DM Bob & Carla d20+6=17 d20+2=10 d20+2=10 d20+2=6 Sunday February 27th, 2005 11:54:04 PM
As the party reacts to the scraping of the concealed door, the twisted form of a man, it's eyes glowing in hatred, rushes at Bralin as the dwarf rounds the table. Two arrows flash past the dwarf and impale the creature but do not appear to slow it down. It swings wildly at the cleric, raking the dwarf's armor with it's long sharp nails. The creature seems to hiss at him through sharp needle-like teeth.[Hit AC=17] The cleric recognizes the undead being as a wight, brought back from death and filled with hatred.
Lorth and Andrath rush to the aid of Langdon and Lorth begins dismantling the halo of steel that is screwed into the prone paladin's temples. With each turn of the screws, Langdon screams out in agony and twitches uncontrollably on the table, but Lorth can see the screws releasing their terrible grip. [It will take two characters one more round to free Langdon, or one character two more rounds]
Merryn continues to brace the door against the continued pounding of the skeletons on the other side, while Harvest takes a moment to heal herself and retrieve a second wand.
As the Bralin engages the creature, Lorth can feel waves of guilt, anguish, remorse, anger, and fear overcome him in succession. The paladin's eyes are drawn to the creature, and a terrible realization dawns that whatever this creature is now, it was someone very familiar to him in the past. [Will Save vs DC 15 or remain immobile for 1 round].
Merryn - AC: 15 HP: 25/25 d20+2=4 Monday February 28th, 2005 8:10:11 AM
Spell Effects: Bull's Strength +4 Str. (15) (29 Rounds Left)
Merryn continues to hold strong the door, but he can feel his arms weakening somewhat. He only hopes that his arms in combination with the latch will suffice (Str. Check: 4).
Bralin (AC 19, 31/45hp, bulls strength, bless,-2 Con, power attack[3]) d20+9=18 d10+10=13 Monday February 28th, 2005 9:44:24 AM
Bralin's face goes a shade paler at the thought of what his armor just prevented.
"Tis a wight," he tells Andrath. "Do not approach. Its very touch can drain your life force."
The dwarf puts all of his might into the arc of his axe. This abomination must be destroyed quickly.
[hit ac18 for 13 hp damage]
Lorth (AC 17, HP 45) d20+5=17 Monday February 28th, 2005 10:02:14 AM
Lorth turns and looks at the wight, as the realization of who the wight once was sinks in, he begins to tremble. He no longer pays any attention to Langdon...
The world around him slows down to a crawl...
His mind races, this abomination must be destroyed, whatever it is now, it no longer is his father. He stumbles across the room to recover his longsword, functioning on instinct rather than rational thought.
[Lorth will head to attack the wight as soon as he gets his longsword]
Harvest (AC21, HP 14/24 -1 Con) d20+6=13 d6=6 Monday February 28th, 2005 10:29:09 AM A Wight? Bralin Stoneminder names it a Wight.
All naming aside, the horrible desiccated undead appearance of the thing aside, something almost instinctual builds within young Harvest Moon. A sense of outrage centered around the wooden eye at her hip wells from inside her. At this Wight at the skeletons outside the door. Her own wounds, her own death is no longer of consequence. They must be destroyed. There is no other alternative.
Mouth compressed into a thin line of determination, Harvest races around the table on which the tortured man lies. She braces as she thrusts the thin wooden wand in the direction of the wight. A ray of light jumps from the wand as she speaks the trigger word.
Rolls Ranged Touch AC13, Damage 6hp
Active Effects Mage Armor (From Wand, 1 hour from the time the group decided to sneak into the Fort) Bless (Everyone: +1 to Attack, +1 vs. Fear - 5 rounds remaining) Hold Portal on Door (8 rounds remaining)
Position Behind Bralin (directly west of him) but separated by a five foot square.
Notes In hands 1) Wand of CLW 2) Wand of Disrupt Undead Wand of CLW 2 charges used. Wand of Disrupt Undead 49/50 charges.
Question: There's a Hold Portal spell on the Door, isn't there?
Arminas (AC 18, 25/25 hp) Monday February 28th, 2005 10:57:17 AM
Arminas shudders as the arrows hit the wight and seem to have little effect.
"Merryn, Harvest cast a spell upon the door. Her magic should hold it for awhile. Come, let us free Langston while they take care of the foul creature."
Arminas rushes over to Langston and starts where Lorth left off.
"Hurry Merryn, I could use help here."
OOC: Not sure if I can talk Merryn out of holding the door this round or not, but if it is possible there are two of us trying to free Langston.
Merryn Monday February 28th, 2005 5:30:45 PM
ooc: sorry I forgot about the portal on the door. If permissible, I'll follow Arminas' suggestion.
Andrath (AC24, 30/30 hp, Shield 9 rounds remaining) d20+5=19 d8+5=11 d20+5=22 d6+2=3 Monday February 28th, 2005 11:36:44 PM
Andrath shifts 5' to engage the wight. He swings his swords at the dessicated undead. [OOC: longsword hit AC19 for 11 hp damage, shortsword hit AC22 for 3 hp damage.]
DM Bob & Carla d6=3 d20+6=20 d20+2=17 d20+2=7 d20+2=3 Monday February 28th, 2005 11:58:27 PM
Bralin realizes the perilous nature of their situation and swings his dwarven axe at the wight, striking it solidly and causing a large rent in it's hide. Uncaring the creature fights on. Lorth retrieves his sword and advances on the hideous monster that was once his father. Harvest Moon sends a ray of energy wide of the target, narrowly missing Lorth as it passes by. Unsure of how to proceed, Arminus convinces Merryn to abandon the door and the two of them move to assist Langdon. Andrath steps forward and rakes the wight with his swords, slicing into the leathery surface of the former paladin.
Still the monster fights on. It steps towards the monk and hacks at her with it's claws. The wight tears into her robe but it's claws come up empty [Hit AC 20].
The hammering of the skeletons outside the door continues unabated.
Harvest (AC21, AC24 vs Wight, HP 14/24 -1 Con) d20+4=22 d6+1=5 Tuesday March 1st, 2005 7:47:16 AM
"You are unholy," Harvest Moon says with an uncharacteristic vehemence in her voice. "You will go to Gargul. Now."
Shifting five feet to her right to place her opposite Bralin Stoneminder, the little girl lashes out with a foot in a solid kick to the Wight's mid-section.
Rolls Hit AC22(+5 Unarmed, -4 Defensive Fighting, +2 Flanking vs. Bralin +1 Bless) Damage 5hp (1d6+1)
Active Effects Mage Armor (From Wand, 1 hour from the time the group decided to sneak into the Fort) Bless (Everyone: +1 to Attack, +1 vs. Fear - 4 rounds remaining) Hold Portal on Door (7 rounds remaining)
Position Diagonally across the Wight from Bralin. Fifth square down from the North wall and the second square in from the East wall.
Notes In hands 1) Wand of CLW 2) Wand of Disrupt Undead Wand of CLW 2 charges used. Wand of Disrupt Undead 49/50 charges. Fighting Defensively +3 to AC Dodge vs W +1 to AC
Lorth (AC 17, HP 45) Tuesday March 1st, 2005 8:05:19 AM
Lorth moves to the wight and attacks it, he says nothing as tears well up into his eyes, from what his father has become.
Lorth (AC 17, HP 45) d20+7=27 d8+3=11 Tuesday March 1st, 2005 8:07:07 AM
(Sorry didn't roll attack. Hit AC: 27, Dam: 11 No crit. since you can't crit. undead)
Bralin (AC 19, 31/45hp, bulls strength, bless,-2 Con, power attack[3]) d20+9=21 d10+10=13 Tuesday March 1st, 2005 8:10:44 AM
Way in the back of his mind, Bralin makes a note to explain "Do Not Approach" in more detail.
Now, however, it is time to act.
Once again, the dwarf puts all his might behind Solgar's Axe.
[hit ac21 for 13 hp damage]
Merryn - AC: 15 HP: 25/25 Tuesday March 1st, 2005 8:40:33 AM
Seeing that the wight is already crowded with attackers, Merryn remains with Arminas, helping him to unbind Langdon and
Merryn - AC: 15 HP: 25/25 d20+2=10 Tuesday March 1st, 2005 8:42:33 AM
OOC: sorry, I hit submit instead of roll. I should really have my coffee before playing my turn.
Seeing that the wight is already crowded with attackers, Merryn remains with Arminas, helping him to unbind Langdon and trying to heal the wounded man as best as he can (Heal: 10).
Arminas (AC 18, 25/25 hp) Tuesday March 1st, 2005 10:45:17 AM
Arminas works quickly to free Langston, and is relieved when Merryn is able to provide some healing.
OOC: You mentioned that 2 people could free him in a round, so I assume that we accomplish this.
As Langston is freed from the table, Arminas will take off his cloak and wrap it around Langston.
Looking between the group fighting the wight and the door the skeletons are pounding on, Arminas makes a decision.
"Merryn, I hope that they can deal with the wight. Langston, stay clear and rest. We need to get ready for the skeletons. Perhaps if we tie a trip line across the floor just inside the door, the skeletons would fall as they rush into the room. We could then use staffs, table legs, or whatever else to bludgeon them."
If Arminas has time, he places his bow across his back and takes out his staff, that has been stored in his magical quiver. He then fishes the rope from his pack, ready to implement his plan.
OOC: I know that Arminas damaged the wight with his magic arrows. It is just that Arminas does not know it.
Andrath (AC24, 30/30 hp, Shield 8 rounds remaining) Tuesday March 1st, 2005 10:27:27 PM
Figuring that the rest of the party has the undead creature well in hand, Andrath moves over and stands in front of the door, waiting to see if the skeletons manage to break through. [OOC: Double move only, so no attack of opportunity.]
DM Bob & Carla d20+2=13 d20+2=15 d20+2=18 Wednesday March 2nd, 2005 12:02:38 AM
The dwarf, monk and paladin encircle the wight and attack. The creature that was once Kalith Jerodasta falls beneath their combined blows, impaled on Lorth's sword. Tears flow down the paladin's face, but he feels an immense weight lift from his soul. In final death, the desicated flesh that drew taut around the corpse of the former paladin relaxes, revealing a hint of his true appearance. Bralin and Harvest can recognize subtle similarities between the dead wight and their companion.
Arminus and Merryn are able to free Langdon from the table, discarding the steel device that tormented him. The man is soaked in sweat and other bodily fluids and can barely stand, but smiles weakly when Arminus wraps the cloak about him to protect him from the draft that sweeps through the room from the opened passage way in the northeast corner of the room. The Ranger suggests setting a trap for the skeletons. [actual preparations will have to wait until next round]
Merryn senses that the man is on his last legs and will require far more healing than can be provided by the party's potions and wands. His ordeal has weakened him severely.
Andrath heads for the door as the skeletons continue to hammer at the wood, shaking the door and its frame. The hinges are weakening under their onslaught.
"Hugo...where is Hugo" a panicked expression sweeps over Langdon when he realizes that his friend is not among his rescuers. "We...you must go back for him."
Harvest (AC21, HP 14/24 -1 Con) Wednesday March 2nd, 2005 8:01:10 AM
All of the righteous fury that burns within Harvest Moon goes up with a puff of smoke as the Wight falls and, in its human form it resembles ... The brown girl's hand goes to her mouth in an expression of shock. The skeletons outside, even the keep around them are momentarily forgotten in the depths of the tragedy. Lorth Jerodasta, is he not, like her, also a follower of Gargle's unblinking eye? Love of Father. Hatred of the undead. What must he be feeling?
Harvest Moon says nothing. Rather, she simply touches the paladin's arm with a small hand. On her face is a very very unhappy look.
Then the urgency of the moment returns. Slowly at first, at the edges, and then it comes rushing back. Harvest Moon pulls away to leave the paladin with his father.
"You wish a trap? Arminas of Jarlswolf?" she says in a low voice, as though not wishing to burst a moment of solemnity. "I have oil in my pack. We can spread it upon the ground. And alchemist's fire to throw. To ignite it. You may take them from my pack. They will be the first items on top."
"Or," she frowns, "would that make things worse?"
"I also have a scroll of grease. That might make them fall."
Rolls None
Active Effects Mage Armor (From Wand, 1 hour from the time the group decided to sneak into the Fort) Bless (Everyone: +1 to Attack, +1 vs. Fear - 3 rounds remaining) Hold Portal on Door (6 rounds remaining)
Position Just south of Merryn and Southeast of Arminas.
Notes In hands 1) Wand of CLW 2) Wand of Disrupt Undead Wand of CLW 2 charges used. Wand of Disrupt Undead 49/50 charges.
Merryn - AC: 15 HP: 25/25 Wednesday March 2nd, 2005 8:16:23 AM
Merryn calls out to the group, "Langdon is severely wounded, as you can all see. Unfortunately, my healing skills are not the greatest. Does anyone possess any talent in this realm? I fear we cannot restore him to full health right now, but we could at least stabilize him and ease his suffering."
Having said that, Merryn turns to Arminas and asks him how he can help with the trap preparations and then sets to work on them.
Lorth (AC 17, HP 45) Wednesday March 2nd, 2005 8:43:08 AM
Tears continue to fall from Lorth eyes, he glances up at Harvest, "I'll be a minute.", he says weakly.
"Father, I made a pledge to mother that I would find you, and lay you to rest. I have found you, soon you will be at ease."
Lorth wipes the tears from his eyes then removes two large sacks and his 50' of rope from his backpack. He does his best to wrap up his fathers remains in the sacks, then ties everything up so he can carry the dead man over his shoulder.
Arminas (AC 18, 25/25 hp) Wednesday March 2nd, 2005 9:53:19 AM
Arminas looks towards Lorth bundling up the body of his dead father with a look of newfound respect is in his eyes.
Quietly he says: "I don't think I would have the strength to do such."
Glancing again at the door, Arminas has a worried look.
"The door does not appear to be holding well. Plus, I have a new worry. Do you suppose that the skeleton's pounding could have brought others?"
"Harvest, your idea of flaming oil is a good one, but I don't think this is the proper place for it. Grease would work well, but remember we need to go through that door as well to free Hugo. Unless anyone has a better idea, I suggest we tie a rope just off the floor about 5 feet inside the door. That way when the skeletons rush in they may trip, and lose the advantage."
"Does everyone have a bludgeoning device. Blades don't appear to be useful here, as they have no flesh to cut. Table legs would work well."
Arminas then, with Merryn's help ties the rope across the floor, utilizing the torch brackets if nothing lower down is found. The rope would be about a foot off the ground 5 feet from the door.
Bralin (AC 19, 31/45hp, bulls strength, bless,-2 Con) Wednesday March 2nd, 2005 10:47:01 AM
Bralin's eyes harden as he realizes the undead was once Lorth's sire. A hard blow.
But, there is no time.
"No fire or grease" Bralin agrees. Meanwhile, he stows his axe and releases his backpack, letting it drop to the floor. He spins toward it, preparing to rummage around.
"I have a hammer," he says.
Time. Time. Time. The dwarf needs more time.
Harvest (2nd llegal Post) d8+1=6 Wednesday March 2nd, 2005 12:31:27 PM
OoC: Might as well throw in a useful action.
No oil. No grease.
"Andrath Silverhand," she calls, "I watched you outside the inn practicing arcane arts. Can you use a wand that Disrupts Undead? Do you wish to? I think that I can strike the skeletons with my fists and feet as well as with the wand."
Harvest Moon steps next to Bralin Stoneminder as he rummages through is pack. Touching him with his own wand, she heals more of his wounds.
Rolls CLW Cure Bralin 6hp
Al - OoC Wednesday March 2nd, 2005 6:43:21 PM
Go for it. Sorry to clutter the board with OoC's.
MikeK addition - John L is subbing for Lorth. MikeK and Kelly figured out they could cover each other. Its all good.
I deleted the other OOC posts as clean-up
DM Bob & Carla d20+2=19 d20+2=3 d20+2=20 Wednesday March 2nd, 2005 11:45:27 PM
The skeletons continue banging on the door, relentless in their mission. The door and it's frame shake and loosen within the stonework, but the monk's magic continues to keep the door closed.
Lorth prepares his father's body while the others look on and wonder how well they would hold up under such difficult circumstances. Langdon leans against the table for support and looks on with growing interest as Lorth binds the body.
Arminus and Merryn prepare a trap for the skeletons, fashioning a crude trip wire some five feet back from the door. Harvest uses the curing wand on the dwarf as he kneels in front of her and fishes through his pack for a hammer.
There is little in the way of furniture in the room. The table has massive legs that would be difficult to remove and there are no chairs. There are, however, a number of torches protruding from brackets along the wall that might serve as clubs.
Merryn - AC: 15 HP: 25/25 d20+2=12 Thursday March 3rd, 2005 8:52:59 AM
Spell Effects: Bull's Strength +4 Str. (15) (26 Rounds Left)
OOC: do Arminas and I have to hold the tripwire, or is it attached to something?
if we do have to hold it:
Merryn calls forth to Andrath, "Make ready to open the door on Arminas' signal." He then takes a firm grip on the wire, keeping it taut in anticipation of the impact of the skeleton (Str. Check: 12)
if we do not have to hold it:
Merryn grabs a torch from the wall closest to him and positions himself beside the tripwire so that he can descend on the skeletons immediately as they fall.
(OOC: Merryn and Arminas are where they would be if they had just attached the rope to the leg of a heavy table and the shelf unit. They are free to move this round.-DM Carla)
Lorth (AC 17, HP 45) Thursday March 3rd, 2005 9:42:59 AM
Lorth stops what he is doing for a moment, when the party starts talking about bludgeoning weapons. "Bralin", he says loudly, a small quiver in his voice. He then tosses his warhammer to the dwarf and goes back to preparing his fathers remains.
(OOC: Will try and post tommorow morning but may not be able too. Lorth will continue to prepare his father for carrying, unless the party gets really hard pressed, (or the party calls him) then he will help fight. If he finishes preparing the remains and the fight is still on, he helps out of course. Using his lay on hands to heal whoever is hurt, then fighting. thanks all)
Bralin (AC 19, 37/45hp, bulls strength, bless,-2 Con) Thursday March 3rd, 2005 11:51:43 AM
Bralin reaches into his pack and rises with a warhammer. Turning at the sound of Lorth's voice, he catches the paladin's warhammer and places in on the table.
He pats his own hammer fondly in response to Lorth.
Leaving the pack on the ground, the dwarf transfers his weapon to his shield hand, and then digs into his front belt pouch to retrieve his obsidian orb.
He nods to Arminas and Merryn.
Bralin is ready.
Harvest (AC21, HP 14/24 -1 Con) Thursday March 3rd, 2005 12:27:02 PM
Harvest Moon follows Bralin Stoneminder, to stand behind him as the group prepares for the entrance of the skeletons.
"When we are ready," she calls out to all, "I will dismiss the spell on the door."
Rolls None
Active Effects Mage Armor (From Wand, 1 hour from the time the group decided to sneak into the Fort) Bless (Everyone: +1 to Attack, +1 vs. Fear - 2 rounds remaining) Hold Portal on Door (5 rounds remaining)
Position Wherever Bralin Moves, stand behind him.
Notes In hands 1) Wand of CLW 2) Wand of Disrupt Undead Wand of CLW 2 charges used. Wand of Disrupt Undead 49/50 charges.
Standard Action: Dismiss Hold Portal
Arminas (AC 18, 25/25 hp) Thursday March 3rd, 2005 12:31:39 PM
Arminas looks about to see if everyone is ready.
"Harvest, can you end your spell, or do we need to wait until it runs its course?"
"I suggest we step back 10 feet from the door. Hopefully, the skeletons will rush forward and fall at our feet. I have never fought such foul creatures, but I hope to bash open the skull and see what happens."
When everyone seems ready, Arminas will flip the latch open with his staff. If the door does not immediately open, then he will stand and wait at the ready.
Andrath (AC24, 30/30 hp, Shield spell 6 rounds remaining) d20+8=14 d8+5=12 Friday March 4th, 2005 1:03:43 AM
Andrath answers Harvest, "I don't want to try the wand; I want to stick with what works best for me: these two blades. Thank you anyway."
The elf makes his way over to the door, readying for the release of the skeletons to enter the room. [OOC: Hold an attack action to attack the first skeleton that nears him. Hit AC14 for 12 hp damage.]
DM Bob & Carla d20+1=3[dex] d20+1=2[dex] d20+1=16[dex] d20+3=23[atk vs Andrath] d20+3=22[crit] d8+2=8[dmg] Friday March 4th, 2005 7:53:05 AM
Merryn and Arminus complete the work of securing their trip line to the shelves and table on either side of the door while the remainder of the party prepares themselves for the door to open. Lorth continues to prepare his father's body for transport.
When all are ready, Harvest dispels the Hold Portal and the skeletons barge through the door. The first two skeletons fail to avoid the rope and crash to the floor, while the third deflects Andrath's sword and attacks him with a deadly looking longsword of it's own. [Hits with Nat 20 for 8 HP damage and -1 CON]
Lorth (AC 17, HP 45) Friday March 4th, 2005 8:07:33 AM
Lorth continues to prepare the remains...
Bralin (AC 19, 37/45hp, bulls strength, bless,-2 Con) d20-1=0 Friday March 4th, 2005 8:19:07 AM
Bralin holds his obsidian orb high, but the skeletons keep coming. Two trip and clatter about, distracting him even further. Having never tried to turn undead before, Bralin suddenly realizes he's not sure how its done.
"Begone?" he asks the skeletons unsurely.
Sensing he's wasting his time, the warrior returns his orb to its pouch on his waist. He'll do this the other way.
[Turn check = 0. Yuck]
Merryn - AC: 15 HP: 25/25 d20+5=9 d6+4=8 Friday March 4th, 2005 8:44:07 AM
Spell Effects: Bull's Strength +4 Str. (15) (25 Rounds Left)
Thank the gods that I was a decent stickball player, Merryn thinks to himself. He rushes over to the standing skeleton and flanks the undead creature, positioning himself directly behind him (OOC: Merryn is behind S3 in between S3 and the wall). Gripping his spear like a stickball bat, Merryn aims for the skull of the skeleton, pulls back, and swings, aiming to knock the skull clear off the body. Let's hope for a home run, Merryn thinks to himself.
(Attack AC = (9 + 2 flanking) = 11 for DMG 8 (8 = d6 + 1.5*Str. Mod for wielding in 2 hands + 1 for +1 spear).
OOC: I hope I did the rolls and modifiers correcly, but I could be mistaken. I'm still trying to figure out some of the more involved rules in combat. :)
Harvest (AC21, Dodge vs S2 AC22, HP 14/24 -1 Con) d20+4=21 d20+4=16 d6+1=5 d6+1=3 Friday March 4th, 2005 8:48:47 AM
Two are down. Now is the time!
Shifting her balance, Harvest Moon lashes out with two swift snap kicks to a skeleton's head.
Rolls To Hit S2 AC21 & AC16, Damage 5 & 3 (Flurry of Blows +3/+3, +1 Bless)
Active Effects Mage Armor (From Wand, 1 hour from the time the group decided to sneak into the Fort) Bless (Everyone: +1 to Attack, +1 vs. Fear - 1 rounds remaining)
Position Same position
Notes In hands 1) Wand of CLW 2) Wand of Disrupt Undead Wand of CLW 2 charges used. Wand of Disrupt Undead 49/50 charges.
Arminas (AC 18, 25/25 hp) d20+7=17 d6+2=8 Friday March 4th, 2005 9:42:08 AM
Arminas swings his staff at the head of the fallen skeleton, hoping to crack it open.
I wonder if there is anything inside these skulls?
"That's it, crack them bones."
Attack with staff Hit AC 17 Damage 8
Andrath [AC24, 18/26 hp, -1 CON, Shield spell 5 rounds remaining) d20+6=10 d20+6=8 Sunday March 6th, 2005 4:38:01 PM
[OOC: Great post, Mike. Very understadely humorous!]
[OOC: Andrath CON is now 13, so loses 4 hp from total.]
"Begone?!? Begone!?! BACK TO THE GRAVE AND EAT DIRT, YOU WORTHLESS PILES OF BONES!" Andrath shouts as he tries to encourage the dwarf. He swings twice at the standing skeleton facing him, but in his eagerness to help his friend scare the skeletons away, he misses badly [OOC: Hit AC10 and AC8, so obviously misses.]
DM Bob & Carla d20+3=20(S1 vs Arminus) d8+2=6 d20+3=20 (S2 vs Harvest) d2=1 (pick opponent) d20+3=4(S3 vs Andrath) Monday March 7th, 2005 12:12:58 AM
Beginner's luck evades Bralin as his attempt to channel positive energy through his obsidian orb fails. The dwarf decides to tackle the skeletons the old fashioned way.
Merryn takes a swipe at the skeleton attacking Andrath (S3). In an obscene parody of a grin, the creature's grimace widens. Pinpoints of red light glow from empty sockets as it weaves this way and that dodging both the druid's and the rogue's attacks.
Harvest and Arminus have better luck, and each inflict damage upon their chosen opponents (S2 and S1 respectively.) The elven ranger quickly learns the skeleton is a mindless automaton, for there is nothing inside the cracked pate of the thing.
Weaving unsteadily to their feet, the tumbled jumble of bones slash at their attackers. S1 aims for Arminus (Hit AC 20, for 6 pts dmg, -1 CON), S2 barely misses the nimble monk, S3 stays on Andrath, but misses.
(Arminus, Bralin, and Harvest get AoO on S1 or S2. Skelly AC is 16.)
With single-minded determination, the paladin bundles up the remains of his sire.
(OOC: no map since little change in position.-DM Carla)
Merryn - AC: 15 HP: 25/25 d20+5=12 Monday March 7th, 2005 9:04:47 AM
Spell Effects: Bull's Strength +4 Str. (15) (24 Rounds Left)
Merryn takes another swipe at the skeleton standing in front of him, trying to disable him before his friends come to help; sadly, he misses (AC 12)
Lorth (AC 17, HP 45) Monday March 7th, 2005 9:07:25 AM
OOC: I think I have the right day to begin playing for Lorth. If not, Lorth disregard this post and forge ahead. :)
Lorth takes a moment to whisper a few prayers over the body of his father and then turns with interest to the combat behind him. He searches around the room for a suitable place to lay his father's remains so that he may join the fight.
Arminas (AC 18, HP 19/25, -1 Con) d20+7=26 d20+7=19 d6+2=6 d6+2=5 Monday March 7th, 2005 9:35:14 AM
Arminas swings his staff at the skeleton and connects with a loud crack. The bones seem to magically hold together. Noticing that the skeleton does not appear to be adept at dodging attacks, Arminas swings again. The loud crack of wood on bone makes a distinct sound, although not a pleasant one.
Attacks with staff Hit AC 26 Damage 6 Hit AC 19 Damage 5
P.S. used bless, subtract 1 from attack if over, still hit.
Harvest (AC21, Dodge vs. S2 AC22, HP 14/24 -1 Con) d20+5=22 d20+5=20 d6+1=4 d6+1=6 Monday March 7th, 2005 10:09:08 AM
Still balanced on one leg, the little brown monk sends a snap kick to the skeleton's jaw as it rises from the ground.
"Gargul does not like you," she says in a low hiss. "You will return to death. You go."
With a quick spring, Harvest Moon drives the side of her foot into the pelvis of the skeleton before her.
Rolls AoO To Hit S2 AC22 Damage 4hp (1d6 + 1) To Hit S2 AC20 Damage 6hp
Active Effects Mage Armor (From Wand, 1 hour from the time the group decided to sneak into the Fort) Bless (Sorry, it's over.)
Position Same position
Notes In hands 1) Wand of CLW 2) Wand of Disrupt Undead Wand of CLW 2 charges used. Wand of Disrupt Undead 49/50 charges.
Bralin (AC 19, 37/45hp, bulls strength, -2 Con, power attack[3]) d20+7=23 d20+7=16 d8+9=14 d8+9=13 Monday March 7th, 2005 12:21:09 PM
Bralin is energized by Andrath's remarks, and goes into a battle fury. As he swings his warhammer at S1, he yells:
"Begone, BEGONE ya pile of bones. BEGONE"
Attacks AoO Hit AC 23 Damage 14 Hit AC 16 Damage 13
OOC: Post by Kelly
Andrath (AC24, 18/26 hp, shield spell 4 rounds remaining) d20+6=9 d20+6=22 d6+2=7 Monday March 7th, 2005 1:49:13 PM
Andrath calls out, "That's the way, Bralin." He swings his swords at the skeleton still facing him, connecting with the shortsword. [OOC: Hit AC22 for 7 hp slashing damage.]
DM Bob & Carla d2=2(pick opponent) d20+3=12(vs Merryn) Monday March 7th, 2005 8:18:03 PM
Shards of white bone fly in all directions as the two skeletons crumble under the furious attacks of Arminus, Harvest Moon, and Bralin. The nimble S3 continues to evade any serious damage from Andrath and Merryn. This time he slashes out wildly at the man to his right, but his wicked longsword misses the druid.
Lorth places the bundled remains of his father upon the table vacated by Langdon, and seeks to rejoin his friends. The paladin feels a frail hand pluck at his arm. It is Langdon. A thin man, once strong and wiry, he is now emaciated and weak after two weeks imprisonment in the bowels of the Crimson Fort. "Hugo! We must rescue my brother!" he pleads. His eyes, clouded with pain fix Lorth as he adds, "and we must warn the people of Magpie Crossing!
Harvest (AC21, Dodge vs. S3 AC22, HP 14/24 -1 Con) d20+5=22 d6+1=4 Monday March 7th, 2005 9:56:36 PM
Harvest Moons mouth tightens into a thin line of grim satisfaction as the undead creature drops into a loose pile of bone on the floor. Without pause, she plants and swings her other leg in a round-house kick to the remaining skeleton's near leg.
Rolls To Hit S3 AC22 Damage 4hp
Active Effects Mage Armor (From Wand, 1 hour from the time the group decided to sneak into the Fort)
Position Same position
Notes In hands 1) Wand of CLW 2) Wand of Disrupt Undead Wand of CLW 2 charges used. Wand of Disrupt Undead 49/50 charges.
Merryn - AC: 15 HP: 25/25 d20+5=12 Tuesday March 8th, 2005 7:46:18 AM
Spell Effects: Bull's Strength +4 Str. (15) (23 Rounds Left)
Well, third time's a charm, Merryn thinks to himself as he winds up for another swing. Although, apparently Merryn's evaluation of his stickball skills was overvalued (Atk. AC 12).
Lorth (AC 17, HP 45) Tuesday March 8th, 2005 7:50:11 AM
Lorth looks with sadness in his eyes on his once formidable friend. "I know Langdon, I know. We shall be through the door soon and reunited with Hugo. What must we warn the people about?"
OOC: post by John L. Should I have received a character sheet for Lorth for combat? Or will the DM handle those rolls in such a case of substitute playing?
Bralin (posted by Kelly AC 19, 37/45hp, bulls strength, -2 Con, power attack[3]) d20+7=11 Tuesday March 8th, 2005 10:00:46 AM
Bralin looks at his warhammer with satisfaction as the skeleton crumbles before him.
It seems that the power of Gargul was in his hammer, perhaps this is how it is done.
Turning to the one remaining skeleton, Bralin steps behind him and swings his hammer as he says:
"In the name of Gargul, BEGONE!"
Just as he swings, the skeleton steps away and Bralin misses.
Perhaps there is more to being a servant of Gargul than I've imagined.
Arminas (AC 18, HP 19/25, -1 Con) Tuesday March 8th, 2005 10:04:27 AM
Arminas sees the skeleton before him crumble to the ground. He still shakes with revulsion at the prospect of fighting the undead. How anyone could devote thier life to the service of Gargul without going crazy is beyond him.
As the others surround and attack the remaining skeleton, Arminas decides to go and search the dead mage.
OOC: Forgot to mention in Bralin's post that I was the poster. Could you add that for historical purposes?
Done!-DM Carla
Andrath (AC24, 18/26 hp, shield spell 3 rounds remaining) d20+6=17 d20+6=19 d6+2=4 d6+2=5 Wednesday March 9th, 2005 7:47:43 AM
Encouraged by the demise of the other two skeletons, the elf attacks with renewed fury. [Hit AC=17 & 19 for 9 dmg]
DM Bob & Carla Wednesday March 9th, 2005 8:01:24 AM
Harvest Moon and Andrath manage to send the last skeleton to it's final resting place and a sudden quiet fills the room. Only the ragged breathing of the party breaks the silence. Arminus' search of the dead mage reveals a wicked looking rapier with a bone handle, a black book closed a leather strap, a dark cloak, a pair of bracers, and 3 small vials.
Langdon's face shows considerable relief at the defeat of the skeletons and Lorth's reassurance.
"They intend to take Strongwind, they have infiltrated the castle and the town. We must tell Caerthon. Hugo and I saw one of the blackguards talking with an officer from the castle. We couldn't tell who it was, but when we followed, we were ambushed and taken prisoner." A measure of desperation returns to the paladin's face. "There's a death knight" he whispers in obvious fear.
Harvest (AC21, HP 14/24 -1 Con) d20+7=10 Wednesday March 9th, 2005 10:06:58 AM
Gathering her robes into her lap, Harvest Moon kneels low over the fallen remains of the Guardians. She sniffs the air above the bodies in the manner of a dog's cautious questing. A hand reaches out and a finger traces the curve of a rib bone.
Harvest suddenly takes hold of a lower leg. With a quick twist, she tries to tear away the shin bone, taking two as prize to carry away in her haversack.
"What is a Death Knight," she asks.
Rolls Knowledge Religion 10 (For info on Death Knight)
Active Effects Mage Armor (From Wand, 1 hour from the time the group decided to sneak into the Fort)
Position NA
Notes Dang. Were these summoned skeletons? I was going to do some RP thing with the shin bones.
Merryn d20+6=9 d20+8=13 Wednesday March 9th, 2005 11:55:24 AM
"Well, now that that is done with let us not tarry. The man in the other room is still racked with pain, no doubt. Let us try to ease the pain of both him and Langdon."
Having said that, Merryn gestures for the others to follow him into the first cell, keeping on the lookout for more foes descending the stairs to them (Spot: 9; Listen:13).
Lorth - Post by John L. Wednesday March 9th, 2005 11:58:40 AM
"I agree with Merryn, Hugo is still suffering there in the other room, likely thinking we have abandoned him! Let us go quickly to him. We shall have to learn more about the danger facing Magpie Crossing later. For now, the priority is Hugo!"
He helps Langdon over to the door and follows Merryn into the first room.
Arminas (AC 18, HP 19/25, -1 Con) Wednesday March 9th, 2005 12:24:12 PM
Having gathered up the items from the dead mage, Arminas quickly goes over to the dead black guard and searches him.
"I will be right with you. The damage done by these swords seem unnatural. I do not think we should leave such weapons to fall into the hands of others."
Arminas wraps the swords he has gathered up in a blanket, and places them in his Quiver of Ehlonna. If for some reason touching the swords causes any unusual feeling, he will pick them up using a piece of cloth.
Bralin (posted by Kelly AC 19, 37/45hp, bulls strength, -2 Con) Wednesday March 9th, 2005 12:29:17 PM
Bralin places his warhammer back in his pack and takes out his axe.
"Yes, let us free Hugo quickly. Harvest, could you also heal Langston and Hugo with our wand. If there is healing left, we are also in need of it."
Then looking at Harvest, he frowns. "Poor girl, you are wounded worst of all. Heal yourself first. You were very brave, Gargul would be proud of you."
DM Bob & Carla Wednesday March 9th, 2005 7:52:46 PM
Harvest watches as the dismembered bone dissolves into grey powder and runs through her fingers only to disappear with the remains of the other skeletons. The monk has a recollection of words, spoken in hushed tones, formed in a crucible of hatred and damnation, death knights are walking warriors of bone and desiccated flesh, powerful and destructive champions marshalled by masters of evil against the forces of goodness and light." More words, this time those of her mentor, " goodness and light steps up to fill the void. Remember that 'Boo."
Merryn and Lorth rush through the doorway and into the cell where they work together to release Hugo. Langdon limps after them, leaning against a wall in the cell. "Raven's Gate" he says. "That is what they used to call this place. Two stone walls, each ten feet thick and over 40 feet high. Originally black in colour, the stone has been stained crimson-black with the blood of those slain in the final battle of the Dread Wars." The thin paladin looks at Lorth with sad eyes, "slain, like your father!" Langdon's voice cracks with the effort. "It was abandoned soon after the wars, in favour of Strongwind Castle closer to Magpie Crossing.
Arminus carefully secures what he finds on the body of the dead mage, and then turns his attention to the remains of the blackguard. The quality of the dead man's fighting gear is obvious, particularly the very fine breastplate, medium steel shield, and long sword. A dagger, its blade covered in some sort of substance lies near the body, having been dislodged during the battle.
Bralin joins up with the party outside the cell as Merryn and Lorth assist Hugo and wounds are tended to. It does not take keen eyesight to notice something is different about the area. Pale white mushrooms have sprouted along the edges of the room where stone walls meet the floor. They are not many, but grouped in clumps of three, their appearance is undeniable.
"We must leave this place!" hisses Langdon. "There is a death knight here. His corrupt presence is shrouded in death and evil." There is fear in the man's countenance. "We must leave now!"
Merryn hears voices coming from the stairwell that was the original entry into the dungeon area.
(OOC: It has been a little more than an hour since the party entered the fort. Harvest's Mage Armour expired. Essentially out of combat. For now...)
Harvest (AC21, HP 22/24 -1 Con) d8+1=8 d20+9=27 d20+9=11 Wednesday March 9th, 2005 9:33:51 PM
Harvest Moon's mouth turns to a disappointed frown as the skeletons crumble to dust.
"Goodness and light steps up to fill the void," she repeats out loud. "Step up to fill the void."
From the other room snippets of conversation drift back, the call to leave. They have infiltrated the castle ... and the town ...
The brown girl turns her eyes toward the new exit, the one from which the ... Paladin Lorth's father had entered. First, she seizes upon Bralin Stoneminder's advice and touches the wooden wand to her arm. The single wound inflicted by the black guard closes save for it's dark edges.
Then she makes her way quickly across the room to the new exit. Quietly she looks inside, listening for any presence that may be beyond.
Rolls CLW heal 8hp Spot 27 Listen 11
Merryn d20+8=11 d20+2=17 Wednesday March 9th, 2005 9:46:31 PM
Merryn strains to hear the voices at the top of the stairwell (Listen: 11). Turning to Lorth he whispers, "We must make haste out of this room and to that new exit, for at the top of the stairs lies the enemy. Bring Hugo to the other room as quietly as you can. I will assist Langdon."
Merryn moves over to Langdon, tells him of the voices and helps him to move back into the other room to the entryway where Harvest stands nearby (Move Silently: 17).
Lorth - post by John L. d20+1=19 Wednesday March 9th, 2005 9:49:45 PM
"Indeed, I will help him. Although the thought of delving deeper into this wretched place fills me with dread, we cannot risk another encounter now that we have rescued Hugo and Langdon."
Lorth helps Hugo to move over to the other room, trying to keep as quiet as possible (OOC: I don't have Lorth's CS so can DM do a move silently check?).
Move Silently=19, CS sent via e-mail-DM Carla
Arminas (AC 18, HP 19/25, -1 Con) d20+10=19 d20+10=27 d20+8=17 Thursday March 10th, 2005 10:02:42 AM
Arminas stores the longsword from the dead blackguard in his magical quiver. Looking at the dagger, which appears to be covered in a poison, Arminas decides that it is too dangerous to leave for the enemy. Carefully, he wraps it in a torn bit of cloth taken from the blackguard, and stores it in his pack. The shield and breastplate look too heavy and bulky to pack.
Seeing what looks to be fear in Harvest's eyes, Arminas quickly gathers up his pack. She seems to be eyeing the door the wight came through.
"Harvest, do you mean to go through the door that the undead came from? There may be more of the foul creatures."
Realizing that there is little choice, Arminas will go over to the door and peer through it. Scouting for any enemies.
Rolls Listen 19 Move silently 27 Spot 17
OOC: I am gone until the 22nd. Mike, it is all yours!
Bralin (posted by Kelly AC 19, 37/45hp, bulls strength, -2 Con) Thursday March 10th, 2005 10:06:08 AM
Bralin helps Langston back into the torture room, to the last remaining exit.
"These dark halls are a comfort to a dwarf. Come, I will help you."
Andrath (AC20, 18/26 hp, -1 CON) d20+11=24 d20+17=30 Friday March 11th, 2005 1:31:45 AM
AAndrath grabs up the swords from the skeleton hands, then has a quick look around the room while the party helps the wounded old soldiers get to their feet. {Search 24, Spot 30]
He makes his way across the room to where the wight had entered, and listens closely to detect if anyone is coming from that direction. "Do we head back up the stairs that we came down, and face the voices, or do we chance this new doorway?"
DM Bob & Carla Friday March 11th, 2005 6:28:03 PM
The voices from the stairway do not seem to be getting closer, but they do seem to be getting more numerous. For whatever reason, their foes seem to be gathering above them. Quietly and cautiously folks move away from the voices in the stairwell, and into the torture chamber. [OOC do you leave doors open or closed] While Lorth, Merryn, and Bralin help the rescued paladins, Harvest and Arminus investigate the secret passageway. There is nothing to give the scouts any concern at the moment. To their right, the passage way climbs in a curved stairway similar to the stairway used earlier. To their left lies a single closed door. The area is lit by torches stuck at regular intervals along the stone walls. Andrath's quick scan of the torture chamber reveals a small shelf with two vials and a scroll case. In addition he notes the clearly superior quality of the blackguard's armor and shield.
Merryn Saturday March 12th, 2005 8:17:27 AM
ooc: As the doors were closed before the party arrives, Merryn tries to close them once again as quietly as possible.
Turning to Harvest, Merryn asks, "How does the passageway look? Can we make it supporting Hugo and Langdon along the way?"
If the party decides to head into the passage, Merryn will help Hugo along into it.
Lorth - post by John L. Saturday March 12th, 2005 8:19:52 AM
Relieved that Bralin has taken over helping Langdon, Lorth, stifling tears in his eyes, returns to his Father's wrapped up body. Apologizing to his Father's spirit for the indecorous actions to ensuue, Lorth hoists the body up onto his shoulders in preparation for the march down the passageway.
OOC - Merryn Saturday March 12th, 2005 8:20:53 AM
Sorry, but could you tell me when Lorth's player is coming back? I don't want to usurp his character! :P
Harvest (AC21, HP 22/24 -1 Con) d20+8=16 d20+9=24 d20+9=16 Saturday March 12th, 2005 10:02:35 AM
"It appears a passageway, Merryn Blackburn," Harvest Moon whispers over her shoulder. "With a stairwell much like the one from which we entered."
"But there is another door ... " This last is said more to herself, and her brows contract into a frown as she examines first one then the other of the possible paths.
Touching Arminas of Jarlswolf upon the arm, she points to the door on the left. Harvest herself, creeps quietly to the stairwell on the right. Peering upwards, she strains to catch the presence of guards or the sounds of habitation.
Rolls Move Silently 16 Spot 24 Listen 16
Arminas (AC 18, HP 19/25, -1 Con) d20+10=20 d20+10=21 d20+8=26 Saturday March 12th, 2005 3:45:06 PM
Arminas nods to Harvest. The man pads over to the door on the left, and presses his ear against it, listening intently.
[Listen 20, Move Silently 21]
If he doesn't hear anything, he quietly open the door a crack, and peeks through.
[Spot 26]
Bralin Saturday March 12th, 2005 3:51:01 PM
While the scouts seek out the best route, Bralin takes the opportunity to collect up the heavier equipment of the fallen blackguard.
The dwarf grabs up the breastplate and ties it to his pack.
The shield is easier. Bralin simply leaves his smaller one and readies this one instead.
Then, he returns to Langston and helps the wounded man follow the group.
Andrath (AC20, 18/26 hp, -1 CON) d20+11=15 Sunday March 13th, 2005 8:22:02 PM
Andrath grabs the items off the shelves, and stashes them in his pack, along with the weapons from the skeletons and the blackguard. He gives the two bodies (blackguard and wizard)a once-over, making sure that he has all their valuables. Anything he finds, he stashes in his pack as well. "Merryn, try to bar the doors if you can. It might hold them up for a minute."
The elf slings his pack over his back and readies his longsword, making his way over to the only suitable exit. He peers out, and if he doesn't detect anyone, he makes his way into the hallway. He moves over to the door and presses his ear to it, trying to hear any sound. [OOC: Listen roll of 15.] If he doesn't hear anything, he will try to open the door.
DM Bob and Carla Monday March 14th, 2005 8:22:52 AM
As the Swords of Light make preparations to escape throught the unknown exit, Bralin and Andrath scour the torture chamber for any last valuables. In his sadness, Lorth also feels a burden lifted from his heart, firm in the knowledge that his father's tortured soul has been released of it's demons. The passageway seems clear of threats to those who are checking.
Arminus and Andrath listen at the door. It is an easy task, for the party is surprisingly quiet. No sound greets the ears of the listeners and the curious elves push the door open.
The room is a small storeroom set up as an armory. There is an assortment of armor and weapons leaning against the walls and in racks. One rack, set a little apart from the others, contains a number of more interesting items, a longsword with a wondrous blade inscribed with graceful script, a short spear with an ebony shaft and finely crafted head,leather armor, and a number of cloaks. A coiled rope is draped over the end of the rack. A shelf high on one wall holds a variety of interesting items including two wands, a set of gauntlets, and what appear to be some jewels. There is a closed chest underneath the shelf.
(OOC: Bob and I are having some mechanical difficulties with our computer. No e-mail and posting may be off schedule a little. David/Lorth and MikeK/Bralin are back, Kelly/Arminus is away until March 21 and I believe Al will post in his stead.)
Al - OoC Monday March 14th, 2005 9:40:49 AM Actually, I think that in the end, MikeK and Kelly decided to swap Postings-For. Mike is posting for Arminas, and he's started already.
Trying to avoid any confusion with this.
(Gotcha!-DM Carla)
Harvest (AC21, HP 22/24 -1 Con) d20+7=21 d20+8=28 d20+9=10 d20+9=25 Monday March 14th, 2005 10:11:58 AM
A quick glance back down the stairs confirms that the exploration of the other door has roused no dangers. Or, at least, no commotion.
Harvest Moon creeps quietly up the stairwell to scout their escape.
Lorth Monday March 14th, 2005 3:27:20 PM
Lorth does his best to keep up, while carrying his father's remains. His walk is purposeful, as if someone close to the end of a lifelong quest.
(I'm back, thanks for posting for me)
Merryn d20+6=17 d20+8=14 d20+2=14 Monday March 14th, 2005 5:32:59 PM
Merryn follows Harvest up the stairs, helping her to scout ahead.
(Spot: 17; listen: 14; move silently: 14).
Bralin Monday March 14th, 2005 7:38:52 PM
The dwarf follows the two elves into the storeroom. The spoils of battle, he tells himself.
Bralin sketches out a Detect Magic spell and points out those items that produce an aura. Given the need for haste, he doesn't bother gauging strength or type. He just wants to know whats magical.
Arminas Monday March 14th, 2005 7:40:10 PM
Arminas quickly scoops out whatever is magical and portable.
"Guess we're going the other way," he says to Andrath, with a nod at the stairwell Harvest is exploring.
Andrath (AC20, 16/24 hp, -1 CON) Monday March 14th, 2005 9:13:54 PM
Andrath moves into the storeroom, and quietly calls out, "Lorth, Harvest, Merryn, we need your help gathering up these items. Once we have looted this room, then we will move up the stairs. The elf helps Bralin and Arminas gather up the magical items, and has another quick look for anything else valuable. He helps to stash the valuable and/or magic itmes in various backpacks, and then heads out the door and listens up the stairs.
DM Bob and Carla Tuesday March 15th, 2005 8:31:29 AM
Bralin pushes in behind Andrath and Arminus. A quick spell and the magical items in the room are revealed to him:
longsword with lettering short spear leather armor 2 cloaks coiled rope 2 wands gauntlets 3 jewels of some sort the chest under the shelf
With an exclamation, Hugo and Langdon move into the room and rifle through equipment against one wall. A moment later and they turn to those in the room. The proud men are barely able to bear the weight of their gear, but the shine in their eyes defies anyone to challenge them. "We can help!" announces Langdon.
A little ahead of the group, Harvest Moon and Merryn find the stairwell lit by the natural light of the Wold's twin suns, although they can not yet see the exit. A fresh breeze wafts past them, relieving the dankness of the dungeon's air.
Merryn notices a slender vine has taken root in a crevice and clings to the stone wall as it reaches tendrils towards the light. Dark green leaves in clusters of three are centered with white buds tinted with pink.
Harvest (AC21, HP 22/24 -1 Con) d20+9=29 Tuesday March 15th, 2005 9:47:49 AM
"You wish my aide, Andrath Silverhand?" Harvest Moon whispers as she returns down the stairs.
"Oh," she exclaims quietly when presented with the array of items stored in the room. Helping with the storage is not difficult. The items that will fit into her haversack seem to lose any appreciable weight.
"The stairway leads directly to the outside, Andrath Silverhand. Though, I am not sure whether it is still within the Keep or not."
Then, lifting her head from the haversack like an animal questing for danger, Harvest Moon listens.
"Do you think, Andrath Silverhand, that there may be a way to close the secret door to the room outside?" she asks.
Rolls Listen 29 (The Nat20's roll on)
Lorth Tuesday March 15th, 2005 1:47:57 PM
Since Lorth has no idea what items are magical or valuable he waits till he is instructed what to pick up or handed. He then packs away whatever is given to him and waits to move on.
Lorth stands a bit straighter when Hugo and Langdon declare their help. These men are surely paladins, he thinks, would I be as strong?
Merryn d20+8=28 Tuesday March 15th, 2005 2:52:46 PM
Merryn pauses to examine the vine growing in the crevice, pondering what it might be (Knowledge Nature: 28 (nat. 20)). If the information proves useful, he will tell the others about it. If the plant itself is useful, he will carefully pluck it and store it in his sack.
Following that, Merryn scuttles down the stairs quickly to help grab whatever equipment he can carry without hindering his movement.
Andrath (AC20, 18/26 hp, -1 CON) d20=6 Tuesday March 15th, 2005 8:06:05 PM
[OOC: Not rolling for any special reason, just to see if I can roll one of those natural 20's! :) ]
With the valuable gear all packed up, Andrath smiles at the two old paladins and says, "Are you hurt? Do you need healing? Bralin, can you help them?" Then he opens his pack and offers two of the swords that were wielded by the skeletons so that Langdon and Hugo can be armed if any fighting occurs.
Then the elf moves up behind Merryn and asks, "Do you think that it is safe to proceed?"
Bralin Tuesday March 15th, 2005 8:33:03 PM
Bralin quickly helps gather up the magic items. He nods in approval as the two paladins gear up.
To Andrath he responds, "Harvest has the healing wand."
Bralin motions for the two weakened scouts, as well as the rest of the group to go ahead. He readies his axe and follows as rear guard.
Arminas Tuesday March 15th, 2005 8:33:38 PM
The ranger quickly falls in line behind Andrath, moving up the stairs.
DM Bob and Carla Wednesday March 16th, 2005 8:46:10 AM
The special items from the storeroom are packed up for transport, and Hugo and Langdon are re-equiped with their own armor and weapons. The paladins decline Andrath's offer of the skeleton's swords, indicating they are more comfortable with their own gear. To a knowing eye, the paladins' seem to suffer from the same debilitating condition inflicted on some of the party members.
The party cautiously makes their way up the wide curving stairway, closing any doors they had previously opened. Harvest and Merryn in the lead followed by Andrath and Arminus. Lorth, his father's remains slung over his shoulders follows the two elves. Hugo and Langdon draw up in the rear, with Bralin guarding the party's flank.
Merryn recognizes the vine as native to the Culverwood except that to his knowlege the leaves have a more random placement on the vine. To his recollection, the clusters of three are an odd configuration. The druid plucks a sample, leaving the roots and vine essentially intact.
The source of natural light is discovered when the party reaches a landing sufficient to accomodate the first four party members. It is a long slit about 3 feet long and 1 foot wide next to a stone door that blends seamlessly with the stone wall. Harvest, Merryn, Andrath, Arminus Highlight to display spoiler: { have a clear view across the outer courtyard to the breach. The remains of campfires dot the ground, but the tents are gone as are the troops. The outer yard is essentially abandoned.}
Arminas Wednesday March 16th, 2005 10:49:21 AM
"Looks like everyone went home," Arminas exclaims brightly. "I'd say its a good time to get the blazes out of here."
Merryn d20+8=23 Wednesday March 16th, 2005 11:05:59 AM
"I agree with Arminas, we should leave while we still have the opportunity. Especially since the enemy may have left to march to battle."
Merryn puts his ear up to the stone door, trying to hear if anything is on the other side (Listen:23). Provided he hears nothing, he will attempt to open it to see if it leads to a way down and out of this dreadful place.
Harvest (AC21, HP 22/24 -1 Con) d20+9=17 d20+3=18 d20+7=16 d20+3=9 Wednesday March 16th, 2005 11:19:02 AM
"They have gone!"
Surprise colors Harvest Moon's whisper. She places hands against the ledge of stone and moves her head to both sides of the slit to get a look to the sides.
"They have ... Do you think they have left already? For Stormwind Castle?"
Then, as though noticing for the first time, she holds up the wand clutched in her fist.
"I am sorry, Bralin Stoneminder," she says to the dwarf. Extending her hand her apology continues, "I have used more from your wand than I had intended. I will buy you a new one."
Harvest frowns with concern as she notes the skin on the dwarf's face. Something deep within her soul recoils with loathing as, within her mind, she again sees the dark man with is evil sword. She recalls the drain from her own life when she herself was struck. And, only now, does Harvest Moon turn her mind to the thought of what this might have done, and to whether it might be permanent or not.
Rolls Spot 17 Knowledge Arcana 18 (To determine the effects of the draining and how it might be counteracted) Knowledge Religion 16 (To determine the effects of the draining and how it might be counteracted) Spellcraft 9 (To determine the effects of the draining and how it might be counteracted)
Bralin Wednesday March 16th, 2005 10:16:48 PM
From the back of the line, Bralin waves off Harvest.
"Keep the wand. Ye are better positioned for its use when we engage in battle."
We should make haste, the dwarf thinks to himself. Yet he says nothing, and waits for Andrath to choose a course of action. He will continue to watch the rear.
Andrath (AC20, 18/26hp, -1 CON) Wednesday March 16th, 2005 10:24:34 PM
"I agree; we need to head out as quickly as possible. Let's head back the way that we came. Arminas, you and I move ahead and make sure that we don't run up the rear of the humanoids. I sure hope that if they are heading for the Crossing, we can beat them there."
Assuming that there are no humanoids around, Andrath and Arminas head out, moving as quickly and as quietly as possible. "Arminas, can you make out any recent sign of these gobins leaving? Can you check for tracks?" He looks back and waves for the party to follow.
Lorth Thursday March 17th, 2005 7:26:44 AM
Lorth says nothing, allowing his companions to lead, he just follows along.
DM Bob and Carla Thursday March 17th, 2005 8:38:50 AM
Merryn hears nothing beyond the stone walls, and after a cursory search locates a trip mechanism for the door similar to the one at the forge. The party slips out into the quiet outer courtyard, making their way through the unguarded breach and escaping the confines of the Crimson Fort.
Making their way across the dead zone the party is greeted by a strange sight. Where once the ground was parched earth and rock, razed and barren, there are now signs of life. Here and there in the shelter of charred tree stumps or emerging from crevises in the rock the green of plant life has taken hold. Tiny yellow and purple flowers add yet more colour to the previously colourless landscape. A short distance in front of the party, a large bird performs arial manouvres over a rocky outcropping. Arminas recognizes his companion.
Harvest reflects on the evil that has undermined her health and stamina as well as that of her mates. She recognizes that it will take more than simple healing to recover but that with time, and rest, normalcy will return. The adrenaline rush dissipates, and the party begins to feel the effects of their wounds compounded by sleepless nights as they stumble along. Hugo falls forward on hands and knees, and is helped up by Langdon.
There is no way Magpie Crossing can be reached before nightfall.
Merryn d20+2=11 d20+8=28 Thursday March 17th, 2005 8:55:10 AM
Seeing nature come alive again around him, Merryn feels invigorated. "See, even in this dreadful place, nature has persisted." Merryn searches about to see if any medicinal plants can be recovered for the group's healing. (Search: 11; Knowledge Nature: 28 (nat. 20))
"We ought to look for a place to rest," Merryn utters as he goes about his gardener's business. "I for one am bushed." Merryn smiles with this last comment, relieved to be out of danger for at least a little while.
(note: if the party does stop somewhere, Merryn will meditate before sleep in order to regain his spells - 0: create water, resistance, detect magic, Guidance, Detect Poison; 1: Speak with Animals, Produce Flame, Cure Light Wounds, Charm Animal; 2: Summon Nature's Ally II; Flame Blade; Bull's Strength.)
Harvest (AC21, HP 22/24 -1 Con) d20+5=18 Thursday March 17th, 2005 10:31:53 AM
Her first reaction is of a confusion bordering on fright. Presented with the landscape, familiar and yet changed, Harvest Moon stops, frozen, listening. Her eyes scan the area. Slowly, she turns to view the breech through which they have just exited.
Could they have come out a different way similar in appearance?
It is the same. There could be no two breeches in the wall with such similar features. And ... it is not ... unpleasant.
Harvest gathers her robes in her lap and kneels next to a cluster of small flowers. The petals are soft against the tips of her fingers as she reaches out to touch them.
"They cannot be far ahead of us." Her own voice brings Harvest Moon back from the charms of the small yellow flowers. She shades her eyes with a flat hand and looks skyward to the sun. "We cannot have been inside that long."
She stands and scans the horizon. The brown crest of her hair tickles the back of the hand that shades her eyes. "Can smaller groups travel faster than large ones?" she asks. A sweep of motion against the sky draws her attention to the eagle circling above.
"Can your friend tell us where they are, Arminas of Jahrlswolf Or whether they are moving in a large group?"
Rolls Survival 18 (To determine the direction back to Stormwind Castle based on her knowledge of the Map)
Question How many charges left in this wand, Mike? I burned three inside the Crimson Fort. BTW, what time is it now? We entered in the early morning, didn't we?
Bralin Thursday March 17th, 2005 7:49:51 PM
Bralin comes out onto the Dead Plains and looks over the sudden appearance of life with furrowed brow. This is a change. Change is bad. Instinctively, his hand reaches for his axe.
But, no enemy appears. Instead, the dwarf nods in agreement with Merryn. The group must rest. Not all the group though.
"My seal sustains me," he tells Andrath. "I can continue on for some time. If need be, I will attempt to warn yon keep."
Andrath (AC20, 18/26 hp, -1 CON) Thursday March 17th, 2005 9:38:11 PM
The city elf looks around and says, "Flowers and leaves. Well, that is a good sign. Now, if only an inn or a festhall will grow up out of the ground, I would be most happy."
"Arminas, were you able to detect any tracks? We need to know which way the humanoids went, and how far ahead of us they are. Armed and armoured as they were, they will be moving slowly. However, a few of us can only move at that speed as well. I expect that they will travel tonight, hole up for the day, and make their attack sometime tomorrow night. I don't think that they can make the Crossing before sunrise, and they almost certainly won't attack during the day."
"I really don't think that we should separate. Arminas, if your eagle knows anyone in the Crossing, we could send them a message tied to his leg, but other than that, I don't want us to split up. Also, Bralin, it is not likely that you can move any faster than the humanoids. I suggest we all rest right now, and get moving before sunup. We will travel as hard as we can all day, and try to get to the Crossing by nightfall tomorrow, to warn them."
Lorth Friday March 18th, 2005 7:44:01 AM
Lorth looks around at the changes, this is a good sign he thinks, still I will not bury my father in this forsaken place, I will carry him further.
If the party decides to rest Lorth will re-wrap his father's remains. He looks the body over for some sign of jewelery or momento that he could return to his mother. This time he prepares the body more carefully, since he did it in haste before.
DM Bob and Carla Friday March 18th, 2005 8:43:25 AM
The sky is a clear blue, and the position of the suns indicate it is past the middle of the day. No signs of the storm from the previous night remain except perhaps the appearance of nature's gifts. The day grows warm as the party makes it's way towards the outcropping which offers hidden shelter and cool shade.
The obvious signs of an army on the march can be seen on the land. Sharp eyes can even discern the dark blemish of troops, like a crawling insect, ahead and to the right of the party. A quick study of the maps and a little math and it appears the enemy are heading in the opposite direction from Magpie Crossing and around Strongwind Castle.
An interval of relief.
...
As the exhausted party set down their burdens, the only sounds are the peeps and croaks of small amphibians hatched in the small rivulets of water that now course at the bottom of the gullys. Beyond the shade of the outcropping, the landscape shimmers and wavers in the heat.
A pensive Langdon approaches Lorth. Indicating the remains, he says, "he was a hero and his body should be put to rest in the Catacombs of the Champions of the War." Hugo picks the sword with the inscription out of the pile of booty aquired from the fort and joins the paladins. Handing the sword over to Lorth, he solemnly adds, "this would be yours now."
Merryn meditates, and falls into a deep sleep. Everyone is reflective and quiet in the temporary respite from trouble as Bralin keeps watch.
(Please post PC actions for late afternoon and night spent in repose. Feel free to multi-post until next DM post Sunday P.M.)
Harvest (AC21, HP 22/24 -1 Con) Friday March 18th, 2005 11:14:09 AM
The contrast is unsettling. The sky had been so dark. The landscape spare and bleak. They had been fighting for their lives. Now ...
Harvest Moon walks along under the big blue sky. The patches of green, purple and yellow brighten the land around her. Even the far off signs of the orcs on the march seems so much less immediate. A task can wait for tomorrow in the midst of a warm summer day.
The dire feelings from what was ... slip away.
+++++++++++++++++++
At the outcropping, Harvest inspects her wound once more, washing it clean in the clear rivulets of rainwater.
The blood in her clothing would be a different story.
Collecting more of the clear fresh water, Harvest returns to the shade of the outcropping. From her haversack, she removes some packets of dried trail rations and a wooden wand. She speaks the magic word and passes a hand over her clothing, watching as the blood stains disappear.
Again, she speaks the word and passes the wand over the rations. With a pinch of her fingers, she tastes ... Harvest Moon smiles. It tastes just like one of Hildy's pies.
"Please ... " she extends a hand in offering to the rest of the party. She steps away, almost shy.
+++++++++++++++++++
Later that evening Harvest sits and looks up into the sky as it darkens into night. She takes up the symbol at her waist, the roughly carved wooden eye. She turns it over in her hands, feeling each rough edge, tracing each grove with the tips of her fingers. Her fingers recall the evil. The black knight, the evil mage, the wight, the skeletons. She looks down at the eye to see what it might say to her.
After a time of silent contemplation, she quietly speaks his name, "Gargul."
Notes Wand of Prestidigitation 48/50
Bralin Friday March 18th, 2005 7:34:56 PM
Buoyed by his Seal, Bralin spends the bulk of the night awake, watching, and thinking. Lorth has recovered his sire, the two brave scouts are rescued, and a plot against town uncovered. Tis been a most successful quest.
The dwarf doesn't know if this growth is natural. It seems unlikely, given the name Dead Zone. Mayhap the locals have differing ideas of a place devoid of all life. No matter.
Having dismissed the matter of the plant life, Bralin returns to his watch. An enemy army moves. Scouts will be about. Tis not a good time to falter.
LOG ON