The Leaning Tower of Marble (DM Cayzle) Monday March 3rd, 2003 11:55:56 AM
Aided by Kedarn and Elerinn, Garrard gathers his berries without a problem. He is told by a local constable, Sherriff Domtin, that Feorge's Tower, on the border as it is, is outside his jurisdiction. Someone from the Council might be able to help him, but the fact is, if Garrard's intentions are pure and the owner agrees (says the constable), then he should not fear to trespass. He suggests that Garrard write up a writ of his own if he likes.
Cadmar, Lorth, Thram, and Andrath procure a ladder and an ax.
It being now fairly late in the day, you decide to set off first thing in the morning.
The next day you set out for the tower made of white marble. For the first few hours there are farms and orchards on both sides of the road. Later the terrain is grazeland, scrub, and light woods. By mid-afternoon, you see the white tower. From the first, it seems crooked. Then it seems pocked. Finally, from closeby, you see that it is riddled with holes! It is also leaning.
You are on the road, and the tower is about 200 feet away, through light woods. There is no track to it. What do you do? How do you approach?
Lorth Monday March 3rd, 2003 12:24:19 PM
Lorth readies his shield and warhammer. He squints and examines the holes to see how big they are, "That doesn't look very sturdy."
Garrard Monday March 3rd, 2003 12:29:24 PM
Garrard says, "Perhaps a scouting, first?"
Andrath d20+13=25 d20+9=24 d20+2=17 Monday March 3rd, 2003 12:58:16 PM
Andrath puts on the Eyes of the Eagle from Cadmar, and approaches the tower. He leaves the ladder on the ground about 60' from the tower, and slowly circles around the tower, looking for anything of interest, either on the ground near the base of the tower, or on the tower itself. [OOC: Spot roll of 25, Search roll of 24]
If he finds nothing of significant interest, he says, "I guess we need to find that illusory door." He scans the tower, looking for the permanent illusion that he knows covers the door. [OOC: Will save of 17 vs. illusion. I did not add any circumstance bonus, although I figure that there should be one, since we know the door is there, and roughly the height on the tower to look for it.] If he doesn't find the door, he suggests the others circle the tower as well, looking for the door.
Cadmar Monday March 3rd, 2003 2:27:47 PM
Cadmar holds back and lets Andrath do what he intends. If the initial examination fails to reveal the door and the whole party is called for to help looking for it, Cadmar will circle the tower tapping the stone gently with the tip of his bow, as high as he can reach, about once every fifteen inches.
Thram Monday March 3rd, 2003 2:46:25 PM
Thram heads up to the tower on the most direct path through the woods. Thinking Cadmar has the right of it, he doesn't offer any other help finding the door.
He looks over at Wynn, "I'm pretty good at climbing trees, and I could probably climb up that wall there, at least for 10 feet anyway. But the ladder would still be easier. Magic would work, but it's a pretty expensive solution when we don't even know if we'll have a problem in the first place. Perhaps the first one up could secure the ladder in place with a bit of rope, providing there is something to use for an anchor that is."
Elerinn Monday March 3rd, 2003 6:18:12 PM
Elerinn waits until Andrath returns with some more information on the tower.
Wynn Brightsong d20+3=5 d20+4=12 d20+2=12 Monday March 3rd, 2003 7:08:41 PM
Wynn sees the damaged tower and circles it from a distance looking for holes that might provide easier access than the hidden door [search =5].
He moves carefully [move silently=12]through the forest trying to keep a look out for the gremlins described by Feorges [spot=12] The large holes in the tower and its apparently unstable state worry him as he goes about his reconnaissance.
He asks Thram as he nears him " would any of these holes provide useful purchase should you attempt to climb the tower?"
Kedarn Tuesday March 4th, 2003 3:39:36 AM
Kedarn waits while the others look for the entrance to the tower.
While waiting Kedarn will get ready to cast the protection spells.
Arrows from Above! (DM Cayzle) d4=1 [Cadmar's roll to find the door] d20=14 d20=6 d20=11 d20=2 [four orc attacks -- all miss] Tuesday March 4th, 2003 11:48:03 AM
As you approach the tower, some details become clear. The tower itself is 20 feet in diameter and 40 feet high. It is on a small rise, so that someone standing on the top can see the road and surrounding area clearly. There are at least two dozen holes in the thing -- so that the structure looks just like swiss cheese. The holes range in size from a few inches to a few feet. Wynn sees that you could use them to help climb (+4 to climb checks), or you might be able to crawl through one into the tower itself! There is a big one near the base of the tower, about two feet off the ground. Another big one is about 30 feet up. There are a couple smaller ones that Elerinn might be able to fit through, one seven feet up on the opposite side, and one 12 feet up on the right. The tower itself is tilted.
The ground is cleared (though unmowed recently) within 20 feet of the tower base. Beyond that is brush and small trees. Several big trees grow in the 50 to 70 feet away range.
Garrard, Elerinn, Kedarn, and Brontinas are on the road, 200 feet from the tower.
Andrath scouts around the structure. He is on far side, 40 feet from tower, when he realizes that there are signs that some one has been walking around -- a privy pit has been dug in the last week, and is seeing daily use!
Wynn is on right side of tower, 20 feet from base,
Lorth, Cadmar, Thram are at the base of the tower. Cadmar taps around the tower. He thinks he finds where the door is hidden by illusion -- about ten feet off the ground. He remembers that Feorges said that the door was magically locked.
At this point, several heads poke over the top of the tower. It seems there is a short wall at the top behind which one could stand. The creatures look orcish -- and they are carrying bows! They shout a warning -- "Intruders!" if anyone knows orcish. Four orcs shoot at Lorth, Cadmar and Thram. All four arrows miss.
The four orcs have half cover to the folks 200 feet away on the road; three-quarters cover to the people at the tower. That makes their AC 18 to those on the road and 21 to those at the tower base.
Remember that it is 200 feet from the road to the tower -- you can make a double move in a round, or a quadruple move if you are running all out (with reasonable encumberance). That's at least two rounds move for most; three for Elerinn.
Actions?
Cadmar AC15 HP12 Tuesday March 4th, 2003 12:00:34 PM
"Orcs! Take cover!"
Cadmar, bow still in his hand, dives into the big hole near the base of the tower [move equivalent (?)]. Once inside, if time permits and no hostile creatures can be seen, he slings his bow over his back [move equivalent].
Garrard Tuesday March 4th, 2003 12:27:26 PM
Garrard frowns, and moves forward, shield fully defensive.
(AC: 19)
Thram Tuesday March 4th, 2003 12:35:35 PM
Thram doesn't wait around to talk about it, he decides to get away from the base of the tower and heads into the area of brush and small trees. He takes cover behind a little tree and starts stringing his bow.
Kedarn (AC: 16 HP: 11) Tuesday March 4th, 2003 5:35:50 PM
Kedarn starts to head closer to the orcs while getting his bow ready and moving to better cover.
Elerinn Tuesday March 4th, 2003 6:09:15 PM
Elerinn, who sees the four orcs shooting at Lorth, Cadmar and Thram, runs 60 feet ahead, knowing that he can help with one of his ranged spell once he is close enough to the ruined tower.
Andrath (AC17, HP 8) Tuesday March 4th, 2003 9:56:13 PM
Andrath sees the arrows raining down on his friends, and spots the orcs sticking their piggy heads out of the tower. "Whoops!" he shouts, as he turns and runs behind a large tree 50'-70' away [OOC: trying to be completely hidden from tower view]. He unlimbers his bow and starts to string it.
He calls out in orcish, "What are you doing in my grandfather's tower? You better not be robbing him, or you are in BIG trouble! If you come out peacefully, we won't punish you! This is your only chance!"
Wynn Brightsong (AC17; HP7) d20+2=4 Tuesday March 4th, 2003 10:12:08 PM
Wynn hugs the base of the tower and ducks into the same hole he saw Cadmar enter. He draws his longsword and looks around for potential threats [spot=4] but he must first negotiate the rubble and debris around the hole in the tower.
Lorth Wednesday March 5th, 2003 10:38:55 AM
Lorth puts his shield above his head, and also dives in to the hole at the base of the tower. (If there is no room in the hole, Lorth runs at quad speed away from the tower)
Battle Wounds! (DM Cayzle) d20=6 d20=4 d20=17 d20=1 [orc arrow misses] d20+3=13 d20+3=16 d20+3=11 [one orc hits and two misses on Cadmar] d8+3=11 [11 hp damage to Cadmar!] Wednesday March 5th, 2003 2:17:55 PM
HALFWAY BETWEEN THE TOWER AND THE ROAD
Elerinn, Kedarn, Garrard, Brontinas, and Lorth are roughly half-way between the tower and the road. (about 100 feet away), with Elerinn lagging as he pumps his short legs.
IN THE WOODS NEAR THE TOWER
Thram and Andrath take cover under the trees. They have 90 percent cover. The four orcs on the roof fire and miss wildly, then duck back themselves (they now have 90 percent cover too).
AT THE BASE OF THE TOWER
Cadmar dives into hole. It is four feet in diameter, with smooth sides and no debris -- like swiss cheese indeed! The wall is five feet wide. It is cramped in here, so that a medium sized character would lose his dex bonus fighting in these close quarters. He puts away his bow and looks into the room (living quarters, it seems) -- and sees three orcs! All three were standing in wait just in case someone tried to enter. They are clad in studded leather armor and using swords and shields. All three swing at Cadmar -- but Cadmar is protected from the two on the sides with half cover. The center one hits a hearty blow -- Cadmar takes 11 hit points and is severely wounded!
Wynn follows closely behind Cadmar, but there is no room for him to enter. Still, at the very base of the tower, the orcs above cannot easily fire down at him -- the angle is too extreme.
[OOC: Remember, friends, the rules for AoOs and moving. You can move through a space occupied by a friend, but you cannot end your turn in the same space. If all you do in a round is move (not run), then you provoke no Attacks of Opportunity for leaving your initial square. Thus, Cadmar can flee (hint -- not a bad idea) right through Wynn's square and out with a double move.]
Garrard Wednesday March 5th, 2003 2:48:59 PM
Garrard continues to advance, his shield high, drawing a throwing dart from his belt.
Cadmar AC15 HP1 Wednesday March 5th, 2003 2:51:51 PM
"Nine Hells of Baator! Watch out, three more!"
Cadmar about turns and leaves the unpleasant company. Those outside can see him stagger out of the tower, his face red with blood gushing out of a deep cut on his forehead. Shaking on his legs, he follows the tower wall around, leaning against the stones for balance. Red smears are left on the wall, and a red trail on the grass marks his passage. Once away from the big hole he flattens himself against the wall, trying not to be seen from above. At the same time, his wild eyes start looking for a suitably thick tree trunk within running distance of his position.
[Double move - get out of there! no AOP. Cadmar will follow the outside wall of the tower to the right. He is going to be careful not to put his back against a smaller hole!]
Lorth Wednesday March 5th, 2003 3:04:17 PM
When Lorth sees Cadmar he holds his shield above his head and turns around and sprints back to him. Lorth says, "Let us get away from this tower and into the trees, then we can come up with a plan of attack."
(Lorth will lay on hands on Cadmar for 3 as soon as he can, not sure if I can both move and lay on hands. If/when Cadmar starts moving away from the tower Lorth shields him with his body, trying to lend to Cadmar's AC)
Andrath d20+5=19 d8+3=5 Wednesday March 5th, 2003 4:48:23 PM
Andrath watches a bleeding Cadmar back out of the hole, and shouts out in orcish, "You wanted trouble; well now you've go it."
He holds his action until an orcish figure shows enough of his body to be only half covered or less, and looses an arrow at the orc. [OOC: This could be an orc leaning from the tower to shoot an arrow, or an orc showing its head and body out of one of the holes. Hit AC19 for 5 hp damage, if hit.]
Elerinn Wednesday March 5th, 2003 6:04:04 PM
Elerinn, while he runs to the tower, sees Cadmar coming out of the tower, heavily wounded. He tries to move faster, his legs giving all they can. Luckily I'm blessed with my father's stamina..., he thinks, as he looks down to his cloak, already totally ragged and dirty at the bottom.
Kedarn Wednesday March 5th, 2003 8:39:31 PM
Kedarn seeing Cadmar gravely injured, Kedarn rushes over to Cadmar and will hand him a potion of cure light wounds while saying 'Drink.'
Wynn Brightsong (AC17; HP7) d20+2=20 d8+2=3 Wednesday March 5th, 2003 8:56:43 PM
Wynn spins to his right and flattens himself against the base of the tower as the bloodied Cadmar brushes past him.
"Stay with him and I will slow down any advance these foul creatures try to make" he cries to Lorth.
Wynn readies his sword and will strike down on any orc that pokes its boy out of the hole [hit AC20 for 3HP damage if hit].
Thram d20=4 Thursday March 6th, 2003 10:13:41 AM
Thram fires a stray arrow at the top of the tower just to let the orcs know that the group means business. Then he keeps an eye on the hole that Cadmar just came out of.
Seige? (DM Cayzle) d20=4 d20=7 [orc arrow misses] Thursday March 6th, 2003 11:47:17 AM
30 TO 60 ODD FEET FROM THE TOWER
The entire party except for Wynn takes cover among the trees about 40 to 70 feet from the tower. Garrard has a shield and dart ready. Cadmar uses all his movement to get in the trees and take cover. Lorth heals Cadmar for 3 hp of curing. Kedarn hands Cadmar a potion of Cure Light Wounds(1d8+1, I presume). Thram fires at the orcs, but misses. Andrath preps an attack, but the orcs use never expose themselves enough. Elerinn finally catches up, 40 feet from the tower.
AT THE BASE OF THE TOWER
Wynn stays pressed against the wall of the tower, by the big hole, wanting to strike at any orc that pops out. But none do.
Two orcs expose themselves enough to fire at the main party (75% cover). But their arrows go far astray.
Cadmar AC15 HP4 Thursday March 6th, 2003 12:28:12 PM
Cadmar puts his back against a tree [going for total cover from the arrows, if possible!]. It takes him a moment to catch his breath. "I thought we surprised them! I never expected there was a blasted infantry formation waiting in! Thanks Lorth! Thanks Kedarn! Now that I'm no longer dying, let's save your potion - can somebody please heal me with a wand? Thanks Wynn- where's Wynn?"
Obviously there is more he would like to say, but there simply isn't enough time. So he just takes the bow off his back [move equivalent]. If he is healed to 8 HP or above, he will risk a shot at one of the orc archers [standard action, +2 to hit, 1d8 damage], while trying to maintain as much cover as possible.
Kedarn d8+1=7 Thursday March 6th, 2003 1:07:45 PM
Kedarn tells Cadmar "Ok, just a moment" as he pulls out the wand and uses it to heal Cadmar (7 hp.) Kadmar then puts up the potion while staying under cover.
Lorth Thursday March 6th, 2003 2:00:02 PM
Lorth puts the biggest tree in the immediate area between him and the tower, sits down to catch his breath, and unshoulders his pack. "Friends, I'm sorry, Im not much use at ranged battles. If anyone has an idea about how we should approach this, please share." ...he gulps some air... "Someone yell to Wynn to get some cover."
Elerinn d4+1=4 Thursday March 6th, 2003 6:16:08 PM
Elerinn first tries to get some cover, maybe behind a tree close to the tower. After he is somewhat protected from incoming arrors, he gestures, and invokes a colored ball from his hands, and hits one of the orcs standing inside the tower.
Damage: 4
Andrath Friday March 7th, 2003 12:02:23 AM
Andrath calls out in common, "Do we storm the tower, or do we just starve them out?" He continues to hold his action until one of the orcs shows himself enough for a shot. [OOC: +5 to hit, 1d8+3 damage]
Garrard Friday March 7th, 2003 12:09:49 AM
Garrard will close slowly, waiting for an orc to show itself (at at least 75% cover), and will hurl a dart if this occurs.
(+3 to hit, d4+2 damage)
Wynn Brightsong (AC17; HP7) Friday March 7th, 2003 8:37:32 AM
Wynn remains pressed against the base of the tower where he has some cover from the orcs above.
"Damn, this is a real fix I'm in" Wynn thinks to himself. "If I run for it I'm likely as not to get an arrow for my troubles...but if I stay here?"
Wynn stays alert to any signs of orcs exiting the hole, in which case he will strike with all his might.
If opportunity presents itself, he will run for the cover of the trees. Either a diversion from his friends or a sudden flurry of arrows from the orcs (thus needing time to reload) will serve his pupose. Wynn will take a route to the trees that does not leave him exposed to the orcs in the hole.
Thram Friday March 7th, 2003 12:01:53 PM
Seeing Wynn's predicament and not being able to do much with the bow, Thram starts yelling insults at the orcs in an effort to distract them.
"Your mother was a pig!"
"I've seen tougher goblins."
"You look like a dwarf."
"You couldn't hit the broadside of a castle with an arrow."
Orc Falls (DM Cayzle) d20+1=5 [Garrard's dart at range misses] d20+5=21 [Andrath's arrow just hits for ...] d8+3=8 [... damage] d20+2=3 [Cadmar misses] Friday March 7th, 2003 3:46:35 PM
One of the rooftop orcs, angered, maybe, by Thram's insults, reveals enough of himself to fire a shot (75% cover). Thus he faces a magic missile from Elerinn, arrows from Andrath and Cadmar, and a dart from Garrard. The dart and Cadmar's arrow fly wide, but the magic missile and Adnrath's arrow hit dead on -- and dead is the operative word here, as the orc falls.
The other roof orcs shout out, "They got Maluree!" They stay thereafter (for now at least) all at 100% or 90% concealment.
Garrard (AC: 17, HP:9) Friday March 7th, 2003 7:11:01 PM
Garrard palms another dart, and continues advancing to his associates, shield ready.
"Can anyone speak enough of the tongue of thsoe within to negotiate with them?"
Andrath Friday March 7th, 2003 10:51:43 PM
Andrath replies to Garrard, "Yes, I speak their foul tongue. I suggest we surround the tower to keep them bottled in, and then we convince them to lay down their weapons and leave peacefully."
Then he calls out to the orcs, in orcish, "We have killed one of your party, as a reprisal for your unprovoked attack. If you stay in the tower, we will slaughter you one by one like rats in a cage. We give you one chance to lay down your weapons and walk away peacefully, or we will be forced to come in after you. You can leave now with your lives, or you can end up feeding the vultures like your buddy Maluree. We are authorized by the owner of the tower to be here, and we order you to leave now!"
Andrath continues to aim his bow at the tower, and if any of the orcs make any offensive actions, and are visible enough to shoot, Andrath will try to shoot another one.
Lorth Saturday March 8th, 2003 1:51:37 PM
Lorth catches his breath and continues to hide himself behind the tree. He waits until the rest of the party comes up with a plan of attack and will follow whatever it is.
Cadmar AC15 HP11 Sunday March 9th, 2003 3:54:49 AM
Cadmar sighs with relief when the curative magic seals his wound. "Thank you, Kedarn. I hope they will go for it, Andrath. This would be the best solution to our little problem. Maybe if we subtly hinted that more humans are to show up?"
With that, he yells in Common: "Sarge, send a runner to Barringer's platoon! Tell them to haul their buttocks here right now! Bring heavy crossbows!"
Cadmar notches another arrow and observes the tower. Once he is sure no orc archers are waiting for a target, he motions with his hand to Wynn.
If any orc tries to hurt Wynn when he covers the distance to the trees, Cadmar will shoot at him [ready action, one shot at +2 to hit, 1d8 damage].
Kedarn (AC16 HP11) Sunday March 9th, 2003 11:25:52 AM
Kedarn looks to Cadmar and says "I will try to get a better shot at them from one of the trees." Kedarn quickly adds "why don't we try to smoke them out. I don't like the idea but it might work for us."
Kedarn quickly moves to another tree that will provide him with a better angle on the hiding place of the orcs on top of the tower. With the tree between him and the orcs Kedarn will climb up into the tree to try for a better shot at the orcs. once up into a perch Kedarn will ready an arrow in his bow in case an orc becomes visable for a shot.
Wynn Brightsong (AC17; HP7) Sunday March 9th, 2003 12:33:07 PM
Wynn hears the dull thud of the orc's body hitting the ground at the base of the tower and sees his companions making ready to provide covering fire. He dashes for the treeline at an angle from the hole in the tower so the orcs inside will not readily see his departure and would have to expose themselves to fire upon him. Assuming Wynn makes the trees without incident he will take cover behind the largest nearby tree.
[OOC: Wynn's speed is 20' with medium load - 80" running]
Elerinn Sunday March 9th, 2003 2:24:11 PM
Elerinn quietly waits behind the tree while he waits to see if the orcs respond to Andrath proposal. If he sees one of the orcs doing anything hostile, he will shoot another Magic Missile at that creature.
Stalemate? (DM Cayzle) Monday March 10th, 2003 12:08:11 PM
Wynn makes it to the cover of the trees safely.
You hear a voice call out in orcish -- "Why don't you come in here and make us, stupid humans!"
You hear orcish laughter after this comment.
Cadmar AC19 HP11 Monday March 10th, 2003 2:35:41 PM
Not sure what the creature said, Cadmar has to wait until someone translates. When he learns what was told, his face reddens up.
"They are very confident. There might be more of them waiting inside. Well, before we storm the tower, we need to take out the archers on the top. Fire is the last resort; I think the mage wouldn't appreciate it at all if his research went up in flames."
"Someone has to act as a bait. I volunteer - can someone lend me a shield? I have a bow and a quiver of arrows I can leave behind for you to use. I guess I could take the ladder and the axe, make it for the hidden door, and start chopping. That is bound to get their attention. If I am careful I should survive their fire, but I think another person should come with me, just in case it comes to the worst and a body has to be dragged back. We could take one of the wands with us to heal up in the field as needed."
UNLESS SOMEONE SUGGESTS HE SHOULD NOT CARRY OUT THIS PLAN, CADMAR WILL:
1. Leave the bow and the quiver behind. 2. Get a shield (if someone lends it to him). 3. Get the ladder and the axe. 4. Put the axe on his belt. 5. While covering himself with the shield, he will start dragging the ladder to the tower. He will deliberately go slow, covering perhaps 20ft per round. All that time he in on total defense [+4AC].
[If he has a shield, his AC might be even higher. This is a list of actions for a couple of rounds, but for now all is quiet, so hopefully it might be possible to carry them out. If orcs show up on the top, or orcs rush out of the base of the tower, he will need to evaluate the situation and modify the plan. How far from the hidden door is the large hole in the base?].
Garrard Monday March 10th, 2003 3:40:35 PM
Garrard says quietly, "Before we do anything, how many have we seen, what is their armnament, and are we willing to cut them all down in pursuit of this goal?"
"I am willing to go with you and cover you with my shield, but if there are any opponents besides the archers, we should deal with them first, and decisively. If we can combat them without moving into the area the archers can shoot into, we could split their forces."
Elerinn d4+1=2 Monday March 10th, 2003 4:53:10 PM
Elerinn nods and whispers to Cadmar: "If you go near the tower, these archers will, most likely, shoot at you, and I can do some damage to one of them, I think. Is there anyone else capable of ranged attacking?"
If Cadmar decides to carry out his plan, Elerinn will concentrate on the orcish archers inside the tower, and try to fire a magic missile at one of them, if one of them reveals himself.
Wynn Brightsong (AC17; HP7) Monday March 10th, 2003 8:02:22 PM
Wynn responds to Cadmar's plan with approval.
"A bold plan cousin" he says " Alas I am of little use here in the trees, my sling could scarce reach the bottom of the tower from here. It looks like I must return with you. Perhaps if I went back to my position by the hole I could be useful in ensuring no orcs could easily charge out?"
"Damn, I wish I had just stayed put...still I wouldn't have known the plan, and I can always steady the ladder Wynn thinks to himself.
"Assuming that the orcs do take the bait, what then...how do we proceed?"
Andrath Monday March 10th, 2003 11:04:28 PM
Andrath also whispers to Cadmar, "We have two major problems with any attack: first are the orc archers that will attack us as we move towards the tower, and second are the orcs waiting for us to enter. At least three of them are waiting at the hole to ambush us as we enter. Do you think that you can chop your way into the door partway up the wall? It may take you a little while. I will use my bow, and shoot any of the orcs that try to poke their heads over the wall. Maybe we can beat them in a war of attrition. They may well be willing to surrender, if we can take a couple more of them out.
He continues to hold his action, aiming his bow at the tower, watching for any orcs to show enough of themselves to be shot at. If any orc gives a big enough target he will shoot at it.
Kedarn Tuesday March 11th, 2003 1:43:36 AM
Kedarn listens to Cadmar and the others then quietly says "I will continue to cover you from here."
Kedarn will continue to watch the tower for an orcs that present a target. if any do he will attempt to shoot the orc with his bow.
Lorth (AC 16; HP 13) Tuesday March 11th, 2003 8:48:23 AM
Lorth looks at Cadmar, "I'm no use in the trees, I will come with you also." Lorth shoulders his pack, and places his shield above him. (OOC: Going full defense also +4 AC, making my AC 20, I will help Cadmar with his plan)
Thram Tuesday March 11th, 2003 10:29:23 AM
"Why go up the ladder and not just enter through one of those big holes at the bottom? How many orcs were in there anyway?"
Creeping to the Tower (DM Cayzle) Tuesday March 11th, 2003 5:18:19 PM
Since Thram is suggesting that Cadmar not carryt out his plan (or at least, is questioning it), the group pauses to discuss the situation for another minute.
Does anyone lend Cadmar a shield?
Who is going with him? Lorth? Garrard?
Cadmar cannot use the shield AND carry a 12-foot wooden ladder both at the same time. Two or three people could carry a ladder and use shields. Plus one person could chop and the other one or two brace the ladder. Bracing and chopping with a shield might be tough ...
[OOC: Really sorry for the late posting today. A crazy day for me!]
Andrath Tuesday March 11th, 2003 7:30:43 PM
Andrath continues to hold his action to try to peg any of the orcs that show enough of themselves to risk a shot. He whispers, "Anyone that can't shoot a missile weapon, charge the tower. I can shoot this bow fairly well, so I will keep their heads down. And I am sure there are others of us that can shoot at the orcs as well. When you get to the base of tower, we will decide what to do then. Hopefully, more of the orcs will have been killed by then."
Garrard Tuesday March 11th, 2003 8:14:46 PM
Garrard nods to Andrath, and gets ready to move with Cadmar, and cover him with his shield. If needed, he will lend a hand with the ladder.
Cadmar AC15 HP11 Wednesday March 12th, 2003 4:55:53 AM
"I have seen three orcs armed with swords waiting inside. There might be more. Right, we need a plan." Cadmar thinks for a moment.
"I think we should take out the orc archers first. If we start with the base of the tower, any withdrawal of the wounded will be very dangerous. A small group of us should fake an attempt to breach the door to the tower - the one covered with the illusion. The goal is to provoke the orcs on the top into revealing themselves. If the orc swordsmen charge, this group should withdraw."
"We'll need as much firepower as possible. Anyone with missile weapons should stay in the trees, ready to shoot at the orcs if they reveal themselves. Even if the weapon is only a dart or sling. Let's see: I have a bow, Elerinn has his spells, Wynn has a sling, Andrath and Kedarn have bows, Garrard has darts, Thram has a bow. Lorth is the tougest here and should probably go with the ladder. But we need at least one person to go with it! Uh... where is Brontinas?"
"Here is what I suggest. I am not a very good shot, but I am rather tough. I will go with Lorth and the ladder. The rest of you will wait in the trees and try to take out the orc archers. We will only fake an assault attempt; if the orcs swarm out of the tower we will withdraw. We will take one of the wands of healing with us - both of us can use it, so if one of us is dropped, the other can heal him up. We will take the ladder slowly to the illusion covering the door, and then I'll hold and Lorth will chop. If orcs show up, we will cover ourselves with shields and let you do the job. If the orcs charge us, we'll leave the ladder and withdraw. Does that sound acceptable? If so, somebody lend me a shield and let's get moving! I swear, the next thing I'm going to buy is a nice tower shield."
[If the plan is accepted, Cadmar will carry the ladder with Lorth while on total defense - bringing his AC to 20 or better if he has a shield. If would be best to move slowly, perhaps 15ft per round.]
Kedarn Wednesday March 12th, 2003 5:37:24 AM
Kedarn nods to Cadmar after listening to the plan that he laid out. Kedarn then pulls out the wand and passes it over to Cadmar while saying "I will cover you as best I can. Here is the wand that I have in case you need it."
Kedarn then takes careful watch on the tower for any orcs that might present a target . If any orcs do appear he will take a shot at them.
Kedarn tries to figure out about what time it is.
Lorth Wednesday March 12th, 2003 7:33:31 AM
Lorth grabs one end of the ladder and positions his shield above his head, with his free arm. "Ok, I'm ready. Domi protect us."
(OOC: I go as best total defense as I can, while carrying the ladder. When we get the ladder up at the tower, I strap my shield to my back, climb the ladder and start to chop. I try to position myself against the tower so that the orcs will have to shoot straight down to hit me, thus revealing themselves.)
Wynn Brightsong (AC17; HP7) Wednesday March 12th, 2003 8:26:21 AM
Wynn decides to wait in the trees for the moment. He is sure that his sling with only a 50' range will be useless against the orcs atop the tower.
Should Cadmar and Lorth reach the base of the tower with the ladder Wynn will race over to join them. If orcs from inside the tower attempt to rush out and interfere with the ladder company Wynn will also go out to their defense
Thram d20+4=15 d6=2 Wednesday March 12th, 2003 11:25:20 AM
"I'm better with fists, but I'm a fair shot with a bow. So, I could work either place. It seems firing arrows is the best place for me now, but I'll come running if you call for me."
"And I'd give you a shield if I had one."
Thram waits in the brush not much liking the plan for assaulting the tower, but he can't think of a better one. He waits with a bow and fires at any orc that exposes himself at least 25%.
(hits AC15 if the opportunity arises, 2dmg)
Missiles Fly! (DM Cayzle) d3=3 [Andrath shoots at Orc 3] d20+5=23 [and hits for] d8=5 [5 hp damage] d2=2 [Thram shoots at Orc 2] d20+2=15 [but misses] d2=2 [Kedarn shoots at Orc 2] d20+3=4 [and misses badly] d2=2 [Wynn shoots at Orc 2] d20=17 [and misses] d2=1 [Elerinn hits Orc 1 for] d4+1=5 [magic missile damage] d20=1 [Orc 2 misses Elerinn] d20-1=17 d20-1=12 d20-1=10 d20-1=1 d20-1=11 [Secret DM Rolls] d100=96 d100=85 d100=6 d100=34 d100=85 [More Secret DM Rolls] Wednesday March 12th, 2003 1:03:22 PM
The tower is 40 feet high. You are all about 50 feet from the tower base in the trees. The orcs atop the tower are about 65 feet from where you are taking cover. That's not too bad for the sling -- just a -2 to hit for being more than one range increment away. Thram's shortbow is also at -2, barely. But the range makes the darts a tough option -- -6 to hit with them!
[OOC Note: A weapon's range increment is not its limit. It is the distance for normal shooting. For each additional range increment, you take a -2 to hit. A sling is normal to 50 feet, -2 between 50 and 100 feet, -4 between 100 and 150 feet, etc.]
It is getting late in the day. Maybe an hour from now will see the sun set. You spent the whole day walking here.
Brontinas seems to have slipped away. Now that you mention it, did he even leave town with you? He must have his own business to attend to. [OOC: Dan stopped posting and has not replied to my e-mail messages. Jerry has written to him to tell him he is now out of the Wold unless or until he writes back.]
So the plan unfolds this way: Cadmar and Lorth are carrying the ladder out to the tower. Garrard is going with them to help shelter Cadmar in case of attack (I'll allow a +2 AC bonus per the Aid Another rule in the PHB).They will take three rounds, moving at 15, to get to the tower. The idea is to draw out the orcs on top of the tower so that the others in the party can shoot at them. The orc archers will have a +7 cover bonus to AC. The people on the ground behind trees will have a +4 cover bonus. Lorth and Cadmar will have +4 Total Defense AC bonuses. Garrard will have his normal AC bonus, but will give Cadmar an additional +2 AC bonus with his Aid Another action.
Garrard has leather armor and shield (AC 17). Cadmar has no armor or shield (AC 17 with total defense and aid another). Lorth has chain mail and a small shield (AC 20 with total defense).
Andrath (with bow), Elerinn (with spell), Thram (with shortbow at -2 to hit), Wynn (with sling at -2 to hit) and Kedarn (with bow) are ready to fire at the orc archers (AC 21 with scale mail and cover).
Round One The three carrying the ladder go 15 feet. An orc on the tower roof calls out a warning: "Here they come! With ladder!". No shots are fired yet. No orc offers a decent target.
Round Two The three carrying the ladder go another 15 feet. Three orcs rise to shoot. The people in the trees fire at them. In Dex order: Andrath drops Orc 3 with a dead on hit. Thram misses Orc 2. Kedarn misses Orc 2. Wynn misses Orc 2. Elerinn hits Orc 1 and drops him with a magic missile. Orc 2 laughs as missles fly past him. "Ha ha!" he shouts in orcish, "You can't hit me!" He shoots and misses so widely that there is no way to know who he was targetting! Then he ducks back down out of sight.
Round Three and After The three carrying the ladder travel the final 15 feet. They spend a couple rounds finding the hidden door. Another round to put the ladder up. Then Lorth is up on the ladder and chopping.
Any new actions at this point?
[OOC SIDE NOTE: Our very own Garrard and Elerinn are speaking in the Giggling Ghost debate at this very moment. It might be nice if their fellow Cin Valleyites popped in to show support (and to vote -- NOT for your friends, but for the best speaker!). Yes, I admit it, I am myself running the mini-adventure, and this is my heavy-handed way to push you guys to enter and participate! I will feel bad if no one votes but the speakers themselves! And when DMs feel bad, well, naturally their players tend to feel bad too. Muahaha!]
Garrard Wednesday March 12th, 2003 1:52:52 PM
Garrard will draw his scimitar when he reaches the base of the tower, and hold his attacks in preparation of any orcs rushing the ladder.
Cadmar AC15 HP11 Wednesday March 12th, 2003 2:51:58 PM
Cadmar holds the ladder down for Lorth. "Careful when the door yields! They are bound to be waiting for us with swords drawn! Where did they go? I don't like this silence!"
"I think we should wait for others before we enter."
[OOC: What happened to Cadmar's new chainshirt? Please check the archives, volume 2, chapter 1, last post. And, uh, it's not because of lack of interest that Cadmar left the GG. I was actually looking forward to the discussion, but Cadmar simply won't tolerate the presence of a servant of Marteaus, so it was either leave or start a fight.]
[OOC: Sorry! My Bad! I was looking at an old PC Sheet! -- Cayzle]
Elerinn Wednesday March 12th, 2003 4:26:32 PM
Elerinn runs to the tower, and waits for his turn to climb the ladder into the tower. He looks at the tower, trying to determine how many orcs there are right now.
(OOC: If you guys didn't understand my post in the Giggling Ghost, I perfectly understand that. Sometimes, when you need to describe or explain something, having English as your second language can be really annoying...)
Andrath Wednesday March 12th, 2003 4:36:05 PM
[OOC: FYI Cayzle, Andrath is +3 damage with his +3 mighty composite longbow.]
Andrath moves out from behind the trees, and advances his full move of 30' towards the tower, holding his fire until another orc appears and tries to shoot. [OOC: I presume this is OK: a regular move, and hold my attack action to attack if a target appears.] He calls out in orcish, "Two more of you are down! We are all still standing! Do the rest of you really think you will beat all of us? Come out without your weapons, and with you hands in the air, or, if we have to come in there, there will be no mercy!"
Then he calls out in common, "Let's all move to the tower. Anyone with missile weapons, keep them trained on the tower, and let's get that last pig-face."
Wynn Brightsong (AC17; HP7) Wednesday March 12th, 2003 5:29:38 PM
Wynn heeds Andrath's words and runs for the base of the tower, sling and bullet in hand.
"Lie naa curucuar mellonamin" [you are a skillful bowman my friend] he says to Andrath on the way by.
Wynn will keep an eye on the tower and attempt to dodge[+1 to AC] any attack from whichever orc shows itself first.
Thram Thursday March 13th, 2003 12:57:07 AM
Thram follows Andrath with his bow trained on the tower top. He really hopes that there aren't 50 orcs behind that door, or that that they aren't about to pour boiling oil over the top of the tower, or...
Lorth Thursday March 13th, 2003 8:44:46 AM
Lorth continues to chop away at the door until told otherwise.
Kedarn d20+3=19 Thursday March 13th, 2003 9:39:05 AM
Kedarn continues to watch for any oppertunities to shoot the orcs.
THUMP (thump) THUMP (thump) THUMP (thump) (DM Cayzle) Thursday March 13th, 2003 4:39:03 PM
Here is the location of each person:
Elerinn - base of tower, at ladder. Andrath - near base of tower, ready to shoot. Wynn - base of tower, ready to shoot. Thram - near Andrath, ready to shoot. Lorth - chopping at the door Kedarn - in trees, ready to shoot Cadmar - still bracing ladder. Garrard - holds scimitar ready and looks for rushing orcs.
No orcs are to be seen or heard. It would be hard to hear them, anyway, over the noise of the door chopping. But you do hear a weird echo -- every time Lorth thumps at the door, there is another thump back. To Lorth, it feels like something is hitting the door from the inside each time he hits it.
Lorth is making progress. It would go faster, but with that illusion in place, you can't really see exactly what impact you are having. Another minute, though, and Lorth should start to break through!
Actions? Everybody make a spot check, please.
[OOC: If I have a chance, I'll e-mail you a rough sketch of the situation. Bob, what's your e-mail addy?]
Wynn Brightsong (AC17; HP7) d20+2=19 Thursday March 13th, 2003 6:05:04 PM
Wynn pockets his unspent bullet and loops the sling around his belt. He remains pressed against the wall and pulls his longsword in anticipation of the door being broken in. He nervously scans the area, feeling just a bit vulnerable [Spot = 19]
To help calm his nerves and pluck up his courage he begins to sing a tune he heard from a fellow bard in a distant part of the Wold.
Wynn starts quietly, gradually getting louder. The lilting sound of his voice sweeps over the party [OOC:Bardic music to inspire courage in himself and the party; +1 to attack and damage rolls]
Here's forty silvers on the drum For those who'll volunteer to come To list and fight our foes today Over the hills and far away
O'er the hills and o'er the plains We battled orcs till none remained The gods command and we obey O'er the hills and far away
Garrard, AC: 17, HP: 9 d20+3=22 d20+14=25 Thursday March 13th, 2003 6:20:04 PM
Garrard edges around the tower about five feet, holding his attack and hoping to be able to see if any beings emerge from the far hole.
(Garrard's spot check: 22, hawks spot check, for what its worth: 25)
Andrath d20+13=30 Thursday March 13th, 2003 6:30:11 PM
Andrath moves closer to the tower, about 20' directly behind Lorth and the ladder. He keeps his bow drawn, and aimed at the tower in general. He shifts his eyes between the chopped door, and the hole at the base of the tower. If he cannot see the hole, he will keep an eye in that direction. He will hold his action until he sees an orc worth shooting at. [OOC: Spot check roll of 30.]
Thram d20+6=16 Thursday March 13th, 2003 9:05:55 PM
While he waits with his bow, Thram wonders if anybody tried to find a handle on the door before Lorth started in with the axe.
[spot check = 16]
Kedarn (AC:16 HP:11) d20+5=23 Friday March 14th, 2003 2:17:19 AM
Kedarn moves to whre he is about 20' from where Lorth is maintaining a view of the large hole and the top of the tower. If Kedarn see a possible shot at an orc he will take it.
(spot check = 23)
Cadmar AC15 HP11 (Inspire Courage) d20+5=8 Friday March 14th, 2003 3:52:44 AM
[Spot 8] Cadmar still holds the ladder, making sure Lorth has a stable base to stand on. When Wynn starts singing, Cadmar smiles wide and starts to hum along, for he does not know the words.
"Maybe these are not orcs we are fighting? Remember whom we were supposed to find in the tower?"
Follow the Bouncing Ball! (DM Cayzle) d20=16 [Roll to get the gremlin's BAB] d20+16=24 [Gremlin's roll to hit] d3=3 [Roll to see what kind if save] d10+10=14 [Roll for DC] d8=4 [Roll for result] Friday March 14th, 2003 2:07:54 PM
Wynn's singing buoys everyone's spirits.
Thram remembers that the wizard told them the door was magically locked and they would have to break it down.
Lorth keeps a-chopping, and breaks through! In fact, with a couple more chops, the door falls apart. But to tell that he has to poke his head through the illusion of the wall that covers the door (that covers the doorway, more accurately!)
He glances in and sees a blue hairy sphere, about four feet in diameter, bouncing around the room! It was evidently waiting for Lorth to break through, because the first thing it does is bounce right at him! It hits dead on! Lorth, please make a Will Save vs DC 14 or, on your turn, the first thing you do is drop anything that you hold (as a free action) -- that's the ax, i assume, and your shield if you were weilding it. You can then pick up an item after that as a move-equivalent action that provokes attacks of opportunity. Or you can take any other normal action.
The others see Lorth enter through the illusion and hear a strange "PWOCK!" Does Lorth say anything?
At the end of this round, Kedarn, Garrard, and Andrath see an orc peek out of the big hole -- but not enough to present a target!
Is anyone n the ladder? Is anyone trying to ascend?
Actions!
Thram Friday March 14th, 2003 3:05:59 PM
"Everyone up and in. I'll cover us."
Thram waits for a few more to go in and he keeps watching for orcs to shoot.
Garrard AC: 17, HP:9 Friday March 14th, 2003 7:27:31 PM
Garrard maintains his position, gazing at the orc in what he hopes is an intimidating manner.
Wynn Brightsong (AC17; HP7; Inspire Courage) Saturday March 15th, 2003 3:07:40 PM
Wynn starts climbing the ladder, his longsword still in his right hand with the ends of the brown and black leather grip-wrap weaved between his fingers. He continues singing the next verses of the song in a rich strong voice that can be heard clearly at a distance...
When duty calls me I must go To stand and face another foe Though part of me will always stray Over the hills and far away
Through smoke and fire and foes we felled Unto the very walls of hell We shall stand and we shall stay Over the Hills and far away
O'er the hills and o'er the plains We battled orcs till none remained The gods command and we obey O'er the hills and far away
Cadmar AC15 HP11 (Inspire Courage) Sunday March 16th, 2003 10:38:13 AM
"Huh? What's going on? Lorth?"
Cadmar is not sure what is happening, but given that he already has two people on the ladder, he continues to hold it firmly in place.
Kedarn (AC:16 HP:11) Sunday March 16th, 2003 2:40:58 PM
Kedarn walks quickly over to the ladder. After reaching the ladder Kedarn casts Protection from Chaos on Cadmar.
Elerinn Sunday March 16th, 2003 4:45:25 PM
Elerinn waits his turn nervously and then, starts to climb the ladder. Wynn's song manages to relax him, and he looks at him while his lips silently form the words: "Nice one, Wynn..."
Elerinn, once inside the tower, remembers it is better not to use magic on the mysterious creature inside the tower, and decides to wait to see what Lorth is going to do.
Lorth d20=14 Sunday March 16th, 2003 8:31:26 PM
(OOC: Sorry, thought I posted friday. Lorth's shield was strapped to his back, when I went up the ladder, as I posted a few days back. I made WILL SAVE DC 14 + my bonus's which I don't have with me at the moment.)
Lorth steps in the room, and readies his warhammer from his belt and shield from his back. "There is some sort of blue furry ball up here, it's throwing itself at me, no idea what it is."
(I take the full round to ready my shield and hammer, not sure if I provoke an OOP since I'm not picking stuff up off the ground.)
The Shiny Silver Ball? (DM Cayzle) d3=3 [how any are to be attacked] d10+10=20 [roll for AC] d8=8 8d8(1+5+5+2+6+5+2+3)=29 d10=5 [secret DM rolls] Monday March 17th, 2003 10:07:22 AM Folks, please post your AC and current HP in your post name!
Elerinn, Lorth, and Wynn are now up and in the tower. Lorth, unaffected by the thing's attack, readies hammer and shield, putting away the ax. Cadmar is holding the ladder. Kedarn is standing next to him. Garrard, Andrath, and Thram are ready to fight the orcs, should they advance.
The orc peeks out every now and again, but never with less than 90 percent cover. He seems to be squinting.
Inside the tower, the shiny silver ball flies all over the place and bounces around, trying to contact Elerinn, Lorth, and Wynn. If you like, you three can take an attack of opportunity on the ball as well as your normal action, if you have a weapon ready. The ball's AC is 20.
If you cast a spell, please roll 1d20 +1 first.
Lorth d20+3=7 d20+3=13 Monday March 17th, 2003 10:59:41 AM
Lorth hauls off and swings at the ball at every opportunity, it did try to attack him, he thinks.
(OOC: 1st swing for my OOP, and then regular swing, 7 and 13 misses.)
Cadmar AC15 HP11 (Inspire Courage, Protection from Chaos) Monday March 17th, 2003 2:32:54 PM
"A gremlin, huh?" Cadmar's eyes narrow. Now that there is protection on him, he feels he should be the one putting his neck at risk, so he climbs the ladder [Move equivalent?] and takes off his old cloak [Move equivalent] readying himself to catch the ball. Trying to draw its attention away from others, he points and shouts: "Right, come here you little fella-"
Elerinn AC: 12 HP: 8 d20-2=0 Monday March 17th, 2003 3:16:48 PM
Elerinn, remembering what the wizard said about spells, grabs his dagger and tries to hit the silver ball with it, but misses.
OOC:(And how, hitting AC 0...)
Garrard Monday March 17th, 2003 3:40:28 PM
Garrard continues to hold his attack, smiling a little as the song bolsters his spirits.
(OOC: Nice adaptation of the song. Took me a little while to place it. Also, Cayzle, I assume the spell penetration feat would help that d20+1 roll?)
Wynn Brightsong (AC17; HP7; Inspire Courage) d20+3=12 d20+3=19 Monday March 17th, 2003 6:10:20 PM
Wynn swings a bit wildly as the silver ball whizzes by his head and then takes a more deliberate swing, narrowly missing the gremlin as it swerves at the last minute.
All the while Wynn continues his song...
So fall in lads behind the drum With colors blazing like the sun Along the road to come what may Over the hills and far away
O'er the hills and o'er the plains We battled orcs till none remained The gods command and we obey O'er the hills and far away
Kedarn (AC:16 HP:11 Inspire Courage) Monday March 17th, 2003 8:34:33 PM
Kedarn casts Protection from Chaos on Garrard. After casting the spell Kedarn readies his bow again and watches for any orcs that might decide to come out and attack the party.
Andrath (AC17, HP8, Courageously inspired) Tuesday March 18th, 2003 12:44:19 AM
Andrath throws his bow over his shoulder, and draws his sword, moving to flank one side of the hole opening at the bottom of the tower. He looks over at Kedarn and says, "Grab your melee weapon and cover the other side of this hole. That way, we can flank any orc that is coming out, and give them a bit of their own medicine! If nothing shows its ugly face, we may have to go in. Also, is anyone else finding it a bit odd that there are both orcs and weird gremliny balls of energy living together in this tower? I would think that they would have tried to thrash each other to pieces by now. What gives?" [OOC: If there is still the opportunity, Andrath holds his action to whack whatever sticks its head out through the hole, provided it isn't a party member, of course.)
The Dimpled Blue Ball? (DM Cayzle) d20=5 [Gremlin's BAB?] d20+5=24 [Att on Lorth] d3=2 [What save?] d10+10=18 [Roll for DC] d8=4 [Roll for result] d20=7 [Gremlin's BAB?] d20+7=18 [Att on Elerinn] d3=3 [What save?] d10+10=12 [Roll for DC] d8=1 [Roll for result] d20=16 [Gremlin's BAB?] d20+16=24 [Att on Wynn] d3=2 [What save?] d10+10=20 [Roll for DC] d8=3 [Roll for result] d10+10=16 [roll for AC] d10=9 [spell resistance] d8=5 5d8(7+5+5+8+2)=27 [Secret DM Rolls] Tuesday March 18th, 2003 11:35:20 AM
[Folks, please post your AC and current HP in your post name! That means you, Lorth and Garrard! And remember to add Wynn's +1 morale to hit bonus when attacking! Also to damage. And yes, Spell Penetration adds to that d20+1 roll for spell casting.]
In the tower:
Cadmar, Elerinn, Lorth, and Wynn are in the 20 foot diameter room, evidently a library. It is a round room, except on the far side away from the door, where the wall is flat and has a door in it. There is great disarray -- furniture overturned, books all over, etc.
Cadmar climbs into the room and prepares himself. Note that the protection of the spell -- if it is functioning to keep outsiders at bay -- will disappear if you try to confine, push against, or force yourself within one foot of the creature. You can attack normally with missile weapons or weapons longer than two feet (see the Protection from Evil spell description on summoned or conjured creatures). NOTE: You can decide in character how much of this Cadmar knows. If you can't decide, then make a Spellcraft or Int check vs DC 11 or so.
Wynn, Lorth, and Elerinn all swing and miss (Elerinn, remember to make your attack of opportunity next round).
The ball, flying around wildly, bounces into Elerinn, Lorth, and Wynn. All three are hit! Lorth, make a Reflex Save vs DC 18 or drop whatever you are holding. Elerinn, make a Will Save vs DC 12 or attack yourself (you succeed on any roll other than a natural 1 for normal damage). Wynn, make a Will Save vs DC 20 or flee at top speed for one round (doing so will subject you to an attack of opportunity, by the way!) Note: dropping things is a free action, attacking yourself is a standard action, which then allows a move or move-equivalent action, and fleeing is a full-round action.
That ends the first round of combat!
The dimpled blue ball continues to bounce around madly. You all gain attacks of opportunity on it (except Wynn if forced to flee) as we begin the second round of combat. For the second round, the gremlin's AC is 16 and its spell resistance is 9.
Outside the tower:
Kedarn, Garrard, Andrath, and Thram stand guard over the hole, ready to attack orcs who might emerge. Andrath is right by the hole, weapon drawn.
Cadmar AC15 HP11 (Inspire Courage, Protection from Chaos) d20+3=7 d20+1=18 d20+3=9 Tuesday March 18th, 2003 12:03:55 PM
[Int check: 7] Cadmar, not aware of the exact workings of the spell, decides to strike at the gremlin when it bounces by, and almost manages to land a kick [unarmed AOP:hits AC18:miss].
A moment later, seeing the ball slow down a bit, he takes a charging leap at it, trying to catch the gremlin in his cloak. "Yaaah!" Unfortunately, the little bugger manages to jump away just in time [Attempt to start a grapple: melee touch attack hits AC10, +2 charge bonus included, Inspire Courage not included].
[OOC: Uhm, the gremlin's AC is only 16 this round (it changes every round), so your kick (unarmed strike) hits! That does 1d3 + Str + 1 Inspire Courage in subdual damage -- go ahead and make another post to roll that, or let me do it tomorrow. Oh, and when the kick connects, the protection spell makes an audible POP as it dispels itself. -- Cayzle]
Garrard AC:15, HP:9, Protection from Chaos, Inspired Tuesday March 18th, 2003 1:02:28 PM
With a confused look to Kedarn, Garrard slings his shield across his back (move-equiv), and climbs the ladder.
Elerinn AC: 12 HP: 7 d20+3=11 d20-1=10 d4=1 d20-1=15 d20-1=16 d4=1 Tuesday March 18th, 2003 2:18:50 PM
Elerinn, when hit by the gremlin, feels the strangest sensation. Suddenly, the distinction between himself and his surroundings escapes him, and, in panick, he hits himself with his dagger. Luckily, he only scratches himself, and regains his sight.
(1 Damage for attacking himself with a failed Will save of 11)
Elerinn tries to hit the creature again, now also using the creature's wild, uncontrolled movements to his advancement. The first strike misses, but the second attack hits the creature, only lightly though.
(Hits gremlin for 1 damage)
Lorth AC: 16 HP: 13 d20+4=16 d8+3=11 d20+4=24 d20+4=23 d8+3=11 Tuesday March 18th, 2003 2:55:03 PM
As the blue ball flies towards Lorth he swings at it. A loud thwack is heard as he connects solidly. (OOC: As I understand it, I should get my attack of opportunity before the ball hits me, (If I am wrong let me know) so, OOP: Hit AC 16 for 11 points) The blue ball hits the wall reverses direction and flies right back at Lorth as he braces himself for impact. (OOC: Reflex save 24) The ball smacks into Lorth and bounces away, as Lorth swings at it again, and connects soundly. (Hit AC 23 for 11 points.)
(OOC: For everyone, I will be on vacation this friday and all of next week. I'm not sure what I should do, DM Cayzle? I'm open for suggestions as I don't know how this is normally handled. I am not against allowing someone to run my character)
[If anyone is going to be out on vacation, the best solution is for another player, maybe an assistant DM, to volunteer to fill in. Doing so nets the volunteer a small xp bonus as a thanks. Or I can run him as an NPC if no one steps up. Volunteers? E-mail me at cayzle@yahoo.com.]
Wynn Brightsong (AC17; HP7; Inspire Courage) d20+3=9 Tuesday March 18th, 2003 5:59:40 PM
Wynn on being struck by the ball is rattled. All he can think of is staying away from the ball and he moves to the farthest spot of the room from the ball.
Wynn's song comes to an abrupt end.
[OOC: Inspire courage lasts for 5 rounds after the song stops - not sure if the will save was against fear effect - if so I had a +5 bonus but it would not have mattered]
Kedarn (AC:16 HP:11 Inspire Courage) d20+5=19 Tuesday March 18th, 2003 7:30:03 PM
Kedarn puts up his bow and takes a position on the opposite side of the large hole from Andrath while he readies his longsword. Kedarn will strike at any orc that comes out the hole and tries to attack the group. Kedarn takes a quick look keeping as small of a exposure as possible (spot 19 Low-light & darkvision.)
Andrath (AC19 fighting defensively, HP8, Courageously inspired) d20=2 Tuesday March 18th, 2003 7:42:09 PM
Andrath looks across the hole at Kedarn, and says, "Well, friend, it looks like those pig-snout-faces aren't interested in coming out to play. What say you and I go in after them? There can't be more than 15 or 20 of them in total; should be easy pickings, orc ears for everyone! I can go first, but if there are a bunch of them in there, I might be in trouble, so get ready to come in fast! Also, when we get inside, it works best for me if we can try to flank opponents. We don't need to expose ourselves to attacks of opportunity, just shift around a bit, OK?"
Andrath goes into defensive mode [OOC: fight defensively PH pg. 124, +2AC, -4 to hit for this round], and hurries in through the hole. He swings wildly at the first orc that he sees [OOC: great to hit roll hitting AC2!] and readies himself to take a flurry of blows.
Cadmar AC13 HP11 (Inspire Courage, Protection from Chaos) d3+1=4 Wednesday March 19th, 2003 8:25:05 AM
[4 subdual damage to the blob. Also, Cadmar's AC is only 13 this round (I forgot about the penalty because of charge). Is it the whole protection spell that is dispeled, or just the effect of hedging out summoned outsiders?]
[The whole protection spell is down and gone. Sorry. -- Cayzle]
The Dispelled Ball? (DM Cayzle) d20=6 [Gremlin's AoO on Cadmar BAB?] d20+6=16 [Att on Cadmar] d3=2 [What save?] d10+10=11 [Roll for DC] d20+1=19 [Cadmar Saves] d20+3=17 d20+3=12 d20+3=7 [three orc misses on Andrath] Wednesday March 19th, 2003 2:26:35 PM
Cadmar kicks at the imp as it bounces by, and connects for 4 hp of subdual damage. He then attempts to grapple the bouncing ball-thing. Doing so provokes an attack of opportunity, which the ball tries but misses. Cadmar's grapple attempt fails too, unfortunately.
Wynn flees at full speed. He rushes down the ladder and out into the woods. He is now almost 100 feet from the tower. It will take him all of a round to get back into melee range.
Elerin hits himself and the beast, each for a single point of damage.
Finally, Lorth whacks the gremlin twice with really solid swipes! After the second blow connects, it winks out of existence, at least in this dimension!
Garrard climbs the ladder into the tower just in time to see the gremlin banished.
Kedarn and Andrath stand at the orc-hole and look at each other. Andrath runs in. He gets just five feet in when he is confronted with three orcs! He hits at one but misses. The three take attacks at him: The one directly in front attacks normally, but with regard to the other two, Andrath gets a cover bonus. All three miss the nible-footed Andrath.
Lorth Wednesday March 19th, 2003 2:38:09 PM
Lorth looks around and wipes the sweat from his forehead. He walks to the door and sticks his head outside to make sure Wynn is ok. (OOC: If Lorth notices Andrath and Kedarn fighting the orcs, Lorth climbs down to help, if not Lorth goes back into the tower and looks around.)
Cadmar AC15 HP11 (Inspire Courage) d20+7=24 Wednesday March 19th, 2003 2:45:13 PM
"By Domi, you are an army of one, Lorth!" Not aware of the fight going on downstairs, Cadmar stands up, dusts his pants, and puts on his cloak. Then he takes a good look around [Search 24].
Elerinn Wednesday March 19th, 2003 3:39:51 PM
"Nice thrust, Lorth!" Elerinn exclames, as he slowly relaxes himself somewhat. Before examining the rest of the tower, Elerinn walks back to the ladder and yells to those beneath: "The thing's defeated here. You can climb the ladder without trouble now."
Garrard AC:15, HP:9, Protection from Chaos, Inspired d20+3=14 Wednesday March 19th, 2003 4:17:59 PM
Garrard scans the area carefully, gripping his scimitar in both hands before him.
"Feorges mentioned more than one. We should be on our guard."
(Holding an attack, Spot check: 14)
Andrath (AC17, HP8, Courageously inspired) d20+4=23 d8+4=12 d20+9=20 Wednesday March 19th, 2003 5:25:49 PM
Andrath laughs at the futile attacks from the three orcs, and shouts out in orcish, "My little sister swings a sword better than you pig-faces! You call yourselves orcs! You are no better than pixies!" Then he drops his defensive stance and swings at the orc directly in front of him. He connects solidly, driving his sword through the orc's chest. [OOC: Hit AC23 for 12 hp damage.]
If the blow dropped the orc in front of him: Andrath shouts again in orcish, "Two orc ears are mine, four to go! Come and get me, you pixie girls!" He tumbles across the room, over the dead body of the orc he just hit, trying to avoid the blows of the orcs as he rolls past. [OOC: Tumble roll of 20 to avoid attacks of opportunity.] As he rolls, he calls out to Kedarn, "Kedarn, get in here fast, there are four orc ears for you to help collect!" Andrath tumbles up to the full 20', or until he hits the far wall or some other object blocking his move, whichever comes first, and turns to face the orcs.
If by some chance, his blow didn't drop the orc: Andrath tumbles back out of the hole and stands beside Kedarn. [OOC: Tumble roll of 20 to avoid attacks of opportunity for withdrawing after attacking.] "Yep, those three orcs are still in there, waiting just on the other side of the hole. I whacked one solidly in the chest, but he is still standing! If we want to get in that hole, we are going to have to find some way to distract them."
Greg to Dominic Wednesday March 19th, 2003 5:34:23 PM
Dominic, you may want to post two different actions for Kedarn: one as a result of Andrath killing the orc and tumbling into the room, and the other as a result of Andrath tumbling back out of the hole and not having killed the orc. You can use my post as an example of how to do this, if you want.
Wynn Brightsong (AC17; HP7; Inspire Courage) Wednesday March 19th, 2003 6:05:05 PM
Wynn finds himself standing among the trees, his breath coming in long deep gasps. It is only then that he realizes he has fled the battle.
"What have I done?" he thinks to himself. "What kind of a coward am I" he cries out. "I must go back and redeem myself he thinks before steeling his mind and beginning the trek back.
Wynn jogs back at 3/4 speed, wary of potential orcs atop the tower and equally concerned about how to explain his cowardly action. He fervantly hopes there will be opportunity to prove his courage both to his friends, and to himself.
Kedarn (AC:16 HP:11, Inspire Courage) d20+1=19 d8+1=6 Wednesday March 19th, 2003 6:48:05 PM
If upon hearing Andrath call out for Kedarn to come to his aid Kedarn enters into the fray attacking the nearest standing orc (hit AC 19 for 6 points of damage. As Kedarn enters into the fray Kedarn will Call out to the others that Andrath and himself are engaged in battle with the orcs.
If Andrath tumbles back out of the hole Kedarn will attack any orcs that follow Andrath out of the hole. If any orcs do come out as he is attacking Kedarn will call out that the orcs are attacking. If no orcs follow Andrath out of the hole Kedarn will stand ready. [OOC: what is the lighting conditions in the room through the hole?]
Thram (AC18, HP9, inspired) d20+5=10 Thursday March 20th, 2003 3:37:19 PM
Thram dashes into the hole to help out with the orcs there. He fires his bow point blank at the nearest orc. The shot is wretched though (AC10), so the monk drops the bow so that he can fight the way he knows best, hand to hand.
Orcs in Tight Quarters (DM Cayzle) d20+3=9 d20+3=6 [Two orc misses against Andrath] Thursday March 20th, 2003 4:07:48 PM
Elerinn calls out that the gremlin is defeated.
While Garrard stands watch, Cadmar takes a good look around the room. By the light of magical lanterns scattered about the room, he sees that the walls are lined with bookshelves, some with books on them, some empty, their books on the floor. There are two overturned chairs to the sides. The far wall has a door.
Lorth sees Wynn coming back. He also notices the activity around the hole and climbs down the ladder to check it out. Right now there is no room for him to get into that crowded hole.
Wynn comes back, slightly sheepish. He watches the top of the tower but sees nothing.
Andrath attacks, connects, kills an orc, and then moves into the room. Thanks to his tumbling, he presents no openings to the orcs on either side. He sees that this is a small but elegant living quarters, lit by magical lanterns. To the right is a spiral staircase, built into the wall of the tower, going up.
Kedarn enters the tunnel. He sees Andrath inside the room. There is an orc on either side of the tunnel mouth -- if he enters, he will suffer attacks of opportunity from both. Instead, Kedarn chooses to attack from within the tunnel -- even though the orcs will gain cover bonuses. Kedarn swings, but his attack is blocked by the side of the tunnel. [OOC: Next round you can use a five-foot step to enter the room and avoid attacks of opportunity. By the way, the Orcs are wearing scale and shield, for AC 16. That's AC 20 with the cover bonus. Also note that I don;t know if your attack included the +1 morale bonus from Wynn's singing. If not, too bad -- it is your job to remember to apply bonuses!]
Thram fires his bow into the very tight quarters -- the missile hits Kedarn and is deflected by his armor without damaging anything. Thram moves up, ready to attack if Kedarn moves forward and lets him in.
The two orcs take swings at Andrath. They seem quite angry. But their attacks fly wide.
Wynn Brightsong (AC17; HP7; Inspire Courage) Thursday March 20th, 2003 5:44:40 PM
Upon seeing that there is no room for further combatants in the lower part of the tower, Wynn climbs the ladder and re-enters through the illusion, calling out to those inside so as not to surprise them.
Perhaps I can help flush out the orcs at the top of the tower Wynn thinks to himself.
Garrard Thursday March 20th, 2003 5:53:44 PM
Garrard continues to stand watch, gripping his scimitar tightly in both hands. Under his breath he chants something in Sylvan over and over, with slight pauses between repeats.
"Then the archdruid raised his hand and closed his eyes, speaking in the ancient tongue. He spoke of Desecration walking, and of a Testing to come to disrupt the cycles of this land."
He appears calm, except for the tension and slight shake of his hands.
Pausing in this recitation, Garrard says in Common, "Do you have enough backpack space to pack up these materials, Elerinn, or shall I?"
Kedarn (AC:16 HP:11, Inspire Courage) d20+1=17 d8+1=5 Thursday March 20th, 2003 6:33:48 PM
Kedarn talks a half-move into the room closing on the nearest orc allowing Thram into the fight and attacks with his longsword. (ooc: 5 foot move)
Elerinn Thursday March 20th, 2003 6:59:05 PM
Elerinn, after he called the others(who are, without his knowledge, fighting two orcs), helps Wynn inside the tower. He answers Garrard, and says: "Maybe I was dreaming again, because I don't really understand what materials you are talking about, my friend..."
Andrath (AC17, HP8, Courageously inspired) d20+9=28 d20+4=8 Thursday March 20th, 2003 9:44:31 PM
Andrath makes either a 5' shift, or up to a 20' tumble [OOC: tumble roll of 28 to avoid opp. attacks] to move into position. He will try to use Kedarn to flank the orc that Kedarn did not hit. If he can't flank that orc, he will stay where he is and attack the undamaged orc. [OOC: Since that orc attacked him last round and is obviously still engaged with him.] He laughs at the two orcs struggling to hit him, and swings, but the blow glances off the orc's armour [OOC: Hit AC8, not good enough, even if flanking still only AC10]. He smiles at the orc and says in orcish, "OK, pig-snout, I will let you live a couple of seconds more. I suggest you drop your weapon and fall to your knees, or my friends and I will collect your ears as well!"
Cadmar AC15 HP11 (Inspire Courage) Friday March 21st, 2003 1:47:14 AM
"What's going on? What materials? Weren't we supposed to retrieve only two items? The mage might object to us plundering his house."
Realizing that it must be quite crowded down there right now, Cadmar tries the handle of the door. If the door opens, he will run down the stairs while drawing his scimitar.
Thram (AC18,HP9,inspired) d20+3=10 Friday March 21st, 2003 10:36:08 AM
Thram blurts out a sheepish, "Sorry!" as his arrow bounces off Kedarn.
Then he moves forward to attack. He takes up Kedarn's position from the last round and attacks Andrath's orc (hopefully giving his mate the ability to flank). He tries for a quick punch, but his fist thuds into that shield.
The monk shakes his hand in pain and chants, "Face not shield. Face not shield. Face not shield."
Last Orc Standing. (DM Cayzle) d20+3=12 [Orc misses] Friday March 21st, 2003 3:27:16 PM
Garrard, Elerinn, Cadmar, and Wynn are on the second floor, where the gremlin was. They find the door inside here also magically locked. It will need the ax.
Lorth stands outside on watch.
Kedarn makes room for Thram to enter and fight. Andrath attacks and misses. Kedarn attacks and hits, knocking one orc down. Thram attacks and misses the last orc. That last orc howls and attacks Andrath. He misses, and looks at the stairs going up.
Andrath (AC17, HP8, Courageously inspired) d20+4=21 d8+4=10 Friday March 21st, 2003 4:45:59 PM
Andrath, nods at the orc's choice, and then says in orcish, "Well, my smelly wimpy friend, you have made your choice." He swings at the orc, chopping deeply into the side of the creature. [OOC: Hit AC21 for 10 points of damage.] If he has dropped the orc, he moves over to the base of the stairs and calls out in orcish, "Anyone up there had better come down with their arms up, or we will come up and collect your ears, too!"
Wynn Brightsong (AC17; HP7; Inspire Courage) d20+4=8 Friday March 21st, 2003 6:57:11 PM
Wynn is anxious to try and prove himself before his companions. He listens at the door near the back of the room for signs of movement [listen = 8] and not hearing any obvious movement behind the door gives the handle a try. The handle does not budge and Wynn is forced to wait for assistance from the others. He fidgets with his longsword, spinning the leather wrapped grip in the palm of his hand.
Cadmar AC15 HP11 Saturday March 22nd, 2003 2:57:25 AM
"Mystery solved. The gremlin was locked in this room all the time, and orcs simply didn't bother to bash down the door from the inside."
Cadmar turns to the ladder and listens. "Sounds like Andrath is having fun. Well, I am not needed there. No need to break the second door, either, at least not at the moment. Most likely leads to the part of the tower taken over by orcs - others will be there soon enough. Can anyone recognize the spellbook we are looking for?"
Cadmar climbs down the ladder and approaches the hole at the base of the tower, but keeps respectful distance from the fighters, not wishing to get in the way. Leaning on the wall and still feeling a little dizzy, he starts to carefully remove dried blood from his hair.
Kedarn (ac:16 HP:11, Inapire Courage) d20+1=9 d20+3=21 Sunday March 23rd, 2003 2:11:49 PM
If the last orc is still standing Kedarn moves closer to the last orc trying to get either to his flank or behind him and attacks (hit ac:9.)
If no orcs remain standing. Kedarn looks around at the room. (search 21) Kedarn will clean his weapon while he is looking around the room.
Elerinn Sunday March 23rd, 2003 2:19:23 PM
Elerinn examines the room, and tries to find out what else there is besides the locked door. After that, he looks outside again, to scan the tower's surroundings for any other possible threat. When he looks at Cadmar 'cleaning' his hair, he shivers and thinks: It looks like he has done that before.
Garrard, AC:15, HP: 9, Inspired, Protection from Chaos Monday March 24th, 2003 1:27:31 AM
Garrard states, not quite relaxing, "My apologies. I was referring to the spellbook. Did anyone else remember Feorges using the plural in regards to the gremlins?"
Up in Arms (DM Cayzle) Monday March 24th, 2003 10:34:24 AM
Andrath kills the last orc handily and then calls out up the stairs. Wynn, listening at the door, hears Andrath's voice: "Anyone up there had better come down with their arms up, or we will come up and collect your ears, too!" Evidently Andrath really wants Wynn to come downstairs. Cadmar comes down to Andrath's level, with his arms up (as he fixes his hair).
Kedarn searches the lower room. It was a living quarters, now ruined by gremlin holes and orc sacking. There was nice furniture, interesting books, a couple cupboards. All is now hurled about.
Elerinn, on the second level, looks through what was the library. There are a couple of reading chairs, lots of shelves, and books -- all in disarray. But after an extended searching, he finds what must be the spellbook, over in one corner.
Thram Monday March 24th, 2003 11:51:42 AM
Thram retrieves his dropped bow and says, "We should get everyone together."
Cadmar AC15 HP11 Monday March 24th, 2003 12:43:20 PM
"We need to check if the upper levels are indeed empty. I suppose we will take care of that now? Well, Andrath, ff I can be of any assistance just tell me what to do."
Cadmar draws both of his blades. If someone is going up, Cadmar will follow (unless someone wants to be sneaky or has some other plan).
Elerinn Monday March 24th, 2003 1:44:30 PM
While Elerinn is searching the library for the spellbook, it is hard for him to keep concentrated. All these books, and just...the smell of the library brings back memories of his past life.
Just when the image of his father, reading him a story in the old library, enters Elerinn's mind, he sees something that looks like the spellbook the unfortunate wizard has lost.
Elerinn calls out to the others: "I think I found the spellbook here! Does anybody remember what else we have to collect in this tower?"
Kedarn d20+3=20 Monday March 24th, 2003 2:43:54 PM
Kedarn heads up to where Elerinn is and tells Elerinn "We need to find a flask as well." Kedarn then starts searching for the flask that was to be retrieved as well. (search 20)
Garrard d20+3=4 Monday March 24th, 2003 3:55:34 PM
Garrard follows Kedarn and Elerinn without speaking, viligant and still clutching his scimitar in both hands.
Internally, Garrard is wrestling with the current events. The group seems safe, but what of the other gremlins? What of the disorganized scattering of warriors away from those who needed protection during this skirmish?
He looks down at his scimitar as Kedarn continues to search, wondering as his own willingness to kill.
(Spot check: 4)
Andrath d20+9=20 Monday March 24th, 2003 7:33:28 PM
[OOC: Cyzle, if you have a look at my last post, you will see that Andrath called out his threat up the stairs in orcish, not in common.]
Andrath calls up the stairs, in common, "Anyone heading up higher had better be on the lookout for orcs. I think that there is at least one still up there. I counted 3 orcs shooting bows at us from the tower, and I only remember dropping 2 of them. I am searching the room down here as well. Lets work our way up, and leave no stone unturned."
Andrath carefully searches the room with the three dead orcs. He also searches the 3 orc bodies. [OOC: Search check of 20.]
Wynn Brightsong (AC 17; HP 7; Inspired) d20+3=17 Monday March 24th, 2003 9:13:46 PM
With no immediate way through the door at the back of the second level of the tower a frustrated Wynn searches the library looking for anything of value, any secret hiding places, or loose floorboards that may have been used by Feorges over the years[search=17].
Wynn shouts down to Andrath and the rest of the party "I will remain here at the door on the second level. Open it from your side on the way up!" You can be sure that no orc will flank you from in here"
Wynn continues to pry at loose bricks and floorboards while he waits.
"Now how am I supposed to redeem myself in front of my friends from behind a locked door? The harder I try the less useful I seem to become."
Wynn kicks at an overturned box in frustration.
Lorth Tuesday March 25th, 2003 12:46:29 AM
Lorth moves to the locked door, and hefts his axe, waiting for the group to reform before continuing.
Re-searching and re-grouping (DM Cayzle) Tuesday March 25th, 2003 11:54:01 AM
Thram gathers everyone together in the lowest level. Cadmar is ready to go up the spiral stairs. Elerinn brings the spellbook to the main group. Wynn and Kedarn look very well for the flask, but sees nothing that would fit the bill on the first or second level. There are the personal possessions of the wizard, but nothing in the flask department. Then they join the group at the base of the stairs on the lower level. Garrard joins the group as well. Andrath, having heard no sound from above, warns that there may be orcs on the third level. Lorth is ready with the group. Right now you are faced with a staircase that goes up to the third level.
Actions? Order?
Cadmar AC19 HP11 Tuesday March 25th, 2003 12:43:14 PM
"You got the spellbook? Great!"
"It seems that there is only one way to go now - upstairs. But how should we proceed? Fighters first, then the rest of us? I'll join the fighters, but I'll let tougher people walk ahead of me - if they want to."
When the group goes up, Cadmar will advance cautiously [total defense]. He will take the third place or so in the marching order.
Elerinn Tuesday March 25th, 2003 2:20:44 PM
"The flask should be upstairs, so..." Elerinn pauses, looking like he is trying to remember something. Looking back into the room, he says: "I don't think it's a really good idea for me to join Cadmar at the front. I'll just...cover you all!"
Elerinn smiles distantly, waiting for the others to go upstairs.
Lorth AC: 16 HP: 13 Tuesday March 25th, 2003 5:10:30 PM
Lorth takes a position in front of Cadmar, stowing his axe. He then readies his warhammer and shield. "Can anyone scout ahead and lead?"
Garrard, AC:17 HP:9 Tuesday March 25th, 2003 5:16:02 PM
Garrard retrieves his shield, and assumes a rear guard position. As he continues his watch, he thinks to himself, "When we return to town, perhaps it will be time to speak of purpose and a common philosophy. We should have a single understanding about killing and why we adventure together."
Wynn Brightsong (AC17; HP7) Tuesday March 25th, 2003 5:32:56 PM
Wynn steps in behind Cadmar, his longsword drawn in readiness.
Kedarn (ac:16 hp:11) Tuesday March 25th, 2003 6:15:50 PM
Kedarn redies himself for following the others up the rest of the way in the tower . Kedarn will follow behind Wynn with his longsword ready.
Andrath (AC21, 8 HP) d20+9=26 Tuesday March 25th, 2003 10:43:14 PM
Andrath steps in front of Lorth, and says, "Ah, scouting, my specialty." He leads the way up the stairs, keeping his eyes open for any problems (traps, tripwires, etc.) [OOC: Search roll of 26]. He assumes a defensive posture as he moves up the stairs [OOC: Full defense option, no attack allowed, +4 to AC, so AC21 as a result.]
Nobody Home! (DM Cayzle) Wednesday March 26th, 2003 11:28:21 AM
The party, led by Andrath, heads upstairs.
On the second level is a small landing and a door that leads to the library.
On the third level is a laboratory. It looks like every piece of glassware, every alchemical vessel, has been broken into small pieces. This place is a mess. There are no orcs. The stairs do continue up to a trap door, hacked to bits.
On the roof there is a dead orc and and a rope, tied to the broken trap door. The rope goes over the edge of the tower and down, on the side opposite of the door and hole you have been using.
Kedarn (ac:16 hp:11) d20+3=13 Wednesday March 26th, 2003 12:37:01 PM
Kedarn searches through the laboratory for the flask that is needed. (search 13)
Elerinn Wednesday March 26th, 2003 3:59:29 PM
Elerinn helps Kedarn, and while he is searching the chaotic laboratory, he says, looking at the rope: "There was still were still some orcs on this roof, when we went up, right? Better be on our guard when we leave this tower, perhaps they are still somewhere near if they left the tower using the rope."
Thram Wednesday March 26th, 2003 4:44:26 PM
Thram idly stares over the top of the tower for a few minutes while examining the scenery. After a moment he asks, "Hmmm, we're looking for a flask too? Did anyone see anywhere that it could have been? My guess is it was one of those smashed ones down stairs."
Garrard Wednesday March 26th, 2003 6:46:04 PM
Garrard will assist Andrath in searching, and if he doesn't, Kedarn.
As he does so, he states, "I hope the orc didn't take it with him as loot".
(+2 to skill check for character in question)
Lorth Wednesday March 26th, 2003 6:47:37 PM
Lorth moves through the tower, patrolling and using his detect evil to look for anything out of the ordinary.
Wynn Brightsong (AC17; HP7) Wednesday March 26th, 2003 7:53:15 PM
Wynn quickly agrees with Garrard..."Perhaps you could send your hawk to search for the Orc. It couldn't have gone to far with it's armour and all. We could probably chase it down!"
Wynn then turns to Elerinn and asks "Can your raven also search for Orc?"
Wynn paces anxiously while he waits for an answer, the chance of redemption quickly slipping from his grasp. He peers over the battlements atop the tower looking for signs of the orc.
Cadmar d20+7=8 Thursday March 27th, 2003 2:08:35 AM
"Are we going to let that orc get away? We shouldn't spend too much time in the tower, a couple of minutes maybe, no more, and if the flask is not found, we need to assume the orc took it and start a chase! He already might have a five minutes lead!"
Even as he speaks, Cadmar sheathes his weapons and begins a frantic search for the flask among the debris in the labolatory [Search 8].
Andrath Thursday March 27th, 2003 2:31:16 AM
Andrath rushes down the stairs to the bottom floor, calling out as he goes, "Those of you that can keep up [OOC: move at 30' or better], come with me! We need to catch that orc! Those of you that can't keep up, stay here and guard the tower. Wynn is right, the birds should be sent on ahead to try to find the missing orc. Let's go, he already has a head start!" Andrath runs out of the tower in the direction that he figures the orc took.
Flasks in Pieces (DM Cayzle) Thursday March 27th, 2003 3:40:08 PM
Kedarn, helped by Garard, Cadmar, and Thram, finds parts of at least four or five flasks. Broken flasks.
Elerinn and Wynn keep watch from the top of the tower for orcs.
Lorth does not detect any evil in the tower.
Andrath reaches the bottom of the tower. He has no idea which way the orcs went. (Track roll? Which way do you want to go?)
OOC: If you want to aid another, you have to make a check vs. DC 10 to give a +2 bonus.
Wynn Brightsong (AC17; HP7) d20=5 Thursday March 27th, 2003 4:37:04 PM
Wynn rushes down the stairs, eager to join Andrath in pursuit of any orcs.
"I think you should be looking for a metal flask, I seem to remember Feorge saying it was metal, even if he didn't I dont think glass alone would be strong enough to hold these gremlin creatures"
Wynn assists Andrath in searching for tracks or other clues that might indicate the direction the orc took [d20=5, not much help here].
Garrard d20+8=22 Thursday March 27th, 2003 5:00:01 PM
Garrard speaks a prayer in Sylvan quietly before beginning to look over the surrounding area for signs of the orc's passage.
"Mother Wold, I look with your eyes for the track of one who bears the result of an intrusion from another place. Please guide my efforts this day."
(casting Guidance spell, and using Wilderness Lore for tracking: 22)
While seeking out the track, he responds to Wynn, saying, "My hawk-friend can only understand a few words in my tongue, and today I cannot speak his. I do not think he could track the orc for us, but he might be able to spy the orc if he is hidden nearby our direction of travel.
Andrath d20=12 d20+8=26 Thursday March 27th, 2003 7:05:00 PM
Not having the ability to track, Andrath still looks on the ground, hoping to see something obvious that could give a general direction for the escaping orc. [OOC: I rolled a 12 for a skill check. I was not sure whether to use Wilderness Lore, which Andrath does not have, or Search, which he has +9 in.] He looks to Garrard and says, "Can you see anything? I have a funny feeling that we need to catch that orc. As I remember, his partners were wearing fairly heavy metal armour, so if he is wearing the same stuff, we should be able to catch him." [OOC: Cayzle, how long has it been since we think this orc climbed down the tower?]
While Garrard looks for fresh sign, Andrath moves towards the forest in the general direction of the side of the tower that the escape rope is on, and listens closely to hear for the orc crashing through the forest. [OOC: Listen check of 26.]
Lorth Thursday March 27th, 2003 9:17:01 PM
"I will be staying to guard the tower then. Who else will be?"
Thram Friday March 28th, 2003 12:20:20 AM
Thram nods at Lorth. He doesn't really see much point in chasing down a lone orc when they have what they were after... unless the orc took the flask, but that's a long shot.
Cadmar d20+5=11 Friday March 28th, 2003 1:48:45 AM
Cadmar runs down the stairs and starts to examine the trail [Tracking:Wilderness Lore 11]. If the trail is picked up, he will follow it at top speed. If the footprints are found, he will try to figure out how many creatures escaped and if they were indeed orcs.
Kedarn d20+3=19 Friday March 28th, 2003 6:19:12 AM
Kedarn looks at the others then says "I will stay here and contiune to look for the flask."
Kedarn then continues to search the tower for the flask by starting at the top and working his way through the entire tower methodicly. (search 19)
Search and Chase (DM Cayzle) Friday March 28th, 2003 5:09:54 PM
Wynn, Andrath, Garrard, Cadmar, set off, following the trail. Aided by his magic and his friends, Garrard quickly leads the group onward. He realizes that there are at least three orcs up ahead. They four friends follow the trail for about half a minute. It might be a little while more before you catch the orcs, but the trail is fresh and clear. You are just about out of earshot of the tower.
Cadmar finds a gold piece that looks freshly dropped.
Lorth, Thram, Kedarn begin to search the tower even more thoroughly. (Assuming you are taking 20 for a "methodical search"? That means two full minutes of searching for each 5x5 area? That could take an thirty minutes, maybe, with three of you looking.)
Where is Elerinn?
Wynn Brightsong (AC17; HP7) Friday March 28th, 2003 10:58:57 PM
Wynn drops his pack at the base of the tower in anticipation of a fast chase. Unencumbered by the heavy pack he readily keeps up with Andrath, Garrard, and Cadmar.
Wynn grips his longsword firmly in his right hand as he runs after the others. He is comforted by the presence of his companions, the weight of his daggers in their sheaths, and the sling and bullets attached to his belt.
He is ready for battle, anxious to be in harm's way, and reinvigourated with this new chance to show his mettle.
"Lie merna aut farien" [Shall we go hunting] Wynn's intensity makes it obvious that he does not require an answer.
Cadmar d20+5=6 Saturday March 29th, 2003 4:07:47 AM
"They're carrying away the loot! We should catch up with them any moment now!"
Cadmar tries to double his efforts. "Hunting? Yes, but don't underestimate them! Fortunes of battle can be turned by a clever ambush. Besides, if there is a leader with them, he might put up quite a fight!" Cadmar scans the surroundings, looking for orc archers hidden behind the trees, but the fast pace forces him to look mostly under his feet [Spot 6].
Elerinn Saturday March 29th, 2003 4:37:59 PM
It takes a while before Elerinn realizes half of the group leaves the tower. But when he sees the last one going downstairs, he follows them in their footsteps, searching for the runaway orcs. While he is moving along, he asks Qamaro to fly ahead, and report when he spots the orcs.
Andrath d20+13=31 Sunday March 30th, 2003 5:27:21 PM
Andrath calls back to the tower in elvish (so that it is unlikely that the orcs will understand), "We are chasing at least 3 orcs, you may want to try to catch up!"
Then he calls ahead in orcish, "You pig-snouts may smell like orcs, but you fight like little pixie girls! Stand and fight like the piggies you are supposed to be!" He looks around as best he can, while hurrying after the orcs. "Garrard, you keep your eyes on the tracks, and I'll watch the trees!" [OOC: spot roll of 31 for ambush; Cayzle, you need to adjust for the speed of travel.]
Kedarn (ac:16 hp:11) d20+3=23 Sunday March 30th, 2003 7:09:30 PM
Kedarn hearing Andrath, he looks to the others then says "I think we better go help out." Kedarn will take one last look around as he heads out to go help the others. (search 23)
Garrard Sunday March 30th, 2003 11:25:49 PM
Garrard nods to Andrath, and continues to track, placing trust in his companion to spy danger before it descends upon them.
Lorth d20+1=19 Sunday March 30th, 2003 11:27:55 PM
Lorth will attempt to aid Kedarn's more rapid search.
(Search check against DC10: 19)
Thram Monday March 31st, 2003 2:56:24 PM
Hearing Andrath shout, Thram vacates the tower as quickly as possible. Jumping out of one of the holes when he's low enough to do it safely.
Then he runs full speed trying to catch the others.
He's still not convinced that they should chase down the orcs, but his friends could be in trouble wihtout him and that's what really matters here.
Plus, they can always search the tower later.
Bear Tracks (DM Cayzle) Monday March 31st, 2003 6:39:37 PM
THose who wish to catch up to the tracking group may do so. Is anyone staying at the tower?
The trackers note that the orcs came to a tree where, by the obvious signs, a bear had been tied up. The orcs evidently untied the bear and now the orcs and bear can't be far ahead!
Actions?
Garrard Monday March 31st, 2003 6:45:05 PM
Garrard stops at a tree beside the trail, his brow furrowing as he traces large, four toed tracks in the soft earth.
"They freed a bear here, and the animal is now travelling with them. As much as I am curious about this being a trained beast, or magically controlled as the wolves we fought were, we are out of our league now. I suggest strongly we rejoin the others, and find another alternative to investigate."
Wynn Brightsong (AC17; HP7) Monday March 31st, 2003 8:12:32 PM
"Forgive my ignorance Garrard, but the presence of a bear seems little enough given that we are already chasing a pack of orcs. Can you not simply charm the animal?"
Wynn continues on in the general direction that the tracks were leading. If the group as a whole stops he will return, but otherwise he presses ahead (perhaps with just a litte less conviction than before).
Andrath Monday March 31st, 2003 9:34:16 PM
Andrath looks at Garrard, and says, "Well now, a bear, you say? That does change the dynamics doesn't it? We originally started chasing these orcs because we thought that they might have taken the flask. I have not heard any shouting from the tower to indicate they have found the flask in their searching, so I still think we need to catch the orcs. We'll just have to be a little careful about them when we do catch them. Besides, you don't want to deprive Wynn of his first kill, do you? He seems pretty keen to get one of these orcs, don't you think?"
Cadmar Tuesday April 1st, 2003 5:06:14 AM
"Bear or no bear, we need to catch them! If we don't, they might be robbing and waylaying travellers all over the valley!"
"Let's just make sure we catch them as one group, not bump into them one by one!"
Kedarn (ac:16 hp:11) d20+5=25 Tuesday April 1st, 2003 7:31:16 AM
Kedarn hurries along trying to catch up with the others incase they need help. (run x2)(spot 25)
Lorth Tuesday April 1st, 2003 9:01:24 AM
(OOC: I'm Back :) Thanks for playing Lorth for me!)
Lorth leaves the tower and follows behind his companions. He doesn't run but follows along behind at a quick pace.
(If / when Lorth finds out about the bear, he strongly suggests to his companions that they give up chase. Of course that is if his companions haven't far out distanced him by then.)
Thram Tuesday April 1st, 2003 10:23:40 AM
As the rest of the group debates, Thram stares off into the distance.
Thinking to himself... A bear? That's more than a little strange, isn't it? Whoever heard of orcs with a bear? His curiosity finally wins out, and he offers a few brief words.
"Let's go." He nods in the direction of the orcs.
Bear and Orcs, Oh My! (DM Cayzle) d20=5 d20=5 Tuesday April 1st, 2003 10:41:19 AM
[DM fiat -- with just two no votes on continuing, I rule that the group goes forward. PLEASE report your position in the pack. Necessarily, tracker(s) must be in the front.]
Elerinn's raven reports that there is a ravine up ahead, and the orcs have reached it and turned back! In fact, there they are now!
About 90 feet up ahead, through the forest, you see three orcs and a black bear. The orcs duck behind trees (50% cover makes them AC 18). One orc orders the bear to attack. The other two fire arrows. Both miss.
The bear charges forward, crossing most of the distance between you. By the end of his move he is 10 or 15 feet from the lead tracker -- and moving fast!
Cadmar AC19+7 HP11 Tuesday April 1st, 2003 10:57:56 AM
Cadmar yells to others: "Shoot the bear, I'll try to lure it to go after me!"
While others perform their actions, Cadmar shouts, waves his hands, and does his best to draw the attention of the beast [shouts:free action, and delay: until others are done]. Assuming that at the end of the round he is left standing alone with the bear, and others are in the bushes, Cadmar will seek a cover of a tree at least 50ft away from the bear, making sure the beast sees where he goes [total defense and 3/4 cover against the bear gives AC26].
If, on the other hand, someone charges the bear, Cadmar will join the melee [move eq. - run to the bear and draw scimitar; standard - attack at +2 to hit (if possible flanking +2), 1d6 damage].
Elerinn Tuesday April 1st, 2003 1:26:22 PM
Elerinn, who catches up with the rest of the group, quickly calls Qamaro back when he sees the bear, and the bird gracefully lands on his shoulder. Elerinn ducks behind a tree, and tries to get some cover from the orcs' arrows and the large animal.
OOC: I'm sorry that I didn't post yesterday, but at the time Cayzle posted, I was already asleep...(Holland is six hours ahead on the US)
Garrard 2d4(1+1)+1=3 Tuesday April 1st, 2003 3:55:39 PM
Garrard moves along with the group against his better judgement.
When the bear is sighted, he says through gritted teeth, "Give me just a moment, I may be able to... calm the bear. Go for the orcs first."
With that, he raised his voice and howls at the sky in Sylvan.
"Brother-in-fur, brother-in-hunt, hear me in the Mothers Name. This is not the time to kill."
(Cast Calm Animals. 2d4+1 HD affected: 3. Will save at DC 14 allowed if bear has been trained or magically controlled.)
Garrard AC:17, HP:9 Tuesday April 1st, 2003 3:56:48 PM
(sorry)
Andrath (AC17, 8 hp) d20+5=18 d8+3=11 Tuesday April 1st, 2003 7:08:11 PM
Andrath was in the lead with Garrard, looking for possible ambushes. When he spots the orcs in the ravine, and the bear approaching, Andrath moves over to one side, 30' to the left, so that he is well clear of the bear. He shoots at the orc that was giving the orders to the bear. [OOC: Hit AC18 for 11 points of damage.] He mutters under his breath, "Garrard, I sure hope you can stop that bear from attacking, or we may be in some serious trouble."
Wynn Brightsong (AC17; HP7) d20+4=21 d8+2=10 Tuesday April 1st, 2003 9:37:51 PM
Wynn spots the bear immediately from his position near the front of the group. The size and ferocity of the animal is more than impressive as it charges down upon Garrard.
Wynn moves quickly into the trees to gain cover from both the bear and the orcs. He is torn between engaging the orcs in battle and remaining to defend the druid. Choosing the latter for the moment, Wynn prepares to charge the bear with his sword should it not respond to the druid's enchantment, although he hopes fervently that the Garrard is successful.
[OOC: Holding charge in readiness should Garrard's spell fail; Hit AC 21 for 10 HP]
Kedarn (AC:16 HP:11) Wednesday April 2nd, 2003 1:29:48 AM
Kedarn readies his bow. Kedarn starts moving carefully towards the orcs for a better shot while moving to some better cover.
Lorth Wednesday April 2nd, 2003 8:46:30 AM
After Lorth catches up, he places himself near Garrard to protect him if the bear attacks. (Lorth does not attack unless the bear attacks first. I'll hold my action until then.)
Thram (AC18,hp9) d20+4=6 Wednesday April 2nd, 2003 10:20:49 AM
Thram takes aim at the bear with his shortbow and is about to fire when Garrard says go after the orcs instead.
The elf switches targets right before he lets go of the string. He avoids the bear, but the hasty shot keeps him from coming very close to the orcs either.
Then deciding that the orcs are the real threat, Thram drops his bow to the ground again and starts running toward the orcs. He doesn't make much progess because he zigzags a bit to make himself a moving target, and he doesn't want to get too close to that bear.
The Brave Take A Stand, and One Falls! (DM Cayzle) d20+6=20 d20+6=22 d20+1=4 [bear claw/claw/bite] d4+4=7 d4+4=6 [bear claw damage] d20=6 d20=9 [orc arrow misses] Wednesday April 2nd, 2003 3:54:04 PM
Cadmar stands out, ready to selflessly distract the bear and give the others a chance to take cover.
Elerinn, heeding Cadmar, calls his familiar out of danger and then ducks down, trying not to present a target. [You have 50% cover.]
Kedarn takes cover and readies his bow. [You have 50% cover.]
But most of Cadmar's friends don't take advantage of his distraction!
Andrath moves away from the bear and shoots the orc commanding the bear, dropping him.
Garrard stands forth and casts a calming spell -- but his magic, this time, is too weak to affect the bear [OOC: It has more than three hit dice. Sorry.]
Lorth stands near Garrard in case the bear attacks the druid.
Wynn sees that Garrard's spell has not calmed the bear, so he charges the big animal, opening up a big gash in its side! The bear roars in pain.
Thram shoots, then misses. He moves to the orcs [you can shoot and take a standard move in one round, circling around the bear I assume].
The bear, still roaring, attacks Wynn full out! Both claws rip into the bard, and he falls to the ground, in mortal peril of death! [OOC: Wynn takes 13 hp damage, putting him at -6. Next round you can roll a 10% stabilization chance or drop to -7 (unless healed).]
The bear, still roaring in pain and defiance, leaves Wynn's torn body behind and takes a five foot step towards Lorth and Garrard. He is about fifteen feet from you two now. Cadmar is closer -- ten feet from the bear -- but off to one side.
Cadmar, if you wish, you can high-tail it off with the rest of this round, as was your original plan, or just hold your ground.
The two orcs still standing, heartened by this, shoot arrows back at Andrath. But both miss badly.
Garrard AC:15, HP:9 d20+4=8 d20+5=25 d4-2=1 Wednesday April 2nd, 2003 4:56:20 PM
Garrard grunts, "Mother save me...", and then charges the bear, throwing himself at the beast with a single word cry in Sylvan.
"Attack!"
(Garrard's attack with scimitar, modified by his charge: 8. Attack from hawk: 25, damage d4-2: 1)
Kedarn (ac:16 hp:11) 2d8(8+1)+1=10 Wednesday April 2nd, 2003 6:09:32 PM
Upon seeing Wynn fall Kedarn rushes over to him. upon getting to him Kedarn will help Wynn drink a potion of cure moderate wounds (10 hp.)
Andrath (AC17, 8 HP) d20+6=15 d8+4=12 Wednesday April 2nd, 2003 6:54:54 PM
As Garrard is charging towards the bear, Andrath turns and fires an arrow. Then he moves behind cover from the orcs. (I assume he is within 30' of the bear, so I gave Andrath point blank range bonuses. If he is not in range, he will move closer before shooting, still trying to find cover from the orcs.) [OOC: Hit AC15 for 12 hp damage.]
Wynn Brightsong (AC17; HP 7, -6, 4) Wednesday April 2nd, 2003 8:53:11 PM
Wynn anticipates Garrard's peril and knows in his heart that he is responsible for the druid's predicament. He had pressed onward when Garrard had counselled caution. He had led Garrard to this fate.
"Never again" thinks Wynn, "No more friends will die because of me" as he charges towards the bear with sword raised.
Wynn's sword sinks deeply into the bear's flank. A hot, sticky sensation engulfs his hand as the bear's lifeblood streams down his blade.
Any feelings of elation are extinguished by the explosion of pain in his shoulder and chest as the bear's claws rip into him. A second burst of pain spins him to the ground, disoriented and bleeding.
And then, a calm seems to settle over him. Wynn is remotely aware of the battle ensuing all around him, yet it seems different, as if in slow motion, and without sound. Through the fighting the figure of his departed boyhood friend approaches him and beckons him to rise. Wynn understands that Gargul has sent a companion for his last journey, a friend to assist his passage...
Another wave of pain sweeps across his body. His late friend's face is transformed into that of Kedarn, standing over him, a concerned look on his face.
Cadmar AC15 HP11 d20+2=16 d8=6 Thursday April 3rd, 2003 3:41:40 AM
"NO, GARRARD DON'T! YOU DON'T FIGHT BEARS HEAD ON! HIT AND RUN!" Alas, too late. Garrard has already charged the beast.
"Shoot the bear! I'll try to get it's attention! DAMN!" While yelling like mad [free action] Cadmar jumps back, trying to get into bear's field of view [5ft step, Cadmar is now 15ft away from it]. Then he draws his bow [move eq.], shouts "Domi guide my hand!!!", and fires it at the animal [standard, hits AC16 (-1 for friend engaged in melee), 6 damage].
Lorth AC 16 (-2 charging) HP 13 d20+4=12 d8+2=3 Thursday April 3rd, 2003 8:36:15 AM
Lorth stares for a moment at the bear wondering if there could be another way of stopping it, besides killing it. He has a hard time beleiving this animal would have attacked them if the orcs had not been controling it. Turning away from the bear he decides not to attack it since he has no ranged weapons, and instead charges towards the orcs.
(OOC: Lorth charges the orcs, I'll swing once if I get there this round, with my warhammer. Hit AC 12+2 for charging = AC 14, 3 damage)
Thram (AC16 (18 - 2 charging),hp9) d20+4=9 d20+4=23 d6+2=6 Thursday April 3rd, 2003 10:58:36 AM
Thram's vaguely aware of the bear and charges at the orcs with Lorth.
He ends the run with a flying kick... if he's close enough. [AC9, hero point AC23, dmg 6]
[If he's not close enough to charge and attack, he'll zigzag around a bit this round and not take the AC penalty til he's close enough to charge next round. If not close enough, I can use those to hit rolls next round... or maybe I should save the hero point and roll again.]
Lucky Ducky! (DM Cayzle) d20=3 d20=10 [two arrows from orcs miss Lorth and Thram] d20+6=9 [bear AoO on hawk] d20+6=10 [bear claw attack on hawk] d20+6=12 [bear claw attack on hawk] d20+1=9 [bear snaps with teeth at hawk] Thursday April 3rd, 2003 2:55:24 PM
Garrard charges the bear but swings wide. His hawk swoops to attack as well.
The hawk is tiny, with zero reach, so it must enter the bear's square to attack. The bear, with its five foot reach, therefore gets an attack of opportunity on the hawk as it flies close. Amazingly, the bear misses the hawk as it swoops close. The bird hits for a point of damage.
Kedarn dribbles a potion down Wynn's throat, restoring the bard to consciousness.
Andrath and Cadmar fire arrows at the bear, but the arrows whiz past the bear as it turns to meet Garrard's charge [OOC: miss because of the -4 penalty for shooting into melee. That's -4, not -1].
Thram and Lorth head for the orcs, getting 60 feet closer to them. By the end of the round they are about 25 feet from the two orcs shooting arrows. [OOC: save that hero point and reroll your attacks next round]
Elerinn keeps his head down.
The two orcs shoot at Thram and Lorth, but miss. They drop their bows and draw weapons.
Annoyed at the hawk and ignoring Garrard, the bear swipes and snaps at the bird, but through some amazing streak of luck, the bear fails to land a blow on the feathered creature. [Wow! What rolls!]
Garrard, AC: 21, HP: 9 Thursday April 3rd, 2003 3:27:09 PM
Garrard smiles grimly, and calls to the hawk in Sylvan, "Flee!"
He then turtles up before the bear, his shield held out and left to absorb the expected, brutal shock, and his scimitar held solidly low, like a rising thorn.
"Hit and run with something that can outrun you is hard Cadmar. My superiors say, fighting with a group is the purest Trust", he shouts back.
(Entered total defense.)
Elerinn d4+1=3 Thursday April 3rd, 2003 4:13:23 PM
Elerinn, sees that the attempts to calm the bear fail. He shoots, knowing that he has depleted most of his spells for this day, his last Magic Missile at the bear.
Damage: 3
Wynn Brightsong (AC17; HP4) Thursday April 3rd, 2003 7:50:58 PM
Wynn struggles to his feet, his body aching. The blood encrusted longsword is still gripped in his hand, the loose ends of the leather grip entwined between his fingers.
Wynn shakes off the disorientation he feels and tries to move into a flanking position. Wary of the bear and its reach, he ensures that the bear cannot strike him as he moves. Wynn holds his sword before him in a defensive posture.
Andrath (AC21, 8 HP) Thursday April 3rd, 2003 11:04:48 PM
Andrath throws his bow down in disgust, and mumbles, "Precise shot...precise shot...precise shot." He draws his sword and moves alongside the bear, on the other side from Wynn, so that he can flank attack next round. Knowing that he can't draw his weapon, move and attack this round, he uses the full defense option, making his armour class 21.
Kedarn (ac:20 hp:11) Friday April 4th, 2003 1:52:30 AM
Kedarn stays by Wynn's side and hands Wynn a cure light wounds potion telling him "drink this." Kedarn then readies his longsword. (enters total defense)
Cadmar AC15 HP11 d20-2=6 Friday April 4th, 2003 3:00:58 AM
"Garrard, at least jump back a bit! We would have a better shot, and it couldn't go at you with full force, as it will in a moment, unless we drop it now! Domi, I need all the luck I can get!" Cadmar shots his bow at the bear, but misses badly [hits AC 6, sorry about the mistake with ranged penalty].
Lorth AC 16 (-2 charging) HP 13 Friday April 4th, 2003 8:38:26 AM
Lorth continues charging the Orcs. Reaching one he swings his warhammer.
Lorth AC 16 (-2 charging) HP 13 d20+4=18 d8+2=6 Friday April 4th, 2003 8:41:07 AM
(OOC: Sorry I messed up the first post and hit submit) Lorth continues charging the Orcs. Reaching one he swings his warhammer in an over head motion, hoping to crush the orc's skull. (Hit AC 18 +2 for charging = AC 20, damage 6)
Thram (AC16 (18 - 2 charging),hp9) d20+4=9 d20+4=24 d20+4=9 d6+2=5 Friday April 4th, 2003 11:13:51 AM
As the pair charge at the orcs, Thram yells to Lorth, "I'll take the right!"
He proceeds to charge down the orc on the right and ends the charge in a flying kick that he hopes will at the very least dislocate the orc's jaw.
The nimble elf lands on his feet, ready to trade blows with the orcs.
During the fight, he keeps an eye out for anything that might look like a magic item for controlling bears... an item of wealth that one wouldn't usually expect to find on an orc perhaps.
[AC9,hero pt AC24, possible crit AC9 (miss), dmg 5]
Bad Day To Be An AOrc (DM Cayzle) d10=1 d10=5 d10=3 [bear's random rolls to attack] d20+6=8 d20+6=13 d20+1=16 [bear's failed to hit rolls] Friday April 4th, 2003 3:49:29 PM
Garrard tells his hawk to flee, and it does so, flying five feet and landing on his shoulder. [OOC: if it had flown out of the bear's square more than five feet, it would have provoked an attack of opportunity. By having it take a "five foot step" as its action, it does not draw the AoO. Granted, it is still in range, but the bear is much more likely to lask out at a bigger foe.]
Garrard then hunkers down in defense in case he is attacked.
Elerinn shoots a magic missile at the bear, wounding it.
Andrath and Wynn move into position to flank the bear, taking defensive stances as well.
Kedarn hands Wynn a Cure Light Wounds potion and flanks the bear, opposite Garrard.
Cadmar maneuvers for a shot at the bear with an arrow, but he fails to hit.
Thram and Lorth each charge an orc and strike hard -- at the end of the round no orcs are left conscious.
Positions: Elerinn is under cover 30 feet from the bear. Cadmar is 15 feet from the bear. Wynn and Andrath are flanking the bear; so are Kedarn and Garrard. Lorth and Thram are about 80 feet away in the woods.
The bear lashes out in anger. Striking randomly, he attacks Wynn, Kedarn, and Andrath. But all three miss -- and the bear roars in frustration! [So does the DM! hee hee! ]
Garrard d20+2=20 d20+2=20 d6+2=6 Friday April 4th, 2003 4:01:11 PM
Garrard uncoils in what he hopes is a solid attack, aiming low at the back of the nearest leg. As he does so, a nearly soundless litany repeats through grimly clenched teeth.
(Attack roll: 20, possibly additional +2 for flanking would be 22. Second roll to confirm critical: 20/22. Damage for (assumed crit): 6x2=12pts)
Garrard, AC: 17, HP: 9 Friday April 4th, 2003 4:19:27 PM
(sorry, posting ac, hp, and that the attack was with his scimitar.)
Wynn Brightsong (AC17+1 Dodge; HP 4) d20+4=20 d8+2=8 Friday April 4th, 2003 7:02:22 PM
Wynn dodges the bear's wild swing and grabs the potion offered by Kedarn in his free hand. With all his remaining strength he slashes at the exposed underbelly of the bear [Hit AC20 for 8HP]. "Diola lle" [Thank you] he grunts to Kedarn as his blade sinks into the bear. Should the bear remain standing, Wynn prepares to dodge it's next attack [OOC +1 to AC].
Andrath (AC17, 8 HP) d20+5=17 d8+3=6 d6=6 Saturday April 5th, 2003 12:09:48 AM
Andrath takes the opportunity that Wynn has given him, and attacks the bear with a flanking attack. He swings his sword at the beast, trying to find an opening between the creature's ribs. [OOC: Hit AC 17 for 12 total damage with the sneak attack.]
He calls out to Thram and Lorth, "If those orcs aren't dead, you should try to capture them. I think we need to know why they were in the tower. Was it just a random appearance, or were they looking for something as well? And if so, who were they working for?"
Kedarn (ac:16, hp:11) d20+2=21 d8=7 Saturday April 5th, 2003 2:07:50 AM
Kedarn swings at the bear with a flanking attack.(hit ac:21 dmg:7) Kedarn then takes a 5' step back from the bear.
Cadmar AC15 HP11 Saturday April 5th, 2003 2:48:53 AM
If the bear is still standing after the onslaught of blows that just hit it, Cadmar will maneouver so that no friend is in line of fire and shoot it with his bow.
"Oh man, do we need to talk tactics!"
Elerinn Sunday April 6th, 2003 2:02:13 PM
Elerinn kneels down and grabs his backpack. Quickly, he searches for any ranged weapons. "I know I've took one with me!", Elerinn whispers, while doubting it in his mind.
Lorth d20+5=22 Monday April 7th, 2003 9:04:19 AM
Lorth looks the orc over as it's lifeblood leaks from it. He then crouches down, rips the orc's shirt into strips and binds it's wounds. (OOC: healing check, to bind wounds, CHECK: 22) Lorth then removes the orcs weapons and backs away from it.
If A Bear Falls In The Woods . . . (DM Cayzle) Monday April 7th, 2003 1:23:49 PM
Garrard strikes deep into the bear's leg, hurting it badly. [OOC note: Crit damage is not doubled, but rolled twice, I think. So your damage is 2d6+4, not (1d6+2)x2. But in case I'm wromg, I'll keep your 12 hp damage.]
Wynn also cuts into the bear, giving it a painful wound. It is clearly almost dead.
And Andrath removes all doubt, killing the animal with a precision blow right intot he beast's vitals. It falls dead.
Meanwhile, Lorth binds the wounds of a dying orc, staunching the flow of blood.
Cadmar Monday April 7th, 2003 3:35:33 PM
"Right..." Cadmar wipes sweat from his forehead. His hand is trembling slightly. He crouches on the grass until his pounding heart slows down.
"I expect you'll need help carrying that orc wherever we want to carry him, Lorth? I will lend you a hand if you want."
Slowly and methodically, Cadmar searches the bodies of the orcs, recovering everything that seems to have been taken from the tower and removing any weapons he finds [Take20:Search:27]. "No need to leave blades for brigands to pick up. Besides, we can always sell these later and share the profit."
If the party returns to the tower, Cadmar will apply the same procedure to the dead orcs inside (most likely leaving him with a bundle of bows and swords to carry). Additionally, he will remove the bodies from the tower. "It's getting warm. We need to bury these fellows before they get overripe, or the wizard's homecoming might be very unpleasant. Does anyone have a shovel?"
If the tower is searched again, Cadmar will lend a hand [Take20 on Search:27].
"Uh. We were very lucky that all of us are still alive. It was a big mistake to run into the tower like I did. Most likely I owe you my life."
"We had a streak of luck with the bear, too. Wynn might have been dead by now if it wasn't for Kedarn. My dad used to tell me stories about how he and his friends hunted large predators. Best armored and toughest fellow acts as bait, gets the attention of the beast, always keeping distance, jumping back a couple of steps every time the beast comes closer, while the rest fire bows. Less risk this way, and easier to withdraw if someone is wounded. We might consider discussing tactics, right after that talk about morals Garrard wants to have when we are back in Jarlswolf."
Garrard d20+3=12 Monday April 7th, 2003 4:28:33 PM
Garrard kneels besides the corpse of the bear, his hands shaking a bit. Quietly he intones, "Goodbye, brother. May you find your way to a better place, and there, hunt well."
With that, he stands, and returns to the group.
"We can just as easily pull the corpses back into the trees and let the natural cycle reclaim them."
With that, he takes his place towards the rear of the walking order, and follows along quietly.
If the party returns to the tower, Garrard will attempt to aid Cadmar's searching attempt.
(Search check against DC10: 12. +2 to Cadmar's search check.)
Kedarn Monday April 7th, 2003 4:38:30 PM
Kedarn looks at the rest of the group then says "I agree with Cadmar, we were very lucky both here and at the tower. I suggest we return to the tower and dispose of the orc bodies we left. Has anyone seen the flask we needed to retrieve?"
Kedarn will go over to Cadmar and quietly ask "Cadmar, could I get the wand back? It would have been handy to have when Wynn dropped instead of using a potion."
Kedarn will help out with disposing any orc bodies and transporting the live orc.
Elerinn Monday April 7th, 2003 5:46:16 PM
Elerinn helps, if needed, with anything that has to be carried back to the tower. When they arrive, he looks up at the tower and says: "After we get these corpes out, I suggest we search for the flask. I have the book with me, but perhaps we can help the poor wizard some more..."
Wynn Brightsong d20+3=4 Monday April 7th, 2003 11:34:28 PM
Wynn approaches Garrard who is kneeling beside the bear and puts his hand on the druid's shoulder... "You did all that could be done friend, rest easy".
Wynn quickly scans the bear for a collar [search = 4] and wipes the blood from his sword on some nearby vegetation. He returns the unused potion to Kedarn "Diola lle" (Thank you) I have another potion in my pouch should we run into further trouble"
Wynn addresses the party "I would like to go back to the tower to retrieve my pack, perhaps we could interogate this orc there." Wynn sheaths his sword and takes up a position near Garrard. He is tired and sore, but he now knows that some kind of magic gripped his mind and forced him to flee, and not his own weakness. He takes comfort in this new understanding.
Lorth Tuesday April 8th, 2003 8:13:41 AM
Lorth, looks at Cadmar, "I don't want the orc for anything, Andrath yelled something about saving one during the battle, so I did." He then turns to Andrath, "You may want to heal it before you move it, because it may die. In fact you should probably just ask it what you want here."
Loot (or is it Booty?) (DM Cayzle) Tuesday April 8th, 2003 2:35:07 PM
As the party searches the bodies and the tower, and then disposes of the corpses, they talk about the fight they just survived.
In the possession of the defeated orcs they find
In a backsack worn by the bear-commanding orc (now dead): -- Eight scroll cases tied together into a bundle. Four are cobalt blue, one is white, and three are arterial red. The white scroll case is longer and stucks up in the bundle. -- Three vials, one made of metal with no stopper. -- A small locked chest that jingles as if it contained coins.
On other orcs: 4 longbows 4 suits of scale mail 3 suits of leather armor 3 longswords 3 short swords 3 large shields 93 gp in gold and silver.
After searching the tower, it seems clear that the orcs plundered every room except the library, where you already found the spell book.
Is anybody doing anything with the unconscious orc?
You have fully explored the tower. Darkness has fallen. It is about 8 p.m.
Actions?
Cadmar Tuesday April 8th, 2003 3:51:07 PM
Cadmar opens his eyes wide. "I forgot about the wand!... Sorry..." He blushes, handing the magic item to Kedarn. "Allow me to blame that on the blow to the head I have taken. Here, allow me at least to replace the potion you were forced to use. I have two." If he accepts, Cadmar will hand Kedarn one of his potions of Cure Light Wounds.
"What shall we do with that orc? Now that he is helpless and badly hurt, I feel we are responsible for him."
"I suggest we rest here, and return to the town tomorrow. The scrolls and chest are most likely the possesions of our wizard, and should be taken along. This small metal vial is intriguing... Might it be the flask we are looking for?"
"The orcish weapons, on the other hand, are ours by the right of conquest! I am looking forward to laying my hands on some coin. I haven't forgotten about my debts, and I would like to contribute to Hmary's fund, too. Does anyone want to keep anything from that pile?" [OOC Do we have to sell the loot in the Catacombs, or can we just convert it to 60% of its market value in cash once we hit the town?]
Kedarn Tuesday April 8th, 2003 4:39:23 PM
"Hang on to your potions as you may need them in the future with the way we jump into battles" Kedarn says to Cadmar while accepting the wand.
"Let us hurry back to Feorges with his items. We should also just sell the orcs equipment" Kedarn suggests to the others.
Thram Tuesday April 8th, 2003 4:46:41 PM
Thram binds the unconcious orc with strips of its own clothes if neccessary. He doesn't really see the point of asking an orc questions, but he goes along with it.
Then he says a little prayer to Domi for the bear. It wasn't the bear's fault.
He looks over the loot and shrugs his shoulders, "I don't really need any of this guys... maybe just 4 or 5 gold to cover the cost of that pig I bought at Hmary's. Is this metal one the flask we need?"
[sorry about yesterday, it was busy around here... and today I was late enough that it's effectively tomorrow. :)]
Elerinn Tuesday April 8th, 2003 6:03:52 PM
Elerinn, after the defeated orc's possesions are retrieved, asks if he can examine the scrolls somewhat. But before anyone answers him, he says: "Oh no, the wizard told us that we were would be save as long as we didn't read something from his tower. Better show them to him first..."
After a short pause Elerinn continues: "I suggest we take all this orc's possesions with us to the wizard. There might be more things belonging to him among these items."
Garrard Tuesday April 8th, 2003 8:52:32 PM
Garrard nods, and moves with the group quietly. He will help haul with share of armor and weapons, and will agree that making way back to town is a good plan.
Wynn Brightsong Tuesday April 8th, 2003 11:54:32 PM
Wynn retrieves his pack from the base of the tower and assists Thram with binding the orc's wounds.
"I suggest we heed Elerinn's wise counsel, I seem to remember a warning from Feorge about not reading anything."
"Personally I am tired from this rather long day. I would rest here for the night if the group agrees, but if haste is required, let's be off immediately". Wynn casts Mend on the cut in his armour, and awaits further decision from the group.
Andrath d20+9=28 Wednesday April 9th, 2003 12:05:11 AM
Andrath examines the small chest from the bear-commanding orc, seeing if it might be trapped. {OOC: Search roll of 28.] If he thinks that it is not trapped, he will try to open it.
He says, "I agree with Wynn. Let's stay the night here, and hope that the orc recovers. If not, I suggest we try to revive him in the morning. I still think it is important to figure out if they were in the tower for a reason. But if no-one else is worried about questioning him, then I won't push it."
Lorth Wednesday April 9th, 2003 8:57:55 AM
Lorth sits down and begins to clean his weapons and armor. He listens to everyones comments and decides to keep quiet, and go along with what everyone wants to do in the morning.
Back to Town (DM Cayzle) Wednesday April 9th, 2003 10:31:45 AM
The group spends the night, and nothing unusual happens. [OOC: In the future, please remember that if you do not say that people are on watch, then no one is! That's a free pass this time, but watch out next time!]
The chest is magically locked but not trapped. Andrath chooses not to force it open.
In the morning, the orc is bound and awake. Upon interrogation, the orc says he is part of a raiding band of hundreds of orcs, and you had better let him go because his friends are coming soon. You all see through this as a lame bluff, and when you confront him, the orc starts to snivel and cry. "You killed all my friends and took our weapons. Now what will I do?" If you ask, you find out they had raided the tower the night before and were waiting for evening to leave. The bear was left in the woods because he wouldn't go in the hole in the side of the tower.
After dealing with the orc (you can tell me what you want to do), you walk back to town. There you find Feorges at the Temple of Alemi, and boy is he glad to see you. The scrolls, vials, and book are his. So is the chest. He opens it and removes a small sack of coins.
"Thank you, my friends! This is a small token of gratitude. And I have not forgotten about the scrolls. As soon as I am better, come visit me in my house here in town, and I will scribe your scrolls, whatever you wish!"
This speech has worn him out, and the mage closes his eyes.
The good healers at the Temple see that some of you are wounded, and they heal you in exchange for any small donation you would like to make.
As you leave, you note that the small sack has 200 platinum pieces in it.
Any last actions before the arrival of Cassandra and the Quest for Plants?
[OOC: By the way, if you want to take mundane stuff to sell at the Catacombs, that's fine. If you want fast cash, you can just sell it in town, but, per the PHB, all you get is 50 cents on the dollar.]
Kedarn Wednesday April 9th, 2003 12:06:34 PM
"If you are all in agreement I will take the gear over to the catacombs and sell it all. Is there anything we need from there? if so I can purchase it with the money from the gear if it is enough." Kedarn says to the others.
if everyone agrees he will take the gear to the catacombs and sell it. Afterwards Kedarn will go to the inn and get cleaned up and get something to eat.
if not he will head over to the inn and get cleaned up and eat something.
Cadmar Wednesday April 9th, 2003 12:51:02 PM
"Brontias was not with us, so it's 25 platinium coins for everyone. Garrard, here is 43 gold I owe you."
Cadmar gives Garrard 43 gold.
"And here is my share in Hmary's fund." Cadmar counts off 50 gold.
"Thank you for healing, brother. Here is 10 gold for the temple."
"Kedarn, if you are going to the catacombs, please buy enough trail rations to last us all four weeks. Unless some of you already have enough food? Remember that one more person will join us, though I suspect she will came prepared."
"What should we do with that poor orc? Lorth, can you sense evil in his soul? If he is not evil, maybe he could accompany us on the trip to Culverwood? Until we have a better idea?"
"Now excuse me, I need to bathe, breakfast, and change into my better clothes."
Garrard Wednesday April 9th, 2003 2:06:49 PM
Garrard accepts his share, and Cadmar's repayment with a thankful nod, stowing the coins carefully in an old swath of chainmail before putting the bundle in his beltpouch.
"If the orc is to be released, I would like to have a pointed conversation with it... him.. about what resources and beings are appropriate to deal with in the forest. Otherwise, I leave the decision to the rest of the group."
Thram Wednesday April 9th, 2003 3:11:01 PM
When everyone has asked the orc their questions, Thram lets it go.
He walks quietly back to town with the rest of the group and smiles at Feorges when he sees that the old man is happy.
After getting his share of the reward, Thram gawks at all the money for a second. What would he ever need so much for? He puts 3 platinum pieces into his pocket and just dumps the rest into one of his donkey's saddle bags. The coins jangle when they hit the others that are already in there.
He'll donate it where it needs to go when the time is right, but until then, the donkey can carry it.
Elerinn Wednesday April 9th, 2003 3:13:52 PM
Elerinn takes his share of Feorges' reward and agrees with Cadmar that it is a good idea to buy some rations at the Catacombs. Elerinn strokes Qamaro somewhat, and asks him if he wants to fly around somewhat. To stretch his wings, so to speak.
Then Elerinn asks: "How much time do we have until Cassandra arrives?"
Andrath Wednesday April 9th, 2003 8:02:01 PM
Andrath says, "Just let the pig-snout go. He can't harm us anymore." Then he says in orcish, "I collected at least 10 orc ears yesterday, and if I ever see you again, I will collect yours as well. Now get lost!"
He thanks Feorges for the reward, and says, "I was glad to be able to help, as I am sure we all were. I hope you are feeling better soon."
Andrath takes his share of 25 pp, and hands 20 platinum to Garrard. "I can't remember exactly how much I owed you for the purchases that you made for the party. It seems that I have inherited the eagle eyes, at least for the time being, so here is some money towards their purchase. I will keep the other 5 plantinum for personal expenses."
Wynn Brightsong (AC17; HP7) d20+4=20 Wednesday April 9th, 2003 10:20:38 PM
Wynn wakes to the Wold feeling rejuvenated and eyes the pile of weapons and armor recovered from the orcs.
"This stuff must be worth at least 600 gold pieces, more if any are masterwork or magic! I think we should take a closer look at it before rushing to sell it." Wynn examines the weapons, armor and shields more closely, judging the weight and balance of the weapons in his hand (Appraise = 20).
"I was thinking that we could trade the gear in for credit at the Catacombs, I think we would get more for it that way. The 93 gold pieces could be used as party treasure."
Wynn accepts his share of 25 pp from Feorges reward and places it in his pouch.
"Wait up Kedarn. Let me assist you in carrying this load to the Catacombs. I would like a look around the place while we are there... unless of course Andrath needs help to carry all those ears." Wynn adds with a grin.
Lorth Thursday April 10th, 2003 8:15:55 AM
Lorth agrees to let the orc go.
After receiving his 25 pp, Lorth wanders off by himself and has 13 pp traded into 130 gold. He spends the rest of the afternoon dispersing the 130 gold to persons throughout the poorer sections of town. Feeling he has stayed true to his path for the day, he retires to the inn to clean and fix his gear.
Personal Business (DM Cayzle) Thursday April 10th, 2003 11:18:03 AM
Back at the tower, Andrath and Garrard have a pleasant little chat with the orc and then let him go.
Feorges is too tired to engage in further talk right now, but he wants you all to see him after he recovers.
After talking to Feorges, the party meets Cassandra outside the Temple. She doesn't actually enter, and seems a little nervous. She asks if you all will be ready to head out first thing in the morning.
Kedarn and Wynn head over to the Catacombs to sell loot.
You all spend the rest of the day on your own personal errands around the town.
[OOC: Tomorrow we begin the last mini-adventure of this module, working to help Cassandra gather the plants she seeks for Dulcet and the Coven of Weal. This scene will be run by Assistant DM Dominic. I myself will be playing Cassandra, using the brand-spankin' new Woldian Witch Class rules. If you have any questions, please e-mail me or Dominic or both. Dominic will also be running his own PC, albeit with a careful consideration for keeping his DM's knowledge out of his PC's head!]
Cadmar Thursday April 10th, 2003 1:52:01 PM
Cadmar goes to the Catacombs, too. Having placed his order, he returns to the inn, orders a small cup of wine, and spends an hour over his book, scribbling notes on margins. Eventually, deep in thought, he leaves.
Five minutes pass.
KABOOM! A loud explosion can be heard somewhere close. Shortly after that Cadmar returns, badly burned, his face covered with soot. Walking up to the innkeeper he says: "Excuse me, I think your toolshed is on fire. The stable hands are extinguishing it now. I'm sorry, it was an accident." Cadmar puts five gold on the table.
"And I just bathed, too. Well, there is something to be said against learning by trial and error..."
***
As the time of the meeting with Cassandra draws closer, Cadmar gets visibly nervous, walking here and there, looking out of the window, drumming his fingers on the table. Eventually he walks up to Kedarn. "Um. Can I ask you something? How do elf women feel about humans? I mean, you know?" Cadmar looks at the other elves: Thram and Andrath, and at Wynn, and leaves the question hanging in the air.
Elerinn Thursday April 10th, 2003 2:50:08 PM
Elerinn decides to rest somewhat until Cassandra arrives, and stays at the tavern most of the day. He is appears restless the whole day, constantly looking around and tapping his small feet on the floor.
Lorth Thursday April 10th, 2003 4:27:00 PM
After cleaning and oiling all his gear, Lorth comes to the inn's common room to have dinner with whoever is also about.
Garrard Thursday April 10th, 2003 4:43:20 PM
Garrard goes for a walk around the fringes of town in the evening, hunting his hawk in the fading light, and looking over the integration of man's needs and nature's presence. Alternately he appears to be mentally taking notes and losing himself in the gathering darkness, stopping from time to time to turn face first into a passing breeze.
In the morning, Garrard rises from his rest smiling and apparently eager to be away. He shoulders his share of whatever supplies are brought back from the Catacombs, and spends some time asking Lorth about weapon maintenance tips.
Wynn Brightsong Thursday April 10th, 2003 7:56:24 PM
Wynn returns from the Catacombs and takes up a table near the back of the room. He unsheaths his longsword and begins to clean and hone the blade. The bard sings quietly to himself as he works. He finishes the song started at the tower...
So fall in lads behind the drum With colors blazing like the sun Along the road to come what may Over the hills and far away
When evil stalks upon the land I'll nyther hold nor stay m' hand But fight to win a better day Over the Hills and Far away
If I should fall to rise no more As many comrades did before Ask the pipes and drums to play Over the hills and far away
O'er the hills and o'er the plains we battled orcs till none remained The gods command and we obey O'er the hills and far away"
Upon hearing Cadmar's question Wynn responds...
"Cadmar my friend, elven women are truly no different than any others. No male shall ever understand what they think. That being said, my mother is elven and my father human, and I believe they truly love one another."
Wynn lowers his head and goes back to his work. He does not continue his song. His mind turns to thoughts of his parents and how long it has been since he has seen them.
Andrath Friday April 11th, 2003 12:53:07 AM
Andrath has no errands to run, and spends the day relaxing at the inn.
When the witch approaches the party at the temple, Andrath asks, "You seem to be a bit nervous. Why is that?"
He spends a restful night, and gets ready to head out in the morning.
Kedarn Friday April 11th, 2003 7:18:45 AM
After finishing his business at the catacombs Kedarn goes to the inn. When he arrives Kedarn goes and gets cleaned up then heads to the common room and orders something to eat and drink.
Listening to Cadmar, Kedarn nods his head then listens to what Wynn tells Cadmar. Once Wynn finishes speaking Kedarn says "I agree with Wynn on this I have no clue what a woman is feeling. As for elven women and their feelings towards humans, I think anything is posssible. Just look we have the companionship of one from such relationships. My friend you can always ask me anything and I will tell you the answer as best I can." After a few moments Kedarn asks Cadmar "Is there something bothering you my friend?" Kedarn leans back and enjoys his meal and companions company.
ADM Dominic Friday April 11th, 2003 7:20:18 AM
OOC: I will be posting around 2 pm EST the start of the cullverwood mission.
[OOC: Excellent! -- Cayzle]
Thram Friday April 11th, 2003 10:32:53 AM
Thram looks over at Cadmar, "Well, there are lots of half elves now aren't there?"
After another minute or two he offers, "And I don't know why any male elf would go for a human girl when he could have a lovely elven maiden. The women on the other hand probably like those big broad shouldered humans."
Cassandra Friday April 11th, 2003 12:29:34 PM
At the brief meeting at the Temple of Alemi, when Andrath asks why she seems nervous, Cassandra looks around to see if any clerics or paladins are in sight. In a private whisper, she says in elvish, "Well, you know that while the Giant ruled, he hunted witches. Some people were happy to help him hunt us. And some of the most ardent helpers were priests. So I get nervous around temples."
"But let's put those days away! See you tomorrow."
[OOC Greg] Friday April 11th, 2003 1:05:08 PM
Welcome aboard as DM, Dominic, and best of luck trying to keep us in line. Hopefully, you are a little more generous than our past DM. Imagine, 25 platinum each for defeating 8 orcs, a huge black bear, and a magical creature of chaos! Almost makes an adventurer want to put up his gear, and take up the safe life. Oh well, maybe Cassandra will give us each a kiss if we manage to collect the plants. That is, after we defeat the 13-headed lernean pyro-hydra. (grin)
[LOL! Don't forget the scrolls Feorges will be making for you as soon as he is feeling better! I believe he said he would give you a couple detect magic and prestidigitation scrolls, so don't call me stingy! -- Cayzle :-) ]
Planning and Final Preparations (ADM Dominic) Friday April 11th, 2003 3:14:09 PM
During the evening you have seen and overheard some people nod towards the party and comment "there is a fine group of folk for helping Hmary and Feorge. We could use more folk likes them."
After a calm and relaxing evening, you all gather in the common room to prepare and talk about the upcoming adventure while waiting for Cassandra.
Final preparations and discussion on party tactics??
Garrard Friday April 11th, 2003 6:12:51 PM
"The only suggestion I might have at the moment would be to have each of us declare a role in combat, so we know who is likely to get in the way of oncoming beasts, and who is likely to employ missiles and spells. I, for instance, am best equipped to be in the second rank of a fighting group, assisting with flanking attacks and healing. I can take a front line role at need, but do not have the skill I have seen from some of the rest of you."
"Should we have a designated diplomat?"
"Also, I have no immediate need for some of my wealth. Is anyone a bit short of an armor or weaponry upgrade? Masterwork weapons might help those who are going to close and fight, and I would be happy to help facilitate that."
Kedarn Friday April 11th, 2003 7:08:12 PM
Kedarn looks around at the others, then says "here is a voucher for each of you for the catacombs. This is what I was able to get for the orc equipment minus the purchase of rations, firewood and some other gear for the group. Thram I hope we can use your mule to transport the groups equipment?" After a short pause. "I am also best equiped to fight from the second rank providing missle fire and healing. As for watches I will take the next to last watch so that I can prepare my spells morning."
Kedarn Friday April 11th, 2003 7:17:20 PM
OOC: the vouchers are for 55gp 1sp each.
Wynn Brightsong Friday April 11th, 2003 7:20:42 PM
Garrard's suggestions strike a resonant chord with the bard and he answers slowly and deliberatly,
"For whatever reason, I seem to find myself in the thick of things. This may not be to my advantage. Like Garrard I am best suited to be in the second row, yet rarely do I find myself there."
Wynn pauses for a moment, thinking about their most recent encounter with the bear and his near demise, "I may take you up on your offer Garrard, If I am to continue running headlong into danger I will require more protection, however armor with magical properties is beyond my current means. I must think on this some more."
Wynn pauses to drink from his cup and continues, "I am not well versed in wilderness skills but I do seem to have a way with people, and as a few of you may have noticed, I am not averse to talk. Perhaps I might be useful in areas of diplomacy?"
Cadmar Saturday April 12th, 2003 8:49:33 AM
"Why, no, nothing is bothering me, Kedarn. Thank you very much." Cadmar looks startled for a moment.
"I don't know if it is really the way you say it is, Lorth. One of my uncles, Silanor, is an elf. I don't know how he got to know and marry my aunt. My guess is that there is more than physical attraction to it."
"I keep wondering how it is for an elf to marry a human. She would know from the very beginning that she would watch her lover grow old and die. And then she would watch her children grow old and die. How can anyone live with that knowledge?"
"Thanks for the voucher, Kedarn. That will come in handy. Thank you for the offer, Garrard, but for a moment I have everything I was planning to buy."
"Whenever we make a stop, I can take the dog watch - in the middle of the night. The fifth watch, say? That shouldn't be much of a problem anyway - with eight of us the watches shouldn't be much longer than an hour. Of course, Elerinn and others who cast spells might not want to have their sleep interrupted."
"I am not a very good fighter, but I am tough. I can take a place in the front line to free up others who would do better in the rear. But if there are only one or two opponents to engage, I will let stronger people fight them hand to hand and support you with my bow."
"I don't mind letting Wynn handle talking people into helping us and such. But count on me to put in my two coppers when I feel I have something important to say."
"Finally, whenever we meet anything big and strong, like the bear yesterday, let's not swarm all around it and let it kill us one by one. Hit and jump back. Or just jump back and let others shoot it."
Elerinn Sunday April 13th, 2003 2:50:25 PM
Elerinn seems to be dreaming while tactics are discussed, but when Cadmar is finished, he says: "It is best for me to be somewhere in the back, where I can use my spells without getting close to the enemy."
After saying this, Elerinn returns to his absent state of mind almost immediatly.
Andrath Sunday April 13th, 2003 7:27:09 PM
Andrath answers about elven women, "Well, I have had my share of women, both humans and elves, but I have never had a serious relationship. I have always been to ready to move on, and I could never offer a stable place. So, I guess I really don't know any more than the rest of you.
"And as for combat, I really should be using my bow and arrows, since I am better with those than with my sword. But it seems like I spend a lot of time charging head-on, doesn't it! I just suggest that, if the enemy is wide open, and still hasn't engaged any of us, and is not a spell-caster, that we shoot arrows and darts and other things at it until it closes with us. But it seems that I am just as happy charging. If we do move into combat, it would really help if someone could move to flank whatever I am fighting, for the extra damage."
Lorth Monday April 14th, 2003 8:44:03 AM
Lorth sits back and listens. "I will of course endevor to stay on the front line and protect all of you", he says simply. "Thank you for the voucher."
Thram Monday April 14th, 2003 11:19:59 AM
"Certainly, everyone may let the donkey carry some of their stuff. Just don't load her down with too much stuff. All she has now is my bedroll, food, water, and a few little odds and ends. So there's room for a bit more. If there's too much stuff though, maybe we should get a cart for her to pull."
"As for what rolls we take in combat, I'm flexible. I can shoot with the bow or stand at the front. I prefer the front ranks though where I can fight man to man, which is the way of Domi."
LOG ON