Up the Creek. (DM Stephen) d100=8 d8=1 d100=26 d6=2 Tuesday October 26th, 2004 7:56:59 AM
The river boat is pushed off from the docks and is well on its way. Duncan remains on the dock long after Brock and his wife leave after a final farewell. He watches as long as he can see the ship and returns to the inn.
Back on the ship, the crew pump away at the see-saw levers that turn the paddle wheels. Unfortunately for now the wind is little help upstream. The crew have to keep pumping to maintain forward progression.
The captain responds to those asking to help. He leads Polly over to a small pump near the stern of the craft. "This be the bilge pump. We sometimes take on a little water and it adds to our weight. Pump on this till most of the water from our lower hull is gone."
The captain then answers Kendry about the shoreline. "Not much. There are a few areas where the current gets a little torrent and we may require a team of horses or mules to pull along the shore. There are camps we will be stopping at on the way. Best to dock the ship for the night than fight the currents in the dark. You may have seen some on the way down. Why not keep playing your songs. That seems to keep the crew happy."
Impressed with Shale's feat of strength, the captain says, "You think you can handle helping Slag with working the paddlewheel. You may need to slide over an empty crate to stand on. Im sure he would appreciate it."
Polly Tuesday October 26th, 2004 11:00:36 AM
Polly operates the bilge pump, often popping belowdecks to check on the level of water. She tries not to think about leaving Duncan behind, and fails miserably. Maybe that old halfling near the Clock Tower wasn't far wrong, if leaving friends behind is a danger. It's really not what she expected out of adventuring.
Kendry Tuesday October 26th, 2004 3:03:51 PM
Just before going out of sight of Duncan, Kendry manipulates his fingers quickly, then, *Poof* *Sparkle* *Dazzle* he creates a little fireworks display above his head by way of farewell to their friend [prestidigitation].
Willing to do what he can on board, the bard does spend some of his time playing music on his lute, helping to match the rhythm of the paddleboaters. However, playing music all day is not his cup of tea, so he pitches in where ever he can, sometimes spelling Polly so she can take a break, sometimes helping Shale in his task (and commenting, "Hmmm - maybe you'd do better in arm wrestling than back in the old days, cuz!"), or taking a bit of hay (with Shale's leave) to Valor. He'll also see if some of the crew know any songs he himself does not yet know, and try to pick them up. Occasionally, he himself takes a break to take in the riparian scenery.
He chats some with Mayzie. In elvish, he says, 'I enjoy your thoughts, halfling-of-the-forest. Your notion of going after the giants before they come after us is intriguing. I wonder, though, since they have not yet attacked us - at least in some time, whether such action on our part might provoke them to attempt to rise up sooner against our land. I have also heard that at least some of the giants are good-natured. Probably not most of them, though. Do you suppose a treaty with the good sort might be worthwhile? Or a waste of paper?'
He spends some time with Nalfein, too. "I've hardly ever heard you be so quiet, bro. Must 'o got you good in the solar plexus, there. So, Nalf, once these election parties are over, what do you have in mind we might do?
"Say, I also wanted to mention - I know that sometimes my indirect, 'diplomatic' approach to things bugs you. You like to be straightforward - and I like that in you. Are you still riled at me, though?"
Toward evening, he approaches his sister. "So, Selithe," he begins. "I imagine you'll have a few things to write about in your journal." He waits quietly for her response.
As the young group heads upstream, during evening, Kendry asks them, "Well, do you think we'll be in hot water with Gramama Eglantine, and Aunt Marigold, and the rest of the family, once we deliver the beer to Calfast? Also - do you suppose anyone - including our pipe-smoking friend - might be setting up to try to divert our delivery? What kinds of plans can we set up in case of an ambush?"
Selithe Tuesday October 26th, 2004 10:28:42 PM
Selithe still seems terribly miserable, even through the singing of Kendry's which she does enjoy but it only reminders her of the dance she shared with Duncan not to long ago it seemed like.
When Kendry approaches her and makes the comment about her diary Selithe smiles abit and nods, "Yes I will brother. I'm going to miss Duncan but I guess time and life moves on. I just hope he doesn't stay gone long."
Selithe tries eating alittle and is picking up her cards when Kednry comments on possible ambushes later and Selithe brightens up considerably at the though of taking some of her feelings out, "Just let them try. Everyone worked hard for this, including Duncan so I will give who ever tries to take it a good kick in the rump." Selithe looks rather upset at the thought of someone trying to take the load of beer and cider away from them. Selithe also thinks of family matters and shrugs, "Our family will just have to understand is all I can say. We'll know more later."
Shale Tuesday October 26th, 2004 10:42:41 PM
Beaming happily at the compliments to his strength, Shale happily obliges the captain and heads over to Slag.
Passing by Kendry he replies quietly about the hooligans, "I say I shoot the first one in the butt with an arrow and work my way up until they get the hint..."
Shale obviously has a big problem with bullies and thieves..... well the mean kind.
Dragging a crate over to the paddlewheel Shale asks the biggen, "Anything I can do to help?" He obviously has his chest puffed out to appear stronger than his wiry physique allows.
Makin' Camp. (DM Stephen) d100=48 d6=6 d100=83 d6=2 Wednesday October 27th, 2004 12:38:28 AM
With everyones help the boat makes good time upstream. However, the sun is beginning to set and the captain decides to steer his boat to shore at a very informal, make-shift dock. A place affectionately called Riverside Camp #3.
There's one large log raft loaded with bundled goods tied to the dock and a row boat pulled onto shore. Near the beach, a single campfire is shared by both groups, consisting of four halflings and two humans. The halflings look like merchants. The humans looks like travelers. They all appear tired and relieved to be off the water, but they greet you with a welcoming wave hello.
The captain turns to the young halflings and says, "You're free to choose to stay on board or set up camp on shore for night. It doesnt matter to me. I, however, will be staying on shore. There's a lump of earth that Ive worked on for many years that fits the curve of my back perfectly." He points to one of the many ash filled campfire pits. "My back always feels incredible when I wake in the morning from sleeping at that spot. I swear it's like magic." He grabs a pack and a bedroll and heads over to his favorite spot. The crew starts making preparations for the night. Two crewmembers stay behind on the ship to stand guard, the rest make their way to shore.
The shore is relatively clear as far as the eye can see in both directions. The further inland becomes thick with trees, brambles and brush. There are no permanent structures in the camp. Its easy to tell that the camp is used quite a bit. There are reminents of countless travelers that have visited in the past. Multiple fire pits dot the camp, both old and new. The captain walks straight to his favorite spot and lays down on it immediately, testing its comfort level. He sighs happily and pats it with his hand like an old friend.
(do what you will)
Mayzie Wednesday October 27th, 2004 5:50:09 AM
Mayzie will join the rest of the camp off the ship for supper. Mayzie will help with any setting up of the camp but will refrain from helping to cook, wary of the consequences.
Mayzie will chat to the others, especially Selithe who seems to be very unhappy and try to help as best she can.
She will comment to Kendry in Elvish 'Perhaps you are right and some of the giants are not mean. But they are our only real ennemies, and the point you raise shows how careless we are. We know nothing of them.'
Mayzie smiles at Kendry, as she gets into one of her speeches.
'You can learn a lot from the forest. You might think that a simple country girl would know nothing of armies or tactics. But all you have to do is look around. What people do is no different in many ways to what animals do.
Wolves will find their pray, track them down, herd them to a point of their own choosing, then having surrounded them, close in or the kill. (Mayzie ruffles Ghosts fur as she explains this). Deer will graze in herds, but in each herd there are some who keep a lookout, and when there is a sign of a big cat or wolf, they give warning so the herd can run.
What happens in the forest is often like a kind of war.
What it tells me when I observe these animals is that you must know your ennemy. You must know what he plans, you need to know where he is, and how he fights, and when you fight, you must pick the best place to fight, and the time to fight. And you must only pick a fight where you have the best chance to win.
If you let your ennemy do these things to you instead, you are finished.
To me we are like the sheep depending on the farmers fence and dogs in the form of these towers to keep us safe, and we never look across them. Unlike the sheep, we have a choice.
Look at it this way. Most halflings would believe that the giants size give them an unsurmountable advantage in battle. That is not so.
The giants are cunning but not smart, or so it is always said. They are badly organised, they are big and have problems seeing small things. Their size means that they must eat a great deal. They do not farm, so they must eat animals or people. People run away, and it takes many animals to feed a giant. What I am saying is that their numbers are limited.
They can be attacked piecemeal if they can be kept unaware that they are all under threat. Their food supply can be damaged by driving the animals off perhaps - something magick may be able to achieve. If they have leaders, they can be targetted. There are many ways to fight, and I believe that we could clear their valley and open more lands for halflings to settle should we need them. Certainly what we do not need is a valley full of giants who see us as a tasty snack right next to us.'
Having rambled on yet again for ages, Mayzie will go back and sleep on the ship with Ghost, somewhere near the beer. She will tell the wolf to be alert, since she is worried someone will try and interfere with the beer.
Kendry Wednesday October 27th, 2004 11:32:28 AM
Kendry introduces himself to the four halflings and pair of humans, and makes general inquiries, asking getting-to-know-you questions, and answering similar questions they may toss his way, albeit with discretion, should they touch on any areas he deems requires such.
He suggests to his companions that perhaps a few will want to stay on shore, taking some of his friends and family aside and whispering that it would be well to ensure the security of captain & crew, as well as that of their cargo. He offers to stay with the barrels along with Mayzie, and asks if one other might join them, the rest to remain on shore. "Should we set up any sort of watches?" he asks.
He enjoys Mayzie's conversation, nodding here and there, and agreeing strongly with her assessment that perhaps their people have grown too careless, and surely suffer a lack of information.
He lays himself down for the night on the other side of the barrels from Mayzie. Although going to sleep, he tells himself just before drifting off to be alert for noises that Ghost or Valor might make during the night.
Selithe Wednesday October 27th, 2004 3:37:34 PM
Selithe smiles when Mayzie speaks to her and nods before thinking, "I will stay on the ship also. I rather stay here for now till we reach home." Selithe looks to her cards and then Kendry and Mayzie thinking and deciding since her love is her cards, "Maybe you all would have a friendly game with me. I can teach Mayzie how to play cards while we just hang out and talk."
Selithe does talk to Mayzie about her colorful elvish dress and asks her how much it would cost to get one for her or if she has a idea. Selithe after some thought shrugs, "I would like to go and see a actual elven city once. I traveled and seen some place but nothing like a elven one or dwarf or such. I heard that elves have houses in trees and such. I always been curious if it is like having a tree house or something. Kendry and me were going to have a tree house one time but unfortunetly we never got the chance. Mainly because of me training to be a conjurer and then the little getting arrested mishap."
Kendry Wednesday October 27th, 2004 6:15:09 PM
"Sure, let's play a few hands, sis," he agrees with Selithe before he goes to bed.
Polly Wednesday October 27th, 2004 11:43:05 PM
Polly grins at Shale and Nalfein. "I guess that leaves us to camp on the shore tonight. I'll be happy to stay awake part of the night to make sure our crew and cargo make it through till morning."
With a spring in her step, she sets about setting up camp near the barge captains choice spot, and collects firewood to take them through the night with a banked fire. On her way back with her first load, she stops by the other campfire to exchange pleasantries with the halflings and humans there. "Good evening! I'm Polly. How are you all tonight? How are you finding your trips?"
Shale d20+6=23 Wednesday October 27th, 2004 11:48:15 PM
Shale takes Valor off of the ship and gives the pony time to wander around. Despite his wish to sleep with his traveling companions he can't bear to make the war pony sleep inside the ship again.
Before bed he listens to Mayzie about the pack of wolves and thinks thoughtfully for a while and nods in agreement.
Walking in a circle Shale sets the boundaries for Valor and then finds a comfortable spot near the captain. (Handle Animal 23)
Before he nods off Shale opens an old journal that was stashed in his quiver and thumbs through the pages thoughtfully. "A pack of wolves..."
Mayzie d20=8 Thursday October 28th, 2004 4:00:07 AM
Mayzie will happily let Selithe try and teach her to play. She manages to pick up the game after a few tries but is not very good at hiding it when she has a good hand, since she keeps smiling and darting looks right and left when she does, and biting her lip and frowning when she has a bad one. Still, she manages to win lots of pebbles one game when she believes she has a bad hand but in fact didn't recongnise that it was good, but they are soon gone again.
'I'll speak to Ereleth the next time he visits and ask him to bring you. I dont think it will be a problem. He has a very large home. The city is beautiful and trees are a part of it yes. It is a long way away. I dont know where exactly, but he takes me by walking into trees and walking out of others. It makes you quite dizzy until you get used to it. As to dresses, perhaps we can find one for you there. I think they would be very expensive to buy here, elves only use silk, sammite, or their own fabrics. When he comes he is usually in a hurry and we leave right away, so dont be too upset if we wake you in the middle of the night. You'll need to show me where you live.'
Mayzie grins at Selithes comment about being arrested.
'What did you do? Did you conjure something in the wrong place?'
Screams in the Night (DM Stephen) d100=38 d100=71 d100=22 d6=3 d6=6 d6=4 d20+2=7 d20+2=5 d20+2=11 d20+2=6 d20+2=7 d20+2=21 d20+2=17 d20+2=13 d20+2=13 Thursday October 28th, 2004 8:02:44 AM
After a filling dinner of stew and warm ale a game of cards breaks out on the boat between the Crescent Valley natives. The skies grow dark after a few hours and the fatigue of a long day catches up with the young ones. Those on the shore also feel sleep taking hold.
All is quiet accept the wind and the gentle "clop clop" of the water against the hull. Suddenly a deafening scream can be heard in the distance. The sounds of a frantic woman breaking the silence wakes everyone from their slumber. From the brambles on shore emerges a gnomish woman with a lantern. The frantic woman yells "HELP MEEE! AIIEEEE!" She turns to the north and starts running up the shore along the river. Just behind her emerge several wicked looking creatures. Its hard to see them since they dont carry any lights. All you can see is that they are small like the gnome and the moonlight is reflecting off their steely weapons. They dont stop to look at everyone on shore. Instead they continue chasing the screaming gnome up stream.
Shale d20+6=13 d20+7=17 d6=5 Thursday October 28th, 2004 8:42:20 PM
Shale springing into action whistles loudly for Valor as he draws his bow off his shoulder. Sliding an arrow clear of the quiver he makes a snap shot at the first dark figure.
(Handle Animal 13) (Longbow Shot= 17 Damage= 5)
Polly Thursday October 28th, 2004 8:51:13 PM
Polly rolls groggily into a sitting position and peers blearily around, until the nature of the situation penetrates her sleep-fogged mind. "Hey! What do you people think you're doing?" she shouts in the common tongue, grabbing her spear. With a longing glance at the coals of the campfire, she takes off after the armed gnome-chasers, trusting to moonlight and the woman's lantern to show her the way.
Selithe d20+4=8 Thursday October 28th, 2004 10:02:51 PM
Selithe chuckles as she plays cards with Mayzie and Kendry and pats Mayzie on the shoulder before heading to bed, "Alittle more practice and you'll make a good card player Mayzie, I'll keep working with you....the thought of going with you and your friend to a elven village is very interesting also. I hope the other elves or your friend won't mind me asking questions to put in my diary." Selithe thinks over her past and after a couple moments finally speaks up, "Actually when I and some of my so called friends were told we had learned all we could from out teachers we went on the town and had some strong drinks and they talked me into causing some trouble. Well, during the course of our causing trouble some windows got broken...you probably get the picture...well suddenly in all the mess my friends vanished and the constables caught me. Well, to cut a long story short I was sentenced to spend 3 weeks in jail and work around Humble's Ford for a few months. In jail I met this really neat older halfling named Thomas TeaLeaf Stillwater who taught me how to gamble and to get along with all the guys...you know, help me make life easier and keep a young girl safe." Selithe smiles and leans back, "Thomas made gambling so much fun...the traveling, the people you meet, the places you see, the game itself...I just fell inlove with the game right there and ever since I got out I been traveling and living my life one card at a time." Selithe smiles saddly, "Saddly though I will never see Thomas again, you see being a gambler he was in there for playing dirty and I guess he was suppose to of killed someone after a game of high stakes, I don't know if thats true or not. I've always wondered if he got out, escaped or was put to death by now.
Selithe blushes abit now as she changes the subject and pulls out her diary to write about leaving Duncan and everything that has happened, speaking quickly again to Mayzie before doing so, "My diary contains alot of the interesting things I have done or seen and the people I have met also. I have detailed info on the dwarves Slag told me about and the info you gave me also about the elves, pretty much everything."
Selithe enjoys her night of sleep on the ship, the clopping of the waves on the boat helping her fall asleep. It doesn't seem like she is asleep long though before she is awoke by the scream and Selithe jumps up and looks out over the area (spot:8) she must be to tired though and can't spot much at all so begins to move to get off the ship, "If someones in danger we might as well check it out. Alittle reputation building is good not to mention Ma and Pop would be mad if they new I ignored someone in need of help."
Kendry d20+3=19 d4+1=4 Friday October 29th, 2004 1:51:43 AM
Kendry awakens and starts up. Evil pursuers of a hapless gnome! Projecting his voice as he was taught, he calls into the night so friends ashore and aboard the vessel hear him clearly:
'We shall rescue, from dark beasties, Brave hearts have we Light the pathway Stop the beasties Save the gnome!'
[Inspire courage: An affected ally receives a +1 morale bonus on saving throws against charm and fear effects and a +1 morale bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls. -So, add +1 to your attack rolls and your damage rolls, friends, for this and the next five rounds.]
He grabs his bow, quiver over the shoulder, and looks to see if he can get off a shot at the dark runners from where he is [d20+3(+1)=20 to hit, d4+1=4 hp damage]. If not, then he runs on to the shore.
Kendry - Perform roll for his six-line song d20+7=23 Friday October 29th, 2004 1:56:10 AM
Perform, singing, on inspire courage action, of 23.
Enemies from the Darkness (DM Stephen) d100=69 d100=40 d6=6 d6=3 d100=50 d20+4=16 d20+4=12 d20+4=21 d20+4=24 d20+4=23 d20+4=7 d20+4=23 d20+4=6
Friday October 29th, 2004 2:14:35 AM
The gnome doesnt seem to be moving very fast. The lantern she is carrying is shaking rather wildly. She could be injured. Whatever her condition, she continues to scream bloodcurdling cries for help. In just the moonlight, you all have a hard time making out the shadowy figures chasing her. (Any ranged attacks against them have a 20% miss chance due to the low light. So roll a d100 with every ranged attack. On a roll of 20 or below, the attack automatically misses.)
Shale whistles for Valor (Handle animal DC 10, for Valor to perform a trick) and he trots on over like a well-trained war pony. He retrieves his bow and lets loose an arrow. (Miss chance roll 50. I went ahead and rolled it for you this time. Hit successful) Shale's arrow strikes a dark figure from the back of the pack. It falls to the ground and shrills in pain. It cant get up and run. All it can do is try and crawl its way back to the brambles.
Polly wakes rudely from her slumber and quickly assesses the situation. She gets to her feet and begins to chase down the pursuers. (Standing from prone is a move-equivalent action. Polly moves 20-ft after getting up. Both Polly and Shale are 60-ft from the closest dark figure.)
Kendry begins his song of inspiration. His song fills all your hearts with the confidence of heroes. (All allies gain a +1 morale bonus on saving throws against charm and fear effects and a +1 morale bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls. Getting up was a move-equivalent. You can sing your song, but not move or perform any other action.)
Selithe decides she will also participate and stands ready at the ramp of the boat but takes no other action. Maysie is either in shock or in a deep sleep. While the druid remains motionless, Ghost stays loyal by her side.
The dark figures get closer and closer to the gnome. Those who dont hear the cry of their comrade continue to laugh and taunt the gnome as they get closer. Some look back at the camp and the light from the campfires reflect in their glassy eyes. Giving their stares an ominous red glow.
The halfling merchants spring to life, but instead of joining the chase, they cowardly make a run for their raft.
Biguns and Slag get to their feet. Slag is a little slow and is unable to do anything else. Biguns, however is swift and rushes over to the fallen attacker. He bellows an orcish obscenity and yells back to his captain, "GOBLINS, CAPTAIN!" The big half-orc raises his sword and prepares to finish off the fallen goblin. The small goblin screams!
(Everyone, please put your AC and hitpoints next to your name in the name line. We are in combat! :)
Kendry the bard [AC 13 (not wearing armor at the moment); 6 HP, +1 Morale bonus to attack & damage rolls, & save vs charm & fear due to inspire courage, for 5 rounds. (That goes for you all)]] d20+4=19 d100=100 d4+1=3 Friday October 29th, 2004 2:41:39 AM
Kendry fires an arrow at whom he perceives to be the lead goblin, hitting AC 19 for 3 hp damage with the arrow from his composite short bow. Despite the darkness, he has no trouble whatsoever making the outline of the goblin [100!]
Selithe-AC:15-HP:6 Friday October 29th, 2004 11:21:20 PM
(OOC:I will edit my post if need be. It is storming here so this is a quick post and I don't have time to look up and see if the spell I'm using will reach the distance I want."
Selithe looks out and frowns, taking time she thunks the butt of her staff against the deck of the boat where she stands and chants to herself mainly thunking the butt of her staff where she stands again afterwards, "dance and shine, twist and twine, show my enemy." Selithe grins after her spell causes lights to dance near or on the enemies, "Maybe that will help."
(Casting dancing lights on or as near to the enemy as possible to show them, possibly blind them since it is dark and they are most likely using their low light vision.)
Polly (AC 14, 8 HP) d20+1=3 d20+6=13 Friday October 29th, 2004 11:23:25 PM
"Goblins?" Polly passes Biguns, with a guilty thought for his apparent intent to finish off the helpless creature. She continues chasing the chasers at her top speed, following the gnome's screams for direction because she needs her eyes to pick out obstacles in the faint light. Where her sight fails her (Spot=3) she has to rely on her agility and speed to keep her on her feet. (Reflex Save=13)
Shale (AC 18, HP 10) d20+9=23 d20+9=21 d20+9=25 d20=11 Saturday October 30th, 2004 1:17:02 AM
As Valor comes trotting up, Shale swings up onto his back and takes off towards the gnome. (Fast Mount 23, Spur Mount 21+10 Mvt)
In an instant Valor comes flying up next to the gnomish lady (careful to stay out of melee with the goblins.) Shale reaches down to grab the lady. (Riding with Knees 25)
"Hop on quick!!!" Shale says as he slows to grab the lady. Using both hands Shale will do whatever is necessary to bring her up onto Valor and attempt to ride off. (Strength 11)
CHARGE! (DM Stephen) d20+6=12 d20+8=12 d20+3=7 d20+3=20 d20+3=6 d3=1 d20+6=18 d8+4=8 d20=16 Sunday October 31st, 2004 11:06:14 PM
Shale goes charging forward past the goblins, heading for the gleaming lantern held by the gnome. She continues to scream as Shale slows down. The goblins continue to barrel down upon her. She drops her lantern and grabs hold of Shale and pulls herself up. She then grabs on to Shale and holds on tight. (Shale needs to make a Spot check DC 12. Gnomes strength check 16.)
Polly charges past Biguns and will be in striking range of three goblins this next round. Those that stopped and turned around to see what was happening to the screaming goblin, throw their daggers at Polly as she approaches. Two daggers fly wildly and miss by a large margin. However, one cuts a gash into Polly dealing only 1 point of damage.
Selithe weaves her spell and globes of dancing lights appear over the goblins. The battle field is now well lit. With the lantern, campfires and the dancing lights, it is easy to see all the combatants on the shore. The goblins are startled by the sudden light, possibly thinking it was something a lot worse coming their way ... like a fireball or something. But they continue to hiss and themselves arent debilitated by the light. (Goblins dont have a sensitivity to light. However you eliminated the 20% miss chance. Everyone can see everyone now. No more concealment.)
Kendry puts down his lute and takes his bow. He sends an arrow to the nearest goblin. The arrow strikes hard in the shoulder. It winces in pain but still stands. (This goblin is one of the three Polly will get to this next round.)
Biguns brings his sword down and silences the goblin forever. Slag, with a nasty-looking hand axe, catches up with Biguns. They both continue on behind Polly. The captain commands his other crew to arm themselves and guard him from attack. The four halfling merchants cast off from shore and start paddling frantically out onto the river. They slowly disappear into the darkness. Although their splashing paddles and arguements of who is paddling in the wrong direction can still be heard.
The humans remain by the fire. The male covers the woman under an animal skin that they were laying on. He pulls out a composite bow and stands over his mate in a defensive posture. He prepares to fire on anyone attempting to attack them.
Mayzie remains asleep, even as Ghost begins to bark. The wolf looks nervous and pokes at Mayzie with his nose.
(Everyone make Spot and Listen checks)
Kendry the bard [AC 13 (not wearing armor at the moment); 6 HP, +1 Morale bonus to attack & damage rolls, & save vs charm & fear due to inspire courage, for 4 more rounds.] d20+4=8 d20+3=6 d20+5=6 Monday November 1st, 2004 1:19:20 AM
Kendry lets fly another arrow at the same one he hit a moment ago, but misses, this time the arrow hitting the dirt several feet this side of the goblin. His powers to discern (Spot: 6) or hear (Listen: 6) anything out of the ordinary seem curtailed for the moment, as he concentrates on taking out the newly illuminated goblins who threaten health and safety. "Brfsk gnoum di smrt!" he shouts out in goblin ('Leave the gnome or die!' in translation).
Mayzie (hp 10, ac 17 - picks up shield but no armour on) Monday November 1st, 2004 8:17:09 AM
Mayzie finally awakens with a start as Ghost nudges her awake. Grabbing her shield and staff she rushes out, Ghost running along next to her.
Mayzie curses softly as she spends a round taking in the scene and trying to figure out what to do.
As soon as she is able to get her bearings, Mayzie will cast a spell (Shilelagh) and steeling herself, will head towards the gnome woman with ghost, brandishing her staff, ready to attack any goblin that comes near her.
Selithe-AC:15-HP:6 d20+2=6 d20+3=13 Monday November 1st, 2004 10:22:09 AM
Selithe frowns when she thinks of how she only has her staff out and moves to drop it and grab her sling out from it's little strap on her backpack that holds it. Selithe glances around as she does, wanting to make sure nothing is sneaking up on them.
(Listen:6 Spot:13)
(ooc:Not sure how long the dancing lights spell will last so will look that up asap.)
[DM Stephen - It lasts one minute (10 rounds)]
Shale (AC 18, HP 10) d20+4=9 d20+2=3 d20+7=25 d6=1 Monday November 1st, 2004 9:44:01 PM
Not paying attention at all to his surrondings (Listen 9 Spot 3) Shale turns Valor at the end of the charge and draws his bow. In a fluid motion he snaps off another arrow at the wounded goblin. (Attack 25 Damage 1)
As he draws another arrow to fire again Shale asks the gnome loudly, "Are you hurt!!??"
Polly (AC 12 due to charge attack, 7 HP) d20+1=14 d20-1=4 d20+6=21 d6+3=7 Monday November 1st, 2004 11:10:43 PM
Polly shrugs her shoulder a little to judge the sting of her wound as she covers the distance remaining between herself and the goblins, keeping her eyes open along the way (Spot=14, Listen=4). Seeing the wounded one struck by another arrow, she charges the next closest, both hands driving her spear into him. (hit AC 21, 7 damage)
Kim - OOC Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 12:48:49 AM
[OOC: Friends, remember to add +1 to your attack rolls AND your damage rolls, due to the inspire courage effect. So Shale does 2 points of damage, not 1. Polly may have included the extra +1, I don't know. -Kim]
Added by Lee: Polly did. It's helpful that you're reminding us of the effects in your post header each turn.
An Ugly Turn. (DM Stephen) d20+7=25 d20+7=14 d20+7=11 d20+7=16 d20+7=11 d20+7=21 d20+7=14 d20+7=21 d20=11 d20=14 d20=4 d20=5 d20=4 d20=10 d20=16 d20=18 d20+7=23 d20+7=18 d20+7=16 d20+1=19 d20+1=10 d100=82 d100=91 d6=5 d6=4 d20+4=15 d3=1 d6=3 d20=18 d20+2=10 d100=47 d4=3 d20+4=14 d20+4=17 2d6(3+4)=7 2d6(6+2)=8 d20+5=8 d20+4=10 d20+4=6 d20+4=20 2d6(5+5)=10 d20-15=-11 d20-15=-11 d20-15=-1 d20-15=2 d20-15=-13 d20-15=2 d20+7=22 d20+7=19 d6+3=6 d8+3=5 d20+3=10 d20+3=16 d20+3=17 d20+3=9 d3=1 d3=1 d3=3 d3=1 d4=2 d4=4 Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 2:22:33 AM
Shale halts his horse and spins him around in order to fire off a few shots from his bow. Shale in all the excitement failed to notice a few things about the gnome that he just helped onto the back of his war pony. She was a bit too heavy for a gnome. She had a rather pronounced unwashed stench. Her hands felt clammy and had sharp jagged fingernails. She answers the hobbit with an uncharacteristic hissing voice, "Ohh, meez feelin' fine, hobbit! What about yooouu?" As Shale fires off his arrow he feels a dagger pierce his side dealing 4 points of damage. (Attack of opportunity for firing a ranged weapon while in a threatened square + sneak attack). The gnome rolls off the back of the horse while still holding onto Shale, attempting to pull him to the ground (Make an Opposed Strength check DC 18 or be pulled from the horse. If you're pulled off the horse make a Reflex save DC 13 to remain on your feet when you hit the ground). Shale at least can be glad his arrow hit.
Polly charges into the wounded Goblin that now has two arrows sticking in him. Her spear pierces his chest and the goblin falls limp to the ground. Just before that, she noticed the gnome on the back of Shale's pony produce a dagger and attack him.
Slag and Biguns charge in next to Polly. Their combined hack and slash attack drop the second goblin. The third goblin closed with the Polly, Slag and Biguns withdraws and moves to join the other four goblins 30-ft behind him. Those four goblins all stop chase and turn to throw javlins. Two strike Biguns for 6 points of damage. Biguns growls like a feral animal as he pulls a javlin from his side.
As Selithe makes a grab for her sling, she notices something from the port side of the boat (the broadside facing the river). From out of the river, two sets of hands are clinging to the rail. Two goblins appear to be attempting to climb aboard. Out of nowhere a bolt flies by your head. Thank goodness it missed.
Kendry shoots his arrow but it goes flying off in an unfortunate direction. He shouts his warning and its answered with a surprise attack from behind. A screaming goblin charges from out of the darkness and attempts to push Kendry overboard. (Bull Rush attack. Make an Opposed Strength check DC 10 or feel yourself fall overboard into 4 feet of water along the shore.)
Mayzie just waking up doesnt notice anything onboard. She is able to get up and cast her spell. Her staff fills with a natural energy. Veins of green streak through the wood giving the weapon the appearance that it has come back to life. (Getting up is a move-equivalent action. Casting the spell is standard action. No other movement is allowed) Suddenly Mayzie feels a sharp steely bolt hit her in the back. The druid falls to the deck but is still conscious ... but only barely! (You're at 0 hitpoints. This means you're Disabled. You can perform only one standard action or one move action this next round.) Ghost turns on the snarl and growl while standing guard over his fallen friend.
From out of the darkness, two bolts strike one of the half-orc guards onboard the ship. The half-orc falls to the deck with little to no reaction. A pool of blood begins to flow outward. The other half-orc crewman spots the goblin rogues and yells, "GOBLINS ONBOARD!!" He charges at one of them and swings with his longsword. However, his attack does not connect. Another bolt is fired at the last half-orc from another location on the boat. It slams into the deck missing the crewman by inches. (You all on the boat see six goblin rogues on deck armed with light crossbows. Only Selithe sees the two goblins trying to climb on board.)
Then if things couldnt get worse, the ropes that tie the boat to the dock goes slack. The boat starts to slowly drift away and float down river (5-ft). The docking ramp from the boat to the shore suddenly falls into the river as the boat pulls away. The captain yells, "MY SHIP!" And he and his two guards go running to the docks.
(Everyone keep making Spot and Listen checks.)
Mayzie d8+1=7 Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 2:46:44 AM
Mayzie collapses to the deck with a bolt in her back. Biting her lip and trying hard not to panic this time, she iwill try and cast a cure light wounds on herself.
[DM Stephen - Please roll the amount of healing you did when you cast the spell. To save time, I will roll for you this time (d8+1=7). You will be able to act normally this next round.]
Shale (AC 18, HP 6/10) d20=11 d20+8=20 d20+2=14 d6+1=7 d6+4=5 d6+2=7 Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 9:27:46 PM
Shale totally surprised by the so called gnome winces and moans as the dagger pierces his side.
Pulled from his horse Shale recovers his wits and lands on his feet with a groan. The next sound is the shing of his father's blade leaving the scabbard. (Strength 11 Agility 20)
Holding his puncture wound with one his left hand and his steel longsword with his right, Shale's blade makes a downward swing as he attempts to cut deep. (Attack 15 Damage 7)
Focused on the beast nothing deters Shales attention. (Listen 5 Spot 7)
Polly (AC 14, 7 HP) d20+1=16 d20-1=3 d20+4=5 Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 10:00:57 PM
Hearing the cries from the dock, Polly groans. "A trick! Dirty goblins. Shale, are you okay?" She tries to assess their situation while she defends herself from the encroaching goblin, but all the shouting seems to be interfering with her hearing. (Spot=16, Listen=3)
Though she tries her best to attack her opponent, she just can't seem to pierce his defences. (hit AC 5) She shuffles back a few steps toward the docks and resettles her grip on her spear. (5 ft step)
Selithe d20+2=9 d20+3=21 d3=2 Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 10:43:49 PM
Selithe tries to keep her ears and eyes out for more trouble (listen:9 spot:21) but also sighs as she calls out, "We have problems friends, two more over here."
Selithe can see this battle going to go down bad but decides to try and limit the playing field abit by keeping one or both the goblins trying to pull themselves up from getting on the boat. Selithe wiggles her fingers, "Watch the fingers bows." Selithe casts acid splash on one of the goblin's hands or enough to get both if possible.
(Casting on the hand/s of a goblin or if their hands our close enough together between them to get one of both of the goblin's hands. Damage:2 trying to get the goblin/s to let go and fall.)
Kendry (AC 13, HP 6, +1 Att/Def from inspire courage) d20+2=12 d20+3=16 d20+5=23 d20+4=24 d20+4=21 d4+3=5 d4+3=7 Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 11:15:03 PM
Kendry steps a little to the side as he feels someone trying to push him overboard, draws his rapier and stabs to the heart of the goblin who tried to overbear him (Nat 20+4, hit AC 24, critical threat, converted to a critical hit by d20+4=21, damage 5+7=12 -> Woo hoo!). "A RUSE, A RUSE! Mind the boat! Back to the boat, all!" he shouts to all. He pulls the bloodied rapier from the dying enemy, but ready for the next attempt, and defending the tarp-covered and tied-down barrels. [Spot 16, Listen 23]. He looks to see if a line is nearby to toss to those on shore. If there are items on deck he can use for partial cover from the crossbow-armed goblins, he'll take advantage of it, looking for tactical advantages.
[Could we have a map of sorts?]
The meanest critter you've ever gnome! (DM Stephen) d20+1=9 d20+6=20 d3=1 d20+5=17 d20+4=8 d8+4=7 d6+3=6 d3=3 d3=1 d3=2 d3=2 d20+1=18 d20+1=14 d3=3 d3=2 d20+1=2 d20+1=6 d20=12 d20+1=10 d20+1=8 d20+3=18 d8+4=5 d20+4=23 d20+4=24 d20+4=7 d20+4=12 2d6(6+2)=8 d6=4 d20+3=18 d6=3 d20+2=17 d20+2=15 d20+2=11 d20+7=19 d20+7=19 d20+7=11 d20+7=13 d20+3=21 d20+3=7 d20+3=13 d20+3=10 2d6(3+3)=6 2d6(6+4)=10 d20+5=15 d8+4=10 Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 12:51:02 AM
Shale is pulled from his horse, but is able to land on his feet. The gnome isnt so lucky and falls on her back. A comb in her hair falls loose and drops to the ground. The comb immediately changes into a hat! Then the gnome's magical disquise fades away. She wasnt a gnome at all, just another goblin. Shale takes his sword and runs it through her chest. She looks shocked to see her wound. Her surprise quickly becomes rage as she spits at Shale. She withdraws by tumbling 30-ft backwards and standing to her feet. She has one hand on her wound, the other clutching a bloody dagger. In a defensive stance, she yells out at Shale saying, "COME ON HOBBITTT, ATTACK MEEE!"
Polly, Biguns and Slag charge into their attackers. Polly misses. Biguns hits and kills a goblin. Slag also connects and injures a goblin. Two goblins attack Biguns, seeing him as the biggest threat. Both attacks hit and the half orc falls from the bloody onslaught. One attacks Slag and the goblin completely loses grip of his dagger (natural 1). His weapon falls to his feet. A look of terror also falls upon his face. The fourth goblin attacks Polly and misses.
Selithe sends a orb of acid at one of the goblins (sorry, the spell only allows one target and you have to roll a ranged touch attack to hit. I will go ahead and roll for you to save time.) The orb of acid flies at one of the goblins and hits. Smoke rises off his burning fingers and he's unable to remain on the rail. He falls back into the water. The other goblin is able to climb up and land on the deck. He looks like he is beginning to load his crossbow and is eyeing Selithe for his attack.
Mayzie is able to heal herself. She cheats death this time. Ghost remains loyal to Mayzie and guards her from the attackers. (Is anyone playing Ghost?)
Kendry is able to out muscle the charging goblin. The bard answers with an elegant parry and thrust of his raiper. The goblin doesn't know he's been dealt a mortal wound until he sees the blood. His eyes grow dim and he falls face down onto the deck.
The last half-orc crewman left onboard strikes at one of the goblin rogues. He hits and the goblin falls, but he appears to still be awake. The half-orc is answered with three crossbow bolts. Two hit, one looks critical. The half-orc falls to the deck.
The one disabled goblin chooses to withdraw and rolls overboard and splashes back into the river. The last goblin who hasnt fired yet chooses Kendry as his target. He launches a bolt and it hits the bard dealing a bloody wound. (3 points of damage).
The captain with two crewman charge at the boat. As they run into the water to try and grab the ropes, four goblins fire crossbow bolts at the captain. The captain doesnt see them hiding under the docks. Two bolts land hard in the captains back. The captain gasps and collapses down in the water. Blood turns the water turns red around him. The half-elf crewman grabs his captain and drags him to the shore. He tries his best to stablize his employer. The captain may still be alive. The last half-orc takes his vengence on the rogues for attacking his captain. He literally slices one of the goblins in two. The other three rogues make a run for the shore, away from the angry half-orc. The half-orc doesnt notice in his blood-fury that the boat has moved another 5-ft downstream and is picking up speed.
(I will try and have a map available. There are five goblin rogues left on the ship. Four goblins are taking cover behind crates. One goblin isnt behind cover and is eyeing Selithe. One is in the water off the port side, that you know of! One goblin jumped back into the water, off the stern, after recieving a massive wound. Three goblin rogues are under the docks and are moving to the shore. Shale is in one-on-one combat with the trickster goblin. Polly and Slag are fighting 4 goblins. The goblin in front of Slag is injured and unarmed. Both crewman onboard are down. The captain is down on the shore.)
DM Stephen Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 6:58:27 PM
Here is a Map. Click on it to view. Enjoy.
Polly (AC 14, 7 HP) d20+4=7 Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 9:14:54 PM
Her frustration level rapidly mounting, Polly thrusts clumsily at her opponent and snarls when the point of her spear misses him by a handspan. (Hit AC 7) People are getting hurt, the barge is floating away, and here she is trapped, flailing ineffectually at the bandits' diversion.
Selithe-AC:15-HP:6 d20+2=18 d20+3=13 Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 10:20:29 PM
Selithe sighs as she thinks of her situation, armed with only a sling and the enemy is loading a crossbow to shoot her with.
Selithe comes to a quick decision and quickly rushes forward, ducking her shoulder to slam into the goblin, hopefully before he gets his crossbow loaded and hoping he can't take to much action against her as she does, "This isn't looking good brother Kendry, something better happen in our favor. Mayzie are you alright?" (Listen:18 Spot:13)
(Stephen: Selithe is trying to bull rush the goblin and ram him over the side of the boat if possible. I didn't do any rolls since I was looking at the rules for the bull rush and am not sure which or if any of them apply to the situation. Thanks. Hope this isn't going to be a regular occurance :D the fighter wizard LOL.)
Shale (AC 18, HP 6/10) d20+6=16 d6+1=3 d20+6=9 Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 11:09:55 PM
Happy to oblige the goblin Shale snatches his bow up off the ground and looses an arrow into the trickster.(Attack 16 Damage 3)
Grabbing at Valor (who is still close by since he is a war pony and not proned to panic like some hobbits...), Shale attempts to jump onto his back quickly, but finds his wound slows his drastically and his unable to make the leap. (Ride 9)
Shale yelling over the ruckus exclaims, "TRY AND THROW A ROPE OR SOMETHING!! I'M COMING!!!"
Mayzie (hp 7, ac 17) (Ghost - 2d8+4hp, ac 16 bite 1d6+3) d20=8 d20+2=21 d6+3=4 Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 11:46:44 PM
Mayzie will spring at goblin 1 if she possibly can, trying to hit him with her staff/shilelagh (but no doubt missing on an 8).
Ghost will launch himself at the same target probably hitting (21) for 4 damage.
(I dont know what you mean by is anyone paying Ghost - he is just my druid animal companion - assumed he was semi npc - I never rolled his hitpoints, and not sure how it is done for animal companions, so just included dice if you want to roll it).
DM Stephen Thursday November 4th, 2004 1:45:26 AM
Going to wait and post in the morning. Going to give Kim a little longer to post.
Aurore - In the Wold, it's our policy that if a player has an animal companion, a familiar, or some kind of cohort, they need to ask one of the other players in the party to play the part of the creature. Because these creatures have their own thoughts and minds, they're not just an extension of their character (according to the CDM's). Ghost may not always want to follow Mayzie into the cave, for example, or do something completely different from what you expected him to do. :)
Ghost's stats would be that of an average wolf in the Monster Manual at your current level, except he gets a bonus Trick, you both share spells, and you are Linked to him, which gives you a +4 bonus on Handle Animal checks. Turn to page 36 and read up on Animal Companions in the Players Handbook.
Here is a link to the average stats for the Wolf. His abilities will expand as you go up in level.
Kendry (AC 13, HP 3/6, +1 Att/Dam from inspire courage) d20+5=17 d20+4=13 d20+3=16 Thursday November 4th, 2004 4:49:05 AM
Kendry feels a thud in his side, and the energy contained in the metal-tipped wooden cylinder causes his body to spin a quarter turn. He knows there are several threats on deck. They are outnumbered and outwitted by this mass of goblins. Outwitted? No wits to speak of, not setting any watch. And now I'm going to die. What is Selithe... The pain seems far off. It is going to hurt. Hurt real bad. He hears Shale yelling (Listen: d20+5=17) There's a line. Throw it. Throw it to shore, Kendry. For Shale. But low. Stay low. Throw high, but stay low. Kendry takes the coiled line near the bow, holds it behind him, then launches it in an arch toward the shore [Ranged attack(?) 13], watching it uncoil the farther out it goes. He falls back to the deck, scrambling for cover behind the crates, pulling his bow back to him with his toe. [Spot 16]
Im gonna keel you! (DM Stephen) d100=3 d6=1 d6=4 d20+2=20 d3=3 d20+2=9 d20+2=17 d3=2 d20+4=6 d6+2=5 d6+2=4 d20=15 d20+2=8 d20=17 d20+2=16 d3=3 d20+3=17 d6=6 d20+3=10 d20+3=23 d20+3=6 d6=5 d20+2=10 d20+2=5 Thursday November 4th, 2004 8:43:27 PM
The trickster goblin facing Shale was prepared for the attack and was able to dodge the arrow (full defense from last round). The goblin laughs at Shale's attempt to mount his pony. She then attacks Shale with her dagger. Her slashing attack connects dealing 3 points of damage. "Justt give it up, the boat is ours!" The goblin then yells out in her own language, "Gupe derzk bu skeek!" (to those who know goblin, "Dump them in the river.")
Polly misses again with her attack. Her lack of combat skills seems to bolster the confidence of her attackers. Two goblins strike back at Polly but only one hits for 2 points. Slag attacks the unarmed goblin and misses like Polly. The unarmed goblin draws a second dagger and attacks Slag, but it also misses. The third goblin attacks Slag as well and also misses. Everyone's getting frustrated from slashing the open air.
Back on the boat, Selithe hears the call of the warrior and charges at the goblin like a raging barbarian. The goblins eyes widen as he watches the halfling barreling down on him. He tries to brace himself but she hits him too hard. The goblin goes tumbling over the railing and makes a splash in the river. (We've removed AoO from special attacks in the Wold to lessen the amount of opposing rolls. Now all you have to do to perform a Bull Rush is make a Strength check, you get a +2 for charging.) He lands right next to his buddy who is already climbing back up the a rope. The goblin on the rope is able to climb onboard and lands on the deck, right next to Selithe. He stands there staring at her in shock.
Mayzie moves over and attacks a goblin(1) but misses. Ghost leaps over a crate to get to the same goblin. He is able to latch on and bloody the goblin. The goblin screams in pain. He draws a dagger and attempts to stab at the wolf. He barely hits with his dagger dealing 3 points of damage to the wolf. The goblin's buddy turns his crossbow at the wolf and fires. He also hits dealing twice as much as the first goblin (6 points of damage to Ghost) Ghost yelps loudly from his wounds.
Kendry stays low behind the crates and throws a line out as far as he can, but there's no one there waiting to catch it. The half-elf crewman continues his best attempt at first aid with his dying captain. The other half-orc crewman is chasing goblins in the water around the dock. Shale is still back on shore dancing with what seems to be the goblin leader.
The goblin(6) on the stern of the boat no longer has a clear shot of Kendry. He moves over to the starboard stern side and climbs up on the top crate. Catching an eye full of Kendry tossing down a line, he fires his crossbow. However, it misses and thuds into the rail next to Kendry.
The goblin(5) next to the paddlewheel pumps sees Selithe, who just threw his friend overboard. He fires a deadly accurate shot from his crossbow that hits Selithe straight and hard (critical threat, but no critical!!). His bolt deals 5 points of damage.
The half-elf continues to attempt to stablize his captain and he doesnt look to be having much luck. He yells, "HELP! THE CAPTAIN IS DYING. I CANT GET THE BLEEDING TO STOP! HELP!" (BTW, Biguns also continues to bleed to death, but Polly and Slag are a bit busy.)
The half-orc crewman in the water halts his chase and heads back to the captain. He kneels and attempts to help the half-elf, but they're still having trouble. The three goblins that were being chased make it to shore, on the opposite side of the docks. They witness the boat drifting further out into the river's current. They start to jump and cheer!
Kendry is probably the only one to notice, but from his vantage point he can see that the gap is becoming wider between him and their friends on shore. (Everyone on board make Spot checks)
Selithe d20+2=4 d20+3=13 d20+2=5 d20+3=14 Thursday November 4th, 2004 11:53:22 PM
Selithe frowns when she sees the goblin climbed onto the deck already that she used acid on the hand of just a short time ago. Selithe yelps and grabs at the bolt that hits her and for a split second her vision goes black before she gets ahold of herself and she yells to her brother and Mayzie, "Kendry, Mayzie, overboard now! This is a loosing battle brother and friend, best to retreat and live another day and we don't acomplish nothing by dieing."
Selithe looks around (listen:4 spot:13) before grabbing her staff of the deck of the boat and then grabs the rope and swinging herself over the rail and trying to climb down. She ignores the pain of her injury and the quarrel stuck in her as she does (Climb:14). As she does though she yells at the goblin on deck who just climbed up, "Better let my friends go to. You won, tell your other friends on the boat to let them go, the boat is clearly won over by you."
(OOC:Please ignore the d20+2=5, that was a messup roll. Selithe doesn't want to leave her staff on the boat inless she has to.)
Shale(AC 18, HP 3/10) d20+2=20 d6+1=7 Friday November 5th, 2004 1:09:24 AM
As blood comes flying from Shale rage engulfs him as he turns. In a liquid movement he grabs his halfling longsword from the ground swings hard releasing a primal scream. (Attack 20, Damage 7)
Kendry d20+3=8 d20+4=17 d20+5=25 d4+1=5 Friday November 5th, 2004 2:41:20 AM
[Spot 8, Listen 25] Kendry fires an arrow at the goblin who just missed him (#6), hitting AC 17 for 5 hp damage. His ears are finely attuned for nuances. No Selithe... "Our berries for the fallen!" he shouts out in general counsel to his friends, hoping they remember the goodberries from the fae entertainers of the other night. He pulls one of his two remaining berries, and moves it into his mouth. He does not bite it now, but if struck by any additional blow, immediately will bite down. His eyes sweep bow to starboard to stern to port, as much as he can see while remaining crouched for cover by the crates, except for a moment as he glances portside. In his mind his prayer consists of a fleeting thought of Wardd. Draw a lucky card for my sister. Where is the goblin who was on board for the trip downstream?
Memories (DM Stephen) Friday November 5th, 2004 10:17:40 AM
(DM mini post)
Kendry recalls the little introverted crewman that liked to hang out below deck during the day because he didnt like bright light. He was only 2-ft tall (the goblins are 3.5-ft tall), had scaly reptilian-like skin, and a waging tail. You sometimes heard the other crew refer to him as Runt. However, he looks nothing like these goblins.
Runt (ac16, hp5) Friday November 5th, 2004 11:34:16 AM
A small figure jumps up out of the cargo hold with a bag thrown over his shoulder. Its contents bulging through the cloth. "EEEK!" he sounds off a cowardly scream. He sees something downstream, in the darkness, that alarms him to a near state of panic!
In his other hand is a large, empty waterskin. He runs to the railing and begins to blow the waterskin full of air, like a balloon, and seals it off. He quickly glances down stream again, "EEEEKKK!!" He turns to Kendry and asks, "Help! Me no good swim!" he screams again! He trembles there at the edge of the rail, looking down into the dark water. He then sees his captain bleeding on the shore. "EEEK!!"
Polly (AC 14, 7 HP) d20+4=17 d6+4=5 Friday November 5th, 2004 1:51:47 PM
Polly curses as she defends herself from her attackers, thanking her training for keeping her alive. Finally, she spots an opening in the defenses of the goblin on the end of the line. She ducks his wild swing and drives her spear into him with the strength of desperation. (Hit AC 17, 5 hp damage)
Kendry (AC 13, hp 4/6, +1 Att/Dam inspire courage) d20+3=19 d20+4=9 d20+4=23 Friday November 5th, 2004 5:03:25 PM
[Spot: 19; Listen: 10 (supposed to be d20+5, not 4)] "Fine." Kendry lifts a tarp, cuts the line holding one of the barrels of Brock's Best Beer, and gives the rope a heave to get the barrel rolling toward the starboard (shoreward, in this case) rail. He gives the barrel a little boost to add to its momentum, and the barrel descends in a parabolic arc to the river below.
On the trip downstream, he already had inflated his waterskins, which he had simply tied back on to his knapsack after riding the river chariot. "C'mon, Mayzie, Ghost. Let's go, Runt." Bow and knapsack slung over the shoulder, leather armor tied as well to a strap on his knapsack, he jumps off. As his hits the water, he involuntarily bites down on the goodberry, healing himself of 1 hp damage. He takes a stroke or two to get to the barrel, and pulls Runt (if the little guy does jump) next to him.
"All right, kick this thing toward shore." Kendry pushes the barrel with kicks of his feet, and one hand stroking. [Swim 23] He wants to get to the captain, if he can. One more goodberry left.
Mayzie Saturday November 6th, 2004 9:54:39 PM
Mayzie will cry out seeing Ghost badly wounded.
Hearing Kendry and Selithe, she will grab Ghost and pull him after her.
'Come along Ghost, NOW'
Leaping overboard clutching the wolf, she will try and get to the nearest bank as best she can.
Making it to shore. (DM Stephen) d20+4=18 d6+4=6 d100=98 d6=1 d20+4=16 d20+3=8 d20+3=13 d20+2=3 d20+2=9 d20+2=8 d20+2=4 d20+2=20 d20+2=6 d8+1=6 d100=60 d100=32 Monday November 8th, 2004 8:01:27 AM
Shale runs his sword through the trickster much to its surprise. She looks in shock at the blade entering her body. Anger quickly fills her red eyes. She continues to step forward, driving Shale's blade even deeper, trying to strike with her dagger, but her ghost gives up the mortal coil before being able to deliver her revenge. She falls onto Shale in a bloody, lifeless heap.
Polly also connects with her spear and the goblin flails about from pain in a dramatic display before falling to the ground.
Slag swings his handaxe at the goblin in front of him and the last few seconds of that goblins life is spent watching the battle from a bird's eye view as his head goes flying. The other two goblins choose to withdraw and make a run for the darkness. Slag quickly drops to his knees and begins working on Biguns. He appears to stop his bleeding by applying pressure on his wound.
Back on the ship, Selithe, Mayzie, Ghost and Runt jump ship and begin swimming back to shore. Kendry is alone on the ship trying to take with him a single barrel of Brock's Best. He cuts the ropes holding them together and takes the first barrel. Since Kendry's arrow dropped one of the goblins last round, only two are able to get a shots off during his escape. Both bolts fortunately miss the bard before he can make his jump.
Getting to shore takes Selithe, Mayzie, Ghost, and Runt only three rounds. Kendry is slowed by the mostly submerged barrel and takes at least double that amount of time.
After much stress, both crew seem to stop the captains bleeding the round before Runt makes it to shore. Runt takes a healer's kit from his bag and removes a small vial of liquid from the kit. He feeds it to his captain. (heals 6 points) but the captain still doesnt regain consciousness. His wound do heal up but not enough to pull him out of danger.
The goblins cheering on the dock also make a run for the darkness. They can still be heard celebrating the capture of the ship. As Kendry reaches the shore with his barrel, the ship fades away in the darkness down river. The lanterns on board are snuffed out to conceal it from view as the goblins make their escape.
Polly Monday November 8th, 2004 11:41:06 AM
Polly runs downstream to the shore to help fish her friends and then the barrel out of the river. When everyone is ashore, she kicks at the ground, scattering sand. "Well, I'm glad we're alive, but the crew's not and we're in trouble. Can we chase after those goblins and get the barge back."
She wanders through the area, checking on the condition of the fallen goblins.
Shale Monday November 8th, 2004 9:27:48 PM
Pushing the dead goblin off of him Shale stands up to survey the disappearing ship.
"DAMN IT!!" Running over to the edge he helps pull Kendry and the barrel into the ship.
Moving the barrel best he can with everyone's help he sits it upright near the beach and sits on it.
"This is a fine mess we've gotten ourselves into. These politics are going to be the death of us. We should take up something safer like hunting giants near the Scab or chasing fey in the Culverwood."
Shale is still holding his side that seems to be bleeding only slightly now with the pressure applied.
"We can rig something up so that Valor can drag carry the barrel back, but we can kiss that money goodbye."
Walking over to the dead goblin trickster Shale searches him for any clues and picks up the comb that had disguised her.
Cleaning the blood off of his father's old longsword, Shale sheathes it and returns to sit on the barrel. Petting Valor he continues, "It seems to me we need a plan of action. This wondering aimlessly is fine for youngins but we're grown halflings now!"
With that Shale picks a long stalk of grass and chews it thoughtfully contemplating.
Selithe Monday November 8th, 2004 10:36:23 PM
Selithe looks to the others as she reaches shore and rolls over on the beach as she tenderly touches the bolt sticking in her yet and sighs as she pulls a berry from earlier from her pocket and chews it as she speaks up, "Dang it this thing hurts. Who knew that trying to be a hero would hurt so much."
Selithe stays laying on the beach as she hurts, she has used some of her magical energy which has left her some what tired and she looks to Mayzie, "When you have a few moments can you give me a hand removing this bolt? I don't want to cause mroe injuried while taking it out."
Selithe looks up and over at the others and shakes her head, "I hate to admit it Polly but we won't cetch them. We all need to heal and the injured need a real doctor as soon as they can be moved. By that time the boat will be long gone and we would have to walk to cetch it." Selithe closes her eyes and winces as her wounds still hurt, "We will have to explain the situation to Calfast and see what happens. We ran the gamble by coming and he gambled by having us come. We all should of known the risks and he will get one keg of cider or beer."
Selithe looks at her brother and smiles lightly, "Looks like staying on the boat wasn't a great idea after all...please get my pipe and alittle tobacco out for me Kendry so I can have a smoke. I think if I move I might break right now, god I'm sore."
Kendry Tuesday November 9th, 2004 1:27:00 AM
"Thanks, cousins," Kendry says to Polly and Shale after they help him get the cask of beer beached. He feeds his last goodberry to Bigun, since it looks like the captain is being cared for. As he carefully feeds the berry to Bigun, moving the half orc's jaws up and down to squeeze out the healing juice, he asks who is down, who is wounded, and whether any in the camp are missing other than the cowardly four who fled. "Anybody else left from the crew still on board, Runt?"
"Aw, sis - you were hit hard," he says to Selithe. "You gonna make it, right?" He complies with her request, and gets her pipe and tobacco out. He hopes her tobacco isn't wet. "You are probably right, girl. I think we have to concentrate on recovering - and setting up some defenses, in case someone tries to attack us again.
"How many goodberries are left?" he asks his companions. "Shale - eat one, if you have it. You're bleeding. I gave my last one to Bigun."
"Mayzie - Ghost is hurt, too. Are you all right? Runt - you seem to know something about healing. Can you tend to the wounded? We appreciate you, fella. What's your real name? Do you know how to take an arrow out?"
"So - that's the lady gnome?" he asks Shale of the bloodied goblin. He asks about the hat Shale now holds in his hands.
[OOC: The following paragraph I put in simply because, formally, Nalfein has never left the group, and he got on board the boat with us, and Kendry is not going to pretend he is not there, if he IS there. I'm hoping Andrew is doing all right... am praying for him.]
"Nalfein, were you taking a whiz or something? Look, can you help out? Can you feed the captain one of your berries, and, if you have more than one, give one to Bigun? Any ideas what we should do now, bro?"
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