DM Bob & Carla d20+5=18[spot to see Andrath] d6=4[to select Lorth] d20+9=17 d6+6=10 Wednesday June 2nd, 2004 9:36:10 PM
Andrath's instincts are proven correct when a large mottled green biped emerges from the mist towards the party. It stands fully 8 feet tall and is unclothed. It's long arms and legs give it a perculiar gait as it weaves through the trees directly towards Lorth. The creature emits another horn-like sound that reverberates through the swamp, and lashes out at the paladin with a clawed hand. [Hit AC=17 for 10 dmg]
[OOC please post AC and HP and remember the Bless from Kedarn!]
Cadmar AC19 HP25(25) d100=36 Thursday June 3rd, 2004 6:26:56 AM
"A troll! Jump back, do not let it hit you with all it has!"
Cadmar unshoulders his bow [move action] and uses the tip of an arrow to draw a circle in the air. The circle becomes semi material and jumps in front of the ranger [standard action: cast Shield; arcane spell failure 36 - passed].
[I don't know where the beast is in relation to Cadmar. If it is within 15ft Cadmar will combine the move action with moving away. The ranger wants to end the turn at least 30ft away from it.]
Cadmar turns to Kedarn to see what the party leader decides.
Shield (1min): +4(shield) AC, blocks Magic Missiles Bless (3min): +1(morale) attack rolls and saves vs fear
Bralin (ac19/23vGiants, Bless, Magic Weapon) Thursday June 3rd, 2004 8:22:58 AM
"'Ware" cries Bralin as the troll appears.
The dwarf hopes Lorth can fend the beast off for a few seconds, so he can get help from the Stone.
Bralin casts a spell, encasing his axe in a shimmering field. [Magic Weapon] Then he charges forward to join Lorth, flanking the beast if possible.
[Does the dwarf dodge bonus vs giants apply?]
[OOC DM Bob - Yes the dodge bonus applies!]
Lorth HP 25/35 AC 16 d20+5=6 d20+5=19 d8+2=7 Thursday June 3rd, 2004 2:37:48 PM
Lorth stagers back a full 2 feet from the attack, never has he been hit do hard... He does his best to regain his composure and swings his warhammer at the beast. (HIT AC: Rolled a 6, using a hero point to roll a 19+1 = 20 for the bless, DAMAGE: 7)
Alkali (10 HP, 14 AC) Thursday June 3rd, 2004 6:04:23 PM
Alkali moves up to the target (within 30ft.) and casts "Reduce Person" on the giant. Karee goes into the sky to scout for other threats.
Elerinn HP: 21, AC: 12 d20+3=21 4d6(3+2+4+6)=15 2d4(3+1)+2=6 Thursday June 3rd, 2004 6:48:20 PM
As soon as Elerinn spots the hideous creature, he grabs one of the scrolls from his backpack. The gnome remembers that the green giants called trolls regenerate their wounds quickly, but fire can hurt them permanently. As soon as he gets his scrolls of Scorching Ray, the gnome aims at the creature and uses the spell written on the parchment.
OOC: Does our characters know trolls can be hurt by acid and fire? If they do, Elerinn will fire the Scorching ray at the troll. It is caster level 3 and does 15 damage, if it hits. If Elerinn doesn't know about the trolls' Achilles' Heel, he will fire a Magic Missile at it for a total of 6 damage.
Elerinn Thursday June 3rd, 2004 6:49:22 PM
OOC: Ranged Touch Attack roll for the scorching ray is 21
Kedarn (AC 19 HP 27/27 bless, barkskin) Thursday June 3rd, 2004 7:53:04 PM
Kedarn steps back away from the troll and activates the seal of barkskin that Cadmar had given him.
**** Seal of Barkskin - all party members within 50ft get a +2 natural armor bonus for 2 rounds. ****
Andrath (AC 19 +2 for barkskin for 21, 24 hp) Thursday June 3rd, 2004 11:36:54 PM
{OOC: Still having problems with the dice roller, so used the Irony site again, and rolled a 9 on the d20.]
Andrath lets fly with the arrow that he had nocked. [OOC: Hit AC13, not likely.] Then he drops the bow and runs 30' back towards the party, drawing his longsword as he runs.
DM Bob & Carla d20+11=25[Troll fort save] d20+2=3 [Int check for Elerinn] d2=2 [picks Bralin] d20+9=15 d20+9=21 d20+4=11 Friday June 4th, 2004 12:32:51 AM
Cadmar, Bralin and Kedarn prepare themselves for battle, casting spells and activating seals. While Cadmar steps back, Bralin moves forward to support the stricken paladin. Lorth reels under the troll's attack, but manages to lash out with his warhammer, opening a wound in the creatures flank.
Alkali cleverly casts his reducing spell at the Troll but to no effect. The creature shrugs off the magic and shifts it's attention to the advancing dwarf. Elerinn, who has never seen a troll before, casts magic missile and two balls of energy weave through the party, striking the troll in the torso. Enraged, the creature flails wildly at Bralin missing the canny fighter completely. Andrath's arrow misses it's target and the rogue runs forward, longsword drawn, ready to help his comrades.
[OOC Map on the way via e-mail]
Cadmar AC21 HP25(25) d20+5=13 Friday June 4th, 2004 6:00:51 AM This is turning owlbear, oh gosh oh gosh oh gosh-
Cadmar steps off the path [5ft step NE] and, taking advantage of the clear line of sight to the troll, launches a black feathered arrow at the hulking monster. The magic arrow whizzes past troll's ear [hits AC9]. This is just not Cadmar's day.
Seal of Barkskin +2(natural) AC, 1st round out of 2 Shield (1min): +4(shield) AC, blocks Magic Missiles Bless (3min): +1(morale) attack rolls and saves vs fear
Lorth HP 25/35 AC 16 d20+7=23 d8+2=3 Friday June 4th, 2004 8:12:08 AM
Since the troll has shifted its attention to Bralin, Lorth attempts to get into flanking position and attacks once again. He connects but it is a glancing blow that does little damage to the beast. (HIT AC: 23, DAMAGE: 3)
Bralin (AC23vGiants, Bless, Magic Weapon,Expertise[1],Power Attack[1]) d20+9=27 d10+6=15 Friday June 4th, 2004 8:39:00 AM
Bralin ducks the lumbering blows of the troll. As the dwarf enters the battle, he emits a low, bass, monotone hum. It's barely a audible "hrmmmmm".
With a powerful swing, the humming dwarf slams his war axe into the troll's torso.
[hit ac 27 for 15 hp damage]
Kedarn (AC 19 HP 27/27 bless, barkskin) d8+1=6 Friday June 4th, 2004 4:57:19 PM
Kedarn takes out his wand of cure light wounds then steps up behind Lorth and touches him with it healing 6hp.
Elerinn, AC: 12, HP: 21/21 2d4(1+1)+2=4 Friday June 4th, 2004 7:12:05 PM
Elerinn, who knows nothing about the troll's weaknesses, is relieved when he sees Lorth hitting the troll and Bralin cleaving his axe right into the creature's ugly body. The sorcerer casts a Magic Missile and hits the creature with two bolts again.
OOC: The Magic Missiles, that are getting totally cliché, do a total of 4 damage.
Andrath (AC21, 24 hp) Friday June 4th, 2004 10:18:02 PM
Andrath tumbles behind the troll, trying to dodge the green monster, [OOC: Missed the tumble roll with a 14, so Andrath is open to one attack of opportunity], drawing his short sword as he moves.
He jumps up behind the troll, flanking the beast opposite Bralin, and swings his longsword at the beast's back, connecting with a deep gash. [OOC: Hit AC 28 with a natural 20, but only rolled a 15 for the critical, so no critical hit. Damage is 7 hp, plus a further 4 hp flanking damage, for a total of 11 hp damage.]
DM Bob & Carla d20+9=23 [Aoo on Andrath] d6+6=9 d4=4 [pick Bralin] d20+9=12 d20+9=21 d20+4=18 Sunday June 6th, 2004 6:41:04 PM
Lorth, injured and bleeding, attempts to move into a flanking position but cannot move that far without enjoining an attack of opportunity from the troll. He attacks nevertheless and manages a glancing blow. Bralin, seemingly entranced, slices deep into the troll with his waraxe, resulting in a bellow of pain from the creature. Elerinn sends in his magic missiles while Kedarn heals Lorth from a postion of relative safety.
Andrath tumbles in behind the troll but is not fast enough to avoid the long arm of the beast and it's razor like claws which slice deep into his shoulder [Hit AC=23 for 9 dmg].
Confused and bleeding, the troll spins back and forth between it's assailants. It's eyes are wild with hate and rage. It swings again at the dwarf missing the agile fighter. Again it bugles, a deep resonant note that rings throughout the swamp.
[OOC please make spot or heal checks vs DC 15 to observe that wounds inflicted on the troll in round one seem to be healing of their own accord - Also, the AC of the troll is 18]
Bralin (AC22vGiants, Bless, Magic Weapon,Power Attack[2]) d20+5=25 d20+9=24 d10+7=17 Sunday June 6th, 2004 8:18:37 PM
Bralin's hum stops. "By the Stone!" he cries. "The creature's wounds seal themselves!" [Spot 25]
The dwarf notes that they do not seal up entirely, however. It seems to defeat this beast, they must create damage faster than it can heal them.
He endeavors to do just that, forsaking some defense for more offense. His glowing war axe slams once again into the vile creature.
[Hit ac 24 for 17 hp dam. Love these dice!]
Cadmar AC21 HP25(25) d20+4=10 Monday June 7th, 2004 12:13:11 PM
Cadmar moves around so that there are no friends between him and the troll [move action] and shoots another arrow, this time non magical. It misses [hits AC6]. The ranger bites his lip in frustration. Unfortunately, the arrows is the best attack he can do right now.
[Bob & Carla, I will be away from the computer until, most probably, next Thursday. Until I resume posting please assume Cadmar shoots at the troll with normal arrows. Effectively it is +0 to hit, 1d8 damage, x3 critical.]
Seal of Barkskin +2(natural) AC, 2nd round out of 2 Shield (1min): +4(shield) AC, blocks Magic Missiles Bless (3min): +1(morale) attack rolls and saves vs fear
Andrath (AC 21, 15/24 hp) Monday June 7th, 2004 12:49:09 PM
Andrath reels from the blow of the troll, but steps in to attack with renewed vigour. He maintains his flanking position opposite Bralin, and swings first his longsword and then his shortsword. [OOC: Missed the longsword swing with a natural 1, and missed the shortsword with a total attack roll of 15.] Unfortunately, the blow from the troll has staggered the elf, and he misses both blows.
He calls out, "Maybe there is some sort of attack that the creature cannot heal. These weapon blows are hurting it, but then it recovers. Try some sort of magic attack!"
Lorth HP 31/35 AC 16 d20+7=17 d8+2=8 Monday June 7th, 2004 1:50:13 PM
Lorth is not happy that the Troll seems to be healing the damage he is inflicting. Not knowing what else to do, he again tries to get into flanking position and renews his attack, hoping the onslaught from all his friends will bring the beast down... (HIT AC: 17 MISS Unless Lorth gets flanking this round. DAMAGE: 8)
Kedarn (AC 19 HP 27/27 bless, barkskin) d20+5=8 d8+1=7 Monday June 7th, 2004 5:34:15 PM
Thinking the others are harming the troll effectively Kedarn tries to move over to Andrath with out getting hit by the troll. When Kedarn arrives next to Andrath Kedarn taps Andrath with the wand and heals 7hp.
*** spot: 8 ***
Elerinn, AC: 12, HP: 21/21 2d4(2+3)+2=7 Monday June 7th, 2004 6:29:24 PM
Elerinn hears his companions saying that the troll's wounds seem to slowly heal. He considers this for a moment, but doesn't get the idea that fire might harm the creature permanently. Therefore, he fires two Magic Missiles once more.
Damage: 7
DM Bob & Carla Andrath-1, Bralin-2, Lorth-3 d3=3(Attacks Lorth) d20+9=10 d20+9=13 d20+4=15 Troll(AC18, 5 HP remaining) Monday June 7th, 2004 11:37:33 PM
Alkali moves in closer to the thing, but numbed into inaction doesn't react. Cadmar and Andrath attack as best they can, but neither one is able to connect with the troll. Bralin, a flanking Lorth, and Elerinn have better luck, sending the creature reeling. The wounds dealt by the weapon weilding duo significantly weaken the beast, and Elerinn's missiles thump into it, causing it's knees to buckle. The troll's eyes glaze over for a moment, but a fire rekindles in them, and it lashes out at the paladin wildly. Missing with both it's clawing attempts it then knashes it's teeth futilely in the air. The thing makes another call, this one more shrill and desperate than the previous ones.
(DM Carla-map on the way. We need Alkali posting during combat!)
Lorth d20+7=25 d8+2=8 Tuesday June 8th, 2004 7:38:07 AM
Lorth says, quickly, "It sounds to me like it is calling for help, this doesn't bode well."
Encouraged that it looks like the thing may fall down, Lorth attacks it again with renewed vigor... (HIT AC: 25, DAMAGE: 8)
Bralin (AC22vGiants, Bless, Magic Weapon,Power Attack[1]) d20+9=28 d10+6=7 d10+6=13 Tuesday June 8th, 2004 8:56:58 AM
"Kill it, and flee" Bralin grunts, as he swings again.
[Hit ac 28 for 7 hp damage. Ignore second roll, its an oops]
Kedarn (AC 17 HP 27/27 bless) d8+1=9 Tuesday June 8th, 2004 4:41:39 PM
Kedarn moves closer to Andrath then uses the wand on Andrath healing 9hp.
Kedarn then tells everyone "lets move before it gets back up or it's friends show up. follow the trail as quickly as you can."
Elerinn, AC: 12, HP: 21/21 2d4(1+2)+2=5 Tuesday June 8th, 2004 5:37:35 PM
Elerinn realizes that the troll is calling for other trolls' aid. It has to be defeated quickly. The gnome agrees with Bralin, calling out: "As soon as that creature hits the ground, we must run for it!"
The sorcerer regrets the fact that his repertoire of spells is still small, as he fires two shining missiles once again.
MM Damage: 5
Alkali d20+5=24 d4=2 Tuesday June 8th, 2004 6:50:24 PM
OOC: Sorry! I hit submit last time but I guess it didn't come up.
Alkali wakes up from his stunned expression and pulls out his sling. He fires his slug away at one of the open wounds (Hits AC 24, 2 damage.) Missing the wound but creating another small cut. "I don't know if we can run. Hiding might be a better option considering how fast these things move."
Andrath (AC 19, 24/24 hp) Tuesday June 8th, 2004 10:30:41 PM
Andrath looks over his shoulder, and thanks Kedarn for the healing, "Thank you Kedarn, I am at full health now." Then Andrath swings twice at the beast, hitting with the longsword but missing with the shortsword. [OOC: Hit with longsword AC 22, doing 8 hp damage, plus another 9 hp flanking damage. The shortsword only hit AC 10.]
Hoping that the creature has fallen, he says, "We need to finish this beast off; otherwise it will completely heal up and then continue to dog at our heels. Maybe alcohol, acid, fire or cold can do permanent damage. What do you have that might work? If nothing works, then I guess we can pound it to a pulp that would take so long to regenerate from that we might be able to escape." Assuming that the creature is down, Andrath sheathes his swords, doffs his backpack and starts to root around, looking for his oil flasks.
DM Bob & Carla Tuesday June 8th, 2004 11:56:58 PM
Lorth lands what appears to be a fatal blow, then Bralin, Elerinn, Alkali, and Andrath all contribute to a beating that results in a rather pasty mess of gray-green skin and flesh. Even as they catch their breath, the combatants can see the ooze congeal and ever so slowly gain form.
Kedarn restores Andrath, and suggests the party move along, while the party's scout recommends finding a way to deal permanantly with their attacker.
Cassandra hooks Cadmar's arm and moves in to be closer to the group.
Lorth Wednesday June 9th, 2004 1:13:44 PM
Lorth waits for Kendarn to make the final decision and then goes along with whatever he decides.
Kedarn (AC 17 HP 27/27 bless) Wednesday June 9th, 2004 3:53:58 PM
Kedarn takes out a flask of oil from his pack then starts to pour it on the troll. "Someone light this oil quickly" Kedarn says to the others when he is finished pouring the oil.
[READY ACTION LOL - crit (AC 22) for 25 hp damage]
Alkali Wednesday June 9th, 2004 7:55:36 PM
Alkali nods to Kedarn and pulls out some flint and steel to get a spark on the oil. Alkali looks quickly around to make sure that there is nothing else that would spread the fire. If there is nothing and no one objects Alkali will start the fire and then back off. "We should really hide for a bit and see what we are up against."
Elerinn, AC: 12, HP: 21/21 d20+1=9 4d6(3+6+3+6)=18 Thursday June 10th, 2004 4:52:29 AM
After Kedarn has poured the oil over the troll's regenerating body, Elerinn searches for his Scorching Ray scroll inside his backpack. The gnome asks everyone to step back and aims the spell at the disabled creature.
Ranged touch attack: 9 Damage: 18
DM Bob & Carla Thursday June 10th, 2004 7:45:23 AM
While Andrath roots around in his pack for flasks of oil, Kedarn retrieves his own flask and pours it liberally over the mangled body of the troll. Alkali sparks the oil and in an instant the oil is alight. Elerinn ensures that the fire will catch, firing a ray of heat into the corpse. The body pops and sizzles as the fire takes hold and consumes the flesh. The pungent smell of burning flesh assails their nostrils. No more signs of regeneration can be detected from the corpse
The groups attention is interrupted by the bugle like sounds that reach their ears through the Wyrmsfut.
Lorth Thursday June 10th, 2004 1:18:36 PM
Lorth looks around nervously, "I think we should be going."
Bralin Thursday June 10th, 2004 4:33:33 PM
"Aye."
Bralin starts moving up the trail.
Kedarn (AC 17 HP 27/27 bless) Thursday June 10th, 2004 7:01:14 PM
"Lets get moving as quickly as possible. Andrath lets get someplace we can defend ourselvs from that is not here." Kedarn suggests while readying his rapier.
Alkali Thursday June 10th, 2004 8:43:59 PM
Alkali beings to look around freom side to side acting very jumpy. His hand is shakey while his eyes never look in the same place once. "Let's go somewhere or do something quick!. These things are fast." Alkali begins to get ready for a sprint.
Andrath (AC19, 24 hp) Thursday June 10th, 2004 11:57:34 PM
"Well, I can lead you as quickly as possible along this trail, but I don't think that we can outrun one of these creatures. I can try to find a bit wider spot in the trail where we might have the upper hand."
Andrath quickly leads the party along the trail that they were previously following. He tries to tell if the bugle-noises are coming from many directions, or just one. [OOC: Listen check of 12.] As per normal, he keeps his eyes open for trouble along the way. [OOC: Search check of 14, spot check 30.]
Elerinn Friday June 11th, 2004 10:37:56 AM
Elerinn follows Andrath as he leads the Swords of Light through the dangerous swamp. The gnome has a hard time keeping up with his companions, but he tries to run as fast as he is able to.
DM Bob & Carla d12=10 Sunday June 13th, 2004 7:13:44 PM
Andrath leads the party along the trail, moving quickly to put some distance between himself and the dead troll. Although Elerinn and Bralin struggle to keep pace they make good speed . The bugling sound reaches their ears intermittently but it is difficult to tell which direction it actually comes from. The party reaches a small opening in the trail. A jumble of rocks protrudes from the swampy earth in the shape of a horseshoe surrounding a small knoll that is itself 30 feet across. The rocks vary in size from 5-8 feet high and of roughly equal diameter. They are separated by small gaps 2-4 feet across. The stones stick up from the earth like jagged teeth in the maw of a prehistoric carnivore.
Once again the strange bugling sound of a troll rings through the swamp, closer and slightly ahead of them.
Lorth Monday June 14th, 2004 10:17:57 AM
Taking a quick look around, Lorth suggests, "Perhaps we can climb atop this knoll and make a defensive stand. If we could start some sort of fire, maybe they would lose interest and leave us alone."
Andrath (AC19, 24 hp) Monday June 14th, 2004 12:36:48 PM
Andrath suggests, "Someone will need to face the creature head-on, while the rest of us use missile attacks, and I can try to maneuver behind and flank the creature, similar to what we did last time. I can move off to the side and hide in the forest, then charge forward to flank. Just make sure that you leave an empty space for me to flank with one of you. Kedarn, can you set us up?"
Bralin Monday June 14th, 2004 1:59:11 PM
"Ye assume there be but one," Bralin points out to the rogue. "If so, I shall face it. If not....." the dwarf lets it hang. If there be more than one, we are sore in need
In agreement with Lorth's suggestion, Bralin starts scrambling up the slope of the knoll.
Elerinn AC: 12 HP: 21/21 Monday June 14th, 2004 3:51:42 PM
Elerinn follows Bralin the dwarf along the slope of the knoll, after considering Lorth's idea.
Alkali Monday June 14th, 2004 4:36:31 PM
Alkali follows the command looking through his memory for something to help allieviate the situation. "Anyway we can set up a quick trap?"
Kedarn Tuesday June 15th, 2004 4:08:11 AM
"Let's get ready. Elerinn see if you can get a fire going. Ok everyone we will setup in a semi-triangle with Lorth, Bralin, and Cadmar as the points. The rest of us will support them with any means we have available. If anyone has any oil we need to get it out so that we can use it to setup some areas of fire that they won't try to get to use through." Kedarn tells the group.
Cadmar Tuesday June 15th, 2004 7:21:46 AM
The ranger climbs the knoll with the rest of the group making sure that Cassandra is well protected inside the triangle. Then he takes his place on one of the points, bow in hand.
"I still have one Shield spell left. Bralin, do you think you could concentrate troll's attention on yourself? If so, I will set you up with that spell as soon as I see it coming through the trees."
[Bralin is using a two-handed axe, right?]
"All right, if it comes let's pray that it comes alone. And that it is as bloody stupid as the previous one was."
DM Bob & Carla Tuesday June 15th, 2004 7:40:15 AM
The party heads for the knoll and make themselves ready for battle. Kedarn suggests a triangle inside the semi-circle of jagged stones with Bralin at the apex. Andrath reminds them that much more damage can be done if opportunities for flanking are kept open. Cassandra scouts the immediate vicinity for firewood and gathers what she can. Those with oil in their packs make it ready for use. Alkali looks about for opportunities to trap the trolls. The jagged rocks themselves might help form the trap if the troll can be lured inside...
As he thinks about possibilities the bugling sound erupts from much closer than before and two greyish-green shapes emerge from the trees. The larger of the two waves its arm in the direction of the protrusion of rocks and utters something gutteral before advancing...
[Map to follow via e-mail]
Lorth Tuesday June 15th, 2004 7:53:12 AM
Lorth quickly tosses three flasks of oil to Alkali and hands Bralin a potion flask, "Drink this, it will make you stronger for a short time." He then takes his spot in the triangle and readies another potion.
OOC: Lorth Tuesday June 15th, 2004 7:53:43 AM
(Sorry, Potion is Bull Strength)
Cadmar AC19 HP25(25) d100=38 d20+1=6 Tuesday June 15th, 2004 8:53:17 AM
Cadmar goes pale. Two trolls in warlike mood and no chance to run. The situation is critical. Still, the group won't go down without a fight.
Cadmar looks closely at the approaching monsters, trying to estimate their size. Are they both higher than humans?
The ranger reaches to his component pouch and prepares to cast a Shield spell on Bralin, but then recalls that this magic can only affect himself, so, with a sigh, targets the spell on his own person [standard action; arcane failure chance: 38: passed].
Then one of the trolls says something, and Cadmar strains his ears to listen, but the words escape him [Listen 6].
In a last effort to head off the imminent fight the ranger steps forward and shouts out in the same guttural language:
[If you speak Giant Highlight to display spoiler: {"We come from Denholm to the witch! Leave us alone, or you'll pay with your lives!"}]
Bralin (bulls strength) Tuesday June 15th, 2004 10:47:03 AM
Bralin drains the potion Lorth gave him as he listens to Cadmar's speech. The man is full of surprises.
"Too many words," he critiques.
"Kedarn," he calls, "We must split them. Bring them tween the rock and strike."
The dwarf bangs his axe rhythmically on his small steel shield. "Corregan-na! Tungo, durra!" "I am Corregan! Come and die!"
Kedarn Tuesday June 15th, 2004 4:59:20 PM
Hearing Bralin, Kedarn says "try to get them to come at us one at a time. Get a fire going so we can burn them."
Kedarn then pulls out ascroll and casts 'Doom* on T2 (Will save vs DC 14.)
Alkali Tuesday June 15th, 2004 8:54:01 PM
Alkali catches the vials of oil and thinks of a plan. "Think we can cover the ground with oil and light it with an arrow when they step on it? If splitting them up is a good idea. If they mug one person we are in trouble."
Andrath (AC19, 24 hp, Bull's strength) Tuesday June 15th, 2004 10:42:28 PM
"Kedarn, according to your instructions [OOC: and the map that Bob sent] Bralin will be facing both trolls on his own. We need to have Lorth and Cadmar step to the front as well, to bear some of the brunt of the first attacks. I promise that I will step in as soon as possible, and flank."
Then the rogue downs a potion, dropping the flask to the side and gripping his two swords firmly, waiting for his chance...
[OOC: Potion is bull's strength, for 3 minutes]
Elerinn, AC: 12 HP: 21/21 Wednesday June 16th, 2004 1:51:55 AM
Elerinn realizes he doesn't have any fire spells left in his assortment of scrolls. He searches for a scroll that still might help the Swords of Light. The gnome pulls out a Cat's Grace scroll and targets the dwarf Bralin with it.
OOC: It will give Bralin a +4 Dexterity bonus for 3 minutes. That will mean
DM Bob & Carla d20+3=14 Wednesday June 16th, 2004 7:36:45 AM
The two trolls stop in their tracks in what appears to be amazement. Their last meal had not challenged them in their own tongue, nor had it threatened their death!
The larger of the two trolls (T1) finally shakes off the feeling of trepidation [Will=14]and shoves the smaller one forward calling in anger "HAR DURRA! KLA BURRA!" (You Die! Not Me!) Both trolls move carefully forward towards the mouth of jagged stones and arrive at the mouth of the semi-circle at the end of the round. The trolls (both over 7 feet tall)cast a long shadow over the adventurers.
The party members drink potions and cast enhancing spels on each other in preparation for the fight. Alkali begins running through ideas about how to trap the advancing trolls.
Lorth (Bull's Strength) Wednesday June 16th, 2004 8:28:28 AM
Lorth drinks down his own potion vial (Bull's Strength 3 minutes), moves his shield into a total front cover position and advances to stand with Bralin.
Bralin (ac23, bulls strength, cats grace, power attack[2]) d20+9=10 Wednesday June 16th, 2004 8:32:00 AM
[OOC - took only +1 Dex bonus to AC due to armor restriction]
Bralin breaks into his low monotone hum again, and steps forward into the nearest troll (5 ft step toward T2). The dwarf takes a great swing with his axe, but badly misjudged the effect of the sloping hill, and misses. [nat 1]
"Tungo!" he grates at the towering giant. "Tungo, durra!"
The dwarf crosses in front of Cadmar and backs away from T2, attempting to draw the troll toward the lead stone behind which Andarath is hiding.
"Slow the other," he calls to his group.
Andrath (AC19, 24 hp, Bull's Strength) d20+11=19 d20+10=30 d20+10=15 d8+6=7 2d6(3+4)=7 Wednesday June 16th, 2004 12:24:16 PM
[OOC: Bob/Carla, it appears that the dice roller is working for me again; however long that lasts.]
Andrath moves, and then tumbles, behind Troll #2, moving to a flanking position opposite either Bralin or Cadmar. [OOC: Made the tumble check with roll of 19, so no attack of opportunity.]
He jumps to his feet and stabs at the back of #2, driving his longsword deep into the creature. [OOC: Hit AC30 with a natural 20, but only rolled a 15 for the critical check, so just a normal hit, for 7 hp damage, plus a further 7 hp damage for the sneak attack, doing a total of 14 hp damage.]
He calls out, "Concentrate all of your attacks on this troll that I have wounded! Once we have dropped it, Alkali, you need to pour one of your flasks of oil onto it quickly, and light it afire. We need to kill one first, then attack the other one!"
Cadmar AC23 HP25(25) d20-1=13 Wednesday June 16th, 2004 2:47:41 PM
Cadmar suddenly finds himself looking up into the maw of an angry troll. The ranger knows how dangerous it is to stand that close to the monster. He would normally withdraw and shoot, but other, more fragile members of the party are right behind him. For better or for worse, he has to remain where he is.
Cadmar drops his bow [free action], draws his scimitar [move action] and, concentrating almost entirely on defense [Expertise2 + fighting defensively], attacks the troll wounded by Andrath [standard action, attack T2]. Not surprisingly, his wild swing misses [hits AC13, flanking included].
Wishing to draw the attention of the monster sandwitched between him and Andrath Cadmar lets loose a few choice words in the troll speech "Huk-ka! Grakka duk!" and feverently hopes that Cassandra doesn't speak Giant.
"Elerinn! If it gets hopeless use Rope Trick!"
Shield round 1 of 10. Expertise 2, Fighting Defensively.
Kedarn (AC: 17 HP: 27/27) d20+1=13 Wednesday June 16th, 2004 6:20:40 PM
Kedarn drops his rapier and readies his bow. Kedarn then fires an arrow at T2 (hit ac 13.)
Alkali d20+5=23 d4=3 Wednesday June 16th, 2004 9:00:48 PM
Alkali draws his sling and fires at the Troll 2. (Hit AC 23, 3 damage) "Good idea to flank it, but don't let that other troll get you, Andarth!"
DM Bob & Carla d20+9=11(T2 claw) d20+9=12(T2 claw) d20+4=8(T2 bite) d20+9=19(T1 claw) d20+9=15(T1 claw) d20+4=10(T1 bite) d6+6=9(T1 damage) Thursday June 17th, 2004 8:05:49 AM
The trolls advance on the party, trading insults in giant. The first to reach the opening(T2) easily dodges the dwarf's axe and remains oblivious to an arrow that whizzes by. As Bralin retreats it follows, leaving itself open to Andraths blade. The troll bellows in range as Andrath's bade bites deep into it's hide. Alkali's bullet enrages it further. It swings wildly at the dwarf, it's massive claws miss Bralin but sweep across the nearby stone, scarring them in the process.
The larger troll (T1) steps forward and lashes out at Lorth, it's first claw strikes the paladin on his sheild arm and spins him into the rock. [Hit AC=19, 9 hp]. The paladin is lucky to dodge the second claw and the feeble attempt by the troll to bite him.
[OOC Trolls AC= 18; map to follow]
Lorth HP 22/35 AC 20 Thursday June 17th, 2004 9:33:15 AM
Lorth recovers from the trolls attack and spins to face it. A gash bleeds heavily on his side where the paladin slammed into the rock. 'I must keep this one occupied as long as possible', he thinks. Lorth goes into a defensive stance, grits his teeth, and readies for the trolls next batch of attacks. [Total defense +4 Dodge AC, so AC 20]
Elerinn, AC: 12, HP: 21 Thursday June 17th, 2004 10:25:01 AM
Elerinn, who has been paralyzed by the troll's attack for a moment, searches through his assortment of spells again. Once he finds a Rope Trick scroll, he uses it to summon a magical rope in front of him.
If the trolls are too strong to defeat, the Swords of Light can flee to a saver place, using the arcane rope.
Bralin (ac23, bulls strength, cats grace, power attack[2]) d20+9=14 Thursday June 17th, 2004 10:36:13 AM
Bralin grimaces at all the contradictory orders getting bandied about. He swings again at the troll towering over him. [hit ac 14]
Again, he steps away from the beast, humming his monotone tune. The dwarf moves slowly, leading the troll into the crevice between the first two stones.
Cadmar AC23 HP25(25) d20-1=4 Thursday June 17th, 2004 12:14:54 PM
Cadmar maintains his defensive style of fighting. This is going to be a long fight. Stepping closer to T2 and flanking it with Andrath the ranger tries once again to add to the efforts of the group. His attack misses yet again.
Shield round 2 of 10. Expertise 2, Fighting Defensively.
Alkali d100=63 Thursday June 17th, 2004 1:21:43 PM
Seeing Lorth's large gash, Alkali tried to think of a way to immboilize the second troll. Alkali's eyes light up when he remembers a spell he could use and casts lesser confusion on troll 2.
OOC: Not sure if the troll is supposed to roll the d100 to find out what happens, or I am. (got 63 = flee at top speed from caster)
Andrath (AC19, 24 hp, Bull's strength) d20+8=27 d20+8=23 2d8(2+7)+12=21 2d6(3+5)=8 d20+8=27 d20+8=11 d6+2=6 2d6(6+5)=11 Thursday June 17th, 2004 6:51:26 PM
Andrath watches in disbelief as some of the other party members cower behind their shields, taking tentative half swings, or in some cases, no swing at all. "Stop your hiding and hit the beasts! Our only chance to defeat them is to hit them with all that we have! If we all take such weak swings, we will never hit them. And if only one or two of us are seriously attacking, they will regenerate all their damage as fast as we can cause it! In a long fight, their strength, and superior constitution will beat us. Plus, Kedarn is back there to heal you if you get hit."
Realizing that he must make the most of his attacks, Andrath swings both swords at the rear of Troll #2, managing to drive both blades deep into the creature's torso. [OOC: Well, now that the dice roller is working for me again, it really is working well! Longsword swing is a successful critical hit (Natural 19, followed up with a critical success of 23), doing 21+8(sneak) damage, for a total of 29 hp damage with the longsword. The shortsword swing is also a critical chance, but not successful due to only a confirm roll of hitting AC11. However, normal damage is 6 hp, plus sneak damage of 11, is a total of 17 hp for the shortsword. Total damage from Andrath this round is 46 hp damage to troll #2.]
Kedarn (AC: 17 HP: 27/27) d20+1=21 d20+1=18 3d8(7+3+5)=15 Thursday June 17th, 2004 8:20:12 PM
Kedarn fires another arrow at the same troll (T2) (nat 20 followed by a 19 to hit. dmg 15)
After firing the arrow into the troll Kedarn moves closer to Lorth so that he can do some healing next.
DM Bob & Carla d20+3=9(T1 Will Save) Thursday June 17th, 2004 10:51:51 PM
Lured further into the mouth of the opening by Bralin and several other sword waving assailants, the smaller of the two trolls (T2) is savaged by Andrath's attack. The rogue opens a gaping wound across it's midsection. The troll teeters for just a moment and manages to catch itself upon one of the jagged stones. Before it can upright itself, an arrow slams into it's throat. It's eyes seem to glaze over and the creature falls to the ground amidst a growing pool of thick syrupy blood.
Lorth readies his shield for what surely must be a brutal attack by the larger of the two trolls(T1), but it does not materialize. Inexplicably the troll turns and flees the rocky outcroppings [Will save =9, failed]
Andrath (AC19, 24 hp) 2d8(8+5)+12=25 2d6(4+1)=5 Friday June 18th, 2004 12:12:19 AM
Having seen the wounds close on trolls before, the rogue slashes again into the fallen horror, ensuring that it stays down for at least a few moments. [OOC: Coup de grace action, doing another 30 hp damage.]
He looks over his shoulder, and watches the other troll high-tail it away. "Alkali, was that you chasing the other one away? Incredible! I don't know how long it will stay away, if it is fleeing because of a spell, so we had better move out into the open here, and ready ourselves for its return. When a larger number of weaker foes fights a single stronger, faster foe, we need to work together to surround it and attack it with everything that we've got."
Andrath quickly looks over the troll's body, looking for any valuables. If he finds any, he puts them in his belt pouch. Once the creature has been searched, he says to Alkali, "Can you use one of those vials of oil to set this troll alight? Once it has been torched, I don't think that it will recover."
"Lorth, Cadmar, I apologize for my outburst about how I thought that you were fighting the troll. But I still believe that when we fight a large, strong creature that can do so much damage with a single swing, and seems to have multiple attacks [OOC: Bob/Carla, I think that this would be something easily observed from our last combats], we need to concentrate on hurting the creature as quickly as possible. I realize that this might mean a likelier chance of getting hit, but in a prolonged fight, where you trade the chance to hit for an increase in not being hit, I think that we would be the losers."
Kedarn d8+1=8 Friday June 18th, 2004 3:40:49 AM
Kedarn moves over to Lorth and uses the wand of CLW healing 8pts.
"Lets see if we can get ready for the other troll as I feel that it will be coming back." Kedarn tells the others as he starts to look for ways of narrowing the opening a bit more than it is currently.
Lorth HP 30/35 AC 16 Friday June 18th, 2004 7:44:44 AM
"And I respectfully disagree", Lorth replies to Andrath. "My job was to distract the troll over here, while all you heavy hitters", he nods at Bralin,"made quick work of the other one. Even if I had stabbed this one, my swings alone would do little if anything since the beast regenerates. Better that I stand up as long as possible by being defensive and keep it occupied. Had I not been here keeping it busy, it probably would have advanced to Alkali and Elerinn and engaged them in melee, which would not be good." Lorth looks like he is done speaking and goes to assist Alkali in burning the downed troll.
Elerinn AC: 12 HP: 21 Friday June 18th, 2004 7:52:41 AM
Elerinn watches one of the two trolls run away in terror, while the other is a heap of blood and flesh lying on the ground. The gnome watches the arcane rope he just summoned and realizes that it has been useless.
Bralin (bulls strength, cats grace) Friday June 18th, 2004 8:14:50 AM
The dwarf stops as his companions down and burn the troll.
He glances at his unbloodied axe as the words of Andrath ring in his ears. "we all take such weak swings"
Bralin silently stalks to the center of the hill and stares out in the direction the other troll retreated.
Should it return, his axe will find blood.
Alkali Friday June 18th, 2004 8:57:01 AM
"The other troll should be back soon. If not, he's probably getting some friends... I'm not sure if they are smart enough to set a trap." Alkali spreads the oil over the troll and lights it afire. He turns around and looks at Cadmar and Bralin. "Did they say anything important? Like where the witch is?"
Cadmar Friday June 18th, 2004 1:33:45 PM
"No they didn't - what - wait!"
Cadmar jumps to the burning troll and, ignoring the flames, grabs a large lock of troll's hair and saws it off with his scimitar. Then he moves away from the fire, rolls up the green hair, and places it in its backpack. After that the ranger picks up his bow and sheathes his scimitar. The blade is unstained with blood.
The ranger walks up to Lorth and examines his wounds, treating them the best he can [Lay on Hands cures 4 damage].
Cadmar looks Andrath straight in the eye and answers: "Look Andrath, take a glance at these claws before they burn down and try to imagine what would happen to anyone caught between them. This thing could have killed you or me in just two seconds. Even if you like to toy with your life I don't and I won't be taking any unnecessary risks. Got too much to live for. My attacks wouldn't make a difference anyway, my strength is fair at best."
[If a troll hits with both claws he does 35 damage on average.]
Cadmar looks around and sees empty potion vials and blank scrolls. His mind does a quick calculation to see how much party's money has been spent. "The way we handled this fight was very, very bad and amateurish. Frankly, I am amazed that we are all still alive."
DM Bob & Carla Monday June 21st, 2004 7:40:16 AM
Andrath makes sure the troll is dead, slicing across it's throat. After searching the body and finding nothing of significance, the party prepares the body for burning. Alkali does the honours. The smoke from the burning flesh is thick and acrid.
Rather than rejoicing over their hard won victory, the group spends a moment dissecting and disagreeing over the way the battle was fought. Bralin stands watch for the other troll.
At the edge of the path and the trees, more than 100 feet away, the troll stops running and turns around. The creature is confused and takes a moment to gather it's bearings. Warily, it begins to make its way back to the rocky outcropping...
Bralin (bulls strength, cats grace) Monday June 21st, 2004 8:27:15 AM
"If ye wish further practice," Bralin comments to the group, "the opportunity approaches." He indicates the approaching troll with his shield hand.
The dwarf stands ready at the top of the hill.
Lorth HP 34/35 AC 16 Monday June 21st, 2004 8:34:07 AM
"Thank you Kedarn and Cadmar, for the healing." Lorth then moves up near Bralin and waits his weapon and shield at the ready.
Cadmar AC17 HP25(25) d20+2=10 Monday June 21st, 2004 10:04:15 AM
"Amazing, I was certain he won't be coming back." Cadmar readies his shield [move action]. Then, just on the off chance it might actually work, he tries to shout some reason into the troll.
"GABISHI, HAGA-HURU! SHURRACK HAGA!" [Giant: Highlight to display spoiler: {"Leave now or die in flames!"}] [Intimidate, standard action: 10]
Elerinn, AC: 12, HP: 21/21 Monday June 21st, 2004 12:22:45 PM
As the troll approaches, Elerinn prepares himself to hurl a spell at the creature as soon as it attacks any of the Swords of Light. He waits, however, because Cadmar seems to be intimidating the troll in his own language.
Kedarn (AC: 17 HP: 27/27) Monday June 21st, 2004 5:09:27 PM
"Wait for it to get in range then lets hit it with everything we can. Elerinn, Alkali hit it with fire if you can" Kedarn tells the others.
Kedarn then waits for the Troll to get with in range then will attack with the others.
Andrath (AC19, 24 hp) Monday June 21st, 2004 5:46:31 PM
"Cadmar, I would be interested in discussing how we should have handled this fight less 'amateurishly'. I too have some ideas. But it looks like we won't have time."
The rogue moves over to one side and waits for his chance to move in behind and flank the last troll.
Alkali Monday June 21st, 2004 10:11:20 PM
Alkali draws his sling ready at the troll. "I suppose we could handle the fight less amateurishly but we really should focus more on the surivival part of life... those things are huge."
Karee perches on Alkali's shoulder ready for combat.
DM Bob & Carla Tuesday June 22nd, 2004 7:45:22 AM
The troll advances carefully. It seems preoccupied with the burning carcass at the edge of the outcropping and ignores Cadmar's taunts. The troll is now 80' from the opening of the semi-circle and moving in an arc towards the north.
Bralin (ac 22 bulls strength, cats grace) Tuesday June 22nd, 2004 1:17:12 PM
The dwarf ignores the bantering of the party. Nobody is saying anything of any real importance.
Bralin moves on the top of the hill to stay in a direct line with the troll. If it attacks, it must come through him.
Cadmar AC 17 HP25(25) Tuesday June 22nd, 2004 1:23:32 PM
Cadmar watches the monster circle the opening. "Maybe we should move away from here. It might just wish to stay with the corpse of its buddy."
Replying to Andrath and Alkali Cadmar says: "Example: we stay close and wait for it to come at us. When it does, we strike back and move away in formation. Repeat until it has had enough. If somebody is wounded he can safely pull out until healed. The fight would be longer, but safer for us. Also, can spellcasters keep at least fifty feet away from the melee?"
[This way the troll couldn't bite or rend and the risk of having it kill a PC in a single round would be low.]
[Hey DMs - Cadmar was not just throwing taunts. Unless this troll is tougher than standard there is a chance it will abandon fight and go away (PH76). Maybe there should be a bonus to the roll because we have killed his partner without casualties and we are using fire.]
Kedarn Tuesday June 22nd, 2004 5:41:59 PM
Kedarn stays behind the fighters ready to aid them if necessary.
Alkali Tuesday June 22nd, 2004 8:48:12 PM
Alkali waits calmly for the attack.
Andrath (AC19, 24 hp) Tuesday June 22nd, 2004 11:04:36 PM
As they wait for the troll to approach, Andrath suggests, "Why don't we continue down the trail in the direction that we were moving before? We can keep the creature in sight, if it follows us, or otherwise we can let it move away. It seems to be trying to circle around us anyways, so lets move on. If it is only one troll, we are better facing it in the open than in this rock circle, I would think."
DM Bob & Carla d20+11=28 d6+6=8 Tuesday June 22nd, 2004 11:30:44 PM
As the party discusses what course of action to follow, the remaining troll suddenly changes course and charges straight at Bralin, swinging one of its large clawed arms in a downward swipe as it nears him [Hit AC=28; Dmg=8].
[OOC: Lorth and Cadmar who are standing on either side of the dwarf each get an attack of opportunity against the troll prior to their normal turn. Also note that Trolls are not afraid of very much and are almost impossible to intimidate.]
Cadmar AC 17 HP25(25) d20+5=22 d6=4 Wednesday June 23rd, 2004 5:58:02 AM
Cadmar sighs. So much for the strategic approach. Seems that this fight will be resolved in the same way the previous one was.
Circling around the troll to flank it with Bralin Cadmar draws his scimitar [move action]. When he reaches the other side the ranger plunges the blade into troll's back [hits AC22 for 4 damage].
Lorth HP 34/35 AC 16 (Bull Strength) d20+8=21 d8+4=12 d20+8=20 d8+4=10 Wednesday June 23rd, 2004 7:53:51 AM
Lorth swings as the troll charges Bralin. (HIT AC: 21, DAMAGE: 12) He scores a solid hit recovers and swings again.. {HIT AC: 20, DAMAGE: 10)
Bralin (ac 23, hp 37/45, bulls strength, cats grace, power atk [2]) d20+9=21 d10+8=16 Wednesday June 23rd, 2004 9:02:05 AM
By the Stone! These people talk and talk!
Now the troll Bralin understands. Kill or die. The dwarf takes the blow with a grunt. He then lashes out with one of his own.
[hit ac 21 for 16 hp damage]
Kedarn (AC17 HP 27/27) d8+1=6 Wednesday June 23rd, 2004 5:11:07 PM
Kedarn uses his wand of Cure light wounds on Bralin healing 6hp.
Elerinn, AC: 12, HP: 21/21 d4=3 Wednesday June 23rd, 2004 6:29:03 PM
As soon as the enraged troll attacks, Elerinn searches through his belongings inside his backpack. As soon as he finds a version of the Magic Missile spell on one of his scrolls, he uses it to fire one missile at the hostile giant. The gnome doesn't have any fire-based spells left and hopes Alkali still has some means of destroying the troll permanently.
OOC: Magic Missile damage: 4 (3+1)
Andrath (AC19, 24 hp, Bull's strength d20+11=29 d20+10=14 Wednesday June 23rd, 2004 10:11:40 PM
Andrath moves and tumbles opposite Lorth, managing to avoid any attacks of opportunity from the troll. [OOC: Successful tumble roll of 29.] He jumps to his feet and swings at the creature's back with his longsword, but regaining his feet after the tumble causes him to miss. [OOC: Only hit AC 14, so a miss.]
DM Bob & Carla d12=10 d20+9=22 d20+9=25 d20+4=18 d6+6=8 Thursday June 24th, 2004 7:32:57 AM
The troll spins around trying to face each of its attackers in turn, but to no avail. Like a swarm of wasps, the stings come from all directions. The troll's eyes grow wide as Lorth's blade drives home, followed by Cadmar's backstab. Bralin's axe takes the biggest bite, and the troll begins to panick. Finally Elerinn's magic missile strikes home, buckling the knees of the brutish creature. The troll's eyes seem to lose focus for a moment and then it recovers.
Unsure what to do the troll blindly attacks whoever it is facing. Bralin takes the brunt of the attack as two claws lash out at the dwarf. The first flashes by his face, inches from a deadly blow, the second strikes him firmly across the shoulder [Hit AC=25; Dmg=8]. The troll gnashes it's teeth wildly in another savage attack that misses the dwarf.
Bralin (ac 23, hp 35/45, bulls strength, cats grace, power atk [2]) d20+9=12 Thursday June 24th, 2004 9:33:14 AM
Bralin feels the healing power of the wand, but makes no comment. He only grunts in response to the troll's savage attack.
Unconsciously, he once again launches into his curious monotone hum.
His axe flashes out at the troll, but the beast bats it away. [atk AC 12]
Cadmar AC 17 HP25(25) d20+5=12 Thursday June 24th, 2004 9:49:07 AM
Cadmar is getting worried. If these two blows were directed at him, he would be probably dead right about now. He tries to score a hit once again, but this time his scimitar just bounces off troll's thick hide [attack hit AC12].
Lorth HP 34/35 AC 16 (Bull Strength) d20+8=19 d8+4=10 Thursday June 24th, 2004 9:58:12 AM
Lorth continues his attack on the beast, he aims high trying to swing for it's head. (HIT AC: 19 +2 flanking = 21, DAMAGE: 10)
Alkali d8+3=11 Thursday June 24th, 2004 5:11:44 PM
Alkali walks up behind Bralin and casts Cure Light Wounds (11 hp cured). "I hope this thing doesn't call for more friends."
Kedarn (AC17 HP 27/27) d20+6=19 d6=6 Thursday June 24th, 2004 6:50:24 PM
Kedarn steps to the side of Bralin and attacks the Troll with his rapier (ac 19 dmg 6.)
Andrath (AC19, 24 hp, Bull's strength) d20+8=15 d20+8=17 Thursday June 24th, 2004 9:54:36 PM
Andrath continues to flank the creature with Lorth, swinging twice, but missing both times. [OOC: Hit AC15 and AC17] He curses his foul luck, and steels himself for a possible retaliatory attack.
DM Bob & Carla Thursday June 24th, 2004 10:17:05 PM
While Cadmar and Bralin both miss, Lorth manages to land another blow on the wildly flailing troll. It's whole body seems to shudder and it falls to the ground with a wet thud. The spark of life seems gone from its eyes. Kedarn stabs it with his rapier to make sure it stays down and Andrath follows suit with two more blows of his own. The creature is covered in blood, almost disemboweled, and large gashes have been opened across it's chest and arms.
[OOC the troll is at -11 plus whatever damage would have been inflicted by Andrath's attacks which would hit the now helpless troll]
Cadmar Friday June 25th, 2004 5:27:51 AM
Cadmar stands over the fallen foe watching for any signs of movement. If he sees wounds sealing up he will continue to hack.
"Do we torch him? It doesn't seem very chivalrous to finish off a helpless foe. On the other hand, we will probably be coming back this way, and the thing already demonstrated that it can't be reasoned with."
Bralin (ac 23, hp 45/45, bulls strength, cats grace) Friday June 25th, 2004 9:10:21 AM Chivalrous?!? Bralin doesn't bother to respond to Cadmar. First he won't attack, then he won't finish the fight. The man is obviously suffering some mental deficiency.
The dwarf grabs a leg, hauls the troll over to his burning brother, and adds the beast to the pile.
Looking back at Cadmar, he states curtly, "We burn it."
Lorth Friday June 25th, 2004 10:19:14 AM
Lorth watches the troll burn, and begins to clean off his warhammer. He continues cleaning his equipment until the party is ready to move, then he finds his place in the line and follows along.
Kedarn Friday June 25th, 2004 12:56:23 PM
Kedarn looks at Cadmar then at Bralin then says "Bralin is right. For the safety of us all it needs to be burned so that it does not get back up and attack again."
Looking at the others Kedarn asks "Is anyone needing any healing?" If anyone does Kedarn will use the wand of CLW (8 charges remaining.)
Andrath Friday June 25th, 2004 10:06:22 PM
Andrath grabs the leg opposite to Bralin, and helps haul the regenerating corpse to the fire. "What to do with a troll body? Why barbeque it, of course! I love the smell of burning troll in the morning; it smells of ... victory." [OOC: With apologies to Mr. Copolla.]
Once the troll is well on its way to joining its charcoaled partner, Andrath leads the party back on the path in the direction that they were originally heading.
Elerinn, AC: 12, HP: 21/21 Saturday June 26th, 2004 4:32:25 AM
The young Elerinn is confused when some of the groups members seem to get annoyed with each other, because he isn't used to it. He doesn't realize that the warmth and discomfort of the swamp are most likely the cause of the various arguments.
But the gnome has to agree with the majority of the Sword of Light and states softly: "Let's burn it. But quick and respectfull."
Alkali d20+3=17 Sunday June 27th, 2004 9:01:40 PM
Alkali quickly prays for the souls of the trolls at their burning. "They did what they had to to survive. We did the same. Hopefully, they will be judged by that."
He looks around the vacinity to check for anything out of place. "I guess we should get back on track." OOC: Spot 17
Greg re Andrath d4+2=4 d4+2=6 Sunday June 27th, 2004 9:03:28 PM
[OOC: Rolling hit points as per our discussion. Rerolled using a hero point.]
DM Bob & Carla Sunday June 27th, 2004 11:06:13 PM
Bralin and Andrath drag the troll's body on top of the burning remains of it's kin. The fire greedily accepts the additional fuel and flames engulf the body. Lorth cleans his warhammer while Alkali says a short prayer before preparing to move on.
Once the flames have subsided, Andrath leads the party out of the jagged stones and down the path. After several hours of careful travel the party arrives at a fork in the trail. One trail leads to the northeast, and a second, smaller trail heads to the north.
Andrath Sunday June 27th, 2004 11:26:38 PM
Andrath almost laughs aloud at the suggestion that they should 'respect' and 'pray for the souls' of the foul creatures that the party was in the process of barbequeing. But he stifles the laughter, realizing that it would likely only cause more problems. "We need to pray that we find our way safely through this swamp, and that we can help poor Cassandra."
When he reaches the fork in the trail, Andrath calls back to the party that he is turning to the north, and leads the way up the smaller path.
Elerinn Monday June 28th, 2004 6:12:26 AM
Elerinn looks at Andrath and can see the sarcasm on his face. The gnome looks at his companions and says, in a soft voice: "I guess it's just their nature, Andrath. Let us not judge their souls, Gargul will do that in the afterlife."
When Andrath takes the wise decision to continue as quick as possible through the swamp, Elerinn silently follows him.
Jasper (Elerinn) d4=1 d4=3 Monday June 28th, 2004 6:19:54 AM
Hit points for Elerinn reaching 4th level:
1, Reroll: 3
Cadmar Monday June 28th, 2004 8:40:13 AM
"A troll in a civilized area, feeding on people, I have no objections to killing. A troll in a remote swamp is a different thing. Laugh if you wish. I feel bad about killing something that thinks without an absolute necessity."
Having cleaned his blade the ranger walks along the trail. When they reach the fork Cadmar briefly thinks that it might be a good idea to look for footprints or send up a bird to check where each trail is leading to, but he doesn't say anything, trusting that Andrath knows what he is doing.
Bralin Monday June 28th, 2004 8:50:49 AM
The dwarf says nothing as the others discuss the relative rightness or wrongness of killing the trolls. Not out of any sense of protecting the feelings of his comrades, but more because the point is moot. They saw the trolls, they killed the trolls, they burned the trolls. The issue no longer exists, why talk about it?
Bralin falls into the rearguard, and follows the trail north without comment.
Lorth Monday June 28th, 2004 1:37:41 PM
"There are no good trolls, better we killed them now, then allowing them to continue on in their vileness. May Gargul do whatever he wishes with the black spots that their souls are. Perhaps they will find redemption, perhaps not.", Lorth muses, more to himself than anyone in particular.
Alkali d4=4 Monday June 28th, 2004 9:15:59 PM
Alkali marches on and waits for a party decision. He pets Karee as he listens to the party talk about the trolls. Alkali decides its better to be quiet, he's already said his part.
OOC: Hp roll of 4
DM Bob & Carla Monday June 28th, 2004 10:06:42 PM
A bedraggled and grumpy group somberly troop down the narrow path leading north. Despite the long trek, and her inability to communicate verbally, Cassandra appears alert and well, although she has begun to exhibit some odd preening behavior more characteristic of animals then humans. Magic depleted, wounded, and physically tired, the members of the group move along wordlessly in the earie quiet of the unyeilding forest.
There is little relief for the damp discomfort of the fetid marsh, yet the narrow path provides firm footing despite the fading light.
Andrath is first to stumble across the patch of bare ground. It is trampled flat, and almost shiny with wear. No living thing grows upon it. Almost imperceptible in its naturalness, a cavern lies behind the trampled spot. It is really not much more than an opening under a huge upturned giant tree of the forest, further disguised in a cloak of green ferns. At first glance it appears to be little more than the empty tunnel created as some great root was pulled forcibly from the soft earth. On closer observation those who are observant notice the shiny flatness progresses from the very shadows of the shallow cavern's depths.
The light is quickly fading, and soon it will be night in the Wyrmsfut.
Lorth Tuesday June 29th, 2004 7:29:39 AM
Lorth waits to see what the party decides, if they will camp or press on into the cave like entrance.
Cadmar Tuesday June 29th, 2004 8:02:50 AM
"All trolls are evil? Black spots? The Wold is just black and white for you, isn't it, Lorth? You personally met every troll and figured out they were all evil? Or is it just one of these things <everybody knows>?"
Upon noticing the cave Cadmar very carefully moves around the area looking for footprints [Take 20 on Search:23]. In particular, he pays special attention not to walk into another natural hazard or a trap.
"I vote for camping outside. If it is her home we don't want to be barging in uninvited. She is, after all, a witch."
Bralin d20+5=24 Tuesday June 29th, 2004 9:49:34 AM
Bralin ignores Cadmar and takes several steps into the cave, relying on his darkvision to protect him from any nasty surprises. [Spot 24]
After a quick look down the tunnel, the dwarf returns to Kedarn. "Should we camp here, we expose our backs to that which dwells within," he states to the group's leader.
Elerinn Tuesday June 29th, 2004 12:02:45 PM
Elerinn realizes that the Swords of Light's mood is still being dictated by the swamp's hostile enviroment and feels sorry about it. He decides not to heaten things further by giving his opinion.
Besides, he doesn't know about the others, but he knows he feels pretty tired after a day of fighting trolls. Softly, he states: "My magic powers have been weakened during the day and I don't think I'll be of much help if we continue into this cavern before we take a little rest."
The gnome heads Bralin's advice and adds: "But sleeping in front of this cave would be madness. I suggest we find a suitable place not too far from here, in the opposite direction the wind is coming from."
Alkali Tuesday June 29th, 2004 6:39:15 PM
Alkali peers into the cave and thinks for a bit. "Perhaps, we could ask if we could spend the night inside? Otherwise let's try to keep our distance so we are not mistaken as enemies."
OOC: I'll send my sheet tomorrow. My PHB is currently in my cousin's possesion.
Andrath d20+10=21 d20+15=25 d20+11=14 Tuesday June 29th, 2004 10:55:29 PM
Uncertain as to how far the cave goes, Andrath follows Bralin into the hole. If the cave goes very deep, Andrath takes out his hooded lantern and lights it. Holding the longsword in one hand, and the lantern in the other, he heads in for a little look around. "This would be the perfect spot to spend the night; so lets see if it will be OK or not." {OOC: Listen 21, Spot 25, Search 14]
DM Bob & Carla Tuesday June 29th, 2004 11:51:06 PM
Lorth stands guard, while Cadmar gives the small clearing a solid going over. He sees some large footprints he recognizes clearly as those of trolls. Otherwise, there is nothing to raise an alarm about the place.
Elerinn and Alkali yearn for a little respite, and suggest the possibility of making camp at the site. The fearless little witch even suggests using the cave as shelter.
Bralin and Andrath throw caution to the wind and enter the shallow cave. The sharp eyed dwarf takes in three well worn, shallow depressions along the edges of the shelter. The space is quite neat except for a small pile of splintered bones in one corner, and what seems to be a pile of rags and leather atop something metallic. After a quick reconaissance, the rogue zeros in on the intriguing pile. He is able to make out the forms of a chest, a goblet, and what appears to be armour and weapons. Cadmar, Bralin, and Andrath notice the absence of any type of firepit in the area.
It is very quiet, as the sun sinks deeper, and the shadows grow longer on the ground. There are a few bird sounds and the ever present humm of insects.
(OOC: Please post watches, and roll skill checks if making camp for the night.)
Lorth Wednesday June 30th, 2004 7:59:00 AM
"Yes, the world is black and white.", Lorth says matter-of-factly. "But, enough of this discusion, you have your opinion, I have mine. Let's decide if we are camping here or not." Lorth waits for the party to make a desicion and takes watch whenever he is asked.
Bralin d20+5=10 d20+4=20 Wednesday June 30th, 2004 8:12:25 AM
"T'is the lair of the trolls," Bralin reports. "There were but three, so we may confiscate the cavern for ourselves."
Bralin finds himself a nice place to bed down. He will take a middle watch.
[Spot 10. Listen 20]
Cadmar d20+1=2 d20+1=8 Wednesday June 30th, 2004 9:04:14 AM
Cadmar sighs. He is so tired.
"A lair of the trolls? Guess we'll have to backtrace again tomorrow. All right, if there were only three of them, then all are accounted for."
"I can take the first watch. Can anyone share food with me? I lost all of mine in that swamp."
The ranger enters the cavern. "Not sure I like that stench, but we are not exactly in a position to be picky."
Taking a casual look at the stuff uncovered from the pile of refuse Cadmar says: "I wonder whom did they get that from?"
The ranger's eyelids close by themselves and he is pretty useless as a guard [Listen 2, Spot 8].
Alkali d20+12=26 d20+3=19 Wednesday June 30th, 2004 4:01:28 PM
Alkali looks around after entering the cavern and tries to find a comfortable place to rest. Karee perches next to me and falls asleeprather fast. "I could take the first shift. I'm not tired yet." He takes out a pair of rations and offers one to Cadmar. "Here, eat all you want." (Listen 26, Spot 19)
Lia d20+2=16 d20+4=21 Wednesday June 30th, 2004 4:19:45 PM
Tumba had been "nudging" Lia this way for a few minutes now and honestly, Lia was tired and really didn't see the point in not camping where she stood before her friend headed into the wind. As she thought this however, she saw what Tumba had been worked up about as the flicker of a flame grew from the darkness.
Instincts kicked in and Lia began to try and move slower to soften the noise she would make (Move Silently = 16) as well as let the foliage and surroundings naturally conceal her (Hide = 21). She did not know what could have started the flame, but surely being sneaky could not hurt. For all she knew it could be someone or something that did not appreciate her presence, a fact that she was trying to suppress for Tumba's sake.
Elerinn d20+2=13 d20+2=17 Wednesday June 30th, 2004 7:00:48 PM
Elerinn enters the cavern and is relieved with the coolness of the air. He installs himself next to Cadmar and says to his companions: "I would like to take the last watch, so I can get enough sleep to restore my arcane powers. Can you wake me when it's my turn?"
Moments after the red-haired gnome gets a reply, he falls asleep after a tough day.
Spot: 13 Listen: 17
OOC: Bob and Carla, I totally forgot to tell you earlier, but I'm going on a long holiday this monday. I'll be away for three weeks (I'm going back to the country I was born, Nicaragua, visiting it for the first time after leaving it when I was two years old) and won't be able to acces the internet on a regular basis. Could you, or another player, play Elerinn while I'm gone, or do you have other ideas?
If another player would volunteer to play Elerinn, that would be great. Otherwise, I'll play your PC while Bob runs the module. Have a great vacation, Jasper!-DM Carla
Andrath d20+11=23 Wednesday June 30th, 2004 9:58:27 PM
Intrigued by the items at the back of the cave, Andrath carefully searches through the items and spreads them out on the ground. He examines the chest for traps, and if he doesn't find any, he opens it, picking the lock if necessary. [OOC: Search roll of 23 for finding traps, and will take 20 for the lockpick if necessary, for a total check of 31.]
DM Bob & Carla First watch-Alkali/Lorth, Second watch-Kedarn/Bralin, third watch-Cadmar/Elerinn, Lia sneaks in on 3=2 Thursday July 1st, 2004 10:56:02 AM
Andrath searches through the pile of loose clothing, armor and weapons, arranging them neatly on the ground at the back of the cave.
It quickly becomes apparent that only two of the sets of armor are fit for use, a chain shirt and a breastplate. A single small wooden shield remains undamaged. The rest of the armor has been too badly torn and rent to be repaired.
The weapons are all servicable, save one bow that is badly cracked and likely a single pull from snapping. Three longswords, a short sword, two dwarven war axes, a war hammer and two shortbows are now neatly arranged on the floor of the cave.
None of the clothing appears salvagable, but within the remains of one cloak the rogue finds a roll of hardened leather, tied in the middle with a simple leather strap.
The small wooden chest is little more than a simple wooden box with two hammered iron bands holding it together. The hinged lid bears no lock and Andrath finds nothing suspicious in its mechanisms. Once opened, the chest reveals a small horde of gems, jewellery, and coins. [750 gp, 3 pearls, 2 moonstones, a number of semi-precious stones, two simple gold rings, and what appears to be a holy symbol or pendant].
While Andrath inspects the horde, Bralin and the others organize watches, break out some trail rations and find places to rest. Cassandra starts a small fire near the middle of the cave. Smoke collects at first near the top of the cave, but then finds its way out through the myriad of small openings between the roots of the upturned tree.
The first watch is uneventful, but during the second watch Bralin is convinced he hears something moving in the forest outside the small clearing. He makes a tour of the site, but doesn't see anything. He notifies the third watch of his supicions, but neither Cadmar or Elerinn find anything untoward.
Cassandra wakes from an uneasy sleep as the birds signal the coming of the morning. Approaching the small fire, she utters a strangled cry that wakes the camp. Huddled by the fire is a small cloaked figure. Green eyes stare out curiously from a dirty little face. A great lump of dark fur curls about her feet.
(OOC: Welcome to the new player, Scott!)
Lia Thursday July 1st, 2004 3:02:07 PM
Lia's body jumps a bit from the women's scream, but she doesn't let it throw her composure. She understands she is the trespasser here, but really she couldn't help but take use of a fire already burning. Another fire seemed wasteful.
Tumba set his teeth out as he took offense, but quickly became at ease as he sensed that Lia was not preparing for battle. The wolf sat at attention though as to not be off guard if things suddenly went bad.
Lia brought an arm up and waved silently to the woman that stood before her in surprise. She offered no words and no explanations. Lia smelt a bit bad, though one could easily chalk it up to the wonderful weather of the Wyrmsfut. She smiled softly, a mere crack if you would, raising the left side of her cheek with her eyebrows and a slight shrug of the shoulders as if to say, "Why not?"
Bralin d20+2=10 d20+2=19 d20+2=12 d20+2=14 d20+2=16 d20+2=10 d20+2=13 d20+2=4 d20+2=4 d20+2=19 d20+2=18 d20+2=11 d20+2=13 d20+2=21 d20+2=17 Thursday July 1st, 2004 4:09:06 PM
Once Andrath has all the equipment and treasure laid out, Bralin steps over. The dwarf casts a DETECT MAGIC spell, and takes a full minute to make sure he's got the best possible idea of what all this stuff can do. [And fifteen Spellcraft checks! 10, 19, 12, 14, 16, 10, 13, 4, 4, 19, 18, 11, 13, 21, 17]
During the night, he hears something. He knows he heard something. Brandishing his axe, Bralin circles the site once, then again. He stands very still, slowly searching the night, but sees nothing. His only recourse is to inform the third watch and go to sleep.
Cassandra's cry rouses the fighter instantly. A cry means change, and change is bad. Bralin emerges purposefully, axe in hand, to behold the small creature lying by the fire.
"Be you the witch?" he asks brusquely, unconvinced of his own question. This being makes for a poor witch.
Alkali Thursday July 1st, 2004 8:35:12 PM
Alkali wakes up to the scream of Cassandra and looks around for a fight. Seeing the wolf, Alkali backs up and stares at Lia intently. "Is this your home?"
Andrath Friday July 2nd, 2004 12:08:33 AM
Andrath also wakes at Cassandra's scream, and reaches for his longsword. "Who's there? What is going on?" he asks as he climbs to his feet. He spots the figures beside the fire and warily moves towards them.
"Who are you, and why are you sitting at our fire?" the elf asks.
[OOC: Scott, Andrath is an elf dressed in studded leather armour and holding a longsword. He also has a shortsword slung at his waist.]
Cadmar Friday July 2nd, 2004 4:40:13 AM
The ranger warmly thanks Alkali for sharing food with him. He observes the examination performed by Andrath and Bralin with great interest, taking notes and adding the loot to the party's list of treasure to be divided later on. "I never figured trolls are that much attracted to metal objects."
A moment of silence.
"Well, I also never realized this part of the forest saw that much traffic. Why would anyone ever venture in here? It's not as if a road passes through these swamps or something. Looks like they killed a lot of good people. Makes me fell kind of stupid when I recall what I said when you were burning them."
Then the night comes, and in the morning Cadmar is woken up by a scream. Cassandra's scream. The young man jumps to his feet, runs to the witch and stops next to her, rubbing sleep out of his eyes. Somewhat relieved when he doesn't find another troll advancing on the party the ranger narrows his eyes and looks at the face of the stranger, trying to figure out what to expect from this meeting [Detect Evil].
(Cadmar is a very young man, dressed in serviceable travel gear, a chain shirt, and a dark green cloak. As he has taken a fall in the swamp a day ago or so all of his clothes and equipment are dirty).
[Spell selection for today as on the character sheet.]
Lorth Friday July 2nd, 2004 9:24:07 AM
Lorth wakes instantly at the scream. He notices that the rest of the party have the situation well in hand, so he settles back down. He then brings his hand to his temple and stares at the newcommer and it's traveling companion intently for a minute. [Detect evil]
[Lorth has Brown hair and eyes. He wears traveler's clothes, a vest, over which is a chain shirt, and soft high boots, all gray. A symbol of Gargul adorns his small steel shield, slung across his back, along with a large backpack and longsword. Hanging from his belt on left and right sides respectively are a warhammer and a heavy war pick. Lorth walks with purpose, his stature tall and driven, as if something is leading him to some unknown destination.]
Elerinn d20=10 Friday July 2nd, 2004 3:26:45 PM
Elerinn wakes when Cassandra screams, but doesn't realize immediatly he isn't dreaming anymore. When the gnome notices his companions talking to an unknown figure, he slowly rises and joins the other Swords of Light.
The red-haired sorcerer carefully observes the newly arrived woman and waits how she will respond to his friends' many questions. Elerinn wears a black and white, diamond-patterned cloak and has big, curious eyes. He looks small and young, even for a gnome.
DM Bob & Carla Friday July 2nd, 2004 5:24:53 PM
Bralin scans the assorted treasure laid out by Andrath. The chain shirt, one of the longswords, one dwarven waraxe, a gold ring, one of the pearls and the leather bundle all detect as magic. The dwarf is able to determine that the sword carries a faint transmutation, but is unable to discern the nature of the magic affecting the remainder of the items. Upon further examination of the waraxe he makes out the dwarven runes that identify the weapon as having come from the forge of "Solgar".
Cadmar also examines the assorted treasures and notes that some of them have clearly been piled here for a very long time. Despite that, the breast plate, short sword, and warhammer look in quite good condition.
At daybreak the company startles to the presence of a small female at their campfire. How she slipped in undetected is somewhat of a mystery, and she has yet to answer for herself. The wolf that accompanies her rises to defend her but seems to await some kind of command.
Neither Cadmar or Lorth detect anything evil about her.
Lia Friday July 2nd, 2004 11:14:59 PM
Her focus would shift from Casandra to the others as they all seemed to have there own worries and priorities. Eyes shifted from one to the other as quickly as she could determine if they were aggressive. When Andrath would come out and approach warily, Lia and her canine friend would begin to step back to keep distance relatively the same between them.
Looking to Bralin with a puzzled look to her face and a calm voice, "No...not a witch, Are you anxious to meet one or something?" Why anyone would want to meet a witch is beyond her.
Focus shifting to Akali she ponders tricking him into believing it is her home, but decides not to risk a somewhat stable situation on a simple lie, "No, not my 'home.'"
She steadily moves back at this point, snapping her fingers so Tumba would come along as well. It is not a escape, but t is preparation for one in case these people lose their cool. She addresses Andrath as he warily continues his approach. "I am Lia... This is Tumba... And I hardly call it your fire."
Lia then watches Cadmar and gives a slight squeak in the form of a giggle seeing him and his equipment dirty. Maybe he fell... seemed more than likely...maybe he had a better explanation.
Then focusing on to Lorth. How many are there?, She thinks to herself as the man looks as though he had one to many sips from the wine skin and is paying for it now. Although...he seems to be in a deep thought.
A young gnome with a sense of a style as loud as his hair joins the group to make quite a number of people for a stroll in the swamp. Lia nods to him and begins a short explanation.
"A fire was burning, I needed warmth... The rest is history. Now we are here. I am looking for Cypress Knees, what brings all you here?" Lia suddenly brings an arm up to the back of her left ear and scratches hard and fast with sighs of relief. Standing there she awaits an answer like she is owed one as well.
Lia has shoulder length black air that is currently pretty tangled up and with traces of debris in it. Her head is covered by a wolf skin shawl, complete with head, (missing the lower jaw) that acts as a cap. She dons leather armor, which is worn and quite dirty at this point. Her face, is also dirty, possibly making those eyes seem a tad greener. A scimitar is sheathed on the left side of her hip and a thick branch on her back can be seen poking from behind her. She currently wears a back pack, though her wolf skin shawl probably hides most of it while making her look slightly hunched back
Cadmar Saturday July 3rd, 2004 4:20:15 AM
Having sensed no evil in the stranger the ranger relaxes visibly.
"We are looking for someone living in this swamp." Cadmar answers cautiously. "I have never heard of Cypress Knees. Is that a place or a person?"
"You are travelling in this place all by yourself?" he asks with amazement. "I almost died three times in the last two days. You must be excellent at finding your way around this swamp."
"And, uh. Nice cap."
On an unrelated note, Cadmar makes a mental note to pack up the damaged bow when the party is moving out. A simple Mending spell and the party will be ahead by 100 gp.
Lorth Saturday July 3rd, 2004 9:11:36 AM
Sensing no threat Lorth goes about packing up his bedding and other gear. He does this slowly and keeps a ear and eye on the conversation, with the newcomer.
Andrath Sunday July 4th, 2004 9:05:31 PM
Andrath moves back into the cave, letting the others deal with the new arrival. He never was one for talking to strangers.
The elf checks through all the non-magical items, trying to determine the value of each item. [OOC: Take 10 on appraise, so the resulting check is 19.]
Kedarn Monday July 5th, 2004 7:35:32 AM
Kedarn approaches the newcomer. He has lots of questions for her... "How do you come by this place?" he asks. "What do you know of this area in the Culverwood and what do you know of it's inhabitants? We are here seeking a remedy to the mask that inflicts our friend Cassandra. We have been pointed to the witch Schedar who is said to live near by. Do you know of her?"
DM Bob & Carla Monday July 5th, 2004 7:47:47 AM
The party spends time questioning the newcomer as to how she got there, how she manages to survive in the wilds, and her general knowledge of the area. She in turn questions their reasons for being in the Wyrmsfut.
Andrath and Bralin continue to examine the treasure left behind by the trolls. Andrath is able to determine that the breast plate is of very fine workmanship and worth somewhere in the range of 350 gp [ooc it is masterwork], the wooden shield is exceptionally light, but he has no real experience with wood and does not know what it's value is. The two remaining longswords are of ordinary make as is the remaining war axe and the shortbow. Both the war hammer and the shortsword are better than average quality and each is worth over 300 gp [masterwork]. The two non-magical pearls are of medium size and worth approx 100 gp ea, the heavy gold ring another 70 gp. The moonstones he values at 50 gp ea and the remaining assorted stones (8 in all) may fetch a further 100 gp. As for holy sumbols...well perhaps that's better left for a cleric.
Cadmar Monday July 5th, 2004 2:53:49 PM
Between packing up, conversing with the stranger, and writing down findings of Andrath and Bralin Cadmar has very little time to spare for idle thought, but the ranger feverently hopes that the witch lives nearby and that she will be able to help Cassandra striaght away.
Still, there is some business that needs to be taken care of before the party moves out.
"Can any of us identify magic items?"
Bralin d20+3=8 Monday July 5th, 2004 2:55:32 PM
The others can handle the girl. Bralin goes back for the war axe. By all appearances, "Solgar" wielded a mighty forge indeed. Lashing his own war axe to the inside of his pack, the dwarf slides this one in place by his hip. Soon, no doubt, he shall test this blade.
The other equipment he packs or distributes as directed by Andrath and Kedarn.
Bralin takes a cursory look at the holy items [Knowledge Religion 8], but quickly loses interest and passes them wordlessly to Kedarn.
Then, the dwarf finds a quiet spot for his morning contemplations.
Lia Monday July 5th, 2004 3:45:36 PM
Tumba cocks his head at the people who stick around, and Lia eyes perk a bit with the mention of a witch again. Drawing in her lip and looking up in thought for a quick moment, she speaks as she tries to remember the where abouts.
"Ummm...There is...No, was... a witch nearby. Don't know her name though. She was a bit of a crab if ya know what I mean. I know my way around here fairly well, I could show you where she may be. Who knows, maybe I will find some Cypress Knees along the way." Brings her vision to Cadmar, "Which would be a stump like root of a cypress tree. They kinda look like wood stalagmites protruding from the swamp waters." She then would tip her 'cap at him and begin tending to the dying fire properly.
Kedarn Monday July 5th, 2004 9:20:47 PM
Sensing that the limbre creature before him is of no danger to them, Kedarn offers his hand and introduces himself. "I am Kedarn Shadowglade, a cleric of Gargul. I have been chosen leader of this small company." The black haired elf bows slightly to the wild half-elf at the fire. "Creoso, hama sinome lye naur" Kedarn bids her welcome and offers her a seat by the fire. "I would gladly take you up on your offer to show us the way to this witch, but first, tell us what you know of her."
Andrath Monday July 5th, 2004 10:52:17 PM
Andrath distributes the items around the party to equalize the weight. "No use in us leaving anything behind. We can sell what we can't use of this to purchase items to replace what we used in the combat with the trolls." Andrath takes the magical longsword, removes it from its sheath, and takes a few practice swipes with it. He nods at Bralin's trying the waraxe. "Clearly a good fit," the elf thinks to himself. If he was impressed by the new longsword, he will try it out.
Once the items are stowed for travel, Andrath goes out to the fire and says, "I am Andrath Silverhand, one of the members of this party of adventurers. We are trying to find a witch in the swamp whom we think can help our friend." He motions in Cassandra's direction. "She is wearing a cursed mask, that causes her to take on the visage of any animal named inside her hearing range. So, please be careful if you name any animals around her. We met with Denholm, and he advised us to try to contact someone named Shedar; that person may be able to help us remove the mask from our friend, and restore her to normal. Do you know anything of this Shedar?"
Alkali Monday July 5th, 2004 11:02:22 PM
Alkali listens to people talk as he tries to fix his straight black hair and his baggy clothes.
DM Bob & Carla Tuesday July 6th, 2004 6:57:33 AM
The party continues their questioning of 'Lia', the wild looking half-elf who slipped into their camp. Bralin and Andrath select weapons from the troll's cache and swing them about trying to judge their make. Theyare both satisfies with the superior nature of their choice. Lia tends to the fire and answers the group as best she can. Cassandra stays in the background, heping the others to pack up.
The sun, still low in the morning sky, pokes its rays through the canopy.
Lorth Tuesday July 6th, 2004 8:23:45 AM
(Sorry missed yesterday, was still on holiday)
Lorth finishes packing his gear, then introduces himself to the newcommer. "I am Lorth, friend to all you see assembled her. I am pleased to make your aquaintance." He bows.
Bralin Tuesday July 6th, 2004 11:00:42 AM
Bralin sits by himself in the back of the cavern. He cups his obsidian orb in both hands and stares intently into its depths. The stone is mere inches from the dwarf's bulbous nose.
Bralin, expressionless, is as still as the rock he holds.
As he has done this very thing for an hour each morning, his inaction should be no cause for alarm.
Cadmar Tuesday July 6th, 2004 11:10:35 AM
Since the party seems to delay departing for about an hour or so Cadmar uses that time to browse through his book, all the time looking with curiosity at the newcomer. So, she knows her way around the swamp and can find the witch? This is good news.
Lia Tuesday July 6th, 2004 3:58:56 PM
Lia bows at Lorth as she spreads the coals thin with a thick stick. No need in starting an uncontrolable fire, or attracting anymore attention to this place than already has.
As Kedarn offers a wiry arm and hand, Lia stares at it blankly unsure of what to do with it. Thinking for a moment she takes it in her own hand to bring it up to meet her nose as she lowers her head slightly. She gives it a few sniffs as she looks cautiously at him, before letting it go and tending to the extinguishing of the fire.
"Thank you. For the offer to sit, though I have been doing just that all night...well and sleeping. Shedar is the witches name? Huh, never knew that," Lia would spread the coals as thin as possible and poour water from her waterskin if needed to help cool the coals. "our with is not exactly a friendly person. Can't say I have had the honor of meeting her. She is more likely to curse yo and chase you away then to help you. Not a freindly one at all. Or at least that is what I heard."
She would look up and smile, knowing that the info she did have was not much and worth less.
Kedarn d20+3=19 Tuesday July 6th, 2004 5:58:44 PM
"Andrath, let me take a look at that holy symbol that was found." Kedarn will look at it carefully to see if there are any inscriptions on it (knowledge religion 19.)
"Lia, can you aid us in finding her?"
Alkali Tuesday July 6th, 2004 7:55:58 PM
Alkali frowns when Lia says that the witch would chase them away. "I'm sure she would help us. After all, who would curse their own kind?"
Andrath d20+10=26 d20+11=27 d20+15=16 Tuesday July 6th, 2004 10:24:43 PM
Andrath says, "I figure that we head south back to the main trail and pick it up going north-east. That should take us to the whatever awaits us at the end of the northern 'toe' of the Wyrmsfut.
Once the party is packed up, Andrath leads the way again, carrying his longsword and his trusty pokey-stick. Having no idea what a Cypress Knee is, he looks for a stalagmite (although he really isn't certain what one of those is either). [Listen 26, Search 27, Spot a natural 1 for a total of 16]
DM Bob and Carla Wednesday July 7th, 2004 8:53:14 AM
Morning preparations are completed and some of the party members get to know the small newcomer as she gets to know them. Oblivious to how important her information is to the party, Lia agrees to show them where the strange witch lives. She moves to the front of the line and leads the way along with Andrath.
The buzz and hum of insects is ever present as the group makes their way along the narrow path. There isn't much of a breeze, and it is already getting warm.
Lorth Wednesday July 7th, 2004 9:57:03 AM
Lorth rests his warhammer over his shoulder, slings his shield on his back and trudges through the swamp. He tries to think of positive things to keep his mind off the swamp.
Bralin Wednesday July 7th, 2004 10:57:57 AM
Finishing his contemplations, Bralin rises and waits patiently for the rest of the group. When they depart, he falls into position at the back of the line.
The halfling is not a witch, yet knows the Wood. A helpful asset to the cause. Soon, the stickiness and smell of the place intrudes on the dwarf's thoughts, and he struggles to combat a growing urge to pull out the axe of Solgar and test it on a passing tree.
Cadmar Wednesday July 7th, 2004 11:12:20 AM
The ranger helps with packing up. He can't help but be surprised how Lia's cultured speech stands in contrast with her wild behavior. Still, questions will have to wait. The party is approaching its destination and Cadmar is growing nervous. Unlike Alkali he believes that Wold is full of people who would curse their own kind, but he keeps his thoughts to himself to keep Cassandra's spirits higher.
The ranger looks at the witch wearing the mask and realizes he started to forget how her face looked like. This is not a pleasant revelation and Cadmar starts to feel guilty. Still, he finds nothing comforting to be said that would sound honest, so he is just content to walk behind Cassandra and lend his hand when needed.
Lia d20+4=24 d20+3=20 d20+3=11 Wednesday July 7th, 2004 2:17:13 PM
The half elf somewhat skips ntil the heat starts to get to her. Tumba follows along prancing, and questions when Lia just starts to pace her self.
"Well... we are not all full of energy like you. I suggest you pace yourself as well, because I am not going to carry you again." She directs her speech to Tumba and her tone is annoyed.
All the while she keeps her eyes and ears open looking for the root of the Cypress Knees as well as loking and listening for trouble. [(Spot Nat 20!! = 24),(Search 20), (Listen 11)]
Kedarn d20+3=12 Wednesday July 7th, 2004 6:03:15 PM
Looking around as the group travels Kedarn will try to determine which diety the holy symbol is for(knowledge religion 12.)
Dominic - hp roll d8+3=10 Wednesday July 7th, 2004 6:49:56 PM
OOC:
HP roll for level 4 cleric d8+3=10
Alkali Wednesday July 7th, 2004 7:51:35 PM
Alkali face is a mess as he tries to follow the group. He is trying to imagine the witch's plight and how to reason with her.
Andrath Wednesday July 7th, 2004 11:03:39 PM
Andrath will follow after the newcomer, impressed at how she manages to fit in. "Just like the way I feel in a city alleyway," he thinks to himself. Carefully using his pokey-stick, he tries to avoid the swampy pitfalls.
Somewhere along the trail, he asks Lia, "Where are you from? What do you use these 'Cypress ankles' for, anyways?"
DM Bob & Carla Wednesday July 7th, 2004 11:55:27 PM
The Swords of Light, guided by the strange little elf retrace a portion of their route, and then start along a new path. Loth tries to think happy thoughts, while the thoughts of Bralin and Lia turn to wood. Bralin checks his actions, knowing that to harm the living wood of any part of the Culverwood would bring dire consequences. Testing his new axe will have to wait for another time. Lia spots a bit of deadwood that might serve her purpose, as Andrath peppers her with questions.
Cadmar puzzles over the women in camp, and the one they seek. Alkali's thoughts also turn to the witch, Shedar, as the little witch tries to empathize with what the hag must have gone through and anticipate how she might react to the party's request. Kedarn recognizes the holy symbol as one used in ancient times by a reclusive sect devoted to Domi.
Turning a corner the leaders note a very lightly trod trail off to one side. Lia recognizes it as a place she has been down before, that leads to the place her new friends seek. The others have a sense of seeing something they have seen before, in a waking dream.
Lia Thursday July 8th, 2004 9:08:08 AM
Seeing the deadwood Lia beams for a moment as she picks it up. Tumba sniffs at it as it exits from the swamp, but is otherwise relaxed. She places the wood in her backpack as she addresses Andrath.
"Well, depends on what I am working on. I can make staffs, clubs, and other various things depending on the woods shape and size. As for the Cypress? It is good for making lutes."
Seeing the new trail she points and smiles at the new path, "This way"
Lorth Thursday July 8th, 2004 10:03:30 AM
Lorth experiences deja-vu when they turn onto the new trail. Strange he thinks... I've seen this before. Keeping his thoughts to himself he shakes his head and continues on down the path.
Bralin Thursday July 8th, 2004 11:40:36 AM
The dwarf's eyebrow rises as he sees a bend he feels he should recognize. But he says nothing as he trails behind the group.
Cadmar Thursday July 8th, 2004 12:25:29 PM
The ranger becomes even more tense and starts to nervously look around. Who knows when was the last time Shedar had a chance to talk to somebody...
My Lord Domi - he starts silently praying - as usual, I have been negligent in my duties, but please hear my plea despite my shortcomings and grant us wisdom to persuade Shedar to remove her curse. Let the one who has suffered so much have the strength of heart to break through her bitterness and show us kindness.
Cadmar sighs and steps on the narrow trail.
"All right, this is it..."
Alkali d20=17 Thursday July 8th, 2004 3:49:59 PM
Alkali looks up suddenly and glances around. "I think I've seen this place before." He tries to think back to see if he recalls any spells that would cause this effect (Spellcraft: 17 + 9 = 26).
Andrath Thursday July 8th, 2004 11:43:34 PM
Andrath experiences a feeling of deja vu as they start down the side trail. He continues to keep his eyes and ears open, wondering how the encounter with the witch will turn out.
Kedarn d20+5=15 Friday July 9th, 2004 6:10:38 AM
"Cadmar, I think you may want this holy symbol. it is one dedicated to Domi." Kedarn will then hand the holy symbol over to Cadmar.
Kedarn will continue to follow behind Lia and Andrath down the trail keeping his eyes moving watching for any danger (spot 15.)
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