Getting the Skinny - DM Donna Wednesday February 9th, 2005 9:13:46 AM
"We'll let Athalorn, Olana and Milo do the recon for the moment." K'Nara assures Lian and Figment.
Athalorn's sharpened senses pick out the various sentry posts as the "vulture" soars over the stronghold. None of the men at their posts look alarmed, not even when a few of them spot the scavenger in the sky. There do not seem to be too many guards about--most of the posts have only one, though the towers that flank the front entrance have two guards each.
Milo and Olana follow the ridge that mirrors the path that the Talons are all assuming that Elese and her crew have taken...around the bend and about a mile and a half from the stronghold the terrain becomes stable enough to support going up from the flanking ridge and down to the road. Just less than another half-mile after that, a fortuitiously-grouped arrangement of various-sized boulders on either side of that trail.
What a remarkably effective place for an ambush..!
Gunther Wednesday February 9th, 2005 2:41:20 PM
The warrior rocks gently from foot to foot in nervious anticipation.
Brother Bertram Wednesday February 9th, 2005 8:03:14 PM
As they wait, Bertram carefully tests the edge of his axe, and prays to Domi and Gargul for protection and aid.
Milo d20+18=30 d20+21=22 Wednesday February 9th, 2005 10:21:58 PM
Milo silently signals Olana to follow him as he circles around one side of the boulders, to see if indeed an ambush had been set. (OOC: Hide DC 30, Move Silently DC 22. These reflect a -5 penalty for moving at full speed.)
Olana d20+14=19 d20+17=25 d20+16=20 Thursday February 10th, 2005 2:14:14 AM
Olana is to one side of the track, perusing the boulders, assessing their suitability as a base for ambush. Milo's behaviour has her quietly nocking an arrow. Yeah, it would be a pity if they were checking the boulders only to be leapt upon themselves. Moving back and forth, staying about 20ft away, she tries to see if anyone's hiding. Then she moves closer to check for tracks. If things are okay, she supposes it's back to the group, a toute vitesse. to tell the others.
Survival DC 19 Listen DC 25 Spot DC 20
Athalorn (sub Jay B) Thursday February 10th, 2005 2:47:09 AM
Athalorn will return after a few minutes and relay the information to K'Nara and the group.
Lian Thursday February 10th, 2005 2:54:26 AM
The monk sort of hangs his head at K'Nara's words, but he waits patiently. "As soon as they return, we'll know what to expect. I can't wait to be on the other end of an ambush." He rubs his hands together.
Figment Thursday February 10th, 2005 7:43:50 AM
"Obviously, it will be best to get them before they get to the hall since it is inhabited. If they get there then they may be selling it or handing it off to another - and have help.".
Reporting In - DM Donna Thursday February 10th, 2005 9:27:14 AM
The druid confirms K'Nara's hypothesis--within the stronghold are guards at stations, but none of them are especially alert. It's highly unlikely that Elese has arrived before the Talons have.
K'Nara smiles at Lian's anticipation and nods agreement with Figment's comment.
"My hope precisely, Figment." she says. "I wonder how Milo and Olana's scouting is coming along..?"
About two miles away, the halfling and the ranger are using all their skills to make sure that the potential ambush site isn't already occupied.
It isn't. No sign of anybody in the area.
Milo and Olana speed back to the others and tell them of the site.
DM OOC: I'll be be putting a map together so that the PCs can plan where they want to position themselves in the intended ambush. The players will be receiving it via email today...hopefully.
Milo Thursday February 10th, 2005 8:26:38 PM
After relaying the information regarding the ambush site, Milo indicates that he'd like to be close to the road, hiding behind one of the smaller boulders. (V15)
Ingrge Thursday February 10th, 2005 9:21:33 PM
Waiting for any possible results from his spell he is kind of oblivious to other things around him.
Gunther Thursday February 10th, 2005 11:07:06 PM
The warrior drops some of his anxiety at the prospect of ambushing Elese and her crew. "I am not very stealthy... I vill eder need to hide behind von of de boulders or have invisibility cast on me. I prefer de later, but hiding is goot too."
Olana Friday February 11th, 2005 12:30:56 AM
"I'm probably better off being a little further back, then I can make full use of my bow. There's a big boulder set back aways that I could hide behind."
E12
DM Donna Friday February 11th, 2005 7:03:26 AM
(OOC: apologies to Ingrge--missed the initial post!)
The weapon mage attempts to focus on the location of the Serpent Star...he can tell that it exists...but not within the mere 720-foot-range of his spell.
Athalorn (sub Jay B) Friday February 11th, 2005 8:07:29 PM
The druid looks around for inconspicuous places to hide and cast from. Or even places to lay natural traps, pit-falls or the like.
He also looks for small animals in the area, one that might be dangerous, like scorpions, vipers, the like.
He uses his Trackless Step ability, not leaving tracks in the surrounding area. The druid also suggests, "We should cover up our tracks to this place. Who would be traveling in this area? they should be covered."
"What sorts of people was Elese traveling with in the visions, Ingrge, Figment?"
5th Level (2) DC = 20 Call Lightning Storm, Wall of Thorns
Lian Friday February 11th, 2005 8:18:13 PM
During the ambush, Lian plans to stay near the spellcasters or K'Nara. "K'Nara, what are your plans for me? During the ambush I mean."
Figment Friday February 11th, 2005 10:06:31 PM
The mage smiles at the reports as the Talons finally catch a break. "Seems we have an ambush to set after all...".
Ambush 101 -- DM Donna Monday February 14th, 2005 6:23:15 AM
K'Nara looks around the area and nods at Milo's and Olana's suggestions as to where they should be when Elese happens into the area.
"Our set-up will be most effective if we can first allow our spellcasters to get off as many of their long-range offensive spells as possible...soften up the enemy and THEN have those of us who are best at hand-to-hand mop up the remainder of the group." the leader of the Talons says. "Something else that would be really nice to utilize would be some kind of trap between these two larger boulders that flank the trail--something like a Web that is also Invisible, or a pit that has the illusion of solid ground over it...or something as simple as having that part of the trail suddenly become a bunch of sticky, hard-to-move-through mud..." She looks at Ingrge, Figment, Athalorn and Bertram.
"Got any specific spells you think can work well like that..?" K'Nara asks.
Athalorn (sub Jay B) Monday February 14th, 2005 10:26:34 AM
"I can't move earth on this day with any spells I've prepared, however, I can utilize the several long range spells I have on hand. As well as my Wall of Thorns, which I was considering using as a blockade just behind the group to prevent escape. I also have a Earth softening spell prepared, if that can be of use."
5th Level (2) DC = 20 Call Lightning Storm, Wall of Thorns
Lian Monday February 14th, 2005 10:28:41 AM
Lian looks at K'nara. "As long as I can beat the snot out of my 'girl friend' at least once, I'll be happy." He helps with whatever manual labor that will be needed for the ambush.
Ingrge Monday February 14th, 2005 5:52:05 PM
Looking around the area, Ingrge nods his head. It could work here (indicating the two boulders closet to the path). If I cast a web between these to boulders and then cast a nondetection spell it should make it nearly impossible to locate other than by getting stuck on it. Just make sure that you know where it is so you all don't get stuck in it.
So said he casts a web spell and then casts non detection on the web.
Brother Bertram Monday February 14th, 2005 6:56:00 PM
Bertram looks about the area thoughtfully. "With them trapped in that small of an area I could rain down a sizeable amount of fire upon thier heads. Perhaps not enough to kill them...But more than enough for them to know Domi's wrath." Bertram grins at the thought.
Figment Monday February 14th, 2005 10:10:18 PM
Looking over the ambush site, the mage carefully considers the options. "I do not have any illisory spells available, nor one for excavating a pit. I would suggest that I focus my attacks on Elise and that the archers do too. She is our most fearsome foe. She has measured us in Fae, she knows our strengths and weaknesses - and she has the artifact and knows how to use it. At least to a degree. I have some special surprises specifically for her. I would suggest I focus on her and that Ingrge blast them with some solid area spells like fireballs and such. Bertram can as well as he has said. I will focus on Elise and hopefully prevent her from casting anything particularly nasty. Also, I have many spells I can cast on the fighters to make them more able and protect them from harm.". He looks to the warrior woman. "I want to be clear - I am going to attempt to kill them all. I am not going to show mercy. These people have murdered our allies - or those who once were our allies. If they get the upper hand they will kill us without mercy. And when they are taken care of, the HOL will be along shortly with their demon. We must be prepared to take them out too before they kill us - and they will if we don't strike first as they carve that nice symbol of love on all of our chests that they are so fond of. This may be a long day, indeed.".
Milo Monday February 14th, 2005 11:09:15 PM
Milo's expression is one of studied neutrality as Figment rants on about kill this and death that. The halfling certainly has his own ideas about the way combat should be, but chooses to remain quiet for the time being.
Olana Tuesday February 15th, 2005 12:32:46 AM
Olana nibbles on the corner of her lip as the tactics are discussed, her eyes focussed on middle distance.
"Maybe I should look for something big to shoot at. The next immediate threat after Elese."
Lian Tuesday February 15th, 2005 6:50:59 AM
"I have gotten over her, Elese I mean."
He pauses. "I think I'd be best taking on her foot soldiers. However, where I go is up to K'nara."
Athalorn (sub Jay B) Tuesday February 15th, 2005 6:54:25 AM
"K'Nara, did you want me to take to flight and signal the Talons when Elese's group is in sight?" Asks the druid. "Or ask Glannath too do so?"
Setting Up the Ambush - DM Donna Tuesday February 15th, 2005 6:58:23 AM
K'Nara's grin is wide and confident when Ingrge sets up the nigh-invisible Web. However, her smile disappears when Figment speaks.
"People die in battle." she replies. "I don't expect quarter to be given--and they probably won't think to ask. However...the thing that has just now caught my attention once more is..." The human bladesinger draws in a breath that she exhales sharply.
"...I had completely forgotten about the Hands of Love!" She turns to Athalorn. "Keep your spells handy...but I'd like you to use your very effective tactic of using the form of a vulture to do aerial recon--circle our position and let us know when you see someone coming."
K'Nara then assigns everyone who did not specify a particular position different places on the map. She places the hand-to-hand fighter-types behind the flanking boulders of the trail and assigns Ingrge a spot near Olana. Figment is placed on top of the ridge--she hands him her only Levitation potion.
"Get up there, use your patented Improved Invisible spell and rain down death from on high...but Fly down if you feel the need to do so." she tells him. "And be VERY careful--I don't want to have to peel another demon from your throat again...especially any stinky ones!" Her hazel eyes sparkle with humor and she winks at the wizard.
"Anyone needs any combat boosting spells..? Last call..!"
DM OOC: this is a link to a page where I've placed the map with everyone's planned position on it:
Gunther (AC26 HP 73/73) Tuesday February 15th, 2005 8:52:55 AM
The warrior smiles at K'nara's placement. She was so good at seeing those kind of things. Crouching down behind the boulder next to the panther, Gunther activates his animated shield and pulls out a barkskin potion. "Dis is all I have. I'll drink it before dey get here. I vould like to have some oder spells like Bull's Strength and Cat's Grace if anyvon has de time." Gunther grabs his sword and shifts from foot to foot as he waits for his prey to show up."
OOC Sorry for the missed posts...been a little busy with RL.
Ingrge Tuesday February 15th, 2005 5:12:19 PM
Ok all before we get started I have several scrolls remaining, that I can cast on people. I have 5 haste scrolls, 2 fox's cunning, 2 stone skin, 2 eagle's spleandor, and one owl's wisdom. I also have an endurance and a blur potion someone can use if it will help them. Bertram, how would you like to have a greater invisibility spell cast upon you?
Speak now and i will see what I can do.
(Donna let me know how much Ingge and Figment can get done in the time we might have.)
Gunther Tuesday February 15th, 2005 7:02:45 PM
Gunther looks over at Ingrge. "I vould take a haste. I vould like a stone skin, but you should use it on somevon who needs it more dan me."
Figment (Fly, Greater Invisibility) d4+1=2 d4+1=5 d4+1=2 d4+1=4 Tuesday February 15th, 2005 11:14:02 PM
When the quarry has been spotted (e.g. I'd expect to know 20-30 minutes before they got there), the mage casts the following spells when appropriate (Note: I'll leave it to K'Nara to recommend the application): 2 Cat's Grace [+2,+5], 2 Bull's Strength [+2, +4], 2 Stoneskins [110], 1 Protection from Evil +1, 1 Magic Weapon. He politely declines K'Nara's levitation potion, option for flight instead. Once in flight to the boulder he casts greater invisibility on himself and prepares for battle. (I expect we would have ample time to time the spells so they don't expire before the battle).
Milo Wednesday February 16th, 2005 12:42:35 AM
Milo takes his time to hide behind the boulder that marks his assigned spot. Once hidden, he remains perfectly still, short sword in hand. (OOC: Taking 20 to hide gets Milo a DC 43.)
Olana Wednesday February 16th, 2005 1:59:25 AM
"A Cat's Grace and Bulls Strength would be nice," says the elf.
She's starting to get a little on edge, thinking about the oncoming battle, and hops from one foot to the other until settling into position.
Last Minute Preparations - DM Donna Wednesday February 16th, 2005 6:28:50 AM
The leader of the Talons advises that Bertram receives a Greater Invisibility...Athalorn, too, if there is another of those spells handy.
She also recommends that Lian, Gunther, and herself receive Stoneskins, Bull's Strength and Cat's Grace--unless any of them have magic items that would negate the bonuses of any of the spells.
If any Stoneskins, Bull's Strength or Cat's Grace spells are left, K'Nara would like to see Bertram beefed up for battle, as well as Milo and Olana getting their dexterity boosted at the very least.
(OOC: there is just about enough time to cast the spells that have been listed in the previous posts before everyone can tuck themselves into their various positions.)
K'Nara tells Athalorn to use his ability to assume bird form and get in the air--he is to signal when he spots Elise's group approaching by sending Glannath back to the Talons. Athalorn, himself, isn't to return until Elise and her group are within one minute of coming upon the ambush site. This is when Athalorn can settle himself into his position on the ridge next to Figment. The redhead assures the druid that she'll be able to see him because, apparently, her sword confers the ability for her to see invisible things.
"We'll wait until the enemy is within about twenty feet of Ingrge's Web," K'Nara outlines her plan, "Once that happens, Bertram, Athalorn, Ingrge and Figment can use whatever spells at their discretion to hit the enemy. They should be far enough away from those of us by the boulders so that we don't get hit by any area effects. Everyone not casting spells should either use what missiles they have on hand or wait until the...ah...smoke clears a bit before moving in for hand-to-hand. Hopefully, the attack will spur any of the enemy who lives right into that Web between the boulders." K'Nara looks around at everyone with eager hazel eyes.
"Okay...is everyone all set..?"
Figment (Fly, Improved Invis, See Invis) Wednesday February 16th, 2005 8:02:02 AM
The mage offers his Invisibility spell to whichever person doesn't have one yet. He adds See Invisible to his active spells so he has no unpleasant suprises like a demon grabbing him.
Athalorn (sub Jay B) (AC 27, 77hps) Wednesday February 16th, 2005 8:41:34 AM
Active Spells: Barkskin- 90 mins (self)
The druid takes to the air in vulture form and makes several passes over the group and the pass. He will return when spotting Elese and will report on the number of Elese's band that he counts. When he returns, he gets into his position beside Figment. He casts Barkskin +4 on himself and waits.
The druid happily excepts any spells offered to him. ------------------------------------ Prepared Spells 0 Level (6) DC = 15 Create Water, Detect Magic, Light, Mending, Purify Food & Drink, Resistance
1st Level (5) DC = 16 Charm Animal, Cure Light Wounds, Speak with Animals, Obscuring Mist, Magic Fang
2nd Level (5) DC = 17 Chill Metal, Fog Cloud, Gust of Wind, Soften Earth and Stone
3rd Level (4) DC = 18 Call Lightning, Meld into Stone, Sleet Storm, Wind Wall
5th Level (2) DC = 20 Call Lightning Storm, Wall of Thorns
Lian (AC 31, 47hps) Wednesday February 16th, 2005 8:50:30 AM
"I would be grateful for a Stoneskin and Bull's Strength. Though any enhancements would be great." The monk grins slightly.
"It's times like these I wish I had kept my bow."
(Lian is Totally Defensive, +6 dodge to AC for a round)
Brother Bertram Wednesday February 16th, 2005 1:29:47 PM
Bertram moves to his assigned spot and prepares his spell, praying to Domi for his aid.
Ingrge Wednesday February 16th, 2005 6:40:38 PM
Ingrge and Figment get rolling on spell casting, hitting everyone with something.
Bertram - Greater invisibility, Stone skinn (110), haste
Milo Wednesday February 16th, 2005 10:49:27 PM
Milo is keenly aware of the lack of magical assistance he receives, but cares very little. He is proudly aware of his own skill in battle, and believes that all the magic he needs lay in the gear he already possesses. Remaining still next to his boulder, the halfling waits for the coming storm to erupt.
Gunther (AC31, HP 73/73) Stoneskin 110, Haste, Barkskin +2, Cat's Grace +4???, Bull's Strength +4???) Wednesday February 16th, 2005 11:36:53 PM
Grinning from ear to ear, Gunther is thrilled with the magical enhancements. Anticipation is thick about him, and he shifts restlessly from foot to foot in anticipation of the up coming "surprise party".
OOC In 3.5 Bull's Strength and Cat's Grace are straight out +4. I wasn't sure if Gunther got the Cat's Grace and the Bull's Strength...just let me know.
Olana (Cats Str, Bulls Grace, haste) Thursday February 17th, 2005 2:11:00 AM
Olana makes a quick check of her weapons, gives a thumbs up to Ingrge as a thank you, and blows a quick kiss at Milo, before crouching down behind her boulder, set back aways from the track.
Lian (AC 32, 47hps) [stoneskin, bull's strength, haste] Thursday February 17th, 2005 5:24:49 AM
(OOC: Gunther is quite right about the bull's strength, however, Ingrge is quite the intelligent fellow, perhaps he has a secret about his spells? ;))
(Lian is Totally Defensive, +6 dodge to AC for a round)
Active spells from Ingrge: Stone skin (110), Bulls strength +2, Haste
"Thanks Ingrge." The monk will gladly accept any from Figment as well.
The monk remains quite tense. It is quite obvious, even to Lian, that Milo is quite unenchanted, as it were. :)
Athalorn (sub Jay B) (AC 27, 77hps)[barkskin, owls wisdom, blur] Thursday February 17th, 2005 5:32:48 AM
Active Spells: Barkskin- 90 mins (self) Owls wisdon +4 (Ingrge) Blur (Ingrge)
Upon return, he gladly accepts the spells granted him, then he conveys what he has seen, a little out of breath.
"It's Elese, galloping hell-for-leather along the trail towards the Blackshadow Hall.
There is a group of other riders about 30 seconds behind her...and it's quite obvious that she does NOT wish to be caught by them, as the other riders include a cleric wearing the marks of the Hands Of Love."
He looks to K'Nara. "Now what? Is it a ruse do you think?" He askes anxiously. "Weren't really counting on the the HoL."
Imminent Arrival - DM Donna Thursday February 17th, 2005 6:34:44 AM
K'Nara gives Ingrge a sharp look and a frown, but offers up both a Cat's Grace potion and a Bull's Strength potion to Milo, who will have just enough time to take them from her and drink them, should he choose to do so.
Athalorn's report makes the leader of the Talons pause.
"Hmmmm...if she's galloping that fast," K'Nara muses, "Then Elese will blunder into the Web for sure..." After a moment of contemplation, the female fighter asks:
"Does anyone have a Silence spell? If they do, cast it in the immediate area of the Web..." K'Nara says with a grin, "...since I'm almost positive that Elise will be the person who will fall into that trap first--it will keep her from using spells. However, be ready to hit her with the original spells you were going to use, in case she doesn't blunder into the Web or manages to break free of it." K'Nara went to where she was planning to wait for the imminent arrival of Elese...and company.
"Meanwhile, we can save most of our ammunition for the HOL goons on her heels." So saying, K'Nara takes out her bow and makes sure her quiver of arrows are at the ready.
Figment (Fly, Improved Invis, See Invis, Fox's Cunning +4, Prot from evil) Thursday February 17th, 2005 7:02:48 AM
"How many are in the other group?. I don't have silence memorized. Sounds like we have time to cast 3 spells at Elise before the riders close. I may be able to give us more time. We sould probably be able to take her out and get the lantern before the HOL arrives. Then the rules change...". The mage takes his position and waits for Elise. When she hits the web he casts. If she breaks through he pursues her in the air and casts.
Gunther (AC31, HP 73/73) Stoneskin 110, Haste, Barkskin +2, Cat's Grace +4???, Bull's Strength +4???) Thursday February 17th, 2005 10:09:35 AM
Gunther waits impatiently for the combat to begin. He looks over at his companion, and suddenly feels ashamed...here he is magiced to the nines and he has completely negleted his kitty. He looks over at Ingrge. "I am ashamed...do you have anoder stoneskin for de kitty? I should have had you cast it on her." Regardless of the outcome, Gunther crouches down behind the boulder, ready to pounce when the trap is sprung.
Kent Thursday February 17th, 2005 5:06:02 PM
(ooc the spells that people received are posted above. That is all that Ingrge and Figment have and Ingrge is now out of scolls.
Jay in all honesty Milo's being missed was an oversight on my part. Ingrge may be angry, jealous and not happy with the Halfling but he doesn't really want him dead.
I just didn't see that he requested any and I didn't see K'nara mention any and just for got to count.)
As to the +2s for the cat's grace and bull's strength, they were left over scrolls from 3.o that never got converted. If Donna wants to make them +4 all the way around that is ok with me.)
Ingrge Thursday February 17th, 2005 5:15:47 PM
"I am sorry Gunther I do not; I too should have thought of that, for she is a fine companion for this group of misfits. after a moment of thought Ingrge grins to himself and aims his staff at the cat and releases on charge. Suddenly the cat is no longer quite as easily seen as she was before (Displacement).
Taking his place near Olana in the rocks up front Ingrge readies his spell components, lays his bow and arrows out for easy access and places his staff near at hand. taking a wand out of his pack he leans it against one of the boulders, closes his eyes and waits.
Brother Bertram Thursday February 17th, 2005 6:06:23 PM
Bertram quickly says another prayer and feels the power of Domi working. (OOC Divine Favor)
Milo Thursday February 17th, 2005 8:23:33 PM
Milo smiles at K'nara, "Thank you, but no, my gloves negate the effect of the potion of cat's grace, and making me stronger is pointless, since my skills rely on precision rather than brute force. However, I appreciate the offer." Milo returns Olana's blown kiss, and then ducks behind the boulder to hide himself. (OOC: I actually thought it was more interesting that Ingrge would do that on purpose. = ) From a roleplaying perspective anyhow. Hide check DC 43 for taking 20.)
Olana Friday February 18th, 2005 1:07:56 AM
Olana takes a few deep breaths, and does her best to calm herself before the enemy appear on the track. Silently, she says a few prayers to the tree gods of Culverwood.
Athalorn (sub Jay B) (AC 27, 77hps)[barkskin, owls wisdom, blur] Friday February 18th, 2005 5:23:58 AM
Active Spells: Barkskin- 90 mins (self) Owls wisdon +4- (Ingrge) Blur- (Ingrge) Call Lightning Storm- 9 mins
Athalorn nods at K'Nara and gets into positon and casts Call Lightning Storm. (1 round to cast, lasts 9 mins, upto nine 5d6 bolts, DC 22 ref for half)
Lian (AC 32, 47hps) [stoneskin, bull's strength, haste] Friday February 18th, 2005 5:29:27 AM
(Lian is Totally Defensive, +6 dodge to AC for a round)
Active spells from Ingrge: Stone skin (110), Bulls strength +2, Haste
The monk simply waits for Elise and the HoL to arrive.
(Kent, I know you meant no disrespect to Milo/Chris, but I(and Lian) found it quite amusing. :) Please don't take offense.)
The Sound of a Trap Being Sprung - DM Donna d20=8 Friday February 18th, 2005 7:39:40 AM DM OOC: All scroll spells operate as per 3.5 rules, whatever their origin. Plus: I keep mispelling the nemesis name--it's supposed to be Elese!
Also, please list your PC status in the Post Name box, thusly:
PC Name (AC#; Current HP/Original,Pre-Combat HP; Magic Effects Upon PC)
K'Nara nods to Milo, replacing the potion bottles and getting into position herself, bow in hand.
The hidden adventurers soon hear the urgent cadence of approaching hoofbeats thudding closer and closer--those who look can see Elese kicking the sides of a lathered, dark brown horse that is straining to run ever faster with each blow of her heels...the horse and rider barrel right up the trail and into the Web that Ingrge set up there. Elese never saw the hidden trap (her Spot check was a mere 8.)
The equine is immediately stuck at the front of the web, but momentment launches Elese out of the saddle and right smack dab in the very heart of the magic, sticky strands. (OOC: Elese now occupies square M28 on the map--and I must apologize for drawing those webs rather thin--the Web actually is at least 20 feet thick between the boulders--meaning it occupies squares L28 and N28 on either side of Elese, etc.)
"@#$%&*!!!!" Elese screams curses in Elven--anyone understanding the language can immediately tell that she's cursing in the Drow dialect.
The party has at least one round to react...maybe even more...
...maybe...
Figment (AC 13, HP 63, Fly, Improved Invis, See Invis, Fox's Cunning +4, Prot from evil) d4=4 d20+7=26 Friday February 18th, 2005 8:43:50 AM
The mage wastes no time in giving the drow more reason to curse. If she's looking, she sees a black ray of energy crackle to life coming right at her, strike her in the chest and drain away her power (Ranged touch 26, Ennervation, no save - loses 4 levels and one of her most powerful spells - assuming she can still cast it...should affect her ability to use/control the artifact too). The mage then launches himself off the boulder and moves a little higher and to the center of the road (same side as the baddies will be coming from - but out of the target zone for ranged spells such as fireball) in case she decides to retaliate and prepares to cast again.
DM OOC: You can access the map of the ambush site and tell me the EXACT square that Figment now occupies, please.
He ends up in H-34 about 30/40 feet off the ground. He is SURE to stay outside 40' diameter for fireballs...
Athalorn (sub Jay B) (AC 27, 77hps)[barkskin, owls wisdom, blur] 5d6(3+2+1+3+3)=12 Friday February 18th, 2005 7:23:29 PM
Active Spells: Barkskin- 90 mins (self) Owls wisdon +4- (Ingrge) Blur- (Ingrge) Call Lightning Storm- 9 mins (lasts 9 mins, eight of nine 5d6 bolts left, DC 22 ref for half)
Athalorn doesn't give her a second to react to the webbing and the flame. He calls a bolt(standard action). (12 electrical damage, see above)
Lian (AC 32, 47hps) [stoneskin, bull's strength, haste] Friday February 18th, 2005 7:25:00 PM
(Lian is Totally Defensive, +6 dodge to AC for a round)
Active spells from Ingrge: Stone skin (110), Bulls strength +2, Haste
The monk remains absolutely still and waits for K'Nara to order the advance. He remembers that the casters must do their jobs before the fighters enter the frackus.
Milo Saturday February 19th, 2005 3:58:33 AM
Sticking to the plan, Milo remains still, hiding and waiting for the conflict to expand further before moving in for the attack.
Brother Bertram Sunday February 20th, 2005 10:07:25 PM
Bertram waits to send Domi's power out at the most opportune time to injure the Hand of Love.
Gunther (AC29, HP 73/73) Stoneskin 110, Haste, Barkskin +2) Sunday February 20th, 2005 11:21:33 PM
Hearing the fireworks go off, Gunther waits, keeping a look out for those handy little HOL goons. To be honest, he was more worried about them anyway. Still, he supposed they ought to at least try and take the lantern off Elese if they could. Oh well...better let the spellcasters soften her up before they march in and start hacking. For now it was crouch a while longer. Soon enough they'd need his services.
Olana Monday February 21st, 2005 1:42:13 AM
Olana also waits, bow taut. Where were the back up troops?
DM Donna Monday February 21st, 2005 6:18:44 AM
Ingrge, where are you???
Between Figment's Enervation spell and the Lightning called down by Athalorn, Elese becomes more agitated and struggles violently (and futilely) against the Web that holds her. (OOC: Strength check is only 10.)
K'Nara goes around Lian to peer around the edge of the boulder that the pair are using for cover. Like Olana, she's wondering where Elese's pursuers are...
...and the Talons don't have to wait long--galloping at full speed are eight riders (HOL mercenaries by their clothes). Most of them spot the Webbed boulders, though, and shout to their fellows to stop.
The riders halt their horses and strain to look around the landscape, trying to see who or what left the Web there...
Meanwhile, K'Nara waves her hand to Ingrge and then to where she can see (thanks to her sword) Figment, signaling them to nail the men on horseback.
OOC: unfortunately, I can't get my program to work correctly, so I'll have to email the JPG of my screenshot of the map to everyone.
Brother Bertram(Greater Invis, Divine Favor, Stoneskin 9d6(1+3+6+6+6+5+1+6+2)=36 Monday February 21st, 2005 4:28:14 PM
As Bertram sees the Hand about to panic and spread out, He immediately releases the power of Domi on those in the rear of the ranks. Fire falls from the sky in the shape of a great pillar, consuming what it touches. He directs the power so as to drive the Hand closer towards the web, keeping them together, but making sure he isnt going to hurt his companions.
((OOC Flamestrike 36 HP per person in range. 10ft circle-Also it appears that half the damage is fire, the rest is Divine wrath-I believe the save is for 1/4 damage reduction but I might be wrong.))
Lian (AC 32, 47hps) [stoneskin, bull's strength, haste] Monday February 21st, 2005 6:39:58 PM
(Lian is Totally Defensive, +6 dodge to AC for a round)
Active spells from Ingrge: Stone skin (110), Bulls strength +2, Haste
The monk squeezes between K'Nara and the boulder. "What's happening?"
Athalorn (sub Jay B) (AC 27, 77hps)[barkskin, owls wisdom, blur] 5d6(3+3+2+3+4)=15 Monday February 21st, 2005 6:46:27 PM
Active Spells: Barkskin- 90 mins (self) Owls wisdon +4- (Ingrge) Blur- (Ingrge) Call Lightning Storm- 9 mins (lasts 9 mins, seven of nine 5d6 bolts left, DC 22 ref for half)
He calls another bolt targeting Elese (standard action). (15 electrical damage, see above)
Figment (AC 13, HP 63, Fly, Improved Invis, See Invis, Fox's Cunning +4, Prot from evil) d20+7=25 d4=3 Monday February 21st, 2005 6:46:51 PM
The mage looks over the HOL to see if the priest is with them. Even if he is he moves away from Bertam's flame strike to avoid any damage and blasts Elise with yet another Enervation spell (Hit AC 25 ranged touch - she loses 3 more levels for a total of 7 levels). He smiles as the black ray strikes her and she loses even more ability. "Like to see her cast now...". He moves a little farther away from the riders (square O-32)and prepares to cast - focusing on the cleric if he's there. He also is careful to look around for any invisible foes (see invisble) who might approach.
Note: I would expect the horses are toast - literally...
Ingrge: 84/84 hps, AC25, Greater invisibility, foxes cunning 10d6(6+4+4+5+4+6+2+6+5+5)=47 Monday February 21st, 2005 6:48:17 PM
Grinning at Elese's predicament, Ingrge gets a feral look in his eyes as the HOL Members charge into the fray. Grabbing some spell components, he starts casting, momentarly popping into sight and suudenly a great ball of fire erupts in the middle of the HOL Literally engulfing #3 at H 32 and catching all the members except #7 for 47 points reflex save DC22 for 24 Ingrge then duck down behind his rock, invisible again.
Milo Monday February 21st, 2005 7:47:59 PM
Satisfied that he has given the spellcasters sufficient opportunity to bombard their enemies, Milo dashes forward, sword in hand, running upto a point adjacent to the panther, near Gunther. (OOC: Running to S29.)
Olana AC20 69/69 d20+12=28 d20+12=23 d20+7=14 d20+7=24 d10+3=10 d10+3=11 d10+3=5 d10+3=13 Monday February 21st, 2005 11:52:04 PM
Olana steps partially from behind ye trusty boulder and starts hammering arrows into #5 with the long bow. This was a messy business. Might as well get it over with.
Hits AC 28, 23, 14, 24 Dam 10, 11, 5, 13
Gunther (AC29, HP 73/73) Stoneskin 110, Haste, Barkskin +2) d20+17=25 d8+9=10 Tuesday February 22nd, 2005 5:33:06 AM Hmmmm...looks like the trap is sprung. thinks Gunther. He springs out from behind the boulder and moves over to engage with the closest HOL (attacking #1, in L30). Catching site of Milo headed his way he calls out "You vanna do like last time? I take de front, you take de back??" Moving with magical speed, Gunther brings his sword down a mighty slash (AC 25 for a lousy 10 dam).
Ambush Round 2 - DM Donna d20=4 d20+4=23 d20=7 d20+4=16 d20+4=9 d20+4=20 d20+4=22 d20+4=12 d20=3 d20=7 d20=4 d20=2 d20=14 d20+6=19 d6+3=9 d20+11=18 d20+5=11 d10+5=6 d10+5=6 d20+4=6 Tuesday February 22nd, 2005 8:06:07 AM
Elese still struggles within the sticky Web, but cannot break free (Strength check 4).
HOL7 is damaged for 27hp by the Flame Strike; his horse is struck dead as it didn't make its saving throw.
K'Nara tells Lian with a grin of anticipation: "Monk, it's time to go forth and pummel!"
Athalorn's second lightning bolt strikes Elese--and the druid can tell that the damage from this bolt is far more telling...most likely due to Figment's continuing use of Enervation to strip experience and vitality from the deceitful female...much to the wizard's great satisfaction. (OOC: she be hurtin'..!)
Ingrge's well-placed Fireball toasts all the horses that HOL guys 2 through 6 were riding; only HOL5 managed to leap off his horse in time to avoid the explosion of flames that engulfs his colleagues (so HOL5 only suffers 24hpd; 2,3,4,& 6 suffer 47hpd.)
Milo moves up.
Olana's arrows pepper the formerly-lucky HOL5...he's looking VERY bad as his blackened body sprouts three heavily-bleeding arrow wounds.
Gunther manages to connect with HOL1--no mean feat as the man is still atop his horse...at least, he was until the panther by Gunther's side launches itself at the mount, biting deep and clinging onto the beast, which frantically bucks and rears in a terrified effort to save its own life! (OOC: Gunther must make a Reflex save versus DC15 to miss the wildly-flailing hooves. Failure means that Gunther suffers 6hpd and must make another save (Fort Save this time) or be knocked back into square N30.)
K'Nara leaps out from behind her boulder and rushes to attack HOL2, but only her first blow lands. HOL2 looks like the walking dead--but he's still walking.
All the HOL thugs spend their half of the round drawing their longswords--except #1, who is trying to scramble to his feet after getting first knocked off his horse and then stomped on a couple times by the terrified animal (taking 6hpd) and getting knocked to the ground again.
DM OOC: once again, I'm emailing the screenshot of the updated map to show the players the positions of everyone after all this action has gone down.
Another OOC: the HOL thugs (and neither Holdrin nor that demon seem to be among them) are AC18.
Gunther (AC29, HP 73/73) Stoneskin 110, Haste, Barkskin +2) d20+7=18 d20+15=18 d20+10=11 d20+15=23 d20+7=18 d20+15=35 d20+15=23 d8+9=13 2d8(3+7)+18=28 d8+9=14 d6=2 d6=1 Tuesday February 22nd, 2005 9:01:12 AM
Gunther grins wildly at the panther and her antics. He deftly dodges out of the way of the horse (Refl=18) and takes a 5 foot step toward the HOL lackey (K29). This time he unleashes a full attack slashing and slicing with magical speed. He hopes that the panther can get the horse to move out of the way so that he can move back into flanking position with K'nara.
Attack summary: Main 1st: AC18 Main 2nd: AC11 Off 1st: AC23 for 13+2(flame)=15 Off 2nd: AC18 Hast Attack:AC35/23 for 28+1(shock)=29 if crit., 14+1(shock)=15 if no crit.
Ingrge 10d6(5+5+6+5+4+1+4+4+6+3)=43 Tuesday February 22nd, 2005 5:17:00 PM
grabbing more spell components, Ingrge once again starts casting sneding yet another fireball streaking toward the HOL landing in G34 Toasting all HOL members except for #1 and his horse. K'nara feels the heat as well as the flames stop about 3 feet from her. 43 points, reflex DC 22 for 22 points
Brother Bertram(Greater Invis, Divine Favor, Stoneskin) 9d6(6+6+6+3+5+4+6+3+3)=42 Tuesday February 22nd, 2005 6:41:20 PM
Bertram wastes no time, again allowing fire to fall from the sky consuming the heathen of the Hand of Love. The fire falls downward, licking at everything in its path. Bertram again aims towards the back of the party, to keep them from retreating up the road.
(OOC Flamestrike-42 Damage)
Lian (AC 26, 47hps) [stoneskin, bull's strength, haste] d20+14=30 d20+10=21 2d8(5+1)+3=9 2d8(8+7)+3=18 2d6(1+2)+3=6 2d6(2+1)+3=6 Tuesday February 22nd, 2005 7:59:08 PM
Dodge versus #3. (AC 27)
Active spells from Ingrge: Stone skin (110), Bulls strength +2, Haste Stunning Attacks used: 2 of 10
The monk moves to #3 and lets him know how much he loves the Hands of Love. (hits AC 30 and 21 for 6 and 6 damage, both stunning attacks, fort DC 19)
Athalorn (sub Jay B) (AC 27, 77hps)[barkskin, owls wisdom, blur] Tuesday February 22nd, 2005 8:16:10 PM
Active Spells: Barkskin- 90 mins (self) Owls wisdon +4- (Ingrge) Blur- (Ingrge) Call Lightning Storm- 9 mins (lasts 9 mins, seven of nine 5d6 bolts left, DC 22 ref for half)
The vigilant druid notices the HoL toward the rear, HoL #8, begin to back peddle and look that he might bolt (to Athalorn's eyes anyway).
The quick thinking druid casts Wall of Thorns, wrapping it around the HoL in the shape of a horseshoe, boxing them in so they don't flee. The wall is 5ft wide and 180ft long and 10ft high all around, there is one way in and out, so that he doesn't trap his friends inside. He then moves to R31, getting to a position where he'll be able to see the battle. --------------------------------------- Prepared Spells 0 Level (6) DC = 15 Create Water, Detect Magic, Light, Mending, Purify Food & Drink, Resistance
1st Level (5) DC = 16 Charm Animal, Cure Light Wounds, Speak with Animals, Obscuring Mist, Magic Fang
2nd Level (5) DC = 17 Chill Metal, Fog Cloud, Gust of Wind, Soften Earth and Stone
3rd Level (4) DC = 18 Call Lightning, Meld into Stone, Sleet Storm, Wind Wall
Milo Tuesday February 22nd, 2005 9:26:54 PM
Milo moves around the large boulder toward Elese, short sword in his hand, and a smile on his face, "You don't look so high and mighty now milady. I could cut you free from the webs... but I'd much rather cut you free from this world. Give Gargul my regards." The halfling approaches to within five feet of Elese, just out of arms reach. (OOC: Milo ends up in 30M.)
Figment (AC 13, HP 63, Fly, Improved Invis, See Invis, Fox's Cunning +4, Prot from evil) 11d6(3+4+5+6+5+5+5+4+3+2+6)=48 Tuesday February 22nd, 2005 10:41:55 PM
Seeing that the web is preventing Elise from escaping and her obvious distress, the fact that the real adversaries have not made their appearance yet [e.g. the priest] (note: Figment can See Invisible), AND that Ingrge and Bertram nail the thugs with more fire, he decides to focus on finishing off Elise. He blasts her with another lightning bolt to compliment Antalorn's handiwork (48 DMG) he lines it up as to miss Milo (He is already in square O-32 from last turn - he aims it so it hits the boulder on the Northwest after going through Elese).
Olana 69/69 AC20 d20+12=29 d20+12=21 d20+12=25 d20+12=21 d10+3=5 d10+3=5 d10+3=4 d10+3=10 Wednesday February 23rd, 2005 1:57:22 AM
Olana continues firing at HOL #5 from her original position, figuring to take 'em down one at a time. There was a lot of fire and spells going down, but she tried to stay focussed. Easier at a distance.
Hitting AC 29, 21, 25, 21. Dam 5, 5, 4, 10
Clarifications Needed - DM Donna Wednesday February 23rd, 2005 6:09:23 AM
I'm emailing specific players for specific info that I need...I'll be posting the outcome for this round later today.
Figment Wednesday February 23rd, 2005 6:30:24 AM
The mage decides not to interfere with HOL8 (e.g. doesn't call out that he sees him talking). He is certain that the priest will be along soon - but hopefully the Talons will have the lantern by then.
Ambush Round 3 - DM Donna d20+4=20 d20+4=14 d20+4=19 d20+4=23 d20+4=14 d20+4=14 d4+2=2 d4+2=3 d20+11=18 d20+5=12 d20+11=30 d10+5=6 d10+5=13 d10+5=10 d20+11=19 d20+6=12 d8+2=8 d8+2=8 Thursday February 24th, 2005 7:09:45 AM
As the Talons tend to their business, Ingrge, Olana, Lian, and K'Nara all suddenly feel a peculiar prickling sensation all over their bodies. It lasts for only a mere moment for K'Nara, whose only reaction to it is to gasp...but Ingrge, Olana and Lian distinctly feel the unexpected and uncomfortable sensation for several seconds...[/i]
Gunther's unimpeded and viscious attacks on HOL1 result in one very dead mercenary.
Ingrge's Fireball engulfs HOL3, HOL5, HOL6 and HOL8...and only HOL8 survives. He's looking rather crispy, though...and horseless, as his mount was BBQ'd to ultra-well-done.
Brother Bertram's Flame Strike finishes off HOL7.
Lian's original target is now a smoking pile of ash...but since HOL2 is definitely in his range, the monk's attacks are not wasted--he pummels HOL2 into a limp heap on the ground.
Athalorn casts his Wall of Thorns spell, and the impassable thorny barrier sprouts from the ground...with VERY unusual results: at three distinct points on the Wall, there appear three globular formations of Thornbush. As soon as the Wall completes its formation, Ingrge, Olana and Lian's case of "the tingles" suddenly ceases.
Milo's gloating results in Elese hissing a set of physically impossible instructions at him--then she is fried to extra-crispiness by Figment's Lightning Bolt. She appears to be quite dead.
The Wall of Thorns is ten feet high--it now blocks Olana's aim into the area.
The panicky horse bolts away from the melee, with the panther hot on its hooves--the panther swiping at her moving smorgasbord as they run. (OOC: poor horsey suffers another 5hpd.)
K'Nara takes a 5-foot-step toward HOL4 and proceeds to slice 'n' dice him into several easy pieces.
HOL8 screams: "She's DEAD! She's DEAD! Get it NOW!!!" and then launches himself at Lian (hits AC19 for 8hpd and AC12 for 8hpd.)
Suddenly there appears a pair of figures--a tall, kind of skinny human in blue and black robes, and an all-too-familiar face...Holdrin. They are on the opposite side of the Webbed boulders from the Talons that are inside the horseshoe-shaped Wall of Thorns.
DM OOC: I'll be sending an updated screenshot via email to the players.)
Gunther (AC29, HP 73/73) Stoneskin 110, Haste, Barkskin +2) Thursday February 24th, 2005 9:39:09 AM
Hearing the cries from the other side of web, Gunther decides that Lian and K'nara can probably take care of the last lackey. Sounds like some extra protection was needed for the lantern.
Gunther quickly and easily sprints over to where Elese's body lies in the web and begins cutting her out with the flame edge of his sword. He looks over at Milo. "Hurry...ve don't vant all of dis to be for noting."
Milo d20+14=21 Thursday February 24th, 2005 12:26:19 PM
As Elese is cut free of the webs, Milo moves in and rapidly searches her body for the artifact they came to retrieve. (OOC: Search check DC 21)
Athalorn (sub Jay B) (AC 27, 77hps)[barkskin, owls wisdom, blur] 5d6(4+4+6+3+4)=21 4d6(4+1+5+4)=14 Thursday February 24th, 2005 4:27:25 PM
Tuesday February 22nd, 2005 7:16:10 PM Active Spells: Barkskin- 90 mins (self) Owls wisdon +4- (Ingrge) Blur- (Ingrge) Call Lightning Storm- 9 mins (lasts 9 mins, seven of nine 5d6 bolts left, DC 22 ref for half)
The druid sees that his barrier is affective, too affective. He moves up(about 10ft) just in time to see the wizard and cleric exit. He casts Flame Strike. Centered on the cleric, with 10ft radius, also getting wizard. (ref DC 21, save for half fire 21 damage, take all 14 divine damage)
Lian (AC 26, 47hps) [stoneskin, bull's strength, haste] d20+13=17 d20+13=15 d20+10=20 2d6(4+6)+3=13 2d6(6+3)+3=12 2d6(2+3)+3=8 d20+13=15 2d6(4+4)+3=11 Thursday February 24th, 2005 4:34:35 PM
Dodge versus #8. (AC 27)
Active spells from Ingrge: Stone skin (110), Bulls strength +2, Haste Stunning Attacks used: 2 of 10
The monk smiles as he dodges #8's blows very easily. Then he notices Holdrin and snears.
(flurry of blows on #8, hits AC 17, 15 and 20 for 13, 12 and 8 damage respectfully... oops, forgot hasted attack, hits AC 15 for 11 damage)
Ingrge: 84/84 hps; (foxes cunning, greater invisibility) 10d6(3+5+6+5+4+6+2+5+5+4)=45 Thursday February 24th, 2005 7:02:49 PM
Ingrge momentarily pops into view as he grabs some more spell components and sends a lightening bolt right at Holdrin and his lackey. 45 points reflex dc 22 for 23 points As he finishes casting he again ducks behind the boulder, invisible once again.
Olana AC20 69/69 Thursday February 24th, 2005 11:49:15 PM
What on earth? Olana shakes her head, in an attempt to clear the tingling sensation. Was it a spell? She looks forward toward Ingrge, but he seems busy with what's happening on the path. She lowers her bow, muttering "Bother," as her view is partically blocked by the great wall of thorns. Time for Plan B - she heads quickly toward the boulder laterally to the east of Ingrge's current position. (H something or other?) All the better to shoot people.
Brother Bertram Friday February 25th, 2005 4:20:40 AM
Bertram grips his axe tightly and begins moving down to join the others. He moves cautiously just in case any are still alive.
DM Donna Friday February 25th, 2005 7:24:17 AM
I have to clear up something about one of the PCs. I should be able to post later today.
Figment 13d6(6+5+1+6+5+6+1+5+6+3+5+2+1)=52 Saturday February 26th, 2005 11:16:23 AM
The mage sees the priest and his cohort appear so he launches the spell he was saving especially for him. He makes sure and gets the mage and tries to catch Holdrin in it too. An icy ball of power appears around the baddies (Freezing Sphere - 52 DMG). He moves over so to line them up for another spell.
Ambush Round 4 - DM Donna 2d4(4+1)=5 d20+9=29 d20+8=18 d20+6=15 d20+9=25 d20+8=16 d20+11=23 d20+5=25 d20+5=11 d20+11=19 d10+5=8 d10+5=7 d10+5=10 4d8(5+3+8+8)+16=40 Monday February 28th, 2005 7:24:35 AM
Gunther goes over to the web and slices with his fiery blade--setting the web afire with the flames. About one-third of the web disappears in smoke, and the body of Elese's horse crumples to the ground with a semi-heavy thud.
If Milo insists on searching Elese's body, the flames will burn him for 5hpd. Elese is lying face up in the web--her backpack isn't quite accessible this round. Her other pockets and beltpouch, however, are searchable if Milo wishes to look through them. (OOC: post if Milo will search what he can reach--I'll email his findings as soon as I see the post.)
Both the Flame Strike and the Lightning spells squarely strike the intended targets--but both the cleric and the wizard apparently were only affected by the Flame Strike--the wizard seems to be more crispy than Holdrin.
Only one of Lian's flurry of blows lands on HOL8, who suffers 8hpd.
Olana and Bertram shift their positions, Olana occupying square H13 and Bertram moving to square J23.
Figment's icy follow-up to his colleagues' other elemental attacks hits both Holdrin and the mage with him...the wizard doesn't fare very well after this attack, but he's still alive. (DM OOC: Please state the coordinate of the square that Figment now occupies.)
Holdrin looks infuriatingly untouched.
K'Nara unleashes the terrible yet graceful elven art of the bladesong upon HOL8--three blows from her bastard sword slicing into the man for an additional 25hpd...and felling the mercenary.
The horse still has the panther clinging to it and bucks wildly in its terror--Bertram must roll a Reflex save versus DC15 or be struck by an errant hoof as the equine stampedes by (for 5hpd.)
Holdrin casts a spell--Spellcraft check versus DC21 reveals it to be a Cure Critical Wounds spell--one meant to cure everyone who is an ally with him. He cures up the wizard, what little damage he himself suffered--and both HOL2 and HOL8 leap to their feet, alive again.
The wizard says something aloud, but only those who can make a Spellcraft check versus DC15 can tell he's actually casting a Message spell--whatever he's said results in the sudden appearance of more HOL mercenaries surrounding the Talons inside the Wall of Thorns.
Holdrin and his sidekick step closer to the burning Web, awaiting their chance to get to Elese's body.
Athalorn (sub Jay B) (AC 27, 77hps)[barkskin, owls wisdom, blur] 5d6(4+4+2+6+2)=18 Monday February 28th, 2005 8:04:38 AM
Active Spells: Barkskin- 90 mins (self) Owls wisdon +4- (Ingrge) Blur- (Ingrge) Call Lightning Storm- 9 mins (lasts 9 mins, six of nine 5d6 bolts left, DC 22 ref for half)
The druid calls another bolt down on the cleric. (18 electrical damage) He then moves around the rock to look for enemies.
Lian (AC 26, 47hps) [stoneskin, bull's strength, haste] d20+18=29 2d6(5+5)+3=13 d20+14=20 d20+14=22 d20+11=13 2d6(5+5)+3=13 2d6(4+6)+3=13 Monday February 28th, 2005 8:11:40 AM
Dodge versus #8. (AC 27)
Active spells from Ingrge: Stone skin (110), Bulls strength +2, Haste Stunning Attacks used: 2 of 10
As #8 stands, the monk strikes out (AoO, maybe?). (Hits AC 29 for 13 damage)
Then he takes his flurry on #8 again. (AC 20, 22 and 13 for 13, 13 and 0 damage)
Figment (AC 13, HP 63, Fly, Improved Invis, See Invis, Fox's Cunning +4, Prot from evil) d100=39 Monday February 28th, 2005 8:40:10 AM
(Last round Figment moved to the side of Holdrin and the mage - near the boulder. I can't read the number on the JPG to give you the exact coordinates).
The mage decides to get what they came for. He dives straight down and grabs Elise's body - regardless of damage. He then casts a Teleport spell and places them up the side of the ridge they just climbed down, well hidden from the fray but only a couple of moments from the big fight. (Since Milo was touching her he comes too). "Milo, its me. We're up the ridge only a little ways. Find what we came for and keep it well hidden. I will go back down and help the others.". He then flies back down the ridge.
Note: If the assetion is incorrect that Milo comes too then Figment stays and finds the lantern. He chooses the first spot up the ridge that provides 100% cover. It should only be a couple of hundred feet from the fighting but far enough away to be virtually impossible to find without the aid of magic. It is also well known to the mage as he was just there a few minutes ago.
Gunther (AC29, HP 73/73) Stoneskin 110, Haste, Barkskin +2) Monday February 28th, 2005 8:41:18 AM
Magically hastened, Gunther cuts all the faster as he hears spellcasting on the other side of the web. "C'mon Milo, ve need to get it out qvick."
Feeling something above his head begin to root around with Elese's body he growls. "You better be von of ours, cause if you're not, they're not going to be able to locate all your body parts!"
Milo Monday February 28th, 2005 11:52:22 AM
Milo is indeed searching Elese, fire or not, and continues to do so, attempting to flip her body over, to get at her backpack as well.
Olana AC 20 69/69 d20+12=16 d20+12=25 d20+7=17 d20+7=16 d10+3=8 d10+3=8 d10+3=11 d10+3=10 Monday February 28th, 2005 2:21:28 PM
Assuming her new position, Olana starts firing arrows toward Holdrin. But with the flames and ice spells zapping here and there, her aim seems a little off. Oh bother she thinks, squinting through the mayhem. Maybe the next lot...
((Hits AC 16, 25, 17, 16, for 8, 8, 11, 10 DAM))
Ingrge: 84/84 hps; (foxes cunning, greater invisibility) Monday February 28th, 2005 7:23:09 PM
Ingrge starts muttering to himself as he watches Holdrin shrug off the lightening, heal his allies and then cast another spell. Grabbing more spell components, including a little shimmering dust, Ingrge starts a fairly complicated casting, and then a form starts taking shape nearby. Summon monster 3 Celestial Brown Bear. When it is fully formed Ingrge directs it to attack Holdrin.
Brother Bertram 4d8(7+5+8+7)=27 Monday February 28th, 2005 7:39:02 PM
Bertram snarls seeing his enemies in the distance and his friends surrounded. Murmuring a prayer to Domi he unleashes a bolt of white light at Holdrin.
(OOC Searing Light-Damage 27 No save)
DM Donna Tuesday March 1st, 2005 12:59:08 PM
Extenuating circumstances have me delaying the posting of today's outcome...I'll post as soon as I can get some details hammered out.
Three out of four blows from Lian (two of them stunning blows!) smack soundly into HOL8--he is definitely down and out now.
Figment realizes that, in order for Milo to automatically come with him, he would have to let Milo know that the invisible mage is a Friendly, and he can't do that unless he's willing to tip his hand to both Holdrin and the wizard with him, as they are both within earshot.
Suffering 5hpd, the clever wizard then teleports what he's touching (along with himself) back onto the ridge...everything done invisibly.
Okay--ALMOST invisibly...the weight of Elese's body, the Web she's tangled up in--AND the fire that is burning the Web all teleport, too. The smoke rising from the burning Web does NOT remain Invisible as it rises into the air.
Gunther's words spur Milo on to greater efforts--but then Elese, the Web and the fire disappear, leaving the pair face to face with Holdrin and the wizard, who both blink in surprise and shock.
Only one of Olana's arrows appears to strike Holdrin...who looks annoyed.
Brother Bertram's spell doesn't seem to affect Holdrin (OOC: Spell Resistance check is only 11 vs. SR25.)
The black panther finally brings down the horse of the ex-HOL8. She is having lunch now, so don't disturb her...
K'Nara whirls about, using her bladesinger skills on HOL2--only two of the three attacks hit, but the hasted blow is actually a Crit Hit! She deals a total of 25hpd to her foe--but he's still standing.
"FOLLOW THE PLAN!" roars Holdrin, looking around. "The flamehaired wench DIES!!!" The cleric of Caeroldra spots smoke rising from the ridge and casts a spell, using the smoke as a way to target the strike zone...
(OOC: Holdrin makes his Spot check vs DC15, and now is casting a Flame Strike (ID the spell with a Spellcraft check that beats DC20) centered on the smoke's point of origin. Figment must make a Reflex save versus DC20 to suffer from only 41hpd.)
The wizard with Holdrin casts a spell (Spellcraft check versus DC15--it's a Level 5 Summon Monster spell)...and suddenly a massive, 15-foot-tall flightless bird with four legs appears. The wizard directs the bird to counter the bear.
Upon hearing Holdrin's order, HOL numbers 9 through 13 move to surround K'Nara--in spite of the fact that HOL9 provokes an Attack of Opportunity from Lian--and all of the proceed to attack her:
HOL9 attacks: hits AC26, AC12; hpd 11, 3 HOL 10: hits AC18, AC22; hpd 4, 9 HOL 11: hits AC26, AC14; hpd 4, 7 HOL 12: hits AC16, AC22; hpd 8, 7 HOL 13: hits AC27, AC9; hpd 8, 4
K'Nara would have suffered a lot of damage, had it not been for that Stoneskin cast upon her before the battle.
DM OOC: I'll be sending out a new screenshot to the players.
Athalorn (sub Jay B) (AC 27, 77hps)[barkskin, owls wisdom, blur] Tuesday March 1st, 2005 9:23:20 PM (OOC: Athalorn had moved foward last round, Donna, you didn't adjust his position on the map)
Active Spells: Barkskin- 90 mins (self) Owls wisdon +4- (Ingrge) Blur- (Ingrge) Call Lightning Storm- 9 mins (lasts 9 mins, six of nine 5d6 bolts left, DC 22 ref for half)
The druid sacrifices one of his 4th level spells to summon a creature. (Summons a tiger atop the boulder at position 29P.)
1st Level (5) DC = 16 Charm Animal, Cure Light Wounds, Speak with Animals, Obscuring Mist, Magic Fang
2nd Level (5) DC = 17 Chill Metal, Fog Cloud, Gust of Wind, Soften Earth and Stone
3rd Level (4) DC = 18 Call Lightning, Meld into Stone, Sleet Storm, Wind Wall
4th Level (3) DC = 19 Ice Storm
5th Level (2) DC = 20 NONE
DM OOC: please post the coordinates for the square Athalorn now occupies, because "around the rock" just doesn't tell me enough.
Figment (AC 13, HP 22, Fly, Improved Invis, See Invis, Fox's Cunning +4, Prot from evil) d20+8=27 Tuesday March 1st, 2005 9:25:28 PM
As the mage begins to feel pretty good about his ploy, he gets nailed with the flamestrike. Dodging just in time he gasps at the level of the damage. Holdrin is clearly more powerful than he anticipated. Krispy as he is, he quickly rummages through the pack and anything else he can find to get the lantern.
NOTE: since the ridge has nothing for the web to grab onto, it should collapse and disintigrate (e.g. no additional damage)
Lian (AC 26, 47hps) [stoneskin, bull's strength, haste] d20+14=20 d20+14=20 d20+11=15 d20+9=26 d20+9=13 d20+9=16 d20+14=25 d20+9=13 Tuesday March 1st, 2005 9:50:25 PM OOC: During the second round is when I used his stunning attacks, not during this round, oh well.
Dodge versus #2. (AC 27)
Active spells from Ingrge: Stone skin (110), Bulls strength +2, Haste Stunning Attacks used: 4 of 10
Lian attempts to trip #2, touch AC20 (opposed check 26)
He also attempts to trip #9, touch AC20 (opposed check 13)
With his last attack, he tries to trip #10, touch AC 15 (opposed check 16)
With his hasted attack, he attempts to trip anyone he missed before. (touch AC25, opposed check 13)
OOC: I believe Lian gets free attacks on those he trips, but I didn't want to clutter the post with additional attacks until I know I've tripped foes. :) I'll post damage in the next round.
DM OOC: please resolve your single Attack of Opportunity versus HOL9 first, then list the other attacks your PC is entitled to versus whomever Lian wishes to attack.
Brother Bertram Wednesday March 2nd, 2005 4:30:15 AM
Bertram glances back quickly at his companions and comes to a quick, but painful decision. Ignoring those attackers he heads towards Holdrin at a run. This was the source of the problems they were having. He readies his axe and charges.
Celestial Bear: 69/69, AC16;SR 15; DR5/+1 d20+15=30 d20+15=31 d20+8=19 d8+8=16 d8+8=13 2d8(7+6)+4=17 4d6(5+3+4+5)+8=25 Wednesday March 2nd, 2005 6:33:22 AM
(OOC: As the it takes a full round for the spell to be cast the bird shouldn't be active until the beginning of next round, Correct?)
The 12 foot tall, 1800 pound glowing bear, having zeroed in on Holdrin goes to work on the cleric clawing at him and then trying to take a bite out of his hide. AC 30, AC 31 & AC 19 for 16 points, 13 points and 17 points in addition the is a bright flash of light as the Bear smites the Holy spit out of the evil cleric. (+20 holy smite damage)
If the first two claw attacks hit AC 30 & 31, the Holdrin must make an opposed grapple check vs DC35 or be caught in a bear hug 25 more damage.
(Holdrin's opposed grapple dc would consist of his DC 10 + strength mod + size mod + BAB (including spell bonuses) + any feat bonuses like improved grapple etc)
Ingrge 10d10(10+7+9+8+9+6+6+8+2+9)=75 Wednesday March 2nd, 2005 6:36:37 AM
Cursing a bit as the other creature begins to form, Ingrge rips open one of his scrolls and casts yet another spell. This time 75 rats appear surrounding the cleric and start going after him. (rats arrive at the end of this round)
Gunther (AC29, HP 73/73) Stoneskin 110, Haste, Barkskin +2) d20+15=35 d20+15=34 2d8(2+8)+18=28 d20+15=16 Wednesday March 2nd, 2005 12:50:48 PM
Seeing that the region around Holderin was getting pretty crowded, Gunther decides to lend a little assistance to K'nara and Lian. He moves over to J30 in order to give K'nara a flanking advantage, and then lays into the man, nailing him with a critical hit. (AC35/34 for 28hp).
OOC In the Swords of Redemption, it was decided that if you move more than 5 feet you cannot get the extra attack from haste. If you do allow the extra attack, then Gunther misses with a natural 1.
Olana d20+12=18 d20+12=28 d20+7=14 d20+7=15 d10+3=8 d10+3=7 d10+3=11 d10+3=13 Wednesday March 2nd, 2005 3:18:57 PM
Biting her lip and trying to concentrate, Olana keeps sending arrows Holdrin's way. Come on, hit the darned target, she's thinking to herself.
Hits AC 18, 28, 14, 15 Dam 8, 7, 11, 13
Milo d20+18=21 d4+2=6 5d6(6+3+4+1+2)=16 Wednesday March 2nd, 2005 7:40:19 PM
Frustrated at his disappearing search target, Milo turns quickly to see that Lian and K'nara are practically surrounded. Moving quickly (J33), the halfling assists them with the attack. He swings low on one of her assailants (10), flanking him opposite Lian. (OOC: Hit AC 21 for 22 points of damage).
Lian (AC 26, 47hps) [stoneskin, bull's strength, haste] d20+14=33 2d6(6+4)+3=13 Wednesday March 2nd, 2005 7:59:15 PM
OOC: Resolution, AoO on #HoL9, hits AC 33 for 13 damage.
DM OOC: since Athalorn did not post a specific coordinate that he had moved to, I placed Athalorn in square R28. Please remember to post the specific coordinate that your PC moves to should he or she change his or her position on the map.
Athalorn summons forth a very hungry tiger that appears on top of the boulder in square P29.
The Web attached to Elese's body is a mass of quickly-burning strands--that which is still burning is located far enough from the body itself so that, indeed, it doesn't continue to harm Figment--but there is enough of the stuff for maybe one more round of smoke.
Figment spends this round wrestling the backpack free of Elese's corpse.
Lian lays the smackdown on HOL9 when he moves to help surround K'Nara.
Lian trips HOL2 and HOL9; however, when it comes to HOL10, the monk's luck runs out (OOC: HOL10 is AC18, so the trip attempt failed--but HOL10 was able to reverse the trip attempt...and he rolled a natural 20)...Lian is now prone. Being prone messes up his chance for that last Hasted attack.
In addition, Lian gets to subtract 17hpd from his Stoneskin protection, as two of the three Attacks of Opportunity that he provoked hit him.
Brother Bertram runs to square M25--in a perfect position to smite Holdrin this upcoming round!
The summoned bear immediately grabs onto the target that Ingrge sicced him upon and claws, smites and grapples him--soon it's quite apparent that Holdrin is flopping about like a rag doll within the bear's grip.
Out of thin air, rats pop into existence in a rough sort of 15' round area, with Holdrin as the middle.
Gunther helps to flank HOL2 and then cuts him down easily, since the man was prone after being tripped by Lian.
Olana's arrows easily find homes in Holdrin's nigh-lifeless body.
Milo moves and attacks HOL10 successfully.
The black panther continues to have lunch.
K'Nara attacks HOL10, screaming "Lucia!!!" at the top of her lungs as she does so...and causing her rather large sword to come ablaze. (OOC: HOL10 auffers 6hpd and 4hp fire damage.)
The wizard who had been with Holdrin withdraws from the area, backpedaling at top speed in spite of the Attack of Opportunity this provokes from the Celestial Bear (who misses with a natural 1.) Olana, Ingrge and Athalorn must make a Spot check versus DC25. I will email the results to anyone who makes the Spot.
The huge, four-legged bird leaps towards and snaps at the Celestial Bear once, missing cleanly, and then releases an evil-looking (and smelling) black cloud. The Celestial Bear and Brother Bertram--as well as about 66% of the rats--are caught squarely within it (they suffer 7hpd from its toxins)--they must roll Fort saves versus DC15 or suffer the effects that mimic an Insanity spell cast by a L16 spellcaster for the next three hours.
HOL9 gets to his feet--provoking an Attack of Opportunity from both Lian and K'Nara. (Don't forget to roll for THAT first when you post, Lian!)
The four HOL mercenaries that are still standing strike at K'Nara, in spite of the others helping her out. Four of the eight strikes carve off more HPs from the Stoneskin spell cast upon her earlier.
Figment just clears the bag of Elese's body when something hits his shoulder--he looks to see a small spot of...bird poop. A little black bird flutters to the ground about ten feet away...and promptly turns into Holdrin, who is smiling sweetly.
"You didn't think I'd be so stupid as to let myself be seen--even invisibly--did you..?" he taunts the wizard. Then he speaks in a harsh tone, all the sweetness gone:
"He's been marked--you can come get him now..!"
Something else appears on the other side of Figment...something that--according to a previous description by K'Nara--looks stomach-sinkingly familiar...that demonic babau.
And he's smiling...or, at least, showing ALL his teeth..!
DM OOC: I'm sending out another screenshot for the players.
Lian (AC 26, 47hps) [stoneskin, bull's strength, haste] d20+15=23 d20+10=18 2d6(6+3)+3=12 2d6(3+6)+3=12 Thursday March 3rd, 2005 9:18:08 PM
(OOC: With all due respect Donna, I had posted my AoO on #9 PRIOR to your DM post! Please look again. Also, Lian should have got free attacks on those he tripped. Please read my posts again.)
Dodge versus #9. (AC 27)
Active spells from Ingrge: Stone skin (93), Bulls strength +2, Haste Stunning Attacks used: 4 of 10
Lian hops to his feet and lays into the prone #9 again. (AC 23 and 18, for 12 and 12 damage)
Athalorn (sub Jay B) (AC 27, 77hps)[barkskin, owls wisdom, blur] d20+19=33 d20+11=30 d20+11=18 d20+4=14 d20+9=11 d20+9=29 d20+9=15 d20+14=16 d8+6=13 d8+6=13 2d6(6+5)+3=14 d8+3=7 d8+3=4 5d6(5+6+2+3+2)=18 Thursday March 3rd, 2005 9:42:21 PM
(OOC: Where Athalorn is currently, is just about right. :))
Active Spells: Barkskin- 90 mins (self) Owls wisdon +4- (Ingrge) Blur- (Ingrge) Call Lightning Storm- 9 mins (lasts 9 mins, five of nine 5d6 bolts left, DC 22 ref for half)
(Spot Check 33) Watching the wizard pass not to far away, the druid directs the tiger toward the 'meal to go'. The tiger charges the wizard, leaping onto him. (pouncing and grabbing, Hitting AC 30claw, 18claw, 14bite, 11rake and 29rake(crit 15?)... grapple check 16.... for 13claw, 13claw, 14bite, miss rake and 7rake(11 if crit) damage)
Athalorn moves to 27P and calls another lightning bolt to hit #10, for 18 damage.
1st Level (5) DC = 16 Charm Animal, Cure Light Wounds, Speak with Animals, Obscuring Mist, Magic Fang
2nd Level (5) DC = 17 Chill Metal, Fog Cloud, Gust of Wind, Soften Earth and Stone
3rd Level (4) DC = 18 Call Lightning, Meld into Stone, Sleet Storm, Wind Wall
4th Level (3) DC = 19 Ice Storm
5th Level (2) DC = 20 NONE
Figment (AC 13, HP 22, Fly, Improved Invis, See Invis, Fox's Cunning +4, Prot from evil) Thursday March 3rd, 2005 9:57:55 PM
The mage looks at the demon and the cleric. "I should have killed you when I had the chance...". He takes the pack and immediately launches himself directly toward K'Nara. He releases his invisibility spell as the only people that he was worried about seeing him do already. He bellows loudly hoping the others see and hear him and note the situation. (The demon was not described as closed with Figment so he should not provoke an AoO).
Milo d20+18=33 d20+18=19 d20+13=26 d4+2=4 5d6(4+2+6+2+6)=20 d4+2=5 5d6(4+6+1+3+4)=18 Thursday March 3rd, 2005 10:55:11 PM
Milo winces as Lian is tripped, and then immediately adjusts five feet (J32), maintaining his flanking position on his enemy (10). The halfling's shortsword becomes a whirling instrument of death, as he launches his attack against his opponent (10). (OOC: Hit AC 33 and 26 [19 is a nat 1 and miss] for 24 and 23 hit points of damage respectively. Total damage to number 10 is 47 hit points.)
Gunther (AC29, HP 73/73) Stoneskin 110, Haste, Barkskin +2) d20+15=34 d20+15=31 d8+8=9 2d8(4+8)+16=28 Thursday March 3rd, 2005 11:36:50 PM
Moving around the combat (I34), Gunther hopes to help out K'nara some more. Swinging his blade, Gunther hopes to punch a hole in the offensive circle. (AC 34/31 crit? for 9 if no crit, 28 if crit.)
Olana AC 20 69/69 d20+12=27 Friday March 4th, 2005 12:06:27 AM
With all the creatures, and thorns in her vision, Olana decides to break and run toward a rock at the other side of the path. (U something?)
She's on the lookout for any of the group who are under threat.
SPOT DC 27 (Oooh, reasonable?)
Brother Bertram, Stoneskin, Divine Favor, d20+11=24 d20+13=28 d20+13=29 d10+9=16 d10+9=13 4d6(6+4+5+1)=16 Friday March 4th, 2005 4:32:24 AM
Bertram runs through the oily black cloud, gagging slightly, but otherwise suffering no ill effects. Seeing Holdrin in front of him, Bertram swings his axe, feeling the powerful blade meet its target. Without waiting he swings again, intent on seeing this menace removed.
(OOC damage was 29, if chaotic-damage is 45)
DM Donna Friday March 4th, 2005 7:03:00 AM
I need for Ingrge to make his post.
Ingrge: 84/64 HP; AC 25; foxes cunning, haste d20+8=26 d20+12=26 d8+10=16 d20+12=21 d20+12=25 d20+6=19 d8+10=17 d8+10=13 2d8(3+5)+6=14 d20+9=27 d20+10=25 3d6(6+4+6)=16 Friday March 4th, 2005 5:50:39 PM
50 of the rats die from the smelly gas, but the others run after the fleeing mage eager for a bit of human flesh.
Fort save Dc 27The celestial bear drops his rag doll as his avian foe closes and attacks him as he closes AoO AC 26 for 16 points and then turns his full attention on the bird. Ac 21,25 & 19 for 17, 13 & 14 points
Spot check 26
Looking around Ingrge sees quite a bit of what is going on around the battlefield and just off the edge of the thorns and a goodly ways across he seems to think he sees Holdrin's Wizard just release something (roughly 100 feet and not obstructed by the thorns). Grabbing some more spell components, Ingrge starts feverishly casting once again singling out the Wizard this time for his attack (Phantasmal Killer)SR 25 negates; Will save DC 23, if fail will save then fortitude DC 23 or die. Make fort save and take 16 points damage.
Ambush Round 7 - DM Donna d20=12 d20+4=10 d20=18 d20+9=17 d20+6=20 d20+11=24 d20+5=19 d20+11=30 d10+5=11 d10+5=7 d10+5=14 d6=5 d6=2 d6=2 d20+11=12 d20+11=27 d20+11=19 d20+6=9 d20+6=11 d20+6=11 d10+2=11 d20+9=22 d20+9=25 d20+6=23 2d6(6+2)+4=12 2d6(3+5)+4=12 4d6(1+2+3+4)+2=12 d20+14=18 2d6(4+5)+4=13 2d6(1+5)+4=10 4d6(6+5+4+1)+2=18 Monday March 7th, 2005 7:48:01 AM DM OOC: miscommunication between myself and the players for Lian and Ingrge have caused me to rectify certain matters with this post. Players, please read carefully and email me if you have ANY questions.
Lian's years of discipline take over automatically: he becomes a blur of flying fists and feet, striking and knocking HOL9 unconscious (OOC: HOL9 is now at 0hp), leaping to his feet to straddle the fallen HOL8 and concentrate his blows on HOL13, who is the mercenary to receive the 24hpd Lian is dishing out.
Athalorn directs the tiger to attack the wizard, who suffers a LOT of damage as the tiger mauls him...but the wizard still lives.
HOL10 fails his Reflex save, and is looking MIGHTY crispy from the druid's lightning bolt.
Figment seizes the prize and flies off to land behind K'Nara, much to Holdrin's disappointment (Figment can hear the cleric cursing the demon for not closing with the mage when he had the chance.)
Milo carves up the blackened mercenary with ease--HOL10 is dead at -41hp.
Gunther strikes HOL12 for 28hpd.
The panther is still eating.
Olana moves to N14 (on her way towards U14).
The body that the summoned bear is mangling is cleaved into pieces, thanks to Brother Bertram's blows.
The Celestial bear and the achaierai are locked in spectacular combat, with the bear getting in some very serious damage.
The summoned rats--sensing that the tiger will do their work for them if they wait a round or two--follow the wizard.
Ingrge's spell releases a phantasmal creation that appears to be a horrible-looking harpy/she-demon...the wizard screams (as if the tiger's mauling weren't bad enough!) and dies on the spot.
NOW the rats have a feast themselves.
K'Nara strikes at HOL11, hitting for all three attempts and dealing a total of 32hpd and 9hp fire damage.
The three HOL mercenaries continue to strike at K'Nara as per orders--only one of the six attacks connects, carving 11hp off the Stoneskin spell protecting the bladesinger.
The four-legged giant bird attacks the Celestial bear, two claws and a big killer beak hitting AC22, 25 and 23 for 12hpd, 12hpd, and 12hpd. Bear must roll to avoid a Grapple (DC18) or suffer an additional 13hpd, 10hpd, and 18hpd.
Figment doesn't see any kind of pursuit by Holdrin and the demon with him...how odd.
DM OOC: sending out an updated screen shot to the players.
Lian (AC 26, 47hps) [stoneskin, bull's strength, haste] d20+14=22 d20+9=21 d20+14=26 2d6(3+1)+3=7 d20+14=30 d20+9=12 d20+14=26 2d6(6+6)+3=15 d20+11=23 2d6(2+1)+3=6 d20+14=31 2d6(6+1)+3=10 Monday March 7th, 2005 9:02:00 AM
(OOC: I'll roll for each individual attack and trip in the future to avoid any misunderstanding, Donna. ;))
Dodge versus #13. (AC 27)
Active spells from Ingrge: Stone skin (93), Bulls strength +2, Haste Stunning Attacks used: 4 of 10
The monk spins like a dervish drinking a Green Gnomish. (Flurry of blows)
First attack: attempts to trip #13. (touch AC 22) (Opposed trip, 21) If he's tripped, (hit AC 26, for 7 damage)
Second attack: attempts to trip #11. (touch AC 30) (Opposed trip 12) If he's tripped, (hit AC 26, 15 damage)
Third attack: hitting #13 (AC 23, for 6 damage)
Hasted attack: hitting #13 (AC 31, for 10 damage)
Athalorn (sub Jay B) (AC 27, 77hps)[barkskin, owls wisdom, blur] 5d6(6+2+4+5+4)=21 d20+11=16 d20+11=27 d20+6=18 d20+9=12 d20+9=11 d8+6=9 d8+6=11 2d6(1+2)+3=6 Monday March 7th, 2005 9:17:53 AM
Active Spells: Barkskin- 90 mins (self) Owls wisdon +4- (Ingrge) Blur- (Ingrge) Call Lightning Storm- 9 mins (lasts 9 mins, four of nine 5d6 bolts left, DC 22 ref for half) Summon Nature's Ally 4- 7 rounds left
The druid moves to 29K and calls another bolt to strike #13, for 21 electrical damage.
If the wizard is dead, the tiger turns on the large bird. Charging, the tiger leaps onto the birds back. (AC 16claw, 27claw, 18 bite, 12rake and 11rake, for 9claw, 11claw, 6bite, rake miss, rake miss) --------------------------------------- Prepared Spells 0 Level (6) DC = 15 Create Water, Detect Magic, Light, Mending, Purify Food & Drink, Resistance
1st Level (5) DC = 16 Charm Animal, Cure Light Wounds, Speak with Animals, Obscuring Mist, Magic Fang
2nd Level (5) DC = 17 Chill Metal, Fog Cloud, Gust of Wind, Soften Earth and Stone
3rd Level (4) DC = 18 Call Lightning, Meld into Stone, Sleet Storm, Wind Wall
4th Level (3) DC = 19 Ice Storm
5th Level (2) DC = 20 NONE
Ingrge: 84/84 hps; AC22; greater invisibility, fox's cunning, hasted Monday March 7th, 2005 5:07:40 PM
Ingrge no further targets in view, hastily makes his way to J 25 where, still invisible readies his next spell.
Remaining spells:
0 - ray of frost, dancing lights, resistance, message
2 glitterdust, flaming sphere, blindness (x2), see invisibility
3 - lightening bolt, clairvoyance,
4 - arcane eye, ice storm
Celestial Bear: 48/69, AC16;SR 15; DR5/+1 d20+15=23 d20+15=35 d20+15=27 d20+15=33 d20+8=23 d8+8=10 d8+8=11 d8+8=14 d8+8=13 2d8(6+8)+4=18 4d6(1+3+1+3)+8=16 Monday March 7th, 2005 5:51:52 PM
Easily avoiding the clutches of his feathered foe (DC 23)the bear shrugs off some of the damage inflicted by the bird (damage reduction) and then returns to the business of mauling the achaierai. AC 35 (possible crit)crit roll AC 27, AC 33, and AC 23: For 10 points (11 point crit damage), 14 points, and 18 points of damage from a bite.
(achaierai needs to make a opposed grapple check DC 35 or be grappled and take an additional 16 points)
Milo d20+18=29 d20+18=34 d20+13=19 d4+2=6 5d6(5+1+3+2+2)=13 d4+2=4 5d6(5+2+3+5+6)=21 d4+2=5 5d6(6+5+4+5+5)=25 Monday March 7th, 2005 10:14:45 PM
Milo slides five feet closer to stand next to K'nara (I32), and unleashes the fury of his blade upon the soldier (12) between himself and Gunther. (OOC: Milo hits AC 29, 34, and 19 for 19 hps, 25 hps, and 30 hps respectively)
Figment (AC 13, HP 22, Fly, Improved Invis, See Invis, Fox's Cunning +4, Prot from evil) d20+26=39 13d6(4+4+5+6+1+4+4+5+4+5+4+6+1)=53 11d6(5+6+3+3+5+6+2+2+5+4+6)=47 Monday March 7th, 2005 10:28:33 PM
Knowing full well that Holdrin has been casting illusions, the mage yells this to everyone. He also begins scanning for the real demon and Holdrin - not believing his newest illusion for a second (Spellcraft 39 to identify the illusion). Once seen he blasts him and the demon with Cone of Cold if he can get them without hitting any Talons (53 DMG). If this is not possible he uses his chain lightning to nail Holdrin, the demon, and then the standing HOL fighters (47,24,12,6,3,1 DMG).
Olana d20+14=21 d20+9=12 d10+3=13 Tuesday March 8th, 2005 12:47:38 AM
Seeing something at the corner of her eye, Olana tries firing at it. What was it, a bird, sent by that wizard? A long shot... AC21 for 13
"Riders coming!" yells out the elf as she runs flat out toward the boulder (U14). "Coming up real soon!"
Hopefully she'll be able to get to cover and ready her bow. She was commited now, although with things changing by the second, it looked like this second vantage point wouldn't give her much more advantage. That Holdrin seemed a little odd, too.
Gunther (AC29, HP 73/73) Stoneskin 110, Haste, Barkskin +2) d20+14=18 d20+9=22 d20+14=21 d20+6=11 d20+14=21 d8+8=15 d8+8=9 d8+8=12 d8+8=14 d6=4 d6=2 d6=3 d6=5 Tuesday March 8th, 2005 2:01:29 AM There's no time like the present reasons Gunther as he unleashes a full attack on HOL11. He smiles as a few of his attacks manage to connect (AC 18 for 15+4, AC22 for 9+2, AC21 for 12+3, AC21 for 14+5).
Bertram runs through the oily black cloud, gagging slightly, but otherwise suffering no ill effects. Seeing Holdrin in front of him, Bertram swings his axe, feeling the powerful blade meet its target. Without waiting he swings again, intent on seeing this menace removed.
(OOC damage was 29, if chaotic-damage is 45)
Ambush Round 8 - DM Donna d20+2=22 d20+2=16 d20+2=15 d20+2=10 d20+2=12 d20+2=14 d20+11=17 d20+5=25 d20+5=10 d10+5=9 d6=1 Tuesday March 8th, 2005 8:39:59 AM
Although Lian's tactics fail to trip HOL13, the mercenary suffers from the pummelling the monk gives him
Lian successfully trips HOL12, who is now prone.
Athalorn's lightning squarely strikes HOL13.
Ingrge prepares to cast, also noting the approaching riders that Olana spotted.
Milo carves up HOL12--that one is definitely dead.
Figment shouts his warning and glares around the area, disbelieving...however, at this moment, there is nothing to disbelieve. Only target for his spell so far are the stand HOL mercenaries--and just about all of them are fried within an inch of their lives.
Olana's instincts are good, but the little black bird flew away before she could do anything but notice that it used to be inside the wizard's pocket before being released. How odd. However, her arrow finds its mark in the neck of the huge bird near Brother Bertram.
Gunther slices 'n' dices HOL11 (another HOL bites the dust!)
Bertram focuses his attack on the foul fowl that the Celestial Bear and Athalorn's summoned Tiger are also tearing into. Between all three of them (and Olana's arrow), the bird is soon killed.
K'Nara strikes at the last HOL standing--and her blow kills #13...
Just in time for the riders to come thundering up to the Wall of Thorns, which suddenly disappears, leaving only the three groups of three bushes behind.
"They aren't HOL or from Parnoth's army..." K'Nara points out, "...so that leaves the Tines..."
"K'Nara, I am Berryl," the black-haired human female on the lead horse says gravely, "Lieutenant in the Tines. I am here to take back the artifact that you stole from us."
She holds her hand up, and the other riders--weapons drawn--halt and eye the Talons uneasily, many of them clearly torn about confronting the heroes of the Culverwood.
And, in the distance, only one more round away, are people running to catch up--people dressed in the uniform of Parnoth's army.
Lian (AC 32/33, 47hps) [stoneskin, bull's strength, haste] Tuesday March 8th, 2005 9:12:17 AM
Dodge vs Berryl. Total Defense AC 32, 33 vs Berryl.
Active spells from Ingrge: Stone skin (93), Bulls strength +2, Haste Stunning Attacks used: 4 of 10
The monk crosses his arms infront of him as the black haired woman demands the artifact. "Well, I am pretty sure that won't be happening this day... or any other." Smirks the monk.
Athalorn (sub Jay B) (AC 27, 77hps)[barkskin, owls wisdom, blur] 5d6(5+5+6+2+5)=23 d20+11=22 d20+11=30 d20+6=16 d20+9=26 d20+9=24 d8+6=8 d8+6=9 2d6(2+4)+3=9 d8+3=10 d8+3=8 Tuesday March 8th, 2005 9:24:38 AM OOC: Why did Athalorns Wall of Thorns go away? What may have been the cause?
Active Spells: Barkskin- 90 mins (self) Owls wisdon +4- (from Ingrge) Blur- (from Ingrge) Call Lightning Storm- 9 mins (lasts 9 mins, three of nine 5d6 bolts left, DC 22 ref for half) Summon Nature's Ally 4 -tiger- 6 rounds left
The Tines are torn about attacking the Talons, the druid doesn't have the same restraint. He calls a bolt to strike Berryl. (23 damage)
The tiger charges into action, trying to take out Berryl's horse. (AC 22claw, 30claw, 16bite, 26rake, 24 rake, for 8claw, 9claw, 9bite, 10rake and 8rake damage)
1st Level (5) DC = 16 Charm Animal, Cure Light Wounds, Speak with Animals, Obscuring Mist, Magic Fang
2nd Level (5) DC = 17 Chill Metal, Fog Cloud, Gust of Wind, Soften Earth and Stone
3rd Level (4) DC = 18 Call Lightning, Meld into Stone, Sleet Storm, Wind Wall
4th Level (3) DC = 19 Ice Storm
5th Level (2) DC = 20 NONE
Brother Bertram Tuesday March 8th, 2005 1:41:57 PM
His axe is hanging over his shoulder, dripping gore and bloody feathers, Bertram moves up to the other Talons placing himself in a good position to startle the Tines' horses should things go from bad to worse. He sizes up what they will be facing with a practiced eye.
Gunther (AC29, HP 73/73) Stoneskin 110, Haste, Barkskin +2) Tuesday March 8th, 2005 2:49:40 PM
Jerking his two-bladed sword from the chest of the HOL lackey he just finished killing, Gunther looks over at the newcomers with a look of disgust and impatience. He begins to laugh...not a mirth filled laugh, but a hollow angry laugh...one filled with more than the suggestion of impending death.
"Schraube mit dem Teufel, und Sie haben nichts aber einen wunden Anus im Ende" he calls out in orcish. "Ve vill not argue vith you...ve are too tired for dat. De artifact is ours. But if you vant to come and fight us for us like des fools, den I guess ve vill have to kill you too. If you are vise, you vill go back and say dat you never saw us." Gunther swings his bloody sword back and forth, flicking the blood from it and ready for another fight should the Tines make the wrong decision.
Ingrge: 84/84 hps; AC22; greater invisibility, fox's cunning, hasted d20+10=29 d20+4=22 Tuesday March 8th, 2005 5:33:53 PM
Invisible, Ingrge communicates that the celestial bear should walk up and stand in front of Beryl and just stare at her. Then Ingrge makes his way up beside Beryl and grabs hold of her pulling her down off her horse and behind the boulder. AC29 (flatfooted) strength DC 22
Figment (AC 13, HP 22, Fly, Improved Invis, See Invis, Fox's Cunning +4, Prot from evil) Tuesday March 8th, 2005 9:34:01 PM
The mage points to the HOL cleric and the demon standing on the ridge. "Those are the ones who stole the artifact. We have had to retrieve it twice now - once because of you and alomst at the cost of our friend. It will stay with us until our mutual enemy and his pet demon are killed.". Seeing his new potential target the mage prepares to cast but holds pending the Tines reactions and K'Nara's order.
Milo Tuesday March 8th, 2005 9:35:12 PM
Milo stares up in disbelief at this woman's audacity and growls from beneath clenched teeth, "You just try and take it." His short sword begins to twirl in his hands.
Olana Wednesday March 9th, 2005 1:45:27 AM
Running up to join the others - "What's going on now?" she asks Milo breathlessly. She is more than a little confused, not quite knowing who friend or foe are these days.
Who Has Whom..? - DM Donna d20=12 d20=20 d20+12=32 d20+10=17 Wednesday March 9th, 2005 8:48:58 AM
The thunder overhead booms ominously as the tiger leaps at the Tine lieutenant's horse. Even as the lightning summoned by Athalorn strikes downward, however, Ingrge's action saves Berryl from being hit by the electricity.
Not so lucky is Berryl's horse (although the tiger is unaffected thanks to its naturally high dexterity)...a pile of roasted horsemeat is all that's left of the innocent animal.
K'Nara barks at Athalorn: "Stop that now! They didn't attack us, even though they COULD have!"
Figment's statement directs everyone's attention to up on top of the ridge--where absolutely nothing is visible.
"Where is Berryl?" demands a young elven warrior, who then aims his bow directly at K'Nara's heart. "If you've harmed her..."
"We didn't harm her and we didn't steal the artifact from Tine headquarters!" K'Nara denies hotly, pointing over to where Ingrge is moving the now-invisible Berryl back towards the boulder that is at square D24. "She's just been saved from the lightning by my righthand elf!"
"Lightning that YOUR human called down!!!" the elf points out, his hand on the bowstring tightening.
"I'm all right, Browal," Berryl's voice says calmly, "Although I'd rather NOT be dragged about anymore..."
At this point, both K'Nara and Figment see the same thing: just as Ingrge approaches the boulder he was intending to use for cover, something leaps out from behind the trio of bushes next to it: the slimy-looking babau.
"Ingrge--behind you!" both the bladesinger and the wizard scream--but it's too late. Ingrge is punched in his head and knocked away from Berryl by the demon, who then seizes the screaming woman.
"What is it??? BERRYL???" roars Browal, who lets loose the arrow nocked in his bow--the arrow that K'Nara barely dodges.
"Now, now, now!" a voice, oily with charisma, booms from on top of the ridge. "No need to be soooo jumpy--your precious Berryl is in the tender care of my compatriot..."
Suddenly Berryl appears--she is in a position that is achingly familiar to Figment: being held by the throat by the babau, whose horrid, horned visage is now equally visible.
"He IS on the ridge." K'Nara's voice grates, for her gaze went immediately to the speaker, the gloating cleric of Caeroldra who was now just walking into view up on the ridge that Figment had tried to call attention to.
"Greetings, friends." Holdrin says, beaming a beautiful smile at everyone. "I am Holdrin, cleric of Caeroldra, the true goddess of love and passion...and the Talons have something that belongs to my temple." The man fixes a gaze down upon the redheaded leader of the Saryd Tower group.
"Now, K'Nara, you have a choice: you can give the Heart of Caeroldra to my partner there...or you can watch him rip out the throat of...how is that you elvish boors put it...an innocent..?" Holdrin drawls out the word "innocent", making it sound like a graphic insult.
"Of course, your little band of cast-offs could opt to unleash your rather formidable powers and skills upon myself and the creature I command--but you know that this will seal Berryl's fate...nothing you could possibly do could prevent her--an innocent--from being killed. Her blood would be on your heads...innocent blood." Holdrin pauses to let this sink in.
"If you give the Heart to my partner, he will yield to you Berryl, safe and unharmed." the cleric says firmly. "And NO semantics, woman! We get to leave here with the Heart and without being harmed or enspelled in any way by anybody here." The handsome yet thoroughly evil man smirks expectantly.
"The choice is yours."
Just at THIS moment, however, the pounding of running feet come up to surround the Tines and Talons alike.
"STOP, in the name of Parnoth!" commands a voice that all the Talons recognize as belonging to none other than Mop, the green dragon's major domo/toady.
K'Nara Wednesday March 9th, 2005 8:59:01 AM
The leader of the Talons quickly assesses the situation, which is now stomach-sinkingly apparent:
Parnoth's soldiers (accompanied by several dragon-fellas) outnumber the Tines and Talons put together...and almost all of the Talons' major spells had been used in the ambush and fight with the HOL goons.
It would take some FAST talking to get out of this one..!
Ingrge: 84/84 hps; AC22; greater invisibility, fox's cunning, hasted d20+7=27 Wednesday March 9th, 2005 5:09:54 PM
Shaking his head, not only from being hit while invisible, but trying to figure out how he was even located while he was invisible, is giving him a headache.
As he puzzles this out he quietly and quickly (move silent dc27 - natural 20) finds himself, still invisible, with staff in hand, beside Mop and his horse.
Athalorn (sub Jay B) (AC 27, 77hps)[barkskin, owls wisdom, blur] Wednesday March 9th, 2005 8:56:24 PM
What is the demon wearing? Metal? What sort of demon is it?
DM OOC: the demon is a babau.
Active Spells: Barkskin- 90 mins (self) Owls wisdon +4- (from Ingrge) Blur- (from Ingrge) Call Lightning Storm- 9 mins (lasts 9 mins, three of nine 5d6 bolts left, DC 22 ref for half) Summon Nature's Ally 4 -tiger- 5 rounds left
The druid shudders as K'Nara yells at him. He fingers spell components(Readying a Spell), waiting for K'Nara's command.
1st Level (5) DC = 16 Charm Animal, Cure Light Wounds, Speak with Animals, Obscuring Mist, Magic Fang
2nd Level (5) DC = 17 Chill Metal, Fog Cloud, Gust of Wind, Soften Earth and Stone
3rd Level (4) DC = 18 Call Lightning, Meld into Stone, Sleet Storm, Wind Wall
4th Level (3) DC = 19 Ice Storm
5th Level (2) DC = 20 NONE
Lian (AC 32/33, 47hps) [stoneskin, bull's strength, haste] Wednesday March 9th, 2005 8:58:55 PM
Dodge vs Demon. Total Defense AC 32, 33 vs Demon.
Active spells from Ingrge: Stone skin (93), Bulls strength +2, Haste Stunning Attacks used: 4 of 10
The monk moves slowly and defensively, toward K'Nara. (Total Defense as standard action)
Figment (AC 13, HP 22, Fly, See Invis, Fox's Cunning +4, Prot from evil) Wednesday March 9th, 2005 9:05:06 PM
The mage smiles as Mop and his minions show up. "Good to see you Mop...seems the demon there (looking to the demon) has the bargaing chip that Holdrin has against you. You'd better preserve the life of the lieutenant there if you have any chance of prevailing this day...we'll try to be nice if you make sure she is safe and Holdrin is killed. Otherwise we will not be interested in negotiating...". The mage takes to the sky to get in range of the HOL cleric to cast. He tries to locate the 'mark' on him that he was so graciously given by Holdrin in bird form and remove it. As he powers up he revels in the idea of returning the bird crap with a more tangible offering, say a cone of icey energy...
Milo Thursday March 10th, 2005 12:14:45 AM
This nasty turn of events seems to take the wind out of Milo's sails, so to speak, and the halfling relaxes, dropping his sword arm to his side, as he makes his way quickly to Olana's side. He does this as unobtrusively as possible. Once there, he whispers to his love, "The bracelet. Attune and use the bracelet on Berryl." He then spends the rest of his time staring down at the ground.
Gunther (AC29, HP 73/73) Stoneskin 110, Haste, Barkskin +2) Thursday March 10th, 2005 1:16:48 AM
Gunther stands, his now clean sword at his hand...completely taken aback, and unsure of what to do.
OOC I nominate Milo for a hero point for the brilliant idea of using the bracelet of friends!!!
Brother Bertram Thursday March 10th, 2005 4:29:23 AM
Bertram murmurs a prayer to Domi and Gargul quickly, preparing healing for the Tine if she is attacked by the demon.
Olana Thursday March 10th, 2005 11:09:42 AM
The elf stares down at Milo for a moment, her mind clogged with the stupendous current events. "What...? Oh!"
Absently and hopefully unobtrusively she fiddles with one of the charms on the bracelet, looking at, and whispering Berryl's name.
She then activates said device, smiling sweetly all the time.
The Art of Negotiation - DM Donna d20+5=8 3d6(4+1+4)=9 Thursday March 10th, 2005 11:30:32 AM
The rotund seneschal of Parnoth looks annoyed.
"For shame, K'Nara," he takes her to task in a mocking sort of voice, "I would have thought that you had your minions disciplined enough by now to actually listen to orders..." He removes from his waistband a twisted black wand and waves it, intoning a Draconian phrase (those of you who recognize the language translate it as "Heed Me Now!") and then says forcefully:
"STOP, in the name of Parnoth!"
Ingrge--who had been quickly approaching Mop and the foot soldiers--must make a Fortitude save versus DC30. Failing means that he will suddenly become completely paralyzed--unable to move or speak--while popping into view. Making the save will only paralyze him without dispelling the Invisibility that currently protects him. Either way, Ingrge will end up in square F21, still a good thirty feet away from Mop.
Figment, too, must make the same Fortitude Save versus DC30 for the same choices. Failing means he is paralyzed AND will find his Flying dispelled (falling back to the ground for about 9hpd.)...or he will just be paralyzed, yet floating in the air as though anchored there.
Lian, Milo and Olana all now must make Fortitude saves versus DC30. Failing the saves means each is paralyzed and will have any defensive/preparatory spells that were cast upon them suddenly canceled out.
K'Nara, Athalorn, Bertram and Gunther didn't move, so the wand's application doesn't affect them this time.
"Hey--that's cheating!" Holdrin screams as Berryl blinks from being in the clutches of the babau to appearing right beside Olana. "I'll have your liver on a stick for that, you elven piece of trash!!!" Holdrin begins to cast.
"I said 'STOP IN THE NAME OF PARNOTH,' fool!" Mop growls, even more annoyed and using his wand once more. Holdrin freezes in mid-cast, looking like a beautifully-carved statue in a rather silly position.
"Now, see, there?" Mop says, scowling. "I've been made to work far too hard for this already. K'Nara," he addresses the leader of the Talons directly, "in spite of the fact that this follower of Caeroldra has bitten off more than he could chew in challenging your group, it is clear that I have superior numbers AND the magic and might of Parnoth to back me up...and I am, unfortunately, honor-bound to support Holdrin's bid for that artifact that you people managed to get back."
"What???" K'Nara demands, her jaw dropping. "How in The Wold..?"
"It isn't for either me or you to question." Mop says stiffly. "It is the will of Parnoth. I am empowered to allow Holdrin's original deal that he proposed to the Talons to stand: give the artifact over to his partner, there...and the Talons and the Tines here may leave unmolested. This time, however, the same will hold true for Holdrin, his pet--" Mop nodded the demon's way, "--and for me and my master's force here. All of us will simply leave from this encounter without bothering any of the others."
Brother Bertram Thursday March 10th, 2005 2:58:47 PM
Bertram scratches his beard and watches Mop, an insolent smile upon his lips. "I cant say I care to take orders from that green lizard, or his lackey."
Lian (AC 25, 47hps) d20=11 Thursday March 10th, 2005 4:44:16 PM
(OOC: Lian automatically fails only having a +9 to his fort, unless you want to count his +4 vs Enchantments. Fort save 11, 15 vs enchantment.)
Stunning Attacks used: 4 of 10
The monk stands stone still, looking as if he has something to say to the dragons toady.
Athalorn (sub Jay B) (AC 27, 77hps)[barkskin, owls wisdom, blur] Thursday March 10th, 2005 4:48:02 PM
Active Spells: Barkskin- 90 mins (self) Owls wisdon +4- (from Ingrge) Blur- (from Ingrge) Call Lightning Storm- 9 mins (lasts 9 mins, three of nine 5d6 bolts left, DC 22 ref for half)
He fingers spell components(Readying a Spell), waiting for K'Nara's command. He looks worried.
1st Level (5) DC = 16 Charm Animal, Cure Light Wounds, Speak with Animals, Obscuring Mist, Magic Fang
2nd Level (5) DC = 17 Chill Metal, Fog Cloud, Gust of Wind, Soften Earth and Stone
3rd Level (4) DC = 18 Call Lightning, Meld into Stone, Sleet Storm, Wind Wall
4th Level (3) DC = 19 Ice Storm
5th Level (2) DC = 20 NONE
Ingrge: 84/84 hps; AC22; greater invisibility, fox's cunning, hasted d20+13=30 d20+14=24 Thursday March 10th, 2005 6:58:25 PM
Ingrge, still invisible, and standing frozen Spell resistance 24; made fortitude save dc 30) thinks really hard about activating one of his staff effects and roasting Mop or possibly Holdrin but waits for one moment to see what else is about to happen.
Milo d20+10=27 Thursday March 10th, 2005 7:36:32 PM
Milo's body locks up with paralysis, and the halfling stands in mute fury, eyeing Mop, looking for a good place to stick his blade. (OOC: Failed Fortitude save.)
Olana d20+11=26 Thursday March 10th, 2005 11:36:08 PM
Olana starts to say something to Berryl. "Are you -" Then dang it if she can't move a muscle. Of course Mop had been annoying right from the very Beginning. She tried to keep her feathers unruffled, hoping sincerely that Holdrin person had been frozen, too. Elven piece of trash? Tsk. Obviously from the scruffier parts of Culverwood, Holdrin was.
Gunther (AC29, HP 73/73) Stoneskin 110, Haste, Barkskin +2) Friday March 11th, 2005 12:44:58 AM
A slight popping noise is heard as Gunther's knuckles pop from the death grip he has on his blade. He really, really, really wants to charge forward and slice into Mop, but somehow he gets the feeling that that would be the wrong thing to do. Gods! This wasn't even remotely close to something he was talented at. Honor, duty, insults...hmmph...those things were for sophisticated elves. He preferred the orc route. Stick a knife in your opponents gut while they were distracted. But, when in Culverwood or the Scaab...or whatever!! He watches K'nara carefully, looking for any signal to attack.
The Facts of Life - DM Donna d20+5=21 Friday March 11th, 2005 7:11:25 AM
Figment falls to the earth with a thud, backpack still clutched in his now-paralyzed hands (OOC: failed the Fort Save with 21.) K'Nara gasps and kneels by the wizard, checking for a pulse and, mercifully, finding it.
"Mop, you--" she roars, leaping to her feet once more. The toady holds up his wand hand.
"Please be sensible." he says. "The Master has decreed that--in spite of your insolence and mutiny to his authority--that I offer you the same kind of deal that Holdrin was asking for. You have the artifact--kindly give it to Holdrin's pet and then we can all leave this gods-forsaken place!"
If looks could kill, surely Mop would have been in the grip of rigor mortis now, as the bladesinger's hazel eyes narrowed. Then she wheeled about, bent down, and opened the backpack. After a moment of rifling, she pulled from it the glowing lantern that was the object of such fascination.
"Go on--give it to him." Mop urged, nodding at the demon, who grinned at K'Nara as she begrudgingly did so.
"Kill them!" Holdrin shouted as soon as the babau had possession of the artifact. "Kill them all--ESPECIALLY the elven offal!" He practically hopped up and down in anticipation. The foot soldiers gripped their weapons while the dragon-things restlessly clicked their claws and whipped their tails about.
"No." Mop said firmly. "It is the decree of Parnoth that the deal you made with the Talons be honored...you have the...Heart of Caeroldra now...and now we all just go our separate ways." The portly major domo smirked at K'Nara.
"The talons were not so sharp, eh, my dear--not as sharp as the dragon's claw..!" he reminded her of her own warning to him a year ago or so. The leader of the Talons glowered.
"Yeah, well, Parnoth would do well to remember that he only has ONE claw left!" she snapped.
POOF!
Mop and his crew are gone.
Holdrin and his demon are gone.
The only living things in the area now are the Tines, the Talons, the summoned good animals...
...and three sets of bush-trios.
All who were paralyzed find that they can move now.
"You fool!" Browall yells at K'Nara. "You just...just GAVE it to them! I ought to--" The elf draws and nocks another arrow, but a sharp word from Berryl stops him.
"Browall!" she cries. "What else was she going to do? Use your head! We'd all be dead now if she hadn't."
"If they hadn't STOLEN the damn thing in the first place..!" the archer argues.
"We DIDN'T steal it 'in the first place', you thick-witted sap!" K'Nara snarls. "Gods! You and Endrin deserve each other!"
"Pay Browall no heed." Berryl says. "We were all told by Endrin that you Talons had betrayed us...however, logic dictates that we were all victims of an infiltrator of the Tines. I'll report this to Endrin, but..." The human female frowns.
"I'm not going to expect that he'll change his mind and admit he's wrong." K'Nara finished the woman's unfinished sentences. "In spite of his treatment of us, I think you Tines are doing the right thing...and as long as I lead the Talons, there is no ill will from us towards the organization." K'Nara stressed the word "organization". Berryl smiled.
"Then, we, too, shall leave you without malice." she said. Browall and a couple of other Tines looked as though they wanted to argue. "Enough! Randa, I'll ride double with you..." She stepped over to one of the riders and was helped onto the back of the horse.
"Good luck, then, Talons." Berryl said sincerely, if a little sadly. "May the Emerald Kingdom find peace and freedom...someday."
The Tines ride off, following the trail back towards home, leaving the Talons standing in the remnants of their hard-fought battle, the wind blowing some dust across the ground and over the newly-grown bushes...
K'Nara Friday March 11th, 2005 7:26:25 AM
The tall bladesinger looks around at the group assembled around her.
"We must leave as soon as possble..." she reminds them, "...we can't be sure that the watchmen of the stronghold didn't see that smoke from when the Web was burning. If they did, they'll be sending out a scout to see what may have caused the fire."
The group hurries to make sure that everyone is together...the tiger and rats are sent back to wherever they were summoned from. The black panther--her belly round with her unexpected but welcome meal--returns to the periphery of Gunther. Glannath is perched on one of the nearby bushes.
"Check out what's left of that wizard..." K'Nara says to nobody in particular. "...he might have something useful to us." Her attention, however, is captured by the highly-unusual bush formations left in the wake of the Wall of Thorns.
K'Nara speaks a spell--anyone who uses magic instantly recognizes the incantation for a basic Detect Magic--directing it at the trio of bushes she's standing closest to.
Nothing happens.
"So...these bushes are not magic." she says, puzzled. "Yet...they appeared as if by magic--I wonder why..?"
Whomever checks out the wizard's body must roll a Search check versus DC15. Make the check to see if your PC finds anything they think is useful to the party.
The party is otherwise able to start traveling back to the Emerald Kingdom.
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