(I appreciate everyone's continued patience and understanding this week.Thank you. I apologize in advance if I missed anything! :3)
Dazlyn dusts himself out of his daze. "Right!" Remembering his torch in hand, he butts his way over to Kaemgen's side to take a closer look himself. It took an unnecessarily long time for him to review everything you all already have, very thoroughly. But he was an archaeologist after all. And he didn't go without widened eyes accompanied by gasps or pouts over the burned remains in the one room. He'd glance back as if appalled by the dragonborn's wrath that was unleashed upon it. "What'd he do to you?" It was as if he was completely unaware of the infestation. After some more sighing, the dwarf would refocus once again on the questions at hand. "There's definitely reason to believe that this collapsed corridor connects to another room." Dazlyn would nod in agreement. "And 'Fire Blaster'..." Eyes Auric. "Brings up a good point. Someone could have likely done this purposely to hide something. Tr-"
"Treasure..." From behind Scott and Mr. Dark looking over him at that moment, Norbus slowly rises from behind them, peering over their shoulders at the amulet. "'Greed is good.'" He'd announce from reading the runes. "An earthquake did it, it did. Said it yerself Dazlyn!" He'd agree with the Marblebeard. "Greed is good!" He'd chime again in good faith and a deep joyous chuckle. It didn't take much convincing for him to join Dark with starting to clear some rubble. That was something he could get behind now.
Hansel would pipe up at the best time to suggest a very effective method to assist in speeding up this endeavor. Fireman inspired water bucket line up! One by one he'd direct the group accordingly, assigning them positions for increased efficiency. And as you all work away, Auric busies his thoughts with calculating how long this process will take. At this rate, it would take about 4 hours to complete. By the end of it and an investigation, it would definitely be the suggested time to settle in to rest for the night, unless the group truly wanted to push to return to to town tonight which would risk exhaustion, but doable if the group so chose.
There was plenty of time for chitchat, and Kaemgen's inquiries were filled by his delightful dwarven companions on either side of him. Dazlyn would guesstimate that based off of what you found in the ooze, similar items could be possible. And when you think about dwarves, you immediately think skilled smithies. Norbus would repeat 'Gold!' and 'Coin!' in between any one's educated guesses.
"Why? Whuddya's wish teh find?" Norbus would finally ask something constructive.
When each of you muse something of desire... (Edit - Hint: You have an opportunity here to share something your character wants to the (DM)god.)
The rubble finally gives way and opens up to a large hall. An alcove in the south wall holds the rubble of a shattered statue. An alcove to the north holds a statue of a dwarf with horns, which stares greedily at a glowing green gem in its hands.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
The inner sanctum, ponders Hansel. It isn't often you get to stand in the temple of an obscure dwarven god, so despite his theological differences, the cleric looks around and tries to learn as much as he can about this place and its intended purpose...
Religion: 3
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
"Keep your eyes open," Kaemgen insists, then flashes a look over to Dazlyn. "And keep the torch high!" With that he follows his own advice and is actively scanning the walls and ceiling for more of these mold monsters. The scenery and statuary is vaguely interesting but keeping alive is a higher priority.
"Why? Whuddya's wish teh find?" Norbus would finally ask something constructive.
The question echoes through Kaemgen's head and is easily answered. Norbus had said it himself, just a moment before. Treasure. Lots of treasure. And he wasn't to particular of the form it came in so long as it could be turned into gold and wealth enough to keep the McScáth family lands in McScáth hands. He wasn't greedy, Kaemgen assured himself. It was not wealth for his own sake that he desired. It was for the family... the legacy... Kaemgen was not the head of the house. Never wanted to be. Still, the house needed to stand and he held at least some responsibility in ensuring that it does.
More than most, perhaps. It wasn't as if his brother, the one who was head of the house, would ever work for it. Oh he would scheme and plot and do those kind of political machinations that one supposes must be done... But the hard work of filling the coffers? Kaemgen knew that burden would only be borne by himself.
"Why? Whuddya's wish teh find?" Norbus would finally ask something constructive.
When each of you muse something of desire... (Edit - Hint: You have an opportunity here to share something your character wants to the (DM)god.)
The rubble finally gives way and opens up to a large hall. An alcove in the south wall holds the rubble of a shattered statue. An alcove to the north holds a statue of a dwarf with horns, which stares greedily at a glowing green gem in its hands.
Although Hansel fully intended to learn more about this temple, he couldn't quite see anything much deeper than 'greed', a Hall of Greed.
"I can only lift it so high!" The dwarf retorts to Kaemgen as he reaches as high as his short stature could. The light glints off the glowing green gem held in the hands of the dwarven statue.
Map Update (Positions guesstimated based on current RP.)
Auric attempts to assess the significance of the religious icons in the room. He holds his glowing orb up high to illuminate the room and searches for patches of slime on all the exposed surfaces—be it floor, wall, or ceiling.
Religion: 17
Perception: 21
Edit: Auric moves forward into the room to shed light.
Scott walks into the room and immediately walks over to the brilliantly glimmering green gem. He very much wants to pluck it from the statue but manages to refrain.
(I’ll need some time to think about what Scott wants)
Considering his deepest desires, Auric wants to show the foreigners that Dragonkind can be honorable and worthy neighbors, not just monsters of legend and fear. To do that, he needs power—and the path he has chosen is Arcane. Anything that would enhance the power of his orb and amplify his effectiveness against evil dragons in particular would be most welcome.
OOC: Something to enhance the orb to function like a Rod of the Pact Keeper, and maybe eventually something like an Orb of Dragonkind are his short and long-term goals.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Gerrard Feldren - Human Noble in Ghosts of Saltmarsh
Kerric Brightblade - Elven Warrior in "Apocalypse"
Xenophon thinks upon his deepest desire to become a powerful and well-respected warrior. He thinks about how warriors of legend possessed weapons of incredible power that were almost as famous as they were.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Xenophon: Topaz Dragonborn Fighter (ixi's Dragon of Icespire Peak)
When each of you muse something of desire... (Edit - Hint: You have an opportunity here to share something your character wants to the (DM)god.)
(Sorry, I missed that cue)
Such a stark and featureless temple, thinks Hansel. Nothing like the Temple of Beauty in Waterdeep. As he strides around this hall, he imagines again walking in Sune's temple, but this time thronged by the priests and priestesses, all people of magnificent beauty themselves. All look to Hansel... not with jealousy but adoration... their new Heartwarder... recognised and chosen from among their number as the most beautiful of them all, and worthy to stand in the place of the high priest of Lady Firehair...
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
Mr.Dark holds back a glib response to the dwarf's question. Instead, as he moved stones, his mind wandered about his life and how he'd ended up here. What was he after besides this momentarily distraction? Recognition. Recognition was the answer. A half dozen years of being told where to go, what to do, dig and crawl and live in the muck for a higher purpose. A higher purpose that never recognized the blood of all his companions that he'd seen shed. He'd visited the towns and cities after, where people took for granted the safety that had been bought with blood. It left a sour taste in his mouth. But, for all that he could never curse the good lady luck. She'd kept him alive through thick and thin. Well, he was eager to do something he could be recognized for. But, of course, enough gold to live in comfort and a few magical toys...perhaps even a magical hand crossbow, wouldn't result in any complaints by him. He grinned and his mind turned, and he gave the dwarf a glib response after all, "Awwww, I think it'd be enough just to see a paintin of your mom, so I could remember all the good times we had. She really liked it when I yanked on her beard."
He grins largely at the dwarf, showing him that it's just a jibe all in good fun.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer? Class.
There was a long silent pause amongst all of you, as if time stood still to assess you, and your intentions, in and out of this place. Then, a sensation as if the weight of someones hands rested on your shoulders. Nothing alarming, quite the opposite actually. It was comforting and reassuring, encouraging you to continue exploring the path you've set yourself on. Someone? Something? Was listening, watching and nudging you to seek out your answers. Finally taking in a breath, it'd feel like the room would inhale along with you. Cool fresh air from the outside would rush in, swirl around and kicking up dust. Then upon you exhale, the wind would take it all out the room with it. With one last rustle, the weight lifts from you and stillness settles in the room once again.
Those who were inspecting the space before the breeze notice some small changes. The space seemed brighter and the air significantly more fresh. Almost as if it could be a clean slate and revived with it's own purpose. There was just one thing that truly felt like it was out of place, threatening to taint it. With what? The darkness that spreads from greed. Now more obvious than ever, stood the dwarven statue holding and staring eagerly a gem.
Auric, your thorough attentiveness and overview of the space gives you added insight. From where you stand you're able to identify the gem as Tourmaline, approximately valued at 100g. Out of your peripherals you did catch Marblebeard's demeanor consider to go for the gem, but most notably from that, he held himself back from the temptation. You feel a sense of relief, immediately recognizing this to be a trap. It was tied to the gems weight. You could try to exchange the gem with something else of the same weight fast enough... But there was something else too...
Although Norbus caught the jest, it only tiffed the dwarf more. He was already bothered that everyone was just standing there staring at this gem and now this guys thinks he's all funny joking about his momma! They all got their hands on the loot, it was his turn. The drawf starts muttering and stomping off towards the statue. "I'll show ya what I'll use on yer mum next t-"
"NORBUS!" Dazlyn, using the only thing in his hands, shoves his torch between his short tempered friend to stop him. "Shoo! Get back!" The archaeologist took a little bit longer to figure it out because he was distracted with other details, but when caught the dragonborn's demeanor while looking at the statue, it clicked. "It's a trap you oaf. Bah!" He stomps his foot in frustration, actually stepping on Norbus' foot. "Go take a walk and keep watch before you get us all killed." His free hand found his hip. Dazlyn was literally putting his foot down.
Norbus looked mortified. His eyes were big, his face burning red and puffed out. Like an overgrown child he'd cross his arms, pivot and storm out, making sure to brush passed Mr. Dark, with little effect.
Dazlyn would inhale a deep breath and exhale, as if practiced. All reset, the dwarf was smiling and cheerful. "Now!" He'd look to Auric and crook a finger to invite him to come over. "You noticed it too." There was a break in the statue, not from natural wear, but intentional, crafted. It was as if it could twist or pivot at the waist. "What if we 'denied' the gem?" The dwarf would gesture as if to push the arms away and turn the statue around.
Auric, behind the statue you see a track on the floor and a recess in the wall that look suspiciously like the hands holding the gem would fit together. Like a puzzle piece. Though, the trap still existed. You felt confident that as long as the gem remained undisturbed in the process, there could be a more promising outcome.
Dexterity Check (Do nothing at all, Snatch and grab, or turn the tables?)
Option: Leave as is, Exchange the gem or Reverse the trap?
Exchange or Reverse Roll Call: 1 Player and a helper
“Dazlyn, thine senses are most astute, for we have divined the same danger to this puzzle. Thou hast the right of it—the most nimble amongst us should pivot the statue at its waist, then carefully guide its torso, hands, and gem into the matching recesses,” says Auric, seeing this challenge as a measure of restraint and balance.
“Thou shouldn’t be most careful to not jostle the gem, as the trap appears to be set in response to any weight change in the grasp of the hands,” he adds, asking, “Who amongst us wouldst chance the trap for the treasure? Thou mayest have mine aid if desired, though my skills lie not in the subtle manipulation of statuary.”
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Gerrard Feldren - Human Noble in Ghosts of Saltmarsh
Kerric Brightblade - Elven Warrior in "Apocalypse"
Kaemgen steps up and gives Dazlyn a reassuring pat on the arm. "The jest was uncalled for," Kaemgen says giving a deliberate look towards Mr. Dark for Dazlyn to see. "But he will come around. We all made an agreement outside and we'll all hold to it. He concern about his share is unfounded..." It was meant to be reassuring but Kaemgen had already forgotten the details of the agreement and had easily fell into the presumption that the dwarves were little more than hired help.
"Can't we just lasso the gem and spring the trap from out in the hall?" Kaemgen asked. Now that it was pointed out he could see that there was a trap, but he didn't quite get why everyone was so concerned. "It's not like it's going to bring the whole mountain down. And better to set it off intentionally from safety than accidentally while right on top of it."
Hansel doesn't offer to help, not wanting to soil his hands on an old statue for the sake of another gem. Also, with the number of corpses and rockfalls already encountered, the risk of setting off a fatal trap seems a bit too likely for his liking.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Mr.Dark sees the hesitation in the room. Despite his attempt at humor...he'd done set off the dwarf. Perhaps his crude army upbringing didn't work with this crowd. Ahhh well. Feeling a familiar sense of being told what to do, combined with a strange sense to make up for his joke filled him with a heavy sigh. "Alright, alright. Lady luck be with me. I'll do it." With the practiced way of a soldier he stepped forward to put himself in harms way with a grimace and determination. "I'll try to reverse this trap...carefully...as you say. Scott, get over here and give me a hand."
( Dexterity check with GUIDANCE for his prayer to lady luck : 11 + 1. )
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer? Class.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Mr. Dark steps up to the statue, and without much waiting for Scott to get there yet, he begins to push the statue. It held firm at first, giving the impression that it wasn't actually going to move, but when Marblebeard would be about to take a step forward to help, it'd start to move. The sound of stone turning against stone would fill the room as Dark pushes the arms counter clockwise until it came to an abrupt stop. It'd cause the gem to rock from it's resting place, teetering on the brink of falling when as if a lucky breeze would give it a nudge back into place.
All stood still for a moment until the statue would jerk backwards (it's forward now) and begin it's path down the track. The familiar grinding of stone on stone could be heard as it went until finally the gem was inserted into the recess in the wall. Click. Then with a gentle pouf of dust, the base where the greedy statue once stood would free itself and pull away, revealing a hidden compartment. Without even having to take a closer look you knew you've discovered treasure. The light glinted off of the shiny and reflective hoard within causing a prism of colours to dance around the room.
Treasure
Monies 2,500 cp 1,000 sp 70 gp
Assorted Gemstones 1 x Translucent Green 1 x Black 1 x Translucent white with a pale blue glow 1 x Smoky gray 1 x Translucent rosy stone with white star-shaped center
Potions 2 x Potion of Healing
Other 1 x Tankard with a stern face on the side 1 x (4) Impeccably clean and shiny plate armour
"Well it's a start," Kaemgen says as he moves in and starts moving the bounty out of the secret recess. "Let's pull this out before that thing decides to close or topple or something."
He haphazardly throws all the stuff into a sack, only taking care in the handling of the potions. The only thing he himself ignores is the armor plate, he never really felt able to move around and fight in such constricting things.
"Say, Dazlyn? The face on this tankard or this collection of gemstones have any particular meaning?" he asks, mainly just to make conversation. He wasn't too interested in dwarven ways or history but chatter makes the work go faster.
A flash of Draconic treasure fever flashes in Auric’s eyes before he steps back and says, “A fine bounty indeed—forsooth, the armor looks especially valuable.”
Mr.Dark backs up and looks in, "Whew. Look at all that. Alright then, pitter patter lets get at 'er." He helps Kaemgan start to pull out the treasure. He makes some rough notes as he does so.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer? Class.
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Xenophon helps move the rubble with everyone else. "It ain't glorious work, but it's good work."
Xenophon: Topaz Dragonborn Fighter (ixi's Dragon of Icespire Peak)
More
(I appreciate everyone's continued patience and understanding this week.Thank you. I apologize in advance if I missed anything! :3)
Dazlyn dusts himself out of his daze. "Right!" Remembering his torch in hand, he butts his way over to Kaemgen's side to take a closer look himself. It took an unnecessarily long time for him to review everything you all already have, very thoroughly. But he was an archaeologist after all. And he didn't go without widened eyes accompanied by gasps or pouts over the burned remains in the one room. He'd glance back as if appalled by the dragonborn's wrath that was unleashed upon it. "What'd he do to you?" It was as if he was completely unaware of the infestation. After some more sighing, the dwarf would refocus once again on the questions at hand. "There's definitely reason to believe that this collapsed corridor connects to another room." Dazlyn would nod in agreement. "And 'Fire Blaster'..." Eyes Auric. "Brings up a good point. Someone could have likely done this purposely to hide something. Tr-"
"Treasure..." From behind Scott and Mr. Dark looking over him at that moment, Norbus slowly rises from behind them, peering over their shoulders at the amulet. "'Greed is good.'" He'd announce from reading the runes. "An earthquake did it, it did. Said it yerself Dazlyn!" He'd agree with the Marblebeard. "Greed is good!" He'd chime again in good faith and a deep joyous chuckle. It didn't take much convincing for him to join Dark with starting to clear some rubble. That was something he could get behind now.
Hansel would pipe up at the best time to suggest a very effective method to assist in speeding up this endeavor. Fireman inspired water bucket line up! One by one he'd direct the group accordingly, assigning them positions for increased efficiency. And as you all work away, Auric busies his thoughts with calculating how long this process will take. At this rate, it would take about 4 hours to complete. By the end of it and an investigation, it would definitely be the suggested time to settle in to rest for the night, unless the group truly wanted to push to return to to town tonight which would risk exhaustion, but doable if the group so chose.
There was plenty of time for chitchat, and Kaemgen's inquiries were filled by his delightful dwarven companions on either side of him. Dazlyn would guesstimate that based off of what you found in the ooze, similar items could be possible. And when you think about dwarves, you immediately think skilled smithies. Norbus would repeat 'Gold!' and 'Coin!' in between any one's educated guesses.
"Why? Whuddya's wish teh find?" Norbus would finally ask something constructive.
When each of you muse something of desire...
(Edit - Hint: You have an opportunity here to share something your character wants to the (DM)god.)
The rubble finally gives way and opens up to a large hall. An alcove in the south wall holds the rubble of a shattered statue. An alcove to the north holds a statue of a dwarf with horns, which stares greedily at a glowing green gem in its hands.
just an unstable unicorn.
The inner sanctum, ponders Hansel. It isn't often you get to stand in the temple of an obscure dwarven god, so despite his theological differences, the cleric looks around and tries to learn as much as he can about this place and its intended purpose...
Religion: 3
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
"Keep your eyes open," Kaemgen insists, then flashes a look over to Dazlyn. "And keep the torch high!" With that he follows his own advice and is actively scanning the walls and ceiling for more of these mold monsters. The scenery and statuary is vaguely interesting but keeping alive is a higher priority.
"Why? Whuddya's wish teh find?" Norbus would finally ask something constructive.
The question echoes through Kaemgen's head and is easily answered. Norbus had said it himself, just a moment before. Treasure. Lots of treasure. And he wasn't to particular of the form it came in so long as it could be turned into gold and wealth enough to keep the McScáth family lands in McScáth hands. He wasn't greedy, Kaemgen assured himself. It was not wealth for his own sake that he desired. It was for the family... the legacy... Kaemgen was not the head of the house. Never wanted to be. Still, the house needed to stand and he held at least some responsibility in ensuring that it does.
More than most, perhaps. It wasn't as if his brother, the one who was head of the house, would ever work for it. Oh he would scheme and plot and do those kind of political machinations that one supposes must be done... But the hard work of filling the coffers? Kaemgen knew that burden would only be borne by himself.
Although Hansel fully intended to learn more about this temple, he couldn't quite see anything much deeper than 'greed', a Hall of Greed.
"I can only lift it so high!" The dwarf retorts to Kaemgen as he reaches as high as his short stature could. The light glints off the glowing green gem held in the hands of the dwarven statue.
Map Update
(Positions guesstimated based on current RP.)
just an unstable unicorn.
Auric:
Auric attempts to assess the significance of the religious icons in the room. He holds his glowing orb up high to illuminate the room and searches for patches of slime on all the exposed surfaces—be it floor, wall, or ceiling.
Religion: 17
Perception: 21
Edit: Auric moves forward into the room to shed light.
Gerrard Feldren - Human Noble in Ghosts of Saltmarsh
Kerric Brightblade - Elven Warrior in "Apocalypse"
Scott walks into the room and immediately walks over to the brilliantly glimmering green gem. He very much wants to pluck it from the statue but manages to refrain.
(I’ll need some time to think about what Scott wants)
Auric:
Considering his deepest desires, Auric wants to show the foreigners that Dragonkind can be honorable and worthy neighbors, not just monsters of legend and fear. To do that, he needs power—and the path he has chosen is Arcane. Anything that would enhance the power of his orb and amplify his effectiveness against evil dragons in particular would be most welcome.
OOC: Something to enhance the orb to function like a Rod of the Pact Keeper, and maybe eventually something like an Orb of Dragonkind are his short and long-term goals.
Gerrard Feldren - Human Noble in Ghosts of Saltmarsh
Kerric Brightblade - Elven Warrior in "Apocalypse"
Xenophon thinks upon his deepest desire to become a powerful and well-respected warrior. He thinks about how warriors of legend possessed weapons of incredible power that were almost as famous as they were.
Xenophon: Topaz Dragonborn Fighter (ixi's Dragon of Icespire Peak)
More
(Sorry, I missed that cue)
Such a stark and featureless temple, thinks Hansel. Nothing like the Temple of Beauty in Waterdeep. As he strides around this hall, he imagines again walking in Sune's temple, but this time thronged by the priests and priestesses, all people of magnificent beauty themselves. All look to Hansel... not with jealousy but adoration... their new Heartwarder... recognised and chosen from among their number as the most beautiful of them all, and worthy to stand in the place of the high priest of Lady Firehair...
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
Mr.Dark holds back a glib response to the dwarf's question. Instead, as he moved stones, his mind wandered about his life and how he'd ended up here. What was he after besides this momentarily distraction? Recognition. Recognition was the answer. A half dozen years of being told where to go, what to do, dig and crawl and live in the muck for a higher purpose. A higher purpose that never recognized the blood of all his companions that he'd seen shed. He'd visited the towns and cities after, where people took for granted the safety that had been bought with blood. It left a sour taste in his mouth. But, for all that he could never curse the good lady luck. She'd kept him alive through thick and thin. Well, he was eager to do something he could be recognized for. But, of course, enough gold to live in comfort and a few magical toys...perhaps even a magical hand crossbow, wouldn't result in any complaints by him. He grinned and his mind turned, and he gave the dwarf a glib response after all, "Awwww, I think it'd be enough just to see a paintin of your mom, so I could remember all the good times we had. She really liked it when I yanked on her beard."
He grins largely at the dwarf, showing him that it's just a jibe all in good fun.
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer?
Class.
There was a long silent pause amongst all of you, as if time stood still to assess you, and your intentions, in and out of this place. Then, a sensation as if the weight of someones hands rested on your shoulders. Nothing alarming, quite the opposite actually. It was comforting and reassuring, encouraging you to continue exploring the path you've set yourself on. Someone? Something? Was listening, watching and nudging you to seek out your answers. Finally taking in a breath, it'd feel like the room would inhale along with you. Cool fresh air from the outside would rush in, swirl around and kicking up dust. Then upon you exhale, the wind would take it all out the room with it. With one last rustle, the weight lifts from you and stillness settles in the room once again.
Those who were inspecting the space before the breeze notice some small changes. The space seemed brighter and the air significantly more fresh. Almost as if it could be a clean slate and revived with it's own purpose. There was just one thing that truly felt like it was out of place, threatening to taint it. With what? The darkness that spreads from greed. Now more obvious than ever, stood the dwarven statue holding and staring eagerly a gem.
Auric, your thorough attentiveness and overview of the space gives you added insight. From where you stand you're able to identify the gem as Tourmaline, approximately valued at 100g. Out of your peripherals you did catch Marblebeard's demeanor consider to go for the gem, but most notably from that, he held himself back from the temptation. You feel a sense of relief, immediately recognizing this to be a trap. It was tied to the gems weight. You could try to exchange the gem with something else of the same weight fast enough... But there was something else too...
Although Norbus caught the jest, it only tiffed the dwarf more. He was already bothered that everyone was just standing there staring at this gem and now this guys thinks he's all funny joking about his momma! They all got their hands on the loot, it was his turn. The drawf starts muttering and stomping off towards the statue. "I'll show ya what I'll use on yer mum next t-"
"NORBUS!" Dazlyn, using the only thing in his hands, shoves his torch between his short tempered friend to stop him. "Shoo! Get back!" The archaeologist took a little bit longer to figure it out because he was distracted with other details, but when caught the dragonborn's demeanor while looking at the statue, it clicked. "It's a trap you oaf. Bah!" He stomps his foot in frustration, actually stepping on Norbus' foot. "Go take a walk and keep watch before you get us all killed." His free hand found his hip. Dazlyn was literally putting his foot down.
Norbus looked mortified. His eyes were big, his face burning red and puffed out. Like an overgrown child he'd cross his arms, pivot and storm out, making sure to brush passed Mr. Dark, with little effect.
Dazlyn would inhale a deep breath and exhale, as if practiced. All reset, the dwarf was smiling and cheerful. "Now!" He'd look to Auric and crook a finger to invite him to come over. "You noticed it too." There was a break in the statue, not from natural wear, but intentional, crafted. It was as if it could twist or pivot at the waist. "What if we 'denied' the gem?" The dwarf would gesture as if to push the arms away and turn the statue around.
Auric, behind the statue you see a track on the floor and a recess in the wall that look suspiciously like the hands holding the gem would fit together. Like a puzzle piece. Though, the trap still existed. You felt confident that as long as the gem remained undisturbed in the process, there could be a more promising outcome.
Dexterity Check
(Do nothing at all, Snatch and grab, or turn the tables?)
Option: Leave as is, Exchange the gem or Reverse the trap?
Exchange or Reverse
Roll Call: 1 Player and a helper
just an unstable unicorn.
Auric:
“Dazlyn, thine senses are most astute, for we have divined the same danger to this puzzle. Thou hast the right of it—the most nimble amongst us should pivot the statue at its waist, then carefully guide its torso, hands, and gem into the matching recesses,” says Auric, seeing this challenge as a measure of restraint and balance.
“Thou shouldn’t be most careful to not jostle the gem, as the trap appears to be set in response to any weight change in the grasp of the hands,” he adds, asking, “Who amongst us wouldst chance the trap for the treasure? Thou mayest have mine aid if desired, though my skills lie not in the subtle manipulation of statuary.”
Gerrard Feldren - Human Noble in Ghosts of Saltmarsh
Kerric Brightblade - Elven Warrior in "Apocalypse"
Kaemgen steps up and gives Dazlyn a reassuring pat on the arm. "The jest was uncalled for," Kaemgen says giving a deliberate look towards Mr. Dark for Dazlyn to see. "But he will come around. We all made an agreement outside and we'll all hold to it. He concern about his share is unfounded..." It was meant to be reassuring but Kaemgen had already forgotten the details of the agreement and had easily fell into the presumption that the dwarves were little more than hired help.
"Can't we just lasso the gem and spring the trap from out in the hall?" Kaemgen asked. Now that it was pointed out he could see that there was a trap, but he didn't quite get why everyone was so concerned. "It's not like it's going to bring the whole mountain down. And better to set it off intentionally from safety than accidentally while right on top of it."
Hansel doesn't offer to help, not wanting to soil his hands on an old statue for the sake of another gem. Also, with the number of corpses and rockfalls already encountered, the risk of setting off a fatal trap seems a bit too likely for his liking.
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
Mr.Dark sees the hesitation in the room. Despite his attempt at humor...he'd done set off the dwarf. Perhaps his crude army upbringing didn't work with this crowd. Ahhh well. Feeling a familiar sense of being told what to do, combined with a strange sense to make up for his joke filled him with a heavy sigh. "Alright, alright. Lady luck be with me. I'll do it." With the practiced way of a soldier he stepped forward to put himself in harms way with a grimace and determination. "I'll try to reverse this trap...carefully...as you say. Scott, get over here and give me a hand."
( Dexterity check with GUIDANCE for his prayer to lady luck : 11 + 1. )
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer?
Class.
Mr. Dark steps up to the statue, and without much waiting for Scott to get there yet, he begins to push the statue. It held firm at first, giving the impression that it wasn't actually going to move, but when Marblebeard would be about to take a step forward to help, it'd start to move. The sound of stone turning against stone would fill the room as Dark pushes the arms counter clockwise until it came to an abrupt stop. It'd cause the gem to rock from it's resting place, teetering on the brink of falling when as if a lucky breeze would give it a nudge back into place.
All stood still for a moment until the statue would jerk backwards (it's forward now) and begin it's path down the track. The familiar grinding of stone on stone could be heard as it went until finally the gem was inserted into the recess in the wall. Click. Then with a gentle pouf of dust, the base where the greedy statue once stood would free itself and pull away, revealing a hidden compartment. Without even having to take a closer look you knew you've discovered treasure. The light glinted off of the shiny and reflective hoard within causing a prism of colours to dance around the room.
Treasure
Monies
2,500 cp
1,000 sp
70 gp
Assorted Gemstones
1 x Translucent Green
1 x Black
1 x Translucent white with a pale blue glow
1 x Smoky gray
1 x Translucent rosy stone with white star-shaped center
Potions
2 x Potion of Healing
Other
1 x Tankard with a stern face on the side
1 x (4) Impeccably clean and shiny plate armour
just an unstable unicorn.
"Well it's a start," Kaemgen says as he moves in and starts moving the bounty out of the secret recess. "Let's pull this out before that thing decides to close or topple or something."
He haphazardly throws all the stuff into a sack, only taking care in the handling of the potions. The only thing he himself ignores is the armor plate, he never really felt able to move around and fight in such constricting things.
"Say, Dazlyn? The face on this tankard or this collection of gemstones have any particular meaning?" he asks, mainly just to make conversation. He wasn't too interested in dwarven ways or history but chatter makes the work go faster.
Auric:
A flash of Draconic treasure fever flashes in Auric’s eyes before he steps back and says, “A fine bounty indeed—forsooth, the armor looks especially valuable.”
Gerrard Feldren - Human Noble in Ghosts of Saltmarsh
Kerric Brightblade - Elven Warrior in "Apocalypse"
Mr.Dark backs up and looks in, "Whew. Look at all that. Alright then, pitter patter lets get at 'er." He helps Kaemgan start to pull out the treasure. He makes some rough notes as he does so.
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer?
Class.