Belkior (AC 22; HP 48/48) d8+5=13 d8+5=9 d20+6=8 d20+5=10 Tuesday December 20th, 2005 9:28:12 PM
The halfling cleric has been somewhat distracted for the past while. What with purchasing some goods from the Catacombs and his visit to the Temple of Light. He had got caught up in a discussion with an old classmate and lost track of time.
After walking beside the wagon all day, Belkior is eager to make camp for the night. After ensuring that the water source is safe, the healer will carefully mark out the confines of the camp.
"Everyone, if we're attacked by undead I'm going to cast a spell that will provide some protection. I've marked the outline of the area that should be protected, so stay inside if undead is what we are facing. Right now, I'll heal Angus and Land so that they are fully ready for the night."
After making his preparations, the halfling is more than willing to assist whoever is cooking. And he will carefully clean the dishes, as well.
When his turn comes to keep watch, Belkior is distracted. He is more than ready to turn in for the night. When morning comes, he will greet the dawn with prayers and devotions to Alemi. Listen = 8 Spot = 10
Spell Cast CLW - 13 hitpoints for Angus CLW - 9 hitpoints for Lang
Items Pearl of Power - used today Wand of CLW - 44 charges
George - an updated character sheet with the experience & Catacombs purchase will be coming tomorrow.
ed. JohnP - changed hps to reflect roll in L&B, added spell and changed selection.
DM George Tuesday December 20th, 2005 9:29:07 PM
The group sleeps through the night without abnormal disturbance. There is the hoots of owls, the songs of crickets, and the occassional small animal in the underbrush but nothing major happens.
Dawn arrives and the group is well refreshed and ready to get going. After several minutes of getting breakfast ready and hitching up the horses the Shields are on the trail again. Carefully following his verbal directions, Angus seems to be able to guide the group towards your destination. He does seem sigh a sigh of relief when the grassy fields finally reveal another dirt road.
Angus directs them to head East which prompts a conversation on which way East is. Lang finally answers the question with certainty, though others still think he is wrong.
The midday meal is coming up when the group finally finds another road with a wooden sign post. The sign has sign posts on each side of the road and the frame stretches across the road around 10' up in the air but the actual sign seems to be missing. The group travels down the road lined by small maple trees which have obviously been planted by someone. You see a stone wall up ahead with a closed iron gate. The wall is around 7' tall and ivy has started to invade it covering some of the walls.
Lang (ac 22; hp 80/80) & Sunshine (ac 22; hp 47/47) d20+6=22 d20+6=20 d20+16=33 d20+13=16 d20+6=23 d20+6=11 Tuesday December 20th, 2005 9:59:19 PM
Lang thanks Belkior for the cure and after checking his injuries realizes he is at full strength.
Lang takes his turn at last watch with Sunshine and Ashlan. Lang asks Ashlan to try and spot him and Sunshine. He and Sunshine scout the vicinity of the campsite, practicing moving silently and hiding in shadows. While doing this he listens and looks for anything out of the ordinary (listen 22;spot 20).
In the morning, Lang refreshes his spells and helps clean up the campsite before moving out. This must be it, Lang thinks when they come upon the broken signpost. He tries to gauge if they have traveled 10 miles. Lang and Sunshine take point when the group advances down the road towards the plantation after finding the broken sign post. When the stone wall with the gate comes into view, Lang stops and moves back to the main group.
"I think we should backtrack a little ways and secure the horses and the wagon. We do not want them alerting anyone inside or distracting us if we need to fight."
If the group complies, Lang will command Sunshine to "defend" the horses. Lang will draw his short swords, move back to point and quietly approach the vine covered wall, a slight ways away from the gate (move silently 33). While moving up there he will look for recent tracks or marks on the road and in the grass to the wall (track 16). Once at the wall Lang will listen for any noise inside the compound (listen 23). He will then use his newfound height to peer over the wall and take a look around (spot 11).
Spells: Speak with Animals Longstrider
Ashlan Sinclair d20+3=8 Tuesday December 20th, 2005 10:28:55 PM
Ashlan enjoys his time some as he moves along with the others, he tightens the cloth on the cut he gave himself to prove the dagger was okay and nods about the watch lineup, "I do not mind, Lang and me should make a good match for night fall."
Ashlan moves a small distance from the group, giving them their space and unrolls his new bedroll and slips into it, looking up at the sky as he rests and ponders what the next days will bring. Before falling to sleep he slips his kukri under the pillow part of his sleeping bag with his hand holding the handle tightly, safty percaution.
When his watch comes up he nods to Lang and smiles some, "My tracking skills you spoke of earlier are not great, infact I'm more of a novice then most in the group. However I will do my best to spot you, as you may guess hiding is not my strong point." To give the point more of a point he reaches down and flicks the spur on his left boot lightly.
Ashlan is abit upset with his spotting of Lang but he simply shrugs and smiles sheepishly to Lang when he finally approaches him again, "I'm more use to things getting close for me to deal with so I guess my spotting must be off. I'll have to work on it though."
Angus Wednesday December 21st, 2005 10:37:39 AM
Angus smiles down at Belkior. "Thanks for the healing. I just can't have any burn marks on my face." Angus adds vainly.
After watching everyone cleaning up the campsite and traveling again Angus seems to be getting in to the rythum of travling on the road again. Once the sign post is reached and the wall discovered Angus suggests "Lang and Xenia, lets have you two climb the wall and see if we can get a quick recon of the area. No contact though. Just see if we can get a general map of the area and maybe find a place to stow the wagon and horse. We may even find a place to the the horse graze. Only take a few minutes and return. We can have Wynn, Syr, and Famina from just inside the wall watch your progress and be ready to run to you in support if need be. Belkior, Ashland, Sunshine and Myself will stay with the wagon until Lang and Xenia find a way in. Lets make it quick and safe, before we all go in."
Belkior (AC 22; HP 48/48) Wednesday December 21st, 2005 11:53:38 AM
The halfling cleric nods at Angus' words. Scouting is important, and Belkior is certainly not a scout.
As he stands beside the wagon, Belkior goes over his equipment. Just making sure that everything is in place, that his breastplate is settled where it should be. And he's definitely making sure of where his weapons and spell components are. If the party is surprised, Belkior does not want to be caught unawares and not be able to get to his gear.
Once that is completed, he considers checking the health of the horses. Not that he doesn't trust Lang's ability, but it's something to do. And caring for these creatures is one of his commitments to Alemi.
The waiting while Xenia and whoever else scout seems interminable. But now is not the time to chatter.
Xenia d20+16=17 d20+14=18 d20+15=18 d20+18=25 d20+13=21 d20+16=34 d20+13=30 Wednesday December 21st, 2005 12:52:25 PM
What a wonderful evening. Even with all the guarding and watching and stuff. Being out under the stars. With Wynn. It's like magic. It's better than magic.
The next day is more serious.
The rogue eyes the empty banner frame stretched across the road leading up the lane of maples. Who'd a wanted to take down the sign? She gives a quick cursory look at the ground around the old sign to see if any of the bits might be laying around.
"How 'bout instead of climbing the wall, Angus," Xenia holds her hand up to shade her eyes as she gazes down the road toward the gate, the wall, and the compound beyond, "how 'bout I just see to that gate? I'll get a look through. And, if needs, I'll try and get it unlocked."
"I mean, if we're being cautious, no point in going in until we've had a look, you know."
On the way in, the rogue starts feeling weird. Out in the middle of nowhere. Under a clear sky. Just feels sort of silly to be sneaking up on an old abandoned place. Still, she walks lightly from shadow to shadow. While Looks over the wall, Xenia examines the gate.
In. Take a look around. Examine the gate and unlock it. Return and draw a map in the dirt on the ground. Yeah. That's the ticket.
Rolls and Actions Search 17 (for Sign /Nat 1) Hide 18 Move Silently 18 Spot 25 (For caution and to get a general outline of the area.) Listen 21 Search 34 (for the Gate) Open Lock 30 (if necessary)
Famina Wednesday December 21st, 2005 5:25:17 PM
"Excellent idea. If we ever go out of sight, in case of danger, make a sound, like, this whistle..." Famina produces a rather nice imitation of a bird whistle. She takes out a thin silver helmet with horns sprouting out the sides and slides it on, then attaches her shield to her arm. Slowly, she draws her sword. "Best to be prepared for danger." She eyes that vial at her belt. "Do you happen to know how long is that oil supposed to last?"
Syr Wednesday December 21st, 2005 7:04:04 PM
Syr watches everyone going through all their prebattle preparations and shivers slightly. With nothing to do, he moves his left foot slightly testing to make sure the dagger is still there and waits. After Famina's whistle, he puts his lips together and blows softly producing nothing. Frustrated he blows harder and still nothing. "This whistle thing might not be for me, if I run past you, then there's danger. Simple enough?"
DM George Wednesday December 21st, 2005 9:36:08 PM
Lang moves up to the stone wall to peer over it. He hoists himself up onto his elbows and looks around. Sunshine follows at his heels and has his tail between his legs and whines.
Xenia takes the more direct approach and just walks up to the gates examining the bars as she closes the distance. They seem in good shape but are closed.
Both Lang and Xenia see the body at the same time. A lump in the road on the otherside of the gate around 25' from it. It looks human and has long hair but that is all that can be told from this distance. The smell of corruption and rotting flesh is in the air.
Wynn d20+6=21 Wednesday December 21st, 2005 10:41:00 PM
Wynn spots the carcass on the other side of the gate (Spot=21) and pulls his sword. "This doesn't look good" he says to no one in particular.
Angus - Mage Armor Thursday December 22nd, 2005 8:06:55 AM
Angus casts mage armor on himself and moves forward to the gate.
Angus looks side to side and announces. "Maybe it will be better to recon in force. Lets see if we can get the gate open and lets see what may have killed that poor unfortunate soul. If we can open the gate we can bring the wagon in and reclose the gate. If not we can walk the perimeter of the wall and look for another opening or break in the wall." Angus looks Lang up and down. "Unless you think you can break open the gate, if Xenia's skill do not work. Better yet maybe Xenia can climb over the wall and open the gate from the other side."
Xenia d20+13=31 d20+13=23 Thursday December 22nd, 2005 12:03:47 PM
"It's not locked, Angus." Xenia reaches in and trips the latch.
"But, you know, I think a good question is why is that body out on the road? Alone?" The dark rogue's tone is grim. But, haven't they seen enough death in Floating City? What's one body more? Maybe it's poignancy of the isolated plantation and the single lonely death.
"Did the guy run out here and get hacked down? Did he ... she wander out here and drop dead of sickness? Or, is there something over there, out on that road, that killed her?"
Xenia switches back from her goggles to the fine narrow lenses. From the distance of the gate, she eyes the body and the ground around it.
Rolls and Actions Spot 31 (-5: -1 penalty for every 5 feet of separation) Listen 21
Questions Any blood on either the body or the ground? Any sign of a weapon around? What is the body wearing? Which way is the body facing? Anything unusual about the position of the body?
What is the area around the body like. Same road lined with Maple trees? What's out to the side of the road.
Belkior (AC 22; HP 48/48) d20+5=8 Thursday December 22nd, 2005 1:57:43 PM
The halfling cleric moves from the side of the wagon when he sees the agitation of Xenia and Lang over the discovery of the corpse. From where he is standing, Belkior cannot see enough of the body to tell much about it. Spot = 8
Belkior looks to those companions who are still clustered near the wagon. He whispers, "I hope Xenia and Lang have enough sense not to start searching that body. Someone who has less to fear from disease and poison should be the one to do so."
Wynn Brightsong [AC=19, HP=52] d20+5=20 d20+6=18 Thursday December 22nd, 2005 8:29:42 PM
Wynn clambers up the wall [Climb=20] from where he scans the surroundings for trouble [Spot=18] before jumping down to the ground on the other side some 10 feet from the gate. He floats gently to the ground, his Ring of Featherfall activating as he descends.
Lang (ac 22; hp 80/80) & Sunshine (ac 22; hp 47/47) d20+6=18 d20+6=13 Thursday December 22nd, 2005 9:01:31 PM
Lang moves over to stand by the gate with Xenia.
"What do you think Xenia?"
Lang watches as Wynn climbs over the wall and lands in the compound. Wanting to provide support for his comrade, Lang opens the gate just enough to squeeze through. He moves into the compound (about 5' from the gate and 20' from the body).
Standing there with his short swords he remains motionless, looking and listening.
Spot 18. Listen 13.
Spells: Speak with Animals Longstrider
Ashlan Sinclair d20+3=18 d20+2=6 Thursday December 22nd, 2005 9:08:44 PM
Ashlan follows Lang since he has been teamed up with the man and looks to Xenia before peaking in the gate as well as possible. He frowns some to himself and looks to Xenia, about ready to speak when Lang moves in so Ashlan moves quickly to follow, pulling his mithril longsword and kukri from their sheathes and stands beside his new comrade in arms, "I got your back if anything comes Lang."
(spot:18 Listen:6)
Syr Thursday December 22nd, 2005 9:12:07 PM
Syr stays alert and near Famina, awaiting for Angus to say something.
DM George Thursday December 22nd, 2005 9:35:21 PM
Wynn easily scampers over the wall and his ring doesn't even activate as he jumps down. Only 7' tall.
Xenia shows that the gate is open and Lang squeezes in. Sunshine stays by the wall. Xenia switches back to her eyes of the eagle and can see that the lump was definitly a young woman and something seems to be gleaming around her neck.
Angus casts some defensive magic and suggests that they use caution and go as a group.
Ashlan also squeezes in the gate and is alert.
Famina is quiet.
The smell of death is still on the air but other than the corpse in the road, everything else looks normal. The road stretches away and goes around a bend. No buildings or houses can be seen from here but a field of cotton sways in the breeze.
Angus - Mage Armor Ac 14 d20+2=10 Thursday December 22nd, 2005 9:50:45 PM
Angus calls out to those in front as he stands in the wagon to see better. "Be careful and see if you can determine what killed the poor soul. Syr and Famina move up to support Lang and Ashlan. Belkior and I will move the wagon up once we know there is no danger to the horse."
Angus looks down at Sunshine and wonders why he is not with Lang. "Whats up boy? Your nose not like something out there."
Angus see Xenia by the gate. "Xenia pair up with Wynn and keep those pretty eyes open, I think we will need then now and later."
Angus attempts to look about as best he can from his vantage point standing in the wagon (spot10). "Be careful people as I think Sunshine knows more than we do."
Lang (ac 22; hp 80/80) & Sunshine (ac 22; hp 47/47) d20+6=18 d20+3=12 Friday December 23rd, 2005 1:17:32 AM
"Ashlan stay close. Keep an eye on that cotton field."
Lang carefully approaches the body, prepared to strike her if she rises from the ground and is clearly an undead creature.
Once he is near her (5' or so), he circles around her, looking for signs of her being undead instead of just dead. He also looks for any apparent wounds.
Spot 18.
Assuming nothing happens, Lang kneels down behind her a rolls her over, ready to jump back if need be. He tries to determine how long she has been dead and what killed her.
Heal? 12.
Spells: Speak with Animals Longstrider
Famina Friday December 23rd, 2005 2:32:01 AM
The smell of rotten bodies only brings to mind large predators like wolves, but they could also be magical things in their midst... Just in case, Famina douses her sword with the oil. (Dunno how long it lasts, since it's someone else's item, but I think if it's the one in my same book it lasts 3 hours). Needless to say, this could be a trap. Famina smiles, "I have the feeling something's going to happen. Why don't we call out the danger instead of hiding about, fearing it?" She looks to the others to see if they'll let her do so...
what oil are you talking about? George
Belkior (AC 22; HP 48) d20+5=18 d20+8=27 d20+19=31 Friday December 23rd, 2005 9:43:01 AM
The halfling cleric hurries over as Lang kneels to examine the body.
"Careful! Be careful with any dead body you find laying around ... it might be diseased, or there might be poison, or it might not be dead, if you get my meaning!"
Belkior will examine the body from a distance, trying to spot anything. Spot = 18 Knowledge Religion = 27 (for spotting undead)
If he is satisfied that the body is actually dead, he will move closer and examine it to determine what might have killed the young woman. Heal = 31
Depending on the results of that examination, Belkior will either continue or he will start worrying about Lang.
"You should let me do this sort of thing, after someone has looked for traps, of course. I don't have to worry about disease anymore and I am very resistant to poisons, too."
Xenia d20+18=32 d20+13=23 d20+5=16 Friday December 23rd, 2005 10:04:35 AM
"'Kay, Angus."
Xenia slips through the gate. She reaches back to her haversack, and a light mace is right there on top. Sliding along the way, she joins Wynn.
"I don't see any blood, Lang," she calls after the bugbear ranger as he moves cautiously forward. "'Course, that could be 'cause the body's been outside for a while. I mean, the smell, you know. Don't see no weapons around either."
As Lang examines the body, Xenia turns her eyes and ears to the area around them.
After a moment, she turns to the bard at her side. "Hey Wynn, can I borrow your Ring of Falling Down Slowly? I'm gonna try climbing one of those trees to see what I can spot from up above."
Rolls and Actions Spot 32 Listen 23 Climb 16
Syr d20+8=9 Friday December 23rd, 2005 3:21:34 PM
Syr nods once and squeezes inside the gate with the others. He scans about the area for anything suspicious but sees nothing (spot 1). Dropping into a defensive crouch, he calls over to the bugbear, "Find anything?"
Ashlan Sinclair d20+3=23 Friday December 23rd, 2005 7:22:05 PM
Ashlan nods and keeps close to Lang figuring being close to him might be best just incase combat starts. He keeps his eyes though where Lang had commented on though and also keeps his weapons ready as he waits for something to happen.
(spot:23 *natural 20*)
Wynn Friday December 23rd, 2005 8:14:22 PM
The bard approaches the corpse, doing his best to ignore the smell. "What's that around her neck?" he asks Xenia.
Famina (add-on/explanation) Friday December 23rd, 2005 8:32:20 PM
[Magic oil comes from an earlier post by Xenia:
She claps hands on Wynn's shoulders and jumps up into the air. The slim rogue laughs and jumps from Wynn to Angus, to Syr, to Belkior and to Lang. She even jumps up on Fammie. "Oh, yeah. Here." She flashes a flask of oil, showing it to the big muscular woman. "I got two of these. It makes your weapon magic."] (I think it's a vial of magic weapon +1)
DM George Monday December 26th, 2005 10:31:38 PM
The Crimson Shields all eventurally gather around the body. Belkior examines the body and it looks like it has been there awhile. Animals, bugs and insects have all been at it finding it a convient meal. While most expect it to be bloated, it is quite the opposite. The body seems dried out. Like something sucked it dry. Belkior eventually finds 2 puncture marks on her neck.
Their is a necklace around the poor unfortunate's neck. It has magical symbols and runes an it and appears to be made out of copper. The victim seems to be a girl around the age of eighteen but that is all that can be determined by the body.
Famina holds off applying the oil. When she looks for it, she realizes that Xenia didn't give her any, just showed it to her.
Xenia d20+16=30 d20+6=26 Tuesday December 27th, 2005 8:22:44 AM
Noting that even the gods don't want her to climb the conveniently placed maple trees, Xenia changes her mind. Women do that.
Instead, she comes up behind Wynn and slides in next to Belkior.
"So, you think this is some sorta vampire thing, Belkie? I mean, if it is, then isn't she ... "
Still, Xenia switches back to her goggles. With deft hands she goes through the dead woman's clothing, searching for clues. From her haversack, the rogue draws a magnifying glass, and raising the shining pendant around the woman's neck without removing it from her body, Xenia appraises the bauble. Maybe an appraisal would give some clue as to it's origin. Maybe the workmanship is distinct.
"Poor girl. Maybe we should oughta bring her back to the temple in Plateau City. Maybe they can tell if this is, you know, a vampire thing or not. If nothing else, they can, you know, like, give her a decent burial. Look for her family and all."
Rolls and Actions Search 30 Appraise 26 (Nat 20)
Belkior (AC 22; HP 48) d20+8=19 d20+6=24 Tuesday December 27th, 2005 8:34:48 AM
The halfling cleric inhales sharply when he sees the pair of puncture wounds in the neck of the woman's body. Knowledge Religion = 19
"Ahhh ... look at these here," Belkior tells anyone.
"These could mean that this woman was killed by a vampire. That's a kind of powerful undead that drains blood from it's victims, among other attacks. Or, of course, it might just be something else that has bitten her neck and drained all the blood from her body."
Belkior now examines the necklace. "Hmm, I'm really not sure about this but the necklace could be important. If we're going to take it off, we should do so while there's still light. Should someone cast a spell to determine if it is magic?" Spellcraft = 24
Belkior sits back on his heels and looks up at his companions. "Regardless of how she died, her body shouldn't be left here like this. I'm going to perform a service for the dead, but that means moving the body. I'll wait a bit before doing so."
Angus - Mage Armor d20+2=8 Tuesday December 27th, 2005 9:06:08 AM
Angus thinks to himself, Vampires, just great, and then regains his composure as he looks up at the sun and attempts to calculate how much sunlight is left in the day. "I think we should have a quick look around before thinking of going back to Plateau City. Belkior can you concecrate some ground in which to bury this unfortunate girl. Also, anything you can think of to help lay to rest those killed by a vampire?"
Angus looks out over the plantation again. "Let have a look around while it is still light. I want to move off the plantation when there is at least one hour of light left. We can camp down the road a bit. Lang do you remember seeing any defensible positions we can hold up in?"
Now that everyone is gathered together. "Lets move off in team formation; Lang and Ashlan on the left, Syr and Famina on the right. Belkior and I will move up with the wagon and Xenia and Wynn will be by the wagon ready to support. Xenia would it be better for you to be in the wagon to look for trouble with those eyes of yours and it may be best for you to draw us a map for future use. We can add to it as we go. Everyone keep their eyes open.? Angus scans the area (spot 8), but is distracted as his eyes keep coming back to the dead girl.
Angus will cast detect magic and scan the dead girl.
Wynn d20+7=13 d20+7=17 Tuesday December 27th, 2005 9:31:15 AM
Wynn takes a closer look at the girls wounds and the necklace itself. He tries to remember what he knows or has at least heard about vampires [Bardic Knowledge=13]. The bard examines the necklace without touching it, "I wonder if these symbols were meant to ward off the undead?" [Knowledge Arcana =17]
"I think Belkior is right, we need to bury her properly on consecrated ground to make sure that she does not rise from the grave as a vampire herself."
Syr Tuesday December 27th, 2005 4:40:11 PM
Syr walks up in morbid fascination when he hears the word 'vampire', "Look at her, it's obvious that she didn't live out here by herself. There must be other victims or survivors." He examines the body with an innocent gaze, studying it hoping to gain some insight into what they are up against. Looking up as Angus gives directions, "Want me to place her in the wagon for the time being? I won't touch the necklace."
As he moves off to the right he calls back, "Hey Belk, anything that we should be looking for?"
Famina d20=8 Tuesday December 27th, 2005 5:55:15 PM
"Vampires?" she hears the word and looks about cautiously. "May I have some of that vial, Xenia? Oh...and... something about vampires and the sun...can't remember." Do they love the sun or fear it? Famina sighs inwardly. Her knowledge of monsters isn't really great, even their basic qualities. "Couldn't she be a vampire herself now? I don't really know much about undead."
DM George Tuesday December 27th, 2005 9:18:21 PM
Xenia looks at the necklace and decides it isn't worth much. It is made out of copper and isn't of the best workmanship. It is worth a couple of gold pieces at best.
Wynn also looks at the bauble and knows he has seen those runes from somewhere...where was it? He suddenly remembers. He was at a fair and saw something like it once. The girl was reading fortunes. Claimed to be a witch.
Angus detects magic but finds none on the girl.
The group discuss what to do with the body. Lang realizes that Sunshne still hasn't come into the compound. He is sitting outside with his tail between his legs looking....well hangdogged.
Ashlan Sinclair Wednesday December 28th, 2005 1:44:22 AM
Ashlan moves with Lang as directed and keeps his weapons ready, whispering mainly to Lang as they move, "I hope these weapons are useful against a vampire if we run into one."
Ashlan keeps a eye out, his knowledge of undead very limited since he had heard of them but never really met any and can't think of any specifics.
Angus Mage Armor d20+2=15 Wednesday December 28th, 2005 8:51:42 AM
Angus looks around and comments. "Lets bury this poor woman and concecrate the ground we lay her in before we move out and scout the plantation. Does anyone have a shovel? Belkior do you have the proper spells to make some good ground?"
Angus looks over at Sunshine and then to Lang "Lang what is up with your puppy?"
Angus will wait in the wagon while the body is buried and just watch the plantation and its outbuildings (spot 15).
Once the body is buried and concecrated Angus will suggest. "Now that we have sent the lass on her way, it is time for us to move out. Lets get in our buddy teams. Ashlan and Lang on the left and Syr and Famina on the right and Belkior and Angus will follow in the wagon. Xenia and Wynn will act as support. Lets Map out this plantation before we enter any buildings. This way we can see were all the doors are for each building."
OOC: What time of day is it?
Spell Slots Used:
0 level 1/6 1 level 1/8 2 level 0/7 3 level 0/5
Wynn Wednesday December 28th, 2005 10:38:29 AM
"Belkior, do you have any holy water? I think we should pour a vial down her throat, or if you have any holy wafers we might place them in her mouth." Wynn helps the cleric with his preparations.
Belkior (AC 22; HP 48) Wednesday December 28th, 2005 10:58:07 AM
The halfling cleric begins composing the woman's body for burial.
"Does anyone have a groundcloth? Or anything like that?" If no one else volunteers, Belkior will get a blanket from his HHHaversack and carefully roll the body on to it. Then he arranges the woman's arms and legs and brushes hairs away from her face.
"Can one or two of you help carry outside the gate? Somehow, I think it might be better to do this outside the gate. And I might need some help with digging - I definitely do not have a shovel in my pack."
Once a grave has been dug, Belkior will begin the preparations to consecrate the ground. He removes a flask of holy water and a bag of silver from his HHHaversack. Then Belkior begins marking the boundaries of the area that he will Consecrate with the silver dust following with a sprinkling of holy water. When the preparations are completed, Belkior will invoke the power of Alemi to consecrate this area.
After doing that, Belkior pauses for a moment to collect his thoughts.
"Can two of you help lower her into the grave?"
Once the woman's body has been lowered down, Belkior will don his vestments and extend an offer to his companions to participate. He clears his throat and begins.
"Alemi, Shepherd of the Wold, Healer, Protector and Champion of Good.
Mark the passing of this woman, unknown to me, but known to you. We gather to mark her physical passing from the Wold, And from your protective embrace.
We pray that she did not suffer unduly in this world. Allow Gargul to collect her soul and convey her to the Lands of Rest, To allow her rest from the labors and hurts of this land.
In the name of the Shepherd, we pray."
Belkior stoops and collects a small handful of earth. He sprinkles it over the open grave while muttering a quiet prayer.
"This woman has passed from the care of Alemi, Shepherd of the Wold, to Gargul. Honor her memory."
When he has completed the service, Belkior will remove his vestments and store them in his HHHaversack again.
"Are we ready to move out? If we need to, we can retreat to this spot - the protection of Alemi will linger her for more than half a day."
Xenia Wednesday December 28th, 2005 11:55:44 AM
"Huh?" Xenia gives Famia the weirdest look. "Hey, these things cost money, you know. You can't go around wasting this stuff. It don't last but more than a minute, and we could feed the orphans for a few days with what it costs."
The dark rogue rolls her eyes.
"Listen, Fammie, you gotta see to your own equipment. 'Kay?" She shakes her head. She puts her hands on her hips.
"Alright. Alright. Here, you take one of these. But don't you go wasting it. Understand." Framblenation. Great. That's just great.
"Um, yeah, Angus," Xenia shakes off her mood, "I got shovels." From her pack, she takes out two and unfolds them with a *click*.
(Oil of Magic Weapon: +1 to Mundane Weapon. Duration 1 minute.)
Ashlan Sinclair d20+4=20 Wednesday December 28th, 2005 1:48:39 PM
Ashlan looks to Xenia and holds out a hand, "I shall dig a hole for the body. It's a task that I'm not unuse too." Once he gets the shovel he begins his work at digging a grave (str check:20) and afterwards he cleans the shovel off as well as possible and hands it back to Xenia.
Ashlan looks to Belkior and the others nefpre he moves up to the woman and slowly kneels by the body and takes a pair of silver coins from his belt pouch and places one over both of the lady's eyes and speaks gently, "For the ferryman when he comes for you. I know not who you are but having done so for years now of my life I will look into the person or creature that has killed you and do my best to bring a peace to that issue. Rest in peace."
Ashlan stands and looks to the body once more before turning and moving away, he was a man who walked a path of death but he still did not enjoy its company no matter. When Belkior speaks Ashlan does reachup and removes his hat of disquise and his black and silver looking clothes fade from sight to show his breastplate armor, only his boots and spurs stay the same really other then his hair and such color. After Belkior finishes he places the hat back on and his look returns to that of the black and silver outfit with his cloak that stayed even without the hats magic powers.
Syr d20+4=23 Wednesday December 28th, 2005 6:25:57 PM
Turning around Syr mutters slightly at the delay, "I know it's the right thing to do but I'd rather not waste the daylight while we have it. I'm more concerned about us living now than laying her to rest immediately."
Carefully moving the body, "Well, if it must be done then let's get it done quickly." He grabs the spare shovel from Xenia, "You amaze me sometimes with your resoucefulness." Grimacing in distaste, he starts digging the grave, making it a contest to outpace the mercenary (str 23:).
Lang (ac 22; hp 80/80) & Sunshine (ac 22; hp 47/47) Wednesday December 28th, 2005 6:47:27 PM
Lang moves back towards Sunshine and casts Speak with Animals.
In dog Langs says, "What is wrong Sunshine? Why do you not want to enter this place?"
Spells: Speak with Animals Longstrider
Lang (cont.) Wednesday December 28th, 2005 6:56:12 PM
"If there is a Vampire in this place, does anyone know how to kill it?"
DM George Wednesday December 28th, 2005 10:29:57 PM
The digging of the hole, and the cermemony take a couple of hours. You are pushng towards midafternoon. The group works well together, Syr slightly moving more dirt than Famina. Xenia does grudgingly give up one of her potions to the large female.
Lang casts his spell and talks to Sunshine. Sunshine whimpers, "It smells bad in there. It smell like death. Old death. I don't want to go in. You don't go in. It is a bad place."
The group organizes after the burial and starts moving towards the gates again in their fighting pairs. As you move down the dirt road past the gate you go around the bend and see the plantation house in front of you. By looking at the sun you realize you are moving south on the road. You see a large two story house with several outbuildings behind it. It is at least 100 yards away at this point
The road starts to climb in a gentle grade and you start entering into tilled land. You have badly overgrown cotten fields on your left and vineyards also in an overgrown condition on your right. They extend almost all the way to the plantation house.
Belkior (AC 22; HP 48) Thursday December 29th, 2005 9:41:21 AM
The halfling cleric walks beside the wagon, soothing the horses. Belkior keeps looking at them to determine if they are affected by the same nervousness as Sunshine.
Belkior moves closer to Angus and speaks quietly, "When we get closer to the buildings, I can cast a spell that will detect undead. It will last several minutes so I should be able to scan the buildings for any undead."
After he speaks, Belkior nervously fiddles with the mace slung at his side.
Wynn d20+7=17 Thursday December 29th, 2005 10:09:16 AM
"Well Lang, they're only old wive's tales mind you, but it's said that to kill a vampire you must drive a wooden stake through it's heart, or you can burn it in direct sunlight. Some say that you can actually drown a vampire in running water."[Bardic Knowledge=17] Wynn tries to remember what else the folk tales say, "I've also heard that it requires a magic weapon to damage a vampire and that whatever you do, it's not truly dead until you destroy the body by removing it's head. Oh...I almost forgot, they hate garlic!!"
Xenia d20+18=30 d20+13=33 Thursday December 29th, 2005 10:56:28 AM
Xenia taps the shovels against the wall, knocking the last bits of dirt from their blades, before folding them up and replacing them in her haversack. At the same time, she draws forth a couple of sheets of paper, some ink, and a pen.
Hopping up into the cart, the rogue quickly draws the road leading through the gate and bending to the south. All the while, her eyes and ears are open, both to the sights and sounds around the party, as well as to Wynn's tale of Vampires.
"So, as long as we're in the sunlight, we're ok. Huh, Wynn?" Xenia begins drawing the buildings. Shading her eyes with the flat of her hand, she tries to pick out the material from which the buildings are constructed.
Rolls and Actions Spot 34 Listen 33 (Nat 20)
Question What do the buildings look like they're made of?
Angus - mage Armor Thursday December 29th, 2005 11:30:51 AM
Angus makes the trip around the plantation in the wagon and asks Xenia "Please mark all the doors on your map." Angus comments to no one in particular. "This is a very nice set up. With a bit of work this can be an excellent location for the kids. That is once we kill the vampire and any friends he may have." Angus says with an appraising eye, having grown up on a small farm.
After the shields make the swing round the plantation, Angus will announce. "There is not enough daylight left for a major search. As Wynn suggested, I belive that sunlight is one of our best allies. I say we head out of the plantation and up the road a bit and camp for the night. Hopefully, Belkior can concecrate some ground for us to camp on and we then hit the Plantation at morning."
Angus looks over to Lang. "You may want to speak to the horse also as he did not seem to be as bothered as Sunshine."
OOC: Great Map!!!!!
In addition to Xenia question about the materials of construction of the buildings, are the buildings boarded up, are the window??
Ashlan Sinclair Thursday December 29th, 2005 12:08:36 PM
Ashlan looks to the others and thinks before glancing towards one of the other buildings and over grown fields and such, "Angus, your the leader of course but may I mke a suggestion?"
Ashlan looks to the group and then around again, "We should wait till brighter light I think if what you fear we are going against is true so I was going to say maybe we should look around the outside and check out one of those buildings over there that may be big enough and defended well enough so we have a safe place to hold up till morning. The more sunlight we have which means starting morning the better it sounds to me."
Ashlan shrugs and smiles abit, "I'm not trying to issue commands or nothing, just suggestions." Ashlan turns and moves back by his partner Lang and stays quiet now not wanting to initiate a fight with any of the Shields over his comment.
(OOC:There was a comment about some other buildings besides the main house so I figured one of them should surely be suitable for holding up after we do some outside checking.)
Famina Thursday December 29th, 2005 3:35:04 PM
"Well, if they're underground and sleeping, isn't now the best time to go searching for them? Before they wake up, I mean?" Famina feels embarassed at having forgottoen about the vampires and sun thing. It's so obvious in retrospect. Famina looks over at the dog. "Look, we're heroes right? So, let's do the heroic thing and go in and get rid of these guys. Now, now, I know you're all saying that, just wanting to be cautious, and so, I agree. I'm not bossing or being critical, just trying to cheer us up. I'm not afraid of any undead or traps. And how much time of sunlight do we have, and if there's only a bit I suggest we rush inside and find the underground stuff immediately! Our only enemy now is uncertainty."
Lang (ac 22; hp 80/80) & Sunshine (ac 22; hp 47/47) Thursday December 29th, 2005 4:46:42 PM
"I don't know, this does not sound good. Are we really setup to find undead? Especially vampires? Know one seems to know exactly how to kill one. I have no experience fighting undead. Plus, I put a lot of faith in Sunshine's instincts and he is really scared of this place."
OOC - Is Sunshine still back by the gate?
"Maybe we should go back to the city and do some research on vampires. We don't even have any garlic or wooden stakes - if they even work against Vampires."
Lang appears agitated and concerned about Sunshine's behavior.
Spells: Speak with Animals (cast and inactive) Longstrider
Angus Mage Armor (Second Illegal Post) Thursday December 29th, 2005 4:47:27 PM
Angus frowns at the two new members. "We have less than an hour left of sunlight and our advantage. It would be foolhardy to attack an unknown foe when it is his advantage. If we are heros as you say, we do not have a damsel in distress that needs immediate attention, we can take the time to plan and use our advantages. We wait until morning. We will be strongest in the morning." Angus turns the wagon around and starts heading out the gate.
Syr Thursday December 29th, 2005 5:34:25 PM
Syr silently trots along behind the wagon musing to himself quietly, "How DO you kill something already dead?"
As the group turns to leave Syr starts remembering the past. He wonders how Florin would have handle the situation. He doesn't imagine that the paladin would have been quite as cautious in his approach. 'Probably would have keep going looking for survivors' he thinks to himself. However, his next thought is, 'Would that have gotten the group in trouble? Better be doubly vigilant on the watch tonight. Someone is going to see the newly consecrated ground.'
DM George Searches and Scratches d2=1 Thursday December 29th, 2005 10:24:22 PM
Before the group heads back down the path and while they are searching around the manor but not going in.
Angus tries to coax the horse and wagon in but finds that the horse doesn't want to go either. No amount of pulling, whipping or pleading seems to change his mind.
When the group searches the plantation on foot, they head off into the cotten field. The field is filled with sharp thorns which seem to grab at the groups clothing, slowing them down and causing several scratches. As they go deeper into the cotton field, the thorns seem to get thicker and tougher. It almost seems like the thorns are trying to grab them.
I need two fort saves from every one, dc 15 please.
The group now finds itself in the middle of the cotton field and you have seen enough to make the map that I sent so you possess that knowledge.
Couple of notes: You only have one horse and both Sunshine and the horse won't go past the gate and wall.
Xenia believes the buildings are made out of wood but seem to be on stone foundations.
Angus Mage Armor & Detect Magic d20+1=17 d20+1=10 d20+6=19 Friday December 30th, 2005 8:31:31 AM
Angus does not like the idea of walking on foot, but gets down anyways and ties the horse to the gate. "Lets go see what we can see on foot then. Say with your buddy and in the same formation we discussed."
Angus is very annoyed at the biting cotton plants and thinks hard about what his mom talk him about plants (Herbalist 19) and wish Tionel was arround to discuss this nasty plant situation. (Fort save 17 and 10, does mage armor help at all?) Angus mumbles under his breath "Note to self, the kids will not be growing cotton."
Angus gets frustrated. "Lets get out of this field and walk on the path to the main house. We can then skirt the fields and check out the other buildings."
Angus looks back at Sunshine and the Horse to make sure they are ok and looks to Lang "What does Sunshine know that we do not?"
Angus looks to his scrape buddy. "Belkior can you detect evil? As now might be a good time, something does not feel right. We should get as much information about the area as we can and then come back and crack these buildings in the morning." Angus casts detect magic and scans the area.
Spell SLots
0 level 2/6 1 level 1/8 2 level 0/7 3 level 0/5
Belkior (AC 22; HP 48) d20+14=26 d20+14=31 Friday December 30th, 2005 8:51:11 AM
The halfling cleric mutters to himself as he pulls himself free of the thorns. Annoying as they may be, the thorns don't present any danger to Belkior. Fort saves = 26 & 31 (Immune to Disease)
When Angus asks about detecting evil, Belkior turns to him. "Sorry, friend. I did not request that spell today. You're probably thinking of how Florin could do it."
"I can, however, detect undead. When we look around the buildings I can cast that spell. I can certainly scan anything above ground as long as those buildings are simply made of wood."
Belkiro follows along in the wake of Angus, helping him get untangled from the thorns. When they get back to the road, Belkior gets his clothing and equipment back into place.
Wynn d20+5=25 d20+5=21 d20+6=16 Friday December 30th, 2005 9:35:54 AM
Wynn curses as the thorns rip at his legs and quickly heads back out to the path [Fort=25 and 21]. "Do cotton plants normally have thorns or is something else growing in amongst the cotton?" he asks. The half-elf tries to see if the thorns are part of the cotton plants themsleves as he picks his way out [Spot=16].
Xenia d20+3=16 d20+3=14 Friday December 30th, 2005 11:07:23 AM
"Hey! Ow!" Framble macking bimbol dogga frantic ... Xenia follows in Wynn's wake.
"Who's idea was it to go off the road anyway!" (Fort 16 and 14)
"Leastwise we know something from this. If we need to run for cover, don't run into the fields. That means we're hemmed in by the road. Lets go take a look at the buildings and then leave."
"Belkie, the walls of the buildings look to be wood. But the foundations are stone. You think that'll keep you from detecting anything if there's, like, a basement or something?"
(What are the rules on the fields, George? Any reductions in movement? How far have we come into the field? Any saves to avoid being scratched?)
Belkior (Illegal Post) Friday December 30th, 2005 1:01:48 PM
The halfling cleric responds to Xenia's question.
"Based on what I remember from my temple training, I cannot detect undead through more than a foot of stone. Or 3 feet of earth or wood. I'd have to enter a building if it has a basement. Or look straight down something like a well."
Belkior scuffs along in the dirt for a moment. "Oh, and if I do this and suddenly drop everything I'm carrying and become stunned ... that's a bad sign. A really bad sign."
Angus (Illegal Post) Friday December 30th, 2005 1:21:58 PM
Angus listens to Belkior talk about his spells and comments. "Lets use up your detect undead spell when we get up by the buildings and then call it a day. Once we set up camp you can concecrate some ground for us and then we can set up spells for the morning."
Angus looks around and comments to all. "Lets make this a quick survey of the area and then lets get out of here. I do not like how the anminals are acting or the supposed cotton field."
Famina d20+7=24 d20+7=14 Friday December 30th, 2005 2:06:32 PM
"From what I know of monsters, not the undead, this would be a bad idea, to wait till night in a guarded spot. It might seem sensible now, but the best mode of attack is to always press your advantage. Right now, we have an advantage; they are asleep, divided, and immobile, all of which disappears at night time. If you are afraid, let me go forth and I will trigger any traps or whatnot. I do not fear a cotton field." She tries to keep the contempt out of her voice, but it's really hard for the proud woman. "But... if you truly think we can go in at night without being attacked by them in force then we will find a place to stay. Do they not feed each night? What if they ignore us, and another innocent dies? If we do try to stay somewhere for the night, nobody will get any sleep, that's for sure. Unless it's the eternal kind..."
rolled your saves for you this time, you failed one. George
Lang (ac 22; hp 80/80) & Sunshine (ac 22; hp 47/47) d20+11=17 d20+11=29 Friday December 30th, 2005 2:12:15 PM
Fort saves 17 & 29.
Lang struggles along with the rest of the group as they make their way through the cotton field. He notes that their retreat can be easily blocked due to the two overgrown fields. Plus any retreat towards the back of the plantation will be hindered by the water.
OOC - What is the yellow swath on the map that starts behind the main house and goes to the right through the water and off the map?
Spells: Speak with Animals (cast and inactive) Longstrider
Syr d20+7=14 d20+7=27 Friday December 30th, 2005 4:54:38 PM
The elf kicks at the annoying plants as they grab at him, "Where is Tionel when ya need him? He could have told us what these plants are." Looking ahead to the house the elf is already making plans, "The first step is to replant these darn fields when we clear the buildings." His voice certainly doesn/t lack confidence going forward.
(Missed one save)
(OOC: the yellow swath- Umm it was the road at the time with a bridge over the stream but that can change at DM's discretion)
Ashlan Sinclair d20+7=21 d20+7=16 Sunday January 1st, 2006 5:01:52 PM
Ashlan moves through the cotton some what asily, not getting hooked on the thorns as bad as some of the others and glad of it too.
He looks to Belkior when the get out though and thinks before speaking to him, "Might want to inspect the thron wounds to make sure they weren't poisoned or something."
(Fort:21, 16)
DM George Sunday January 1st, 2006 5:22:21 PM
The group made their way about 50' into the cotton field fighting the entire way. Their speed was slowed to a 1/4 movement trying without much success to avoid the thorns in their way. Armor magic or otherwise doesn't seem to help. It is almost seems like some kind of intelligence is directing the thorny bushes, grasping at ankles, pulling at cloaks and snarling hair.
Famina stumbles and feels weakened (-1 strength) Angus takes a thorny bush across his face causing a nasty gash and possibly leaving a scar (-1 charisma) and steady footed Syr feels a vine trip him up and he slightly pulls a groin muscle (-1 dexterity)
When everyone finally gets back to the path, Angus casts a detect evil and the entire cotton field pulse in a low grade magic. It is nothing like the sorceror has ever seen before and he has problems classifying which kind of magic it is.
The path ahead of them is clear of magic and so is the grape vines on the otherside.
Xenia Monday January 2nd, 2006 10:01:53 AM
"Um, Belkie," Xenia inquires in an anxious voice, "this thing with the field, is that a bad sign too? I mean, I'm not sure I wanna be a vampire snack, you know? Unlike Fammie over there."
She pulls in closer to Wynn.
The rogue does, in her mapping of the area, note the placement of the buildings, the slope of the terrain, and the stream with Running Water to the east. In her mind, she wonders where the stream comes out under the wall? And if there might be a bridge around here somewhere.
Question Is the Cotton Field the yellow area to the East? Or the Green area to the West?
(This is assuming that all revelations are also related to the group.)
Wynn Monday January 2nd, 2006 11:53:44 AM
The bard picks the last few thorns from his clothing and readies his longsword in anticipation of advancing towards the main building. "So, do we try to close on the house through the vineyard, or do we walk up the front path and knock on the door?"
Famina d20=1 d20=1 Monday January 2nd, 2006 2:20:12 PM
Famina thinks she twisted something and grimaces but continues. Occasionally, she takes sweeping cuts at the stalks that are trying to grasp her, but her sword isn't really made for that thing. Wish I had a machete, she thinks to herself... She stays silent, watching the area as carefully as she can. But she gets abruptly interested in one particular thorn tht has gotten into her boot and spends a few silent expletives on it, losing all her focus on her surroundings. (Listen and Spot, 2 natural 1's! Weeeeeee!)
Angus Mage Armor and Detect magic d20+2=7 d20+2=3 Monday January 2nd, 2006 3:16:13 PM
Angus gets to the path and exhales. "Lets do this quick. A search of the outside of the buildings and then we are out of here until morning. Lets go in a line of teams and lets watch for similar traps. Lang and Ashlan in front followed by Wynn and Xenia, then Belkior and me and we will have Syr and Famina next. Everyone be wary."
Angus looks down at his small buddy and wipes blood out of his eyes. "A cure would help a bit, plus it might be a nice test of Alemi's magic."
After the cure spell test and calls out. "Lets move."
Angus seems distracted by his cut and is not paying much attention, but more than Famina (spot 7, listen 3).
Lang (ac 22; hp 80/80) & Sunshine (ac 22; hp 47/47) Monday January 2nd, 2006 6:17:15 PM
Lang is happy to get back on the path. He hopes the Shields are not forced into the fields unwillingly.
Lang moves up to the front of the group, with Ashlan at Angus's command. He draws his short swords as the group approaches the main building.
Spells: Speak with Animals (cast and inactive) Longstrider
Syr Monday January 2nd, 2006 7:40:57 PM
Syr comes out of the cotton field waking with a slight limp and trying to gingerly stretch a leg. With a wicked grin he calls over to the sorceror, "Hey Angus, what are the chances of you learning a fireball spell?" He points at the field with a finger.
Belkior (AC 22; HP 48) Detect Undead d20+19=34 d20+5=23 d20+6=10 Monday January 2nd, 2006 9:08:47 PM
The halfling cleric looks to the injuries suffered by his companions. He attempts to determine whether the injury was caused by poison or some other cause.
If the effect is poison, Belkior will treat one of his companions using his healing skill. Unless directed otherwise, he will treat Angus. Heal = 34, use in place of save result on secondary roll (if applicable)
He will also try using some minor healing magics on Angus to see if that closes up the wound. Spell = Cure Minor Wounds, 1 hp
"There, I've tried some things now Angus. I'm not sure if any of that will work."
When the party gets close to the buildings, Belkior will cast Detect Undead and begin scanning the above ground portions of the buildings.
"Let's see if anything that should be dead is still lurking inside there." Once he has cast the spell Belkior begins cautiously examining his surroundings, alert to any sign of undead or anything else unusual. Spot = 23, Listen = 10
DM George "Lions Tigers and ?" Monday January 2nd, 2006 11:18:38 PM
OOC To answer Al's question, the cotton fields are on the left as you travel south on the road. The yellow on the map.
Belkior tries to cure Angus and his scratch clears up immediately, but still the -1 to his charisma is still in place. Belkior is sure that the original damage was done by some kind of poison but it isn't a normal poison. Could it be magically enhanced?
As the Shields move farther down the path, the vineyards and cotton fields end. It looks like the plantation had a lawn surrounding the main house. The grass has grown tall from neglect and stands at waist height.
When Belkior casts his detect undead spell, he gets a postive reading, but not in the house but in the grass in front of the house.
Belkior (AC 22; HP 48) Tuesday January 3rd, 2006 7:38:43 AM
The halfling cleric speaks in a calm, controlled voice to his companions.
"I've spotted some undead. In the grass, though, not the house."
Standing where he is, Belkior will point to where he has spotted the undead. He continues to focus on the undead aura that he has spotted.
"Let's see what else I can tell about it. Get ready - it or they might sense that we're here," Belkior cautions his companions.
2nd round - number & srength of strongest undead aura
Xenia d20+14=32 d20+15=21 d20+18=37 d20+13=29 Tuesday January 3rd, 2006 8:36:33 AM "Hehe," Xenia's voice drops to a whisper, "you say fireball, Syr? I just got back from the Catacombs. 'Member?"
The rogue does nothing yet, though. Crouching low, next to Wynn, she directs her gaze at the spot indicated by Belkior. Ears open to the group's flank, she looks for any oddities, a shadow, a spot where the grass does not bend to the breeze, anything.
Angus - Mage Armor & Detect Magic Tuesday January 3rd, 2006 8:59:28 AM
Angus smiles at Syr. "I am not up to fireballs yet, but a small lightning storm may happen in the cotton field when we leave after our recon."
Angus looks down at Belkior. "Thanks buddy. You and Alemi helps some. The pain is gone but I do not feel completely healed, we may have to rid ourselves of the poison later; I trust you and Alemi can handle that too. Lets see what is ahead."
Once Belkior detects the undead, Angus whispers to all "Give Belkior room to take his ready, but be ready to protect him. Stay with your buddy."
Famina Tuesday January 3rd, 2006 2:59:46 PM
Famina tkaes up a post just ahead and to the left of Belkior. Her weapons are drawn and ready, and she looks into the eerie field. She quietly starts saying a prayer to Domi for courage against this feeling which seems to pervade the area...
Ashlan Sinclair Tuesday January 3rd, 2006 3:17:26 PM
Ashlan looks to the others and then where Belkior pointed the undead should be and simply nods, "Well, I hate to seem antsy or anything but why not let me move ahead to see better."
Ashlan looks to Angus and smiles as Ashlan gently rolls his mithril kukri back to a underhanded hold and begins moving forward inless stopped, "I'm a take action and see my enemy close up type person anyway and if you ask some people I'm one of few expendable."
Ashlan plans to move out and approach the spot where Belkior said the undead was at.
Xenia (2nd Illegal Post) Tuesday January 3rd, 2006 4:28:08 PM
"If you don't wanna seem antsy, then don't be antsy, Ash." Xenia speaks with the half distracted voice of someone working very hard to be concentrating on something. "Taking action and risking yourself to draw something out is brave and, like, selfless."
"But taking action and risking yourself when there's no need to yet is just plain dumb. Why don't you just keep your pants on for another few minutes while we check this bit of grass out, huh? I mean, there could be twenty five vampires out there. Who knows? If it turns out that we can't figure that out from here, then maybe Angus will have someone go it. Or maybe something else."
"Have, like, a little discipline will you, huh?"
Wynn Tuesday January 3rd, 2006 5:49:41 PM
The bard readies his longsword and whispers a quick prayer to the gods in general. "Just how much holy water do you have Belkior? Gallons of the stuff, right?"
Syr Tuesday January 3rd, 2006 5:51:16 PM
"Kids, stop the sniping please? Ashlan, keep that last comment to yourself." He glares at the mercenary before turning on the half breed, "and Xenia, everyone, new or old, is entitled to make tactical suggestions. Let Angus make the call. I trust we have more worries now to keep people occupied?" With an explosion of air from his lungs, the elf marches to join Famina, obviously distracted.
Xenia (3rd Illegal Post) Tuesday January 3rd, 2006 6:28:12 PM
"What, Syr? What?" Xenia whispers. "I'm not allowed to make tactical suggestions? Holding on for a bit while we check things out is a tactical suggestion. Isn't it?"
"'Sides, he asked. 'Why not let me,' he said. That's a question right? I answered. What's that big deal, huh? You want only some people can speak?"
Lang (ac 22; hp 80/80) & Sunshine (ac 22; hp 47/47) d20+6=12 d20+6=24 Tuesday January 3rd, 2006 8:56:51 PM
Lang waits for the go ahead from Angus before approaching the area in the grass that is in question.
Spot 12 Listen 24
Spells: Speak with Animals (cast and inactive) Longstrider
DM George Tuesday January 3rd, 2006 9:40:00 PM
Ashlan tries to enter the tall grasses but is held back by his more patient and wiser companions.
Belkior concentrates and after a few seconds is able to pinpoint 3 undead in the range that the spell works. The 3 are of moderate power and clustered together about midway between the farmhouse and the where the road ends. He thinks he catches a glimpse of another for a second but it must just be on the edge of the spell. Though he only caught a glimpse, he knows that undead was stronger than these three.
The day is starting to wear on and the sun is getting lower in the sky. You have a couple of hours of sunlight left. A chilling breeze seems to blow by you. Funny how the grasses aren't moving.
"Three? Maybe four? Wanna lay a fireball down on top a them, Angus? Might burn the grass away. Or maybe we got another way to smoke 'em out." Xenia frowns at the grass.
"Hey, Belkie, what kinda undead hide in waist high grass? Vampire dogs? By the way, Belkie, if you still got them Magic Stone things, I got a sling that's trued up masterwork."
Xenia listens for movement.
Rolls and Actions Listen 31
Famina Wednesday January 4th, 2006 2:20:12 AM
"A fireball would be excellent... I get the feeling it's not just the undead, but...the grass itself.. Something's wrong with it." Famina looks to the others and waits for their suggestions. "I will test out the grass," she announces, and puts a foot out onto the grass field, like an uncertain person testing the temperature of water.
Belkior (AC 22; HP 48) d20+8=9 Wednesday January 4th, 2006 9:15:45 AM
The halfling cleric continues to concentrate on his spell, trying to learn more about the undead in front of them. Belkior will turn towards where he sensed the stronger undead.
"Ahh ... three undead, probably weaker than us. And another one, maybe stronger but only at the edge of my spell."
Belkior looks nervously at the grass. It might be only waist high to his companions but that's up to or above eye level for him.
"We can try flushing them out or, at least, getting rid of some of this grass. Or we could try advancing on these things and learning more about what is beyond the range of my spell."
Belkior thinks for a moment about Xenia's question. "Well, if they're out in the sunlight they're not likely to be vampires. Might be any number of other things, though." KNowledge Religion = 9, natural 1
If the party advances, Belkior will move closer to the undead that he has sensed. Because of the high grass, he doesn't want to be the one in the lead however.
Angus Mage Armor & Detect magic Wednesday January 4th, 2006 9:18:15 AM
Angus looks at the sun to gauge the amount of daylight left and then looks to Ashlan and tries to keep his voice calm. "Ashlan do not do anything that will take away our advantage or put the rest of us at risk. You obviously do not know the rest of our capabilities to be so rash. Lets save the discussion for the campfire tonight, in the mean time, try to follow orders. All suggestions will be considered, but do not go off half cocked on your own."
Angus looks to Xenia and then the others. "Lets blast them and then we can finish them off with spells and blades if Belkior thinks they will be effected. Try not to damage the buildings as I would hate to have to pay to rebuild them for the kids."
Angus looks to Belkior "Can you determine if the undead are in graves and immune to the blast of the fireball?
Angus looks to Wynn and Lang and Xenia. "Do you want to offer a volley prior to close combat? I will be adding my own." and Angus flexes his fingers and gets ready for an incantation.
Xenia (2nd Illegal Post) Wednesday January 4th, 2006 10:22:00 AM
"Gotcha, Angus." Xenia takes two necklaces from her haversack. The one with a full string of beads, she places about her own neck. "I got the one I took off of the Zef guy, if anybody wants." The rogue holds out a necklace with a single bead. "It's probs a low power fireball, but it'll cover the same area on the ground as the rest. And it's sure to get someone's attention."
Still listening for movement, she calls ready.
"All set. Where 'bouts are they Belkie? And how far apart?"
Questions So, where is this Grass on the map? I'm not sure I see an area that could be 60 plus feet of grassy area on the map. It would need to be about that for one of the undead to be on the edge of the Detect Undead spell. How large an area is this Grass? It would be nice to have this info for Targeting.
Belkior (2nd Illegal Post) Wednesday January 4th, 2006 11:40:42 AM
Belkior turns towards the three undead that he definitely spotted.
"I am facing towards them now, about halfway between the house and the road where we're standing. They're close together. If they're underground, they're not very deep."
Thinking for a moment, Belkior continues. "It's possible that the other one I sensed is inside the house, not out in the grass."
Syr Wednesday January 4th, 2006 7:42:35 PM
Syr watches the others getting ready for their spells while chosing not to respond to the rogue. 'gotta take the high road, escalating things won't help' he thinks to himself. His jaw clenched tightly, he hopes the coming conflict bring them together rather than more tearing apart.
DM George Wednesday January 4th, 2006 7:49:14 PM
OOC sorry guys but figure this correctin on the map. figure you have about 30' of lawn/tall grass all the way around the house. This is what happens when one person makes the map, another makes the module and yet a third dms it.)
Belkior easily sees the 3 in front of them but the 4th was off to the side on the right facing the farmhouse. He thinks that Xenia could easily catch all three if she throws it to the right spot but the blast might also hit the house.
Ashlan is halted in his attempt to go in and scolded by several party members.
Famina slyly dips a toe into the grass and waits to see if she is grabbed and dragged to her death. The grass seems to quiver for a second and Famina snatches her foot away. Could it just have been a breeze?
Xenia readies her necklace of fireballs. Which one is she using?
Angus is prepared to follow up the spell, (Ready action spell but which spell?)
Lang, Ashlan, Wynn and Syr seem to be quiet, just waiting for the action to begin. (Sorry to post early but I am going to bed early tonight)
George Wednesday January 4th, 2006 7:51:40 PM
OOC Hey folks. I am forseeing some trouble posting in the next couple of weeks. I have a lot of business travel coming up. Jim is our usual ADM but since he is already dming in another game, I am looking for a new volunteer to ADM. You will have to do a weekly report and DM for at least a month a year.
One of the benefits is you might get a second game if you take this on. Any volunteers?
Angus: mage Armor & Detect magic Wednesday January 4th, 2006 8:02:22 PM
Angus whispers to everyone and especially Xenia "Lets use a low yield blast, just to flush them. Everyone get ready. Bend the bows if you have them, if not ready weapons, and guard your buddies back." Angus himself readies his normal sized magic missile.
Angus mumbles to himself. "Lets see what we are up against."
Ashlan Sinclair Wednesday January 4th, 2006 8:16:31 PM
Ashlan looks to Syr and the others and simply shrugs before slipping over by Syr and speaking to him gently, "Sorry about the earlier comment, however I was refered to as that upon first meeting. I do not forget easy." Ashlan simply shrugs and looks to Syr, "No offense is meant either, I been trying to fit into this group as best as possible."
Thinks of his earlier comment to Syr, Ashlan also looks to Angus and speaks to him for a moment before keeping his weapons ready for action, "Forgive me wishing to be rash, I'm use to working alone rather then with a group and only hope you can have patience till I get use to that."
Ashlan checks his blades and then looks to Lang, "Looks like we get to try our hand at some undead soon."
Lang (ac 22; hp 80/80) & Sunshine (ac 22; hp 47/47) d20+6=20 d20+6=26 Wednesday January 4th, 2006 9:34:12 PM
"Angus, I will stand ready with my short swords as they are magic and my bow is not."
"Xenia is this far enough away from the blast?"
Lang, after getting directed by Xenia, makes sure he is nearest to the creatures along with his partner Ashlan. With his shortswords out, he waits to see what pops out of the grass after the fireball explodes.
"Ashlan let's try to make short work of these 3 in case that 4th one proves to be more powerful."
Spot 20 Listen 26 (natural 20)
Spells: Speak with Animals (cast and inactive) Longstrider
Xenia d20+10=23 Wednesday January 4th, 2006 9:47:03 PM
"Alright. Gotcha. Low yield it is." Xenia eyes the distances, picking a spot 20 feet from the nearest building, but close enough to cover the area pointed out by Belkior. She pulls the single bead from the necklace taken from the Assassin Zef guy, and she lobs it in an overhand pitch.
As soon as the bead leaves her hand, she draws a sling from her belt. She fills her free hand, with a silver sling bullet.
Rolls and Actions Hit AC23 (vs DC5, a Splash Weapon's DC to target a desired Square.) Don't know what kind of Bead this is. If the DM would kindly roll the appropriate number of d6's. Reflex vs DC14 for half damage.
Wynn Wednesday January 4th, 2006 10:12:34 PM
The bard stands ready with his longsword in hand.
Belkior (AC 22; Hp 48) Detect Undead Thursday January 5th, 2006 8:41:44 AM
The halfling cleric stands ready, continuing to concentrate on the three undead that he detected in the long grass. That fourth one, lurking somewhere off to the side, concerns Belkior.
Belkior maintains his Detect Undead spell, thinking that it may be needed if these things have some ability to hide or conceal themselves from normal vision. His mace hangs at his side since Belkior feels that his healing or spellcasting ability may be more beneficial than any damage he might cause.
"I'll hold off trying to turn them until we've judged their combat ability. If I just scare them off we might have to face them again."
Syr AC 20/19 HP 68 Thursday January 5th, 2006 4:35:17 PM
Syr prepares himself for anything that comes and waits patiently by Famina. "Let's see what we are up against."
DM George "kaboom" Combat round 1 5d6(4+3+6+3+6)=22 d20+2=22 d20+2=7 d20+2=8 Thursday January 5th, 2006 8:23:30 PM
Xenia throws her ball and an the awaited explosion occurs. A wave of heat assaults the group and only pity can be felt for whatever might have been caught in the blast. The grasses are burned away to reveal 3 ghouls. 2 are crispy and will never bother anyone again but the 3rd seems to have survived the explosion. It stands their blinking in surpise and pain as most of its body is covered in burns.
The grasses are now on fire in a nice circle centered on where the blast occurred. The fires are low for now but they could threaten the house and fields if allowed to burn on their own.
Belkior sees 1 flash of the undead to his right. Not sure if it was the same flash or a different one.
Please everyone make a spot check dc 30
Lang (ac 22; hp 80/80) & Sunshine (ac 22; hp 47/47) d20+14=20 d6+6=9 d20+8=10 d20+6=20 Thursday January 5th, 2006 10:00:41 PM
Seeing the Undead creature momentarily stunned, Lang moves forward and strikes the vile creature with a viscious strike from his short sword.
Hit AC 20; Damage 9.
If he killed the creature, Lang will look around for more Undead, but he is distracted by the bodies at his feet.
Spot 8 (should have been +6) Listen 18
Spells: Speak with Animals (cast and inactive) Longstrider
Matt C. Thursday January 5th, 2006 10:07:39 PM
I am willing to try being ADM on a trial basis. I do not forsee any problems being ADM on a permanent basis, but I want to reserve the right to back out.
Matt C.
Wynn [AC=19, HP=52] d20+6=25 d20+2=20 d20+9=17 d8+3=11 Thursday January 5th, 2006 10:08:15 PM
Wynn does not notice Belkior's elusive 4th undead foe and instead focuses his attention on the remaining ghoul [Spot=25; close but not close enough].
If Wynn thinks the fire has subsided enough to not cause him damage and the ghoul is within range of his spring attack(20feet) he will dart in, slash at the miserable creature, and dart back towards the party [Hit AC=17 for 11 damage; Int check to judge the situation=20].
Otherwise the bard simply holds his ground and waits for the ghoul to approach.
Famina (AC 21, hp 78/78) d20+11=31 d8=2 d20+1=15 Friday January 6th, 2006 5:57:27 AM
As it seems two others have gone first, it is very unlikely Famina will get her chance. Still, she moves anyways, and if the thing is still standing, takes a hack. She's amazed as her sword goes right through the creature, which would normally be a stunning hit, but to the undead it's only as effective as anything else. She removes her sword by ptting her foot on its chest and tugging it out with a Huff. (6 damage) Then she looks around. "Well...now we need to put out the fire." (Spot 15) is there a well or any other source of water nearby? (Btw, my computer doesn't accept XLS thigns... shoulda probably given notice before. But my othr computer does so I'll take a gander at the map again at work tomorrow)
Belkior (AC 22; HP 48) - Detect Undead d20+5=17 d20+8=23 Friday January 6th, 2006 7:17:53 AM
The halfling cleric fails to notice anything specific about the area, probably because his concentration is beign spent on maintaining the detection spell. Spot = 17
Belkior tries to recognize the undead and remember their weaknesses, successfully remembering them from his lessons in the Temple. Knowledge Religion = 23 (assuming that the ghouls have fewer than 13 HD)
"They're ghouls! Their bite and claws can cause disease or paralyze you!"
Belkior then turns towards the other undead that he has sensed.
"There's another over this way. I'm going to try to pinpoint it's location. Do you want to move forward together, Angus?"
Looking over at the sorcerer, Belkior will look for direction. If Angus moves forward, Belkior will move with him.
Actions Standard = concentrate on spell Move = hld for Angus' direction
Angus mage armor & detect magic d20+2=18 Friday January 6th, 2006 7:55:13 AM
Angus watches the fireball go off with a smile and it gets wider when the warriors move in to finish off the third ghoul. Angus is alert (spot 18) but does not spot any other advesaries.
Angus looks at the small fires and announces "Lets put out the fires by the house. It actually may be a good idea to burn the fields. Fire has a way of clensing. Anyone have a torch to try to light the fields." Angus surveys the area and asks. "Does anyone think the buildings will be in danger if we light the nasty fields on fire?"
If the ghoul is dead and the field on fire Angus will hold the group to watch to see if any of our actions get a reaction. If not and the buildings seem safe from fire we can move clockwise in buddy formation around the house in search mode using Belkior's detect undead and my detect magic to sense the precense of others.
Xenia d20+18=33 d20+13=30 Friday January 6th, 2006 8:29:24 AM Whoa ... bigger fireball than I thought it was gonna be.
"Got Torches, Angus!" Xenia calls out. But let the fire burn on it's own for now. The torches remain in the rogue's pack. Instead, remaining at Wynn's side, her keen eyes quickly roll across the visible landscape.
"HEY! WHAT'S THAT!?!?!?"
Rolls and Actions Spot 33 (I dreamed of getting a 14 last night) Listen 30 (just in case)
DM George Friday January 6th, 2006 12:04:57 PM
OK thanks for your interest Mikey but I think Matt C. is able to do it for a long term basis than you are.
Al, can you email Matt and tell him his responsiblities for post counting and the report you need. Thanks.
Syr d20+8=13 Friday January 6th, 2006 5:20:45 PM
The illuminates a grin on the monk's face, "Nice toss Xenia!" He moves with Famina closer to the house to extinguish the fires. He whirls around at Xenia's comment, ready for a threat.
Ashlan Sinclair d20+10=30 d20+10=17 d20+5=11 d20+10=30 d20+10=26 d8+8=10 d8+8=15 d4+7=10 Friday January 6th, 2006 7:58:22 PM
Ashlan moves in to help Lang if there is any life left in the ghoul anyway and slashes at it with his longsword both times and once with his kukri.
(can hit AC:30(crit:17) 11 and 30(crit:26) Damage:10. 15. 10)
DM George d3=2 Saturday January 7th, 2006 8:00:56 PM
Lang moves in with grace and quickness that seems surprising in such a large form. We a quick thrust of his sword, which looks small in his large hands finishes off the ghoul before it can react.
He finds himself off balance suddenly as he is staring down at a pit in the ground. Between the grass, flame, and nwo smoke he didn't immediately notice it at first. Roll dex check dc 15 to fall into the pit. If you fall in take 2d6 falling damage and 1d6 piercing damage from bones found on the bottom of the pit/grave?
Both Wynn and Famina find themselves in the same situation as Lang. They both move into launch attacks on the unfortunate ghoul and find themselves stumbling toward the hole in the ground. Same saves and damage that Lang had above please.
Xenia at the last minute notices and calls out a warning to the others but the first three had moved to quickly for her to warn effectively. Still her warnings help both Syr and Ashlan. It seems this area has more than one grave. Syr stumbles towards the a second and Ashlan towards the same one. Xenia's warning helps though and they only need a dex check of 10 to avoid falling.
Wynn d20+9=11 2d6(4+4)=8 d6=2 Sunday January 8th, 2006 9:38:24 AM
Wynn's arms momentarily windmill as he attempts to catch his balance before he topples into the pit. Fortunately the ring of featherfall slows his fall and he gently comes to rest at the bottom of the pit. The bard lets out a yell of frustration as he fails to avoid the gaping hole in the ground "AAARGH!"
[OOC: Used a reflex save vs a dex check since this is a bit more like a pitfall trap, didn't matter anyway, a natural 2 is a natural 2! Not sure if I take any damage from this given the ring if so 2d6=8 and 1d6=2]
Lang (ac 22; hp 80/80) & Sunshine (ac 22; hp 47/47) d20+3=15 Sunday January 8th, 2006 11:39:06 AM
Lang's shortsword thrust is enough to kill the undead creature. As the creature slumps back into the pit it came from, Lang realizes the precarious position he is in. He stumbles in the loose earth and falls to the ground, thankful not to fall in the pit (dex check 15).
Rising from the ground, Lang sees Wynn fall past him into the pit, before Lang can warn him. Xenia's shouts a warning before Lang can even turn to the rest of the group to warn them.
Spells: Speak with Animals (cast and inactive) Longstrider
Famina (AC 21, hp 68/78) d20+2=11 3d6(5+6+2)=13 Sunday January 8th, 2006 1:26:49 PM
Suddenly the ground shifts, and Famina uncertainly tumbles forward. (Even with my barbarian's reflex bonus vs. traps I wouldn't make this roll) With a most un-warrior-like "Eeeeeeep!", like a little girl rather than a scared woman, the blonde tumbles forward into the pit. Her dense armor and tough training naturally avoid some of the scuffle, but she still gets a spike in the thigh. She gets up, cursing as she gingerly finds footing. "This area must be full of such pits... What could this farm be growing? Graves?" She sounds more annoyed than in pain.
Xenia d20=12 d20+18=27 d20+13=19 Sunday January 8th, 2006 10:31:23 PM Fram. Too late. Why is it everyone always wants to run in and poke something with, like, a blade and stuff?
"Lang!" The dark rogue pulls a coil of rope out of her haversack and swings her arm wide to get momentum into her toss. "Catch!" She tosses it out to the Bugbear ranger, the guy on the scene. "In case the guys need help getting out."
"Hey Belkie, any more of those undead things out there?"
"Hey Angus, I think if there are more out there, they're gonna maybe hit us now, while we got guys down in those holes." She turns her senses outward for a sound or movement that might give them away.
Rolls and Actions Str 12 to toss a coil of rope Spot 27 Listen 19
Belkior (AC 22; HP 48) Detect Undead d20+5=20 d20+6=15 Monday January 9th, 2006 7:43:14 AM
The halfling cleric continues to concentrate on his spell, trying to detect any undead within it's range. Belkior agrees with Xenia, that any assault is likely to occur while most of the fighter-types are stuck in holes.
Belkior points to where he had previously noted the stronger undead.
"Angus, that's the direction that I had spotted the stronger one. I don't see anything out there now." Spot = 20 Listen = 15
Then Belkior will make a quarter turn to move the spell area to another spot. If the pits, etc. were previously outside the detection area, turn to cover this area. Otherwise, either left or right to cover the buildings.
Belkior will call out to his companions, "I don't notice anything else right now. I'm still looking, though."
Realizing what has happened to his companions, Belkior speaks to Angus. "Remind me to check anyone who was injured by falling into the grave. Who knows what diseases might be in there."
The halflign healer is fretting over what might have happened to his companions.
Actions Standard = concentrate on spell Move = hld for Angus' direction
Angus - mage Armor & Detect Magic d20+2=14 Monday January 9th, 2006 8:53:16 AM
Angus curses under his breath as he did not want a full commitment here and now. "Lets get Wynn out of the pit and fast. Xenia you have rope right?"
Angus looks at the sun again and then at the group. "Lang cover Wynn and Famina with your bow and everyone look sharp. There is another nasty around here somewhere."
Angus readies empowered magic missile as he scans the area. (spot 14)
Syr d20+5=14 Monday January 9th, 2006 4:21:33 PM
Stopping at the edge of the pit, the elf cathes himself. (dex 14) Hurrying to Famina, he grimaces while looking at her size. "Ash a little help please?" He tosses one end of a rope down to her and helps pull his partner from the pit.
(OOC: Not sure but shouldn't syr's +4 str bonus take precedence over an aid another bonus? also, I lost my motherboard so I'm pretty close on Syr's stats for the next few weeks, feel free to correct)
Ashlan Sinclair d20+2=7 Monday January 9th, 2006 7:14:51 PM
Ashlan growls to himself when falls into the grave with Wynn and breaks a small smile as he looks to the other man and jokingly comments to him in hopes to lighten the fact that he landed in the grave to, "I hope we aren't this quick to jump into our own grave my new friend."
Ashlan only hopes as he falls in he also doesn't find a grace that is deeper then normal either.
ADM Matt C. 2d6(4+2)=6 d6=3 Tuesday January 10th, 2006 12:10:41 AM
Map info using the map George sent out the other day:
Fireball blast area was roughly from cells Q4 to T7 on the map. Figure at this point the fires have spread outwards through the grass 1 to 3 feet in all directions. Within this area, and possibly in the grassy areas not affected by the fireball, there are holes/graves sites.
The 3 ghouls appeared to have been laying in the grass near the holes but not in them. The ground around each hole is very soft and does not seem too stable.
Lang is standing in R4 and Wynn and Famina have fallen into the grave that roughly covers R4/R5. Wynn no damage as your ring stopped your fall.
Syr is standing in S4 and Ashlan has fallen into the grave that roughly covers S4/S5. Ashlan you are by yourself in this hole and you took 6 points of falling damage and 3 points of piercing damage (from bones).
Belkior, Xenia and Angus are standing roughly in R1/S1 about 30 or so feet from the fighter of the group.
This is where we are at:
Lang standing in R4 with shortswords out and a rope at his feet. Syr standing in S4 and reaching for his rope. Famina & Wynn in one pit. Ashlan in another pit. Angus, Belkior & Xenia standing in R1/S1. Xenia having just thrown the rope to Lang, Belkior trying to detect undead and Angus with ready spell Magic Missile.
Remember each cell is 10' by 10'.
Post to follow.
ADM Matt C. d20+8=19 d20+8=20 d20+8=9 d20+8=27 Tuesday January 10th, 2006 1:17:17 AM
Angus, Xenia and Belkior all watch as the fighting force of the Crimson Shields rushes ahead to finish off the last of the 3 ghouls, leaving them all by themselves. They see all 5 struggle with the loose surface and are horrified when 3 disappear from view. The three all react to what happens, Xenia retrieves a rope and throws it to Lang, Angus readies one of his spells and Belkior tries to detect if there are more of the undead.
Warning bells go off in Belkior's head as his Detect Undead spell picks up Undead aura's approaching from either side and to the front. Belkior's noise also picks up the overwhelming smell of Ghast (Belkior, Angus and Xenia DC 15 Fort save versus Stench or be sickened for 1d6+4 minutes; also spot check 19 & 20 to see the Ghast's hiding in the grasses in Q1 & T1; Angus if you spot a Ghast you may fire your MM spell at it, regular spell only as you cannot ready a full round action which an empowered MM would be).
At the same time, Lang and Syr are also enveloped by the stink of death and corruption (stench save as above). Both Lang and Syr are able to see the Ghast that is manuevering to the top of a 3rd grave that roughly covers Q4/Q5 (spot check 27 to see the Ghast in a 4th grave that covers T4/T5).
Lang & Syr are able to see a Ghast and 2 Ghouls moving from the grass between the fireball area and the main house. The 3 undead move forward to the grave sites (on the opposite side of Lang and Syr in R6/S6; Angus, Xenia and Belkior can see these 3 also if there prior spot check is 20+; Angus you can fire your MM at these guys too if you see them and they are in range).
All three undead look down into the 2 pits containing the members of the Crimson Shields. The Ghast points to the pit containing Ashlan and appears to speak to the 2 Ghouls. The 2 Ghouls then disappear into the pit (the Ghouls will be at or near the bottom of the pit for your turn Ashlan). The Ghast then turns his attention to the other pit with Wynn and Famina.
OOC - The graves/pits are 20 feet deep and made of soft dirt, very unstable and littered with sharp bones at the bottom (pointed upwards as if done on purpose). To climb out of the pit takes a normal climb DC 25 check. You figure given enough time you could get out of a grave/pit with reduced climb checks.
Fighting in the graves/pits is also very hard. To not get any penalties to hit or to your armor class you are limited to just 1 swing/standard action. This counts as a full round action though as most of your time is spent staying upright. To fight a full round action you must make a Dex check DC 11 after each swing or fall down to the ground, take 1 point of piercing bone damage, lose the remainder of your actions and are prone.
OOC - It is late and I could not find anything concerning fighting on unstable ground. If this is out of line, point me in the right direction and I will modify.
ADM Matt C. (cont.) Tuesday January 10th, 2006 1:22:26 AM
As always (insert evil laugh) the Undead do not appear to have as much trouble navigating the unstable ground as you mere mortals do.
Wynn [AC=19; HP=52] d20+4=21 d20+5=16 d8+3=7 Tuesday January 10th, 2006 8:04:48 AM
Wynn casts his eyes about the pit, looking for an easy way out. Finding none he prepares to defend himself against the lurking ghast. "Try to keep it between us Famina" he calls out and repositions himself to make sure the ghast is surrounded should it descend into the pit. If it does, the bard will strike at it with his longsword.
[OOC Fighting defensively: effective AC=21, Held action Hit AC=16 for 7 HP, Dex=21]
Angus - Mage Armor & Detect Magic d20+2=18 d20+2=11 Tuesday January 10th, 2006 8:46:54 AM
Angus curses his luck again as the recon plan is degrading into battle. Angus get a whiff of the stench of death and the bile rises in his throat, but he is able to maintain his composure (fort save 18).
Angus is too concerned about his stomach to notice much (spot 11)and just yells to his companions "Kill any hostiles and get the Shields out of the pits!" Angus looks down at his scrape buddie and comments "Well we are in it now. Anything you have up your sleve for undead Belkior? I know they are out their but do not see any."
Belkior (AC 22; HP 48) d20+14=29 d20+5=19 d20+3=13 2d6(5+3)+8=16 Tuesday January 10th, 2006 9:36:41 AM
The halfling cleric baerly notices the scent of the ghasts - maybe all those years working in the anatomy classroom have some practical benefits. Fort = 29
"There's another of them!", Belkior shouts. He points towards the ghast next to himself, Angus and Xenia. Spot = 19, not quiet enough to see all of them
"I'm going to buy us some time, Angus!"
Belkior ceases concentrating on his spell and forms his hands into the symbol of Alemi. He intones a quick prayer and summons the positive energy of the God of Healing to repel the undead creatures approaching them. See below for Turning results
"Get them out of the holes so we can fight together! Those ghasts are going to be back in 10 rounds or so!"
Looking to his battle buddy, Belkior calms a little bit. "Angus, I can either cast Consecrate to assist us when these things come back. Or, I can cast Hide from Undead to allow us to get out of here."
As he speaks, Belkior is drawing a pouch of silver dust and some holy water together in order to cast Consecrate.
Actions Standard = Turn Undead - Turning Check = 13 (undead up 8 HD affected) - Turning damage = 16 HD total of undead turned - Undead with 3 or fewer HD are destroyed - affects undead within 60', starting with nearest until a total of 16 HD have been affected Move = retrieve spell components
Please send me a new character sheet. I know your 7th level but for some reason, I can find your updated sheet. Take a look at the rules board. I have started a discussion their on turning that might interest you. Right now I am only going to give you +5 on your damage, assuming your a 4th level cleric. George
Xenia (AC20, HP 42/42) d20+3=16 d20+18=35 d20+13=17 d20+10=19 d6=5 d6=4 Tuesday January 10th, 2006 11:04:35 AM
"Stars!" Xenia covers her mouth with a gloved hand and fights a reflex to gag. "It's worse than Trash Level."
"Both sides!" the rogue shouts the warning half a second after the halfling cleric. "We got 'em comin' on both sides of the road!"
Her hand dips into a pouch of her haversack and comes back with a flask of alchemist's fire. With an overhand lob, she drops it on top of the critter on the western side of the road. Then she makes a quick five-foot adjustment to place herself more in the center of the road and away from the sides.
"Wynn! Wynn, you alright?"
Question Shouldn't the undead take damage from fall when they go down into the pits? Or at least have to take the time to climb down, in which case they would lose Dex to AC.
Rolls and Actions Fort Save 16 (Saved) Spot 35 Listen 17 Ranged Attack vs Western Ghast, Hit AC19 Damage Alchemist Fire 5hp Damage Alchemist Fire 2nd round 4hp
I went over Matt's description and placed everyone I could on the map. I'm still not sure of the dimensions of the pits, so I did not draw them in.
Famina Tuesday January 10th, 2006 1:23:06 PM
OOC: I don't think undead should suffer any penalties here in the graveyard, going through the graves or whatnot. It's their natural habitat. And, given time as the DM said, we'd have no problems navigating. The real problem is familiarity with terrain. Neat battle idea, too, I gotta admit.
Famina is paying attention to Syr as he moves to the edge of the pit and grabs a rope. Then his expression changes. She turns her upper body around awkwardly, glancing behind, and sees a hideous figure leering down from the top of the pit. Definitely undead, she thinks to herself. What should be the priorities? Getting out of here? Fighting the thing? Definitely. And drawing it's attention to her, so that they don't all go after the others. She tosses her head back, and turns awkwardly to face the ghast from the bottom of the pit. "Come on down here, you gravesucking parasite!" she lifts her shield and sword aside, presenting an inviting target to it while it stands far away.
(Readying an attack when it comes into range, if it does or any other undead do. +11 to hit, 1d8+4 damage)
Xenia - OoC Tuesday January 10th, 2006 1:42:50 PM
OOC: I don't think undead should suffer any penalties here in the graveyard, going through the graves or whatnot. It's their natural habitat. And, given time as the DM said, we'd have no problems navigating. The real problem is familiarity with terrain. Neat battle idea, too, I gotta admit.
I'm not sure that I understand this. Are you talking about my comment about the pits, Mikey? Maybe there's something that I don't know about the Undead type. Isn't a Pit a Pit and a Fall a Fall? Regardless of whether it's in a graveyard or not, shouldn't they have to either climb down or fall the 20 feet in? And, if they climb, don't they lose Dex to AC same as anything else that doesn't have a Climb speed?
Or is there something that I don't know about undead?
George Tuesday January 10th, 2006 8:33:16 PM
(OOC Matt I am swamped tonight with real life. If you can post, that would be great. Otherwise folks, I will post in the mornng.)
ADM Matt C. Tuesday January 10th, 2006 9:40:19 PM
A few clarifications:
The graves/pits are about 8'-12' wide and 12'-16' long. The sides are not vertical, but are severely sloped (think Princess Bride or an extreme ski hill). Climbing down into a grave is alot easier than climbing up, assuming you don't fall into one. It is even easier for the undead with their claws and lack pain/awareness.
Can anyone tell me where to find out the effects of Stench/Sicken? I cannot find it under Ghast, in the MM glossary or the PHB.
Xenia - OoC Tuesday January 10th, 2006 10:11:13 PM
Sickened is in the Condition Summary in the DMG. Page 301:
The character takes a -2 penalty on all attack rolls, weapon damage rolls, saving throws, skill checks, and ability checks. "
Ashlan Sinclair-AC:19-HP:53/63 d20+2=7 d20+10=16 d20+10=27 d8+8=14 d4+7=10 Tuesday January 10th, 2006 11:04:20 PM
(gee the dice roller loves me of late.)
Ashlan hates the position he is in and never expected to be in a grave full of sharp bones as enemies were trying to kill him or anyone else for that matter. When the ghoul comes into the grave after him he swings his mithril longsword at the ghoul. However he has trouble keeping his footing and still falls after the swing.
(Rolled my Dex first and accidently did Ashlan's kukri hit so ignore the second d20 and the d4. Can hit AC:16 Damage:14 Dex:7 I already took into acount the 1 damage from falling on the bones also.)
Syr (AC20/19 HP 67/68 T5) d20+11=27 d20+11=18 d20+6=15 d20+5=19 d20+5=23 d20+5=6 d10+4=6 d10+4=11 d10+4=12 Tuesday January 10th, 2006 11:19:03 PM
Syr gasps at the ghasts appearing around Famina and drops the rope. Quickly sliding down the hill, he moves to Ashlan's left (5' T5).
"Let me take the brunt of the ghouls, time to test my elven heritage." He balances precariously amoung the bones while attacking ghast #4. Upon landing the last blow, he stumbles and falls on his stomach in front of the creature. Attack 27,18,15, dex save 19,23,uhoh damage 6,11,12 OOC: Thanks for the map Al!
Lang d20+8=27 d20+8=22 d6+7=12 d20+8=11 d20+6=25 d20+6=14 d20+6=25 d6+7=8 d6+7=12 d6+7=11 d6+7=11 Tuesday January 10th, 2006 11:35:11 PM
Lang sees his new buddy Ashlan fall into the pit and then a more enemies appear. Lang decides to take out the Ghast (#3) directing traffic and moves over to engage. Lang shrugs off the stench of the creature (fort 27) and sinks his short sword deep into its chest (12 damage)
If Lang get a full round of attacks the other 3 are as follows:
AC 11 miss? damage 8 AC 25 critical 25 damage 23 AC 14 miss? damage 11
ADM Matt C. Wednesday January 11th, 2006 9:44:56 AM
I will try to post at lunch time.
DM George "A sprinkle a day, keeps odor away!..." d20+5=22 d20+3=17 d20+3=20 d8+3=9 d20+5=16 2d6(1+6)=7 d20+5=6 d20+2=3 d20=14 d20=8 Wednesday January 11th, 2006 10:59:44 AM
OOC "Trying to decipher where everyone is after Matt did it for the day. Thanks Matt, nice job!"
Wynn and Syr are in pit waiting for a the ghast to enter and engage them.
Angus is rallying his troops and giving orders but takes no other actions.
Belkior calls upon the spirit of his god and turns the ghast 1 and 2 causing them to flee.
Before the can run, Xenia hits one with Alchemst fire catching the vile undead aflame and doing 5 points of damage.
Ashlan in his pit faces 2 ghouls. He chops one down efficiently and without bother but still has one left.
Lang has to move 10' and engages Ghast #3. He sticks his sword into it with a meatly thunk.
******************************
Ghast 1 and 2 run off moaning, one dripping fire into the grasses as it runs.
Ghast 3 attacks Lang with bite and claw but only connects with the bite. Lang takes 9 points of damage and must make two fort saves. The first against paralazation dc 15 and the second against ghoul fever dc 15. Both saves are charisma based not consitution.
Ghast 5 snarls down at Famina and Syr and jumps into the pit trying to land on Famina and bite her. She sees this and backs up causing the ghast to miss, but spoiling her ready attack. The ghast hits hard and takes 7 points of falling damage. (ooc I thought about giving you the ready attack and having the ghast jump on you and give you both falling damage but decided to do it this way. Sorry to make a unilateral decision but wanted to keep the action moving)
Ghast 4 darts forward toward Angus and tries to bite him. The ghast misses badly (natural one) but is at T2.
Ghoul 7 attacks Ashlan with a full attack but is totally ineffective against the mercanaries armor and misses with everything.
Ghast 1 on fire running away Ghast 2 running away Ghast 3 wounded Ghast 4 unwounded Ghast 5 wounded Ghoul 6 dead Ghoul 7 unwounded
Al - Map Round 02 Wednesday January 11th, 2006 11:37:35 AM Latest Map
Things are a bit crowded. Don't think I'll be able to draw in the outlines of the pits.
I didn't know in which direction you wanted Ghast 1 and 2 to flee, so I simply took the most direct route away from all nearby opponents and went out 60 feet.
If you move, please indicate a square. Also please use a convetion of
North = Up on the Map; South = Down on the Map; West = Left of the Map; East = Right of the Map.
Xenia (AC23, HP 42/42) d20+7=20 d6=1 d20+18=29 d20+13=14 Wednesday January 11th, 2006 12:04:21 PM Fight on the defense. Buy time. Buy space.
"Back up Angus! I got him!" The dark rogue moves in. Her slim rapier hisses from it's sheath, but does no more than poke a small hole in the undead critter's arm.
Her eyes dart around, watchful for the approach of others. She listens for approach through the brush. But the sounds of combat, and the beating of her own heart rings too loudly in her ears.
"Wynn?!?" She calls out, her voice filled with concern.
Rolls and Actions Fighting Defensively +3 to AC, -4 to Hit Hit Ghast4 AC20, Damage 1hp Spot 29 Listen 14 (Nat 1)
Position and Movement Move to directly South of Angus S1/2
Angus - Mage Armor & Detect Magic HP 28 6d4(1+1+4+4+2+3)+6=21 Wednesday January 11th, 2006 12:41:00 PM
"Where did he come from!?" As a ghast practically stumbles into him. Angus takes Xenia's advice and backs up 5 feet and attempts to aid her. Angus empowers a magic missile and six balls of force slam into the vile undead creature for 21 damage.
Angus also see the two ghasts running away and looks to Belkior. "Where will those two run to? Is it best to pursue immediately or come back later to finish them off?
Angus see the grand melee forming in front of him and calls out. "Knock them down quick and help those in the pits. Make sure the critters are redead."
Spell Slots:
0 level 2/6 1 level 1/8 2 level 0/7 3 level 1/5
Belkior (AC 22; HP 48) d20+3=6 Wednesday January 11th, 2006 1:40:07 PM OOC - I completely overlooked that PrC's don't add to cleric levels for purposes of turning. Belkior hould have been able to turn the third ghast.
I'll send a character sheet tonight. Please let me know if you do not receive it.
The halfling cleric looks about, wondering where these additional undead came from. They must have been hiding beneath the ground or something similar that blocked Alemi's power.
In response to Angus' question, Belkior mutters. "They'll run for a bit, then come back if they still want a piece of us. Let's deal with what is here, first."
Seeing that two ghasts were still on surface, Belkior again calls for Alemi's power to repel these foul creatures. However, his confidence wasn't really in it and he cannot affect the undead.
He moves forward, dropping the spell components and drawing his mace as he moves. He positions himself to provide Xenia with an opportunity to flank the ghast.
Actions Standard = Turn Undead (check = 6, undead up 1 HD affected) Free - drop components, draw mace Move - to flank Ghast 4
DM George Corrections Wednesday January 11th, 2006 3:13:22 PM
Sigh see what happens when you try and do a quickie combat post...Mistakes!
First thing, the fort saves are versus your consitution not charisma. Roll as normal.
Second- I totally forgot Syr in my post. Syr would have only gotten one attack after his movement. If he moved next to Ashlan, he is attacking a ghoul, not a ghast which he wounds for 6 points of damage.
Al what you did with the fleeing ghasts was fine. The ghast in the vineyard most like can't be seen anymore as the plants are in the way and tall enough to cover him. The one in the cotton field is moving through the field without difficulty. The thorns and prickles don't seem to be bothering him.
Famina (68/78, AC 21) d20+7=8 d20+2=16 d6=2 d20+9=11 d20+4=18 d8+2=8 d20+7=25 d20+2=7 d6=5 d6=6 Wednesday January 11th, 2006 4:42:14 PM
(No probs with that interpretation, dmdude) Gracefully she steps back, skillfully weaving midst the stakes and rocks, fighting on the balls of her feet. The creature thumps to the ground before her, and she lifts her sword up, ready to dart in to attack. BLAH! The stench of the thing hits her and causes her to backup, even while the thing looks somewhat angrily up from its stake-impaled foot. (I'm going to be sickened for 6 minutes x.x) (Made dex check dc 16) Noxious fumes make her hawkish nose wrinkle and sword arm hesitate, and the first strike is readily avoided by the ghast as it rises. But using quick footing, she steps forward and shoves the sword up into its gut. (8 damage) Quickly the barbarian shoves her shield forward, and the lion face upon it roars and twists to bite into the ghast's side. (11 damage from the shield) She pulls back her sword and returns to ready position, her shield growling a lion's protective warning.
Wynn [AC=19; HP=52] d20+4=12 d20+5=15 d20+11=26 d20+7=19 d8+3=9 d8+3=9 Wednesday January 11th, 2006 7:26:13 PM
Wynn steps behind the ghast, carefully avoiding the sharpened bones [Dex=12]. Ignoring the creature's foul stench [Fort=15], he slashes at the undead creature from a flanking position. [Hit AC=26 and 19 if flanking for 9+9 HP]
The sound of his blade slicing through the decayed and shriveled flesh brings hope to the bard.
"Don't worry" he calls up from the pit, "Famina and I will look after this one!"
Syr (HP 68, AC 20/19) d20+11=13 d20+5=19 d20+11=22 d20+5=11 d20+6=20 d20+5=16 d10+4=13 d10+4=14 d10+4=14 Wednesday January 11th, 2006 7:45:56 PM
Attacking the ghoul with ferocity, he lands several blows on the uneven ground (Attack 13,22,20 Dex 19,11,16 Damage 13,14,14 Amazing rolls)
"Ashlan, help the others, don't worry about this one."
OOC: Thanks George, I'm so unloved :)
DM George d20+5=13 d20+3=5 d20+3=4 d20+5=20 d20+3=4 d20+3=17 Wednesday January 11th, 2006 10:55:34 PM
Angus steps back and fires a powerful magic missile at the ghast attacking him and Xenia pokes at it doing slight damage. Unfortunately it is still up.
Belkior tries to turn the beasts again but can't seem to summon the proper focus. Must be the horrible smell distracting him. He readies an attack for next round.
Famina and Wynn cut down the remaining ghast in their pit working well together. (Wonder if Xenia is gonna get jealous?)
Ashlan seems dazzled by the ghouls attack but Syr steps in and with devasting blows strikes down the ghoul killing it.
Lang fighting against the poison does nothing this round as the ghast nasty attacks from last round seem to stun the large ranger.
********************************************* Ghast 4 looks at the tall human who hurt him so badly. It is time to tear out his liver and feast. It leaps in and snaps its jaws only to have them close on air. It swings with one grimy claw and then the other but misses with everything.
Ghast 3 swings at the quiet bugbear but can't seem to press home his advantage. All of his attacks are deflected by the Lang's armor.
Ghast 1 and 2 keep running moving another 60' one going east and the other west.
Ghast 4 Ghast 1 on fire running away Ghast 2 running away Ghast 3 wounded Ghast 4 badly wounded Ghast 5 dead Ghoul 6 dead Ghoul 7 dead
Lang (ac 22; hp 71/80) & Sunshine (ac 22; hp 47/47) d20+11=24 d20+11=16 d20+12=21 d20+12=25 d20+7=13 d20+7=27 d20+7=19 d6+7=8 d6+7=10 2d6(1+2)+14=17 Wednesday January 11th, 2006 11:48:37 PM
OOC - Sorry about the missed post - had to work late.
Lang's body tries to fight off the effects from the bite and is successful on both.
Fort Save Paralysis - 24. Fort Save Ghoul Fever - 16.
Lang swings with his short swords at the Ghast in front of him, hoping to end his undead life as quickly as possible.
Hit AC's 21, 25, 13 & 27 (19 crit). Damage 8, 10 & 17 for a total of 35.
Spells: Speak with Animals (cast and inactive) Longstrider
Ashlan Sinclair-AC:19-HP:53/63 d20+4=18 Thursday January 12th, 2006 1:09:36 AM
Ashlan breathes a quick thanks for his armor and is glad the Syr came to his aid as he decides his better try and get out of the pit, placing his weapons in their sheathes he begins the hard climb out, taking his time as to not fall back in and hurt himself or Syr.
Before trying to climb out he calls over to Syr, "Thanks for the backup Syr, I owe you one really. Maybe a drink or two if we make it back to a town after all this is over."
(climb DC:18)
Angus Mage Armor & Detect magic d20+4=21 d20+4=23 4d6(6+5+1+3)=15 4d6(5+3+2+6)=16 Thursday January 12th, 2006 8:14:45 AM
Angus is appalled that this undead creature is still trying to eat him. "Enough of this." The frustrated Sorcerer says to no one in particular as he steps back 5 more feet and sends two scorching rays at the beast.
Ray 1 AC 21 15 damage Ray 2 AC 23 16 damage
Looking at his handiwork on the ghast Angus exclaims. "Well that should do it."
Angus looks to Belkior and then the rest of the group. "Get everyone out of the pits and over here to Belkior. We need Belkior to inspect all wounds. This area is unclean."
Angus whispers to Xenia and Belkior. "I think we need more silver based weapons as they are good at hurting undead. Unless we are already stocked and I do not know it?"
Spell Slots:
0 level 2/6 1 level 1/8 2 level 1/7 3 level 1/5
Xenia (AC23, HP 42/42) d20+9=28 d6=5 d20+18=21 d20+13=17 Thursday January 12th, 2006 8:15:27 AM
Still ducking and weaving, Xenia shuffles five feet into a flanking position. As the ugly's head turns, her blade pierces it just under the jaw and through its throat. On a normal person that would really hurt.
"Somebody hit him again!" she shouts. "He ain't standing up much longer!"
Fammie ... Good enough. The rogue gives a mental shrug.
"Lay down and die, you." she hisses at the creature of ungodly-awful-smell.
Rolls and Actions Fighting Defensively +3 to AC, -4 to Hit Hit Ghast4 AC28, Damage 5hp (Dang, would have been a crit too.) Spot 21 Listen 17
Position and Movement Move into T1 opposite Angus
Al - Map Round 03 Thursday January 12th, 2006 9:27:52 AM Latest Map
Belkior (AC 22; HP 48) d20+5=16 d4=2 Thursday January 12th, 2006 12:42:03 PM
The halfling cleric had previously moved into position to attack the ghast threatening Angus. After seeing the effects of the spell that the sorcerer cast, Belkior wasn't all that inspired to hit the ghast. Still he shuffles over a bit ensure that he and Xenia still flank the creature.
After bashing the undead thing, he cleans his weapon and then sheathes it.
"Once everyone is here, I'll check them out. Can't be too careful with these things. Were you hurt at all, Angus?", Belkior asks.
Actions Attack = hit AC16 (18 if flanking), 2 hps Move equivalent = sheathe weapon
Famina d20+2=6 Thursday January 12th, 2006 2:18:54 PM
Famina lifts her sword to her head in a salute to Wynn. "Good job!" she heartily calls to him, then turns her attention to the other ghast, just nearby. She eyes the ground and shuffles forward, but a loose bit of ground hides a spike! She steps on it and stops completely. Her face goes very red and she holds her tongue with great effort as she lifts her foot up and carefully pulls out a long bloody nail out of the bottom of her boot. (Failed my dex save!)
Famina d20+2=6 Thursday January 12th, 2006 2:19:10 PM
Famina lifts her sword to her head in a salute to Wynn. "Good job!" she heartily calls to him, then turns her attention to the other ghast, just nearby. She eyes the ground and shuffles forward, but a loose bit of ground hides a spike! She steps on it and stops completely. Her face goes very red and she holds her tongue with great effort as she lifts her foot up and carefully pulls out a long bloody nail out of the bottom of her boot. (Failed my dex save!)
Famina (add-on, hp 68/78, AC 21) Thursday January 12th, 2006 2:21:38 PM
ooc: Thought occured to me, with my damage resistance of 3/-, I won't actually be hurt by the spike. But i assume I still lose my actions.
Wynn [AC=19; HP=52] d20+11=27 d4+2=3 Thursday January 12th, 2006 8:33:53 PM
Satisfied that the ghast that had joined them in the pit will bother nobody else, Wynn turns to his attention to Lang's foe above. The bard slips a dagger from his boot and hurls it at the ghast. The hours of practise pay off as the dagger flips over once and strikes it's target [Hit AC=27 for 3 HP, should still hit, even with penalties for throwing into melee, range increment and perhaps partial cover from lip of pit]
DM George "End of Combat" Thursday January 12th, 2006 10:24:56 PM
Angus out of outrage from being attacked burns his ghast down into a crisp. The ghast will bother no one again. Xenia's and Belkior's actions are unnecessary but appreciated.
Lang takes a effective but more primial approach to his foe. He cuts it into little pieces. His ghast is missing limbs after his attack and is also dead.
The ghasts that Belkior turned are long gone but still out there somewhere, though the small fire trail might lead you to one of them.
The grasses are still burning from the fireball and the oil sending up smoke into the air. A light breeze is fanning the flames threatening a large out break. If they get into the cotton fields, things could get interesting.
Angus Mage Armor & Detect magic Friday January 13th, 2006 8:54:05 AM
Angus kicks the burnt out husk of what was the Ghast and comments to Belkior "I am fine besides that horrible feeling that still remains after being in the cotton field."
Angus calls to everyone as he move forward toward where Land is standing over the redead ghast. "Lets keep our eyes open and get these fires under control. We will then pull back and take stock of our supplies to fight undead. Who has silver and magic weapons? We may have to head back to Plateau City and reequip. Does anyone still have a bad feeling after being in the cotton field, we may need some restoration spells? Belkior can you provide?
Angus looks down at Belkior. "We may want to visit the Temple of Alemi to see what else we can learn about the farm and undead in general. There may be a greater evil here as I do not understand the happenings of the cotton field."
Angus looks to Xenia "We may want to go shopping for more silver weapons at the catacombs. We can invest from the resurrection fund and cash them in later if not needed."
"Lets have those suggestions people. The light is dying and we are not staying anywhere close to this place at night." Angus finishes anxiously. "some kind of fixer upper." Angus mutters under his breath.
Belkiro (AC 22; HP 48) d8+5=6 Friday January 13th, 2006 9:57:35 AM
The halfling cleric looks over his companions, trying to identify who has been injured by the undead. When Angus moves forward to Lang, Belkior will as well. First he picks up the dropped spell components, however.
"Don't forget that those two ghasts that I sent off will be back in half a minute or so."
When Belkior reaches Lang, the Healer examines the big ranger's wounds. He is intent on treating the wound, not on getting people from the pits or fighting the grass fire.
"Lang, can you bend down for a moment? Ahhh, these ghoul or ghast bites can be quite nasty. Maybe I should dress and clean the wound later, when we have time. In the meantime, I can provide some curing."
Belkior mutters the prayer to Alemi that grants healing magic, casting a Cure Light Wounds on Lang. The bugbear's wounds are nearly completely healed.
Xenia Friday January 13th, 2006 10:00:14 AM
Xenia lifts her hand up and opens her palm, exposing the Silver Sling bullet that she still holds.
"I got ten of these, Angus," she says before slipping the Silver Bullet back into her haversack. "But, if you're looking at Silver Weapons, I heard of this stuff that you can put on your weapon. Silversheen. Wouldn't cost as much as changing out all our weapons. Less trouble too."
"Hey, Belkie, I mean, if we're talking Vampires, can'cha hurt them with magic weapons? I mean, what is there you can't hurt with a magic weapon, huh?"
From her haversack she drags six torches. The two shovels make a reappearance too. With a clatter, they all go onto the ground.
"There's some stuff, Angus," Xenia calls over her shoulder as she picks her way through the pit infested front lawn of the Manor House. "Torches for burning more grass. Shovels for putting out the fires we got already."
"Wynn! You alright?" Retrieving her rope, she tosses the coil down over the edge. She looks for someplace to anchor her end before calling out. "Hey, can someone help me hold this end so we can get 'em out of there?"
Famina Friday January 13th, 2006 2:08:46 PM
Famina takes her time, and hopefully get some rope assistance from the others, getting out. Then she turns her attention to the fires. She first wishes the mages could deal with it..after all, magic caused it. If not, however, she looks clueless about how to stop it herself. She begins a little search, not going too far from the group or out of sight at any time. (LOoking for buckets and/or a well)
Wynn d20+5=11 d20+6=24 d20+5=20 Friday January 13th, 2006 5:29:38 PM
Wynn grabs hold of the rope and clambers up the sidewall of the pit [climb=11]. "Everyone all right?" he asks. He gives Xenia a quick peck on the cheek and scans the area.
Wynn grabs a shovel and quickly starts digging fire breaks in front of the spreading fires by exposing swathes of mineral soil. The heat of the fire and the exertion of the work quickly bring a sheen of sweat to his lean muscles. The bard remains wary of any more partially hidden pits as he works. [Spot=24, Fort=20 for endurance to keep shovelling]
Syr (dex -1) Friday January 13th, 2006 6:46:28 PM
The elf groans when he sees the shovels, "Not more burying... now. I mean... let's let them rest a while before we do that? Would it be so bad to let the fire claim the bodies?" Relieved when Xenia mentions putting out the fire rather than grave digging, he lets out a breath of air and claims a shovel a bit guilty at his thoughts.
Crawling out of the pit, "I'm feeling a bit slower from those darn fields, boss but I'll be fine. Regardless, while we may regroup, I really think we should press our advantage now. If we return to the city, that also gives any vampire time to relocate or even restock from the neighboring plantations. Innocent lives hang in the balance if we turn tail."
Lang (ac 22; hp 77/80) & Sunshine (ac 22; hp 47/47) Friday January 13th, 2006 8:52:08 PM
Lang grabs the rope and helps Xenia pull everyone out of the graves.
He grabs a shovel and throws dirt on the fires to slow them down and keep them under control.
Lang sees Belkior for some healing. "Belkior that undead creature bit me pretty good. Other than he bite I feel fine. Can I expect some horrible disease or something?"
Spells: Speak with Animals (cast and inactive) Longstrider
DM George d20=2 d20=3 d20=6 d20=13 Saturday January 14th, 2006 9:59:33 AM
The group gets everyone organized and out of the pits. A quick fire brigade is formed and after a couple of minutes of shovelling, stamping and slapping the fires are gotten under control.
Belkior takes a look at Lang's wounds and casts his cure.
Xenia and Angus discuss tactics and look at weapons to decide which way to go. Angus thinks about heading back but others wisely say that the undead could prepare as well.
The Ghasts that were turned have not shown themselves in the few minutes. Could they be lying in wait somewhere or reporting in?
Angus - Mage Armor & Detect Magic Saturday January 14th, 2006 1:39:08 PM
After the fires are put out and Belkior has inspected everyone, Angus announces "Ok, we have a decision to make. We press our advantage now or pull back and resupply and return. Belkior and I have used up some spells already and Belkior could actually change his spells so that we have more advantage against undead. Besides Xenia, who else has silver or magic? We also need to see if Belkior can fix our losses from the cotton field. Syr is slower and I do not feel as confident. I do not know if anyone else feels strange also."
Angus looks into each Shields face. "We press or fall back. If we fall back we can either go back to Plateau City and resupply or just back a few hours and see if Belkior can restore us to full power. If we stay we need to be healed up now."
Angus pauses and the says. "I vote to fall back and go back to Plateau City, as I like Xenia's Silversheen idea. We will go with the majority."
Angus waits for the others suggestions and votes.
Syr (dex -1) Sunday January 15th, 2006 7:31:43 AM
Blinking in surprise at Angus' vote, he is reminded of their previous leader. Thinking to himself, 'wow, different styles, Florin would never have put it to a vote. There may be some hope for us yet.'
To Angus, "I'm just a hair off but maybe I can lend you some confidence? I believe in going forward not backward. We did well in this scurmish and the only thing slowing us down is the darn plants. Much like digging the graves, the faster you go, the sooner you are done."
Xenia Sunday January 15th, 2006 10:03:58 AM
The rogue spools the coil of the rope between her palm and elbow, then ties it off in the middle.
"I figure it must be getting close to evening, Angus," she says without even looking up at the sky. "Took us, what, bit more than half a day to get out here? We leave now, we'll be traveling back mostly in the dark. You gotta figure it's maybe six-eight miles. With the cart, probs be near midnight when we get to Plateau City. I'm not sure we'd be back here until about this time tomorrow. That's a long day, and some pretty hard marching. 'Member the time we marched out of the Crying Wood after meeting up with those witches?"
"I'm with Syr. I say we scout the area with the time we have left today. Looks like there's water down that way." She points to the southeast. "We can take a look at those two buildings down there, swing around the back of the Mansion place, then circle around back here. Pull back outside the wall after that and find a good camp spot to hunker down."
Xenia stuffs the coil of rope back into her haversack, then stands, surveying the plantation with hands on hips.
"You know, if I were a vampire, and I couldn't go out in daylight where all these other folks who didn't like me were trying to kill me, I'd put traps all over this place."
"But, then again, I'd a never left that poor girl's body out on the road to give things away either. Especially when you figure he's got plenty of hands that can work in the daylight like this." She points to the pits and the dead ghoulies. She throws up her hands with a small shrug and a shake of her red ponytail. "But we won't know until we make the rounds."
Wynn d20+8=11 Sunday January 15th, 2006 11:25:40 AM
"I'm with Syr and Xenia on this one Angus" the bard casts his vote. "These undead are no match for our magic weapons. I'm not sure [Bardic knowledge=11] but I think only a few creatures such as vampires and werewolves are damaged by silver. There may be no need to go all the way back to the city."
"Belkior, if we prepare some wooden stakes, can you 'bless' them in some fashion to ensure they work?"
Lang (ac 22; hp 77/80) & Sunshine (ac 22; hp 47/47) d20+6=25 d20+6=9 Sunday January 15th, 2006 10:43:57 PM
Lang listens to the Shields conversation of staying or going. Before speaking, he looks down the path towards the gate trying to see the two Ghasts that fled (spot 25). Turning around he looks at the main house, wondering what is inside (spot 9).
"I do not want to go much farther or be gone that much longer. We left Sunshine and the horse down by the gate and I don't want either of them to be hurt by the Ghasts we drove off. Or by any other undead that may be lurking around."
"We are losing our daylight and we may be at a disadvantage at night against any undead we meet up with. I do not mind scouting a little more on the outside of the buildings, but I am not sure if we should venture in at this point."
Spells: Speak with Animals (cast and inactive) Longstrider
Famina Monday January 16th, 2006 6:47:32 AM
Famina takes measure of the plan. She stands squarely and looks around. "Always press your advantage, that's what my people say... Yet there is some wisdom to your words as well. But Xenia provides the most pressing point. Going back would be of no use; we would be attacked on the road back. So it comes to a choice between staking up some ground or exploring. I think if we are to stop, or continue, in either case, we have to investigate the houses. They are the most easily defendable, so if we do set in, we would want to be within their protective boundaries." Famina considers, then smiles. "I don't think we'll get any good sleep either way, but I'll rest easier knowing I'm somewhere I'm familiar with."
Belkior (AC 22; HP 48) Monday January 16th, 2006 8:36:35 AM
The halfling cleric listens to the debate swirling around him. He's been thinking furiously while the conversation continues.
"The Consecrate spell that I cast some time ago will last for a portion of the night. If I cast another, it will last long enough to get us through the night as well. It's not much, but will weaken any undead that attempts to enter."
Looking around at his companions, Belkior continues while thoughtfully rubbing the fur on his leg.
"I would stay, also, like Xenia suggests. Even though we cannot guarantee our safety, going to and from Plateau City would allow whatever evil resides here too much time to prepare for our return."
Turning to point at the main house, Belkiro nods at Lang.
"My big friend is correct also. We shouldn't explore inside anything. One of our advantages in fighting undead is daylight. If we get caught inside when night falls, we can't safely retreat into the daylight."
After looking at everyone, Belkior makes a final statement.
"Let's explore a bit outside, then find a good camping spot. I'll Consecrate the area and we'll use whatever else protective magics we have. And maybe you stealthy and woodsy types can devise some mundane warning devices."
Angus Monday January 16th, 2006 9:04:29 AM
Angus looks around at the Shields. "It is decided then. I am outvoted, which is fine. We explore the outside of the main house and the outbuildings, then leave the plantation and set up camp. Lets move quick, but keep our eyes peeled. Xenia and Wynn at point as I think you two have the sharpest eyes. Ashlan and Lang follow then Belkior and Me and Syr and Famina take up the rear. Lets move out, we are burning daylight."
Xenia (2nd Illegal Post) d20+18=36 d20+13=16 d20+11=19 Monday January 16th, 2006 9:25:56 AM
All things being what they are, decided, that is. All things being decided, Xenia collects the shovels, cleans them off, folds them back up, and tucks them into the dark unfathomable recesses in her haversack.
"Headed eastwards 'round the building, Angus?" Xenia looks for a sizeable stick with which to probe the ground before her. In the process, the rogue glances down into one of the pits.
"Gotta wonder where they got all them bones," she says half to herself. Then she takes up scouting duties with Lang.
Rolls and Actions Spot 36 Listen 16 Search 19
ADM Matt d20+11=22 d20+11=15 Monday January 16th, 2006 9:27:43 PM
The group after much deliberation (say 5 minutes of game time for any active spells) decides to do some more scouting of the plantation. The group lines up with Xenia and Wynn in the front, Lang and Ashlan about 5-10 or so feet back from them, followed by Belkior and Angus at about the same distance and Syr and Famina as rearguard another 5-10 feet back.
The group, before moving is facing what appears to be the back of the farmhouse as there are no apparent doors on the wall. The farmhouse is rather large, about 100' across and 40' deep. It is basically a 2-story, rectangular shaped building with a smaller rectangular shaped jut on one end. What the Shields do see directly in front of them is a rather large, semi-circular shape of shuttered windows. Off to the left is another set of shuttered windows (normal shaped). To the right are two more sets of shuttered windows and also to the far right is a last set of shuttered window (on the jutting part of the building).
The group moves towards the left, heading towards the smallest of the outbuildings. Wading through he tall grass the Shields quickly make it to the small 20' by 20' building, passing a small pond of clear, blue water. All of the group can see a stream leading off the pond down a small slope to a larger body of water and another building that is recognizable as a mill by the rather large wheel purposely set in the water. The front half of the group can see into the small building as the door is mostly detached from it. Wynn and Xenia take a quick look inside see firewood, lots of firewood. The back half of the group notices a small closed door and another set of shuttered windows on this side of the building.
The Shields move as one towards what turns out to be the front of the farmhouse. The going gets a little easier as they end up on what was once the main access road to the house. The grasses are not as tall in a 30' wide swath starting from the 2 larger outbuildings back down towards the water and out of view. The front of the building has more shuttered windows and a large set of double doors. There is a balcony above the front doors leading into another set of doors on that level. There have been windows on the second level also. They also have all been shuttered and closed.
The Shields finish their scouting of the farmhouse by moving between the jutting part of the farm house and the largest of the outbuildings. They find nothing new as the windows on this side are shuttered too. Before the Shields can decide their next action a rather loud thump can be heard from inside the large building right behind them. Turning as one, the group does not see anything, but a large set of closed doors (on the short side of the building) and some windows. The farmer's in the group whisper that the building is probably the barn or storage area for the crops grown on the farm.
OOC -- it took the group 30 minutes (35 total) to scout out the outside of the farmhouse. Please adjust active spells accordingly.
Angus - Mage Armor Monday January 16th, 2006 11:35:45 PM
Angus's detect magic is done after the scouting trip, but was concentrating on it as they scouted.
Angus looks to Belkior "Did you detect any undead on the trip? Those shutter look to keep the sun out and I am sure for a very good reason. We can maybe use that to our advantage come morning." Angus ponders a monment and the comments to Belkior "Tomorrow let me worry about and Dispel Magics. You take more spells to combat undead."
Angus calls the Shields together again. "Since we are pressing lets press. The plan will be to press while we can then fall back to Belkior's concecrated ground just outside the plantation. That will be where we make out stand it we have too. Lets start clearing out the buildings, starting with the barn. That may be where the ghast went. First though, Lang go see if you can get Sunshine to come along and loose the horse so it has a chance to run if the nasties come." Taking a deep reflective breath Angus continues "We enter the barn with Lang and Ashlan and Syr and Famina up front with WYnn and Xenia in support. Belkior and I will watch your backs. Get your magic and silver ready. Remember their should be a loft in the barn so look up as well as down."
OOC:How accesible are the shutters from the outside of the buildings? Does the barn have large double doors?
Lang d20+13=32 d20+13=27 Monday January 16th, 2006 11:41:05 PM
Lang is pleased to hear that Angus is interested in the animals and he goes to attend to them. Lang talks with Sunshine first and tries to convince him to come (animal handle 32). Lang then goes and unhitches the horse by some grass and tries to convince him to stay in the area (animal handle 27).
If sunshine is willing he announces "We are ready." If not he asks Sunshine to watch the horse and be careful of evil creatures.
Lang waits for Ashlan to catch up and the for everyone to get in position and he opens the barn doors.
ADM Matt C. Monday January 16th, 2006 11:59:55 PM
OOC - Detect Magic and Detect Undead only last up to 1 minute per level so they were pretty much used up before this scouting happened (1st spell at least - if more were cast please say so).
Each of the 2 larger out buildings have normal barn-like double doors (tall and wide when open that is). The doors face what would be the road if the grass was cleared. The windows on these two buildings are your typical barn-like windows with some form of shutter to them (currently all shutters in view are closed) They appear to be at a typical height also.
The shutters on the main building appear to be more for protective purposes than decorative. They also appear to be slightly higher than a typical first floor window would be.
Ashlan Sinclair-AC:19-HP:53/63 Tuesday January 17th, 2006 12:47:34 AM
Ashlan moves along with the other, cetching up with lang when he slows down to allow him to. He also takes a moment to speak to Belkior, "Could you spare abit of healing friend? just incase we get into a nasty combat."
Ashlan readies himself otherwise for anything as he moves to help Lang open the doors depending on if he really needed it anyway.
Belkior (AC 22; HP 48) d8+5=11 Tuesday January 17th, 2006 7:30:43 AM
The halfling cleric moves along with his companions, pushing the grass out of the way as he goes. The long grass is merely a nuisance for his companions but it's a real problem when you're only waist high to a human.
After the scouting, Belkior will edge closer to Angus and poitn to the shuttered windows.
"As we thought, Angus. Something inside there probably does not like sunlight. When we come back in the day tomorrow, we should open as many of those as we can before we enter the house."
When Ashlan speaks up, Belkior will move to his side.
"With Alemi's permission, I will heal you Ashlan." After making the prayer, Belkior will intone. "Go with Alemi's healing grace, my friend."
Looking around at the grass, Belkior will ask everyone.
"Has anyone seen any sign of a garden? If we are facing a vampire, garlic would be a good idea. We might be able to find some."
Xenia d20+18=33 d20+13=30 Tuesday January 17th, 2006 10:53:46 AM
Who knows what goes *bump* inside a barn?
"Hang on," Xenia whispers as the guys get ready to open the big doors. From her pack, she produces three flasks of oil. She places them on the ground in front of the door, four feet apart and five feet out. Moving back to take up a position with Wynn, the girl rogue takes out her last flask of alchemist fire to act as a trigger.
Sling in one hand and flask in another, she whispers. In case we need to make whatever's in there think twice about coming out, you know."
Then, while everyone else is concentrating on the barn, she gives a look and listen in other directions. Just so they don't get snuck up on in the meantime.
Rolls and Actions Spot 33 Listen 30
Famina Tuesday January 17th, 2006 3:02:34 PM
Famina looks at the barn somewhat despisingly. The idea that just beyond these flimsy boards is a being sleeping that may kill many if it escapes is almost enough to make her kill it... And then an idea occurs to her, based on that. "Do you suppose, if these vampires are intelligent, that they'll stay here if they see the burnt field, the numerous tracks, the obvious signs of battle? Maybe we should do something to cover those ghouls up or... I don't know," she admits. "But if I were the vampire and I saw all that, I'd not stay here the next night."
Syr (Ac 19/18 dex -1 hp 68) d20+4=15 Tuesday January 17th, 2006 3:42:38 PM
Moving to the barn, he stops for a moment to listen near the door (listen 15). Looking back at the rest of the group to make sure they are prepared, he grasps the handle of the right door. Nodding at Famina, "You ready?" Unless someone objects, he pulls it open and peers inside.
LOG ON