Preparations [DM SteveK] Friday February 17th, 2006 5:36:15 AM
OOC: Inge should be taking over for the next scene very shortly. (As soon as Monday perhaps) As Hannibal would have said, "I love it when a plan comes together!"
Debate turns to action when the group of friends decide they need to rescue Falquan and Vorelle's family; and they need to push the timeline!
Doesn't really matter at this point on whether someones reason is to rescue the family, get favor with an up-and-comer in Dirt City, or complete the Merchant contract of Berlon; it is all going to the same place.
Mad Jack leaves first, and after getting directions and a free look-see from the halfling hooker (which earns her a slap to the back of the head from her protector), Jack is able to find the stable and his horse AND find the stable where the others will meet. AND all without getting mugged, spotted, or killed! :)
Berlon, Olyn, Dietrich, Vauhwyt, Rose, and Theodore accompany a slightly bewildered Vorelle through the black streets of the City Above and find Neezer's identified stable. After a pounding on the door and diplomatic explanation that the heroes are from Neezer and the Merchants and are not going to rob or murder anyone, the stablehand opens a squeeze-door that only allows you to come in at one time. (Hey, he's accomodating, not stupid)
After some bleary explanations, Jethro scratches his thatch of blonde hair. "I don' know whut yer need ter ride ternite fer, but I ain't gonner ax needer." And he gets to work.
It is three hours before the mid of night that all are saddled on beasts of your choice (riding horse, riding pony, or riding dog) except for Vauhwyt, who assumedly is walking on her own four feet.
The directions are on a piece of paper (in the same handwriting as Neezer's note) and the road lies before you. From the directions, it should be about an hour to the rowan tree, and another 15 minutes from there to the farmhouse.
(Spot and Listen checks, and the DMs will need riding order and any preparations and plans)
Dietrich d20+4=13 d20+5=6 d20+4=12 d20+2=16 Friday February 17th, 2006 11:25:06 AM
Dietrich accompanies his friends and studies the map carefully (OOC: Will we get a real map?), (military knowledge 13), taking the strongest horse he can find. The warrior takes his time to get the beasts used to the party (handle animal 6, nat 1!)
He suggests the following order:
1) Vorelle scouting some 100 m ahead, so she can warn the group about any troubles. Rides back if under threat.
2) Dietrich (guiding the mules; at least his own) and Berlon, than Theo and Rose in the center, Olyn and Mad JAck last.
3) Vauhwyt scouts some meters behind the main group, to make sure nothing hits us from there and we can flee if necessary.
The fighter keeps his eyes and ears open: spot 12, listen 16.
"Some miles after leaving the city, I´d suggest we find a good place to rest, in order to restore the magic. There we can debate further details of the plan."
DM Steve: Um, wasn't planning on providing a real map. For orientation sake, go north six miles out of town towards bone mountain where there is a large rowan tree overhanging the road. Next to the tree is a cart trail winding into the woods to the west (left hand side). About a mile into the woods from that point is the black box labeled "farm"
Olyn Friday February 17th, 2006 11:30:14 AM
nods in agreement to Deitrich's plan.
Mad Jack d20=10 d20=3 d20+4=9 d20+4=17 Friday February 17th, 2006 7:04:02 PM
Jack comes riding out of the trees on a barded light warhorse. The beast is dark mottled grey in color, along with the barding. Upon the barding, noticably shown, is the one eye of Gargul, etched in the leather. Jack is alos wearing a green leather hat, with a black ostrich feather. He has his bow back, and it is stung on his back.
"Rear Guard, Excellent." Jack then awaits the others actions to pull on out ahead of him.
After they have moved out, Jack moves his animal, left and right. Jack is continually crisscrossing the road, as he does his rear guard. Several times he will ride back on the right, sit a bit, and forward on the left.
Spot 10 listen 3 Tor the horse has lowlight vision Spot 9 Listen 17
Rose Saturday February 18th, 2006 3:03:51 AM
Rose picks out a riding horse or pony with a nice broad back and then gets help arranging her items on it and padding it with blankets to make a little bed which she has herself tied onto so if she wants she can sleep during the trip. Of couse her bow is in reach in case it's needed.
Theodore & Macaw d20+4=21 Sunday February 19th, 2006 6:21:30 PM
Theodore is more than a little bit uncomfortable in the saddle. He is constantly shifting on the horse.
"We'll need to be a safe distance from the farm," he says in response to Dietrich statement about finding a safe place. "Who knows if they have patrols, and for that matter how far they scout."
Macaw soars overhead. (Macaw's spot 21)
When they finally stop, Theodore slides ungraciously from his steed. He waddles sprawl-legged to tie his horse to a tree. After taking a bite to eat, he finds a somewhat comfortable spot to sleep.
Berlon Sunday February 19th, 2006 8:54:39 PM
Berlon eyes the mounts uncomfortably, as at just over four feet most steeds are either too big or too small for him. He'll settle on whatever is most appopriate....
Vorelle d20+10=30 d20+10=14 d20+10=28 Sunday February 19th, 2006 10:29:21 PM
Vorelle moves ahead to scout. It's a little uncomfortable for her; she is noisier on horseback than she is on her own two feet, and she feels as if she's making a dreadful racket. She stays alert, however, and tries to keep focused on finding the way.
Vauhwyt (HP41 of 44) and Mookie (HP22) d20+4=18 d20+4=21 Monday February 20th, 2006 6:50:57 AM
The liontaur is just glad to be on the go. She does not, of course, need a horse!
Spot 18, Listen 21 Woot!
Finally some action! ... [DM Inge] Monday February 20th, 2006 8:35:01 AM
Steadily the group moves out to find the Farmhouse, taking protection from the moonlit night sky where only a handful of clouds occasionally darken the path ahead of them. All is quiet in anticipation of Mural Day tomorrow. So much has happened today that no one really knows what will happen in the morning.
With a steady pace the group follows the road for 6 miles due north towards Bone Mountain. After an hour Vorelle, 100m ahead of the group, arrives first at the cart trail leading into the woods.
With a clear goal in mind the cart trail is their only way to go. Along the trail the old tree trunks bend inwards and keep the moon from illuminating the trail. Even though is hasn't rained for a few days now, the ground is still muddy. Apparently not even the sun reaches down here very often. The good thing is that the muddy soil covers the sound of the horseshoes! Looks like luck is on your side!
Another 10 minutes later the group comes to a stop. The farm shouldn't be far now... From the look at Neezer's drawing you can tell the farmhouse is at the end of the cart trail surrounded by the forest. Only the trail leads in.
Vorelle's keen ears hear nothing so far. Apart from countless rodents and night predators hunting these woods all remains quiet. Finding a dry spot without too many bugs will be a real burden...
Dietrich d20+4=24 Monday February 20th, 2006 12:17:52 PM
Dietrich is in a good mood, finally getting some fresh air and exercise, leaving the dirty alleys of the City. He´s happy to be on horseback again and admires Jacks beautiful stallion.
The warrior couldn´t agree more with Theo´s comments and the party should have stopped before getting to close to the target. A confrontation without the due preparation is the last thing he wants.
Reaching a relativelly good restplace, Dietrich dismounts and starts taking care of the animals (handle animal 24, nat 20) and helping build up camp.
"Let´s rest now. I´d suggest double watches, from the people that don´t need to restore magic and always one fighter together with someone with a sharp eye. First watch: Dietrich and Vorelle, 3h Second watch: Vorelle and JAck, 2.5 h Last watch: Dietrich and Jack, 2.5 h (everybodyelse needs to sleep 8h)
Also, maybe Vorelle and other skilled comrades could try to camouflage our camp?"
OOC: 1) Couldn´t open the map DM Inge: That's odd. It's a simple PDF map. I'll try to resend it asap.
2) Wouldn´t it be a good time to get xps for the last module, before we take on the rescue? It has been some time ago and, after all, we have managed to stay alive, discover the plot and decide important fundamentals.
DM Inge: no This last scene is part of this adventure. After this one you get some rest and the well deserved Xp (and perhaps we'll throw in a little bit of treasure so you gain some funds ;-) )
Jack Monday February 20th, 2006 3:27:34 PM
Jack agrees with Dietrich. He stays on the side fo the group, closest to the way they had come. Still protecting the rear. He sits his horse, and strings his boe. With bow ready, and an arrow knocked, he watches the woods, and the road. It was good to be in the saddle again, home.
Berlon Monday February 20th, 2006 9:21:13 PM
Berlon gets ready for the morning's coming events. He prepares with his daily prayers and ponders strategy...
Theodore and Macaw Monday February 20th, 2006 9:26:14 PM
Theodore yawns widely and curls up under a tree to sleep for the necessary eight hours.
Vauhwyt and Mookie Monday February 20th, 2006 9:44:41 PM
Vauhwyt thinks the camp should be out of earshot of the farmhouse. She helps to make the camp hard to see. (Taking 20 on the Hide check to hide the camp gives a 26.)
Then she gets to sleep so she can have spells for the coming battle.
Olyn d20+6=24 d20+6=20 Monday February 20th, 2006 11:23:01 PM
after deftly sliding off his riding horse, he tends to it. grooming, placing a dry blanket over its back, and making sure its securely tied and fed.
then he finds himself a couple trees close together. pulling 2 blankets out from his pack he ties em to the tree, one end to one tree, the other end to the other, about 3 feet up off the ground. the other blanket he does the same about 3 feet above the first. and placing 3 sticks in the top blanket to spread it out, one at each end and on in the middle to make a canopy of sorts.
then eating a cold supper, and saying a prayer to Wardd he climbs into his makeshift hammock and drifts off to sleep. *Wilderness survival of 24* *Use rope of 20*
Vorelle d20+10=20 d20+10=29 d20+10=23 Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:18:55 AM
Vorelle helps find and set up a spot to camp, then takes first watch as Dietrich suggested.
[Survival 20, Spot 29, Listen 23]
Rose Tuesday February 21st, 2006 7:28:40 AM
Rose helps set up camp and passes around food that can be eaten cold (honey, dried apples, jerky, dried beef sausage, and crackers unless anybody else brought food.)
rose will then start to set up her sleeping bag on the ground but sees olyn making a hammock and pesters him to make her one. She will then sleep in her sleeping bag in the hammock with her nice feather pillow and get a good night's sleep.
A New Dawn Tuesday February 21st, 2006 9:29:46 AM
Very late that evening the party comes to a stop. It's already 1.10AM when they finally find a place to crash in the woods. Without any trouble the group finds an open spot in the forest suited to be used as a camping site. Olyn, reluctant to sleep on the wet ground, makes himself a comfortable hammock. The Half-Elf then notices Rose's envy and dispite all that has happened in the past, he helps her making a comfortable Hammock too. In fact, most seem to value the dry elevated position to sleep and more hammocks are conjured soon enough.
Dietrich makes a clear schedule for setting watch. He and Vorelle take first watch and manage to keep their eyes open till 4.10AM .... Vorelle nods to Dietrich as the warrior shakes Jack out of his hammock to take guard... 6.40 AM... nothing happens. The groups spellcasters occasionally make some noise in their sleep, but all remains quiet out there in the forest. Vorelle now is completely exhausted and tries to kick Dietrich out of the hammock once again. He only slept for 2.5 hours this night!
... 9.10 ...
Rise and shine my friends. A new dawn!
Looks like they are not expecting any visitors. In Dirt City Mural Day is about to begin. This would be the moment when the Castle doors open wide and the Prince begins his tour around the City tunnels. Looks like you all will miss this very important day!
But you have a job to do, and time runs out.
Olyn Tuesday February 21st, 2006 10:16:56 AM
with the sun on his face and the smell of the woods upon his nose Olyn gingerly climbs out of his hammock. after drinking a filling gulp of water, and eating another cold breakfast Olyn heads over to his hammock. after laying his prayer rug on the ground on as dry a spot as he can find, he kneels on it and begins praying to Wardd to replenish his spells for the day.
when prayers is done Olyn rolls up his bedding, packs his backpack, loads it up on the horse after feeding it, and then starts donning his armor and readying his weapons. (ie making bolts easier to reach, cocking the crossbow, etc.)
Dietrich d20+4=19 Tuesday February 21st, 2006 10:27:35 AM
Dietrich is quite satisfied with the camp, the food and happy about the hammock. If he was going to have just some hours of sleep, at least he´s slept dry.
The warrior wakes up a little tired, but years of military campaings have made him used to that. He throws some cold water over his head to get up, makes a short prayer to Domi, eat something fast and prepares his gear.
"Before we move on, Vorelle and Rose or Vauhwyt and the birds should scout the farmhouse. We need to know: 1) Are there guards? Where? How many? Armament. 2) Magic casters? Magic protections? 3) Officers? 3) Where are the prisoners? How many are they? 4) Where could the enemy try to retreat to? Has he horses or other means of getting away?"
(military knowledge 19 for anything important that forget to post)
Berlon Tuesday February 21st, 2006 4:40:49 PM
When dawn breaks Berlon performs his morning devotions. Listening to Dietrich's questions, he offers his thoughts.
"I think our primary concern must be the safety of the hostages. We can try stealth to rescue them, but I think there might be too many for that to be effective. We can still use stealth to our advantage. Neezer's note said a dozen men. If we know for sure how many that can help us plan."
"The note also said that all but one prisoner was going to be hung. If so, there must be a gallows set up. If it is between us and the house, we can use that for cover..."
"I think Vauhwyt and Dietrich should be in charge of escorting the prisoners away, only because Vauhwyt is in the best position to help evacuate them, and Dietrich can help defend if needed..."
"Once we make ourselves known, I think it would be wise to try to divert the captors towards Jack and I. The rest of the group can help with spell support and missile fire."
"These are just my thoughts. Whatever we decide, I will need a few minutes preparation before we start..."
Vorelle Tuesday February 21st, 2006 9:16:32 PM
Vorelle also rises and tends to her animal, although she doesn't plan to ride today. She's stealthier on foot.
She hold herself ready to scout, from time to time glancing anxiously at the sun as it rises higher in the sky.
Mad Jack Tuesday February 21st, 2006 9:26:40 PM
Jack wakes abd resaddles his mount. He listens to all the words spoken.
"Well, I will still watch the trail, we have no idea if more people are coming, good or ad. We also dont know if there are more prisoners being brought. Since Berlon is also hanging back, I will motion to him if there is action on the trail."
With that he swings easily into the saddle and rides a ways off down the trail.
Theodore and Macaw Tuesday February 21st, 2006 9:31:13 PM
When woken, Theodore rubs the eye boogers away and takes out his spellbook.
"If the Prince is indeed here, he'll probably be surrounded by an elite guard," he says. "I don't know if we'll be able to go toe-to-toe with them. Our best bet might be a hit and run tactic. I could throw out some illusions and distractions to send the bulk off in another direction while we free the prisoners and skidaddle."
"However, this is not my area of expertise. I will bow to the wisdom of those who know what they're talking about."
When a conclusion is arrived at, Theodore will set himself to memorizing the proper spell list.
Rose Tuesday February 21st, 2006 11:26:33 PM
rose wakes up and pulls her spellbook out and begins studying it while still in bed. Once in a while she'll call Vauhwyt and the others over to consult about what spells she should memorize.
spell book cantrips: all level 1: color spray, mage armor, magic missile, shield, unseen servant, barnum appraisal, comp language, protect from evil, temp control, sleep, ventriloquism, enlarge person, endure elements, reduce person, expeditious retreat, feather fall level 2: scorching ray, see invisible
suggested daily spells cantrips: message, prestidation, open/close, mage hand level 1: mage armor, shield, unseen servant level 2: see invisible, scoching ray
Vauhwyt (Mage Armor) and Mookie (Mage Armor) Wednesday February 22nd, 2006 5:52:37 AM
The liontaur sleeps well, and in the morning is restored to full hit points. She meditates for 15 minutes and is ready to go.
Vauhwyt wonders to Rose if maybe a Sleep spell might be more useful than the Unseen Servant, since Vauhwyt has a scroll of unseen servant.
Vauhwyt reveals the following to anyone who is interested:
Vauhwyt got 1,316 gold from the sale of the Skull. She used 1,240 gp of that to buy:
- 2 scrolls of Alter Self (200 gp each) (both used) - 2 scrolls of Rope Trick (180 gp each) (1 of 2 used) - 2 scrolls of Unseen Servant (35 each) (1 of 2 used) - 2 scrolls of Reduce Person (35 each) - 2 scrolls of Shield (35 each) - 2 scrolls of Obscuring Mist (35 each) (1 of 2 used) - 2 scrolls of Silent Image (35 each) (1 of 2 used) - 1 disguise kit (75 gp) (1 of 10 used) - 2 10-ft pieces of rope (1 of 2 used) - A waterskin filled with blood ( pig blood 50 gp ) (all used)
She also has a potion of invisibility, 3 scrolls ray enfeeb, 4 scrolls cure light wounds, and 2 potions of cure light wounds (1d8+1).
Vauhwyt also knows 5 cantrips -- Rd Mgc, Prestidigit, Message, Dancing Lights, Det Mgc -- and 2 first level spells -- Mage Armor, Enlarge Person. She can cast 6 cantrips and 5 first level spells per day.
She casts a Mage Armor on herself and another on Mookie. Now she has 3 first level spells left for the day.
And of course, she has her Bag of Tricks.
Since she spent 1,240 of her own personal gold on this stuff, she takes the 50 gp that Mad Jack gave to make up for it a little, with thanks.
Vauhwyt is thinking that if she is to scout, then a Reduce Person is a good way to go. That gives her a +5 on Hide checks and a +1 on move silent. She is thinking she wants to save the Invis potion for an emergency, but if Vorelle is going Invis (thanks to Theo??) then maybe V will use her potion as well.
Preparations Wednesday February 22nd, 2006 8:49:49 AM
... 9.10 ...
slowly all adventurers start to wake up and begin discussing battle plans. Dietrich advises for scouts to head out, but no one moves just yet. Not even Macaw or Mookie. Jack decides to keep an eye out for reinforcements. Vauhwyt and Berlon meditate while the rest breaks camp.
... 9.25 ...
Vauhwyt gets up and reveals her inventory but Rose is right to look frighthened as she checks the sun. Time slowly passes... by now all those men at the farm will be awake to! Possibly they will be getting ready to do the hanging and chop off Falquan's head...
The farmhouse is 5 minutes walking distance up ahead.
Those who start moving towards the FarmHouse need to make spot and listen checks.
Dietrich Wednesday February 22nd, 2006 9:49:19 AM
Dietrich listens attentively to all comments and suggestions.
He agrees with JAck observing their rear.
He also agrees with Theo´s idea of using a diversion, but before the group decides on the tactics to be used, he´d like to have the exact reports from the scouts, even at the price of loosing some time. Nothing could be worse than running into a trap or precipitating the execution of the prisoners.
He also agrees with Berlon´s point of having himself and Vauhwyt evacuating the prisoners and also about having only the stealthy part of the group doing the sneakery, as well as having the not so stealthy ones for magic and missile support.
But again, before we can effectively decide, we need the detailed reports from the scouts. An improvised and rushed action could cost dearly, to us and to the prisoners.
A final point, he´d suggest the action to be on feet, than retreat to the hidden camp and take the horses to flee. Maybe we shouldn´t flee directly to the City, as men of the Prince could come from that direction and/or attack us in the city.
Olyn Wednesday February 22nd, 2006 1:01:25 PM
I have a solution granted to me by Wardd that might bring us a change of luck on this rescue.
we all move into position near the camp. when they start bringout out the prisoners I will step out from the road, and use my Diplomatic abilities to gain the attention of the guards. when I have their complete attention you all will be able to walk in and rescue the prisoners. if it works like it should, no shot will have to be fired, and there will be no pursuits to catch them for up to 3 rounds.
Berlon, you know what I am talking about. I will be using the Enthrall spell.
then Olyn goes to Deitrich and Mad Jack and casts Bull's Strength on both. *lasts for 5 hours, +4 to strength.*
assuming the group is in agreement, Olyn will move via the road, staying just inside the tree line to the left, until there is no cover left between him and the farmhouse. and waits inside the treeline for the prisoners to be brought out.
GM Highlight to display spoiler: { just before I step out from the woods, I will cast off a scroll: Tongues, lasts 50 minutes. also, when I move out from the treeline, I will be singing some Elven songs my mother used to sing to Olyn when he was young, in Elvish. (that will be how I gain their attention) and will cast the Enthrall spell after 1 round and when im well within range. }
Olyn's Spell List for the day Wednesday February 22nd, 2006 1:03:36 PM
1st: Comprehend Languages, Aid, Cause Fearx3
2nd: Invisibility, Enthrall, Bull's Strengthx2
3rd: Non Detection, Summon Monsterx2
Berlon Wednesday February 22nd, 2006 2:07:08 PM
"Yes, that could work," Berlon says in response to Olyn's plan, "although once we actually start moving the prisoners we have to assume that we are going to get opposition."
"Why don't we get a quick recon while we can, and then see how Olyn works out. Jack and I can back up Olyn just in case things go wrong, and Dietrich and Vauhwyt safeguarding the prisoners, and everyone else supporting whoever needs help..."
(OOC: Is there a gallows set up? Is there anything else that could be used as cover?)
With that, Berlon casts Protection From Energy on himself. (50 minutes, absorbs 60 pts sonic damage). He also makes sure his recently enchanted, empty coinpouch is close at hand...
Mad Jack [+4str- 4 hours] d20=3 d20=18 Wednesday February 22nd, 2006 3:19:36 PM
Jack enjoys the feeling of being stronger. He tells Olyn thank you for the extra help, and rides down the back trail at a trot.
Plan is to ride down road about a mile, wait for 15 minutes, then ride back to the group. Which by then should be in to the camp.
Spot 3 Listen 18
Vorelle d20+11=18 d20+11=26 d20+10=28 d20+10=23 Wednesday February 22nd, 2006 8:54:46 PM
Vorelle listens as the others plan, and, sensing the direction this is headed, decides to move out and do some scouting. She lets the others know she is going, then moves to see what is happening at the farmhouse.
[Hide 18, Move Silently 26, Spot 28, Listen 23]
Theodore and Macaw Wednesday February 22nd, 2006 9:13:57 PM
"If that is the direction we agree to take, then I will abide by it," responds Theodore to Olyn's plan. "I would like to stand by with spells at the ready. Just in case something unforseen should happen."
Theodore then sets down to study his spellbook and wait for information from Vorelle.
Olyn Thursday February 23rd, 2006 12:08:22 AM
(ooc the Bulls Strength lasts for 5 hours, not 4)
Vauhwyt (Mage Armor, d20+12=24 d20+11=20 d20+12=27 Thursday February 23rd, 2006 4:16:04 AM
Vauhwyt casts several message cantrips when everyone is in sight of the farmhouse. That way she can communicate with six of her friends just by whispering.
"This is a good plan, Olyn," says Vauhwyt, now blood red after casting her armor spell. "But is there any danger that you will ensnare your allies with the spell as well?"
Assuming that's not a concern, Vauhwyt plans to use a Reduce Person spell from a scroll, then sneak closer so she will have a good view. [Move Silent 24, Hide 20]
When she sees things start to happen (the prisoners are lead out, Olyn steps out to begin his spell, etc), she takes the blanket from her bedroll and throws it over her shoulders like a long cape. Then she will cancel the reduce person, take her invisibility potion, cast enlarge person, and move to the prisoners. [Move Silent 27]
Her goal is to sneak up to a prisoner, whisper that she is here to rescue them, and sneak them up onto her back under the blanket. Maybe she can take two at a time that way?
Her priorities are Falquan, then kids, then women, then the rest.
She whispers her plan to her friends before she embarks on it. She wants to know if Vorelle finds anything.
Rose hp: 30/30 AC14 d20+8=9 d20+5=21 Thursday February 23rd, 2006 7:07:18 AM
Rose quickly casts a few spells on herself and follows the others, keeping an eye out for the prisoners and guards.
listen: 9, nat 1 spot: 21
cast mage armor & see invisible
Active spells Mage armor 3hrs See invisible 30min
Daily spells Cantrips: mage hand, message, ray of frost, acid splash Level 1: shield, sleep Level 2: scorching ray
"We wait for Steinthor and the rest"... [DM Inge] L spot (d20+7=15 d20+7=16) Thursday February 23rd, 2006 11:41:25 AM Dietrich stresses the fact that without scouting intelligence they would be running blindly into a trap. Detailed information of the enemy's strength, weaknesses and a better idea of the farmhouse surroundings would make this task much easier.
This time it's Olyn who comes with the final idea.
He will create a diversion and will attempt to enthrall whomever is at the Farmhouse. This would enable the rest to get the prisoners out and retreat before they even notice they are gone. A daring plan! Before moving out he touches Dietrich and Mad Jack (occ keep track of active spells please)
Berlon likes Olyn's plan and prepares himself to provide backup should things get out of hand. Jack stays behind to catch any reinforcements. Theodore and Rose follow the rest.
Vorelle and Vauhwyt move ahead of the group in order to scout the surroundings. Olyn follows the tree line somewhat behind Vorelle and Vauhwyt.
At the Farmhouse
Vauhwyt and Vorelle sneak to the edges of the forest and get a clear look on the Farmhouse. It's seems to be very quiet. No one is outside... North of the Farmhouse is a large beam which is supported at the other end 2 more beams and from it several ropes hang. There's also a large wooded block with several deep cuts in it. Hmmm... looks like several heads have been chopped of on that block!
Still it's very quiet... NO WAIT! ... from around the northern side of the Farmhouse a Halfling woman appears. She's fairly young, dressed in a cloak that appears to somewhat reflect it's surroundings and carrying a loaded crossbow. She closely watches the forest surrounding the farmhouse, but fails to see both Vorelle and Vauhwyt. She's circling the farmhouse but does not seems to be expecting any visitors. (spot 15)
While Vauhwyt and Vorelle are checking out the farmhouse Olyn get's closer but waits in the forest for the prisoners to come out of the house. At least, you expect that's where they are...
A few minutes go by and the Halfling lady passes again... (spot 16)
Suddenly the door to the FarmHouse opens and 2 dwarves step outside. Both carry a Battle axe and good looking wooden shields.
"It's time Lobelia!" one shouts to the Halfling. Looks like they are not afraid someone might hear them. After all, this place is pretty deserted. "Noric, check out them ropes..."
The other dwarf walks up to the hanging ropes but euhm... well... perhaps if he takes a jump he might reach them... The first dwarf break out in laughter and says :"Officer Steinthor will bring'm out shortly and then K'banmar and Ragah can do their job and we can all go home to see how the city reacts when the Prince doesn't show for Mural Day... harhahrah...."
Somewhat later the door opens again, and out comes a man, followed by Targo and Vorelle's family...
Behind them, two fierce looking Half-Orcs huddle them all together. The male Half-orc carries a great axe... the female one leads them all to the ropes...
"We wait for Steinthor and the rest. Prepare the hostages!" the first dwarf shouts...
Dietrich 2 post for debate Thursday February 23rd, 2006 11:46:00 AM
Dietrich likes the proposals so far, and just has some points to add, before the scouts come back and the action starts.
1) After Olyn uses his divine gift and the guards are distracted, when we effectively are liberating the prisoners, our spellcasters could turn us and the prisoners INVISIBLE and simultaneously create an ILLUSION of us fleeing in the other direction (similarly to what Theo did at the Palace) I suggest that, because Olyn´s magic won´t last forever and once we are persecuted, we could get trouble. Some of us are slower (myself, Rose), so better secure our retreat.
2) We don´t need to all stay at the same place waiting. While Olyn is enthralling the enemy, Vorelle could make sure they can´t come after us by stealing their horses. Also, I share Jack´s worry about suddenly having someone on our back. We should keep a rearguard. And I reinforce the above made statement, that we shouldn´t flee directly towards the City.
Dietrich Thursday February 23rd, 2006 12:02:43 PM
OOC: I wasn´t fast enough and the posting above came after the DM! Please read it as posted before the DM´s description, as it was still part of the debate.
Post for 02/23/2006
Dietrich moves some feet behind the scouts and Olyn in direction of the farmhouse, but keeping far enough not to be seen or heard (so he´s oblivious to what is going on there).
Dietrich makes sure the beasts are ready to flee when necessary and prays to Domi and Gargul in order to control his anxiety while waiting for the scout´s reports.
The longbow is in his hands, waiting to let deadly arrow fly if needed.
Theodore and Macaw HP 22 AC 17 (mage armor & dodge) Thursday February 23rd, 2006 9:53:10 PM
Before they set off, Theodore casts mage armor on himself. (5 hours)
Near the farmhouse, he moves 30 feet towards the house, staying in the trees. (To Z10) There, he observes the happenings as his friends act out their parts.
Vauhwyt (Mage Armor, Enlarged, Invisible, Unseen Servant) and Mookie (Mage Armor, Enlarged, hiding in V's pocket) Thursday February 23rd, 2006 11:41:14 PM
Vauhwyt reads her Unsen Servant scroll and very quietly tells the servant to help Mookie with the Bag of Tricks. She cances her Reduce and then drinks her Invisibility potion. She cast Enlarge on herself, and sneaks over to Vorelle's family. She whipers via Message Cantrips to her friends about what she is doing. She stops, not going nearer than 40 feet from any person, and whispers super-quietly to Olyn that she is ready for him to work his divine magic.
Move Silent 27 left over from last post.
Olyn Friday February 24th, 2006 12:13:04 AM
casts Tongues on himself.
GM Highlight to display spoiler: { in Lord of the Rings 3, when Aragorn was crowned King of Gondor, he turned and starting singing to the crowd. I picture Olyn singing a song like that. }
Stepping out from the treeline, and walking in the direction of the farmhouse. specifically the group of people coming out, Olyn begins singing. Using his Diplomatic and Performance abilities in unison to capture the attention of the crowd and sway them into his Enthrall spell. *am unsure as to exactly what i am suppose to do. sing for 1 round, then cast Enthrall or cast Enthrall then start singing. whichever you think it should be I'll do it.*
will save is dc18.
**If the people are Enthralled by his singing, and the group manages to save the people, Olyn will continue to sing for the duration of the spell. (that's 1 hour folks) affording the group as much time as possible to get away. when there is but a few minutes left in the spell, Olyn starts moving back away from the people, still singing, until he is at the treeline and then upon ending the singing, and the people are still Enthralled for 1d3 rounds, Olyn will step into the woods, cast invisibilty upon himself, and move as quickly as possible to his waiting horse, and with all haste start after the group.**
***if it backfires, well, we'll cross that bridge if it happens.***
Olyn - 2 d20+2=18 d20+5=25 Friday February 24th, 2006 12:18:21 AM
forgot to roll for 2 skills. Perform skill check: 18 Diplomacy skill check: 25 (natural 20)
Vorelle d20+11=19 d20+11=24 d20+10=27 Friday February 24th, 2006 12:25:17 AM
[OOC: There are two purple "F"s on the map; one for Falquan and one for the Family. Can that be clarified? Also, which family members are here? I haven't really established whether Vorelle has met Targo's family, but I think we can assume she's met her own. :) And, just to be picky, the three family members we know about would occupy more than a five-foot square. Unless they're squeezed. Are they squeezed?]
Vorelle doesn't see any horses, but she looks for some other way to foil pursuit, or failing that, to aid in the distraction.
[Hide 19, Move Silently 24, Spot 27]
Rose hp: 30/30 AC14 d20+7=9 d20+8=14 d20+8=13 d20+8=23 d20+5=18 Friday February 24th, 2006 6:17:24 AM
Rose moves forward, keeping an eye on what's happening and ready to help if they are attacked.
held action: attack with shortbow attack: 9, miss
hide: 14 listen: 13 move silently: 23 spot: 18
Berlon (Prot Energy 60pts) Friday February 24th, 2006 9:32:38 AM
Berlon keeps moving forward, quietly blessing the party as he goes.
Bless - 50 minutes, all allies within 50' get +1 morale bonus to attack rolls & saves vs. fear
OOC Rules [DM Inge] Friday February 24th, 2006 9:33:56 AM From the rules: Enthrall
1) If you have the attention of a group of creatures, you can use this spell to hold them spellbound. To cast the spell, you must speak or sing without interruption for 1 full round. Thereafter, those affected give you their undivided attention, ignoring their surroundings. They are considered to have an attitude of friendly while under the effect of the spell. Any potentially affected creature of a race or religion unfriendly to yours gets a +4 bonus on the saving throw.
This can work. Olyn steps out from the trees and will get every ones attention right away. There are no races unfriendly to Olyn.
2) A creature with 4 or more HD or with a Wisdom score of 16 or higher remains aware of its surroundings and has an attitude of indifferent. It gains a new saving throw if it witnesses actions that it opposes.
Here only the leader is a lvl 6 character. The rest is lvl 4. Meaning they can all make a new saving throw the moment the hostages are being escorted away.
3) If those not enthralled have unfriendly or hostile attitudes toward you, they can collectively make a Charisma check to try to end the spell by jeering and heckling. For this check, use the Charisma bonus of the creature with the highest Charisma in the group; others may make Charisma checks to assist. The heckling ends the spell if this check result beats your Charisma check result. Only one such challenge is allowed per use of the spell.
Olyn please make a Cha check. So I can make an apposed check with those who win the Will DC.
A gentle song ... [DM Inge] [Will saves: S d20+3=13 / T d20=11 / C d20+4=21 / V d20+7=19 / N d20-1=19 / F d20-1=9 / L d20+4=16 / K d20+2=5 / R d20+1=19] Cha check Ragah d20+2=21 PM cha check d20+1=10 Targo Will save d20+2=17 Family d20+2=9 Falquan d20+2=20 Friday February 24th, 2006 10:22:40 AM
Slowly everyone moves into position. Dietrich, Rose, Theodore and Berlon come a little closer to the rest, Vorelle stays in place and looks for the horses. Possibly they will be at the back of the Farmhouse. They must be... how else could these men get here!
Vauhwyt makes several turns at once ;-) turning invisible, growing to normal size and even further with the enlarge, reading a scroll, talking to Mookie , walking in a 40ft circle around the prince's men close enough to Olyn to whisper he can begin his performance...
(ooc And all this happens in 1 turn ;-) -- let's assume these actions all happen in 1 minute
Vauhwyt: where's your unseen servant and Mookie? The unseen servant must be within 35 feet from you or else he will vanish)
Then it's up to Olyn!
The Halfling woman named Lobelia makes a little jump as she notices the half-elf stepping out of the tree line! Not only because she failed to see olyn earlier -- and she will most likely be ridiculed for this -- but also because he just barges in there!
Olyn just stands there! The dwarves, Half-Orcs and Lobelia stand perplex. Because of the sudden commotion another man steps out of the FarmHouse. This will most likely be their leader Steinthor. A tall man who can stand next to those Half-Orcs without being ashamed. His bulging arms show under his chain shirt and in his hands he loosely carries a very nice looking Bastard Sword. Behind the leader two more humans and one more dwarf step outside.
Quietly Olyn starts to sing...
A beautiful song vibrates through the woods heard by everyone. Everyone around the FarmHouse is fixed on Olyn and he gets their full attention. Vauhwyt is concentrated and is not affected by Olyn's singing. Vorelle is too concentrated on finding the horses and the others don't know what the singing is all about.
[Will saves: S d20+3=13 / T d20=11 / C d20+4=21 / V d20+7=19 / N d20-1=19 / F d20-1=9 / L d20+4=16 / K d20+2=5 / R d20+1=19]
The woman named Catherine, the dwarves Vhrobon and Noric and the female half-orc seem to be unaffected by Olyn's singing but notice their friends and even their leader are completely enthralled. Ragah who has the highest Charisma bonus doesn't seem to care at all that the Prince's men are enthralled, but she goes to her hubby and slaps him in the face hoping to take him back to reality. (Cha DC 21 Ragah -- Olyn please counter this or the male Half-Orc is no longer affected by your singing.
Sense motive DC15 : Highlight to display spoiler: { apparently the half-Orcs are hired to do the execution, but don't care about the Prince's men. Possibly they won't even fight you}
Catherine, Vrobon and Noric don't see any harm in Olyn's singing and don't try to counter the singing. All others are affected but remain indifferent. If a hostile act is performed they can break free with a successful Will save.
Olyn gently continues to sing. The invisible Vauhwyt stands next to the hostages. Targo and Vorelle's family appear to be enthralled by Olyn as well. Only Falquan keeps looking around hoping to understand what goes on...
Nice move Olyn!!
Olyn d20+2=19 d20+2=22 Friday February 24th, 2006 11:09:01 AM
continues singing to the crowd.
Charisma check of 19, not good enough so using a Hero point to reroll. a 22 (natural 20, Wardd, the God of Luck is truly on my side today)
Dietrich, HP 53, AC 19 Sunday February 26th, 2006 8:47:28 AM
Dietrich is quite nervous about the development of events, but stays behind, ready to intervene if needed, but not showing himself or interrupting Olyn. He sees that some of the enemy are not affected by Olyn´s magic. The warrior looks at his other magic wielding friends, hoping they can do something to counter that, without braking the half-elven spell.
Dietrich´s adrenalin levels rise when he sees the quality of the enemy. That would be a good fight! He controls himself not to secretely wish to have to use Wardd´s great-sword against them.
Theodore and Macaw HP 22/22 AC 17 (mage armor, dodge) Sunday February 26th, 2006 2:28:11 PM
Theodore remains where he is, preparing for the worst. He observes that not everyone was captured by Olyn's spell, but as of yet, they have not acted hostile.
The familiar adrenaline begins to creep through his body and he begins to breathe heavy.
Vauhwyt (Mage Armor, Enlarged, Invisible, Unseen Servant) and Mookie (Mage Armor, Enlarged, hiding in V's pocket) d20+12=25 Sunday February 26th, 2006 10:04:14 PM
Mookie is in Vauhwyt's pocket; the Unseen Servant is in the pocket with Mookie.
Vauhwyt sees that Falquan is not affected, so she comes up behind quiet like and whispers, "We've come to get you out of herre. Come up on my back under the blanket."
She sneaks him under and carries him to the concealment of the forest.
Move Silent 25, invisible.
VAUHWYT HAS ...
used 3 of 5 first level spells used 3 of 6 zero level spells
- 2 scrolls of Alter Self (200 gp each) (both used) - 2 scrolls of Rope Trick (180 gp each) (1 of 2 used) - 2 scrolls of Unseen Servant (35 each) (1 of 2 used) - 2 scrolls of Reduce Person (35 each) - 2 scrolls of Shield (35 each) - 2 scrolls of Obscuring Mist (35 each) (1 of 2 used) - 2 scrolls of Silent Image (35 each) (1 of 2 used) - 1 disguise kit (75 gp) (1 of 10 used) - 2 10-ft pieces of rope (1 of 2 used) - A waterskin filled with blood ( pig blood 50 gp ) (all used)
She also has a potion of invisibility (USED), 3 scrolls ray enfeeb, 4 scrolls cure light wounds, and 2 potions of cure light wounds (1d8+1).
Vorelle d20+11=29 d20+11=19 d20+10=27 d20+10=25 Sunday February 26th, 2006 10:22:41 PM
Vorelle continues to move around the small farmhouse, looking for the horses.
[Hide 29, Move Silently 19, Spot 27, Listen 25]
Rose Monday February 27th, 2006 1:34:15 AM
Rose carefully scoots forward and unties Vorelle's mom and pulls her towards the rest of the group.
KILL HER !!! [DM Inge] Listen ( N = d20-2=-1 / V = d20+3=9 / C = d20+4=16 / R = d20=14 ) NEW Will checks vs DC19 ( S = d20+3=18 / T = d20=17 / F = d20-1=6 / L = d20+4=19 / K = d20+2=17) Catherine Cha DC = d20=9 N attack = d20+6=20 d8=6 Lobelia attack = d8+7=11 Monday February 27th, 2006 12:47:32 PM
Ragah slaps her husband in the face, but the Half-Orc just keeps on gazing at Olyn. The singing goes on and on and many are enthralled by the soothing words. Yet the are still aware of their surroundings!
Dietrich moves closer to the edge of the forest doing his best not to disturb Olyn's magic. His mussels are on edge and he's as ready as he can be to charge... oh how he longs to see the blood dripping from his blade again... that delicate metal smell of blood... Only pure concentration stops this fighting machine from breaking ranks!
Vorelle moves quietly to the west of the farmhouse. The singing catches all the attention and conceals her movements in the forest. Only a trained ear would be able to hear her, and well... looks the scout Lobelia is paying more attention to Olyn than anything else... Ah yes, at the back of the farmhouse Vorelle finds a few (4) horses and a wagon.
Then may things happen all at once...
The invisible Vauhwyt notices Falquan is not under Olyn's spell and carefully walks past all guards... then whispers in Alda Falquan's ear. The man stirs, takes a little jump into the air saying "HUH"... but he feels the liontaur's body behind him and quickly understands... "these must be the adventurers!" and attempts to withdraw under the blanket. Falquan's "huh" fades away in Olyn's singing... luckily! As Falquan's hands are tied behind his back Vauhwyt needs to give the man a nudge and prepares to retreat to the forest... he's unable to reach that far this turn though... Vauhwyt and Falquan are now invisible!
But then Rose suddenly appears at the outer edge of the forest! She goes for Vorelle's Family!! The Prince's men in front of the farmhouse are impressed by Olyn's singing, but they are stil aware of their surroundings! Able to react to something they oppose!!!
Lobelia breaks free from Olyn's magic, but Steinthor, Thorkell, Fillinn and K'banmar remain enthralled. But now the others know something's wrong! Ragah notices Falquan has disappeared!
"KILL HER" Catherine shouts! Apparently she's the highest in rank right now! "KILL HER AND THAT JOKER!!!"
Olyn make a new Cha check DC9 or Catherin will manage to disrupt your singing allowing all others to break free from your spell.
Vrobon and Noric spring to action!
Vhrobon waves his hands with a small, straight piece of iron in his hands and points at Rose!
Rose, make a DC15 Will save or become under the Hold Person spell. If you fail you are paralyzed and frozen to the spot / unable to move and speak. You get a new saving throw every turn.
Noric moves towards ROSE who if she failed her Will save is now paralyzed and highly vurnerable! Being paralyzed she has a Dex of 0 and thus an AC of 11 instead of 14!!!
Noric waves his battle axe and hits ROSE! (Hit AC20) ... ROSE is hurt for 6HP!! Catherine runs forward towards Olyn hoping to make him stop singing. She raises her Dire Flail but is unable to reach Olyn this turn...
Lobelia however now sees the danger in Olyn, points her crossbow and fires! Hit AC11. The halfling's bolt veers past Olyn without any damage! Thanks to her Rapid Reload, she quickly reloads her light crossbow, ready to fire again next turn...
Ragah turns to see where Falquan went and takes her Great Axe from her back. Ready to fight should anyone attack her or her husband. She moves in front of the hostages. She was paid to kill them and she will kill them...
Back on the trail, Mad Jack looks for reinforcements, but none seem to show. Make a DC20 listen check and you will hear your friends seem to have started a battle... first that soft singing, and now a clattering sound of metal!!
Olyn ac23/24(dodge) hp55 **(Tongues)** Monday February 27th, 2006 12:57:35 PM
**Inge, when Olyn stops singing those affected will still be caught up in the Enthrall for 3 rounds**
Seeing all hell break loose, and having a contingency plan should this happen, Olyn stops his singing and immediately casts a spell.
*And you wondered why I casted the Tongues spell at the beginning, here's why*
Casts Summon Monster 3, Celestial Hippogriff and I ask it politely to rip Catherine (pointing at her) to shreds.*
DM Inge: Olyn/Big Tim, you are correct about the 3 extra turns, but please make that DC9 Cha check or the others will break loose right away!
Berlon - AC 20, HP 35/35 - Prot Energy (60 pts), Bless d20+7=15 d8+1=3 Monday February 27th, 2006 5:57:43 PM
"I've got the mage," Berlon says as he summons a familiar purple energy mace to attack Vrobon, hopefully not only hitting him but distracting him from future spells.
Spiritual Weapon - Range 150', 5 rounds
The mace takes a swing at Vrobon, hitting AC 15 for 3 dge.
Berlon will then stand to fight with Olyn vs Catherine, unless the summoned critter kills her, in which case he will move 15' towards the nearest enemy.
Theodore and Macaw HP 22/22 AC 17 (mage armor, dodge) Monday February 27th, 2006 7:46:01 PM
From his hiding place, Theodore begins to weave his magic. Suddenly, a duplicate image of Olyn appears next to the cleric. Theodore does his best to imitate the cleric's movements.
(Casts silent image. Will save 15 to disbelieve.)
Vauhwyt (Mage Armor, Enlarged, Invisible, Unseen Servant, AC20 plus miss chance) and Mookie (Mage Armor, Enlarged, hiding in V's pocket) Monday February 27th, 2006 8:09:41 PM
Vauhwyt figures the best way to salvage the situation is by sowing some confusion. She tells Mookie and the unseen servant to come out of her pocket, bringing her scroll of Obscurement out and handing it to her. (if Vahwyt got it out herself, it would be invisible and therefore very difficult to read, but when Mookie and the servant take it out, it becomes visible.)
The invisible Vauhwyt takes the now-visible scroll in her hand and reads it. The area is covered by banks of thick mist.
Then Vauhwyt moves 40 feet toward the woods and drops off her passenger. "Hide in the trees, and we'll get you after it's all overr," she says.
Olyn d20+2=20 Monday February 27th, 2006 8:10:25 PM
** Charisma check of 20, there ya go Inge **
DM Inge: thank you :-)
rose d20+6=23 d20+6=9 Monday February 27th, 2006 10:59:23 PM
Rose is startled when the woman yells to the others to kill Rose. I thought they were all frozen or something rose thinks as she quickly launchs a counter offensive against the woman, of course she misses.
will: 23
attack: 9
DM Inge: as I mixed up you and Vorelle's name in my last post, I should remind you that you are under attack of a dwarf who stands in front of you. The other dwarf tried to paralyse you, but you succeeded on that save.
Vorelle [AC 17; HP 46/46] d20+2=16 d20+7=26 d20+7=19 d6+1=4 d6+1=3 Monday February 27th, 2006 11:38:18 PM
[OOC: What, exactly, am I saving against? And what is the DC? I'm going to assume that 16 is good enough, since Rose only needed a 15 to beat hers. In future, it would be really helpful to know who is casting the spell and what the DC of the save is. And I hate to be picky, but I don't see a Spot or Listen check from Noric that would tell him where Vorelle even was.]
Vorelle is quite startled to suddenly find herself in melee combat, but she rises to the challenge. Quick as thought, her axes are in her hands, and she strikes back at the one who attacked her.
[Drawing axes is a free action due to Quick Draw feat. Attack with both axes, hitting AC 26 for 4 damage and AC 19 for 3 damage.]
DM Inge: made a mixup with you and Rose. You are NOT under attack at all and do not need to make a single save. No dwarve has attacked you not does any stand in front of you. Perhaps the map could have cleared this for you? You did get the map right? Sorry again for the mixup
DM CORRECTIONS Tuesday February 28th, 2006 3:40:43 AM
I have altered the previous DM post to correct the name mixup with Rose and Vorelle. Feel free to post a corrective post if you like to change your actions - especially Rose and Vorelle. Rose's save is good allready.
Vorelle (revised) d20+11=20 d20+11=16 Tuesday February 28th, 2006 9:09:33 AM
Stealthily, Vorelle approaches the horses. If she can reach them in this round, she will begin freeing them.
[Hide 20, Move Silently 16]
Battle Round 2 [DM Inge] Noric attack ( d100=11) V heading d8=1 C ( d100=58 d20+5=21) L ( d100=19 ) S ( d20+11=18 Tuesday February 28th, 2006 12:30:20 PM
Quickly the warriors see Olyn's magic was not water proof, and all seems to get pretty heated. As Olyn feels the breeze of the bolt that veers by and sees the incoming Cathering waving her Dire Flail he stops singing and casts a powerful spell. A spell that takes him all round to complete!
Berlon concentrates on Vrobon the Cleric and launches a Spiritual Weapon at the Dwarf. The purple energy mace veers towards Vrobon and hits the cleric full on the chest. (AC14).
All those who were still under the spell of Olyn and indifferent to their surroundings now see Berlon attack one of their friends and snap out of their dream state. This ENDS Olyn's enthrall and all become fully aware of the situation.
Theodore also springs to action and sees the danger Olyn is in. If only he could make Catherine doubt about who's real and who's not! So suddenly a second Olyn appears right next to the first one! Mimicking all real Olyn's moves... you know... this could work!
Vauhwyt creates confusion. With creative use of an unseen servant and Mookie he digs a scroll out of his pockets. The flying scroll however does not go unnoticed! "SOMEONE'S HERE!!" the Prince's men yell. Centered on Vauhwyt thick clouds suddenly emerge from the ground and rise 20ft above the ground. All those inside seem to loose track of their positions, and Steinthor, Thorkell, Fillinn and Catherine are unable to see what happens at the center of the clouds. They can barely see Lobelia who manages to walk out from the mist quite easily...
Around the back of the House Vorelle, sneakily frees the four horses. All the confusion at the front of the Farmhouse enable her to work without danger. Vorelle notices a few open windows at the back side of the farmhouse that are open...
Rose stand perplex! She thought no one would be attacking her yet these men are not be taken lightly! Her counter attack is quick and hasty and with no effect at all... In front of her Noric stands waving his battle axe!!
K'banmar barely sees his wife in this thick mist and goes back to find her. Together they huddle the hostages together not planning to let them go...
Rose stands only 5ft from Noric and gains 20% concealment. Noric waves his axe but fails to connect to Rose! (rolled 11 on miss chance).
Vrobon scowls. He's in the middle of this thick mist and only the sound of his friends can give him a heading. He casts a spell on himself and simply rushes forward!! His heading is completely lost (rolled a 1 which is due north) and simply runs north suddenly bumping into an invisible something! He falls backward and is prone on the ground. Confused, lost and not knowing what hit him!
Cathering moves to Olyn and strikes the first one she sees. She hits the right Olyn! (58 chance) Hit Olyn with Dire Flail AC21 but she only hears her flail scrape Olyn's armor.
Lobelia repositions and shoots at Olyn but chooses the wrong one!
Steinthor raises his bastard sword and charges Berlon! (full move, straight line of sight, melee +2 , AC-2) He hits Berlon AC18 and MISSES!!!
Thorkell and Fillinn move in closer but can not attack as Steinthor obstructs their path to charge.
Berlon - AC 20, HP 35/35 - Spiritual Weapon (4r), Prot Energy (60 pts), Bless d20+7=18 d8+1=5 d8=1 d8=4 Tuesday February 28th, 2006 1:03:58 PM
Berlon smiles as the mace takes another good swing at the cleric.
Spiritual Weapon attack hits AC 18 for 5 dge.
He then smiles even wider as the bad guys line up like bowling pins. He takes a 5-foot step away from his attacker, then casts Sound Burst, centered on Fillin.
Sound Burst (range 35') hits all within 10' radius for 4 dge (nasty one rerolled w/ hero point) and stuns for one round unless each target makes a Fort save DC 15.
(OOC: Going by the latest map, 10 foot radius gets all the baddies? If not, the the spell will target all but Lobelia.)
Olyn ac23/24 (Dodge - Lobelia) hp55 **Tongues** d20+11=24 Tuesday February 28th, 2006 7:39:56 PM
as the first Celestial Hippogriff appears and begins attacking Catherine, Olyn takes a 5 foot step backwards and defensively begins casting a second summon monster 3 spell. Inviting another Celestial Hippogriff to join in the frey by attacking Lobelia.
*Defensive Casting, Concentration check of 24*
Vauhwyt (Mage Armor, Enlarged, Invisible, Unseen Servant, AC20 plus miss chance) and Mookie (Mage Armor, Enlarged, hiding in V's pocket) Tuesday February 28th, 2006 9:28:30 PM
Having seen Falquan to safety, Vauhwyt thinks that's worth another shot.
Still invisible, she tries the same tactic again. She heads into the mist looking for Vorelle's family members. She searches until she finds one. Then she whispers that she is here for a rescue, and helps the person onto her back under the blanket. Then she carries the person to the safety of the woods.
Theodore and Macaw HP 22 AC 17 (mage armor & dodge) Tuesday February 28th, 2006 9:30:21 PM
Theodore notices Rose in trouble but can't help her without putting Olyn in danger. He decides he's in a better position to assist the cleric, so he continues concentrating on the image.
Seeing Olyn move, Theodore sends the image of Olyn stepping into and "through" the cleric, ending beside him, just to keep the enemy guessing which is the real Olyn. (Will Save 15 to disbelieve)
Dietrich, HP 53, AC 19, Bullstrenght d20+11=13 d4-2=2 Tuesday February 28th, 2006 9:39:08 PM
OOC: Sorry for missing post just now. It´s carnival in Brazil and I travelled this weekend.
DIetrich swears in his foulest orkish as the beautiful plan transforms itself into dust and brutal fighting takes over. Unfortunatelly his wishes were granted and he´ll be able to use that extra power Olyn gave him...
The fighter fast-draws Wardd´s great-sword and moves to Q10, flanking Catherine. Despite all advantages, Dietrich is maybe still a little surprised and can´t attack efficiently (hits ac 13, that is, misses)
"¨&%$&¨%*&¨"
Dietrich 2d6(3+6)+9=18 d6=6 Tuesday February 28th, 2006 9:41:47 PM
Actually, hits ac 15 if that´s enough: 18 dmg + 6 sneak attack = 24 dmg! That´s bullstrenght with a two handed weapon!
Vorelle [AC 17; HP 46/46] d20+11=21 d20+11=29 d20+10=17 d20+10=26 Tuesday February 28th, 2006 10:51:12 PM
Once the horses are released, Vorelle quietly approaches the back of the house. She peeks through the open windows, curious as to whether anybody else is inside.
[Hide 21, Move Silently 29, Spot 17, Listen 26]
Rose hp: 30/30 AC18 d20+6=25 d20+6=21 d8+4=8 d8+4=10 d6=2 d100=20 d20+8=19 d20+5=16 Wednesday March 1st, 2006 5:56:03 AM
Rose listens carefully and swings where she thinks she sees and hears the dwarf.
ooc: where is piper? I sent her to tell my family what was happening when we were just getting out of the palace and havent heard back since.
rose correctiosn and add ons Wednesday March 1st, 2006 5:58:57 AM
Rose hp: 24/30 AC18 (last post I forgot to add mage armor bonus)
Active spells Mage armor, +4 ac 3hrs See invisible 30min
Daily spells Cantrips: mage hand, message, ray of frost, acid splash Level 1: shield, sleep Level 2: scorching ray
Battle Round 3 [DM Inge] Sonic Saves: ( S = d20+9=19 / C = d20+4=7 / T = d20+5=18 / F = d20+5=15 ) Will saves Silent image ( S = d20+3=22 / d20=9 / d20+4=11 ) L attack ( d20+6=26 d20+6=23 d6=3 d6=6 ) S attack ( d20+11=28 d10=6 d20+6=10 ) N attack = ( d100=64 d20+6=22 d8+2=5 ) V heading ( d8=2 ) R attack ( d100=24 ) K attack ( d100=85 d20+7=16 Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:39:38 PM
As the Prince's men rush towards the adventurers Berlon grins... takes a 5-foot step and waves a spell... a tremendous cacophony sounds through the woods and hurts at least 4 of the Prince's men. (ooc I did not center it on Fillinn as that would only damage Fillinn and Thorkell. I went ahead by you mentioning your spell would hurt everyone but Lobelia. So it does -- with a slight "displacement" -- am I not a friendly DM ? ;-) )
Catherine, Steinthor, Fillinn and Thorkell shudder as the noise rips through their bones. Sonic Saves: ( S = d20+9=19 / C = d20+4=7 / T = d20+5=18 / F = d20+5=15 ) Catherine and Fillinn stand stunned (taking -2 on AC and loosing Dex bonus to AC)
Berlon is unable to see the dwarven Cleric due to Vauhwyt's Obscuring Mist and he needs visual contact to direct his Spiritual Mace and the weapon returns to Berlon hovering besides him.
Right besides Catherine a Celestial Hippogriff was summoned by Olyn! The Celestial creature immediately attacks the already stunned Catherine making a full attack on her!
Olyn, please roll attack and damage rolls for the FIRST celestial Hippogriff / Catherine will not be dead yet after this attack
Once again Olyn casts the same powerful spell summoning a second Celestial Hippogrif to attack Lobelia! It's going to become crowded!!
The still invisible Vauhwyt ignores the dwarve that bumps into her and drops of Falquan in the forest. Then she returns to find the other hostages. She has to manouvre through the thick smoke she summoned and bumps into Vorelle's family at last... but also into Ragah and her hubby!
As part of the family whish is huddled together and all with their hands tied behind their backs. There's a toddler crying on the ground, an elderly man, Vauhwyt also recognizes Vorelle's mother and father (I'm assuming Vauhwyt already met them?) and two other men and woman. If huddled together nicely they can easily fit on a 5ft square... All family members are startled by the smoke and their own fear and when suddenly a voice starts to whisper to them out of thin air the woman start to cry out loud. Ragah and K'banmar know something is wrong and realize someone might be trying to take away their hostages!!
Theodore continues to protect Olyn with the silent image. He even makes it move through Olyn to create even more chaos. Steinthor can not be fooled with this trickery and prepares to attack the real Olyn. Throkell and Lobelia though are amazed that there are still two Olyns walking around...
Dietrich moves under the protection of the Celestial Hippogriff and attacks the stunned Catherine. His blows easily connect and with all the damage the Hippo already did to the woman, she sinks dead to the ground...
Vorelle sends the horses into the woods and peeks through the open window. There's not a sound in the house. Only the clattering sound of metal that comes through the open door at the front. Apparently these windows give access a few bedrooms and a storage room. It looks deserted... they are probably all outside fighting...
Rose's attack would be perfect, but due to the smoke she just misses Noric. (concealment 20% and you rolled 20...sorry)
Lobelia, clueless about the fact that next turn a Celestial Hippogriff will appear next to her to rip her apart is still confused about what happens to Olyn, but instead witnesses the danger Berlon poses to her team mates. She moves into a clear line of fire and launches a bolt with her Light Crossbow...
Hit AC26 -- NAT 20 ! Crit AC23 -- HIT Damage : 3Hp + 6Hp crit damage
Berlon is hit for 9Hp.
Steinthor is not fooled by Theodore's silent image and attacks the real Olyn with his Bastard Sword! He takes a 5-ft step towards the Half-Elf and makes a full attack!
Strike 1 hits AC28 for 6Hp Strike 2 hits AC10 -- miss
Olyn is hit for 6Hp / Olyn please make a concentration check of DC10 + 6 points damage taken + 3rd lvl spell = DC19 / if you fail the concentration check the second Hippo is NOT summoned and your spell has failed
Fillin and Thorkell are unable to make a move this turn as the sound from the burst is still in their ears...
Noric however felt the breeze from Rose's weapon and swings his battle axe... Concealment check 64 Hit AC22 for 5Hp
Rose is hit for 5Hp
Vrobon gets up, incants a spell on himself (Sanctuary). He's still in the fog though as getting up was his move action.
Ragah and K'banmar feel somethings wrong and can smell someone is trying to take away their prisoners.
They simply swing their axes at the invisible vauhwyt (Invisible creatures have total concealment and thus there's a 50% chance Ragah and K'banmar miss)
Ragah raises her great axe and attempts to hit where she thinks something is moving around... SWISH ... apart from a huge hole in the air nothing happens. K'banmar tries the same thing and he's lucky! His great axe hits something!!
Hit AC16 - miss
CLANG... K'banmar's great axe lands on Vauhwyt's armor and the poor Half-Orc can only assume he either hit the House or the beams meant to string the hostages...
Falquan, freed by Vauhwyt and out of the Fog hears more battle sounds coming from the east. Slowly and carefully he moves that way hoping to find the adventurers back there.
Mad Jack, make a DC10 listen check to hear that sound burst! You should be aware that something is going on at the FarmHouse, and there are no reinforcements in sight...
Dietrich HP 53, AC 19, Bullstrenght d20+13=19 2d6(3+2)+9=14 d6=1 d4-2=0 Wednesday March 1st, 2006 3:48:08 PM
OOC: actually, Dietrich´s strenght is now 22 with the bullstrenght. According to my 3rd edition book (don´t have a 3.5), that would be a +10 bonus. Is that correct? I´ll calculate with that or just +6, like the post before. Please, could you clear for me what´s the right option?
The warrior´s darker side rejoices as his sharp blade cuts the fighting women into two pieces. He makes a silent prayer for Gargul to take her soul and moves to Q11, flanking the enemy´s officer.
Hits ac 19 (+6 strenght bonus + flanking) or hits ac 23 (+10 stenght bonus) damage 15 (with +6 strenght and 1 sneak attack) or damage 21 (+10 strenght and 1 sneak attack)
Dietrich is a little worried about his more fragile friends, like Rose, lost in the mists, and also about the lives of the prisoners. But right now he can only concentrate on causing death among his immediate opponents.
Berlon - AC 20, HP 26/35 - Spiritual Weapon (3r), Prot Energy (60 pts), Bless d20+7=17 d8=4 Wednesday March 1st, 2006 4:29:27 PM
(OOC: Dietrich - In 3.5 a stat of 12-13 is +1, 14-15 is +2, 16-17 is +3, etc. 22-23 = +6)
"Ow."
Berlon returns the favor, directing the Spiritual Mace (move action) to attack Lobelia. The mace hits AC 17 for 4 dge.
(OOC: According to the spell, the mace still gets to attack when directed to a new target. If Olyn's critter takes out Lobelia before the mace can get to her, it will target Fillinn instead.)
Berlon then makes a quick Gnomish chant (std action) and he joins in on the Bull's Strength convention, casting it on himself.
Bull's Strength - +4 str, 5 min
Vauhwyt (Mage Armor, Enlarged, Invisible, Unseen Servant, AC20 plus miss chance) and Mookie (Mage Armor, Enlarged, hiding in V's pocket) d20+6=10 Wednesday March 1st, 2006 6:35:24 PM
Vauhwyt picks up the baby (move action) -- "Probably the only innocent one in the bunch," she thinks, from what she knows of Vorelle's family. She backs up with the screaming infant tucked under one arm (another move action), taunting the half orcs as she goes. "Come on, you missed me, silly orcs! Here I am! Right here! Idiots!"
"That's telling them, Boss," says Mookie.
As she makes her move, she draws her masterwork longspear (you can draw a weapon as part of a move).
After stepping back to around location C-E-6-8. Vauhwyt drops the baby behind her (free action), telling the unseen servant to take the kid and set it down safely. Meanwhile, Mookie, still in Vauhwyt's pocket, gets the Bag of Tricks ready to use next round.
NOTE TO DM: Vauhwyt is using a masterwork longspear. It has a reach from 10 feet to 20 feet while V is enlarged. If an enemy moves in that range, V can take an attack of opportunity on that target. She will not do so if the person is in the fog with concealment, because you cannot sneak attack a person who has any concealment. But the first enemy who moves in reach of her spear out of the fog will definitely get poked!
V will also activate her Seal of the Backstabber (free action), which boosts sneak attack damage by +3d6 for three rounds.
V's AoO, if she gets the chance, is at +6 (+2 BAB+3 Str-2 Size +2 Invis +1 mw spear). Her damage is 3d6+4+4d6 sneak att dam. She rolls a 10 for the attack, darn.
Theodore and Macaw HP 22/22 AC 17 (mage armor, dodge) Wednesday March 1st, 2006 8:28:45 PM
Theodore focuses on his spell. The image of Olyn begins to weave his fingers as if he were going to cast another spell. Again, he steps into and through the real Olyn.
Olyn ac23/24(Dodge - Steinthor) hp49/55 ** Tongues ** d20+11=21 d20+11=20 Thursday March 2nd, 2006 12:39:30 AM
*(Conentration check of 21)*
Olyn YELLS to Hippogriff #1 to destroy Thorkell.
taking a 5 foot step back again, Olyn defensively casts a spell. (Concentration check of 20) **Casts Cause Fear at Steinthor, will dc15, pg208**
Vorelle d20+11=22 d20+11=15 Thursday March 2nd, 2006 12:39:35 AM
Seeing nobody in the building, Vorelle slips around the side toward the sounds of battle. With luck, surprise will be on her side.
[Move to G10 (double move, going at half-speed to be stealthy). Hide 22, Move Silently 15]
Rose d100=91 d20+6=20 d8+3=10 d6=3 d20+8=24 d20+5=11 d10=6 Thursday March 2nd, 2006 2:54:06 AM
Rose gasps as she's struck but quickly decides to strike back before moving 5' back and drawing a potion from her beltpouch.
roll 1d10 to determine what potion was grabbed: 1-4 clw, 5-9 cmw, reroll 10 got a 6 drew cmw
Olyn part 2 d20+1=17 d20+6=13 d20+6=26 d20+6=25 d8+2=7 d4+4=6 2d4(4+4)+8=16 d20+1=12 d20+6=22 d20+6=26 d20+6=16 d8+2=9 d4+4=8 2d4(2+1)+8=11 Thursday March 2nd, 2006 9:39:53 AM
Celestial Hippogriff #2, full attack on Lobelia, hit ac17 (bite), ac13 (claw), ac26-nat.20 poss crit, ac25-crit (claw)
dam: 7(bite), 6(1st claw), 16(2nd claw-crit)
Celestial Hippogriff #1, full attack on Thorkell, hit ac12 (bite), ac22 (claw), ac26-nat.20 poss crit, ac16-crit (claw)
dam: 9(bite), 8(1st claw), 11(2nd claw-crit)
DM Inge: CH attackes Lobelia as you said in your second post, and I think we can use the second roll - the one for CH1 - for your attack on Thorkell. Ok? This way I can correct everything in my post. Thanks
Olyn #3 Thursday March 2nd, 2006 9:41:55 AM
Celestial Hippogriff #2 attacked Lobelia, not Thorkell. will roll for attacks on Thorkell after the next DM post. (im so confused anyhoo)
Battle Round 4 [DM Inge] S attack ( d20+11=19 d20+6=21 d10+4=10 d10+4=11 ) F attack ( d20+7=23 d8+3=6 ) N attack ( d100=64 d20+6=14 ) Thursday March 2nd, 2006 9:51:25 AM Olyn's first Celestial Hippogrif combined with Dietrich's massive strength was plenty to kill Catherine. Olyn then yells in a tongue few can understand to the Hippogriff to kill Thorkell. The Celestial creature makes a 5-ft move and is able to perform a full attack on Thorkell!!
Thorkell got hit for 27Hp!!
Thorkell's limbs are thorn and shredded by the Hippogrif. Blood gushes all around and splatters everywhere. Finally the human - or what's left of it - falls to the ground where it shudders for a few more moments and then ... all falls silent around him. His soul hopefully floating to meet Gargul where he will have to ask forgiveness for his doings...
With the utmost concentration Olyn can fulfill his powerful spell, and in front of Lobelia a second celestial Hippogriff appears able to make a full attack at Lobelia doing 23Hp of damage!!!
Lobelia was hurt for 23Hp
Decapitated the Halfling sinks to the ground... her head was never found ever after... the razor sharp claws have opened up her armor and ripped through the little body, but it was the bite that brutally killed her...
Dietrich moves in to flank (+2 on attack roll) Steinthor and swings his blade at the leader. The blade scratches the leader's chain shirt but fails to go through. This would have been sufficient but this man must be magically protected! (Steinthor AC21) Steinthor quickly looks sideways and sees the tank that stands in front of him and grins madly...
As Berlon's Spiritual Mace returned to him last turn, he now sends him after Lobelia who just gave him a nasty sting. But as he watches Olyn's critter literally bite Lobelia's head of he redirects his mace to Fillinn. His Mace succeeds to connect!!
Fillinn got hurt for 4Hp
Berlon then casts a Bull's Strength spell on himself... ready to take on the Wold next round!!
Vauhwyt finds the infant and picks it up. With the child under her arms she backs up while taunting the Half-Orcs and taking out her spear. Outside the Fog she waits... ready to kill the first enemy that comes out of thick black smoke...
Theodore continues to focus on Olyn's image. Moving through Olyn again hoping to confuse the enemy.
Olyn directs his Hippogriffs and casts a spell on Steinthor... but the leader can not be mislead with puny spells like this. (He's a lvl6 warrior thus can not be affected by this spell regardless the will save needed)
Rose gasps as she's struck by the dwarve's battle axe. She raises her weapon and attempts to hit the dwarve who conceals in the fog... this time she can feel the impact and hear Noric's cry of pain.
Noric is hurt fot 10Hp
Then Rose back's up blindly grabbing a potion from her pouch. By going back 5ft she comes to the outer edge of the fog... Noric is still in there somewhere.
Seeing nobody in the building, Vorelle sneaks to the side of the building. She's amazed by the thick black fog that hangs magically in front of her. Only a few feet away from her she can hear Vauhwyt taunting someone, she can hear a few woman crying and a few half-orcs cursing...
Steinthor turns to Dietrich and raises his Bastard Sword. With a primal roar he attempts to hit Dietrich twice!! Choosing Dietrich as his Dodge target (AC22 vs Dietrich)
First strike hit AC19 for 10Hp Second Strike hit AC21 for 11 Hp (forgot to add his Str +4 to the damage last round when he attacked Olyn -- Lukcy you)
Dietrich is hurt for 21 Hp!
After the attack Steinthor moves back 5ft preparing for the next round. His Dodge is on Dietrich. But being surrounded by warriors and two Celestial Hippogriffs isn't exactly what this guy was hoping to start his day with...
Fillinn gazes at the Hippogriff that appeared next to Lobelia and wanted to help Lobelia only to see the Halfling being decapitated. In blind rage he aims well and hits the Celestial Hippogriff 2 (hit AC23 for 6Hp)
Celestial Hippogriff 2 got hurt for 6Hp
Noric follows Rose and tries to hit where he thinks she must be... He finds her, but this time his battleaxe fails to hurt Rose.
Vrobon continues to move North hoping to find a way out of this fog... and appears next to Vauhwyt but as the Liontaur is still invisible the poor dwarve doesn't know what awaits for him... I can see him sticking on Vauhwyts Longspear ready to be hanged over the bbq...
Ragah and K'banmar are too confused to try and hit anything. And shout in orcish (highlight if you speak Orcs) Highlight to display spoiler: {"WE CAME TO DO A HANGING, WE WILL HANG THEM!!!!"}
Ragah grabs Targo, takes the rope that hangs above him and ties it around Targo's neck. The little stool under Targo's feet is all that is left for the poor man to avoid getting hanged... K'banmar grabs the first person he can lay his hands on and does the same... Targo and one of his brothers now have ropes around their necks!
Thanks to (or should I say due to?) the fog no one can see this.
Falquan sees Theodore and walks up to the mage. "I'm Alda... thanks for saving me, but there are more people back there. You need to help them too. Those half-Orcs are likely to kill them! They will do anything for money!"
Olyn ac23/24 (Dodge - Fillinn) hp49/55 *Tongues*, Griff#1 ac15 hp25. Griff#2 ac15 hp19/25. d20+3=21 d20+8=18 d20+8=20 d8+2=8 d20+6=19 d4+4=5 Thursday March 2nd, 2006 3:09:19 PM
Shouting to Griff #1: Assist Deitrich in eliminating Steinthor. ** will take another full attack on Steinthor, flanking with Deitrich ** connects with the bite only for 8 points of damage.
Shouting to Griff #2: Take out Fillinn. ** move to Fillinn so only gets a single attack ** connects with a claw for 5 points of damage
Moving in the direction to where he heard the Orcs yell out, Olyn responds with : You were hired to hang them, your employers are fast become snail food. I will hire you to protect those people and will Spare your lives AND pay you for your time. What say you?
Dietrich, HP 32 (53), AC 23, Bullstrenght d20+9=27 d4-2=-1 2d6(3+3)+8=14 d6=5 Thursday March 2nd, 2006 5:29:06 PM
Dietrich swears as his sword isn´t able to penetrate Steinthor´s armour. "¨%#%$ magic!"
He than swears even more at the powerful attacks that hit him! "¨%$&¨% OUCH!" That would have easely killed less massive creatures.
The warrior keeps his footwork to continue flanking the enemy together with the hyppogriff, moving to S12.
Dietrich takes a more defensive posture (+4 ac, -4 attack "combat expertise") and swings his sword.
Yeah, hits ac 26 (+11 with bullstrenght, +2 flanking, -4 defensive stance, -1 curse from Wardd´s great-sword d4-2 magic weapon).
That makes: 14 damage (+9 -1 sword), 19 with sneak attack
Theodore and Macaw HP 22/22 AC 17 (mage armor, dodge) Thursday March 2nd, 2006 9:24:23 PM
Theodore nods at Falquan. The image of Olyn winks out and he begins casting another spell. Next, Theodore winks out. He simply disappears.
The now invisible Theodore moves towards the remaining prisoners.
With the baby crying behind her, and an enemy (Vrobon) in front of her, Vauhwyt cannot go help the other prisoners, because then the baby would be at the mercy of the enemy. So the enemy at hand takes priority!
"Now, Mookie!" she says, and "Servant, help Mookie!"
Mookie, with the servant's help, pulls a ball of fur from the Bag of Tricks and tosses it on the other side of Vrobon. It expands into a (rolled an 04) Wolverine that is now flanking Vrobon with Vauhwyt.
Vauhwyt rears up and lashes out with her paws. [OOC: Paws are usually -2 to hit but with the flank bonus are +0. The first paw is +2 due to being invisible.] The first paw attack is a natural one -- a miss! The second paw hits AC15 for 6 damage and an additional 20 sneak attack damage with the seal's +3d6.
Vauhwyt can't use her spear because the enemy has got in too close. So, holding her spear in left hand, Vauhwyt lashes out with her right fist (improved unarmed attack). That attack is at +5 with the flank bonus, and she hits AC24! for 5 damage and 16 points of sneak attack damage. The total 21 damage by fist is nonlethal damage.
Then the wolverine attacks the dwarf, if he is still on his feet. The animal hits AC22 with a claw, AC21 with a claw, and gets a nat 20 with the bite (no crit). The damage is 6 with a claw, 6 with a claw, and 7 with a bite!
"Wowsy!" says Vauhwyt.
"I'll say," says Mookie.
==========
WOLVERINE Medium Animal Hit Dice: 3d8+15 (28 hp) Speed: 30 ft. (6 squares), burrow 10 ft., climb 10 ft. Armor Class: 14 (+2 Dex, +2 natural), touch 12, flat-footed 12 Base Attack/Grapple: +2/+4 Attack: Claw +4 melee (1d4+2) Full Attack: 2 claws +4 melee (1d4+2) and bite -1 melee (1d6+1) Space/Reach: 5 ft./5 ft. Special Attacks: Rage Special Qualities: Low-light vision, scent Saves: Fort +7, Ref +5, Will +2 Abilities: Str 14, Dex 15, Con 19, Int 2, Wis 12, Cha 10 Skills: Climb +10, Listen +6, Spot +6 Feats: Alertness, Toughness, Track
Rage (Ex): A wolverine that takes damage in combat flies into a berserk rage on its next turn, clawing and biting madly until either it or its opponent is dead. It gains +4 to Strength, +4 to Constitution, and -2 to Armor Class. The creature cannot end its rage voluntarily.
Vorelle [AC 17; HP 46/46] Thursday March 2nd, 2006 10:16:12 PM
Whatever is happening, it seems to be in the fog bank. Vorelle is fairly certain she can make her way into it by sticking close to the house wall as a landmark. She places her right hand on the wall and moves a few cautious steps forward.
She moves five feet, then (presumably) encounters Targo perched atop his stool. For a moment, she just stops and stares, too surprised to do anything else.
Her mind is racing.
Cut him down, or he'll beat you when he gets loose!
No, leave him to hang; you'll be rid of him once and for all!
Cut him down; you can't let the Prince win!
Stay away from him; he'll kill you if he gets a chance!
For the moment, Vorelle is frozen in indecision.
Berlon - AC 20, HP 26/35 - Bull's Strength, Spiritual Weapon (2r), Prot Energy (60 pts), Bless d20+7=23 d8+1=3 d20+12=28 d8+4=12 Thursday March 2nd, 2006 11:19:51 PM
*clang!* The Spiritual Weapon takes another swing at Fillinn, hitting AC 23 for 3 dge.
Berlon the moves to assist Dietrich, trying to flank the enemy fighter. He will then take a swing with his Masterwork Mace. It looks like a good one, hitting AC 28 for 12 damage...
(OOC: If Berlon can get the flank bonus, the attack hits AC 28, otherwise it hits 26)
Rose hp: 30/30 AC18 2d8(6+5)+3=14 d20+6=23 d8+4=9 d6=1 d100=86 Friday March 3rd, 2006 2:24:31 AM
Rose gulps the potion, and drops the vial. She will quickly attaks again. If she can see Vorelle's attacker she will then move 5' towards him
heal: 14 attack: 23 damage: 9 sneak attack: 1 concelment: 96, does this still apply am i in or out?
Active spells Mage armor, +4 ac 3hrs See invisible 30min
Daily spells Cantrips: mage hand, message, ray of frost, acid splash Level 1: shield, sleep Level 2: scorching ray
Battle Round 5 [DM Inge] F attack ( d20+6=23 d8+3=4 ) S attack ( d20+11=25 d20+6=11 d10+4=12 ) N attack ( d20+6=16) V spell ( d8=5 ) Friday March 3rd, 2006 9:15:41 AM
Having witnessed the terrible effect of the Celestial Hippogriffs, Olyn once again redirects them. This time Steinthor, the leader of this bunch, is about to get shredded to pieces. Hippogriff 1 bites a chunk out of Steinthor's arm. The second Hippo rips open Fillinn's armor!
Steinthor takes 8Hp -- the man still stands and to be honest... he still looks pretty vital!
Fillinn takes 5Hp damage and wobbles on his legs
Olyn then shouts in Orcish as somewhere in the fog he heard Ragah and K'banmar threatening to hang the hostages and offers to pay them in exchange for the life of them... euhm... weren't you guys pretty poor?!?
Dietrich, amazed by the power Steinthor displayed again flanks the leader and takes another swing. Dispite the defensive stance he still manages to gravely hurt Steinthor.
Steinthor takes another 14Hp -- he still stands though somewhat less vital ;-)
Theodore nods to Falquan who approaches him and then suddenly disappears moving around the fog to where he believes the hostages are.
When suddenly Vrobon appears next to her Vauhwyt commands Mookie to pull out a ball from her bag of tricks. A wolverine! Vrobon shudders in fear as he hears the predator behind him but then, out of nothing liontaur paws commence to pummel the dwarve.
HOWEVER! Vrobon did cast a Sanctuary spell earlier when he was in the fog and Vauhwyt and the Wolverine both need to make a DC14 will save or their attack will fail and they will no longer be able to attack Vrobon for the duration of the spell (it last 1 more round ;-) )
Vauhwyt, please roll a DC14 will save for yourself and the Wolverine or the attack has failed and you won't be able to attack him next turn. If both saves succeed, the dwarve dies. If not, he still stands...
If both saves succeed Vrobon takes 41Hp and is chopped into little pieces...
Through the fog Vorelle notices Targo is being hanged. Should she free him? She remains indecisive...
Berlon ones again directs his mace at Fillinn.
Fillin takes 3Hp -- with just 1Hp left, the dwarve manages to hold on... barely!
Berlon then moves to assist the Hippogriffs and Dietrich and now Steinthor is completely surrounded. Again Steinthor is hurt and the warrior starts to look pale. The massive blood loss begins to take its toll...
Steinthor takes another 12Hp -- he STILL stands!!
Rose quaffs her vial and immediately her wounds are healed. Then she attempts to strike Noric once again.
Noric takes 9Hp -- still standing
Fillinn's attempts to protect his weak bones as his battle axe sings again! (hit AC25 for 6Hp)
Celestial Hippogriff 2 takes 6Hp
Fillinn then backs up 5ft awaits the inevitable...
Steinthor, now completely surrounded roars in agony and with all his anger he crashes down on Dietrich once again! His first strike hits Dietrich hard, but due to all his injuries he's unable to strike twice. (hits AC25 for 11Hp)
Dietrich takes 11Hp
Steinthor knows there's little chance he will ever get out of this mess. He looks up to the Hippogriffs, smiles and shouts :"BITE ME!"
Noric moves 5ft out of the fog and attacks Rose who now stands out of the fog but once again his battleaxe only scratches Rose.. (Hits AC16.)
Depending on Vauhwyt's will save Vrobon (if still alive / will attack either Vauhwyt or the Wolverine -- the one that succeeds in his will save) Instead of raising his battleaxe, he casts an instantaneous spell. You have seen this spell before, but then it was Olyn who used it with great success.
Sound Burst, centered on Vrobon emanating from himself! Vauhwyt, Theodore and the Wolverine are endangered and take 5Hp sonic damage + make Fort SaveDC15 or you are stunned next round. IGNORE THIS IF Vauhwyt AND the Wolvering succeed on their previous will saves.
Ragah and K'banmar hear Olyn's words and are puzzled. They're in it for the money and whoever offers most gains their "Loyalty". But until they see some clattering gold, they will continue to string'm...
With a kick from their feet they push away the stools underneath Targo and one of his brothers, grab another hostage -- this time Vorelle's mother and a wife from one of Targo's brothers -- and begin putting the ropes around their necks...
Targo and his brother are both hanging from the ropes. (suffering from suffocation -- both have 2 rounds to hold their breath after that they will need to make constitution checks or fall unconscious.)
Olyn - BigTim Friday March 3rd, 2006 10:00:29 AM
Inge, reread my last post. Griff #1 attacked Steinthor, Griff #2 attacked Fillinn, so Fillinn doesnt get a rear attack with flanking on Griff #2. And does Fillinn still retreat to the farmhouse after attacking the Griff? If so doesnt he get an attack of opportunity?
Inge: oh $%^&&*$ I did it again :-( Made corrections once again to the DM post above. Added 5Hp to steinthor and subracted 5 from fillinn. Fillinn does not retreat indeed.
Olyn ac23/24 hp49/55 *Tongues* Griff #1 ac15 hp25, Griff #2 ac15 hp13/25 d20+3=22 d20+8=14 d20+8=27 d8+2=3 d4+4=8 d20+1=13 d20+6=8 d20+6=25 d4+4=5 Friday March 3rd, 2006 10:51:00 AM
Griff #1 continues his assault on Steinthor, landing a bite and a claw on him. Bite does 3 points, Claw does 8 points for a total of 11 damage.
Griff #2 continues his assault on Fillinn, hitting with just a Claw for 5 points of damage.
**ooc, not everyone spends their money, some of us are accumulating a nest egg so we aint as poor as we seem**
Olyn moves closer to where he last saw where the prisoners were led, going into the mist and up to where the Orcs are. Pulling out a medium sized pouch as he walks up to the Orcs, and in Orcish he says: Highlight to display spoiler: { Stop hanging them, protect them all, and everything in this pouch is yours. You do not need to fight unless its in defense of them (points to all the prisoners). I will inform my team that no harm is to come to you both. What say you? }
If they agree, I will inform Vauhwyt through her spell to tell the others that the Orcs are not to be harmed. That they are defending the prisoners for us. Then Olyn heads back out of the mist so he can better direct the actions of his flying companions and assist those who needs it.
Dietrich, HP 21 (53), AC 21, Bullstrenght d4-2=-1 d20+10=15 d20+4=8 Friday March 3rd, 2006 5:13:32 PM
ooc: can´t get the sneak attack because Steinthor is focusing on Dietrich? Isn´t flanking enough?
Dietrich bites his teeth together and controls his pains as yet another swing cuts through his flesh. A little divine healing would come quite handy...
The warrior admires Steinthor´s resiliance and fighting abilities, but, unfortunatelly, valorous enemies are still enemies... Dietrich keeps a defensive posture (this time only +2 ac, -2 attack) and says:
"Surrender and live. You´re outnumbered, surounded and going to meet Gargul soon if you continue." Intimidate 8
If Steinthor doesn´t immediately surrender, Dietrich attacks him again, but misses (hits only ac 15, cursed Wardd´s great-sword -1, total +10)
Rose hp: 30/30 AC18 d100=35 d20+6=21 d8+4=8 d6=5 Friday March 3rd, 2006 6:27:46 PM
quick ooc: when does the fog disappear? I need to use my only remaining seal before the two weeks are up an I have to see all my friends
Rose quickly strikes back at the dwarf, hoping to finally put him down so she can go help the others.
Active spells Mage armor, +4 ac 3hrs See invisible 30min
Daily spells Cantrips: mage hand, message, ray of frost, acid splash Level 1: shield, sleep Level 2: scorching ray
Vauhwyt (AC20 HP39 of 44, stunned, Mage Armor, Enlarged, Unseen Servant) and Mookie (AC17, HP17 of 22, Mage Armor, Enlarged) and Wolverine (AC12 HP29 of 34, Raging) d20+8=16 d20+2=11 d20+6=8 d20+4=9 d20+7=24 d20+6=12 d20+6=13 d20+1=16 d6+2=5 Friday March 3rd, 2006 8:37:42 PM
[OOC notes first. Olyn, Dietrich, Inge ... When Inge refers to a "rear attack" it is just color. There is no facing in 3.5 D&D, so all that matters is whether the target is flanked. You can say that a flanked target is "attacked from the rear," but that is just a colorful way to say "flanked." ALSO to Rose ... Sorry my friend! The mist will last 10 rounds, ending in round 12. I suspect the battle will end before the spell.]
Saves for Vauhwyt and Wolverine: V is +8 on Will saves; Wolverine is +2. V rolls a 16. W rolls a 11. Only V's attacks hit.
Since the Wolverine's attacks do not hit, the cleric is still standing and therefore casts his Blast of Sound! That cancels the Sanctuary, at least!
Vauhwyt, the Wolverine, and Mookie all take 5 hp damage. Vauhwyt's fort save is at +6; she rolls an 8 and is stunned! Mookie's fort save is a +4; he rolls a 9 and is also stunned! The wolverine has a fort save of +7; it rolls a 24 and is not stunned! The damage it has taken enrages it, however!
Vauhwyt and Mookie can do nothing. The Wolverine attacks the cleric. The wolverine hits AC12 and AC13 with its claws, both misses! It bites at AC16, though -- maybe a hit -- for 5 hp damage.
Vorelle d20+10=27 Saturday March 4th, 2006 8:54:20 PM
Seeing the two men jerking about at the end of their ropes snaps Vorelle out of her indecision. Targo's brother, at least, has never done her any harm.
She looks around to try to find one of the stools [Spot 27], then grabs it and restores it to its previous place under the man's thrashing feet. With luck, that will buy him some time.
She also draws her off-hand axe (free action).
Olyn Sunday March 5th, 2006 12:50:00 PM
( Note for Cayzle. Rear attack is a term from 3.0 and before. Those of us who have played this game for many many many years use a phrase or term and say it even when the book says something else. So to be polite, just because we say 1 thing and the book something else you dont need to correct us. )
Cayzle OOC Sunday March 5th, 2006 5:48:29 PM
Gosh, didn't mean to correct, just to clarify. Please accept my apologies! Lord knows its not the first time my big mouth has gotten me in trouble! :-)
Berlon - AC 20, HP 26/35 - Bull's Strength, Spiritual Weapon (1r), Prot Energy (60 pts), Bless d20+7=9 d20+12=22 d8+4=10 Sunday March 5th, 2006 6:29:25 PM
If either of the two remaining opponents refuse to surrender, Berlon will take a swing at them, but not before the magical mace takes one last swipe.
Spiritual Weapon (swininging at either opponent if not surrendered) attack hits AC 9.
MW Heavy Mace attack hits AC 22 for 10 dge.
If Berlon does not have a surrendered (or living) opponent, he will run full tilt (45') towards the captives, in the likely event someone needs healing....
Theodore and Macaw HP 17/22 AC 17 (mage armor, dodge) d20+4=15 Sunday March 5th, 2006 9:46:57 PM
Theodore's ears scream as the sound burst explodes upon him. He just barely manages to keep his composure. He continues towards the hostages.
Active spells: Invisibility 4 min 9 rounds
BigTim OOC Sunday March 5th, 2006 11:10:26 PM
Cayzle is my hero. Apologizes when no apology is needed.
Cayzle on Tears Monday March 6th, 2006 12:27:56 AM
LOL!
Battle Round 6 [DM Inge] V attack ( d20+3=20 d8+11=18 ) N attack ( d20+6=19 d8+2=9 Monday March 6th, 2006 11:26:05 AM
OOC: made a few minor adjustments to my previous DM post. The Hippo's did not attack together as Olyn allready posted. I have changed their actions. The outcome however is pretty depressing never the less... you're chopping my men to pieces :-(
Both Hippogriffs mercilessly continue to shred their victems.
Celestial Hippogriff 1 kindly does what Steinthor requested and bites... his claw opens the leader's belly... blood gushes all around... the Hippogriffs claws are drenched with blood and still the critter wants more!
Steinthor takes 11Hp -- with only 8 Hp remaining he looks pretty pale...
The second Hippogriff... no words can describe the exact way the poor dwarve dies. He falls on his knees and with one last gasp he crashes to the ground.
Fillin takes 5Hp and dies
Olyn then continues to persuade the Half-Orcs to let the prisoners alone and speaks to them in Orcish promising a nice pouch or gold...
Spoken in Orcish: Highlight to display spoiler: {"Where are you who speaks to us? Come here and show us the gold. There are two already dangling here... so you better hurry..."}
Dietrich considers to bring this man to reason and offers a way out. Surrendering no longer seems a option for this man. When Dietrich misses he wickedly smiles... and sneers "You shall go down with me... and we will continue to fight before Gargul!"
Rose takes another swing at Noric and hurts the dwarve. He howls in pain and rage burns in his eyes.
Noric takes 8Hp damage -- he still stands
As only Vauhwyt manages to hurt Vrobon the dwarven cleric still stands when an enormous sound blast crashes through the forest! This indeed cancels the Sanctuary spell he had cast upon himself. Vauhwyt and Mookie are stunned from the enormous noise, but the earlier summoned Wolverine is not. The infernal beast tries to claw the dwarve but only sharpens her fangs on his chain shirt. (AC14). Vrobon is unable to ward the painfull bite though.
Vrobon is hurt for 5Hp -- he wobbles on his short legs - 1Hp left!
Vorelle saves Targo's brother by putting the stool back under his feet. The man coughs and gurgles but will probably be all right. Targo starts to look a bit purple... ;-)
Berlons waits to send out his mace once again. First he watches Fillinn die. Then he hopes Steinthor will come to his senses and accept Dietrichs offer... the warrior does not. Dispite the short range the Spiritual Mace misses. But Berlon's Heavy Mace does not...
Steinthor suddenly twists his head and eyeballs Berlon... in his eyes Berlon can read amazement that a Gnome was able to hit such a powerful warrior. Then his eyes get a ghostly gaze... as in slow motion, the warrior looks at each of his attackers and falls in his knees.
Steinthor takes 10Hp damage and falls dead on the ground
Theodore just manages to resist to Vrobon's magic as he continues towards the hostages.
Now only Noric and Vrobon remain. But in this frenzy they haven't seen their friends perish. Noric is fixed to kill Rose and Vrobon feels the warm breath of the Wolverine in his neck. Vauhwyt and Mookie being stunned offers the cleric an extra chance of escape.
As the Wolverine last hit Vrobon the Cleric has to protect himself from the predator and commences to raise his axe. He makes a Power Attack at the animal! Taking -3 on attack roll and +3 damage.
He hits AC20 for 18Hp of damage! The Wolverine staggers on its feet but still stands ... he's pretty angry :-)
Wolverine takes 18Hp damage
Noric takes another blow at Rose. This time he hits AC19 for 9Hp damage!
Rose is hurt for 9Hp
Then the dwarve looks around. As he got out of the fog he can now see the Hippogriffs flying. His eyes grow bigger in fear, but with all those standing around Steinthor he could not see his leader is dead.
Both Half-Orcs wait to put their feet against the stool that holds the other two hostages. They did not see Vorelle as they are trying to see where that noise came from.
Olyn ac23/24 (dodge-1/2 orc #1) hp49/55 *Tongues* Griff #1 ac15 hp25, Griff#2 ac15, hp13/25 Monday March 6th, 2006 5:14:14 PM
Stepping forward so the Half Orcs can see him, but not in reach of their axes, Olyn calls to them. Highlight to display spoiler: { Tossing the pouch on the ground at their feet, gold and gems spilling out, Olyn says: Stay your execution. Become protectors instead of murderers because murderers is what you would be should you hang these innocent people. And defend them (motioning to the prisoners, those roped up and those ready to be roped) and all that is there is yours to keep. Last chance to decide before the others come in, including my flying friends, and send you to your god. What is your decision? }
IF they agree, which im sure they will, I will immediately send Vauhwyt a mental whisper relaying that she is to inform the others that the Half Orcs are not to be harmed and that the prisoners are safe under their care.
Dietrich, HP 21 (53), ac 19, Bullstrenght d20+4=7 Monday March 6th, 2006 7:15:27 PM
Dietrich sees Steinthor going down and gives the warrior a last respectful nod. "May he get what he deserves!"
The fighter hears Olyn´s and the half-orcs negotiations (Dietrich knows orkish) and runs in their direction, shouting in orkish:
"You &¨%$$ better take the offer of the cleric. Steinthor and the other humans are already dead and If I have my way you ¨#$% will join them."
intimidate 7
Berlon - AC 20, HP 26/35 - Bull's Strength, Prot Energy (60 pts), Bless Monday March 6th, 2006 10:28:39 PM
Now that the enemy fighter is dispatched, Berlon races full tilt (45') towards Rose an the others, concerned about the party getting split up like it has...
Theodore and Macaw HP 17/22 AC 17 (mage armor, dodge) d20+4=24 d20+4=12 d6=4 Monday March 6th, 2006 10:29:43 PM
Seeing that the hostages are taken care of, Theodore decides to help Vauhwyt. Hefting his staff over his head, he moves to Vrobon and brings the weapon down hard over the dwarf's head. (+2 for invisibility, he's denied dex; Attack 24, natural 20! Crit attack 12, damage 4)
The wizard becomes visible after the mighty blow.
Vorelle d20+10=29 Monday March 6th, 2006 10:35:03 PM
Vorelle looks around for the other stool [spot 29], then grabs it and sets it under Targo's feet. She tries not to think about what she's doing. Besides, she can still get away from him, if she needs to.
Vauhwyt (AC20 HP39 of 44, stunned?, Mage Armor, Enlarged, Unseen Servant) and Mookie (AC17, HP17 of 22, stunned?, Mage Armor, Enlarged) and Wolverine (AC12 HP29 of 34, Raging) d20+6=14 d20+6=7 d20+1=16 d4+4=6 d6+2=3 d20+4=21 d20+7=9 d20=8 d20=5 Monday March 6th, 2006 11:21:20 PM
OOC: Are V and M stunned this round? I'm not sure.
DM Inge: no you were unable to act last round and you did so.
The raging, wounded Wolverine attacks the cleric again. One paw hits and one bite! The paw hits for 6; the bite, for 3.
If Vauhwyt and Mookie are not stunned, then they attack. Mookie rolls a 21 in order to give his boss a +2 aid another bonus on a fist attack.
Vauhwyt is still flanking the foe, thanks to the Wolverine. Her fist misses. So do her paws! She is pretty useless -- might as well have stayed another round stunned!
==========
WOLVERINE Medium Animal Hit Dice: 3d8+15 (28 hp) Speed: 30 ft. (6 squares), burrow 10 ft., climb 10 ft. Armor Class: 14 (+2 Dex, +2 natural), touch 12, flat-footed 12 Base Attack/Grapple: +2/+4 Attack: Claw +4 melee (1d4+2) Full Attack: 2 claws +4 melee (1d4+2) and bite -1 melee (1d6+1) Space/Reach: 5 ft./5 ft. Special Attacks: Rage Special Qualities: Low-light vision, scent Saves: Fort +7, Ref +5, Will +2 Abilities: Str 14, Dex 15, Con 19, Int 2, Wis 12, Cha 10 Skills: Climb +10, Listen +6, Spot +6 Feats: Alertness, Toughness, Track
Rage (Ex): A wolverine that takes damage in combat flies into a berserk rage on its next turn, clawing and biting madly until either it or its opponent is dead. It gains +4 to Strength, +4 to Constitution, and -2 to Armor Class. The creature cannot end its rage voluntarily.
Rose d100=74 d10=7 d20+6=9 Monday March 6th, 2006 11:51:59 PM
ooc: am I the only one not getting a map or are you not making them?
DM Inge had no time to update it yesterday, but it wasn't really needed anymore. With only Noric standing in front of Rose and Vrobon with 1Hp left between Vauhwyt and the Wolverine... All the rest is only roleplaying wise.
ooc2: where's piper, as I said before when at the palace I had her fly to tell my parents what's happening, but it's been over 24 hrs so did you & steve forget her or what?
DM Inge - yup we forgot all about piper :-D I guess she's probably hiding in your pocket or so, being not to keen on having a dwarven axe crash on her. If you like Piper to have done other things in the meantime, or you want to know more information she could have brough to you "last night" in game when you camped in the forest. Feel free to add that to your next post. Two DM's and neither thought of Piper :-/ Maybe we need to bring in a third?
Rose quickly attacks the dwarf again, but misses badly as she's distracted by wondering what is happening with the others.
concelment: 74 attack: 9
The Battle Ends [DM Inge] Ragah oppose Intimidation ( d20+4=15 ) Tuesday March 7th, 2006 6:33:17 AM
After finishing Steinthor the first Celestial Hippogriff disappears -- a job well done. The second Hippogriff just stands there observing its master. But he seems to be preoccupied with the Half-Orcs. At the end of this round, the second Celestial Hippogriff will also disappear. (spell lasts 5 rounds)
Olyn once again addresses the Half-Orcs.
Ragah answers in orcish: Highlight to display spoiler: {"Murderers or protectors. Who cares? As long as it pays! Give us that pouch and if there's sufficient inside we'll leave them hanging and go our own way.}
Dietrich tries to intimidate the Half-Orcs but Ragah sneers (opposed Intimidate check 15) to the warrior in orcish: Highlight to display spoiler: {"Bah. Your feeble threats mean nothing to me! Just look at yourself! All covered in blood with your armor thorn like that. Just one more blow of me hubby here and you're dead! We will not bow for you. I only speak to the man with the money. Give that pouch and they will live, oh well... maybe those two will be dead already"}
And with that Ragah turns around to see if Targo and his bother are already dead. Then she notices Vorelle who is putting back the stools underneath their feet. In common Ragah says:
"Looks like these people matter to you all. Maybe I should double the price..."
Berlon moves over to Rose and the others.
Theodore delivers the final blow to Vrobon. The dwarve instantly dies even before Vauhwyt and her Wolverine can join the frenzy.
Rose attempts to hit Noric once again but fails. The dwarve, who speaks Orcish as well, hears Dietrich mentioning that all the others are already dead. Noric looks around and with the first Hippogriff gone, he can now see the dead body of Steinthor... he looks further and see Lobelia... Fillinn... Catherine...Vrobon... Thorkell... Knowing there's no way out of this he lowers his axe and surrenders to Rose.
"Please ... no more."
Then he throws his axe in front of Rose's feet.
Noric is the last one standing, and the Half-Orcs will clearly not help him at all. If Olyn's money will do the trick, they will take the Gold and leave this place. The thick fog still floats over the battle field, but you are able to find each other with ease. The grassy field in front of the farmhouse is filled with dead bodies... some looking more gruesome than the others.
Theodore and Macaw Tuesday March 7th, 2006 10:48:44 AM
Theodore stares at the crumpled corpse of Vrobon. His staff falls from numb fingers, but the wizard is on his knees before the weapon hits the ground. He presses two fingers to Vrobon's neck but feels no pulse.
Theodore squeezes his eyes shut and shakes his head. "Oh no," he says softly. "I killed him. I never meant to kill him." Then he is silent, but remains sitting near the dwarf's corpse, looking at the body with sorrowful eyes.
Olyn 3d8(8+8+1)+5=22 3d8(7+3+5)=15 d8=7 Tuesday March 7th, 2006 1:14:42 PM
Take the pouch and go before I change my mind and let her (calls Hippogriff #2 to his side) handle you.
*pouch contains 155gp and a gem worth 50gp*
Turning to Deitrich, Olyn moves over, places his hands over his wounds and with a pulsing wave heals him for 28 points.
*disregard the 2nd 3d8+5 roll, was attempting to reroll the 1 d8 roll and hit the wrong button, also, dropped non detection(3rd) to cast cure serious wounds.*
after the 1/2 orcs leave, Olyn will turn to the Hippogriff and say: that you for your assistance in this time of need. go and rejoice in your victory.
Vorelle Tuesday March 7th, 2006 10:51:57 PM
Using her handaxe, Vorelle begins cutting the nooses from the hostages--although she stays well away from Targo
Vauhwyt and Mookie d20+20=33 d20+20=40 d20+20=37 d20+20=37 Wednesday March 8th, 2006 12:49:44 AM
Vauhwyt is glad that the battle ended with no casualties on their side. "Olyn, those hippogriffs were great!"
She first checks on the baby and returns her to her mother. Then she looks to see if any of the enemy are still alive. She has questions for Noric and any others who remain. With some intimidating looks, she asks the enemies who they are, who hired them, what their orders were, who gave those orders, and what about the Prince?
Then she looks around and sees the wagon and horses. She strips all the loot she can from the enemies, as well as everything that is not nailed down from the house. Even the mundane goods may fetch a penny. And the horses and cart will help transport everything to the nearest Catacombs branch ... and then themselves can be sold!
Mookie says, "Good thinking, Boss!"
Vauhwyt grins, and her tail lashes happily. "I've got dues to pay, Mookie! Boocoo de dues!"
Rose Wednesday March 8th, 2006 6:09:28 AM
Rose gratefully turns Noric over to Vauhwyt for questioning and goes check on that baby she heard crying. Rose will also stay near Vorelle as she doesnt like or trust Vorelle's family. If the baby shows signs that its family has abused it Rose will NOT let them have it back.
Dietrich, hp21, AC 19, bullstrenght Wednesday March 8th, 2006 7:30:43 AM
Dietrich gets quite pissed off by the orc´s comments. Now, with the last dwarf also surrendering, the insolence is hardly bearable. If it weren´t for Olyn´s negotiation Dietrich would teach them how to behave when you´re so much weaker.
The warrior swallows the comments for now, just waiting for any sign that the negotiations faliled and he can send the foul couple to the underground.
Dietrich, hp 49 (53), ac 19, bullstrenght Wednesday March 8th, 2006 7:33:07 AM
OOC: just updating data. Thanks for the healing man.
Aftermath [DM Inge] N opposed intimidations ( d20+1=19 d20+1=10 d20+1=9 d20+1=15 ) Wednesday March 8th, 2006 9:19:53 AM
Suddenly all falls silent on the battlefield. Noric drops his axe, the rest is dead, and the Half-Orcs are only interested in the money. Only the toddler crying where Vauhwyt left it rips through the serenity of the woods.
Theodore regrets the death he has caused but has to comfort himself knowing they did rescue the whole party of hostages. None perished at the hands of Ragah and K'banmar as at the right moment Olyn offered them a pouch of gold. Dietrich has to do his utmost best to resist chopping these Half-Orcs to pieces and remains very vigilant. Should things escalate, he will not hesitate! K'banmar picks up the pouch and inspects it's content.
In orcish: Highlight to display spoiler: { K'banmar: "Is that it?!? You think we're bought for scraps!!!" Ragah: "Shut up you twit!! How much is it" K'banmar: "euhm ... 1... 5 ... 19 ... euhm ... more than 20 for sure!" Ragah: "Oh you dumb idiot when are you going to learn to count!! Give it to me!" K'banmar: "DON'T YOU SPEAK TO ME LIKE THAT!!!" Ragah: "OR WHAT!@$^&WE&" K'banmar: "BAH... here's the damned bag of golf" }
Ragah takes some time inspecting the pouch and then turns to Olyn.
Highlight to display spoiler: { Ragah: "Very well... it's more than what we're ever going to get from that one over there. You take the hostages and whatever you can find on these bodies. We get the gold and two horses." }
Ragah goes to the back side of the farmhouse and notices the horses are no longer tied to the House. Instead she notices them a few feet in the forest. She goes to catch the reigns of all the horses and brings them back.
Highlight to display spoiler: {"These are yours." } And she gives the two other horses a slap on their euhm...behinds and the shouts to her husband: "Get on that horse K'banmar! We're leaving..."
If no one objects, the two half-orcs collect Olyn's pouch and ride towards the trail quickly leaving this place.
Vorelle frees the hostages but stays away from Targo. Could it be?!? Is there gratitude to be seen in Targo's eyes?!? Rose hurries to retrieve the baby and quickly see if it is being abused. It belongs to one of Targo's brothers (the one that was hanged) and his wife. Clearly the poor man is not like Targo at all. The kid is in very good health, and once her mother is free, the woman runs to hold her baby. A big thank you on her lips as she gazes at Rose.
Meanwhile Vauhwyt takes Noric into custody and intimidates the poor dwarve. (opposed intimidation check : 1d20 + 3 (lvl) -2 (wisdom modifier) / failed all checks ! He's trembling!!)
Vauhwyt: "Who arrre you, who hirrred you and what werrrre yourrr orrrderrrs" Noric: "N...n..Noric. We... we were hired by Suran to kill these men and woman. We don't know them, but he warned us you would come. We were to make sure these people died and you along with it..." Vauhwyt: "What about the Prrrrince?" Noric: "What about him? He's gone! There will be no mural day this year! He left the city to start over elsewhere. I don't know where, but I bet we haven't heard the last of him. He left last night and probably got a long way from here by now."
Torturing this man won't help for he really doesn't know where he went. Fact it, Suran Corell is gone. Not dead but gone.
Then you start to collect the loot...
(for the sake of suspense I will give you the entire package next turn :-) ... WHUAHAHAHAHA)
Berlon - AC 20, HP 26/35 - Bull's Strength, Prot Energy (60 pts), Bless d8+5=6 d8+5=12 Wednesday March 8th, 2006 9:29:35 AM
Still huffing and puffing from running on his short legs, Berlon catches his breath, the casts Cure Lt. on Rose, healing 12 points. (Cure Lt Wounds spontaneously replaced Sanctuary, natural 1 rerolled)
He nods at Vauhwyt taking the initiative and adds quietly, out of earshot of the family members: "Make sure you inspect the... remains... outsitde, and do what you can to make sure there aren't any, er, let's say "traumatic" sights out there..."
He then turns slowly to Vorelle. "Vorelle, please, a moment," he says, indicating he wants to speak away from her family. Once they are enough away, he adds "I think it might be extremely wise to take certain members of your family to my village. Some," he shoots Targo a dirty look, "need to go back to Dirt City. But others might be better cared for, even if only for one night, outside the City..."
Olyn Wednesday March 8th, 2006 11:56:14 AM
attends everyone in the group who needs healing through the use of his CLW wand. *Everyone, assuming the average roll on my CLW+1 wand is a 4, figure out how many charges would heal you close to being full and let me know so I know how many charges to deduct*
going up to Targos, Olyn will make sure the bonds are secure, that he is securely tied around his ankles, knees, wrists and then around his waist, pulling his arms in tightly. and then gags him.
Looking at everyone Olyn says: take what loot you want, <tugging on the lead rope to Targos> I have my split here. Then Olyn turns, and starts leading Targos to the wagon.
Theodore and Macaw Wednesday March 8th, 2006 12:19:39 PM
Although Theodore had seen many men die in his short career as an adventurer, he had never taken a life of his own. It was hard on the young man. Balancing the weight of this man's life against the life of the hostages did little to reassure him.
He was just doing his job. Did he have a family?
However, Theodore was becoming accustomed to making difficult decisions, and resolving difficult conclusions. With a deep breath, he stood and collected his staff. He moved towards where the rest gathered.
"I think we should bury the dead before we move on." He nods at Berlon. "Then to Berlon's village for a while. To collect our thoughts and let the situation in Dirt City cool a bit before returning."
Vorelle Thursday March 9th, 2006 1:08:55 AM
Vorelle is surprised when Olyn takes Targo into custody, but she's grateful not to have to deal with her husband herself. As long as he's tied up like that, he can't hurt her. She's pretty sure.
She turns her attention to Berlon's offer, hesitant about how to respond. There's no way those nice gnomes deserve to have her scapegrace family inflicted on them. If he makes the offer, though, Lisenne will surely accept and trouble will follow.
"Th-th-that's very k-k-k-kind of y-you, B-B-B-B-Berlon," she begins, even more hesitante than usual, "b-b-b-b-but--" She is thinking of all the ways Lisenne and Ulbrecht could upset the daily balance of life in the gnome village, to say nothing of--say, where was her brother anyway?
"Wh-wh-where's V-V-V-Vaun?" she asks, not finishing her thought to Berlon.
Vauhwyt and Mookie Thursday March 9th, 2006 2:26:56 AM
Vauhwyt is happy to combine loot detail with corpse detail. She tells the dwarf to help, and also casts a Detect Magic. She strips the Dwarf of all his gear, and asks him what is magical and what it does. She also asks him what god he honors.
She suggests to her friends, "If Suran is not going to be here for the murals, we should inspect them ourselves. That will help the common folk to love us!"
Dietrich Thursday March 9th, 2006 7:08:05 AM
ooc: Dietrich won´t use Olyn´s generous offer, as he´s already almost completely healed.
Dietrich has to further listen to the stupid and insolent orcs till they finally get out of his sight. He thinks to himself: "Waisting the good gold on them... 8 against 2 should have been enough for them to surrender or lay with the others on the pile of bodies. Well." He sees Olyn taking Targo, but doesn´t really object to it.
When the warrior hears Noric´s report, he can´t believe his ears. What in the wold is Suran planing? Is his situation in DIrt City so unstable? How will be the succession?
Than Berlon offers to go to the village first. In itself, Dietrich would agree, but what about the contract with the Merchants? And what about that Falquan guy? He suggests to have a talk with the member of the Daggers and get some inside info.
"We can´t simply go the City now, not with the hostages and the Prince´s men looking for us. But we have to find a way of knowing what is going on there. WIth the Prince leaving and all the convulsion, there is a serious resk of civil war. Also, Falquan has to be brought back to the City."
Finally, Dietrich helps stripping off the dead. The loot is our rightful claim. He also agrees with Theo about giving the dead a decent burial.
"We should also have a professional search inside the house."
Aftermath 2 [DM Inge] Thursday March 9th, 2006 10:20:37 AM
Everyone agrees to burry the dead, strip'm of all valuables and perform a thorough search of the farm house. Berlon suggest to take Vorelle's family back to the Gnome village instead of returning them to Dirt City. In fact, it might be a good place for them to lay low for a short while to. But Vauhwyt and Dietrich are right... with Suran Corell out of the picture things will go crazy in the city. Now would be the time to make yourselves needed and loved!
When the Half-Orcs ride off Dietrich is disappointed they let them take the gold. At 8 to 2 and having slaughtered quite a few men already , what risk could these barbarians have posed? Olyn however, is happy to take Targo into custody. He brings him to the wagon. From the look of this it seems he will not hide in the Gnome village but could be planning to ride back to the Wolves and ... cash in maybe?
But what about the contract with the Merchants? You were to safely return Alda Falquan to him... oh that's right! What about that man!
Once the Half-Orcs are gone, and Alda sees you have secured the place he came out of the forest to meet with you all. It seems that ever since the Merchants have tried to become a real House Alda, a member from the daggers, supported them. This much to the Prince's anger. Suran must have tried to rid himself of two annoying parties. You all and Alda. But when Alda was taken by the Prince's men the Daggers strongly suggested the Merchants to retrieve their young member. It was because of the Merchants he was captured! To avoid the wrath of the Daggers, the merchants had to hire you! Alda Falquan doesn't know why the other hostages were here though.
When Vorelle speaks up to see where Vaun is, her father answers: "he managed to hide when they came to take us away. We haven't seen him since... I hope he's allright! We should hurry back to the city and look for him..."
Then you gather the spoils...
- masterwork Chain Shirts human size (3) - masterwork Chain Shirts dwarve size (3) - masterwork leather armor halfling size - Masterwork bastard Sword - Masterwork Longsword (2) - Masterwork battle axes (2) - battle axe - darkwood masterwork light crossbow - Lobelia was wearing a nice looking cloak that seems to blend a little with the surroundings and she also carried masterwork thieve's tools - Steinthor wore a pair of bracers - Gray bag with furry balls inside that looks just like Vauhwyt's - a handy haversack - 15 potions (of them 2 look the same, another 4 look identical and again a set of 4 look the same / the rest are unique liquids) - a dirty old hat - a small container with odd looking dust - 4 rings - 2 light horses with riding saddles
Also in the house you find a lot of mundane items for a total of about 250gp (bakpacks, bedrolls, blankets, lantarns, manacles, locks, hempem rope, chains)
And more importantly you find a chest hidden away under a bed... a HEAVY chest... could be their salary!
Vauhwyt's detect magic tells her that the 4 rings, the cloak, the bracers, both bags, and even that dirty hat are magic!
When Noric is questioned about them he tries to answer as good as it gets
"I know the moment Steinthor won those bracers it was a lot tougher to hit him during practice! That dirty hat, the cloak, the dust all belonged to Lobelia. She was our spie, our burglar. The rings belonged to the humans. Steinthor wore the one with the shield, Catherine the one with the feather and wave and Throkell that last one. I don't know what they did... I never was fond of magic... honestly that's all I know! No please don't torture me any more... it's all I know! You should not have slain Vrobon! HE was our cleric and healer!! Maybe he could have helped you to explain things. I was only a grunt to them..."
CONGRATULATIONS my friends. I will send out a mail with Xp awards for the Clean House module soon.
Dietrich Thursday March 9th, 2006 11:32:29 AM
Dietrich is quite satisfied with the whole action. None of the party was seriously harmed; no hostage was harmed; the loot seems to be great. The warrior feels a little regret for the carnage, but, well, surrendering was offered and the enemy didn´t take it, so what can you do. Sooner or later everybody has to meet Gargul anyway.
Dietrich´ll wait for the specialists to examine the chest and the rest of the loot. He cleans his weapon and clothes as far as possible and makes a prayer for Domi, giving thanks for the good combat and it´s results.
The fighter wonders where JAck might have gone. Just when his scimitar was needed the man disappeared.
Vauhwyt and Mookie Thursday March 9th, 2006 5:26:57 PM
Vauhwyt thanks Olyn for the offer of healing, but it's just her ears ringing and she'll be fine tomorrow.
She talks with Falquan. She offers a safe escort back to the merchants for him.
She thinks it is a good idea to bring Vorelle's family back to Berlon's village, Plus, she tells Berlon, she wants to know that his kin are all right.
The liontaur uses her still-active detect magic on the locked chest. She asks Rose if she wants to check it for traps.
As for what's next ... Vauhwyt wishes that everybody could go back to Berlon;s village, but there is too much important news. "We have to tell our friends -- including the Wolves, the Merchants, the Knives, the WLA, and the Temple -- that Suran has abdicated and left the city. We have to walk the mural walk for him. That way we can win the hearts of the common folk."
Maybe Berlon and Vauhwyt can talk her people to the gnomes while the rest of us go back to the City?
Theodore and Macaw Thursday March 9th, 2006 9:25:07 PM
"I suppose it makes sense," Theodore says about returning to Dirt City. He was looking forward to time away from the intrigue. Quite simply, he wasn't a round-about fellow.
He is eager to have a few moments alone with their new magic items to determine their exact powers.
Olyn Thursday March 9th, 2006 9:31:21 PM
After saying goodbye to the Hippogriff and securing Targos in the back of the wagon, Olyn goes and retrieves his steed from the forest and everyone elses and brings them to the farmhouse. Taking the saddle from his horse he puts it in the wagon next to Targos then proceeds to hook up the horse to the wagon.
Afterwards he chirps in.
Yes, take the families to Berlons' village. Dirt City is no place for them right now and might I suggest that they be kept there til the heat dies down. As for me, I am going to take Targos to where he should of been taken to the first place. I have a couple more tricks up my sleeve to get him and me there safely, I hope.
So when you all are ready, lets load up and depart.
* Olyn will tend to any and all healing that is needed, but at the same time keeps a sharp eye on Targos. *
Berlon - HP 26/35 Thursday March 9th, 2006 10:37:33 PM
Berlon strokes the twin strands of his beard as he peers over the items with the others. At first he seems drawn to the potions, his alchemical knowledge making him curious. But it is to one of the rings that he touches his holy symbol to, trying to Identify any magical properties therein.
Cast Identify - 2nd level Magic Domain spell, cast on one of the rings.
Vorelle Friday March 10th, 2006 1:33:55 AM
Vorelle stays well away from Targo, and won't even look at him. She will go back to the city, or to the gnome village, whichever her friends decide.
She tries to warn Berlon about her family, though. "Y-y-you d-d-d-don't want th-them th-th-there. L-l-l-let them g-g-g-g-go home."
Aftermath 3 [DM Inge] d4=1 Friday March 10th, 2006 8:57:49 AM
Falquan gratefully accepts Vauhwyt's offer to escort him back safely to the City and waits till all of you clean up and collect the spoils.
Berlon isolates one of the rings (rolled a d4 to see which one he inspects) and takes a ring that is made from a thick band of solid gold and takes an hour to closely inspect the ring. He manages to identify the ring:
"Ring of Sustenance : This ring continually provides its wearer with life-sustaining nourishment. The ring also refreshes the body and mind, so that its wearer needs only sleep 2 hours per day to gain the benefit of 8 hours of sleep. The ring must be worn for a full week before it begins to work. If it is removed, the owner must wear it for another week to reattune it to himself."
While Berlon takes his time to identify the ring, the others burry the dead, clean up, examine the chest etc. Vauhwyt detects no magic on the chest. Rose is busy with the woman and child. But, the chest looks pretty mundane despite its weight. Dietrich wonders where Jack went to. He's probably still guarding your rear -- after all wasn't he used to be a Guard before he came to this crazy city !
Then plans are made for what to do next.
Here's what we've got so far:
- Bring Falquan safely to the City (this is what Berlon promised to the Merchants) - Take back Targo to the Wolves (apparently this was Olyn's task) - Bring Vorelle's father and mother plus Targo's family to Haven's Edge - Go back to the City yourselves to make sure Mural Day continues.
Time: 10.30 in the morning -- Mural Day
DM Note to all: Friends, from now on we're going to be stricter when it comes to separating from the group. Dirt City has changed with the disappearance of the Prince and will experience more changes thanks to (or due to) the Fey King defeat. It is strongly suggested to stick together and find COMMON goals and directions. Those who go against the stream again will face the consequences. You are ALWAYS free to decide where you want to go (be it the city, Berlon's town, or whatever other place you wish to visit) but we -- SteveK, Jerry and me -- want you all to stick together. It is understandable that sometimes you will have to split up your team, but no more wandering of alone on personal goals... You have been warned. / Your friendly DM Inge
Theodore and Macaw Sunday March 12th, 2006 1:05:20 PM
Theodore claps the dirt from his hands after burying the dead. He spends a few extra moments standing over the grave of Vrobon.
Returning to the group, "I'm ready to go."
Vauhwyt and Mookie Sunday March 12th, 2006 4:11:41 PM
Vauhwyt rethinks things. "You know, friends, I really want to visit Berlon's village too. In fact, we should all go. If all is well, then we owe the matron of the village (what was her name) our thanks. And if all is not well, then best we travel in strength."
"But first we have to do Mural Day. So why don't we leave these good folks herre. They'll be safe enough for the day. Then this evening we'll return, spend the night, and head out to Berlon's village tomorrow. Okay?"
Then as an aside she whispers to Vorelle: Highlight to display spoiler: {I know you are unsure about bringing your family to Berlon's village. But maybe the combination of recent events here, plus Targo's fate, plus exposure to the good environment of the gnomes, will have a healthy effect on your folk, Vorelle. Anyone can have a change of heart. And that Matron of the gnome-folk will keep them in line. She's a tigerr."}
Vauhwyt is ready to break camp and get going ... the sooner the better. Maybe Rose can ride in the wagon.
Berlon - HP 26/39 d8+1=4 Sunday March 12th, 2006 7:52:33 PM
"Well," Berlon says as he ponders the magical properties of the ring, "seeking refuge at my village is an option, but we have other tasks ahead of us. "We need to escort Falquan back to the city, and that could be a challenge in and of itself."
"Whatever we decide, we should get going. Is anyone going to take a crack at that chest, or does Noric want to do it?"
If any of the party makes an attempt to deal with the chest, Berlon will quickly cast Guidance on them first.
Guidance - 1 minute, +1 competence bonus to a single attack, save or skill check
Vorelle Sunday March 12th, 2006 11:36:59 PM
Vorelle sidles up to Olyn. "Th-th-thanks for t-t-t-taking c-c-care of T-T-T-T-T-Targo. I'll g-g-g-g-go with you to the W-W-W-W-Wolves if you like."
Olyn Monday March 13th, 2006 12:25:19 AM
No Vorelle. You don't want to come to the Wolves. If they know you are married to him and I think they do, you don't want to be anywhere near that place when I turn him (thumbing at Targo) over.
Looking at the time by where the sun is in the sky, Olyn turns to the others saying: if you want to get to town in time for Mural Day and get back here by evening, we need to leave 30 minutes ago.
Dietrich d20+5=12 Monday March 13th, 2006 7:14:38 AM
Dietrich examines the two new horses (handle animal 12) and still waits for someone to take care of the chest.
He agrees with going back to the City together, but is a little worried about leaving Vorelle´s relatives alone at the house. The half-orcs could come back, possibly accompanied by more men of the Prince. Maybe they could be disguised and just come with the party to Dirt City? When the party leaves, Dietrich suggests the same marching order as before, and now with a special enphasis on scouting, as an ambush is more than probable.
The fighter is quite curious about the loot too. He suggests the distribution to be done after identifications, and by calculating the whole value, than how much would be everyone´s share, than people could buy the magic items according ot their share
Where will you go ?!? [DM Inge] Monday March 13th, 2006 11:19:32 AM
Choices are being narrowed down. Apparently it's important for each of you to get to the City first. Then you can take care of Mural Day, Deliver Targo to the Wolves and Falquan to the Merchants.
"We do not whish to stay here alone!" says one of Targo's brothers, and the other family members seem to agree. "Let us go with you!!"
Looks like they're unwilling to stay behind. What about the sentence: "You can come with us at your own risk?"
Berlon feels the ring and ponders its strength. What will those others provide if this one allready holds quite some power!
Everyone is interested in the chest, but ... no one dares to open it. And Rose... well... she's enjoying playing with the toddler and its mother. Looks like her maternal feelings take over for now...
And Jack! The bold warrior still holds guard.
So decisions are made, and all the spoils are loaded on the wagon. Woman and childres also. Dietrich notices both horses are in pretty good shape and good to ride home or pull the wagon. Behind the farmhouse you find everything you need to make the span.
The 100Lbs chest is also loaded on the wagon without opening.
All the gear and weapons you stripped from the men is also loaded on the wagon. All of you will need to walk home and so will Targo's brothers. Targo himself is allready tossed on teh wagon by Olyn. Falquan walks with you and asks Theodore and Olyn (he's walking closest to them):
"How did you find us? I know the Prince wanted to kill me because I voted for the House of Merchant to become real. But... why are these people here?
What will you do once you get back to the City? I overheard that dwarve saying that the Prince is gone... "
Olyn Monday March 13th, 2006 11:52:01 AM
walks in silent contemplation.
Theodore and Macaw d20+4=22 d20+4=18 Monday March 13th, 2006 1:46:25 PM
Theodore is more than happy to walk back to the city. Riding horses just wasn't natural, in his opinion. He used his staff as extra support as he trudged along.
He shrugs at Falquan's questions. "We've never been too good with plans. We usually jump in feet first and start swinging. I think the other people were here to be silenced from producing evidence against the Prince's ruse of our group being the assassins."
In the back of his mind, he wonders if that last bit was true. Why would he take just Vorelle's family hostage? Why not Rose's or my Geoffrey? He shakes his head. Too many questions.
"When did they take you?" he asks Falquan. "Were the other prisoners here when you arrived?"
We're too reliant on others for information, he thought. He made a silent vow to remedy that.
Overhead, Macaw flapped about searching for possible enemies or traps. (Macaw's Spot 22, Listen 18)
Berlon - HP 26/39 Monday March 13th, 2006 8:37:53 PM
"I really think it's unwise for us to not deal with that chest before returning to town," Berlon says, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. "Bringing unknown material into town is asking for trouble..."
Turning to Falquan he adds, "Neezer asked us to return you to the city..."
Cayzle OOC Monday March 13th, 2006 9:36:29 PM
Um, the trouble with trying to deal with the chest now is that our rogue, Rose, is AWOL. I think it is okay to deal with it in the City, when hopefully Loretta will be posting. Hope it's okay to say that.
Vorelle d20+12=24 d20+12=23 d20+11=15 d20+11=16 Monday March 13th, 2006 10:34:57 PM
From habit, Vorelle walks some distance away from the main group, keeping an eye and an ear out for signs of trouble.
[Hide 24, Move Silently 23, Spot 15, Listen 16]
Vauhwyt and Mookie Tuesday March 14th, 2006 12:35:38 AM
Having spent enough time stripping the place of loot and loading the chest, Vauhwyt is eager to get moving, and toot sweet, as Mookie would say.
Vorelle's folks can stay or go as they like. The party has freed them, so they can make their own choices. Vauhwyt advises them to hide here in the woods and stay low, but whatever.
Dietrich d20+5=16 Tuesday March 14th, 2006 7:44:38 AM
ooc: why do we have to go by feet? what happended to our horses?
DIetrich too would prefer to examine the chest first, but alas.
Concerning the freed hostages, they are free to do what they want, but the party can´t simply say that they come at their own risk. There´re children with them and if the group gets into trouble, they´l have to protect them.
The warrior takes his longbow and starts marching, controling the wagon (handle animal 16) and hoping they can reach the CIty without further incidents.
Finally, Dietrich votes to let this Noric guy free. Why should the &¨%&%$ orcs get out free and with mony and the dwarf, who surrendered, get penalized?
The marching order should be like that:
Vorelle and the birds scouting ahead Dietrich and OLyn in front of the wagon Wagon Theo, ROse, family Berlon and Vauhwyt as rear guard (using Vauhwt´s eyes and ears)
Back to where you all belong ... [DM Inge] Tuesday March 14th, 2006 11:22:19 AM
Why would you walk? I don't know :-) Guess because no one mentioned your own horses anymore. You go back the same way you came here, collect your horses, and then the entire caravan begins to more back towards the City.
Theodore answers Falquan's questions, but ends up with even more unanswered questions for himself... why Vorelle's family?!? Why not someone else's ?!? Maybe you will never find an answer to that at all... When he questions Falquan the young man answers: "Exactly when? Euhm... they brought me here yesterday at dawn. That's how I learned from these men that there has been an uprising at the Palace yesterday! I overheard them when they said the Prince of Thieves has left the City! Is that true?!? These other people were taken here yesterday afternoon. Along with them those two Half-Orcs came along and they were hired to execute us. Guess these men weren't good enough to kill us themselves."
Berlon's worried about the chest that is on the wagon now, but Rose will deal with it when they have safely returned to the City. But from the look of it, you are about to ride into the City with a wagon filled with loot. A City that is possibly in riot... a city that could be in total chaos... hmmm...
Vorelle keeps an eye out of the road but hears nothing. At the end of the Cart Trail she suddenly spots Mad Jack sitting high up in a tree! He smiles at her once she noticed him. Looks like he already saw you coming.
"Nothing up ahead lads. What's all that on the wagon!" Mad Jack says as he carefully climbs down from his hideout. "It's about time you get back! My euhm... lower side of my back was starting to hurt up there. Tell me what was that loud cackling noise I heard? Couldn't be more quite now could ya" Jack grins.
He retrieves his stallion and joins you all on the road back to DC.
About an hour later you can see the City gates. Will you ride into the City with the exposed wagon? Get to the nearest sewer entrance? Where will you all go? Your appartements? The merchants, the wolves, the "independent" people who were willing to help?
Vorelle's mother and father ask their daughter if they can drop them off at the nearest sewer entrance. They whish to get into the safety of the City Below as quickly as possible, and frankly... they seem to feel that you all seem to attract danger quite a lot! Looks like Targo's brothers and sisters in law think the same way.
DM Inge OOC: Received an email from DavtT/Mad Jack. His eye surgery went well and he's slowly recovering. He can already read out mails with a magnifying glass, but is unable to write much himself. He will return as soon as he's able to. I'm going to NPC him until then. Feel free to add him in your posting as if he were here.
Olyn d20+12=31 d20+12=31 Tuesday March 14th, 2006 3:49:45 PM
Olyn will take Targo, still bound but will loosen his bonds around his knees and ankles so he can walk a little easier, but not removing them, and keeping him gagged he places a hood (sack) over his head with a hole near his mouth and nose. I will meet all of you at the Temple, for the Temple would probably be the safest meeting place for us all, after I deliver this piece of trash to the garbage man. And Olyn proceeds through the sewer entrance. Once in the tunnel, and away from anyone, Olyn will use Disguise self on himself, making him appear to be a 4ft 6in dwarf and then will lead his package to the Wolf's. *rolled a 31 for disguise*(disregard second roll, was a mishit)
Vauhwyt and Mookie Tuesday March 14th, 2006 6:00:38 PM
"Good idea, Olyn," says Vauhwyt, "but if you don't mind, let's all go together to give Targo to the Wolves. The more we act like a group, the safer we will be and the more people will think before messing with us."
"And if anyone wants to attack us for the wagon, bring them on. We could use some tales getting around about ourselves."
"That reminds me." She turns to the captive. "Yes, you are free to go. Tell your friends how easily we crushed you and your fellows. Those who oppose the Patsy Heros end up dead, mostly. Now get out of herre."
"Way to show mercy, Boss!" says Mookie.
"Hush up Mookie," says Vauhwyt.
"And I thought we were the Black Bird Gang," says Mookie.
"We'll be the Black Bird Gang next time," says Vauhwyt.
Theodore and Macaw Tuesday March 14th, 2006 6:54:14 PM
Theodore sighs softly at Vauhwyt's "bring it on" attitude.
"We can't very well take the horses into the sewers with us. We'll either have to drop them off where we got them, or tether them somewhere. I would think we would profit from showing Falquan's face to a friend. In case we're sidetracked for some reason. The stable guy can confirm we brought him back safe and sound."
Berlon - HP 34/39 d8+5=6 d8+5=8 Tuesday March 14th, 2006 8:10:18 PM
"I am sure we can hand off Falquan with our contact where we got the horses, then we can drop off Targo."
Vorelle Wednesday March 15th, 2006 12:33:47 AM
Vorelle is a little relieved to learn that her parents will be leaving soon. I may attract danger, she thinks bitterly, but I also make a good living. I doubt they'll start "avoiding" the money I bring them.
Then she stops and considers. With Targo in custody, Lisenne no longer has any hold over her. A tremendous relief rushes through her, and she looks around with one of her rare smiles.
"F-f-f-f-fine," she tells her parents. "L-l-l-let me kn-kn-kn-know if you s-see V-V-V-Vaun."
Dietrich Wednesday March 15th, 2006 7:12:24 AM
Dietrich accompanies the wagon on horseback. "I´ll take one of these warhorses as part of my share."
He´s happy to see Jack again, and suggests he takes the rear guard again, riding some paces behind the maingroup and making sure we´re not ambushed. "You´ve lost the best part! Quite a good fight!"
He agrees that they´ll be able to deliver Falquan and the other horses at the contact place.
The warrior listens to Olyn and silently accepts. He disagrees with Vauhwyt in that concern though. Olyn chosed to be a member of that house, but the party is independent and Dietrich doesn´t necesarely want to be seen as conected to the Wolves.
Finally, he says:
"We´re planing a little too far ahead. Before we can say that we do this or that, we have to check out what is happening in the CIty. Maybe it´s not possible anymore to get anywhere..."
To the Wolves and Merchants ... [DM Inge] Wednesday March 15th, 2006 11:37:48 AM
When the party reaches the nearest Sewer entrance Olyn doesn't wait for the others to react and once again barges of on his own. Putting a hood over Targo's face and gagging him, he pulls Targo down to the tunnels -- disregarding his friends remarks. A good disguise turns Olyn into a bulky dwarf...
Olyn Highlight to display spoiler: { many look strange as the dwarf passes them with the cloaked man by his side. The roads are busier than on any normal day. Most are still expecting the Prince to appear and start his tour around the City. Steadily you make your way to the Tower of the Wolves. The same two guards you saw before are standing in front of the Tower. They have not seen you yet.}
Most suggest to take the horses back to the stable bay and thus make sure Falquan is safely delivered. They would take Targo to the Wolves afterwards. But Olyn's already gone.
So the only thing left to do is to take back the wagon and horses to where they belong. Both horses you looted from the Prince's men are yours of course. Dietrich already claims one of them. Once they completed this task they will hopefully meet Olyn at the Temple.
Vorelle's mother gives her daughter a kiss and then she returns with her husband to their home. They quickly decent the same entrance Olyn took.
It seems as though the City Above grew eyes in the past few hours. There's a tingling sensation of danger in the air... almost as if someone could jump at you with every step you take... a scraping foot... a door that shuts... running feet... the city is very much alive and it doesn't feel secure AT ALL...
Luckily for out friends they find the stables quite fast. The doors however are shut tight. As you knock on the door, a small opening appears and the same stable boy eyeballs you with fear in his eyes...waiting for you to speak...
Olyn Wednesday March 15th, 2006 5:24:44 PM
ending the spell as he walks to the Wolf tower Olyn approaches the guards out front. showing his ring he attempts to walk past them and into the sanctum of the House.
if he does walk by without incident, he will ask to see the alpha citing he has a gift for him. he does not however remove the hood until he is standing before him. if they stop him he will show his ring and ask to speak to the alpha, out of the watchful eyes of people on the street. citing he has a gift for the eyes of the alpha only.
Theodore and Macaw Wednesday March 15th, 2006 6:56:53 PM
"We're returning your horses," Theodore explains to the cautious man. "We've returned with Falquan."
To the others in his group, he says, "I don't think taking the wagon full of goodies through town is the best option. It doesn't seem to be that safe. We might leave the wagon here. I'm sure we can trust the Merchants to safeguard it until we return." He gives Falquan a look. "Sir, would that be the case? Could we trust your House to keep a watchful eye on our wagon and possessions for a little while?"
Vauhwyt and Mookie Wednesday March 15th, 2006 10:14:43 PM
As Vauhwyt sees Olyn move off alone, she just hopes he will be all right. "I think we should stick togetherr," she mutters.
At the stable, Mookie says to Vauhwyt in a stage whisper, "Boss, the boy is doing good with the talking, huh?"
"Hush UP, Mookie!" whispers Vauhwyt back. "And yes, he is."
She waits to see the reaction to Theo's speech.
Berlon - HP 34/39 Wednesday March 15th, 2006 11:24:55 PM
"Theo, I'm not sure Falquan is in too much of a position to be able to promise anything right now." Looking at the terrified stableboy, he adds, "nor, I think, is our young friend here."
Turning to Falquan, he adds, "As you might have guessed, Neezer and his, er, superiors, sent us after you. Why don't we return you to the storefront he disappeared into, and then go from there."
"Unless Falquan or," he presses a gold coin into the stable boy's palm, "anyone else has a better idea?"
Vorelle Thursday March 16th, 2006 12:34:37 AM
Vorelle doesn't see her mother's kiss coming until it is too late to avoid it.
She kissed me?! Vorelle wonders to herself, confused. What the heck is that about?
Distracted, she trails along after the others.
Rose Thursday March 16th, 2006 12:56:02 AM
Before everyone seperates Rose hugs and says goodbye to the baby, and before they leave the wagon she will check out the trunk (and slip a bit of the most expensive & small items in her bag of holding). Rose will stay with the others.
ooc: Sorry for not posting. My computer has been freezing when online. I had to slowly email my documents to one of my email accounts and reboot. Unfortunatly I have lost Rose's spellbook info and her character sheet (does anybody have a copy). Also my computer is still freezing, so suggestions would be helpful.
Dietrich Thursday March 16th, 2006 6:23:53 AM
Dietrich agrees that moving around with the wagon doesn´t seem a good idea. But leaving it unguarded here...
He suggests that Jack keeps an eye on it (ooc: as he is offline for the moment anyway).
Dietrich would actually suggest that the party should stay with the wagon at the contact place and only some street-wise members go around to check info, mainly the birds, maybe someone with a magic disguise.
He knows that sepparating the party can weaken them and be dangerous, but running around exposing yourself can be equally dangerous. He says to his friends:
"Concentration of force is a basic military principle, but gathering good intelligence before operating is as fundamental.
There is a big chance our enemies are waiting for us. We shouldn´t show ourselves before we know what´s going on. I think that two or three of our more city experienced comrades should use some magic to disguise themselves and gather better info before we move."
The City Below Sanctuary ?!? [DM Inge] Thursday March 16th, 2006 11:31:09 AM Olyn Highlight to display spoiler: { The guards in front of the Wolves Tower quickly recognize Olyn once he comes closer -- having dismissed his disguise. The eyeball the hooded man beside him and nod as they allow Olyn to go inside. Once again Olyn finds himself in the familiary large antechamber with the lupine statuary and tapestries. The old man sits behind his desk and does not seem to care about your presence. He did not even lift his eyes...
"So Olyn, you have returned, yet this time my ears tell me you're not alone... I can hear the frantic breath takings of a weakling next to you. This must be Targo..."
Then the old man gets up from behind his desk and closes his big book with a loud smack. Out of the shadows three cloaked men wearing Wolves insignia approach and take Targo from Olyn. If Olyn allows them they take him away through one of the back door ... hidden away between two pillars. That's the last you saw from Targo...
"You have done well Olyn. I see you learned your lesson well. You have passed you initiation and it is now time to choose... be a Wolve and abide by our rules or leave. Think hard my friend. Joining us will enrich your life but demands a lot from you. Leaving means you will never be able to become a Wolf anymore, but you will leave with our appreciation.
What will you do Olyn."}
In front of the stables Theodore speaks reassuring words to the young man inside. When he hears they're returning Falquan the man opens the door and urges you all inside.
"Come quickly! Get inside and bring your horses and that wagon!"
[Assuming you will all move inside -- wagon included]
Then the stable boy seems to calm down and nods to Falquan in apparent recognition. "I see you have managed to free Alda. Good. Neezer will be very pleased. Even though you left the city yesterday evening a few things seem to have happened. Word has spread that the Prince is indeed dead or at least no longer in the City. Last night there was a slight uprising in front of the Castle doors when people wanted to see the Prince was dead for themselves. Before dawn the leaders from all Houses came together for discussing this crisis. There's need for a new leader but every House wants to push one of their members on the throne. The Merchants were also invited! The most important decision was that the City Below needs to be a safe haven once again. The City Above is the hunting grounds now. There have been several assassinations this morning at the Back Stab quarter and things will most likely heathen up even more. But... so far no one has damaged the City Below sanctuary. "
The young man catches his breath and continues:
"You need to go and see Neezer. Alda will have to go with you for Neezer will be pleased to meet Alda once again. Come..."
The stable boy hurries to the back of the stables and tosses the loose hay to the side. Beneath it a concealed hatch is revealed. "This trap door will take you to the City below through a narrow side tunnel. Take your belongings -- including what's on that wagon -- and leave your horses and the wagon here. I will look after them. I guess no one saw you coming inside.
Once you're in the sewer tunnels you will be safe. Go to Neezer and he will offer you a new place to stay ... that is if you would like to stay with us...
Go now. Take everything you can carry and travel safely through the tunnels."
Theodore and Macaw Thursday March 16th, 2006 8:32:01 PM
"That's a lot of loot to heft," he says out loud. "That would be a good idea for one of us to stay behind." He looks at Jack. "If Jack's unwilling to do it, I'll stay with the wagon."
Berlon - HP 34/39 Thursday March 16th, 2006 9:19:20 PM
Berlon nods in agreement with what its said. The group needs a safe place to gather their wits and plan a next move.
Berlon votes for following the advice and using the passage to find Neezer.
Olyn Thursday March 16th, 2006 10:44:17 PM
Highlight to display spoiler: { I need 24 hours to think about it. Will you grant me this time? }
Highlight to display spoiler: { If granted, Olyn heads to the temple to confer with the one person whom he respects above all others. The head priest. And Olyn will pour out his heart to him, telling him everything that has gone on up til this point. }
Vorelle Thursday March 16th, 2006 11:48:32 PM
If someone is really needed to stay and guard any gear left in the wagon, Vorelle is willing to do it. She's kind of hopeful, though, that they'll be able to carry it all. She'll be happier when they're all Below.
Mad Jack (DM Inge posting) Friday March 17th, 2006 2:44:19 AM
"You lads go on through them tunnels. I'll put guard here. After all... that's me job. Just send something to eat will ya! I've been sitting up them trees all morning till I got a sore back and haven't seen anything else but squirrels carrying nuts around the tree!"
With that Mad Jack turns to the horses and begins to brush them and care for them.
rose Friday March 17th, 2006 6:29:10 AM
Rose quickly stuffs all she can fit into her bag of holding and hurries after the others to the saftey of the city below.
ooc: again does anybody have a copy of rose's character sheet? if you do please roll for yesterday's post of unlocking the chest. that would be a roll to check for traps, disable traps if found, and to unlock.
(DM Inge: will send you everything I have on Rose in a mail)
Vauhwyt and Mookie Friday March 17th, 2006 6:33:33 AM
"Thanks for guarding, Jack," says Vauhwyt. "We'll send you something tasty soon."
She is in favor of Rose opening the chest here.
Then Vauhwyt goes with the rest of the party to return Falquan to the merchants' rep, Neezer.
"After that, I think we should spend the day being out in public, reviewing at murals, letting people know that we are looking out for them."
"We should chat up any bards and minstrels we see, give them gifts and let them know that we are big appreciators of the arts."
Mookie says, "You mean appreciators of good songs they might sing about us!"
"As always, my sharp-witted familiarr," says Vauhwyt smiling, "you see right to the heart of the matterr. But we would not ASK them to sing about us! Just be nice to them, feed them some gold, and if we are lucky, they'll come up with that idea on their own."
Treasure, Decisions, and Rest, oh My! (DMSteveK) d20+12=20 d20+12=26 Friday March 17th, 2006 10:21:10 PM
ooc: Pardon the slight interruption in the posting. Inge is having Wold logon trouble and emailed me to post 'til she's back on her fingers :)
Olyn; Highlight to display spoiler: { Hooded lids seem to gaze into space, but Olyn has the uncanny feeling that the Alpha knows exactly what he's doing. And thinking. "Initiation is not the end of your tasks in the brotherhood of the Wolves," the voice is calm, measured, "and we would not have you a reluctant hunter. A Wolf must be obediant: unquestionably: immediately. If you cannot find that within yourself, you would weaken the Pack." "Yet this is not a decision lightly made, and once in the Pack," the old Alpha leans forward canines showing in his smile" you are in for life." And then he leans back. "You have done a great service. Go. You have a week to think it over and come with your decision without animosity."
And the audience with the Alpha is over.
Olyn knows he has a week to think about it and leaves the Wolves intending to go to the Temple using the City Below. He gets as far as a major cross-tunnel when he bumps into his friends also walking in the Muraled tunnels. }
At the stable, the decision is made for Mad Jack to stand guard, Rose to open the chest, and for everyone to go escort Alda and find Neezer.
Hopping into the wagon with the chest, Rose notices the small packet of captured thieves tools laying right beside the chest. Oh, that is a very fine looking set; precicely made. But Rose uses her own set and carefully looks over the chest (Check: 20). No traps found and an easy lock soon snaps open the lid and...
The light catches the yellowed coins that fill the chest. There are thousands of them, all newly minted and stamped with the emblems of Plateau City. Jackpot!
There is 5,000 gold pieces in the chest, obviously payment for the Prince's hired men and executioners.
And don't forget the rest of your stuff that Jack is guarding!
The group escorts Alda Falquan down the trap door to the City Below and soon come to the area where Murals are and people and children. And every street corner seems to have a group of lounging folk with weapons carefully peace-tied. The stable is near the Wolves, and so every corner has four or five Wolves leaning on shops and watching the passersby.
One swaggers up to you and pats the knot on his sword. "Peace ties everyone. This here's the City Below and some people recently forgot about what that means. We may cut each others throats in Clean Ops or even the City Above, but down here is safe."
"Yeah", puts in another from the corner, "my Lissel needs a place where she can be a kid for a little while. I heard that the other Houses are in force keeping the Peace too."
"Haw!" laughs a third, "at least in the City Below!"
And coming from the direction of the Wolf stronghold is Olyn! You must have spent more time on the chest or his audience wasn't very long, for here you are, together again! :)
Vauhwyt and Mookie Saturday March 18th, 2006 12:39:04 AM
Mookie dives into the pile of gold and rolls around in it. "This is great!" the bird caws happily.
Vauhwyt is inspired to make a tally of all the loot the party has gained.
Gizur's magic dagger of venom (Nov. 16)
Targo's masterwork medium light repeating crossbow (Dec 7)
Strands of Logan's hair (taken by Vauhwyt) (Jan 16)
Logan's loot to be divided among Theo, Rose, Jack, Vorelle, and Vauhwyt: leather armor, dagger of venom, feather tokens of whip and tree (Jan 18)
Big Pile at end:
- masterwork chain shirts human size (3) - masterwork chain shirts dwarve size (3) - masterwork leather armor halfling size - masterwork bastard sword - masterwork longsword (2) - masterwork battle axes (2) - battle axe - darkwood masterwork light crossbow - Lobelia was wearing a nice looking cloak that seems to blend a little with the surroundings(!) - Lobelia also carried masterwork thieve's tools - Steinthor wore a pair of bracers (!) - Gray bag with furry balls inside that looks just like Vauhwyt's (!) - a handy haversack (!) - 4 potions of X - 4 potions of Y - 2 potions of Z - 5 other individual potions - a dirty old hat (!) - a small container with odd looking dust (?!) - Ring of Sustenance (!) - 3 other rings (!) - 2 light horses with riding saddles
Also in the house you find a lot of mundane items for a total of about 250gp (bakpacks, bedrolls, blankets, lanterns, manacles, locks, hempen rope, chains)
Salary Chest with 5,000 gp
Vauhwyt's detect magic tells her that the 4 rings, the cloak, the bracers, both bags, and even that dirty hat are magic!
[OOC: the potions are magic too, right? How about that dust? Is that magic?]
Vauhwyt mutters, "That's my dues! Thank goodness!
Vauhwyt is glad to peacebond her weapons (mostly that means her spear).
She is also glad to be bringing Falquan to Neezer. But first she has a few questions for Alda. Who exactly is he, anyway, if she does not mind her asking? And how was he tied up in the so-called assassination plot? How did he get mixed up in this? She is happy to tell the party's story if there is some give and take.
Olyn Saturday March 18th, 2006 11:39:48 AM
follows in line with the others, being near Dietrich. and says just loud enough for him to hear: Dietrich Highlight to display spoiler: { They offered to make me a full member of the pack. and I have 1 week to decide. }
Dietrich Saturday March 18th, 2006 3:25:19 PM
Dietrich is amazed at the treasure they´ve got! That was a really great action! That money will come handy for their political plans in the city.. The fighter likes Vauhwyt´s suggestion about the bards. The idea of songs about Dietrich the Bear, protector of the people, honour, glory... Quite interesting. And of course there are the prectical reasons to do that.
He follows the others below and peace ties his weapons, though with some apprehension. ALl the peace talsks is fine and good, but there are powerful people wanting to eliminate the party..
He listens to Olyn and is thoughtful. He doesn´t like the idea very much, to say the truth. But there could be advantages to it too. The warrior just nods acknowledging the news and will think a little more before answering. ooc: sorry, forgot how to make the highlight thing again. please help)
bigtim to dietrich Saturday March 18th, 2006 6:22:02 PM
first you type ["spoiler"] without the "", type your message. then type [/"spoiler"] again without the "".
Theodore and Macaw Sunday March 19th, 2006 8:05:43 PM
Theodore is happy to be back in the Under City. "Safe at last," he says to himself.
He continues on with the party, nodding to Olyn when the half-elf catches up with them.
Berlon Sunday March 19th, 2006 8:21:40 PM
Berlon makes sure his weapons are properly bound, then finally takes the time to heal the last of his wounds. (Cure Lt. spontaneously replacing Command)
He looks around suspiciously, not as sure as the others that things are actually safe.
Rose Sunday March 19th, 2006 10:53:55 PM
Rose puts the new set of thieves tools in her bag, along with any other items that will fit. when she sees the bags she says "I hope one of those bags is a bigger bag of holding than this one." then goes and looks inside the bags and starts pulling anything out to see what it is.
Piper suddenly flies up "Piper where have you been?""Sorry Rosie but I was with your parents, cause I didnt know where to find you."
Piper doesnt look very sorry, in fact she looks like she's gained a few pounds.
"So Piper what's going on in the city, any messeges for me?"
Vorelle Sunday March 19th, 2006 11:30:45 PM
Her longbow is safely stashed in her magical quiver. Vorelle quickly flips the peacebonding loops over her handaxes, and she is good for Below.
She's still wondering what her mother was up to.
Treasure, Decisions, and Rest, oh My! (DMSteveK) Monday March 20th, 2006 4:36:49 AM
The take from this latest mission/adventure/perilous expedition has sure paid off dividends; many many gold pieces in dividends! And that is not counting the price to get from the mundane articles and the magical booty (yes, potions and dust are magical as well :). Yet, everyone is wise enough to know you never count your money when sitting at the table, there'll be time enough for counting when the dealing's done...
And so it is off travelling the tunnels of the City Below to the Merchants Square and where (presumably) you will find Neezer. All weapons are peace-tied, and if several suspicious glances are cast around, well, that is no more than others whose weapons are tied down are doing as well. In short, the group of friends (and Alda) blend in as well as they can with the only Liontaur anyone has seen in Dirt City can blend.
While walking the well-kept tunnels (still there is the occasional root or hastily timbered support as evidence from the Fey King), you see the lovely Murals on the walls and the proud painters standing by.
Falquan is more than happy to exchange information with Vauhwyt. Alda is a minor but rising guildmaster of the House of Daggers. He is not of the House of Merchants but very vocally supported the merchants in the last Houses Council with the former Prince of Thieves. "They have a good organization that can control some vital interests. In addition, using the Merchants as allies instead of sheep makes them feel they have a stake. A person with something to lose is always more agreeable than someone with nothing."
Soon enough, you get to the Merchant's Square and Neezer is prompt enough at arriving. The gray-haired and thin man thanks the party and shakes hands with Alda Falquan, who soon excuses himself and leaves.
Neezer is beaming and talking rapidly. "Very good! Very good conclusion to our contract. Met all specifications! If you wish, we can establish further negotiations for a liason of a more permenant and lucrative nature?"
Neezer seems to visibly shake himself in order and calms down. "My pardon, but this is very exciting. I know you will want time to settle down and relax. I believe I have the authority to offer the Merchants to be your proctor in cashing in any items you may wish to trade." He leans in closer with a conspiratorial wink, "the Merchants now control the entrance to a very precious trade area called ... The Catacombs."
Dietrich Monday March 20th, 2006 6:43:10 AM
To Olyn:Highlight to display spoiler: {My old friend, I´d rather you wouldn´t bind yourselve so much to the Wolves. They are powerful, yes, but they are dangerous and demand strict obedience and allegiance, to goals that very often can´t be ours. If you choose this way, I see conflicts in the future. Couldn´t you just keep a kind of 'special relationship' to them, without having to become a full member? }
While admiring the murals and greeting people, Dietrich listens to Alda and is happy to have this new contact. The party will need all friends they can get. The warrior also understands the man´s point about the Merchants.
Listening to Neezer, Dietrich is again interested, but first he wants to divide the loot and see what the party got. HE changed his mind about the horses though, and would now suggest they sell them together with the other mundane items to cash in. Horses can be bought later.
Olyn Monday March 20th, 2006 8:37:42 AM
Dietrich Highlight to display spoiler: { I either am in or Im not. With them there is no middle ground. And I understand that, especially with this house. Im gonna take a couple days to unwind, pray, and think before I make my decision. And thank you for your comment, I knew I could rely on you. }
Walking up to Vorelle, Olyn whispers Highlight to display spoiler: { Don't worry or fear about Targo anymore. He has been dealt with and any anymosity and hatred you feel for him is now being taken out of his skin....and soul. }
I suggest we take a day to unwind. Clean up. Pray and let the adrenalin of the past couple days go back to normal before we do anything. Then those who do the identifying and selling / bartering can go do their thing. And the rest of us can check on family and friends and go hear the rumors in the taverns / inns.
Theodore and Macaw Monday March 20th, 2006 11:36:59 AM
"I guess I'd like to see the murals," says Theodore, a bit timidly. "It is Mural Day. Not that I want to turn into a big political stint. Just curious, is all."
A large grin creeps across his face and his eyes shine with excitement. "Then I'll settle down to take a look at our new magic. I'll bet I can figure out what most of them do."
Vorelle Monday March 20th, 2006 8:55:33 PM
Mindful of the warnings, and the changed atmosphere in Dirt City, Vorelle remains with her friends--whether they examine the murals or return to the apartment.
She acknowledges Olyn's message with a little nod, but his words don't seem to have soothed her fears.
The City Tour [DM Inge] Tuesday March 21st, 2006 10:39:20 AM
Neezer's offer appears to be interesting enough but first our friends would like to catch something of Mural Day!
Leaving the loot with Neezer, who gives his word not to remove anything from the pile (unless of course you want to drag a 100lbs chest around the city...), you begin a tour around the City tunnels.
Everywhere you see people talking about the murals, admiring those of others yet promoting their own. Even without the Prince of Thieves this day should be a day to remember.
The sweet smell of waffles and cotton candy soon enthralls those who are keen on sugar while the greasy scent of grilled beef captures the hungry ones. Pub are crowded and everywhere you can see people laughing and fooling around. Nearly on every corner of the City you can see bards singings songs and making poetry about the murals and recent tidings.
When your group passes they try to blend in, but everywhere they go they are welcomed. Here and there you pop up in the murals.
Piper hops on Rose's shoulder and chatters in her ears. She failed to find Rose yesterday evening, but man did she witness some fantastic thingies here in the City while they were gone! Piper tells how a few men gathered in front of the Castle doors demanding for the prince to show himself or at least to see his body. More came and after a while they literally stormed the Palace doors. The last men who were hiding in teh Palace were ratted out but no Prince was found... not even his body...
When the sweet smell of cotton candy captures Piper she twists her head and stares into Rose's eyes...
The most important thing is that the City appears to be in peace. No hostile actions take place and enemies seem to go hand in hand down here. The City Below once again is safe...
Olyn Tuesday March 21st, 2006 7:26:56 PM
realizing its been a while since breakfast. and with his adrenalin now waining, Olyn makes a beeline to the merchant selling grilled meats. reaching for his pouch to buy some he sheepishly remembers giving the orcs his pouch so they would leave so he turns to the group and says: anyone have some silver I can borrow?
when given the loan he buys 3 sticks of grilled beef, some cotton candy for desert and a mug of ale to wash it all down as he walks with the group. trying not to spill anything but not caring if he does.
Olyn's spirits seem to pick up, like a child at a carnival.
Theodore and Macaw Tuesday March 21st, 2006 9:27:18 PM
Theodore spots Olyn the money, and buys some food for himself. "This is good," he says around a mouthful of food.
He continues looking at the murals, quite appreciating the moment.
Vorelle Tuesday March 21st, 2006 10:41:49 PM
Too edgy to eat, Vorelle passes up the food and tries to find some enjoyment in the enthusiasm of the people around her. The murals are interesting, and it is good to see that the people aren't afraid.
She tries very hard not to think of what Lisenne might be up to, or what will happen if Targo escapes.
Berlon Tuesday March 21st, 2006 11:10:12 PM
Even though he still seems suspicious about the safety of the city, Berlon tries to enjoy the day as much as he can. When the opportunity presents itself, he will discretely cast his daily Identify spell on one of the other rings...
Vauhwyt and Mookie Wednesday March 22nd, 2006 12:34:59 AM
[OOC: Gosh darn it! Missed a post! Sorry!]
Back at Merchants Square, talking with Alda and Neezer
Vauhwyt shakes Alda's hand, and tells him she was glad to help. She says that her group is always happy to make friends. "If there's one thing the Patsy Heroes are looking for," she says, "it is the good will of those who have the welfare of Dirt City uppermost of mind."
Mookie adds, "Yeah, what the Boss said. And we like to be paid."
Vauhwyt laughs. "Well, that too."
Then Alda leaves and the group is left with the grinning Neezer. Vauhwyt smiles at the fellow's enthusiasm. "Are we really done yet?" Vauhwyt asks. "Wasn't there some kind of payment for returning Alda? Just asking."
When Neezer talks about a permanent arrangement, Vauhwyt tells him that she thinks the group might be interested in a non-binding, non-exclusive pact. "Look, we'll take no restrictions on other clients, and we reserve the right to refuse any given job. That said, I think we would be glad to count the Merchants as friends, and we would take any job offer under seriolus advisement."
As for the Catacombs, Vauhwyt does not say that she used to work there. Instead, she says that free access to the Catacombs would be a real sign of friendship and respect. How much is he charging people to enter the magic shop?
Looking at murals
Vauhwyt agrees with Olyn. "We need a few days to rest, relax, train, and go to church to say a prayer of thanks. But we have enemies, and we would be foolish to split up or to present a target. I suggest that we keep together in a group at all times. I also think we should be sleeping in the Quarterr, in a different spot each night."
Vauhwyt is in favor of spending some money. She proposes that at least 100 gp of the party treasure (that we just got) be spent on food, buying treats for kids, giving donations to every bard, and the like.
She also suggests that a 10 percent tithe (another 500 gp at least) be spent on gifts to charitable causes.
"Boss!" says Mookie. "Give money away! For free! But why?"
Vauhwyt says, "Not only is it the right thing to do, but we have to be seen as the peoples' champions. Doing good works is an essential part of that!"
As the party enjoys mural day, Vauhwyt is careful to seek out just about every mural artist and thank them for making Dirt City a more beautiful place to live.
Rose Wednesday March 22nd, 2006 6:21:28 AM
Rose will buy herself some food (if she can afford it, hmm maybe she took some of that gold :) and follow the others. she's tired and hopes that nothing exciting happens.
ooc: inge how long has the group been without sleep? I know we slept in that basement but since then we've left the city to rescue vorelle's family and came back and I'm wondering how long that took.
[DM Inge: you left the city yesterday afternoon heading for the FarmHouse. You slept in the forest about 5 minutes from the Farmhouse and took 8 hours for all spellcasters. This morning you went out to rescue Falquan and Vorelle's family and now it's the afternoon of that same day. So basically, you had your sleep last night. Even though this module took quite a while to complete, only 3 days have passed in game.]
Dietrich d20+4=6 d20+4=10 Wednesday March 22nd, 2006 6:28:20 AM
Dietrich salivates at the smell of nice, bloody beef... Though, like others, he is too aprehensive to really enjoy the day (except when the murals show scenes of the party, than he´s really proud), at least he will eat well and even drink a beer or two. The warrior would like to have some more ales and have a talk with that bargirl that just admired his biceps, but alas, it´s not the right moment.
So he trys to keep alert: (spot 6, listen 10)
Concerning Vauhwyt´s comments, he basically agrees with everything. And he adds:
"In general I agree with the proposal, but I´d say we should have a broader planing about the money, not only the immediate spending on popularity. I think the party should have a budget, for common porpuses, like potions, bribes, etc. I´d suggest we keep at least 10% of all loot for the party budget, and decide together on what to spend it."
The City Parade goes on [DM Inge] Wednesday March 22nd, 2006 11:30:29 AM At the Merchant Square before the Tour
Vauhwyt shakes hands with Alda and tells him "If there's one thing the Patsy Heroes are looking for," she says, "it is the good will of those who have the welfare of Dirt City uppermost of mind."
Alda smiles and replies to her : "Yes we have heard about your group. You have done good things, but we wonder where your loyalty is placed. It's been great to see you in action, and I will speak well about you to my House."
With that, he gently nods at Vauhwyt and leaves.
As Neezer wants to conclude this gathering Vauhwyt asks him about a possible reward...
"Did not master Berlon inform you of the nature of our contract? Allow me to enlighten you. Neezer's voice seems to turn a bit colder as he rants a few sentences that he and Berlon spoke to eachother :
"First, that irrespective of any future contract, you and your party would be in debt to the House of Merchants for one advance negotiation contract. Second, your entire surviving party come to the House of Merchants and consider our offer of a more permenant association."}
"We will assist in preserving as we may the life of your current companions from thier current predicaments (yes, we know who they are) and as payment, you agree to one acquisition contract performed by you and whatever companions you may provide for yourself, (be it from your current companions or from Haven's Edge). We agree now that the contract will not be against the precepts of Alemi or Wardd, and you will be able to lay in a loan from the House of Merchants prior to said contract"
You see that we do not owe any compensation for the rescue of Alda Falquan. The House of Merchants rescued you from the Castle and in return Berlon agreed to perform one contract. Do not forget we gave you a loan and horses to complete that task...
"Ah, but wait now I understand... you do not know how it was that we, the House of Merchants saved you from the Castle... Did you not notice the sign the two spellcasters made when they found your rope trick in there?!? The fingertips rubbing against the thumb? Those spellcasters belonged to the House of Merchants and the moment Berlon agreed to our deal, they made sure the guards left from that room... Without them my friend, you would have been killed in the Palace! Without Berlon's quick thinking and our interference you would not have been here to ask me these questions."
As Vauhwyt questions about the Catacombs Neezer simply says: "The House of Merchants controls the Catacombs here in Dirt City. You will be granted access when asked, but House members and affiliates will gain additional benefits..."
Then Neezer turns around and says "I believe the contract between Berlon and our House to be fulfilled. And with that we continue to extend our hand for a future continuous contract between our groups."
On the Tour
Now that the adrenaline wanes hunger draws our friends to various booths in the City Tunnels. Juicy, cholesterol rich meat, favored by some among our friends soon brings joy into the hearts. For a split second all that has happened in the past few days seems to be forgotten. Almost like carnival Olyn thinks and indeed he's right. That's the spirit of Mural Day!
Vorelle though has a hard time trying to loosen up keeping somber thoughts running through her head. What happened to Targo... what about Lisenne...
The newly found riches makes Vauhwyt eager to spend money on charity and things like that, but Dietrich tries to keep the reigns on the Liontaur before she spends it all! Here and there Vauhwyt tosses a gold coin at the kids who drew the Murals, and these little gestures are noticed by people walking around. Be it good or bad, you are making yourselves noticed...
Theodore and Macaw Wednesday March 22nd, 2006 12:23:05 PM
"I think the best way to endear ourselves to the citizens of Dirt City is through honest work, Vauhwyt. Not politicking. They've had enough of that in the past few weeks. We don't need to brag about what we've done, just confirm that we're not done yet. And giving to charity should be for personal reasons, never so someone else can see you do it." Theodore seems to take on the tone of a parent lecturing an excitable youth.
"We're not running for Prince of Dirt City, or at least I hope we're not. Let our actions speak for us." He pops in the last bite of his food and continues to look at the murals.
Neezer [DM SteveK] Wednesday March 22nd, 2006 12:30:16 PM
Assuming that Vauhwyt will press about the "additional benefits" he mentioned earlier, Neezer considers for a moment while pawing his flyaway gray hair into a semblance of order.
"I think a fantastic place like the Catacombs, a place where you can get nearly any item in the Wold I might add, is worth 5% of the purchased items as compensation for its use, don't you?" His eyes sparkle in the light of a good negotiation. "Of course, members of the House of Merchants can waive that fee. The entrance from Dirt City is under new management."
He gives Vauhwyt a knowing look.
Olyn Wednesday March 22nd, 2006 3:43:56 PM
to noone in particular Olyn pipes up: we fight together, we live together, we adventure together and now im told that we need to stay together and not split up.
like any "family" people need their alone time and right now I need my alone time. unless an emergency arrises that demands my attention, I am going to the temple for the day.
and Olyn starts heading to the temple.
Berlon Wednesday March 22nd, 2006 11:33:09 PM
(OOC: Did I identify a second ring as posted above?)
[DM Inge: Use of the Identify spell takes 1 hour. It's not something you can do while you're walking around the city. You will have to wait till you've settled down quietly.]
Berlon scratches his head as Olyn makes for his temple. He addresses the group and Neezer in low tones, trying not to let outsiders hear.
"So here's a question, Neezer. We are under the assumption that the "Prince" is gone, dead, or otherwise Not At Home. Is it safe to also assume that he left in a rush? Doesn't it then follow that he may have left... certain things... behind? I would think that all the trouble he caused us, both on a citywide and personal level, might call for a certain.." Berlon continues trying to convey his meaning to Neezer "...liberation of assets?"
"If we're truly interested in being charitable with our good fortune, and I hope we are, wouldn't it be doubly satisfying if the Prince, um," Berlon tries to remember how the saying goes in Common, "'foots the bill' I think is the phrase?"
"Just a thought..."
Vauhwyt and Mookie Wednesday March 22nd, 2006 11:41:01 PM
Final words to Neezer: Vauhwyt is chagrinned and ducks her head. "Oh, I understand," she says. "Thanks for explaining. Yes, we were more than well compensated and I am glad that our deal has been so satisfying to all of us." She adds that she looks forward to talking again about future projects when the group has had a chance to rest up a bit. It has been a very very busy couple of weeks, what with the fey king and more recednt events!
On the mural tour: Vauhwyt is happy to enjoy the festivities. As she eats a skewer of meat, she smiles at the kids and laughs.
After giving a gold to one entertaining bard, she answers Theo, "My friend, we may not be running for Prince, but winning the hearts of the comon people is maybe the best defense we have going against those who would do us ill."
Vorelle Thursday March 23rd, 2006 1:11:54 AM
Never one for socializing, Vorelle concentrates on the murals themselves. She is a little surprised at how much fun she has examining the various efforts. Some are better than others, of course, but all have been executed with enthusiasm.
Her worries remain in the back of her mind, but she relaxes somewhat and is able to enjoy herself a little.
Rose Thursday March 23rd, 2006 2:09:14 AM
Rose likes the murals and wants to see some more "How about we go see the murals in the halfling area?" She suggests, hoping to run into some of her family or friends who can give some unbiased information.
Dietrich Thursday March 23rd, 2006 7:07:49 AM
As nothing dangerous happend, Dietrich starts to relax a little more and enjoy the festivities.
He repeats the proposition of having a party budget and would like to hear comments on it. HE agrees with the specific preposition of being generous, but there should be a clearer division between what is everybody´s individual share of the loot, and what is for common porpuses. Also, no single partymember should just start spending commmon property without a collective decision...
Listening to Theo, the soldier shakes his head.
"We´re at war Theo, there´s no place for airy moralism. We are not doing any wrong and, for our own good, and the good of Dirt City and it´s people, we have to do what is necessary to strenghten our strategic and tactical position and stay alive. Everything is politics, it´s just like any other battle."
Concerning Berlon´s sayings, Dietrich thinks a little differently. The Prince may have left, but he´s sure his lieutenants have already shared the remains of power...
Dietrich agrees with Rose´s idea of going to the halfling quarter. Though he´s tired and would like a hot bath, massage and relaxation, the halflings are important and can´t be ignored by the party.
On to the Halflings! [DM Inge] Thursday March 23rd, 2006 11:38:32 AM Theodore, Dietrich and Vauhwyt discuss their future in the City. No they are not running for Prince, but what is it the City needs right now? Politics? Charity? ... no one knows for sure.
Olyn however needs some time on his own and heads to the Temple. As no one objects he leaves the group. Walking through the tunnels he feels pretty safe. People are smiling and enjoying this day. After a little walk he stands in front of the wide open Temple doors. The serenity of the Temple welcomes those who seek comfort and answers.
Just before Neezer leaves he turns around to say a few last words to Vauhwyt who feels chagrinned and for the first time she doesn't; say much! But then it's Berlon who kicks in and keeps the man from leaving. Neezer turns to Berlon answering his questions.
[ooc. SteveK agreed to play the NPC's -- he will speak for Neezer in this case. It's a test case. I came up with this idea because I am certainly unable to NPC a bard and create poetry or songs. If this doesn't work out, we'll stop trying this :-) .]
At last Vorelle starts to loosen up and when Rose suggests to go see the Halfling Quarter Murals, most agree and a new heading is set. On to the Halflings!
Vauhwyt and Mookie Thursday March 23rd, 2006 8:30:24 PM
Vauhwyt is now doubly abashed. "Sorry, Dietrich, you are right. I didn;t mean to spend the group's gold. Any amount I've given away can come out of my sharre."
She likes his idea of a party budget. So does Mookie. "Hey Boss! Maybe if you have a budget, you won't have to pay so much out of your own pocket."
Vauhwyt says, "Hush, Mookie! I spend my money how I want to!"
Anyway, she is eager to take a look at the murals in the halfling quarter -- and secretly hopes for some of Rose's mom's good cookery as well.
Theodore and Macaw Thursday March 23rd, 2006 10:10:52 PM
"I'm not disagreeing with endearing ourselves to the public," Theodore says, shaking his head. "Just suggesting a different approach. I'm not a politician, and I don't really want to be one. Plus, I think the people will be smart enough to see that we're trying to buy them with politics. The people want heroes, not politicians."
He continues with the others into the Halfling Quarter.
Neezer [DM SteveK] Friday March 24th, 2006 3:37:14 AM
The old man's eyes gleam at the thought of all that lucre in the Palace just waiting for 'procurement', yet Dietrich's military assessment of the situation bears thought as well.
"Though the Prince is gone, surely there is someone still in the Palace. I disagree that they would be able to depart with more than a pitiance of what is surely in there, but in this case, caution may be the better part of valor."
"Master Berlon, I will bring this before the Merchants and they will certainly gather information on the possibility of an excursion to reap financial reward. And it may be in the future that I shall call upon you and your friends for a contracted search of the Palace."
"In the meantime, enjoy yourselves, I shall hold your goods without cost as a final addendum to our contract. As for the Catacombs, remember, you may use the wondrous place, but at a cost of 5% of the purchased goods to the House of Merchants."
Rose d20+6=18 d20=10 d20=10 d20=6 d20=13 d20=12 d20=3 d20=12 d20=7 d20=20 d20=5 Friday March 24th, 2006 5:34:58 AM
Rose keeps up with the others the best she can, alternating running and walking. Listening to the conversations she frowns "Guys it isnt a good idea to be talking about money in public!" she says sharply "We can discuss that later at one of our houses."
When they reach the halfling quarter Rose greets her friends and tries to find out any information that would help them.
When they reach Rose's parents, and aunts, and uncles, and brothers, and any other relatives she will go inside and get hugs and food and information.
could rose have some sort of bonus for knowing the people she talks to? knowledge local: 18, to find out who to talk to gather info: 10, 10, 6, 13, 12, 3, 12, 7, 20, 5
Dietrich Friday March 24th, 2006 6:31:21 AM
Dietrich listens to his friends and reflects about the comments.
Vauhwyt is right that with a budget she won´t have to spend so much of her own for party purposes, and Dietrich finds this only fair. Why should the liontaur or anybody spend more than all? A budget would keep things clearer and fairer, and also allow more group control over objectives and actions (after all, that´s what we ended up decidig isn´t it?).
Dietrich hears Rose´s last comment and shuts up about the money. But he adds: "We can´t simply go back to our appartments, as they´re surely under surveillance and there´s still that dead guardsman... We´ll have to keep changing hiding places if we want to be safe."
The warrior also hears Theo´s point and starts thinking more about it. The question of the right approach is important and interesting and his last point about herous or politicians is intriguing. But concerning the specific issue of being generous, and being seen like that, Dietrich still agrees with Vauhwyt.
LAstly, the soldier listens to Neezer. He´s actually quite shocked about the suggestion. After all, the Palace is not just the property of the Prince, but of the City, and, in the end, everything there has been paid by the people. Whoever assumes Suran´s position will still have to run the place, pay soldiers and bourocrats etc. Not to speak of the risks...
A great dinner and a place to rest! [DM Inge] d3=2 d100=57 Friday March 24th, 2006 9:56:08 AM
Upon arriving in the Halfling Quarters you quickly notice the Murals here tend to favour a certain little Halfling lady that has been part of a daring group of adventurers! Rose is easily reckognised and gets a warm welcome to the quarters.
Word travels fast in this place and only minutes after you arrived here, Rose can hear her mother welcoming her. She's still mourning the death of Junior only a couple of days ago, but today is Mural Day, and her daughter has been part of great tidings in the city. She needs to learn about this first hand!
"Come dear! Bring your friends and come home. It's about time you introduce us to all your friends." Rose's mother examines all of you but of course allready knows most of you. Either she allready met you in person or she has seen you countless times in various murals.
What would you like to find out Rose?
Rose's mother invites you all into her home. Take care for the low ceilings!
Quickly Rose's family is gathered in the living room and a fabulous dinner is being prepared in the kitchen. Excellent wine is taken from the cellar and with that some exquisite cheese.
While dinner is made by Rose's Aunts the rest of the Family sits hear and there in the living room listening to all the stories that are told.
Now in the serenity of Rose's home Berlon carefully checks another one of the Rings. This time he picks a fairly thin ring and upon close inspection he notices a delicate feather pattern all around its edge!
Ring of Feather Falling It acts exactly like a feather fall spell, activated immediately if the wearer falls more than 5 feet.
Then it's time for storytelling and dinner!
Olyn Friday March 24th, 2006 9:58:25 AM
goes into the temple and does what a cleric does in a temple.
Berlon Friday March 24th, 2006 9:28:24 PM
What low ceilings?
Berlon wrinkles his nose as he seems unsatisfied with the magical qualities of the rings found so far. He then tries to get some rest in a quiet corner.
Rose Saturday March 25th, 2006 6:40:10 AM
Rose gives her mom, dad, aunts, uncles, sisters and brother hugs. She gets a very sad look on her face as she automatically looks for Junior, only to remember that he is gone. She settles settles down in the living room with everyone taking and chatting, and of course eating.
ooc: by what I remember the very first time the group was at Rose's Parents house we were told that the living room was normal sized.
[Inge: ok didn't know that. Thanks for letting me know]
ooc2: Rose is intrested in learning about what has happened in the city the day or so they have been gone, also anything that might have been missed the last month when we have been at the swamp, gnome's village, temple, fighting fae king, ect. She also wants to know the halflings ideas about the different houses and the prince (never really explained anywhere, is there a halfling house?).
[Inge: WWWOOOOOPS... won't be able to answer all that but I'll give it a try ;-) ]
ooc3: i doubt berlon can get any rest if ALL of rose's family is there. that is 2 parents, 3 siblings, 5 aunts/uncles plus any of aunt/uncles family (i never said if they are married or have kids, dm's choice), and any family friends who would be there.
[Inge: LOL! And I think it's safe to assume that once they all caught word that you are back lots of family and friends will gather at your home!!]
Vauhwyt and Mookie Saturday March 25th, 2006 10:46:25 AM
Vauhwyt is glad to see the murals lauding Rose. "Look, Rose," she says, teasingly, "in this one you are bigger than me!"
Unlike most wemics, Vauhwyt does not much mind serving as a beast of burden to two-leggers. So she offers rides to any halfling children who drew murals of the Black Bird Gang. Heck, odds are other kids will pile on, but that's okay!
Later, at Rose's family's place, Vauhwyt is happy to be there but solemn. [OOC: I think this is the first time since defeating the fae king that V has been here?] "I am very sorry for your loss," she tells Rose's parents.
At dinner, she is more at ease, and eats as much as she can (which is a lot)! "You just can't get food this good anywhere else in the City," she exclaims.
Vorelle Saturday March 25th, 2006 1:15:12 PM
Vorelle stays on the fringes of the group. She smiles greetings to Rose's parents, relaxing a little more in the cheerful, homey living room. It's unlikely that Lisenne or Targo (or any agent they may have sent) will find her in here, and she genuinely likes Rose's family. She's so comfortable here, in fact, that she even pulls her hood back, something she rarely does outside the apartment.
Theodore and Macaw Sunday March 26th, 2006 7:36:00 PM
Theodore is happy to see Rose's family, and a goofy smile adorns his face as he ducks into the halflings' home. (He's actually quite proud that he has to duck, being very short himself.)
He chats amiably with the family and happily stuffs himself with more food.
Dietrich Monday March 27th, 2006 7:07:42 AM
Dietrich has some trouble entering the small house, but he´s overtaken by the warm atmosphere and, despite the physical question, he relaxes and enjoys the good food and wine. He remembers Junior with Wardd and honours his farewell. He makes faces to the kids, scaring them for fun and tells tales about the adventures (scaring them even more..).
The warrior is quite tired though and after a short while, he uses this time to rest a little.
Time to go to bed! [DM Inge] Monday March 27th, 2006 9:12:16 AM Olyn enters the temple of Wardd hoping to find council or guiding from the Gods. Upon entering he notices few people are here to bring homage to the Gods and few seem to be searching for answers. Today is Mural day and that's a day where people tend not to care too much.
Spending at least 15 minutes in solitude preying to the Gods Olyn is noticed by a Priest of Wardd. Despite his apparent old age the nimble Priest silently approaches Olyn and when he's near he speaks softly to Olyn:
"What brings thou to Wardd's House young friend? I can sense a struggle within thee. If you whish to be left alone I will leave... if you whish to talk to someone I will listen..."
The Priest then silently waits. It's obvious that time has taken its share on this old man. Deep wrinkles adorn his wise head and long grey hair falls over his shoulders. Patiently he stands there.
At Rose's parents place things are a bit merrier.
Once everyone gets seated and food is brought out into the dining room everyone gets a warm and fuzzy feeling in their hearts. At first Vauhwyt and Dietrich tend to be respectful given the recent loss of Junior, but as it is obvious that neither Rose's mother nor her father whish to think of that tonight they all quickly abandon to the feast!
Chicken, ham, wine, ale, bread, roast beef, sausages, grapes, nuts, figs, apples, ... food in abundance! More than you can eat!!
After dinner you all feel a bit drowsy and many visitors begin to leave thanking Rose's mother for the excellent food and drinks. Now that more people begin to leave it's time to sit in the soft armchairs and sofa's. Still there will not be enough places for all to sit on the cozy couches but even a good chair will do.
Rose's father takes out some of his finest tobacco (and you know Halflings know something about tobacco) and offers each and everyone of you a pipe out of his private collection.
Berlon keeps one ear on the tales but he's mostly interested in the other two rings he has. Unhappy with the magic the other two rings hold (even though they hold pretty usefull magic...) he begins to examine the other two. After two hours he knows what powers they posses and also how he has to use the rings.
Ring of Swimming This silver ring has a wave pattern etched into the band. It continually grants the wearer a +5 competence bonus on Swim checks.
Ring of Protection +1 This ring offers continual magical protection in the form of a deflection bonus of +1 to +5 to AC.
When all are seated Rose poses a few questions to her parents. Hoping to tie whatever loose bits and pieces they still have. Apparently nothing really happened out of the ordinary when you all were out to the swamps... it all started when you guys returned!
First the Fey uprising where you all had an important share in and where ... Junior was lost.
Then the crazy rumor that Rose and her friends were going to kill the Prince! And ultimately the fact that thanks to Rose and her friends the Prince is now gone... be that good or bad... no one knows for sure!
As far as the houses are concerned Rose's father is pretty firm. He doesn't like either of them!
"BAH them houses. They all think they rule the City, and look what it has caused! That Suran was as crazy as a fruit cake! It's a good thing that he's gone. Nah, us Halflings do not have a House of our own. Some have joined one of the Houses in the City, but we do not need a House to tell us what to do in our Quarters. Perhaps, the strongest house is maybe the one you can not see? Hahaha. Just be carefull friends if you decide to join a House. Once you're in... there's no way back."
For the rest of the evening you all tell your stories to Rose's family and every now and then you can see them looking proudly to Rose when you tell of her exploits.
Then suddenly Rose's mom stands up.
"Look how late it is already! Time to go to bed! Off you go!"
She guides you to the bedrooms of the house. "Rose you can sleep in your own room of course and we can drag in a couple of other beds for your lady friends. You boys can sleep in J... you boys can sleep there" But she does not want to open the door for them and seems not to go near that room either.
For Jack in the barn the night has already closed his eyes and he's snoring in the hay with the horses. Jethro is also there and has offered to guard during the night. Hopefully he'll be able to join you all soon...
Theodore and Macaw Monday March 27th, 2006 10:42:55 AM
Feeling quite secure in Rose's family's house, Theodore easily drifts off to sleep.
In the morning, he yawns and stretches. When everyone else has woken, he informs them of his plans for the day.
"Between Berlon and myself, I think we can get the rest of our newly acquired magic identified. Afterwards, we should meet to distribute shares. I need to purchase some goods."
Olyn Monday March 27th, 2006 3:42:31 PM
offering a seat near him to the wise priest Olyn pours out his heart to him. Inge Highlight to display spoiler: { I wont go in full detail here, but he tells of his fight within himself starting when the Fey king came up to and including the offer to join the house of Wolves. He also tells the man about his dream after being beaten into unconsciousness. And he tells him how he has started enjoying summoning beings from other planes, going into details about the palace and the farm. }
Vorelle Monday March 27th, 2006 10:35:18 PM
Vorelle samples the tobacco, and spends the next ten minutes or so coughing. She decides she doesn't care for the stuff.
She is relieved when Rose's mother invites them all to stay there, and willingly retires when the others do. She finds it rather fun to try to sleep on a halfling-sized bed, but she feels a little sorry for Vauhwyt.
Vauhwyt and Mookie Tuesday March 28th, 2006 12:35:39 AM
Vauhwyt is happy but a little worried at staying at Rose's family's place. "Well, I guess one night is a safe gamble," she says, "but tomorrow we have to bed down in a different place!"
Vauhwyt thanks Berlon for identifying the loot, and she can't wait for it all to get figured out.
She thanks Rose's mom for the great hospitality. The liontaur is quite content with the floor.
Dietrich d20+4=13 d20+4=7 Tuesday March 28th, 2006 7:31:15 AM
Dietrich feels honoured to be invited to sleep at Rose´s family, but he shares Vauhwyt´s worries. The party could be putting the family at risk, more than it already is.
So, despite his weariness, the warrior suggests to keep watches and volounteers for the first.
"People saw us, and so did our enemies. I don´t want to run any risks, specialy not here at ROse´s." spot 13; listen 7
Dietrich too is eager to share the loot. He´d also like to trade an item.
OOC: He´s a pair of magic bracers +1 that he can´t really use and would like to exchange it for the magic rig of protectio, if that is ok with the party. I don´t know the difference in money that makes, but it can be compensated in his share of the money.
A quite night [DM Inge] Tuesday March 28th, 2006 10:48:40 AM
Despite the fact that you are a bit worried about bringing danger to Rose's family, they are firm on keeping you here during the night.
Still, our restless warriors set guard during the night. With only the serenity of the Halfling home to comfort them, all stays quite during the night. Occasionally you can hear Rose's father snoring pretty loud making you wonder how her mother could ever sleep with him... or else he's a bit light in the head from last night...
When Dietrich inquires if he would be allowed to use the Ring of Protection, Berlon notices there are another pair of bracers in the loot. He quickly examines them and identifies them as a pair of Bracers of Protection +2!
That night Olyn spills his guts with the company of an old priest in the Temple of Wardd. Without a single interuption the wise man listens. When Olyn falls silent he stares into the eyes of the old man.
"Many things trouble your mind young friend. You seek answers not even I can give. They only advice I can give you would be to go where your heart tells you to go and to always know who your true friends are. Please feel welcome in Wardd's Home and sleep here in the safety of his protection. Perhaps dawn will bring you some answers."
- Assuming Olyn rests in the Temple of Wardd -
The next morning everyone in Rose's home is woken with the smell of tea, coffee and ... PANCAKES!!!
Olyn wakes up in the company of a few younger followers of Wardd. The old priest is apparently not here. He is invited to have breakfast with the followers. A simple breakfast but it tastes wonderfully.
Olyn Tuesday March 28th, 2006 11:28:47 AM
After stretching and washing up Olyn joins in with the other younger priests and during breakfast will inquire who the wise old man was whom he spoke with during the evening. He wishes to thank him for listening before heading back to the apartment.
After breakfast, and assuming the others answer his inquiry, Olyn seeks out the man, thanks him, then heads to the apartment.
Dietrich Tuesday March 28th, 2006 5:17:33 PM
After the relaxing night and great food, Dietrich starts some morning exercises, to keep his body steelern and to burn the fat. Than he will just eat the delicious breakfast!
The warrior hears about the bracers. The problem is, that he already has a magic breastplate and magic bracers, so he can´t use it all. But he is interested anyway. However, let´s first see what we have and how much exactly would be everybody´s share. He´s interested in acquiring the bracers and the protection ring, and would pay for it with his share of the loot and the magic items he already holds (so others could get the breastplate and/or his own pair of bracers.)
If other comrades are interested in the same items as he is, Dietrich priority lies with the ring of protection (which he can accumulate with his breastplate).
Theodore and Macaw d20+15=16 d20+15=29 d20+15=23 d20+13=20 d20+13=30 d20+13=21 Tuesday March 28th, 2006 9:31:56 PM
Theodore is ready to identify the rest of the magic items with Berlon. (Spellcraft checks 16, 29, & 23. Knowledge (Arcana) checks 20, 30, & 21)
Rose Tuesday March 28th, 2006 9:47:42 PM
In the morning Rose slips into the room where the boys slept and looks at her brothers things. As she looks she remembers so much about him and tears slip down her cheeks.
Vorelle Tuesday March 28th, 2006 11:44:12 PM
Vorelle had been anticipating a peaceful night, which made the nightmare that much more jarring. She dreamed that Targo had escaped, and awakened with a start just as he was tightening the noose around her neck.
She lay quietly in the darkness for sometime, taking comfort from the small, ordinary sounds of the room: Rose's even breathing, the swish of Vauhwyt's tail, the slight ruffling as one of the birds re-settled itself. Gradually, she grew calmer--but she did not fall back asleep.
In the morning, she appears at the breakfast table with heavy eyes and a troubled expression. It is clear that she hasn't slept much.
Examining the treasure! [DM Inge] Wednesday March 29th, 2006 4:05:40 AM
[ooc: sorry that I could not wait any longer to DM post but I'll be leaving the office this afternoon.]
Berlon and Theodore spend some time identifying the various potions and other items you gathered in the Farm House.
In the end, they write everything on a piece of paper and with astonishment they show everything to their friends. (ooc: of course they don't know the value of everything but I added it here for your convenience)
- masterwork Chain Shirts human size (3) : 250 gp each = 750 gp - masterwork Chain Shirts dwarve size (3): 250 gp each = 750 gp - masterwork leather armor halfling size : 160 gp - Masterwork bastard Sword: 335 gp - Masterwork Longsword (2): 315 gp each = 630 gp - Masterwork battle axes (2): 310 gp each = 620 gp - battle axes: 10 gp - darkwood masterwork light crossbow: 355 gp - Handy Haversack : 2000 gp - Cloak of Elvenkind: 2500 gp - Dust of Tracelessness: 250 gp - Bracers of armor +2 : 4000 gp - Bag of Tricks (Gray): 900 gp - Hat of Disguise: 1800gp (dirty looking hat) - Masterwork thieves tools: 100gp - Ring of sustenance: 2500gp (ring made from a thick band of solid gold) - Ring of Swimming: 2500gp (silver ring with a wave pattern etched into the band) - Ring of Feather Falling: 2200gp (featheres etches into the band - Ring of Protection +1: 2000 gp - 15 potions: 1 x Water breathing (potion) 750 gp 1 x Tongues (potion) 750 gp 1 x Spider climb (potion) 300 gp 1 x Owl's wisdom (potion) 300 gp 1 x Darkvision (potion) 300 gp 2 x Bull's strength (potion) 300 gp 4 x Mage armor (potion) 50 gp 4 x Cure moderate wounds (potion) 300 gp - 2 horses 75gp each= 150gp - 2 saddles 10gp each= 20gp - mundane items worth 250gp (bakpacks, bedrolls, blankets, lantarns, manacles, locks, hempem rope, chains) - Chest with gold! 5000gp
That's a total of 34180 Gold pieces!!!
Looks like your day started pretty good no?
Back in the temple the younger followers of Wardd listen to Olyn's request but they can not tell Olyn the Old Priests name... "no one knows! But if you go to the right wing of this temple there you may find him."
Olyn does so and finds the priest praying. Without opening his eyes he speaks to Olyn : "Good morning Olyn. Did you sleep well? Did you find the answers you were looking for? I did not help you my young friend... I only listened. Sometimes that all a troubled mind needs to find the answers for himself. Safe yourneys to you young one and if you are in need of anything I will always be here to listen."
Despite the wealthy loot you captured Rose retreats to Junior's room. Everything is just the way you've always remembered it to be. Almost as if he's still here. Tears roll down on Rose's cheek as she thinks of all the good times they had, but also about the mournful encounter in the temple...
Everyone else looks pretty happy at the breakfast table. Rose's mother bakes fantastic pancakes and the sirup and honey on the table match perfectly. You can't help but noticing the heavy eyes and troubled expression on Vorelle's face though. Looks like she didn't sleep all that much last night...
Switch to DM SteveK [DM Inge] Wednesday March 29th, 2006 4:10:15 AM
DM SteveK will will take over again tomorrow. I will be out on a business trip for two days. Most likely he will continue to post you right into the next module...
enjoy...
Vauhwyt and Mookie Wednesday March 29th, 2006 7:05:47 AM
Mookie's eyes glaze over in contemplation of the loot, but the avaricious bird also reminds his master that there's more to the list.
"Boss, don't forget ..."
Gizur's magic dagger of venom (Nov. 16)
Targo's masterwork medium light repeating crossbow (Dec 7)
Logan's loot to be divided among Theo, Rose, Jack, Vorelle, and Vauhwyt: leather armor, dagger of venom, feather tokens of whip and tree (Jan 18)
And in the not-for-sale category, Strands of Logan's hair (taken by Vauhwyt) (Jan 16)
"That's right, Mookie," adds Vauhwyt. She reminds the group that loot sold in the Catacombs not only costs an extra 5% per the new House of Merchants, but it also is worth only 90% of the book value when sold or traded at the Catacombs. That means that you get better value out of keeping items rather than selling them.
"So if there is anything in the loot pile that you fancy, speak up! Better to take it as part of your share than to trade away 15 percent of its value in the Catacombs."
"For example, I'm claiming those masterwork theives' tools, if no one else wants them! We should keep the healing potions, too!"
"So go ahead and put your preferences on the table."
Vorelle Wednesday March 29th, 2006 9:09:41 AM
Vorelle picks up the Cloak of Elvenkind and looks it over wonderingly. "I-I've b-b-been w-wanting one of th-th-these," she says. She places it back on the table, so her companions can examine it, too, if they want.
Dietrich Wednesday March 29th, 2006 11:35:04 AM
ALready substracting the 500 gp spent on bards etc, the total loot would be still 33,720 gp, an unimaginable fortune!
If we share equaly, including Jack, that makes 4215 gp for each in value. That minus the 15% discounts of which Vauhwyt has spoken.
Dietrich doesn´t oppose at all to Vorelle´s and Vauhwyt´s choice.
For himself, he wishes the RIng of Protection (2000gp), Ring of Swimming (2500 gp) 1 cure moderate wounds flask (300 gp), 1 Bullstrenght flask (300 gp), (total 5100) He would like to sell his own Bracers of Armour +1 to the loot, so as to avoid the 15% lost and complete the money needed to acquire the mentioned items above.
Theodore and Macaw Wednesday March 29th, 2006 12:21:54 PM
Theodore nods in agreement of Vauhwyt's proposition for folks to suggest what they would like. He has no quarrels with either Vauhwyt, Vorelle, or Dietrich's claims.
He begins to itemize his wish list:
"I've been wanting to obtain a crossbow. I think that if someone could show me how to use it properly, perhaps Dietrich, I might be able to better assist the group in combat should I be out of spells or otherwise unable to provide magical aid." He pauses for a moment as if to remember what he was talking about. "So, I guess I'm asking for one of the two crossbows. I'm not exactly sure which one I would be better suited with, however."
"I'm also interested in the Handy Haversack. I believe that I could more efficiently carry a larger load, always a necessity for one in my profession."
"And, finally, I'm interested in the Hat of Disguise. I've begun to lean towards illusions and deception in my magic, which I believe will help us immensely in this City of Thieves. And, of course, anyone would be welcome to borrow the item, should they want to."
"Though I don't personally want the Ring of Swimming or Feather Fall, I believe these would be good items to keep for the party, rather than sell. Should no one else want them, they might be useful at a later date, and I think it would be a bad decision to sell them."
OOC: DM SteveK Wednesday March 29th, 2006 10:21:41 PM
(Hi everyone! :) I'll post at this time tomorrow...) :)
Rose Thursday March 30th, 2006 3:37:31 AM
Rose starts going through her bag of holding trying to remember what she already owns to figure out what items she needs. She also pulls out all her dirty clothes to send to the laundress.
ooc: still having comp trouble, but will do my best to post. I'm printing out all rose's sheets so I can update her with the new experience points and stuff.
ooc2: does any of the other characters know continual flame? Rose has the materials to cast it a few times, but doesnt want to pay for the ruby dust in a scroll just to learn it.
Vauhwyt and Mookie Thursday March 30th, 2006 6:51:18 AM
Well it's a new day, and there are places to go, says Vauhwyt as she packs away the delicious breakfast.
She invites Rose and anyone who wants to join them to go to the WLA for some sparring practice.
She strongly suggests that they move around in pairs or larger groups. She suggests that they carry the loot with them rather than leave it here, and that they agree to regroup together this evening.
"We should meet and then find a place for the night -- a different place each night. Probably in the 'Stab."
She does not leave the group until a meeting place is chosen ... why not meet at the Temple of Wardd, so that we can see Olyn and let him know where we are going to ground. And to show him the loot.
PS: Could we get the other items identified? To wit:
Gizur's magic dagger of venom (Nov. 16)
Targo's masterwork medium light repeating crossbow (Dec 7)
Logan's loot to be divided among Theo, Rose, Jack, Vorelle, and Vauhwyt: leather armor, dagger of venom, feather tokens of whip and tree (Jan 18)
Olyn Thursday March 30th, 2006 3:00:06 PM
Returning to the apartment, Olyn heats up water and takes a long hot bath. After washing and shaving he puts on clean clothes, eats a quick snack, then sits in a chair in the den and pops open a book.
LOG ON