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."
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