The alarm is raised (DM Greg) Wednesday July 16th, 2003 12:01:05 AM
Milo manages to hurry to the bottom of the stairs, and pushes tight against one wall between the bottom of the stairs, and one of the side doors in the hallway. Just in time, too, as two loud pops sound: one at the top of the stairs, and one at the bottom (about 10' from Milo), heralding the arrival of the two robed figures from the head table in the dining room. Milo can see the one at the bottom of the stairs clearly, and notices that the figure is shaking his head, as if to clear cobwebs from his brain. The figure is facing up the stairs. At the same time, Tines are racing out of the two doorways at the stairway end of the hall, from their celebrations. One of them calls out, "What set off the alarm? We have seen nothing pass by our door."
The rest of the party hurries out to the hallway, and around the corner to the long hallway leading to the stairs, mixed in with the other Tines from the dining room (except for K'Nara, who is hurrying to her room to collect her sword).
Endrin rounds the corner and calls out down the long hallway, "Seal the building! Nothing and no-one gets in or out! Plankett and Landrum, find the intruder, or whatever set of that alarm!" The Tines hustle to do his bidding. Then he turns and looks at the members of the party that are out in the hall, and asks, "Did any of you have anything to do with this? I was led to believe that you could be trusted! I certainly hope for all our sakes that I have not misplaced my trust!"
Milo (invisibility) d20+21=36 Wednesday July 16th, 2003 1:50:04 AM
Realizing that he can get no further with this course of action today, Milo moves as silently as possible down the hallway away from the stairs, and turns the corner, heading toward the privy. (OOC: Made a move silently check DC 36, to move silently at full speed. The -5 penalty for doing so is already figured into the check.)
Olana Wednesday July 16th, 2003 12:09:02 PM
Olana's eyebrows raise in shock, realising what Ingrge has just said and that Milo might be in trouble.
"Maybe it was the cat?" she exclaims toward Redthroat, along with a shrug.
Well maybe it was, she thought. And maybe it was Milo, and maybe it was something worse. What was being discussed here wasn't for everyone's ears. If the dragon knew...
She moves to help with the search.
K'Nara d20=17 Wednesday July 16th, 2003 7:10:16 PM
K'Nara immediately siezed Lucia and ran back to where she'd come from, drawing the weapon out along the way.
"Sorry for the rude awakening, Lucia," she said out loud, pushing past a few other Tines as the traffic milled about the place, "But we may be under attack...although it may also be something--not so sinister, too. I won't know until I get there..."
(OOC: made a voluntary Intelligence check for K'Nara to deduce where the major players of the Tines have gone to [and, thus, get to the hallway where everyone else is now.] The result is 17.)
Figment Wednesday July 16th, 2003 8:03:19 PM
The mage listens to the commentary and gets a cold chill as he realizes the place they are going...
After moving into the hall with the others, the mage begins looking around for evidence. He casts detect magic and begins scanning the area. "I can't say who was responsible but I can look around for you...". He looks up and down the stairs for magical residue but keeps his discoveries - if any - to himself.
The culprit is found? (DM Greg) Thursday July 17th, 2003 7:16:48 PM
The two robed Tines at the top and the bottom of the stairs cast a spell, and scan the stairs, then call out, "No-one on the stairs!" The one at the top of the stairs moves out of sight, and the one at the bottom of the stairs moves back along the long hallway, looking left and right.
The party joins in the search. Figment casts detect magic and moves along the hallway, scanning. Many people and things detect as magic (all the Tines carry magic, party members have magic, the hall is lit by magical torches, etc.), but Figment figures out that they are all as they should be. By chance, Figment and the Tine wizard arrive at the door to the privy at the same time. Both can detect magic on the other side of the door, many magical auras overlaid. The magician pushes open the door, and moves into the privy, which is made up of a long shallow trough with running water (for washing hands) on the left side, and four stalls behind simple wooden doors on the right side. He begins to scan the room, detecting for the source of the magic.
Olana Friday July 18th, 2003 2:10:05 AM
Olana follows the others toward the privy, her imagination running wild. Parnoth's spies in the privy! Milo in the privy! Mind you - wasn't that where he was going anyway, she seemed to remember?
Okay.... and K'Nara was talking to her sword. She did a double take on that, too.
Ingrge Friday July 18th, 2003 2:56:59 PM
Remembering that Milo said he needed to use the Privy as he left the dining room, comments to olanna as they walk next to each other, just loud enough to make sure that Milo can hear as well,
"I do hope that whoever broke in here hasn't waylaid and harmed Milo. He did say he was going to the privy didn't he."
Figment Friday July 18th, 2003 8:56:38 PM
The mage also continues his scan. He calls out since it is obvious that whoever is in there knew they were trapped. "Milo, you in here?".
Milo (invisibility) d20+21=33 d20+11=30 d20+7=25 d3+1=2 Saturday July 19th, 2003 12:19:32 AM
Moving into the privy just ahead of the Tine wizard and Figment, Milo scootches quickly into a stall, and after quietly closing the door, drops his pants and sits. (OOC: Move silently DC 33)
As the two enter the privy looking for him, Milo remembers to himself, Oh yeah, I'm invisible still. Looking around quickly, Milo locates a resident insect or arachnid, and lashing out with the palm of his hand attacks the critter, smashing it, and simultaneously becoming visible. "Darn bugs!" Milo proclaims loudly as he smacks the critter dead. Milo smiles inwardly. (OOC: Made a Spot check DC 30 to locate bug/spider, and then an attack roll hitting AC 25 for 2 hps of subdual damage.)
A Thief in your midst (Assistant Dm Mark) Sunday July 20th, 2003 10:19:20 PM
Milo is just congatulating himself on his cleverness when the door to the stall is kicked open by a guard with sword in hand. His blade never wavers but his eyes widen at the sight of Milo. "Your a guest of the Commander!" This sharing of guard wit is interrupted by yells from further down the hallway and the running of feet towards your position. "Commander! Commander! It is gone!" A lone man runs up, out of breath. Endrin grips the man's shoulders roughly. "Speak man! "What do you mean it is gone?!" Slowly the guard regains his breath. "The Eye and the map Sir, they are gone!" Endrin roars and throws the man aside. "Find the Thief! Now your dogs! We must have the Eye!" Guards went running in all directions at the evidence of Endrin's ire. ((OOC I will be posting the next couple of days til we know for sure if Greg will have access.))
Figment Sunday July 20th, 2003 10:30:31 PM
Seeing Milo is "OK" and won't be skewered he turns and begins a more intensive search of the area. "So there IS a thief here somewhere. I hope I'm the first to find him!". He continues his scan going this time up the stairs.
Olana Sunday July 20th, 2003 11:53:18 PM
Delighted to see that no one has attacked her nearest and dearest halfling, Olana's attention is quickly turned toward the theft.
"What eye? What map?" she asks.
K'Nara Monday July 21st, 2003 12:20:47 PM
K'Nara strolled up with Lucia in hand just as the guards went to obey Endrin's orders. Resting the flat of her blade on her right shoulder, she asked very curiously:
"Yes, Endrin...WHAT map? WHAT eye..?" And then she noticed Milo sitting in the privy, which still had its door open. "...And WHAT kind of spectator sports are you running here, anyway? I thought this was the Tine headquarters, NOT a Fetish Shop..!" She lifted one auburn eyebrow at the Tine-Leader-Pro-Temp.
Orson Monday July 21st, 2003 5:11:36 PM
Orson was a bit confused about the whole situation, especially when the pinned 'culprit' turned out to be Milo. He didn't care much that something was indeed stolen, least not until the importance of the items was stated. Taking a moment to secure he sheaths in thier proper positions, instead of just slung over his shoulder. That done, he rests his shirt and mithril armor across his shoulders as he moves to K'Nara's side, waiting to put his armor on when she decides there is time.
Seeing the anger demonstrated by the Tines leader, Orson stands close beside K'Nara, not sure what to expect, but ready to defend should Endrin's 'trust' suddenly disappear as he had mentioned moments before.
Milo Tuesday July 22nd, 2003 1:03:26 AM
Hopping up from the privy, Milo pulls his pants back on in one swifty motion, embarrasment plain on his face, "Yes... I am, and if you know what is good for you, you'll go find the theif, and leave me about my business!" As the halfling's pants are back on, his hand comes to rest upon the hilt of his short sword.
Lian (Jay is back) Tuesday July 22nd, 2003 6:40:35 PM
Lian follows carefully and quietly behind the Talons until such tia as his services are required.
Brother Bertram Tuesday July 22nd, 2003 8:22:05 PM
Bertram grins at Milo despite the confusion about something being stolen. An eye did they say?
A Thief in your midst (Assistant Dm Mark) Tuesday July 22nd, 2003 10:30:35 PM
Endrin looks in disgust at his guards, Milo, and everyone else around him. Sighing with exasperation he motions you all to follow. He leads back to the dining hall and gestures towards chairs. He then looks at each of you for a moment then rises and paces for a moment before explaining. "There were two items stolen here tonight. The first was of consequence but was not insurmountable. A map to the entry portal of Fae Skiemir. The map gave complete detail on how to find and gain access to Fae Skiemer and its environs once inside. I have a partial copy of the map that I was working on. It is incomplete but it is better than nothing and may lead you in the right direction. The more critical element was the loss of the Eye of Gargul. Legend has forgotten why it was named so. Many feel that perhaps it was created by Gargul and thus named, but this I know not for sure. It is a centuries old talisman, a compass, that found its way to our door. It is imbued with magical qualites, the most notable being, unerringly pointing towards the one artifact that can bring about Parnoth's destruction! Without this compass all of our hopes of being freed from under the tyrannical claw of Parnoth are dashed! I need you to recover that compass, and then get to that artifact fast!" Endrin ends his impassioned plea and recovers himself. "I know you must have questions and I will answer what I can but we must move quickly!"
Lian Tuesday July 22nd, 2003 10:46:17 PM
Hearing Endrin's words, Lian says the only thing that comes to mind. "Well, that is unfortunate."
K'Nara Wednesday July 23rd, 2003 7:14:25 AM
Upon hearing the phrase "Fae Skiemir", K'Nara's hazel eyes darted to Ingrge and Olana, a mix of alarm and wonder in their gray/green/brown depths.
Gemsmith had been the first to tell her of the place; later--during her early-morning long-distance training sessions with him--Greymalkin broached the subject a time or two himself...it was an ancient elven bastion of magic that had somehow been abandonned and yet protected--and was infinitely dangerous to any who traveled there. Even the Gold Dragons, the Maulk had said, had been VERY hard-pressed to come out of the area alive.
"You want me to take my people into Fae Skiemir..." K'Nara clarified, her voice incredulous, "...to fetch some artifact that may or may not exist...with neither a map nor this--this compass you speak of..?" She stared at him. Endrin was dangerous--because he was insane while being able to maintain the outer illusion of reason.
This, K'Nara decided, was NOT good.
Greg OOC Wednesday July 23rd, 2003 11:38:45 AM
Matt, thanks for stepping in. I am still in Brockville, but I will be travelling home tomorrow, and can take over again on the weekend.
Olana Wednesday July 23rd, 2003 7:17:55 PM
"I think we need to get after those thieves - and quickly. If they've come here especially for the map and compass, and it suggests that they did, seeing as nothing else was stolen - then it seems they are about to go to the very place we're being asked to go - and right now they have the distinct advantage."
Figment Wednesday July 23rd, 2003 11:00:29 PM
The mage crinkles his brow knowingly... "Fae Skiemir... now THAT's a place I never imagined traveling to. The Storm Dragons were about to go there when we met the Golds... they seemed to turn out OK - though some of them did not return. I'd say we'd better get after the thieves before we go. Otherwise there is no reason to go unless we have at least a chance of finding our way to the item we seek. Take us to the place the items were sitting before tey were stolen. Maybe we can find some clues...".
Ingrge Thursday July 24th, 2003 6:46:38 AM
As Fae Skiemir is mentioned, Ingrge eyes lightup with what might be a combination of excitement, and trepidation. After taking a few moments to get his thoughts in order, he addresses Endrin.
"Endrin, do you have or can you produce an accurate drawing of this orb? And can you give me an accurate description of it? If you can, I should be able to locate its where-abouts for you."
Brother Bertram Thursday July 24th, 2003 7:56:10 AM
Bertram scratched at his beard and considered all he had heard. He was curious as to this 'Eye of Gargul'.
A Thief in your midst (Assistant Dm Mark) Thursday July 24th, 2003 8:05:12 AM
Endrin makes an effort to calm himself. "Forgive me. My anxiety has made me unseemly. I believe, nay, know that the artifact exists. The Eye and the artifact are mentioned in the same source together. If one is true, then how can the other not be?" "Talon Ingrge I can indeed supply the things you ask for, and will but I am sure the thieves are using the map and Eye to head for the portal. I can have you taken there at once if you would but agree to help us! The Entrance to the Portal is nearby and the thieves will need time to gain entrance. Can I count on all of you for this important task?"
Lian Thursday July 24th, 2003 5:45:52 PM
Lian walks over to Bertram and pokes him in the arm. "Eye of Gargul huh. Well, at least he has one good eye left." Says the monk, smirking. "We should be off soon then."
Assistant Dm Mark Thursday July 24th, 2003 10:19:39 PM
(OOC-I will be out of town until Sunday night for Gencon-Greg should be back by then but if not we will be ready for Monday!)
DM Greg OOC Friday July 25th, 2003 12:47:47 PM
I am, in fact, back home. Mark, thanks again for stepping in. I apologize for getting your name wrong earlier. I can start again as DM today.
Figment Friday July 25th, 2003 1:32:01 PM
The mage nods his assent with reservations. Testing their metle in such a place already... "I'd say we need to head for the portal now so as to prepare for the thieves arrival - whether we agree or not - would be a good idea. They must be stopped either way - but I am game.".
Ingrge Friday July 25th, 2003 6:58:11 PM
"I can't speak for the others but, I am up for it. I've always wanted to see Fae Skiemir, but I still would like the descriptions and drawings please."
Olana Sunday July 27th, 2003 11:26:16 PM
"I'm for going, too. I feel uneasy about some thieves having in their possession something that could change all our lives."
The unfinished map (DM Greg) Monday July 28th, 2003 2:02:11 AM
Endrin sends one of the junior Tines to fetch the copy of the map. When the young man returns, he is carrying a large piece of parchment, with only about 1/3 covered in drawing. Endrin takes the parchment, and presents it to the party. "As you can see, this map is incomplete. It is only a partial copy of the complete map. The complete map shows the way to the portal you need to pass to enter the forest that surrounds Fae Skiemir, and the location of the entry gate in the forest that you must past through to enter the magical place. It also showed a number of known locations in Fae, as well as two or three possibly safe resting spots. However, as you can see, this copy only shows the way in Emerald City to reach the first portal. It appears to lead into the old part of Emerald City, a very rough part of town. Hopefully, when you catch the thieves, you can retrieve the entire map, and use it to find your way safely around Fae Skiemir."
Lucius steps forward and says, "As for the Eye, it is unmistakable. It is a large, black sphere of glass, the size of a child's head, with a small red light shining in its center. The eye acts as a powerful locate object spell, and is presently attuned to the artifact that you seek. You only need to hold the Eye, and concentrate, for you to feel the direction that you need to travel. Unfortunately, it will only point in a straight direction, and travelling in a direct line in Fae Skiemir is not wise. As powerful as you all are, there are many, many things more powerful than you in that magical place. You will need to move slowly and carefully, and avoid being seen if at all possible. The Eye will continue to point in the correct direction, regardless of how you travel."
Endrin adds, "Now, please be quickly on your way. You may be able to catch up with the thieves before they cross the portal and enter the forest."
Ingrge Monday July 28th, 2003 8:31:05 AM
Umm, Endrin, You were going to give me a drawing and a detailed description of the orb before we left.
K'Nara Monday July 28th, 2003 3:08:55 PM
Having been silent up until now, the leader of the Talons nods her head emphatically.
"Yes, Endrin, it is quite clear that we must go," K'Nara agreed, "...and go we shall. Talons--let's grab our gear and move out...we have to intercept those thieves and get to Fae Skiemir before the Tines lose...the opportunity of a lifetime..!" With this, the tall redhead bowed to Endrin and swept from the room with a grace and regal bearing that could put a princess to shame.
Figment Monday July 28th, 2003 6:44:12 PM
The mage sighs as he retrieves his things. "So liitle time for the fineries of life... pity. I expect you can care for our mounts - or do you think we could take them in?". He leaves with the others - to the portal or the mounts - and then to the portal.
Milo Tuesday July 29th, 2003 2:49:37 AM
Smiling broadly, "Well, sometimes catching the thief takes a step down to accomplish. I'm sure all our talents will be required for such a mission." Milo moves over to Olana and stands fingering his holy symbol of Pantheon. He wonders to himself if this is the right path for him, but quickly banishes alternatives thoughts from his mind.
Olana Tuesday July 29th, 2003 1:40:08 PM
The elf sets off along with the others, breaking into a smile as Milo appears along side. With a sigh, she whispers to him -
'Off we go again. We never get the chance to be on our own much, do we.'
Orson Tuesday July 29th, 2003 2:40:43 PM
Orson glances back and forth between his fellow talons and the Tine leader, not really sure what he thought about the situation, nor Endrins asumption that they would help.
"Well, boss knows best," he sighes loudly upon hearing K'Nara's orders, following the woman towards thier guest room to gather the rest of his gear with the others. "We got time to get our armor on?" he asks, removing his sword sheathes from his bare back to slip his shirt on, and he begins to adjust the straps to his chain shirt, preparing to slide it on.
Moving swiftly to get beside K'Nara as they head back to the rooms, he speaks in a low voice after assuring no Tines would overhear, "this may not be my place to say, but he seemed quite sure about everything that was transpiring, and seems with what happened it was required that we do what he asks with this eye and whatever its supposed to do." He waits a moment, then continues, "seemed to me to happen a little to 'neatly' with the timing and all to be coincidence."
Lian Tuesday July 29th, 2003 7:05:34 PM
The monk follows quietly behindthe others, saying little at all.
Brother Bertram d20+7=12 Tuesday July 29th, 2003 8:10:37 PM
Bertram follows alongside Lian, lost in his thoughts, trying to recall any reference to the Eye of Gargul. He almost missed Lian's remark, finally looking up and smiling wanly. He looked back to the mark of Gargul on his hand for a moment and the smile faded away.
(OOC Knowledge Religion check on Eye 12)
Packing to leave (DM Greg) Wednesday July 30th, 2003 1:25:25 AM
Endrin replies to Ingrge, "Well, if it is a drawing that you need, then I think I can manage that." He pulls a small charcoal pencil from his belt pouch, and takes the partially finished copy of the map. He quickly draws a circle about the same size as a young child's head, and colours it in with the black pencil. He leaves a small (about 1/2") uncoloured part in the center of the dark circle. He hands the map to Ingrge, and says, "I hope that this diagram will suffice, since we have no formal diagrams of the Eye. And I am afraid that since I do not have any red paint handy, you will have to use your imagination to pretend that the white spot in the center is actually red. Is this drawing acceptable?"
Brother Bertram has never heard of the Eye before.
The party quickly gathers their gear together, and suits up for travel to the portal. They meet at the small door through which they originally entered the Tine headquarters, and then Endrin says, "I wish you good fortune. The artifact that you seek may well be our best hope in defeating Parnoth. Now, hurry, and try to catch the thief before he gets too far ahead."
The map shows the portal appears to be at the end of a small alley between a tannery and a burned out rooming house, off an equally small street, in the Old Town.
Milo d20+23=34 d20+21=33 Wednesday July 30th, 2003 3:07:30 AM
Milo shoulders his pack, pulls his hood up, and slips through the door, headed for the portal as indicated. He moves ahead at full speed, though hiding and moving silently as he goes. (OOC: Made hide and move silently checks for moving at full speed at DCs 34 and 33 respectively. A -5 penalty is already figured into the check.)
Brother Bertram Wednesday July 30th, 2003 3:36:19 AM
Bertram hurries along with the others, axe in hand, looking for any signs of trouble.
Ingrge Wednesday July 30th, 2003 7:40:19 AM
Following the others, Ingrge nods to Endrin, "That along with your description should do just fine.' Thank you and Hopefully we will have a bit more relaxation time on our next trip.
K'Nara Wednesday July 30th, 2003 8:40:30 AM
K'Nara changed into her armor as fast as possible. Just as she was stuffing her as-yet-unlaundered (phew!) clothing back into her knapsack, Orson came calling, voicing all the same suspicions she'd had herself, but had decided to wait until the group was all together and on their way to the site of the portal before saying out loud. She suppressed a sigh, looked around the spare room and then pointed out its only decoration: a small painting of a rather sour-looking old man.
"Isn't it just so LIFELIKE, don't you think, Orson..?" the auburn-haired woman said in an affected voice. "Especially the FEATURES like the nose..." as she spoke, however, K'Nara pointed to the subject's ear, "...and the mouth..." this time her finger traced the man's eyes, "...you could SWEAR this was a real, living, breathing person here..." K'Nara's hand gestured around the room.
She could only hope that Orson got the message she was attempting to convey while making small talk.
"Now--let's go get that thief...and that artifact." K'Nara said, picking up her pack and leaving the room. She went to meet the others and go to the site of the portal.
Olana d20+17=29 d20+13=17 Wednesday July 30th, 2003 10:53:24 AM
Olana stays to the left flank as they move toward the alley, keeping her eyes and ears on alert - just in case.
((Listen DC 29, Spot DC 17))
Figment Wednesday July 30th, 2003 2:01:54 PM
Th emage smirks at the drawing for Ingrge but decides not to needle him. He focuses more on the task at hand. "Let's get there while we can.".
Lian Wednesday July 30th, 2003 5:53:13 PM
Lian moves up to Milo in the marching order and follows close behind the Justicar, but leaving enough space so that Olana may follow as well.
He moves quietly along.
To the Portal (DM Greg) Thursday July 31st, 2003 9:38:50 PM
The Talons make their way carefully through the city, towards the older section. It is fully dark, and at least half the street lanterns are unlit, so shadows abound. Few people are on the streets tonight in the upper-class part of the city, which seems strange for a ruler's birthday party celebration. The green banners and decorations are still very much in evidence.
As they travel into the older section, the noise level increases, and more and more revellers can be seen. The tavern doors are open, and partiers wander door to door, looking for the next good time. Occasionally, a small group of revellers approaches the party, but then shy away once they see the grim faces, and the weapons and armour.
The Talons safely make their way to the entrance to the alleyway. Sure enough, there is the tannery on the left side, and the burnt-out shell of the boarding house on the right. The alley itself is about 80' long, and about 10' wide. The alley is totally dark at the far end, and no-one can make out the exact length, or what can be found at the end. There are various large and small piles of trash scattered on either side of the alley, but there is a relatively clear path through the center. Halfway down the alley, on the right hand side, a leg can be seen poking out from behind a particularily large pile of trash.
Figment Thursday July 31st, 2003 10:54:50 PM
The mage begins by casting invisibility on himself followed by fly. He goes to the air and looks around, telling the others what he's about. He moves around to the back side of the alley and sees if he can make out more detail on the "leg".
Lian d20+30=44 d20+14=26 Thursday July 31st, 2003 11:53:55 PM
Hearing Figment, Lian sculks in the shadows.
(Hide 44, Move Silently 26)
Ingrge (Displaced) Friday August 1st, 2003 7:41:40 AM
Looking around at the alleyway and the burnt out buildings, Ingrge sighs and comments. "What a wonderful place for an ambush. Let's be ready shall we?"
That said he activates his staff and suddenly Ingrge doesn't sem to be where he was before. (Displacement)
K'Nara Friday August 1st, 2003 9:28:23 AM
Once traveling and away from the eyes and ears that may have been about at the Tine headquarters, K'Nara spoke to the others:
"Orson expressed the very same thing that I had been thinking: this mission and the back-handedly convenient 'theft' of the items that Endrin wanted us to use was a tad bit TOO coincidental for my taste. I don't trust the way Endrin has risen in the ranks of the Tines, either. Something about that whole situation...is just NOT right." K'Nara shuddered, frowning. "We will go on this mission and try to retrieve the artifact...but I never said we would give the artifact to the Tines. I don't trust Parnoth--not at all--but...he DID pledge publicly to follow in the footsteps of the Gold Dragons...and if Valdor is willing to give Parnoth a chance, then it follows that anyone else of honor should also give Parnoth the chance to redeem himself, too. Olana DID point out that the Big Green hasn't been acting his previously despotic self of late, so there is NO need to give Endrin and his ilk the weapon we are going to try to retrieve."
Upon reaching the suspiciously-dark alley, K'Nara stifled a groan. NOTHING about this mission felt right--not how they got it, and not how it was presently going. The human bladesinger carefully drew Lucia from its sheathe, signalling to the invisible Figment to go take a look at the conspicuous leg, then come back to tell the Talons what was up with THAT!?
Brother Bertram Friday August 1st, 2003 4:34:08 PM
Bertram looks to the alley, wary, wondering what the darkness holds. His axe is raised and readied for any signs of trouble.
Milo Saturday August 2nd, 2003 12:04:19 AM
Milo looks up at K'nara, "Smells like the guild to me... Though I barely got half way up them stairs before their nasty alarm went off. Guess I shoulda known they'd cheat and use magic." The halfling smiles, "They didn't catch me though... I still got the old talents in me." Milo muses on that last statement silently for a while.
Olana d20+17=21 d20+13=17 Saturday August 2nd, 2003 1:02:08 AM
Olana stares down the alley as far as she can, looking for any signs of movement, and any sounds, while they wait to see what Figment comes up with.
((Listen dc 21, Spot dc17))
Lian d20+18=38 d20+7=13 Saturday August 2nd, 2003 5:49:33 AM
The monk remains hidden(not moving from his previous hiding spot) and close enough to hear (Listen 38) the other Talons accessment of this whole mission and see the area around us (Spot 13). He agrees with K'Nara and the others, silently shaking his head.
Thinking to himself, 'This is not a good situation.'
At the mouth of the alley (DM Greg) Sunday August 3rd, 2003 11:33:00 PM
While the rest of the party stays at the mouth of the alley, and ponders their reasons for being on this mission, invisible and flying Figment makes his way down the alley.
Figment, being human, has difficulty seeing all the way down the alley. However, he can safely see his way enough to fly the half-way down required to take a closer look at the leg. As he approaches the leg, he can hear a soft rumbling noise, that turns out to be gentle snoring. The leg turns out to be attached to a scruffy-looking human, clutching a wine bottle, and smelling like a distillery, apparently sleeping off the birthday party festivities. The far end of the alley is still too dark for Figment to make out any definite features. [OOC: I presume Figment would stop at the sleeping figure, which is about 40' down the alley, to take a look.]
Lian d20+25=31 d20+9=26 d20+7=12 d20+18=36 Monday August 4th, 2003 2:59:22 AM
Whispering, Lian tells Milo, "Perhaps I should go down there to see what there is." Then he moves on.
Lian proceeds down the alley, passing the leg with caution. (full speed taking -5 already figured in... Hide 31, Move Silently 26, Spot 12, Listen 36)
Milo Monday August 4th, 2003 12:14:06 PM
Milo opens his mouth to interject at Lian's suggestion, and seeing that the fleet-footed monk has already carried through, the justicar chooses to remain silent. Shaking his head, he looks up to Olana, and whispers, "Doesn't he realize that this may very well be a set up." Milo draws his short sword, prepared to wade in and save the impetuous elf, should his fears be realized.
Brother Bertram Monday August 4th, 2003 1:23:14 PM
Bertram snorts, hearing Milo's words. "Friend Milo, forgive me but I imagine you are merely upset because he beat you to it". Bertram winks at Milo and then grips his axe and keep an eye on his friend, Lian.
Ingrge (displaced) Monday August 4th, 2003 6:00:56 PM
Watching Figment and then Lian head down the alley, Ingrge looks around at the others.
"Well we aren't going to get there by just standing here. Let's spread out a bit and move?"
That said he moves to the left side of the alley and starts slowly walking.
Olana d20+13=29 d20+14=29 Monday August 4th, 2003 8:51:42 PM
Olana nods at Milo. "It could well be. However I must admit, my curiosity has got the better of me, and we are in a hurry."
She sets off down the alley after Ingrge, sliding one of her swords silently out of its sheath, looking for anything weird.
(Move Silently check DC 29, Search check DC 29)
Orson d20+2=19 d20+2=21 d20+4=24 d20+4=9 Tuesday August 5th, 2003 2:21:13 AM
Orson contemplates just bounding forward, full sprint, maybe take the ambushers off gaurd if there actually were any. But glancing briefly at K'Nara, he recalls the few lectures he'd already received for similiar actions, so decides against it. Instead he unsheaths both his blades, moving quickly down the alley, in relative silence and shadow, though not as efficiently as others were accomlishing.
K'Nara d20+5=19 d20+5=15 Tuesday August 5th, 2003 6:45:54 AM
(OOC: first the weather in my area keeps generating thunderstorms so that I can't remain online for too long--and NOW I remember that David had posted he was likely going to be away for a bit! Eeek!)
K'Nara signaled for everyone to carefully advance, using whatever ability they had to do so silently and using whatever cover they could find on the way to the darkened end of the alley. (OOC: got 19 and 15 for her Move Silently and Hide checks respectively.)
Once she, herself, drew near the conspicuous leg, K'Nara would quickly check over whomever the leg belonged to; if she wasn't held up for too long, K'Nara intended to continue towards the end of the alley.
Figment Tuesday August 5th, 2003 11:47:42 PM
Smelling the alcohol the mage proceeds to the end of the alley and has a look.
Lian Friday August 8th, 2003 5:36:08 PM
**Dramatic pause for affect**
DM Kent Saturday August 9th, 2003 8:10:53 AM
K'nara approaches the leg more carefully and manages to disturb a huge number of flies that seem to be feasting on the large pool of quickly congealing blood. On a quick visual inspection, the body seems to belong to a young lad of about 15, peasant type dress (what of the clothes you can actually, as most of it is piled next to the body). It is also obvious that the boy was tortured before his throat was slit. And just by looking, K'nara can also tell who was responsible for the boy's death, as well, as there is a crude heart-filled hand etched into the middle of his chest.
Lian, Orson, Ingrge, Milo, Bertram, and Olanna spread out as much as possible and start making their way down the alley way with their various weapons at the ready. (Milo, Spot DC 12; everyone else, except K'nara, on the ground spot DC 15)
As Figment flies invisibly up ahead, he notices two things immediately: The alley is far too quiet. And that he senses someone watching him. (Figment, Spot DC 12)
Lian d20+7=12 d20+30=40 d20+18=20 d20+14=33 Saturday August 9th, 2003 4:19:21 PM
(Spot of 12)
Noticing nothing other than mass of flies buzzing, Lian stays put watching from his hiding place. (Hide 40, Listen 20, Move Silently 33)
Milo d20+11=13 Monday August 11th, 2003 1:48:00 AM
(OOC: Made Spot check DC 13) Milo approaches cautiously, ever wary of danger as he stalks into the alley to see K'nara's find.
Olana d20+13=21 d20+13=32 Monday August 11th, 2003 11:12:10 AM
Olana moves quickly and quietly down the alley, wrinkling her nose at the flies and the body. She reckoned if whoever did this was lying in wait - they deserved everything they were about to get. She keeps her eyes peeled and moves as quietly as possible.
(Spot DC 21, Move silently DC 32)
Figment (Flying, Invisible) d20=20 Monday August 11th, 2003 11:14:07 AM
Realizing he's being tracked, the mage looks around to spy the observer (20). (Note, Figgy is invisible too.). He gains a little altitude to try and stay out of hand held weapon range.
Ingrge d20+8=27 Monday August 11th, 2003 6:42:28 PM
easing his way along the right side of the alley Ingrge stops and stares at something that he sees.
K'Nara d20=19 d20=17 Monday August 11th, 2003 7:59:58 PM
The human bladesinger's eyes narrowed as she sucked in a hissing breath between her suddenly-clenched teeth. She looked to see whether the lad was of elven blood (OOC: Spot check 19), but whether or not he is...er, was...K'Nara cared not. She looked around through the refuse that littered the alley around the deceased, searching for something--anything--that had once been green or growing, intending to place it in the hand of the murdered boy, an homage to the elven tradition of surrounding the bodies of the dead with bunches of leaves, flowers and fresh-harvested plants. (OOC: Spot check 17.)
Brother Bertram d20=11 Monday August 11th, 2003 9:49:31 PM
Bertram sees the others ahead stiffen and raises his axe, his other hand fingering his holy symbol, a spell on his lips.
Brother Bertram-Addition Monday August 11th, 2003 10:02:59 PM
Bertram murmurs a prayer to Domi. He feels the spell take hold and prepares for whats ahead.
(Magic Vestments)
DM kent d100=1 d100=17 d100=58 d20=1 d20=10 d20=1 d20=1 Monday August 11th, 2003 10:05:22 PM
Kanara's closer inspection of the lad reveals that he was at least part elven, but definitelt less than 1/2. there is however nothing green in the ally outside of some moss growing on a few stones.
Milo, Olanna, Ingrge spot several trip wires strewn across the ally and point them out to the others as they work their way down toward the end.
Figment flies a bit higher and actually manages to give him a better view of the end of the ally.
The alley dead-ends in what looks to be a wall about 50 ft past a right hand curve which is 40 feet from the rest of the talons. Around the curve Figment can see several large barrels and a small overturned cart. The view isn't quite clear enough to see if there is anyone behind them. Figment does however see a young boy duck down behind a crenellation on one of the nearby roofs as he looks around for the "spy".
Bertram and the others get weapons ready and cast the cleric casts a spell as they prepare for what they knowis coming.
Milo Monday August 11th, 2003 11:58:03 PM
Milo sees the trip wires and the body and realizes that this is indeed a trap. Thinking that their attackers may come at them from above rather than at ground level, Milo sheaths his short sword and draws his short bow, ready for action.
Lian d20+13=15 d20+18=27 d20+30=48 d20+14=19 d20+7=19 d20+4=7 Tuesday August 12th, 2003 1:51:39 AM
Noticing nothing to bazarre, Lian takes this opportunity to advance carefully. He pays close attention to where the others stepped. Seeing the trip wires slow him down but not too badly. He glances at the dead boy, wincing.
As he moves, he pays close attention to everything and everyone around him. He rubs his hands together, stretching his palms and fingers for an impending conflict. Lian moves in and out of shadows like a black cat, gracefully and stealthfully.
(Balance 15 to avoid those close together wires that may cause issues :), Listen of 27, Hide of 48, Move Silently 19, Spot 19, Search 7 for nothing particular)
Lian's Dodge is on the boy on the off chance he's undead or worse. AC 24.
K'Nara d100=58 Tuesday August 12th, 2003 7:37:13 AM
The moss being the best she could find, K'Nara pulled out a dagger and cut/scraped some of it away, replacing the dagger and pushing the moss into the dead boy's hand with a brief, elven whisper: "Good journey and may Gargul judge ye worthy."
She looked over to where the sharp-eyed trio of Ingrge, Olana and Milo pointed out the tripwires to the rest of the party. She frowned...the best way to handle this..?
K'Nara stood up, Lucia still in one hand and concentrated hard. Then she smiled--not a NICE smile--and began to cast a spell...the Spider Climb spell... (OOC: Arcane Spell Failure check 58; she can cast the spell properly.)
Olana Tuesday August 12th, 2003 10:31:06 AM
Olana signals the position of the trip wires.
So what was at the end of this alley, she wonders, where someone obviously had time to set up an elaborate trap.
Seeing Milo reach for his bow, she does the same. Continuing to move down the alley, she turns to the rear of the group, just in case someone came sneaking up behind.
Orson d20+2=20 d20+4=18 d20+4=22 Tuesday August 12th, 2003 11:51:20 AM
Orson continues forward along with the rest of the group, avoiding the trip wires that were and glancing around for others that may have gone unnoticed. He moves quickly, attempting to get towards the front of the others, should something occur, his movement enhanced by his boots.
[Move Silently 20 (-5 for normal move taken into account); Listen/Spot 18/22]
Brother Bertram Tuesday August 12th, 2003 8:14:17 PM
Bertram moves along with the others, then pauses and says a silent prayer to Domi. As the words come he feels a rush of power course through him and moves on towards whatever may lie ahead.
(OOC Bulls Strength)
DM kent d20+4=22 d20+4=23 d20+4=9 d20+4=6 d20+4=11 d20+4=12 d20+4=21 d20+4=14 d8=5 d8=5 d8=8 d8=2 d8=6 d8=3 d8=2 d8=5 d8+4=12 d8+4=7 d8+4=7 d6=2 d6=1 d6=2 Tuesday August 12th, 2003 10:25:47 PM
The Talons make their way further down the alley and reach an area that curves suddenly to the right. The end of the alley is a visible wall with various drawingas and paintings covering it. The alley is 18 ft wide and along left side is seen an overturned cart. Opposite the cart but about 15 feet further in are a stack of barrels.
As the Talons come around the corner six cross bow bolts come shooting out at you, in two waves. Many of them miss, but Milo is hit with two bolts (AC 22, 23)for 19 points plus 2 Fort saves DC 18 or lose 3 points of strength from poison
Olanna too is struck by one bolt (AC21) for 7 points plus Fort DC 18 or lose 2 points strength
Several other bolts come close to hitting K'nara, ingrge and Lian.
Lian Tuesday August 12th, 2003 11:11:03 PM
Lian remains(readying) in his hidey-hole until Orson or Milo charge for their targets, then seeing that, he will go with them into combat to flank.
I couldn't remember who my battle-buddy was. ;) I almost charged in without waiting for the casters!
Milo (shield of faith; AC 24, 25 against the nearest shooter) d20+8=24 d20+8=24 Wednesday August 13th, 2003 12:32:55 AM
Milo grunts as the bolts slam into his narrow frame, but the halfling jerks them out of his body and prays fervently to Pantheon for his protection, and takes a 5-foot step back, "Light 'em up guys." Milo waits for the spellcasters to do their work.(OOC: Made both fortitude saves DC 24. Weird! Cast shield of faith. Declaring his dodge against the nearest shooter.)
K'Nara d20+10=19 d20+5=8 d10+4=9 d10+4=6 d6=1 d6=2 Wednesday August 13th, 2003 7:35:58 AM
The tall redhead--who had been planning to climb a wall--instead opts to keep her sword in hand and stay on the ground for now.
"Fire on the cart, Figment...Ingrge!" K'Nara orders, lifting her bastard sword high. "Lucia..!" The blade flares to fiery life at the sound of the command word.
(OOC: I'm rolling for K'Nara's attacks, but she is going to wait until she can tell if Figment or Ingrge are going to toss fireballs (or the like) at the cart as ordered, first--K'Nara isn't going to chance becoming a crispy critter by acting too quickly for the party's own good.)
(Attacks hit AC19 for 6hpd + 1hp fire dam.; AC8 for 6hpd + 2hp fire dam.)
Olana d20+2=19 d20+13=22 d20+5=6 d20+5=14 Wednesday August 13th, 2003 11:02:04 AM
Wincing, the elf looks down at the bolts that hit her - angle of impact etc, and if she can figure out what their trajectory could have been, she points it out to everyone else. (INT check DC19, SPOT check DC 22)
Poisoned, too by the looks of it. (Failed FORT, re-rolled hero point, failed that too sigh) Ugh. Ducking for cover, she tends to her wounds quickly.
"Show yourself," she growls. The poison was starting to make her feel a bit dizzy.
Brother Bertram Wednesday August 13th, 2003 5:39:42 PM
Seeing Olana swaying Bertram moves towards her with a growl. Laying a hand on her wound he murmurs prayers over the injury.
((OOC Casts Neutralize Poison))
Ingrge 8d6(6+4+4+5+4+1+5+4)=33 Wednesday August 13th, 2003 5:46:03 PM
Grinning as K'nara asks for fireballs, Ingrge calls over his shoulder. "Are you sure? I would hate to set this part of the town on fire." That said he quickly casts at ball of fire at the cart leaving the barrels for Figment. (33 points damage, reflex DC 17 for half damage.)
Figment 10d6(5+5+3+4+2+2+5+3+6+5)=40 Wednesday August 13th, 2003 10:01:34 PM
Seeing where Ingrge was targeting his attack Figment sends up his fireworks as well aimed at the barrels. (40 points damage reflex dc 18)
DM Kent d20+4=24 d20+4=24 d20+4=19 d20+4=7 d20+4=7 d20+4=10 d20+4=19 d20+4=22 d20+4=22 d20+4=21 d20+4=14 d20+4=10 d20+4=24 d20+4=14 d8+4=11 d8+4=6 d8+4=11 d8+4=7 Wednesday August 13th, 2003 10:19:39 PM
Ingrge and Figment set off their pyrotechnics, sending pieces of barrels and cart all over the alley. Screams are heard as well as quite a few curses.
Bertram casts his spell and Olanna's dizziness abates.
While Lian, Orson, and Milo ready themselves for their charge, K'nara charges right in after the fireballs go off, nearly getting singed in the process due to the size of the area, but manages to connect solidly one time with an armored opponent (#6) wielding two short swords.
As the flames die down a second more ragged volley of crossbow bolts comes flying at the Talons hitting Ingrge twice for 17 points 2 fort saves DC 18 or loose 3 Strength
The other two bolts hit Orson 11 points Fortitude DC 18 or loose 2 strength points and K'nara crit threat for 7 points and make fort save DC 18 or lose 2 points strength As the bolts strike home the archers drop their bows and drow various weapons.
There are currently six armed men to be seen in the alley. #1,#2,#3,#6,#7,#8 Several seem a bit singed.
Brother Bertram 2d8(7+5)+8=20 Wednesday August 13th, 2003 10:47:18 PM
Bertram curses and leaves Olana and moves towards Ingrge, keeping low to the ground. Arriving he lays a hand quickly upon Ingrge, feeling the healing power surge through him.
(OOC Cure Moderate Wounds 20 HP)
Olana d20+13=20 d20+8=13 d8+1=8 d8+1=5 Thursday August 14th, 2003 12:32:10 AM
"Thank you, Bertram," says the elf gratefully, getting down to business with bow and arrow. Taking aim, she strikes at #1.
(AC 20 & 13 for 8 and 5)
Reloading, and well able to take accurate aim in the midst of melee. (Precise Shot feat)
Milo (shield of faith; AC 24, 25 against number 1) d20+12=20 d6+1=7 d6=2 Thursday August 14th, 2003 12:45:05 AM
Seeing Olana fire at #1, Milo pulls a shocking arrow from his quiver and lets fly at the same man. (OOC: Hit #1 AC 20 for 7 hps regular damage, and 2 hps electricity damage.)
Orson (46/57 HPs, Ac 14(16-charge), Power Attack -7 Hit, +7 Dmg) d20+6=20 d20+5=25 d20+5=20 d8+15=21 d8+15=22 Thursday August 14th, 2003 1:53:03 AM
Orson flinches as the bolt hits, though he resists the effects of the poison for now (Fort Save=20). Orson bounds in after K'Nara, cursing his slow response time.
Charging a foe next to the talon leader, he swings a powerful stroke with his blade, though bearing down the flat of the blade upon one of the men. "Incase you have questions," he says as he takes position beside K'nara, to hinder any attempts of the enemy to overbear either of the combatants.
[Took -4 For Subdual Damage. Attack hits AC 25; Crit AC 20. 21 Subdual Damage, or 43 subdual if Critical.]
Lian (dodging, AC24) d20+16=33 d20+13=27 d10=7 Thursday August 14th, 2003 1:54:15 AM
Realizing that Orson is nowhere close to him, and Milo is busy assisting Olana, the monk charges to his leaders aid, (Tumbling past opponents if need be, 33) into flanking position with K'Nara.
His Dodge is versus K'nara's opponent and Lians target. AC 24.
Lian strikes out at his target like a cat strikes a mouse. Hitting AC 27, for 7 points of damage. (This is a stunning attack, DC 19 fortitude or be stunned for a round.)
K'Nara, Spider Climb d20+12=22 d20+10=30 d20+5=21 d20+10=11 d10+4=9 d10+4=14 d6=2 d6=3 Thursday August 14th, 2003 9:30:19 AM
(OOC: hmmm, coulda sworn I posted that K'Nara was deliberately waiting until AFTER the fireballs went off...but, heck--even the best warriors get a bit pushy [all that adrenaline, y'know]...)
K'Nara hissed when the bolt bit into her and felt the poison coursing through her veins. She gritted her teeth and, instead, whirled her sword in the prescribed bladesong fashion at the armored opponent wielding two short swords. (OOC: made the Fort Save with 22; opponent is #6; combat rolls: first blow hits AC30 for 9hpd + 2hp fire damage--possible Crit Threat hits AC11...which translates to a natural 1, so it missed. [phooey!] Second blow hits AC21 for 14hpd + 3hp fire damage.)
K'nara crit threat for 7 points and make fort save DC 18 or lose 2 points strength
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