Motivation to act - Dm Ian d20+15=25 d20+1=6 d20+1=18 d20+1=3 d20+1=4 d20+1=4 d20+1=8 d20+1=8 d20+1=15 d20+1=7 d20+1=21 Wednesday September 3rd, 2003 6:25:47 PM
The party debates in the mouth of the tunnel leading into the cavern, as Setanos scans the room for any sign of invisible persons unsuccessfully.
The slaves take up a collective, rolling series of shouts that echoes around the rock walls. Its certainly only minorly distracting, but before the group can debate the reason for their doing so, another flaming arrow is shot from just over the barricade the slaves stand behind, appearing in mid flight from an invisible archer.
Tratain narrowly sidesteps the arrow as it streaks past his shoulder, incandescent with flame.
From above, Renik sees one of the rivulets of water to the right of the barricade, and twenty feet from the party get disrupted by a single footfall from an invisible person.
Setanos' vision twinges again uncomfortably.
(Please make another caster level check).
With this, the slaves level their weapons and fire at as a unit at Feng. Feng steps to one side quickly to avoid the ill-conceived attack, as the slaves woodenly reload.
Rond Wednesday September 3rd, 2003 8:36:32 PM
Commenting so that only the group can hear, "The horn of goodness should be able to help out here. I think it can bring them out of the mind control temporarily. But we'll have to move quickly, because once it runs out, they'll be back under. We will only get to use it once, though."
If no one objects, Rond will sound the horn, trying to center the effect around the most amount of slaves.
Carl Thursday September 4th, 2003 2:29:18 AM
OOC: Ian, I think there may be a mis-understanding here. As I understand it Tratain gave Setanos the See Invisibility scroll to cast on Tratain, not Setanos. So it should be Tratain making those checks. This is pretty essential to the group strategy!
Could you confirm, Setanos and Tratain?
Setanos (Ac 22, HP 88. Ex BullStr 5, ExCatGr 4, ExEnd 5, ExMageAr) d20+6=20 Thursday September 4th, 2003 7:47:35 AM
Setanos continues to peer in the direction of the archer, though he is confused by his inablity to see him clearly.
"Somethings wrong here. I should be seeing this foe clearly, but I dont. It may be more powerful magic then we were expecting."
He then casts expeditious retreat on himself.
OOC: Caster level check 20.
OOC: The see invisiblity scroll was cast on Setanos first. Once I see something to be seen, I'll cast one on Tratain.
Tratain AC 27 HP 50 (Shield of Faith; Bulls Strength 19 str; Prot. From Elements Lightning 84 points; Spell Immunity: Fireball/Blindness) Thursday September 4th, 2003 11:26:15 AM
After narrowly sidesteping the arrow Tratain listens to what Setanos has to say and then replies "This is odd, it's almost as though the magic we cast isn't working as well as it should or thiers is strengthened somehow, anyone have any idea's? I'm completely baffled and i don't know how long I can keep dodging arrows from that invisible archer."
Tratain Continues "If the Horn Doesn't work I have an Idea to get them to stop firing, or should we just try to storm the barricade, the water infront of the barricade and that pond on our left worry me as most of our enemies can breathe underwater."
OOC: The First scroll was cast on Setanos, the other will be cast later when it becomes really warrented, those caster level checks have us completely confused though hehe. On a side note, if anyone needs assistence on thier 3.5 sheets let me know. We can't switch in the middle of combat but we should have them done anyway.
OOC Clarification - Dm Ian Thursday September 4th, 2003 1:06:22 PM
Setanos posted:
Setanos (Ac 22, HP 88. Ex BullStr 5, ExCatGr 4, ExEnd 5, ExMageAr) Tuesday September 2nd, 2003 10:03:41 AM Setanos nods and pulls out the scroll Tratain gave him earlier. He then reads it, casting See Invisiblity. He then moves down the hall, looking for this archer.
So, the see invisibility effect is currently running on him.
Draax, Ac21, HP 79 Thursday September 4th, 2003 4:23:30 PM
It is disconcerting to have to worry about the elusive archer and trying not to hurt the controlled ones. Draax is somewhat relieved at the skill level of the mind-controlled archers, but he knows that even the blind will eventually hit the target if given enough opportunities.
"I agree with Tain about the water, it is probably nothing, but that (points at the water) says trap all over it.
I would feel more comfortable setting off the trap if our invisible friend wasn't still lurking around."
Renik: Improved Invisible, Cat's Grace, AC 25, HP 62 d20+10=20 d20+25=28 d20+15=27 Thursday September 4th, 2003 5:26:35 PM
Noting the invisible footfall, Renik is at a momentary loss. Should he attempt to attack the assailant, or warn his companions of its presence? Either strategy forces him to show his hand far earlier than he had wished, but if that invisible assailant gets amongst his companions unseen...
But he pushes the thought aside. They each have their targets and roles to play. He presses on, examining the shallow pool to the left carefully, and also the murky pool before the barricade (Spot 20, Hide 28, MS 27).
Then he settles silently behind the archers, his weapons ready, prepared to launch an all out attack.
Rook to kings knight 4 - Dm Ian d20+15=26 d20+15=25 d20+10=20 d6=1 d6=1 d6=3 d8+10=11 d8+10=11 d8+10=18 d20=20 Thursday September 4th, 2003 6:11:45 PM
The twinging in Setanos' eyes abruptly resolves as he sees Marcus stand up on the right side of the barricade, and begin to move down the right side of the cavern. The spymaster has a grim expression on his face, and bears a reversed shortsword in his left hand, and a bandolier of steel throwing knives across his chest. He advances a total of thirty feet from the barrier towards the party.
(No one else in the party sees Marcus.)
Renik settles down behind the slave archers as Rond's horn sounds. The magic circle settles over the slaves, and they halt mid reload, listless and wooden. They reek of seawater and fish, and each have a small quiver with roughly fifteen or twenty more arrows.
From his vantage point, Renik sees a swirl of water and bubbles in the submerged area just to the left of the barricade. Almost definately a submerged pit, or other kind of drop off guarding that side of the barricade.
The hail of flaming arrows explodes again from a position halfway across the cavern next to the shallow pond on the left side. All three arrows streak towards Setanos, two hammering into his armor.
(Setanos is struck for 24 points of damage.)
Abram moves up from the rear of the party, and despite shaking hands, reaches out his shield to lend Setanos some cover.
Rond d20+13=25 d20+23=32 Thursday September 4th, 2003 10:50:50 PM
Not wanting to give anything away, Rond does his best to move down the cavern wall. Rond tries his best to move slowly, and using bills pants and other means, trys to blend in with the local area.
(Hide=25 MS=32)
Feng Ac 22, HP 85 (Freedom of Movement) d8+4=9 Thursday September 4th, 2003 11:17:28 PM
Feng's instincts tell him to make his way through the water and beat down the archers. Except he knows that would be foolish and could cause his death or anothers. He calms himself with a sigh and steps over to Setanos and casts CLW. [1 of 2 clw/ healed 9hp]
Tratain AC 27 HP 50 (Shield of Faith; Bulls Strength 19 str; Prot. From Elements Lightning 84 points; Spell Immunity: Fireball/Blindness) Friday September 5th, 2003 11:06:50 AM
Now that the slaves have stopped firing for a moment Tratain attempts to Detect Evil to try and tell if any of thier enemies are close by besides the archer. He focus's on the pond and the water before the barricade a little more closely because they would make an excelent hiding place for water breathing adversaries he thinks.
OOC: Note to DM Ian, Neither Setanos nor Tratain have met Marcus Yet so he wouldn't necessarily know us, the only time we have seen him was on the beach when it was the shapeshifter
(OOC: Understood. I am operating under the impression that Setanos had heard enough to at least identify the man.)
Advancing in to the jaws of danger - Dm Ian d20+9=16 d20+4=17 d20+15=18 d20+9=19 Friday September 5th, 2003 6:01:33 PM
Rond sneaks down the side of the cavern quietly, fairly sure he has evaded detection. Another flaming arrow is shot from someplace just to Ronds left, and in the relative quiet that had followed the slaves stopping their cries, he hears invisible booted feet move away from him back towards the barricade.
The single flaming arrow is avoided easily by Setanos ducking behind Abram's shield.
Setanos sees Rond make it to the halfway point of the caverns length, and sees the invisible Marcus pass within three feet of Rond, apparently unaware of Rond's presence. Feng finshes his curative spell on Setanos about this point.
From his vantage point behind the slaves, Renik can hear down the rought hewn tunnel behind the barricade, in the absence of their cries. Just over the distant thundering surf, he can hear a sibilant voice chanting unspeakable praises to darkness.
He's heard that chanting before. It's sahuagin.
Renik: Improved Invisible, Cat's Grace, AC 25, HP 62 d20+25=29 d20+15=35 d20+10=27 d20+2=21 Tuesday September 9th, 2003 12:14:33 PM
The rogue's head snaps around at the sound of that voice. Could that be his target? He rises into the air once more, hugging the shadows of the cavern roof as he penetrates further into the caves (hide 29, MS 35), hunting for the evil spellcaster. He realises he is getting dangerously distant from his companions, but with luck this sneak attack will pay off...
He will seek out the chanter, then hover just overhead, ready to launch an all-out attack (Full attack next round). If he spots that his presence has been detected however (Spot 27 Sense Motive 21), he will retreat as fast as he is able.
OOC: crash recovery - DM Ian Tuesday September 9th, 2003 5:44:41 PM
With apologies to Renik, lets extend the posting for the last until tomrrow at about this time, so everyone can get a chance to act in this combat round.
Tratain AC 27 HP 50 (Shield of Faith; Bulls Strength 19 str; Prot. From Elements Lightning 84 points; Spell Immunity: Fireball/Blindness) Wednesday September 10th, 2003 11:48:05 AM
Looking at the members of the group that he can see, Tratain says "Well should we make our way over to that barricade now, the slaves have stopped firing for now but who knows how long that will last. We should try and find that invisible archer and take him out before he can regroup with the rest."
Rond d20+13=23 d20+23=32 Wednesday September 10th, 2003 12:46:17 PM
Slowing his approach, Rond keeps moving towards the archer looking for telltale signs to tell him where the archer is currently. Once he hears the approach of the rest of the group, he'll jump on the archer if he can.
(Hide 23, MS 32)
Setanos (Ac 22, HP 88. Ex BullStr 5, ExCatGr 4, ExEnd 5, ExMageAr) d20+14=32 d8+6=8 3d6(2+5+2)=9 Wednesday September 10th, 2003 4:27:40 PM
Setanos braces himself, charges and attacks the hidden archer. If his blow hits, he will activate the Vampiric touch in his axe.
Draax, AC21, HP 79 Wednesday September 10th, 2003 5:19:16 PM
Draax moves toward the side of the barricade and using his slippers of spider climbing he walks along the wall pass the water and the barricade.
If any of the enslaved archers look like they are still going to attack the party, Draax will position himself to attack them next round.
Across the mouth of danger - Dm Ian d20+9=16 d4=2 d20+15=32 d8+10=18 d6=1 Wednesday September 10th, 2003 8:37:12 PM
Setanos charges towards Rond, turning at the last moment to levy a brutal strike with his axe, seemingly at midair. He ducks a strike from his invisible attacker, and hacks the invisible target with a solid blow.
Draax circles the walls over the still pond, and seems home free until he passes over the leftmost side of the barricade. At that point, a blackish ray snaps up out of the water, striking Draax in the chest. It leeches his life away rapidly, leaving him almost ready to fall to the ground.
(Draax is reduced to a grand total of 2 hps).
The invisible archer has apparently moved again, with Rond hearing footsteps across the cavern over by the edge of the pool, just as another single flaming arrows snaps into being and takes Setanos solidly in the shoulder for 19pts. Rond, and everyone else can hear the footsteps recede towards Draax's position.
The slaves continue to stand quietly, slack jawed.
Advancing down a sixty foot hallway, Renik finds himself at the opening to a massive cavern.
With a soaring cavern at least eighty feet high, the right side of the cavern is dominated by an elevated shelf about twelve feet from the floor, upon which stands a blue robed, light green skinned sahuagin female, gesturing and chanting over Marcus' form. Marcus himself lays still, his throat horribly cut and large onyxes over his eyes.
As the priestess shrieks, a dark form pulls itself up and out of Marcus, an infernal outline in darkness of who he was in life, with two pinpoints of fire as eyes.
At the point the shelf meets the rightmost wall, crouches a deep green skinned sahuagin, detailed in inked tatoos. His blackened leather fighting harness carries at least twelve gleaming steel javelins, but in his four hands he bears blue-silver javelins.
The left side of the room is dominated with the ruined wreckage of a small caravel, with two immense holes rent in the side below what would have been the waterline. Where the stone shelf meets the ship, the blue robed sea elven infiltrator Usshas stands, incanting a spell.
Behind the ship, Renik hears something huge move, a hard material scraping on the stone.
The cavern itself is covered in at least two inches of water, and perhaps more in places if the ground is uneven. The sea can be heard somewhere nearby.
Tratain AC 27 HP 50 (Shield of Faith; Bulls Strength 19 str; Prot. From Elements Lightning 84 points; Spell Immunity: Fireball/Blindness) 4d8(4+5+4+5)+7=25 Wednesday September 10th, 2003 11:04:24 PM
Tratain Casts Cure Critical Wounds(Healed for 25) on Draax after the Ray strikes him and Then stays alert for any sign of the attackers. He says "Setanos can you cast that second scroll on me now, I think we're going to need it."
Draax AC21 HP 51 3d8(6+6+6)+6=24 Wednesday September 10th, 2003 11:25:48 PM
As he feels the healing power directed at him from Tain, Draax takes few wobbly steps away from the water before draining his cure serious wounds potion (24 hp gained). He was wondering what the water trap would be and now they know. He hopes it was a one shot deal so the others can cross, but he doubts it.
As the potion takes affect Draax feels a little better and tries to stand ready for the next attack.
Feng Ac 22, HP 85 (Freedom of Movement) Wednesday September 10th, 2003 11:31:17 PM
Feng rushes up and pulls Draax out of the water and back to relative safety.
"Hold on Draax. Just stay awake and everything will be fine." At least for a few more minutes Feng adds silently. Feng lays his free hand and gives Draax all the divine strength he has.
ooc: Lay on Hands for 27 hp
Rond d20+13=17 d20+23=30 Thursday September 11th, 2003 2:05:24 AM
Like stalking his prey when he was younger. Rond oh so quielty tries to match his opponent stride for stride, trying to sneak up on the archer and catch him unawares. IF he has a chance to close and hit, he will.
Hearing Draax cry out in pain, Rond hopes that the rest of the group is following shortly behind him.
Hide 17 MS 30
Arien (AC 25, Extended Mage Armor, Shield) Thursday September 11th, 2003 1:44:19 PM
"Hmm this situation is starting to annoy me," Arien says dryly. Arien falls into a spell and in short order; Feng, Draax, Abram and of course Arien all blink out and disappear, only to reappear at the other end of the cavern.
Renik: Improved Invisible, Cat's Grace, AC 25, HP 62 d20+15=21 d20+25=45 Thursday September 11th, 2003 4:30:57 PM
The rogue shudders in revulsion as he sees the horrific fate that befalls Marcus. They were too late! And now this dark, flame eyed figure walks in their spymaster's stead...
He looks around nervously hoping to see his companions following on behind, but there is no sign of them. Deciding that any further ingress in the cavern at this stage is the height of foolishness, Renik turns and flies silently back down the hallway to rejoin his companions (MS 21), hugging the shadow-wreathed ceiling (Hide 45). Should he reach anyone he will quietly whisper what he has seen in the cavern beyond, and suggest that they secure the area they have already taken before advancing any further. That invisible bowman needs to fall, and quickly. Either they need to see through his invisibility, or remove it.
The battlefront shifts - Dm Ian d20+15=30 d8+10=17 d6=5 Thursday September 11th, 2003 6:53:53 PM
Arien, Feng, and Abram disappear and reappear behind the main barricade across the cavern, joining Draax, and the invisible, returning Renik. This leaves Tratain at the opening to the cavern, and Rond and Setanos spread out across the middle of the cavern.
(Please remember this cavern is more than one round of movement long, even at a run, for most characters.)
Marcus turns and bolts from Setanos, provoking an attack of opportunity.
The invisible archer fires from about twenty feet away from Rond, and Rond hears the archer move away rapidly from him, probably faster than he could give chase at anything other than a run. The archer is probably somewhere over by Tratain now, but the conversation of the party members, and the rushing sound of the waves makes it hard to hear him from more than twenty feet away or so.
The shot flies towards Arien, hitting easily for 22 pts of damage.
The whole group can hear the sibilant chanting now, angry and frenzied. One voice rises above it, a spine-tingling frosted shout.
"Must Feed! Souls?"
It sounds like Marcus, gone horribly insane.
Tratain AC 27 HP 50 (Shield of Faith; Bulls Strength 19 str; Prot. From Elements Lightning 84 points; Spell Immunity: Fireball/Blindness) Thursday September 11th, 2003 9:31:16 PM
Tratain Moves over to stand near Setanos so that the two of them are not Isolated and easily taken out solo. Tratain Says to Setanos "I think we should move over towords the rest of the group."
Rond Thursday September 11th, 2003 10:10:36 PM
If Rond thinks he has a clear shot, he'll try to cast entangle in order to catch the archer. With the amount of noise around him, he should be able to disguise his casting.
Feng Ac 22, HP 85 (Freedom of Movement) Thursday September 11th, 2003 10:16:58 PM
Feng holds his axe tightly looking for enemies that he can see.
Draax AC21 HP 78 Friday September 12th, 2003 12:42:31 AM
Draax nods his head to his companions as a thank you for their combined efforts in restoring his health.
Hearing Marcus' voice, Draax gives a little shiver at the insanity that registered from the words. "If that is indeed Marcus we might have to take him down hard and if we cannot cure him we might have to destroy him. He is far too dangerous a man to be roaming around the wold not in his right mind."
Draax mentally prepares himself to get ready and move toward the chanters, but he know that the group needs to take care of the invisibly archer first.
Renik d20+25=28 d20+25=42 d20+15=31 Friday September 12th, 2003 8:20:34 AM
The rogue scowls. The one downside with being invisible is that it suddenly becomes very difficult to lead effectively without blowing your cover.
Deciding this dilly-dallying and indecision has gone on long enough he ducks behind his companions (Hide 28) and yells:
"Setanos! Cast see invisible on Tratain, and Rond too if you can! We need to take those two down now, before we're caught in a pincer! You, Rond and Tratain need to take those two out fast!"
More quietly he says to those nearby "Feng, Arien, Draax, Abram, get down behind the barricade. Shadow Marcus and the others will aim to damage us at long range with those javelins and with spells, so keep your heads down, don't let them see you and we'll draw them onto us. Hopefully we'll have a greater advantage at close range. Arien, whilst we're waiting for them, see if there are any spells you can think of which might help with those two invisible folk back there, or which might assist our warriors for the coming battle."
The rogue looks around frantically. They are taking a great deal of damage, and failing to dish any back out. They need to turn the tide of this battle and quickly.
He rises into the air, hugging the hallway wall, and begins to advance back down the passageway cautiously.
(Hide 42, MS 31)
(OOC At this stage a map would be invaluable. It's very difficult to get an accurate picture of distance and cover without one!)
Setanos (Ac 22, HP 63. Ex BullStr 5, ExCatGr 4, ExEnd 5, ExMageAr) Friday September 12th, 2003 9:13:09 AM
Setanos nods to Tratain. He casts the second scroll of see invisiblity on Tratain, and then moves with him back to the cover of the group, wary of his wounds.
Taking cover - Dm Ian d20+4=7 d20+13=21 d20+13=23 d20+13=28 d20+13=20 d20+8=26 3d8(8+4+1)+30=43 3d6(2+1+6)=9 d20+12=23 d20+9=19 d6+2=6 3d6(1+1+5)=7 d20+4=10 d20+4=15 d20+12=18 d20+12=18 Friday September 12th, 2003 7:15:23 PM
As most of the group takes cover, Abram takes a position to Arien's immediate left, providing Arien three quarters cover between his shield and body. Arien can still see enough to launch spells, if he so desires.
As Setanos retreats, Rond finishes his spell. The floor and ceiling of the cavern erupt in coiled roots, which descend and flail about, almost immediately grasping at a stationary target standing in the mouth of the cavern where the party entered. Everyone can see where the archer is now.
Coarse swearing in an unknown language erupts, and flaming arrows explode from the ensnared, invisible archer. Four such arrows erupt and race towards Setanos' retreating form.
(Three of the arrows hit for a total of 52pts of damage).
The swearing winds down to a few rough words in Common.
"No more dancing. Time to die!"
Rond feels safe in his concealment, until Setanos starts, and an invisible person stabs at Rond, striking him with some sort of bladed weapon.
Setanos sees the invisible Marcus charge Rond and cut him with his short sword.
(Rond is damaged for 13 pts.)
Setanos manages to finish his scroll reading at this point, casting see invisible upon Tratain. Tratains eyes twitch, but no one else becomes visible.
Renik continues back down the hallway, and finds Usshas, and Malachi furiously casting. He doesn't immediately see the darkened Marcus, until he looks up and sees the unholy corruption of their spymaster hovering over the tunnel entrance to the cave.
The undead beast begins to sniff, and look down into the tunnel, a vague, wordless moaning coming from it's head.
(I will work on a map, and post it as soon as I can. At the latest, that will be sunday night, but I will try for this evening.)
Tratain AC 27 HP 50 (Shield of Faith; Bulls Strength 19 str; Prot. From Elements Lightning 84 points; Spell Immunity: Fireball/Blindness; See Invisible) 3d8(8+7+5)+5=25 Friday September 12th, 2003 8:26:19 PM
Tratain quickly reaches into his haversack and pulls out a scroll. He reads off the Scroll and Heals Setanos for 25 Points. Tratain will also Intercept the Next Arrow shot at Setanos (Protector Ability) He says "Setanos Stand Near Me until I can heal you a little More, If you have any potions of healing Drink them quick. If not try and get one from my haversack, just reach into it and think of a potion of Cure Moderate wounds."
Tratain then looks around trying to see who he can see as far as enemies go.
OOC: Was Setanos Able to cast See Invisible on me?
(My apologies... revising the original post.)
Rond 83 hps 19 AC d20+12=32 d20+12=29 d20+7=19 d20+12=29 d10=4 d6=6 d10=7 d6=4 d10=3 d10=1 d6=4 Saturday September 13th, 2003 4:31:48 PM
Quickly reacting to the attack, Rond dodges out of the way.
"There is a second invisible target."
Rond whips out his swords and activates the flaming ability and does his best to attack his enemy.
(possible crit (nat 20) 2nd attack is AC 29) for 17 points dam if reg 24 with crit.
AC 19 for 14 points AC 29 for 11 points
(ignore extra d10 roll of 1)
Draax d20+15=28 d20+10=21 d8+3=10 d8+3=4 Sunday September 14th, 2003 9:26:33 AM
Happy to finally have a target, Draax fires off a couple of arrows at the ensnared archer (AC 28 for 10dmg and AC 21 for 4dmg).
Renik: Improved Invisible, Cat's Grace, AC 25, HP 62 d20+13=31 2d6(5+3)=8 Monday September 15th, 2003 6:52:41 AM
Seeing enemies advancing down the hallway towards them the rogue grabs for a soft leather pouch on his belt. Rond's spell has ensnared that deadly archer, and the others need time to focus all their energies into taking him down.
Perhaps this little trick, borrowed from a certain Mr Troublefinder, will delay those foul creatures, particularly in this enclosed space. It might even disrupt some of that rather ominous spellcasting...
He hurls the pouch from his concealed position, aiming for the ground directly between the spellcasters.
As soon as the pouch is in the air Renik retreats as fast as he is able, making for the cavern once more. He has no desire to stick around and be sniffed out by that Shadow Marcus thing. He stays high, up towards the ceiling, and if he sees that there is still fight in the trapped archer he will prepare to draw his bow.
(OOC: Unsure of the penalties to subtract, so just applied Renik's ranged attack bonus: please subtract penalties as necessary from AC 31. The pouch contains a Golden Globe (2d6 Fireball: 8HP dmg), a Thunderstone (Fort DC 15 or deaf for 1 hour), and a Flashpellet (Ref DC 15 or dazzled 1 minute, -1 to attacks, also should cause light sensitive creatures particular problems!)
A most palpable blow! - Dm Ian d20+12=22 d20+12=23 d20+12=15 d20+12=14 2d8(3+8)+7=18 2d6(2+5)=7 2d6(5+2)+4=11 d20+4=22 d20+11=28 d20+11=17 d20+4=15 d20+4=5 d20+11=21 Monday September 15th, 2003 7:00:26 PM
Rond unleashes his furious skill, connecting with brutal efficiency with the invisible aggressor. All three blows find a target, biting heavily, and throwing the invisible being to the ground nearby. As Rond steps to ensure a coup de grace, the invisibility fades to reveal a skeletally thin doppelganger, already dead, with a simple steel short sword laying nearby.
Draax snaps arrows at the held, invisible archer, connecting with both, and is answered by a roar, and a four flaming arrows returned to streak a short distance across the cavern at Rond.
(Two of the arrows hit, for 25 pts of damage.)
The rest of the group takes cover behind the barricade, with Abram still shielding Arien with himself. The charmed slaves are still standing numbly about, their bows fallen from slumbering hands to the ground.
Just down the hallway, Renik hurls his delivery in between Usshas and Malachi, turning and running even before the detonation occurs. Running back up the hallway tothe party, he hears the corrupted Marcus-thing wail piteously.
Following the explosion comes a shout echoing up the hallway, in the same voice as the earlier chanting.
Draax AC21 HP 78 d20+15=26 d20+10=24 d8+3=6 d8+3=7 Monday September 15th, 2003 7:42:33 PM
Draax smiles as he hears the roar from the invisible archer that tells him of the successful hits, but quickly wipes the smile from his face as the flaming arrows are directed toward Rond. Now that he has the archer's location he fires off a couple of more arrows at the menace (AC 26 for 6 dmg, AC 24 for 7dmg, total of 13 dmg). To the other members he shout, "OK guys, lets take this guy down now while he is isolated away from his friends."
Tratain AC 27 HP 50 (Shield of Faith; Bulls Strength 19 str; Prot. From Elements Lightning 84 points; Spell Immunity: Fireball/Blindness; See Invisible) d8+7=12 d8=8 Monday September 15th, 2003 11:30:25 PM
Tratain is still Attempint to Intercept the next Blow Ment for Setanos and Again Heals his friend for 20 Points.
Tratain Says "Draax is Right, we need to take out this archer before the others can get here and help him, can we get Feng close? With the spell I cast on him the entangle won't touch him, otherwise we have to try and whiddle him down with arrows."
Renik: Improved Invisible, Cat's Grace, AC 25, HP 62 d20+16=35 d8+4=11 4d6(2+2+1+3)=8 2d6(6+2)=8 Tuesday September 16th, 2003 2:50:16 AM
As Renik races past he calls to Feng "Stay at the barricade! We're going to need you holding the line when those other creatures get here!
Those at the barricade stay where you are, hit the archer at range if you can. You others, hit the archer as hard as you can, but move towards the cover of the barricade, or the walls either side of that tunnel entrance! From what I've seen of the other monstrosities heading our way they're going to make our archer friend look like a baby kobold!"
Approaching to within 30 ft of the ensnared archer Renik fires a Holy arrow at it (AC 35, 27HP). Glad to see one enemy down, he prays they can take out the archer before the others arrive...
Arien (19 hp, AC 25, Shield, Mage Armor) Tuesday September 16th, 2003 3:10:54 AM
Hearing Renik's warning Arien leans over and casts enlarge on Feng, giving the already powerful Paladin an extra boost.
Setanos (Ac (29) 22, HP 56. Ex BullStr 5, ExCatGr 4, ExEnd 5, ExMageAr) Tuesday September 16th, 2003 7:28:02 AM
Setanos shakes off the pain and tries to cast a spell, raising his magic shield and facing it towards the archers. He thanks Tratain, whispers a quick prayer and prepares to charge.
OOC: Cast shield spell
Rond 69 hp 19AC d8=4 d8=7 Tuesday September 16th, 2003 8:30:00 AM
Rond stumbles as he takes the unexpected attack from the direction of the ensnared archer. Ready to move to the archer, Rond changes his mind when Renik announces he needs the barricade defended.
Pulling out his potion of cure moderate wounds, Rond quickly gulps it as he begins his move to the barricade. If there's time, he'll remove the bows from the feet of the slaves. He doesn't need the slaves to come under sway again, and pick up their bows on him.
More crunchy goodness - Dm Ian d20+12=23 d20+12=14 d20+12=22 d20+7=13 Tuesday September 16th, 2003 6:01:25 PM
Draax's and Reniks arrows ipact with a series of thumps against the entangled archer, as Rond joins the remainder of the group at the barricade, and drinks a potion.
(Collecting the bows can be done the next round.)
Renik, on the other hand, advances out from the barricade, and stands alone in the center of the room, firing, and scoring a powerhit hit on the archer, if the volume of his bellow is any indication.
The archer returns fire on Renik, spraying arrows over the room. However, the normally graceful rogue takes full advantage of his magical enhancement, and manages to duck and dodge all four arrows, to the astoundment of his allies.
Nothing yet comes up the tunnel from the cavern below. The spellcasting and chanting continues unabated...
(Map finally done and being sent out as I type. - Dm Ian)
Feng Ac 23, HP 85 (Freedom of Movement) Tuesday September 16th, 2003 9:56:24 PM
Feng wishes he could stay at the barricade but he sat by for too long. "Sorry Renik you can yell at me later but I can't wait any longer. They are trying to stall us to complete some ritual. I cannot allow that to happen."
With that said, Feng rushes down the tunnel toward the chanting.
Renik: Improved Invisible, Cat's Grace, AC 25, HP 62 d20+16=23 d8+4=8 4d6(4+6+3+5)=18 d20+11=22 d8+4=11 4d6(2+1+1+1)=5 Wednesday September 17th, 2003 4:39:18 AM (OOC: Ian, as mentioned in Renik's last post he is floating near the ceiling of the cavern, not standing. Also don't forget the rogue is invisible when shooting arrows back at him!)
Renik bites off a curse as he sees Feng race off into the tunnel. Ah well, their hand is forced now...
"Back him up!" he yells to the others. "He'll be taken apart on his own! Tratain, help Feng with dark Marcus! The rest of you try to hit those spellcasters with Dispel magics or whatever else you have, and try to slow down the javelin weilder: that guy is going cause us some serious damage! Leave the archer to me!"
He turns his attention back to the archer, and lets two arrows fly. They appear in mid-air, speeding towards the ensnared bowman (AC 23 for 26 HP, AC 22 for 16 HP)
(My apologies about positional description problems, however, the archer can apparently see Renik.-DM Ian)
Rond d20+13=23 d20+23=34 Wednesday September 17th, 2003 11:27:56 AM
Taking his cue Rond does not pick up the dropped bows. Feng will get the party started, so Rond will come up from behind with a secondary surprise attack.
Hide =23 MS=34
Tratain AC 27 HP 50 (Shield of Faith; Bulls Strength 19 str; Prot. From Elements Lightning 84 points; Spell Immunity: Fireball/Blindness; See Invisible) Wednesday September 17th, 2003 11:30:58 AM
Tratain runs after Feng and calls out to the others "Setanos, Abram, lets go, it looks like the battle will be decided down the hall, lets go finish this."
Setanos (Ac (29) 22, HP 56. Ex BullStr 5, ExCatGr 4, ExEnd 5, ExMageAr) Wednesday September 17th, 2003 2:10:46 PM
Setanos nods to Tratain, running down the hall after Feng with Tratain.
Draax AC21 HP 78 d20+15=18 d20+10=28 d8+3=11 Wednesday September 17th, 2003 5:14:33 PM
Draax fires off a couple of more arrows at the invisible archer. His first shot goes amiss as he is distracted by the other running down the hall. He has better success with his second shot and hits the entangled archer (AC28, 11dmg).
Off and running - Dm Ian 9d6(1+3+5+4+3+1+5+2+1)=25 d20+6=16 5d6(1+4+5+6+6)=22 d20+19=28 d20+19=33 d20+19=28 d20+19=28 d20+14=28 d20+9=14 2d4(2+3)+9=14 Wednesday September 17th, 2003 6:26:37 PM
Renik and Draax stand and deliver again, causing a grunt of pain, and the appearance of a bloody koalinth, hanging motionless in the writhing roots, transfixed with arrows.
Arien remains next to Draax, kneeling behind the barrier.
(Any volunteers to play Arien until he is able to return to active posting?)
Feng takes off running down the twisting, descending corridor, and emerges into the lower cavern, followed shortly by Setanos, Tratain, and a determined, angry looking Abram who grips his longsword with white knuckles.
The cavern below is as Renik saw it before. It is a rough oval over two hundred feet wide, over a hundred deep, and at its craggy heights, about eighty feet. The center and left of the room is filled with murky water, and the far left side of the room is dominated by a listing, beached caravel, with massive holes torn into its wooden flanks.
The right side of the cavern has a twelve foot high shelf, atop which stands Usshas by the ship, Malachi, the sahuagin priestess, in teh center, and the immense, tatooed sahaugin blackguard by the southern cavern wall. All three appear to be covered by stoneskin, and the blackguard is approximately thirteen feet tall, his four arms flexing eagerly.
As you come into the room, Usshas incants a spell, and the cavern opening erupts around the charging warriors in flame. Abram takes the full brunt of the blast, lurching in pain.
(Fireball Reflex save vs DC 18 please for half damage. As expected, Tratain is immune.)
Malachi incants a quiet prayer, and is shrouded in a shadowy aura. At the same time, the blackguard jumps from the cavern shelf to the floor, and as he lands, unleashes a barrage of thrown javelins, clearly hasted. One of those javelins explodes into lightning, striking Feng for 22pts of damage (Reflex save DC 14 please).
The other five javelins flash across the room at Setanos. Only one impacts, thanks to his shield spell, inflicting 14 pts of damage.
With an unearthly wail of torment, an form of darkness given shape descends out of the air above the party. As the thing levitates into combat range with Tratain, the group recognizes Marcus, transformed into a Wraith.
Rond makes it about halfway down the hallway, and sees the fireball go off before him with a dull boom.
Feng (Ac 23, HP 52) d20+9=18 d20+9=22 d20+1=12 d20+1=20 Wednesday September 17th, 2003 10:09:24 PM
Feng raises his arms to shield his face from the fire and lightning. Gritting his teeth, Feng pushes aside the pain and looks up at the three figures.
"Cover me if you can. I'm going to introduce myself."
Feng takes toward the shelf, building up speed for his running start. With a loud groan Feng jumps high into the air attempting to reach the shelf.
ooc: Rolled a 20 for his jump check combined with his ring of jumping gives him a 50. I believe he just clears the shelf. Unless I am mistaken Jumping counts as normal movement. If that is true then Feng will lay on hands to heal up to full. BTW used 1 hero point to reroll the jump check.
Tratain AC 27 HP 50 (Shield of Faith; Bulls Strength 19 str; Prot. From Elements Lightning 84 points; Spell Immunity: Fireball/Blindness; See Invisible) d20+2=15 2d6(3+4)+9=16 Wednesday September 17th, 2003 11:30:39 PM
Tratain watches the wraith float down and his mind races trying to think if there is any way to save the spymaster. Deciding that he can't risk leaving the wraith roam free to attack him and his comrades he calls upon the power granted to him as a cleric of Domi to try and turn undead marcus. (Turning Check 15, Clerics Level + 1 = 8 Hit Dice undead or lower are effected 16 Hit Dice worth of Undead are effected if successful)
Tratain calls out "Setanos, Abram go try and Help Feng, the others can help me with undead Marcus if my Turning isn't successful"
Arien (19 hp, AC 25, Shield, Mage Armor) Thursday September 18th, 2003 12:21:44 AM
Concentrating on the archer Arien doesn't realize that what is happening behind him until Feng is gone. Cursing, Arien activates his boots and takes off after Feng.
Renik: Improved Invisible, Cat's Grace, AC 25, HP 62 Thursday September 18th, 2003 2:27:32 AM
A sigh of relief escapes the rogue's lips as the dire archer finally falls limp on his bonds. Time now for the main event... The invisible rogue calls down to his two remaining companions in the cavern:
"Draax, Arien, I'm going to try and sneak up on that four armed freak and see if I can help cut him down to size. I want you two to hit the spellcasters, Draax with arrows, Arien with offensive spells or dispel magics if you have 'em. Good luck!"
And Renik flies into the tunnel at full speed, towards the sounds of combat. As he flies he stows his bow, and draws his shortswords.
Rond 69 hp 19 AC Thursday September 18th, 2003 8:34:02 AM
Hoping the others can survive for a little bit longer. Rond pulls out his haste scroll and waits for Arien to try to get him to cast the scroll.
Draax AC21 HP 78 Thursday September 18th, 2003 3:59:32 PM
Draax gives Renik a thumb up and then sprints down the hall towards the others and quickly locks his sights on the malenti wizard.
Battle is joined - Dm Ian 9d6(1+4+5+4+6+6+3+2+5)=36 d20+23=37 d20+23=35 d20+23=43 (roll to confirm crit) d20+23=32 d20+18=35 d20+13=14 2d4(1+3)+9=13 2d4(3+3)+9=15 2d4(4+3)+9=16 2d4(2+1)+9=12 2d4(1+4)+9=14 Thursday September 18th, 2003 7:20:56 PM
Feng and the blackguard pass each other in mighty charges. Feng easily leaps atop the shelf, landing within a few feet of the sahuagin priestess, who unlimbers a barbed trident even as she speaks a single sword in her foul tongue.
With that word, a flamestrike drops from the ceiling to smash into Feng.
(36 points, reflex save for half against DC 19.)
Tratain sends the Marcus-wraith screaming backwards, flying slowly and reeling.
The remainder of the party arrives about this point, Rond concealed from the view of the enemies behind a rock protrusion, and Renik invisible and flying.
The blackguard thunders across the room, charging into Setanos and Tratain with a flurry of javelin swings, connecting twice with each.
(43 damage to Tratain, including the critical, and 26 to Setanos.)
With the blackguard this close, Tratain and Setanos feel a rending despair settle over them.
(-2 to saves, from an aura of depair, 10 foot radius.)
Usshas notices Draax's arrival, and glare with a frightened start. He incants a single word, sending five brightly glowing missiles across the room to wound Draax.
(Maximized magic missile - 25 pts of damage)
Over all this shrieking, magical violence, and the background of the waves crashing somewhere nearby, a grinding bass voice sounds from behind the ruined ship.
"You said they would not get this close, priestess. Our contract clearly spells out this eventuality."
With that, something truly huge moves behind the boat, hard on the stone, and splashes into the water, sending a three foot high wave careening around the ship. Then, a splash announces the form being engulfed completely in the water.
The priestess cries out in sahuagin, and then shouts in common, "No matter. I will transform you all into undead for your crimes, as I did you your spymaster!"
Feng (Ac 23, 67 Hp) d20+9=20 d20+16=31 d20+11=26 d20+8=24 d8+17=20 d6=6 d8+17=19 d6=1 d8+8=15 d6=2 Thursday September 18th, 2003 8:50:52 PM
"Foul Witch I shall end your life now and send your evil from the Wold."
Feng does his best to ignore the searing flame that singed his body as he leapt aside. With a word his double axe bursts into flame. Using his great strength, Feng brings the axe around to hopefully cleave the priestess in two.
[1st Atk- Smite Evil- hit Ac 31 for 26] [2nd Atk- Smite Evil- hit Ac 26 for 20] [3rd Atk- Normal- hit Ac 24 for 17]
Feng OOC Thursday September 18th, 2003 8:51:41 PM
ooc: forgot to mention that Feng got a 20 on his reflex save
Draax AC21, HP 78 d20+15=24 d20+10=23 d8+4=9 2d6(2+5)=7 d8+4=10 2d6(2+2)=4 Thursday September 18th, 2003 9:52:22 PM
As he spots Usshsa, Draax takes a +1 holy arrow from his quiver and aims at the malenti wizard. The half-elf warrior cringes at little as he watches the magic missile come flying towards him. He is relieved when the missiles are absorbed in his Brooch of Shielding.
With a smile on his face Draax fires a couple of holy arrows at Usshas (hit AC 24 for 9 regular dmg, 7 points holy dmg and AC 23 for 10 regular dmg, 4 holy dmg)
Tratain AC 27 HP 7 (Shield of Faith; Bulls Strength 19 str; Prot. From Elements Lightning 84 points; Spell Immunity: Fireball/Blindness; See Invisible) d20+17=34 3d8(7+4+8)+7=26 Thursday September 18th, 2003 10:47:07 PM
The Blows From the Blackguard nearly Drop Tratain to his knees but he manages to hold himself up. Tratain then defensively casts cure serious wounds on himself. (Rolled 34 vs DC 18, Healed 26) Tratain calls out "Renik, We need a little help over here, Arien dispel his magics if you can, I am not able to anymore. He's too powerful Hasted and stoneskinned. And watch for whatever that was that went into the water it sounded big."
Arien (19 hp, AC 29, Shield, Mage Armor, Haste) Friday September 19th, 2003 12:21:38 AM
Reaching into his haversack Arien summons a scroll of dispel magic and casts it as an area dispel to catch Usshas and Malachi but not any hamleteers that may be nearby. Then because he is hasted Arien turns and casts Slow on the Blackguard.
(Not sure how many spells are in effect on Usshas and Malachi so I'll let Ian make the rolls, the scroll was scribed at 20th level so all the rolls for the dispel are at +10. Will save for Slow is DC 19)
Rond 69 hp 19 AC d20+13=24 d20+23=39 d20+12=24 d20+7=27 d20+12=32 d20+7=25 d20+12=14 d10=2 d6=6 d10=1 d10=8 d6=1 d6=4 d6=4 Friday September 19th, 2003 1:31:59 AM
Not sure if his designated target is hiding or dead, Rond chooses to move in and attack the blackguard. Doing his best he'll continue to use every trick he can to keep himself hidden from the black guard.
Hide 24, MS 39.
(including attacks because I'm unsure what kind of distance he'll be able to cover.)
AC 24 for 9pt plus 6 points fire dam AC 27 (possible crit 2nd roll AC 25) (1+8)+7=8 or 16 ppts plus 1 pt fire AC 32 (possible crit 2nd roll AC 14) (doubtful ;) ) for (4+4)+7=11 or 15 points
Renik: Improved Invisible, Cat's Grace, AC 25, HP 62 d20+18=29 d8+4=6 4d6(2+1+5+5)=13 d20+13=16 d20+16=35 d20+16=17 d8+4=11 4d6(5+3+1+4)=13 Friday September 19th, 2003 2:44:52 AM
Renik nods silently at Tratain's call for aid, and unleashes a hail of blows upon the Blackguard as he hovers just above him, hoping that his invisibility will catch the creature off guard (AC 29 for 19HP, AC 16 misses I assume, AC 35 (no crit) for 24 HP. Added +1 to hits for higher ground, +2 for Cat's Grace, all Sneak Attacks).
"Hit it hard, Setanos!" he calls. They need to inflict as much damage to the creature as quickly as possible, try and get it on the back foot. "Abram, use that shield to try and protect Tratain if you can, he's hurt!" (requesting Aid Another action from Abram on Tratain, +2 to AC).
He too is unnerved by the ominous heavy footfalls approaching them, but they have to take down one enemy at a time. Whatever is approaching will just have to wait...
Setanos (Ac (29) 22, HP (-9). Ex BullStr 5, ExCatGr 4, ExEnd 5, ExMageAr) d20+3=14 Friday September 19th, 2003 10:01:56 AM
As the second Javelin connects, Setanos slumps to the ground, unconscious.
Unmitigated violence - Dm Ian d8+4=5 4d6(3+5+1+2)=11 d20+10=15 d20+10=21 d20+9=18 d20+9=20 d20+10=21 d20+9=16 d20+10=30 d20+9=21 d20+10=21 d20+10=17 d20+10=22 d20+10=13 d20+10=28 d20+10=30 d20+10=24 d20+10=17 d20+14=27 d20+14=18 d20+14=33 d20+14=32 d20+14=19 d20+14=20 d20+14=25 d20+14=28 d20+8=17 d20+23=40 d20+23=42 d20+23=24 d20+23=34 d20+18=38 d20+13=15 2d4(4+1)+9=14 2d4(1+1)+9=11 2d4(4+4)+9=17 2d4(1+1)+9=11 2d4(1+3)+9=13 d20+17=37 d20+17=29 d20+12=18 d20+13=31 2d4(2+1)+6=9 2d4(2+3)+6=11 2d4(3+4)+12=19 5d4(3+3+3+3+2)+5=19 Friday September 19th, 2003 6:45:17 PM
Feng presses his attack, hammering flaming blows at the stoneskin-protected priestess. All three blows connect, but are partially turned by the stoneskin effect. She reels under the force of the blows, bleeding heavily.
Renik and Rond converge on the towering blackguard from different angles, cutting the dark warrior as he steps over Setanos. All blows land, even Renik's wobbling overhead shot from invisibility. Although the blows are partially turned by stoneskin, the blackguard's skin is broken and burnt in many places.
Draax snaps two arrows that fly across the room, and wound the malenti wizard, despite his stoneskin protection. The wizard reels from the force of the blows for a moment, before refocusing and beginning to chant again.
Arien finishes his scroll, and a brief flash occurs over Malachi and Usshas. Although the other adventurers are too far away, Feng reads the fear in Usshas' eyes, and the rage contorting the features of the priestess at this intrusion. Everyone can see the stoneskin fall away from Usshas and Malachi both, as well as some of the luster fall away from the green, oiled silk robes worn by the priestess.
Arien's second spell clearly shears the haste effect from the blackguard.
At the cry of pain from Usshas, the blackguard shouts, "You will not touch my brother again!", and leaps forward at Draax, landing periliously close to Arien.
(Spring attack, no attack of opportunity from those nearby.)
He explodes into violence upon Draax, rending with javelins in all four hands, roaring in rage and pain.
(Four blows connect, including one crit, for a total of 66 pts of damage)
As the mighty sahuagin rushes by Abram throws himself over Setanos' fallen form, covering it with his shield. He trembles in shock, and only those closest hear him quietly say, "No... please... Domi please, no."
It might be only a single broken sentence, but for a moment, his hand glows, and Setanos' wounds partially heal.
(10 hp healing).
Whatever was shambling around behind the boat goes quiet with one last massive splash as it is fully submerged.
Malachi swipes at Feng desperately with her trident, trying to fend his attacks off. As she seeks to land her last blow, she cries out, "Dominator! Make me strong, great Ga'al!"
She strikes with the first and last blows, the first perfectly placed, and the last hitting with unbelievable force.
(Total, 39 pts of damage to Feng)
Usshas, tired and wounded, wavers before casting another spell, looking from his leader endangered, to his brother surrounded. He reaches out once towards his brother, and then turns and releases five magic missiles towards Feng with a grimace.
(19 additional points of damage to Feng.)
Draax AC21, 12 hp d20+17=26 d20+12=21 d8+10=12 d8+10=11 Friday September 19th, 2003 8:56:48 PM
Draax smiles as watches his arrows sticking out of the malenti wizard. Seeing Usshsa in his weakened state, Draax thinks to himself that the next couple of arrows should finish the wizard. So engrossed in his self praising that the half-elven warrior barely hears the blackguard's shout and is caught off guard as the blackguard leaps towards him.
Draax's foundation is rocked by the force of the blows he received and is almost driven to his knees. Calling on his inner strength he drops his bow and pulls his thundersword. Showing no fear in his eyes and determined to go down fighting Draax attacks the four armed fiend with his sword (AC 26 for 12dmg, AC 21 for 11dmg).
Tratain AC 27 HP 33 (Shield of Faith; Bulls Strength 19 str; Prot. From Elements Lightning 84 points; Spell Immunity: Fireball/Blindness; See Invisible) d20+13=26 d20+8=22 2d6(6+4)+8=18 2d6(6+4)+8=18 Friday September 19th, 2003 9:11:07 PM
Tratain steps up to the Blackguard and swings twice hopeing that the groups combined attacks will be enough to finish the Blackguard before he can do anymore damage. (Hit AC 26 for 18 damage, AC 22 for 18 damage)
Arien (19 hp, AC 29, Shield, Mage Armor, Haste) 9d6(3+2+3+2+3+4+6+4+3)=30 9d6(2+3+6+2+5+3+4+6+6)=37 Friday September 19th, 2003 10:15:50 PM
Stepping to the side to get a clear shot at the Blackguard, Arien unleashes dual lightning bolts, aimed to hit the Blackguard and no one else.
(Damage for the first bolt = 30, Damage from the second = 37. Reflex DC to save = 21)
Feng (Ac 23, 9 Hp) d20+13=27 d20+8=20 d20+8=20 d8+8=12 d6=1 d8+8=15 d6=4 d8+8=10 d6=6 Friday September 19th, 2003 10:54:52 PM
Feng breathes heavily as the blood flows from deep and vicious wounds. His breathing is labored and pained. Feng looks upon the evil priestess with a calm face.
"If I don't get you then somebody else will. Whatever creature you were trying to get power from has abandonded you."
With what he believes to be his last bit of strength, Feng brings his flaming axe down on the priestess.
[hit ac 27 for 13] [hit ac 20 for 19] hit ac 20 for 16]
Renik d20+20=30 d8+4=5 4d6(4+6+4+5)=19 Saturday September 20th, 2003 3:19:21 AM
Seeing the blackguard hammered with blows from all sides and then fried like crispy bacon by Arien's lightning, and knowing too that Rond is also about to attack, the invisible rogue shifts targets.
Flying straight towards Usshas he lashes out with a single well-aimed blow of his shortsword, trying to cut the mage down before he can do any further damage (AC 30 for 24 HP).
Rond 69 hp 19 AC d20+12=18 d20+7=14 d20+12=23 d10+7=8 d10+7=13 d6=4 d6=1 d6+7=12 Sunday September 21st, 2003 10:29:46 PM
Hearing what seems everyone converging on the Blackguard, Rond holds his action to see if there's anything left to attack.
If Rond can hold action, he'll move to engage targets that have downed or fallen party members. If he cannot, he'll attack the blackguard.
(generic rolls)
AC 18 for 8 sword and 4 fire AC 14 for 13 sword and 1 fire AC 23 (shortsword) for 12 points.
Setanos (Ac (29) 22, HP (1). Ex BullStr 5, ExCatGr 4, ExEnd 5, ExMageAr) d20+11=25 d8+6=11 Monday September 22nd, 2003 2:43:49 PM
Regaining consciousness, Setanos stands wobbly on his feet and strikes out at the blackguard.
Symphony of Destruction - Dm Ian Monday September 22nd, 2003 6:04:05 PM
Weaving a bit in pain and exhaustion, Feng hacks the priestess apart. Before Usshas can complete another rapid spell to cut Feng down, Reniks invisible blade ends his life as well.
Down in the mouth of the cavern, the remainder of the group leaps on the struggling blackguard, with furious combinaton of blows punctuated by the bright flash of lightning. The blackguard falls to his knees, whispers, "Ga'al, I come...", and hits the ground dead.
As the group pants and reforms, the pounding thunder of the nearby surf is only broken by the wailing of Marcus's wraith, hovering over the deck of the ruined ship.
Draax, AC 21, 28 HP d10+6=16 Monday September 22nd, 2003 9:30:54 PM
As the blackguard falls, Draax takes a moment to catch his breath and take his cure moderate wounds potion (gained 16hp). Looking around at the dead bodies he does a mental count. To himself he thinks, OK, 4 down 1 to go. Out loud his says, "OK, where is the doppelganger?"
He scans the area for their foe when he notices the wailing of the wraith. Looking up at the evil image of Marcus the only thing that comes out of the warrior's mouth is, "Oh crap!"
Feng (Ac 23, 13 Hp) Monday September 22nd, 2003 10:00:51 PM
Feng's breathing was fast and deep. It was a strain just to remain on his feet but it was almost over. Only Marcus was left. He hated to do it but he might not have a choice. It was a miracle that everyone was still alive. In their weakened state the wraith could do some serious harm. Placing his hand on his chest, Feng uses the last of his healing energy.
ooc: lay on hands for 4
Tratain AC 27 HP 33 (Shield of Faith; Bulls Strength 19 str; Prot. From Elements Lightning 84 points; Spell Immunity: Fireball/Blindness; See Invisible) d20+12=15 d8+5=9 Monday September 22nd, 2003 10:30:10 PM
Tratain Says to the Others "I turned the Marcus Wraith, it should be unable to fight back if we act quickly. I don't think there is anyway to save the spymaster, I will go look but in order to make him a wraith I believe he would have to be dead. I will go check out his body. I am unable to approach the wraith or my turning will break. If I determine nothing can be done you must end his unlife quickly."
Tratain will then approach the spymasters body and examine it. (15 Heal check to determine his status.) Trying to see if anything can be done or if he has to give the word to slay the wraith. Tratain will also cast a healing spell on the body after removing the gems and such from the spymasters body to see if that would have any effect. (Healed 9 if there's any chance healing would help him.)
Rond Tuesday September 23rd, 2003 12:50:20 AM
Scanning the area for any other tell tale signs of enemies. Rond comments, " Can we speak with the dead, in order to see if the priestess can tell us how to change Marcus back. Can we force her to tell us, if she knows how?
Renik Tuesday September 23rd, 2003 2:41:36 AM
Surveying their fallen foes, Renik feels a flush of relief. "The Doppelganger fell at Rond's hand, Draax." he says. "I think there is only that twisted perversion of Marcus left to deal with."
He grips his blood soaked shortswords tight and hovers over towards the rest of the party. As "OK, we're most of us pretty badly beaten up. I want those injured to keep well away from that thing. That means you, Feng!
If Tratain says we need to attack I want everyone to pull back, then hit it with missile weapons or ranged spells. It can't hurt us at range, so let's not get anyone needlessly hurt by going in close, OK? As it approaches us everyone fall back and keep hitting it with ranged attacks."
If their cleric deems their former leader beyond salvation Renik will wait until everyone is back a good distance, and with a clear path of retreat down the hallway, before giving the order to open fire. He readies his own bow as he does so.
Setanos (Ac (29) 22, HP (1). Ex BullStr 5, ExCatGr 4, ExEnd 5, ExMageAr) Tuesday September 23rd, 2003 2:19:41 PM
I'll follow you lead Brother. Just tell me when you want me to strike.
Arien (19 hp, AC 29, Shield, Mage Armor) Tuesday September 23rd, 2003 4:44:35 PM
Arien breathes a sigh of relief as the Blackguard and the rest fall. Deactivating his boots, Arien takes a step back and looks at the wraith. Thinking out loud Arien says, "Maybe we can destroy the wraith which should let Marcus' soul go peacefully, then we could take the body and have it raised so that the soul would return to the body."
Gathering - Dm Ian d20=1 d20=15 d20=12 d20=15 Tuesday September 23rd, 2003 7:09:01 PM
Tratain finds that Marcus was killed by a ritual, perhaps even death knell, and that the gems on his eyes have shattered from within and become worthless, as would be expected by the create greater undead spell. He is non-resurrectable, and quite dead.
Rond searches around the cavern with, noting the equipment on the slain forms of their enemies, and a set of crates behind the nose of the ship on the far side of the cavern, behind the wraith.
Renik marshalls the remainder of the party in the hallway.
Tratain AC 27 HP 33 (Shield of Faith; Bulls Strength 19 str; Prot. From Elements Lightning 84 points; Spell Immunity: Fireball/Blindness; See Invisible) d20+7=27 d20+7=24 d8=2 d8=8 d8=4 Tuesday September 23rd, 2003 8:01:00 PM
Tratain calls out to Renik "There is nothing to be done for him now, he was ritualy sacrificed. Destroy the wraith so that Marcus's spirit can move on to Gargul's realm."
Tratain then casts spiritual weapon and commands the Warhammer to attack the Wraith (Natural 20, 24 To confirm Crit. Damage 2 / 14 if critical is succesful.)
Feng (Ac 23, 13 Hp) Tuesday September 23rd, 2003 9:33:06 PM
Feng stands there watching. He wants to do something but unfotunately his body wouldn't hold up. He's not even sure if he can jump down and remain standing.
Arien Tuesday September 23rd, 2003 9:47:02 PM
Not feeling all that well himself Arien pulls out his potion of cure moderate wounds. Then changing mind he walks over to Feng and hands him the potion saying, "Drink up Feng, you need this much more than I do."
Renik d20+16=29 d20+11=28 d8+4=10 d8+4=7 Wednesday September 24th, 2003 2:45:17 AM
The rogue nods sadly at Train's words. It seems their spymaster is truly gone. He helps Feng down from the ledge, ensures all the party are in the hallway together, then says quietly; "Open fire".
Two arrows fly from his bow, heading unerringly for their target (AC 29 for 10 HP, AC 28 for 7 HP).
Rond Wednesday September 24th, 2003 9:28:12 AM
With no ranged attack available to him. Rond commends the spymasters soul to Alemi. He prays that the High priestess and any other souls that Marcus has touched or worked with, will find ease whenever they learn of his death.
Draax, AC 21, 28 HP d20+15=29 d20+10=24 d8+4=6 2d6(3+4)=7 d8+4=7 2d6(2+2)=4 Wednesday September 24th, 2003 12:02:22 PM
"Oh yeah, the doppelganger was disposed of, thanks Renik."
Since the decision to take the wraith of Marcus down has been made, Draax fires 2 holy arrows at the creature (Hits AC 29 for 6 dmg, 7 holy dmg and AC 24 for 7 dmg, 4 holy dmg).
Stand and deliver - Dm Ian Wednesday September 24th, 2003 8:56:17 PM
With Rond praying quietly, and Arien tending to Feng, the unfortunate wraith that was Marcus is annihilated by ranged fire. A hideous shriek rises from the form of darkness as it is shattered.
"Thhhhhaaaaaannnnk yooooouuu."
In the quiet aftermath, the group reforms, and discovers the following on the bodies of their enemies.
Three javelins equal in appearance to the one that sprouted lightning earlier. - blackguard Eight masterwork javelins - blackguard and sticking out of Setanos Silver bracers inscribed with the form of waves - blackguard A masterwork trident - priestess Some leather armor tooled with the image of a mountain - found underneath the priestess' robes Two scrolls - found on Usshas A spellbook bound in sharkskin - found on Usshas Mighty longbow +4 - koalinth archer masterwork bastard sword - koalinth archer Scarred gladiators leather armor - koalinth archer Shortsword - slain doppelganger 6 throwing daggers - slain doppelganger bone wand with a animal claw inset in the tip - slain doppelganger 340 silver pieces, and 412 gold pieces - various pouches 9 large onyxes similar to the one used to corrupt Marcus - priestess
Abram collapses against the wall at this point, tears streaming unabashedly down his face.
The are also three by three by three foot crates on the far side of the boat.
Tratain 2d8(7+4)+7=18 Wednesday September 24th, 2003 10:03:09 PM
After the Wraith is slain Tratain checks over the group and begins healing everyone. He decides that Abram needs some space at the moment so he will wait a few moments for Abram to have some privacy with his thoughts before going to check on him.
Tratain Heals Setanos for 18.
OOC: If we are out of combat and It's ok with Ian can everyone include how much they are down so I have an Easier time trying to heal everyone instead of trying to guess.
(Fine with me - Dm Ian)
Feng (Ac 23, 25 Hp) 2d8(8+4)=12 Wednesday September 24th, 2003 10:40:49 PM
Feng reluctantly drinks the potion and feels a little better. His wounds were still serious and would need immediate attention. The flame on his axe fades away and Feng slips the double axe into his front pocket. Feng found the pants to be very useful and always stylish. Just like Bill was. He wonders how this battle would have gone if Bill was with them. Reaching into his pack Feng withdraws his healing kit and his bag of holding.
"Here. Store the spoils in here. The wounded may step forward and I will bandage your wounds. We all need magical healing as soon as possible."
Feng opens his kit and slowly strips off his armor. Wincing a little, Feng bandages his wounds.
Rond (down 23 I think) Wednesday September 24th, 2003 11:11:19 PM
"Take care of the others, I can hold out till we're clear. I suspect we'll have to head back to Plateau city to report on this."
Renik: No healing required d20+5=6 d20+10=13 Thursday September 25th, 2003 6:14:50 AM
The rogue nods at Rond's comments. "Aye, we need to get back to Plateau City and let the Lord High Mayor know what happened here. And we should probably take Marcus' body back with us too for a proper burial." (OOC: How many days journey is it to PC from here?)
He stands over the desecrated body of their former spymaster, his face hard. "You didn't deserve this fate, Marcus" he says softly. "You fought well on your path between the light and the dark. May your soul be at rest."
He turns away, helping the others pack away the spoils into the bag of holding. As he does so he asks "Can anyone here identify some of these magical items? It would be a lot cheaper than having the Catacombs do it for us."
The gear stowed he turns his attention to the boxes. First he checks to see if they carry the same markings a those seen back at the ambush clearing. Then he will open one to check the contents, expecting to find bolts of silk. If he does he says "We'll also need to return this Catacombs stolen property. We're going to need a horse and cart to transport them and Marcus' body. There were two tipped over wagons back at the ambush site, we may be able to right one of them. Feng, would you be willing to have your mount pull it?"
Finaly he floats up into the air towards the ship, and examines the broken vessel. He hunts for any clues as to who or what caused those mysterious and ominous footfalls, but it is pretty half-hearted; he just wants to get out of these gloomy caves now, and free those poor slaves (Search 6, Spot 13).
Draax, AC 21, 28 HP (Down 51) Thursday September 25th, 2003 5:10:12 PM
As he listens to the others, Draax still stands on guard. He is ready to help moves supplies and/or bodies. Looking back down the hall he says, "Lets not forget that we have to make sure that those poor mind slaves are well enough to return to their home."
The plot revealed - Dm Ian Thursday September 25th, 2003 6:01:09 PM
Standing guard vigilantly with an arrow ready for any trouble, Draax patrols the area. All is quiet for a few minutes as the group searches the area and talks quietly, and then hears a human voice yell, "I don't care, I'm going home. The heroes may be dead for all we know!" The sound apparently comes from the tunnels that brought you down to this place.
Loot is collected and stashed in Feng's bag. Considering a bit, he thinks that Plateau City would be at least a weeks travel, if not more, except that Arien has access to the teleport spell when he rememorizes again, so the entire party could move in one or two days, depending on the amount of weight Arien can move with each cast.
Abram remains quiet, folded in on himself, breathing heavily.
Looking around, Rond finds signs of the creature that spoke, and retreated, from behind the ruined ship. The footprints are massive indentations in the sand, indicating a being of colossal weight and size, moving on four stubby legs. There is indication of a squat tail, and a rubbing mark in an arc twenty feet long across the crumbling wood hull of the wrecked ship. The signs taken together are puzzling, until he tries to build a picture in his mind of what kind of creature would be at least thirty feet long, be able to swim, have four legs, a short tail, and armor that would run in a straight line down its body.
Do turtles really get --that- big?
In opening the crates, Renik finds that the first crate not only has bolts of fine silk, as expected, but a set of papers on top of the silk.
The papers are written in Common, an obvious curiosity considering the lack of human foes recently. They form a correspondence between three parties, the Hidden Master, the sahuagin priestess Malachi, and someone identified as Brother L.
The letters cover a time period of at least three months, beginning with a reply to a message from Malachi to the Hidden Master, negotiating his services and that of his mercenaries for the avenging of the desecration of a sahuagin Temple some time in the past. A surface dwelling adventurers party is mentioned as having been involved, and tracked back to Windhorn Hamlet.
Following letters reveal that the Hidden Master had confirmed with his usual employer for this term of service, before replying to Malachi. The usual employer, Brother L, mentions that his research in the captured library will keep him confined for some time, and that the Brother will not require guards for forays out into the Wold.
The later letters detail the stalking of the surface dwelling party, tracking their movements, and investigating their allies, tactics, home, and known resources. At this point, Marcus is first mentioned, and a plan is quickly formulated.
Renik almost has to put down the papers at this point. Marcus died as bait for the group.
The final paper is not dated in the sequence, and entails a series of directions for the sahuagin to fall back up the coast to a fortified dungeon in the Red Hills, about six days north of this location. The plan called for the Hidden Master to meet the sahuagin there if they got separated, and that the Brother L would give them sanctuary from the surface dwellers if needed, as he had already overcome them once.
OOC - DM Ian Thursday September 25th, 2003 6:05:49 PM
I'm starting to collect my notes, and reread for hero point nominations. If you would like to nominate someone, please email me at ianhess@hotmail.com, and include the characters name, and the act in question.
Feng, 60 down Thursday September 25th, 2003 9:13:54 PM
"I can ask him Renik. Degg can be stubborn at times." A silent call goes to the Celestial Realms where Degg resides.
Feng closes his healing kit and walks over to Abram. He clasps the mans shoulder and says, "Congradulations would not be appropriate so instead I offer my thanks. Your selfless act has saved a life this day. He was always watching, waiting for you to prove yourself and you did."
Tratain d8+5=6 d8+5=13 2d8(7+4)+7=18 d8+5=8 d8+5=9 d8+5=10 d8+5=8 d8+1=4 d8+1=6 d8+1=4 d8+1=8 d8+1=3 d8+1=5 d8+1=9 d8+1=7 d8+1=7 d8+1=3 d8+1=6 d8+1=2 d8+1=7 d8+1=9 d8+1=8 d20+14=27 d20+14=23 d20+14=29 d20+14=15 d20+14=16 d20+14=30 Thursday September 25th, 2003 11:09:19 PM
Tratain pulls out his healing wand and moves throughout the group using it and his spells to begin healing everyone. Rond - Healed 13; Draax - Healed 35; Feng - Healed 40; Setanos Healed 24; Abram - Healed 24 Tratain Says "We need to rest a night so I can tend to everyone also. Tomorrow I will cast a spell on Marcus's Body to preserve it for the trip back to the City, I think it would be wise for us to go resupply before heading off to the place described in those letters." (Tratain will use his healing skills to tend to everyone while they rest during the night, Rond, Draax, Feng, Setanos, Arien, and Abram gain 2 hps per level for being tended while we rest.)
Tratain will cast detect magic and point out to Renik what should be seperated for Identification.
Tratain will go and talk with Abram while he heals him. He says "You did very well today, you fought against your fears. You saved Setanos and put yourself in harms way to protect others, I am very proud of what you did."
OOC: Are we officialy 3.5 now?
(We are indeed - Dm Ian)
Renik d20+2=17 Friday September 26th, 2003 2:44:00 AM
Horrified, the rogue reads out the contents of the letters to the group. "It seems that whatever cover we had as spies in Plateau City is well and truly blown" he says, indicating the letters. This would seem to indicate that our enemies have had the march on us for some considerable time.
His face hardens. "Well, I say its about time we turned the tables. We know where this Hidden Master and Brother L are holed up. I think we need to pay them a visit."
He ponders for some time, then makes the following suggestion. "I think we need to make for this dungeon in the Red Hills as soon as possible. So to my mind heading to Plateau City is out, it will just take too long. I think we can spare Degg the indignity, Feng. That being the case I think we have two options, and it's up to Arien to decide between them.
First we could head back into Windhorn Hamlet, and hand over Marcus' body to the local temple of Alemi, leaving a message for the head of that church who was involved in our recruitment. Oratai, I beleive her name was. Then we could visit the local Catacombs outpost, inform them of the boxes here, and do whatever buying and selling we need to do. In fact they may well do some identifying of items for free, as a reward for returning their stolen property.
The Second option is the same, but involves Arien teleporting back to Plateau City and delivering Marcus' body to Oratai personally, whilst the rest of us wait for him here. The only advantage of that plan I can see is that Oratai and the Lord High Mayor may be able to shed some light on the identity of this Hidden Master and Brother L.
Arien, it's your choice."
Renik thinks long and hard about the possible identity of this Brother L (Int check 17). Someone who has fought and bested them in the past? Who could it be? Likely to be a human, if the Common used in the letters is anything to go by, but who?
Rond Friday September 26th, 2003 7:20:37 AM
"Our cover may not be truyly blown, otherwise I think we would have had more problems than we have had in Plateau City. It could be this person had it out with us from the beginning. Maybe that council member that didn't like us after we took their temple away and freed the shark god.
I would also suspect that whoever this being was that left, might be directly involved. I don't think we would have the jump on that location, especially if they are still scrying on us. If we go back to Plateau City, the Lord High Mayor might have better resources to fight this scrying stuff that has been hindering us lately. Plus he might or might not have people that can investigate this whole coast. I'm worried that K'issts people might also be getting coerced into stuff in a similar fashion like the sea elves. I think the Mayor might want to send an appropriate envoy to check out all the small villages in the local seaboard.
With that in mind I would suggest that maybe we send Arien back with Marcus's body. Back to our shop, where he can make contact with the curator, who could probably make a rush to the Mayor and get some kind of word back to us as to what our next step is. We do not want the network to fall, with no one at the head to man it.
I would also suggest that you go back with Arien, Renik. So that way the leadership can talk directly with the curator and Mayor, and Arien doesn't have to make guesses as to what you might want to do. Do we have a teleport scroll handy, so that we might follow, if we have to?"
Arien (37 hp, Shield, Mage Armor) Friday September 26th, 2003 3:13:41 PM
"Here are my thoughts, Renik and I should take Marcus' body back to Plateau City. We should take all this stuff," Arien says gesturing to the pile of loot, "Back with us as well but I'll either need Feng and his bag of holding to come along or for Feng to lend us the bag. Then if everyone could make a list of items they'd like from the Catacombs, either Renik or I, or possibly Feng if he comes, or even all of us could visit the Catacombs to resupply us. Now if you'll excuse me for a moment." Arien walks over to the pile of treasure and casts Detect Magic over it.
((OOC I just need 5 more hp to be full))
Draax AC 21, 63 HP (Down 16) Friday September 26th, 2003 6:19:05 PM
Draax thanks Tain for the healing. Upon hearing the yelling, Draax raises his hand and points back toward the tunnel. In a low voice his says, "It might just be the sea-elves coming to their senses, but we should check to make sure. Does someone want to sneak down there and see who it is or do you want me to take a look?"
Draax continues to look in the direction of the tunnel waiting to see if anyone shows themselves.
Discussion and detection - Dm Ian Friday September 26th, 2003 7:28:33 PM
As the conversation continues, Arien casts a detect magic spell on the loot.
The following is non-magical:
Eight masterwork javelins A masterwork trident A spellbook bound in sharkskin masterwork bastard sword Scarred gladiators leather armor Shortsword 6 throwing daggers 340 silver pieces 412 gold pieces 9 large onyxes
The following radiates:
Three javelins - faint evocation Silver bracers inscribed with the form of waves - moderate - conjuration Some leather armor tooled with the image of a mountain - strong - abjuration First scroll - moderate - illusion Second scroll - moderate - conjuration Mighty longbow +4 - moderate - evocation bone wand with a animal claw inset in the tip - moderate - necromancy
Renik considers the vague hints in the letters as Arien takes the time to gather information from each item in turn. The only clue he is able to latch on to is the mention of this Brother L knowing your group, and the mention of a captured library.
Setanos HP 59 (down 13) Saturday September 27th, 2003 1:29:11 PM
"Interesting and dark news indeed. I'm of a mind to charge straight up the middle as it were, but if we're gonna take the time to get some more knowledge about our foes, so be it."
Setanos then thanks Tratain for the healing, and continues to keep watch on the surrounding area.
Tratain Saturday September 27th, 2003 1:54:36 PM
Tratain says "How far is Windhorn Hamlet from here, it may be best if Arien and Renik teleport to Plataue City to speak with whoever they need to about this matter while the rest of us travel to the Hamlet to resupply and wait for them if its not in the opposite direction. I doubt the meetings will go quickly. The leadership of Plataue CIty will want a say in what happens next because Marcus was important there, it may take a day or two for the authorities to decide to just let us go on to the Red Hills and the Fort. The Free'd slaves may need guidence and I wouldn't feel comforatble leaving them without knowing if they can make it someplace safe or not."
Tratain will then go check on the slaves and make sure that they are ok, and see if they need help back to a town, or if they will be fine on thier own.
Afterwards he says "Does anyone have any idea who this person is that we face, I have no idea but then again I am still new to the group and haven't been through many adventures yet with you all."
Renik Sunday September 28th, 2003 6:18:53 PM
The rogue listens to the suggestions and agrees. "Very well, Arien and myself will 'port to Plateau City and report. Everyone else get the slaves to safety and then head back to Windhorn Hamlet, and we'll rendezvous at the Inn.
As for the spoils, I'd like to identify them before we visit the Catacombs. That way we can decide what we want to keep and what we want to sell. Can we do that before Arien and myself leave? If not we'll identify it when we get to the city. Feng, do you mind if I borrow the Bag of Holding whilst we do that?"
When everyone is ready to leave Renik says "We'll head back to our shop as Rond suggested and take it from there. We should meet you back in Windhorn Hamlet in no more than a couple of days."
Draax Sunday September 28th, 2003 8:12:01 PM
Draax goes with Tratain to see about the ex-slaves and to ensure himself that it was indeed the sea-elves that he heard.
"No Tain, I have no idea who the surviving enemies are. I think the sahuagin priestess Malachi was the one that was after us for revenge and I have no idea if we had any encounters with her partners."
Feng (Down 20) Sunday September 28th, 2003 10:09:03 PM
"Feel free to take the bag. Bill handed me the bag but its purpose has always been to help us all. If there is anything else that comes up I still have the stylish pants o'plenty. Before we do anything I suggest we rest here or somewhere close by. It's been a trying day for us all, mentally and physically."
Arien Sunday September 28th, 2003 11:10:49 PM
"At the moment I do not have a way to identify anything though I hope to have that fixed before long. So I would say that we should get them identified at Plateau City and perhaps we could use one of the coins to communicate with the group back here to determine what we wish to keep."
Carl OOC Monday September 29th, 2003 2:36:43 AM
Apologies for the additional post, but Arien made a good point: do we turn up Marcus' communication coin in our search?
Rond Monday September 29th, 2003 8:55:12 AM
"Umm. Do we have the 2nd coin? that would be one good way to communicate if we could. Otherwise you might use Bill's gifts to scry for us when you are ready to come back.
Arien if you can get teleport more than once a day. Can you teleport a note or something inside someone's backpack, or someother item? That might be a simple way to communicate.
When you guys teleport back, be very careful. Our enemy could be watching for your return with some sort of trap.
When you get the items identified, I wouldn't mind the bow if no one else has any interest in it."
Discussion continues - Dm Ian Monday September 29th, 2003 7:32:40 PM
As the party continues dicussions and planning, Abram collects himself and heads out with Draax and Tratain to check on the voices.
In the next room, the three warriors find that the charmed slaves are gone, with obvious bare footprints in the mud leading out of the cavern.
Feng Monday September 29th, 2003 10:33:00 PM
Seeing that no actual descision has been made, Feng takes a seat and starts cleaning the blood off of him.
Tratain Monday September 29th, 2003 11:47:14 PM
Tratain says "It looks like the slaves wandered off, tomorrow I can prepare some spells to help us out. I will preserve Marcus's Body for a short while and memorize several sending spells. I can send a short message to Renik or Arien every day to give a brief update of our progress, and they will be able to respond in kind. I suggest resting up near the top of the cave entrence, I don't like the idea of being near the water where our enemies can appear and disapear out of with now warning and no way for us to fight them effectively."
Renik Tuesday September 30th, 2003 2:33:57 AM
"Good, we can communicate through Tratain or the coins if we find Marcus' coin." agrees the rogue.
(OOC: Ian: we have the party's communication coin, have we found the one that Marcus carried?).
We'll identify the items back in Plateau City, then get in touch to decide how ro proceed. Rond has the helm until Arien and I return."
He looks to the mage. "Whenever you're ready Arien." he smiles.
Setanos HP 59 (down 13) Tuesday September 30th, 2003 8:29:17 AM
"Sounds like a good plan ta me. I think we'd do good by getting out of this area before we split up though."
Rond Tuesday September 30th, 2003 8:36:04 AM
"We'll see if we can check up on those that were used against their will. Make sure everyone got out safe.
I'll cross my fingers that everything is relatively okay back at Plateau City."
Draax Tuesday September 30th, 2003 4:55:32 PM
Seeing that the slaves have departed, Draax returns and listens as the plans are finalized. While waiting he sits next to Feng and begins cleaning his sword with an oiled rag.
Arien d100=63 Tuesday September 30th, 2003 5:48:39 PM
"Well then, unless anyone has any objections, Renik and I shall be leaving now." Arien walks over to stand beside Renik, picturing their shop in Plateau City as he does so. Then falling into his spellcasting Arien casts teleport.
(Teleport is on target with a 63)
*Poof* Tuesday September 30th, 2003 6:21:04 PM
(You indeed still have your communication coin, but you did not find Marcus' coin.)
Arien's casting is forestalled by the communication coin Renik carries activating.
"Can you still hear me? If you can, report please. Marcus has been killed."
It is a cultured female voice, probably human.
Poof, interrupted - Dm Ian Tuesday September 30th, 2003 6:24:11 PM
(You indeed still have your communication coin, but you did not find Marcus' coin.)
Abram starts, and says quietly, "I have no words to... I know I walk this road now. You have this business to attend to. If you wish, I will take care of those who had been enslaved. I will gather them up from the nearby area, and take them back to the sea elven village, and then to the human settlements south of here."
Looking at each of the party in turn, Abram nods once, and the continues, "If you ever have need of me, call, and I will come."
As he turns to leave, Arien's casting is forestalled by the communication coin Renik carries, activating.
"Can you hear me? If you can, report please. Marcus has been killed."
It is a cultured female voice, probably human.
Feng Tuesday September 30th, 2003 6:49:19 PM
Feng stops his cleaning for a moment and looks at Renik.
"Well this should be interesting."
Tratain Tuesday September 30th, 2003 8:22:57 PM
Tratain Says "How would anyone know that Marcus is dead, it just happened a few minutes ago. Do you have some kind of code word that the person on the other end of the coin should know? If they want to meet I wouldn't do it anywhere other than Plataue City. Whoever is working with these sea devils here may be on the other end of that coin. And did anyone see where Inimicus ran off too?"
When Abram makes to leave he says "Thank you for taking the slaves to safety. If you have need of us just call, you did will today."
Draax Tuesday September 30th, 2003 10:39:09 PM
Draax looks up as Abram begins to leave. He is somewhat ashamed at his previous thoughts about the ex-paly or should he say restored paladin, but he is happy that the man has found his faith again. He nods farewell and seconds Tain's statement.
As the coin activates and the woman speaks, Draax wonders if this is another trap that they will have to walk into to find out the truth.
Renik Wednesday October 1st, 2003 5:34:43 AM
The rogue thanks Abram, and says "I knew you'd find your courage, if only the need presented itself. I am glad you have regained your path."
Renik stares at the suddenly active coin with a mixture of astonishment and suspicion. Previously only Marcus had ever contacted them on the coin, and to the best of his knowledge theirs were the only 2 coins that could communicate. If Marcus has been killed either he left his coin with his employers, or it was taken from him by one of his killers and disposed of.
And Tratain is right; how could anyone possibly know of Marcus' death?
Keeping his voice neutral he replies: "Identify yourself please. And by that I mean prove your identity beyond reasonable doubt. There has been too much half truth, misdirection and downright lying of late for me to take anything you tell me at face value."
Setanos (down 13) Wednesday October 1st, 2003 8:30:25 AM
Setanos quietly listens to the exchange, pondering who this female voice could belong too.
Arien Wednesday October 1st, 2003 6:57:37 PM
Arien ceases spellcasting as the voice comes from the coin. He listens intently, trying to determine if he can recognize the voice.
Conversation with Coinage - Dm Ian Wednesday October 1st, 2003 7:48:32 PM
The voice states, "I understand your reticence. If I may come to you, I believe all will be explained. Kindly do not attack. I am alone, and will not have a weapon in hand."
With this, there is a pop in midair about ten feet from the group, over towards the stone shelf, and a five foot ten human female appears. She wears the formal robes of a priestess of Domi, shimmering silver in color with his badge in the upper right. Her form is slightly indistinct, and at her waist is a rod of gnarled wood. In her hand is the opposite coin.
"I know of you, so let me introduce myself. I am the priestess Kirania, in service to the Plateau City government, and Courage, himself. If you have some truthing spell, I am willing to allow it to be cast."
Draax Wednesday October 1st, 2003 10:05:51 PM
As the priestess appears Draax readies an arrow in his bow, but keeps it pointed toward the ground. He looks at her with suspicion displayed openly on his face. Even if she is who she says she is, that does not mean that she is their friend. He also hopes that this person does not believe that because she holds the coin that she is their new boss. He looks over at the dead body of Marcus and says to himself in a very low voice, "My contract was with him and no one else."
Feng Wednesday October 1st, 2003 10:12:17 PM
Feng stares at the woman and tries to feel for an evil presence. He does not think he will find one but one can't be too careful.
Tratain Wednesday October 1st, 2003 10:55:45 PM
Tratain tries to remember if he has met this priestes during his time training at the war cathedral or anytime thereafter as he listens to what she has to say and what Renik says in return.
Setanos (down 13) Thursday October 2nd, 2003 8:44:34 AM
"I'll not be needing a truthing spell Lady of Courage. That you come here alone show's you got stones."
"Though if ya are tricking us, you'll soon wish you'd not come."
Rond Thursday October 2nd, 2003 9:02:05 AM
"We took oaths based on Alemi's power when we started for Marcus. We could probably ask for a similar oath, maybe?!"
Renik d20+12=24 Thursday October 2nd, 2003 4:14:55 PM
The rogue looks to Feng for his reaction to this woman. Assuming the big half orc signals his approval Renik says
"OK, it would seem you're not an enemy, at any rate. That does not neccessarily make you a friend. Before we go any further I want to know how you know Marcus, how you know of us, and how you knew of Marcus' death mere moments after it occurred."
He reaches out to touch the sleeve of her garment.
"Your appearance is blurred. Are you truly here, or merely some projection?"
Then he nods at Draax. "And my friend here has a point. His oath and mine were to Marcus. That leaves us with a question of employment. Do we work for you people any longer? It seems to me we have been working for your organization with no kind of renumeration for quite some time now, despite the ever increasing danger we find ourselves in as a result."
His hard look softens a little, and he leans forward, a flash of the old Renik in his eye as he suddenly notices how fine a neck and delicate a jaw this Kirania has. A hint of a smile curls at the corner of his mouth.
"You can state your case, Lady, but I suspect we will need some time alone to discuss it. Our party, that is, not you and I, interesting though that may be..." (Bluff (Flirt) 24)
The lady replies - Dm Ian d20+15=33 Thursday October 2nd, 2003 7:01:14 PM
Feng detects no evil.
The priestess smiles at the various statements made by the group.
"It would be a poor organization of operatives that could not be aware of the state of each other at range. You may be aware of a spell called status. We have developed a more powerful, ranged version for our needs."
With this, she lifts her holy symbol of Domi in a graceful hand and intones, "I swear that I am of the government of Plateau City, that I worked with Marcus in the past in his role as a spymaster, and that I mean you no harm."
With this done, she continues on in a more relaxed tone, lowering her holy symbol.
"I am not aware of the specific dealings between yourself and Marcus, only that the coins, and a relationship, existed. I can do little except apologize if the rewards given to you were uneven. Perhaps I can offer some information, in good faith, to help on that score? As for the blurred effect, I am currently under the effect of a sanctuary prayer. It seemed prudent."
Then, turning to Draax, she replies to his comment, having apparently heard him.
"I do not seek to control you, simply offer options. I see Marcus has been prepared for burial. For that I thank you."
Feng Thursday October 2nd, 2003 7:27:48 PM
For the first time Feng thinks that he might have misjudged his companions. While he has no objections in collecting some gold along the way, that is not why he fights the good fight. The powerful evil requires magical arms and armor plus other things on occasion. All of which requires gold.
"M'Lady not all of us are after coin. If there is a problem how may I assist you?"
Draax Thursday October 2nd, 2003 8:17:44 PM
Draax puts away his weapons and give the lady a respectful bow. "Thank you for alleviating some of my worries. Speaking for myself, my contract was with the former spy master and you owe me nothing. Although, the greedy side of my nature would not turn down any monetary offer you would throw our way and the vengeful side of me would love any information you could supply us about our new foe(s)."
He smiles as Feng makes his comments. "Like me big friend said, please tell us what you can."
Rond Thursday October 2nd, 2003 11:17:35 PM
Looking around the area to double check for scrying, Rond comments, "This is probably not a good time for any information to passed. We have been under scrutiny by forces that might have something to do with his death." (pointing to Marcus). Looking at Renik Rond continues, "If you think it's prudent, I might suggest that we move to Plateau city where the group might or might not be better protected against our unkown enemy." Looking back at the priestess Rond comments, " Though I do not doubt your intentions. We've also been plagued by Dopplegangers as of late."
Setanos (down 13) Friday October 3rd, 2003 10:15:12 AM
Setanos lowers his axe and adjusts to a less agressive posture. He listens to discussions of past contracts without comment, but speaks up after Rond does.
"Yer right Rond, here's not a fitting place to be discussing things. I'd for one feel better to be traveling to a more secure place."
An offer of proof and shelter - Dm Ian Friday October 3rd, 2003 6:52:09 PM
The priestess smiles at each of the group in turn, and says, "Unless you have some other means of conveyance planned, I can use a word of recall prayer to return us to the Temple of Domi in Plateau City. Would that be acceptable?"
ooc - bookkeeping - DM Ian Saturday October 4th, 2003 3:40:30 AM
I've sent out xp awards to everyone tonight. If you didn't get it, let me know and I will resend.
DM Ian
Renik Saturday October 4th, 2003 3:21:06 PM
Looking round at the others, the rogue shrugs. "Certainly. I have no objections. We can continue this discussion there."
Arien (Mage Armor) Sunday October 5th, 2003 4:03:20 PM
"Well since we already have business back in Plateau City I also have no objections."
Rond Sunday October 5th, 2003 5:37:07 PM
Looking at Renik and hearing his confirmation, Rond nods in agreement.
Draax Sunday October 5th, 2003 6:13:42 PM
Draax has no problem with the priestess' offer of travel. He nods his head in agreement with the others.
Feng Sunday October 5th, 2003 11:10:52 PM
"Sounds like a good idea."
Setanos (down 13) Monday October 6th, 2003 7:54:47 AM
Setanos nods in agreement. "It seems you got the answer to this."
A Recall, by and for the people! - Dm Ian Monday October 6th, 2003 6:53:32 PM
Kiriana incants a solemn prayer to Domi, raising her holy symbol from its steel chain to each of you. As she does so, the cavern and wrecked ship nearby become indistinct, and a rushing sound fills your ears.
Then you are within a white marbled temple hall, by large double doors partly opened to allow sunlight to stream in. At the other end of the hall stands a gleaming shrine to Domi, attended by a circle of priests in formal garb. They appear to be in quiet conference with about twenty kneeling worshippers, the reflected sunlight glinting off of chainmail armor carefully maintained.
Kiriana looks over the group, and states, "Welcome back to Plateau City. Please follow me... some things said should not be risked to idle ears."
With that she leads the group down a short side hallway, and into a thirty by twenty conference room. In the center of the room stands a sturdy, polished oak table surrounded by well-padded chairs of a variety of heights.
"Please, be comfortable. Refreshments will be here shortly, and you can be assured that the Temple is shielded against scrying or disguised persons."
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