Scouting - DM Marcin Saturday October 16th, 2004 9:13:44 AM
The party reaches a decision - Sarigar and Renik will try to take a closer look at the fort while the rest of the party will find a spot to make camp at.
Descending down the road deeper into the valley and entering the dark woods the Hamleteers start searching for a suitable place to rest. The scent of rotting eggs - faint at the height of the pass - becomes now more and more intensive with every step. Mercifully, the nostrils of everyone but Black Paws eventually get accustomed to the stench and the party stops to notice it anymore.
About that time the heroes walk by the first of the hot springs. The water in a small pond is bubbling. White fog hangs over the area and the temperature is perceptibly higher.
The Hamleteers eventually find a concealed spot suitable for making camp at. It is well away from the path and near one of those springs, which seem to be quite numerous in this land. Down here, near the bottom of the valley, the air is much warmer. There is no need to use cloaks anymore.
The watches are set. Finally, Sarigar and Renik depart on their mission.
The fort is a few hours of travel away from the campsite, so, the duration of Greater Invisibility being what it is, Sarigar loses its benefit well before he catches sight of the fort again.
The trio starts to find footprints of huge boots. Soon the scouts notice first signs of civilization: tree stumps where trees have been felled, tilled fields, half-wild orchards, and small shacks. Strangely enough, the plantations, buildings, and tools left behind are human sized. There are many footprints of smaller, bare feet here - some belonging to humans, some to orcs or halflings, some to other humanoids harder to recognize. Horses and oxen have been working on the fields. So far, however, not a single living soul has been seen.
There are other tracks, too: pawprints as if of some large canine. These travel usually with the ones belonging to giants. The creatures who left them must have been larger than any ordinary dog could ever grow.
Finally Renik and Sarigar reach the hill in the middle of the valley and can admire the fort up close.
The walls, even though made of earth, are tall and strong. The rampart runs in a large circle around the crown of the hill, with only one gate set into it. The portal is wooden, but seems to be reinforced with iron bars. A palisade runs on top of the walls - a formidable barrier by itself for a human, but merely a crenellation for a giant. A ghastly collection of skulls, skeletons, and bones has been nailed to the palisade along its whole length. All of these used to belong to members of smaller races.
A large settlement has been constructed outside of the gate - several sizeable, long barracks stand in the middle of it, with numerous workshops, smaller houses, and sheds thrown around them in a chaotic way. All the buildings here seem to be human sized.
That is where Renik and Sarigar split.
The wild brothers circle around the whole area (which takes them a better part of two hours). The trail of the drow continues into the castle, but they don't find any tracks of dark elves leading out. There seems to be no other entrance into the fort aside from the gate. The settlement isn't fully asleep - Sarigar sees several fires. Watching from the safety of shadows he observes a half naked, old man struggling to unload sacks from a small cart into a nearby shed. One of the sacks spills its contents: potatoes. The man curses and drops to his knees picking them up.
A small, dirty boy is carrying a bucket of water from the well into one of the large houses.
Despite the darkness a half-orc woman bent with age is patiently working with a bone needle on some kind of robe.
And that is when Sarigar notices the giants.
There are two of them in this small village, both as dark, tall, and silent as trees. Standing out of the light of fires, the pair seems to keep a watchful eye on the toil of the smaller folk. Powerful arms folded on their chests, they look more like statues than live beings. Then one of them turns his head and scratches his leg and the impression is gone.
They are tall, though maybe not as much as the Tall Giant who killed Gaxx. Both standing over ten feet they are unproportionally massively built, resembling oversized dwarves. Their beards and hair are braided, and they hold some kind of polearms in their hands.
Sarigar watches. Coming any closer would involve a risk of being seen.
Renik, gulping down two potions, takes to the air and heads for the castle. The fortified wall surrounds a roughly oval courtyard. Right in the middle of it stands the only stone building in the whole settlement - a huge, giant sized hall. The structure has been built with some degree of skill. Smoke rises from its two chimneys. Loud laughter coming from inside makes one believe that some kind of feast is going on.
There are about twenty other buildings inside the walls, all of them wooden. Most look like giant-sized houses, but several are smaller and seem to have been built to accommodate smaller races. One of the hot springs is right here, in the middle of the fort, its waters trickling out under the gate. Right next to the pool is a large pen where several black, furry creatures are asleep on the bare ground. It is hard to recognize them for what they are in the moonlight, and when Renik passes nearby one of them stirs in its sleep, its nostrils flaring open.
There are two giant guards standing over the gate, their faces shielded from sight by crude iron helms. The fort seems to be ready to repel invaders at any time of night and day - there are piles of throwing rocks stacked near the walls at even intervals and the walls are well maintained.
Renik notices a building that looks like a stable, and when he comes closer to investigate-
- he notices a dark figure is standing motionless in the shadow of one of the smaller houses. Renik turns his head and finds himself looking straight at a hideous visage - a dark, bald head, with empty eyes without pupils and tentacles hanging where its mouth should be -
- an illithid.
It is only after several heartbeats that the rogue realizes the mind flayer is not actually looking at him, but at the stars.
With the duration of the potions running out Renik completes his scouting run and meets with Sarigar outside of the walls. It takes them several hours to return to camp and it is almost dawn when they finally rejoin the group.
[Renik and Sarigar need to sleep for at least six hours or be fatigued in the next day.]
Renik Sunday October 17th, 2004 3:30:53 PM
As the sky lightens above the mountain range to the West Renik reaches the camp and slumps down, clearly exhausted. He recounts his findings, and listens to Sarigar's.
When they all know everything he looks around at the party.
"I don't know what we've stumbled across here, but I know for sure I don't like it one bit. To start with we may be looking at slave labour. Then this mix of giants, Drow, and Mind Flayers. Plus whatever the reptilian creatures are that the rock troll referred to, and perhaps more trolls too. I don't know how this all ties in to the theft of a ring and a communication coin, but I'm willing to bet that any outfit this size must mean it's pretty bad news. I think we're too far to go back for support (and frankly I'm not sure who we could enlist against such a foe). Plainly we have to do something, but a direct assault against a foe of such power is tantamount to suicide. We need to recover our items and escape, but I've no idea how we're going to manage that. Perhaps after some rest..."
Renik settles down to get some brief hours of sleep whilst the others discuss possible strategies.
Draax Sunday October 17th, 2004 9:57:26 PM
Like the others Draax does not like what he hears about the layout of the keep. He thinks for a minute and does not like any plan that he can come up with.
"So, we have to get into the keep, avoid any conflicts, location the objects, take the objects, and then get back out without being seen. I wonder if any of the creatures in the pens are winter wolves, but whatever they are they are probably used for tracking. Just something else for us to worry about.
Can any of you memorize a passwall or stoneshape type of spell? I am kinda reaching here, but if we can make our own entrance into the keep we would have a better chance...a slim chance yes...but a better chance of getting in and out without getting caught. Since their servants seem to be our size some of us might be able to move about the keep and posing as servants to find the Drow. Truthfully I do not like any of my suggestion, but if we put enough ideas together we might come up with something that will work."
Draax waits to hear what the others have to say.
Day five, morning. Lands of the Flamehorn Clan, the Scab. Two days before the festival of Gargul - DM Marcin Monday October 18th, 2004 4:14:45 AM
The weary scouts return and throw themselves at their beds to get some sleep. Morning comes and the forest shows another face. No longer black, but dark green, it turns into a shifting maze of shadows. White mist hangs in the air and all is silent. The overall impression is that of eerie beauty.
It will be ten in the morning before the scouts have had their rest. It takes about two hours to reach the castle on foot.
[Spells for this day, please.]
Setanos Monday October 18th, 2004 7:42:37 AM
Setanos listens to the scouts report with a mixture of grim determination and serous focus. "Tha little town outside da fort ken give us sum cover fer gettin in. Tha thing is, if tha tentikle head has em, the non giants will be turnin us in me thinks. As fer spells, I dunna know it, but protection from evil will help keep them outta our heads I think. Everyone will be needin that."
When morning comes he memorizes his spells, and casts an extended mage armor.
Rond Monday October 18th, 2004 10:07:44 AM
(ooc bad TODD for not posting. I'm not sure why I missed all the posting after weds.)
"What if we try to use all the invisibility and flying spells to continue scouting as much as possible? Before we even go in, should we try one more scry to see if the we can find anything?"
Sarigar and Black Paws Monday October 18th, 2004 11:27:34 AM "When my pack and I found really big prey, we'd nip and run. Run up, take a few nips, then run away. Eventually, the prey would either bleed too much or we'd hurt a leg or somethin'"
With that suggestion, Sarigar joins his brother on the edge of camp, curls up and sleeps.
Draax Monday October 18th, 2004 10:17:56 PM
Draax does a quick inventory of his weapons and items as he waits the group to prepare to go to the keep.
Arien (AC: 21, HP 44, Mage Armor) Tuesday October 19th, 2004 2:11:31 AM
"These giants seem unusually well organized. I don't know that hit and run tactics will work against them. I say we sneak in, hit hard and get out fast. Perhaps these slaves would be willing to help us sneak in, or at least know a way to sneak in ourselves."
0 Level: Detect Magic x2, Light, Read Magic x2 1st Level: Burning Hands, Magic Missile x5, Protection from Evil 2nd Level: Resist Energy x2, Rope Trick, Scorching Ray x2, Extended Shield 3rd Level: Displacement, Dispel Magic, Fireball, Haste, Lightning Bolt 4th Level: Dimension Door x2, Evard's Black Tentacles, Ice Storm, Solid Fog 5th Level: Summon Monster V x2, Cone of Cold, Wall of Force
Renik Tuesday October 19th, 2004 2:23:48 AM
The rogue awakes around ten.
"I think all routes are liokely to be risky. The sneak in and get out fast best appeals, but to do so we need to know exactly where to find the items. Arien, I could lend you my blinking ring and flying boots if you need them. That way you could go in invisible and try to trace the magical aura you were following before? It's a very risky strategy though, and if you get caught... well I suppose you could teleport out.
If we do this we'd need to be ready for the team to move out fast.
I'm uncertain about the slaves. They could just be evil workers... and they may have more to gain by betraying us than allying themselves with us. I'm not sure we can take that risk of tipping our hand.
What do you think? Do we remain focused on our primary task? And are we all agreed that subterfuge is our best alternative?"
Late morning - DM Marcin Tuesday October 19th, 2004 5:33:40 AM
By the time the sun appears on the sky the mists are already gone. The forest sheds its mystical image in favor of a more familiar guise of a mountainous wilderness.
The party, gathered around their cold campfire, weighs their options.
Sarigar and Black Paws Tuesday October 19th, 2004 11:35:01 AM
Awaking when the other begin stirring, the brothers stretch for quite a while, half listening to the conversation.
"Sub-ter-fooge?" he echoes, scratching his head, partly as a morning ritual to get the bugs out and partly in confusion.
Looking over at Arien, nodding in agreement, "Sneaky is good for us. We sneak good. And we're fast." He says with a proud smile.
He begins milling about the camp in hazy state. It's almost as if his mind weren't complete present, not like a madman, but more like he was connected to something more than himself. /ooc His equivalent of a prayer ritual.
Preparing 1) Longstrider, Magic Fang
Feng Tuesday October 19th, 2004 9:07:18 PM
Feng thinks long and hard about what he has heard. They are in a very tough position and if they aren't careful they will be able to explain to Gargul in person why they missed his festival.
"If we are to make the festivel we need to head back now." Feng says and lets out a deep, troubled sigh. "From what we have learned, the giants are ready to repel an army. While I think we should plan for the worst, the mind flayer could have been a spy as well. An alliance between dark elves and giants could make them nervous."
Tratain Tuesday October 19th, 2004 11:58:16 PM
Tratain says "Lets try and sneak closer to the castle. See if we can find someplace they are lax in their watches. Its possible the Illithid is controling everyone in the area and if we go in fast and take it out, in the confusion we may be able to make a quick escape."
Draax Wednesday October 20th, 2004 12:17:45 AM
Having heard what everyone has to say Draax is not very confident in the group's chance of success, but feels that the group has to give it a try while they know where the quarry is. He wishes that they were sure the items were in the keep so that he would know risk is worth it.
"I agree, sneaking in and out give us the best chance of success. Other options may become available as we get more information, but like Feng pointed out the closeness of the festival does not give us a lot of time."
The debate - DM Marcin Wednesday October 20th, 2004 2:41:22 AM
The party, their morning tasks completed, is ready to move as soon as they decide what should be done next. But it seems that the opinions on what course of action should be taken vary greatly.
The brainstorming continues.
Renik Wednesday October 20th, 2004 2:42:54 AM
"I'm sorry Feng, but turning back now is not an option. We need to do this now, there will not be another chance. Arien, are you willing to attempt another recon? Would you like me to accompany you? There is no point in going in unless we are certain of the location of our target."
The rogue wishes that more of the party engaging in the discussion (OOC: is it my imagination, or has posting for this game dropped off a lot lately? Come on guys! We need to all be posting, particularly if we are heading into combat soon).
Setanos (Ext Mage Armor) Wednesday October 20th, 2004 7:42:49 AM
Setanos takes in the comments about the festival, and responds "no, we be getting this job done an then we be seeing ta that." That is all the bearded mage will say on the subject.
To the people that scouted, he asks if they can draw a rough map of the place.
OOC: Can we get a rough .bmp drawing of what the scouts saw? It would help planning things out I think.
Sarigar and Black Paws Wednesday October 20th, 2004 11:54:25 AM
Coming out of his haze and hearing mention of the festival. "Umm, didn't that big guy in that other place say that someone would drop dead if we miss that thing of his? That sounds bad to me."
Almost as quickly as his interest was gained in the topic, it's lost again as he goes about stuffing his things back in his pack.
Rond Wednesday October 20th, 2004 12:42:26 PM
"We could try to get all the silent movers to move in and see what we can find out. If we get discovered, I could sound the horn for the rest of the group to come running?
"Otherwise I'm not sure what we should do. This will not be an easy task to get the coin, unless we can somehow find out that the drow and our target are going to leave again, and still have the items on them."
Feng Wednesday October 20th, 2004 9:08:51 PM
"Renik look at the task before us. That is a fortress designed to repel an army. There are dark elves, giants, and now at least one illithid involved. Missing that festivel is not an option. Do you really think Gargul will not undo what he has granted? You heard him yourself. He cares not what work we do for other gods. Besides we can bring this problem to the halflings attentions and see if we can get their help."
Tratain Wednesday October 20th, 2004 11:21:40 PM
Tratain says, "We have today and tomorrow to make our plans and execute them. Arien can teleport us to the City so we don't have to worry about missing the festival. We couldn't make it back in time any other way. We should head a little closer and finalize our plans. Give infiltration a shot and if that fails, we can seek guidance at the temple before and after we attend the festival."
Draax Thursday October 21st, 2004 12:57:35 AM
"I agree, we cannot leave here without at least trying to retrieve the items. So, Renik suggested that he can company Arien to attempt to locate the object and Rond suggest that all the stealth members of the group attempt to locate the object. So which one will it be? If you guys can draw a rough map like Setanos suggested it might help us come to a conclusion of which plan is best or it could present us with other possibilities."
Renik Thursday October 21st, 2004 2:39:09 AM
"We cannot proceed until we get Arien's thoughts. Arien, what say you?
"Rond, I am of the opinion that in matters of infiltration, the smallest number is best. If we aim to get in and out without detection one person is ideal, or at the most two. Feng is correct, that place can fight off a small army, so let's not try to fight them. We go in quiet, find the item, get out and run. If Arien can 'port us back to town all well and good. With two day's grace that will get us to the temple on time. If not then we'll just have to make our peace with Gargul where we find ourselves.
"Feng, you saw the halfling town. They don't have the resources to take on an enemy like this. We need to do this now, ourselves. The only question is who does it. Arien, will you go? Do you want backup?"
If there is no reply Renik will make preparations to go in himself, asking for invisibility and non detection spells to be cast on him if possible.
Arien (AC: 21, HP 44, Mage Armor) Thursday October 21st, 2004 5:06:43 AM
"Aye, I'll scout ahead. I'm not very sneaky but I can get out quick if need be. I still think that the slaves hold the key. Perhaps Renik you can come with me and subdue one of the slaves then we can bring it back with us. Then we can question the slave back in the town and attend the festival. Then if need be we can leave the slave in custody of the sheriff and return this way."
A map - DM Marcin Thursday October 21st, 2004 8:28:32 AM
The scouts sketch out a map of the fort and the nearby village. The fact that Renik has seen it from above greatly helps to have everything in proportion. The hill is surrounded by forest, though the trees have been removed from the immediate vincity of the walls of the fort. Most of the fields, orchards, and lumber camps are located deep in the woods.
Rond Thursday October 21st, 2004 9:21:36 AM
"Well, if you are not interested in having me do the sneaking, then Arien, you might want to use my armor. Probably won't help you much in the protection department, but it does make you quieter. (+10 to Move Silently) But that's up to you, I offer it for the aid it will give."
Rond can feel his skin crawl at the thought of one or two people trying to infiltrate the fort, but he realizes that it is a necessary evil.
Sarigar and Black Paws d20+19=21 d20+19=24 Thursday October 21st, 2004 11:57:41 AM
As he's stuffing things in his pack, Sarigar stops a moment and holds his stomach in hunger. "Hmmm, let's see what I've got to eat." He again starts rummaging through his pack and eventually pulls out a rather foul looking chunk of meat (the dear meat he stuff in there the first night he met the party). He sniffs it a moment and turns his nose away. "Nope, no good. He tosses the hunk over his shoulder into the bushes behind him and starts digging again.
After several minutes he give up the serch in his pack. "Go get a squirrel or something brother, I won't find things you like here. At that, Black Paws dashes off in the bushes. Sarigar begins milling about the camp, turning over rocks, picking up leaves, etc. (Survival 21).
He finds enough grubs, insects and edible leaves to make a decent snack for himself which he gobbles down to chagrin of the others. About halfway through the mash he's created he stops and holds up his hands covered in insect and vegetable mush, some of which is still crawling, "Umm, anyone else want some? If no one does, he finishes eating his mash, licking his hands clean (dirt and all). If someone does speak up, he squishes a dollop of the pulp in their hand.
After a while, Black Paws returns (survival 24) looking quite satisfied, licking the blood of some animal off his chops and paws.
Draax Friday October 22nd, 2004 1:51:56 AM
Draax looks over Sarigar's food offering and kindly declines. He looks at the newly drawn map, but cannot think of any that would help the party.
Renik Friday October 22nd, 2004 4:05:46 AM
The rogue thinks hard about what his companions have said. Finally he reaches a decision.
"We need to distinguish our goals here. If we are purely after the coin and ring then we must forget about the workers. I say we go directly to the fortress, try to trace the magical trail, and do our best to swipe the items. Kidnapping a worker at this stage only adds to the risk. We will need to come back once the items are safely recovered. We can worry about the workers then.
"Very well. We'll both need to be invisible. Tie this short rope to your belt Arien. I will hold the other end. If you need to speak to me or alert me to danger, tug twice. If we have any more non detection spells those would be useful also. Very well, unless there are any final questions let's move out."
Baffled - DM Marcin Friday October 22nd, 2004 4:07:39 AM
Sarigar and Black Paws satisfy their hunger each in his own way. Meanwhile the rest of the party puzzles over the map, not sure what should be done. Granted, it is hard to come up with an idea that would appeal to everyone, especially given how little information the party has.
[Folks, posting has dropped recently, and planning is the moment where you should be most active.]
Feng Friday October 22nd, 2004 9:28:12 AM
"Here is another thought. This place is built for a small army not a group such as ourselves. Perhaps going in as one might work. Sure I may not be stealthy but I can at least hold off a giant while trying to escape. Remember the magic giant we saw before. They could be prepared for magical stealth."
OOC: I can't speak for everybody but personally I have had no idea how to handle these last few situations. My character is a liability with intrusion and stealth situations and being a paladin limits how devious the party can act. Something else that I think contributes to long planning sessions.
Sarigar and Black Paws Friday October 22nd, 2004 10:52:31 AM "MMmmm, good stuff." Sarigar says as he flicks the remaining slop from his hands rather haphazardly then wipes the rest on his clothes. "Time to go, brother. You ready?" He says holding Black Paws head to look into his eyes. An affirming lick on the face is all Sariger needs and he gets up and the brothers start off (walking) in the direction of the castle.
Arien (AC: 21, HP 44, Mage Armor) Saturday October 23rd, 2004 5:06:36 AM
Arien makes sure that the rope is secure then nods to Renik that he is ready to go.
Setanos (Ex Mage Armor) Saturday October 23rd, 2004 9:07:44 AM
Setanos nods to Feng. A direct approach is clearly his favored tactic.
"I ken agree ta go in as one, but I think its a good idea ta have Arien flying invisible over tha fort. As we charge, he ken tell us if tha drow slip out ta back, an throw his spells best"
Draax Sunday October 24th, 2004 10:35:53 PM
"Lets get a close as we can as a group before you guys cast your spells so that they will last as long as possible and we can be ready as support or diversion. Do we have a signal to alert us if you guys get in trouble or if you need us to cause a diversion to draw their attention? You could hang a flag, use mirrors, or just start blasting things. As long as there is something that tells us that you guys need help."
Rond Sunday October 24th, 2004 11:58:07 PM
Seeing as how there is no need for the magical armor that Rond is wearing. Rond lets the decisions fly where they may. Rond will make sure all his gear is probably stowed.
To the castle - DM Marcin Monday October 25th, 2004 1:54:52 AM
The group, having reached a decision, moves out.
Led by Sarigar and Renik, the Hamleteers follow the route of the yesterday's foray. Every now and then sounds of axes indicate that people are working nearby, but, since the group has decided not to interact with the "slaves" for now, these sites are easily avoided.
It takes the heroes two hours to reach the fort.
Hidden at the verge of the forest the party observes both the castle and the settlement.
Two giants are standing guard on the walls, walking around them at a leisure pace. A few wisps of smoke rise above the fort - otherwise all seems to be calm behind the walls. The settlement, on the other hand, is bustling with activity. Lots of little folk are moving about like ants scurrying around their anthill. No giants can be seen in the village.
It is now almost noon. The distance from the forest to the walls of the castle seems to be about 800 to 1000 feet.
Sarigar (AC19) and Black Paws (AC17) (CV132) d20+30=33 d20+25=26 d20+18=30 d20+18=24 Monday October 25th, 2004 10:43:56 AM
As the castle and settlement come into site, the brothers immediately take to the underbrush and large rocks to hide their approach. Creeping along so as not to be seen or heard (Hide 33/30, Move Silent 26/24).
They split a little ways off of the party, but are careful to keep them within sight and preferrably within charging range.
Renik Monday October 25th, 2004 2:25:35 PM
"OK, please remember, this is not an attack. Arien and I are going to creep in, attempt to locate the items and creep back out. Failing that we'll locate them and report back. If we get spotted we'll run for it, so get ready to move out. Anyone doing any charging towards those walls is going to find themselves under so many boulders we won't have to worry about burying you. Now, do we have any non-detection spells? If not we'll just have to chance it with invisibility."
And once spells are cast he sets off with Arien.
Arien (AC: 21, HP 44, Mage Armor) Monday October 25th, 2004 3:20:52 PM
"I just had that potion so I'm ready to go now. Let's get this over with so we can get back in time for the festival."
Tratain Monday October 25th, 2004 11:10:45 PM
Tratain stays with the others trying not to make too much noise.
He suggests "Should we try and talk with one of the non-giants? If they are not mind controlled they may be of some help."
Draax Tuesday October 26th, 2004 1:53:42 AM
Draax finds a nice concealed spot to sit down and wait.
Getting ready to depart - DM Marcin Tuesday October 26th, 2004 5:18:25 AM
The wall of the fort looms in the distance like a huge, black, dead caterpillar. Several small, white clouds soar high in the sky. A lone eagle circles at great height over the valley, possibly looking for prey, possibly just enjoying the sun and crystal clear skies.
A crow croaks somewhere nearby in the trees.
The torso of one of the giants standing guard on the wall is visible for a minute or so while he continues his slow patrol. Reflections of sunlight dance on his polished helmet. A huge halberd is in his hand, but he uses it mostly as a walking stick. Even though he is far away the heroes can catch a glimpse of his fiery red beard.
Arien and Renik prepare to depart.
[Folks, give me something more to work on here. First of all please list all spells and magic effects active on Arien and Renik - including durations. Secondly, where do you want to go and how do you want to get there. I know Renik has boots that allow him to fly, but does Arien have something that will allow him to fly over the walls, too? Or do you want to try the gate or climbing over the walls? Once on the other side, do you want to just look around, or do you have a specific plan or a place you want to check out?]
[It's been three months since the beginning of the adventure. I will be sending out your share of XPs for the first part of the module today. And I will be waiting for updated character sheets. Remember to include the list of all the changes you have made so that I won't have to go over everything again.]
[I won't be able to access computer tomorrow. There will be no DM post on Wednesday.]
Setanos (Ex Mage Armor) Tuesday October 26th, 2004 7:38:07 AM
Setanos nods at Tratain's suggestion. He whispers, "It may be risky, but it may be worth it ta talk ta them." He then braces for a fight.
Sarigar (AC19) and Black Paws (AC17) (CV132) Tuesday October 26th, 2004 1:22:01 PM
The brothers stay in hiding about 50 feet from the party members that are not going in to the castle. They sit and wait patiently as if they expect their prey to walk right up to their nose.
Spells prepared 1 Longstrider, 1 Magic Fang
Renik (Blinking, Flight, hopefully Invisibility!) d20+11=24 d20+11=17 d20+11=24 d20+11=21 Tuesday October 26th, 2004 6:57:15 PM
Hoping against hope that somebody is prepared to cast Invisibility upon him (OOC: guys? Anybody? This mission won't go far without it!) the rogue makes towards the compound. Assuming that Arien is also flying he heads directly for the wall, keeping close to the ground. Then he sails over, and stops for a moment, holding onto the rope linking him to Arien. He surveys the scene carefully (Spot 24, Listen 17), then follows Arien's lead hoping the mage can track the magical aura of the items he has followed up till now.
As he heads into the camp he keeps a careful eye out for signs that they have been spotted, and attempts to eavesdrop on any conversations they happen to pass (Spot 24, Listen 21). He keeps a particularly careful lookout for signs of the Mind Flayer.
Feng [AC 23 HP 105] Tuesday October 26th, 2004 8:58:22 PM
Feng watches the fire giant walk on patrol and swallows hard. Just one giant is bad enough but that one had gleaming armor and a sword that was bigger than he was.
"May the gods protect us."
ooc: Considering the situation I figured the group would follow the safest path we will find inside the fort. There can't be that many choices once we get inside since detection of any kind will likely result in death.
Carl OOC Wednesday October 27th, 2004 2:30:02 AM
Um, just so we're clear here, it is just Renik and Arien entering the fort, right? Walter's last post seems to suggest the whole party is going in, which we really shouldn't. Or am I just reading that wrong?
OOC Troy Wednesday October 27th, 2004 8:05:35 AM
I thought the plan was for all of us to go in, then traitain suggested we talk to the non giants.
The plan Feng suggested, which at least I agreed too, was to get everyone close and hit them hard.
ooc Philip Wednesday October 27th, 2004 11:26:02 AM
Back in the camp we'd decided to let Renik and Arien go in to determine where the items were or even if they were in there. Ther rest of us were supposed to be close, just in case a distraction or outright charge was needed.
Tratain Wednesday October 27th, 2004 11:28:31 PM
Tratain stays with the others besides Arien and Renik outside the Fort. Checking to see if there are any non-giants that look like they may be approacable without the giants seeing the party.
OOC: It was my understanding that only Renik and Arien were going in for a look both invisible. While the rest of us laid low unless we were needed.
So, did anyone prepare Invisibility for Renik? - DM Marcin Thursday October 28th, 2004 1:50:46 AM
There is a moment of confusion as it seems that the party has two plans.
[And the DM scratches his head not knowing if somebody did prepare Invisibility for Renik and if Arien can fly.]
Draax Thursday October 28th, 2004 4:25:01 AM
Draax waits in the woods with the others staying alert for any sign of trouble. He notices some of the others getting anxious as they look toward the village for possible allies. Not knowing how long they will have to wait Draax has no problem with someone approaching one of the villagers if the opportunity presents itself.
Renik Thursday October 28th, 2004 4:35:19 AM
Renik waits, tapping his foot. One thing's for sure, he's not going anywhere without invisibility cast on him. If no-one has the spell available he passes his Flying Boots and Blinking Ring to Arien, and asks him to scout alone.
Sarigar (AC19) and Black Paws (AC17) (CV132) Thursday October 28th, 2004 11:36:01 AM
The brothers continue keeping an eye on the party from a little ways off as they also scan the area around the castle. Although they have rarely shown patience in the past, this is a hunt and like any good hunter, they will wait as long as necessary to find the right time to strike.
Prepared Spells Longstrider x1, Magic Fang x1
Rond Thursday October 28th, 2004 11:46:01 AM
Looking around, Rond wonders what the hold up is. Renik and Arien are supposed to be headed to the fort to find the lost items, or any sign of their quarry.
(ooc My schedule turns more regular on Friday. I'm hoping my posts will be better next week. (between 6pm and midnight EST. Will try to get update character sheet out this weekend)))
Feng Thursday October 28th, 2004 8:54:52 PM
Feng stands ready and a little impatient. Unless they were ready to move and assist Arien might be in a world of toruble if things go wrong. Giants are tough enough as it is and they have an army of them inside that fort.
Tratain Thursday October 28th, 2004 11:31:55 PM
Tratain waits with the others for Renik and Arien to do their scouting. Also keeping an eye out for any non-gaints who look like it might be possible to approach without the giants seeing them.
Arien Friday October 29th, 2004 1:09:06 AM
"You know, why don't I just study this area for awhile then we head back to the town. I don't want to miss that festival and with me teleporting us back we won't lose more than a couple of days. Besides that I am working on a couple of spells and I think I can perfect them soon, one of which will allow me to disguise the whole group. Perhaps we can masquerade as that group of giants we slew or somesuch. In short I don't think that we are prepared to scout today and we are to close to the festival for any real action."
Renik Friday October 29th, 2004 2:34:07 AM
The rogue screws up his eyes and pinches the bridge of his nose. Right now he feels that the Hamleteers couldn't organize a piss-up in a brewery. He tries to swallow his frustration at their inability to act.
"Very well. If we can't agree to scout now we'll have to turn back. Arien, you find out what you can now. Then let's get back to town, attend the festival, you learn your spell and we'll head back out here. Then we scout, and I only hope we haven't wasted too much time in the process. The Drow, our only real lead to this mystery, will not stay here forever. And these magic items have been taken for some purpose, I am sure. Let us pray we are in time to avert that purpose, what with all these delays."
Sarigar (AC19) and Black Paws (AC17) (CV132) Friday October 29th, 2004 10:36:36 AM
/ooc I'll be substituting for another teacher on Mon. and Tues. so I may not be able to post on those days as I won't be at my computer. I'll do the best I can, but wanted to give a heads up.
Uh... next week only, right? M.
Headed back? - DM Marcin Friday October 29th, 2004 10:54:54 AM
The giant guard finishes his round and stops for a chit-chat with his pal at the gate. Both of them lean on their halberds. Wind brings faint echo of a loud laughter.
Three small, very dirty children dressed in rags leave the village carrying two buckets each. They stop near the stream and start cleaning. The work quickly turns to play as they start to pick handfuls of mud from the stream bed and toss one at another.
There is some commotion on the other side of the village. Two giants in hunting gear (javelins, spears) emerge from the forest. One of them is holding a leash of some large, hairy, black furred beast. From this distance it looks like an overgrown, hunched hunting hound, but its trot is strange - it moves forward in short leaps, always tense like a wound-up spring.
The party, unable to reach a decision just yet, comes up with a third option: do remote scouting and withdraw to Plateau City - for now.
Arien Friday October 29th, 2004 3:40:42 PM
Arien studies the ground carefully, commiting it to memory. As he studies he speaks, "If the town has a shop I may be able to purchase the means to scry into here remotely as well so I could do some scouting from the town while we wait for the festival."
Renik Sunday October 31st, 2004 5:15:56 PM
"Then we withdraw, much as it galls me. I do not feel comfortable with this course, but if we are not ready then I suppose we have no choice. Let us go."
Tratain Monday November 1st, 2004 12:11:28 AM
Tratain says "Lets talk to those children over there first before we decide to leave or not. They are not acting like mindless Thralls. It would be a shame to leave now without even trying to get back the ring. And who knows if it will even still be here two or three days from now when we get back from the festivle. We may miss the only opportunity we will have to retrieve it if we leave so soon."
Renik (Sorry for additional post, but...) Monday November 1st, 2004 2:20:51 AM
The rogue's face darkens as plans and counter-plans are made. It is time to put his foot down.
"No. We do not approach the children. Use your head, Tratain! A bunch of strange men approach some children from out of the forest, what do you think they are going to do? They'll run off yelling for their parents, and the camp is at our throats. At the very best they'll talk to us, then tell their parents about us later. We still know nothing about where the allegiance of these people lie. We have seen no sign that they are being mistreated or coerced in any way. Until we can determine that we must remain hidden. Do not approach the children.
"Enough. As leader I am making an executive decision here; Setanos, cast Improved Invisibility on me and Fly on Arien. Arien, cast Invisibility on yourself. You are coming with me to quickly scout that fort. Once there you'll need to Detect Magic for those items. If we leave it a few days the magical trail will probably have gone cold. Everyone else sit tight and get ready for a quick getaway. No more discussion, no more argument, let's move out. Now."
Come fly with me - DM Marcin Monday November 1st, 2004 3:17:20 AM
Arien takes a good look around [but, unless he spends an hour taking in details, the place will count as "vieved once" for the purposes of Teleport spell, not "studied carefully"].
The plans change yet again. This time Arien and Renik are about to scout the camp [are we talking about the village here, or the fort?]. Arien will go under Invisibility, Renik under Improved Invisibility. Arien will be under effects of Fly and will look for magic auras using Detect Magic.
[Arien, Setanos: do you have such spells ready? Are you willing to cast them and carry out that plan? What about the rest of you, does anyone object to this course of action?]
Carl OOC Monday November 1st, 2004 7:56:49 AM
Sorry, meant fort, not camp.
Setanos (Ex Mage Armor) Monday November 1st, 2004 8:04:00 AM
Setanos growls softly to Renik "Whatcha tone lad when ya be speaking to ma priest. With that he relents somewhat and casts Improved Invisiblity and Fly on Arien, saying as he does so "Arien's best ta be able ta cast and stay hidden. He'll be getting tha better spell."
Setanos (Ex Mage Armor) Monday November 1st, 2004 10:37:21 AM
OOC: Slight problem: Improved Invis only lasts 1 round/level, not one min/level.
In light of that if I can retract the casting of Improved Invis, since it wouldnt last long enough to do any good. Arien can still get the fly, cast his own invis and scout magically.
Sorry, didnt check that before casting.
Tratain Monday November 1st, 2004 11:28:32 AM
Tratain goes back to watching the Fort and Village and says "When we get back we may want to look into getting one of those invisibility rings. It would be really usefull in situations like these when they arise."
Tratain tries to count how many giants he can see maning the walls and wandering around. He also attempts to see the general state of the villagers. Do they look healthy or malnourished. Are the giants mistreating them, are they wearing normal clothing or are they all in rags like the children.
Draax Monday November 1st, 2004 11:33:23 AM
Draax listens as more options are given by the group and sighs in relief when Renik finally makes a decision. He takes note of the tone of voice used by Renik to Setanos and he realizes that the inactivity is getting to everyone. Sitting here just waiting is not going to be easy. He ensures himself that all his gear is packed and ready to move before finding a comfortable spot to sit and hide while they wait.
Sarigar (AC19) and Black Paws (AC17) (CV132) Monday November 1st, 2004 2:48:20 PM
The brothers are half tempted to go sneaking in themselves with all the bickering going on, but when it's finally decided and the scout group goes in, they sit tight.
/ooc Yes, it would have been just for this week, but I got to have a break period, thus the post =)
Arien Monday November 1st, 2004 6:01:41 PM
Arien sighs and shakes his head when Renik snaps. These humans are much to hasty for his liking and he wonders at the wisdom of continuing on like this. "Hold Setanos," Arien says when he goes to cast the spell on him. "Renik you risk much with this foolhardy haste you move with. You not only risk your life and mine, which I do not mind but you also risk the life of the friend you speak so callously to. If we are captured how do you propose the rest are to get back in time for the festival? Do you really desire to see another friend die due to your rash actions? You are the leader yes, and I will follow, but I wish you would begin to act the part. I do not have invisibilty memorized at the moment and besides that I only have the greater version in my spellbook, which will only give us a few moments for this scouting you so ardently desire. But I will go along without it and if something happens, so be it."
Rond Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 1:43:28 AM
Having not much input to the current conversation. Nor any skills that would change the current situation. Rond imagines this is what a piece of meat feels like when it's grilled. Being flipped from one side to the other.
No invisibility - DM Marcin Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 9:18:52 AM
Tratain counts two giants standing guard on the walls of the fort and two more walking towards the gate with the strange creature on a leash.
The villagers are a bit too far away to be seen with much detail, but the way they move tells a lot. No healthy man would ever walk - nay, lurch around with his head between his shoulders like that. The moves of the villagers are slow and automatic, as if everyone there was on the verge of exhaustion. Everyone is dressed in dark, faded colors. Come to think of it there is not a single spot of merrier colors anywhere in the village.
Meanwhile the party discovers it has not a single long duration invisibility at its disposal. This is a serious setback to the plan suggested by Renik.
The discussion continues and the mood is turning sour. The party seems to have serious problem deciding the next course of action.
Renik Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 12:11:20 PM
"We return to the town, then. Let us return when we are prepared."
Setanos (Ex Mage Armor) Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 1:33:39 PM
Setanos shakes his head at Renik's words, a mixture of shock,surprise and utter disappointment. "No lad, we willna just walk away from this, an I dinna think ya tha sort that could. Look at tha people there." he says, pointing to the people in the village. "We will not be leaving them behind ta keep my skin safe. I'd rather die trying then run tail cause yer being fussy about what we know."
His actions bolster his words as he says this, and it is clear from his stance that he fully intends to deal with the giant fort this day.
He turns to the rest of the group.
"These people will na be bullied another day so long as I draw breath an strength from Domi. I will be free'n them, an I ken use yer help."
Sarigar (AC19) and Black Paws (AC17) (CV132) Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 3:05:02 PM
The brothers look at the group from their concealment with a look of utter confusion. They enjoy their fun and even take risks from time to time, but the idea of boldly running in where the chances of success are so slim boggles their minds. No animal would do that unless they're backed into a corner, why do these pack mates wish to do so now?
Feng Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 8:44:55 PM
"I agree that these people should be helped but they have endured this long and while it pains me, they can wait a few more days. We know now more than we did. We can approach the halfling officials and see what assistance they may lend."
Draax Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 9:00:23 PM
Draax is a little shocked at the thought of leaving without verifying the location of the items, but since he cannot offer anything in locating the items it might be best to return.
Draax has intentionally avoided looking at the slaves in the village because he knew how his heart would feel if he did. He also knew that any aid to the village could possibly alert the drow and cause them to loss the items. Hearing Setanos' plea Draax looks toward the villagers and realizes that something must be done.
"I hear what you are saying Setanos, but before we do anything let's think this thing through. We cannot defeat all the giants of the keep and would have a hard time with their guests. Which means that we would have to help the villagers escape. But escape to where? Where will they go? How would we get them there? And how would we keep the pursuit from catching them and killing them? I want to help them too, but helping them so they can be caught and treated worst or even killed is not doing them any favors.
"If we do this we need to think about more than just making our conscience feel good.
"Like Feng suggested let's speak to the halflings or at least we can return more prepared to take on an army of giants. Seeing them suffering as they are means that we will not leave them like this for long or at least die trying to free them."
Draax wishes that he did not believe that his last statement would be the case.
Tratain Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 11:37:06 PM
Tratain says "I can't believe you all want to leave before we have even done anything. So far I have only counted 4 giants, I don't see an army. For all we know there may only be 4, I doubt we would be that lucky but the point is we don't know. If you don't want to go talk with those children then lets wait here until someone you think would be better happens to wander by. These people are obviously slaves, look at them. I'm sure they would gladly give us the information we wanted. No ones saying we should just charge in there and try and take them all in the fort. We need information and the only way were going to get it is to either ask the villagers or go charging in there and find out the hard way since there are no invisibility spells memorized. Though I bet that You Renik and Sarigar could get close enough without magic to gather the information we need. We are going to have to do this sooner or later. If its later who knows where we'll have to go looking for the ring or if they've duplicated it or who knows what. The Plataue City is too far away for us to expect them to send troops and the halflings don't care for any outsiders at all really do you honestly expect that they'll send anyone all the way out here to rescue some stragers when they are safe behind thier towers."
Return Trip (DM Cayzle) Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 9:04:24 AM
You look at the slaves, and your hearts go out to them. Indeed, their plight so touches Setanos that he wants to use force immediately to save them! But as Sarigar points out, it is a suicide mission. Although the group has not seen a huge number of giants yet, but -- looking at this place -- there is no doubt that there are more.
The fate of Gaxx hangs over the group, and is a reminder that even a few giants can inflict fatal damage.
Feng and Draax agree in their hearts with Setanos, but in their heads they know that the slaves will be much the same in a few days.
Tratain doubts that the halflings will help, and Plateau City is far away.
Time passes as the group debates, and if you wanted to teleport back here, it would considered "studied carefully."
Renik's opinion becomes the group consensus, and the party leaves the giants' fortress.
[OOC: Friends, in order to move things along, let's say that the group departs, per the majority view (I count four vs. two). Where are you going? Crescent Valley? Plateau City? Is it safe for me to assume you all can teleport there now? In any event, please use the next post to say where you go, how you get there, how long you stay, and what you do there.]
Sarigar (AC19) and Black Paws (AC17) (CV132) Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 11:45:05 AM
Seeing as he has no real ties to anywhere, Sarigar will go wherever the group goes. Plateau City will probably be the best place to find extra help should that be what we desire.
As for how to get there, magically, the brothers would have to be passengers as one Longstrider would not take them very far.
If it weren't Gargul's decree that ALL members at the raising be at the festival, he would suggest that he stay behind and keep an eye on things. He can survive pretty much indefinitely in the wilderness. Staying behind would allow him to count the number of giants a little more precisely and maybe determine a pattern to their movements.
Hmmmm, I don't recall Rond being at that raising, perhaps he could stay behind as a scout. I'm assuming he's at least part ranger and thus would be able to survive out here quite well.
Just a thought, albiet out of character
Renik Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 3:53:16 PM
"I also suggest we head back to Plateau City. That way we can buy any gear we need, attend the festival day, and update our employer with everything we know so far. I believe the festival is in 2 days, so let's stay that long, decide on how best to infiltrate the fort, and then teleport back here once the festival is over, with backup if we can find it. Arien, how long will it take to get everyone back? Sarigar makes a good point; if you are willing, Rond, it might be a good idea to stay here and keep an eye on things. It would be useful to see who comes and goes from the fort over the next couple of days."
Renik's vote: Plateau City, via Arien's teleport spells (however long that might take).
Arien Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 6:12:29 PM
"I will need to memorize them in the morning then I can, through some meta-magic manipulation memorize the spell five times. That would be enough for up to three trips there which should be more than enough to get us all there."
Feng Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 9:01:34 PM
"Plateau City sounds like the best place. We can attend the festival and I have enough gold to get the other half of my axe enchanted to kill giants. We seem to run across them often enough."
Setanos (Extended Mage Armor) Thursday November 4th, 2004 11:08:01 AM
Setanos looks about in great disappointment. "So ya leave, ta save meh skin, when I have asked ya ta stay. An in doing so ya risk our mission, and cause these people ta endure another day o slavery. An why? I know ye all well enough ta know ya faced dangers before. But this...this be seeming cowardly., he says, spitting at the last word. "But if that be what ya decide, so be it, I kenna do this alone."
As he readies to go, Setanos continually looks towards the fort, a mixture of frustration and sadness on his face.
OOC: As a Protector of Domi, what you're asking Setanos to do is completely against his oaths and values. In the interest of keeping the group together and not splintered I've yielded, but I'm going to have to decide on where things will go after this mission.
Meanwhile, Back in Plateau City (DM Cayzle) Thursday November 4th, 2004 11:51:33 AM
The group sets up a camp and waits within sight of the Giant Fort. They see, over the course of a few hours, 10 giants practicing fighting within the walls. Somewhat later a patrol of four giants and their odd canines returns to the rough fortress.
You also see slaves at work -- a mix of goblins, humans, orcs, gnolls. You also see a number of ... dwarves? But the dwarfish folk are evidently guests, judging by the way the giants interact with them.
Early the next morning, the group teleports in relays and returns to Plateau City. This is now Day Six, and tomorrow is the Festival.
What are you doing here, and how long are you taking. Maybe we can get this sojourn out of the way quickly?
[OOC: Sorry for a late post today. I try to do it first thing int he morning. But the site was down.]
Sarigar and Black Paws Thursday November 4th, 2004 11:58:43 AM
Once in Plateau, the brothers immediately head over to "their spot" in Gladiator Park to avoid as much of the crowds as possible. On the day of the Festival, they attend, only because they said they would. They don't really believe in gods, but this "Gargul" person seemed powerful enough to live up to his promise of making Setanos die and having another packmate die (even for a second time) is something they would rather avoid.
Setanos d20+13=25 Thursday November 4th, 2004 12:05:34 PM
Setanos spends his day in the Temple of Domi, scribing a spell into his spell book.
OOC: Spell Craft check 25 vrs DC 18 to copy Fireball into his Baccobs Blessed Book.
Setanos Thursday November 4th, 2004 12:07:01 PM
Afterward he spends time in the Temple of Gargul, contemplating his new found life.
Draax Thursday November 4th, 2004 4:02:00 PM
Draax spends the day before the festival seeing to his horse. He takes time to ride the animal and give it some exercise. He finds a nice tree to lie under and feed the horse a few apples while he ponders the situation with the giant's fort.
Renik Thursday November 4th, 2004 5:26:48 PM
The rogue reports back to the temple, filling their employer in with the details of their mission's progress. He asks for assistance in tackling the fort, but in truth expects none.
Like Sarigar Renik feels a bit out of place at the ceremony of Gargul, but attempts to look as dour and solemn as all the other worshippers. He only winks at three particularly attractive acolytes.
Before they head back he makes time to talk with Setanos. "My friend, I am sorry for the way things have turned out. We have been ineffective in our mission, and have left people behind to suffer. But think on this; if by our holding back a few days to improve our chances we bring about their release, when early action may have led to our doom, do we not benefit the victims more greatly by departing? Is it cowardice to retreat in the face of certain death, when by preparedness, guile and bold action we might win the battle another day? I understand your anger, my friend. I too am frustrated. We were not ready to act when we should have been. But if we rush headlong at insurmountable odds when other, better alternatives present themselves, well then we are not brave, or righteous, or worthy. We owe it to those slaves to win, and we can only win if we are ready. Let us prepare ourselves, return to the fort, and do what we set out to do."
Feng Thursday November 4th, 2004 9:04:22 PM
Feng swings by the catacombs before heading over to the temple of Gargul to take part in the pre-festival acitivities. He wishes they could have done something back at the fort but they were not prepared to deal with the situation.
Rond Thursday November 4th, 2004 10:25:22 PM
Rond is at a loss for words when the party returns to civilization. Once again he sees a group of people splintering because they cannot agree on a course of action. AT least this time, they didn't have someone go off and do something strange, like the bard did awhile ago.
Arien Friday November 5th, 2004 5:44:32 AM
Arien attends the ceremony and reflects upon the friends he has made, and lost, since he began his career in adventuring. After the ceremony Arien heads to the Catacombs to make some purchases.
The Eye of Gargul (DM Cayzle) Friday November 5th, 2004 10:34:12 AM
Sarigar and Black Paws spend their time as far from the urban masses as possible. Setanos does his arcane business and then heads to the Gargulite Temple. Draax spends some quality time with his mount. Feng and Arien do some shopping. Rond finds a quiet place to do some thinking.
Renik reports to HQ and asks for assistance. Brother Hagemenes, the treasurer, is the highest ranking person around to talk to, as Kiriana is unavailable.
The elder human looks unhappy when Renik asks for assistance. "Absolutely not! We cannot spare more funds for this mission. We are bleeding money on so many fronts. I'm sorry, but I cannot give you any funds."
"But if it is advice, you are after, I would be happy to share my years of experience with you. You are faced with an opponent you will be hard pressed to defeat in a straight-up battle. Therefore if you fight, then fight intelligently -- divide your enemy. Maximize your strengths. Or perhaps it would be wisest not to fight! Pursue other options. The two most obvious are stealth and negotiation. Walk in covertly, or walk in with a show of strength. Remember that your mission is not to defeat giants, kill evil creatures, or free slaves. Your mission, which trumps all other concerns, is the return of the coin and other objects. Bloodshed is not always the answer."
The entire group attends the ceremony at the Temple of Gargul. It is a strange place, full of the trappings of both death and birth. Renik winks at a few Gargulites, but their steely looks and the fact that they cast no shadows are a little more than somewhat daunting.
At the height of the ceremony, braziers burning incense make the place hazy. You feel a momentary vast weight press down on you. Something stirs in the mists at the altar that was not there a second ago.
If you make a Spot check vs DC15, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {You notice a small humanoid standing on the altar -- an imp, looking at you!}
Then the weight is gone, the mists clear, and all is as it was. The congregation looks stunned, and several clerics with glowing eyes turn to look at the group.
Setanos feels that his presence has been acknowledged.
After the ceremony, the group leaves as one and meets to talk over what needs to be done.
[Friends, I'm assuming that Arien has the spells prepared to bring you back to the Giant Fort today, the day of the ceremony. Since the ceremony lasted most of the afternoon, you might want to go back, rest outside the fort and start fresh the day after the Ceremony with a full complement of spells in your heads. Please use the weekend to talk strategy. Post as often as you like. I hope you all can find a consensus on a plan. Be forewarned -- this module is non-linear and can be solved in several ways, but some paths are tougher than others, and if you are stupid, I'll feel free to hack you down! No quarter from the newbie DM! LOL!]
Sarigar and Black Paws d20+15=27 Friday November 5th, 2004 11:50:29 AM
The brothers easily pick out the imp as they are doing very little at the ceremony other than being present as that "Gargul" person demanded. Anyone near them would probably hear a low growl as they stared at the little unnatural creature.
At the gathering of group, the brother are rather quiet, but it's readily apparent that he's ready to go when the others are set. If Renik mentions some of the priests suggestions, particularly about dividing the opposing forces and/or the stealth, he's more than happy with either one. As for these nego...negoshe...ummm...talking, he's obviously not up for that, but will go with whatever gets them to their prey.
Draax d20+5=7 Friday November 5th, 2004 12:50:40 PM
Draax is not sure what he expected from the ceremony, but he almost panics when he feel the weight descend upon him. He is relieved when the weight is finally lifted and then wonders why everyone is looking at them.
Back at the fort Draax finds a concealed spot to set up his tent. He then volunteers for the first watch.
Feng d20+1=7 Friday November 5th, 2004 5:41:33 PM
Feng enjoys the festival, more than he thought he would. With so much fighting he doesn't get much time to get into the religious practices of the gods he serves.
Arien d20+9=19 d100=9 Friday November 5th, 2004 7:43:01 PM
Arien remains still as he spots the imp looking at him. Then dismissing the matter Arien continues to reflect upon the past. After the ceremony when the group is all together Arien teleports them back to the area outside the fort they were at previously.
Renik d20+11=21 Sunday November 7th, 2004 3:33:37 PM
The rogue recounts the words of Brother Hagemenes to the other party members.
At the ceremony he realises that for some reason there is an imp on the altar. He shrugs mentally. Not for him to question the many mysteries of the Gods. Gargul wants imps doing magic tricks at his parties? Who is Renik to argue? Still, he can't help but feel that the ceremony could be easily improved. Nothing a few fireworks and a couple of dozen dancing girls wouldn't sort out.
Once back at the fort Renik takes stock. "OK, I visited the Catacombs in Plateau City, and with the party funds we were given by Kiriana we should be suitably prepared to make our move now.
To recap, here's the plan. Arien casts Veil upon everyone but he and I, disguising them as giants. They then approach the fort from the path and form a diversion. Fighting is to be avoided if at all possible; the plan is to draw attention, not arouse suspicion. Meanwhile Arien and I will go in invisible, flying and with non-detection cast. We will also be in telepathic contact with everyone else when sufficiently close together. I believe the distance is no more than 30ft, is that right Arien?.
Arien will attempt to trace the magical aura of the items we seek. If that fails we will have to hunt fort them the old fashioned way. Arien, could you tell us how long we have for the various spells? We'll need to get out before the durations end.
One final thing: We'll need a method of getting the diversion party out of the area once the deed is done. Any thoughts on how we might achieve that?"
Tratain Sunday November 7th, 2004 11:07:45 PM
Tratain attends the ceremony and afterwards listens to Reniks plan. He says "The Illusion may be risky, all it will take for the entire plan to crumble is for just one giant or Drow to see through it. But I don't have any better Idea's."
Draax Monday November 8th, 2004 2:04:57 AM
Draax listens to the plan.
"Getting out will depend on the type of diversion we create, I suggest we start a fire away from the slaves which should avoid any of the giants looking closely at us during the confusion."
Rond d20+7=12 Monday November 8th, 2004 7:03:44 AM
Rond contemplates the meaning of the ceremony up and until the point at which he feels the weight descend upon him. Worrying about something of evil intent, Rond's sense of dread increases. When the weight disappears and nothing happens, Rond exhales in relief.
Rond listens to Renik as he passes on the Brothers instructions. Rond then add, "I agree that our primary focus is about return the coin and other objects. If we had not come north, we would not have found the slaves, and they would still be held in slavery. We know about them now, we can attempt a rescue at a different time. Besides, if we rescue them all, then we have no chance of keeping an eye on the enclosure. What if at a later date, we try to recruit one of them to spy for us?
But that's at a later date. Our primary goal is to get the objects we came for and get out. A rescue attempt will have to come at a different time."
Setanos Monday November 8th, 2004 7:39:26 AM
Setanos nods his agreement with the plan to use the veil. Those that know him can tell he is troubled, but he speaks no more on the subject.
Feng Monday November 8th, 2004 8:06:00 AM
The situation at hand troubles the young half-orc. He desperately wants to free the slaves but how many lives will he endanger by doing so? How would he get the slaves back to cilvilization? Those people need food, water, and clothing against the cold temperatures.
"I want to help those enslaved people but I don't know how. Either we kill all the giants or take them out of the scab. Those people would need food and clothing to survive the trip and some people still might not make it. I'm struggling to come up with a solution."
Final Preparations (DM Cayzle) Monday November 8th, 2004 10:32:50 AM
The group is currently about 20 minutes walk from the giant fort. Where do you want to be when the Veil is cast? What kind of giants will you look like? What kind of gear and equipment? Wealthy? Average? What about Black Paws? Will he be disguised too? What other spells and preparations will you make?
Note that per the SRD rules, "Those who interact with the subjects can attempt Will disbelief saves to see through the glamer." I will play that when you act as a giant, make a disguise and/or bluff check -- untrained if necessary. Based on these checks, I'll decide whether or not any giants you meet get to make a Will save to disbelieve. Essentially, they get a save if you do something suspicious. They definitely get a save if they shake hands, fight, or wrestle you while disguised.
Remember that all Veiled PCs must stay within 30 feet of each other, per the spell!
With the next post, I'd like to get us moving! K?
Also, note that although you are free, of course, to role play however you wish, I do not require paladins, protectors of domi, good clerics, and such PCs to attack evil characters! Good does not equal stupid!
Sarigar and Black Paws d20+30=33 d20+25=32 d20+14=21 d20+14=16 Monday November 8th, 2004 12:41:24 PM "Ummm, what is the 'vale' spell thing you want to use on me? Assuming one of the casters explains it to him in the simplest terms possible, hopefully including its disadvantages, he'll return with...
"Prolly not gonna work on me. I ain't good with people. The giants are gonna know I ain't a giant. Brother and I can hide close by in case you need us. Good idea though, I just don't wanna make it bad."
If there's no arguement with the brothers playing the stealth card. They will shadow the party from what cover they can find for as long as they can to stay within about 60 feet of the others that are going in veiled (Sarigar Hide 33, Move Silent 32 - Black Paws Hide 21, Move Silent 16).
ooc: Not only does Sarigar have no idea how to act like a giant, but he takes penalties to Diplomacy and Buff checks as a Lost Child. =)
Renik Monday November 8th, 2004 5:40:32 PM
"Tratain has a point. I'm a little worried that the disguised party members could increase the risk of our mission's failure. Unless anyone strongly objects I think we're better off reverting to the original plan. Arien and I will go in alone. Then, we can't get the items, we can all go in together in disguise as a backup plan.
"Arien, let's get into the treeline, cast our spells (Invisibility, Non detection, Flight), and go exploring."
OOC: Renik has the requisite items on the way from the Catacombs. Mailing you confirmation now Cayzle.
Wands of Invisibility (4500 gp)
Potions of Non-detection (4*750= 3000 gp)
Potions of Cure Moderate Wounds (3*300= 900)
Scrolls of Rary's Telepathic Bond (3*1125= 3375)
Total Purchase: 11775 gp from the group party fund of 12,000. 225 remains.
Tratain Monday November 8th, 2004 11:39:21 PM
Tratain waits where Renik directs the party to and settles down to wait for the scouts to return with the location of the items if they can find them.
Draax Tuesday November 9th, 2004 12:23:55 AM
Draax listens to the change of the plan again and realizes that he is back to sitting and waiting again. He sighs and finds himself a comfortable spot to sit while they wait.
Arien Tuesday November 9th, 2004 3:21:26 AM
Arien casts extended mage armor at the beginning of the day. When the plan changes once again Arien shakes his head but follows orders. He casts fly upon himself and then follows that up with a potion of non-detection and one of invisibility. Then once Renik is ready he heads out to towards the giant's compound.
0 Level: Detect Magic x2, Light, Read Magic x2 1st Level: Burning Hands, Magic Missile x5, Protection from Evil 2nd Level: Rope Trick, Scorching Ray x4, Extended Shield 3rd Level: Displacement, Dispel Magic, Fireball x2, Lightning Bolt 4th Level: Dimension Door x2, Evard's Black Tentacles, Ice Storm, Stone Skin 5th Level: Summon Monster V x2, Cone of Cold, Wall of Force 6th Level: Chain Lightning x2, Veil
Setanos (Extended Mage Armor) Tuesday November 9th, 2004 8:24:50 AM
Setanos says nothing as the plans change, but wishes his companions a safe trip. He then spends his time in various tasks designed to offset the tension he feels about the risks of this mission, and his inability to do much beyond sitting and waiting. He will continually observe things in the valley from their camp, looking for signs of trouble.
The Trail grows Hot! (DM Cayzle) Tuesday November 9th, 2004 10:19:11 AM
This is Day Eight, morning, in the lands of the Flamehorn Clan, the Scab. It is the day after the festival of Gargul. The party creeps as close to the giant fort as it can while still being confident that they are well hidden. The stench of the place grows strong, the rotten eggs smell that comes from the nearby hot springs.
You end up in the woods to the southwest of the gate to the walled fort.
You see slaves at work -- humans, orcs, halflings, gnolls, others. You see about ten giants in the immediate area supervising slaves, watching, and going about their own business. You cannot see inside the fort from where you are at the moment.
That changes after Arien and Renik take to the sky. At first the two scouts have a problem -- how to sense where the other is? But the easiest solution is to fly holding hands.
At first Arien is discouraged, since the magic trail leading into the fort has long since dissipated. However, soon the trail heats right up! Flying above the fort, and then down into the compound, the duo fly by different buildings and people.
There are giants walking here and there -- it looks like a patrol of five are getting ready to head out. They are at the pen near the hot spring, and they have a double handful of those huge canines with them. Arien senses that several are carrying magic items, but nothing like what he seeks.
At first the mage thinks the trail is cold. Then, near a few human-sized houses, Arien sees the trail! It is, without question, the sign he seeks. Powerful magic has been passing by the area -- carried from one house to the main building and back, several times a day for the last some-odd days.
As the two watch, the door to the house opens, and a drow steps out. For a flash, while the door is open, Arien senses the source of the trail for the first time. This is potent magic indeed, maybe more powerful than Arien has sensed before. Then the door shuts, the drow walks to the stone building, and enters.
With this information in hand, the duo returns to the group and reports in.
Please consider this great map, originally created by Marcin, scribbled on by your humble DM.
Feng Tuesday November 9th, 2004 12:15:52 PM
"So we know that our quarry might be inside but those he dealt with definitely are. From what you have mentioned, there are many giants about. Perhaps we try the veil spell to get us through the camp? The giants will be onto us at some point. I would rather worry about them after we have what we came for."
Sarigar and Black Paws Tuesday November 9th, 2004 12:37:41 PM
The brothers listen, as intently as they normaly do, to Renik and Arien's scouting report. He doesn't recall seeing the giant dog-things when he scouted the first time and he's curious what they may be.
"hmmmm, I think I'd screw up this 'vale' thing you wanna use, but I'll do it if ya want. Prolly better if me and brother just sneak and stay as close as we can, but out of sight. Or maybe one of them 'see through' spell-things.
Prepared Spells: 1 Long Strider 1 Magic Fang
Tratain Wednesday November 10th, 2004 12:14:44 AM
Tratain waits for Renik and Arien to return with their information. While waiting he attempts to get a count of how many giants and slaves there are.
Draax Wednesday November 10th, 2004 12:40:55 AM
Hearing the duo's report Draax is relieved that the items are still within their reach. He agrees with Feng's assessment of the situation. First they need to get the items and then they can worry about the pursuit.
Renik Wednesday November 10th, 2004 2:50:29 AM
"Assuming we can get the items, do we have a magical means of escape, or would we have to fight our way out if things turned sour?" asks the rogue.
Considering (DM Cayzle) Wednesday November 10th, 2004 7:16:33 AM
The group ponders its next course of action. They have a place to go, now, but how to get there?
========== MEANWHILE ==========
It was frustrating, he thought to himself ... moderately lucrative, but hardly the source of riches he had expected. Stupid humans! Stupid Faerie Tales! Who could understand them!
He just HAD to figure out how to make this work out right!
Arien Wednesday November 10th, 2004 7:18:31 AM
"Well I do have a couple of dimension door spells memorized but I am mostly a combat mage so relying on me to help run away is the not the best thing. Also, I think perhaps you rely too much on magic Renik. A good old fire will certainly distract the inhabitants here. Aside from that as several of our friends here have said, leaving these people here really isn't an option." A thought occurs to Arien as he speaks, "You know Benny's love may be a captive here, who knows how long these giants have been here."
Setanos (Extended Mage Armor) Wednesday November 10th, 2004 8:15:33 AM
Setanos listens to the report with interest. He spends some time mulling over the options. "I'll tell ya true, I dinna think we ken be gettin outta here without a fight. We might, if we using magic ta escape. But its gonna be rough."
Sarigar and Black Paws Wednesday November 10th, 2004 12:21:52 PM "Hmmm, we got people to save? I thought we had to get a shiny thingie? I'm confused."
Sarigar rubs his head as if it's hurting and Black Paws buries his nose in his paws as if mimicking Sarigar.
Renik Wednesday November 10th, 2004 4:54:13 PM
"Very well. Let us disguise ourselves. I'm going in invisible and with non-detection. While you create the diversion and Sarigar hangs back to light a fire I'll try to blink inside that building and secure the items. With the telepathy in spell in place we'll need to stick fairly close together to maintain contact. No more than 30 feet between each person, I believe. Who can best speak for the group as a Giant?" (OOC: Best disguise mod? Anyone speak Giant?)
Feng Wednesday November 10th, 2004 6:25:58 PM
"I do believe that we will have to battle the giants at some point. Is there anyway we can fortify a position to make that easier? I do think a normal fire would be a nice distraction. I'm sure it happens now and again."
Arien Wednesday November 10th, 2004 7:32:03 PM
"I have just the thing then," Arien says as he reaches into his pockets. He produces ten flasks of alchemist's fire. "Two of these on a building would definitely set a blaze going wouldn't you think? I would say that we set fire to a few of the buildings then sneak inside the compound and deal with the drow. We kill them and take the bodies. The giants would likely think the drow set the fire to distract them and took off. If we take their stuff at the same time I think that it'll definitely look like they took off. We may be able to turn the allies against each other which would definitely help. At the very least we would deal with one group and would have that much less to deal with later."
Rond Wednesday November 10th, 2004 10:22:53 PM
(ooc sorry for missed posts).
"I'd rather try to fight the Giants as we leave the fort, so maybe we can go in with veil right after Renik and Arien go in invisible, so that way we're there in case they get stuck, and we all just try to work our way out of the fort."
Tratain Wednesday November 10th, 2004 11:45:34 PM
Tratain says, "The Fire should give us the diversion we need to get the ring. It galls me to not be able to help these people, I will come back after we return the ring. Renik did you get a count as to how many giants there were? There may be too many to fight straight on but when we return we can start to whittle down their numbers."
Draax Thursday November 11th, 2004 4:38:31 AM
Draax listens as plans are being made.
Setanos (Extended Mage Armor) Thursday November 11th, 2004 12:15:30 PM "Just ta be sure, ya talkin bout setting tha giant houses on fire, not tha slaves. If we ain't gonna save em, let's no burn down their house."
A Plan Emerges (DM Cayzle) Thursday November 11th, 2004 1:28:35 PM
Some information from your inspection of the area:
There are maybe 25 to 35 thick-set, redhead giants, but about a dozen are kids and older giants who are not as battle-worthy. The younger males tend to fight and wrestle with each other a lot. At any given point in time there seems to be one or two patrols on duty -- just dumb luck kept the party from bumping into one so far. Especially with those big canines.
There are dozens of humans, orcs, halflings, goblins, and gnolls working in farming pursuits. They herd pigs and cows, grow crops, harvest fruit from trees. They are treated harshly, but there is none of the gratuitious cruelty that might spark rebellion.
You have also noted a number of smaller people who seem to be guests. The handful of drow that you tracked here. The Illithid Renik saw. maybe a dozen people that look dwarfish. And now, as you watch, a number of lizard people. These visitors walk among the giants and seem to be getting along famously.
===== ----- ===== ----- =====
As the group talks, the outline of a plan emerges.
One person will create a diversion by setting a giant building on fire. An outlying one or one inside the wall? Who is doing this? How is he getting there unseen? How is he setting the fire? How is he getting out unseen?
Meanwhile, the rest of the group will enter the fort proper and head to the Drow house. Some will be invisible and others will be using the disguise magic. Who will use which method? How will the disguises work? Giant disguises would be noticeable. Peasant disguises? Something else? By my reading of the spell description, you could be "anything you wish" -- mice and ants come to mind.
What will you do when you get to the Drow Guest House?
Sarigar and Black Paws Thursday November 11th, 2004 3:20:23 PM
Sarigar takes a pair of flasks from Arien and says "Ok, so, put these on a big-uns roof and a fire starts? Hmmm, they don't feel hot. How they gonna make fire?"
Looking obviously confused at how a cool to the touch flask is going to start a fire, but obviously eager at the propect of using them. "We can sneak em in there, no problem. Not sure we can get to da inside ones, but an outside one'll be easy."
He waits until the flasks are explained to him a little better then starts to make for the underbrush when he stops. "Ummm, when ya want the fire started?"
Draax Thursday November 11th, 2004 5:37:50 PM
"I picked up some endure elements scrolls if Arien would not mind casting them on those that need it. It will at least keep us from freezing to death if we need to wear light clothing to move quickly.
I also brought 3 see invisibility (20 minutes) and 4 comprehend language (10 minutes) scrolls. Not sure if they will be of any use for this mission because the duration of the spells are not long, but they are here if we need them."
Draax smiles at Sarigar's question, and starts to answer it until he realizes that he has no idea how it actually works.
Renik Friday November 12th, 2004 7:49:01 AM
"Sarigar, let's make you invisible. Then you can set a fire within one of the storage huts outside the fort. That should at least look a little more natural than the roof spontaneously bursting into flames. Set the fire if you hear any sounds of battle within the fort. Otherwise wait for a signal. With a bit of luck that will get the fort doors open as people come to assist, allowing us to slip out more easiliy.
I'll go into Drow building by blinking through the wall. The rest of you... Arien, can that spell turn the party into something less noticeable? Bees, perhaps? A few bees flying over the wall will never be spotted. Do you have access to our normal items once changed?
One last thought; once our mission is done we can come back for the prisoners. It ocurs to me that out here in the hills the compound is heavily reliant on supplies. We might not be able to beat 25 giants, but we could ambush their patrols, cut off their supplies and whittle down their force in that manner. A point to consider later, perhaps."
Feng Friday November 12th, 2004 8:55:28 AM
"We now know that there are several races in the fort with the giants. Perhaps we should appear as lizard folk or another race where not understanding the giant language is that suprising. Plus how observant will they be? I'm betting that all dwarves and lizard folk, ect... look the same to a giant."
Planning (DM Cayzle) Friday November 12th, 2004 5:15:28 PM
[OOC: Huh! Only four posts even with an extra 8 hours to post in. Please e-mail me if you are having problems. With the action about to heat up, I'd love to see more posting!]
The group continues to plan.
Note that the Veil spell is an illusion, not a transformation. It does not grant the ability to fly. Disguised as bees, you would be bees crawling on the ground (and suspiciously quickly for crawling bees, too, unless you were careful to slow down deliberately!)
Note that alchemist's fire combusts when exposed to air. Usually that's by throwing it and breaking the bottle.
By the way, is the plan to create the fire and sneak inside in all the chaos? Or to start a fight, and hope that a fire started after the melee begins will distract the combatants?
What signal would you use to tell Sarigar to start the blaze?
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