of course. Just set them aside for now.”

Sherwood then deduces that the writing is the same as the strange metallic chest we found back in Twin Forks. “I always wondered about that.”

[Talen]

Talen:

"It would continue to be a group effort, Kylie," Lilia answers. "Presumably a task shared by you, me and Sherwood, with Talen filling in as needed. We four are the only ones here who can control this Spell Engine. I can control it first, since as you say I'm more knowledgeable on the subject. Before we do anything we must first empower the Engine. That will require many spells."

“I know I’m not much of a mage compared to the rest of you, but I will help out as I can.”


Talen listens to Sherwood’s tale of Old Elcadan with wide eyes. “I can’t imagine magic of that scale! It’s almost unthinkable! I completely agree with your reasoning on avoiding the city.”


Kylie’s gets the chest open and is delighted by what she finds. The book holds many wondrous things to eat. Talen finds this chocolate very enjoyable!

Below the diary, Kylie finds a collection of clothes so beautiful as to rival Argent's. Squealing in delight, she holds each dress up and presses it to her body, trying to determine if they would fit her. If not, she'll see if they fit any of the other women on board. Of course, Kylie checks the fit of the shoes and gloves as well.

“I bet that would fit you,” Talen observes. “I’ve never seen woman’s clothing like this before. So fancy.”

Talen just listens and observes as the Spell Engine is powered up and the talk of a key opening up a chest they found in some place he had never heard of. Much of this is just over his head, so Talen adds nothing.

[Valena Feador]

Valena:

Enjoying the chance to be in the wilds, Valena moves off through the tall grass to explore. Spotting something white up ahead, Valena moves closer to check it out. It turns out to be a skeleton lying in the grass. Its been picked clean of flesh. From inspecting the bones, it appears that who or whatever this was, they were crushed to death.

Valena ponders this for a moment and then realizes that they must have landed in some creatures’ hunting grounds!

Turning around, Val heads back towards the barge to warn her companions. She’ll tread carefully and be wary of any lurking predators.

[Kylie]

Kylie:

Neither Sherwood nor Lilia think it likely that the Crown can be used with the Spell Engine, so Kylie casts that idea aside. At need, the Engineer can have the Spell Engine stop controlling the barge and switch to the Crown at the same time. Optimally, they would make the switch on the ground, but that might not always be possible. Hopefully, the need will not arise and they won't have to find out if it is possible.

“I’ll keep the Engine fully powered, as it’s not to much of a drain to me. I’ll only need to cast one 5th level and one 4th level spell per day on it. It’s not a problem for me, as I possess a Ring of Wizardry that doubles the number of 4th and 5th level spells I can know. Everyone else can select spells for adventuring once more.”

“Given how easily we filled up the Spell Engine, you might as well hold on to those items. No need to destroy them if it’s not necessary.”

Once full, it turns out that Sherwood can easily keep the Spell Engine full on his own. Thus, there is no reason for any of the rest of them to concern themselves with it. "You're right, Sherwood. I hadn't expected that it would be so easy to keep up with the Spell Engine's expenditures of spell energy. Under the circumstances, I won't destroy the two items; however, I am still willing to give them to anyone who might have a greater use for them than I..." Kylie looks around the group to see if anyone shows any interest.

“The Mythal has held for some 850 years so far. Just how long it will hold is anyone’s guess.”

"Perhaps that is something worth looking into when we get an opportunity."

“That is good,” Sherwood remarks. “This book might take care of all our food worries for the journey. Maybe we should try to put some of our perishable foods in that empty page and see what happens?”

I had thought about that, but didn't want to do anything rash. If you think it might work, I would recommend something more substantial for the remaining page, such as bread or meat. One thing I don't think we know is whether the food in the book can be used up, or whether the supply is unlimited once it goes in. Since what is in there has apparently remained fresh for centuries, I would suggest saving it for when our other food supplies run out. We also might want to experiment with adding some of our existing food stocks to the matching pages in order to maintain freshness. Any thoughts?" Kylie doesn't really consider the chest or any of its contents hers; rather, in her mind, it belongs to the group just as the Spell Engine does.

Kylie’s gets the chest open and is delighted by what she finds. The book holds many wondrous things to eat. Talen finds this chocolate very enjoyable!

Kylie looks at the expression on Talen's face when he tastes the brown syrup. "Tasty, isn't it?" she asks with a grin.

“I bet that would fit you,” Talen observes. “I’ve never seen woman’s clothing like this before. So fancy.”

Looking at Talen, Kylie nods. "I think you may be right. In fact, these dresses might well fit all four of us. Lilia, Nariya, Valena and I are all pretty close to the same size."

“Of course. Just set them aside for now.”

"Thank you," Kylie says as she finds a good place to set them. "You know, there are four dresses and four women in this group. If it turns out that the magic isn't harmful, then perhaps we could each keep one. Imagine how beautiful we would all look in such fine dresses..."

“Our unknown benefactor was obviously a lady of some taste who like her sweets. I cannot be sure, but perhaps the magic on those dresses allows them to mold to the wearer or perhaps they don’t get dirty. Demara was said to make enchanted clothing of that nature.”

"Hopefully, Lilia can determine the enchantments for sure. Otherwise, we can do so magically," Kylie says. "I'm assuming that Demara did that sort of thing before becoming a Lich..."

“Twin forks! That writing resembles the writing on that magical chest we found in Lothar’s possession back in Twin Forks. We were never able to open it, although we learned that it held a Star Crown. Maybe this key opens that chest? Perhaps that chest came from this wreck? It must have fallen down the mountains and was found down below.”

"That's right!" Kylie says excitedly. "That's where we've seen this writing before. As I recall, I was able to read it then with a Comprehend Languages spell. I should be able to do the same again now." She makes a mental note to take Comprehend Languages the next day.

Kylie thinks for a moment. "Last place I remember seeing that box, which I believe your magic Slate labeled a Box of Security, was at your tower. Do you know if it's still there, Sherwood?"

[Nariya]

Nariya:

On the other side of the barge, Nariya, Laucian, and Onyx are out scouting. Suddenly, Onyx reacts to a small sound you heard amongst this sea of grass. The hair on the tabbies back stands on end and it hisses loudly.

Laucian and Nariya can make out a soft rustling sound out amongst the grass. Nariya can’t quite place it, but Laucian can.

As the sound continues on Laucian’s eyes narrow and a metallic hiss of his own soon is heard. He chances a glance at Nariya seeing her not realize what lies in the grass before them.. “Snake, and a big one to if I’m not mistaken.” he utters quietly, As he motions to his cat spitting and hissing wildly.

Nariya nods her understandment, silently chastising herself for not recognizing the tell-tale sounds. She kneels down and pulls a spear from her magical quiver. Once it is in her hands, she looks to Laucian, who has called forth some magical fiery blade. She nods her readiness and begins to move forward slowly and silently.

[Lia]

Lia

Lia goes about taking several plants in her hand and looking intently at their leaves and petals( if any flowers)

"That's right!" Kylie says excitedly. "That's where we've seen this writing before. As I recall, I was able to read it then with a Comprehend Languages spell. I should be able to do the same again now." She makes a mental note to take Comprehend Languages the next day.

Lia listens intently as the others begin to look over a book of some unknown writing. One in fact they have previously found in Twin Oaks.
Lia looks curiously over Kylie’s shoulder at the text. “I dunno if it would be much use, but I could try to read it. Nightmist taught me how to read strange texts, Sometimes I could unravel the texts and make sense of them. I could try if you wish?”

[Kylie]

Kylie:

Lia looks curiously over Kylie’s shoulder at the text. “I dunno if it would be much use, but I could try to read it. Nightmist taught me how to read strange texts, Sometimes I could unravel the texts and make sense of them. I could try if you wish?”

Kylie turns to regard Lia for a moment. "That must be a handy ability. If you care to try, please do."

[GM Mad]

Post Closed