DM Kathy Wednesday September 21st, 2005 1:57:33 AM
Talereithin gives Uriel a faint smile in response, then leaves for his lodgings.
Most of the group heads for the Catacombs to spend their new-found wealth. Evan lends a hand in the neighborhood, where several people are attempting to re-build. His help is welcomed.
Shadow visits his Guild and finds it a bustling hive of activity. Guild members who have lost homes have sought temporary shelter there, and many more have dropped by seeking "employment." But on that subject, the Guild is firm. "No new 'business' until the city is back on its feet," the bosses are telling everybody. "The Guard'll be looking for somebody to come down on, and we don't want it to be us."
You return from your various excursions late in the day, and enjoy an evening meal together. Shortly afterward, there is a knock on the door.
You open it to find a varied collection of individuals whom you immediately peg as fellow adventurers. There is a dwarf, two elves, a halfling, and two humans. One of the humans is an exceptionally attractive woman, who smiles at you and says, "Good evening. I wonder if we might have a moment of your time?"
Kadaz d20+1=5 Wednesday September 21st, 2005 5:50:24 AM
Kadaz looks up at the guests. "Come in, make yourself comfortable." He eyes their visitors trying to discern the profession of each without much luck. (spot 5)
Arm d20+4=11 d20+4=12 Wednesday September 21st, 2005 5:56:33 AM
Arm nods politely to the group as Kadaz invites them in, albeit a bit suspiciously. Seeing elves with them, he relaxes somewhat, but still keep a close eye on them until they state their business (listen=12, spot=11).
Evan Wednesday September 21st, 2005 9:08:14 AM
Evan finds a comfortable place to sit to listen that is out of the way as he knows there is little he can do to help contribute to the conversation.
Shadow Wednesday September 21st, 2005 2:29:51 PM
Shadow feels a little bit better after visiting the guild and finding many of his old comrades still alive. He notices the cramped space and realizes that he does not need to intrude anymore and returns to his new lodging.
When the group is invited into the apartment, Shadow takes up a position near his room so he as quick access to his stuff. He maintains his skepticsm of people he does not know. He will listen intently to what the group has to say.
Mira d20+2=16 Wednesday September 21st, 2005 10:34:27 PM
"Um, sure, make yourself comfortable" says Mira, echoing Kadaz. She tries to catch Uriel's eye, then looks at the new group, inclining her head as she raises her eyebows. The sorcerer hopes the paladin will get her meaning.
Grabbing a clay jug into which she had earlier decanted some ordinary wine, she plunks it on the big table in the middle of the room. "How can we help you?" she calls over her shoulder as she retrieves some mismatched goblets and mugs returning to place them on the table.
Mira beckons for the strangers to seat themselves on the benches that line the table, but she herself remains standing. Just in case.
The sorcerer will listen carefully to their words, the tone and inflection of their speach in an attempt to discern if they speak honestly. (Sense Motive=16)
Conner d20+3=20 Wednesday September 21st, 2005 10:36:54 PM
Conner stands leaning against the wall near the window, picking the crud out from under his fingernails with an old discarded shield spike. Every now and then he casts a glance out the window into the street beyond,(Spot=20) but the fighter's ears are open to what the strangers have to say.
Uriel Wednesday September 21st, 2005 11:07:20 PM
Uriel mocks confusion and then concentrates on the group.
Detect Evil
DM Kathy Thursday September 22nd, 2005 1:31:04 AM
"Thank you," the woman says, and enters with her companions. She seats herself, and you note that there is something about her that draws the attention, something that seems to make her more interesting than other people. It's the same type of pull you may have noticed about Uriel, and Mira.
"My name is Ciara," she says, "and these are my companions. "This is Oswin." She gestures toward the other human, a rather serious-looking young man wearing a holy symbol of Alemi prominently around his neck. "And Kernhelm." The dwarf nods curtly. "This is Endorion, and Daerlos," she says, gesturing toward the two elves.
"And don't forget me!" says the halfling woman, clambering up onto one of the benches. "Maisie Poppyseed, at your service."
"We have come looking for your help in a little chore we've been given," Ciara continues, smiling absently at Maisie.
"Huh. 'Little,' she says," says Kernhelm.
Ciara laughs. "All right, a rather large chore," she amends. "Rather larger than we thought, at first, and time is a factor. So we could use a hand. Are you interested?"
Mira believes that the strangers are speaking the truth, and Uriel detects no evil about them. Conner sees nothing of interest in the street, but does note that this group of strangers seem to know each other quite well, as if they'd been on several adventures together.
[OOC: I'm afraid I'm going to have to draw this conversation out a little; Jerry has requested changes to the module, some of which involve the initial set-up. So if it seems like I'm stalling.....well, I am. :) ]
Kadaz Thursday September 22nd, 2005 5:51:56 AM
Since introductions seem to be in order Kadaz is willing to start. "Welcome to our home. I am Kadaz Guardson. And here is Birdie." Kadaz reaches down and pats the dog's head. Birdie sees the halfling and remembers the good times he had in the halfling village a while ago. He goes up to her, tail wagging.
Arm d20+4=21 d20+4=6 Thursday September 22nd, 2005 6:01:36 AM
Arm introduces himself to the group, then says, "Well, whether we agree to help or not depends on what the task IS. Kindly explain further.". He then eyes the newcomers intently (spot=21, listen=6).
Shadow Thursday September 22nd, 2005 9:53:05 AM
Still unsure of the true intentions of this group he hesitates, but only for a moment before stepping out of the shadows. "I am Shadow and I would like to hear more of what you are proposing." He will then take the step back putting himself once again in the doorway to his room.
Mira Thursday September 22nd, 2005 8:12:08 PM
Mira pours the wine from the jug into the mis-matched cups and pushes them towards the strangers. She leaves a cluster of filled goblets for her flat-mates after selecting one for herself. Taking a sip, she watches the newcomers and waits for them to disclose their mission.
Evan Thursday September 22nd, 2005 8:24:57 PM
Evan shifts a little so that Mira can see his hands if he should have a question he wishes to ask then settles down to listen to the job offer, his attention drawn to the lovely woman at the table.
Wilfire Ironhouse Thursday September 22nd, 2005 9:03:04 PM
"If she only had a beard" Wilfire thought to himself as he eyed the lovely woman.
Conner Friday September 23rd, 2005 12:12:13 AM
Finished with his task, Conner slips the worn spike into his pocket. Crossing his arms over his thick chest, he waits for the story to unfold.
DM Kathy Friday September 23rd, 2005 2:05:55 AM
Maisie, the halfling woman, seems delighted to meet Birdie, and begins petting him enthusiastically.
Ciara accepts a goblet of wine, takes a small sip, and continues. "I don't know whether you've heard about the caves that opened up? No? Well, there's been a lot happening of late."
"An understatement," murmurs one of the elves.
"It would seem," Ciara continues, "that the flooding created a sinkhole of sorts. The square just sort of...collapsed. And underneath, there are caves. A whole series of caves.
"The Guard was, as you can imagine, busy with other things, so they contracted with us, the Griffon Road Explorers' Guild, to explore the caves."
"The caves are quite extensive." Oswin, the human man picks up the tale. "More extensive than we had thought at first. If we had all the time in the world, well...."
"But we do not," Ciara finishes. "We need help, because time is a factor." She pauses, and looks around at all of you. "You have a good reputation. You are, if you'll forgive me for saying so, less experienced than my companions and me, but we think you are up to this particular challenge. Does it sound like something you'd be able to undertake?"
Arm Friday September 23rd, 2005 5:59:06 AM
Intrigued by the story and the promise of more riches to augment himself, Arm says, "Say we go with you...would we get equal share in whatever we may find?".
Shadow Friday September 23rd, 2005 9:59:31 AM
Shadow will listen to what the rest of the group has to say before responding in kind. He however does move out of the doorway (and shadows) so he can look at everyone.
Evan Friday September 23rd, 2005 1:18:38 PM
Evan signs to Mira, requesting that she ask if anyone has been down into the caves yet. Does anyone have any idea what sort of denizens may be found down there.
Kadz Friday September 23rd, 2005 3:39:43 PM
More underground searcing. Sounds like fun! Beats chopping weeds down up here.
"I am very interested. How soon must these caves be explored? Hours? Days? And if we come across something that is clearly beyond our capability to handle may we call upon you for help?"
Conner Saturday September 24th, 2005 4:22:00 PM
"We should discuss payment" Conner holds his position against the wall, "including a retainer. We will need to equip ourselves for the dark."
Mira d20+5=25 Sunday September 25th, 2005 7:55:10 PM
Mira refills any of the empty glasses from the jug of wine. She smiles at the strangers, but leaves the bargaining to the others. (Diplomacy=25, Aid Another).
DM Kathy Monday September 26th, 2005 1:23:57 AM
The other adventurers listen attentively to your questions.
"Anything your group finds, you can keep," Ciara says. The halfling seems inclined to protest, so Ciara adds sternly. "That's only fair, after all. We shall be keeping what we find."
"Oh, all right," Maisie concedes.
"The Guard did pay us a small retainer for the job, and of course we're willing to pass a portion of that along to you. Shall we say 1,000?" Ciara says, looking around at all of you.
In answer to Kadaz's questions, she says, "The caves need to be explored as quickly as possible, because--well, we'll get into that in a moment. And we do want you to be able to call upon us if you run into anything you can't handle. I believe Daerlos has worked something out for that?"
One of the elves rises and pulls several scrolls from a belt pouch. "I believe so," he says. Glancing around at all of you, he says, "I'm told that at least one of you has some skill in the arcane arts?"
Kadaz Monday September 26th, 2005 6:27:53 AM
"I think that any threat to Plateau City must be eliminated as soon as possible. This offer shoulds very good to me" Kadaz offers.
Shadow Monday September 26th, 2005 10:39:40 AM
Shadow listens intently and nods his head when Kadaz states that any threat to PC should be taken care of as quickly as possible. He however will allow the rest of the group to voice their opinions.
Arm Monday September 26th, 2005 2:05:05 PM
Arm nods at the elf, and says, "Yes, some of has arcane skills, albeit mine not as much as young Mira here.". Smiling in Mira's direction, he continues, "I think we'd be able to hold our own if need be, but you never know when we could use some help.".
Suddenly overcome with some disturbing thoughts, he looks meanfully around at his party and continues, "Would you mind stepping out for a moment while we discuss your offer?".
Mira Monday September 26th, 2005 9:37:43 PM
Mira smiles broadly and waves her hand when talk turns to the arcane arts.
"That'd be me!" she volunteers.
Conner Monday September 26th, 2005 10:14:33 PM
Conner nods his head at the mention of 1000 gp. and says "Sounds fine by me. Have you mapped out the area you've already explored?"
DM Kathy Tuesday September 27th, 2005 1:06:41 AM
Daerlos smiles at Mira's enthusiasm. "Then I entrust these to your care," he says, holding out three scrolls. He hesitates. "That is, I will entrust them to you if your group undertakes the mission. They are scrolls of Sending whereby you can contact us in an emergency. You will need to--"
"Daerlos," smiling, Ciara lays a hand on his arm. "Perhaps explanations can wait until these good folk actually accept our offer." She turns to Arm. "If you need to discuss this among yourselves, we will wait outside. But please make your decision quickly." Turning to Conner, she says, "Yes, we have mapped the part we have already explored, and will show you the sections we would like to have you investigate."
She gathers the rest of them with a look, and they troop outside. "Let us know what you decide," she says, then shuts the door behind her.
Kadaz Tuesday September 27th, 2005 5:44:23 AM
Kadaz looks at Arm. "What do you feel we need to talk over?"
Arm Tuesday September 27th, 2005 5:58:33 AM
A grim look on his face, Arm says, "I just want to make sure that everyone is on the same page before we accept this. My main problem is: What if these people were hired to unwittingly lure us into a trap, since we were the ones who decided the avatar's fate and we have already seen the town's current attitude toward us...well, mostly toward ME, but you get the picture. All I'm saying is that we should exercise much caution...even while we are in THEIR presence. If we are all agreed to go, them I am as well.".
Evan Tuesday September 27th, 2005 7:18:00 AM
Evan frowns and signs to Mira to translate, I do not think that we were the only ones who made a decision concerning the Avatar's fate. He said there were others who were making the same decisions we were. In fact, I'm not altogether certain all the decisions that need to be made concerning the Avatar have been made yet. Also, I do not believe these people have come here to 'trap' us in any way. Although I am not altogether certain they have given all the pertinant information that they could. I would still like to have an idea of what we might be facing.
Shadow Tuesday September 27th, 2005 11:40:00 AM
"Do we even know if they were not also in the decision about the Avatar?" Shadow pipes in. He looks around the room. "I will support what ever decisions the group comes together on, but my humble opinion is to go ahead and accept their proposal. They are giving us the means to communicate and ask for assistance."
Conner Tuesday September 27th, 2005 7:03:06 PM
"I vote we join this expedition. We can use the 1000 gp for group items, either for potions that provide nightvision, or perhaps a wand of healing of some sort." The fighter is quite pleased at the prospect of action.
Mira Tuesday September 27th, 2005 10:54:21 PM
Mira frowns in thought, then translates what Evan says for the group.
"For my own part, I did not sense any ill intent on their part, nor did Uriel, I believe."
OOC: Has anyone volunteered to post for Brent/Uriel? Kathy, if he still needs a sub, send me his PC sheet and I'll post for Uriel until Brent can resume posting.
DM Kathy Wednesday September 28th, 2005 2:29:30 AM
Uriel confirms that he sensed no evil about the group. Indeed, he strongly suspects that Ciara is a fellow paladin.
As you discuss your options, there is another knock at the door. You open it to find a human girl of about 14, juggling several oddly-shaped packages.
"Delivery from the Catacombs," she calls cheerfully. "I've got packages here for Conner, Armathen, and Mira." She grins. "I hope they're home. Oh, and I have an item for Evan, too, free of charge. He won our latest raffle."
When all of the items have been delivered to their proper owners, she makes ready to depart. "Say," she says, turning, "did you know there were a bunch of people out here?"
Arm Wednesday September 28th, 2005 5:53:58 AM
Arm says, "I'm not against joining them...I am simply urging caution. I'm also curious as to why they are in such a hurry to get going. Well, I'll let them back in so we can conclude this.".
Tipping the delivery girl a gold piece, Arm motions the group to come back in after the girl leaves.
Evan Wednesday September 28th, 2005 6:08:34 AM
Evan accepts the large package, his eyes alight with curiousity. He absently nods to the girl to let her know they are aware that there are people outside then begins to open the package, to discover an orc double axe inside. He studies the ungainly weapon for a moment then takes it into his room to put away until he can decide what to do with it, while the others let the adventuring group back in.
Kadaz d20+1=8 Wednesday September 28th, 2005 6:19:38 AM
Kadaz joins the others in voting to accept the offer. When their guests come back in he looks at their equipment, trying to figure out if anything is magical, but nothing stands out to his eye. (spot 8)
Conner Wednesday September 28th, 2005 8:03:40 AM
The fighter unwraps his small package from the catacombs and examines each of the four small vials before carefully storing them in his belt pouches. He then waits for the others to reach the same conclusion he has already reached regarding the exploration of the caves.
Shadow Wednesday September 28th, 2005 10:10:49 AM
Shadow feels good about the groups decision to go ahead with the exploration of the caves. He looks at the varying packages and wonders what they each have purchased.
He watches the girl leave and the other adventurers as they enter back into the room. He thinks he recognizes the halfling woman, but does not say anything.
Mira Wednesday September 28th, 2005 11:48:24 PM
Mira happily recieves the parcel. She is anxious to retreat to her room to study her new scrolls, but there is the matter at hand.
"Tell them to come back in," she tells the youngster who made the delivery as she presses a SP into her hand. "I think we have a concensus?" she adds looking 'round the room at her companions.
Uriel Wednesday September 28th, 2005 11:53:19 PM
The paladin waits for Ciara and her party to come back into the flat. He stands back from the main group, the better to watch the interplay of personalities. He watches Arm in particular. The half elf's paranoia has the paladin a little worried.
(OOC: Carla posting for Brent.)
Wilfire Ironhouse Thursday September 29th, 2005 1:35:45 AM
"An where is me package" Wilfire asked himself. "Hav'ta look inta it later".
Then to Mira- "Consensus indeed!"
DM Kathy Thursday September 29th, 2005 1:44:37 AM
The Griffon Road Explorers' Guild comes back into the house, awaiting your decision. Since you seem to be amenable to the mission (well, most of you, anyway), they begin filling you in on details.
"As I mentioned before, we're in a bit of a rush," Ciara explains. "The reason is twofold. First, the Guard is quite concerned that there may be something living down there--some creature--that could come up out of the caves and wreck havoc in the city. I don't have to tell you that people here have already had quite enough of that sort of thing. The Guard is worried that it would lead to all-out chaos, and I can't say I disagree. So, it is imperative that if there's anything down there, we find it and deal with it."
She looks around at all of you, then continues. "The second reason for haste is that we've heard some reports that some of the townsfolk fled into the caves during the....." she waves her hands helplessly, trying to come up with some word to encompass recent events. "....during all the confusion," she finally says. "The reports are vague and contradictory; there may not be people in there at all. The one thing we do know is that nobody has come out of the caves. Except us."
"But if there are people down there," Oswin adds, "their time is running out. We need to find them, and we need to do it quickly."
"If they're down there," says Kernhelm. This is clearly an old argument.
"At any rate," says Daerlos impatiently, "these are scrolls of Sending." He hands three scrolls over to Mira. "The spell is (forgive me) a little advanced for you; however, if you have a good grounding in general magical theory you should be able to make a scroll work. If you can't, simply take another scroll and try again. That's why you've been given three.
"The spell," he continues, "allows you to speak a short message to me, and allows me a short reply. That is all. Have a message in mind when you cast, or the spell will be wasted. Depending on the urgency of your message, we will move or Teleport to where you are."
"If you agree to undertake this mission," Ciara concludes, "We would ask that you start as quickly as possible. I realize it's late in the day, so you may decide to begin tomorrow. If that is the case, please make it early tomorrow. Time is not our friend."
Arm Thursday September 29th, 2005 5:58:28 AM
Arm stares intently at Evan's orc axe as he unwraps it. A sour expression indeed crosses his face as the ranger takes it to his room. He makes a mental note to discuss it with him later.
While the Griffin Roaders re-enter, he unwraps his buckler and tries it on for size. Finding it to his liking, he listens to the explanation of their upcoming mission, then says, "Yes, I think it best that we wait for morning to begin...we could ALL use a good night's rest, as well as some preparation time. Come for us in the morning, and we will set out then.".
Evan Thursday September 29th, 2005 6:05:17 AM
Evan seems pleased by the group's decision and returns to his room to prepare his equipment for the morning.
Kadaz Thursday September 29th, 2005 6:22:59 AM
"Could we get a map of what you have already mapped underground to make sure we go through new areas?" Kadaz asks the others.
Shadow Thursday September 29th, 2005 10:00:11 AM
"I agree, if you have mapped out any of the underground that would be a great help to start." He will wait to see if there is anything else from the other adventurers, and then will return to his room to get ready for tomorrow.
Conner Thursday September 29th, 2005 10:32:05 PM
"And let's not forget about that retainer." he reminds the leader of the Griffin Road Explorers. "Our ability to effectively explore these caves may well depend on our provisioning."
Uriel Thursday September 29th, 2005 10:36:58 PM
The paladin grimaces at Conner's forthrightness, but says nothing in front of Ciara and her companions. The task seems noble, and their previous experience below Plateau City should hold them in good stead.
Mira Thursday September 29th, 2005 10:55:08 PM
Mira goes to her room after collecting her new scrolls and the three from the group that commisioned them. The sorcerer casts a spell on her necklace and hangs it from the shelf built by Evan. It glows with enough light to let her read the parchments.
With her pillows piled at her back, Mira pours over the magical words until they all seem to run together. With a sigh, she rolls them up and returns them to their case. Taking her glasses off and unbinding her hair, she gets between the covers for a good night's sleep.
Wilfire Ironhouse Friday September 30th, 2005 12:30:44 AM
"Arm me lad, would yue give a fella a hand wit his plate?" Wilfire asked as he moved to his room, and grabbed his things.
"Tighten'er up round deh gut" he asked Arm as he fitted the plate to his body. "Been eatin like an elf lately, I have. Thin as an arrow, I am. Dat's it, nice an snug."
Wilfire then grabbed his flail and pack, and moved to meet the others.
DM Kathy Friday September 30th, 2005 2:25:06 AM
Ciara smiles. "I'm glad you've accepted," she says, and brings out a small chest. "Your retainer is in here."
"As for maps," says the other elf, Endrion, "we can get you a copy of ours, if you like. But we'd also like to meet up with you in the morning, and show you which part of the caves you're to explore."
"Just so there's no mistake," Ciara concludes, nodding in agreement. "If it is agreeable to you, we will stop by here at dawn tomorrow. Be ready."
Unless there are other questions, the group departs after that.
It is late afternoon, so you have time to make a few purchases if you need to.
Arm Friday September 30th, 2005 6:01:07 AM
Still suspicious, ESPECIALLY since they are apparently going to be assigned areas to explore, Arm simply nods at the group as they leave.
Turning to Wilf, he smiles broadly then assists him with his armor, "Tis not bad to eat like an elf, my friend...you'll be more fleet of foot that way.".
Conner Friday September 30th, 2005 7:54:01 AM
When the Griffin Road Explorers depart, Conner voices his opinion about the 1000 gp. "I suggest we either use this tho purchase a wand of healing or some potions of dark vision. What do the rest of you think?"
Shadow Friday September 30th, 2005 10:05:52 AM
"I think we really do need to focus on how we are going to see in the caves. I do not have much in the way of my heritage to help with that." he looks around the room. "We could just make sure we have torches or lanterns if we do not go with magical ways to see."
Kadaz Friday September 30th, 2005 4:01:42 PM
Kadaz thinks about the light issue. "Potions are expensive and run out sooner than a torch. You can get a huge pile of torches for the cost of one potion. But we now have 1,000 gp. Conner has a good idea. I suggest a wand of healing. But we could also get one of those torches that never go out. I'm willing to go back to the magic store to get these if you think these items are a good idea. In fact, I think I forgot an item or two and want to return."
Mira Sunday October 2nd, 2005 6:55:37 PM
Mira packs her bag in the morning, making sure everything is rolled tightly so that she can fit as much as possible into as small a space as possible. The many scrolls she has purchased are rolled tightly and put away in the scroll case slung across her body.
When talk turns to how to invest the 1000 GP advance, on healing or on light, she volunteers, "I have a light spell, but it doesn't last that long. Good in a pinch, you know," the sorcerer pats the pack resting against her leg, "thats why I always have a couple sunrods* on hand."
* Mira has 2 sunrods. Each is good for 6 hours of illumination. See p. 128 PHB.
DM Kathy Sunday October 2nd, 2005 10:23:37 PM
Once the other group departs, you begin to discuss how to spend the retainer. There are some good suggestions, and eventually you make decisions.
[OOC: Sorry to rush you, but I'm already supposed to have started DM Vacation and I want to get this to a place where I can hand it off to Scott. You can still discuss and make your purchases, although you might want to consider an e-mail discussion.]
The next morning, the Griffon Road Explorers' Guild stops by and leads you to a spot on the other side of the Endless River. Just as they had described, there's a place where an entire square has become a big sinkhole, with the caves opening up underneath. One by one, the Guild members make their way down a knotted rope that has been affixed to a nearby building. When you, and they, are safely at the bottom, they lead you from the main cave down a narrow but high-ceilinged passage. The passage opens out into a larger cave, with a few stalagmites on the ground.
"There are three other tunnels leading off from this chamber," Ciara says. She points to the first one. "That goes down pretty steeply; we haven't explored it too far. This one," she moves across to one that's directly opposite the way you came in, "slopes down at more of an angle. And this one," she walks to the final passage that is nearby, "this one gets very small and narrow. You'll have to crawl for a way, and you may need to take off your armor. Kernhelm says it opens up wider a little further down, though.
"We'd like you to explore all three of these, if that's agreeable."
Kadaz Monday October 3rd, 2005 5:50:07 AM
Before leaving home Kadaz asks again. "Anyone against buying a wand of healing and torch that won't go out?"
Once in the caves the dwarf looks around, trying to determine if the caves are entirely natural or if they have been worked at all.
Arm Monday October 3rd, 2005 5:58:03 AM
Before they leave, Arm makes a quick trip to the Catacombs to buy either of the items that Kadaz suggested.
Once he picks that up, he follows the rest to the caves, then waits patiently for either Kadaz or Wilf to decide which one to try first, as they have more experience with stonework than he.
Evan d20+9=22 d20+9=10 d20+9=29 d20+6=9 d20+6=15 d20+6=22 d20+9=19 d20+9=26 d20+9=15 d20+9=21 Monday October 3rd, 2005 5:58:06 AM
Once they are down in the hole, Evan takes a moment to study the Griffon groups tracks then moves to the entrance to each tunnel and searches for tracks that do not belong to the Griffon group. (starting left to right: track-22, track-10, track-29 nat 20, search-9, search-15, search-22, spot-19, spot-26, continued next post)
Evan con't d20+9=22 d20+8=18 d20+8=10 d20+8=12 Monday October 3rd, 2005 5:59:19 AM
(spot-22, listen-18, listen-10, listen-12)
Conner d20+1=9 Monday October 3rd, 2005 7:24:23 AM
"That's fine with me Kadaz, a wand and an everburning torch. Just make sure we can cover the torch when we need to."
Once they enter the cave, Conner has a look about to see if any of the walls have been worked by tools [Search=9]. "I wonder if this is all natural" he thinks aloud. "I've heard of great underground rivers that carve tunnels and caverns."
When talk turns to the three passages the fighter thinks over the options before suggesting a course of action. "If there are people trapped down here they would probably head back towards the city and down the passage that slopes more gradually. I don't think they would go down either of the other two passages, at least not willingly."
Shadow Monday October 3rd, 2005 10:32:54 AM
"I am not sure about an 'everburning' torch, but I have seen different items that have been enchanted so they continue to give off light. They can be covered so they will give off no light, but I am not sure if we can afford that?" Shadow says to the group.
When they get to the caves he finally realizes that they will actually underground, and he starts to get his mind prepped for it. Once the whole group has climbed down he looks around trying to get his bearings. He mentally notes which of the tunnels they are to explore.
"Depending on what anyone finds, my suggestion would be to check out the one tunnel that looks like it would be easiest to travel. That would be the one most people from the surface would take." He looks around at the group trying to figure out what they would like to do.
Mira Monday October 3rd, 2005 10:23:02 PM
Mira strikes one of her sunrods against the floor of the tunnel and it starts to give off light. The illumination is pretty good in a 30ft radius surrounding the sorcerer, but shadowy in the next 30 ft. She holds the rod aloft in her off hand.
Uriel d20+4=18 Monday October 3rd, 2005 10:29:24 PM
Uriel unsheathes his longsword and pulls out his shield. He lets most of the party pass in front of him before speaking. "I'll take the rearguard this time." The paladin sweeps the space with his intense stare. (Spot=18)
(OOC: DM Kathy, do you have a more recent character sheet for Uriel? The one you sent is 1st level!)
Arm d20+4=15 d20+4=23 Tuesday October 4th, 2005 5:56:53 AM
Arm adjusts his buckler for maximum comfort, then draws his sword, looking and listening for any unusual sounds (listen=15, spot=23). "We need to move soon," he mutters. "If people ARE trapped down here, then their lives depend on it.".
DM Post (Scott for DM Kathy - Vacation) Tuesday October 4th, 2005 10:04:34 AM
(OOC: Just so all of you know, I cannot post late night/early morning, so posts will be in the morning on the day.)
Evan starts searching the three tunnels for other tracks than the Griffon's and has some luck. The first tunnel (the one to the groups left with the steep incline) shows some traffic including some of the Griffon's tracks, st least at the entrance. He moves over to the center tunnel and searches it. He cannot distinguish individual tracks because of the high level of traffic this tunnel has seen. Moving over to the right hand tunnel (the one that narrows furhter back) and finds only a few tracks going in and most of those he sees tracks coming out that match up.
While Evan starts to check the ground, Ciara says, "I guess you all have agreed to check the three tunnels for us, so we will take our leave." She starts to move off with the rest of the 'Griffons', but turns back, "Remember if you need us use the scrolls." She says mostly to Mira. Then the Griffons are gone and the group is alone to decide where to go. As the group waits to hear from Evan they hope to hear something to indicate which direction to go in, but they hear nothing but sound coming from the city above.
Shadow Tuesday October 4th, 2005 10:06:23 AM
Shadow waits for Evan to let them know what is going on and which way would be the best to find townfolk. He will take out his bow and ready an arrow, but he looks at the tunnels and wonders if he really will be able to use the bow in here.
"Which way do you think we should go, Evan?" Shadow finally asks as the Ranger starts back over to the group.
Conner d20+1=21 Tuesday October 4th, 2005 11:18:43 PM
The fighter continues his examination of the cavern and the entrances to the three tunnels as he awaits confirmation of their direction. In particular he looks for sign that the walls have been worked by tools [Search=21; Nat 20]
Mira Wednesday October 5th, 2005 12:35:07 AM
While Evan searches the ground, Mira digs around in one of her pouches. Finding what she was looking for, she smiles triumphantly. She holds the sunrod in her left hand, a piece of chalk to mark their passage in her right.
Uriel Wednesday October 5th, 2005 12:37:52 AM
"Find anything worth persuing?" asks the paladin, calling from his position at the back of the pack.
Evan Wednesday October 5th, 2005 5:57:36 AM
Evan steps back and signs to the others, Right tunnel, griffon only, middle tunnel, much traffic, left tunnel, much traffic, including griffon. Suggest we start with left tunnel Evan moves to the entrance of the left tunnel, drawing his axe and sword, then waits for the light to move up before proceeding.
Arm d20+4=21 d20+4=17 Wednesday October 5th, 2005 6:02:29 AM
Arm grips his sword firmly and moves up with Evan, holding out of one his sunrods should he decide to use it. All the while, he keeps an eye and ear open for signs of trouble (listen=21, spot=17).
Kadaz d20+1=11 Wednesday October 5th, 2005 6:27:27 AM
(OOC: Did the last-minute purchases arrive?)
Kadaz peers down the steep incline into the dark, trying to see further downslope for any potential obstacle. (spot 11)
"This way slants down and may steeper. We should tie off a rope here and hold on to it as we descend."
DM Scott (for DM Kathy - Vacation) Wednesday October 5th, 2005 10:03:47 AM
OOC: Yes the purchases either arrived before you left or they were given to you before you left the Catacombs.
Different members of the group try and search for different things, but the only one that sees anything in particular is Conner who sees that there might be some signs of tool work on the tunnel to the right. The signs of tool work are very old and faded.
Most of the group moves to the left hand tunnel and try and look down the tunnel to see anything, but all the group can see is that it slopes down and to the left. The group thinks it is about 20 feet before it starts curving to the left. The slope is fairly steep and it will make it hard to return up it fast without help. Going down looks to be okay if the group takes their time and makes sure of their footing.
Shadow Wednesday October 5th, 2005 10:06:00 AM
"I think a rope might be good, but will it be long enough. I could go down and search the immediate vacinity if someone would loan me a light source." Shadow says to the group. "If you are wondering I have a knack for climbing, so I should be okay going down."
Kadaz Wednesday October 5th, 2005 7:16:44 PM
The dwarf pulls out two torches that have bags tied over one end. He takes the bags off to reveal two torches that appear to be lit but don't give off any heat. "Here are two torches that will never go out. Shadow, take one of these. Who want the other?"
He pulls out a wand. "I also used the party money to buy this wand of healing. Someone else should carry it, I can't use it. I also bought a great deal of rope, 100 feet of the lightweight silk rope, and 500 feet of the regular stuff. I suggest we carry the silk rope with us, and start using the hemp rope here to put guide ropes down these tunnels. That will help us climb back up quickly if we need to do so."
With that, he pulls out a hammer and starts pounding a piton into the wall beside the tunnel entrance. "Anyone here good at tieing ropes? I'm not sure I can attach this rope to the piton so that it can support my weight."
Conner Wednesday October 5th, 2005 7:24:46 PM
"This tunnel seems to have been worked by tools" Conner points to the tunnel on the right. "The marks look old, but there may be some records of these excavations in the city records." Conner prepares to follow the group down the tunnel to the left.
Wilfire Ironhouse Wednesday October 5th, 2005 8:37:13 PM
Wilfire offers to take the wand (OOC- cure light?), as well as to cast a light spell on Shadow's weapon.
"If yue donna want'a be holdin a torch in yer han', der be anoder option. Simple enof spell. It'll make yer weapon glow bright as a torch."
OOC- If shadow wants the spell, Wilf will cast it.
Mira Wednesday October 5th, 2005 11:34:30 PM
"Good one, Wilf," volunteers the sorcerer when the dwarf offers to use the simple but effective spell. "I'll stay here at the back with this rod." Mira waves the rod around, sending shadows dancing across the walls.
"Ooops! Sorry!" she apologizes, then stills the hand holding the sunrod.
Uriel d20+4=15 d20+4=19 Wednesday October 5th, 2005 11:36:20 PM
The paladin follows Mira and is the last of the party down the tunnel selected by those up front. He keeps a careful lookout.
Spot=15 Listen=19
Arm d20+4=14 d20+4=9 Thursday October 6th, 2005 6:02:52 AM
Arm advances with Evan, still keeping an eye open for trouble (listen=14, spot=9).
Evan d20+3=21 d20+6=15 d20+9=12 Thursday October 6th, 2005 6:14:21 AM
Evan holds out his axe to Wilfire in the hopes that he will cast his spell of light on it then carefully begins to make his way down the tunnel, studing the floor as he moves, watching how the tracks move. (dex-21, search-15, track-12)
DM Scott (for DM Kathy on Vacation) Thursday October 6th, 2005 10:00:06 AM
Kadaz starts pounding a piton into the limestone rock until it is sunk almost to the top. He had asked for someone to help tie off the rope and Shadow moves forward and makes a knot in the rope. He looks over at Wilfire and draws his rapier, "I am not sure I am as good with this as with my bow, but it should work for the purpose you propose." He waits while Wilfire casts light on it. Shadow then moves down the tunnel leading the rope out behind himself. The group watches as he makes his way down the twenty or so feet to where the tunnel makes it turn to the left. He glances back up and waves the group to follow. He then moves out of site to the left. The glow from his sword dims as he moves farther away from the intersection.
Assuming the rest of the group makes it way down the tunnel they see Shadow moving up to a split in the corridor. There is a path leading to the left and the current tunnel continuing straight. When the group catches up to Shadow they can see that both tunnels continue fairly straight as far as the light shows.
Shadow Thursday October 6th, 2005 10:01:43 AM
"I am no tracker, but it looks like only a few tracks lead off into that tunnel." Shadow indicates the tunnel that is branching off to the left.
Mira Thursday October 6th, 2005 6:39:00 PM
While Wilfire casts his spell on Shadow's blade, Mira steps forward and casts a similar magic on the ranger's axe. She gives the young man an encouraging smile, before falling back to her position near the back. Lifting the sunrod over her head she calls, "lead the way!"
DM Sanity Info:
Spells:
0-level, 6 per day-Detect Magic, Read Magic, Light#, Mage Hand, Open/Close, Ray of Frost 1st-level, 7 per day-Magic Missile, Burning Hands, Mage Armor 2nd-level, 4 per day-Glitterdust
Uriel d20+4=15 d20+4=21 Thursday October 6th, 2005 10:32:13 PM
Turning his head from side to side in order to take it all in, the paladin treads carefully behind the party.
Spot=15 Listen=21
Conner Thursday October 6th, 2005 11:33:23 PM
Conner follows Shadow down the tunnel, staying close behind the rogue to provide support should it be needed. Conner's shield is strapped to his forarm in readiness, while he uses his free hand to feel his way along the passage.
Evan d20+9=25 d20+6=15 d20+9=11 d20+8=21 Friday October 7th, 2005 6:00:16 AM
Evan moves 20 feet forward down the left tunnel then kneels to sutdy the tracks, making note of anything unusual about the tracks, while he waits for the others to decide which way they would like to proceed. (track-25, search-15, spot-11, listen-21)
Kadaz d20+1=6 Friday October 7th, 2005 6:35:40 AM
Kadaz takes up rear guard for the party, looking backwards frequently to make sure nothing sneaks up on them. (spot 6)
Wilfire Ironhouse Friday October 7th, 2005 7:33:44 AM
Wilfire takes up position at the end of the line. He is careful to stay back so that his heavy armor doesn't give away the group.
"Shhhh" he whispers to his plate mail.
DM Scott (for DM Kathy on Vacation) Friday October 7th, 2005 10:02:26 AM
The group reaches the intersection and sees what Shadow means by only a few tracks lead off to the left. About two feet up the tunnel there is a fairly deep layer of dust on the tunnel floor and only about 3-4 sets of tracks going off to the left down that tunnel.
When Evan arrives at the branch he does notice that first the tunnel has almost no slant to it. He moves down the tunnel and can now tell that there were actually only two sets of tracks and then go down the tunnel (it seems to the ranger that the same boot prints are headed down the tunnel and up the tunnel).
While everyone is waiting for Evan to bring them up to date on his findings they notice that the tunnels seem oddly silent. (Although this might just be because they are not hearing the normal buzz of the city.)
When Evan returns he cannot tell which direction the tracks from this tunnel go, but there are so many tracks in the main tunnel he is not sure the best tracker would know.
Shadow d20+2=22 d20+2=22 Friday October 7th, 2005 10:12:46 AM
Shadow will continue to monitor what is going on down the main tunnel he moves about 5 feet down the tunnel to see if there is anything he can see or hear. (Spot=22 nat 20, listen=22 nat. 20)
OOC: Of course I get natural twenties in a row now, but will get low numbers from now on.
Conner d20+3=18 d20+2=18 Friday October 7th, 2005 7:15:55 PM
The fighter waits at the junction of the two tunnels, his eyes and ears alert to any danger [Spot=18; Listen=18]
Uriel Saturday October 8th, 2005 1:11:42 AM
The paladin waits silently, twisting his sword nervously in his hand.
Mira Saturday October 8th, 2005 1:15:36 AM
It is so quiet, Mira has trouble resisting the urge to call out. She smiles to herself, and then catches the grim looks on the faces of the others. Pressing her lips together, she tries to assume a serious demeanor.
(OOC: I will be away from a computer until late Tuesday PM. If the party is attacked, Mira will stay at the back of the group, cast Mage Armour upon herself and then lob Magic Missiles (2d4+4) at the enemy.
Kadaz d20+1=16 Saturday October 8th, 2005 6:53:12 AM
At the back of the party Kadaz is busy attaching the chains and ties from his new locked gauntlet onto his axe. He looks up frequently to see what is behind them. (spot 16)
Evan d20+9=21 d20+6=24 d20+8=28 d20+9=24 Monday October 10th, 2005 6:08:41 AM
Evan returns to the group and signs to the others, I can continue to follow that if you want but it looks like it will lead to a dead end. Whoever went down came back up Unless someone speaks up, wanting him to trace the left tunnel out to the end, he will start down the straight tunnel. Seeing Mira struggle not to smile, he gives her a playful wink as he slides past her then kisses the tip of her nose before continuing on. He will move forward 30 feet and stop to study the tracks again. (track-21, search-24, listen-28 nat 20, spot-24)
Arm d20+4=17 d20+4=8 Monday October 10th, 2005 7:34:09 AM
Arm accompanies Evan whichever direction he may go...keeping a close watch on their surroundings, but the stirring of the dust is starting to make it difficult for him to see very far (listen=17, spot=8).
DM Scott (for DM Kathy on vacation) Monday October 10th, 2005 10:22:50 AM
The group starts to move down the main tunnel once again. They move for about 30 feet and the tunnel turns sharply to the right. There is just the tunnel going at a steady angle down, so the group continues to follow it. After about 20 more feet, after the sharp turn to the right, the tunnel splits into a y with two seperate tunnels leading off. Evan has been keeping track of any deviations from the tracks, but they are so jumbled it is hard for him to tell. He does however notice that there are more tracks going off to the right than off to the left.
Shadow Monday October 10th, 2005 10:24:05 AM
"Which way do you guys want to go?" Shadow asks the group quietly once they arrive at the y in the tunnel. "It is a little strange not to hear the noise of the city." he says to noone in particular.
Kadaz Tuesday October 11th, 2005 5:44:45 AM
Kadaz shifts his grip on his axe. He whispers forward "Doesn't matter which one we take first, we need to go down both eventually."
Evan Tuesday October 11th, 2005 5:51:27 AM
Evan gestures to the right tunnel, thinking it would be best to go for the majority of the people first.
Arm d20+4=22 d20+4=8 Tuesday October 11th, 2005 6:50:38 AM
Arm nods grimly in agreement and proceeds down the right tunnel with Evan (listen=22, spot=8).
DM Scott (for DM Kathy on Vacation) Tuesday October 11th, 2005 10:08:47 AM
The group decides to move down the right tunnel, and they proceed for about 60 feet. The tunnel opens up into a large, underground space-one of those massive, cathedral-like chambers with stalagmites and stalactites and frozen waterfalls of stone. It stretches on way beyond the light being given off by the torches and glowing weapons.
Looking left and right the group does see a couple of tunnels that lead out of the large cavern. (actually they see one tunnel to each side, that they can see)
OOC: I need a Listen roll from each of you.
Shadow d20+2=4 Tuesday October 11th, 2005 10:09:55 AM
Shadow sees the large cavern and hesitates at the entrance. "Evan check this out." (listen=4)
Wilfire Ironhouse d20+4=14 Tuesday October 11th, 2005 5:12:53 PM
Wilfire looks left and right while picking some wax from his ears.
"Anybuddy hear'anyting?" he asked (listen 14)
Kadaz d20+1=8 d20+1=7 Tuesday October 11th, 2005 5:16:21 PM
At the back Kadaz keeps his mouth shut and his ear open but, it turns out, he's not so good at that. (listen 8, spot 7)
Conner d20+2=21 Tuesday October 11th, 2005 7:20:46 PM
The fighter waits to learn what the trackers have discovered. In the interim, he listens for any sounds that might signify that they are not the only ones down in these tunnels. (Listen=21)
Uriel d20+4=10 Tuesday October 11th, 2005 7:23:19 PM
Uriel tries to listen for signs of danger. He doesn't hear much (Listen=10). He raises a gloved finger to his lips as he looks at the dwarf keeping him company at the back.
Mira d20+2=10 Tuesday October 11th, 2005 7:28:34 PM
Mira waits to see what those in the lead plan to do. She makes chalk marks at regular intervals on the right hand side of whatever tunnel they take, just in case they get turned around. Busy with the sunrod and her chalk, she isn't as observant as she should be. (Listen=10)
Arm d20+4=22 d20+4=12 Wednesday October 12th, 2005 5:49:42 AM
Hesitating at the entrance to the cavern, Arm then holds up a hand for the party to wait while he moves to the edge of the lights they are carrying so that his elven vision may assist them (listen=22, spot=12).
Evan d20+9=22 d20+6=21 d20+8=15 d20+9=19 Wednesday October 12th, 2005 6:04:59 AM
Evan stops as the tunnel widens out into a chamber and kneels down to study the tracks once again. He raises his eyes to scan the chamber as best he can, listening for any sounds of movement within the chamber. (track-22, search-21, listen-15, spot-19)
DM Scott (for DM Kathy on vacation) Wednesday October 12th, 2005 9:58:15 AM
The group stops at the entrance to the gigantic cavern and starts to look around and listen. Evan checks out the tracks that they have been following and notices that most of them go straight into the cavern, but a few go off to the left and even fewer go off to the right. Conner and Arm hear some faint sounds that seem to be coming from across the cavern and to the right of their current location. They cannot discern what the sounds are, but it does seem like some whispering but from a distance.
The group does not really see anything other than stalagmites, stalactites and frozen waterfalls of stone. There does not seem to be much movement of air either, so it might be difficult to tell which tunnel they have gone into if it weren't for Mira and her chalk.
Conner Thursday October 13th, 2005 12:58:20 AM
The fighter gestures silently to gain the attention of the others. He cups his ear with one hand, then points to the right of their current location in the direction of sounds.
Mira Thursday October 13th, 2005 12:59:31 AM
Holding her sunrod aloft, Mira moves off in the direction indicated by Conner.
Arm d20+4=21 d20+4=19 Thursday October 13th, 2005 6:00:56 AM
Arm grips his sword tighter and moves up next to Mira, motioning Evan to do the same while he tries his best to discern the nature of the whispering (listen=21, spot=19).
Kadaz Thursday October 13th, 2005 6:25:23 AM
Kadaz follows the party in the direction Conner indicated, looking to the sides and behind for danger.
Wilfire Ironhouse Thursday October 13th, 2005 8:01:13 AM
Wilfire follows the party carfeully, but is careful to stay close to the end of the line so his armor doesn't give the others away.
Shadow d20+2=14 d20+2=14 Thursday October 13th, 2005 9:49:41 AM
Shadow joins the party in moving towards the sound. He did not hear anything, but takes it some of the rest of the party heard something from the right. (spot=14, listen=14)
DM Scott (for DM Kathy on Vacation) Thursday October 13th, 2005 9:53:30 AM
The group starts moving across the cavern (to the right side where some of the group has heard some whispering). They notice the cavern is huge and that it will take them some time just to see the otherside of the cavern.
OOC: Some things I need to know before I can do a full DM Post. 1. Does the group follow the edge of the cavern or move straight for the whispering? 2. What is the exact marching order? 3. I need to know everyones AC/HP. 4. Yes, I am giving away that something is happening, but your characters don't know that!
DM Scott Thursday October 13th, 2005 9:55:39 AM
OOC: Responses to the previous post will count towards todays posts (I really need to have this information before I can do tomorrows post). I do not have all of the character sheets (actually I only have two: mine [Shadow] and Jeff's [Kadaz] ).
Kadaz [AC 21, 53 hp] Thursday October 13th, 2005 5:06:26 PM
With his darkvision, Kadaz keeps looking backwards and to the sides. He prefers to be dead last, just following the person in front of him.
Mira (AC 13, 22 HP) Thursday October 13th, 2005 10:11:25 PM
Mira is in the middle of the group. She tends to hug the rock wall as she continues making regular marks with her chalk.
(OOC: Level 4 Mira was sent to Kathy August 29, 2005. If you want a copy, *ping* me via e-mail)
Uriel (AC 19 , 43 HP) Thursday October 13th, 2005 10:15:24 PM
Uriel will follow Mira, and stick to the rear in front of Kadaz. As such, he is closer to the wall than the middle of the cavern.
(OOC: Kathy sent me Level 1 Uriel, but I'm sure he is higher than that. I'll used his AC/HP stats from his last combat post. Do you know when Brent might be back?)
Arm (AC 14, HP 18) d20+4=8 d20+4=8 Friday October 14th, 2005 6:15:15 AM
Arm hugs the wall as well, and sticks close to Mira should she need help (listen=8, spot=8).
Shadow (AC 21/18 HP 20/20) d20+2=10 d20+2=3 Friday October 14th, 2005 9:42:37 AM
Shadow sees that the group wants to move along the wall, so he moves off at the front staying close to the cavern wall. He will scan the area in front of the group and trying to hear what the others have heard. (listen=10 spot=3)
DM Scott (for DM Kathy on vacation) Friday October 14th, 2005 9:47:37 AM
The group starts out along the cavern wall headed to the right of the tunnel they entered from. They get about 20 feet along the wall when they see a tunnel heading out of the cavern about 30 feet from where they currently are. (OOC: They judge this to be about 1/10th of the way around the cavern if it is circular - at the 50 foot mark)
The group continues following the wall around the outside of the cavern up to the tunnel that leads out of the cavern. Looking down the tunnel the group sees that it goes away from the cavern as far as their light sources can show (about 30 feet).
OOC: I need everyone to do a listen and spot check, and Evan do a tracking check.
Evan ac 18 hp 24 d20+10=17 d20+9=27 d20+9=25 d20+8=24 Friday October 14th, 2005 4:06:27 PM
Evan moves forward quietly, listening carefully and studing the ground before him. (move silent-17, track-27, spot-25, listen-24)
Kadaz [AC 21, 53 hp] d20+1=17 d20+1=12 Friday October 14th, 2005 7:28:09 PM
Kadaz tries to hear over the sounds of his armor and chains, looking out into the dark. (listen 17,spot 12)
Conner [AC=22; HP=44/44] d20+2=11 d20+3=8 Friday October 14th, 2005 9:06:21 PM
Conner carefully makes his way along the cavern wall. The shadows cast by Mira's sunrod and the unfamiliar ground test the fighters senses [Listen=11, Spot=8]
Mira (AC 13, 22 HP) d20+2=13 d20+2=11 Sunday October 16th, 2005 10:46:04 PM
Mira tries to peer past those in front of her (Spot=13, Listen=11) but she doesn't see or hear much.
Uriel (AC 19 , 43 HP) d20+4=10 d20+4=19 Sunday October 16th, 2005 10:48:33 PM
Uriel casts a backwards glance to make sure the party isn't being followed.
Spot=10 Listen=19
Wilfire Ironhouse (AC19 / 44HP) d20+4=17 d20+4=8 Monday October 17th, 2005 12:26:09 AM
Wilfire uses his darkvision to focus on the area around him (spot 17), as he listens carefully for any sign of trouble. However, all he can hear is the sound of his not-so-quiet footsteps (listen 8).
Arm d20+4=24 d20+4=10 Monday October 17th, 2005 5:56:46 AM
Beginning to get the feeling that if they come upon too many more tunnels, they'll be hopelessly lost, Arm looks around apprehensively for signs of trouble (listen=24-nat. 20, spot=10).
Shadow d20+2=6 d20+2=9 Monday October 17th, 2005 9:45:09 AM
Shadow in the front with Evan continues around the cavern against the wall headed in the direction that some of the group heard the whispering. He tries to see and listen for any signs, but for some reason is unable to see or hear anything out of the ordinary. (Spot=6 Listen=9)
DM Scott Monday October 17th, 2005 9:52:35 AM
Evan, Kadaz, and Arm can definitly tell that the whispering does not come from down this tunnel. Evan sees that there are no tracks leading down this side tunnel.
Evan and Shadow are about to continue along the wall of the cavern when Evan and Arm both hear something that sounds like metal on stone and then it is gone. They are not sure exactly where in the cavern it came from, but both know that it did not orginate from the tunnel they are passing by. They are about to move on when they hear it again, a very strange scraping noise (that is muffled as if something metal was being dragged against the ground). Everyone looks around at what has alarmed Evan and Arm, but noone can see anything moving.
OOC: Everyone for a spot check.
Kadaz d20+1=11 d20+7=26 Monday October 17th, 2005 4:15:47 PM
Kadaz peers into the darkness towards the sound but doesn't see much. (spot 11). He pulls out a hooded continual torch and removes the cover, sheding more light on the immediate area. He then winds up and then throws the torch in the direction of the noise he heard. (hit AC 26?)
Mira d20+2=12 Monday October 17th, 2005 9:38:21 PM
Mira is pre-occupied with making marks on the stone walls of the tunnel to ensure the party doesn't get lost. When some indicate they have heard a sound, Mira tilts her head back and checks overhead. (Spot=12)
Uriel d20+4=13 Monday October 17th, 2005 9:40:54 PM
The paladin cranes his neck to see past the others lined up along the tunnel wall.
Spot=13
Conner d20+3=5 Monday October 17th, 2005 9:43:48 PM
The fighter grumbles and follows after the torch tossed by the dwarf. He is momentarily blinded (Spot=5) by the light, but moves forward none the less.
Arm (AC 14, HP 18) d20+4=6 d20+4=13 Tuesday October 18th, 2005 5:49:37 AM
Unaccustomed to the buckler on his arm, Arm is distracted while trying to discern the nature of the sound and who or what is making it (spot=6, listen=13).
Evan ac 18 hp 24 d20+9=26 Tuesday October 18th, 2005 5:53:50 AM
Evan tenses, weapons at the ready, and begins to move slowly, placing the wall at his back as he scans the chamber once again. (spot-26)
Shadow [AC 21/18 hp 20/20] d20+2=6 d20+2=6 Tuesday October 18th, 2005 10:04:39 AM
Shadow sees the rest of the group tense up and he immediately starts to scan the area, but is distracted some by the movements of the group. (spot=6 listen=6)
DM Scott (for DM Kathy on vacation) d20+3=11 Tuesday October 18th, 2005 10:12:25 AM
The group tries to determine what the source or sources of the sounds are. Kadaz throws a torch further along the cavern wall towards where the whispering is coming from. The torch sails through the air lightening up that part of the cavern. The group sees two more tunnels leading out of the cavern further around the edge, but it does not indicate anything that was making the noise.
The group is really trying to find the source of the sound when Evan points to something above the group. Just then what looks like a stalactite drops from the ceiling straight for Uriel. (The stalactite, or whatever it is, misses the paladin and strikes the floor.) The group sees that there are tentacle like arms flowing out from under it. The creature is within striking distance of Uriel and Kadaz. The rest of the group is spread out in front of them and would take a turn to join their counterparts if that is what they do. (okay round 1 - surprise is over)
Kadaz [AC 21, 53 hp] d20+12=19 d10+4=11 Tuesday October 18th, 2005 5:11:57 PM
Kadaz starts a bit at the tenacles coming out from under the stalactite but quickly recognizes something that is trying to hurt them. He pulls back his arm and swings his axe at the creature. (hit AC19, damage 11).
Conner [AC=22; HP=44/44] d20+10=27 d8+6=10 Wednesday October 19th, 2005 12:23:36 AM
Conner steps towards the 'thing' and swings down at a tentacle with his sword. (Hit AC 27 for 10 pts. dmg.)
Mira (AC 13, 22 HP) Wednesday October 19th, 2005 12:25:29 AM
Mira screams when the thing drops from the ceiling. The sorcerer casts a spell, and encases herself in protective magic. (Mage Armor)
DM Sanity Info:
0-level, 6 per day-Detect Magic, Read Magic, Light, Mage Hand, Open/Close, Ray of Frost 1st-level, 7 per day-Magic Missile, Burning Hands, Mage Armor# 2nd-level, 4 per day-Glitterdust
Uriel (AC 19 , 43 HP) d20+7=16 d6=4 Wednesday October 19th, 2005 12:31:03 AM
"Quiet, woman!" growls Uriel, "You'll give our positions away!" The paladin grips his sword and swings at the thing. (Hit AC 16 for 4 dmg)
Arm (AC 14, HP 18) Thursday October 20th, 2005 6:01:52 AM
Arm advances so that he has a clear shot at the beast when he is able to strike at it.
Wilfire Ironhouse d20+7=25 Thursday October 20th, 2005 7:57:51 AM
Wilfire pulled out his holy symbol and started casting. "ANIMUS ARMA!" he called out, and before him a spritual flail appeared.
Directed by Wilfire's left hand, the flail began to spin and move towards the strange creature. (hit AC 25)
Shadow [AC 21/18 HP 20/20] Thursday October 20th, 2005 9:51:24 AM
Shadow drops his glowing rapier and draws his bow hoping that he will not need his hand to hand weapon.
DM Scott (for DM Kathy on Vacation) d20+4=11 d20+4=16 Thursday October 20th, 2005 10:05:00 AM
Kadaz and Conner connect their swings at about the same time. The creature gives out one burst of sound and collapses in a heap from the great amount of damage. As some of the group moves towards the dead creature another one drops from the ceiling headed straight for Evan, but like it's counterpart it also misses. A second later the whole group is plunged into darkness. At the initial moment of darkness no one can see a thing.
There comes a high pitch sound that does not bother the group, but it is eerie and not a usual sound.
Conner [AC=22; HP=44/44] d100=31 d20+10=28 d8+6=14 Thursday October 20th, 2005 10:21:20 PM
Conner strides towards the spot where he saw the creature fall and swings down in the dark [% miss chance = 31 beats 50; Hit AC=28 for 14 HP]
"Sing out your position so we aren't hitting each other" he calls out to the group.
Evan d20+1=15 d20+2=5 d8+3=11 Friday October 21st, 2005 5:57:07 AM
(errr, what happened to my post from yesterday?)
Evan reacts instinctively, swinging both axe and sword at the creature that fell next to him. (these numbers include a -4 for darkness, sword hits ac 15, axe- 5, sword dam- 11)
DM Scott Friday October 21st, 2005 9:44:55 AM
OOC: Because of the server being down I will not post today (and let everyone catch on the post I made yesterday). We will catch a break because of the server going down for almost 24 hours.
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 53] Friday October 21st, 2005 10:23:40 PM
Kadaz look around using his darkvision to see where everyone is standing. "That was a magical torch I threw and it went out. Something out there covered it" he says softly to the others.
Arm d20+4=23 d20+4=9 Sunday October 23rd, 2005 6:01:53 AM
Arm pulls out one of his sunrods, activates it, and holds it aloft...hoping to help out the group by doing so. In the meantime, he searches the area for trouble (listen=23, spot=9).
Mira (AC 13, 22 HP) Sunday October 23rd, 2005 11:55:25 PM Strange, thinks Mira, the Sundrod should be good for a while longer.
Then an idea dawns on the sorcerer, and she puts a hand to her temple as she focuses past her party and into the void. She focuses her energies on detecting the presence of any magical auras. (Detect Magic)
DM Sanity Info:
0-level, 6 per day-Detect Magic#, Read Magic, Light, Mage Hand, Open/Close, Ray of Frost 1st-level, 7 per day-Magic Missile, Burning Hands, Mage Armor# 2nd-level, 4 per day-Glitterdust
Uriel (AC 19 , 43 HP) d20+4=23 Sunday October 23rd, 2005 11:57:46 PM
The paladin tries to still his breathing, as he concentrates on listening for the enemy.
Listen=23
DM Scott (for DM Kathy on Vacation) d20+4=21 d4+1=2 d4+1=4 d4+1=5 Monday October 24th, 2005 9:55:21 AM
After what seems like an eternity (but really only just a few seconds), the group sees a flicker of light further along the cavern. (Where Kadaz threw the everburning torch they suddenly realize.) Then Arm brings out another of the sunrods, just as Evans misses with both of his attacks. Conner had strided in and connected with a mighty blow that takes the top part of the stalactite creature off. It does not move. Just then another of the creatures drops right on Kadaz and starts wrapping it's tentacles around his throat. (dmg=6).
Shadow [AC21/18 HP 20/20] d20+2=14 d20+2=22 Monday October 24th, 2005 9:57:14 AM
Shadow still not sure of everything that has gone on tries to see if he has a shot with his bow. He suddenly realizes that he probably would hit Kadaz, so he chooses to scan for other creatures. (listen=14 spot=22 nat. 20)
Wilfire Ironhouse d20+4=15 d20+7=12 Monday October 24th, 2005 10:50:57 AM
Wilfire uses his dwarven darkvision to perform a quick and dirty scan the roof (spot 15).
Next he nods his head in the direction of the creature on Kadaz and lets out a grunt, while drawing his holy symbol from the chain around his wrist. Instantly his spiritual flail responded, flying off towards the stalactite creature (hit AC 12). (move action)
Not pausing to see if his weapon hit or not, Wilfire started casting once again.
"AUCTUS AMPLIO!" he called out, and instantly Kadaz body started to grow in size.
OOC- cast enlarge on Kadaz.
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 47/53] d20+9=15 Monday October 24th, 2005 5:37:54 PM
Kadaz starts to reach for his throat and quickly realizes that with a shield on one arm, and an axe chained to a guantlet in the other, he can't really do much about the creature gnawing on his throat. And on top of that, he wasn't really expecting to grow!
He shakes the shield off his left arm and tries to grab the thing while growling "Somebody help me!" If he gets it off he'll throw it to the ground and stomp on it.
(To Hit: 15 + bonus for size? damage
Conner [AC=24; HP=44/44] d20+4=17 d6+4=5 d100=85 Monday October 24th, 2005 10:12:55 PM
Unable to see the fighter adopts a defensive position, his spiked shield over his head, just in case another of the strange creatures drops from above (Fighting defensively Effective AC=24, Hit AC=17 for 5 HP, made 20% miss chance). Conner slowly makes his way back towards where Mira and the others were, hoping to find some light.
OOC Conners attack is a shield bash should a creature drop on him from above - I've taken the -4 to hit for fighting defensively
Mira (AC 13, 22 HP) Tuesday October 25th, 2005 1:32:04 AM
The sorceress is confused by the malfunctioning of the sunrod. She uses one of her spells and tries to re-light it. (Cast Light)
DM Sanity Info:
0-level, 6 per day-Detect Magic#, Read Magic, Light#, Mage Hand, Open/Close, Ray of Frost 1st-level, 7 per day-Magic Missile, Burning Hands, Mage Armor# 2nd-level, 4 per day-Glitterdust
Arm d20+4=15 d8+3=10 Tuesday October 25th, 2005 5:53:28 AM
Weighing the odds, Arm chooses to help his friend. Dropping the sunrod, he swings at Kadaz' tormentor (attk: 15, dmg: 10).
DM Scott (for DM Kathy on vacation) d4+2=5 Tuesday October 25th, 2005 9:54:18 AM
OOC: Sorry Mira, I forgot about your detect magic. I will go back and post from last round for Mira, and then on to the next round.
(Previous round)Mira looks around after weaving her spell to locate any auras of magic. She sees what the group has as far as magical auras (I do not have all the character sheets, so I will assume no one is keeping anything from the mage.) She then notices that the creatures are showing that they are magical, but the two that are dead have their auras fading.
(This round)Wilfire's magical flail misses the creature that has attached itself to Kadaz. Kadaz in the mean time shakes off his shield and tries to get a good grip on the creature to pull it off. He however does not get a good enough grip on the creature and his hands slip off when he pulls. Arm swings at the creature and misses. Kadaz suddenly starts to grow larger, but this might have been a problem becasue the creatures tentacles are wrapped around his throat trying to choke him. With his sudden enlargement it cuases him to not be able to breathe at all. (dmg=5) He starts to feel light headed from lack of oxygen.
In the meantime, Mira brings forth light once again from her sunrod. Conner and Shadow do not see anything else in the vacinity that poses any threat, other than the one creature still attached to Kadaz's neck.
Shadow [AC 21/18 HP 20/20] d20+4=21 d4+2=6 Tuesday October 25th, 2005 9:56:17 AM
Shadow will drop his bow and draw his dagger. He will move over to where the creature is attacking the giant Kadaz. (If Kadaz falls over unconcious, Shadow will try and cut the tentacle off that is choking his comrade.)
(to hit=21 dmg=6)
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 42/53] d20+9=13 Tuesday October 25th, 2005 5:31:45 PM
Kadaz waves his axe wildly in his right hand around trying to catch a breath. He grabs at the creature with this left hand and tries to pull it off. (to hit 13)
Evan ac 18 hp 24 d20+3=6 Tuesday October 25th, 2005 5:56:23 PM
Once Evan can see again, he drops his weapons as he leaps towards Kadaz and tries to grapple with the creature in an attempt to try and pull the tentecle from his throat. Unfortunately, he does not seem to be able to get a grip on the creature.
Conner [AC=24; HP=44/44] d20+10=17 d8+6=9 Tuesday October 25th, 2005 7:25:47 PM
As Conner re-enters the light he sees the creature wrapped around the dwarf's head and the obvious peril that follows when the dwarf enlarges. He swings at the creature despite the danger to Kadaz, knowing that if the creature is not removed it will surely kill the guardsman [Hit AC=17 for 9 dmg].
[OOC Creatures magical darkness should be unaffected by Mira's light Spell or the sunrod - it isn't clear to me if I can actually see Kadaz and the creature or if I am just guessing the position based on his muffled gasps]
Arm (ac 14, hp 18) d20+4=20 d8+3=7 Wednesday October 26th, 2005 5:55:40 AM
Arm again swings at the creature, again hoping not to hit Kadaz. (attk: 20, dmg: 7).
Wilfire Ironhouse d20+7=22 d8+1=6 d20+7=18 d10+6=9 Wednesday October 26th, 2005 8:03:35 AM
Wilfire's spiritual weapon attacks again (hit AC 22) as Wilfire moves closer and starts casting again.
Meanwhile Wilfire closes in and swings hard with his flail (hit AC 18, damage 9)
DM Scott (for DM Kathy on vacation) Wednesday October 26th, 2005 10:08:04 AM
OOC: Actually the initial darkness (2) of them would have canceled out the light spells and the sunrods, but the Mira had cast another light spell after the cancellation.
The group converges on the creature attached to Kadaz and mutilate it trying to remove it from him. The creature lands on the ground in multiple pieces from the all out attack from the group. Kadaz staggers a little, but he does get enough air in his lungs not to pass out. He is however quite large for a dwarf (the enlarge spell still in effect). The group looks around and listens to see if there are any more of the creatures, but they do not find any evidence of anything (other than the three dead ones).
"Where to now?" Shadow asks the group.
Wilfire Ironhouse d8+3=7 Wednesday October 26th, 2005 1:54:56 PM
"Me apologies Kadaz" Wilfire started. "Miscalculated me use of deh magic. Figured a weebit more size would 'elp ya git dat ugly thing off'ya."
"Maybe dis'll make ya feel a wee bit better" he said as he started casting.
OOC- burn endure elements for cure light wounds. heals 8 on Kadaz (the bonus should be +4 not +3)
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 50/53] d20+1=13 Wednesday October 26th, 2005 5:04:52 PM
Kadaz gasps and fills his lungs. He kicks at the creature on the ground out of anger. "Wilfire, thank you very much for the healing. And yes, a bit of warning before you make me big would be appreciated." Kadaz picks up his shield from the ground and fits it on his arm, once again ready to fight. He looks around for trouble, this time making sure to look up. (spot 13)
Conner d20+3=13 Wednesday October 26th, 2005 7:19:50 PM
Conner relaxes as the dwarf manages to shed the battered remains of the creature and draw a breath. "I had no doubt you would overcome the beast" he grins impishly at Kadaz as the words escape his lips.
With a quick scan of the ceiling, Conner points to the direction of the whispering from before and suggests they move on. [Spot=13]
Arm d20+4=8 d20+4=5 Thursday October 27th, 2005 6:00:37 AM
Arm claps a hand on Kadaz' shoulder, which is easier to do now that he's larger, and says "Stout heart, my friend. I fear we have many more challenges before us before we're done here.". To the group, he says, "Aye, let's investigate the source of that whispering and be done with it.". He looks around furtively before moving on (listen=8, spot=5), but hears and sees nothing.
Evan ac 18 hp 24 d20+8=12 d20+6=18 d20+9=14 d20+9=29 Thursday October 27th, 2005 6:05:47 AM
Evan kneels and scoops up his weapons as he scan the area, including the cieling for whatever made the lights go out. With weapons in hand once again, he begins to move forward. (listen-12, search-18, spot-14, track-29 nat 20))
Shadow [AC 21/18 HP 20/20] d20+2=4 d20+2=10 Thursday October 27th, 2005 9:08:33 AM
Shadow looks around with the group, but does not spot anything. He will search the creatures to see if he can find anything. After doing that he will move back and get his bow and rapier (which he finds is no longer glowing). "Do we continue on this way?" he points in the direction they were headed.
DM Scott (for DM Kathy on Vacation) Thursday October 27th, 2005 9:11:22 AM
Shadow searches the creatures while the rest of the group scans the area for further dangers. Both are for naught because there does not seem to be anything with or in the creatures and there does not appear to be any more signs of other creatures.
The group starts back around the outside of the cavern. The travel another 30-40 feet when they see two tunnels that exit the cavern. When they get closer everyone now can hear the faint whispering, but they are not sure which tunnel it is coming from. (The group can tell it is coming from this area though.)
Wilfire Ironhouse d20+4=5 d20+8=21 Thursday October 27th, 2005 6:02:47 PM
Wilfire listens closely to the whispering, trying to discern if it sounds like spellcasting. (listen 5, spellcraft 21).
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 50/53] Thursday October 27th, 2005 7:12:28 PM
Kadaz looks around, his nerves tingling. "Pick a tunnel, Shadow. You probably have the best hearing. Just follow the sounds."
Arm d20+4=7 d20+4=17 Friday October 28th, 2005 5:57:17 AM
Arm tries his best to help Shadow decide which tunnel to take, hopefully with better results (spot=7, listen=17).
Evan ac 18 hp 24 d20+8=20 d20+9=10 Friday October 28th, 2005 5:57:25 AM
Evan glances at Shadow to see which tunnel he will choose then moves to the entrance of the other tunnel, listening and searching the ground for tracks. (listen-20, track-10)
Shadow d20+2=21 d20+2=10 Friday October 28th, 2005 9:49:26 AM
Shadow tries to determine which way the whispers are coming from and see if there is any other indications. (Listen=21 Spot=10)
DM Scott (for DM Kathy on Vacation) Friday October 28th, 2005 9:56:03 AM
Both Shadow and Evan indicate the whispers seem to be coming more from the second tunnel. Shadow indicates this and looks at Evan for support on whether or not the Ranger can tell if that is the right tunnel based on his tracking ability. Evan is not sure, so Shadow moves the group into the second tunnel. They follow the tunnel for about 20 feet when the all of the group start hearing the conversation. It does seem like conversation and not spell craft, so the group continues on.
About 50 feet down the tunnel the group spots a sharp turn to the right, and the talking seems to be coming from just around the corner. Shadow approaches quietly (but not sure because there does not seem to be any light coming from that way in the tunnel) and peers around the corner. He is right because there is no light coming from that direction (only from behind which he notices flashes his shadow on the far wall).
Shadow Friday October 28th, 2005 9:57:47 AM
"Well, I think the whispering/conversation is coming from around the corner. I do not think we will surprise anything or anybody because there is no light source back that way, and our light source probably gave away our presence. What do we want to do?" Shadow asks the group in as quiet a voice as possible without whispering.
Conner Friday October 28th, 2005 9:04:05 PM
"We could just introduce ourselves" suggests the fighter from his position near the front of the column.
Evan ac 22, hp 24 d20+8=27 d20+9=20 d20+10=23 Saturday October 29th, 2005 6:40:12 AM
Evan quietly moves up to the corner and hides, keeping his attention in front of him while the others decide what they want to do. (isten-27, hide-20, move silent-23)
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 50/53] Sunday October 30th, 2005 8:50:15 AM
Kadaz whispers to the group "Conner's right. It could be the others up there, those that hired us. Be embarassing to attack them."
Mira d20+2=9 Sunday October 30th, 2005 8:01:54 PM
Mira follows the others towards the strange whispering. She tries to listen (Listen=9) but the conversation of her companions distracts her.
Wilfire Ironhouse Sunday October 30th, 2005 11:33:23 PM
Wilfire is careful to hang back, so not to give away the groups location with his loud armor.
Arm d20+4=16 d20+4=6 Monday October 31st, 2005 5:56:11 AM
Arm agrees, "Aye, the best course of action is to move forward.". He does his best to try to see what they are about to confront in the meantime (spot=16, listen=6).
DM Scott (for DM Kathy on Vacation) Monday October 31st, 2005 9:45:45 AM
Evan moves up to a spot just short of the turn and hears someone say, "Would you be quiet. You are going to bring those things to us and we will all be dead." Then he hears someone else try and muffle a sob.
Evan motions to his companions to move around the corner. (OOC: sorry Evan but felt you would move them along) The group moves around the the corner and once light is brought to the scene the group sees a makeshift camp. There are blankets spread all over to form areas to sleep, the smell of the human waste is undeniable, and there are about seventeen people gathered very close together at the end of the tunnel. The tunnel does not go any further and dead ends at about twenty feet from the turn.
Conner d20-2=13 Monday October 31st, 2005 5:23:20 PM
"You won't have to worry about those beasts any longer" Conner pipes up in as friendly a voice as he can muster. "Kadaz here looked after them!" Conner flashes the assembled throng with a toothy grin before sheathing his sword to show that he poses no immediate threat. [Diplomacy=13]
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 50/53] d20+1=10 Tuesday November 1st, 2005 5:49:33 AM
Kadaz turns the corner and stands back from them. He looks carefully at them, watching to make sure this is not a trap. If all looks ok he will resume watching the rear, making sure they are not surprised. (spot 10)
Evan ac 18 hp 24 d20+9=14 d20+8=14 Tuesday November 1st, 2005 5:56:51 AM
Evan smiles to Mira as the group moves into the tunnel then nods towards the group. He knows she'll be able to charm them into relaxing so he moves back to the entrance of the tunnel to keep an eye out while the others deal with the refugees. (spot-14, listen-14)
Mira d20+5=15 d20+2=22 Tuesday November 1st, 2005 7:50:52 AM
The sorcerer advances until she is with those up front. Holding the sunrod aloft she volunteers, "could we be of some assistance to you? Escort you out of this place?" (Diplomacy=15) She looks from face to face, trying to get a fix on the mood of the people. (Sense Motive=22, nat 20!)
Shadow Tuesday November 1st, 2005 9:44:45 AM
Shadow moves forward to see how many people are actually here. He will let the others deal with the people once we find out if they pose no threat. He does move away from the smell, and wonders why it has not drawn the creatures to them.
DM Scott (for DM Kathy on vacation) Tuesday November 1st, 2005 9:49:25 AM
"We are hiding from those monsters, they took Frank and Charlie." One of the closer men says. He seems distraught and malnurished. Looking around the group notice that all of the people seem to be very distraught. Remembering the events in the city above the group can guess that these people fled with no real knowledge of what would be down here. Mira senses only that the people want to survive.
They shake their heads in agreement when Mira suggest that they get escorted out. The group starts to gather what few belongings they have to move out with the group.
Wilfire Ironhouse Tuesday November 1st, 2005 10:47:25 AM
"Anybody hurtin?" Wilfire asked aloud, as he moved towards the camp. "A healer I be, so lemme take a look at yer."
If Wilfire found anyone with grave injuries, he will heal them before escourting them out.
Conner d20+3=17 d20+2=22 Tuesday November 1st, 2005 4:59:24 PM
Conner stays near the front of the group and keeps a careful watch for any new dangers. He re-examines the ceilings of each area they move into, just in case they missed any of the strange tentacled creatures.[Spot=17, Listen =22, Nat 20!!] "Does anyone know what those things were?" he asks.
Arm d20+4=15 d20+4=19 Wednesday November 2nd, 2005 6:00:42 AM
Arm shakes his head at Conner's question, "I have never seen one, but I have heard stories of them...I cannot recall what they are called at the moment, though.".
While the refugees make ready to leave, Arm keeps an eye out for trouble along the return path. (listen=15, spot=19).
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 50/53] Wednesday November 2nd, 2005 6:23:59 AM
Kadaz takes his turn to ask a question of the refugees. "These monsters, what did they look like?"
Shadow d20+2=19 d20+2=22 Wednesday November 2nd, 2005 9:45:31 AM
Shadow will take the lead once the group has the refugees ready to leave. He will keep an eye out for any more of the creatures. (Listen=19 Spot=22, nat. 20)
DM Scott (for DM Kathy on Vacation) Wednesday November 2nd, 2005 10:00:34 AM
One person steps forward and says, "We have one person injured over here, and all the rest of us are just hungry and tired." He will show Wilfire to the woman that looks to have hurt her ankle and has a cut above her eye that has been crudely bandaged. Wilfire will apply some healing magic to her, and finds out a simple curative spell suffices to take care of her minor wounds.
The group starts heading back they way they came with the group in tow. The group stays relatively together and they are very subdued as the group makes it's way back through the caves. They do not spot anything or hear anything as they pass the various tunnels.
They finally make it back to the entrance cave and the group suddenly starts to talk again. "We have made it." is the overwhelming feeling from the group of refugees.
Mira Wednesday November 2nd, 2005 11:39:23 PM
Mira will volunteer to lead the way out. Holding her sunrod high overhead to light the way, she tells the group to use the light as a reference. The sorcerer retraces the steps the party took, using the chalk marks on the wall for guidance.
When the party regains the entrance of the tunnels she turns to her mates, and enquires, "should I use one of those scrolls the other group gave us to let them know that we are out?"
Evan ac 22, hp 24 d20+9=12 Thursday November 3rd, 2005 5:53:57 AM
Evan frowns slightly and signs to Mira, Aren't we going back in? There could be more people down there. He keeps a watch on their backtrail as they escort the people out. (spot-12)
Arm d20+4=22 d20+4=10 Thursday November 3rd, 2005 6:03:06 AM
Arm voices for the most part the same opinion that Evan did, "Mira, we MUST go back...I can't believe that this was the only thing that we've been paid to do, as this was much to easy, more or less. There's a LOT more area for us to explore, and I say we do it.".
He then keeps an eye on the way they came for signs of approaching trouble (listen=22, spot=10).
Kadaz Thursday November 3rd, 2005 6:49:13 AM
"Mira, I don't think we need to use the scroll yet. Let's just go back and search some more." Kadaz opines.
Conner Thursday November 3rd, 2005 7:43:29 AM
The tattooed fighter nods his head in agreement with the others. "Now that you are out of the tunnels, you should head for one of the temples. They will look after your wounds and help get you settled. Can you get there on your own?" he asks the assembled survivors once they reach the surface.
Wilfire Ironhouse Thursday November 3rd, 2005 8:30:01 AM
"Me votes fer goin back in... pronto!"
Shadow d20+2=18 d20+2=20 Thursday November 3rd, 2005 10:36:43 AM
Shadow will let the rest of the group deal with the refugees, and he will keep a watch out for anything coming from the other tunnels. Responding over his shoulder, "I think we should continue searching the tunnels." (Listen=18 Spot=20)
DM Kathy Friday November 4th, 2005 2:36:35 AM
OOC: Sorry everybody. I just got home, and I've got to be in to work at 6 AM tomorrow, for a 12-16 hour day. I'll have to do my DM post over the weekend. Apologies for the delay.
Arm d20+4=19 d20+4=14 Friday November 4th, 2005 5:56:31 AM
While waiting for the group to either head back into the caves or otherwise, Arm keeps an eye open for trouble (listen=19, spot=14).
OOC: Let me be the first to welcome you back, Kathy!! Never fear, the game's still in good hands, and we're all still alive. ;)
Wilfire Ironhouse Friday November 4th, 2005 4:03:08 PM
OOC- Excuses, excuses Kathy ;) But seriously, welcome back!
P.S. I'm moving tommorrow and I likely won't have intenet for a few days, so I might miss a post or two.
DM Kathy Saturday November 5th, 2005 10:09:04 PM
One by one, the townsfolk climb the knotted rope, and stand blinking in the square. By the time you climb out and join them, most are weeping--some with relief from being rescued, others in shock or grief at what has happened to Plateau City while they were underground. All express their gratitude to you, and it takes a bit of time before you can extricate yourselves from the handshakes and hugs.
You manage it at last, though, and prepare to make your way down into the caves. As Arm said, there's a lot more to explore down there--and there's still a possibility that something within the caves could present a danger to the city.
You climb the rope back down, then follow the high-ceilinged tunnel back to what you've come to think of as "your" cave. Three passages still extend from it. One, you now know, leads to the underground cathedral, with a few side passages you haven't entirely explored. The other two passages remain completely unexplored.
So....which way will it be?
Arm Monday November 7th, 2005 6:06:05 AM
Arm looks around and says, "I think we should be as thorough as possible with this. Let's go back to the cathedral and finish those side tunnels first. That way we'll be certain that we've looked everywhere.".
Kadaz Monday November 7th, 2005 6:21:38 AM
Kadaz agrees with Arm. "If we leave some tunnels unexplored we may miss others lost in the dark."
Conner Monday November 7th, 2005 8:06:27 AM
Conner takes his place near the front of the line. "Agreed, lets return to where we last were and continue to explore the area as methodically as possible."
Shadow d20+2=7 d20+2=5 Monday November 7th, 2005 9:48:58 AM
"I will follow what the group decides, but lets make sure that Evan takes a look to see if there are any tracks down those other tunnels." Shadow suggests as he once again takes his place in front of the group. (Spot=7 Listen=5)
Mira Monday November 7th, 2005 3:26:24 PM
Mira takes up position near the back of the group. "I'll provide the light and mark our route like the last time," volunteers the sorcerer. "I've got another Sunrod or I could hold a lantern...or whatever," she adds nonchalantly, trying to hide her concern over going back down into the dark tunnels.
The woman stiffles and involuntary shiver and draws her cloak tighter about herself. When the ranger passes by to take the lead, she gives his arm a supportive squeeze.
Evan d20+9=10 d20+9=12 d20+8=18 Monday November 7th, 2005 4:02:09 PM
Evan pauses next to Mira, smiling encouragingly to her as she squeezes his arm. He holds out his axe for her to see, reaches out to touch the sunrod, then touches his axe. An eyebrow quirks in inquiry.
Evan moves to the front and quickly leads the group back down to the cathedral, his eyes scanning the tracks on the ground as well as listening for any odd sounds. (track-10, spot-12, listen-18)
The Underground Lake
DM Kathy Tuesday November 8th, 2005 1:13:19 AM
With the ranger once again at the head of the party, you return down the sloping corridor to investigate the branches and turnings you passed by before. As you move, shadows loom and dance on the walls around you and your own footsteps echo back to you, oddly distorted. At times, it seems as if you hear whispering again, but every time you stop to try to make it out, it goes away. You hear nothing but your own breathing and the occasional drip of water.
With the help of the chalk, you examine several corridors to dead ends, or loops back to paths you've already traveled. It's getting to be fairly late in the day when you find yourselves moving cautiously down the final corridor. The passage is long and straight, with a decided downward slope. It seems cooler than the rest of the caves, and there's a decidedly damp smell.
The corridor ends, somewhat to your surprise, at a rocky beach. Above you, a vaulted ceiling soars 50 feet high. Ahead of you is a large underground lake, its waters stretching beyond the range of your torches (and your darkvision). The narrow strip of beach in front of you is the only one you can see; everywhere else, the water goes right up to the walls of the cave. There's no telling how far back it reaches--or what's on the other side.
Arm d20+4=7 d20+4=12 Tuesday November 8th, 2005 5:59:28 AM
Arm looks around apprehensively and says, "Well, unless someone has a collapsible boat, it looks like this is as far as we go in this direction for now. Even if we DID have one, I wouldn't advise crossing the lake, as we'd be much more vulnerable to attack...from above AND below. It'd be far too easy to tip the boat over, and we'd probably not survive an attack underwater.".
He then looks around for any signs of trouble (listen=7, spot=12).
Evan d20+9=21 d20+9=12 d20+8=13 d20+7=15 Tuesday November 8th, 2005 6:06:26 AM
Evan creeps dwn towards the shore, scouting, while the others debate on what to do. He studies the ground, looking for tracks of any kind. (track-21, spot-12, listen-13, search-15)
Kadaz d20+1=8 Tuesday November 8th, 2005 6:54:47 AM
Kadaz looks at the lake, then glances at the armor and weapons he carries, then shudders. He edges away from the water a bit and watches back up the corridor. (spot 8)
Conner Tuesday November 8th, 2005 7:59:21 AM
The fighter squints into the darkness, trying to make out whether there is a far shore. "I can't see the other side" he states the obvious. "Perhaps now is the time to call on the others and ask for their assistance. Perhaps they can help us cross this expanse."
Shadow d20+2=15 d20+2=22 Tuesday November 8th, 2005 10:33:25 AM
Shadow sees the lake and while the group is discussing the options before them, Shadow moves up to join Evan in his tracking. He will look around and try and listen for anything. (Spot=15 Listen=22 nat. 20)
Mira d20+3=22 d20+2=10 Tuesday November 8th, 2005 7:07:31 PM
Mira frowns, and announces "the Quall Feather Token-Swan Boat was the only trick I had for water encounters, and I'm no swimmer." The sorcerer looks around, checking the cieling as well as the beach, "maybe someone left a boat or a raft?" She asks as she makes her way down to the water's edge, her sunrod held aloft.
Search=22 Spot=10
DM Kathy Wednesday November 9th, 2005 12:18:56 AM
Evan examines the shore, but the unyeilding rock shows no footprints, or traces of any passage. The others look around, but without more light, there is little to see. You hear the occasional drip of water, but nothing more.
Mira Wednesday November 9th, 2005 12:39:58 AM
"Backtrack?" Mira questions, unhelpfully.
Arm d20+4=9 d20+4=15 Wednesday November 9th, 2005 6:04:40 AM
Arm nods in agreement at Mira's suggestion, "Unless you want to use one of your scrolls, I think that would be the best choice. My fear is that we may REALLY need those scrolls at a later time, and be lacking in them. Nevertheless, whatever the rest of you decide I'll go along with.".
Again, he looks around furtively (listen=9, spot=15).
Shadow Wednesday November 9th, 2005 10:17:11 AM
"Someone mentioned a folding boat or something like that we might be able to use. I suggest that we backtrack and after talking with the group that hired us (sorry forgot their name) maybewe can return to check this out." Shadow says to the group.
Kadaz Wednesday November 9th, 2005 4:23:11 PM
"The tunnels may be wide enough for us to get a boat or two down here. But it seems unlikely that any city folk could have gotten past that lake. So all we need to do is make sure there is no threat to the city from it. Right?"
Conner d20+3=19 Wednesday November 9th, 2005 5:31:56 PM
"Who knows," says the fighter shrugging his shoulders, "maybe the other tunnel leads 'round the lake or to something else more," his eyes sweep around the area before he continues, "interesting?"
Spot=19
DM Kathy Thursday November 10th, 2005 3:31:53 AM
You discuss the situation for a while, and it comes to this: you'll need to go back--whether to explore the other tunnels or to get more equipment. It also comes to this: you're tired and hungry. It's hard to tell time with any certainty down here, but you're guessing that this day is pretty well over.
So, do you return to the surface and spend the night at home? Or do you camp down here so as to be ready for more explorations first thing? And, if you camp, do you stay here by the water or move back into the caves a ways?
Arm d20+4=12 d20+4=23 Thursday November 10th, 2005 6:01:29 AM
Giving one more look around (listen=12, spot=23), Arm says, "For now I think it best we eat and get some sleep. I don't think it's wise to camp down here, at least until we explore more of these tunnels...there's far too many places for an attack to come from. I say we retire to the flat and get a fresh start in the morning.".
Evan ac 22, hp 24 d20+9=20 d20+8=11 Thursday November 10th, 2005 6:01:47 AM
Evan keeps an eye on the water while the others discuss whether they will stay down here for the night or return to the surface to sleep. (spot-20, listen-11)
Kadaz Thursday November 10th, 2005 6:59:57 AM
Kadaz adds his opinion to the discussion. "I agree we don't want to camp down here. But we should make camp at the top of the cave to make sure nothing comes out of it at night."
Shadow Thursday November 10th, 2005 9:50:30 AM
"Was that part of our contract?" Shadow asks about Kadaz's comment. He is not sure that they are the ones that have to keep the city safe from everything down there.
Mira Friday November 11th, 2005 12:12:17 AM
"You want me to cast a Web across the opening to keep what is in...in, and what is out...out?" Mira looks around, "maybe someone can make a sign that says KEEP OUT ?"
DM Kathy Friday November 11th, 2005 2:01:33 AM
Whatever your final decision, you know you are not camping here by the lake shore, so you gradually begin to drift back up the tunnels. You continue to discuss the situation as you move back toward the entrance: camp somewhere down here, or return to your lodgings for the night?
[Feel free to multi-post over the weekend if you like in order to make a decision.]
Conner Friday November 11th, 2005 7:27:59 AM
The fighter keeps his position near the front of the group and helps lead them back through the tunnels to the surface using the chalk marks left by Mira. "The flat or the mouth of the caves, makes no difference to me" he grumbles.
Arm Friday November 11th, 2005 8:06:42 AM
Looking somewhat askance at Mira, Arm wonders what has aggravated her so much...he doesn't believe that his comments would have done so, as he only wanted to assure the safety of the group. Hesitantly, he approaches her and asks, "Is something troubling you?".
Kadaz Friday November 11th, 2005 8:57:14 AM
Kadaz's background as a guard in Plateau City comes out strongly. "The people we rescued said some monsters were preying on them. If we leave the tunnel unguarded and these monsters come to the surface we will be responsbile for what happens. I am staying here tonight to prevent that. This duty may not be written in our contract but it is the right thing to do."
When Kadaz makes it back to the surface he meets up with Birdie, who has been keeping watch at the top of the slope. "Good dog, miss me?" he asks as he briefly tussels with the dog.
Shadow Friday November 11th, 2005 10:41:14 AM
Shadow shrugs as he hears Kadaz's reasons for guarding the entrance to the tunnels.
Conner [Illegal 2nd Post] Friday November 11th, 2005 10:41:36 AM
"Like I said, makes no difference to me. If Kadaz is staying I will too." The fighter scans the area for a comfortable spot that will give him a view of the entrance to the caves as well as some cover should it be needed.
Mira Friday November 11th, 2005 5:30:44 PM
"Hunh?" The sorcerer looks at the bard when he enquires into her mood.
"Well, a web would only last half an hour give or take, so maybe taking turns at watch is best."
Kadaz Sunday November 13th, 2005 7:22:30 PM
Kadaz looks at Conner and nods gratefully. "We'll be fine here. For a long night watch nothing beats a strong arm and a shart blade."
DM Kathy Sunday November 13th, 2005 10:21:12 PM
You make your way back to the surface, where night has already fallen. You camp that night in the shattered ruins of the square, keeping a watchful eye on the hole.
Birdie, who was very glad to see Kadaz return, helps you keep watch.
Fortunately, nothing crawls out of the hole during the dead of night. The next morning, you get of to a bit of a late start since you made camp rather late the night before. You are able to grab a quick breakfast at a nearby inn, and then it is time to start the day.
As you camp, and over breakfast, you discuss strategy. Do you try to acquire a boat (or another feather token)? Or do you explore the remaining tunnels to see if one of them curves around to the underground lake?
Evan Monday November 14th, 2005 6:01:30 AM
Evan awakens early to relieve the last watch so the others can discuss their next plans.
Arm Monday November 14th, 2005 6:03:33 AM
Arm says, "I think we should explore the rest of the tunnels before tackling the lake. There may be another access to it on the other side, and it would prevent us from spending gold on a boat, magical or otherwise. Not only that, I STILL think it would be safer for us if we didn't cross it.".
Kadaz Monday November 14th, 2005 6:45:50 AM
"Good point Arm. We have other tunnels so pick one and start down it."
Conner Monday November 14th, 2005 7:36:55 AM
The fighter packs up his gear and readies for the day. "The other tunnels sounds fine to me!"
Shadow Monday November 14th, 2005 10:07:00 AM
Shadow is relieved to be above ground, even though he would never comment on it, he is a little worried when they are underground. He rests lightly, but is refreshed in the morning.
Getting his things together, he hears the conversation turn to what they are going to do today. "I agree we should look for other ways around the lake, but which tunnel should we proceed with?" He looks to Evan to see what the ranger thinks.
Wilfire Ironhouse Monday November 14th, 2005 1:35:31 PM
OOC- All moved in, but still no internet connection. Should have it by later today.
IC: Wilfire gathered his things and started strapping on his plate armor.
"Somebody mine' lendin ol'Wilfie a hand" he asked has he struggled with the heavy armor.
With that done Wilfire said his morning prayers, and was ready to go.
Mira Tuesday November 15th, 2005 1:31:12 AM
"Good to go when you are," responds the sorcerer as she hefts her pack. "The other tunnel it is then?" she adds raising an eyebrow.
DM Kathy Tuesday November 15th, 2005 2:27:02 AM
Rested and breakfasted, you make your way back to the caves and soon you are once again in "your" familiar cavern. There are a total of three tunnels branching off from here. One you have explored already; it leads to the underground cathedral, and the underground lake. Two tunnels remain unexplored. One slopes downward, and Evan saw some tracks there. The other tunnel is the one that narrows sharply some ways down. The Griffon Road group said that you'd need to squeeze through. They also said that it should open up further down. Evan saw a few tracks here, too.
So, which "other" tunnel do you explore?
Evan d20=8 d20+9=12 d20+9=14 d20+8=15 d20+6=25 Tuesday November 15th, 2005 5:00:37 AM
Evan moves forward into the sloping tunnel, following the tracks,leaving the narrow tunnel for later. He moves forward cautiously, scanning the ground and cieling for any danger. (Ignore first roll, track-12, spot-14, listen-15, search-25)
Arm d20+4=22 d20+4=19 Tuesday November 15th, 2005 6:05:00 AM
Sword drawn, Arm follows Evan closely, hoping that his vision and hearing will assist him in early detection of trouble (listen=22, spot=19).
Kadaz Tuesday November 15th, 2005 6:53:01 AM
Kadaz brings up the rear of the party, watching the rear and also the ceiling. Those falling creatures were an unpleasant surprise.
Shadow d20+2=19 d20+2=3 Tuesday November 15th, 2005 9:00:46 AM
Shadow moves down the tunnel with Evan. He will keep a watch out for any trouble. (Listen=19 Spot=3)
Wilfire Ironhouse d20+4=22 Tuesday November 15th, 2005 2:58:49 PM
Wilfire sticks close to the back of the line as he studies the roof of the caves for any sign of trouble (OOC- spot- 22)
DM Kathy Wednesday November 16th, 2005 1:21:02 AM
Moving cautiously, you make your way down the unexplored corridor. The sights and sounds of the cave's interior are becoming familiar to you, yet somehow, this tunnel is subtly different from the ones that led to the cathedral and the lake. The air is dryer, for one thing. There is a faint smell of dust. And somehow, you can't seem to shake the feeling that you're being watched.
At the front of the group, Evan notes that the tracks belonging to the Griffin Road group soon turn back. There do not appear to be any additional tracks, as from survivors from above. And yet, every once in a while, he sees something--a fragment of a footstep, a slightly worn spot on the wall--that makes him think that someone, or something has passed this way.
After a few hours, you come to a spot where two side tunnels branch off from the main tunnel. Anybody who can make a DC 20 Spot check, or a DC 15 Knowledge (Dungeoneering) check, Highlight to display spoiler: { you notice three parallel gouges in one of the walls. They appear at a casual glance to be naturally occuring and random, but closer examination reveals that they were cut or carved into the wall.}
Arm d20+4=11 d20+4=20 Wednesday November 16th, 2005 6:03:18 AM
While the party decides which direction to take, Arm looks around for trouble (listen=11, spot=20).
Evan d20+5=22 Wednesday November 16th, 2005 6:26:55 AM
Evan kneels down to study the entrance to both side tunnels, listening carefully at the entrance to each. (dungeoneering-22,
Kadaz d20+1=16 Wednesday November 16th, 2005 7:16:03 AM
Kadaz looks around at the tunnel junction but sees nothing special or unusual.
Shadow d20+2=7 d20+2=17 Wednesday November 16th, 2005 10:34:09 AM
Shadow looks down the two side tunnels. (listen=7 spot=17) He waits patiently for the group to decide which way to go.
Wilfire Ironhouse d20+4=18 Wednesday November 16th, 2005 3:50:24 PM
Wilfire scans the area, but doesn't notice anything out of the ordinary.
Conner d20+3=18 Wednesday November 16th, 2005 7:35:26 PM
Conner maintains his position near the front of the group and keeps an eye out for danger as they proceed through the tunnels [Spot=18]
Mira d20+2=4 Wednesday November 16th, 2005 10:14:49 PM
Mira remains near the back, holding the sunrod aloft, and marking the wall with her chalk at regular intervals. The tunnels are a foreign environment to her. Every now and then she looks overhead, hoping there aren't any more of those black things that drop down hanging around. The brightness of the light she carries casts wild frightening shadows that make the sorcerer jump and she doesn't see much of anything. (Spot=4)
DM Kathy Wednesday November 16th, 2005 11:31:19 PM
As you pause for a moment at the side passages, both Arm and Evan note three parallel gouges in one of the walls. They appear at a casual glance to be naturally occuring and random, but closer examination reveals that they were cut or carved into the wall.
There is still little sound down here but the echo of your own footsteps, and nobody else sees anything unusual.
Evan Thursday November 17th, 2005 4:58:06 AM
Evan continues down the tunnel. cautiously, looking for any sign of life or the passage of creaures. He also keeps an eye out for any more of the gouges. (Are the gouges parallel with the floor, stacked on top of each other, or vertical?)
Arm d20+4=15 d20+4=16 Thursday November 17th, 2005 5:53:37 AM
As they begin to move, Arm points out the gouges in the wall to the rest of the group, then follows Evan cautiously (listen=15, spot=16).
Kadaz d20+1=3 Thursday November 17th, 2005 7:11:57 AM
When Kadaz makes it to the gouges in the wall he carefully reaches out and gently touches them. (spot 3)
Shadow d20+8=18 Thursday November 17th, 2005 10:43:00 AM
Once Evan and Arm point out the gouges Shadow says quickly, "Wait! Let me check these out closely to make sure that we can continue safely." Shadow thinks back and tries to remember any of his former associates tactics for trapping tunnels. (Disable Device=18) Trying to disarm anything that might trigger a trap.
Conner Thursday November 17th, 2005 9:25:35 PM
Once pointed out by Arm, the gouges seem quite obvious although their meaning is lost on Conner.
Mira Thursday November 17th, 2005 10:22:31 PM
Mira looks at the gouges and hopes they weren't made by the claws of anything that might live in the tunnel.
DM Kathy Friday November 18th, 2005 12:40:13 AM
You pause for a moment to look at the gouges. They are parallel to each other, but not parallel to the floor. They are at a slight upward angle. They do not appear to be claw marks, nor can Shadow discern the makings of a trap anywhere near them.
Kadaz touches the marks, and can easily feel their shape through his fingertips.
Continuing down the corridor, Evan scans for more such markings on the wall. He goes for some distance before encountering more. At another side tunnel, he finds more scratches, this time two diagonal lines that form a V shape. Their ends overlap slightly.
Arm d20+4=5 d20+4=14 Friday November 18th, 2005 5:55:18 AM
Arm looks questioningly at Evan as he tries to listen for any sounds of trouble (listen=5, spot=15).
Conner d20+1=15 Friday November 18th, 2005 7:42:53 AM
Conner examines the next set of marks and tries to match the pattern to what he has seen of the caves and tunnels. "Could me navigation aids" he offers hopefully, "So you could make your way in the dark." [Int=15]
Shadow d20+2=11 d20+2=4 Friday November 18th, 2005 9:13:49 PM
Shadow continues listening and looking for anything out of place, but since he has spent most of his time on the surface he is not sure of anything down here. (Listen=11 Spot=4)
Scott (aka Shadow) Sunday November 20th, 2005 8:42:12 AM
OOC: Kathy, I will be out of town next Monday-Wednesday, and I am unsure of internet availabiity. I will try, but not sure about posting and putting in ADM report (posting report).
Kadaz d20+1=14 Monday November 21st, 2005 6:10:50 PM
Kadaz looks back at the way they came just to be sure of the way out. He then takes up his place at the end of the line, on guard. (spot 14)
Mira Monday November 21st, 2005 6:53:43 PM
The mage looks at the marks on the wall and tries to recall if she has ever seen a foreign script or rune of similar shape and form.
Mira is familiar with Common, Draconic, Dwarven, Elven, and Sign.
(OOC: I'll take care of attendance this week-Carla)
DM Kathy Monday November 21st, 2005 10:09:02 PM
You take a closer look at the markings, and realize a few things.
Conner compares the markings to the shape of the tunnels, and doesn't really see a correlation. Putting some thought into it, though, he does realize that the markings are much easier to feel than they are to see. It's likely they were intended to be "read" by touch.
Mira cannot match the markings to any of the languages she knows.
Shadow, Arm, and Kadaz have their senses on alert, but don't see or hear anything unusual.
Meanwhile, Evan is still seeing the occasional signs that this passage has been used by somebody other than your party.
Kadaz Tuesday November 22nd, 2005 5:38:30 AM
Kadaz looks around again. "If Evan says that there are others down here let's find them to make sure they aren't more lost folks. Let's follow the tracks."
Arm d20+4=13 d20+4=17 Tuesday November 22nd, 2005 6:00:13 AM
Arm agrees with Kadaz, and grips his sword tightly while preparing to move forward (listen=13, spot=17).
OOC: Sorry for the missed post yesterday, but I couldn't get on in the morning, and I wasn't able to check in last night. :)
Evan ac 18 hp 24 d20+9=18 d20+8=9 d20+9=20 Tuesday November 22nd, 2005 7:00:29 AM
Evan continues moving down the tunnel, his eyes searching for any possible danger. (track-18, listen-9, spot-20)
Conner d20+3=10 Tuesday November 22nd, 2005 9:27:44 PM
The fighter follows the party down the corridor, keeping a watch for any more of the symbols in the walls. [Spot=10]
Mira Tuesday November 22nd, 2005 9:32:16 PM
Mira follows the lead of the others.
Not Alone
DM Kathy Wednesday November 23rd, 2005 1:06:41 AM
You continue down the tunnel, pausing to examine the occasional marking. As you go, you note gradual changes in your environment. The smell is different; there's a musky undertone and a faint whiff of what might be wood smoke. The markings are more frequent, and are no longer limited to side openings. Evan notes more frequent signs of passsage.
You pass by another side opening and continue forward, only to turn as you hear a noise behind you. Stepping out of the opening are several muscular, humanoid creatures. They have thick, gray, scaly skin, matted dark hair, and blank, eyeless eye sockets. Even as you wonder whether to flee blindly down the passage, more of the creatures approach from that side, and you find yourselves surrounded.
Although the creatures do not have eyes, they seem to have no trouble discerning where you are. One of them steps forward.
"Surface dwellers are not welcome here," he says in oddly accented Common.
Arm d20+9=26 Wednesday November 23rd, 2005 6:00:05 AM
Still gripping his sword, Arm lowers it in an attempt to show friendliness. He then says, "Please forgive us. We don't wish to intrude on your world. We only seek others of our kind that fled underground due to recent events above, and may have been trapped down here. We promise not to disturb anything of yours, we only ask for passage through so that we may search further. Have you by any chance seen others like us?" (diplomacy=26).
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 53/53] Wednesday November 23rd, 2005 6:56:48 AM
Kadaz eyes warily the strange creature standing in front of him, axe at the ready. He takes no action but holds in ready to respond to any attack they may make.
Mira d20+5=23 d20+4=11 Wednesday November 23rd, 2005 7:13:47 PM Wow! is all Mira can think when the smooth talking bard speaks on behalf of the party. Good thing they aren't orcs! she thinks as an afterthought, pressing her lips together hard in order not to grin at the thought.
Out loud she adds her voice to Arm's repeating the bard's words, "Yes! So sorry to disturb you, but we believe there may be some folks lost down here. Have you seen anyone?(Diplomacy/Aid Another=23, Gather Information=11)
Conner d20+1=10 Wednesday November 23rd, 2005 10:37:11 PM
Conner prepares mentally for what looks like a nasty fight and tries to listen through the accented speech to determine just how serious a threat these creatures might be. [Sense Motive =10]
DM Kathy Thursday November 24th, 2005 10:25:56 AM
Arm speaks eloquently in the group's defense, and Mira throws in a few words in support. The man who had spoken listens for a moment, and you can see some of his tension relaxing a little.
Before he can speak, however, one of the others in the group says something in a language none of you recognizes. From the harsh, angry tone of his voice, however, you can deduce that he isn't singing your praises. The one who spoke to you answers him sharply, also in the language you don't recognize, and there is a brief, heated discussion. Finally, he switches back to Common and speaks to you again.
"There have been no others. Surface dwellers are not allowed. The penalty is death." He doesn't look happy about that last part.
Arm d20+7=24 Friday November 25th, 2005 9:37:08 AM
Arm tries his best to hide his gulp of fear, then says, "Kind sir, please understand that we don't wish any of you any harm. If we cannot pass through your lands, then we will abide by that. All we ask is that you tell us where exactly your lands extend, so that we don't intrude on you again." (diplomacy=24).
Shadow Friday November 25th, 2005 12:19:48 PM
Shadow looks around trying to see what chances the group has to escape if it comes to fighting. He will not move, but start looking for a way out. If Arm's plea is met with hostility and the group is attacked, Shadow will draw his rapier.
Kadaz Friday November 25th, 2005 10:04:08 PM
"Evan, those tracks you've been following. Any way to tell how recent they are or if they're human tracks? And if you can't figure that out maybe they'd be willing to escort us as we search."
Conner Saturday November 26th, 2005 9:04:57 AM
The fighter stiffens at the 'penalty' for incursions into these creature's realm. He remains prepared to defend himself and his comrades, but waits while diplomacy has it's turn.
Mira Saturday November 26th, 2005 10:59:57 AM
Mira clenches and unclenches her fists, flexing her hands in anticipation of having to cast a spell sooner rather than later.
DM Kathy Sunday November 27th, 2005 10:56:23 PM
"Our lands," the speaker replies to Arm, "extend upward from our home to the Lastmark tunnel. Retreat now beyond the Lastmark tunnel, and we will stay our hand. Return and die." With that, he and his group step aside, so the way behind you (that is, the way you came from) is now clear.
Evan has been pretty sure all along that the few signs of tracks he's seen are not townsfolk.
Arm d20+7=22 Monday November 28th, 2005 5:55:15 AM
Arm smiles with relief that they will be let go, and says to the apparent leader, "Thank you for your graciousness. We will leave now, and intrude on your lands no more." (diplomacy=22). He then turns to the group and motions them toward their only exit, hoping that the more battle-oriented of them will follow his lead.
Evan ac 18 hp 24 Monday November 28th, 2005 7:01:53 AM
Evan signs to Mira that the tracks he has been following are probably not those of any townfolk. He retraces his steps, taking Mira's arm as he passes her. He signs against her skn as he guides her back up the tunnel, This might be a good time to make a call to our employers.
Shadow d20+2=12 d20+2=22 Monday November 28th, 2005 11:17:15 AM
Shadow will follow Arm's motion, and will move to the front of the group as they head back the way they came. He will keep his eyes open for any trouble ahead, and hopes the rest of the group will watch behind them. (Listen=12 Spot=22 nat. 20)
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 53/53] d20+1=12 Monday November 28th, 2005 4:20:21 PM
Kadaz looks warily around him to make sure that none of these creatures sneaks up on them. As the others retreat past him he waits and takes up rear guard, walking backwards. As he leaves he nods at the creature keeping watch on its domain. (spot 12)
Conner d20+3=16 Monday November 28th, 2005 6:41:33 PM
Conner makes his way back down the tunnels with the rest of the party. He makes a careful count of the creatures and tries to visually assess their weaponry, armor, and overall battle readiness [Spot=16].
Mira Monday November 28th, 2005 8:09:01 PM
"Lastmark...lastmark," mumbles Mira, wondering which of the strange gouges in the wall of the tunnel would be considered the 'lastmark'. Maybe the first one the party saw? Maybe another?
Mira lets Evan take her hand and follows his lead. Signing to the ranger in order not to be overheard by the tunnel dwellers she indicates, Looks like these fellas are going to let us leave. We should be able to tell the other group..she whispers the name, "Griffon Road group", then continues signing about this ourselves when we meet up with them...outside. Mira points her finger down the tunnel after those who have gone on ahead.
DM Kathy Monday November 28th, 2005 11:59:04 PM
Deciding not to push the issue, you cautiously withdraw. As you go, Shadow watches and listens up the tunnel ahead of you, but neither sees nor hears anything unusual.
Conner takes a quick assessment of the humanoid creatures as you leave. Their clothing and weapons are crude, but their stone axes and clubs look to be very effective. They are obviously intelligent enough, and disciplined enough, to have planned and sprung the surprise you walked into. Conner finds himself just as glad they were also reasonable enough to talk before fighting.
Kadaz is the last to leave, and keeps a watchful eye on the strangers. They, in turn, keep a watchful eye on all of you. A couple of them follow you for a short way, then seem satisfied that you really are leaving, and head back down the tunnel.
Evan and Mira, meanwhile, discuss the advisability of calling on the Griffon Road group for a little aid, or advice.
Arm Tuesday November 29th, 2005 5:55:42 AM
Once they reach the top of the tunnel, Arm breathes a sigh of relief and says, "I must say...that was a close one. My only thought is if THEY were the creatures the refugees spoke of...the ones that took the missing. I suppose we'll never know. Well, which way now?".
Kadaz Tuesday November 29th, 2005 6:23:40 AM
"There are more unexplored tunnels to search. We can't leave until we know what's in all of them. So pick one and lead on."
Evan d20+9=25 d20+9=10 d20+8=26 d20+6=15 Tuesday November 29th, 2005 6:43:50 AM
Evan moves to the entrance of the last tunnel, the narrow tunnel and kneels down to peer down the tunnel. He glances back at the others and signs, If you were fleeing a great danger, would you flee down a tunnel that was so narrow, you had to crawl to get down it? Returning his attention to the tunnel, he searches carefully for any sign of use. (track-25, spot-10, listen-26, search-15)
Shadow d20+2=15 d20+2=15 Tuesday November 29th, 2005 12:39:06 PM
Shadow does give a sigh of relief once out of the underground people's land. Once back at the area with the three tunnels Shadow will help Evan check the last tunnel. (Listen=15 Spot=15)
DM Kathy Wednesday November 30th, 2005 12:00:52 AM
You make your way back up to "your" chamber and begin looking down the narrow tunnel. You hear voices approaching!
Shortly thereafter, you hear the sounds of several people climbing through the narrow passage, until one by one, the members of the Griffon Road Explorers stand in the chamber with you. A few of them look to be injured.
"And here you are," says Ciara cheerfully. "Sorry to poach this last tunnel from you, but we finished the rest early."
"It's just as well," adds Oswin. "There were some nasty creatures down there."
"Did you find anything interesting?" Ciara asks.
Mira Wednesday November 30th, 2005 12:05:23 AM
"You tell 'em what happened," she says, nudging the bard. Mira opens her scroll case and starts to sift through the parchments looking for the ones the Explorer's had loaned her.
Conner Wednesday November 30th, 2005 12:06:39 AM
Conner rests a hand on the pommel of his sword, and waits for Arm to say his piece.
Arm Wednesday November 30th, 2005 4:47:50 AM
Arm clears his throat and relates what happened with their encounter with the underground people, concluding with "Since they seem intelligent and gave us a choice to leave before attacking, I don't believe that they attacked or kidnapped the townspeople.".
Suddenly a thought strikes him, and he continues, "That is, unless they saw the townspeople were unarmed and DID attack them. You're welcome to venture down there, but I fear you'll meet with the same results. We gave them our word that we would not return, and I for one plan to stick to that.".
Evan d20+9=11 d20+9=21 d20+8=17 d20+6=18 Wednesday November 30th, 2005 6:50:29 AM
While the others explain what happened, Evan keeps an eye on the backtrail of the Griffon group, in case whatever attacked them is following. (track-11, spot-21, listen-17, search-18)
Shadow d20+2=12 d20+2=9 Wednesday November 30th, 2005 9:52:24 AM
Shadow listens to Arm relate what they have found, and then notices Evan watching the tunnel the Griffon's came through. He will see if he can see anything from the tunnel also. (Spot=12 Listen=9)
Kadaz d20+1=7 Wednesday November 30th, 2005 5:53:38 PM
"Anything else we can do to help?" Kadaz asks of the others. He looks at them to see if any are suffering severe wounds. (spot 7)
DM Kathy Thursday December 1st, 2005 1:13:31 AM
Kadaz looks, and it is clear that both Kernhelm the dwarf and Endrion the elf are still suffering wounds. It's also clear that they can walk and function reasonably close to normal--and they haven't asked for your assistance.
Evan and Shadow peer down the corridor behind the other party, trying to catch a glimpse of the creature they fought. Endrion the elf, now clad in leather armor, sees your interest and smiles slightly. "Don't worry," he tells you. "We got them."
At Mira's urging, Arm explains what the party's been up to. "That was well done," says Ciara, and the others nod their approval. "A truce of sorts. I think," she glances around at the others for agreement, then forges ahead, "I think we'll let the truce stay in place, such as it is. Plateau City is in no condition to start a war, even with a motley horde of barbarians. We'll notify the Guard and keep people away from here. Did you find anything else?"
Arm Thursday December 1st, 2005 6:07:52 AM
Arm proceeds to tell them of their leading of the refugees to safety, as well as the impassable lake cavern, "We don't have the means at the moment to cross it. Not only that, the gods only know what may be lurking beneath the surface, and if we SHOULD make the crossing, who's to say that we may be intruding on more of the underdwellers domain?".
Shadow Thursday December 1st, 2005 10:21:04 PM
Shadow relaxes a little when Edrion lets them know that there is nothing down that way of any concern any more. He listens to Arm let the Griffons know about what has transpired. He is a little hopeful this has completed their task.
DM Kathy Friday December 2nd, 2005 1:55:50 AM
The Griffons listen as Arm describes the rest of your adventures.
"You have done well," says Oswin, the human cleric.
"Indeed you have," Ciara agrees. "And now, if you don't mind, we'd like to come along and help you wrap up the last part."
The Griffon Road group acquires a couple of Quaals feather token boats, and together you journey across the underground lake. On the other side, you find a few tunnels, all of which dead-end shortly after the lake. In one of the tunnels, you find a cache of treasure, which has obviously been untouched for decades. You surmise that somebody stashed it here planning to come back for it, and then never managed it.
Your task complete, you return to the light of Plateau City above, each of you 3,000 gp richer. You also have the scrolls of Sending the other group gave you.
"Keep them," the elf wizard Daerlos says. "You never know when it might come in handy to send a message. You can only use it with people you know, but it is still an effective way to communicate."
You bid farewell to the Griffon Road group and return to your lodgings, wondering what adventures might befall you next.
[OOC: That's it for me. I hope you've had fun. Sorry about the rushed ending, but I wanted to get the game turned over. I will email XP over the weekend.]
Arm Friday December 2nd, 2005 5:56:03 AM
Grateful to finally be back home and getting a temporary respite, Arm retires to his room to get some rest.
Kadaz Friday December 2nd, 2005 6:21:53 AM
Back at the surface Birdie greets Kadaz by jumping up and down and licking his face. The return to their home where Kadaz spends hours cleaning and oiling his weapons and armor. Then he works longer tearing down overgrown vegetation, fixing the house, and just trying to right all that has gone wrong recently.
Evan Friday December 2nd, 2005 7:21:10 AM
Glad to be back home, Evan spends a little time helping Kadaz then takes some personal time to go and take Ariel out for a nice long ride.
Shadow Friday December 2nd, 2005 8:39:27 AM
Shadow is a little worried as the group crosses the lake. He is not very comfortable on the water, and especially since they do not know if there is anything under the surface.
He is very relieved when they arrive back on the other side (especially becoming richer for the trip).
When the group gets back to the apartment, Shadow lets out a large sigh of relief at successfully completing their mission.
(ooc: Thanks Kathy, and I hope you have a good time with your new game.)
Mira Friday December 2nd, 2005 8:56:32 AM
Mira tries to hide her nervousness as they return to the tunnels with the Griffon Road group. She wonders at the network of tunnels under the city, and wonders if the city officials are aware of how the city has been undermined.
The woman's trepidation turns to excitement when they discover the treasure, and the senior adventuring group generously shares it with her and her companions.
When it is all over, Mira is glad to return to the apartment. She will visit the market hoping that there has been some small return to normalcy or at least maybe an intrepid farmer or two has set up a stall. The sorcerer will do what she can to provision for the party, then return to the apartment to cook up a feast.
(OOC: Thankyou, Kathy, for your deadication to the game.-Carla)
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