Deciding on the right moment to strike - DM Marcin Tuesday April 13th, 2004 4:54:00 AM
General consensus among the party is that another visit should be paid to the dungeons under the Silver Seagull Inn. While most of the Hamleters opt to rest until morning, Tratain suggests acting now before the enemy has a chance to remove the machine to another hideout.
The party needs to reach a decision, and, unfortunately, doesn't have much to act on but their instincts and gut feeling.
Gaxx briefly visits the inn and finds it empty and silent. It would seem that the Sons of Dread are not particularly interested in what is going on on the surface - at least not right now.
Dark clouds can be seen on the horizon, slowly creeping on the sky. A storm is coming. It will be raining in the morning.
[My tomorrow post will be later than usual - around 2pm CET (morning in the USA).]
Setanos Tuesday April 13th, 2004 7:50:01 AM
Setanos nods slowly at Tratain. "Guess a good nights sleep is out for me then! I'm for goin down now if that be whats needed. Yer right, they may be moving tha blasted thing magicly"
Gaxx Tuesday April 13th, 2004 10:35:05 AM
Gaxx continues to sleep, happily dreaming of yummies and crunchies and pretty, glittery things.
Draax Tuesday April 13th, 2004 10:49:57 AM
Draax opens his eyes at Tratain's suggestion, "I agree that we should go now, but I would also prefer to be at our best. Although I am able to function, that poison took a little more out of me that I thought. Thanks to this little trinket on my finger I only need a couple of hours to regain my strength and I am sure that Arien is still formidable, but he blew most of his more powerful spells getting us out of there."
Pointing at Gaxx, "Not to mention our sleeping friend over there. With everything that has happened in my life I would not be surprised if Wardd sent him personally, but where does he stand as a party member? Is he coming with us and what does he bring to the mix? Does he know anything about this place and the machine? I say lets give him a chance to sober up and see what he knows. That is just my thoughts on the matter, if you guys decide to go now, you can bet that I will be there right along with you."
Draax closes his eyes again, but it is obvious that he is still awake while he listens to what is decided.
Sarigar Tuesday April 13th, 2004 11:41:58 AM
Out on the very fringes of the camp, just outside the firelight, Sarigar keeps an eye on the Hamleteers and the one they call Gaxx (he wasn't hearing a whole lot back down in the room). He allows himself to drift off in little naps, never fully sleeping, but resting quite nicely.
Renik Tuesday April 13th, 2004 5:28:35 PM
"Very well, if the consensus is that we move now then so be it" says the rogue, openingb his eyes and sitting up. "I'd prefer we went back in there at our best, but you fellows fought your way in last time, and know what lies within better than I. If you think the longer we leave it the greater the risk that they escape then you are right, Tratain, we must act at once."
Renik gets to his feet and adjusts his loincloth. "Besides, I'm getting a little chilly in this thing."
Renik does his best to wake Gaxx, informing the dwarf that they are about to head into the tunnels beneath the inn, and could certainly use the luck of Wardd on their quest.
Feng Tuesday April 13th, 2004 7:11:39 PM
"We were lucky to escape with our lives last time. While I agree time is of the essence, we must not be foolish. If it comes down to another battle like the one we just had, may the gods protect us."
In the inn - DM Marcin Wednesday April 14th, 2004 2:02:39 PM
While some of the Hamleters feel that the party is not at the peak of its capabilities, the majority sides with the advice of Tratain: to return to the dungeon right now and catch the enemy off balance.
Those who were sleeping are woken up and given time to wash the sleep out of their eyes with cold water. Equipment is re-checked and readied. There are clinks of metal as blades of various shapes are prepared for use. The chill of the night indeed starts to get to Renik, who doesn't have much to protect him against it. One by one, like dark shadows, the adventurers start to silently approach the inn.
The building stands silent and forbidding, all of its windows dark. A casual passer by would be bound to avoid the place, especially since the pyre on the yard suggests that the household has suffered from plague. And yet the way of the Hamleters leads inside and below. The dungeon needs to be cleaned out. Well, as they say in New Elenna, three is the charm.
The adventurers enter the common room of the inn. The sings of the battle with the mummies and the drow that has been fought in here some time ago are still visible on the walls and floor. A board of wood creaks under somebody's boot. Someone else steps on broken glass. The windows are not very large and the light of the moon does not provide too much illumination. The air is filled with a noticeable scent of liquor, even though it has been spilled long time ago. Renik notices a cold, half-eaten steak on one of the tables, and realizes that even though he took some food from Sarigar it still feels as if he hasn't eaten for a week.
The trapdoor in the kitchen is closed and the stairs leading up are still blocked, just the way the heroes left it. There is no sign of Rond. If he was here he is long gone.
It would be a good moment to discuss tactics.
[All right: 1) which way in are you going to use, 2) what is the marching order, 3) how fast are you moving, 4) do you want to carry any source of light, 5) what do you want to have readied in your hands.]
Gaxx Wednesday April 14th, 2004 2:39:38 PM
Gaxx opens his eyes and looks up at Renik bleary-eyed. He rolls up to stand, wobbling slightly as he tries to remember who and what. Gaxx props his lucky club on his shoulder, checks to make sure his handy rod (he's pretty sure its handy cause Wardd sent it to him and if nothing else, its shiny), brushes off his bare feet then stands at attention, his hand held up to his head in a salute. "Gaxx Ogre Slayer ready for duty, Sir!"
Setanos (AC 19 HP 83/83) [Extended Mage Armor] Wednesday April 14th, 2004 3:46:45 PM
Setanos walks with greatsword ready, his newly dried component pouch at his belt. "I'll take the lead if ya all want. Being best ta have someone with good eyes up a bit ahead lookin fer traps though"
Renik Wednesday April 14th, 2004 5:03:08 PM
The rogue's stomach growls at the sight of food, and it takes a concerted effort of will to get on with the job in hand. He grins at Gaxx saying "Always lucky to have an ogre slayer along!"
"Which way did you fellows go in last time? Down the trapdoor? I'd suggest we follow the same path again. Normally I'd be happy to scout, but until I find my gear again I think I'd better hang back with Arien and hang onto this bow for a while. It's a shame Rond isn't around, we could use him up front. Where did he get to? He wasn't... I mean, he didn't get, um..."
Once assured that Rond is still alive Renik continues "Sarigar, could you and Black Paws scout the way for us? You seem pretty stealthy. How well can you see in the dark? Then Feng and Setanos a little further back, then our Protector Tratain, then Arien, Gaxx and myself, with Draax to protect the rear and support the front with missile fire if needs be. Does that suit everyone?"
Once the order is established the rogue says "Well, no time like the present. Let's get going. Feng, I think we'll be needing the light of your axe down there."
Draax Wednesday April 14th, 2004 9:22:53 PM
Draax picks up a few fresh apples and puts them in his backpack, thinking that fresh fruit is always better that his dry rations. He adjusts his shield on his back and readies his bow.
He just shrugs his shoulders at Renik's question about Rond, "I have no idea what happened to Rond. He decided to leave us and cover the far rear right before we got into the thick of things. He is not a coward so he must have had a good reason for leaving when he did, but truthfully I did not expect him to be waiting for us when we came out of that hellhole."
Tratain Wednesday April 14th, 2004 11:47:48 PM
Tratain Readies his Warhammer and Shield and Follows Renik's Instructions.
Arien Thursday April 15th, 2004 7:33:34 AM
"Do not worry about my spell sliging abilities. I still have plenty up my sleeve." Arien agrees with Renik's set up for the party and takes his place in the line up.
Sarigar (78Hp, 19AC), Black Paws (33Hp, 17AC) d20+12=24 d20+28=31 d20+23=43 d20+3=8 d20+4=7 Thursday April 15th, 2004 7:35:34 AM We can scout, but I can't see, but my brother can, and he can smell em comin too.
Sarigar and Black Paws move in quickly when it looks like everyone is snatching up the last of their gear in preparation. Once inside the inn, they will slow down to maximize their stalking. Since he can see and smell better, Black Paws will lead Sarigar toward the trapdoor (Handle Animal 24). Both are moving as quietly as they can (Sarigar 31 Hide, 43 nat 20 Move Silently; Black Paws 8 Hide, 7 Move Silently)
Feng Thursday April 15th, 2004 9:10:32 AM
Feng stands back while the silent ones discuss things. He wasn't stealthy or had a particular knack at finding traps. Feng could kill evil things. If you chop away everything else, thats basically what he did.
"Somehow I don't think the cave in crushed that horrid machine."
Gaxx Thursday April 15th, 2004 10:02:34 AM
Gaxx wanders through the tavern with the others, following Renik. While the others check the condition of the inn, Gaxx starts rooting through stuff and comes up with a table cloth. He waddles back over to Renik and taps him on the leg to get his attention. "Dis be for you so's you not so cold anymore." Gaxx smiles brightly.
At Sarigar's words, Gaxx bounces up and down. "Oh! Oh! Gaxx can see in dark too." Gaxx dives back into the rubbish scattered about the fllor and comes back up with a couple of rocks and shreds of cloth. He cups one of the rocks in his hand and very politely asks Wardd to light up the rock for him, casting 'Light' on the rock. He wraps the rock up in the cloth, covering the light up. He waddles over to Sarigar and offers up the cloth wrapped rock to him. "Dis for you."
Tunnels under the inn - DM Marcin Thursday April 15th, 2004 11:24:45 AM
The marching order is arranged and agreed upon. Weapons are prepared and the party, led by Sarigar and his wolf, gathers in the kitchen.
The trapdoor is lifted without much effort. Faint light cascades down the stone stairs. The narrow corridor leading into the blackness of the underground complex is as dusty and full of stale air as it was when the party passed through here for the previous time. One by one, the Hamleters descend into the bowels of the earth.
Sarigar soundlessly moves along the passage until he reaches the far wall that seemingly blocks further advance. But the Hamleters have already discovered that it is an illusion. Sarigar passes through like a ghost. The rest of the party follows, with Draax bringing up the rear.
The cellar that used to be filled with such a foul smell has been mercifully cleaned somewhat. The reeking piles of rags have been removed and all that remains of them now are dirty stains on the floor. These have been covered with sand. A broom that is well past its prime and a bucket full of foul water have been left in the corner. An unpleasant smell still hangs in the air here, but it no longer gags the breath.
The door leading deeper into the complex is open. Sarigar steps outside and takes a look around.
Empty. And quiet. It is not possible to hear the sea any more.
Setanos (AC 19 HP 83/83) [Extended Mage Armor] d20+8=20 Thursday April 15th, 2004 12:03:49 PM
Setanos makes his way with the group, staying behind Sarigar. He notes the cleaned room, considering its implications and hoping it means that their foes are still to be found here.
OOC: Listen Check : 20
Spells Active: Extended Mage Armor: 14 hours (cast in early am)
Renik d20+10=20 Thursday April 15th, 2004 4:32:25 PM
"A checked cape and a loincloth" grins the rogue as Gaxx hands him the tablecloth. It's a good thing we're not in Plateau City, I'd never live it down. What next, I wonder, hollowed out weevils for shoes? The sooner we find my gear the better!"
Though he makes light of the impromptu gift it is clear he speaks in jest. He is grateful for anything that takes the chill from his bones. Despite his brief sleep he is still feeling the effects of his capture, and retains that emaciated, drawn look to his face and frame.
Entering the cellar he strains to make out the sounds of enemy activity from the corridor beyond (listen 20). As he peers into the gloom he gets a brief shiver of deja vue. There is something familiar about this place. Though the memory is hazy and confused he is reasonably certain that he was dragged through here shortly before or after he was stripped of his gear. If his memory serves it was a room of a corridor just like this one where his belongings were stashed. If only they are still there...
Draax AC21/25, HP89 d20+3=8 Thursday April 15th, 2004 9:00:53 PM
Draax brings up the rear, checking behind him every 10 to 15 seconds (listen check 8).
Tratain d20+9=21 Thursday April 15th, 2004 9:56:42 PM
Tratain moves with the group and attempts to hear if there are any enemies near. (Listen 21)
Tratain Casts True Seeing and looks around trying to note what was illusion now that he can see through it all.
--------- True Seeing - Round 1 of 90
Feng Ac 23 HP 96 d20=10 Friday April 16th, 2004 3:41:12 AM
Feng followed the others, axe in hand but with the flame off. If there was magical light then he could remain in the dark. Underground he prefers to use his darkvision as it is.
ooc: 10
Sarigar (78Hp, 19AC), Black Paws (33Hp, 17AC) d20+13=32 d20+4=17 d20+13=29 d20+12=30 Friday April 16th, 2004 10:47:31 AM
Sarigar looks solemnly at the ground in front of him, slows his breathing, and listens for any trace of others in the area (Listen 32). Black Paws pops his ears up, flicking them directionally around him for sounds as well (Listen 17).
Gesturing with his hand for the others to hang back a moment, Sarigar lithely slips out the door into the hall, slinking along the wall to the first room on his right. He slides his hand against the wall to let him know when he reaches the threshold (Stopping at J5). Once there, he pats Black Paws on the back lightly on the back as a command to heel (Handle Animal 30). He then carefully peeks around the corner into the room and take a quick peek (Spot 29).
Careful advance - DM Marcin Friday April 16th, 2004 4:48:31 PM
As Renik wraps himself with the tablecloth Sarigar pockets the shining rock [missed the last two posts yesterday].
Tratain decides that this strange place might hold more surprises and prepares for them by using magic to improve his vision. The illusionary wall the party has just passed through becomes transparent for him, but as he looks around no more changes in the appearance of the corridor are revealed. Whoever constructed those dungeons seemingly didn't bother to include more hidden passages in this part of the complex.
The party slowly advances along the narrow passage. The wild man leads the way. As the passes the corner Sarigar carefully looks into the open door and sees the same small storeroom the party has passed by before. Not much changed here - the cellar that was once used to store various magical accesories is still cluttered with a multitude of multicolored trinkets of all sizes, shapes, and smells. Somebody took an effort to clear some floor space in the middle of the room, but otherwise the chamber looks just the way the party left it - a total mess.
The long corridor is illuminated by the pale lamp set in the middle of its length. Tratain's spell reveals it as an illusory light caught in the prison of a crystal. The remaining three doors are closed.
[Philip please check your mail before posting.] [http://www.auburn.edu/~kulczmc/map.bmp][0:01.5]
Arien Saturday April 17th, 2004 10:44:00 AM
Arien waits until tratain clears the doorway then moves into the corridor. He moves to the corner of the hallway and waits, prepared to act if needed
Gaxx Saturday April 17th, 2004 11:24:53 AM
Gaxx takes the second stone he picked up and once again asks Wardd, in a most polite fashion, to please make the rock glow, casting light upon the stone. He carefully wraps the stone in cloth to hide the light until its needed then follows the others, trying to stick close to Renik.
Tratain (True Seeing; Spell Immunity:Fireball Lightning Bolt) Saturday April 17th, 2004 11:39:29 AM
Tratain incants the words to another spell to protect himself (Spell Immunity) and moves out of the doorway into the hall stoping at H5.
He says to the others in a low voice "Give Renik that Adamantite looking dagger we got off the Drow until we can find his gear."
He Continues "You shouldn't be anywhere near the combat without your stuff but if they get right up next to you that bow won't do at all."
-------------- True Seeing Round 2 of 90 Spell Immunity Round 1 of 90 Minutes
Sarigar (78Hp, 19AC), Black Paws (33Hp, 17AC) d20+23=28 d20+13=33 Saturday April 17th, 2004 12:41:41 PM
Sarigar turns back to the others for a moment and gestures to them again to hold back. He cups his hand to he ear, then points down to the far door, then holds up 2 fingers.
He then ducks into the room he's next to and attempts to shut the door as quietly as possible (Move Silently 28). If the door feels like it will scrape or make other loud noises, he will immediately stop pushing it closed and simply step behind it (inside the room, as tight in to L7 as he can).
He will then carefully uncover part of the lighted stone to produce just enough light for him to see by and scan the room for Renik's belongings or something large enough to hold them (Spot 33, nat 20).
Draax Sunday April 18th, 2004 2:10:48 PM
Draax continues to stay alert as he follows the group.
Renik Sunday April 18th, 2004 5:26:56 PM
The rogue grins at Tratain as he accepts the weapon. "Glad to see you've got my back" he whispers.
Moving quietly into the corridor he sees Sarigar's warning and freezes, an arrow nocked and ready.
Setanos (AC 19 HP 83/83) [Extended Mage Armor] Sunday April 18th, 2004 5:50:35 PM
Setanos continues, wary of Sargars motions.
Feng Ac 23 HP 96 Sunday April 18th, 2004 7:10:44 PM
Feng grips his axe tightly, scanning the room. This place still creeps him out to no end. Its like the evil has been soaked up by every stone.
Whispers in the dark - DM Marcin d20+3=8 d20+3=12 d20+3=4 [DM's secret rolls] Monday April 19th, 2004 3:42:20 AM
Arien enters the narrow corridor and positions himself strategically in the corner, ready to lend magical assistance when needed.
Gaxx petitions his patron for another boon and is rewarded with a second glowing rock. The shadows cast by the party lenghten and dance on the flagstones of the floor. The dwarf quickly wraps the stone with cloth. For a moment his hand glows with red light - a strange sight.
Tratain weaves a protective sorcery on himself and, while he advances down the corridor, suggests that Renik should add the captured dagger to his arsenal. This suggestion is carried out. The remaining party members enter the corridor, but the advance is halted by Sarigar, who first tries to signal something to the others, and then enters the small room.
The wild man closes the door behind him which, to his relief, moves with nary a sound. Alone in the small cellar he unwraps the stone given to him by Gaxx in order to create some light. As his eyes scan the room for Renik's belongings he realizes that he has never seen them! Still, he is quite certain that no large weapons and no armor of any kind can be found anywhere in this chamber.
The cold, white light of the crystal set in the middle of the corridor flickers. Setanos and Feng, who are now in front of the party, watch the long passage and the door leading to the round chamber. Did the handle just move a little bit?
[A Listen check will allow you to hear three voices talking behind that door. DC is 14 for Setanos and Feng, 15 for Tratain, 16 for Gaxx and Renik, 17 for Draax and Arien, and 20 for Sarigar. Beating the DC by 10 or more will allow you to catch what is being said.] [We switch to measuring time by rounds.] [http://www.auburn.edu/~kulczmc/map.BMP][0:01.6]
Setanos (AC 19 HP 83/83) [Extended Mage Armor] d20+8=13 Monday April 19th, 2004 8:03:24 AM
Setanos continues to hold, wary of the door and listening for sounds of danger.
OOC: Listen check: 13 vrs DC 14: failed.
Sarigar (78Hp, 19AC), Black Paws (33Hp, 17AC) d20+12=24 d20+23=33 d20+17=31 Monday April 19th, 2004 11:20:29 AM
Sarigar, conent in believing that Renik's belongings are not in this room, wraps the stone back up and then carefully opens the door once again.
Seeing that the party has moved up, he drops his chin slightly and shakes his head. He whispers to Feng, I heard 2 behind the door at the end. he points down the hall. I'm looking for the skinny one's items. They're not in this room. he points back over his shoulder.
He looks his brother in the eyes, and gestures for him to stay put (Handle Animal 24, to Guard).
He then proceeds slowly down the hall to the next door, using his hand along the wall to guide him (Move Silently 33). Once there, he will put his ear to the door to hear if anyone awaits beyond (Listen 27 oops, should have been +13 not +17 on that roll).
If he hears nothing inside, he will carefully attempt to open the door. In essence, mimicing his actions from the previous door.
Renik d20+15=29 d20+10=21 Monday April 19th, 2004 6:30:41 PM
Signalling for the others to stay where they are, the poorly-dressed rogue creeps forward. Of all of them he and Sarigar are best equipped to sneak up on any foe, even if he is a bit underdressed at present. And it occurs to him that someone needs to take up a tactical spot at the far end of the corridor, where any attempted retreat for reinforcements can be blocked off.
It also occurs to him that he is almost certain the room he was stripped and beaten in is the very same room from which he now hears voices (Listen 21). He attempts to signal to Sarigar and the others that they should ignore the middle door and focus on the end one.
He creeps down the corridor carefully and quietly (Move Silent 29), heading towards the far end of the corridor, where he intends to hide (X5). As he gets closer to the far door (within 20 feet) he will draw the dagger.
Tratain AC 24 HP 59/59 (True Seeing; Spell Immunity:Fireball Lightning Bolt) d20+9=20 Monday April 19th, 2004 8:21:24 PM
Tratain Moves Up the Corridore listenin for voices and makes some out, but Can't quite hear what is being said exactly. (Listen 20)
Tratain Stops at p5 and waits for the door to open or enemies to show themselves.
Draax AC21/25, HP89 d20+3=19 Monday April 19th, 2004 8:49:14 PM
As he watches everyone suddenly become animated, Draax strains his ears to pick up what it was that alerted the others (listen 19). He barely picks up the sounds of voices coming from the other room, but since he is so far away from the door he cannot make out what they are saying.
Draax stops where he is, ready to support the others with his bow and to make sure that no one comes on them from the way they came down.
Feng Ac 23 HP 96 d20+1=17 Tuesday April 20th, 2004 2:47:54 AM
Feng stops when he hears the three voices. His armor is probably the loudest of the groups and he is not all that graceful. He freezes in place trying not to breathe too much as the subtle sounds his armor makes now seem much louder.
Arien d20+7=26 Tuesday April 20th, 2004 9:04:00 AM
Arien remains where he is, keeping a protective watch over the group. (listen-26)
Gaxx (ac: 19; hp: 62) d20+4=19 d20+13=21 d20+7=19 d20+8=24 Tuesday April 20th, 2004 9:24:16 AM
Gaxx follows along after Renik cause he's decided he likes Renik. Despite his shape and waddling walk, Gaxx moves fairly quietly. As he and Renik approach the door, Gaxx gives it a quick look over to see if its trapped.
On sneaking and full plate - DM Marcin d20+3=15 d20+3=6 d20+3=6 [secret rolls] Tuesday April 20th, 2004 11:54:30 AM
[Note: the voices the party has heard are coming from behind the door at Z4-Z5.]
By now the whole party is aware that some of the denizens of the dungeon are nearby, and some heroes can actually hear them talking, though nobody hears the exact words being said.
A few of the Hamleters decide to stay put, letting the ones more skilled at stealth act and take better positions. Setanos stays where he is, his greatsword in hands. Draax has his bow trained on the far door, though shooting through a corridor filled with so many friends might prove tricky. Feng does his best not to move, and does not even risk slinging his axe off his shoulder. Arien remains in his corner in quiet concentration.
Sarigar appears out of the room and signals that he didn't find anything resembling Renik's equipment in the cellar he emerged from. With a single gesture he orders his wolf to stay put while he himself starts to tiptoe closer to the door at the end of the hallway. He still has the glowing rock in his hand, though it is wrapped in cloth.
Renik decides to accompany the wild man. Bow in hand he silently strides forward. He is followed by Gaxx, who has to quicken his pace to keep up.
[On Moving Silently: please remember that you can cover only so much distance in one round. Moving Silently cuts your movement rate in half, unless you want to take penalties on the roll (which I assumed Gaxx did, since he wanted to keep up with Renik).]
Tratain confidently marches forward, overtaking Sarigar and Renik. Needless to say his advance is nowhere near as quiet as that of the pair behind him.
[Listen checks everyone. DC is 11 for Tratain, 13 for Renik and Sarigar, 14 for Gaxx, Setanos, and Feng, and 17 for Arien and Draax.] [If you make the check you can read the following: (highlight the text as if you were trying to copy it into a clipboard in a word processor)] Highlight to display spoiler: {You hear voices behind the door at the end of the corridor [Z4-Z5]. Sounds like someone is giving commands. This is followed by a sound of departing footsteps. Multiple magic incantations start a heartbeat later. The spellcasting is quite long; whatever spells are being cast they seem to require at least several seconds to complete.} [If you beat the DC by 10 or more you can also read the following passage:] Highlight to display spoiler: {"Shh! I heard a clank of armor behind the door!..." This is a bass, tubal voice. Its owner seems to have problems pronouncing Common clearly. "I told you but you wouldn't listen!" Another voice, very nervous. "What now?" "Shut up!" A female. "Terstin, go wake up others. Kirian, give me the nastiest wolf you can."} [http://www.auburn.edu/~kulczmc/map.bmp][0:01.7]
Renik d20+10=26 Tuesday April 20th, 2004 12:17:38 PM
Gesticulating furiously at Tratain to hush up and stay still the rogue realises that the voices are in fact coming from the doorway ahead of them, not the one at the end on the right where he hopes he will find his gear.
(Listen 26)
In the sudden silence that follows he is suddenly able to make out what is being said. Realising that stealth is no longer an option he sprints for the far right hand door (W6), hoping to get inside before the end door opens and things start to get lively. He is going to need his gear if he is going to be of any use to the party.
Setanos (AC 23 HP 83/83) [Extended Mage Armor] d20+8=18 Tuesday April 20th, 2004 1:32:49 PM
Setanos cocks his ear, listening. Hearing the castings, and judging by Renik's sudden dash, Setanos prepares for battle, casting a protective spell and moving foward towards the door.
OOC: Listen Check 18 Cast Sheild
Spells Active: Extended Mage Armor: 14 hours (cast in early am) Shield 1/70 rounds
Sarigar (78Hp, 19AC), Black Paws (33Hp, 17AC) d20+13=32 d20+23=33 d20+28=41 Tuesday April 20th, 2004 4:28:09 PM
Hearing the racket Tratain makes as well as the new commotion behind the door, Sarigar moves up (Move Silently 33)with Renik to the far right door. If nothing else, the two might be able to get in that room before the prey attempts to ambush the party and in turn, the party can ambush the prey.
He signals to the others that the end door will likely open soon. Once there, he will open the door as carefully as possible and slip inside tucking into a shadow just inside the room (Hide 41), and hope either Renik or Gaxx will shut the door to hide them even further for the ambush.
Draax AC21/25, HP89 d20+3=19 Tuesday April 20th, 2004 10:35:26 PM
Draax stays alert as the others get near the door. He strains his ears again to listen to the voices in the room (listen 19), realizes that it is spellcasting, but cannot make out any words.
Although he has no idea what is being said in the room the reaction of the others lets him know that something is about to happen. He moves forward (G5) and aims his bow at the far door.
Tratain AC 24 HP 59/59 (True Seeing; Spell Immunity:Fireball Lightning Bolt) d20+9=18 d20+9=10 d20+9=11 d20+9=21 d20+9=19 d20+9=10 d20+9=20 Wednesday April 21st, 2004 12:37:11 AM
Tratain glances around himself quickly....and realizes that everyone else stopped way behind him. Tratain strains to hear behind the door and hears magical incantations going off.(Listen 18)
Tratain swaps his Warhammer to his offhand and prepares to cast a spell when the door opens. (Ready an action to cast Area Dispel Magic once the door is opened. Targeted far enough away that none of the party is in the area. The center of the room after the closed door or near it should be about right.)
My roll is d20 +9 for further checks if They are needed as per Area Dispel in PHB
------------- True Seeing Round 4 of 90 Spell Immunity Round 3 of 90 Minutes
Gaxx (ac-24; hp-62/62) d20+4=24 d20+7=27 Wednesday April 21st, 2004 8:47:10 AM
Gaxx stays where he is and lifts his piece of amber in one hand. He calls out to Wardd and in a most respectful voice, asks Wardd to spread his blessings out to his new friends. When he is done casting, he states out loud to nobody in particular, "Man summon nasty wolf." He then starts preparations for his next spell.
A race to the door - DM Marcin Wednesday April 21st, 2004 11:31:47 AM
Renik, abandoning all attempts at stealth, runs far into the corridor stopping before the door he believes his equipment is behind. It is wooden and looks solid. There is a simple door handle, together with a keyhole set in black iron. Is it locked? Who knows.
Sarigar follows Renik trying to maintain stealth. He still has some distance to cover before he reaches the door.
Setanos summons a disk of force to deflect attacks aimed at him and moves forward. Draax also takes a few steps ahead.
Gaxx decides to bolster the skill of his companions with a blessing of Wardd. All are affected but Renik, who is too far away at the moment the spell is cast.
Tratain remains still, ready to react should the door open. But it doesn't - whoever is standing on the other side doesn't seem to wish to confront the party - at least not right now.
The spellcasting, now plainly heard by all, continues. It is now accompanied by snarls and growls. Something is clawing with great strength at the door leading to the round chamber! The wooden planks reinforced with iron shake as some unseen beast rams into them in a vain attempt to get to the other side. Whoever is its master didn't let go of the leash.
[http://www.auburn.edu/~kulczmc/map.bmp][0:01.8]
Setanos (AC 23 HP 83/83) [Extended Mage Armor, Shield, Heroism] Wednesday April 21st, 2004 12:08:17 PM
Setanos continues his advance, stoping briefly to cast another spell.
OOC: Cast Heroism Move closer to the door 30' (Square V4)
Spells Active: Extended Mage Armor: 14 hours (cast in early am) Shield 2/70 rounds Heroism 1/700 rounds
Feng Ac 23 HP 96 Wednesday April 21st, 2004 12:48:21 PM
Feng would like to break down the door and kill the creature, but thats just his orc blood talkin. Feng appraoches the door just in case it does give way and whatever is back there gets free.
Sarigar (78Hp, 19AC), Black Paws (33Hp, 17AC) d20+23=43 d20+28=41 Wednesday April 21st, 2004 2:31:38 PM
Seeing the chance of any stealth and ambush he was trying to maintain completely dashed, Sarigar continues to the last door on the right (Move Silently 43, nat 20) and slips inside to try to recover some semblance of it (Hide 41).
He makes a mental note to himself to remind the others that the signal to stay back means to stay back.
Renik d20+9=14 Wednesday April 21st, 2004 3:07:22 PM
Hoping that Gaxx has brought some of his God's blessing along with him Renik tries the door, praying it is not locked. If the door opens he heads inside, looking for any sign of his gear. He leaves the door ajar.
If the door is locked he fishes out the bent piece of metal he found and employed as a lockpick back in the buried chamber and attempts to pick the lock, whilst doing his level best not to acknowledge the existence of the savagely snarling something on the other side of the far door (Open Lock 14).
Arien (Mage Armor, AC 21) HP: 41 Wednesday April 21st, 2004 8:17:16 PM
Arien moves forward and prepares a spell, Flaming sphere, to go off when the door opensplacing the sphere just insdie the doorway.
Draax AC21/25, HP89 Wednesday April 21st, 2004 9:31:46 PM
Hearing the growling, Draax is reminded of the beast that chased him into the room during the cave in.
Draax patiently keeps his eyes and bow trained on the far door. He thinks that it is ironic how the enemy gives the party time to search for Renik's items while the party gives the bad guys a chance to complete their spell.
Tratain AC 24 HP 59/59 (True Seeing; Spell Immunity:Fireball Lightning Bolt) Thursday April 22nd, 2004 12:02:46 AM
Tratain Holds his position and waits to cast his spell as soon as the door is opened. (Ready action to Cast Area Dispel when door is opened.)
------------- True Seeing Round 5 of 90 Spell Immunity Round 4 of 90 Minutes
A standoff? - DM Marcin Thursday April 22nd, 2004 7:14:50 AM
The party continues the preparations for the battle that seems to be imminent. Setanos bolsters his skills with an enchantment and moves forward. Feng follows behind him. Sarigar is close enough to reach the door separating the party from their enemies. The face of the daemon on the lock seems to be sneering. The wild man conceals himself in the corner and is reasonably sure that, should the door be opened, he will remain unseen from the other side. Arien carefully advances, staying behind the fighters, and prepares to create a Flaming Sphere the very moment the door is opened. Tratain maintains his concentration, ready to dispel. Draax waits with his bow prepared, amused by the standoff.
Renik tries the handle and finds the door unlocked. It opens without a sound. The small cellar on the other side is lit with a single yellow crystal set in the middle of the ceiling. The cellar seems to be a storeroom of some sort, tidy and nice. Various metal tools and leather pouches have been stacked on rows of strong, wooden shelves. A few small barrels are lined up by the wall. Two piles of firewood are stacked in the corner, as well as a box of coal. The whole room is filled with a very intense smell - it reminds Renik of freshly cut pine mixed with sandal wood.
But, most importantly, a wooden crate rests on one of the tables, and inside Renik finds his equipment! The mithril shirt is right there, and the buckler, and his short sword, dagger, bow, and the rest of his stuff. Somebody has written on the side of the box: "WARNING! TO BE IDENTIFIED! Some of that stuff might be cursed, so keep your greedy little fingers away until I am done with it. This means you too, Kirian. Brother L."
[Renik is now next to the box. It is a move action to pick something up and another move action to equip it (unless it is the chainshirt, in which case conslut the PHB: donning armor).]
The spellcasting on the other side continues. Two voices can be heard casting spells, one male and one female. The long, wailing incantations are replaced by short, sharp arcane phrases. Somebody shouts a command and the clawing on the door ceases. Somewhere in the distance somebody else is shouting warnings, probably trying to alert the rest of the dungeon.
[http://www.auburn.edu/~kulczmc/map.bmp][0:01.9]
Setanos (AC 23 HP 83/83) [Extended Mage Armor, Shield, Heroism] d20+10=26 d20+14=23 d20+14=15 d20+14=33 d20+14=25 d20+14=25 Thursday April 22nd, 2004 7:36:37 AM
Setanos moves all the way up to the door and listens, trying to make out the nature of the spells being cast. He checks to see how the rest of the party is doing, and indicates his desire to have the door opened soon.
OOC: Listen Check : 26 I made a bunch of spell craft checks, wasnt sure how many spells were cast. SpellCraft Check to Identify Spell: 23 SpellCraft Check to Identify Spell: 15 SpellCraft Check to Identify Spell: 33 SpellCraft Check to Identify Spell: 25 SpellCraft Check to Identify Spell: 25
Sarigar (78Hp, 19AC), Black Paws (33Hp, 17AC) Thursday April 22nd, 2004 2:15:49 PM
Sarigar remains completely motionless in his hiding place, waiting for the prey to make their first move.
Renik Thursday April 22nd, 2004 3:47:41 PM
Heaping undying thanks upon Wardd the grateful rogue delves into the crate and pulls out his ring of blinking. He wonders how much time his opponents are going to give him, and hopes that his companions are more prepared than he.
Arien (Mage Armor, AC 21) HP: 41 d20+18=37 Thursday April 22nd, 2004 4:01:19 PM
Arien, realizing that Tratain is preparing a Dispel Magic, decides to hold his spell just a couple of seconds longer to allow Tratain's spell to go off first. (spellcraft-37)
Gaxx ( ac 19, hp 62/62 Bless) d20+4=19 Thursday April 22nd, 2004 4:28:24 PM
Gaxx roots through his spell component pouch and pulls out a tiny bag and a little candle. He squats down and places the bag on the floor, laying on its side. He places the candle in front of the bag to light the way for his friend. Gaxx very politely asks Wardd to send him his buddy, the fire beetle.
(Casts Summon Monster 1)
Feng Ac 23 HP 96 Thursday April 22nd, 2004 7:08:17 PM
"What are we doing here? Are we waiting for this door to open or are we pilling back? Because if we are waiting for the door to break, why don't we blast it with magic and hurt whatever creature is trying to get at us?"
Draax AC21/25, HP89 , Bless Thursday April 22nd, 2004 7:31:49 PM
While waiting for the inevitable battle to begin, Draax lets half of his mind drift back to previous battles. The party has defeated a dragon, a beholder, drow, wizards, a giant skeleton, a fire snakeman, a rubber-band man, and summoned wolf creatures. He doesn't even count the various fanatics that were destroyed. He smiles as he realizes that with the hurting they put on these guys so far, he would not open the door for them either.
Tratain AC 24 HP 59/59 (True Seeing; Spell Immunity:Fireball Lightning Bolt; Bless) Friday April 23rd, 2004 12:05:48 AM
Tratain stays where he is ready to cast his spell the moment the door opens and he can see beyond. (Ready Action to cast Area Dispel when the door is opened.)
------------- True Seeing Round 6 of 90 Spell Immunity Round 5 of 90 Minutes
Preparations continue - DM Marcin Friday April 23rd, 2004 10:58:27 AM
Sarigar, who patiently waits by the door for the enemy to show themselves, is joined by Setanos, who puts his ear to the wooden planks and strains his hearing to recognize what spells are being cast. One of the incantations is the popular Mage Armor. The second he can't quite figure out.
Draax waits calmly for the coming battle, while Feng voices his impatience. Tratain stands ready to dispel as soon as the door is opened. Arien notices his intention and resolves to follow with his Flaming Sphere AFTER Tratain's spell takes effect.
Gaxx puts a pouch on the floor and starts a conjuration that is supposed to add an ally to the party's strength [The celestial fire beetle will appear and act on your next round. Could you please e-mail me the stats of the monster?].
Renik, delighted to recover his equipment, rummages through the box, finds his ring of blinking, and puts it on.
Whether is it because the enemy bids his time or out of fear, the door remains closed. One thing is certain - the foes do not waste their time. Two more spells are being cast on the other side of the door.
[First make a Listen check DC 18 (+1 for every 10ft of distance between you and the door). If it is successful you can make two Spellcraft checks DC16. If any of these is successful reveal the appropriate text below: Check #1: Highlight to display spoiler: {***SHIELD***} Check #2: Highlight to display spoiler: {**SHIELD**}]
[http://www.auburn.edu/~kulczmc/map.bmp][0:02.0]
Setanos (AC 23 HP 83/83) [Extended Mage Armor, Shield, Heroism] d20+10=28 d20+14=26 d20+14=27 Friday April 23rd, 2004 11:13:41 AM
Setanos checks the door, and recognizes the two spells cast. He looks over towards Renik's direction, and makes the decision not to wait for him to finish. He motions and points at the door.
He then casts a quick spell, and opens the door.
OOC: Listen Check: 28 Passed Spellcraft 1: 26 Passed Spellcraft 2: 27 Passed Cast True Strike Open Door
Extended Mage Armor: 14 hours (cast in early am) Shield 4/70 rounds Heroism 3/700 rounds True Strike *special
Sarigar (78Hp, 19AC), Black Paws (33Hp, 17AC) d20+28=34 Friday April 23rd, 2004 11:32:14 PM
Sarigar still waits, hiding (Hide 34), as patiently as he can in his corner. If possible, he will be the party's "ace in the hole".
Draax AC21/25, HP89 , Bless Saturday April 24th, 2004 2:25:37 PM
Draax takes a few steps forward (H5) while waiting for Renik to emerge from the room or for their enemies to open to the door.
Renik Sunday April 25th, 2004 6:38:48 PM
Renik takes up his twin shortswords with a feeling of profound relief. He cannot resist drawing them with an elaborate flourish as he turns back towards the door.
Under his breath he whispers "blink", as he readies himself for the battle to come.
Tratain AC 24 HP 59/59 (True Seeing; Spell Immunity:Fireball Lightning Bolt; Bless) Sunday April 25th, 2004 10:19:11 PM
When Setanos Opens the Door Tratain aims his spell and casts Area Dispel Magic.
After Completing the spell he moves up as far as he can (Square E5)
Area Dispel Roll is 1d20 +9
------------- True Seeing Round 7 of 90 Spell Immunity Round 6 of 90 Minutes
Feng Ac 23 HP 96 Monday April 26th, 2004 12:18:55 AM
Feng grips his axe tightly and sighs in relief when the door is finally opened. He plants his feet and readies himself for the creature the door barely held back.
The battle is joined - DM Marcin 8d6(5+4+1+3+6+5+5+3)=32 Monday April 26th, 2004 6:57:17 AM
Sarigar waits with patience for a chance to ambush an enemy. Draax takes a few steps forward. Black Paws looks at him with his dark, deep eyes. Feng draws his double axe. Gaxx finishes his conjuration, bringing into being a shiny fire beetle to aid the group. Renik, rummaging through his stuff, finds his shortswords. It certainly feels good to have familiar steel in hands once again. He doesn't have enough time to activate his ring though [which is a standard action].
Setanos looks back at his friends, notices that they seem as ready to face combat as they will ever be, casts a final spell, and kicks the door open.
It slams against he wall. The way deeper into the dungeon stands open, but not undefended!
The round chamber, previously seen by the party in the light of oil lamps, is now dark. Four pairs of large, fiery eyes gaze at the party with infernal hate. Four black shapes as large as horses occupy the round room - a familiar sight to Sarigar, who has fought these pitch black wolves just hours ago.
Tratain moves forward and confidently sends a wave of magic into the chamber, aiming to end as many active spells as possible [I'm using your old rolls]. There are popping sounds as if bottles were uncorked and three of the lupines vanish witout a trace. Just a second ago they were there, maws agape, ready to kill, and now they are simply gone as if they were a bad dream.
A nasty curse comes from the darkness of the room.
Arien brings into being a sphere of fire that appears right in the doorway [Y9-Y10] filling the passage and providing more illumination. The party can now see that two figures are skulking on the far side of the room.
The closer one is a raven haired, young woman with pale face which is now twisted with anger. She is wearing an elegant, white nightie. Her feet are bare and her hair is in disarray. Overall she looks as if she just got out of bed. In her hand she holds what looks like a black scepter of some kind. The other stranger stands in one of the corridors leading out of the room. The man is quite tall and is wearing some kind of gray robe. His hands are empty. As the flaming sphere appears both shield their eyes from the sudden light.
The woman is the first one to recover. "This is the last mistake of your lives, fools! Die!" she shrieks, and, rising the device in her hand, points her finger at the party. A small fiery bead streaks from her digit and speeds past Sarigar and Setanos, only to explode behind their backs in a fiery inferno of a fireball. Sarigar, Setanos, Tratain, and Feng are all within burst range. Renik stands barely out of it and feels a rush of hot air against his face. [Fireball does 48 damage (it was maximized), Ref 17 for half.]
The man, rallied by his companion, casts a spell of his own. "Dodge this, thieving scum!" A thin line of electricity aimed at Setanos streaks from his finger and continues into the corridor. Arien and Gaxx have the unnerving experience of watching a thunderbolt head straight at them only to dissipate feet away from their persons. [Setanos takes 32 damage from Lightning Bolt, Ref 17 for half, take +2 bonus for having cover.]
The wolf remains where it stands, watching the opened door as if it was waiting for something.
Shouts can be heard coming from other parts of the complex. Doors are being slammed open somewhere in the distance.
[The door leading to the chamber is filled with the flaming sphere: Y9-Y10. If you decide to pass through it before it moves away you will take normal damage for that spell.] [Note: this time the map is quite large and scrolls sideways. The part of it depicting the round room is rotated 45 degrees compared to the previous map of that area.] [http://www.auburn.edu/~kulczmc/map.bmp][0:02.1]
Setanos (AC 23 HP 36/83) [Extended Mage Armor, Shield, Heroism] d20+6=19 d20+8=22 d20+6=20 2d6(5+2)+6=13 d20+29=41 2d6(3+5)+21=29 Monday April 26th, 2004 9:00:53 AM
Setanos screams in pain as the fireball rolls over him, and again as the lighting bolt hits.
When the assult ends, Setanos looks back at his companions and cries "For DOMI!!!"
He then runs through the sphere, charging the woman with greatsword raised, swingin with all his might.
OOC: Save Vrs Fireball: Passed, 24 Damage Save Vrs Lighting: Passed, 16 Damage Save Vrs Flaming Sphere: Failed (I think), 7 damage (Ignore +6, was from previous reflex safe) Charge Action to Woman (Square I10) Power Attack for 7:Hit AC 41 for 29 Damage (+12 base +2 charging + 2 Heroism + 20 True Strike - 7 Power Attack) (2d6 +1 magic +6 Str + 14 2h Power Attack)
Extended Mage Armor: 14 hours (cast in early am) Shield 5/70 rounds Heroism 4/700 rounds True Strike *special
Tratain AC 24 HP 59/59 (True Seeing; Spell Immunity:Fireball Lightning Bolt; Bless) 9d6(1+6+2+3+3+4+5+4+5)=33 Monday April 26th, 2004 10:49:49 AM
Tratain moves forward into the space just vacated by Setanos glancing at his other comrades to make sure they aren't too baldy hurt, and then begins Incating a spell. (Tratain is Immune to Fireball)
Tratain Casts Flame Strike Centered on J10 (That should hit both Mages but Miss Setanos, thats what I'm aiming for.) 33 Damage Reflex DC 20 For Half
------------- True Seeing Round 8 of 90 Spell Immunity Round 7 of 90 Minutes
Arien (Mage Armor, AC 21) HP: 41 Monday April 26th, 2004 12:23:40 PM
Arien directs the Flaming Sphere to roll forward then to the left as the hallway widens, aiming for the wolf, just in case anyone else feels a desire to commit suicide by leaping through the ball of flaming.
Gaxx ( ac 19, hp 62/62 Bless) Monday April 26th, 2004 1:02:45 PM
Gaxx cannot believe how lucky it is he's standing just out of range of the lightning bolt! He recovers his bag and candle then he creeps forward 20 feet to just beyond the range of the spell. He draws his rod and taps on the beetle's shell. Once he has the beetle's attention, he points to the doorway where the lightning bolt came from with the rod.
(Celestial Giant Fire Beetle: HD 1d8 (4 hp); speed 30;ac 16; base attack +0; grapple -4;attack: bite +1 melee(2d4); full attack: bite +1 melee (2d4); saves: fort-+2; Dark vision; Smite evil 1 x a day)
Sarigar (78Hp, 19AC), Black Paws (33Hp, 17AC) d20+10=18 Monday April 26th, 2004 2:50:18 PM
Sarigar lithely tucks himself deeper into the corner just enough to avoid the blast of fire from the scantily clad woman (Saves with 18 + Evasion for no damage). Seeing the ball of fire pop up right next to him, he chokes down the panic that begins to overtake him and stays put. He thinks to himself, Thank Mittiri it's not another of those many armed black demons again.
Renik (AC 14 (15 vs wolf), HP 71) Blinking d100=18 d6=3 Monday April 26th, 2004 6:09:27 PM
Shifting in and out of phase with reality the rogue responds rapidly to the sounds of battle. He races directly towards the corner of the storeroom, heading straight through it! He appears on the far side of the wall, though he rematerialises a fraction too early (3hp damage, Z10) and keeps on going, dashing across the circular room to take up a position near to the wolf, but not so near that it can get a bite out of him (E7). He takes care to keep the wolf between him and the man who cast the lightning bolt (using the Wolf as cover), and to avoid getting roasted by the rolling ball of flame.
Weaving his twin blades in an elaborate (and frankly rather showy) form he grins at the hulking wolf creature. It feels great to be back in action.
He cries to his companions "Take these spellcasting scum down fast, there's more company on the way! Arien, Draax, stay long, everyone else get in close, quick as you can! We have no time to waste!"
Feng Ac 23 HP 48 d20+10=14 d20+16=36 d20+16=17 Monday April 26th, 2004 7:10:21 PM
Feng grimmaces as the fireball washes over him, searing flesh and heating his armor. The pain is almost overwhelming. He moves toward the woman, taking a swipe at the wand.
ooc: critical hit against the wand
Draax AC21/25, HP89 , Bless Monday April 26th, 2004 9:22:50 PM
As the door opens Draax is disappointed at the distance that the enemy is from the door. He keeps his cool as he watches the explosions caused by the enemies' initial attacks. He was surprised and relieved to see the most of the wolves disappear soon after the door opened, but can hear the reinforcement mobilizing.
Doing as Renik suggested Draax moves closer (M10) while still keeping his distance, but getting closer for a clearer shot.
Closing distance while under fire - DM Marcin d20+15=34 [wolf vs Setanos] d8+18=24 [damage to Setanos] d20+13=30 [trip attack vs Setanos] d20+3=6 [woman vs Flame Strike] d20+3=11 [man vs Flame Strike] 8d6(3+5+3+1+3+4+3+6)=28 [damage from Lightning Bolt] d20+7=19 [wolf vs Lightning Bolt] Tuesday April 27th, 2004 4:12:47 AM
With a battlecry Setanos jumps over the flaming ball of fire [save was successful, so no damage from Flaming Sphere] and charges the female mage. Unfortunately, the black wolf was just waiting for someone to enter the round chamber. The beast countercharges! The man and the animal meet in the middle of the chamber. Setanos finds his way to the woman blocked and has only the wolf within his reach. His sword descends on the shoulder of the beast tearing flesh and shattering bone [wolf takes 29 damage]. A fraction of a second later the maw of the wolf closes on Setanos' sword arm. Black flames burst from between its fangs and the hero feels that the strength of the nightmarish creature has been augumented with some unholy power [wolf hits Setanos: 24 damage]. The impact of the collision throws the hero to the ground [successful trip attack vs Setanos].
Tratain takes the place freed by his friend and, having all enemies in sight, brings down a roaring column of divine flames on the pair of opponents [you have to aim right of j10, but it is possible to include both of them in the area, so no prob]. There are screams of pain as both are engulfed by the curtain of fire and suffer full effects of magic. "Son of a GHOUL!" shouts the woman. "Terstin, hurry up! There's more of them!"
Arien directs the sphere created by his spell to strike at the wolf. It doesn't quite have the speed to reach it just yet, but it leaves the doorway open for others to pass through.
Gaxx, carefully measuring the distance he advances, takes a few steps forward. Then he directs the insect he summoned to the front. The beetle obediently scrambles ahead, reaching the doorway and stopping right behind Tratain's back.
Sarigar somehow manages to come out of the flames of the fireball unscathed. Not wishing to suffer collateral damage from friendly spells he stays put.
Renik activates his ring of blinking, and, phasing in and out of the Prime Material, scrambles over the table in the corner, and passes right through the wall like a ghost. Well, almost like a ghost. As the spell ejects him into the corridor a Renik-shaped hole appears in the plaster on the wall. Since he had to spend some time to activate his ring [which is a standard action] he can't quite advance as far as he intended, but the wolf is now standing in the middle of the room, so the hero is still able to use it as cover from lightning bolts. As soon as he enters the round room Renik encourages his friends to advance as quickly as they can.
Feng would like to attack the woman, but he is simply too far away and his armor considerably reduces his speed. He starts running, and that is enough to pass by Sarigar and Tratain and overtake Renik, but he is unable to reach any enemy just yet.
Draax, deciding to follow the advice of Renik, strides forward. The corridor is quite crowded with friends and it would take a skilled archer indeed to score a hit against an enemy in these circumstances.
The woman, badly burned by the holy fire, staggers back, but recovers her balance. She waves her black scepter and screams in rage: "You slay me and I rise again! But you will be ghoul-food before soon! Burn, filth! BURN!" She aims her finger at the middle of the party and another fiery bead speeds off, only to erupt in a low roar of the fireball. Setanos, Feng, Renik, Sarigar, and Tratain are engulfed by the flames [48 damage, Ref17 for half, Sarigar doesn't get cover as it is spread effect].
The man, whimpering and sucking his fingers, looks at the party, and, seeing the heroes lined up, sends another lightning bolt down the corridor. The spell passes right through the wolf, which yelps in pain [28 damage, Ref17 for half; Setanos, Renik, and fire beetle are affected; Tratain is immune]. Gaxx's hair and beard stand straight as the arc of electricity discharges within his arm's reach.
There are more shouts and sounds of running feet can be heard coming from the corridors. Apparently, the enemy has reinforcements on the way.
[Joe please check your mail before posting.] [http://www.auburn.edu/~kulczmc/map.bmp][0:02.2]
Setanos (AC 23 HP -43/83) [Extended Mage Armor, Shield, Heroism] d20+6=12 d20+6=19 d20+14=28 Tuesday April 27th, 2004 7:26:34 AM
As his charge is met by the great wolf, Setanos slips to the ground. Hearing the Fireball spell comming toward him, and knowing what it means, he calls out one final time "For DOMI!" before the fireball engulphs him and he falls into darkness.
OOC: Spellcraft check to identify fireball Spell :)
It was fun gaming with you all. Thanks for the great time. I'm not sure if I can play another character in this campaign, but if I can...I'll be back :)
Troy
Tratain AC 24 (22 Charging) HP 59/59 (True Seeing; Spell Immunity:Fireball Lightning Bolt; Bless) d20+15=32 2d6(2+4)+4=10 2d6(5+4)=9 Tuesday April 27th, 2004 10:25:55 AM
Tratain remains unscathed from both the Fireball and Lightning bolt due to his magic.
Tratain watches his friend fall and a look of fury crosses his eyes.
He shouts above the noise "Sarigar, If your not going to fight either back down the hall or close yourself in that room, right here isn't the safest place to be."
He continues "Feng take the woman! Renik most of the Ceiling is an Illusion!" and then charges at the wolf Striking it solidly with his Warhammer (Hit AC 32 for 10 Physical Damage 9 Holy Damage)
------------- True Seeing Round 9 of 90 Spell Immunity Round 8 of 90 Minutes
Tratain (OOC) d8+4=8 Tuesday April 27th, 2004 2:41:54 PM
OOC: Make that 8 Physical Damage, Just noticed I rolled the wrong Damage
Sarigar (78Hp, 19AC), Black Paws (33Hp, 17AC) d20+10=24 d20+12=28 Tuesday April 27th, 2004 3:15:22 PM
Seeing the flaming sphere move into the room, Sarigar rushes in behind it. The second blast of fire explodes and with amazing agility, he somehow avoids its effects again (Save 24 + Evasion for no damage). He dashes toward the southern edge of the room (H12), careful to avoid the large wolf.
He calls out for Black Paws to join him (Handle Animal 28) and Black Paws comes a running (move to V10).
Renik (AC 19 (20 vs wolf) HP 71) Blinking, Expertise (5) d20+10=22 d20+10=19 d100=35 d20+14=21 5d6(6+1+3+2+6)+7=25 Tuesday April 27th, 2004 4:03:25 PM
Flinging himself into a low roll Renik ducks beneath the arcing bolt of electricity and explosion of flame, though the chequered tablecloth cloak offered him by Gaax is charred beyond recognition. Renik has a microsecond to reflect that it is lucky he was wearing it; without it he might have got a nasty burn.
But as he comes to his feet...
"Setanos! Noooo!" Cries the rogue as he sees his friend blasted into oblivion by the combined spellcasting of his enemies.
"You worthless scum!" he yells at the casters, "Your lives are measured in seconds!" Though he has moved past his fallen companion, the image of his scorched and blackened features is seared indelibly into his mind's eye.
Gritting his teeth he moves in towards the hellish wolf-creature (Q8) and takes a mighty swing with his shortsword at the creature's hamstring (Expertise -5, Blink +2, Sneak Attack from Blink hits AC 21 for 25HP).
Tratain's words alarm the rogue. He is aware that tactically this is far from an ideal deployment of their forces, and it seems they may be even more vulnerable than he realised. "The ceiling's an illusion? How much of it? What's up there? Beware my friends, we may be vulnerable to attack from above as well as from these corridors! We may need to fall back rapidly, once these murderous vermin have tasted our steel!"
Feng Ac 23, HP 0 d20+10=11 Tuesday April 27th, 2004 5:46:58 PM
Feng tries to reach the woman but it isn't possible. He knows that he needs to reach the woman but the flames explode around him sending him into darkness.
Draax AC21/25, HP89 , Bless d20+10=25 d20+4=12 d20+10=30 d20+10=25 d8+3=11 d8+3=5 d8+3=4 d8+3=6 d8+3=11 Tuesday April 27th, 2004 6:17:51 PM
As he watches Setanos go down, Draax remains isolated from his emotions and concentrates on the battle. He judges the distance from the woman and finds a slight opening between the combatants before using rapid shot to fires off 3 quick shots at the woman (first shot hit AC 25 for 11, second shot AC12 for 5dmg, and critical hit on 3rd shot if AC25 hits for 21 dmg) (Total of 36 dmg if all hits, 32 if the 1st and 3rd hits and only 4 dmg total if AC is above 25). (All shots are at minus 6 because of distance and shooting into melee).
Arien (Mage Armor, AC 21) HP: 41 2d6(6+6)=12 Tuesday April 27th, 2004 7:08:50 PM
Arien directs the Flaming sphere forward so that it rolls over the wolf creature. (12 dam)
Gaxx ( ac 19, hp 62/62 Bless) d20=19 Tuesday April 27th, 2004 7:25:30 PM
Gaxx watches, stunned as not just one but two party members go down. Not only that, but the mean old man killed his beetle, his LUCKY beetle! How dare he! Gaxx ducks his head and charges forward, hoping he can make it to the half-orc before he dies.
The Grim Reaper's harvest - DM Marcin 8d6(5+2+1+3+3+5+5+2)=26 [damage from Lightning Bolt] Wednesday April 28th, 2004 8:45:21 AM
Setanos cries the name of Domi for the last time and dies.
Tratain charges the infernal wolf, and, standing over the body of his slain friend, delivers a powerful blow. The warhammer shatters the maw of the creature.
Sarigar enters the round chamber dancing nimbly around the huge wolf. Summoned by his master Black Paws springs forward and races along the corridor, trying to join his brother.
Renik manages to avoid both spells cast at him and, circling around the lupine, gives it a nasty wound, cutting through one of its joints to the bone.
Feng staggers, overcome by the fire. [When you are at 0 hp you are disabled, but still conscious. Last round Feng was entitled to a single standard action, after performing which he automatically takes 1 damage. If you like you can still take that action before the Lightning Bolt hits.] [Rolling natural one on save means a piece of equipment might be damaged, see PHB177. Please roll d4 to see what item was affected: 1. breastplate, 2. Hat of Disguise, 3. double axe, 4. Cloak of Resistance. Then roll a Ref save for the item with Feng's save bonus.]
Suddenly there is the characteristic sound of arrows flying through the air and, out of the corridor and through the doorway, three feathered shafts speed towards the pale woman. Two of them score a hit, one burying deep in her chest, the other piercing her throat. The mage doesn't even realize what killed her. The scepter falls to the ground and rolls away. The woman falls to her knees, her eyes empty. Then she slides slowly to the cold stones of the floor.
"No! NOOO!" shrieks the man. "You will PAY!"
Arien directs his flaming sphere to jump at the wolf. The creature, attacked from three sides, looses footing and vanishes with a <pop> before its massive, dead body can hit the ground.
Gaxx musters all his energy and, running through the whole length of the hall, manages to reach the paladin.
The remaining mage looks around and realizes that he is trapped, but it seems that the death of his companion has removed any doubts or fears he might have had just a moment ago.
"If I am to go to the Gargul then you shall come with me!" Seeing that the heroes have lined themselves up, the man jumps out of his hiding place in the corridor and aims a white hot ray of lightning at the party. Before it strikes the wall the arc of energy hits Renik, Tratain, Feng, and Gaxx [26 damage from Lightning Bolt, Ref 17 for half].
A massive figure emerges from one of the corridors. It is a huge minotaur. His mane is white and his eyes are deep red. Its bared fangs are yellow, and so are his massive horns. The creature is wearing a leather apron, one of the kind one would expect to find on a blacksmith or a shoemaker, but in his hands the hulking taur is holding a nasty looking greataxe.
"Come, then!" he bellows. Ah, so this is the owner of the voice that had problems pronouncing Common. "Pick on someone your own size!"
[http://www.auburn.edu/~kulczmc/map.bmp][0:02.3]
Arien (Mage Armor, AC 21) HP: 41 Wednesday April 28th, 2004 10:02:53 AM
Arien moves forward 30 feet and directs the ball of flame forward to block the doorway opposite the doorway they entered.
Gaxx ( ac 18, hp 62/62 Bless) d20+4=18 d20+12=21 3d8(7+3+3)+6=19 Wednesday April 28th, 2004 10:24:41 AM
Gaxx eeeks and ducks back behind the corner of the wall, avoiding the lightning bolt all together. With his beard and hair standing straight out, he darts forward to Feng. Speaking very rapidly, he profusely apologizes to Wardd but wonders if he could use his big summoning spell to heal his new friend Feng.
(ac-18; ref save-21; evasion to avoid damage; converts summon monster 3 to Cure serious wounds, healing 19 points of damage to Feng)
Remaining spells: 0lvl-Detect magic x 2, guidance x 2 1lvl-Cause Fear, Divine Favor, Disguise Self 2lvl-Invisibility, Summon monster II, Aid, Silence, Bull's Strength 3lvl- Protection from Energy, Searing light
Sarigar (AC19, 78HP); Black Paws (AC17, 33HP) d20+11=24 d20+11=28 d3+4=7 d3+2=4 Wednesday April 28th, 2004 12:57:21 PM
Sarigar runs up at the still standing spell caster (I7, moving to avoid moving through H8 to get there) and starts swinging. Although his right fist isn't placed as well as his left, it makes up for it in brute force (AC24, 7HP). His left hand then hits more precisely, but not as strongly (AC28, 4HP).
Black Paws runs up again, moving right up near his brother, taking a position as opposite as he can (K9 no pun intended =) ).
Tratain AC 24 HP 59/59 (True Seeing; Spell Immunity:Fireball Lightning Bolt; Bless) 4d8(8+2+3+5)+9=27 Wednesday April 28th, 2004 2:35:39 PM
Tratain takes a step over to Feng and adds his healing Powers to Gaxx's. (Healed Feng for 27)
Seeing Sarigar head towords the other mage, Tratain attempts to examine the illusion on the ceiling and see if there is anyway to get to the door he now can see.
------------- True Seeing Round 10 of 90 Spell Immunity Round 9 of 90 Minutes
Renik (AC 22 (23 vs minotaur) HP 55) Blinking, Expertise (5) Fight Defensive, d20+10=13 d20+10=25 5d6(6+4+1+5+6)+7=29 d100=39 Wednesday April 28th, 2004 3:28:54 PM
As another sizzling bolt of electrical energy flashes towards him the rogue twists his body aside, but is fractionally too slow. The blast catches him, although because he is blinking him he doesn't feel its full force (half damage due to blinking). Regardless his hair frizzles up wildly from the shock. What with the scorching, the emaciation, the lack of clothes, the tattered burned-up scrap of table cloth tied around his neck and his new frizzy hairdo it is only fortunate that the rogue cannot see his reflection in a mirror at this moment, or the party might be down three members.
Renik gulps. With their heavy hitters down or otherwise engaged it looks like it is down to him to hold up the minotaur.
"With pleasure my bovine friend!" replies the semi-corporeal rogue, closing with the beast and making a wicked lunge (AC 25 for 29HP).
"So, tell me," continues the rogue in a conversational tone as he ducks, weaves and generally tries to make himself as hard to hit as possible, "What's it like being a minotaur? I'm sure it can't all be bad breath, body odor and a penchant for Fresians. There must be a plus side. You must do a great trade from milking your females, for example."
Draax AC21/25, HP89 , Bless Wednesday April 28th, 2004 6:19:10 PM
Draax watches the female fall and lets his eyes search for another target. Seeing another lightning bolt hit his friend almost pierce through Draax's emotionless zone. Hearing the anguish coming from the male wizard lets Draax knows he had feeling for her.
Draax runs into the room, stop (E10) and turns towards the wizard. He catches a glimpse of Renik's blinking dance with the minotaur and knows that they need to take the caster out quick. In a voice devour of all emotions Draax says to the wizard as he aim his bow. "You won't mind if I retrieve my arrows from your girlfriend's useless body after I kill you? It just that I paid something like a silver for them and I would hate to see them wasting in a corpse. Getting the blood stains off of them will probably be hard, but at least I get to save a few silver."
Walter OOC: Wednesday April 28th, 2004 11:51:21 PM
I don't think that there is a standard action that he can take. I'm not sure but I can't imagine that laying on hands is anything but a full round action. He's got two potions but they are in his stylish pants o' plenty. He could draw the potion but not drink. By the time Tratain gets to him he's at -26. It has been fun.
Joe/Tratain OOC Thursday April 29th, 2004 12:11:52 AM
Lay on Hands Is a Standard Action.
DM Marcin Thursday April 29th, 2004 6:43:38 AM
[I'm delaying the next combat post until tomorrow.]
OOC: Troy Thursday April 29th, 2004 10:51:57 AM
For those who dont know about it, the System Reference Document is a great online document for d20.
From the SRD: (emphasis mine) Lay on Hands (Su): Beginning at 2nd level, a paladin with a Charisma score of 12 or higher can heal wounds (her own or those of others) by touch. Each day she can heal a total number of hit points of damage equal to her paladin level x her Charisma bonus. A paladin may choose to divide her healing among multiple recipients, and she doesn't have to use it all at once. Using lay on hands is a standard action
Yes, it's a standard action. M.
Feng AC 23, HP 31 d20+10=12 Thursday April 29th, 2004 4:20:14 PM
Just before the blackness claimed him he fills his body with divine energy, healing his wounds. Feng cries out in shock as his body is almost overwhelmed from the lightning bolt.
Saving paladin Feng - DM Marcin d20+13=14 [minotaur AoO] 8d6(2+5+2+2+2+3+6+3)=25 [damage from Lightning Bolt] d20+13=30 d20+8=20 d100=87 [minotaur attacks on Renik - one hits] d12+5=8 [damage to Renik] d100=30 [Blink foils spell cast on Renik] Friday April 30th, 2004 3:47:21 AM
Arien, not being able to see the enemies anymore, advances down the corridor towards the sounds of battle. At the same time the mage makes sure his flaming sphere is not ilde - the globe of fire jumps from its resting place and heads for the far doorway, though it will take it some time to get there.
Gaxx, having avoided lightning twice, finally finds himself in its path, but manages to emerge with only very minor burns. Summoning the power of the unpredictable Wardd the dwarf pumps some life back into the badly burned paladin.
Sarigar chooses the last standing wizard as his target. The wild man covers the distance to the mage in a few quick strides and hits the man squarely on the jaw [you can make only one attack as a standard action]. The man staggers, and for a moment Sarigar thinks this blow will be enough to bring him down. But not just yet! The enemy doesn't fall. Was it some inner strength or just fury that allowed him to keep on his feet?
Black Paws arrives on the field of battle and dutifully takes his place by his master's side.
Tratain returns to Feng and directs his healing powers at the paladin. As soon as his spell is complete he looks at the door he spotted on the ceiling. [Tratain only!] Highlight to display spoiler: {The huge trapdoor is closed. The ceiling is 20ft high. There seems to be no other way to reach the portal than by a ladder or magical means.}
Renik advances on the newly arrived taur. As he closes with the foe the rogue easily dodges a clumsy strike of the greataxe [the taur has reach; AoO misses]. Renik's shortsword finds an opening in the defenses of the albino foe [attack hits]. The rogue finds it appropriate to add insult to the injury.
Draax, no longer having enemies in sight, starts running towards the round hall. He makes it to the doorway and needs to stop to catch his breath. The aftereffects of the drow poison are still hampering his performance [when you are fatigued you can't run, best you can do is a double move].
Feng, having cured himself in the last possible moment, survives the lightning bolt [by my count your HPs are now at 51: 0(initial)+30(lay on hands, I assume you went for the full amount?)-1(for strenous activity when disabled)-24(lightning bolt)+19(from Gaxx)+27(from Tratain)]. [You still need to roll a d4 and a save for possible damage to one of Feng's items.]
The eyes of the mage facing Sarigar lose their gleam and go dim. The man staggers back, and, rising his hand for the last time, releases a final lightning bolt. The arc of electric energy strikes Sarigar, Tratain, Feng, and Gaxx [25 damage, Ref17 for half]. It seems as if the life itself escaped from him with this spell, for he collapses on the stairs and ceases to move [he was at 0hp].
Despite the wound given to him by Renik the minotaur seems to be holding his ground quite well. His muscular arms swing the battleaxe twice. Renik is unable to dodge the first blow [8 damage]. The second one misses - the head of the axe buries itself in the wall ruining the plasterwork. "Did you like our hospitality so much that you came for more? I'm sure Master will be happy to accomodate you and this ragtag bunch you brought along! I'll make sure you are the last one to go. You'll have great time watching others being stripped of their souls!"
The eastern door swings wide open. A red, fiery glow suddenly fills the chamber. A wave of hot air passes over everyone.
A snakelike creature shrouded in flames emerges from the corridor. In its hands it holds a huge greatsword glowing with intense heat. It seems to be the foe the heroes have already faced on the dock. Apparently he managed to escape the cave in and rekindle his flames! The creature looks at the Hamleters and recognizes its opponents.
"Hssss! Hrgh!"
Then its gaze turns to the motionless body of Setanos in the middle of the room. Recognition dawns on its visage and a wicked smile creeps on its face.
"Hsss! Heee! Haaa haa! Ho ho ho!"
The corridor behind the minotaur spits out another figure. This time it is a lad in his late teens, somewhat disoriented and looking as if he was just pulled out of the bed. The boy has a small, black wand in one hand, and a cloth pouch in the other. He points the stick at Renik and intones a command word with somewhat shaky voice. Whatever the spell was supposed to do its effects were foiled by the Blink spell.
The air in the chamber has taken on a distinctive, sharp ozone smell. Tiny arcs of lightning dance on the walls. The fine plasterwork of this cellar has been ruined by the fireballs. The flames of the man of fire make every shadow in the room dance as if it was a live being. Smoke hangs in the air. Sounds of footsteps somewhere close indicate that yet more enemies are coming to defend their underground fortress.
[http://www.auburn.edu/~kulczmc/map.bmp][0:02.4]
Sarigar (AC19, 78HP); Black Paws (AC17, 33HP) d20+13=25 d3+6=7 Friday April 30th, 2004 2:37:42 PM
Seeing this prey so easily die, he turns to see the Minotaur with Renik, and can barely see the boy behind the massive man-beast. He rushes forward and barrels into the beast (Charge, AC27 (forgot the +2 from charge, 7HP).
Black Paws, already called to battle and the prey down, follows Sarigar toward the Minotaur. Having noted the heat from nearby, just before he moved, he begins barking and growling a warning that something else has moved into the area.
Renik (AC 14 (15 vs minotaur) HP 47) Blinking d20+10=25 d20+17=20 d20+12=32 d20+12=27 d20+15=29 d20+10=23 6d6(1+1+1+6+1+3)+14=27 5d6(1+2+2+3+4)+7=19 5d6(4+1+3+6+5)+7=26 d20+7=23 d100=24 d100=63 d100=76 Friday April 30th, 2004 6:27:15 PM
Feeling the blast of superheated air behind him Renik risks a backward glance to take stock of their situation (Spot 25). Though he cannot see the snakelike creature he can see the flickering light it gives off, and hear its mocking laughter.
"Sarigar, stick with me. Feng, Tratain, take that flame-thing down. Arien, Draax, hit it from range and be ready to deal with any new attack. See if you can hear where the next attack is coming from. Gaax, be ready to provide more healing."
Abandoning all caution the rogue launches into an all-out attacking frenzy, raining a torrent of deadly blows down upon the minotaur. Att 1 misses Att 2 AC 32/ 27 (Crit): 27HP Att 3 AC 29: 19HP Att 4 AC 23: 26HP Tot: 72HP
"I think you'll find me a less pleasant guest this time around." spits the rogue.
Looking directly at the young lad Renik hisses "Your paltry spells cannot effect me, boy. Your greatest warriors shall fall before my blades. I am Vengeance that stalks these forsaken halls, and none can defeat me. Run now or die." (Bluff 26)
Feng AC 23, HP 37 d4=2 d20+10=23 d20+10=26 Friday April 30th, 2004 7:21:09 PM
Feng groans as even more lightning shoots through him. The gods are surely testing him today as they have for the past few. Feng blinks a few times and clears his head before moving toward the snake creature.
ooc: rolled a 2 for the item and the item save is 23. Feng's reflex save for the lightning is 26
Draax AC21/25, HP89 , Bless d20+13=32 d20+8=24 d8+4=12 2d6(5+1)=6 d8+4=9 2d6(2+1)=3 Friday April 30th, 2004 10:16:03 PM
If he was not so focused on keeping his emotions in check, Draax would have laughs at the stupidity of the fire creature. It had a chance to live, but it did realize how fortunate it was to have survived. Draax decides to help the creature remember just how close it came to dying during their first encounter. He fires two of his +1 holy arrows through the slight opening that his comrades gave him (Hit AC 32 for 12 dmg and 6 holy dmg, Hit AC 24 for 9 dmg and 3 holy dmg).
Just loud enough that he knows the creature can hear him, Draax does a very poor imitation of its laugh. "Hsss! Heee! Haaa haa! And a Ho ho ho to you too"
Adam Saturday May 1st, 2004 3:22:31 PM
Well it took longer than I thought it would but I'm back now. Thanks to whomever took over Arien for me. Can whomever took over send me a new character sheets or just an email with any changes I need to make to him?
Arien (Mage Armor, AC 21) HP: 41 Sunday May 2nd, 2004 3:14:55 AM
Too far away from the action for his tastes, Arien decides to do something about it. Concentrating a moment he jumps the flaming sphere away from the Salamander where it would do no good to next to where he plans to go. Then Arien casts an old friend, dimesion door and appears in the room in a flash of light.
(Arien appears at I12, the sphere should be able to make it to J12)
Tratain AC 24 HP 59/59 (True Seeing; Spell Immunity:Fireball Lightning Bolt; Bless) Sunday May 2nd, 2004 11:17:51 PM
Tratain moves to square H9 and waits for the Flame Creature to get a little closer. He also Tries to figure out what the strange creature is.
------------- True Seeing Round 11 of 90 Spell Immunity Round 10 of 90 Minutes
Rainbow man - DM Marcin d20+13=15 [minotaur's AoO vs Sarigar] d20+13=26 [Salamander vs Feng] 2d6(1+4)+17=22 [damage to Feng] d6=5 [fire damage to Feng] Monday May 3rd, 2004 10:38:44 AM
Sarigar, having ended the life of the lightning slinging mage, joins Renik in his battle against the minotaur. As he charges the creature the huge greataxe whizzes over his head [AoO misses]. Sarigar's fist, however, doesn't. One of the minotaur's ribs cracks under his blow. Black Paws rejoins his master. [Sarigar was hit with lightning last round. You still need to make the save to see if you take any damage.]
A well executed series of Renik's attacks strikes the taur. The magic that was protecting the foe yields and fades away. The huge bull-man bends in half, blood coming out of his mouth, and falls twitching to the ground. Renik tries to persuade the boy into giving up, but doubts if his words to the boy were heard in the din of battle [the action you tried would call for an Intimidate check and be a standard action].
Feng moves towards the man in flames. The creature, possibly only now realizing how many enemies it is about to face, stops laughing. Feng, burned by fire and lightning, is an intimidating sight. As he advances on the sword wielding snake man smoking remains of his Hat of Disguise fall to the floor [the hat didn't survive the fireball].
Draax, using the opportunity afforded by some of his friends moving away, manages to shoot two arrows at the fiery foe. Both score a hit. Tongues of white fire spark from the impact points and quickly consume the shafts. The creature stumbles, but remains standing.
There is a flash of light and Arien arrives in the room. His flaming sphere rolls next to him and stops.
Tratain arrives at the center of the chamber and takes a good look at his adversary. It has a long, twisting and coiled body of a snake, but it ends with a human torso. In his two hands it wields a massive greatsword glowing with heat. The skin of the creature looks as if it was covered with glowing scales. Its head has a strange reptilian quality to it. Overall it looks like a salamander, only it is much larger than any the party has ever heard about.
Gaxx shields his eyes from the wave of heat [Gaxx still needs to make a saving throw vs Lightning from the previous round].
The fiery salamander doesn't hesitate. As quick as a cobra it charges Feng and strikes at him with its weapon. The greatsword clangs against Feng's armor. The shock of the impact is accompanied with searing heat of flames [Feng is hit for 22 normal damage and 5 fire damage].
The boy, now visibly shaking, points his wand at Sarigar. The wild man feels strange force entering his head [please make a Will save DC13; if it fails you are affected by Tasha's Hideous Laughter].
Another enemy emerges from the depths of the corridor. This one is an old dwarf wearing dark purple robe. The newcamer is completely bald, but his long gray beard is braided and well kept. This one also has a wand in his hand. As he waves it about a multicolored, rainbow pattern suddenly fills the round chamber almost to its entirety. The colors shift and move, forcing weaker minds to become enthralled by their chaotic gleaming [Black Paws, Arien, and Tratain are affected by a Rainbow Pattern spell. Will save DC16 or do nothing until the spell ends].
A calm, emotionless voice comes from somewhere behind the backs of the boy and the dwarf. "Stay calm. Concentrate on the unarmed one. I'll handle the one with the swords." This is followed by a short arcane verse. There is no immediately visible effect. For the moment the mysterious speaker remains unseen.
[http://www.auburn.edu/~kulczmc/map.BMP][0:02.5]
Sarigar (AC19, 78HP); Black Paws (AC17, 33HP) d20+10=28 d20+4=14 d20+2=17 d20+13=31 d3+4=5 d20+7=10 d6+2=5 Monday May 3rd, 2004 12:45:01 PM
ooc: Missed the Lightning bolt on me (Save 28 + Evasion no damage)
Feeling the draw on his mind (Save 14) just after the boy pointed the stick at him, Sarigar gives him smile, the kind a cat would give a mouse just before pouncing if a cat could smile. Black Paws watches the swirling lights for a moment, but dismisses them (Save 17).
Sarigar rushes in at the boy, barreling into him (Charge to G16, AC31, 5HP). Black Paws dashes forward with his brother's side (Charge to H16, AC10, 5HP) and nips at the boy, but is unable to sink his teeth in.
Renik (AC 22 (23 vs dwarf) HP 47) Blinking, Expertise (5) Fight Defensive d20+17=32 d20+12=17 5d6(5+4+2+4+6)+7=28 Monday May 3rd, 2004 5:30:54 PM
The rogue is momentarily nonplussed as Sarigar and his faithful sidekick effectively block his path to his enemies. Shrugging he feints backwards, then darts forward between this two companions. He slides feet-first along the ground between the boy and the dwarf, and then in a single fluid move flips back up to his feet immediately behind the lad and reverses his right blade to ram a strike right at the small of his back (Tumble 32 to avoid AoO, move to Q18, hit AC 17 (+2 for flank, also applicable to Sarigar and Black Paws) for 28HP).
Draax AC21/25, HP89 , Bless Monday May 3rd, 2004 10:07:50 PM
Finally getting a chance to move into the room and get a real look at what is going on, Draax moves forward (e10) and surveys the situation before taking aim at the flaming snakeman again. He lets his eyes follow the movement of two combatants waiting for that slight opening.
Tratain AC 24 HP 59/59 (True Seeing; Spell Immunity:Fireball Lightning Bolt; Bless) d20+11=14 d20+11=17 d20+18=35 4d6(5+6+4+4)+9=28 Monday May 3rd, 2004 11:41:16 PM
Tratain is fascinated by the Lights fora second but with a second effort manages to shake the spell off (Will save 14, Hero Point Re-Roll 17)
Tratain Takes Moves to space J9 and Defensively Casts a Healing spell on Feng (Rolled 35 Vs. DC 19 for Defensive Casting Healed Feng for 28)
------------- True Seeing Round 12 of 90 Spell Immunity Round 11 of 90 Minutes
Feng AC 23, HP 10 d20+19=32 d20+11=30 d20+11=31 d8+18=20 3d8(3+1+4)+8=16 Monday May 3rd, 2004 11:43:57 PM
Feng staggers under the blow from the greatsword. His knee shakes and nearly buckles from the impact. Once again he feels death's grip tighten around him and this time he has no more divine energy to heal his wounds. Gripping his axe with renewed determination he strikes out at the creature.
ooc: first strike, smite evil, hit ac 32 for 20. Second strike crit for 16
Arien (Mage Armor, AC 21) HP: 41 d20+11=21 5d4(2+3+4+4+4)+5=22 Tuesday May 4th, 2004 3:46:05 AM
Arien smirks as the rainbow pattern for a moment then shakes his head. "It'll take more than pretty colors to stop us!" He shouts while manuvering for a casting. Stepping to the side (H12) Arien targets the old dwarf and unleashes a barrage of magic missiles. (22 damage)
Cut off - DM Marcin d20+16=30 d20+11=23 [salamander vs Feng - sword] 2d6(3+5)+7=15 2d6(4+4)+7=15 d6=6 d6=1 [damage to Feng] d20+10=16 [tail attack misses] d20+9=12 [secret roll] Tuesday May 4th, 2004 11:17:41 AM
Sarigar charges at the unfortunate youngster and breaks his wand arm. Black Paws tries to run to his master, but as soon as he enters the corridor he is violently stopped - just as if he has run into a wall! The wolf tries to find a way around the barrier clawing at the invisible obstacle, but it seems that the whole width of the passage has been blocked off by some magic! The animal whimpers in frustration.
Renik gracefully tumbles between the combatants and finishes the job started by Sarigar, sending the young necromancer to Gargul. The corridor behind him is dark, but even in the gloom he can see pairs of open doors spaced evenly along the hallway [please make a Spot check].
Draax enters the round chamber and waits for a chance to shoot.
Tratain puts his hand on Feng's shoulder and invokes healing magic.
Feng lands two confident blows against the salamander. The creature's blood sprinkles the floor. Smoke rises wherever its drops fall. The enemy looks almost dead!
Arien sends a barrage of magic missiles at the dwarf. Unfortunately, the invisible barrier intercepts all of them and their magic dissipates harmlessly in the air.
Gaxx [hit by lightning in the previous turn] is too far away to lend healing to Feng, so he just closes the distance and prepares to act next round. [Jim seems to be away for a moment. Would anyone like to take over Gaxx until he can post again?]
Salamander, locked in melee with Feng, launches a fierce series of attacks. The creature manages to hit the paladin twice with its greatsword [30 normal damage and 7 fire damage total]. Fortunately, its tail attack aimed at Feng misses.
The dwarf finds himself surrounded by enemies. His face goes pale and the wand falls out of his hand. Overcome by a wave of fear he does nothing.
[http://www.auburn.edu/~kulczmc/map.BMP][0:02.6]
Gaxx ( ac 17, hp 62/62 Bless) d20+4=17 d20+12=22 d20+10=20 3d8(7+8+4)=19 Tuesday May 4th, 2004 12:38:37 PM
(Reflex save- 22 + evasion for no damage)
Gaxx stands confused for a moment, staring at the fire creature. Luckily, he somehow managed to miss getting hit by the lightning bolt again.
Shaking his head to clear the cobwebs. He quickly waddles over to k8 so that he has a clear shot. He profusely apologizes to Wardd for disturbing him again but could he possibly be kind enough to burn the fire creature with the bright light? He points at the creature in question so that Wardd will know who he is talking about. (casting Searing Light, adding his 4 luck points to the to hit roll.) Gaxx squeals in glee as a beam of searing light shoots from his finger to strike the fire creature. Sure was lucky he decided to point at his victim. (dam-19, regains spent luck points + 1)
(Sorry about missing a couple of posts, a power outage has screwed up my comp and I've been trying to get it working right) That's OK, glad to see you back, Jim. M.
Renik (AC 22 (23 vs dwarf) HP 47) Blinking, Expertise (5) Fight Defensive d20+10=29 d20+10=24 d20+12=24 5d6(6+1+5+4+2)+7=25 d20+17=21 Tuesday May 4th, 2004 6:16:20 PM
Renik sees the magic missiles and Black Paws bounce of the invisible barrier with a sinking feeling. He gets the distinct impression that he would be far better off on the other side of that wall of force.
He pushes these concerns from his mind; right now all Sarigar and he can do is make the best of their situation. He just wishes that emotionless voice hadn't sounded quite so self-assured... He glances into the gloom, seeking out the source of that promised threat (Spot 29, Listen 24).
Although the dwarf has dropped his wand Renik is taking no chances. He is certain that the moment he turned his back the mage would happily plant a knife in it, and so he returns the favour in advance. He stabs at the dwarf's exposed back once (AC 24 for 25HP), then tumbles (Tumble 21) past both doors as swiftly as he is able, taking up a defensive position pressed close against one wall.
(OOC: If Renik spots signs of activity at door F20 he will press up against the wall at Q21. If he spots something at I20 he will move to H21. AC +4 vs AoO.)
Feng AC 23, HP 1 d20+16=18 d20+11=21 d8+8=10 Tuesday May 4th, 2004 7:07:11 PM
Feng staggers from the greatsword. He blinks as his vision blurs for a moment. Taking what could be his last breat, Feng brings his axe down on the creature, or tries to.
occ: hit possible ac 21 for 10
Arien (Mage Armor, AC 21) HP: 41 5d4(2+4+4+4+4)+5=23 Tuesday May 4th, 2004 7:45:39 PM
Arien, seeing Feng stagger under the beasts strikes, decides to help back up the paladin. Unfortunately Feng was blocking any direct access that Arien could use for some of his more powerful spells so he settles for another volley of magic missiles. (23 damage to the Salamander)
Draax AC21/25, HP89 , Bless d20+14=23 d8+5=10 2d6(3+3)=6 Tuesday May 4th, 2004 7:50:22 PM
Draax takes a step forward (f10) bringing the fire creature within point blank range. He watches the laser beam projected from Grax at the creature and he also watches Feng hit the creature again. If the fire creature is still standing Draax will fire off another +1 holy arrow (hit AC 23 for 10 dmg and 6 holy dmg). (+2 for point blank and Bless, -4 for firing into melee)
Tratain AC 24 HP 59/59 (True Seeing; Spell Immunity:Fireball Lightning Bolt; Bless) d20+18=27 4d6(3+4+1+6)+9=23 d6=4 4d8(7+8+8+1)+9=33 d8=1 d8=5 Tuesday May 4th, 2004 11:40:01 PM
Tratain again casts his healing Magic upon Feng. (Rolled 27 vs. DC 19 Cast Defensive, Healed Feng for 33) and then moves towords where Renik and Sarigar are fighting.
OOC: Ignore d6 Rolls, just noticed I used d6's instead of d8's for the healing. I did it last post as well by accident.
------------- True Seeing Round 13 of 90 Spell Immunity Round 12 of 90 Minutes
Black magic at work - DM Marcin d20+10=21 [salamander's AoO vs Draax] 2d6(4+2)+1=7 d6=4 [damage to Draax] d20+12=19 [salamander grapples Draax] 2d6(6+5)+1=12 d6=6 [constrict damage to Gaxx] Wednesday May 5th, 2004 10:35:05 AM
Gaxx approachest the salamander and tries to cast a ray of light at it. Unfortunately, the dwarf is within reach of the creature's tail! The appendage darts forward and slaps Gaxx straight on the chest. The pain of the slam is accompanied by intense heat [7 normal damage and 4 fire damage]. The tail wraps around the dwarf, constricting him and spoiling his spell [grapple check successful, 12 normal and 6 fire damage to Gaxx, since the spell didn't work the luck points are lost; Gaxx is now grappling with the salamander].
Renik drives his sword into the neck of the dwarf. The mage's knees slowly bend; as he falls to the cold stones of the floor his blood slowly turns his silver beard crimson red. Quickly glancing behind his shoulder, Renik notices a discarded page of parchment appear out of nowhere just feet away from him. The scrap of paper slowly falls to the ground. The rogue dashes deeper into the corridor and flattens his back against the wall. No foes reveal themselves to strike at him as he passes by the opened pair of doors.
Meanwhile, on the other side of the invisible wall, Feng faces the fiery salamander in a fierce melee. The paladin strikes twice and both blows connect - one arm of the creature shatters and shards of rock hard flesh rain down on the floor. Just then Arien hits the enemy with a volley of magic missiles. The salamander drops its sword. There is a clang of metal as it hits the floor. The creature releases Gaxx and for a moment erects its body to its full length. Then its heat escapes in a cloud of steaming hot air, forcing everyone nearby to shield their faces. For a few seconds the defeated foe stands still like a sculpture in dark stone, its skin broken and brown, and then it shatters into tiny bits like a crystal vase hit by a hammer! All that remains of the fiery foe now is a pile of rubble on the floor and the greatsword, whose blade still shines from intense heat.
Draax steps forward, but since the foe is no longer alive he does not need to use up any of his arrows.
Tratain heals Feng once again and, seeing no enemies in proximity, approaches Arien and looks through the invisible wall.
Words of arcane power are being spoken somewhere behind the obstacle in a harsh voice dripping with malice. Sarigar feels his muscules tense and suddenly some alien force assaults his mind and body at the same time! The attack is incredibly powerful - Sarigar feels as if his whole person was being pounded on by titans' hammers! [Sarigar needs to make a Fort save DC27. If that save fails he needs to make a Will save DC27, too. If the Fort save fails you do not get to act in the next round.]
[Joe please check your mail before posting.] [Listen checks everyone. The DC is 20 for Sarigar, 23 for Renik, 24 for Tratain, Arien, and Black Paws, 25 for Draax and Feng, and 26 for Gaxx. If you make the check you can read the passage below.] Highlight to display spoiler: {The invisible foe has been casting his spell in h16.}
[http://www.auburn.edu/~kulczmc/map.bmp][0:02.7]
Tratain AC 24 HP 59/59 (True Seeing; Spell Immunity:Fireball Lightning Bolt; Bless) d20+9=14 Wednesday May 5th, 2004 11:39:18 AM
Tratain Takes a single step into square H13 and begins pointing directly at Sarigar. He Yells "Renik! Sarigar! Its right there! Right Next to Sarigar, Directly Between us."
Tratain then Casts Invisiblity Purge. Anything Invisible with a 45 Foot Radius of Tratain Becomes Visible. (Not Positive on whether or not the Wall of Force will Block it.)
------------- True Seeing Round 14 of 90 Spell Immunity Round 13 of 90 Minutes
Renik (AC 22 (23 vs invisible) HP 47) Blinking, Expertise (5) Fight Defensive d20+10=20 d20+10=29 d20+10=19 5d6(4+6+6+6+1)+7=30 d6+7=13 Wednesday May 5th, 2004 12:11:10 PM
Although Renik doesn't hear anything, the sight of the falling sheet of parchment (combined with Tratain's warning and (possibly) the spell he casts) are enough to alert him to danger. Racing back towards the danger area with blades at the ready he lashes out, hoping to catch his opponent off guard.
(AC 29/19. 30HP if no crit, 43HP if crit, move to Q17 unless he hits someone first)
Gaxx (ac 17, hp 44/62) d20+4=17 d20+7=11 d20+6=26 Wednesday May 5th, 2004 1:09:31 PM
(listen-11)
The speed with which the fire creture struck out at Gaxx surprised him as well as the pain from the fire. It takes a moment for him to realize the fire's gone. In fact, everybody seems to be heading off down the hall. Gaxx takes a moment to look around for the wand the guy was using to shoot lightning at them. The way things are going, they are going to need it.
(Search- 26 nat 20! wasn't that awful lucky for him? *g*)
Sarigar (AC19, 78HP); Black Paws (AC17, 33HP) d20+13=33 d20+11=26 d3+4=5 d20+6=20 d3+2=4 d20+11=29 d3+4=7 d20+6=22 d3+2=5 Wednesday May 5th, 2004 1:26:47 PM
Seeing that the dwarf and the boy have both fallen, Sarigar pauses for a moment. In that breif instant, he hears someone speaking (Listen 33) right next to him, but cannot see. He turns to where he believes the speaker is and cuts loose with a flurry of rights and lefts (AC26, 5HP) (AC20, 4HP) (AC29, 7HP) (AC22, 5HP).
ooc: holding off comments of my attacks as I don't know if I can actually connect or not.
Black Paws paces along the edge of the barrier, trying to find a way past it and join his brother.
Sarigar (AC19, 78HP); Black Paws (AC17, 33HP) d20+9=27 Wednesday May 5th, 2004 1:33:27 PM
ooc: Oops, missed the need for the Fort save.
Feeling the magical force begin to consume him, Sarigar tenses up, grits his teeth, and waits for the pain (Fort Save 27, whew).
Arien (Mage Armor, AC 21) HP: 41 d20+7=13 Wednesday May 5th, 2004 1:51:34 PM
Arien can't hear the sound of the spell casting but he knows that something had blocked that passage and that they needed to get over there in a hurry. Arien calls for Feng to follow him and Arien steps between Tratain and Draax (g11), once Feng joins them Arien casts his last dimension door sending the group past where Renik was attacking. (h22)
Feng AC 23, HP 34 Wednesday May 5th, 2004 6:33:07 PM
With the salamander gone, Feng breaths a sigh of relief. He looks around and sees no more enemies and hopes the danger is passed but it is not. With Arien's call he heads over to the mage and through the dimensional door.
Draax AC21/25, HP89 d20+3=6 Wednesday May 5th, 2004 10:03:49 PM
Draax lets himself feel a little joy at the demise of the fire creature. With no enemies in sight, he lets himself be taken by Arien through the dimension door.
Deadly hide and seek - DM Marcin d100=72 [concealment on Renik's attack] d100=31 d100=51 d100=19 d100=37 [concealment on Sarigar's attacks] d20+2=7 d20+2=6 [secret rolls] Thursday May 6th, 2004 7:46:36 AM
Tratain's shout gives away the position of the enemy to the rest of the party. His spell, however, doesn't make it through the wall of force blocking the corridor. The enemy remains invisible.
Renik moves closer to the spot indicated by Tratain's warning and swings blindly. To his delight he hears a scream and withdraws his blade covered with blood. He couldn't aim at the enemy's vitals, though, since he couldn't see them! [no sneak attacks against foes with concealment, so it is just a crit for 24 damage].
Gaxx looks around for the device that used to be held in the hand of the woman (the man who cast Lightning Bolts had his hands free). He notices that the rod has rolled away and rests under one of the walls [I would say it's a Spot check, not a Search roll, but nat 20 is nat 20]. The scepter looks to be cast out of black iron. It looks heavy; intricate patterns have been etched into its surface [if you like you can assume Gaxx picked it up this round and start the next round with it in hand].
Black Paws paces nervously along the invisible barrier while Sarigar lauches a series of lightning quick attack at the foe he senses nearby. The enemy is nimble, however, and the invisibility offers him a great degree of protection. Only once Sarigar's fist connects with flesh [the other three attacks missed due to concealment].
Arien decides to bypass the blocked section of the passage with a Dimension Door. The mage puts his hands on shoulders of Draax and Tratain; Feng moves nearby and joins the group. The spell is cast and the fabric of the Wold is ripped open. The group appears behind Renik and Sarigar in a flash of white light.
Manic laughter comes from somewhere close to Sarigar and Renik. Both heroes notice faint unpleasant smell as if of rotting fruit.
"All right mice, let's play!"
The enemy completes another incantation in some strange, harsh language. Tratain, who was the one to point out the foe to others, suddenly feels as if his body was being torn asunder from inside out, just as if his muscules and bones sought to alter their position all by themselves [please make a Fort save DC27, if it fails you need to make a Will save DC27. If the Fort save fails you don't get to act next round - not even speak].
[Note that an invisible creature has total concealment - miss chance 50%.] [You can make a Spot check DC27. You can also make a Listen check DC 27 for Renik, Sarigar, and Gaxx and 29 for Draax, Arien, and Feng. If you make any of these skill checks you can discern the precise location of the enemy - highlight message below. Tratain (if the makes the Fort save) can read the passage without making skill checks.] Highlight to display spoiler: {The enemy is in M2.}
[Next post will be early tomorrow.] [http://www.auburn.edu/~kulczmc/map.bmp][0:02.8]
Gaxx (ac 5, hp 44/62) d20+4=5 Thursday May 6th, 2004 9:14:24 AM
Gaxx examines the rod for a moment then points it at the wall of force. He motions for Black Paw to move back, hoping Black Paw understands. He concentrates for a moment then shouts "Bada Bing!" (Improvise Tool to trigger rod)
Renik d20+17=26 d20+10=11 d20+10=24 d20+10=30 Thursday May 6th, 2004 11:02:26 AM
Renik loses track of his opponent (Listen 11 Spot 24).
Glancing around Renik decides there is a better way to deal with this particular cat than simply stumbling in blindly after him. The mage hasn't passed Sarigar and himself, which means he's boxed in. If they can close off all the exits, and get themselves out of the firing line at the same time...
"Sarigar, fall back to the doorways with me!" he shouts, tumbling (26) back to L8 and indicating the other door to the wild man (O8). Once he reaches the doorway he glances into the room beyond, checking to see if any further enemies lie in wait (Spot 30).
"Feng, move back to give Arien and Draax a clear shot. Heal yourself. Arien, take out that whole area! Draax, fill the corridor with arrows!"
Sarigar (AC19, 78HP); Black Paws (AC17, 33HP) d20+13=32 d20+13=29 d20+12=14 Thursday May 6th, 2004 12:23:49 PM
Sensing that his unseen prey has move away from him (Listen 32, Spot 29) his first instinct it to rush forward, giving it no time to even breathe. He takes a step (just a step) forward when Renik gives out his commands.
Knowing even the most timid of prey can become quite dangerous when cornered, he decides to follow the directions and back up slowly (to O8). As he does so, having heard Gaxx trying to get Black Paws to move, he gestures to his brother to move (Handle Animal 14)
As he takes his position he begins to unwrap the sling from his wrist.
Feng AC 23, HP 34 Thursday May 6th, 2004 4:15:27 PM
Feng drops back and feels a little helpless. WHile his armor keeps him alive it slows him down considerably in situations like these. Feng takes a deep breath and tries to feel the wizards evil.
ooc: detect evil
Draax AC21/25, HP89 d20+5=21 d20+15=32 d20+10=30 d20+10=20 d20+15=31 d8+4=8 d8+4=5 d8+4=10 d8+4=7 d8+4=5 d8+4=8 d20+3=16 Thursday May 6th, 2004 10:31:29 PM
Draax tries to locate the enemies by his voice or movement (spot check 21, listen 16), but can only get the general direction from Tratain's warning. He gives the others a chance to move out of his line of sight before taking a step forward to get the magical wall within his point blank range. Using rapid shot, Draax fires 3 masterwork arrows randomly towards the magical wall. (Hit AC 32 for 8 dmg, second shot natural 20 for 5 dmg or 22 dmg if AC 20 hits, third shot hits AC 31 for 8 dmg)
He watches the flight of the arrows and listens for any sound that would indicate that any of his arrows connected.
Tratain AC 24 HP 59/59 (True Seeing; Spell Immunity:Fireball Lightning Bolt; Bless; Invisibility Purge) d20+12=30 d20+13=25 d8+4=7 2d6(3+4)=7 Thursday May 6th, 2004 11:56:02 PM
Tratain feels the Magic attempting to change him, and is able to fight of the change.
Tratain then moves forward To Square N8 and swings his Warhammer at the strange Dwarflike enemy. (Hit AC 25 for 7 Physical Damage and 7 Holy Damage)
OOC: If the creature is using some form of Invisibilty Spell He should now be visible, Its a 45 Foot Radius From Tratain, which moves with him.
------------- True Seeing Round 15 of 90 Spell Immunity Round 14 of 90 Minutes Invisibility Purge Round 2 of 90
Gotcha! - DM Marcin Friday May 7th, 2004 3:01:50 AM
[D'oh! Talk about DM blunders. Of course the enemy should now be visible. I was so sure that Invisibility Purge is a burst that I didn't even check. Sorry about that!]
Gaxx tries to trigger the magic of the device he found. Somehow it doesn't seem to work. Maybe this thing does nothing by itself? [Jim, is Gaxx on a Luck Quest? Did you roll randomly for his spells and the posessions he was allowed to keep?]
Renik falls back into the doorway behind him. Glancing quickly over his shoulder he sees a dark room. It looks like a sleeping chamber, with large bed, writing desk, and shelves filled with books. No enemies seem to be present, but then again who knows what the shadows may hide.
Sarigar accompanies the rogue while readying his sling.
Feng concentrates to detect evil. He confirms its presence, but to figure out its strength or exact position he needs more time.
With the arrival of Tratain the enemy is revealed for all to see. A small humanoid, resembling a dwarf in its body proportions, stands by the wall of force. His skin is pale blue, bordering on white. His eyes are like two orbs of bone white. His sparse silver hair is weaved into thin, long strands. The enemy is wearing a dark red robe adorned with unrecognizable black symbols.
Draax is able to see the foe and all three of his arrows strike true. The spellcaster opens his mouth and an expression of disbelief appears on his face. He rises his hand, gently strokes the feathers of the arrow sticking out of his chest, and then his soul departs his body and goes to oblivion.
For the next few heartbeats nothing happens. Silence. No more footsteps, no more shouts, no more invisible enemies casting insidious spells at the Hamleters. Then there is a pop and the wall of force that separated the corridor from the round chamber ceases to exist.
The underground complex is deadly silent. Stench of fear and death hangs heavily in the air. The floor is strewn with dead bodies - the necromancers are now looking more alive than they did while they were still breathing. The body of Setanos rests in the middle of the room, his spark of life extinguished by dark magic, his soul wandering deeper and deeper into the lands of the dead with every passing minute.
There is a <pop> and a tiny imp wearing a Catacombs hat teleports in. The creature looks around, seemingly undisturbed by the carnage all around it, and says: "This is the dungeon under the Silver Seagull Inn, right? I have a parcel for Setanos Debaku."
[The battle is over - you can now plan actions that last longer than a round.][0:04]
Sarigar (AC19, 78HP); Black Paws (AC17, 33HP) Friday May 7th, 2004 12:19:24 PM
Hearing and seeing no more prey in the area, Sarigar lightly wraps his sling back around his wrist. Finding the barrier gone, Black Paws trots up to his brother and gets a good scratch under the chin and behind the ears.
Together they begin to search the room they are standing before (taking a 20 on Search for 21). Although not tearing things apart, Sarigar is not exactly delicate either. Drawers are pulled out of their cubbies, boxes are opened, rifled through, anything that might pic his interest is removed, but otherwise the drawer is dropped on the floor.
Anything that can be held in the hand and is locked is given a bit of a wrap on the floor to see if it pops open, if not, it is discarded.
He's not necessarily looking for anything in particular, he's just looking for tokens that he can add to the fairly substantial collection in his pack.
Tratain Friday May 7th, 2004 2:36:17 PM
Tratain looks at the little Imp and says "Setanos Fell in Battle."
Tratain walks over to his Friend and stands there for a long moment, and says a Prayer to Domi and Gargul to watch over his soul.
He Turns away and says to the Others "I think the Machine we are looking for is probably above us, I can see a door there. We will have to find some way up. I think we should destroy the machine before we do anything else."
Feng Friday May 7th, 2004 6:11:28 PM
Feng walks over to Setanos' body. "Before we go we should do something for him. Perhaps some magical fire that can creamate him since we can't bury him."
Renik (70/71 HP) 2d8(2+6)+3=11 d8+5=12 d20+9=22 Friday May 7th, 2004 6:14:17 PM
The rogue kneels at Setanos' side, head bowed. He rests a hand on his chest for a moment, then stands. Looking at his companions he asks "Are none of us able to beg their God for the return of his soul? Is there no way we could petition Gargul to return him to us? He cannot be gone!". He speaks more in desperation than in hope.
He stalks back into the store room, and spends the next few minutes putting on all his confiscated gear. As he does so he does something he has never done before; he prays fervently to Gargul, begging him to consider the return of their fallen comrade.
When he returns his face is grim and set. "Before we head out we need to heal up and take stock. Gather up any other wands or equipment you can from those fallen here. They may prove useful in whatever battle awaits us." He hunts through the robes of the fallen in search of magical weapons or tools (Search 22). As he does so he takes the opportunity to quaff a couple of potions, and the wounds he took in the fight fade away like an unpleasant memory (Potion CCW: 11HP, Potion CLW+5: 12HP).
Draax AC25, HP89 Sunday May 9th, 2004 1:31:21 PM
Seeing no more enemies around, Draax turns his attention to the appearance of the imp. Recognizing the Catacombs hat he realizes that the little devil is not hostile.
As he helps the others collect whatever they can find on the fallen, Draax lets himself come out of emotionless shell and gives himself a brief moment of silence in remembrance of Setanos. Looking over at the body of their slain comrades he says, "If we cannot do as Feng or Renik suggested. Does anyone have a magical container where we can temporarily store his body and belonging. Once we destroy the machine and if we make it out of this we can send him on his way as he deserves and see that his belonging on passed to his kin if there are any."
Friendship vs Duty - DM Marcin Monday May 10th, 2004 9:05:43 AM
A quarter of an hour passes while the party busies itself with various tasks.
Sarigar rummages through one of the chambers in the corridor the battle took him to. It is a small sleeping room, with a large bed, several open chests, an oaken desk, a wardrobe, and a bookshelf. Overall it looks like a study of someone schooled in arcane arts. The drawers contain a multitude of spell components, various scraps of parchment scribbled with thin, shaky letters, and a green bottle of some kind of herbal medicine. Other items spread across the room include a copper comb with several teeth broken out, a small silver mirror, a shaving razor, a chest full of underwear, a half-full bottle of Aisildurian wine, a serviceable deck of playing cards, a stuffed cat, a silver spoon, and a flask of rat poison.
The tiny imp from the Catacombs looks confused. Finally he flies over to the body of the brave warrior and deposits a thin tube of rolled up parchment by his side. "I will just leave it here, then?" he says, obviously at a loss on what to do. "I also have something for Tratain Zerrakoth." The creature hands Tratain a small, tightly wrapped parcel [the cloak]. "Would you care to sign for both, please?" Once the formalities are completed the creature vanishes in a puff of smoke.
Renik recovers the rest of his equipment and restores some of his health with potions. Then the rogue busies himself with searching the bodies of the dead - an unpleasant task. The mages look as if they were aroused from their sleep and had to equip themselves in a hurry. Both the man and the woman carry only their spell component pouches. The scepter used to be held by the female necromancer has been already picked up by Gaxx. The minotaur wielded a large greataxe in his hands. Aside from his leather apron he was not wearing any kind of armor. All that is left of the salamander is a pile of rubble and a shiny greatsword. The blade looks as if it has been only partially forged and some extra work was still planned to be carried out on it. The sword gleams with cold, white light - it is definitely a sight to admire. Skilled hands must have put hundreds of hours of work into its creation to achieve such perfect balance and sharpness of the edge. It would be hard to say what metals were used in its construction. The boy and the dwarf carried a wand each. Both devices are short, thin, and made of some kind of exotic wood. Its creators didn't bother to put any markings on them that would indicate their purpose. All that is found on the body of the red robed sorcerer is a spell component pouch and an used up scroll.
Feng suggests entrusting the body of Setanos to the flames. Draax argues to take the warrior's remains along.
None of the party members have the power to bring a soul back from the dead. The closest individual capable of doing that and willing to aid the Hamleters would be probably Kiriana at the temple of Domi in the Plateau City.
The party could continue their exploration of the school and search for the Infernal Machine, but that would mean that whatever chance there was of bringing Setanos back to life might be soon gone. Gargul frowns on requests for the souls that have already settled in the lands of the dead...
Or, the Hamleters could abandon their quest and try to bring Setanos back. This could mean that the Infernal Machine and Brother Lemmar slip through their fingers.
Which is the lesser evil? [0:20]
Gaxx (ac 13, hp 44/62) d20+4=13 Monday May 10th, 2004 9:55:32 AM
Gaxx waddles over to Setanos, handing the black rod to Renik as he passes him. He sits down next to Setanos then reaches over to Setanos, grabbing him by the shoulders and pulling him to him so that Setanos' head lays in his lap. In a very quiet, introspective sort of voice, lightly stroking the amber holy symbol he wears around his neck, Gaxx prays. "S'cuse me, Mister Wardd, could I please ha'e just a tiny moment of your time? Just a moment, please. Dere's dis guy here" Gaxx tenderly runs his chubby hand over Setanos' head, "he waz gonna be my new frien, yes he was, and den dere was dis bad guy who done shooted him up wit fire and lightning. And now my new frien, he be all dead and stuff. He not vera lucky yet cause he just met Gaxx and he not know dat Gaxx be a lucky frien. But Gaxx was lucky cause da bad man, he done shooted my new frien up wit da lightning, instead o' me....soooo Mister Wardd, please, please, please, could you wake ma new frien up? Gaxx promise ta do anyting you want."
Tratain Monday May 10th, 2004 11:16:00 AM
Tratain Takes the Items from the Imp. He puts those that Belong to Setanos in his Haversack for later, and puts on his cloak.
He says To Renik "Do you have that Communications Device still? Can you contact Kiriana and let her know what happened and to be ready for us when we call again. Let us search for the school as quick as we can to try and determine if the machine is still here or not. After we have found it and destroyed it or determined that it is not here we can call her again and let her know to retrieve us and we can go before Gargul then and petition for Setanos's soul."
He continues "Setanos and I are enough alike to know that he would feel as I do, that ridding the world of the evil Machine is what is most important. If we stop now and return to the city the machine and Brother L may escape, and I know Setanos would be very mad at us if that happened, because I would feel the same way."
Renik Monday May 10th, 2004 12:18:21 PM
The rogue, though disheartened, cannot help but agree with Tratain's words. "You're right of course my friend. We must fight on. But that communication coin gives me an idea...
The rogue attempts to contact Kiriana, and if he gets through lets her know what has happened.
"Is there any way your people could come for his body? Perhaps even petition Gargul on our behalf, or delay matters until we are free to entreaty gargul ourselves?"
Once the matter is resolved one way or the other Renik gets back to thinking about the matter in hand. "Very well. Tratain has seen a hidden doorway above us, and if it is hidden it is likely important. I can fly up there to scout it out" he taps the heels of his winged boots toghether and floats a few inches into the air "but we'll need a way to get us all up. Once up there I can drop down a rope, but if we're attacked at the doorway itself we will be very vulnerable. Can anyone else fly, or enable others to fly?"
Sarigar with Black Paws Monday May 10th, 2004 12:36:18 PM
As he finds things of interest, Sarigar lets out a few "Ooos" and "Ahhs".
A sniffs a few of the components and anything the is of patricularly bad smell are quickly discarded, the rest find there way into his pack. The parchments, especially with the scribblings mean absolutely nothing to him since he can't read and are tossed aside. He uncorks the green bottle, sniffs it, recorks it and bags it.
At first he's shocked when he looks in the mirror. He's definitely not used to seeing his own reflection. He tosses it aside in disinterest. He bags the razor, for no apparent reason. He looks completely confused as he fumbles through the underwear drawer, the look on his face is "What the heck is this stuff?"
He uncorks the wine, sniffs it and reels from the stench. "GAH!" He drops the bottle, which should land in a pile of underwear, preventing it from breaking, but probably staining much of the clothing.
Playing cards, "Oooo, neat, pictures" he says as he leafs through them. Eventually, he bags those as well. He bags the spoon as well, noting its shinyness. He pokes at the cat a few times wondering why it doesn't move, finally it topples over, dead, as far as he knows.
OOOOOOOO, Look at this! He exclaims as he runs out of the room with the comb in hand. Is this important? Never seen anythin like it. Listen, it makes noise too. He runs his fingers down the tines with a nice, plink plink plink.
He sees most of the party gathered around Setanos' body and steps over as well. He pokes at him a few times and noting no reaction, determines that he's dead. He throws his head back and howls, Black Paws joins in realizing why he's doing so.
Draax AC25, HP89 Monday May 10th, 2004 9:06:30 PM
Draax hopes that Renik's plan of contacting Kiriana can at least ensure that someone retrieves the body. There are no guarantees that any of them will make it out of here alive, but leaving while they still have a chance to destroy the machine is not an option.
"I agree, finding and destroying the machine must be our first priority. Hopefully your plan can do something for Setanos and still let us go after the machine."
As he hears Sarigar's and Black Paws' mourning howls Draax hopes that their host do not associate the howling to the party.
Feng AC 23, HP 34 Tuesday May 11th, 2004 2:24:44 AM
Feng stands over Setanos' body. He desperately wishes that they could do something but they can't. Feng says a silent prayer to the gods to watch over Setanos' soul.
"We have to stop the machine."
Arien (Mage Armor, AC 21) HP: 41 Tuesday May 11th, 2004 6:27:24 AM
Hearing what Feng says Arien nods in agreement, "Aye as heartless as it sounds we must continue on and mourn our dead later. Every moment we spend here may cost us the machine. A machine that now more than one friend has given their life for. I say we destroy this machine and slay this mad Cleric. I say we end this here and now, let us honor our dead with our future deeds and stop this threat once and for all." Arien speaks quietly but with passion and conviction, he is determined to make someone answer for the death of his friend.
LOG ON