The battle of the wasps and the capture of Kernorn
DM Jan Thursday February 19th, 2004 1:08:48 AM
The group make plans on leaving the entomologists, and Zayne tells everyone what he managed to find out.
Olyn finds a fisherman's store very easily, and has to cough up 30GP for his supplies. Rose finds some citronella oil, which might come in handy - depending on what the party are up against. 9GP after some haggling.
Theo calls back Macaw. His companion has nothing unusual to report, and sits on Theo's shoulder, head cocked to one side as though he too, is reading.
Meanwhile, Vauhwyt, Zayne and Devlin cool their heels back at the market, positioned around the corner from the passageway that holds Kernorn's apartment. There's no cover in the passageway itself - which of course leads to a dead end.
((Is Vorelle there too?)) An hour passes. Mookie gets impatiant. Two hours later - nothing.
Three and a half hours later - Vauhwyt gets a feeling of alarm coming from Mookie. Something is happening... someone moving, a flash of panic then relief from the bird, as though a danger has passed, and a word - "Down."
There's obviously some action in the passageway, and it'll be half an hour before some of the others return at the appointed time.
I'm assuming those at the market are able to see one another.
rose Thursday February 19th, 2004 1:34:39 AM
ooc: am i still at the market or at home?
Vauhwyt and Mookie d20+7=9 d20+12=15 Thursday February 19th, 2004 6:25:59 AM
Here are four rounds of action from Vauhwyt.
Trusting Zayne and Vorelle to be able to move quietly, Vauhwyt casts Message on Devlin. He hears a quick whisper in his head -- "stay up to 100 feet behind us sneaky folk -- no farther! -- and you and I can whisper to each other and be heard!"
Then the liontaur motions to Zayne and Vorelle -- come on!
She moves back to the bug guy's apartment. As she does so, she drinks her two elixirs of sneaking and hiding. When Zayne and Vorelle catch up, she whispers (so Devlin can hear also), "He went down into the sewer, I think. We have to follow -- quietly!"
The liontaur arrives at the sewer entrance in time to cast blood armor on herself and Mookie. She looks to see if the sewer cover was replaced. She tells Mookie to describe what he saw.
Move silent and Hide checks for last round approach, at -5 because moving greater than one-half but less than full speed: 9 to Hide and 15 to Move silently. With any luck, Vauhwyt thinks, a little noise now won't matter since the bug guy is well down the hole.]
Olyn Thursday February 19th, 2004 10:20:15 AM
after forking out the 30gp for the netting, he returns to the apartment, cooks some lunch, and awaits the others to arrive before heading back to Kernorn's place.
Dietrich Thursday February 19th, 2004 11:03:07 AM
After buying his stuff, Dietrich returns to the appartement and waits for the others. He trains his weapon skills, cleans and oils his sword and the armour.
Vorelle d20+8=26 d20+8=14 d20+6=21 Thursday February 19th, 2004 11:26:26 AM
Vorelle doesn't entirely trust Zayne's blithe assertion that Kernorn didn't get a good look at her--the man had been ogling her, after all--but she's willing to try to follow him.
When Vauhwyt gives the signal to follow, Vorelle does so.
Hide 26 Move Silently 14 Spot 21
Zayne d20+5=20 d20+5=25 d20+5=14 d20+5=13 Thursday February 19th, 2004 12:40:39 PM
After waiting what seems like an eternity to the starving ranger,he whispers plaintivly,"Lets get this over with,so I can eat already." First he loosens the ties on his wearpons he is careful not to make any sudden noise or movements he heads into the tunnel. (Hide 20 Move Silently 25 Spot 14 Listen 13)
rose d20+7=12 d20+6=25 d20+7=15 d20+5=20 Thursday February 19th, 2004 8:38:54 PM
Rose went back to the apartment when the 2 1/2 hrs were up......funnily not very many people showed up. After half an hour she decides to send piper to look for the others why she continues getting ready to meet back at the bug lovers. (time 3 hrs)
"Piper, go find your brothers for me please."
Piper flies back to the cresent moon and sees the others. After quickly saying hello to her brothers she heads back to rose. Meanwhile rose is pouring a vial of citronella into a lantern.
Rose finishes getting ready when piper returns (3:15)
"Olyn, Dietrich the others went back to kernorn's place early. Lets meet them"
Rose (and supposedly olyn, dietrich and anyone else at apartment) head back to the market place arriving there just in time for the action to happen (3:30)
Rose arrives just in time to see Vauhwyt and the others start to enter the sewers. She quietly follows the others (and casts mage armor on herself) trying to stay hidden.
Hide: 12 listen: 25 move silently: 15 spot: 20
DM Jan Friday February 20th, 2004 1:15:39 AM
Back at the apartment, Olyn, Dietrich, Rose and Theo get ready for the bug hunt, and realise that none of the others have returned. Could this mean trouble? Rose sets off toward the market.
Over at the market, Vauhwyt signals to the others that something is happening. Past Kernorn's door, at the end of the passage, the metal grid leading down to the actual sewer is slightly ajar.
Kernorn's door is also open, and both Zayne and Vorelle can see 7 empty (previously closed up and buzzing) wooden boxes strewn on the floor. There's no sign of the entomologist.
The liontaur gets an image from Mookie - a man and 7 vague, floating shapes, that disappear down the sewer hole.
Rose joins the market group at this point, just as they are about to descend into the dark.
((OOC - sorry this is a bit fast and clumsy folks - I'm trying to slow you down a bit, and I've got a sick hubby here, poor guy.))
Vauhwyt and Mookie d20+7=10 d20+12=19 Friday February 20th, 2004 6:50:51 AM
"Tell them, Mookie," says Vauhwyt.
"Sure, Boss," the raven says, "I saw a guy and seven flying things go down the sewer hole."
Vauhwyt whispers this again so that Devlin (hopefully lagging behind, with the Message spell) can hear it. Vauhwyt asks for help from Vorelle and Zayne with moving the grate aside silently.
Then the liontaur sees Rose. "Rose! Great!," she whispers, "I'm glad you came. I'm sorry Dietrich, Olyn, and Theo are not herre. Would you consider leaving Piper here so that when they show up, your familiar can tell them where we are and lead them to us? I would leave Mookie, but I'll need him if it comes to fighting."
"What!" Mookie says a little too loudly. "Hush, Mookie. It'll be like we practiced," Vauhwyt whispers to him.
Then the descent. Moving slowly, Vauhwyt leads the group down. "Let's try with no light first," she whispers, "and then if we really need light, I'll make a magic light."
[OOC: How fast will we move? If we move at 10, then everyone makes normal sneak checks. If we move at 10 (20 ft per round) then everyone is at their sneakiest. If we move at 15 (30 ft per round), Rose is at -5 on checks and the rest of us are fine. At 20 (40 per round), Rose is at -20, Vorelle and Zayne are at -5, and Vauhwyt is normal. At 25 (50 per round, possible only if Rose is riding Vauhwyt), then Vorelle, Zayne, and Vauhwyt are all at -5 (and presumably Rose makes checks normally since she is not moving). I say let's start at 10, then go faster if the trail is hard to find.]
[OOC: Vauhwyt's Hide check is a 10, her Move silent is a 19]
Vauhwyt whispers as they descend, "Right now I figure he has a half a minute lead on us, and is probably 150 to 300 feet ahead."
Olyn d6=1 d6=6 Friday February 20th, 2004 11:17:24 AM
gearing up, weapons, armor and shield, I follow Rose to where the rest are.
seeing the sight at the Entomologist's room. nodding an affirmative to noone in particular, he prepares himself for the desent(sp) into the sewers. making sure all scrolls, potions and components are within easy reach.
turning back he throws a pair of dice back towards the bug man's apartment, and without looking, he goes in.
*fyi: a 1 and 6 come up on the dice*
rose d20+7=26 d20=8 d20+6=21 d20+7=9 d20+5=20 Friday February 20th, 2004 11:31:37 AM "Ok, but dont walk to fast. I don't want to get left behind in the sewers."
Rose lifts Piper off her shoulder.
"Piper, I want you to wait here for the others and tell them where we go. When the last one gets here come back with him. Now go hide in that corner so you will be safe."
Rose follows vauhwyt down the sewers and tries to move quietly....but doesnt succeed.
Piper stays hidden and tells the others where to go.
hide (rose): 26 hide (piper): 8+ what ever bonuses she gets Listen: 21 move silently: 9 spot: 20
Dietrich d20+4=20 d20+2=4 Friday February 20th, 2004 12:04:25 PM
When Rose arrives at the appartement calling for them, Dietrich accompanies her and Olyn to the sewers. On the way, he asks Rose about eveything that happened. Whatever the crazy bug-man is doing, itīs not a good thing. Dietrich keeps the bow with an arrow in his hands and stay behind with Devlin, as heīs not able to move sneakyly. He stays alert, looking around and listening. Spot 20 Listen 4
Theodore and Macaw Friday February 20th, 2004 12:46:39 PM
Theodore returns to the apartment rubbing the finger on which a ring had once been. "Well, I hope that I made the right decision, Macaw," he says to his raven. "I don't know what Master Geoffrey would say about using my powers to hurt."
He sighs as he reaches for the door to the apartment. Before he can grasp the knob, the door flies open and smacks the wizard square in his face. Theodore sits with a grunt on the tunnel floor and watches dazedly as Olyn passes by followed shortly by Dietrich.
Theodore wrinkles his nose and touches it tenderly before regaining his feet and looking about for Macaw who had flown to the roof of the apartment to avoid being smashed. The bird returns to his place on Theodore's shoulder and the pair start off in the direction Olyn had gone.
Vorelle d20+8=14 d20+8=12 d20+6=16 d20+6=9 Friday February 20th, 2004 2:09:28 PM
Vorelle follows Vauhwyt into the sewer, wrinkling her nose as the miasma of the place settles into her hair and clothing. Once a Grubber, always a Grubber, an insistant voice whispers. She tries to ignore it. She is an adventurer now, with companions and everything. And would they still be your companions if they knew? the voice persists.
Perhaps because of her distraction, her attempts to move undetected and stay alert are mediocre at best.
Hide 14 Move Silently 12 Spot 16 Listen 9
DM Jan Monday February 23rd, 2004 12:01:22 AM
Back at the apartment, Theo gets a taste of the door as the others set off out toward the Market.
By the time Rose, Piper, Olyn, Dietrich and Theo and Macaw arrive - Vauhwyt, Vorelle, Dietrich and Zayne are already starting to descend down the sewer shaft.
Olyn's dice skip and roll through the slightly open door of Kernorn's place. Strange how the dice have landed - for there are seven empty boxes lying not too far from them.
And so -
A twenty rung step ladder leads down into a tunnel. The tunnel is circular - approx 8 ft diameter. There is a metal walkway running along one side of the tunnel - approx 4 ft wide. Alongside and 6" below the walkway, runs the water. Looking at the shape of the tunnel, and estimate would make the water about 2 ft deep. Marks along the walls suggest the water line comes up above walkway level on occasion.
The only source of light comes in vertical columns through the slats in the metal grids in the ceiling of the tunnels, which lead up to the inhabited upper sewer. The grids are 'roughly' every 50 ft and each one has a ladder.
To the left - the tunnel heads off in a straight line. A faint buzzing sound can be heard from that direction, above the sound of running water, and Dietrich and Rose can see some rapid shifts in the light ahead, movement of some kind.
To the right - the tunnel curves off to the left, and looks very dark.
Vauhwyt and Mookie d20+12=14 d20+17=33 Monday February 23rd, 2004 7:59:24 AM
Vauhwyt looks at the small space and grimaces. "There they are," she whispers, "Come on." She starts down the tunnel following the buzzing sound and movement through lights ahead.
She sets a stealthy pace that is slow (10' -- that is, 20' per round) so that everyone can keep up and sneak optimally. "Devlin, keep well back," she whispers to him. "How are you doing?" She chooses her words carefully to avoid "s" sounds -- they carry too well.
[OOC: Vauhwyt's Checks (I think I miscalculated them before) Hide: 4 ranks +2 dex -4 size +10 elixir = +12 Move: 4 ranks +2 dex +1 race +10 elixir = +17 The liontaur's checks this round: 14 Hide, 33 Move silent]
Vauhwyt watches very carefully to see if the movement in the lights outpaces them.
Vorelle d20+8=11 d20+8=18 d20+6=16 d20+6=14 Monday February 23rd, 2004 10:33:49 AM
Unable at the moment to see or hear their prey, Vorelle simply follows where Vauhwyt leads, doing her best to remain unseen and unheard.
Hide 11 Move Silent 18 Listen 16 Spot 14
(Okay that's 8 d20 rolls in my last two posts, not a blessed one of them higher than 10! Grr!)
Dietrich d20+4=8 d20+2=11 Monday February 23rd, 2004 10:57:07 AM
Dietrich is well behind of the scouts, trying to follow them in the dark. He sees the movement ahead and prepares his bow, making a sign to Devlin and the others in the rearguard. He feels the adrenalin of approaching combat and makes a short, silent pray to Domi and Garlgul, to give him courage and prepare for death. The soldier also keep an eye on the dark right tunnel, spotting for any kind of ambush (spot 8, listen 11).
rose d20+7=20 d20+6=15 d20+7=21 d20+5=10 Monday February 23rd, 2004 2:26:56 PM
Rose hands her lantern to someone taller. If asked about the smell she quietly replies that she added some citronella oil to the lamp oil.
she makes sure her weapons are ready as she follows the others. She tries the best she can to keep out of sight and move as quietly as possible. She listens to the buzzing ahead, but cant see very well due to all her tall friends in front of her.
hide: 20 listen: 15 move silently: 21 spot: 10
Zayne d20+5=19 d20+5=23 Monday February 23rd, 2004 2:49:35 PM
Serching the ground for Kernorn's tracks.(Search 19 survival 23) "I knew this was too easy."
Olyn d20+4=12 Monday February 23rd, 2004 6:11:25 PM
pulling up a spot 4th or 5th in line, he begins trying to move silently.
*move silently 12*
DM Jan Tuesday February 24th, 2004 12:40:16 AM
Down in the tunnel - Vauhwyt starts to lead the way down the left tunnel walkway. The group's quarry is staying ahead, but not gaining, but its hard for the others to see in that direction because the the liontaur's size.
The scent of citronella tickles everyone's nostrils. Zayne finds it hard to see any tracks - however, he spots a few water splashes on the wall, a little way to the right. Looking to the right, Dietrich finds it too dark and gloomy to see anything much.
Then - only about 20 paces down the tunnel - more sounds can be heard. A zzzzzzz.. followed by another zzzz.... and another zzzzz.... building up into a crescendo - and its right behind everyone and coming closer by the second.
Olyn d20+4=17 d20+4=13 Tuesday February 24th, 2004 8:19:40 AM
flattening up against the wall of the sewer. motionless, attempting to hide in the shadows.
hide in shadows 17 move silently 13
*preparing to cast a spell*
Dietrich Tuesday February 24th, 2004 9:04:52 AM
Dietrich hears the enemy approaching and stays ready to shoot. He realizes that itīs already impossible to hide because of the lantern, so he does exactly the contrary, showing himself clearly, holding the lantern and, with that, turning the attention of the monsters towards himself and away from his hidden friends.
He says to the rearguard: "Theo, keep behind me. Shooters, letīs shoot together and concentrate our fire on the nearest enemy."
The fighter still keeps an eye on the right tunnel.
Vauhwyt and Mookie d20+7=22 d20+12=21 Tuesday February 24th, 2004 9:58:09 AM
[OOC: Can I see if I understand the situation? I think there is a sneaky group (Vauhwyt, Rose, Vorelle, and Zayne) following the quarry to the left. Behind them about 100 feet is the not-so-sneaky group (Dietrich, Olyn, Devlin, Theodore). And behind them there is an approaching buzzing sound. The two groups are using Vauhwyt's message spell to keep in touch. Now, if the sneaky group wanted to go back to help the non-sneaky group, they would have to first travel 100 feet (it would take the sneaky group at least two rounds to get there) but even then they would all be piled up one behind the other and probably be unable to attack since their friends would be in the way. The rest of Vauhwyt's turn depends on this assumption.]
Vauhwyt whispers to Rose, Vorelle, Zayne (and Develin via the message spell), "There'th not enough room for uth to all go back and help. I'll go ahead and catch our quarry." She lisps to keep her voice from travelling. Turning to the halflin, Vauhwyt ways, "Rothe, if you want to come with me, I'll carry you."
Vauhwyt takes out a scroll of Expeditious Retreat and reads it as quietly as she can. She picks up Rose if Rose agrees. Then she heads off very quickly down the passage toward the quarry. She is taking a -5 on her move and hide checks in order to cover ground. She travels 65 feet this round. [OOC: Even at -5, Vauhwyt has a Hide of 22 and a Move Silent of 21]
Note: Vauhwyt will slow down as she approaches.
Theodore and Macaw (AC 16) d20+4=11 d20+4=15 d20+4=22 Tuesday February 24th, 2004 12:31:53 PM
OOC- I assume Theo is down with the others. I forgot to post yesterday. Sorry about that.
Theodore pushes himself up against the sewer wall at the sound of the buzzing. Macaw hops to the wizard's head as he is given the empathic message to be quiet.
Theodore strains his eyes and ears to see what might be coming up behind them and slowly chants a spell of protection upon himself.
(Hide = 11, Listen = 15, Spot = 22. Also cast mage armor on himself which lasts for 2 hours.)
rose d20+5=17 d20+3=5 d20+4=13 Tuesday February 24th, 2004 2:12:44 PM
rose holds on tight as vauhwyt carries her while being carried she keeps a look out for any obstacals or other dangers. She also tries to remember any thing she knows about mosquitoes, fruit flies, or other bugs and if anything like this has happened before..
If she hasn't already then she casts mage armor on herself.
spot: 17 general knowledge check: 5 knowledge dirt city (for history): 13
ooc: jan did rose cast the mage armor spell I mentioned on the 19, or did she not have enough time?
Vorelle d20+6=16 d8+1=5 Tuesday February 24th, 2004 9:24:34 PM
Since she is an archer, Vorelle can help the other group without having to go all the way back to them. She takes her normal move (30 feet) back down the passage, then readies an action to shoot any enemies that come into the light.
(hit AC 16 for 5 points)
DM Jan Wednesday February 25th, 2004 12:21:43 AM
Vauhwyt and Rose tear off down the tunnel after Kernorn. Ahead - they can see dim shapes - one large, and four, floating small ones. There is also a buzzing sound, getting louder as they both get closer. Right now it looks as though they haven't been seen... yet.
Meanwhile, a little further back, Vorelle readies her bow, while the others prepare to face whats coming toward them from the right hand direction of the tunnel. Olyn, Theo and Devlin hug the wall and prepare. Theo gets a good look over Zayne and Dietrich's shoulder as three - what look like giant wasps - hover in the lamplight.
The buzzing noise sounds awfully familiar now, and it is obvious that these elegant, yellow and black striped insects, were inside the boxes back at Kernorn's shop/lab.
Well - they're out now, with stingers at the ready. For a moment, they hover, maybe hesitating before the citronella lantern - then Vorelle's arrow whistles past Dietrich's head - smack into wasp #1. That settles it, and they move in for the attack.
((ACs and HPs, please folks))
Vauhwyt (AC19, HP19) and Mookie (AC17, HP9) Wednesday February 25th, 2004 5:36:16 AM
Abandoning all afforts at concealment, Vauhwyt runs forward 70 feet, or until she is within 20 feet of the human and four bugs (move action). She gently drops Rose (free action), casts Enlarge Person on Mookie (standard action), and then tugs on a button sewn to her shirt -- activating a magical seal (free action).
The seal creates a Huge Seal! The kind that swims and eats fish! Vauhwyt orders it, "Knock down that man, and keep knocking him down!"
With the huge magic Seal between herself, Rose, and Mookie on one side and the man and four bugs on the other, Vauhwyt breathes a little easier. Nonetheless, she is ready to fight any bug that flies at her over the seal -- with fist and paws if she can reach it -- with longspear otherwise.
"Mookie," Vauhwyt says, "be ready to fight any that fly over herre. If any try to fly past, hit it as it goes by."
"Okay, Boss!"
==========
Vauhwyt - Blood Armor (shared with Mookie), Expeditious Retreat. Mookie - Blood Armor (shared with Vauhwyt), Enlarge Person.
Dietrich AC 17 HP 13 d20+3=17 d20+2=20 d8+3=9 Wednesday February 25th, 2004 6:08:36 AM
When the insects come into light, Dietrich releases his arrow into wasp 2. He feels an arrow passing near his head and is glad to have his helmet.
Then he lets his bow down (free action) and draws his broadsword.
Initiative: 20 Shot hits ac 17 damage 9
OOC: how big are this wasps exactly?
Olyn *ac20 hp19 Blessed* Wednesday February 25th, 2004 8:29:38 AM
stepping from the shadows behind the fighters I raise a prayer to Wardd.
grant us victory this night over these life takers. may our aim be true and your will be done.
*cast Bless, +1 to all attacks and +1 vs fear*
Theodoer and Macaw (AC16 (17 with dodge against Wasp #1) HP 8) 2d4(2+1)=3 2d4(1+2)=3 2d4(1+1)=2 Wednesday February 25th, 2004 11:06:06 AM
Theodore quickly moves up to Dietrich's shoulder (up to 30 feet) and spreads his arms wide with a wizardly flare. His eyes turn a bright red as the power flows through him and he snaps his hands forward, fingers flexed. A cone of searing flame leaps from his outstreched digits towards the oncoming insects.
(Casts burning hands which spreads in a cone out to 15 feet. Aiming to get all three bugs, if possible. Must make a reflex save DC 14 for half damage. Wasp #1 = 3, Wasp #2 = 3, Wasp #3 = 2.)
Zayne Wednesday February 25th, 2004 12:42:15 PM
Seeing that there are too many people in the passageway to get either a clen shot or to engage into melee he decides to try to catch up with Vauhwyt.
As he bolts after the liontaur he makes sure his peace ties are secure. Telling himself,"This is one promise to myself that I have to keep."
Vorelle (HP 17/17; AC 15) d20+6=13 d8+1=8 Wednesday February 25th, 2004 9:38:09 PM
Vorelle moves forward another 30 feet and risks another shot at the buzzing wasps.
(Hit AC 13 for 8 points)
rose Thursday February 26th, 2004 12:07:08 AM
Since Vauhwyt dropped her a little to soon, Rose runs over to Vorelle, Piper is flapping around above her "What should I do Piper asks, "Keep an eye out, and dont get hurt." Replies Rose
DM Jan d20+6=18 d20+6=10 d20+6=22 d20+6=21 d20+6=20 d20+6=12 d20+6=16 d4=1 d3+2=5 d3+2=4 d3+2=4 d3+2=3 d3+2=4 Thursday February 26th, 2004 1:02:17 AM
To the LEFT -
Vauhwyt drops Rose, who runs back toward Vorelle, so she can get a shot in the next round. Two large shapes suddenly appear next to the liontaur. One of them drops and S - L - I - D - E - S through the shallow water toward Kernorn, who turns - astonished, then attempts to keep running. Vauhwyt and Mookie find themselves confronting 4 wasps - about 9 inches long with stingers at the ready and who swoop in to attack - on this occasion, Vauhwyt gets the full brunt of it. #4 misses #5 misses #6 hits for 5 DAM and stings #7 hits for 4 DAM and stings 2 Poison Fortitude saves required - DC 14 or lose 1 DEX (temp) on each sting, every round.
Midway between the two groups - Zayne passes Vorelle, who's heading in the opposite direction, and he can see Rose heading his way. He'll be with Vauhwyt in the next round.
To the RIGHT -
Olyn's strong voice echoes in the tunnel, carrying the blessing in its wake for the group. Dietrich's arrow hits wasp #2 - WHACK! - and in the switch between bow and broadsword, the lantern drops with a SPLASH! - into the water. Everything goes dim! But then everything lights up momentarily as Theo's spell goes off spectacularly, and the smell of singed wings drifts through the air. Vorelle's arrow whistles past the group, and barely misses.
((Wasps are approx 9 inches long, have very tough abdomens, and they're AC 14))
Maybe its just as well that the lantern has gone out. It may jog someone's memory, when they last descended into the holding tanks to rescue that little boy - there were signs - "No Naked Flames". Frenzied, and now a little crispy, the creatures zoom in for the attack - #1 - goes for Dietrich, hits for 3 DAM and poison #2 - goes for Dietrich and misses. #3 - goes for Theodore and misses. Dietrich needs to roll Poison Fortitude Save DC 14 every round, or lose 1 DEX (temp) every round.
Vauhwyt (AC19, HP10 of 19, Dex14 of 15) and Mookie (AC17, or 13?, HP9) d20+5=19 d20+5=8 d20+5=14 d20+5=12 d20+9=14 d4+5=7 d6=1 d20+6=25 d4+5=7 d6=3 d20=18 d4+4=8 Thursday February 26th, 2004 6:32:42 AM
With four wasps converging on her, Vauhwyt feels that desperate measures are called for! She activates another Seal. [OOC: Scarlet Tapestry prize: +3 to hit and damage for the whole party for 8 rounds, and +3 on Fortitude saves for 3 rounds]
Vauhwyt feels the poison of one wasp rush into her bloodstream. "Just like at Church," she thinks. "Ow."
She calls out, "Mookie, like we practiced!" The raven, now the size of an eagle thanks to the Enlarge, flies to flank one of the attacking wasps. [OOC: Mookie will try to avoid attacks of opportunity, but if they are unavoidable, he will Tumble [Check result 14 is not enough to avoid an AoO].
Mookie uses the Aid Other action to help Vauhwyt hit. [His roll of 12 beats the required DC10 to Aid Another].
Vauhwyt's paws lash out at the wasp Mookie is flanking. Her first paw attack, at +8 with the seal, the Bless, the flank, and Mookie's aid in addition to her usual +1, hits AC14! With sneak attack damage, that's 8 points of damage.
Her second paw, without the Aid Another, is at +6 plus her usual +1 -- and hits the one she already hit, or a second one if she has dropped the first. That's 7 damage base, with another 3 if sneak attack damage applies.
Finally, she strikes out with a fist, this time inflicting subdual damage [with the Improved Unarmed Strike feat you can choose to do real damage or subdual damage] The fist connects [AC18] for 8 points of subdual damage!
Breathing hard, Vauhwyt says, "Good job, Mookie!"
[OOC: Ooh! If Mookie has to move more than 5 ft from Vauhwyt in order to flank, then he loses his Blood Armor and his AC drops to 13. Maybe he won't have to since they are so small.]
Dietrich AC 17; HP13/13 (10) d20+7=20 d20+6=20 2d4(1+3)+4=8 d20+6=12 Thursday February 26th, 2004 7:04:20 AM
Dietrich swears as the lantern falls in the water. "Verdammt!" He is surprised at the beastīs toughness and grunges in pain as he gets hit by one of them. Fortunatelly the hardened warrior isnīt yet affected by the poison, as he feels some strange aid, giving him extra fortitude.
Blessed by the gods, he attacks wasp 1 again and the heavy sword cuts the annoying insect. (hits Ac 20, damage 8)
**If this kills wasp 1, the broadsword continues its movement, but misses the flying target.
He calls to Devlin: "Cover us!", hoping the fighter will atack the monsters too.
Olyn *ac20 hp19 Bless Low Light vision(half elf)* Thursday February 26th, 2004 8:35:57 AM
turning and seeing Vauhwyt get pelted by 4 insects at the same time, and 2 striking true, and seeing the current group is not in dire straights, he yells: helping V and turns and makes a bolt for her.
*will double or triple movement, depending on how far she is, with a wand(cure light wounds) in hand readied to use*
Theodore and Macaw (AC 16 (17 against wasp #3 with dodge) HP 8) d20+7=15 d20+7=26 d3=3 d3=1 Thursday February 26th, 2004 12:27:46 PM
Theodore pops a seal on his tunic (seal of rapid spellcasting; one spell serves as a quickened spell) and a silvery blue line extends from his forefinger to the wasp in front of him. Immediately following, the mage hurls a tiny green ball.
On top of the wizard's head, Macaw is screeching, obviously very upset by all the commotion.
(Quickened spell ray of frost (+3 for ranged attack, +3 for Vauhwyt's seal, and +1 for Olyn's bless) hits wasp #3 for 3 points of damage. If that doesn't kill wasp #3, the acid splash hits for 1 point of damage. If ray of frost does kill #3, then acid splash goes to #2 on Dietrich.)
[OOC Peter] Thursday February 26th, 2004 1:47:31 PM
OOC: Iīm just writing to confirm that Iīve counted Vauhwytīs magic for Dietrich. Thatīs why its fortitude +7 and HP remains 13.
Bye people!
Vorelle (HP 17/17; AC 15; +3 from Seal) d20+9=12 Thursday February 26th, 2004 1:51:49 PM
Vorelle, too, sees that the situation behind her is more dire than the one in front of her. She turns and fires at one of the wasps menacing Vauhwyt. Her shot sails wide of the nimble little insect.
rose d20+6=19 d3+3=6 Thursday February 26th, 2004 1:54:33 PM
ooc: sorry for leaving vauhwyt, some dm told me that the enemies near her were to far away for me to get.
Rose reaches Vorelle and just as she is about to break a seal that she has sewn on a sash realizes that somebody else has already broken it.
She when she is within 20' of the nearest wasp (or the man) she throws a dart.
attack: 19 damage: 6
rose Thursday February 26th, 2004 9:06:31 PM
oops, add in the bonus from vauhwyt's seal. I forgot to.
DM Jan Friday February 27th, 2004 1:54:18 AM
((OOC - ack sorry folks - monster headache - I'll sleep it off and post first thing tomorrow morning))
DM Jan d20+6=17 d20+6=8 d20+6=7 d20+6=21 d3+2=5 d3+2=5 Friday February 27th, 2004 11:27:24 AM
The battle with the nasty insects continues. Vauhwyt feels the poison this round, Dietrich manages to shrug it off.
Amidst all the buzzing, down to the left, a short distance away, a cry off "Ooof!!" can be heard, followed by a strange animal noise - "Oi! Oi! Oi!"
The liontaur rends wasp #4 to shreds with her mighty paws, after the creature flies too close, confused by the giant bird nearby.
Zayne and Olyn dash down the tunnel to help out Vauhwyt, while Vorelle and Rose send projectiles in that direction from their position midway in the tunnel. Vorelle's arrow misses on this occasion, Rose's dart hits #6. The dart punches and glances off, rather than piercing, just like the arrows that have been fired - causing damage, but not embedding into the small, hard, shiny bodies.
Back toward the right side of the tunnel, Devlin sticks with Dietrich and Theo, but he yells - "Olyn! Didn't I see you with some nets?!" He pulls his sword, preparing to have a crack at the wasps if he can reach them.
Dietrich clobbers wasp #1, and it falls in two pieces - brittle after the fire damage. Theodore has similar success, killing wasp #3, which falls into a half frozen, half gelatinous blob into the water.
Insects 1, 3, and 6 are now dead.
#2, now alone, veers away from Theo's sqwawking MaCaw, and dives toward Dietrich - stinging the warrior for 5 DAM plus poison.
#5, #6 and #7 attempt to sting Vauhwyt again -
#5 misses #6 misses #7 hits, injecting more poison and handing out 5 DAM
Vauhwyt and Dietrich remember to continue your Fort Rolls DC 14 against each poison, until its been seen to.
Olyn *ac20 hp19 Bless* d8+1=4 d8+1=9 Friday February 27th, 2004 12:40:37 PM
coming to a screech behind Vauhwyt, i'll point the wand directly at her.
by Wardds hand you are healed.
(used my luck domain special to reroll) *healed Vauhwyt for 9 points*
here Vauhwyt, use this 10' section of netting on those. (throws netting on Vauhwyts back)
i'll go after whatever is attacking Kernorn, perhaps my 10' section will stop it, or at least slow it down.
rose d4+1=5 d100=22 Friday February 27th, 2004 12:48:18 PM
Seeing that vauhwyt is in trouble Rose runs over to her. "Careful Vauhwyt I'm going to squeeze in here." Rose squeezes by Vauhwyt and gets in front. "There now I can do something." rose quickly begins to speak in a strange language then points her finger towards the man. A red light shoots out and hits him in the chest.
magic missile: 5 where oh where is my dart? 22
Vauhwyt (AC18, HP5 of 19, Dex13 of 15) and Mookie (AC17, HP9) d20+5=6 d20+5=19 d20+5=23 d20+5=19 d20+9=17 d4+5=7 d6=2 d20+7=24 d4+5=9 d6=3 d20=12 Friday February 27th, 2004 1:39:47 PM
"Oof!" Vauhwyt says as she is stung. "Ow!" she adds as venom works through her system (failed first save, made two more if needed).
"Mookie, again!" she calls. The raven flanks another and tries to aid his master (Mookie rolls a 19 to aid another).
Vauhwyt rises up on her back feet and swipes with her two paws. She uses her longspear, gripped in two hands, to poke any that are out of reach.
[OOC: First paw hits AC17 and does 7 damage + an extra 2 sneak attack damage from flanking. Second paw hits AC 24 and does 9 + 3 sneak attack damage. The spear hits AC12 against a non-flanking bug -- a miss.]
Spells in effect: Bless, Expeditious Retreat, Blood Armor, Enlarge on Mookie, +3 seal on whole group.
Vauhwyt looks around to see if Olyn is anywhere nearby. "A cure would be very nice about now," she says.
Theodore and Macaw (HP 8 AC 17 against Wasp #2) Friday February 27th, 2004 1:52:55 PM
After his wasp drops, Theodore decides it wisest to let the more experienced fighter in to finish up and steps aside for Devlin.
If he can, Theodore will club at the wasp with his staff. Otherwise, he'll look to see how the others are faring.
Dietrich AC 17; HP 8/ 13 (5) d20+8=24 d20+8=23 d20+6=15 2d6(4+5)+4=13 Saturday February 28th, 2004 7:01:58 AM
Dietrich gets hit again and starts to worry. He can control the poison. The fighter is sweating and has to concentrate to overcome pain and poison.
He is a little relieved as two wasps go down and swings the broadsword again, hitting wasp 2. hits ac 15 damage 13
Dietrich Saturday February 28th, 2004 7:03:30 AM
OCC: Sorry, itīs HP 3 only! Without VAuwytīs magic itīs already 0!
Olyn Saturday February 28th, 2004 11:33:15 AM
*ooc Cayzle, look at my post above yours where it states i gave you back 9 hit points. bozo*
Sorry -- I posted before I saw your post! -- Cayzle
Dietrich AC 17; HP 8/13 (5) Saturday February 28th, 2004 1:02:48 PM
The poison has confused Dietrichīs mind, so his mathematical skills were affected and I calculated his HP completely wrong.
His real and definite HP are 8 and 5 without Vauhwytīs magic. Sorry for all this confusion.
Zayne Saturday February 28th, 2004 3:01:58 PM
Looking at the far hatch Zayne sprints up just behind Vauhwyt,"When I give the word move hard to your'e left." Ripping his handaxe free from it's ties.
Shouting at Kernorn,"You can keep trying to run away or you can just give up now and this doesn't have to get ugly. If you surrender now I guarantee you will get a chance to explain your'e involvment. If you refuse I can guarantee this day will be your'e last."
OOC I am using the full run action to get to Vauhwyt.
Theodore d20+5=21 d6=5 Sunday February 29th, 2004 10:35:05 AM
OOC- Forgot to roll an attack, if Theo gets one.
(Hits wasp #2 for 5 points of damage.)
Vorelle (HP 17/17; AC 15; +3 from Seal) d20+9=11 Sunday February 29th, 2004 7:31:10 PM
Vorelle hesitates for a moment, uncertain, then fires again at one of the wasps near Vauhwyt. True, her arrows do less damage than they might, but it's simply too crowded to close for a melee fight. Her uncertainty appears to affect her aim and her shot flies wide of the mark.
DM Jan d20+6=8 d20+6=16 Monday March 1st, 2004 2:33:59 AM
On the right - Wasp #2 falls foul of Dietrich's sword and is finally splatted by Theo's staff. Weird yellow wasp goo coats the ends of both sword and staff. Devlin mutters aimiably something about not being able to get a blow in, but he seems glad the threat at this end of the tunnel is over.
Mid way - Vorelle sends another arrow into the fray. Unfortunately it whistles clear of the three giant pests threatening the liontaur.
Weird yellow wasp goo is also evident on Vauhwyt's paws, as she takes a swipe at the buzzing menaces, helped by Mookie. Wasp #5 bites the dust.
Now alongside, Zayne gets ready to leap into melee. His words follow Olyn down toward Kernorn. One of Olyn's nets lies beside Zayne and Vauhwyt.
Rose's magic missile lights up the tunnel ahead with a - *BAM!* The flash of light illuminates the area, showing Olyn a picture of a man on the floor of the walkway and struggling with a huge grey seal beast.
Wasp #6 darts toward Zayne - missing the ranger. Wasp # 7 dives for Vauhwyt - this one two narrowly misses on this occasion.
Those stung and injected with wasp venom can now feel a dull pain as it starts to react and swell on the skin - creating a reddened bump. Stung characters roll DC 14 Fort, or lose 1 DEX this round.
Vauhwyt (AC18, HP14 of 19, Dex12 of 15) and Mookie (AC17, HP9) d20+5=9 d20+5=10 d20+9=20 d20+7=23 d4+5=9 d6=3 d4+5=9 d6=3 Monday March 1st, 2004 6:18:50 AM
"Thanks, Olyn!" the liontaur says gratefully as she feels the curative magic hit her.
Although she has not been stung again, Vauhwyt feels her muscles stiffening up in response to the poison already in her system [takes another point of Dex].
But that does not stop her from another vociferous attack. "C'mon, Mookie!" she says. The raven flanks Wasp #7 and again aids his master (Mookie rolls a 10 to aid another -- exactly what he needs).
Vauhwyt lashes out again with her sticky but deadly paws. She connects twice [AC20, AC 23], hitting effectively both times: first, 9 damage plus 3 sneak attack damage; second, also 9 plus 3. If the first blow fells Wasp #7, then her second is for Wasp #6.
Vauhwyt calls out, "Someone please run and get the boxes that held these wasps. If any live, we need to get them boxed up again! If any bugs are just unconscious, please try to save them! They are living things! And maybe bargaining chips." [OOC: Using a move action to give a speech instead of taking a third attack this round.]
Spells in effect: Bless, Expeditious Retreat, Blood Armor, Enlarge on Mookie, +3 seal on whole group (save bonus expires this round but attack/damage bonus continues another 5 more rounds).
Dietrich AC 17; HP 8/13 (5) d20+8=26 d20+8=16 Monday March 1st, 2004 7:05:15 AM
As the last wasp ahead Dietrich dies, he is satisfied and nods approvingly to Theodore. "Good fight!", though the hits caused by the nasty beasts swell now and are still painful. But he is not affected by the poison. Long years of wars in dirty and desease infected camps have hardened his health.
Dietrich cleans the broadsword in the water without touching the goo. He picks up the fallen lantern and then runs towards Vauhwyt and the others.
Olyn *ac21(dodge directed at seal) hp19, Bless, Seal* d20+7=27 Monday March 1st, 2004 9:34:52 AM
Moving to within striking distance of the seal on top of Kernorn.
pulling out the special made netting.
twirling the netting about his head, and steadying himself to strike true, aiming for the seal in an attempt to get it entangled in the netting without trapping the entomologist, I let loose with the attck.
*WOOT rolled a natural 20!*
readying his wand to cure Kernorn on his next action.
yelling: dont attack Kernorn, he's under attack. I got the net on the creature attacking him but need help. Hurry!
Theodore and Macaw (HP 8 AC 16) d20+2=4 d20+2=21 Monday March 1st, 2004 9:56:04 AM
Theodore gives Dietrich a big grin for the warrior's compliment and then brushes a stray lock from his face. He doesn't have time to reflect on his battle prowess as Vauhwyt hollers for someone to bring the wasp boxes from Kernorn's place.
Low on magic and only lucky with his staff, Theodore decides the fight can be handled by the rest so he straps his staff to his backpack and climbs back up the hatch to retrieve as many boxes as he can carry.
Macaw stays behind and perches a safe distance from the melee so that he might warn his master if things start to go bad.
At Kernorn's door, Theodore will take his staff in hand and enter carefully, glancing about for any other surprises.
(Listen = 4, Spot = 21)
rose d20+3=21 d4+2=3 Monday March 1st, 2004 4:46:15 PM
ooc: jan, as you didnt mention anything I'm assuming I moved in front of vauhwyt as per my last post.
Rose quickly slashes at a wasp, and tries to keep from being hit or in Vauhwyt's way.
attack: 21 damage: 3
Vorelle Monday March 1st, 2004 5:23:07 PM
Seeing that her archery is doing the group little good, Vorelle goes to help get wasp cages.
(Weren't there some down here, too? Or are they all up top?)
Zayne Monday March 1st, 2004 7:37:37 PM
(OOC: Sorry I misread Jan's last post, I thought it said that Kernorn was attacking something. Oops my bad everyone, If it's cool can we just say that he didn't make the speach to Kernorn. Everything else would have been the same.)
As Vauhwyt and Mookie have their way with the creatures Zayne shouts,"NOW!!"
(OOC:He is going to attempt a bull rush on whatever it is that is attacking Kernorn. If this isn't possible he will cover as much ground as he can)
((~Jan~ Actually David, Zayne's original speech kinda works, as we shall see...))
DM Jan d20+5=24 d3+2=3 Tuesday March 2nd, 2004 12:33:08 AM
Up Top -
Theo is first up the ladder, where he comes face to face with a baffled Mattison. "Hey," says the Knives investigator, "I thought we were all meeting back here, and - are you all down there? Whats happening? Whats going on? Where's that Kernorn fellow?"
All the boxes are in Kernorn's shop, in a jumble on the floor. It's quite possible that Theo could carry three of them without tripping, but then again... ;)
Vorelle arrives at the top of the ladder a few moments later, much to Mattison's further befuddlement.
As for how many boxes will be needed - when Theo and Vorelle left the tunnel - only two remained alive, and Vauhwyt is about to make mincemeat of another one.
The situation inside the shop is the same as when the group visited before (apart from the missing wasps). Everything looks the same as it was. Insects and similar creatures go about their business in their various tanks or enclosures, oblivious of whats happening down in the tunnel.
Down Below -
Blessed with an iron constitution, Dietrich collects the now unlit lantern and speeds off toward the others. He'll reach them the next round.
Vauhwyt continues her battle with the winged beasties, accompanied by the diminutive but determined Rose. #7 bites the dust. There's one wasp left. It's injured, and if the group wants to keep it alive, they're going to have to try and catch it in some way.
Wasp #8, still in attack mode, dives at Rose, stinging the little halfling badly for 3 DAM and poison. ((Rose - Fort Check DC 14 or reduce Dex by 1 (temp damage) ))
Having tossed the net - Olyn arrives at the scrambled heap of Kernorn - pinned to the walkway by a large grey seal - that is now getting all tangled up in the net. Zayne dashes up moments later to witness the same scene. Kernorn looks a bit worse for wear. The seal has given him a few bruises, and he looks to have a few burns, courtesy of the magic missile. "Get this thing off me!" screams the man. "What have you done to my babies?? My poor babies!! I won't let you get Edgar! I won't let you!"
Poison Note - Dietrich and Vauhwyt's poison seems to have stabilized. Damage has been done, but it gets no worse. No more Fort checks needed.
Vauhwyt (AC18, HP14 of 19, Dex12 of 15) and Mookie (AC17, HP9) d20+5=24 d20+9=15 d4+5=9 d6=3 Tuesday March 2nd, 2004 5:18:46 AM
[OOC: Huh? All the downed wasps were brought to -10 hp already? I figured for sure at least some were only in the negative single digits. At least once or twice Vauhwyt tried to hit with her fist so as to cause subdual damage. I'll try that again this round.]
Vauhwyt sees the commotion up ahead and shouts, "Hey you guys! That's MY seal! I sent him to knock down the bug guy! Just make sure Kernorn doesn't get away!"
As she does this, Mookie maneuvers around the remaining wasp -- successfully aiding his master. Vauhwyt rears up and simply lands a fierce punch! She hits (AC15) for 12 points of subdual damage. Assuming that knocks it out, she spends the rest of the round (move action) looking for wasps that are not dead yet (that is, ones that are stil wriggling).
Dietrich AC 17; HP 8/13 (5) Tuesday March 2nd, 2004 7:01:50 AM
Just as Dietrich picked up the lantern, he remembered his bow and picked it up too. While running to meet the others, he shouldered it.
He feels that the poison is passing and doesnīt sweat any more. He is very relieved, for the dry dead bodys they had seen were still in his mind. But some healing would do no harm.
It seems the situation is controlled now, but the soldier stays alert for possible other threats. 'That bug-man will have to explain somethings. And he will respond for them!'
Olyn d8+1=6 Tuesday March 2nd, 2004 9:08:57 AM
pointing the wand at Kernorn.
Wardd heals you this night, rejoice in his glory.
*heal 6 points*
turning to Dietrich: help me get this creature off Kernorn and watch yourself, there is no telling what it can do.
[ooc/ Cayzle, unless something was changed and as always noone told me, only PCs go to -10 hp before dying, not NPCs]
Theodore (HP 8 AC 16) Tuesday March 2nd, 2004 12:55:56 PM
Theodore rushes by the startled Mattison and into the entemologist's house. "I'm sorry, Mattison, but there is simply no time to explain," he shouts.
In the house, he once again holsters his staff to his back and picks up three of the wasp boxes. "You see that I'm rushing, don't you?" he hollers. "I just can't fill you in right now." He carries on the conversation breathlessly as he balances the awkward boxes in his arms and rushes from the house.
In his haste, he doesn't notice Vorelle coming up behind him. Trying to avoid her, he instead crosses one leg in front of the other and actually manages to trip himself. The boxes go flying. Theodore quickly picks himself up to gather the boxes again, seemingly unaware of what had just occured.
"You see, Mattison, there's simply no time. You'll have to forgive me."
rose d20+3=11 Tuesday March 2nd, 2004 3:34:12 PM
ooc: how did olyn and dietrich get to kenorn? It should have taken dietrich at least one round to get to vauhwyt and olyn, also the walk way is 4' wide and vauhwyt is in front of everyone. Rose is small enough to squeeze bye but not the guys.
Rose gives a small yelp as she is stung, and then begins to shake and feel weak. she stands watching what is happening ready to help if possible.
Zayne Tuesday March 2nd, 2004 4:40:41 PM
Looking down at Kernorn,"You better have a good reason for us to be chasing you through the sewers. I suggest you start talking now,and maybe we don't have to turn you into the prince."
Vorelle Tuesday March 2nd, 2004 5:49:46 PM
Vorelle rescues one of the boxes from Theo's distracted grasp, then beckons for Mattison to follow. She climbs back down into the sewers, awkwardly balancing the box as she goes.
Olyn Tuesday March 2nd, 2004 8:40:29 PM
Rose, how did i get past? 1. i was there in round 2 cuz i moved the whole distance without acting. 2. you can move through an area occupied by another without hindrance as long as you do nothing but move. and thats what i did. 3. again, used a full action to get there. 4. then i acted. 5. and acted on the next round.
not to mention, being a half elf, my movement is more than yours 30' compared to your 20'.
DM Jan Tuesday March 2nd, 2004 11:48:57 PM
Dietrich arrives alongside Vauhwyt just as the liontaur bops the wasp - dazing the creature, and he, Vauhwyt and Rose see it go *PLOP* into the water. It starts to drift away in the current - back to the right, toward the ladder. (You've got a live one folks. DEX DC 13 to grab it.)
The commotion back at the ladder signifies that Vorelle, Theodore and Mattison are about to rejoin the rest of the group, and have at least one box, maybe more.
Meanwhile, a little further down the left hand side of the tunnel, Olyn and Zayne confront Kernorn. Olyn calls to Dietrich to help get the seal off - however, the power of Wardd puts a spring in the entomologists efforts, and he manages to roll the seal off his prone body. The seal continues to struggle in the net. Scrambling to his feet, the man points accusingly at Zayne. "A good reason?? How would YOU ever understand anything?? They're all just creepy crawlies to the likes of you! No one sees the beauty of them, the complexity, the sheer and utter brill - no!"
Kernorn's eyes - wild, and staring everwhere at once, catches sight of Vorelle, Theo and Mattison climbing down the ladder. He starts to back up. It's obvious he's going to run.
The poison still courses through Rose's veins. (Fort Check DC 14 or lose 1 temp Dex)
rose d20+3=12 d20+2=20 Wednesday March 3rd, 2004 12:45:08 AM
Rose is still feeling dizzy, but she manages to stagger over to the water and pull out the wasp. She sits down and holds it hoping that the others will quickly box it up.
fort: 12 dex: 20
Olyn d20+5=13 d20+5=23 Wednesday March 3rd, 2004 2:58:12 AM
come now Kernorn, there is no reason to run off, my companions are hasty in words and deeds sometimes but they mean well. your insects attacked us when we came down here, so we had to defend ourselves. as for this creature, <pointing to the one in the netting> we need you to help identify what it is, and if it is the creature responsible for the deaths.
**using Diplomacy to get him to see reason in my words and to calm down enough to assist us more**
rolled a 13 at first, hero point reroll. felt i needed to cuz its important to calm him down. rolled a 23
Vauhwyt (AC18, HP14 of 19, Dex12 of 15) and Mookie (AC17, HP9) d20+5=23 d20+3=20 Wednesday March 3rd, 2004 5:56:56 AM
[OOC: The seal should poof away around about now, I believe.]
"Thanks, Rose," Vauhwyt calls. Then she very quickly makes her way to Olyn and Kernorn [expeditious retreat is still active] -- and just as quickly vaults past them [tumble check 23]. In this way, Vauhwyt hopes to cut off any escape attempt by Kernorn, who is now flanked by herself and Olyn. Mookie stays close to his master.
"Please listen to Olyn," she tells the bug guy. "He really does make sense. I for one appreciate the beauty of stinging creatures. We saved one or two for you, if you cooperate." [Aid Another untrained Diplomacy check of 20 to give Olyn a +2 on his roll -- now a 25.]
Dietrich HP 8/13 (5) Wednesday March 3rd, 2004 7:09:00 AM
Dietrich arrives at the scene and just as heīs going to pick up the net with the seal, it puffs away, surprising the warrior.
He asks Olyn for some divine healing, as he has suffered pretty bad wounds. (his Hp without VAuhwytīs magic is only 5)"Olyn, could you please beg Wardd to help me?"
The fighter is acyually amazed with the peaceful and diplomatic approach towards Kernon. For him itīs clear enough that the bug-man is involved with the murders and Dietrich would have taught Kernon better manners. The bug-guy is pretty daring for a prisoner. But Dietrich wonīt meddle in Olynīs and Vauhwytīs attempt for now.
So, he stays a little behind them, just close enough that Kernon can have a glance at his massive body and his fearsome outlook, with the heavy armour and the closed iron helmet, and, principally, his sharp broadsword. He thinks: 'Better cover this diplomacy with some muscles, for it doesnīt work well without it.'
Theodore and Macaw Wednesday March 3rd, 2004 9:41:34 AM
Theodore makes it to the bottom of the ladder without further incident. He points to Rose. "I think that she has a wasp for us, Vorelle." He walks to Rose and offers her a box to put the wasp into, then promtply closes and latches the box.
Macaw perches in the tunnel, eyeing Kernorn warily. "Macaw, macaw!" he cries.
Vorelle d20+6=21 Wednesday March 3rd, 2004 9:55:39 AM
Cautiously, Vorelle examines the downed wasps, looking for a live one to put in her box.
(Heal 21)
Zayne Wednesday March 3rd, 2004 7:45:29 PM
Looking directly into Kernorn's eyes,"First of all lets get something straight,all life is important and every living thing has a role in nature. I may not have the same feelings that you do for your bugs but I do respect them as living creatures,but but if they are responsible for the deaths of people then they must be taken care of."
Suddenly a thought springs into his mind."You know what I already know how all this came to be. Tell me if I make any mistakes. One day about a year ago you came across a rare breed ofI'll say mosquito for lack of a better word. You brought it back to your lab to study and it got out. You were able to catch it but after it had claimed a few victims. You were able to keep it a secret last time but this time we happened to come across at the wrong time."
Looking around at his friends with a smug smile on his face,"Whats for lunch I'm starved?"
DM Jan Thursday March 4th, 2004 12:27:18 AM
Rose picks up the wasp, its wings dripping wet and temporarily useless. It twitches - half stunned in her hands, the stinger protruding menacingly from its abdomen. Theo arrives moments later, and the wasp finds itself back in its box. Macaw pronounces the deed done. Vorelle has a look around the gloomy tunnel for any signs of wasp life, but only the dead look back.
Mattison asks - "Ewwwwwww - what were those things?" He views the live one in the box with much trepidation.
Over by Kernorn, the seal - activated by a seal (confused the heck out of me, too ;) ) suddenly implodes, leaving only the net behind.
Vauhwyt gets her feet wet, but is soon around the other side of the entomologist, blocking off his escape route. Kernorn's eyes cease their wild sweep as Olyn does his best to talk him down from his highly irrational state. Escape doesn't seem to be on his mind for the moment as he ponders the half elf's question. "Not... not one of mine," he mutters as the conjured creature disappears. "My babies..."
He seems confused, surrounded as he is by Olyn, Zayne, Vauhwyt and Dietrich, but his eyes dart sharply toward Zayne as the ranger offers his summation. "You're talking about Edgar," answers Kernorn, and his face cracks into a grin, "and Edgar is NO mosquito."
Vauhwyt and Mookie d20+11=27 Thursday March 4th, 2004 11:47:09 AM
The liontaur casts a Prestidigitation cantrip to clean up herself and anyone else covered in wasp goo or sewage. Then, speaking calmly and slowly, she says, "Let's not get ahead of ourselves. Let's just be calm. Kernorn, please start at the beginning. Tell us what you know about the people who died, about this Edgarr, about why you said the wasps were fruit flies. Tell us everything."
Speaking in the same calm voice, Vauhwyt adds, "You see, Kernorn, you must be clear and easy to understand, because if you are not, we may decide to take a harsher tone. I am sure you would like to leave this sewer alive and with all your parts still attached."
[OOC: Intimidation check 27, including Vauhwyt's +4 size bonus]
Theodore and Macaw Thursday March 4th, 2004 12:33:14 PM
Theodore places the box down on the ground next to Rose and walks closer to the party where Macaw is.
The raven flaps down to Theodore's shoulder where the mage whispers in his familiar's ear, "Go further down the tunnel, Macaw. In the direction Kernorn was going before we caught up with him. See what's down there and then come back."
Macaw leaps from his master's shoulder and wings past the group down the tunnel.
Dietrich d20+4=12 d20+2=22 Thursday March 4th, 2004 3:36:39 PM
Dietrich listens carefully to his friends speeches. Heīs a little impatient but sees that the interrogation will be fruitful.
He compares in his mind the size of the wasps with the size of the organic part found in the dead body. This Edgar must be very much bigger and deadlyer.
Dietrich stays alert, watching and listening around. Spot 12; listening 22
When the effect of Vauhwyts seal passes, he feels very weak and tired from the combat and he wonīt be able to fight if this Edgar should appear now.
Zayne d20+3=21 d20+1=20 d20+3=7 Thursday March 4th, 2004 4:28:46 PM
Still smiling smugly,"Thats all the confession I need. Now can we get out of here."
Taking his rope out he grabs Kernorn and forces him to the ground.
Grapple roll 21 str check 20(Ignore that last one I had some lag.)
Vorelle d20=9 Thursday March 4th, 2004 8:03:10 PM
Vorelle abandons her search for live wasps, and turns to face Kernorn. She tries to back up Vauhwyt's implied threat by looking grimly determined (as opposed to terrified at the very prospect of talking to somebody).
She is unsuccessful.
(Attempt to Aid Another for Vauhwyt's Intimidate and got a 9. Vorelle's about as terrifying as a chipmunk.)
Rose hp 9/12 Friday March 5th, 2004 12:01:00 AM
Rose while still feeling weak and clumsy is no longer as dizzy. She carefully stands as Piper hovers around her "Rosie are you ok?" Piper is very upset that Rose is hurt and goes over to Kernorn stands on his shoulder and pecks him when he's rude, if he tries to run, or won't answer questions.
Rose stands by Vauhwyt "Thank you for cleaning me." Her wound while not very bad looks very big for such a small girl.
DM Jan Friday March 5th, 2004 1:07:42 AM
"Get this punk off me!" yells Kernorn as Zayne eagerly gets to work tying up the entomologist. "I didn't want anyone to die! Edgar got too big! He escaped. I think he's looking for his mate. I had to kill her you see! I raised her strong, but her appetite got out of control... but you're not going to kill Edgar! I won't let you! I won't lose another one..."
The man's talk ebbs and flows - yelling angrily one second, half weeping and pathetic the next. Rose's bird taps *ding ding* on his head.
"Of course I lied about my wasps... why should I tell you? Everyone hates them - OR - they want to use them for their own GAIN! They told me they wouldn't but - oh, I knew. I knew what they wanted, but I lied to them too! Oh yes. They were never going to get their hands on Edgar. Never!
Theo's bird Macaw sets off down the round sewer tunnel into the gloom, the tunnel goes on and on, but at some point there's an area that feels... bad, predatory maybe.
Some of the group are poisoned, some are wounded from the stings. Not in the best of shape.
Mattison is stood staring at dead wasps with a look of utter revulsion on his face. "I hate insects sooooo much," he mutters with a shudder.
Olyn Friday March 5th, 2004 2:37:16 AM
Zayne, Dietrich, grab him (motioning to Kernorn) and bring him with you. we are going to his workshop to see if we can find something that would inform us what this Edgar thing is.
seeing Mattison's somewhat state of shock he pipes up: snap out of it man, we have some researching to do. perhaps you would assist us?
standing at the base of the ladder, I will zap each person as they go up with the wand of cure light wounds. *Jan, please tell me how many charges to take off. assuming 1 per person that needs it now until I post again*
Vauhwyt (AC18, HP14+ of 19, Dex12 of 15) and Mookie (AC17, HP9) d20+7=16 Friday March 5th, 2004 5:53:33 AM
When Zayne grabs Kernorn, Vauhwyt shakes her head in annoyance. "Hey! I'm talking herre! It's rude to interrupt!" she yells at him.
"Fine!" she says, hearing Olyn's command. "Hustle him back to his apartment. Finish talking to him therre. But I have a feeling we are not done with these sewers yet!"
Vauhwyt helps get Kernorn back to his apartment. "Thanks for the cure," she tells Olyn as he uses the wand.
When they have Kernorn up the ladder, Vauhwyt carefully uses her rope to tie his hands behind his back and holds on to the other end.
Then she resumes her questions. "Why were you going to the sewer? Where do you think Edgar is? What does he look like?"
"It sounds like you have been a victim too [Bluff check 16]. Who is it who wanted to use your bugs for gain? Who wanted to get their hands on Edgarr?"
"Tell us more and maybe we can cut a deal with you."
Dietrich AC 17; HP 5/13 Friday March 5th, 2004 6:56:44 AM
Dietrich sheaths his sword and than helps Zayne bringing Kernon upwards. He holds him hard, but doesnīt hurt him, for it looks like there is much more to know of Kernon than it seemed. Dietrich feels almost pity for the man, as Kernon seems to be completely crazy. The knight thanks Olyn for the cure and listens to the talkings. 'Who might have wanted to use the monster?"
Theodore and Macaw Friday March 5th, 2004 10:25:09 AM
Through the empathic link, Theodore feels a strong vibe of danger and quickly call his flighty friend back.
"There's something dangerous further down the tunnel," he informs the rest of the party. "Perhaps that's where we might find this Edgar..."
Theodore looks thoughtfully at Kernorn, debating over the man's innocence in the matter.
Zayne d20+2=19 Friday March 5th, 2004 12:35:41 PM
Flashing a quick grin at Vauhwyt,the going on with his buisness of subduing Kernorn.
After he and Dietrich finish he puts away his axe and gladly reties it.
Looking around at the group with a look of satisfaction on his face,"Now lets get out of here,and get something to eat already"
As Olyn begins to "zap" everyone,"Save it,none of those things touced me,I'm okay."
Vorelle d20+6=26 Friday March 5th, 2004 9:52:52 PM
Vorelle appoints herself rearguard, keeping a watchful eye up and down the tunnel until the others are above. When she approaches Olyn, she forestalls his wand use with a raised hand and a shake of her head--she is not hurt.
(Spot 26--natural 20)
rose HP 9/12 dex 14/16 Saturday March 6th, 2004 3:15:22 PM "Olyn, I could use a tap of the wand and something to make me less clumsy. (got anything to fix my dex damage?) But I think we should go and see what Macaw has found before going back up.
Rose patiently waits till she gets tapped. "theo, why don't you call macaw back here? I don't want him to get hurt.
DM Jan Sunday March 7th, 2004 11:02:38 PM
Those who get up close and impersonal with Kernorn, will notice that he has what looks like a large tusk, or tooth, on a leather thong hanging around his throat, in the folds of his garments. It doesn't look anything like what was found earlier, so who knows. Perhaps it merely signifies what his 'interests' are.
Vorelle sees nothing right now in the tunnel that suggests movement or anything else, so whatever Theodore is talking about must be somewhere deeper in the sewer system. There's just the wasp in the box. Bzzzz...
Mattison looks bug-eyed at Olyn for a moment, and scampers up the ladder. At the top, he announces. "I'm not feeling too good, but I'll feel better if I take a walk. Tell you what - I'll go and get a more detailed version of the sewer map. I know just where I can find one." He sets off quickly down the passage toward the main Crescent Moon Market thoroughfare.
The group enters the entomologists domain. (Did you guys bring the wasp?) Olyn does what he can for Vauhwyt, Dietrich and Rose. The poison however need neutralising before Vauhwyt and Rose can get rid of 'that shaky feeling'.
((By my reckoning Vauhwyt is 5 points down, Dietrich is 8 down, and Rose 3 down. Tim is there a +bonus on the wand relating to caster level?))
Some of the buzzing noises in the room lessen as Kernorn is brought inside by Zayne and Dietrich. Other buzzy noises continue as before. It appears that if any clues lie here - then it will need a thorough search. ((Search DC 13 - higher the better))
"He's in the sewer - somewhere," babbles Kernorn, mad eyes appealing to his captors. "I have to get to him. He's bewildered and in pain, and I can calm him down."
And as for Vauhwyt and Dietrich's other question - the man grows furtive. He looks around, seems to realise something, and the starts to laugh like a lunatic. It isn't a 'funny' sound at all. "Who WANTED him? Who wanted to USE him? Why - HE DID!!" he exclaims, his head jerking toward the doorway - toward a spot where Mattison had stood only moments earlier.
Olyn d8+1=3 d8+1=3 d8+1=5 d8+1=5 d8+1=2 d8+1=2 d8+1=8 d20+2=13 Monday March 8th, 2004 2:37:23 AM
(jan, took 5 charges to heal everyone up to full, the 5th and 6th rolls were a 1 so i rerolled)
13 for search check
while searching I talk low enough for Theo to hear, but not Kernorn. send your pet to follow Mattison, he has known all along what was doing the killings and told no-one. I want to know where exactly he went.
Dietrich d20+2=12 Monday March 8th, 2004 7:10:16 AM
Dietrich feels the divine force healing him and recovers his energy and mood. He is really surprised at Kernons disclosure and trys to perceive if he is lying. (Sense motivation 12)
Shaking Kernon a little, as to make him concentrate, Dietrich asks: "You said Edgar is no mosquito. So WHAT is he? Do you have control over him? And who is this MAttison?"
On the one hand, Dietrich would like to get the beast alive, for there is perhaps some gold to be made, but on the other hand, it seems that this would represent a major hazard, as there are obscure powers searching to posses the monster. What is the best thing to do? He opens his thougts to his friends in a low voice, not letting Kernon hear about it.
Theodore and Macaw Monday March 8th, 2004 1:45:00 PM
Theodore's brow furrows at Olyn's suggestion. "I don't know Olyn. If Mattison left, it's because he thinks we're on to him. Macaw's not sneaky. If Mattison spots him, he could get hurt. Let's find out a bit more from Kernorn, first."
Zayne Monday March 8th, 2004 2:28:21 PM
Looking at Kernorn,"How is it that you know that about Edgar? Like I said you have a lot of explaining to do. I think now would ne a good time to start." Looking around at the group,"I think you should start at the begining,I know it's a long story and we have plenty of time."
Suddenly there is a loud rumble from his midsection,"First,you wouldn't happen to have anything to eat on hand would you? I am really hungry."
Rose HP 12/12 dex 14/16 d20+10=26 d20+4=23 d20+5=12 Monday March 8th, 2004 2:53:21 PM
Rose feels better, although she's still shaky, when Olyn taps her with the wand. She calls Piper over to her and wispers to her. Then after Piper flies away Rose moves over to Kernorn. "I think that we should check you for weapons and stuff. Theo could you hold him?" Rose quickly begins to search Kernorn.
Vauhwyt and Mookie d20+1=9 Monday March 8th, 2004 5:26:34 PM
For a long moment, Vauhwyt's muscles tense and she seems about to leap after the now-departed Mattison. But her speedy spell just expired, and she judges that she would not be able to catch him. Frustrated, she turns to Kernorn to listen to what he has to say.
"Yes, tell us more about Edgarr. If we can, we will capture him alive." It is becoming clear to the liontaur that Mattison is either a good actor, or somewhat deranged. Her untrained Sense Motive roll (a 9) doesn't tell much either way.
Then she whispers to Rose, "Good idea."
Vorelle Monday March 8th, 2004 5:53:09 PM
Vorelle, too was about to head off in a sprint after Mattison when somebody suggested sending one of the birds. She stops, shaking her head a little. She still isn't accustomed to having the things around.
Idly, she wonders where they can get a really big net.
DM Jan Tuesday March 9th, 2004 12:53:53 AM
Rose's bird Piper flaps off in the direction that Mattison took, while the group stay behind to quiz Kernorn about Edgar, and how Mattison is involved in all this.
Olyn has a look around, and comes across a drawer that holds a sheaf of papers. The papers contain drawings of.... something, along with scribbled notes. Some of them are headed 'Ed'. It looks like a wingless fly - with huge compound eyes, six legs, and a long, barbed proboscis.
Some of the notes (most are uninteligble) - 8am - 4 and a half ft, 6" since last week, good progress. Increased agitation after death of Edwina. Need bigger cage.
"I bred Edgar, and his sister. I bred and crossbred until they... were perfect specimens. Perfect in every way. They... only he now. He has a secret. Something Mattison doesn't know. He wanted to use it to kill - as a weapon." Kernorn's speech is as erratic as ever. "I'll strike a bargain! If you help me find him, and let us get away. Then we'll go from here. We only want to be left alone! And I can make you all rich! Yes! You'll see." He looks each member of the group in the eye. "What say you?"
Searching the man seems to Rose like searching a bag full of eels, the man is wriggling about that much. However - in his pockets, she pulls out 2 bladders of some horrible blood-like stuff, and a very old piece of paper. The lettering is faded, with only partial words - Monsterolog... Socie... Level.. Floa..
Much to his delight - Zayne spots a huge jar of honey on one of the shelves.
Piper flits from building to building, a distance away from Mattison. Wasn't he a member of the Knives, supposedly? Funny how he was heading in the wrong direction, headed past the Temple of Wardd, and toward the Darts Tower. Rose sees smatterings of this in her minds eye. It isn't perfect, but then the bond between bird and halfling was still young, as with the other birds and their companions, too.
Vauhwyt and Mookie Tuesday March 9th, 2004 6:09:34 AM
Something in the man's demeanor and story has an affect on Vauhwyt. "Once upon a time," she thinks to herself, "I too wanted to leave home and run away. I too killed to escape, even if I did not want to."
She says to Kernorn, somewhat more kindly than she has been speaking so far, "It is not your gold I want, but information and a promise."
"Tell us all you know about Mattison. Tell us the secret. And then -- most importantly -- swear a sacred oath that if we let you leave, you will never let your creatures harm innocent people ever again."
Mookie seems a little nervous at this idea. "Boss, are you sure about this? Not only is the guy a whack job, but he's a dangerous whack job!"
Vauhwyt smiles, and says loud enough for everybody to hear, "Is it crazy to have a dream? Even if other people don't understand? Is it crazy to want to be free? Who are we to take away someone's freedom?"
When he looks her in the eye, Vauhwyt says to Kernorn, "I know what it is like to be outcast. I think we should let you go, if you promise not to hurt those who do not deserve it. If you have money, you must give it to us so we can give it to the families of those that Edgar killed. It is the least you can do."
Dietrich Tuesday March 9th, 2004 10:45:13 AM
Dietrich canīt discover if Kernon is lying, but he stays suspicious.
He listens to Vauhwyt, but he can only disagree. Dietrich says: "Friends, I think we should first agree in what we are going to do, and than make deals with this Kernon. Actually, I donīt think heīs in a position to make many claims"
Only to his friends, in a way Kernon canīt hear it, Dietrich says: "The monster, and this bug-guy, killed 3 people this time, and I donīt know how any before. I wonīt let them go out like that, just with a promise. I think we should kill the monster, as it will always be a threat, and at least enjail Kernon. This is indepent from what we may discover about Mattison and other connections"
Theodore and Macaw Tuesday March 9th, 2004 12:05:45 PM
Theodore is distracted with the conversations rolling about. "I agree with Dietrich that we shouldn't make hasty decisions," he begins. "But I also agree with Vauhwyt that everyone deserves a second chance. If Kernorn is telling the truth, and he can keep Edgar from hurting again, why shouldn't we let them go? Edgar doesn't have the intelligence to differentiate between right and wrong like we do. We shouldn't punish him for that, unless he remains a threat."
Theodore gives Kernorn a deciphering thought. "If I can get close enough to Edgar, I might be able to sedate him without hurting him. If we do this for you, Kernorn, you must in return give us your full cooperation in every regard."
Zayne Tuesday March 9th, 2004 4:33:38 PM
Eagerly grabbing the jar of honey,he begins to dip his fingers and lick them off enthusiastically. Then returning to the group.
"I think we should get the whole story before we start negotiating here. Letting him go could be a mistake. I feel as sorry for him as anyone else,but whether or not it was intentional he is ultiamatly responsible for several deaths."
Then to Kernorn,"Like I said there are quite a few questions to be answered before any deals are made here. As for the gold,I don't know about the rest of everyone here but I am doing this for the money,I'm doing this because innocent people died."
(This was all said inbetween dips in the honey jar)
Vorelle Tuesday March 9th, 2004 7:22:20 PM
As is her wont when everybody's talking, Vorelle hangs back and tries to be invisiible.
Olyn Tuesday March 9th, 2004 9:15:07 PM
sits at the table with the the papers found and starts reading them while the others interrogate Kernorn.
rose Tuesday March 9th, 2004 11:57:39 PM
Rose hands what she finds over to the other. "What's in the vials?" She asks before being distracted by the images that Piper is sending. "Thats weird, mattison is heading towards the darts not the knives."
DM Jan Wednesday March 10th, 2004 1:12:52 AM
Rose hands over the old piece of paper and the bladders, and tells everyone where Mattison is headed.
Olyn continues his perusal of the papers. There are more drawings of the strange 'fly-without-wings' creature - details of various body parts, legs, head, body, proboscis, antennae. There doesn't appear to be a stinger or claws. One page as a drawing of a perfectly round ball, with a measurement of 14" diameter, and a question mark beside it, and the letters AU. A mad scribble in the bottom corner of the page starts of with - Do not tell that stinking rat faced... and then it looks as though the pencil broke.
Meanwhile, the others continue questioning their captor. Vorelle hangs back and blends - not hard considering whats going on, and the clamour of the caged insects.
Dietrich finds it very hard to tell if Kernorn is speaking the truth. The man appears to be doing so, but there's a layer of inherent madness that seems to taint everything.
The emtomologist continues to talk and answer questions. "The man's a blackmailer!" Persumably he's talking about Mattison. "He's a skulker, one who waits in the shadows with a very long knife. He saw uses for Edgar. He threatened tell the Prince, which is funny - because I think it is the Prince who he means to kill. "As for the secret - you wouldn't believe me until you saw it. Mattison doesn't know! He doesn't know! Hahahahaha! "if it meant saving my Edgar, I'd swear to everything."
To Theo he adds - " You might be able to help, but you must not let him sing to you. I will come with you. We will go! But you must not hear him. let me loose!"
Zayne is treated with a twisted grin. "You're not here for money? This is Dirt City. You must be crazy."
Piper observes Mattison heading into the Darts Tower. She doesn't go in because she would be seen if she did.
Olyn Wednesday March 10th, 2004 9:03:15 AM
going over to Kernorn, and squatting down next to him.
*showing the paper with the 14" circle with a ? and the starting of the rat faced message*
what can you tell me about this and would you finish the sentence you were writing.
Theodore and Macaw Wednesday March 10th, 2004 9:24:22 AM
"Do you have any beeswax?" asks Theodore of Kernorn. "If we put some in our ears, perhaps we won't be affected by the song."
The young mage turns to the rest of the party and brushes a lock of hair from his eyes. "I have one shot at Edgar," he begins. "If we wait until tomorrow, I could increase our chances. But I think it best that we move quickly. If Mattison is up to something, we probably don't have much time."
Theodore swallows hard. "If I fail, we still have nets to contain it."
Dietrich Wednesday March 10th, 2004 10:48:44 AM
Dietrich will wait until he knows the whole story to decide what is best to do.
From what he understands, Edgar is a disgusting monstruos fly, that killed inocent people, and should be neutralized, the same way you would do with a mad dog that attacks people. (He doesnīt say that to Kernon) Concerning Kernon himself and MAttison, thatīs a different story, and Dietrich is curious to know what is their evolvement in the matter.
Dietrich asks his friends: "Who are this Darts? What could MAttison want there, and how is their relation with the prince? Are they enemies?"
Finaly, Dietrich would prefer to go after Edgar with full magic. Itīs dangerous enough and the fight with the small wasps (compared with Edgar) was a good prelude of what is coming. HE says:
"Letīs stay near the place Edgar lives and observe it, while resting and regaining magic. If MAttison and others appear, we can intervene. If not, we can go to battle the next day, much better prepared."
Zayne Wednesday March 10th, 2004 12:54:44 PM
Looking at Kernorn with pity in his eyes,"What a waste."
Shaking his head,"I don't think I'm hngry anymore." Putting the stopper back in the jar and returning it to it's proper place.
Still sucking at his fingers abesently he beins to pace up back and forth mumbling under his breath,his long nose occaisionally twitching.
"It's obvious that we can't trust Mattison,then again this is based on the ramblings of a madman. This leaves of a few choices,we can give Kernorn's idea a try,and if we do that brings up the question of what we do with him when it's over. Or we can turn him in to the Prince. Or we can track down Mattison capture him and turn them both in. That also brings up the question of when,do we act now,later tonight,or do we wait until tomorrow? I think we should wait until at least later tonight. I think I might be able to find out a little more about what kind of person this Mattison is."
Rose Wednesday March 10th, 2004 4:14:29 PM
Rose gives dietrich a strange look then turns away before saying "What I want to know is why someone who supposedly belongs in the house of knives went inside the house of darts with out any questions or anything. The knives and the darts are complete opposites!"
ooc: for those of you who forgot we are working for the knives who function mainly as police and guards. the darts are mainly assassins.
Vauhwyt and Mookie Wednesday March 10th, 2004 5:01:50 PM
In response to Dietrich's question, Vauhwyt decides she has a lot to say. But in order to gain some privacy, she checks that Kernorn's ropes are tight, then carefully puts some beeswax in his ears. "Don't worry, my friend," she tells the madman, "We just need some privacy. I'll unstop your ears in just a minute."
When she has done her best to deafen Kernorn, Vauhwyt leads him to a corner, returns, and speaks in a whisper to the group. First she answers Dietrich and Rose.
"That's right, friend Dietrich, you're new to Dirt City, aren't you? Well Rose has the right of it. The House of Knives runs the biggest protection racket in Dirt City, so they try to keep a lid on crime and such -- out of motives altruistic or mercenary, you can form your own opinion ... but this IS Dirt City. It was Orgar the Knife who gave us this job, a job we're doing for free, by the way, so what that makes us I don't know!"
"I know," says Mookie. "It makes us suck--"
"Hush, Mookie," Vauhwyt says, as she more or less gently cuffs the bird.
"You'll recall that Harvl and his kin, the dwarf diggers we saved at the cursed mine, were from the House of Knives, hired by the Wolves to work the dig."
"Anyway, Orgar the Knife, who is that dwarf fellow I'm sure you recall, told us to look for Mattison for help in solving the problem of the mysterious sewer deaths. Orgar said none of the other Houses would help with the problem. He said to look for Mattison. Since none of the other Houses are helping, it is logical that we should think Mattison is a Knife. "
"But Piper saw Mattison head into the Darts den. The Darts are assassins for hirre," Vauhwyt says with a grimace, "and Kernorn here seems to be saying the Darts wanted his Edgar to use in assassinating the Prince. Seems to me we should probably talk to the Prince's man about that, posthaste."
"Orgar said that if we find proof that another House is mixed up in these deaths, then the Knives could get the Prince involved. I don't know if a familiar witnessing Mattison going to the Darts is proof or not, but with Piper's testimony and Kernorn's, we're starting to get somewhere. Still, the word of a bird and of a madman isn't maybe as solid as I would like."
"But if the Darts are conspiring against the Prince, and if Edgar is still loose and getting hungrier, we can't wait for tomorrow. Let's go after Edgar right now, this second, bringing Kernorn with us. First Kernorn will try to command Edgar, but if that fails, we'll use magic and weapons to subdue the creature. I may be able to help stun it with a few solid punches, like I stunned that wasp. If we are ready with a minor cure when it drops, we should be able to keep it alive. Using one of Kernorn's trusty nets, we can bind it, safe and sound. Then we fetch Orgar from the Knives and bring him and Kernorn and Edgar in secret to the Prince's man, that Th'Ayvanen fellow. We saw a few days ago that the Prince is fair -- so let the Prince decide what to do with them, I say."
"But I think we should move out fast, now, right away, especially since Mattison has carried a warning to the Darts. Minutes count, I fearr."
"Let's get going!"
[OOC: Jan, I am pretty sure I kept careful track of my failed wasp poison saves ... and I think Vauhwyt lost only three points of Dex. If I am way off, please let me know.]
Vorelle Wednesday March 10th, 2004 5:34:53 PM
Vorelle doesn't say anything, but nods in vague agreement with Vauhwyt's plan. She is ready to go.
DM Jan Thursday March 11th, 2004 1:24:36 AM
Kernorn's reply to Olyn's question - "Au! Don't you see? Thats gold, man! Gold! The biggest egg you've ever seen. NOW do you see why he can't be taken? NOW do you see why I have to get him away??"
Beeswax is apparently on the shelf next to a pair of bright red spiders in a small tank. The spiders names are Ginger and Hot Stuff, according to a small piece of paper stuck to one corner of the tank, which also reads 'poison'.
The group go through their options - What to do about Mattison. What to do about Kernorn. What to do about the plot against the Prince. What to do about health and spell replenishment (dex needs a trip to the Temple and a donation). What to do about Edgar.
Is it time to act? Way up on the surface, twilight has already given a bow and said goodbye until dawn. Lamps on the streets are already lit.
((OOC - folks I'm going to be away until Sunday, so I leave you in the fine hands of Tim and Cayzle. Have a good weekend.))
Zayne Thursday March 11th, 2004 12:10:37 PM
Nodding his agreement to Vauhwyt's descision to go,"Heres how I see it, Rose and Vauhwyt need to get to the Temple. I know you want to do something but your'e health comes first. There are seven of us here,so we can split up inot two groups."
Looking at each party member,"I think Vorelle should be able to escort you two to the temple,and I can leave some obvious tracks for her to follow,Olyn Dietrich and myself."
"It's obviously too late to catch Mattison. So that leaves going to the prince. Then again that brings up the question of what to do with Kernorn,if what he is saying is true Mattison is probably on his way back here to make sure we don't find out his true involvement soi we have to get out of here now. So do we leave Kernorn with Jeraldh or do we call on a favor from the wolves to protect him till we can sort this out. Or do we turn him ito the prince. I say we talk about this as we walk."
Grabbing Kernorn and helping him to his feet,"Come on I think it's time we got out of here. You are swimming with some dirty fish in a filthy pond you know that."
Vauhwyt and Mookie Thursday March 11th, 2004 1:07:23 PM
Vauhwyt bows when Zayne voices his concern. "No, really, I'm fine. I'll get to the temple laterr. I really think we need to focus on Edgar first. We don't want him to hurt anyone else, and we don't want the Darts to capture him. I think splitting up is a REALLY bad idea!"
"We need to all go togetherr, right now, back into the sewers to capture Edgarr. Then we need to bring Edgar, Kernorn, and Orgar to the Prince."
"AFTER we capture Edgar, I think we should go to the Temple. There were clerics on the road with Th'Ayvanen when we met him outside Dirt City -- remember, they took care of that poor mad dwarf, Bram. They'll be able to get word to Th'Ayvanen that we need to see him. And the Darts will not dare attack us in while we are in the Temple."
"So I suggest -- first all into the sewerr, capture Edgarr, then get Orgarr, then go to the Temple. Who's with me?"
Rose dex 14/16 Thursday March 11th, 2004 3:21:22 PM "I don't want to go either, I'm not really hurt....just a bit shaky. Lets go catch the bug"
Rose begins going through her items getting ready to catch edgar. After the group is done talking she will pull out Kernorn's ear plugs to ask a few questions.
"We wont kill Edgar but we need some information to help us catch him. What types of things will make him weak? What type of bug is he? How big is he? What type of damage can he do to us? What are your suggestions for capturing him?"
Spread out around her Rose has laid her vials of citronella oil, rope, silver dagger, magic dagger, and potions. Kernorn can see these items before Rose begins arranging them so that it will be easy to get to them in a fight.
Vorelle Thursday March 11th, 2004 4:02:32 PM
Vorelle picks up one of Kernorn's nets and bundles it up so it can be carried along.
Dietrich Thursday March 11th, 2004 7:06:00 PM
Dietrich listens to Vauhwytīs explanation about the Darts and the story with Mattisson gets really probable.
The fighter agrees with handling Kernon and the monster to the prince. 'This could also improve our relations to the prince.', he thinks. When the temple is mentioned, Dietrich believes this would be the best place for Kernon, to get rest and confort for his troubled mind... But if the group shouldnīt be able to catch the monster-fly alive, the soldier will do what is necessary to eliminate this hazard.
Dietrich also agrees in going after Edgar now, and he leaves with the party. Heīd have prefered to have full magic support, but right now, time is a more important factor. "Yeah, letīs go and continue planning while we march."
Olyn Thursday March 11th, 2004 7:42:57 PM
grabbing his gear.
whatever you guys want, im ready.
Theodore and Macaw Thursday March 11th, 2004 10:47:56 PM
Theodore nods his assent as everyone else agrees to going back into the sewers. "All I ask is that you get out of the way when it is time for me to bring down Edgar. If I fail, then move in with the nets, or whatever is necessary."
Theodore steadies himself and nods solemnly at Macaw.
rose Friday March 12th, 2004 2:00:17 AM
After a few minutes rose takes the coil of rope and puts it where she can easily reach it (but not have to carry it).....hanging from one of Vauhwyt's packs. If Vauhwyt looks back rose will just look innocent.
Substitute Assistant DM Cayzle Friday March 12th, 2004 5:56:00 AM
With a majority of the group in favor of an immediate return to the sewers, it seems that a bug hunt is the next order of business. So in short order the group finds themselves at the base of the ladder in the entrance of the sewer. They are just about ready to set off.
[OOC: Guys, why don't we make this easier on Jan? Please post your current hit points and Dex, any magic still at work on you, and where you want to be in the marching order. How are we planning to find Edgar? What are we using for light, if anything? Who is standing next to Kernorn, who is in charge of making sure he does not bolt, and how are we making sure of that? any other preparation? -- Cayzle]
Dietrich AC 17; HP 13/13 Friday March 12th, 2004 9:01:22 AM
Dietrich prepares his bow and suggest the following march order and proceedings:
1. No lights 2. Two scouts ahead the group, not too far, following Kernons instructions 3. One scout as rearg guard, not too far 4. Main group with VAuhwyt first, interrogating, 2.Kernon, describing the way, 3. Dietrich, guarding Kernon, 4. Theo, prepared to jump forward and cast the spell, 5. Olyn, support, Devlin, fighting rearguard, all prepared with nets, for the case the spell doesnīt work.
While walking, Dietrich asks Kernon in his military way: "What were you talking about Gold and an EGG? Explain this."
Theodore and Macaw (HP 8 AC 16) Friday March 12th, 2004 1:36:07 PM
Theodore lets himself be hustled into whatever position within the party, his mind focused on calling forth his power.
Macaw bounces about excitedly as everyone readies themselves.
rose: HP 12/12 DEX 14/16 Mage armor Friday March 12th, 2004 6:18:56 PM
Rose is behind Vauhwyt and in front of Kernorn. Piper is still watching the house of darts for Mattison.
Rose follows Vauhwyt carefully. When/if the fighting starts she will need to scoot by and get in front.
Zayne (Hp 19/19 AC 17) d20+5=22 d20+5=23 Saturday March 13th, 2004 2:12:08 PM
As the group is heading outside,"Dietrich I don't think taking that out is a great idea," pointing at the bow,"Don't forget that drawn weapons are illegal in Dirt City."
Moving up ahead of the group about 50' he begins to scout around for signs of trouble. (Listen 22 spot 23)
Vorelle [AC 15; Hit Points 17/17] Sunday March 14th, 2004 10:23:41 AM
Unless she is directed otherwise, Vorelle drifts to the back of the group to act as rear guard. She hands off the net she's been carrying to somebody up front.
Vauhwyt (AC18, HP19 of 19, Dex12 of 15) and Mookie (AC19, HP9) d20+16=27 d20+11=27 d20+3=12 d20+3=19 Sunday March 14th, 2004 7:47:40 PM
Vauhwyt first makes sure Kernorn can walk comfortably and has both hands free. But he remains tied around the waist and someone (Olyn? Dietrich?) holds the leash. Vauhwyt also gives him back the still-living wasp in its box. "Remember your promise," she tells him, "and be good."
"Excellent plan, Dietrich," Vauhwyt whispers. "No lights, two scouts ahead, one behind. Vorelle has the rear covered. Zayne and I will go ahead, since my elixirs of sneakiness are both still working and since I have good night vision. I'll cast Message on Olyn and Zayne so we can keep in touch."
She does so. The spells lets her communicate with both by whispering.
She walks about 40 feet ahead of the group, quietly, at Rose's speed. She tries to keep alert.
[OOC: 27 for move silent, 27 for hide, 12 for spot, 19 for listen]
==========
Magic still in effect ... Blood Armor (Mookie and Vauhwyt) Elixirs of Sneaking and Hiding
Spells used/left 0-level: used 3 messages and 1 prestidigitation, have 1 left 1-level: used enlarge and two blood armors, have 1 left
DM Jan Monday March 15th, 2004 11:44:39 AM
((OOC - sorry this is late, folks.))
Armed to the teeth, the party sallies forth! Assembling into marching order, the group heads back down the ladder into the sewer proper. In the midst of a lot of babbling, Rose manages to get the following information from Kernorn about Edgar:
He's probably grown to about 6ft in length by now, possibly more. He's a combination - between 'some kind of' mosquito, and 'some kind of' beetle. The entomologist hurls forth a couple of really long, weird-sounding names that mean absolutely nothing, then starts to go into all the details before being distracted with another question. He has a tough hide. He bites. He can sing 'in your head'. He's really very sweet and would make someone a good pet in the right environment. All it needs is for someone to sing to him in return, calm him down and feed him some of the bloody gloop in those pouches.
Kernorn makes it obvious that being turned over to the authorities is the LAST thing he wants. he considers both he and Edgar to be outcasts, and figures they'll be treated accordingly. As Dietrich asks about the 'egg', the entomologist smiles. "He won't do it unless I tell him to. And if you take us to the Prince, you won't get it." Having presented the group with that small dilemma, he follows along, crooning to his injured wasp in the box. Anyone close by will note the song of the creatures wings appears to be getting a little more steady, as though its healing up.
The party sets off down the tunnel, heading vaguely south, and reaching the main sewer. Here the tunnel is wider, the water deeper. A fork to the right points toward the Halfling Quarter. And yes... there's a strange feeling coming from that direction. Faint, but you want to go there. its as though someone wants help.
Zayne d20+5=25 d20+5=17 Monday March 15th, 2004 12:30:52 PM
Rangeing out ahead he is scnning the surroundings carefully. (Listen 25 Spot 17)
He thinks to himself,"What a week this has been."
Dietrich Monday March 15th, 2004 12:41:43 PM
The fighter marches behind Kernon, holding the leash and asking him more about the "egg".
When Zayne remembers that weapons arénīt allowed, Dietrich shoulders the bow while the group is inside the city, but takes it again when they start marching in the sewers. Ilegal or not, there are dangerous things underground and he wonīt take the chance.
Dietrich also remembers the beewax and asks if someone thought about it. When the party comes nearer to their task, the warrior will put some wax in his ears, in order to protect him from the 'singing'.
Olyn Monday March 15th, 2004 6:39:35 PM
puting beewax in his ears as Deitrich does he passes out a few pouches to others in the group. (with the gloop)
making sure his healing stuff is close at hand, and a new is securly fastened and within quick reach, I will assume my position close to the front for quick action on my part.
Theodore and Macaw Monday March 15th, 2004 7:21:45 PM
Theodore has Macaw fly behind the party to sit watch for anyone coming upon them unawares, such as Mattison. He then places his own portion of beeswax into his ears and prepares for the worst.
Vorelle d20+6=11 d20+6=8 Monday March 15th, 2004 8:16:10 PM
Vorelle keeps her bow to hand, but does not yet nock an arrow. She declines the beeswax, preferring to keep her ears clear enough to hear trouble coming.
She follows the group, trying to stay alert, but her senses are not at their keenest.
Spot 11 Listen 8
Vauhwyt (AC18, HP19 of 19, Dex12 of 15) and Mookie (AC17, HP9) Monday March 15th, 2004 9:17:25 PM
Vauhwyt casts Enlarge on Mookie. She walks carefully and silently forward towards the area from which the strange feeling emanates. When she is close, she motions Kernorn forward. She signals Theo to be ready in case Kernorn fails.
rose Tuesday March 16th, 2004 12:06:15 AM
Rose puts the beeswax in her ears as well. She is a bit nervous in the tunnel as she cant see much and so stays clost behind Vauhwyt.....Oops a bit to close Vauhwyts tail accidently smacked her in the face. Rose grabs the tail and hold it away from her face.
DM Jan Tuesday March 16th, 2004 1:51:31 AM
The right fork narrows up, until the group are traversing a tunnel of a similar size to the one where they had the wasp fight. Water in the channel runs swiftly along in the channel, and Zayne, up front, is the first one to notice a slight shift downhill. MaCaw flaps to the rear, not too far from Vorelle, and Mookie grows in wingspan and stature. Kernorn whispers and mutters to himself, to the point where Dietrich can no longer get any sense out of him.
Dietrich, Olyn, Theo, and Rose - their ears safely(?) blocked, suddenly become aware of a voice, which is strange, considering the obvious. 'Help me... please help me.. I'm lost...' It sounds like that of a child, somewhere ahead, and like the siren call of any child in need of help, it is strong enough to tug at anyone's heartstrings. ((WILL SAVE DC 13, or rush forward to try and help))
Vorelle, Zayne and Vauhwyt hear the running water (is it getting louder ahead?) and merely feel an increase of the unease. Vorelle and the bird see or hear nothing that suggests the group is being followed.
Zayne comes upon it first - the sewerfall. The tunnel widens out (30ft) and becomes a cascading, stepped waterfall (steps have a 1ft rise and there are 50 of them) that goes DOWN into the gloom. Above him, like the holding tank areas, the ceiling is opened up to the lived-in tunnels of the Sewer. There are ladders here and there, enabling folk to climb up or down. Looking down - there is darkness, and -
Did the ranger just hear someone cough?
Dietrich AC 17/ HP 13/13 d20+2=22 d20+4=13 d20+4=18 Tuesday March 16th, 2004 11:38:35 AM
Dietrich marches in the darkness with the group and doesn[t like to be deaf at all. Suddenly he hears the calling of a child and his imediate impulse is to jump forward to help it. But than he remembers the tricksy monster and that he shouldn[t be able to hear a real child with all that beewax in his ear. The fighter realizes the trap and stays still, much more suspiciuos now.
He holds Kernon stronger and will try to grab anynone that trys to pass through him. (Grab opportunity attack: ac 13) Dietrich makes signs to his friends not to follow the call and trys to see something. (spot 18)
Theodore (HP 8 AC 16) d20+5=20 Tuesday March 16th, 2004 12:26:15 PM
Theodore also finds the voice somewhat peculiar, but does not give into its charm. He looks about him and notices the same confusion on Dietrich's face. He chews on his lower lip as a tingling of fear begins to settle in his stomach.
When they come upon the falls, Theodore patiently waits to see what the others will do first, and then follows along.
Zayne d20+5=20 d20+5=20 d20+2=22 Tuesday March 16th, 2004 5:01:13 PM
Listening very carefully he concentrates on what he thought to be a cough,straining his ears to catch an echo or any other sign that they group is not alone.(Listen 20 Spot 20 Concentration 22 natural 20)
He stops short of the sewerfall and whispers to Vauhwyt,"We aren't alone,get ready for something. I think I heard a cough."
Vorelle d20+6=26 d20+6=22 Tuesday March 16th, 2004 5:23:33 PM
Vorelle continues to stay alert at the back of the group.
Spot 26 Listen 22
Rose: HP 12/12 DEX 14/16 d20+5=10 Tuesday March 16th, 2004 9:51:08 PM
Rose hears a little child calling to her. "I'm coming" She calls as she pushes past Vauhwyt and rushes ahead.
Piper is still watching the house of darts for Mattison.
Vauhwyt (AC18, HP19 of 19, Dex12 of 15) and Mookie (AC17, HP9) d20+1=6 d20+3=19 d20+7=15 d20+6=19 d4+2=4 Wednesday March 17th, 2004 12:06:51 AM
As Rose runs by Vauhwyt, she provokes an attack of opportunity. Of course, in the usual course of events the liontaur would never take advantage of the opportunity to jump a friend ... but this is an unusual case.
Using her attack of opportunity, Vauhwyt gently jumps on Rose. She hopes to surprise the hobbit -- if so, then she is flat-footed, loses her dex bonus, and does not have any attacks of opportunity to stop Vauhwyt. But Rose slips by and Vauhwyt does not grab her (roll 6 to grab).
That was for Vauhwyt's attack of opportunity. For her action, she and Mookie act as a team. Mookie flies ahead and distracts her (roll 19 to aid another in combat). Vauhwyt leaps (charges) onto the halfling (grabs AC 15). Her grapple to hold onto Rose is solid (Rose must beat a grapple check of 19 to break free, and as a small person she has a -4 penalty).
Unfortunately, Rose takes 4 hp of subdual damage.
"Rose, it is a trick," Vauhwyt says urgently. "Resist it!"
Olyn d20+6=11 Wednesday March 17th, 2004 9:10:37 AM
rolled a 11 on will save.
(wont post anything, will let Jan tell me what I did)
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