In which Faerzen is lit on fire

[14:59] <ATtheorytime[DM]> I'm ready
[14:59] <@Faerzen_Norstov> nice
[15:00] <ATtheorytime[DM]> You rolled.. 15 was it?
[15:01] <@Faerzen_Norstov> just checked the thread
[15:01] <@Faerzen_Norstov> yeah it was 15
[15:01] <ATtheorytime[DM]> Ok
[15:02] <ATtheorytime[DM]> Roll 1d20+7
[15:02] <`DICE> ATtheorytime[DM] rolled 1d20+7 [ 1d20=5 ]{12}
[15:02] <ATtheorytime[DM]> A Basilisk Approacheth from behind you!
[15:02] <ATtheorytime[DM]> Luckily you notice before it Attacks
[15:02] <ATtheorytime[DM]> Roll INIT
[15:02] <@Faerzen_Norstov> oh geez I haven't used my character sheet in so long
[15:03] <@Faerzen_Norstov> let me pull it up
[15:03] <ATtheorytime[DM]> Roll 1d20+4
[15:03] <`DICE> ATtheorytime[DM] rolled 1d20+4 [ 1d20=2 ]{6}
[15:03] <@Faerzen_Norstov> roll 1d20+6 initiative
[15:03] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 1d20+6 initiative [ 1d20=1 ]{7}
[15:04] <ATtheorytime[DM]> < Lol >
[15:04] <ATtheorytime[DM]> < You're first >
[15:04] <@Faerzen_Norstov> ((successsssss))
[15:05] <@Faerzen_Norstov> I turn around and look at the Basilisk. What does it look like?
[15:05] <ATtheorytime[DM]> It looks like a large scaly lizard similar to the basilisk from before, but colored darker to blend in with its surroundings
[15:05] <ATtheorytime[DM]> < + Normal prototypes >
[15:07] <@Faerzen_Norstov> I squint narrowly at the Basilisk, carefully watching its movements as it slithers inside the tunnel
[15:07] <@Faerzen_Norstov> ((minor action for investigation))
[15:07] <ATtheorytime[DM]> < ok >
[15:07] <@Faerzen_Norstov> roll 1d20+10 investigation
[15:07] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 1d20+10 investigation [ 1d20=4 ]{14}
[15:07] <ATtheorytime[DM]> < Which option? >
[15:07] <@Faerzen_Norstov> ((advantage on attack))
[15:07] <ATtheorytime[DM]> Roll 1d20+7 acrobatics
[15:07] <`DICE> ATtheorytime[DM] rolled 1d20+7 acrobatics [ 1d20=1 ]{8}
[15:07] <Vorpas[spectato]> <which character?>
[15:07] <ATtheorytime[DM]> < Succeeds normally >
[15:07] <ATtheorytime[DM]> < He's using his character name >
[15:08] <Vorpas[spectato]> >ohoh, farzen>
[15:08] <@Faerzen_Norstov> I kneel down, planting my left knee firmly on the ground to steady myself and spend both my major and move actions to fire twice
[15:08] <@Faerzen_Norstov> roll 2#1d20+6-2
[15:08] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 2#1d20+6-2 [ 1d20=5 ]{9}, [ 1d20=15 ]{19}
[15:08] <@Faerzen_Norstov> roll 2#1d20+6-2
[15:08] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 2#1d20+6-2 [ 1d20=12 ]{16}, [ 1d20=2 ]{6}
[15:09] <ATtheorytime[DM]> < Link me your sheet? >
[15:09] <@Faerzen_Norstov> (( https://docs.google.com/document/d/1jPKd8nNL8s0e8EiFYggbLgzGvW3dpdksKUo6xKGG6jU/edit# ))
[15:09] <ATtheorytime[DM]> < Are you using Overloaded Crossbow or Alchemist's? >
[15:09] <@Faerzen_Norstov> ((I just used the feat Crossbow Expert and I'm using the overloaded crossbow))
[15:10] <ATtheorytime[DM]> < Ok >
[15:11] <ATtheorytime[DM]> Both hit
[15:11] <ATtheorytime[DM]> Roll damage
[15:11] <`DICE> ATtheorytime[DM] rolled damage error: malformed expression
[15:11] <@Faerzen_Norstov> Is damage something besides 1d8?
[15:11] <@Faerzen_Norstov> I don't actually know for sure what the damage for this is
[15:12] <@Faerzen_Norstov> Never used it in combat before :P
[15:12] <ATtheorytime[DM]> Its 2d8
[15:12] <@Faerzen_Norstov> Unless melons count hehehe
[15:12] <@Faerzen_Norstov> roll 4d8+12
[15:12] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 4d8+12 [ 4d8=22 ]{34}
[15:13] <ATtheorytime[DM]> The Basilisk is severely wounded!
[15:13] <@Faerzen_Norstov> I look at the Basilisk warily as it responds, unsure what these strange beasts actually do in combat.....
[15:14] <@Faerzen_Norstov> I have a strange feeling the whole room isn't going to conveniently or inconveniently explode like it did last time.....
[15:14] <ATtheorytime[DM]> The Basilisk breaths a cone of fire at you
[15:15] <ATtheorytime[DM]> Roll 1d20+6
[15:15] <`DICE> ATtheorytime[DM] rolled 1d20+6 [ 1d20=11 ]{17}
[15:15] <ATtheorytime[DM]> < Whats your resistance? >
[15:15] <@Faerzen_Norstov> ((I don't have one because psionics aren't a thing in C1))
[15:16] <@Faerzen_Norstov> ((if humans have a +4 resistance then 20))
[15:16] <ATtheorytime[DM]> < let me see... >
[15:17] <ATtheorytime[DM]> 10+DEX Mod+Racial+level/2
[15:18] <@Faerzen_Norstov> ((I don't think the level/2 is supposed to be there anymore. without the level/2 it's 20))
[15:18] <ATtheorytime[DM]> Racial is 4
[15:18] <ATtheorytime[DM]> < Blugh. Ok >
[15:18] <@Faerzen_Norstov> ((with the level/2 it's stupid high))
[15:18] <ATtheorytime[DM]> < I'm going to make it hit anyways because honestly you're crushing this Basilisk >
[15:19] <ATtheorytime[DM]> Roll 3d6-1
[15:19] <`DICE> ATtheorytime[DM] rolled 3d6-1 [ 3d6=9 ]{8}
[15:19] <ATtheorytime[DM]> You take 8 damage
[15:19] <ATtheorytime[DM]> < Don't think you have anything flammable on you? <
[15:20] <@Faerzen_Norstov> ((unless the crossbow is flammable, no *wonk*))
[15:20] <@Faerzen_Norstov> ((his attire is literally made of metal))
[15:20] <ATtheorytime[DM]> < We'll see >
[15:20] <ATtheorytime[DM]> Roll 1d100 crossbow
[15:20] <`DICE> ATtheorytime[DM] rolled 1d100 crossbow [ 1d100=3 ]{3}
[15:20] <@Faerzen_Norstov> ((welp))
[15:20] <ATtheorytime[DM]> The Crossbow catches on fire
[15:21] <ATtheorytime[DM]> Roll 1d100 also crossbow
[15:21] <`DICE> ATtheorytime[DM] rolled 1d100 also crossbow [ 1d100=32 ]{32}
[15:21] <ATtheorytime[DM]> Strangely enough the fire doesn't burn your hands or even feel warm
[15:21] <ATtheorytime[DM]> It's just kinda there
[15:22] <@Faerzen_Norstov> I yelp in surprise at my crystalline weapon suddenly bursting into flames and almost instinctively leap back and drop it on the ground but....... why does this fire not..... do anything?
[15:22] <@Faerzen_Norstov> Weird.
[15:24] <@Faerzen_Norstov> I try and pat on or cover with my metallic dress to smother the fire.
[15:24] <ATtheorytime[DM]> Your dress catches on fire
[15:24] <ATtheorytime[DM]> But it's not hot or even warm
[15:24] <@Faerzen_Norstov> I have no idea what it will do, but fire all over..... whatever this thing is probably isn't g-- FUCK!
[15:25] <@Faerzen_Norstov> You actually drop the crossbow
[15:25] <ATtheorytime[DM]> The ground catches on fire
[15:26] <@Faerzen_Norstov> "WHAT THE FUCK"
[15:26] <ATtheorytime[DM]> This fire is spreading strangely though
[15:26] <ATtheorytime[DM]> Like
[15:26] <ATtheorytime[DM]> It lurches, and then kinda just stays in place for a while, and then lurches when it comes in contact with something
[15:26] <ATtheorytime[DM]> The Basilisk is very confused
[15:27] <@Faerzen_Norstov> AS AM I
[15:27] <@Faerzen_Norstov> I decide not to decaptchalogue my other crossbow lest it catch fire too
[15:29] <@Faerzen_Norstov> I think about what I *could* decaptchalogue
[15:29] <@Faerzen_Norstov> It ends up not being much of anything.
[15:29] <@Faerzen_Norstov> I hesitantly reach down and pick up the crossbow from the ground.
[15:30] <@Faerzen_Norstov> ((both minor and major are used now))
[15:31] <ATtheorytime[DM]> < alright >
[15:31] <ATtheorytime[DM]> You pick up the flaming crossbow
[15:32] <ATtheorytime[DM]> The arms of your dress catch on fire but that doesn't seem to mean anything in this context
[15:32] <@Faerzen_Norstov> I consider moving but I'd rather not spread this fire anywhere else.
[15:32] <@Faerzen_Norstov> How does a metal dress, a crystal crossbow, and a rocky cave even ignite????
[15:33] <@Faerzen_Norstov> This is probably really really bad.
[15:33] <@Faerzen_Norstov> ((end turn))
[15:33] <ATtheorytime[DM]> Probably, but you have no real way of knowing
[15:33] <ATtheorytime[DM]> Roll 1d6
[15:33] <`DICE> ATtheorytime[DM] rolled 1d6 [ 1d6=3 ]{3}
[15:34] <ATtheorytime[DM]> The Basilisk attempts to grapple you!
[15:34] <ATtheorytime[DM]> Roll 1d20+7
[15:34] <`DICE> ATtheorytime[DM] rolled 1d20+7 [ 1d20=3 ]{10}
[15:35] <@Faerzen_Norstov> roll 1d20+6 acrobatics
[15:35] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 1d20+6 acrobatics [ 1d20=11 ]{17}
[15:35] <ATtheorytime[DM]> You evade the Basilisk's grasp
[15:35] <ATtheorytime[DM]> End turn
[15:36] <@Faerzen_Norstov> You are perturbed by the basilisk's confusion, almost as much as your own. Who knows what will happen or what the slithering beast will decide to do!
[15:37] <@Faerzen_Norstov> You take some time to size it up to try and predict its actions
[15:37] <@Faerzen_Norstov> roll 1d20+10 investigation
[15:37] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 1d20+10 investigation [ 1d20=20 ]{30}
[15:37] <@Faerzen_Norstov> ((rekt))
[15:37] <ATtheorytime[DM]> You see into the future and are startled to find that you have a large beard
[15:37] <ATtheorytime[DM]> Oh no wait, that's just something in your eye
[15:38] <ATtheorytime[DM]> < Sucess >
[15:38] <@Faerzen_Norstov> ((advantage on attack))
[15:38] <@Faerzen_Norstov> You try and concente somehow despite the fact that you feel very much like you should be screaming in pain, and let loose another set of bolts at the lizard.
[15:40] <@Faerzen_Norstov> roll 2#1d20+6-2
[15:40] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 2#1d20+6-2 [ 1d20=11 ]{15}, [ 1d20=2 ]{6}
[15:40] <@Faerzen_Norstov> roll 2#1d20+6-2
[15:40] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 2#1d20+6-2 [ 1d20=16 ]{20}, [ 1d20=4 ]{8}
[15:00] <Roo_Inline> both your attacks hit.
[15:01] <Roo_Inline> roll for damage while i write a desc on how the baslisk dies from your badassery
[15:02] <Faerzen_Norstov> roll 4d8+12 damage
[15:02] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 4d8+12 damage [ 4d8=17 ]{29}
[15:03] <Roo_Inline> you shoot into the flames, guiding yourself by the erratic movements of the basilisk. two quick pulls of the trigger and bolts shoots straight into the blurry figure amongst the fire. you hear a shriek and a poof in the short distance between you and the basilisk
[15:03] <Roo_Inline> the flames continue to... be all over the place.
[15:04] <Roo_Inline> not burning at all, but they still look threatening and weirdly... consious
[15:04] <Roo_Inline> they spread like snakes all over the floor
[15:04] <Roo_Inline> as far as you know, fire doesn't do this
[15:05]  * Faerzen_Norstov surveys the area, looking for dropped grist before it is affected but this mysterious "fire"
[15:06] <Roo_Inline> you see some shady pieces of stuff in a pile of non-burning flames. lots of small geometrical shapes.
[15:06] <Roo_Inline> that must be t.
[15:06] <Roo_Inline> *it
[15:07] <Roo_Inline> ((you should roll grist with AT))
[15:07]  * Faerzen_Norstov quickly picks up the yet-to-be-determined amount of grist
[15:08] <Roo_Inline> you quickly pick up the weird may-not-be-real grist
[15:08] <Roo_Inline> flames are stll all over everything
[15:10] <Roo_Inline> you soon are covered head to toe in flames. they STILL dont burn.
[15:11]  * Faerzen_Norstov frowns in bewilderment
[15:11] <Faerzen_Norstov> Now that he isn't in combat, Faerzen peruses his sylladex without taking anything out lest they become ignited.
[15:11] <Faerzen_Norstov> You didn't find anything immediately useful in combat, but now that you have some time to think, you can look more carefully.
[15:12] <Roo_Inline> ==>
[15:13] <Faerzen_Norstov> Magnets, no..... flashiscope, no....... PhosphoLighters, HELL NO..... Nick's folder, probably not....... glassware?
[15:14] <Faerzen_Norstov> Well that is an interesting thought
[15:14] <Roo_Inline> the flames on you slooowly begin fading away. you notice that some of them remain as strong as ever.
[15:14]  * Faerzen_Norstov decaptchaloges a large Erlenmeyer flask
[15:14] <Faerzen_Norstov> (B - BORON)
[15:15]  * Faerzen_Norstov tries to scoop some of the fire up, specifically some of the flames that are still burning strong
[15:15] <Faerzen_Norstov> Or, at least get the interior of the flask on "fire"
[15:16] <Roo_Inline> you somehow manage to scoop some flames away. the part of the fire where you did so does not change to suit its missing flames... its just like you took a piece of flame away
[15:17]  * Faerzen_Norstov frowns even more in bewilderment
[15:17] <Faerzen_Norstov> Considering trying to douse some of the fire with water from the pond, but decides against it upon picturing a flaming lake sending fire down into the abyss over the waterfall
[15:17]  * Faerzen_Norstov stoppers the flask to prevent the fire from spilling out, watching to see if it extinguishes
[15:18] <Roo_Inline> the flames sort of... remain static in the small flask
[15:18] <Roo_Inline> you notice it now emits a very faint warmth.
[15:18]  * Faerzen_Norstov frowns even more in bewilderment, then eyes widen in slight alarm at noticing the warmth
[15:19]  * Faerzen_Norstov attempts to pat out or smother some of the fire on himself
[15:19] <Roo_Inline> the warmth of the flask becomes a bit hotter as the flames on you begin dying
[15:20]  * Faerzen_Norstov pauses extinguishing the flames on himself
[15:20] <Roo_Inline> the warmth remains constant
[15:20] <Faerzen_Norstov> "Intriguing....."
[15:20] <Roo_Inline> your glasses ping with an incoming message
[15:21]  * Faerzen_Norstov gestures to view the message
[15:21] <Roo_Inline> ((https://www.reddit.com/r/RPGStuck/comments/3mimac/campaign_1_session_13_insanity_day_7_part_3/cwftbms couldn't resist))
[15:22]  * Faerzen_Norstov swipes to begin entering text to respond
[15:23] <Roo_Inline> ==> ((for later))
[15:24] <Roo_Inline> the flames all over the room begin slowly fading away. you dont notice any changes in the flask of flame
[15:24]  * Faerzen_Norstov retrieves another flask from the group of glassware and attempts to scoop of some more flames
[15:24]  * Faerzen_Norstov then proceeds to attempt to smother more of the flames on himself
[15:25] <Roo_Inline> both flasks get a bit hotter. they look exactly the same... for some reason
[15:27]  * Faerzen_Norstov continues attempting to smother the remainder of the flames around him rather than let them fade away
[15:27] <Roo_Inline> mostly no changes.
[15:29]  * Faerzen_Norstov carefully feels the sides of the flasks to see how hot they are
[15:30] <Roo_Inline> its like a mug filled with hot tea. bearable. but quite hot
[15:31]  * Faerzen_Norstov breathes a sigh of relief that everything is no longer on fire
[15:31] <Roo_Inline> (( imagine this in a smaller scale http://31.media.tumblr.com/280ff90a7096d316b796a673b57ceadd/tumblr_naqajwvmeN1r3tsmdo1_500.gif ))
[15:32]  * Faerzen_Norstov frowns at his mysterious crystalline crossbow, suspicious, before stowing it in his strife deck
[15:32] <Roo_Inline> the crystalline bolt shooting weapon is now in a card.
[15:32]  * Faerzen_Norstov carefully gathers the two flasks of fire with the couple other pieces of glassware he has and captchalogues them, now that he knows the heat shouldn't cause anything in his sylladex to explode
[15:33] <Roo_Inline> the cards ae now warm
[15:34] <Roo_Inline> but they remain unchanging
[15:34]  * Faerzen_Norstov captchalogues them (B - BORON) and stows them in his sylladex
[15:35] <Roo_Inline> the rest of the flames in the room die. it smells like fire
[15:35]  * Faerzen_Norstov walks back out of the cave to escape the acrid odor
[15:36]  * Faerzen_Norstov puzzles in confusion trying to think of where the basilisk could have come from since it came from behind him, from out up here on the surface
[15:36] <Roo_Inline> you are now outside. its... quiet in here
[15:36] <Roo_Inline> perhaps the basilisk climbed?
[15:37] <Roo_Inline> that's a possibility having into account the gigantic claws and their lizard-like qualities
[15:38]  * Faerzen_Norstov looks around for any clues or hints, as well as for any other monsters. It would be prudent to make sure this place is cleared out to reduce the chances of something else sneaking up behind him
[15:38] <Roo_Inline> you dabble in the possibilities of the basilisk just appearing out of thin air, this is a game after all. if you cant see it, it can just spawn cant it?
[15:38] <Roo_Inline> please roll investgation
[15:38] <Faerzen_Norstov> roll 1d20+10 investigation
[15:38] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 1d20+10 investigation [ 1d20=11 ]{21}
[15:38] <Faerzen_Norstov> roll 1d20+4 perception
[15:38] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 1d20+4 perception [ 1d20=13 ]{17}
[15:39] <Roo_Inline> there doesn't seem to be annything else that could be dangerous. no creatures, no nothing.
[15:39] <Roo_Inline> hmmm.
[15:40]  * Faerzen_Norstov sits down for a moment by the shoreline under a tree to rest
[15:41] <Faerzen_Norstov> ((I pinged AT about grist so I'm just going to do it here))
[15:41] <Faerzen_Norstov> roll 8d8+150 build grist
[15:41] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 8d8+150 build grist [ 8d8=23 ]{173}
[15:41] <Roo_Inline> you sit under the tree and close your eyes, slowly slowing your breath to calm yourself down.
[15:42] <Roo_Inline> you cant shake the feeling of uneasiness upon the chance that those would have been real flames.
[15:43] <Roo_Inline> you would have been burned alive
[15:43] <Roo_Inline> you would have died
[15:44] <Roo_Inline> stupidly troubling thought
[15:45]  * Faerzen_Norstov closes his eyes, trying to calm himself. The last thing he wanted is another near-death experience, the last thing he needs to get bent out of shape about it. That isn't going to help anyone. You need to focus, you needsto keep your mind sharp, you need to remain vigilant. You need to win. No silly flames are going to change that.
[15:45] <Faerzen_Norstov> You aren't sure just trying to mentally push past all of these setbacks is necessarily the most healthy, but right now it's all you've got.
[15:51] <Faerzen_Norstov> You aren't sure just trying to mentally push past all of these setbacks is necessarily the most healthy, but right now it's all you've got.
[19:48] <Roo_Inline> you shake the idea of being burned alive...
[19:49] <Roo_Inline> it smells like nature. you realize this place has some small drops of dew. like it rained recently or it was early morning
[19:50] <Roo_Inline> the back of your dress is slightly wet. it crackles wth non-damaging electicity
[15:51] <Faerzen_Norstov> roll 3d6+50 Tungsten grist
[15:51] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 3d6+50 Tungsten grist [ 3d6=8 ]{58}
[15:52] <Roo_Inline> you remember your "date" with Nick
[15:52] <Faerzen_Norstov> roll 1d10+10 Paraffin grist
[15:52] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 1d10+10 Paraffin grist [ 1d10=3 ]{13}
[15:52] <Faerzen_Norstov> roll 1d2 chance
[15:52] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 1d2 chance [ 1d2=2 ]{2}
[15:53] <Faerzen_Norstov> roll 2d8 tier 4 grist
[15:53] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 2d8 tier 3 grist [ 2d8=16 ]{16}
[15:53] <Faerzen[aberrant]> ((aww yisss))
[15:53] <Roo_Inline> ((aw YISS indeed. need a new name for that))
[15:54] <Faerzen[aberrant]> ((gonna probably go with something like glass))
[15:55] <Faerzen[aberrant]> ((most of the grist types the kids found early on were materials that were physically present in their land))
[15:56] <Roo_Inline> you continue to be sitting under the tree
[15:56] <Roo_Inline> ((i guess AT can retake from this point?))
[15:56] <Faerzen_Norstov> ((wanna continue strifing while we're at it? That fight was pitiful and I need way more grist than that :/))
[15:57] <Roo_Inline> you feel something nibbling on your foot
[15:58] <Roo_Inline> the nibbling quickly becomes scratching
[15:58]  * Faerzen_Norstov is broken out of his reverie
[15:59]  * Faerzen_Norstov looks down at his feet in annoyance through the feathered mask on his face
[15:59] <Roo_Inline> you see a single lone imp grabbing onto your left foot. it sets off running the moment you open your eyes, quickly disappearing between the trees
[17:11]  * Faerzen_Norstov takes a moment to survey the area with trees where the imp ran off to before heaving a sigh and pulling himself to his feet.
[17:12] <Roo_Inline> roll perception
[17:12] <`DICE> Roo_Inline rolled perception error: malformed expression
[17:12] <Faerzen_Norstov> roll 1d20+4 perception
[17:12] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 1d20+4 perception [ 1d20=12 ]{16}
[17:13] <Roo_Inline> you notice a shadowy lump along one of the trees.... its another imp
[17:14] <Roo_Inline> where this imps trying to ambush you?
[17:15] <Roo_Inline> *were
[17:15] <Roo_Inline> *these
[17:15] <Roo_Inline> ((holy shit my writting is sloppy today))
[17:16] <Faerzen_Norstov> Another imp....?
[17:16]  * Faerzen_Norstov thinks for a moment
[17:17] <Faerzen_Norstov> You do not wish to be too hasty about this... but at the same time if it were able to get away it could alert other beings to your presence.......
[17:18] <Faerzen_Norstov> Going unnoticed would probably be desirable... even if it means committing to a course of action now
[17:18]  * Faerzen_Norstov pulls out the crystalline crossbow, pretending to inspect and clean it
[17:18] <Roo_Inline> the imp is intently watching you
[17:19]  * Faerzen_Norstov situates the crossbow in his grip, pretending to look down the sights to adjust them
[17:20]  * Faerzen_Norstov turns quickly towards the imp and fires a single bolt
[17:20] <Faerzen_Norstov> roll 1d20+6 attack
[17:20] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 1d20+6 attack [ 1d20=20 ]{26}
[17:20] <Roo_Inline> ((not even going to make you roll for damage. i t would be ridiculous))
[17:20] <Faerzen_Norstov> roll 4d8+6 damage
[17:20] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 4d8+6 damage [ 4d8=11 ]{17}
[17:21] <Roo_Inline> ((yeah. it dies))
[17:21] <Roo_Inline> you shoot the imp. the bolt goes between its eyes and it is knocked down the tree. it poofs as soon as it hits the ground... you feel strangely disturbed by how easy this was
[17:22]  * Faerzen_Norstov goes back to "inspecting" his crossbow, watching out of the corner of his eye for any movement where the imp died
[17:22] <Roo_Inline> please, roll perception again.
[17:22] <Faerzen_Norstov> roll 1d20+4 perception
[17:22] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 1d20+4 perception [ 1d20=17 ]{21}
[17:23] <Roo_Inline> you dont see anything.
[17:23] <Roo_Inline> ((give me a minute))
[17:24]  * Faerzen_Norstov keeps the crossbow out and walks down to the shoreline of the water, strolling along the water's edge, making a roundabout approach to the clump of trees
[17:26] <Roo_Inline> you continue advancing in line with the trees
[17:26] <Roo_Inline> you cant quite shake the feeling that taking this course of action was perhaps a bit extreme
[17:27]  * Faerzen_Norstov tries to quietly make his way up to the edge of the trees, stopping behind one of the trees to peer around it further into the group of trees
[17:27] <Faerzen_Norstov> roll 1d20+6 stealth
[17:27] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 1d20+6 stealth [ 1d20=20 ]{26}
[17:27] <Faerzen_Norstov> ((damn))
[17:27] <@Archive> ((dat stealth))
[17:28] <Roo_Inline> you calmly walk over the trees. not even your wings making their occassional feathery sounds
[17:30] <Roo_Inline> there.... doesn't seem to be anything worth noticing. a shine in the distance takes your attention for a moment before you realize its the bolt you used a minute ago.
[17:30] <Roo_Inline> you get a bit chilly. is this what wearing dresses all the time is like?
[17:31]  * Faerzen_Norstov heaves a light sigh at yet another annoyance caused by this silly attire.
[17:31]  * Faerzen_Norstov moves over to the bolt he shot earlier to remove it from the tree and pick up the grist dropped on the ground
[17:31] <Roo_Inline> we should like.... wear a jacket or something, yeah its nce and everything, but your shoulders and arms are exposed all the time!
[17:32] <Faerzen_Norstov> roll 1d10+10 build grist
[17:32] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 1d10+10 build grist [ 1d10=1 ]{11}
[17:32] <Faerzen_Norstov> roll 1d2 chance
[17:32] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 1d2 chance [ 1d2=2 ]{2}
[17:32] <Faerzen_Norstov> roll 2d8 tungsten
[17:32] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 2d8 tungsten [ 2d8=8 ]{8}
[17:32] <Roo_Inline> you pick up the grist and bolt no problem
[17:32] <Faerzen_Norstov> peers around the corner of the tree he's hiding behind, quietly moving from tree to tree each time if the coast is clear to make his way further in, hopefully still undetected just in case there is something here
[17:33] <Faerzen_Norstov> roll 1d20+6 stealth
[17:33] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 1d20+6 stealth [ 1d20=5 ]{11}
[17:33] <Faerzen_Norstov> roll 1d20+4 perception
[17:33] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 1d20+4 perception [ 1d20=15 ]{19}
[17:34] <Roo_Inline> you accidentally step on a branch as you look behind the tree...
[17:34] <Roo_Inline> luckily, there's noth--- there's a rustle in a bush a few meters in front of you. oh.
[17:34]  * Faerzen_Norstov makes a :| face
[17:35]  * Faerzen_Norstov remains trying to hide behind his tree, watching the bush
[17:35] <Roo_Inline> the rustle continues for a few moments before stopping.
[17:37] <Roo_Inline> the rustle starts again and you hear a few smallish. squeaky sounds
[17:38]  * Faerzen_Norstov decaptchalogues his Inverting Spyglass (Au - GOLD) and tries to look at the bush through it discretely
[17:38] <Faerzen_Norstov> ((the spyglass inverts shadows and light, in addition to be being a sort of magnifier))
[17:39] <Roo_Inline> you see a mate white inside the tree. there is definetively something there. the rest of the place looks incredibly dark
[17:39] <Faerzen_Norstov> (("mate white inside the tree" what does that mean?))
[17:40] <Roo_Inline> ((its a color. its really  dark inside the bush.... i just realized i wrote tree. anyways, it becomes really white due to inverting the shadow))
[17:42] <Roo_Inline> ((so... yeah. it looks really bright))
[17:42]  * Faerzen_Norstov recaptchalogues the spyglass (Au - GOLD) and quietly moves over to the bush to investigate
[17:42] <Faerzen_Norstov> roll stealth 1d20+6
[17:42] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled stealth 1d20+6 error: malformed expression
[17:42] <Faerzen_Norstov> roll 1d20+6 stealth
[17:42] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 1d20+6 stealth [ 1d20=2 ]{8}
[17:43] <Roo_Inline> you accidentally trip on the same branch and fall. your firm grasp on the crossbow makes you accidentally shoot into a tree.
[17:44] <Roo_Inline> the bush shakes for a few seconds before a bunch of birds go flying in every direction
[17:45] <Roo_Inline> did you almost hurt a bunch of birds?
[17:45]  * Faerzen_Norstov grunts with pain, pulling himself back to his feet and dusting himself off
[17:46]  * Faerzen_Norstov looks at the bush with a bit of relief, a bit of disappointment, and a bit of guilt
[17:46]  * Faerzen_Norstov continues walking around the area, trying to figure out where that imp went
[17:46] <Roo_Inline> one of the birds comes back to the bush and sets on one of the upper branches
[17:47] <Roo_Inline> you indeed do not see the imp
[17:47]  * Faerzen_Norstov examines the bird for similarities to the rainbow pigeon he saw earlier
[17:48] <Roo_Inline> it indeed is a multicolored pigeon
[17:48] <Roo_Inline> it does a typical bird sound and flies away
[17:48]  * Faerzen_Norstov frowns as he decaptchalogues his Gecko Food (N - NITROGEN) and recaptchalogues it
[17:49] <Roo_Inline> would a bird even eat gecko food? you wonder that for a few seconds before setting back to your current task
[17:49] <Faerzen_Norstov> ((the previous bird did lol))
[17:50] <Roo_Inline> ((lol))
[17:50]  * Faerzen_Norstov finishes walking around in the wooded area, enjoying the shade and bit of respite from the glaring lights everywhere outside, before returning to the water's edge
[17:51] <Roo_Inline> you return to the water. its quite nice here.
[17:51]  * Faerzen_Norstov stares at his reflection in the water, seeing the ornate decorations on the mask on his face, the complex circuitry all over his golden dress, his absurd crossbow....
[17:51] <Faerzen_Norstov> *What..... has this game done to me?*
[17:51] <Roo_Inline> you look fine. if not a bit dusty due to your current fall
[17:52] <Faerzen_Norstov> *I hardly even recognize myself anymore....... both inside and out....*
[17:52] <Roo_Inline> it... indeed troubles you. you have wings, you are wearing a mask with dark powers, you are in... a relationship
[17:53] <Roo_Inline> you look at the slightly dark circles around your eyes.
[17:53] <Roo_Inline> stress is getting to you. no one in here has slept well or on... shedule.
[17:54] <Roo_Inline> how long has it been? a week? 3 days?... there's not even a freakig day and night
[17:54] <Faerzen_Norstov> *I tell myself that all this is necessary..... to adapt to and overcome this game...... but is it really for the best? Are you going to look back at this.... assuming you live long enough to do that..... and regret turning into the person you've become?*
[17:55] <Faerzen_Norstov> *What about the Faerzen that stepped into this game? Optimistic, confident, excited, naive....*
[17:55] <Roo_Inline> you remember all those talks you had with nick during thses days
[17:56]  * Faerzen_Norstov watches the water as the ripples on the surface twist and warp his reflection
[17:57] <Roo_Inline> should this trouble you?
[17:57] <Roo_Inline> your first reaction to that imp was killing it.
[17:59] <Faerzen_Norstov> *Every time this game has done anything with you.... it has almost always resulted in nearly killing you..... Is it wrong to jump to conclusions like that?*
[17:59] <Roo_Inline> the water continues rippling and moving. the sounds of water and trees having their leaves moved by wind isn't helping much
[18:00] <Faerzen_Norstov> *Is it prudent decision-making made in the name of self-preservation?*
[18:00] <Faerzen_Norstov> *Or is it paranoia and fear manifesting themselves as being desensitized to the world around you? Jaded?
[18:01] <Faerzen_Norstov> *Are you...... turning into Lyra?*
[18:02] <Roo_Inline> you cant help but wonder how everyone else is coping with this
[18:03] <Faerzen_Norstov> *Byron... well he mostly copes by laughing at things and telling himself it can't be a problem.... Nick, well.... you've made things hard enough for him as it is, not to mention all the shit the game has thrown at him...*
[18:03] <Faerzen_Norstov> *Lyra mostly doesn't care anymore and actually enjoys all this because she can blame the game for even more of her misfortunes......*
[18:03] <Faerzen_Norstov> *But Tarane and Alex........ They're mostly just getting dragged through all this mess because of everyone else.....*
[18:06] <Roo_Inline> a single grey bird lands next to you. it is carrying a small berry on its mouth.
[18:07] <Roo_Inline> it does two little hops and gets a bit closer. it lets go of the berry
[18:07]  * Faerzen_Norstov slowly leans down and hold out his finger to see if the bird will hop on his finger
[18:07] <Faerzen_Norstov> roll 1d20+2 animal handling
[18:07] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 1d20+2 animal handling [ 1d20=1 ]{3}
[18:07] <Faerzen_Norstov> ((rekt))
[18:07] <Faerzen_Norstov> ((no birdie on my finger))
[18:07] <Roo_Inline> the bird hops away. its just standing there looking at you.
[18:08]  * Faerzen_Norstov reaches down to pick up the berry
[18:09] <Roo_Inline> you pick up the berry. it seems to be just that. a small red berry
[18:10] <Roo_Inline> the bird hops closer again
[18:10] <Roo_Inline> *bird noise*
[18:10] <Roo_Inline> you wonder how it would be if this bird talked.
[18:10]  * Faerzen_Norstov holds out the berry to the bird
[18:11] <Roo_Inline> the bird pecks on the berry and hops into your hand
[18:12] <Roo_Inline> the bird tilts its head to one side and looks at you. no... its looking at something else... your wings?
[18:13] <Roo_Inline> *bird noises*
[18:14]  * Faerzen_Norstov looks over his shoulder at his wings and flaps them gently, smiling at the bird
[18:14] <Roo_Inline> the bird sits on your hand.
[18:17] <Roo_Inline> the small bird on your hand helps you forget all those troublin existencial problems about violent behavior and what everyone has done.
[18:17] <Roo_Inline> or atleast, it derails your train of though from that
[20:42]  * Faerzen_Norstov carefully extends a hand to gently stroke the side of the bird's head
[20:42]  * Faerzen_Norstov lets out a contended sigh
[20:43] <Roo_Inline> *bird noises*
[20:44] <Roo_Inline> the bird hops off from your hand and slowly begins hopping away
[20:44]  * Faerzen_Norstov frowns slightly
[20:44] <Roo_Inline> when it is a few feet away from you it turns around and moves its wings in place
[20:45]  * Faerzen_Norstov stands back up from his leaned over position on the shore and watches the bird
[20:45] <Roo_Inline> *bird noise*
[20:45] <Roo_Inline> the bird hops in place
[20:46]  * Faerzen_Norstov cocks his head slightly and walks over nearer to the bird
[20:46] <Roo_Inline> the bird hops away a few more feet
[20:48] <Roo_Inline> *more bird noises. im bad at onomatop... how do you even write this*
[20:48]  * Faerzen_Norstov follows the bird, holding out the berry
[20:49] <Roo_Inline> the bird keeps hoping away into the trees. there seems to be some sort of path in here
[20:49] <Roo_Inline> some broken branches... a few cleared plants.
[20:49] <Roo_Inline> there's no reason for clearig all this
[20:50]  * Faerzen_Norstov continues following the bird, wanting to find out where the bird came from. The last one disappeared too quickly....
[20:50]  * Faerzen_Norstov examines the berry quickly while walking since the bird doesn't seem particularly interested in it at the moment
[20:52] <Roo_Inline> it looks like a normal berry. its juicy, and it slightly stained your fingertips red.
[20:54]  * Faerzen_Norstov holds onto the berry carefully. It could be very useful to hold on to, but it might be poisonous...... best not eat it for now.
[20:54] <Roo_Inline> you continue following the bird. you suddenly see some... something quite particular in the distance, its like a courtyard
[20:54]  * Faerzen_Norstov pauses on the path, very perplexed
[20:54]  * Faerzen_Norstov cautiously approaches
[20:55] <Roo_Inline> wait. no. it IS a courtyard, the bird flies away and sets on a tree in the distance, you are now on the edge of a small circular courtyard white brick lines the floor with grass growing between the cracks. there's a big fountain in the middle of the place. with a statue holding a vase from which water pours.... it freaking looks like you.
[20:55] <Roo_Inline> what is going on
[20:56]  * Faerzen_Norstov grimaces upon seeing the statue
[20:56] <Faerzen_Norstov> *Reminds me of GCS's statue.......*
[20:57]  * Faerzen_Norstov examines the statue more closely
[20:57] <Roo_Inline> roll investigation//perception.
[20:57] <`DICE> Roo_Inline rolled investigation//perception. error: malformed expression
[20:58] <Faerzen_Norstov> roll 1d20+10 investigation
[20:58] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 1d20+10 investigation [ 1d20=13 ]{23}
[20:58] <Faerzen_Norstov> roll 1d20+4 perception
[20:58] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 1d20+4 perception [ 1d20=11 ]{15}
[20:59] <Roo_Inline> this statue seems finely crafted down to the last detail. its like seeing a you made of stone. holding a vase. there's even a slightly bumpy part on the neck where nick accidentally made that hickey
[21:00] <Faerzen_Norstov> *Okay.... now THAT is creepy*
[21:00] <Roo_Inline> a rather particular thing picks your attention. and that is a golden plaque on the edge of the fountain
[21:01]  * Faerzen_Norstov walks over to read the plaque
[21:02] <Roo_Inline> "pay no attention. there is no key in your hands"
[21:02] <Roo_Inline> "let go. it isn't there"
[21:03]  * Faerzen_Norstov reads the words several times, trying to let the words sink in
[21:03] <Roo_Inline> please roll perception
[21:03] <Faerzen_Norstov> roll 1d20+4 perception
[21:03] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 1d20+4 perception [ 1d20=2 ]{6}
[21:04] <Roo_Inline> you see a reflection in the water
[21:04]  * Faerzen_Norstov looks at the reflection
[21:04] <Roo_Inline> what reflection?... you swear you saw it.
[21:05] <Roo_Inline> there is... nothing there
[21:05]  * Faerzen_Norstov looks up
[21:05] <Roo_Inline> the statue looks back at you. unmoving, with a stone cold face
[21:06] <Roo_Inline> ((and by that i mean. its a statue))
[21:07]  * Faerzen_Norstov looks around the area for anything that could have caused whatever that fleeting reflection was
[21:07] <Roo_Inline> there is nothing else here
[21:08]  * Faerzen_Norstov frowns slightly, looking back down at the golden plaque
[21:09]  * Faerzen_Norstov gestures to take a picture of the words on the plaque
[21:09] <Roo_Inline> you succesfully take a picture
[21:10] <Roo_Inline> upon checking the picture you realize it says something else
[21:11]  * Faerzen_Norstov examines the photo more carefully
[21:12] <Roo_Inline> "what isn't there can just as easily be. when it isn't there it can as well be"
[21:13]  * Faerzen_Norstov sits down on the edge of the fountain looking at the words on his glasses
[21:14] <Roo_Inline> you feel a looming presence
[21:15]  * Faerzen_Norstov feels quite unnerved at the timing of this feeling with the words in the photo
[21:15] <Roo_Inline> as if something was reaching for you
[21:15] <Roo_Inline> getting closer....
[21:16]  * Faerzen_Norstov quickly turns around
[21:16] <Roo_Inline> the statue is where it was.
[21:18]  * Faerzen_Norstov tenuously turns away from the statue
[21:19] <Roo_Inline> you percieve a small ringing in your ears
[21:19] <Roo_Inline> roll concentration
[21:19] <`DICE> Roo_Inline rolled concentration error: malformed expression
[21:20] <Faerzen_Norstov> roll 1d20+2 concentration
[21:20] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 1d20+2 concentration [ 1d20=12 ]{14}
[21:21] <Roo_Inline> you manage to ignore the ringing. that slowly begins changing notes.
[21:23] <Roo_Inline> you feel a slight pressure on one of your shoulders... like someone grabbed it
[21:23]  * Faerzen_Norstov remains sitting on the edge of the fountain, unmoving
[21:24] <Roo_Inline> the pressure soon becomes unbearable as it moves down your arm.
[21:25]  * Faerzen_Norstov tries to pull his arm away
[21:25] <Roo_Inline> the pressure dissapears completely
[21:25] <Roo_Inline> the ringing stops
[21:26]  * Faerzen_Norstov looks back at the image he captured, thinking
[21:26] <Roo_Inline> the bird sets down next to you. staring off into the horizon.
[21:27]  * Faerzen_Norstov holds out the berry to the bird
[21:27] <Roo_Inline> the bird pecks the berry and calmly eats it
[21:27] <Roo_Inline> *bird noises*
[21:29]  * Faerzen_Norstov looks off to the horizon, heaving a sigh and trying to calm himself
[21:29]  * Faerzen_Norstov looks briefly over his shoulder at the statue
[21:31] <Roo_Inline> the statue remains unmoving. its just you.
[21:31]  * Faerzen_Norstov turns back to look at the bird, then back to the image on his glasses
[21:31] <Roo_Inline> the bird seems happy
[21:32] <Roo_Inline> the image on your glasses is the same
[21:32]  * Faerzen_Norstov heaves a sigh, trying to calm himself to think
[21:32] <Roo_Inline> concentration?
[21:32] <Faerzen_Norstov> roll 1d20+2 concentration
[21:32] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 1d20+2 concentration [ 1d20=15 ]{17}
[21:32]  * Faerzen_Norstov shuts his eyes trying to calm the confusion he's feeling right now, thinking and waiting
[21:33] <Roo_Inline> you feel a hand lightly pressed against your back
[21:33]  * Faerzen_Norstov shivers slightly, but is prepared this time
[21:34] <Roo_Inline> you feel fingertips slowly "walking" towards your shoulder. and a pair of nails slightly digging into your arm
[21:35]  * Faerzen_Norstov clenches his eyes shut, waiting
[21:35] <Roo_Inline> soon. you feel more hands
[21:35] <Roo_Inline> all over you. like insects... crawling and scratching
[21:36]  * Faerzen_Norstov squirms slightly in his place, trying to calm his breath and control himself
[21:36] <Faerzen_Norstov> *This..... really isn't pleasant at all*
[21:36] <Roo_Inline> the squirming stops and you feel pressure on your arms
[21:36] <Faerzen_Norstov> *Pay no attention...... Let go....*
[21:37] <Roo_Inline> all the pressure stops.
[21:37]  * Faerzen_Norstov sits there in silence
[21:37] <Roo_Inline> nothing happens for a while.
[21:37] <Roo_Inline> you feel distant voices
[21:38] <Roo_Inline> feel? feel is a quite good term. because your ears aren't picking up anything. its  just... a thought
[21:39]  * Faerzen_Norstov tries to direct his thoughts at the voices to try and hear what they are saying, just as how one might cup your ear or turn it towards a quiet noise to hear it better
[21:39] <Roo_Inline> you hear your own voice
[21:39] <Roo_Inline> "do you think its going to work?" "idk, maybe?"
[21:39] <Roo_Inline> "its been a while hasn't it?"
[21:40] <Roo_Inline> "i miss home..."
[21:40] <Roo_Inline> "...i cant take it anymore"
[21:40] <Roo_Inline> "sure... why not!"
[21:40] <Roo_Inline> "happy anniversary!"
[21:41] <Roo_Inline> "how long has it been? 5, 6 years?"
[21:41] <Roo_Inline> "it took me a while"
[21:41] <Roo_Inline> "what's that?"
[21:41] <Roo_Inline> "i dont want to leave if it means...."
[21:42] <Roo_Inline> "you just couldn't resist couldn't you? *laughts*"
[21:43] <Roo_Inline> "what time is it?"
[21:43] <Roo_Inline> you begin hearing more voices in the distance.
[21:44]  * Faerzen_Norstov listens closely
[21:45] <Roo_Inline> "what are you.... dont!"
[21:45] <Roo_Inline> all the voices stop
[21:46] <Faerzen_Norstov> ((were all of those quoted voices Faerzen's?))
[21:46] <Roo_Inline> ((yup))
[21:50]  * Faerzen_Norstov slowly opens his eyes
[21:51] <Roo_Inline> everything looks exactly the same
[21:52]  * Faerzen_Norstov reaches over and lightly pets the bird
[21:53]  * Faerzen_Norstov stands up, shakily
[21:53] <Roo_Inline> you do so. the bird hops into your hand again
[21:53]  * Faerzen_Norstov pets the bird and begins walking slowly around the courtyard to see if there is anything else of note besides the fountain
[21:54] <Faerzen_Norstov> roll 1d20+4 perception
[21:54] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 1d20+4 perception [ 1d20=18 ]{22}
[21:55] <Roo_Inline> you realize there is a few seats of stone lining the back side of the courtyard. there's a small set of stairs going down behind them
[21:58] <Faerzen_Norstov> *.....Another path of descent? Interesting....*
[21:58] <Roo_Inline> the bird gets on your shoulder
[21:58]  * Faerzen_Norstov carefully descends the stairs, examining his surrounds as he goes down
[21:59] <Roo_Inline> plain white bricks line up the walls. not even after 20 steps down you reach a door with a small lock and words etched in gold
[21:59] <Roo_Inline> "blissfull ignorance"
[22:00] <Roo_Inline> and
[22:01] <Roo_Inline> "not everything is important"
[22:03]  * Faerzen_Norstov furrows his brow
[22:03]  * Faerzen_Norstov turns to the bird on his shoulder, talking at it for no particular reason other than it's preferable to thinking to himself
[22:04] <Faerzen_Norstov> "What do you think that is supposed to mean, huh?"
[22:04]  * Faerzen_Norstov lightly pets the bird
[22:04] <Faerzen_Norstov> "I already saw the door and lock so it's not like I can be particularly blissfully ignorant about it!"
[22:04] <Roo_Inline> "perhaps you should just leave? this place doesn't want you here it seems" ...is what the bird would have said if it spoke. you just get bird noises in response
[22:05]  * Faerzen_Norstov attempts to open the door
[22:05] <Faerzen_Norstov> "Maybe if I just pretend the lock doesn't exist....?
[22:06] <Roo_Inline> the door indeed does not open. the words in the door change to
[22:06] <Roo_Inline> "overthink"
[22:06] <Roo_Inline> and
[22:06] <Roo_Inline> "disinterest"
[22:06]  * Faerzen_Norstov frowns
[22:06] <Faerzen_Norstov> "Well that wasn't very nice!"
[22:07] <Roo_Inline> *chirp*
[22:07] <Faerzen_Norstov> "That plaque spent a great deal of text discussing the presence and absence of keys, and yet it was incredibly vague."
[22:08] <Faerzen_Norstov> "I suppose I shall not worry about it at the present. There seems to be little I can do...... Perhaps I will have an epiphany of some sort letting it mull over in the back of my head. I enjoy solving some problems like that, you know."
[22:08]  * Faerzen_Norstov smiles at the bird and turns to head back up the stairs
[22:09] <Roo_Inline> you do so. everything is the same.
[22:09]  * Faerzen_Norstov eyes the creepy statue of himself before making a last pass around the courtyard, looking at the plaque on his way by.
[22:10] <Roo_Inline> not really surprising, the plaque changed again
[22:10] <Roo_Inline> it is blank
[22:11]  * Faerzen_Norstov shrugs and walks out of the courtyard
[22:12] <Roo_Inline> you are now in the forest. the bird chirps a few times and flies away into a hole in a tree
[22:12]  * Faerzen_Norstov looks at the hole in the tree
[22:12] <Roo_Inline> its...... just a hole in a tree.
[22:13] <Roo_Inline> the tree must be hollow at this point. does that bird live there?
[22:13] <Roo_Inline> do birds live inside trees?
[22:13] <Roo_Inline> you hear a voice in the back of your mind
[22:13] <Roo_Inline> "come back."
[22:13] <Roo_Inline> "please."
[22:13] <Roo_Inline> "dont leave."
[22:14] <Roo_Inline> "dont do this to us"
[22:15] <Roo_Inline> "come back"
[22:15] <Roo_Inline> "we can give you the answer! we swear"
[22:16]  * Faerzen_Norstov thinks at the voice in his head.... *come back where?*
[22:16] <Roo_Inline> "we can work this out"
[22:16] <Roo_Inline> "fountain!"
[22:17] <Roo_Inline> "c'mon!. hurry!"
[22:17]  * Faerzen_Norstov raises his eyebrows upon actually receiving a response
[22:17] <Roo_Inline> "dont leave"
[22:18]  * Faerzen_Norstov reaches down and picks a couple flowers, placing them around the entrance to the hole where the bird disappeared. May as well make its house a little prettier as a thank you
[22:18] <Roo_Inline> "PLEASE! I BEG YOU"
[22:18]  * Faerzen_Norstov turns back towards the courtyard
[22:18] <Faerzen_Norstov> *I'm sorry for leaving! Who are you? I meant not harm....*
[22:19] <Roo_Inline> "im no one"
[22:19] <Roo_Inline> "i dont want to be alone"
[22:19] <Roo_Inline> "could you please come back?"
[22:19] <Roo_Inline> you go back to the courtyard. everything is the same as it was
[22:20] <Roo_Inline> "thanks you"
[22:21] <Faerzen_Norstov> *Are you the hand I felt on my shoulder previously?*
[22:21] <Roo_Inline> "no...?"
[22:24] <Faerzen_Norstov> *What would you like me to do here?*
[22:24] <Roo_Inline> "i... there's... no answer"
[22:25] <Roo_Inline> "you cant get the key, its just a trick!"
[22:26] <Faerzen_Norstov> *I figured as much, what with all of the signage informing me the key does not exist.*
[22:26] <Faerzen_Norstov> *That does not solve the problem of there still being a lock, however.*
[22:27] <Roo_Inline> "...."
[22:28] <Roo_Inline> "dont... leave."
[22:28] <Roo_Inline> "dont ignore me"
[22:28] <Faerzen_Norstov> *I am not ignoring you!*
[22:28] <Roo_Inline> "thanks"
[22:29] <Roo_Inline> "just.... dont leave"
[22:29] <Roo_Inline> "never"
[22:29] <Faerzen_Norstov> *I have no particular desire to abandon whoever it is that you are, but what do you expect me to do? Simply stand here in this courtyard indefinitely?*
[22:30] <Roo_Inline> "...yes?"
[22:31] <Faerzen_Norstov> *I have people I need to protect and a game that needs defeating, and I am afraid that standing here will not accomplish either of those.*
[22:32] <Roo_Inline> "dont leave"
[22:32] <Faerzen_Norstov> *And not accomplishing either of those is not an option.*
[22:32] <Roo_Inline> "dont. leave"
[22:33]  * Faerzen_Norstov furrows his brows in slight irritation
[22:33] <Roo_Inline> "i mean it"
[22:33] <Faerzen_Norstov> *Your request is almost entirely unreasonable! How can you possibly expect me to stand here forever???*
[22:34] <Roo_Inline> "just do it. i dont want you to leave"
[22:34] <Faerzen_Norstov> *Just do it??? That is your only response?*
[22:35] <Roo_Inline> "..."
[22:35] <Faerzen_Norstov> *A nebulous voice tells me to spend the entirety of the rest of my days doing nothing standing next to a fountain.*
[22:35] <Faerzen_Norstov> *How am I even remotely ever going to be inclined to follow that course of action?*
[22:36] <Roo_Inline> the voice begins to tear up in a mix of sadness and anger "i... i dont know! there's never anyone here! i just... dont want you to leave!"
[22:40] <Faerzen_Norstov> *Who are you? Where are you? Perhaps you can leave this place rather than staying here?*
[22:40] <Roo_Inline> "n-no!"
[22:40] <Roo_Inline> "i dont want to!"
[22:40] <Roo_Inline> "i dont want anyone leaving!"
[22:40] <Faerzen_Norstov> *Why don't you want to leave?*
[22:41] <Roo_Inline> "I DONT WANT TO!"
[22:41] <Faerzen_Norstov> *Ooookay then sorry I asked I guess....*
[22:42] <Faerzen_Norstov> *Do you know what is behind that door down those stairs?*
[22:42] <Roo_Inline> "no"
[22:43] <Roo_Inline> you can clearly see the golden plaque shifting again
[22:43]  * Faerzen_Norstov moves over to examine the plaque
[22:44] <Roo_Inline> "pay no attention. why are you here?"
[22:47] <Faerzen_Norstov> *Do you know what controls the text of this plaque?*
[22:48] <Roo_Inline> "what plaque?"
[22:48] <Faerzen_Norstov> *Never mind.*
[22:48]  * Faerzen_Norstov walks away from the plaque
[22:48] <Roo_Inline> "are you leaving?
[22:48] <Roo_Inline> dont leave"
[22:49] <Faerzen_Norstov> *Well this garden really is quite pretty, and I can assure that I will return here, but I cannot simply stand here doing nothing.*
[22:49] <Faerzen_Norstov> *My fellow players are at risk of dying.*
[22:49] <Faerzen_Norstov> *How selfish is it for me to spend my days here in this garden relaxing?*
[22:49] <Faerzen_Norstov> *There is so much darkness out there, and I cannot stand idly by while it threatens me and those I am here with.*
[22:50] <Faerzen_Norstov> *I have some capability of fighting back, so fight back I must and fight back I shall.*
[22:50] <Roo_Inline> "but"
[22:50] <Roo_Inline> "b-but"
[22:50] <Roo_Inline> "please."
[22:51] <Faerzen_Norstov> *As I already said, I shall return here. This is a very peaceful and pretty place, and you are here, but I cannot stay here and do absolutely nothing as you so desire.*
[22:51] <Faerzen_Norstov> *Doing nothing is perhaps the worst possible course of action I could take at the present.*
[22:52] <Roo_Inline> *angry voice* "dont leave faerzen"
[22:52] <Roo_Inline> ((assume everything from this point on is angry))
[22:52] <Roo_Inline> "why do they always leave. they always do!"
[22:52] <Roo_Inline> "you are just like them. you say you will come back. i know you wont!"
[22:53] <Roo_Inline> "you are a big meany, faerzen!"
[22:53] <Roo_Inline> "go away! i dont want you here anymore!"
[22:53] <Faerzen_Norstov> *Very well, as you wish.*
[22:54]  * Faerzen_Norstov walks out of the courtyard
[22:54] <Roo_Inline> "LEAVE"
[22:54] <Roo_Inline> "LEAVE LIKE EVERYONE ALWAYS DO---"
[22:54] <Roo_Inline>  *the voice begins getting quieter and quieter*
[22:55]  * Faerzen_Norstov continues walking deliberately along the forest path, past the hole in the tree with flowers, and back to the water
[22:56] <Roo_Inline> you go back to the water, the same bird. or you think it may be it, is by it
[22:56] <Roo_Inline> sitting near the border of the rive
[22:57]  * Faerzen_Norstov approaches the bird
[22:57] <Roo_Inline> the bird turns to look at you. and it hops near
[22:58]  * Faerzen_Norstov reaches down, holding out his finger for the bird
[22:59] <Roo_Inline> the bird jumps into your finger.
[22:59] <Roo_Inline> you feel something heavy in your other hand
[23:01]  * Faerzen_Norstov puzzles looking down at his hand
[23:01] <Roo_Inline> you see a big ornate key of white metal with a paper tag tied to it
[23:03]  * Faerzen_Norstov sighs
[23:03]  * Faerzen_Norstov looks at the tag and rolls his eyes slightly
[23:04] <Roo_Inline> the paper reads "you dont have to pay attention to everything, there's no need to suit everyone's expectations and wants"
[23:05]  * Faerzen_Norstov stands up, chuckling slightly
[23:06] <Faerzen_Norstov> "You know what birdy? I think this key just told be to be a douchbag more often. Imagine that!"
[23:06]  * Faerzen_Norstov smiles and walks back down the path towards the fountain
[23:06] <Roo_Inline> *chirp*
[23:07] <Roo_Inline> you hear nothing as you go back. no sounds no anything. the statue on the fountain is missing. the plaque as usual reads something else
[23:08]  * Faerzen_Norstov examines the plaque
[23:09] <Roo_Inline> "they always leave, i dont want to, this is why no one stays"
[23:10]  * Faerzen_Norstov moves past he plaque and down the stairs to the door
[23:11] <Roo_Inline> the door is right there. the golden words are missing
[23:11]  * Faerzen_Norstov tries to unlock the door with the key
[23:12] <Roo_Inline> the door easily unlocks and it banishes
[23:14]  * Faerzen_Norstov peers through the doorway and slowly moves forwards
[23:15] <Roo_Inline> its dark. it looks like a cavern of dark stone... you can hear water running
[23:17]  * Faerzen_Norstov decaptchalogues his Flashiscope (Cd - CADMIUM)
[23:18] <Roo_Inline> as usual the darkness vanishes. it indeed is a cavern. perhaps its connected to the one you visited earlier?
[23:20]  * Faerzen_Norstov cautiously advances
[23:21]  * Faerzen_Norstov looks at the walls and floor of the cavern to see if they are the same type of rock as the other cave
[23:21] <Roo_Inline> roll investigation
[23:21] <`DICE> Roo_Inline rolled investigation error: malformed expression
[23:22] <Faerzen_Norstov> roll 1d20+10 investigation
[23:22] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 1d20+10 investigation [ 1d20=17 ]{27}
[23:23] <Roo_Inline> yup there's no doubt this is the same kind of stone.
[23:24]  * Faerzen_Norstov continues
[23:26] <Roo_Inline> you continue down the stairs into a large room with a pale blue crystal floating in the middle. it seems to be pouing water out into the floor and down the cavern.
[23:26] <Roo_Inline> you can see lights in the far distance in a slightly bent course. a few stray flames lining around the water
[23:28] <Roo_Inline> ((the water has a few flames floating in it))
[23:29] <Roo_Inline> you can only assume this place is directly connected to your recent encounter with the basilisk
[23:30]  * Faerzen_Norstov approaches the water's edge, trying to get as close to the crystal as he can without getting wet to get a look at how exactly the water is being generated
[23:30] <Roo_Inline> the water just sort of... appears from the crystal
[23:31] <Faerzen_Norstov> *Interesting......*
[23:31]  * Faerzen_Norstov follows the stream of water to see where it goes
[23:32] <Roo_Inline> you eventually reach the cavern you were at a few minutes ago.
[23:33]  * Faerzen_Norstov puzzles briefly over the purpose of a locked entrance when an open entrance leads to the same location
[23:33]  * Faerzen_Norstov looks around the cavern
[23:33] <Roo_Inline> it looks the same as it did.
[23:33] <Roo_Inline> flamey and all
[23:38]  * Faerzen_Norstov looks around for an alternate routes leaving this particular area other than the two exits he has already used.
[23:39] <Roo_Inline> perception as expected
[23:40] <Faerzen_Norstov> roll 1d20+4 perception
[23:40] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 1d20+4 perception [ 1d20=12 ]{16}
[23:40] <Roo_Inline> there are rather small holes on the walls, you wouldn't fit on them. there's just the two entrances
[23:41] <Roo_Inline> you realize the bird from earlier is sitting on your head
[23:41]  * Faerzen_Norstov looks more closely at the holes in the wall. Are they... bird nests or houses or someting?
[23:43] <Roo_Inline> you see twigs and stray feathers on the holes. so it may be quite possible
[23:45]  * Faerzen_Norstov reaches his hand up to the bird to see it it wants to hop onto his hand
[23:45] <Roo_Inline> the bird seems happy where it is
[23:46]  * Faerzen_Norstov lowers his hand
[23:47] <Faerzen_Norstov> "Are there any more of you here, huh? Any of your friends?"
[23:47] <Roo_Inline> "no bird noises"
[23:47]  * Faerzen_Norstov walks around the room looking at the holes, seeing if there are any that seem to stand out
[23:47] <Faerzen_Norstov> roll 1d20+4 perception
[23:47] <`DICE> Faerzen_Norstov rolled 1d20+4 [ 1d20=12 ]{16}
[23:48] <Roo_Inline> they just seem to be that. nests
[23:49]  * Faerzen_Norstov looks at the water flowing into the room to see where it goes
[23:50] <Roo_Inline> the water flows into the rocks. you assume this is the source of the waterfall outside
[23:51]  * Faerzen_Norstov turns and begins heading up the exit to the cavern that he thinks he came in previously with the basilisk
[23:51] <Faerzen_Norstov> "Where are all of your friends, little birdie? Nobody was home in those nests?"
[23:52] <Faerzen_Norstov> "Maybe they're down below with that other bird I saw earlier?"
[23:52] <Roo_Inline> as usual. no response
[23:53]  * Faerzen_Norstov continues
[23:55] <Roo_Inline> you are now outside. this is indeed the place you think it is