Tarysaa keeps listening to the debate between Clas and Asdana as she wanders forward and down to the now empty alcove where the yeth hound had been imprisoned.
(( OOC: Is the circle still there on the ground or did it vanish along with the runes when Clas "released the hound"? If the circle is still in place, can Tarysaa do an Identify (ritual) on it? ))
(( OOC: If the circle disappeared with the runes, can she do Identify (ritual) on the pieces that held the glass sphere? ))
Tarysaa keeps listening to the debate between Clas and Asdana as she wanders forward and down to the now empty alcove where the yeth hound had been imprisoned.
(( OOC: Is the circle still there on the ground or did it vanish along with the runes when Clas "released the hound"? If the circle is still in place, can Tarysaa do an Identify (ritual) on it? ))
(( OOC: If the circle disappeared with the runes, can she do Identify (ritual) on the pieces that held the glass sphere? ))
The runes where forming the circle - so, now, no runes, no circle. It will be easy to ritual-cast identify on the candelabrum-like structure that held the glass sphere, if no one unleashes chaos during the next 10 minutes...
"Well, I guess that's where the problem is then. I'm not an adventurer." Daisy lets a out a sigh and shuffles toward Clas. "I'm just a dwarf from a farm out looking for her husband." She grabs his hand and gives it a shake.
"If everyone else wants to continue then let's go. I guess."
Time passes... No one releases canids... Nor fiends... Nor does someone suddenly arrive chased by Flaming Spheres or Undead Horrors... And so, Tarysaa, after examining the object for the entire time of the ritual, discovers that...
The item, together with the glass bead, composes a sort of a 'key' for the alcove it guards.
When the bead is placed on the support, the wards are activated. The alcove is suddenly placed under the effect of an inverted Magic Circle and a custom Globe of Invulnerability-like effect. The inverted Magic Circle prevents extraplanar creatures inside the room from leaving, gives them disadvantage on attack rolls against creatures outside the room, and prevents them from charming, frightening, or possessing creatures outside the room. The custom Globe of Invulnerability-like effect prevents creatures inside the room from casting spells of 5th level or lower outside the room and from teleporting.
Activation of the wards can be detected because glowing runes similar to those of a Magic Circle appear along the perimeter of the alcove.
When the bead is taken away from the support, the wards of the alcove are deactivated.
Clas warmly accepts Daisy's handshake and offers her a reassuring smile.
"Daisy, I can't begin to imagine what you're going through, searching for your husband. But I want you to know that you're not alone. We're here to help, and we're going to do everything we can to make sure you find him. We're more than just adventurers; we're a team and that means we support each other through thick and thin."
He pats Daisy's shoulder gently and chuckles, "So, whether you're an adventurer or not, you're one of us now. And together, we'll navigate this place, find what we need, and get you and your husband back home. Now, let's go cautiously scout what lies ahead, and remember, you've got a bunch of crazy adventurers watching your back! Hahahaha!"
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Never underestimate the power of a finely crafted barrel, my friend! It is both a vessel of strength and a symbol of resilience.
And so, the exploration continues, with the curiosity to see these 'other prisoners' that Balfby had spoken of taking over the desire for safety and rest.
You discover (in addition to some other doors, one of which is partially open) two other alcoves, the ones with the candelabrum-like-item which supports, on a small saucer, a glass bead containing a clear liquid.
Both alcoves have the now familiar circle of glowing runes. And inside said circle...
In the new north alcove: ...there's a creature resembling a hulking orangutan, with a gruesome, drooping visage and tusks jutting from its jaw. He's just under 8' tall, has quite broad shoulders and might weight more than 600 pounds! He moves apishly as he incessantly walks from one side to the other of the space bounded by the runes.
As soon as he sees you, the creature looks at you with ferocious eyes and you all hear in your mind a telepathic intimation, similar to a cry: "Release me immediately! Or you will suffer the consequences!"
In the new south alcove: ...there's a miniature she-elephant with luminous gold fur and small, rapidly fluttering wings that not only hold it aloft but also propel it at great speed from a side to the other of the rune-delimited zone.
As soon as it sees you, the creature looks at you with surprise and curiosity and you all hear its question in your mind: "You don't seem to be part of the organization that runs this place... You're not in cahoots with that ambitious Kylth, are you? Oh, but some of you are hurt... I can try to heal you, if you release me! You know, the wards of this cell wouldn't allow my healing spells to reach you..."
"Anyone got any idea what we're dealing with here?" Clas asks, his tone filled with genuine curiosity. He couldn't recall ever encountering creatures quite like these in his adventurous exploits.
Clas' attention momentarily shifts upward, his eyes scanning the ceiling and the surrounding shadows. He had learned from experience that danger could come from any direction in this unpredictable place. Hahahaha! (Perception 22 Game Log)
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Never underestimate the power of a finely crafted barrel, my friend! It is both a vessel of strength and a symbol of resilience.
This time, Clas doesn't seem to detect any threats...
...except, maybe, for the voice of the apish creature in his (and the rest of the party's) mind, insisting: "I said release me! Or I'll remember you! And I'll come looking for you when I'll get out of here! I can't die, fools... sooner or later I'll find you... Free me now! It's better for everyone!"
"You all hear that too? I think that thing with the gold fur said it would heal us." Daisy steps over to glowing cage. "I don't know...? You always have to watch the cute ones. They'll lure you in rght before they bite your face off," she adds in all seriousness. "I wouldn't open this one up either."
(Of course I get a Nat 1 on insight on the celestial elephant that can heal.)
"Truth be told, Daisy," Tarysaa keeps staring at the wee elephantine flying creature, "insight into an unknown species or culture is tough enough without attempting to decipher alien species body language signals and facial expressions."
She frowns at all the mental calls from both sides of the room.
"What little I recall, the hairy ape-ish fellow is a demon of sorts. Not the worst but a bad one to tangle with. I would leave him for the Harpells to deal with."
Turning to the closer being, "Our Lady of Golden-ness is a helper in the Upper Planes." She looks around at her companions. "I'd bet on this one to be on our side... similar to the Celestials from the second floor puzzle room."
(( OOC: do I need an insight check after that arcana one? Tarysaa's Passive Wisdom (Insight) = 13 as it is. ))
Tarysaa actually recalls rituals capable of summoning ape-like demons... So the 'guest' of the northern alcove is probably one of these? Also considering the kind and not at all intimidating ways...
While she is unable to connect information relating to the occupant of the southern alcove. But the tone of her telepathic voice seemed sincere... and her concern seemed sincere too, when she saw someone injured - her eyes had widened a little while she was talking about it...
Tarysaa looks intently at the small, golden elephantine creature, "Pardon for our slow response. We encountered other creatures that spoke kindly and then admitted they would kill us at the first chance upon release. "
She waves her hand in toward the west and east. "There are others held as you are in this place. We would appreciate your aid in pointing out those who mean us harm and those who might be of Good nature."
She takes her time and opens her mind to this creature so they might 'know' all that has transpired.
Clas turns to Nim, his eyes alight with excitement. "Hey, Nim! I've got an idea for one of your famous bardic tales. Picture this: 'The tale of Daisy versus the Goliath She-wolf.' Hahahaha! It's a tale of a simple farmer's wife who, armed with nothing but her courage and a humble stone, faced off against the vicious, evil Goliath She-wolf that threatened the countryside."
He gestures dramatically, as if setting the scene for a grand narrative. "You courageously jumping on the back of the She-Wolf making it rear up and then, with a single, mighty throw, Daisy hurls a stone with such force that it pierces the heart of the ferocious beast, bringing it down in a heroic effort!"
Clas grins widely, enthusiasm bubbling over. "Hahahaha! Can you imagine it, Nim? A tale that would resonate with commoners far and wide. It's got everything – bravery, valor, and a triumphant underdog story. Folks would absolutely love it! And you would be right there for them to show how much. Hahahaha!” Clas gives Nim a nudge with his elbow.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Never underestimate the power of a finely crafted barrel, my friend! It is both a vessel of strength and a symbol of resilience.
"Oh, I'm sorry this happened to you!" the little creature seems sincere, replying to Tarysaa, but still including all of you in the telepathic conversation "I will gladly help you understand who you can trust and who not! But what I told you before still applies... The magical defenses of this prison block my powers... You must free me if you want me to help you!"
Meanwhile, Ardana opens her divine awareness to detect forces of good or evil and has the distinct feeling that... that the soul of the ape-like monster is a concentration of violent cruelty, a fetid well of destruction that can easily be uncovered by a moment to moment - and which even now, when closed, gives off a stench that is difficult to bear.
Without a doubt, that monster is a fiend.
But there is also that sweet music... It's the little creature in the other alcove! Ardana involuntarily closes her eyes to savor it better. A harmony similar to that of a choir, a song as pure as the voice of a child, a natural goodness like the caresses of the sun on the spring grass...
Without a doubt, the little creature is a celestial.
"And you too..." Ardana understands that the telepathic voice, even if it includes everyone, this time addresses her "You, descendant of a lineage that was consigned by Asmodeus to a path of mistrust and difficulty... I see that harm was done to you too... They cut off... parts of you! It must have been painful. But I feel the caress of your sacred gaze on me... Evidently you have found the right path. I hope that this will bring joy to your heart and peace to your spirit".
(OCC: No, I don't think anyone mentioned Martha and Dobbian before)
The tiefling paladin explains the case of Martha and Dobbian to the celestial prisoner and the telepathic voice cannot help but comment with a heartfelt: "Poor thing! To die like this and leave alone the love of her life, who among other things is carrying a new life from him... It's a terrible injustice!" the little wings begin to flap with nervous frenzy "We must fix this! Take me to him immediately, quickly!"
And to Ardana's question about her name, the celestial responds (always telepathically): "Yes, yes, of course, the introductions are important; hurry and free me, though! The sacred influence of the Elysian Fields that I am able to channel can restore the life to those who have lost it... but only if the misfortune happened a few days ago... Zentromya, my name is Zentromya! I am a messenger of the gods and an entertainer of the souls who enjoy the eternal serenity of Elysium. In fact, " she sighs "I hope that those with whom I had most frequent conversations have not missed me too much during all this time... It has been practically two and a half centuries since that ambitious Kylth, so thirsty for power but so in need, rather, of conversion, has imprisoned me in this cell... Nice to meet you, anyway! And you, noble souls who have risked venturing into Kylth Harpell's lair to save a life unjustly lost, what are your names?"
I’m Clas, Ardana there, here beside me is Nim, then there’s Daisy here, and over there is Tarysaa. Hahahaha! Well Tarysaa, unless you think this celestial is going to squash us like ants and fly off. Let’s free her, tell her where to go and head off to a tavern and a bath. Hahahaha! Definitely a bath.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Never underestimate the power of a finely crafted barrel, my friend! It is both a vessel of strength and a symbol of resilience.
Tarysaa keeps listening to the debate between Clas and Asdana as she wanders forward and down to the now empty alcove where the yeth hound had been imprisoned.
(( OOC: Is the circle still there on the ground or did it vanish along with the runes when Clas "released the hound"?
If the circle is still in place, can Tarysaa do an Identify (ritual) on it? ))
(( OOC: If the circle disappeared with the runes, can she do Identify (ritual) on the pieces that held the glass sphere? ))
Identify (ritual)
The runes where forming the circle - so, now, no runes, no circle. It will be easy to ritual-cast identify on the candelabrum-like structure that held the glass sphere, if no one unleashes chaos during the next 10 minutes...
"Well, I guess that's where the problem is then. I'm not an adventurer." Daisy lets a out a sigh and shuffles toward Clas. "I'm just a dwarf from a farm out looking for her husband." She grabs his hand and gives it a shake.
"If everyone else wants to continue then let's go. I guess."
Time passes... No one releases canids... Nor fiends... Nor does someone suddenly arrive chased by Flaming Spheres or Undead Horrors... And so, Tarysaa, after examining the object for the entire time of the ritual, discovers that...
The item, together with the glass bead, composes a sort of a 'key' for the alcove it guards.
When the bead is placed on the support, the wards are activated. The alcove is suddenly placed under the effect of an inverted Magic Circle and a custom Globe of Invulnerability-like effect. The inverted Magic Circle prevents extraplanar creatures inside the room from leaving, gives them disadvantage on attack rolls against creatures outside the room, and prevents them from charming, frightening, or possessing creatures outside the room. The custom Globe of Invulnerability-like effect prevents creatures inside the room from casting spells of 5th level or lower outside the room and from teleporting.
Activation of the wards can be detected because glowing runes similar to those of a Magic Circle appear along the perimeter of the alcove.
When the bead is taken away from the support, the wards of the alcove are deactivated.
Clas warmly accepts Daisy's handshake and offers her a reassuring smile.
"Daisy, I can't begin to imagine what you're going through, searching for your husband. But I want you to know that you're not alone. We're here to help, and we're going to do everything we can to make sure you find him. We're more than just adventurers; we're a team and that means we support each other through thick and thin."
He pats Daisy's shoulder gently and chuckles, "So, whether you're an adventurer or not, you're one of us now. And together, we'll navigate this place, find what we need, and get you and your husband back home. Now, let's go cautiously scout what lies ahead, and remember, you've got a bunch of crazy adventurers watching your back! Hahahaha!"
Never underestimate the power of a finely crafted barrel, my friend! It is both a vessel of strength and a symbol of resilience.
And so, the exploration continues, with the curiosity to see these 'other prisoners' that Balfby had spoken of taking over the desire for safety and rest.
You discover (in addition to some other doors, one of which is partially open) two other alcoves, the ones with the candelabrum-like-item which supports, on a small saucer, a glass bead containing a clear liquid.
Both alcoves have the now familiar circle of glowing runes. And inside said circle...
In the new north alcove:
...there's a creature resembling a hulking orangutan, with a gruesome, drooping visage and tusks jutting from its jaw. He's just under 8' tall, has quite broad shoulders and might weight more than 600 pounds! He moves apishly as he incessantly walks from one side to the other of the space bounded by the runes.
As soon as he sees you, the creature looks at you with ferocious eyes and you all hear in your mind a telepathic intimation, similar to a cry: "Release me immediately! Or you will suffer the consequences!"
In the new south alcove:
...there's a miniature she-elephant with luminous gold fur and small, rapidly fluttering wings that not only hold it aloft but also propel it at great speed from a side to the other of the rune-delimited zone.
As soon as it sees you, the creature looks at you with surprise and curiosity and you all hear its question in your mind: "You don't seem to be part of the organization that runs this place... You're not in cahoots with that ambitious Kylth, are you? Oh, but some of you are hurt... I can try to heal you, if you release me! You know, the wards of this cell wouldn't allow my healing spells to reach you..."
"Anyone got any idea what we're dealing with here?" Clas asks, his tone filled with genuine curiosity. He couldn't recall ever encountering creatures quite like these in his adventurous exploits.
Clas' attention momentarily shifts upward, his eyes scanning the ceiling and the surrounding shadows. He had learned from experience that danger could come from any direction in this unpredictable place. Hahahaha! (Perception 22 Game Log)
Never underestimate the power of a finely crafted barrel, my friend! It is both a vessel of strength and a symbol of resilience.
This time, Clas doesn't seem to detect any threats...
...except, maybe, for the voice of the apish creature in his (and the rest of the party's) mind, insisting: "I said release me! Or I'll remember you! And I'll come looking for you when I'll get out of here! I can't die, fools... sooner or later I'll find you... Free me now! It's better for everyone!"
Tarysaa strains her brain, trying to put names to these creatures. [ Arcana check = 22 ]
"You all hear that too? I think that thing with the gold fur said it would heal us." Daisy steps over to glowing cage. "I don't know...? You always have to watch the cute ones. They'll lure you in rght before they bite your face off," she adds in all seriousness. "I wouldn't open this one up either."
(Of course I get a Nat 1 on insight on the celestial elephant that can heal.)
"Truth be told, Daisy," Tarysaa keeps staring at the wee elephantine flying creature, "insight into an unknown species or culture is tough enough without attempting to decipher alien species body language signals and facial expressions."
She frowns at all the mental calls from both sides of the room.
"What little I recall, the hairy ape-ish fellow is a demon of sorts. Not the worst but a bad one to tangle with. I would leave him for the Harpells to deal with."
Turning to the closer being, "Our Lady of Golden-ness is a helper in the Upper Planes." She looks around at her companions. "I'd bet on this one to be on our side... similar to the Celestials from the second floor puzzle room."
(( OOC: do I need an insight check after that arcana one? Tarysaa's Passive Wisdom (Insight) = 13 as it is. ))
[ Insight roll: 21 ] (just in case)
Tarysaa actually recalls rituals capable of summoning ape-like demons... So the 'guest' of the northern alcove is probably one of these? Also considering the kind and not at all intimidating ways...
While she is unable to connect information relating to the occupant of the southern alcove. But the tone of her telepathic voice seemed sincere... and her concern seemed sincere too, when she saw someone injured - her eyes had widened a little while she was talking about it...
Tarysaa looks intently at the small, golden elephantine creature, "Pardon for our slow response. We encountered other creatures that spoke kindly and then admitted they would kill us at the first chance upon release. "
She waves her hand in toward the west and east. "There are others held as you are in this place. We would appreciate your aid in pointing out those who mean us harm and those who might be of Good nature."
She takes her time and opens her mind to this creature so they might 'know' all that has transpired.
Ardana will use her last Divine Sense on the remainder of the room (and the remaining occupents of the cells).
Clas turns to Nim, his eyes alight with excitement. "Hey, Nim! I've got an idea for one of your famous bardic tales. Picture this: 'The tale of Daisy versus the Goliath She-wolf.' Hahahaha! It's a tale of a simple farmer's wife who, armed with nothing but her courage and a humble stone, faced off against the vicious, evil Goliath She-wolf that threatened the countryside."
He gestures dramatically, as if setting the scene for a grand narrative. "You courageously jumping on the back of the She-Wolf making it rear up and then, with a single, mighty throw, Daisy hurls a stone with such force that it pierces the heart of the ferocious beast, bringing it down in a heroic effort!"
Clas grins widely, enthusiasm bubbling over. "Hahahaha! Can you imagine it, Nim? A tale that would resonate with commoners far and wide. It's got everything – bravery, valor, and a triumphant underdog story. Folks would absolutely love it! And you would be right there for them to show how much. Hahahaha!” Clas gives Nim a nudge with his elbow.
Never underestimate the power of a finely crafted barrel, my friend! It is both a vessel of strength and a symbol of resilience.
"Oh, I'm sorry this happened to you!" the little creature seems sincere, replying to Tarysaa, but still including all of you in the telepathic conversation "I will gladly help you understand who you can trust and who not! But what I told you before still applies... The magical defenses of this prison block my powers... You must free me if you want me to help you!"
Meanwhile, Ardana opens her divine awareness to detect forces of good or evil and has the distinct feeling that... that the soul of the ape-like monster is a concentration of violent cruelty, a fetid well of destruction that can easily be uncovered by a moment to moment - and which even now, when closed, gives off a stench that is difficult to bear.
Without a doubt, that monster is a fiend.
But there is also that sweet music... It's the little creature in the other alcove! Ardana involuntarily closes her eyes to savor it better. A harmony similar to that of a choir, a song as pure as the voice of a child, a natural goodness like the caresses of the sun on the spring grass...
Without a doubt, the little creature is a celestial.
"And you too..." Ardana understands that the telepathic voice, even if it includes everyone, this time addresses her "You, descendant of a lineage that was consigned by Asmodeus to a path of mistrust and difficulty... I see that harm was done to you too... They cut off... parts of you! It must have been painful. But I feel the caress of your sacred gaze on me... Evidently you have found the right path. I hope that this will bring joy to your heart and peace to your spirit".
(OOC: I assume Tarysaa has explained about Martha and Dobbian - Ardana will if Tarysaa has not)
Ardana speaks aloud:
"That is remarkable. This has to be what Martha's seer saw. We should free them, do you agree?"
And to the elephant creature:
"What is your name, holy one?"
(OCC: No, I don't think anyone mentioned Martha and Dobbian before)
The tiefling paladin explains the case of Martha and Dobbian to the celestial prisoner and the telepathic voice cannot help but comment with a heartfelt: "Poor thing! To die like this and leave alone the love of her life, who among other things is carrying a new life from him... It's a terrible injustice!" the little wings begin to flap with nervous frenzy "We must fix this! Take me to him immediately, quickly!"
And to Ardana's question about her name, the celestial responds (always telepathically): "Yes, yes, of course, the introductions are important; hurry and free me, though! The sacred influence of the Elysian Fields that I am able to channel can restore the life to those who have lost it... but only if the misfortune happened a few days ago... Zentromya, my name is Zentromya! I am a messenger of the gods and an entertainer of the souls who enjoy the eternal serenity of Elysium. In fact, " she sighs "I hope that those with whom I had most frequent conversations have not missed me too much during all this time... It has been practically two and a half centuries since that ambitious Kylth, so thirsty for power but so in need, rather, of conversion, has imprisoned me in this cell... Nice to meet you, anyway! And you, noble souls who have risked venturing into Kylth Harpell's lair to save a life unjustly lost, what are your names?"
I’m Clas, Ardana there, here beside me is Nim, then there’s Daisy here, and over there is Tarysaa. Hahahaha! Well Tarysaa, unless you think this celestial is going to squash us like ants and fly off. Let’s free her, tell her where to go and head off to a tavern and a bath. Hahahaha! Definitely a bath.
Never underestimate the power of a finely crafted barrel, my friend! It is both a vessel of strength and a symbol of resilience.
Oh and Ilwythe! Clas looks over at Ilwythe. Sorry Ilwythe. Hahahaha!
Never underestimate the power of a finely crafted barrel, my friend! It is both a vessel of strength and a symbol of resilience.