DM Jan Wednesday December 10th, 2003 1:08:04 AM
Lamps flicker, courtesy of a slight breeze that drifts through the camp, as the group grab a bite to eat and discuss what might come next and its consequences. Harlv tells Zayne he reckons the best recourse for the sword is to bury it back down the mine. As for the Wolves' motivation behind all of this, Theo's comments might not be too far off the mark. Maybe. They'd no doubt find out on their return to Dirt City. Devlin is offered reassurance in different ways, and as far as Zayne can tell, their fighter friend isn't about to join the denizens of evil just yet. The mad fire in Bram's eyes is calmed a little as Vorelle makes sure he's comfortable, and he gets a taste of Rose's stew.
At the mine shaft entrance, Olyn gets ready for business and Vauhwyt discusses practical methods of achieving their objective with Harlv. The dwarf nods with approval at the block and tackle.
"We'll have to be careful," adds the miner. "We started a tunnel cave-in, so near the blockage - it'll be a little unstable. Now if we can get my brothers out, then pull the whole tunnel down on itself and erase signs that anyone dug here, then I think we'd be able to call this venture a success. Okay, lets go. Best bring a lantern if your eyes are bad."
As for what's running through Dietrich's mind, surely it wouldn't get 'that' bad, would it?
((OOC - folks let me know in your next posts, if any of you are staying up top.))
Dietrich Wednesday December 10th, 2003 9:33:02 AM
After the delicious meal Dietrich thanks Rose: "It´s really great to have you with us!" Then he goes to the dig, takes a pickaxe, a hammer and a shovel to bring them down with him and, together with others, start to remove the stones. He´ll be satisfied with the professional supervision of the miner Harvl and just do the hard manual work. 'It´s good practice to keep our arms strong.' Concerning the wolves, Dietrich doesn´t want to deceive them, but he´s sure the group can find an 'explanation' that is no lie and keeps people from the evil metal.
Theodore Wednesday December 10th, 2003 1:20:53 PM
Theodore finishes with his meal and compliments Rose on her culinary skills. "That was delicious, Rose. Thank you, very much. I'd be happy to do the dishes. I'm afraid I wouldn't be much use in clearing the tunnel. I really skinny. My Master Geoffrey use to compare me to a bean pole. Of course I've never seen a bean pole before. I imagine it's some complex contraption used to pluck beans from their vines." The young man stops himself before he jogs off on another tangent.
"Is there a water supply nearby that I can wash the dishes in?" he asks Rose. Theodore walks off to look for a stream or pond but keeps within a half a mile of the encampment.
Zayne d20+4=16 d20+4=19 Wednesday December 10th, 2003 3:29:11 PM
Finishing his stew,he sits there thinking to himself,"That was a close call." before the thought can go any further Rose brings up doing the dishes.
Suddenly the idea of digging up the dwarves sounds interesting.Careful not to draw any unwanted attention he heads after Olyn,and Dietrich.(Hide 16 Move Silently 19)
Devlin Wednesday December 10th, 2003 3:42:12 PM
Devlin watches as the others head off to start the digging, leaving Theodore and Rose up top with Bram and who knows what else. Not really wanting to be closer to the strange ore at the moment, Devlin decides to remain up top to help out Rose and Theodore.
"Wait up, Theodore, I'll help with those dishes."
Rose d20+3=17 d20+2=12 Wednesday December 10th, 2003 5:02:59 PM
Rose begins tidying up the camp then goes to the food and starts pulling things out.
Into a large wooden bowl she puts water, flour, a pinch of salt, a dollop of honey and a handful of oats. To this she adds half of the contents from a small clay pot with a lid. the contents of this pot look like glue. After mixing up the stuff in the bowl she covers it with a towel and lets it sit. She then adds equal parts flour and water to the pot of glue like stuff and puts the lid back on.
Next she sets a trap to catch one or two rabbits or birds or other small/med sized food creatures. then looks for any edible plants. She also has anybody who stayed with her to help find food.
cooking: 17 survival: 12, to catch animals and find edible plants.
Vorelle Wednesday December 10th, 2003 9:48:27 PM
Vorelle lights a torch, takes up her healer's kit, and follows the others to the mine. She will stay or go, depending on what the group needs.
Vauhwyt Wednesday December 10th, 2003 11:30:38 PM
The liontaur is glad some people are staying up top. Vauhwyt is also glad to do some work on this before going to bed. She helps rig the block and tackle to haul a big rock, under the dwarf's guidance, and pulls as directed.
DM Jan Wednesday December 10th, 2003 11:48:21 PM
The tunnel team set off -
Harlv, Dietrich, Olyn, Vauhwyt, Zayne and Vorelle - who's remembered to bring a torch, head down into the mine shaft. It's about a 100 yard trip to the blockage. Occasionally the group come across a small trolley, or the occasional pick axe. About 50 yards in, a - "Oooof, heellllp!!" can be heard from further in the tunnel.
Up top - Devlin keeps an eye on Bram, Rose and Theo. Rose continues with her food prep and the procurement of the following day's dinner. Bram falls asleep, trussed up like a turkey. Unfortunately, Theo discovers that neither a stream or pond can be found. ((Sheggar - Spot and Listen checks on Theodore noticing Lain, please))
Meanwhile, out on the track and heading south, hoping to reach Dirt City in another day or so - Lain is wondering whether to make some kind of makeshift camp in the dark. He's two days swift walk away from a slave caravan that was traveling from the coast up toward the Emerald Kingdom. Of course he hadn't known it was a slave caravan when they picked him up. They'd been friendly enough, he'd found out a few things, about how the Emerald Kingdom was ruled by a fierce dragon that no one liked; he'd picked up a couple of spells for his book, and things were looking quite peachy, until he discovered they were going to attempt sell him at the next outpost. He's wondering if any of the slavers have followed him, when he comes across a halo of light atop one of the hills just off to the right of him. A fire??
About 50 yards away from the camp, he can smell cooking, too. A port in a storm? A refuge? It's certainly looking good right about now.
((Ash, this is your intro. Dive in and welcome.))
((Dang, Cayzle I think we posted at the same time))
Dietrich d20+4=20 Thursday December 11th, 2003 8:32:29 AM
Down inside the tunnel, Dietrich begins to work. He´s brought his weapons with him, but let them some 5ft behind, just for the case. Pulling and hammering and shoving the stones and the dirt with his new comrades, the soldier smiles and is happy. Sweating together in hard work is a good way to start friendship. He lets Harvl respond to the dwarves´s call and concentrates on the stones and on the unstable mine (spot 20), ready to jump if things start to come down.
Zayne Thursday December 11th, 2003 1:15:50 PM
In his haste to avoid doing dishes,he forgot to grab any weapons or a torch. Glad to see Vorelle when she arrives with a torch.
As he hears the dwarves cry for help he lets out a sigh of relief. Despite what has been a hectic last few days he feels a surge of strength and energy. Speaking quietly to himself,"This time I'm not too late. This time I will make a difference."
Taking off his studded leather vest,the thin ranger is surprisingly muscled. Recieving Harlv's instructions,his nose begins to twitc in anticipation,when Harlv is done, he begins to dig with relentless abandon. His determination clearly evident on his face.
rose Thursday December 11th, 2003 3:32:51 PM
Rose returns from looking for food (did she get anything) and will check the traps later.
she removes the towel from the bowl, makes a fist and punches the dough, she then turns it over and puts the towel back on it.
she takes care of the animals and pours some water from a waterskin into a small pot and sets it on the fire.
Devlin d20+2=4 d20+2=7 Thursday December 11th, 2003 3:43:20 PM
Devlin settles down to keep watch up top as Theodore and Rose go about their business. The young fighter still struggles with how easily the strange ore was able to control him.
(spot and listen checks, 4 and 7 respectively)
Theodore d20+2=22 d20+2=21 Thursday December 11th, 2003 11:07:55 PM
Theodore rests his hands on his feet after he finds that he can't spot a water source. As he's standing there, he catches a sound of something and quickly looks in the direction of the sound. "Who's there?!" he hollers.
(Listen = 22, Spot = 21. Good rolls, assuming he catches Lain.)
Vorelle d20+5=16 Friday December 12th, 2003 12:59:56 AM
Vorelle holds the torch so that the others can see and watches them work. She is on the alert for any unusual sounds.
Listen 16
Vauhwyt Friday December 12th, 2003 1:25:58 AM
She is content to contribute muscles, letting others think.
DM Jan Friday December 12th, 2003 1:30:05 AM
Those down the mine -
After working their way down to the main blockage, Vauhwyt, Olyn, Zayne and Dietrich are astounded to see a dwarf, stuck between two boulders.
"Harlv!" he croaks. "Thank Wardd you got back. I see you brought re-inforcements. Tried to wriggle out, but I've been stuck here like this for the last 12 hours by my reckoning."
In Vorelle's lamplight, the dwarf looks tired. His lower body seems firmly wedged between two large rocks.
Up top - Rose continues with her preparations. The dough begins to rise. On watch, Devlin hears a SQUEAK in the direction of one of Rose's traps. A little down the slope toward the track, Theodore sees a shadowy shape, but who, or what is it?
Dietrich d20+3=22 d20+5=8 Friday December 12th, 2003 10:55:49 AM
When the fighter sees the poor dwarf stuck between the boulders, he imediatly starts removing the rocks (hoping someone will help him), but aware not to cause any further crumbling of stones. Strength roll: 22 fortitude: 8
Zayne d20+1=20 d20+2=13 Friday December 12th, 2003 12:14:22 PM
Zayne walks over to the rock with Dietrich and lends what help he can.(wow str 20 fort 13)
(ooc I'm assuming that our combined str rolls are good enough)
Motioninng with his head Zayne points to a spot off to that side to set the rock down.
Theodore Friday December 12th, 2003 2:32:02 PM
"I said, who's there?!" Theodore hollers again at the shadowy figure. He prepares an acid splash spell which he casts if the figure is hostile.
Vauhwyt d20+2=5 Friday December 12th, 2003 5:34:12 PM
Vauhwyt tries to comfort the stuck dwarf ... Oh, don't you worry, this is nothing! I heard about this human who got trapped by a huge rock that pinned his arm. He was all alone, and the only thing he could do was cut off his own arm! That was pretty bad. Not like this at all.
... although her story is not that pleasant to one in his position!
Then she lends her bulk to the job at hand. Her Strength check is only 5, but keep in mind that Vauhwyt's max load is 525 pounds -- and per the PHB, she can lift as much as double her maximum load off the ground, but he or she can only stagger around with it. And she can generally push or drag along the ground as much as five times her max load.
Devlin Friday December 12th, 2003 7:08:37 PM
Bored now, Devlin goes down to check on the trap, hopeful that some tasty morsel wandered in it to become tomorrow's dinner.
Vorelle Sunday December 14th, 2003 12:39:35 PM
Wedging her torch into a suitable crack in the rocks, Vorelle opens her healer's kit and stands ready to help the dwarf as soon as he is freed.
rose Sunday December 14th, 2003 3:28:27 PM
Rose sets up the tents and gets everything ready for when the others get back.
DM Jan Monday December 15th, 2003 1:14:45 AM
Down in the tunnel (Part 1) -
On sight of the stricken dwarf, Dietrich, Zayne and Vauhwyt use their strength to shift the rocks trapping the miner. Vorelle and Olyn stand by to patch up any injuries, and with a powerful shove, the two humans heft to one side, one of the larger rocks, while Vauhwyt bats away other debris. The dwarf rolls out with an - "Oof!" He looks to have a few scratches and scrapes but nothing more. Behind him is a hole - about 3ft x 4 ft, leading further into the tunnel. It's pitch black, and no sounds are immediately evident.
Up above (Part 1) -
Rose gets ready to recieve company from below. While she does so, Devlin checks the snare. There's a creature in it, about 2ft long, 1ft wide, with a long tail. Smooth grey skin with orange dots. He'll remember seeing some of these at the docks food market. As soon as it sees him, it starts squeaking like the blazes. It doesn't have teeth, but looks to have a hard gummy ridge in place of them. Halfway to the path, Theo gets ready, just in case. It's gone quiet out there. Does that mean someone is hiding, or that there wasn't anyone there in the first place? Just the wind sighing through the rocks? Hmmm...
Down in the tunnel (Part 2) - "The name's Kurk," announces the dwarf as he starts to get up, brush himself off, and nod at his resuers. "And I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart, whats left of it. Ouch." He winces, and then turns to Harlv. "Harlv, I'm worried about the others. I haven't heard them say anything for about 4 hours. They reckoned they were going to go deeper, try another way...."
He's interrupted by a *BOOOOOOMPH* sound. Very low, below everyone's range of hearing almost. More like a change of air pressure, and what feels like a wave, passes along the ground. Everyone can feel it beneath their feet. Not only that - something's coming through the hole!
Up above (Part 2) -
Like a small earthquake, Rose, Devlin, Theo and whoever else might be out there - feel it through their feet. It rattles Rose's pots. The creature in the trap stops squeaking and goes quiet.
Something quickens in the gut of Theodore, Dietrich and Devlin. Intangible, hard to evaluate, but it wasn't there until after the 'earthquake'. It quickly starts to grow. Now they know what it is.
Dread.
The spotty lizard in the trap starts to pull like crazy at it's bonds. In the camp, the mules start to bray and pull at their tethers.
((OOC - Folks, it looks like we're without Olyn until after Christmas - Tim's really busy, and poor Kathy has an eye infection which will put Vorelle out for a day or three. Lets wish her a speedy recovery. Oooh, look - no healers and we're just about to enter combat ::evil grin::))
Dietrich d20+2=10 Monday December 15th, 2003 9:40:16 AM
At the beginning Dietrich is satisfied with their work a that Kurk could be pulled out and is apparently allright. Then he feels the wave and shivers. He quickly takes his weapons and prays to Domi, in an attempt to feel more secure. Normaly he would feel very well with his mighty sword but this time it´s not so. He feels the dread and trys to control himself (will test 10), walking slowly back. "Let´s leave!" He only doesn´t run away now because his fear of being a coward is (still) stronger than this strange dread.
Theodore Monday December 15th, 2003 11:29:19 AM
Combined with the suspicion of someone out there watching him, and now this sudden lump in the pit of his stomach, Theodore races back to camp, only falling a couple of times.
Reaching the campsite, he bends double to catch his breath before blurting out. "I think someone's out there," he points from where he came. "And something bad's about to happen." Beads of sweat begin to appear on Theodore's forehead as he looks nervously about.
Devlin Monday December 15th, 2003 11:43:46 AM That can't be good, Devlin thinks to himself as the rumble goes out across the land and the feeling of Dread wells up in his stomach. Having pity on the captured lizard, he quickly moves over and frees it from the trap. "This is no place for you right now," he says as it quickly leaves the scene.
Pulling his rapier free from its scabbard, he rushes back to the encampment and looks for Rose and Theo. "Do you all feel that?" he asks as he reaches them.
"Maybe we should all get out of here? Like quick!" he says.
Zayne d20+4=18 Monday December 15th, 2003 12:52:05 PM
Setting the rock down,and just as he is starting to feel pride in his work the "earthquake" hits.
Instinctivly he dives to the ground,crying out in surprise. Looking around at his companions,and for any signs of danger.(Spot 18)
Cursing his mistake of leaving his axe and bow at the camsite he grabs his dagger that hangs from his hip.
Vauhwyt Monday December 15th, 2003 3:18:27 PM
There is something coming out of that hole, the liontuar senses, and that can't be good!
Vauhwyt shouts, "Oh no you don't!" She grabs the biggest rock she can lift (up to 1,000 lbs) and, staggering over to the hole, drops the rock into the opening, blocking it!
Then she stands at the hole, ready to attack anything that comes out!
DM Jan Tuesday December 16th, 2003 12:42:01 AM
Down in the tunnel -
Vauhwyt moves quickly, but it's all happening at once. There's movement - out of the hole with a *WOOOOOOOSH*.
Dread it seems, has a face - and standing before Dietrich, Vauhwyt, Zayne, Olyn, Vorelle, Harlv and Kurk - are the seven remaining missing dwarves. The light of Vorelle's torch picks out the snarl on their faces, and the deadly intent etched in every line. Whatever they are now - they're obviously not the miners Harlv and the maddened Bram had implored the group to rescue.
There's a *WOOOOSH* again, and two of them disappear, leaving five remaining - all armed with axes, all within melee range, all coming to do harm.
Harlv is shocked into silence. Not so his comrade Kurk, who begins a fearful scream -"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH"
Up above -
Theodore returns quickly to camp, only to find that Devlin, rapier drawn, has had the same idea. Devlin's lizard has long since scampered away. The mules are going crazy. Then, all of a sudden - everyone up top hears Kurk's scream, coming from the mouth of the mine.
Dietrich [ac: 17; hp: 13/13] d20+5=13 2d6(1+5)+4=10 d20+5=22 2d6(5+2)+4=11 d20+2=6 Tuesday December 16th, 2003 11:31:54 AM
The appearance of the former dwarves frightens Dietrich and he crys together with Kurk. Reality is worse than his worst suspicions. But he transforms the cry in a battlecry and jumps forward to attack the creatures. "Aaaaahhh. Diiiie" hits ac 13 ; damage: 10
**If this is enough to bring the first enemy to fall, he attacks a second time ('cut through' feat): hits ac 22 ; damage: 11
Although he is in panic, the fighter knows that running would only open his guard, so he directs his fear to attack. He covers the left front of the tunnel and calls: "Form a line, stay together and protect eachother´s flank! Olyn, do something!" He hopes the priest can do the same thing he did on the battlefield and expell the creatures. Initiative: 6
Olyn (ac19, hp11, Bless) d20+5=25 d6=6 Tuesday December 16th, 2003 11:57:21 AM
Immediately upon the whooshing of the crazed dwarves popping into range, Olyn casts defensively. (nat. 20 for concentration) taking a 5 foot step back, Olyn reaches into his pouch and launches 7 6 sided dice into the air. Wardd, grant us victory in this our time of need. make us warriors for your will and let our aim be true. landing at everyones feet in the tunnel, save for the crazed dwarves, facing up is the #6 on the dice. (Bless, +1 to attacks and +1 to save versus fear)
Zayne(AC 14 HP 10/10) d20+3=20 d20+1=20 d4+1=3 Tuesday December 16th, 2003 12:15:18 PM
Scrambling to his feet. The young ranger,is realizing he has made a potentially deadly mistake,virtually unarmed and unarmored,he faces the dwarves.
Shouting,"Help,hurry!!!",offering a quick silent prayer to all the gods,to speed the arrival of his companions.
Supressing his desire to run,he stays and waits for one of the dwarves to come within range of his dagger.(ooc if one does come within range AC 20 damage 3)
Initiative 20
Vauhwyt (AC17, HP13, blessed) d20+6=17 d20+2=22 d20+2=10 d20+2=17 d4+2=4 d4+2=4 d20-3=3 Tuesday December 16th, 2003 1:35:32 PM
"Undead! Again! I'm not liking this too much," mutters Vauhwyt. She tumbles (check 17) five feet to one side or around the dwarves in an attempt to flank. Then she attacks with paws and a fist. She lashes out with her paws, striking AC 22 (natural 20, no crit) and AC 17 for 4 hp damage each time. Then she tries to land a punch, but that misses.
[OOC: Jan, I'm assuming Vauhwyt is not flanking, at least not yet. If she is, please add +2 on attacks and +1d6 damage on successful hits.]
Devlin (AC 18, HP 12) Tuesday December 16th, 2003 8:03:56 PM
With rapier in hand, Devlin looks to Rose and Theo and says, "Let us see about our friends." He then heads toward the tunnel, hoping that he doesn't come too late to help them.
Vorelle Tuesday December 16th, 2003 10:12:26 PM
Vorelle trades her healer's kit for her own axe, a troubled frown on her face. She hesitates, looking to Harlv and Kurk, wondering whether the dwarves can still be saved or whether they really have to be destroyed.
[OOC: full defensive]
DM Jan d20+4=13 d20+4=10 d20+4=23 d20+4=7 d20+4=18 d6+1=6 d6+1=4 Wednesday December 17th, 2003 1:15:05 AM
Down in the tunnel -
Dietrich charges forward - barely missing dwarf #1. Vauhwyt also moves into action, flanking dwarf #1 and giving him a good drubbing with her paws. Zayne's dagger finds its mark as dwarf #2 moves in for the attack. Vorelle pulls out her axe and looks toward Harlv and Kurk. Instead of a rescue - was she going to have to start killing these guys?
Olyn's voice rings out, and the dice roll. The power of Wardd seems to infuse itself on the party, giving them a kind of inner strength and a measure of protection.
Harlv's shock is evident on his face as he looks upon his former bretheren. "These are not my brothers any longer," he croaks, emotion clogging his throat. He brings his own axe to the fore, while Kurk scrabbles around, looking for a weapon.
By way of reply, the dwarves snarl like feral beasts and attack with their axes. #1 Swings at Dietrich- missing!
#2 attacks Zayne with the zeal of a madman - and misses also!
#3 and #4 go for Olyn - #3 hits AC 23 for 6 Dam.
#5 steps toward Vorelle and takes a swing at her - hits AC 18 for 4 Dam
Up above -
Devlin sets off toward the mine entrance. He hears Zayne, shouting for help, but then all of a sudden - he and Theo see two dwarves appear at the mine entrance, and begin a charge - straight at Rose!! And they have axes!!
Dietrich [AC 17; HP 13/13] d20+6=22 2d6(4+4)+4=12 d20+6=15 2d6(2+1)+4=7 Wednesday December 17th, 2003 7:34:14 AM
Dietrich feels the blessing of Wardd and gets new inspiration. His fear is diminished and he attacks with more courage now. The sword-master strikes with great power in a diagonal angle from up-left to down-right aiming at the dwarf´s throat. Hits ac 22; damage: 12
** If the hit is enough to bring him down, the fighter uses the swing of his first strike to attack a second dwarf in reach (ooc: again the 'cut through' feat). hits AC 15; damage: 7
Vauhwyt (AC17, HP13, blessed) d20+4=16 d20+4=10 d20=8 d4+2=6 d6=1 Wednesday December 17th, 2003 2:31:00 PM
Now that she is flanking, Vauhwyt attacks with even greater enthusiasm! But unfortunately, with less accuracy! She punches and lashes out with both paws, but only one paw lands a blow (AC16) -- for 7 hp damage.
"Alas, you poor cursed spirits," she shouts at the dwarves, "I am sorry for your plight, but at least let me help you on to your final rest!"
Then when her second and third blows miss badly, she adds, "Come on, stand still!" She laughs.
rose Wednesday December 17th, 2003 6:28:15 PM
Rose stops what she's doing, grabs her weapons and runs to the cave. She peers inside (can she see what's happening?)
ooc: sorry for missing the last few days. I was having comp trouble, if it happens again npc my character or have someone else play her.
Zayne d20+1=21 d20+1=4 d4+1=4 d20+4=23 Wednesday December 17th, 2003 8:26:08 PM
Feeling the rush of battle,the nimble ranger dodges the dwarf's attack and responds with one of his own.(natural 20 no crit damage 4)
(if the dwarf falls) He quickly scans his surroundings to see if any of his companions need help(spot 23 ooc I am on a hot streak right now)
(if the dwarf is still standing forget it)
Vorelle d20+5=15 d6+1=5 Wednesday December 17th, 2003 9:55:14 PM
Vorelle manages to stave off the crazed dwarf's attack (her AC is 19 when at full defensive), then counters with a solid blow from her handaxe.
(Hit AC 15 for 5 points damage)
Theodore d20=12 d3=1 Thursday December 18th, 2003 12:23:17 AM
Theodore rushes to Rose's side and unleashes a spell at closest dwarf (if within range of 25ft).
(Casts acid splash. Ranged touch attack = 12. Does anyone know if you add dex bonuses to a ranged touch attack? Damage = 1 if it hits.)
DM Jan d20+4=24 d20+4=8 d20+4=23 d20+4=14 d20+4=7 d20+4=12 d6+1=7 d6+1=1 Thursday December 18th, 2003 12:33:50 AM
In Ye Tunnel -
The mad, dwarves of evil's hideous, snarling mouths and vicious eyes dance in the torch light as the fight continues.
Dietrich lands a powerful blow on #1, dropping it, and enabling a Cleave attempt on #3. He gets' it's attention.
Vauhwyt slashes the dead #1 out of the way, leaving her open to attack another.
Zayne's dagger makes it's mark. He can see his friends in their own struggles, but right now, evil #2 still looks like it wants to kill him. In fact it looks downright pleased at the prospect.
Vorelle neatly gets out of the way of #5's axe and lands a good blow with her own.
#1 is dead. #2, grinning like 'the clown of all evil' takes a big swing at Zayne - smashing into Zayne for (AC 24) 7 DAM #3 attempts to carve a piece out of Dietrich for dinner - and misses. #4 is intent on seeing Olyn's head rolling on the tunnel floor - and hits, but only nicks the cleric for 1 DAM #5, not in a good mood after being clobbered, swings deliberately at Vorelle. "Surrender and dieeeeeeeeee," it hisses. It also misses
Up above -
While Devlin and Theo get ready to do battle, Rose grabs her weapons, not realising two evil dwarves (#6, #7) are running right at her! Their axes rise and fall - but with the halfling in full scamper mode, they both miss on this occasion. #7 yells - "AAAAAARGHHGLGLGLGH!!" as he gets hit with Theo's acid spell. He turns his ruined face - and axe - toward the mage.
Dietrich [AC 17; HP 13/13] d20+6=9 Thursday December 18th, 2003 6:00:56 AM
The sword cuts through dwarf #1, making blood spout and almost cutting of his head. The deadly steel continues its dance and then hits dwarf #3. As the dwarf attacks and only finds Dietrich´s fine armour, the knight praises Domi and his own acquisition. He attacks dwarf #3, in an attempt to finish the cleave (hits ac 9), but in the heat of battle he misses.
ADM BigTim Thursday December 18th, 2003 11:11:22 AM
sorry for the intrusion in the middle of combat, but i need to address something. you cant go on a full defensive and attack. you are using a full round to gain a +4 to your ac. if you wish to attack and be on the defensive, its called fighting defensively. you subtract 4 points from your attack and gain a +2 to your ac.
ADM BigTim part2 Thursday December 18th, 2003 11:16:20 AM
again, sorry, accidentally hit submit before i was done. in addition, during combat please post your hitpoints, current hitpoints, armor class and any spells currently active on you and any skills or abilities you feel the DM should consider. example: Olyn ac21(dodge,fighting defensively),hp11/4,bless
Olyn : ac18/21(dodge, fighting defensively), hp11, Bless d20+5=19 d8+1=2 d8+1=2 d8+1=8 Thursday December 18th, 2003 11:30:29 AM
feeling his life force being drained from him after taking 2 hits from the crazed dwarf, Olyn begins taking defensive measures to avoid being hit again. while doing so, he begins asking Wardd to heal his wounds so he might continue to stand in combat, and do his will for his companions.
(defensive casting, concentration: 19) (CLW, rolled a 1, rerolled, rolled another 1, rerolled, 7+1=8)
after healing himself, Olyn moves and positions himself just out of reach of dwarf #2 but within reach of Zayne.
Devlin (AC 18, HP 12/12) d20+4=20 d6+2=6 Thursday December 18th, 2003 2:27:13 PM
Devlin rushes forward to attack the nearest dwarf, putting all of his anger and frustration at being controlled by the sword into the attack. (Att 20, dmg 6)
OOC: Not sure exactly how close he is to them, but I'm assuming he can attack this round. If not, ignore the rolls, good though they are!
Zayne(Ac 14, Hp 3/10,bless) d20+2=20 d4+1=5 Thursday December 18th, 2003 3:10:39 PM
Reeling from the blow,he instinctively lashes out.(Ac 20 damage 5) He is appalled by the grin on his foe's face.
With his free hand he clutches at the wound in his side,thinking to himself,"Not again."
Theodore HP 5, AC 17 (dodge, mage armor) Thursday December 18th, 2003 8:23:58 PM
Seeing the tainted dwarf coming for him, Theodore does a double-take. The young mage gestures and chants and suddenly a magical protection springs up about the young mage.
(Casts mage armor to bring AC to 17 for one hour.)
Vorelle (Bless, 11 HP, AC 15) d20+5=22 d6+1=7 Thursday December 18th, 2003 10:49:55 PM Surrender and die? Vorelle thinks. Not much of a bargain.
She lashes out again with her handaxe, landing another solid blow.
(Hit AC 22 for 7)
(OOC: Apologies if I was playing it wrong, but this is the way I'm used to. If Vorelle goes full defensive on her action in Round 1, then she gets a +4 to AC until her action in Round 2 (1 full round). At that point, she can choose to attack, which drops her back to her normal AC, or continue at full defensive. She was attacked after she had declared full defensive in Round 1, but before she declared an attack action in Round 2, so I thought she had the AC bonus. If not, I'll deduct the 4 HPs)
rose d20+3=7 Friday December 19th, 2003 12:12:11 AM
Rose turns around and attacks the nearest dwarf swinging wildly as she almost trips over a rock.
attack: 7
Vauhwyt (AC17, HP13, blessed) d20+4=17 d20+4=10 d20=16 d4+2=3 d6=5 d4+1=4 d6=2 Friday December 19th, 2003 1:01:08 AM
[OOC: Jan, it might help if you told me each round if Vauhwyt is flanking or not. She tries to flank whenever she can, of course. Otherwise I have to guess if I get the flanking +2 and the sneak attack damage. For now I'll assume I am flanking. Hope that's okay.]
Continuing to fight, Vauhwyt jockeys to get in position and attacks flanking. She hits AC 17 with a paw for 8 hp. She misses with her off paw but does land a punch (AC 16) for another 6 hp damage.
She breathes heavily.
DM Jan d20+4=9 d20+4=21 d20+4=5 d20+4=8 d20+4=20 d6+1=4 d6+1=2 Friday December 19th, 2003 1:07:43 AM
((OOC - I caught Vorelle's full defense mode, and figured her AC to drop back to normal the next round. Pity I had a bad roll in round 2 ;) ))
In the Tunnel -
Dietrich goes after #3 and misses. The thing cackles like a madman. Vauhwyt then batters the heck out of it with her paws. #3 goes down.
Olyn - in danger of getting hacked to pieces, asks for the blessing of Wardd, and feels himself being restored. He backs off from #4 and moves closer to Zayne, who's taking a lot of heat.
Zayne, fighting for his life, hits his opponant #2 solidly. The evil dwarf is slick with blood - failing, but not down yet.
Vorelle slams her axe into #5, who's starting to look a bit worse for wear.
In retaliation - #4 , extremely focussed, totters after Olyn in order to give him a doze of THE AXE! - but also misses. #2 is bleeding badly, but he's not about to give up on Zayne yet. He can smell the rogues blood - and hits Zayne with a nasty blow for 4 DAM #5 hates Vorelle so much she can almost taste it. He's bloody but unbowed, and lashes out - missing in its frenzy.
Up above -
Rose takes a wild swing at #6 - and misses. Devlin, hurtling in to the rescue, runs his sword into the dwarf's hide. It bellows in pain and rage. Theo casts, and feels a glow of protection surround him, as #7 eyes him up for a whack with it's axe. It's face is half-dissolved. The pain must be terrible, but still it comes.
#6 attempts to take down that pesky halfling, despite being impaled by Devlin - it misses!
#7 is determined to get revenge for its rotting face - and gets the devil of a blow in, getting past Theodore's defenses for 2DAM
Vauhwyt, sensing that her friends need help, tugs on a button -- or is that some kind of seal?
[OOC: Jan, that's one of Vauhwyt's two "Combat Seals," which "adds +1 to hit for your entire group for one round."]
Then Vauhwyt shifts up to five feet in order to flank another dwarf. Still making the best use that she can of her roguish melee ability, she lashes out with her now-bloody paws.
[OOC: Jan, are Vauhwyt's paws bloody with Dwarf blood? In other words, are these undead? If so, undead are immune to sneak attacks, and should not be taking sneak attack damage.]
Flanking and striking hard while the Seal is hot, Vauhwyt connects once with a solid blow (AC 24) and also lands a punch (AC 17). She does 10 points with a paw (includes 4 hp sneak attack damage) and 6 points with her fist (includes 2 hp sneak attack damage).
REMEMBER EVERYONE ELSE TO ADD THE +1 FROM THE SEAL I USED!!!
Devlin (AC 18, HP 12/12) d20+5=11 d6+2=5 Friday December 19th, 2003 10:30:48 AM
Devlin lashes out with his rapier once again, doing his best to fell the dwarf and move on to helping Rose.
(Hits AC11 for 5 points of damage. I doubt these guys are AC11 or less, so sorry Rose!)
Theodore HP 3 AC 18 (Dodge, Mage Armor, Ring of Protection +1) d20=17 d3=2 Friday December 19th, 2003 11:21:39 AM
Theodore gasps in shock as the Dwarf's axe bites into him. Fighting out of the instinct to survive, Theodore calls forth his power again and a thin blue line shoots from his index finger to strike the attacking dwarf.
(Ray of frost ranged touch attack = 17 for 2 points of damage. I forgot to add my ring of protection to my AC last time. Oh well...)
Olyn : ac18/21(dodge, fighting defensively), Bless, Seal Bonus d20+6=16 d8+1=9 Friday December 19th, 2003 12:15:56 PM
sensing Zayne´s predicament, and realizing his last choice must of been Wardd´s doing, Olyn begins weaving and bobbing again to avoid the possibility of being interrupted with his spell use. (defensive casting - concentration 16) reaching out and touching Zayne´s bleeding wound on his side, Olyn again asks for Wardd´s blessing of life. (CLW 8+1=9)
Dietrich [AC 15; HP 13/13] flanking, bless, seal, charging, powerful attack d20+10=29 2d6(3+2)+5=10 d20+9=26 2d6(6+1)+4=11 Friday December 19th, 2003 12:41:30 PM
Dietrich nods gratefully to Vauhwyt as dwarf #3 is cut in pieces. Then he runs to attack dwarf #4,(charging his flank) avoiding to fight with the same one the liontaur is fighting.
He puts an extra strenght in this attack ('powerful attack' feat: -1 attack, +1 damage)
** If dwarf #4 is knocked out, he attacks a second time (normal attack +1 bless +1 seal +2 flank) against dwarf #5. hits AC 26; damage: 11.
rose d20+3=23 d20+3=8 d4+2=3 d4+2=5 Friday December 19th, 2003 1:44:34 PM
Rose goes after the dwarf again and attacks viciously.
attack: 23, nat 20 ?crit: 8 damage: 3, can we reroll 1's on damage? if so it's a 5
Zayne(Ac 14,Hp 8/10) Saturday December 20th, 2003 11:05:00 AM
As the dwarf strikes him,Zayne blacks out.The last thought in his head,"I tried..."
Vorelle (Bless; Combat Seal; HP 11/11; AC 15) d20+6=13 d6+1=5 Saturday December 20th, 2003 5:25:09 PM
Vorelle slashes again with her handaxe, but her blow skips off the remnants of the dwarf's armor.
(I'm assuming it's a miss; hit AC 13 for 5 points)
DM Jan d20+4=22 d20+4=22 d20+4=22(woah!) d6+1=2 d6+1=4 d6+1=6 Sunday December 21st, 2003 11:47:40 PM
In the tunnel -
As Vauhwyt hits her Seal, everyone feels a momentary, positive blip, guiding their aim. After that, its straight down to business on dwarf #2 (under a strange and gripping possession, as opposed to undead), who falls like a log under the mighty liontaur's paws.
Dietrich goes straight for the dwarf threatening Olyn, inflicting a VERY nasty wound on #4. It turns and faces the warrior, eyes burning like coals.
Vorelle's axe swishes and the blade bounces harmlessly this time against the maddened dwarf's armour.
Zayne, unable to sustain the wounds he recieved, falls onto the tunnel floor and into the dark calm of unconsciousness. All senses have shut down, and br-boom, br-boom - his heart beats slowly, and blood is focussed on his vital organs as his body concentrates on its own survival, leaving his limbs cold.
Olyn reaches forward and touches the fallen ranger.
There's suddenly a bright vision of tumbling dice in Zayne's head, almost blinding - and it feels as though someone has flicked the switch on his senses, bringing them up to full strength all at once. BAM! Energy! - adrenaline fires through his arteries, and he can see feet, smell blood, hear cries and the sound of steel on steel. His limbs feel like fire and tingle painfully, as blood rushes into starved vessels.
Evil dwarves #1, #2 and #3 lie dead in bloody heaps on the ground.
#4 is badly wounded and seeks recompense. It's axe whistles through the air in Dietrich's direction - hitting AC 22 for 2 DAM
#5 continues its dance with Vorelle. "Die... and know nothing," it hisses creepily, before bringing its axe down in a deadly arc - hitting AC22 for 4 DAM
In the meantime, Harlv and Kurk haven't been slacking - they're hammering desperately at the stanchions holding up the tunnel. Dirt starts to bounce off helmets, and spatter against hair and cloak. Then.... there's a deep groaning sound. The kind of groaning sound that occurs before a cave-in. "Oh &(%^%$^*," says Kurk.
Up above -
The young mage calls forth another spell. Dwarf #7's acid etched face freezes - his axe stops dead, held aloft. After Theo's second spell, the possessed miner is a dead as a doornail, just stood there.
Rose and Devlin continue their assault on dwarf #6. The nimble rascal avoids Devlin's blade on this occasion, but gets a taste of halfling justice. Undeterred and in a frenzy, it goes for Rose once more - smashing his metal axe into the halfling - hits AC22 for 6DAM
Over by the campfire, crazy Bram - who's been quiet up to now, starts to mutter - "Dreadstone, dreadstone we called it.... it'll takes us, it'll takes us all..."
Zayne Monday December 22nd, 2003 11:30:52 AM
(OOC Jan FYI Zayne is not a rogue he is a ranger. ~Jan~ Eeeeeeeee! Sorry, David - I've edited :) )
Feeling the cold finger of death on his soul he knows it's over. Suddenly life blossoms and warmth fills his veins again.
Lying there feeling new hope and vindication. The gods have seen it fit for Zayne to continue his life.
Dietrich [AC 17; HP 11/13] d20+6=14 2d6(5+6)+4=15 d20+6=12 Monday December 22nd, 2003 1:17:57 PM
The knight is surprised as his sword didn´t kill the dwarf, and takes the hit with his huge body. Biting his teeth together as he feels the pain, Dietrich attacks again. hits AC 14; damage: 15
**Assuming this finishes dwarf #4 off: As the broadsword cuts the enemy in two pieces, it continues its deadly swing against dwarf #5, but misses. Hits AC 12
When he hears the sound of the cave-in, he runs as fast as he can to the exit.
Vauhwyt (Bless; HP 13/13; AC 17) d20+4=15 d20+4=9 d4+2=3 d6=5 Monday December 22nd, 2003 2:30:59 PM
Seeing the fifth dwarf go down, and hearing the moan of the soon-to-drop ceiling, Vauhwyt decides to strike at the remaining wounded dwarf before running.
Flanking the dwarf that is attacking Vorelle, the liontaur swipes with two paws, hitting AC 15 for 8 hp. Hoping that this downs the crazed digger, the liontaur then calls, "Let us flee before it all comes down on us!"
She then sprints up the tunnel (move 40).
Devlin (AC 18 , HP 12/12) d20+5=12 d8+2=8 d6+2=7 Monday December 22nd, 2003 4:46:01 PM
Devlin looks on in horror as the dwarf gives a nasty wound to Rose. He reaches out with his rapier once more to hopefully kill the dwarf at last.
OOC: Not sure if they are flanking the dwarf but if so, he would get a bonus to that and hopefully hit it (AC 14 would be hit, I believe). Ignore the first damage roll (8) as I improperly rolled a d8. The second one is with the d6 and is legit. I just hope he hits the little varmint!
Vorelle (Bless, HP 7/11, AC 15) d20+5=23 d6+1=6 Monday December 22nd, 2003 6:42:37 PM
Vorelle hisses in pain as the dwarven axe finally makes contact, then looks up in alarm as the place begins to cave in. As Vauhwyt pounces on her attacker, Vorelle swings her handaxe one final time, then turns to flee.
(Hit AC 23 for 6 points, then beat feet out of there. If it provokes an AoO, so be it.)
Theodore HP 3 AC 18 (Mage Armor, Dodge, & Ring of Pro. +1) d20=17 d4=2 Monday December 22nd, 2003 11:26:21 PM
Having finished with his opponent, the young mage notices his friends in trouble nearby. "Rose!" he yells as he sees the halfling take a particularly vicious blow.
Enraged and bleeding, Theodore pulls forth his tiny dagger and runs towards the fray to help.
(Don't know if Theo is close enough to get a hit in or not. If so his attack is 17 for 2 points of damage.)
rose d20+6=11 d3+5=7 Tuesday December 23rd, 2003 1:30:47 AM
Rose heads away from the dwarf, bleeding badly. she turns and throws a dagger at it from about 10' away and continues on towards her back pack to get a healing potion.
ooc: how far away is my back pack.
attack: 11 damage: 7
DM Jan Tuesday December 23rd, 2003 1:33:24 AM
In the tunnel - As Zayne comes to his senses, Dietrich stops dwarf #4 in its tracks with a heavy blow. The thing falls THUD, to the floor, shortly followed by dwarf #5 who falls victim to combined hits from Vorelle and Vauhwyt.
This particular threat is at an end, but there is no time to think on what turned these poor dwarves into evil killers.
"RUUUUUNNNNNNN!!!" yells Harlv, as the tunnel starts to collapse in on itself. Empty space is now being filled rapidly with soil and rock. A great dust cloud seeks to obliterate what vision everyone has.
It's roughly a 100yd sprint to the tunnel exit. Will the group make it unscathed? Lets see.
Reflex Save DC13 or get hit with 1d4 damage from falling rock.
Up above -
Rose backs off, bleeding badly, hurling a dagger desperately at her attacker, but Devlin and Theodore ensure that Rose is attacked no further, and #6 crumples in a heap.
They can now see great clouds of dust belching from the mine entrance, accompanied by a deep groaning sound. The ground beneath their feet starts to shake. Will their friends get out alive?
Vauhwyt d20+4=17 Tuesday December 23rd, 2003 8:24:34 AM
Dodging rocks easily, Vauhwyt races through the tunnel. She runs 160 feet of the 300-foot-long passage. She holds her breath as the dust whirls around her.
Dietrich d20+2=5 d4=2 Tuesday December 23rd, 2003 10:19:58 AM
The killing of the last dwarf and the heavy armour hinder Dietich`s movements and he gets wounded by some stones. Reflex 5 damage 2
He is evolved by the dust, which is absorbed by the blood on his clothes and weapon, letting him with an extrem dirty and bad appearence.
The fighter can run 80ft this round.
Theodore Tuesday December 23rd, 2003 11:58:56 AM
Theodore replaces his dagger in its sheath after the last dwarf has been dispatched. He nods at Devlin before falling on his bottom as the earth moves suddenly.
He groans as he places his hand to his side where he was hit. The wound isn't too bad, but Theodore whimpers as he looks at the blood oozing from the cut. "And my shirt is ruined, too!" He fumbles about his shirt before he finds what looks to be a white button. He pushes the button and bit of magic buzzes in the air.
"I've just given us all the ability to cast a spell of healing upon anyone just once. Devlin, if you're not hurt, please help Rose." That said, Theodore raises his index finger which begins to glow a pleasant green. The young mage touches his finger to the cut on his side and it looks somewhat better.
(Using a seal of cure minor wounds which gives everyone in the party the ability to cast cure minor wounds once. Healed myself for 1 point.)
Devlin Tuesday December 23rd, 2003 3:50:21 PM
Devlin nods at Theodore's words and reaches out to touch Rose. Not really sure what to do exactly, he hopes that his touch is enough to grant her some healing. At least it will stabilize her until the professionals arrive.
Kneeling beside Rose and Theodore, he looks up as the ground shakes beneath them and then the dust goes shooting out of the entrance to the caves.
"Uh oh. That can't be good for our friends. You two ok for now?" he asks with a look to each of them.
"I'm going to check on the others."
The fighter from Plateau City takes up his rapier and heads toward the entrance to the caves. All the smoke tells him that the tunnel has obviously collapsed but he has no idea whether his friends remain trapped inside or not. He doesn't want to think about the possibility of them being trapped on the other side with that evil ore.
"Zayne!? Vorelle!? Call out if you can hear me?!"
He goes through each of their names, calling out to any of them to answer if they hear.
Vorelle d20+5=14 Tuesday December 23rd, 2003 9:17:00 PM
Vorelle twists awkwardly, but manages to esape injury from the falling debris (Reflex 14). Holding one hand lightly over her nose and mouth, she continues to run for the exit.
DM Jan Wednesday December 24th, 2003 1:45:12 AM
There's probably more than one moment when those in the tunnel wonder if they're going to get out alive. But at some point, Kurk yells out in the gloom that the fall has stopped for now - they have it under control. And so - its a dusty, mote-in-the-eye journey to the top, where Devlin waits. Fresh air has never smelled so good.
As the group take stock, Harlv and Kurk finish what they started, and finally, with a huge *CRUMP* - the tunnel entrance falls in on itself, making the ground jump.
As if on cue, the upright dead dwarf, frozen by Theo, falls over with a thud.
Harlv and Kurk walk over to have a look at Bram. They seem very upset, and on the verge of tears.
Dietrich [HP 9/11] Wednesday December 24th, 2003 10:13:02 AM
The soldier comes out of the tunnel, coughing and covered with dust and blood. He wipes out the dust and looks around to see what happened to his comrades. When he sees Rose´s and Zayne´s situation, Dietrich forgets his own small wounds, but he let the professionals do their work. He swears about the cave-in, but, considering the dwarves faces, he avoids to dress them down for the too early and dangerous destruction of the dig. He too is sorry about the outcome of their rescue. Then he cleans his sword and puts it eventually again in its sheath.
Theodore Wednesday December 24th, 2003 10:23:43 AM
Theodore is happy to see the rest of his friends have made it from the mine shaft. He pushes himself to his feet and approaches the dirty and bloody group.
"What happened down there?" he asks.
Devlin Wednesday December 24th, 2003 10:31:56 AM
Sheathing his rapier and rushing forward to assist his companions out of the dusty tunnel, Devlin's heart leaps to see them all making it out.
"What happened down there? All of a sudden we had two feral dwarves up here ready to tear Rose in two!"
The fighter goes about adding help where he can to those injured or needing assistance, really adding support more than anything else but just thankful to have them all alive.
When he sees the faces of the other two dwarves, he walks over to see what has caused them such alarm.
Vorelle Wednesday December 24th, 2003 2:48:23 PM
Once she is clear of the cave-in, Vorelle slows to a walk, and puts a trembling hand over the slash on her ribs. She stumbles toward the camp, uncertain of her way in the dark. She can't seem to stop shivering.
Vauhwyt Wednesday December 24th, 2003 9:13:00 PM
Now that the source of the evil has been shut off, Vauhwyt concerns herself with the half-forged sword that caused so much trouble. She looks around the wreckage of the camp for a long stick. She finds (or cuts from her own rope) a short length.
She says, "Why don't we tie the sack with the evil sword to this rope, and tie the rope to the half-way point of this stick. Then two people can carry the thing with a minimum of risk."
rose, hp 3/8 Wednesday December 24th, 2003 9:48:22 PM
rose is sitting on the ground, slightly better but still in bad shape. "Thank you devlin" She says as he stabalizes her. When vorelle makes the comment about tying the bag and carrying it between them she is amazed. "Why dont we just put it as far down that mine as possible and make sure the thing is buried!"
DM Jan Thursday December 25th, 2003 1:22:11 AM
Theo and Devlin ask what happened as Olyn, Vorelle, Zayne, Vauhwyt and Dietrich, along with Harlv and the rescued Kurk - emerge from the tunnel. Devlin helps Olyn tend wounds - Vorelle and Rose in particular need attention.
There's the question of the evil short sword, and Harlv speaks up. "I took it down the mine. Dropped it there just before we started to cave the tunnel in." ((OOC - sorry folks I should have been clearer about that.))
It's past midnight, and the fires will need feeding in order to stay burning. It appears that the threat of what Bram calls 'dreadstone' - is over. The mine shaft and its entrance is completely demolished. Out of the twelve original miners - only three are left alive, and one seems entirely mad, which perhaps explains Harlv and Kurk's sorrow.
As Devlin approaches the dwarves, Harlv mentions something about burying those who died above ground.
Decisions have to be made as to when to set off back home, and what to say and do on arriving...
Vauhwyt the Paranoid d20+11=15 Thursday December 25th, 2003 7:59:05 AM
"Hmmm," Vauhwyt says, "you just dropped it. In the heat of battle. When no one was looking. Hmmm."
The rogue tries to remember the events of the battle just past. Did she see Harlv drop the weapon? Or could it be that he says he did, but in fact he has kept it, concealed!
"Well then, my quick-thinking new friend, you wouldn't mind at all if we gave you a gentle pat-down -- just to make sure the beastly thing didn't actually slip into a pocket -- now, would you?"
She begins to circle around the rear of the dwarves, both to cut off escape and to flank if the opportunity presents itself.
Then a thought occurs to her too-suspicious mind. "And your little friends, too!" she adds, motioning to Bram and Kurk.
[OOC: Intimidation check is 15]
rose Thursday December 25th, 2003 3:01:12 PM
rose looks up quickly when vauhwyt suggests that the sword may still be around. Although she cant move much she readies her daggers and darts so she can throw them.
Dietrich Thursday December 25th, 2003 3:58:52 PM
OOC: Merry christmas to you all!
Dietrich is tired from the fight and the last thing he wants now is further trouble. He says in a deep, gutural voice: "Come on people, enough of that! The poor miners don't seem mad to me. Let's divide the watches as last night and have some rest before we part tomorrow. We'll really need it. I'd like the last watch, with someone with a sharp eye." After the speech he takes his things and begins to sleep, heartly desiring a bath, a cold beer and a nice girl on his side.
Vorelle Friday December 26th, 2003 9:27:10 AM
Vorelle sits as close as she can to the fire. She can't seem to stop shivering. Her wound has (mostly) stopped bleeding and the pain has receded to a dull throb. She stares into the flames as one hypnotized. She is exhausted, but every time she closes her eyes, she sees waves of dirt and rock rushing down on her, trying to engulf her, to bury her alive.
Theodore Friday December 26th, 2003 11:19:51 AM
Theodore put a couple of logs on the fire and prodded it with a stick for a few moments before deciding he was pretty tired and ought to go to sleep. He places his bedroll close enough to the fire to keep warm, yet far enough away to keep from catching fire. The young mage burrows himself under his blanket until just a shock of his wild brown hair is peeking above his hidey-hole. He curls up with his concerns and thoughts and drifts off.
DM Jan Monday December 29th, 2003 1:51:47 PM
((OOC - sorry folks, should have posted this last night))
Harlv gives a frustrated sigh, and allows Vauhwyt to check for the evil shortsword. There's no sign of it, anywhere. It appears the dwarf is telling the truth. "There'll be no sleep for us until we've buried our kin, either" mutters Kurt, and they start to prepare - dragging the two dead, formerly possessed dwarves over to the makeshift burial site behind the forge.
Devlin offers to help dig, and Olyn offers his cleric services after he's taken care of the living. Vorelle has him worried - she seems in shock, which is hardly surprising. "Keep her warm," he asks the others.
The latter part of the night is full of sounds - digging and prayer, and off in the distance - a lightning storm over by Mount Bone.
It's now two hours until dawn.
Dietrich d20+4=15 d20+2=5 Monday December 29th, 2003 4:27:46 PM
Dietrich sleeps profoundly till someone wakes him up for the last watch. He looks carefully after Vorelle and keeps the fire on. Then he stands up and walks outside the light of the fire, watching out in the dark with his sword prepared for combat and admiring the lightnings over Mount Bone. spot: 15 listen: 5 Sometimes he returns to the group to assure Vorelle is all right and to put some logs on the fire. Silently the young fighter beholds the shy but brave and beautiful girl and hopes she will be fine.
Vauhwyt Monday December 29th, 2003 5:02:58 PM
Relieved that the evil sword is well and truly buried, Vauhwyt apologizes to the dwarves for her suspicion.
Then she notices that Vorelle is shaky. She doesn't know what to say to her friend, so she just sits down close next to her and spends the rest of the night there. Vauhwyt hopes her heat will help warm Vorelle's body and spirit.
Lain Monday December 29th, 2003 5:30:07 PM
Lain had lost his scent of direction, returning to the area from which he was once seen by pure luck[Where I was suppose to enter before, but missed]. His heels dug into the ground, his form stopping as his gems moved about the area slowly. His free hand came up as he pulled the tip of the collar of his robe to shadow his face further more. His frame leaned against the staff as slender digits gripped the shaft of the stave.
rose hp 3/8 d20+5=7 Monday December 29th, 2003 7:52:34 PM
Rose falls asleep that night after eating a little bit of soup, she doesnt even manage to finish her bowl before going to her bed. She dreams and anyone in the tent whos awake and can see her can see her smiling and moving her lips as if she were talking. In the morning she wakes up and stretches, and is very surprised to find all the gifts she won or was given at the bottom of her bedroll :)
Although she is still weak she makes her way to the fire and starts some oatmeal in her new pot.
As she is weak and not paying enough attention, it doesnt turn out that great (cook=7) but she manages to swallow some and eat some of the bread she made the night before with honey on both.
Vorelle Monday December 29th, 2003 9:19:46 PM
Warmed and reassured by Vauhwyt's comforting presence, Vorelle stops shivering and seems to be responding normally. She cleans the congealed blood from her side as best she can and settles near the fire again. She does not sleep, however, still haunted by visions of the collapse. In the morning she breakfasts quickly and seems anxious to depart.
DM Jan Tuesday December 30th, 2003 12:29:22 AM
About the time when the bodies are buried and the dwarves, Devlin and Olyn are catching some rest alongside Theo and Zayne; Rose is getting up early to start the porridge and Vauhwyt and Vorelle are thinking about packing up camp -
Dietrich spots Lain near the path - about 30 yards away from camp.
Theodore Tuesday December 30th, 2003 11:27:31 AM
Theodore is still sound asleep.
Dietrich d20+4=6 Tuesday December 30th, 2003 1:17:34 PM
When Dietrich sees the shape of a man coming in their direction he makes signs to the party that someone is approaching. He waits for the strange person to come closer and is suspicious and a little nervous, ready to charge if necessary. After the recent events the warrior can only expect the worst. He watches to the sides to see if there are others (spot: 6) and waits for his friends to take their positions.
Lain d20=14 Tuesday December 30th, 2003 1:50:44 PM
Lain's concrete form moved towards the group from which Dietrich resided. He could only make out shapes, but features of the beings was nearly impossible. His form moved closer as he moved slowly to him. His silhouette stood alone in the distance. His lids lowered slightly, his gems peering wearily from beyond them. He tried to make out the figures in the distance.[Spot 14+2=16, sry, hit the wrong button]
Vauhwyt Tuesday December 30th, 2003 3:12:59 PM
Vauhwyt sees Dietrich ready for battle -- so she walks over to him and gets ready to fight too. "What is it we're fighting?" she whispers to him.
rose Tuesday December 30th, 2003 5:46:16 PM
rose just busies her self with the breakfast as she doesnt see lain.
Zayne Tuesday December 30th, 2003 6:41:40 PM
Stirring from his sleep as the sounds of cooking begin to fill the air.
Lying there until breakfast is ready,he reflects on the events of the last week.
Vorelle Tuesday December 30th, 2003 9:36:16 PM
Seeing Dietrich and Vauhwyt on alert, Vorelle nocks an arrow and quietly moves to a position to cover them.
DM Jan Wednesday December 31st, 2003 12:31:25 AM
Looking in the general direction of the camp, Lain can see the tall figure of Dietrich. He is in hailing distance, and its obvious he has seen Lain. From that direction are the sounds of others, a crackling fire, and the smell of cooking. After wandering in the wilderness for far too long, it seems inviting, providing these folk are friendly.
Vorelle and Vauhwyt move out to see what Dietrich has spotted. Dietrich can see Lain - he looks to be alone.
Inside the camp itself, Rose's porridge isn't the best she's ever done, but its not the worst either. Devlin and the dwarves are still asleep after the burial, Olyn is praying quietly to Wardd, and Theo is also getting some rest. On average, sleep has come easy, and has been relatively deep and restful, as though shutting down that mine has put the stopper on a whole lot of nightmares.
Awakening after a wild night, Zayne can see Rose at the cooking pot, some stil asleep, and some of the others moving quietly toward the track that leads back to Dirt City. The distant storm has died down to nothing.
Vauhwyt Wednesday December 31st, 2003 8:18:56 AM
Standing next to Dietrich and seeing that it is just a single individual, Vauhwyt relaxes. Her fists unclench, and she calls out, "Ho! The travellerr! Stand and tell us who you arre! I am Vauhwyt, of Dirt City. If you come in peace, then be welcome herre!" Her accent sounds clear in her words.
Then, in a whisper that the newcomer won't hear, she tells Dietrich and Vorelle, "Remember, our mission here is a secret." Knowing that Vorelle is shy around strangers, she asks the ranger for a favor. "Would you go tell everyone that we have a guest of some kind? And please tell everyone to keep quiet about why we are here and what we found herre."
Vorelle Wednesday December 31st, 2003 9:33:45 AM
Vorelle hurries back to camp. Standing where both Rose and Zayne can hear her, she says, "A st-st-stranger is c-coming."
Then she moves to rouse the sleepers, first Devlin and the dwarves, and then Theo. Respecting Olyn's prayers, she waits until he is finished before telling him.
In the meantime, she reminds the others, "The W-W-Wolves asked us to k-keep this a s-s-secret."
Lain Ebscok Wednesday December 31st, 2003 3:29:34 PM
He was a denizen of the infamous Dirt City. He slowly advanced closer towards the group, stopping at a 10 yard distance. His staff dug into the path, causing minor unrest in it's position.
Lain's hand rose into the air, his palm towards them and digits straight up. His cherry tiers curved and formed words,"Hail! Lain of the Ebscok family...Aye, I do come in peace." He stepped closer, his staff meeting the ground with each of his left steps.
His orbs moved within their sockets as he gazed over the beings, he could tell that they were ready to fight. He raised his left brow as he spoke once more,"I see you people are ready for a small skirmish..Perhaps I have come at a most critical moment?"
Dietrich d20+4=20 d20+2=18 Wednesday December 31st, 2003 4:17:19 PM
As it seems that there is really only one stranger, and only armed with a staff too, the warrior relaxes a little, though he remains ready. He hails the newcomer, slightly bowing his head: "Hail Lain of the Ebscok family, I´m Dietrich the Bear, of the Windbourne Hills. Please tell us, what does a lone wanderer in this dangerous lands?"
The knight will let further talkings to Vauhwyt and keeps looking around for other movements. spot: 20 listen; 18
Zayne Wednesday December 31st, 2003 6:18:12 PM
Hearing Vorelle's news he gets out of his bedroll and grabs his bow and quiver. On his way to see the stranger he dips his finger in the porridge.
rose Wednesday December 31st, 2003 11:43:17 PM
Rose reaches for her bow and arrows just as zayne sticks his finger in the pot of boiling oatmeal. she quickly wacks his hand with the spoon before picking up the bow. "Zayne you know that you are to keep your dirty little hands out of the food!"
Lain Ebscok Thursday January 1st, 2004 3:40:03 PM
Lain's tongue clicked idly, then his mouth moved as he spoke to the person,"I got lost in the woods, but managed to find my way back here... I was going to ask you what you were doing out here, but maybe perhaps you are the...Guard?" To him, they seemed to be on edge. Perhaps there was work to be had here, maybe money could be made by the wizard.
Lain's right hand hung loosely out of his parting of the robe at the breast. His head tilted forward as he looked over the brim of his glasses.
Vauhwyt Thursday January 1st, 2004 5:44:00 PM
Vauhwyt holds her hand out in friendship and walks up to Lain. "It is good to meet you. We are just scouting and gathering information. We are friends of the House of Wolves, but we hold no ill will toward any House in Dirt City."
She smiles and asks, "How did you happen to be out here lost? We'll show you the way back to Dirt City. But if you will pardon my curiosity, why were you out here in the first place?"
She is a tall skinny liontaur, by the way, half lion and half human -- like a centaur, but with lion parts, not horse parts.
DM Jan Thursday January 1st, 2004 8:11:08 PM
As Vauhwyt engages Lain in conversation, Dietrich can spot nothing more out there and figures he can relax a bit. As the others arrive on the scene, the rapidly growing light reveals the liontaur talking to a humanoid dressed in a robe and carrying a staff. They are able to overhear the conversation.
Dawn has arrived. It is time to start the journey home after breakfast. Harlv and Kurk are scavenging around the camp, retrieving what belongings they can carry, and pondering what to do with their mad dwarf brother, Bram - who keeps muttering about 'dreadstone'.
Theodore Thursday January 1st, 2004 11:23:49 PM
Theodore yawns widely as Vorelle wakes him from his slumber. His hair on the left side is smushed against his skull as if there were a constant wind blowing it flat. He scratches at a bit of stubble under his chin.
Seeing the stranger is being properly welcomed, Theodore digs into his backpack and produces his spellbook which he promptly cracks open.
Dietrich Friday January 2nd, 2004 6:12:11 AM
Dietrich sheaths his sword and accompanys Lian and the others to the camp. He helps with the breakup, while listening to the conversation with the newcomer. The warrior prepares his things and his mule and then speaks to the group: "Master Olyn, our party is still very weakened from last night´s battle. I´d suggest to heal the wounded as good as it is possible before we start our march in the wilderness. Also,friends, we´ll have to decide what to tell to our business partners. And finally, I was imagening what to do with the rest of this mining camp. If nobody is to use it in the future, perhaps we should burn it down and erase any hints of its existance."
Lain Friday January 2nd, 2004 2:28:41 PM
Lain moved slowly with the pack, his form moved along with the others. He heard the others talking, but he was taking in the surrounding of the domain. Lain didn't even take the hand of Vauhwyt. His gaze stopped on the form of a scruffy looking man, his digits studied a book that resembled a spellbook. His steps carried him over to the man, looming over him. He spoke in a light tone,"I gather you are the wizard of this troupe?" If the man had any spells to further his own abilities, he would willing trade for them.
Vorelle Friday January 2nd, 2004 3:14:30 PM
Vorelle watches warily as the stranger immediately approaches one of the more vulnerable-looking members of the group. Coincidence? She's not sure, but she'll be keeping an eye on the man nonetheless.
rose Friday January 2nd, 2004 5:34:49 PM
rose dishes up a bowl of porridge and honey for dietrich and the newcomer, she carries them over and peers over dietrich's shoulder trying to read the book.
ooc: jan when do we get xp for the last fight?
Vauhwyt Saturday January 3rd, 2004 12:07:34 AM
Not sure what to make of being ignored, Vauhwyt walks alongside Lain and speaks more loudly. "Well, now strangerr!" she says, with her accent strong under her loud tone, "Maybe you didn't hear me, friend. I asked you just how you got lost, and what you are doing out here in the first place."
She pauses, then adds, "I answered your question. Now do me the same favor in return."
Zayne Saturday January 3rd, 2004 11:22:58 AM
Relieved that the traveler comes in peace,he quickly helps himself to a helping of porridge.
After he finishes eating,"I think someone should make sure there are no more surprises out there." Almost before he can finish his sentence he is off to don his armor and roll up his bedroll.
As soon as he has his belongings squared away,"Does anyone want to come along?"
Theodore Saturday January 3rd, 2004 12:26:54 PM
Theodore looks up as Lain approaches. "A troupe? I wouldn't call us a troupe. We're more like...friends, I suppose. But yes, I practice magic. I assume that you do as well?"
Lain Saturday January 3rd, 2004 10:44:06 PM
Lain's slender digits moved up to adjust his spectacles. He was intrigued with meeting another wizard, which took his interest more than idle chatter with someone that does practice the arcane arts. The loud shouting soon begin to drill into his skull, turning to Vauhwyt. His hand moved up to his face once more, tipping his glasses."I am a man for hire..."He didn't tell why he was lost, he just answered the last question. He nodded towards the woman, then turned towards Theodore. His legs curled under themselves as he moved his right arm, pushing the robe that it rested on off. Lain's chest became exposed as he did so, placing his staff on the ground beside him.
He unslung his backpack and placed it beside him on top of the staff. Lain pulled free a tome, placing it in his lap."I like to study what others have... I am willing to show you what I have for what you have..." He offered the exchange of knowledge to the man that sat in front of him.
DM Jan Monday January 5th, 2004 1:24:08 AM
Harlv greets Dietrich's 'burn it down' idea with a lot of enthusiam. "We certainly don't want anyone else coming back here and - " he shuts up as the others return with the newcomer.
Lain, having spotted another spellcaster, appears to make a bee-line for Theo at the expense of answering Vauhwyt's questions.
And so - as Vorelle stays on the alert, Rose makes sure everyone is fed, and Zayne checks the immediate surroundings, just in case - the dwarves, helped by Devlin and Dietrich start torching the place.
Smoke fills the air as everyone gets ready to leave, and soon, all thats left are smoking embers, four graves and a pile of rubble.
Harlv and Kurk have saved one of their carts, on top of which they have laid Bram.
"Well, says Harlv. "Well just pull this along. Where do you want us on the trail - in the middle, or at the back? Where?"
Vauhwyt the Paranoid d20+4=11 Monday January 5th, 2004 6:37:38 AM
As the newcomer seems set on ignoring her, as well as ignoring the smoking ruins and graves, Vauhwyt thinks, "Hmmm. Obsessive mage type. Probably just as well if he doesn't take too close a look at all this."
Note that it wasn't Vauhwyt who torched anything. She didn't see any party members burning the place down either. (Even if that means physically closing her eyes at some points!)
As they begin to journey back, Vauhwyt talks with everybody else except the newcomer. She talks singly or in small groups, trying to remain inconspicuous and not make the newcomer nervous. But what she has to say is not for his ears, and she takes pains to keep it private. [OOC: Bluff check 11]
What she says, to each of her comrades (not to the dwarves -- not yet anyway) is this:
I understand that we had to wreck this place and destroy it all. You understand it. The dwarves sure do too. But will the Wolves? Will they be glad to hear us say, "Yeah, we know we were just supposed to look around, but instead we went on a rescue, poked our noses in, got scared, and tore the place down."? Cause that's how they might hear our story.
I suggest that we might want to spin our tale a little bit. No lying, because they might be able to detect lies. But we should make it clear that we were looking for information when we went to the camp. We didn't intend the half-forged sword to be buried. We didn't want the mine to be collapsed. It was those dwarves.
All we did was try to gather info. We were attacked. We defended ourselves. Crazed dwarves (and they are all crazed, if you ask me) buried that sword and crashed the roof in. Dwarves, not us. Get it? We have to be clear on that when we return so that we all tell the same tale.
Vauhwyt waits to see how the others take her suggestion.
Dietrich Monday January 5th, 2004 7:41:29 AM
The knight thankfully accepts Rose´s porridge and honey and strenghtens himself for the journey. As it seems that nobody opposed the 'burning down' idea, Dietrich helped Devlin and the dwarves erasing the camp. Then he directs himself again to Olyn and renews his propose of healing the party before the march. From what he can see, Rose, Vorelle and Zayne are still heavily wounded and Dietrich himself would like to have his own scratches cured. When the party starts marching he makes the following suggestion for march order: to put the dwarves with the cart in the middle, Rose with the wizards and the mules behind, Vauhwyt as reargard, Dietrich himself with his mule and Olyn ahead the cart, Devlin in front and the rangers scouting, everybody with bows ready.
To Vauhwyt´s speak Dietrich can only agree. They were checking out the dwarves story when they were attacked by the transformed miners. The ore is cursed and useless as gold infected by the pleague, no matter how valuable it might have been once. Dietrich is no specialist in Dirt City politics, but he thinks the Wolves will understand that, however greedy they might be. The warrior will let the working out of the detailed final version of their story to his friends more skilled with the word and is satisfied to return to the city and get his reward.
Vorelle d20+5=25 d20+5=11 Monday January 5th, 2004 2:53:26 PM
Vorelle eats sparingly, still keeping a wary eye on the newcomer. As the group sets off, she keeps her bow ready to hand and once again shares scouting duties with Zayne. She seems relieved to be underway once more.
She doesn't concern herself too much with what they're going to say to the Wolves; in all likelihood she won't be called on to say anything.
(Scouting checks: Spot 25 Listen 11)
Devlin Monday January 5th, 2004 3:14:12 PM
Still not completely over his possession episode, Devlin remains quiet and consumed by his own thoughts. He waves off Vauhwyt's discussion about the Wolves and further plans and says simply, "Whatever you wish." He tries to keep a sharp lookout for trouble as they head back to Dirt City, having little to say to the newcomer at the moment.
Theodore Monday January 5th, 2004 4:23:39 PM
Theodore seems a bit startled by Lain's abrupt manner. He says nothing for a moment, his eyes blinking several times before he regains his bearings. "Ah...Hah-hum! Well...um...perhaps we might get to know each other a bit before such an exchange. After all, my master always said that information is more important than magic. With information, you can accomplish things that can't even be done with magic!" The young mage's face brightens.
"So, where do you hail from, and what brings you here?" Theodore stands and replaces his spellbook within his backpack as he readies himself to travel with the others.
rose Monday January 5th, 2004 6:05:00 PM "Zayne, it's your turn to wash the dishes! Rose calls out as she packs things up.
Ok, Vauhwyt I'll do that
Hey theo, my aunt irienys or my sister thyra might have some spells you could learn.
this time she loads most of the stuff onto her mule but ties him to the back of the wagon and tries to make sure that bram is ok during the ride.
Zayne d20=17 d20+4=19 d20+4=16 d20+4=12 Monday January 5th, 2004 9:01:14 PM
Pretending not ot hear Rose(Bluff 17) the young ranger scurries off to scout the surroundings and maybe do a little hunting on the side.(Spot 19 Listen 16 Survival 12)
This time was too close for Zayne's comfort. He has to be faster next time,maybe if he can keep a low profile it will aid him. Then it dons on him,Vorelle manages to keep the lowest profile of anyone he knows,maybe if he paid more attention to her he could learn her secret.
Feeling better about his immediate dilemma he begins to examine how he really feels about some of the acts he has commited in the last week. Were his actions justified, does his almost killing a man that was trying to kill him. Things are changing and changing fast. For the better of for the worse,only time will truly tell.
Lain Monday January 5th, 2004 10:47:13 PM
Lain mumbled as he slammed his tome shut. He did not like to talk, so this peak his nerve a little. He placed his book back into his bag and closed it. He spoke as he repeated the same answers for the same questions,"Lower Dirt City... I am a man for hire."
His right hand tapped on his lap as he waited for the barrage of questions to come and go.
DM Jan Tuesday January 6th, 2004 1:05:00 AM
Olyn assures Dietrich he's been seeing to the group's health, and that if he'd just stand still for a minute.... ((Folks I'm assuming a return to health after the battle. Olyn's player Tim has just got his computer back, so he should be with us soon.))
The group set off back toward the City, and the dwarves fall in line with everyone else, using Dietrich's advice, and while Devlin keeps to himself, still haunted by what overtook him back there, Theo finds Lain still wary on offering up any personal info.
Vauhwyt expresses concerns and offers some suggestions what to do when they arrive back, and Rose keeps her eye on Bram. It would appear from her observations, that Bram will never get better - not mentally. He continues to sing softly to himself, making no sense whatsoever.
Zayne and Vorelle spread out and look for danger as the group heads south. Unfortunately - there's no critters to be seen anywhere, and Zayne comes up with nothing to eat on this occasion.
As the day wears on, patches of cloud begin to obscure the sun, and mist clings to the hill tops. It starts to get cold.
Late afternoon, approaching evening - both rangers spot ( and smell) familiar terrain. Its the battle site. The corpses don't smell any better, and the bell can be seen, off to one side about 50 yards away.
Dietrich Tuesday January 6th, 2004 7:33:44 AM
During their march, Dietrich talks with his direct neighbours and is in a good mood. He sometimes even sings some old soldier songs. When the weather changes and evening approaches he hopes the rangers have found a good place for the night and hungrily expects Rose´s delicious dinner. He keeps his bow ready and continues marching in a fast pace till the party stops for rest.
Theodore Tuesday January 6th, 2004 1:39:49 PM
Theodore is about to ask Lain another question when the party comes across the battlefield previously visited. The skinny mage stops and leans slightly on his quarterstaff as he looks at the bell.
"What are you hiding?" he asks, as if he might get a response. To the rest of the party, he says, "There is something evil about that bell. I don't know what it could be, but I fear that it could mean trouble."
Devlin d20+2=15 d20+2=10 Tuesday January 6th, 2004 3:07:15 PM
"Just stay away from it," Devlin says in response to Theodore. "We don't need any more trouble on this trip."
The fighter keeps his eyes peeled for any sign of trouble or attack coming at them. You never know when more undead might come rising up to attack them.
spot: 15 Listen: 10
Vorelle d20+5=21 d20+5=14 d20+5=9 Tuesday January 6th, 2004 10:08:23 PM
Vorelle, too, approaches the area with caution. She is keeping an eye out for any danger, and also scouting around to try to find a good place to camp; someplace away from the bell and the massacre site.
Spot 21 Listen 14 Survival (to find campsite) 9
Vauhwyt Tuesday January 6th, 2004 11:28:04 PM
The liontaur takes her place at the rear and keeps watch. She agrees that it is best to avoid the bell.
"Some day we may come back and melt this foul thing down. But not today."
She urges the group to march into the twilight in order to put miles between the battle site and their camp.
DM Jan Wednesday January 7th, 2004 1:14:55 AM
Like a dark light, peeping from behind a cloud of blissful ignorance - a feeling of cold evil enters Theodore's head. Anger, too - with no apparent reason why. The momentary spell is broken as Devlin urges him to keep away from the Bell.
Vorelle and Zayne find a camp spot after another hour's journey. It's cold and misty, but Dietrich, Devlin and Vauhwyt haven't spotted any wandering undead.
The spot proves to be safe enough throughout the night, and by morning the group are well on their way to Dirt City - home, and relative safety.
The scouts can tell they are near home when the breeze starts to carry motes of dust, and soon everyone can feel it.
About a mile away from the city, is a surprise however.
Approximately 50 men on horseback are lined up across the track, seemingly waiting for the group to approach. The men are wearing a hotch potch of armour, not immediately recognisable, but they all appear to be wearing a small, bronze disc at their shoulder, that has a length of blue ribbon running from it.
At the centre of the group, on a tall, black hunter - is a man with a narrow, solemn face. His mustache is beginning to fade to grey, and he carries an aura of authority. Either side of him are two men who are clearly clerics of Wardd.
The horsemen have seen the party approach. They are about 50 yards away.
Local Knowledge: The disc and blue ribbon are given to those in service to the Prince Of Thieves.
Th'Ayvanen is the Prince of Thieves second in command. He carries a reputation that suggests he is not to be messed with.
Vauhwyt d20+7=9 Wednesday January 7th, 2004 5:49:12 AM
Vauhwyt feels a sinking feeling in the pit of her belly, and her forepaw scuffs at the ground nervously.
"Well," she thinks, "when your hand is caught in the cookie jar, the only thing you can do is be honest about it."
She walks to the front of the party and tries to seem cool and collected -- not too successfully, since her tail reveals her consternation (Bluff check 9).
Still, she calls out in a more or less calm voice, "Hail and welcome to those who serve our Prince! How can we serve you?"
Vauhwyt has no weapons, as always, and her hands are open and held peacefully at her sides.
Dietrich Wednesday January 7th, 2004 7:07:35 AM
The fighter sees the large troop of soldiers blocking their way and absolutely doesn´t like it. When Vauhwyt speaks, he realizes they are men of the prince, what definitively makes him nervous. He also realizes that the expected reward of their efforts turned to dust right now.
The soldier swears and, with a silent sigh, puts his bow away, showing the guards his open hands and passively accapting his fate.
He hopes the prince will understand that he is no wolve´s man, but just a mercenary hired to accompany an expedition and that he has nothing to do with any secret and ilegal activities.
Olyn Wednesday January 7th, 2004 11:12:05 AM
not knowing if indeed the group is in trouble or not, Olyn assumes a normal yet defensive posture as the group approaches the line of horses.
**sorry i missed so much, the library that i was using was closed for 2 weeks and i just got my computer and internet up and running this morning. thanks for being patient with me and thanks Jan for keeping me going in the game**
Zayne Wednesday January 7th, 2004 12:44:43 PM
As the throng of people come into view,the ranger lets out a whistle and jokingly,"Looks like we are just in time for another party."
Then seriously,"Olyn I think it might be best if you handled this."
rose d20+6=25 Wednesday January 7th, 2004 1:20:51 PM
rose carefully works her wolf ring off so it can not be seen. if possible she finds someplace to hide it. Then waits tending to bram.
slight of hand: 25, plus or minus any bonuses due to it's size, ect
Theodore Wednesday January 7th, 2004 1:27:50 PM
Theodore stops with the rest of the party an looks on the impressive Th'Ayvanen. He leans into his staff a bit and almost falls over before catching himself.
Devlin Wednesday January 7th, 2004 2:15:08 PM
Definitely in no mood for games or pleasantries, Devlin turns a hard eye to the 'Prince' and the men he has flanking him. His hand rests comfortably, but obviously, upon the hilt of his rapier. He looks hard at Th'Ayvanen as he waits for an answer to Vauhwyt's call.
Vorelle d20+7=16 Wednesday January 7th, 2004 9:27:26 PM
Vorelle stands near her companions, hood up, head down, doing her best to be invisible.
(Hide 16--not to actually hide, but to avoid drawing attention to herself)
Lain Wednesday January 7th, 2004 10:43:14 PM
He moved his hand up to idly pull the top of his collar over the point of his nose. His nostrils flared as he released gases. Lain looked at the man ahead, something for the eye. He could probaby tear through the little group by himself. He leaned against staff, looking towards the other arcana student, thinking that if Vauhwyt was lying, that Theo would ruin it.
DM Jan Thursday January 8th, 2004 1:18:47 AM
The black, long-legged horse moves forward a couple of steps, rearing slightly before Th'Ayvanen brings it under control.
"Assume we know everything about your mission, barring the end result," says the Prince's second in command, his hard eyes sweeping over the entire party, missing no one, even Vorelle.
"I see only three dwarves. Where are the rest? What of the mine, and - " the man's brows knit together in a frown "- did you bring anything back?"
"The truth matters, here," he adds. "I would hear it from all of you. A lie could mean your lives."
Slightly behind him, the Warddian clerics appear to be watching the group intently.
Laid next to Rose, mad Bram starts to giggle.
Olyn Thursday January 8th, 2004 1:31:01 AM
stepping forward, and nodding to the clerics of Wardd, Olyn begins to recant the tale of the adventure to the mine, at the mine, and the travels back from it.
ending with:
the only thing brought from the mine are these 3 survivors, the rest of their kin are buried either in the mine due to our caving it in, or are in graves outside it.
side note for clarity Jan, so as not to have a 10 page post, Olyn will tell everything that happened after leaving Dirt City, including the fight with the ghouls and the mysterious bell.
Vauhwyt Thursday January 8th, 2004 7:23:00 AM
Nodding at Olyn's words, Vauhwyt is glad to see that he had the same thought as she did. Honesty when caught is the best policy.
Dietrich Thursday January 8th, 2004 1:42:52 PM
The fighter listens to Vauhwyt´s and Olyn´s explanations to TH´Ayvanen. Although tense, the appearence of the Warddian priests and Olyn´s presence in the party make him confident that everything will go well.
Theodore Thursday January 8th, 2004 1:55:09 PM
Theodore takes an involuntary step back at the sinister fellows approach. He says nothing as Olyn reports on their mission and waits to see what is to happen to them.
Zayne Thursday January 8th, 2004 2:14:55 PM
As Olyn recites the last couple days of adventure,he shifts nervously from foot to foot and absently strokes his nose. His uneasiness clearly evident.
rose Thursday January 8th, 2004 3:57:34 PM
rose speaks up after olyn is done. "Could any of you clerics help Bram?"
Devlin Thursday January 8th, 2004 5:45:37 PM
Once again, the fighter is quite annoyed at being stopped outside the city proper and not being able to come see the Wolves themselves. He waits impatiently as the others tell their tale, having nothing to add but thankful that nothing is kept hidden.
When mention of his possession comes forward, he grits his teeth and sets a firm jaw but maintains his look at the Princes second in command.
Vorelle Thursday January 8th, 2004 10:21:04 PM
Vorelle remains where she is, content to let Olyn do the talking for the group. She wishes they didn't have to tell the Prince's men everything--the Wolves will surely have something to say about that--but she can't see any other way out.
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