DM Kathy Tuesday April 13th, 2004 10:55:36 PM
Kadaz asks around as well, but none of the guards he speaks with knows exactly where the Oaken Shields can be found. A few have heard of them, though.
The group decides to go to the Hindquarter right away to try to track down the Oaken Shields, and particularly the mage. (Right? Let me know if you decided to do something else.)
It's late morning as you make your way into the Hindquarter, and the city is bustling. Most of the traffic is ordinary citizens, but in this part of town you see a fair number of adventuring companies as well. You find the building that was described to you with little trouble. It's a three-story building, and as you approach the front door you see two bellpulls. Affixed to the building next to one bell is a plain wooden lozenge with Fellowship of the Oaken Shield burnt into the wood. Next to the other bell is a small brass plaque. A fussily ornate script reads:
Thrandius the Sage Advanced Magical Tutelage No Beginners, Please
You ring for the Oaken Shields, and after a bit the door is opened. Standing in the doorway is a human man Kadaz recognizes. His name is Qelm, and he retired from the Guard four or five years ago. He is bald, with lined, weathered skin, and he still carries himself like a soldier.
"Good morning," he says, civilly enough. He takes in your appearance at a glance, then adds, "I'm sorry, friends, but the Fellowship no longer offers instruction to new adventuring groups. Try the Dragon Quarter; I'm sure there are many there who can help you." His manner is perfectly pleasant, and he gives you a nod and a small, encouraging smile.
Uriel d20+2=18 Wednesday April 14th, 2004 12:06:27 AM
Uriel also will speak with civility to the guard {Diplomacy:18}. "Thank you sir. We appreciate the information. I believe, however that you mistake us by our appearance. We are not actually looking for training or instruction but in particular for the Fellowship of the Oaken Shield. Might we be able to enter to discuss our business with the group?"
Arm Wednesday April 14th, 2004 5:17:34 AM
Seeing that Uriel has begun negotiations to get the party through the front door, Arm is content to simply stand by and let him do the talking, willing to add his voice depending on how the gentleman reacts to the inquiry.
Evan Wednesday April 14th, 2004 3:52:11 PM
Evan follows the rest of the group, walking with Mira, teaching her more of his sign language. He seems content to allow Uriel the lead.
Kadaz d20-3=11 Wednesday April 14th, 2004 6:40:32 PM
Kadaz peeks around Uriel at the guard in the door. "Hello there Qelm. Kadaz here. Birdie too. How have you been? We've a bit of information that I believe the Fellowship would want to have." (diplomacy check 11)
Kadaz looks at Uriel. "Sorry for interrupting."
Mira Wednesday April 14th, 2004 7:14:50 PM
Mira reads the plaque for the sage, and is very sorely tempted to tug at the bell pull. She shoves her hands info her pockets to keep from acting on impulse, and listens to Uriel and Kadaz, as they discourse with the retired guard.
She stays at the back of the group, for this fellow looks like he would respond better to the likes of Kadaz and Conner.
Conner d20+2=22 d20+3=5 Wednesday April 14th, 2004 7:18:46 PM
Conner knuckles his forehead in the military salute he remembers from his time of service. He lets Uriel and Kadaz take the lead on questioning, but listens intently and tries to get a look into the room behind the door.
Listen=22 (nat. 20!) Spot=5
DM Kathy Wednesday April 14th, 2004 9:30:55 PM
Qelm listens to Uriel's explanation, then moves aside, motioning you in. "Sorry," he says. "We do get new groups coming by now and again, and..."
Kadaz greets him. "Oh, hello. I didn't recognize you out of uniform. Left the guard, have you?" A faint smile. "Going to try the life of adventure? Can't say that I blame you." He sighs. "But that's a young man's game...young person's, I mean," he amends, catching sight of Mira.
You follow him into the building. The ground floor is bare of any furniture, and seems to have had a few walls removed, as well. It is obviously set up as an indoor training facility with archery targets at the back wall, battered mats on the floor, and racks of practice weapons.
"If you'll wait here a moment," Qelm says, "I'll see if any of them are available to speak to you. What names should I give?"
You are about to reply when you hear a sharp cry from the floor above. It is followed by another cry, a heavy thud, and the unmistakable sound of combat.
Qelm pales and runs toward the stairs.
Conner Wednesday April 14th, 2004 11:19:07 PM
Conner pushes past the others and follows after Qelm. He pulls his sword from it's sheath as he makes his way.
Uriel Wednesday April 14th, 2004 11:43:04 PM
Uriel will follow in Qelm and Conner's footsteps, drawing his greatsword along the way.
Arm Thursday April 15th, 2004 5:57:50 AM
Arm draws his sword and heads after the rest, Yelling for Mira to take up the rear as he goes.
Kadaz Thursday April 15th, 2004 8:27:46 AM
Kadaz and Birdie are next up the stairs, also readying to fight.
Evan Thursday April 15th, 2004 9:44:15 AM
Evan reacts instantly to the cries from above. As he bolts for the stairs, one hand drops down to palm one of his throwing axes while the other taps a Seal of Protection on his belt.
(everyone gains +3 to all saves for the next 4 rounds)
Mira d20+2=13 Thursday April 15th, 2004 8:40:42 PM
Mira pushes through the doorway, following the men. She keeps an eye on their backs and what might come up from behind.
Spot=13
DM Kathy Thursday April 15th, 2004 10:55:21 PM
You follow Qelm up the stairs, which open into a short hallway intersecting a longer hallway to your left. To your right are two doors, one ajar and one closed. There are sounds of a struggle from the open door, but that is not where Qelm goes.
He heads for the other hallway, rushing toward the end where further sounds of struggle come from another door that is ajar.
(All of this will be much clearer on the combat map I'm sending. I hope. :) )
Connor, Uriel, and Arm, since you are the first up the stairs, please make spot checks.
Conner d20+3=18 Friday April 16th, 2004 12:31:54 AM
Conner looks to both right and left as he rounds the corner at the top of the stairs [Spot=18] and unless there is an immediate threat he instinctively follows Qelm down the long hall towards the sounds of battle.
Uriel d20+4=19 Friday April 16th, 2004 8:25:15 AM
Uriel does a quick glance around also {Spot:19} grimacing at the nightmare layout of this floor. "Everyone, I am going to check out this room to the right. I don't want someone flanking us or coming up our backside while we are concentrating on a frontal fight." With that Uriel steps to the right towards the open door and the sounds of struggling. {All this presumes something wasn't noticed of great import in the spot check you had me make that would make me choose another course of action}
Arm d20+2=11 Friday April 16th, 2004 1:49:20 PM
Once he reaches the top of the stairs, Arm looks around as well (spot=11)....he then says to Uriel, "Right, I'm with you...just in case". He looks back to Kadaz and motions him to follow Conner, then follows Uriel into the room, planing on joining the fray if nothing is found.
Kadaz d20+1=5 d20+1=10 Friday April 16th, 2004 4:00:32 PM
Kadaz and Birdie move up right behind Conner and head towards the sound of battle. He is following so closely on Conner's heals that in the narrow corridor he sees little beyond Conner's backside and hears mostly footsteps. ('Oh, to be taller', he thinks to himself.)
(spot 5, listen 10)
Mira d20+2=19 Friday April 16th, 2004 6:31:11 PM
As she reaches the top of the stairs, Mira spots her companions checking the hall and rooms. Turning her back to them, the sorcerer faces down the stairs. With care she walks backwards, occaisionally looking over her shoulder as she approaches Evan. She moves close enough to bump into him a little, whispering, "I'll be the rear guard", as she pulls the dagger from her boot.
Spot=19
Evan d20+6=21 d20+6=24 Saturday April 17th, 2004 11:20:08 AM
(Ok, somehow my computer managed to not only eat the map but it also ate the mail the map came with so this post can be adjusted if necessary. From what I remember of the map, Uriel and Arm had both headed left at the top of the stairs and so will be doubling back through the group to go right. If the corridor is too narrow for armed people to pass safely past each other, Evan will head right instead of left, taking the same actions)
Evan bounds up the stairs, heading left at the top, headign for the sounds of combat. He palms the second of his two throwing axes. His eyes sweep the corridor then the room he enters.
(listen-21, spot-24)
Uriel Sunday April 18th, 2004 12:55:18 AM
{OOC: Evan, dude we won't have to double back through. In fact I wouldn't even suggest it if that were the case. In the email that Kathy wrote she also said that she was assuming that we would move ahead but if our actions did not coincide with her assumptions to post what we would be doing. So, instead of hooking it to the left behind Conner I thought it prudent to protect our rears by instead hooking right...Just wanted to clear up any misconception - no worries.}
DM Kathy d20+7=27 d20+7=26 d2+1=2 d2+1=2 d6=5 d20+7=26 d20+7=22 d6+2=4 d6+2=5 d20+12=22 d20+7=8 d6+7=10 d20+9=23 d20+9=18 d20+4=19 3d6(5+1+5)=11 d20+1=18 d20+2=21 d20+4=5 Sunday April 18th, 2004 4:46:13 PM
Connor, Kadaz, and Birdie follow Qelm to the open door. Inside, an elf woman and a human man are locked in a struggle. The woman is wearing leather armor; the man wears none but has hastily caught up a shield. You surmise that he is the occupant of this bedroom and the person being attacked. This is confirmed a moment later when Qelm pulls a cudgel from his belt and strikes at the woman. His blow goes astray.
The human man takes a step back and utters a hasty prayer to Domi, seeming to cast some spell in the woman's direction. Whatever it was meant to do, it seems to have no effect.
Meanwhile, Uriel and Arm go toward the open doorway to the right. Pushing the door fully open, Uriel sees a dwarf and a half-orc fighting. Both are armored, and at first glance it's hard to tell who attacked whom.
Unfortunately, nobody spotted the one lurking down the hall. The half-elf steps out of the shadows and throws something in Evan's direction. The throwing star strikes true [I critted! Sorry!]. Evan takes 9 points damage and feels an odd tingling sensation at the site of the wound. [Evan make a Fort save DC 13 or be rendered unconscious].
Mira keeps an eye on the stairs, but nothing seems to be coming up. Sounds of struggle continue coming from down the hall, however, and you think you hear a muffled voice cry for help.
Conner d20+7=15 d8+3=7 Sunday April 18th, 2004 8:35:33 PM
"Lay down your weapon or face my blade!" Conner yells out at the elf as he charges. If the elven woman disengages from her attack on the rooms occupant, Conner will halt his own attack, otherwise he swings his longsword at her [Hit AC=15, 7 dmg; Hit AC=17 if flanking].
"Qelm, where is your mage? It is he that they are after!
Kadaz d20+5=25 d10+3=9 d10+3=6 Sunday April 18th, 2004 9:08:36 PM
Kadaz moves into the room and tries to get in position to also swing at the woman. He will try to use the flat of his axe in order to subdue the woman, not kill her. (to hit roll 25, natural 20; subdual damage 9, 15 if you can roll a critical subdual)
Mira (AC 13, 10 HP) d4+1=4 Sunday April 18th, 2004 10:53:43 PM
Mira spins to look for Evan's attacker and spots the half-elf down the hallway. Anger wells up inside the sorceress and she thrusts her hand towards the half-elf, uttering templa pilini as she does so. A single ball of energy flies from her finger tips and strikes the half-elf in the chest [magic missile , 4 hp]
Uriel {AC:16 HP:12} Sunday April 18th, 2004 11:04:44 PM
Concerned with Arm's hatred for those of orc-blood, Uriel says,"Arm, these 2 are engaged and seem to know what they are doing. They are also armored so they don't have much chance of surprising us if we keep an ear out for them. Remember we don't know which is the attacker and which is the defender regardless of your own past experience. Let's just keep an ear out for them and go to help the others." During his words Uriel tries to catch Arm's eye and maintain contact while he speaks.
If all goes well, we will leave these two to follow the sounds of combat down the hall.
Uriel Sunday April 18th, 2004 11:06:17 PM
{OOC: Sorry about that, I didn't mean to force Arm into some action. I should have only spoken for Uriel not Uriel and Arm}
Arm Monday April 19th, 2004 6:20:38 AM
Arm's eyes again blaze at the sight of the half-orc, but then also hears the voice of Uriel. Slumping his shoulders somewhat, he looks at Uriel and says, "Be they friend or be they foe, none should be allowed to live, but for now at least, it's life shall be spared....for now. Let us see if Conner and the rest need our assistance.". Casting a last baleful glance at the half-orc, he spits and follows Uriel on to the next area.
OOC: No sweat, Uriel...not a problem....actually, that was quite well posted.. :-)
Evan (unconscious 0hp) d20+6=16 Monday April 19th, 2004 1:41:03 PM
The throwing star hits Evan in the back of the neck, dropping him instantly. Blood slowly oozes around the edge of the embedded metal.
DM Kathy d20+4=12 d20+4=15 d20+4=18 d6+2=6 d20+9=13 d20+9=23 d20+4=17 3d6(4+4+3)=11 d20+8=10 Monday April 19th, 2004 9:16:59 PM
Connor calls for the elf woman's surrender, but she does not drop her weapon, so he takes a slash at her. His strike draws blood.
Qelm steps in, giving Kadaz room to move up behind him, and swings his cudgel again. This time he has more luck, landing a solid blow. "Down the hall on the left," he gasps in answer to Connor.
Kadaz takes the opportunity to attempt a non-lethal strike of his own, which also connects. Birdie moves into the room, too, and begins barking with excitement.
Intent on her quarry, the elf woman ignores Connor, Kadaz, and Qelm to advance on the unknown man with axes whirling. She connects three times.
Bleeding badly, the man catches up a warhammer to defend himself. He swings, but misses.
Uriel and Arm move out of the room and back toward the longer hallway, where they find Evan swaying on his feet, a throwing star embedded in his neck.
[0 HP is disabled, not unconscious. Evan is awake and can move, but shouldn't try anything strenuous--like fighting.]
Uriel shoves past Evan to confront the half-elf, and Arm, too, makes his way into the hall.
Mira manages to swap places with Evan and lets loose a Magic Missile, which connects.
The half-elf advances on Uriel, striking at him with flying fists, but is unable to penetrate his armor.
Sounds of combat continue from the room with the dwarf and the half-orc, and from down the hall behind the half-elf.
[Everybody please keep in mind: a natural 20 is not an automatic critical hit. You have to confirm it. And since I am absolutely prohibited from making rolls for players, I can't do it for you.]
Conner d20+3=22 d20+3=22 d20+2=7 d8+3=9 d8+3=8 Monday April 19th, 2004 9:46:38 PM
The lust of battle upon him, Conner presses his attack and strikes true with his sword [Hit AC=22, Critical for 17 dmg]. He follows with a wild swing of his shield.
"Kadaz! Find the mage...down the hall to the left" Conner will follow if the elven woman falls.
Mira d8+1=6 Monday April 19th, 2004 10:10:04 PM
Mira threads a supporting arm around Evan's waist and brings a small flask to his lips. "Drink, this will make you feel better" [CLW = 6 HP]With a grimace she pulls the offending weapon from the ranger's neck and pockets the bloody souvenir.
Uriel {AC:16 HP:12} d20+3=20 2d6(4+6)+3=13 Tuesday April 20th, 2004 12:14:02 AM
Uriel say, "Ambush! Down the left hall!"
He moves forward closing with the shadowy half-elf. With his longer reach, Uriel is able to keep the attacker at bay. When the opportunity presents itself, Uriel thrusts a mighty lunge at the half elf {AC:20 DMG:13}.
"How do you like when your attacker is facing you, cowardly dog?" Uriel yells through gritted teeth.
Arm d20+1=4 Tuesday April 20th, 2004 6:50:16 AM
Arm joins Uriel in attacking the half-elf, but apparently his preoccupation with the half-orc in the nearby room has yet again thrown off his concentration, for he misses miserably
OOC: Since I haven't been able to see the map, I assumed that I am able to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Uriel in the hallway against the half-elf. If we both can't fit, then please ignore the above actions, and I'll replace it with preparing my crossbow to fire over Uriel's shoulder the next round.
Kadaz d20+1=9 d20+5=15 Tuesday April 20th, 2004 7:55:01 AM
Kadaz abrubtly breaks off and runs out of the room. Out in the cooridor he shouts to any of the party members he can find "The one we seek is to the left" and he points to his left to ensure that no one is confused with the "His left or my left?" question. He heads for the cooridor which heads off to his left in order to reinforce what is going on there. On the way he fails to spot any threat to the party (spot check 9).
Birdie, close on Kadaz's heals, spots the half elf hiding in the shadow, growls, but keeps following Kadaz. (spot check 15)
Uriel Tuesday April 20th, 2004 8:24:00 AM
{OOC: Kadaz how can you fail to miss Arm and Uriel in Hand-to-Hand with the half elf down the left passageway :) I didn't think you were that short}
Evan d20+6=11 d20+6=14 Tuesday April 20th, 2004 8:55:01 AM
(I think it has to do with having no map cause the last map I saw had Uriel and Arm in a room to the right. Evan and Mira would be blocking the corridor to the left since Evan didn't collapse)
Evan gratefully glups down the potion, immediately feeling the itching tingle as the flesh on the back of his neck begins to close. His eyes and lips offer thanks to the beautiful woman at his side. Kadaz shout galvanizes Evan causing him to move in the direction Kadaz is pointing.
(spot-11, listen-14)
Evan (amended post) Tuesday April 20th, 2004 2:00:04 PM
(I have discovered that I cannot see Kadaz)
Evan gratefully glups down the potion, immediately feeling the itching tingle as the flesh on the back of his neck begins to close. His eyes and lips offer thanks to the beautiful woman at his side. Now that Uriel and Arm have squeezed past Mira and himself, Evan turns towards the room they left with the sounds of combat. While Uriel may feel as if they were no threat, Evan does not. He moves towards the door of the room to the right with the intention of holding whoever wins that battle in the room until everything is sorted out. And while he's at it, he wriggles his shoulders and neck, trying to ease the lingering pain there.
DM Kathy d20+7=23 d6+2=7 d20+12=22 d20+7=11 d8+5=6 d20+4=19 d20+4=21 d8+1=2 d20+9=19 d20+9=13 d20+4=12 d6=3 d6=1 d20+2=21 d6+2=8 d20+8=27 d8+3=6 d8+1=4 Tuesday April 20th, 2004 10:39:48 PM
Connor takes another slash at the elf woman, and again scores a hit. She is clearly hurt, but still fighting fit. She is not, for example, in nearly as bad of shape as the man she's attacking, even after Qelm scores another hit with his cudgel.
Her axes flash again, and connect twice. The man staggers, but does not quite go down. He answers with a blow from his warhammer, and--well, now she does look as bad as he does. Both are clearly hurt, yet both seem determined to continue the fight--he for survival, and she for his death.
Uriel faces the half-elf with a blow and a taunt. He is hurt, but can clearly take a bit more. "I like it just fine," he snarls in response, then attacks Uriel in his turn. He draws no weapon, seeming to prefer his bare hands. He strikes twice, doing damage each time (2 points and 4 points, for a total of 6).
Behind Uriel, Arm struggles to find a position. Unfortunately, the hall isn't wide enough for them to fight effectively side-by-side, so he readies his crossbow.
Kadaz breaks off his attack and heads back down the other corridor, Birdie at his heels. He can reach the room where the half-orc and the dwarf are fighting, or he can open the closed door [I wasn't sure which one you wanted to do].
Thinking quickly, Mira feeds Evan a healing potion. Feeling somewhat restored, Evan moves to the other open doorway and arrives in time to see the half-orc strike the dwarf with his short sword, and the dwarf return the favor with his urgosh. "Be you friend or foe of the Oaken Shields?" the dwarf gasps as you enter.
Conner d20+3=9 d20+2=4 Tuesday April 20th, 2004 11:31:42 PM
Conner lashes out once again at the woman but fails miserably in his attempt to strike the agile elf. "Get behind her Qelm!" he rasps.
Mira d20+3=16 d3=3 Tuesday April 20th, 2004 11:40:07 PM
Mira stands her ground in the hallway, ready to back up Uriel in anyway she can. She readies a spell, should a clear line of fire open between the half-elf and herself [Ray of Frost Hit AC=16 Ranged Touch Attack for 3 dmg].
Uriel {AC:16 HP:6/12} d20+3=16 2d6(4+6)+3=13 Wednesday April 21st, 2004 1:21:05 AM
Uriel backs a step, surprised by the damage the half-elf inflicted with his fists.
To attempt to cover his surprise, Uriel boasts,"I almost feel sorry for you being weaponless, almost."
Uriel swings through again. {AC:16 DMG:13}
Arm d20=14 d8=3 Wednesday April 21st, 2004 5:49:19 AM
Arm, crossbow now ready, fires a shot at what he assumes to be a monk over the shoulder of Uriel.
Arm - OOC Wednesday April 21st, 2004 5:52:05 AM
I wasn't sure if I'd incur a penalty to my attack roll with the "over the shoulder shot", so please adjust if necessary, Kathy :-) Attk: 14 Dmg: 3
Evan Wednesday April 21st, 2004 5:54:14 AM
Evan remains in the doorway to the room but swaps out the throwing axe in his right hand for a longsword. In response to the dwarf's question, believing that attackers would not have posed such a question, Evan steps to the right, coming up behind the half-orc. The point of his sword presses firmly into the back of the half-orc's neck. With a voiceless appeal, Evan prays to Domi that the dwarf won't kill the half-orc while Evan has him at bay.
Kadaz Wednesday April 21st, 2004 6:30:10 AM
Kadaz throws open the closed door on the hallway and looks inside, ready to enter if there is a battle going on in this room also, especially so if there appears to be a mage involved.
DM Kathy d20+7=13 d20+12=15 d20+7=9 d8+5=7 d20+4=15 d20+4=16 d8+1=7 d20+9=23 d20+9=14 d20+4=10 d6=6 d6=4 d20+2=13 Wednesday April 21st, 2004 10:53:01 PM
This time, Connor misses the elf attacker. Her axes flash again, and this time her human quarry goes down, bleeding badly.
Qelm looks startled at Connor's shouted command, then a little abashed that he hadn't thought of it; he slides sideways before striking agin with his cudgel. He misses, and the elf woman turns to face you both. A feral, manic light shines in her eyes, and you realize that she really isn't all there.
Uriel's strike does damage, but the half-elf remains on his feet. "Feel sorry for yourself," he snarls, and lashes out again with his fists. His first blow doesn't quite penetrate Uriel's armor, but the second one gets through for 7 points damage.
Arm's shot goes wide.
[Yes, Arm's and Mira's ranged attacks would be at -4 for shooting into melee. Mira, let me know if you let that ray go or held it.]
Behind the half-elf, one of the closed doors is flun open and an unarmored human man dashes into the corridor. "Meri! Alika!" he cries. "Are you all right?" He looks at the group in the hallway, but seems unable to tell which ones are on his side. He moves to the open doorway and looks inside.
Kadaz flings open the door, but these Spartan quarters appear unoccupied.
Evan steps up next to the half-orc and hold his sword on him, but the half-orc steps away and swings at the dwarf again. He doesn't connect, and the dwarf counters with another solid blow from his urgosh.
[Evan, if you try to move all the way behind the half-orc, you'll provoke. If that's what you want to do, let me know. Sometimes ya just gotta provoke an AoO and take it like a man :) ]
Conner [AC=17, 12 HP] d20+5=19 d20+4=18 d8+3=7 d6+3=4 Wednesday April 21st, 2004 11:20:22 PM
Conner steps slightly to one side and flanks the woman with Qelm. He strikes swiftly with his sword and spiked shield in succession. [Hit AC = 19 and 18 for 7 and 4 dmg]. Any questions about the righteousness of his actions were dispelled by the crazed look in the woman's eyes. "Who are these people?" he asks Qelm between strikes.
Mira Wednesday April 21st, 2004 11:23:26 PM
Mira continues to wait for a clear opportunity to cast her spell and hopes that Uriel will be able to overcome the half-elf without her assistance. She maintains her focus, looking for an opening to cast her ray.
Uriel {Unconscious) Wednesday April 21st, 2004 11:45:20 PM
Uriel tries desperately to evade the bludgeoning fists from the half-elf, succeeding in only stopping the first attack. The second attack catches Uriel clean in the jaw and drops him like a bale of hay. Uriel falls to the floor in a loud clanging of armor and sword and lies still, blood oozing from an open wound along his jawline.
Arm d20+1=18 d8+1=7 Thursday April 22nd, 2004 6:04:47 AM
Arm drops his crossbow and draws his sword. He steps over his fallen comrade, concerned but more concerned with taking out the half-elf before more damage can be done. Sword swinging, he connects solidly (attk=18 dmg=7).
Kadaz d20+5=15 d10+3=4 d20+2=3 Thursday April 22nd, 2004 6:55:31 AM
Kadaz runs back into the hallway to the junction where the battle. Uriel's crashing to the floor was enough to alert Kadaz to the threat and this time he does notice the enemy standing there, with Arm engaged in combat and Uriel bleeding on the floor. Kadaz reaches to a fancy seal on his armor and activates it (seal of close quarters).
Kadaz steps up into the same square as Arm and swings at the half-elf. (to hit 15, damage 4). Kadaz also shouts "Birdie to me. Attack!" Birdie also somehow squeezed into the corridor beside Arm and Kadaz and bites at the enemy that Kadaz is fighting (attack 3, natural 1) but being in such close quarters with two others is very confusing and Birdie gnashes the wall with his teeth.
Evan (ac: 15; hp 6/9) d20+4=24 d20+4=19 d8+3=5 d8+3=11 Thursday April 22nd, 2004 3:07:50 PM
Evan groans to himself. He had hoped the half-orc would just surrender but his inability to talk kept him from being able to demand a surrender. Evan lunges forward, scoring a strike on the half-orc, his blade easily penetrating the half-orc's armor.
(to hit-24 nat 20, dam-5 roll for crit-19, dam-11)
DM Kathy d20+8=26 d20+8=28 d20+8=16 d8+1=8 d8+1=3 d8+1=7 d20+8=19 d20+3=7 d8+2=4 d20+10=15 d4=4 d4=3 d4=3 d20+2=11 Thursday April 22nd, 2004 9:54:31 PM
Connor moves to flank the crazed elf, then lashes out with his spiked shield. He is ready to follow with his sword, but there is no need; the woman drops.
"I thank you, friend, for your aid," Qelm gasps, rushing to the side of the downed human. He tries to stanch the man's wounds, but with little effect.
Uriel falls when the half-elf strikes him. Mira is able to use the brief time between Uriel's fall and Arm's attack to launch her ray. A bolt of frigid air strikes the man, and he staggers.
Then Arm steps up and lands a solid blow with his sword. Kadaz comes barreling around the corner, breaking a seal, and somehow manages to wedge himself in beside arm to deliver a blow of his own. Birdie misses his strike, but it doesn't matter. The half-elf falls.
"Meri!" cries the man in the hallway, and begins to mumble an incantation, making arcane passes with his hands. As he does so, a leather-armored halfling comes running from the same room the man exited a few seconds ago. He pauses and throws a dart at the man, but it seems to bounce off an invicible forcefield. The man finishes his incantation and throws--some kind of spell--into the room he's facing; it's hard to tell what it is from this angle. (Although anybody with Spellcraft can make a check if they like.)
Evan's blow fells the half-orc. "I thank ye, friend," the dwarf pants. Running for the door, he asks, "how many more are there?"
Not waiting for an answer (which is perhaps just as well), he goes running down the hall bellowing for Qelm.
Conner [AC=17, 12 HP] d20+1=8 Thursday April 22nd, 2004 10:42:39 PM
Conner tries to assist Qelm in treating his friend but to no avail and leaves him to treat his friend as best he can. "Keep an eye on that one while you're at it...I'll send help as soon as it can be spared." Conner rushes out of the room and down the hall just in time to see a man casting some kind of a spell. "Oaken Sheilds to me!" he yells.
Mira d20+7=18 Thursday April 22nd, 2004 11:19:19 PM
When the man in the hall-way starts to mumble and wave his hands in the air, Mira recognizes the tell-tale signs of a spell being woven. The sorcerer raises her hands to her head, pressing her fingers to her temple and stares unblinkingly at the caster. Her lips move as secret and powerful words are spoken in a whisper as she attempts to identify the magic. (Spellcraft=18)
Uriel Friday April 23rd, 2004 12:46:28 AM
*drip* *drip*
Arm d8=5 Friday April 23rd, 2004 6:42:29 AM
Seeing no immediate danger, Arm says to Kadaz, "Stand guard, my friend!" then kneels beside Uriel, pulls a vial from his pack and holds it to the fallen paladin's lips (cure light wounds - 2 doses in vial - 5 pts).
Kadaz d20+5=18 d10+3=13 Friday April 23rd, 2004 7:26:13 AM
Kadaz sees no immediate danager to Arm and Uriel, but the mage ahead may be in more trouble. He raises his axe, steps over the body of the half-elf in front of him, and moves down the hall. He then tries to bury his axe in the back of the halfling who is threatening the mage (to hit 18, damage 13). "We're with Qelm" he yells at the mage, hoping not to get a spell in the face.
DM Kathy d20+1=19 d20+8=12 d20+8=25 d8+1=8 d20+8=11 d20+3=7 d20+6=12 d20+2=4 Sunday April 25th, 2004 10:04:13 PM
Connor races into the hallway, shouting "Oaken Shields to me!"--which identifies him as a friend even if it isn't the easiest order to follow. The hallway is getting crowded.
The dwarf from the other room pauses there uncertainly, as does Evan.
Mira is able to recognize the spell the man is casting as good ol' Magic Missile.
Arm pours a healing potion into Uriel, who regains consciousness. (Right?)
Kadaz, too, identifies himself as a friend of the Shields, then attacks the halfling. His axe draws blood. Birdie trails behind his master.
The mage, meanwhile, disappears into the open doorway, presumably trying to get out of range of the halfling's darts.
The halfling takes a step back and begins to cast a spell. Again, you can make Spellcraft checks if you like, although the thick mist that immediately fills the hallway is probably your best clue.
Kadaz can still (barely) make out the halfling through the mist, but none of the others can see him.
Arm Monday April 26th, 2004 6:06:46 AM
Seeing that Uriel's peril has been avoided for the time being, Arm rises and stores the remainder of the potion in his pack. Noticing a closed door to his right, he readies his sword and attempts to open it.
Kadaz d20+5=13 d10+3=12 Monday April 26th, 2004 7:12:11 AM
Kadaz steps up and presses his attack on the halfling in front him, his axe almost disappearing into the mist in front of his face as he swings. (attack roll 13, damage 12)
Evan (ac: 15; hp 6/9) d20+4=14 Monday April 26th, 2004 12:09:20 PM
Seeing that the hallway is cluttered with people, making movement fairly impossible, Evan returns to the half-orc to search his body for any evidence of who he is and who might have hired him.
(search-14)
Mira d20+3=14 Monday April 26th, 2004 7:19:47 PM
Fearing that she is just as likely to harm one of her co-horts as she is to help them in the crowded hallway, Mira carefully backs up. As she approaches the doorway of what appears to be the last room she peeks in (Search=14) to see if she can be of any assistance. "Oaken Shields?" she asks hesitantly, repeating Conner's earlier call.
Conner [AC=17, 12 HP] Monday April 26th, 2004 8:35:09 PM
"Mira" the fighter yells, "help Qelm with the injured if you can!" Conner, sword drawn, makes for the open door down the hall on his right. He stays close to the wall and keeps his shield raised in a defensive posture [Fighting defensively, effective AC=19]
DM Kathy d20+10=15 d20+2=18 Monday April 26th, 2004 10:34:09 PM
Evan goes back to the body of the half-orc. He finds equipment, but nothing to identify the owner.
(Everybody keep in mind, you can move through squares occupied by an ally. And by this time, the Oaken Shields pretty much know you're allies.)
Mira moves down the hall to be ready when Arm opens the door.
The door opens quite easily under Arm's hand, and he pushes it open to reveal yet another chamber. A humanoid figure is lying facedown in a spreading pool of blood.
From behind you, the dwarf gasps. "Alika!" he cries, and runs into the room to kneel beside the figure.
Kadaz strikes at the halfling, but he nimbly dodges out of the way, then retreats into the mist until he is lost from sight. Connor comes down the hallway to join him. (I wasn't sure which doorway you meant; they're all open by now.)
Arm Tuesday April 27th, 2004 6:08:58 AM
Seeing that there's very little he can do here, Arm ventures out into the hallway to check on Uriel.
Conner [AC=17, 12 HP] Tuesday April 27th, 2004 7:43:11 AM
Conner continues down the hall until he reaches the door that the mage entered. If the mage is still engaged in combat, Conner will go to his assistance.
Kadaz d20+1=5 Tuesday April 27th, 2004 1:08:29 PM
Kadaz advances into the mist. The mage disappeared into an open door on the right hand of the corridor. Kadaz will walk ahead, axe ready, and try to find that door. As he does so he shouts back to the group. "An unarmored man came out of a door, followed by an armored halfling. I hit the halfling once but the halfling cast this mist spell. I think they went to the right down here. I'm looking for them." Kadaz walks carefully head, not able to see much of anything. (spot roll 5).
Uriel {AC:16 HP5/12} Tuesday April 27th, 2004 1:51:05 PM
Uriel shakes off the effects of the punch and looks around seeing the figure in a pool of blood in the room nearby, he heads in and if he can make it and still take an action, will assess whether or not a tap of the wand will help the downed figure.
Evan (ac: 15; hp 6/9) d20+6=22 d20+6=16 Tuesday April 27th, 2004 6:00:14 PM
Evan returns to the hall and moves towards the group. His senses are alert for any sign of danger when he reaches Mira. INstead of following the rest of the party to the left, he turns right and heads for the window at the end of the hallway with every intention of opening it to create a cross breeze to blow the mist away. (listen-22, spot-16)
Mira d8+1=8 Tuesday April 27th, 2004 7:21:05 PM
Mira quickly moves to the side of the prone woman, opposite the distraught drawf. With one hand craddling the woman's head, she carefully rolls 'Alika' over on her back. Inclining her head and bringing her ear close to the woman's mouth Mira listens for sounds of breathing as she watches for any movement of the woman's chest. The smallest sign will encourage the sorcerer, who will then lift a small vial of medicine to the woman's lips. (CLW for 8 pts.) If the woman shows signs of improvement, but is still not conscious, Mira will encourage Uriel to tap her with the wand.
OOC: 'Uriel' are you keeping track of the # of charges left in the wand? I think we are at 15, not counting any that you use for Alika.
DM Kathy d20+10=11 d20+4=10 Tuesday April 27th, 2004 9:30:30 PM
Arm goes to check on Uriel, but the paladin seems fine. He and Mira go into the room to check on the woman.
Unfortunately, she is quite dead.
Evan, meanwhile, goes to the end of the hall and opens the window. It's a balmy day, though, and although there's some breeze outside, it probably isn't going to be enough to clear out the mist.
Kadaz and Conner make their way down the hallway and through the door, and exit the mist just in time to see the halfling fling a dart at the human man and miss. The man, in turn, begins to chant some strange incantation, but breaks off when you arrive.
Toward the other side of the room you see two women, a human wearing leather armor and an unarmored elf. Both seem to be unconscious.
Qelm comes out of the back room. "Wulfhelm!" he shouts, looking around. "What happened to Alika?"
Kadaz d20+5=14 d10+3=6 d20+2=11 d20+1=8 Tuesday April 27th, 2004 10:18:35 PM
Kadaz swings his axe at the halfling while yelling "Birdie, attack." Birdie jumps forward and bites at the halfling but misses. Who are these other people? And what happened to them?
(Kadaz attack 14, damage 6) (Birdie attack 11)
(extra roll of 8)
Conner [AC=17, 12 HP] Tuesday April 27th, 2004 10:46:37 PM
The tatooed fighter assumes a defensive stance holding his spiked shield protectively in front of himself and the human mage. Keeping his eyes on what is directly in front of him, he asks the man behind him, "are the fallen of the Oaken Shield as well?"
OOC: Effective AC 19Fighting Defensively
Mira Wednesday April 28th, 2004 12:16:53 AM
The sorcerer gently lays the woman's head back on the ground, and shakely rises to her feet. Mira remains dry eyed, but her mind is troubled.
First a barroom missunderstanding leading to a curse on the young Kethlorn, and now death and destruction in the Oaken Shield headquarters? Is this what it means to be an adventurer?
Mira shakes her head, then looks up and about her, noticing that the drawf, Qelm, has left,
Best find Evan, Uriel, Arm, and the others and get to the bottom of this mystery
Mira exits the room, softly closing the door behind her, and follows the sound of Qelm's voice...
Arm Wednesday April 28th, 2004 5:45:14 AM
Comforted by the fact that Uriel has recovered, at least somewhat, Arm meets Mira in the hallway and, hearing Qelm's voice as well, heads off with her to find him.
Evan (ac: 15; hp 6/9) d20+6=8 d20+6=21 Wednesday April 28th, 2004 9:44:35 AM
Evan drops the throwing axe back into the pouch to free up his left hand. He heads down the hall, smiling to MIra and Arm as he passes them. When he reaches the mist, he places his hand on the left wall and continues into the mist. When he reaches the open doorway, he ducks inside and to the right, placing the wall to his back, bringing his sword up in a defensive posture.
(listen-8; spot-21)
Uriel {AC:16 HP:5/12} d8=6 Wednesday April 28th, 2004 7:08:34 PM
"Stout friend. I can see that your comrade was very dear to you. I wish there was something more I could do for you. I am still wounded so I am going to heal myself. If you need healing, let me know." {OOC:Wand Use:6 points back. Amn, you had moved away from me by the time I recovered so I am just playing as though I don't know who healed me...I will thank you proper when the time comes :) Also, does someone else think they could post participation for this week - I am away and I don't have my files handy...}
DM Kathy d20+9=23 d4-1=3 d20+4=23 Wednesday April 28th, 2004 10:26:17 PM
Kadaz and Birdie both strike at the halfling, but both miss the nimble little man. Connor moves to interpose his shield between the mage and the halfling.
Seeing that his quarry is now behind Connor, the halfling now attacks the tattooed warrior, drawing his short sword and hitting him for 3 points damage, despite the carefully fixed shield.
"One of them is," the mage says in response to Connor's question, then he begins another incantation. He shifts into the corner to get a better angle, then launches the spell.
Tiny, glittering particles suddenly fill the air near the end of the bed. They cover the halfling, but don't reach any of the party. The halfling chokes a bit as the glittering dust fills the air, but seems to suffer no ill effects.
Mira and Arm move into the hallway. Evan moves down the hallway and into the room the mage came out of (you just wanted to make me draw more furniture :) ). The room is deserted.
"Later," the dwarf says in response to Uriel's offer. Seeing that he can do nothing for this companion, he moves down the hall toward the sound of fighting. "Alika's gone," he calls to Qelm. "How's Pyotor?"
"Stable," Qelm replies. To Uriel he says, "Friend, if you can heal our cleric with that wand of yours we would have more healing at our disposal."
Conner [AC=17, 9 HP] d20+3=17 d8+3=9 d20+2=15 d6+3=7 Wednesday April 28th, 2004 11:19:00 PM
The fighter slashes back at the halfling with his longsword [Hit AC=17 for 9 HP] and follows up with his shield [Hit AC=15 for 7 HP]. "Pesky Gnat" he utters under his breath.
Mira (AC 13, 10 HP) d4+1=3 Wednesday April 28th, 2004 11:21:36 PM
Mira makes her way down the hall and into the room. Upon seeing the halfling locked in combat with Conner, she once again casts her spell and sends a missile of energy into the halfling [magic missilefor 3 HP]
Arm Thursday April 29th, 2004 5:46:36 AM
Arm accompanies Mira into the room, and seeing that 3 people (including herself) are already engaged with the halfling, pauses a moment to see the results of their attacks, sheathing his sword and readying his crossbow should it be needed.
Evan (ac: 15; hp 6/9) d20+4=6 Thursday April 29th, 2004 10:06:19 AM
Following the sound of voices, Evan comes into the room where the halfling is fighting a valient last stand. Evan moves up next to Conner and strikes out at the halfling with the flat of his blade. Unfortunately, as he was also trying to avoid Birdie, he swung too high and missed the halfling.
Kadaz d20+5=18 d10+3=8 d20+2=6 d20-3=17 Thursday April 29th, 2004 1:14:13 PM
Kadaz is getting really angry at this halfing now. So many swings, so few hits. "Aaaargh" he yells as he swings yet again and this time he feels he should land a good blow. Birdie also bites but again manages to close his jaws only on thin air.
"My mates are coming and the way out is blocked. Surrender now and live. You'll be treated fairly." If Kadaz can't beat this guy into submission maybe he can reasoned with.
Uriel {AC:16 HP:11/12} d8=8 Thursday April 29th, 2004 5:30:44 PM
Uriel nods at the Dwarf's reply. Uriel turns to Qelm, "Of course, Qelm. Take me to him and I will help at once."
{If we can reach him and act this round, I will heal the cleric for 8 points}
DM Kathy Thursday April 29th, 2004 9:36:37 PM
Conner strikes a solid blow with his sword, but misses with his shield. Mira plinks the halfling with a Magic Missile. Evan misses, but Kadaz strikes true, and the halfling drops. Arm finds that his crossbow is not needed.
Qelm leads Uriel into the back room, where the unarmored human man was fighting the crazed elf woman. He gestures toward the man. "Pyotor is our cleric. I managed to stabilize him, but he still unconscious, as you see."
Uriel uses the wand and heals him for 8 points, enough to revive him. He then sets about healing others, first stabilizing his companions, then the attackers, then healing your group back to full.
Alika, rogue of the Fellowship of the Oaken Shields, is dead, but the others have all survived, thanks largely to your intervention. As everyone drifts together in Pyotor's room to discuss what happened and what to do next, the Fellowship all express their gratitude to you for intervening when you did.
"You were enough to turn the tide," says the dwarf, Wulfhelm.
Mira d20+5=23 d20+2=12 Friday April 30th, 2004 12:25:37 AM
Mira wipes her palms on her pants. They itch and tingle after the recent bout of spell slinging. When Wulfhelm has said his piece, the sorcerer repositions her glasses on her nose, and brushes back a stray whisp of hair, before addressing the Shields.
Fixing the mage with her green eyes, Mira says, "We are here to ask a favour of you, nay, we are here to appraise you of a responsibility and a debt we fear you owe to one who is unknown to you!"
Mira looks to her companions for support before continuing, "these past few days we have been trying to solve the mystery of an innocent youth inexplicably stuck down and in a magic coma of sorts. Our search has brought us here, in search of your group, and your mage!"
With seriousness and intensity (Diplomacy=23), Mira will explain how Baldis approached them with the dilemma of his son, Kethlorn and the boy's mysterious affliction. She will touch on some of the findings the group has made, but she will speak little of the dead-ends encountered. She will briefly mention the set-up in the alley, but omit mentioning the fatalities. When she gets to the part about their discovery of the drunken spell casting, she gets a little angry. Biting back any bitter condemnation, she looks to the bard and paladin, "Arm. Uriel. Maybe you can explain the rest?" Mira steps back, and moves to stand beside Evan, but she keeps her eyes on the mage to gauge his reaction. (Sense Motive=12)
Uriel d20+3=21 Friday April 30th, 2004 12:42:25 AM
Uriel will continue with the details of the affliction from the standpoint of the findings of the cleric of Domi, describing her thoughts on the possible curse.
Uriel reflects, "The power that one earns through devout worship to a greater Power or through arcane research and experimentation requires great responsibility as well. When we err or stray in our responsibilities, we must do our best to make right the wrongs." {Diplomacy roll:21}
Evan Friday April 30th, 2004 8:35:22 AM
As Mira speaks, Evan stands at her shoulder, a hand resting on the small of her back as he offers his support for her words. He gives her hand a squeeze as well as offering a soft smile when she steps back to stand next to him. He slips a potion of cure light wounds from his pouch and presses it into her hand to replace the one she used on him. When they return to their quarters, he'll replace the one from his pouch with the one in his backpack.
Kadaz Friday April 30th, 2004 9:17:47 AM
During the exposition Kadaz stacks the bodies of the dead invaders up at the top of the stairs. He takes this opportunity to search each body for useful items and money. He does not touch the body of the dead rogue, leaving that one to Qelm. If Qelm directs, he will move the bodies to a different place.
Arm d20=20 Friday April 30th, 2004 10:01:00 AM
Arm adds to Uriels statements by saying, "We can understand your reluctance to venture to that area, being that you are in a difficult state. We are prepared to bring the boy to YOU so that you can remove the curse from him. His father wishes no ill will toward ANY of you...his only wish is to have his boy brought back to him. What say you, then?". {diplomacy=20) After saying this, he remembers the half-orc, but before he leaves he catches the eye of Uriel upon him...almost as if he read his mind...and, thinking better of it, stays put.
Conner Friday April 30th, 2004 11:15:03 PM
"In case my companions have not made it clear, we know that you mistakenly cast this curse on the boy, and are responsible for the affliction."
Conner sheathes his sword and slings his sheild on his back. Unarmed he moves up close to the mage. "We've come to your aid friend, now come to the aid of the boy" he says just loud enough to be heard by the man before him.
DM Kathy Sunday May 2nd, 2004 4:48:21 PM
The Fellowship of the Oaken Shield grow more and more somber as the tale unfolds--except for Qelm their servant, who stands with his arms folded and a stern "I-told-you-so" expression on his face.
The mage looks particularly pale. "I-I didn't know," he says helplessly. "I mean, I knew it could hurt somebody, but I was so angry...."
Pyotor, the cleric, adds, "And we did go and check on Kedloren the next day, and he was fine. How could we have known..." he breaks off, shaking his head.
"I'll undo it, of course," the mage says. He gives a shaky laugh. "Mind you, I don't know how. I don't remeber very well how I cast it. But I'll come along with you now and do what I can. My friends can handle things here."
The others give their assent to this plan, and the mage rises, ready to accompany you to Baldis's shop.
Kadaz finds a few coins on the bodies, but nothing else of note. With Martrus, the young mage, in tow, you cross the river to the Guild Quarter and reach Baldis's shop around mid-afternoon. Zully is outside, playing a solo game that seems to involve a lot of jumping. She looks up and sees you, then runs inside the shop.
Baldis greets you eagerly at the door. "My friends, what have you learned?"
Mira d20+5=24 d20+4=12 Sunday May 2nd, 2004 7:17:07 PM
As the party make their way through the twisting streets and alleys of Plateau City Mira will walk beside Martrus, of the Oaken Shields, but speak loud enough for the party to hear, "Baldis is the father, and Kethlorn the son. We will introduce you as one who may be able to lift the curse, but we will not disclose you as he who set it. This would likely upset the father dreadfully, and he may not let you minister to his son." Mira's green eyes flash, as she seeks the support of her fellow adventurers before continuing. "Once the boy is resusitated you can make amends to the family, as is appropriate." (Diplomacy=23)
Curious as to why the Oaken Shields were under attack, Mira will enquire into the matter. "Who else have you affronted? You and the others were certainly not sparring with friends back there?" (Gather Info=12) The sorcerer's brow furrows as she remembers the dead rogue lying in a pool of blood.
Uriel d20+4=24 Sunday May 2nd, 2004 10:39:27 PM
When Uriel learns that it was Arm's quick turn with a healing potion that revived him, Uriel will turn to Arm. "Thank you, good friend. It is a rare thing to find people who you can trust unconditionally, that in the midst of harrowing circumstances will do best, and who know you to will do your best. When this is all done, I'd like to buy you a pint." To the others, "I think it wise what Mira says and I will support it the only way I can given that a lie by omission is still a lie. I will remain outside for if I go in and I am asked what happened I must tell it as I remember it." {When the group gets to Baldis - Uriel will hang outside and see if anyone is taking special notice of the either group Spot:24 Natural 20!}
Arm d20+2=3 Monday May 3rd, 2004 6:13:48 AM
Arm smiles at Uriel and says, "Thank you for the kind words, but I'm sure that if the situation were reversed, you'd do the same thing for me. However, a pint DOES sound good right about now...".
Arm remains outside the shop as well, to keep an eye on the passersby for signs of trouble, but the aftermath of the adrenaline rush of battle seems to have left him incapable of seeing much of anything of worth. (spot=3)
Conner Monday May 3rd, 2004 7:32:05 AM
Conner situates himself next to the mage as they make their way through the streets and alleys. The fighter is ready to defend Martrus should trouble break out. He nods his head in deference to Mira's plan and quietly follows the man into Baldis' house.
Kadaz d20+1=13 Monday May 3rd, 2004 8:15:51 AM
Kadaz and Birdie follow along the party, content with having the smarter ones deal with this issue. He keeps an eye out for trouble. (spot check 13)
DM Kathy Monday May 3rd, 2004 9:02:57 PM
"Kedloren is the only one I know of that we've offended," Martrus replies to Mira. "But he is wealthy and powerful, and was probably offended when he learned we had tried to curse him."
Baldis is overjoyed to hear that the curse might be lifted. "Come in, come inside," he says, waving you into the shop. Uriel, Arm, and Kadaz (right?) stay outside to keep an eye on things. Arm and Kadaz don't see anything out of the ordinary. Uriel does see a man looking at them as he passes by on the other side of the street. Meaningful? Hard to say. Your group does stand out as adventurers, more unusual in this part of town than in the Dragon Quarter, so perhaps it's natural for people to stare a bit. On the other hand....
At any rate, Uriel does not see the man again.
Inside, the others follow Baldis and Zully (who is still jumping, only now from excitement) up the stairs to the apartment. There is only room for some of you to climb up to the attic; Martrus goes, and Baldis, and Mira(?) Anybody else?
Kethlorn is still lying on the pallet, by now looking very pale. Looking at him, Martrus goes almost as pale as the boy. "I didn't know," he murmurs again, then goes over to the bedside. He looks helplessly up at Mira. "I suppose I'll just try to dismiss it? Like an ordinary spell?"
Grasping the boy's hand, he concentrates for a moment. He puts the hand back, and for a long moment, nothing happens. Then Kethlorn stirs, sighs, and opens his eyes. "Papa?" His voice cracks from days of thirst and disuse. He sounds alarmed.
"I'm here, Kethlorn," Baldis says, rushing over to embrace his son. "I'm right here." He chokes, then looks up, tears streaming down his face. "Thank you," he says, "Oh, thank you. I don't know what to--"
"Papa, who are these people?" Kethlorn demands, bewildered. Then, "I'm hungry."
Baldis beams through his tears. "He's hungry!" he exults. "Did you hear that? He's hungry." He gathers his son into another bear hug, and you strategically withdraw from the reunion.
A short time later, you are all gathered downstairs in the shop. Baldis, Zully, and Kethlorn are still up above, and Baldis has made you promise not to leave until he has spoken with you again.
Mira d20+7=21 Monday May 3rd, 2004 10:28:03 PM
Mira follows Baldis, and Martrus up the narrow stairs into Kethlorn's room. When the mage looks to her for support, Mira places a hand on his shoulder, and gives him a warm squeeze. The sorcerer's heart beats wildly and the turbulent coursing of her blood deafens her to any sounds about her as she concentrates on providing what support she can muster to the counter-spell (Aid Another/Spell Craft=21).
As Kethlorn wakes from his coma, Mira releases Martrus' shoulder, and sags a little against the wall smiling weakly at the mage. "Well done, brother," she whispers in a low voice.
The green eyed sorcerer will follow Martrus down the stairs to the shop, beaming, and give her party a 'thumbs up sign'.
Conner Monday May 3rd, 2004 10:37:45 PM
Conner sees Mira's signal, and heaves a sigh of relief. So the boy will be all right he thinks to himself.
The burly fighter stands just inside the door of the shop, to insure that no stranger intrudes on the little family's celebration and to guarantee the Oaken Shield's wayward mage doesn't slip away.
Uriel Monday May 3rd, 2004 10:42:40 PM
After hearing the muted shouts of joy from inside the shop, Uriel turns to Kadaz and Arm. "They must have been successful! Praise be to Domi that it was as simple as that." The paladin goes to the window and looks in to see the others. When Mira gives the thumbs up to confirm it, Uriel gasps, realizing he was holding his breath. He turns back to the street, leaning against the outside of the shop and closes his eyes and intones silently a prayer of thanks.
Arm Tuesday May 4th, 2004 6:03:41 AM
Seeing the thumbs up from Mira, Arm lets loose with a huge sigh of relief, grateful that this whole affair is almost over, with a joyous conclusion at that. Slapping Uriel soundly on the shoulder then shaking his hand to alleviate the stinging caused by hitting his armor, he enters the shop to converse further with the rest of the group. Approaching Mira, he smiles broadly and says, "I take it there were no difficulties?". After a short pause, he continues "Although I am grateful for a resolution to this, I cannot help but be concerned for the welfare of the remainder of the Oaken Shields. Although we are not under contract to them and neither do we owe them anything, they ARE adventurers like ourselves, and if it is true what you said, Martrus, Kedloren definitely has the means to hire more killers, so their nightmare is FAR from over. Also, if word gets out that we aided them, who's to say that WE will not be constantly targeted now as well?".
Evan Tuesday May 4th, 2004 8:16:54 AM
Evan waits in the front room while Mira and Martrus attend to the boy. The room is small and his knowledge of magic is very limited at the moment. He runs a sharpening stone along the edge of his blade while he waits for word from above.
When the two descend from above and Mira signals success with a raised thumb, Evan smiles with relief and puts away the sharpening stone. He understands why Conner sharpens his blades so much now, its a good way to keep the mind blank when there are things you don't want to think about. He listens alertly as the others begin discussing possible enemies of the Oaken Shields.
(I'm really sorry I haven't been able to post. A power outage has screwed up my comp so my posting may be sporadic until I get everything straighened out. Could someone e-mail the address list to me? kenjifox@comcast.net)thank you)
Kadaz Tuesday May 4th, 2004 10:44:25 AM
Out on the street Kadaz passes the time in small talk with Evan and Uriel, with an occassional comment to Conner just inside. The talk stops when joyous noise comes out of Kethlorn's room. Kadaz breaks out in a big grin and shouts "We did it!"
Birdie catches onto the excitement and starts jumping around and yelping a little. Kadaz bends down and picks up Birdie and swings him around a few times. "Good dog" he says.
DM Kathy Tuesday May 4th, 2004 8:03:23 PM
After a time, Baldis comes down from the apartment. "My friends, I cannot thank you enough," he says in a voice choked with emotion. He moves into the shop's small work area, retrieves a strongbox, and sighs. "I told you the other day that my children mean the world to me, and they do. Had I the means, I would shower you with riches." He opens the box and withdraws a small purse. "As it is, though, I'm afraid this is all the cash I can spare. Take it and welcome."
[OOC the pouch proves to contain 100 gold--that's total, not apiece]
"I have wealth, though, that is not measured in coin." He spreads his artisan's hands out on the workbench to illustrate. "I am a fine craftsman, perhaps one of the finest in the city. So in addition to the coin, I am offering each of you a custom leatherwork piece--jacket, vest, backpack, whatever you like. It will be my finest work; nothing else will do for those who saved my son." He smiles around at all of you. "And now, if you'll excuse me, I think I'll close early today. Stop by anytime to place your order."
Politely, he ushers you out of the shop, then hurries upstairs to be with his children.
Martrus is looking a trifle uneasy. "You made a good point earlier," he says to Arm. "If Kedloren was indeed behind these attacks, then my friends could still be in danger. I'd like to return to them now, if you have no objections."
[OOC the leatherwork pieces will unfortunately not have any in-game effects, but I thought it would be fun nevertheless. You can get any kind of garment, bag, or miscellaneous item, but Baldis does not make armor, saddles, or shoes. You can have your item decorated however you like as well. Either post here or send me an e-mail when you've decided what your character wants.]
Mira Tuesday May 4th, 2004 9:25:05 PM
Mira flushes a little when the leather-worker gives the party the coin. She hopes it doesn't wipe him out financially, but she doesn't decline either. The sorcerer accepts the pouch and hands it to Uriel for safekeeping.
She does a quick scan of the works in progress to get an idea what the man can do. The item will likely be worth as much if not more that the coins he has already provided! she thinks to herself.
As they stand outside the shop, Mira listens to Martrus, then asks, "do you think it is safe for you to return alone? Perhaps we can acompany you?" She pauses, then adds, "at least as far as one of the bridges over to the Circus Quarter?"
Uriel Tuesday May 4th, 2004 9:41:53 PM
Uriel smiles in satisfaction that they were able to reunite Baldis and his son.
His jaw works like he is chewing leather and he blinks many times - his eyes bright and shiny. He accepts the pouch from Mira without a word and looks at everyone.
He takes off one of his belt pouches, weighing it in his hand. He walks over to the window and leans in, and in one quick motion places his pouch on the counter.
He turns back to the others. "How about that pint, Amn? I for one am quite ready" *Ahem* He straightens his tabard and looks at Martus, sighing. "Mira makes a generous offer - We could accompany you first to make sure you are not attacked."
Conner d20+3=8 Tuesday May 4th, 2004 10:17:25 PM
Conner follow the group outside as Baldis closes shop for the day. He keeps an open eye for anyone paying too much attention to either Martus or the party as a whole [Spot=8]but his mind wanders to thoughts of Baldis and then to Hrithgen. "Martus" the fighter pauses to collect his thoughts, "In return for our assistance I ask but one favour. Hrithgen, who lives next door to this place, is missing his son. I ask that the Oaken Shield make inquiries of Evered who likely ran away. If you find him, tell him of his father's pain and ask him to return home."
Arm d20+2=22 Wednesday May 5th, 2004 6:12:18 AM
Now that things have calmed down quite a bit, Arm is able to concentrate MUCH more on their surroundings (spot=22, natural 20..WOOHOO!) as they escort Martrus as far as he wishes them to. While doing so, he says to Uriel, "I may just take you up on that pint, my friend, but the second round is MINE!". He then continues to the group, "I think it best that we stay alert from this point forward, for who knows how many eyes and ears Kedloren may have in this city. It's bad enough we have a beholder waiting in the wings, but now we'll have to contend with roving bands of assassins. We seem to be making more enemies than we are friends.". Brightening a bit, he continues, "I can't speak for the rest of you, but I for one would fancy a protective cover for my lute from Baldis... (OOC: Kathy-hint, hint... :-) )".
Evan Wednesday May 5th, 2004 12:48:51 PM
Evan fingers the pouch that holds his throwing axes. Its the third such one he's had to make since he took up the throwing axe. The weight of the axes along with the sharpened edges tend to cut the pouch to pieces fairly quick. So when things calm down and Baldis has reopened his shop, Evan will get Baldis to make a nice leather pouch to carry the axes in.
As the group escorts Martrus back to his friends, Evan manages to end up next to Mira, smiling softly to her as he offers his arm as an escort.
Kadaz Wednesday May 5th, 2004 6:25:37 PM
Kadaz bows slightly to Baldis and thanks him for his very kind offer. The little bit of leatherworking he knows just makes it clear to him what a generous offer Baldis is making. He will have to think about an appropriate item.
Kadaz leaves with the rest of the party. "We have completed our first task. Now we need a name for ourselves so that others who may need our services can find us."
DM Kathy Wednesday May 5th, 2004 9:29:29 PM
Martrus takes you up on your offer of an escort, and parts with you in the Circus Quarter. "Thank you for finding me and letting me fix my mistake," he says. "I really didn't mean to hurt anyone." He gives a wry smile. "Perhaps next time I go out drinking I'll leave my arcane components behind."
He heads for his home, and you head for yours, with the wonderful satsifaction of a job well done. Kadaz has suggested an interesting idea with a group name, and perhaps you discuss it further.
The next morning, fairly early, there is a brisk knock on your door. When you open it, you find Qelm standing there holding a large sack which bulges interestingly.
"The Oaken Shields are leaving Plateau City," he says without preamble. "We questioned the prisoners we took yesterday, and it seems that Kedloren did indeed hire them. His anger does not seem to have abated, and it's too dangerous for them to remain here. I shall be going with them." He smiles. "I am, perhaps, a bit old to be embarking upon my first great adventure, but I've come to care about what happens to them."
He holds out the sack to you. "They wish to travel light, and at any rate they realize that they are in your debt. They'd like you to have these things, along with their best wishes for your adventuring careers."
The bag proves to contain seven potions of Cure Light Wounds, a set of +1 chain mail, a Mithral chain shirt, a 1st-level Pearl of Power, some +1 Bracers of Armor, a wand of Burning Hands, a potion of Cure Disease, and one quiver each of silver, cold iron, and adamantine arrows. Qelm is on hand to tell you all what it is, so there's no need for the tedious Identification process.
His package delivered, Qelm bids you farewell. "There's no indication that Kedloren is aware of your involvement," he says. "Certainly his hired killers aren't going to be in a position to tell him. You are probably all right, but it wouldn't hurt to keep a sharp eye out for a few days."
Conner Wednesday May 5th, 2004 10:34:14 PM
Conner greets Qelm at the door and welcomes him in. As he explains the departure of the Oaken Shield, Conner listens and nods in acknowledgement. "A wise decision taken under unfortunate circumstances. I wish you well my friend."
After Qelm leaves, Conner cannot hide his interest in the chain shirts or the quivers of arrows. The fighter fingers the interlocking chain of the two shirts and examines the arrows with great care.
"These items should serve us well" Conner exalts to the group. His tattoo seems more intensely red than before and further speaks to his obvious excitement.
Mira Wednesday May 5th, 2004 11:16:28 PM
The sorcerer rather enjoys the walk through the city streets, her hand slipped through the offered arm, she clasps Evan's bicep. She is a little tired after the exertions of the day, and is glad of his quiet company as they walk together following the others.
Back at the flat, she has a cat-nap, but is awakened by a knock at the door. Hastily donning her glasses, she exits her room in time to see the Oaken Sheilds man deliver a large sack. She immediately reaches out to claim the wand, "Burning Hands you say? How many charges?" she asks before the dwarf departs.
Mira examines the details of the wand, then shoves it through her belt. She watches to see what the others will claim.
Uriel Thursday May 6th, 2004 12:38:45 AM
Uriel bids Qelm farewell and good fortune and turns back to the treasure.
He rubs his chin and says, "I don't really know what would be the proper way to split this treasure. I do think that we should evenly split the three quivers amongst those of us who can and do use a bow of some sort. Anyone else have any ideas..."
Kadaz Thursday May 6th, 2004 6:24:01 AM
Kadaz is ready to spend a day or two just relaxing around the house. A bath for Birdie, some time spend on repairing equipment, and he'll be satisfied.
When Qelm arrives Kadaz is eager to exchange information with him on goings on in town, if he has time. "I wish you luck and success in your journey."
Looking over the pile of goods Kadaz sees that the only items he might be able to use are either the chain mail or the chain shirt,and then only if they are dwarf size. He holds them up to check.
Arm Thursday May 6th, 2004 7:28:52 AM
Arm agrees with Uriel, "Aye, my friend...tis best that we divvy up these items equally...alas, I use quarrels not arrows, so I am not in need of those. I DO, however, fancy those bracers.". Looking to the group, he continues, "Does anyone have an issue with those becoming mine?".
Evan Thursday May 6th, 2004 8:10:17 AM
Evan silently reaches over and scoops up the potions of Cure Light Wounds. Its obvious to him that they should each take one so he passes them out to the others. He scoops up the Bracers, looking around at the rest of the group to see if there will be a protest then sets the bracers down on the table in front of Mira. He looks over the chain. While the mithral chain shirt might be useful for him, the +1 chain is not and it seems that Uriel and Conner would find the armor of more use. The arrows are also of no use to him as his long range weapon is a crossbow. Evan leans back in his chair, smiling warmly to Mira.
Mira Thursday May 6th, 2004 5:45:10 PM
Mira responds to Uriel, but speaks loud enough that the others can hear, "I'm not worried about dividing things up so each has something of even value. If someone can use something I can not, they should have it! We all look after each other, do we not?" Without waiting for an answer, the sorcerer continues, "I would not begrudge a chain shirt I can not wear of the fighter who might put himself between me and an attacker, just as I will use this wand," Mira pats the rod at her waist, "in all of your defence."
When Arm and Evan both show an interest in the bracers, Mira suggests that any of the unclaimed items can be brought to the store called The Catacombs and traded for that which the party would find more desirable.
Conner Thursday May 6th, 2004 5:59:16 PM
Conner tries on the +1 chain shirt to see if it fits him. He swings an imaginary sword and parries an unseen foe, judging the fit and form of the armor. "I would wear either shirt my friend" he speaks to Kadaz, "but I do prefer this one. I am not agile enough to take advantage of such fine mithral armor. If it does not fit you, we could trade it in along with our old armour and any of the unclaimed goods and gold to properly outfit you."
Uriel Thursday May 6th, 2004 7:29:11 PM
Uriel snorts at Mira's outburst, "Its interesting that the only Mage in the group doesn't have any problems letting everyone use what they can. That is part of the problem, there are at least four of us that can use and probably would like at least one of the armor items. And if that is truly how you feel - why did you not take the pearl of power, that is a mage's magic item as well. I don't quite understand why you are reacting this way - it is a legitimate question - the way to divide the spoils, the only thing I spoke of dividing equally were the arrows amongst those who could and did use arrows."
Conner Thursday May 6th, 2004 7:44:39 PM
The fighter sighs and quietly removes the chain shirt. Without a word he leaves the apartment. "Perhaps Amy is about" he thinks to himself.
DM Kathy Thursday May 6th, 2004 8:03:10 PM
This is all OOC. Continue multi-posting if need be. Here are some random datapoints. :)
A Pearl of Power is only useful to casters who prepare spells in advance. Mira, a sorcerer, has no need for it; neither does Arm. If anybody wants to take a level of cleric or wizard, it would be useful to them (remember, you all leveled). Or, when Uriel and Evan can cast spells later on in their careers, they could use it. Or somebody could sell it and get something else.
There is a seventh party member, currently absent, who helped during a lot of this. Whether you save him anything is up to you. :)
According to the rules, Medium armor is Medium armor. It will fit dwarves, elves, half-elves, and humans. It makes no sense, but there it is. And, yes, both sets of armor are Medium.
Mira Thursday May 6th, 2004 11:22:48 PM
The sorcerer's green eyes cloud over at Uriel's reproach. "I...I...think you misunderstand me, sir," she says in something barely above a whisper, "I only meant that we should keep and use what we can of the Oaken Shield's gear, and trade in the rest to equip those who do not find something useful to them in the pile."
Astonished at Uriel's accusations, Mira blinks. "As soon as I saw the pearl, I though it would be for you! If you do not desire it, it would surely fetch a good price!" The sorcerer picks up the pearl with her thumb and forefingerand and holding it up to her face adds "why, I would be surprised if this one pearl wouldn't fetch enough gold to purchase another set of bracers just like those or a shirt like that" Mira points to the +1 Bracers of Armour and then the +1 chain shirt.
"As to the arrows, I too use bolts, although I am not very good, and would not claim any until those who are more adept had first helped themselves." Over the discourse, Mira's voice has become quieter, and quieter. The woman mumbles a few more words, no longer making eye contact with the rest of the party. She replaces the pearl on the table, and then goes over to the fire to see if she can get it started*, after which she will put a kettle on to boil, and prepare a pot for tea.
*If the fire is sluggish, Mira will mumble an incantation, and shoot a cone of fire at the wood to get it going! Cast Burning Hands.
Uriel Friday May 7th, 2004 12:31:17 AM
Uriel sighs and looks guiltily at Mira. "I am sorry too - I took it badly...what you said, in the most negative light. I just...this mystery with Baldis and his son..."
His voice trails off and his shoulders slump. "It just...it affected me greatly, reuniting the boy with his father." Uriel shakes his head, remaining silent for an uncomfortable span.
Several times he starts to say more but bites back the words.
When he finally speaks, it is without his usual cloak of confidence or conviction, "I hope you understand, I only spoke of the sharing of spoils to prevent hard feelings between anyone in the group. Now I have completely botched it up."
He looks up, directly into Mira's eyes, "Again, I am sorry. I hope we don't let this misunderstanding and my ineptitude come between us."
Arm d20+7=21 Friday May 7th, 2004 6:57:36 AM
Arm rises from the table, looks at Uriel and Mira, then the rest of the group and says, "Be light of heart, my friends. We have ALL had a very emotional past couple of days...the frustration of constantly running into dead ends with our investigation, followed by the death of part of the Oaken Shields and the reviving of Kethlorn....it's bound to take a toll on ANY man...OR woman. Even though we've been together only a short time, I wouldn't trade my friendship with ANY of you for ANY amount of gold or treasure, magical or not! This is FAR to trifling a matter to get so upset over! Let us do this...since it seems apparent that no one can use the arrows, I say we sell them. If no one wants the pearl, sell that as well. Kadaz and Conner can each have a piece of the armor, Mira...you may keep the wand, Evan...you may keep the bracers. Let us see what money we can get from the sale of the Pearl and the arrows, although you may want to keep the pearl, Uriel...it may not be of use to you now, but in the future, you may get some use of it (knowledge arcana=21). If no one objects, I shall use the proceeds from the sale of the arrows to perhaps purchase my OWN set of bracers. What say you all?".
Kadaz Friday May 7th, 2004 8:10:39 AM
Kadaz watched Conner leave the room, apparently in disgust of the arguments breaking out over division of the rewards. Then he looks at Mira and Uriel who are breaking down at the first signs of internal conflict in this group. They certainly didn't grow up with any brothers or sisters. This situation could get serious. But back in the guard barracks there was a common way to settle such property disputes over found items. He starts to talk, perhaps a little louder than needed.
"I have a suggestion! There are items here which several could use and no clear way for us to divide everything evenly. I suggest we leave this in the hands of the gods. Let us each roll a dice and the highest picks first. In case of a tied rolls, they roll again against themselves. Each must pick an item useful to themselves, or they may change position with another. And if the last person gets an item he or she cannot use then it may be sold or exchanged. Do you think this might be a fair approach?"
"One question though, Shakka is now missing but was with us earlier. What is fair to him?"
Evan Friday May 7th, 2004 8:19:12 AM
Evan rises and walks over to Mira. He gives Uriel a look along the way, not of anger but more reproachful. He places a gentle hand on Mira's shoulder, takes a step closer, running his hand across Mira's back so that he can turn her into him, taking her into his arms for a warm hug.
Evan believes Arm's suggestion is sound so he nods in agreement, although he will point at the Cure Disease potion then point at Arm to signify that Arm should take the potion as well.
ooc: because of Evan's muteness, the pearl wouldn't be of any use to him for quite awhile. Arm and I must have posted at the same time for the bracers :) Kathy- do you want the upgraded character sheet?
Mira d6=5 Friday May 7th, 2004 5:27:34 PM
Mira returns the ranger's embrace. Her look of concern is replaced by a huge, and genuine smile. She winks at Uriel from over Evan's broad shoulder, then goes over to the corner cupboard to collect an assortment of mis-matched mugs. "Kadaz! You are a sage in disguise and Arm is ever the diplomat!" she says as she returns to the table. Placing the mugs in a group, she collects the iron kettle and prepares the tea, "Enough of the solemn faces. We should be celebrating our success!" Mira fishes in her pouch and takes out some coin, handing it to Evan, "would you mind a trip to the tavern for a few bottles of wine? Fetch Conner, too, before he disappears with that wench from Sampson's."
With a shrug, Mira pulls the wand from her belt, and puts it back on the table next to the other gear. "Ha!" Laughs the sorcerer, as she rolls the 6 sided die. She gives a little body check to the paldin, elbowing him (in good humour!) in the gut.
Rolled 5.
Conner Friday May 7th, 2004 5:35:19 PM
Just as Mira rolls her die, Conner swings the door open. There is a look of dissapointment on his face and a keg under his arm. "Amy wasn't there" he explains, "but I did convince the barman to part with this." Conner puts the keg on one of the tables and prepares to pour a glass for anyone interested.
"What's with the dice?" he asks.
Uriel d6=5 Friday May 7th, 2004 7:13:10 PM
Uriel smiles and says,"Our stout dwarf, who should be running for mayor has suggested that we divide our spoils by dice roll. After I removed my head from my arse, I realized this was a great idea. Am I the only one who carries around a bow? Arm, I figured that others did also and that was I suggested splitting the arrows."
Uriel shakes his head and chuckles. He says, "May I?" to Mira, motioning towards her die.
He rolls a five as well. "It figures." Then he bursts out laughing. To those who look closely however, there is still something in his eyes which do not match his mirth.
Conner d6=5 Friday May 7th, 2004 11:13:53 PM
The fighter picks up the single die and rolls it across the table. It come up 5 as well. Conner takes obvious pains to check that the die has more than the number '5' on it. "And this was your idea Kadaz?" Conner grins at the dwarf and places the die back on the table.
Mira Saturday May 8th, 2004 9:20:49 PM
"Good grief!" exclaims the sorcerer, as she slaps the palm of her hand to her forehead and starts to laugh.
Kadaz d6=6 Saturday May 8th, 2004 11:30:20 PM
Kadaz picks up the dice and also rolls it. He looks up, grinning. "Well, clearly the gods can't decide among the 3 of you but I'm in their favor today. Arm, Evan, you're next."
Arm d6=3 Sunday May 9th, 2004 6:28:12 AM
Arm picks up on the look in Uriel's eye and is rather disturbed by both that and his recent outburst towards Mira..."He's not acting himself...I must discuss this with the rest before I approach him," he thinks.
Picking up the die, he casts it as well, ending up with a 3 for his efforts. Grateful that it wasn't a 5, he addresses the group, "Conner, Uriel, Mira....to avoid any further conflicts (he makes a point of not looking at Uriel when he says this), all you need do is re-roll to break the tie.".
Conner d6=3 Sunday May 9th, 2004 1:17:13 PM
Conner rolls a 3 and hands the die to whoever is next.
Mira d6=5 Sunday May 9th, 2004 4:04:41 PM
"Another 5!" calls the sorcerer.
Uriel d6=5 Sunday May 9th, 2004 6:29:50 PM
"...And how about a...five" Uriel says. "Kadaz are you switching out the die on us?"
Kadaz Sunday May 9th, 2004 7:47:06 PM
Kadaz is watching the rolling with great interest. "You do seem to have the knack. I'll try to think of a game where a 5 wins. You will be wonderful at it."
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