DM Kathy Monday December 19th, 2005 12:48:05 AM
Dulcet smiles at Harvest. "The Concil sessions can try one's patience sometimes, can't they?" she replies. "Yet, imperfect though it is, I believe it is the best way to govern a region with so many different peoples. Everyone has a voice; noone is left out." She sighs. "Of course, that does make for some rather tedious debates. Do not worry, though, my dear. We shall arrive at a decision."
To Arminas, she replies: "It's clear that some occupation is best for the refugees, although I don't know how safe the Culverwood is at the moment. In fact, it is this that the Greenmage is currently investigating. When he returns, perhaps we'll know more." She adds, "And that is a good notion about the Fae King. Once we've settled on the delegation to Parnoth, we can perhaps turn our attention to seeking allies elsewhere."
Bralin's manners don't seem to upset Dulcet, she merely refills his tea and smiles at him.
Any and Andrath ask the purpose of the meeting, and Dulcet nods. "Yes, you're quite right. It's getting late, and I should tell you why I've asked you here.
"It's ironic, given that we just decided to send an emissary to Parnoth, but we have a missing envoy. Remo Treadlefoot has negotiated several agreements on behalf of the Pitchfork Council, and we recently sent him to Rowena to discuss the re-opening of trade routes. He is overdue at his destination, and I am worried that something might have happened to him.
"I would like you to follow Remo's route, and see if you can find out what became of him."
Harvest Monday December 19th, 2005 10:52:18 AM Rowena ... Harvest Moon's head turns reflexively to the Northwest. To tread the peaceful roads of Rowena.
"By what route was it expected he would travel?" she asks, curiosity undisguised in her voice.
With a sidelong long look, she watches Andrath Silverhand for a reaction. The others look to him so often for leadership.
From the lap of her robe she takes up another of the small sandwiches, munching from it a bite. An idea comes to her. Somewhere within the town, she would have to see to the purchase of a book of blank pages.
Lorth Monday December 19th, 2005 12:48:15 PM
Lorth doesn't eat, he has no appetite. He listens to what Dulcet asks of them and waits for his friends to respond. If they decide to go he will go with them.
Bralin Monday December 19th, 2005 1:50:01 PM
Bralin doesn't take any more cookies, and leaves the "Tea" alone. Water does a better job of washing down the food, and tastes better as well.
The mission is straightforward - Search and Rescue. Bralin nods to Andrath, "Aye."
Arminas Monday December 19th, 2005 3:33:54 PM
"Perhaps you are right, the Culverwood is not what it once was. Though I would think that gathering food along the edge of the woodlands should still be safe."
Arminas finishes his sandwich, and then brushes the crumbs onto a napkin. He refills his teacup and sips, allowing the aroma of the ground herbs to calm his soul.
"It would be nice to visit a peaceful place for once. Rowena is well governed. Perhaps we could also find a place for some of the refugees there. It would give our visit another purpose."
Finishing his tea, Arminas looks at Bralin and says: "Tea brings health to both the body and mind, I highly recommend it."
Any Monday December 19th, 2005 5:04:17 PM
Any sits calmly while the others respond to Mistress Dulcets offer.
"I agree with Arminas. This mission could fulfill a twofold role, and with a Ranger along, your hopes of finding your emmissary are increased. I have never been to Rowena. I look forward to the journey and the new vistas that await. We thank you for your trust in us to complete this task, especially after what has already happened to us. If all are in agreement, I am sure we will be happy to do this for you. Are there any other instructions, or any other help which you can offer us to help us succeed?"
Any takes a small sip of his tea while he waits for what will come.
Andrath Monday December 19th, 2005 11:44:47 PM
"Well, it seems that you have your searchers, my lady. As my friend Any has asked, what more can you tell us of this Remo, and his path?"
As he listens to Dulcet's answer, he whispers an aside to Bralin, "Don't worry, we will finish up the evening with a hearty ale or two. This tea stuff doesn't do anything for me either."
DM Kathy Tuesday December 20th, 2005 1:25:38 AM
The tea gets mixed reviews, but the Swords are willing to help the Council find the missing envoy. Dulcet smiles her gratitude.
"Thank you for agreeing to help," she says. "Remo's mission was--is--an important one. Legitimate trade between Rowena and Jarlswolf has all but dried up; only the smugglers carry goods these days. Remo has been tasked with re-establishing trade, an undertaking that becomes all the more important given recent events in the Culverwood.
"As for his route," she continues, "He would have traveled west, toward Witchspawn. Whether he took the road, or ventured out cross-country, I do not know. You may be able to pick up his trail, or perhaps some of the farm folk remember having seen his party pass by."
She provides a descritption of Remo and his escort. "A halfling man, mounted on a black pony, accompanied by a group of four Jarwolf milita, also mounted."
Seeing that you have finished, she begins gathering the tea things. "Unless you have any more questions," she says, "I'll not keep you from your beds. You have an important task ahead of you. The best of luck to you all."
Lorth Tuesday December 20th, 2005 7:38:54 AM
Lorth says goodbye and heads back to the inn. He then tries to get some sleep, tommorow will be a long day, he thinks.
(OOC: Do I have to shop in the catacombs for mundane items like a saddle and saddlebags? Or can I just deduct the money off my character sheet?)
Any Tuesday December 20th, 2005 9:49:40 AM
As they leave Any again thanks Mistress Dulcet for her hospitality. Once outside, he moves up next to Harvest and hands her the wrapped sandwiches.
"I assume you have a destination in mind for these."
He then returns to the Inn, and checks on Moonshadow.
"It looks like we will be traveling again old friend."
He turns to the hosteler, flipping him a gold piece, "Please give him an extra bait of grain this evening, and if he shows up without me again, please take the same excellent care of him that you have shown thus far."
He then enters the Inn, settles his bill with the Innkeeper, orders a small pint of ale, and sips it slowly by the fireside while strumming on his lute and singing to himself. When he is finished with the ale, he retires for the night.
Harvest Tuesday December 20th, 2005 10:49:39 AM
"Why would trade not have resumed again by itself, Mistress Dulcet?" Harvest Moon asks the question with a thoughtful look upon her face. "If there are goods to sell. And if the price here is good, then would not trade resume despite relations?"
Perhaps there was something here that she does not understand. Something essential to the complex way in which those who govern deal with others who govern. Or, perhaps there is something here, the understanding of which, might aide them as they travel further along the road tread by the halfling Remo Treadlefoot.
"Thank you, Anthos Westar." Harvest beams up at the bard as more of the little sandwiches appear. She peels up the corner of each to see if they are the ones with the slices of crunchy cucumber inside. A thing that would have been impolite to do inside.)
Before returning to the inn to retire for the night, the small brown girl bustles around to the various shops in the town in search of a book of blank pages.
(Same question as Lorth. Will this require a Catacombs transaction. It's essentially a role-playing prop.)
Arminas Tuesday December 20th, 2005 11:09:29 AM
Arminas perks up when Any mentions his tracking ability.
"Mistress Dulcet, I will do my best to find Remo and his companions. Thank you for the nice tea and sandwiches."
On the way back to the Inn Arminas decides to pick up a tea pot and some tea at the general store. Andrath and Bralin are in for a nice treat. Once they taste the tea mixed with wild herbs they will become converted.
He makes it back to the Inn and shows Any his new purchase.
"I believe that a little tea in the evening may be just the thing to make the group bond."
He listens to Any play and sing, and retires when Any goes to bed.
Bralin Tuesday December 20th, 2005 4:39:03 PM
The purpose of Remo's mission is irrelavant. A halfling and four humans mounted on horseback is more useful. To be truthful, Andrath's promise of an ale (or two) is the most interesting sentence the dwarf has heard all day.
As the meeting breaks up, Bralin falls in step with the rogue and heads to the bar. Tis time for a real drink, and to plan for the morn.
Bralin also keeps his eyes open for any shops specialized in marble. Tis time to start a new project.
DM Kathy Wednesday December 21st, 2005 1:48:42 AM
"You are right up to a point, my dear," Dulcet replies to Harvest. "Where there is a demand for trade, trade ought to flourish. However, officialdom will have its way as well." She sighs. "Who knows how these things start. Perhaps we levied a tariff on their goods, or perhaps they regulated the size of our caravans. One side acts, the other side retaliates--with more restrictions, more rules, higher tariffs. Trade law between Rowena and Cinnamon Valley is now a veritable thicket; the merchants cannot do legitimate business and make a profit. Only smugglers, with their utter disregard of the law, can gain any advantage from trade. We would like to put an end to that." She smiles sadly. "That is Remo's mission: to convey to Rowena that we will lift our regulations if they will lift theirs. It sounds easy enough--but there is pique and hurt pride to be considered. We need Remo's practiced diplomacy, his skill with people, if this mission is to be a success."
Moonshadow is glad to see Any, and seems eager for this next adventure. Or perhaps it's the extra grain talking.
Some of the party would like to shop, but it is now quite late; any purchases will have to wait until morning. You retire and rest up for your coming adventure.
The next morning, Lorth, Harvest, and Arminas all have purchases to make. [OOC: with minor purchases like you each were describing, there's no need to visit the Catacombs. Just deduct the gold and add the item to your character sheet.]
Bralin looks for a store specializing in marble. He doesn't find one, but Dorik's Masonry is willing to special-order whatever he may need.
[OOC: I now have character sheets for Arminas, Andrath, Harvest, and Any. Sheets for Lorth and Bralin are coming real soon, right?]
Lorth Wednesday December 21st, 2005 7:21:07 AM
When the party is ready to move out the next day, Lorth calls Tobiasz to him and outfits him in his new saddle and saddlebags. He then mounts and waits for the rest of the party to move out.
(OOC: Sorry I thought I sent Lorth's sheet. I'll send it as soon as you tell me what email address I should send it to.)
Any Wednesday December 21st, 2005 9:47:13 AM
Any rises early and goes to the stables, where he cleans and oils all of his tack before saddling Moonshadow. He checks all of his gear, making sure that it is all in the proper place, and that nothing has been spoiled, or lost. Once satisfied, he slips a carrot from the kitchen to Moonshadow, and leads him out inot the yard.
While waiting for the others, he sits down, and finding a dropped branch from the nearby maple tree, he begins to whittle. The figure he is carving begins to take shape before the others arrive, and it can be seen to be the likeness of a dwarf, the knots and whorls of the wood becoming the nose and gear of a warrior.
Harvest Wednesday December 21st, 2005 11:02:25 AM
The mornings devotions to Alemi are so different. The presense of the god is reassuring. Alemi smiles as he graces his followers with the weight of their responsibility. The smile feels like a promise. A promise that he would be there. As his followers execute the will of Alemi, dispensing his healing gifts, he, the god, would be there too.
That was early, in the first light of the coming morn. Now, Harvest Moon grins broad as her fingers flip through the crisp new pages of the blank book. Ninety nine pages. Just like the book from which Andrath Silverhand reads his spells. She turns back to the first page, and her face sets into serious lines as she pictures the lines and shading. The Dread to the north and the Culverwood to the south. She would begin with the way between Magpie Crossing and Jarlwolf. This is where she would begin.
She hurries out of the shop to meet her companions and leave to follow the trail of Remo Treadlefoot.
At the first possible opportunity, however, she would bring out pen and ink. At the first opportunity, he would begin her book of maps.
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Bralin Wednesday December 21st, 2005 11:02:26 AM
The dwarf rises early as well. Upon thoughtful consideration, he determines he is in need of a bath. It has been a fortnight, and the new mission may be long.
Bralin bathes quickly and purposefully. When he's clean enough, he dresses and seeks out a secluded spot for his daily communion with The Chamber. He spends a silent hour gazing intently at a sphere of obsidian, speaking the gods and requesting the boon of their divine power.
Completing this excercise, the dwarf returns to Dorik's Masonry and requests they order him a 4 inch square, 8 inch high block of black marble infused with bands of white. Bralin pays half the price, reserving the rest for pickup.
His errands complete, the warrior joins his companions, nodding to them by way of greeting.
Arminas d20+10=30 Wednesday December 21st, 2005 11:51:53 AM
Arminas rises before the sun, and joins Ewan on a morning hunt in the meadow near the Inn. Ewan climbs high into the sky as the morning light filters through the trees.
Arminas moves purposely through the meadow, a stick in hand. He taps the bushes as he walks, and soon a rabbit darts from beneath a small holly. Silently dropping from the sky, with a thump and a spray of blood and fur, Ewan settles upon her kill.
While Ewan feeds, Arminas gathers herbs for tea. Some mint from along the stream and some rose hips are a good start. Caught up in the hunt and gathering herbs, he looks up to see that morning is dawning.
"Ewan, I must hurry to meet the others. We journey today."
Arminas runs to meet the others in front of the Inn.
"I have found herbs for tea! I'll use the kettle for now, but next time we are in town I hope to find a nice tea pot. Shall we get started on our hunt?"
Once they get started, Arminas will look for tracks to see who or what may be in front of them.
Spells prepared Entangle x 2
Action Survival check for Track = 30 (perfect 20)
DM Kathy Thursday December 22nd, 2005 2:19:21 AM
Morning comes, and you each make preparations for the journey according to your needs. You finally get underway shortly before mid-morning. The weather is pleasant enough, but with a tinge of cold in the air, hinting at winter frosts to come.
You travel north and west, looking for some sign of the small mounted group you are trying to track. Although it has been several days, Arminas is able to find a likely-looking set of tracks that lead off cross country. The tracks go westward, passing close by a farmhouse. As you approach the structure, you see a woman outside, hanging washing on a line.
Lorth Thursday December 22nd, 2005 7:18:53 AM
Lorth follows the party slowly, riding on the back of Tobiasz. When Arminas finds the trail, Lorth tries to see it also, but has no such luck. He'll have to leave that up to Arminas's skill. Passing the woman hanging her laundry, Lorth smiles offers a "G'day" and continues on.
Bralin Thursday December 22nd, 2005 8:25:04 AM
When Arminas announces his intention to make more tea during their quest, Bralin drops his eyes in disappointment. This foul tasting drink pursues him even into the wilderness.
But, the march is on, and the dwarf quickly puts such thoughts aside. He dutifully follows the group, glancing back at random intervals to spy out anything attempting to follow.
The group approaches the washer woman and Lorth continues by. Bralin is quite disappointed in the paladin's lack of tactical sense in the move. Do they not require information?
"We should inquire about yon ambassador," he quietly suggests/states to Andrath.
Harvest d20+6=10 Thursday December 22nd, 2005 11:04:07 AM Why might they have left the road at this point?
Harvest Moon looks about, securing her bearings upon the axis of the Wold. She looks off in the direction in which the tracks lead, wondering what might lie in that direction. (Knowledge Geography 10)
"Arminas Calaelen," she asks. She raises a hand to her brow to shade her view from the rays of the sun. The arching crest of her mouse brown hair tickles the tops of her fingers. "Is there anything in the tracks that may tell you why they left the road? To depart from the established path they must surely have had a reason."
As they approach the farm house, the words of Bralin Stoneminder catch up against the shell of her ear.
"Peace be with you," she says in greeting to the woman. And she waits for Andrath Silverhand to address the proper inquiries.
Rolls and Actions Knowledge Geography 10
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas d20+10=25 Thursday December 22nd, 2005 11:33:53 AM
Arminas looks to see if the party they are following have been joined or followed by others.
In response to Harvest, he looks up from searching the ground.
"I do not know why they left the road, but for me there would be several reasons. One, the road may have bandits awaiting travelers. Two, this may be a shorter route. Lastly, the journey across open country is much more refreshing than breathing the dust and animal dung of the road. I am glad they left it."
Arminas nods a greeting to the woman, awaiting Andrath's questions. If after a short duration it does not look like Andrath is any more interested than Lorth, he will say.
"Greetings, did you by chance see the four horsemen that came this way a few days ago? It would be a halfling on a pony and three men on horses."
Action Survival check for Track = 25
Any Thursday December 22nd, 2005 12:45:41 PM
Any rides along with the group humming lightly to himself. As they approach the farm house, he steps down from his horse and addresses the woman,
" A good day to you my lady. How do you fair? Let me help you with that wash, and perhaps you can help us as well."
Any then proceeds to hang the washing for the lady while she answers the questions put to her by the others in the group.
Andrath Friday December 23rd, 2005 1:15:55 AM
The elf rogue travels along with the party, trying not to step in any of the meadow muffins left behind by the party's horses. The road is dusty, and it is not long before his thoughts turn to a cold ale and a good bite of stew.
Andrath nods as Arminas asks the lady his questions. "Any help you could give us would be very much appreciated. Also, is there an inn or tavern nearby? We need to find a place to rest for the night."
DM Kathy Friday December 23rd, 2005 2:03:54 AM
The woman seems a little overwhelmed by all the attention. "Great merciful Domi! Adventurers, wanting to talk to me? Isn't that something? My husband will never believe me."
She regains some of her composure, the loses it again when Any offers to help. "Well, did you ever?" she marvels. "Adventuers hanging wash just like they was people. No thank you, dear," she finally decides. "I can do it well enough. Used to it, you might say."
Finally able to concentrate on the question at hand, she says. "Let me see, now. Yes, I remember him. A halfling fellow and a group of humans in some sort of uniform. Jarlwolf uniforms, I think. They passed by here--well, it must be nigh on a week ago."
She shakes her head in response to Andrath's question. "All the inns are on the road, young sir," she explains. "Not enough custom out here amid the farm folk." She looks you over. "But you're a polite, respectful lot. It shouldn't be too difficult for you to find somewheres to lay your heads tonight."
Any d20+7=23 Friday December 23rd, 2005 8:32:54 AM
"Perhaps you could put us up for the night? We could sleep with our horses in the barn, and would pay for a nice meal tonight and in the morning (diplomacy 23)."
Any looks to the others as he makes this suggestion. It only seems logical, and he cannot see another farmhouse for some ways.
"And perhaps there is some other way that we can help you, other than hanging ut your washing."
Harvest Friday December 23rd, 2005 10:42:35 AM
"Thank you for taking the time from your working day." Harvest Moon smiles as she takes in the pleasant farmland. "The halfling is a envoy from Jarlwolf," she explains, "sent to help begin trade again between Jarlwolf and Rowena. That would be good for this area." The brown girl beams at the woman. "With the greater travel along the road."
"My name is Harvest Moon. I hope that you don't mind questions. The envoy has gone missing. And we have been sent to see into what has become of him."
"Did you or your husband see the party itself?" Harvest asks. "Do you recall the direction in which they were headed? Perhaps you noted the pace at which they traveled? They have not reported in, and it is possible that their lives may be in danger."
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas d20+10=21 Friday December 23rd, 2005 11:29:59 AM
Arminas looks up at the sun to judge the time remaining before sunset.
"It has been a week since they have been here? Andrath, we should travel as much as possible or we may never find them. Camping in the woods is much preferable to a barn."
Arminas then whistles and an eagle drops from the sky to his arm.
"Do not be concerned my lady, she is a friend. Perhaps I could ask Ewan to fly in the direction they went. The horses should be easy to spot. What do you think?'
Action Survival for tracking = 21
Bralin Friday December 23rd, 2005 1:12:38 PM
Bralin hangs near the back. His comrades have enough questions.
The dwarf nods along with Arminas' words. In the case, the elf's impetuous tendencies have merit.
"Aye," he grunts in support of the ranger. "We must continue."
Lorth Saturday December 24th, 2005 8:54:02 AM
Lorth does not dismount his horse. He nods at Bralin and Arminas, there is certainly enough daylight to put a few more miles into their trip.
Andrath Saturday December 24th, 2005 10:25:18 PM
"Thank you for your information, good lady. A couple of more questions, if you don't mind. Did they stop to talk to you? If so, what did they say? Were they in a hurry, or merely travelling along? And lastly, what is in the direction that they headed?"
DM Kathy Monday December 26th, 2005 2:14:31 PM
The woman looks a little surprised at Any's query. "Well, of course you could stay here if you like," she says. "My husband would be thrilled to meet you, I'm sure." She adds, "But your elf and dwarf friends have the right of it, young sir, if you don't mind my saying. You've plenty of daylight left for your travels today."
To Harvest, she replies, "It's good to meet you, Mistress Moon. I am Flossie. Flossie Coreth, but everybody just calls me Flossie. Now let me see," she considers a moment, then continues. "Five days ago, it must have been, because we were getting the brown heifer ready to take to market. Jes, the hired boy, came in to say there was some folks riding cross country, got up in fancy clothes and all, so Barlyn and I (that's my husband, Barlyn), we came out to have a look. Out in front was this halfling fellow, on a black pony, and riding behind him were some soldiers in smart uniforms, all on horseback. They was heading west, toward Witchspawn."
Flossie exhibits no outward alarm at Ewan's appearance. "Well, of course, I'm no expert," she says to Arminas. "But it seems to me that horses can go farther in five days than an eagle--even such a fine eagle--can fly in an afternoon. Begging your pardon, I'm sure," she adds, seeming anxious not to offend.
"They didn't stop to talk," Flossie replies to Andrath. "The halfling fellow nodded, pleasant enough, but the soldiers paid us no mind. Looking out for trouble, most likely, though what they'd expect to find among simple farm folk I don't know. It's their way, I suppose. They was headed west, like I said, and they didn't seem to be in any particular hurry."
Harvest d20+6=26 Monday December 26th, 2005 4:50:41 PM
"Many thanks, Flossie Coreth," Harvest Moon nods in acknowledgement of the woman's answers.
Harvest looks off to the west where Witchspawm must surely be. She thinks on the many things of which she had spoken with Solonn. The nature of one who is a Walker. And the many places he had gone as he walked the path. Had he spoken of this area? What would be the nature of the terrain over which they would be traveling. (Kn Geog 26 /Nat 20)
"They are mounted," Harvest says, both to her companions, and into the distant west. "If the halfling rides a pony, then we may possibly gain upon them if we hustle. It may be difficult and tiring."
She reaches up to place a hand gently upon Ewan's feathers.
"Even if it may not yet be possible for your friend, Arminas Calaelen, to find the party of Remo Treadlefoot, she may, at least provide advanced scouting. If we become fatigued from an keeping to a fast pace, it will most likely be important to have warning of dangers that we may encounter."
Rolls and Actions Knowledge Geography 26 (Nat 20)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Bralin Monday December 26th, 2005 5:18:33 PM
Bralin exhales, a long slow breath that displays his displeasure at the thought of jogging. Yet, the dwarf says nothing. For Harvest is correct in her assessment. The Swords must increase their pace, and as the slowest member of their company, it will fall on himself to move as swiftly as he may.
Bralin's head slowly swivels from Harvest to Andrath. He nods in acknowledgement and endorsement of the monk's words.
Mayhap, the dwarf silently tells himself, tis time to purchase a steed. Looking at the enormous beast Lorth straddles, Bralin wonders what he could ride without arousing Arminas' glib tongue.
Any Monday December 26th, 2005 10:35:52 PM
"We thank you my lady for your information, and as my friends are in a rush, we should take our leave."
Once out of earshot, Any says,
"Perhaps we can take turns upon the horses, alternatley riding and running if you are indeed in the kind of rush I mentioned to the farm wife. Or perhaps we can ride double for a time--at least to the end of our travel time today. I'm sure Moonshadow is capable."
Lorth Tuesday December 27th, 2005 9:06:08 AM
Lorth looks at Bralin when the idea of jogging comes up, "Bralin, we can take turns riding Tobiasz if you like. Certainly he could also carry two of our lithe friends at once." Lorth glances at Harvest and the elves.
Harvest (2nd Illegal Post) Tuesday December 27th, 2005 9:42:45 AM
Harvest swings her haversack around to the front of her, and draws forth a number of scrolls. She looks from one, to the next, lightly perusing the contents. Several, she replaces into the various pockets of her pack, until she has but two left. The two remaining scrolls, she examines in greater length.
"These scrolls," she says, "will, I think, produce for us magic horses." With a puff of air, she blows the crest of hair from over her eyes before looking up from the scroll and continuing. "But, there will be only one magic horse for each scroll. And each horse, it would seem, will only stay with us for two hours."
"Perhaps we could ride three to a horse through the rest of this day to see how greatly such a thing would wear upon the horses. Then tomorrow we will, perhaps, decide then."
Arminas d20+10=25 Tuesday December 27th, 2005 12:03:24 PM
Arminas is glad that the company has decided to keep going, and a faster pace is better yet.
"We may have to stop at times to check the trail. I do not want to loose it or follow a false one. Yet while the trail is clear we can move quickly."
Arminas then looks to Ewan, and signals for her to wait upon a fence post. Drawing forth a scroll, he utters some words and begins to speak in a series of screechs and screams to the eagle. The eagle then launches itself into the air, and flies to the West.
"I told her to look for a black pony. She should come back only when she has found something. I also requested for her to return if she senses danger to me. I am afraid that more details may only confuse her. She may be gone for days."
Actions Speak with animals (scroll) Survival for tracking = 25
Day's spell: Entangle x 2
DM Kathy Wednesday December 28th, 2005 1:08:36 AM
"And a good day to all of you," Flossie replies to Any. "Fair travels." She goes back to hanging her washing.
Harvest can pretty clearly recall the geography of the area between here and Witchspawn. In a short ways, the farms will begin to be more scarce, and the good cropland will give way to a low-lying sedge fen, good for little but grazing sheep. It is lonely country, but not (usually) dangerous.
The group discusses various ways of moving faster, a concern if you are to catch the envoy. You can hustle (moving at a faster pace), or you can push (traveling for more than eight hours per day). Doing either, or both, carries a risk of becoming too fatigued to cope with any danger you may find.
Arminas uses a scroll to give Ewan more precise instructions than he can normally give. With a cry, the great bird launches herself skyward and flies away. Arminas still feels confident in his ability to follow the tracks, even though they are several days old. As the farm-wife said, they head west.
Lorth Wednesday December 28th, 2005 9:20:00 AM
"Harvest, Tobiasz may take two riders, but three is a bit much, I would rather jog along side.", Lorth says. He then offers his horse to any that will ride it. He will take turns with whoever will be riding Tobiasz. Jogging along side when not riding, unless someone comes up with a better plan.
Any Wednesday December 28th, 2005 11:25:03 AM
Any has already told the group that Moonshadow can carry two for a while, but that this would be wearing on the horses for too long.
"It would probably be best to have the horses carry one rider while the rest of us run alongside. We can switch when those running start to tire. This will still be tiring on the horses, but not as much as riding double. We could also just travel longer during our days than we normally would. This might mean a cold camp, but we would probably gain on our quarry faster that way. We also need to take into account our own security, we don't want to tire ourselves beyond our ability to defend against the dangers of the wild."
Any then waits to hear what the others think.
Bralin Wednesday December 28th, 2005 11:33:09 AM
"Should all ye jog, then I must ride," Bralin acknowledges. The dwarf's shorter legs will not allow him to keep up with hustling elves and humans.
"After an hour, ye should slow to a walk. I will jog to keep your pace."
OOC - If anyone else has a base speed of 20', they're gonna have the same problem
Harvest Wednesday December 28th, 2005 1:02:10 PM
"Between here and Witchspawn, the land should be quite open. It should be difficult to approach us without our knowledge, or to lay ambush."
"Might I suggest that Bralin Stoneminder ride. In this way, we can keep a faster pace."
"It may be possible to travel near half a hundred miles in one day."
Harvest outlines her plan. *See Below
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Plan Bralin Riding to give us a speed of 30. Hustle for first Six hours. Each character rides the remaining horse for one of those Six hours. One character rides twice. That makes total Hustling hours for each character 5 hours. For one character 4 hours. Horses have a speed of 60 so they will be traveling at normal speed for them. The rest of the day, 3 more hours for a total of 9. During the last three hours of the day, we should recover most of the non-lethal damage from hustling.
1) 45 miles traveled. 2) PC's except for Bralin take 16hp non-lethal for Hustle time. They are fatigued. One PC takes 8hp non-lethal. 3) PC's all take 1d6 non-lethal for the 9th hour of travel in the Forced March. 4) Horses take 1d6 Lethal damage for the 9th hour of travel in the Forced March. 5) The 3 hours of walking near the end of the day should reduce the 16hp from hustling to 1hp if we are all Level 5.
That leaves most of us with under 8hp non-lethal damage and two horses with under 6hp lethal damage. That can be taken care of with 8 shots of CLW.
Alternately, we can travel for only 8 hours, eliminate the damage from a forced march, and still cover 42 miles in a day. But we'd still have some residual from the hustling.
Arminas d20+5=19 Wednesday December 28th, 2005 1:46:04 PM
Arminas keeps an eye to the ground, making sure they do not loose the tracks.
"These tracks are easy to follow over this soft ground, I should not have a problem finding our quarry. How far ahead they are though is unclear. The tracks are several days old. I will let you know if they seem fresher as we travel along. I do suggest though that we slow down on occasion to make sure of the trail."
Looking at Bralin climb upon the horse, he adds:
"A good idea, we should move faster now. I do not mind long marches, they seldom tire me. However, if riding upon a horse for a time will speed the group I do not mind."
Rolls Endurance (Constitution check) for forced march = 19
Andrath Wednesday December 28th, 2005 5:55:24 PM
The rogue speaks up, "Harvest, I can see the merits of your plan. However, the envoys are a full five days ahead of us, and they are mounted. I do not agree that we should totally fatigue ourselves trying to catch up to them. I suggest that we march at our normal fastest pace, meaning that Bralin rides. That way, we can follow the tracks and be ready for anything that we might meet. If either of our trackers find that others are following the envoys, or we see some other reason for alarm, then we can switch to hurrying along." [OOC: Kathy, are none of the other players in medium or heavy armour? If so, that means that we should be able to move at the 30' pace, right?]
"Once our trackers are sure that we are close, then we will need to hurry, and we will need to be in tip-top shape if there is trouble."
Any (2nd Illegal Post) Wednesday December 28th, 2005 6:43:35 PM
" I think Andrath has the right of it. I do not think those we follow will be hurrying beyond the normal travel, unless there was some type of emergency, or trouble. They may not even be traveling for the full daylight hours if they are seeking information on the trade route. Let us take his advice, and follow along at our best speed, without undue haste to wear us out."
Arminas Illegal second post Wednesday December 28th, 2005 7:56:24 PM
Arminas looks at Andrath as he speaks.
"Either way is fine with me, but tell me. Who is the other 'tracker'? I wouldn't mind a second set of trained eyes to help scout."
Andrath Illegal 2nd post Thursday December 29th, 2005 4:29:10 PM
Andrath addresses Flossie, "Sorry to take you away from your chores once again, but do you have any horses or ponies that you might be willing to sell us? We are in a bit of a hurry, and we would be willing to pay good money for an extra mount or two."
DM Kathy Thursday December 29th, 2005 5:33:06 PM
"I'm afraid we've no mounts to spare, young sir," says Flossie regretfully to Andrath. "You might try over to the Whitfords. They had a spare beast or two, last I heard."
She can give you directions to the Whitford place, about three miles distant. It is out of your way, but if you are successful in acquiring additional mounts you will more than make up the time.
[OOC: I'm away from home this weekend, so I don't have access to all my resources. I'm afraid my posting may be a bit spotty, and I might not be able to answer everyone's questions without a DMG right here in front of me. Thank you in advance for your patience. :) ]
Andrath Thursday December 29th, 2005 7:28:42 PM
"Thank you, Miss Flossie," the elf nods his thanks to the lady.
"Let's make our way to the Whitford's place and purchase whatever horses that they have available. Many of us are light enough that we may be able to ride 2 to a horse, or we can alternate riding and walking, and hopefully make up a little extra ground, without tiring ourselves out. Any objections?"
Any Thursday December 29th, 2005 8:45:04 PM
"I think that is sound reasoning, I wish we had had the foresight to think of it before we left Jarlwolf. This is what expereince gains us. Who would like to ride double with me as far as the Whitford's place?"
Arminas Friday December 30th, 2005 12:53:38 AM
"I am willing to go and check on buying horses, but I have very little gold. We will need to come back to the point we leave the trail, I don't want to loose it."
Then looking directly at Andrath, he says: "I know you are the leader. Do you wish me to be in the front to follow the tracks, or do you have someone else in mind? Perhaps you are thinking that Villemus will return. I have not seen him for at least two weeks and don't think he will return. I am afraid you only have me to follow the tracks, though I am willing."
Lorth Friday December 30th, 2005 8:28:42 AM
"Bralin, ride Tobiasz while we head over to the Whitford place. I'll jog it." Lorth jumps down from Tobiasz and offers Bralin his spot.
Bralin Friday December 30th, 2005 10:39:57 AM
Bralin's eyes flick from Lorth to the horse several times in rapid succession. His mind searches one last time for some option that doesn't involve scrambling upon this steed, but again finds none.
The dwarf tromps up to Tobiasz and silently regards the large horse, equally large saddle, and stirrups that his legs will never reach.
The humiliation continues.
Bralin turns to Lorth. "I require aid."
With a boost from the paladin, he clambers up.
The black bearded dwarf rides with as much dignity as a 4 and half foot tall being desperately grasping the pommel can muster.
Harvest Friday December 30th, 2005 11:22:10 AM
Harvest continues to gaze off toward the west. She looks as though in her mind she can picture the far distant terrain. Her next question, though, belies that idea.
"Mistress Flossie Coreth," she asks, "do you know how far Rowena is from here? And whether there may be any towns or other places of interest between here and Rowena?"
After the question is answered, Harvest leaves with the others on their detour to the "Whitford Place" in their search for mounts.
Andrath Illegal 2nd post Saturday December 31st, 2005 2:00:25 AM
Feeling the light belt around his waist, Andrath certainly hopes that his delivery from the Catacombs arrives soon. He feels practically naked without his two swords around his waist.
DM Kathy Monday January 2nd, 2006 1:16:54 PM
"Witchspawn is the only big place I know of between here and Rowena, Mistress Moon," Flossie replies. "Rowena itself is five or six days travel, I think."
With Bralin clinging tightly to both the pommel and his dignity, you make your way to the Whitford farm. You make inquiries of Tarn Whitford, a pleasant-looking middle-aged man.
You learn that he has three mounts available: one mule and two horses. He gladly takes you to see them.
[Please make Appraise or Handle Animal checks if you'd like to evaluate the animals.]
Harvest Monday January 2nd, 2006 2:15:47 PM
With words of thanks, Harvest departs with the rest.
"Andrath Silverhand," she addresses their designated leader, "we may not need the horses. There may be no need for hurry at all. It is within the figures. Emissary Remo Treadlefoot passed this way five days ago. Mistress Flossie Coreth has said that Rowena is five or six days journey from here."
"Is it not likely that the Emissary has not reported to the Pitchfork Council because he has only now arrived in Rowena?"
Harvest speaks this with a very serious look upon her face.
"And yet, there is still the mystery of why he would depart from the road at all." She pushes the crest of hair from her face and looks off to the west.
"I suppose there is no other way to discover this than to follow his trail ourselves."
Arminas d20+5=7 Monday January 2nd, 2006 2:16:01 PM
Arminas looks at the animals, but does not have any luck dealing with them.
"I don't know if these will work or not."
OOC: Leaving for Belize, take over Lyle.
Roll Handle Animal 7
Lorth d20+8=15 Tuesday January 3rd, 2006 7:24:05 AM
Lorth takes amusement in his friends apparent discomfort. He smiles, "Bralin you'll be fine."
When they get to the Whitford place, Lorth takes a look at the animals. (Handle Animal: 15)
Andrath d20+9=14 Tuesday January 3rd, 2006 9:40:26 AM
Andrath doesn't make any comments about Bralin and the horse, figuring that the dwarf would rather be left alone.
At the farm, he also looks over the horses, but can tell little about their quality. [OOC: Appraise roll of 14.]
"So, how much are you asking for these three animals?" he asks farmer Whitford.
Bralin Tuesday January 3rd, 2006 11:01:38 AM
Bralin endures the journey to the Whitford farm in stoney silence. He does not answer Lorth, although his thoughts race.
Fine?!? If he means uninjured, I agree. Yet, I am not fine.
At the Whitford place, the dwarf quickly dismounts, only to find a mule waiting for him. Yet, tis a sturdy beast, and the correct size. Mayhap this mount will be appropriate.
Harvest (2nd llegal Post) d20+11=23 Tuesday January 3rd, 2006 11:28:56 AM
As Andrath Silverhand inquires about price, Harvest stands to the side and quietly observes the transaction. They seem good honest farming folk. And yet, one can never be certain who may attempt to take advantage of others for monetary gain.
Rolls and Actions Sense Motive 23
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Any d20+3=7 Tuesday January 3rd, 2006 5:45:34 PM
Any looks at the animals that are being offered, but really does not know how much they might be worth (appraise 7).
"I believe Harvest has the correct view of it. I am not sure if the Horses will speed our finding of the emmisary, or simply deplete our pocketbooks. If we are trying to unravel the mystery of a disappearnce, speed will not be our ally. However, if you simply want to get to Witchspawn as quickly as possible, then you must decide about the horses. A good horse is always handy to lighten your load, even if you do not ride the animal."
He says this last with a quick glance at Bralin.
"It might be wise to purchase the mule as a pack animal even if we decide to simply walk to complete our task. What do you all think?"
DM Kathy Tuesday January 3rd, 2006 9:34:36 PM Harvest has hopes that Remo simply hadn't reached his destination yet, but you all recall Dulcet telling you that he was overdue. Perhaps Flossie was simply mistaken about the distance.
At any rate, there are mounts to be inspected. Arminas and Any both note that one of the horses is significantly larger and stronger-looking than the other, and that the smaller one seems to move about a great deal.
Andrath can tell that the smaller of the horses is also the more valuable, being considerably younger than the larger horse. He also sees that the animal is high-spirited. The mule looks to be typical of its breed.
Lorth, having more experience with animals, notes that one of the horses is a large draft horse, bred to haul heavy loads. She has become too old for rigorous farm-work, which is probably why she is being sold, but as a riding horse, there is probably a year or two left in her.
The other horse is smaller, younger, and more high-spirited. In fact, Lorth suspects he is a little too high-spirited; that may be why the Whitfords want to be rid of him. He is a quality animal, but whoever rides him will need to know what they're doing.
The mule seems to be of average quality, but Lorth has doubts about its temper. It seems a bit too inclined to snap at whoever's trying to handle it.
Harvest detects no real deception from the farmer--at least, no more than is typical for someone trying to get the best price for his goods. He plays up the animals' strengths and brushes aside their weaknesses. He points out that Fyrda is as gentle as a kitten and as steady as a rock. Why, his own children just adore her and it will break their hearts to see her go. He boasts about Darkfire's speed, and claims there isn't a more spirited animal in the Valley. As for Carrots, he's a fine beast, and everybody knows mules bite a little bit. Ah, but he doesn't mean anything by it; it's just his way.
In the end, Farmer Whitford asks 125 gold pieces for the draft horse, 80 for the smaller horse, and 8 for the mule. [OOC: Refer to PHB prices for comparison.]
As you contemplate the offer, a young woman, barely out of her teens, comes running up to you. "There you are!" she gasps. "Say! I've had Wardd's own time finding you. Oh, sorry," she adds as you look at her in puzzlement. "Delivery from the Catacombs. Sorry for the delay; I've been running you down since Jarlwolf. Master Andrath." She thrusts a rather lumpy, oddly-shaped package at him. "Thank you for your purchase." With that, she steps back and disappears.
You turn to face Farmer Whitford's wide, astonished eyes. "Well, now, isn't that something?" he says. "The Catacombs! I've heard of it, but of course we've never had call to shop there." The look in his eye suggests he may be thinking of bumping up his asking price on the mounts...
Meanwhile, Andrath unwraps the package to find the two swords he had ordered.
[OOC: Still looking for a couple of character sheets. Send them to kice6[at]comcast[dot]net.]
Lorth Wednesday January 4th, 2006 7:37:59 AM
"All the animals seem to be decent.", Lorth tells his friends. "Although whoever rides the young horse will need to be an acomplished rider." He pauses, and smiles, "Bralin and the mule should get along just fine. I'm sure in a short time they will come to an understanding." he attempts to stifle a chuckle.
Bralin Wednesday January 4th, 2006 10:31:40 AM
Bralin's eyes shift to Lorth. The dwarf is slow, but he's not that slow.
"Tis a quiet creature", he replies gruffly, and then continues. "A sure sign of an intelligent mind." Is that a hint of a smile at the corner of Bralin's whisker covered mouth?
Harvest Wednesday January 4th, 2006 10:54:28 AM
Harvest reaches up to run a hand down the soft warm hair of Fyrda's shoulder. She looks up into the draft horses large gentle eyes.
"Will you supply saddles," she asks of Farmer Whitford, "and all of the other things required for their care?" Then she frowns.
"They have a good life here, do they not? They have a home, a dry place to sleep, food to eat, and people they know. We will be taking them into danger."
"Arminas Calaelen, can you ask them whether they would wish to accompany us? I would not have them come along otherwise."
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas (Lyle posting) Wednesday January 4th, 2006 12:15:29 PM
"Indeed Harvest, I would be happy to speak with these good animals. I would never want to force an animal to do something against its will. That is simply slavery. I have not said anything about those who own steeds already, because I can see the friendship and care that they have for each other."
Arminas will cast speak with animals, and converse with the horses and mule, asking them if they would like to accompany the group, and warning them of the danger which might be faced. If any are agreeable, he will tell the party which, to better enable them to chose. He will also try to determine the animals temprament as he talks with them.
Speak with Animals
Any Wednesday January 4th, 2006 12:21:46 PM
Any watches as the others discuss the purchase of the riding animals. He feels especially thankful for his companion Moonshadow. Over their time together, he has proved himself a true and faithful steed.
"Even if we purchase all three animals, someone will have to either ride double, or run along with the group. We could trade off from one to the other to save any one animal from overexerting itself. Of course that is only if we do decide to purchase any of these animals."
Any then sits to await what is decided.
Andrath Wednesday January 4th, 2006 5:48:34 PM
"I suggest that we purchase the mule at a minimum, as a mount for Bralin, and potentially as a pack animal if we need it."
He waits for Arminas' chat results to help decide whether to purchase the other two horses or not.
DM Kathy Wednesday January 4th, 2006 9:23:10 PM Arminas casts a spell and explains to each of the animals what will be expected of it. He also warns of the possible dangers. The animals reply.
Darkfire: Come with you? Sure, why not? Anything's better than kicking around here, I can tell you that. And I'll tell you what else, I'm a prime piece of horseflesh. You won't find a better horse anywhere, no siree. Danger? Ha! People trying to kill me? They'd just better try, that's all. Why, I'll bite 'em so hard--like this!--and then I'll stomp 'em--like this! He begins demonstrating his battle technique (luckily against imaginary foes; not any of you).
Farmer Whitford watches in a kind of horrified awe. "What have you done?" he cries. "You've bewitched my horse!"
Fyrda: You want me to come with you? Really? And I'd be useful? I do so like to be useful. I'm not useful here anymore. There is genuine sorrow in her voice. I just can't pull the plow the way I used to. But you want me? Oh. Danger? Oh. Well.....well, I suppose. If I'd be useful. I don't really like danger, but it'd be worth it, I think. You all will try to protect me, though, won't you?
Carrots: I don't care. Big deal. Danger? Big sigh. Well, it beats hauling endless loads, I suppose. You'd better feed me good, though, or I'll take a piece out of you.
It's pretty easy to gauge their personalities: Darkfire is a bit too mettlesome for his own good, Fyrda is sweet and somewhat timid, and Carrots is a crumudgeon.
Most of you also realize by this point that Fyrda could carry two of you with little trouble.
Lorth Thursday January 5th, 2006 7:48:53 AM
Lorth smiles at his friend Bralin and leaves it at that.
Arminas Thursday January 5th, 2006 9:47:44 AM
Arminas relays to the others what the animals have to say.
"Truly, I think that these animals would all rather be with us than here. If buying them is the decision, then I beleive they would be better off with us, and would serve us well. "
Any Thursday January 5th, 2006 9:50:24 AM
OOC I posted for Arminas-forgot to type it. :0)
Any says,
"I know that this would aid our progress, and would willingly contribute to the purchase price if all agree. The only thing left to decide if we do buy is who will ride which animal?"
Any then awaits the opinion of the others.
Harvest Thursday January 5th, 2006 10:19:29 AM
"Arminas Calaelen is only speaking to them, Master Whitford," Harvest says to the farmer in an even voice. "If Darkfire acts this way, it is only his reply."
"We will protect you, Gentle Fyrda." After listening to the feelings of the three animals from Arminas, Harvest Moon looks up at the big horse through the stands of her crest of hair. "I will ride with Fyrda," she announces. Then more quietly, "We will become friends."
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Bralin Thursday January 5th, 2006 2:01:17 PM
Bralin reaches out to scratch Carrots behind an ear. It seems we will be comrades he silently directs to the creature.
He wonders if Arminas will choose to ride Darkfire. He doesn't think its a good idea, but will say nothing.
Andrath Thursday January 5th, 2006 7:00:35 PM
"Well done, Arminas, and thanks for the advice."
"Well, Mister Whitford, it seems that we will take all three. I am willing to offer 220 gp, if you will include the tack that we need to ride the animals." [OOC: Andrath will count the money out of his backpack.]
Hopefully the farmer agrees, and the party can get back on the road.
"Bralin, it seems fairly obvious that you and the mule are to become travelling companions. Any, you and Lorth already have your mounts. Arminas, since you have the best relationship with animals, and since you need to scout ahead, I suggest that you ride Darkfire. Harvest and I will share Fyrda. Is this alright with everyone?"
DM Kathy Friday January 6th, 2006 1:49:04 AM
Farmer Whitford hesitates. "Saddles don't grow on trees, young sir," he protests. In the end, though, he accepts Andrath's offer.
Bralin reaches out to scratch Carrots behind the ear, and the mule turns and snaps at him.
Farmer Whitford helps you get the animals saddled, then bids farewell to each of them. "These good folk'll take care of you," he tells them, with a meaningful glance in your direction.
Soon you are all mounted and ready to depart.
Any Friday January 6th, 2006 9:52:14 AM
Any is satisfied with the way things have turned out. He believes that the mounts and riders will all soon reach an understanding, and that in some ways they are all of similar bent. As the party moves out, he again turns to Andrath and offers to contribute to the purchase price of the animals. If accepted he will give about 1/3 of the asking price (75 GP) to Andrath.
As they ride off, he swings his lute to the front, and begins to softly sing a song which those nearest can tell is about a farmer and his plow.
Arminas (Lyle posting) Friday January 6th, 2006 10:10:32 AM
Arminas is happy that he has been able to help in these negotiations. He again turns to the animals and asks each if they will carry the assigned riders. To Darkfire he says,
"I ask you to be my steed. I would not have you as a servant, but as a friend and companion for our journeys. If you are willing, I promise to do my best for you in all areas. I also ask you to except the burden of a saddle. It will not only aid us in our journey, but will protect you from injury to yourself. If this is acceptable to you, then I look forward to our adventure together, and I would like to introduce you to another friend and companion of mine. Ewan is a large Golden Eagle, but have no fear, for he would not harm you, or any who is my friend."
Arminas then calls Ewan down to present the eagle to the other animals. Then relays to all those present what has occurred.
Bralin Friday January 6th, 2006 2:12:26 PM
The beast turns on him. With the instinct of many combats, Bralin spins to interpose his shield in front of the assaulting teeth.
From this positioin, the dwarf regards the donkey for several long moments. "I WILL ride," he tells it.
The donkey is saddled, and Bralin climbs up. "Go," he orders.
Harvest d20+13=27 d20+2=4 d20+10=20 Friday January 6th, 2006 3:19:45 PM
Harvest Moon soars with elation. Fyrda will be her own horse. Of course, she must share her with Andrath Silverhand, but it will surely be the same thing. Carefully, she watches the process of attaching the saddle around the horses waist. She looks with trepidation as the cruel seeming device is placed in Fyrda's mouth.
When all is done, though, it is with a swiftly beating heart that she back up for a running start and a leap up to the saddle. The wind blows back her hair as she flies through the air, an enormous grin on her face. Her small hand reaches for the handle at the front of the saddle. She catches ... but she cannot hold. With a yelp, Harvest goes flying over the top and down the other side. She tumbles through the dirt and rolls to her feet. Red faced and wild eyed, the brown girl, with head down, quickly dusts at her robe.
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Lorth Friday January 6th, 2006 4:13:49 PM
Lorth summons Tobiasz when they are ready to leave. He mounts and watches all the new riders with amusement.
Andrath Sunday January 8th, 2006 11:24:10 PM
Andrath looks concerned as Harvest flies over the large horse, but then smiles as she gets up and dusts herself off. He swings himself up into the saddle, and then reaches a hand down to the little lady. "Swing up here behind me; there is plenty of room." He adjusts his rat inside his shirt, and reaches down to scratch between the ears of the large draft horse.
"Let's get moving, Fyrda. Slow and steady wins the race, after all. Arminas, you and Any take the lead. Bralin, you, Harvest and I will come next, and Lorth can bring up the rear. We will move as fast as we can while there is still light, and Arminas can follow the tracks."
DM Kathy Monday January 9th, 2006 1:14:36 AM
Mounted at last, you go back to the trail (you'd had to leave it to get to the Whitfords'), and begin once again to follow the tracks. You get in a couple more solid hours tracking before the light begins to get dim.
You approach a nearby farm and get permission to spend the night in their barn. You pass a cozy night there with the animals in their stalls and yourselves up in the hayloft (or down with the animals; your choice).
You awaken the next morning, and attempt to saddle the animals. Fyrda will take hers without complaint, but both Darkfire and Carrots require a DC 10 Handle Animal check. Carrots snaps at anybody who fails his. Darkfire does not attack his handler, but if the Handle Animal check fails, the next check to saddle him is a DC 12. If that one fails, the next is a DC 14, and so on.
Arminas (Lyle posting) d20+5=25 Monday January 9th, 2006 9:50:27 AM
Arminas, having spent the night in a tree near the farmhouse (I assume there is one), approaches Darkfire to saddle him. Darkfire is in fine spirits this morning, but Arminas calms him easily, and finishes up this simple task. He then turns to watch the others. If he sees that Bralin is having trouble with the mule, he will first offer advice, and then offer help if needed. In a small way, he is interested in how the dwarf will handle the mule if things get out of hand, but he is also trying to keep the peace between the companions.
Any d20+7=21 Monday January 9th, 2006 10:12:44 AM
Any watches as the others saddle their animals. He gives Moonshadow a pat, and chuckles softly to himself, remembering his first time saddling a spirited animal. He sees that Arminas, as expected of one who deals with animals so often, has no trouble saddling the young stallion. He does not think that Harvest and Andrath will have any problems with the mare, except possibly with the tack. However, he is not sure what will happen between Bralin and the mule, their temperaments are too similar. He quickly retrieves a bait of corn from his saddlebags, and if there are problems, he will offer it to the dwarf.
Once all are saddled, he will approach the farmhouse and ask if they have some fruit and bread with which the group can break its fast(diplomacy 21). If successful, he will pass out what he gets to the others.
He then begins to sing a song, welcoming the morning, his voice rising into the tenor range.
"The sun, he rises in the sky, the clouds he chases from his eye, The moon, she sinks into her rest, For she likes the night sky best."
Harvest Monday January 9th, 2006 1:54:10 PM
The morning wakes with the physical memory of Fyrda's gentle rocking gait from the day before. Harvest Moon rises to muscles that complain in different places, telling her, in small biting little voices that riding is different than walking.
And yet, in many ways, The Road is still The Road whether traveled on foot, on horseback, or in the long paddle boats by which they had navigated the river with Drosera. The passage of scenery as it passes to either side, in all cases, holds a comforting feel of purpose. Walking the Wold is Walking regardless of the mode of travel.
Waking early, Harvest Moon kneels in the big big doorway of the barn and watches the sunrise. She sits with Alemi, asking his blessing. A smile comes to the brown girl's lips as the strains of music drift to her ears, Anthos Westar in the early morning. Harvest finds her head bobbing gently to the rhythm of the melody. The peaceful light orange of the sky, Harvest imagines, is a color that Alemi might like.
From the farmer, she begs food for the horses, carrots, apples, oats, in exchange for what she might provide, work, healing, or gold.
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Bralin Monday January 9th, 2006 3:16:41 PM
The dwarf sleeps soundly (and loudly).
In the morning, he finds a quiet corner and spends an hour staring into his obsidian orb in communion with The Chamber.
Bralin, frankly, is surprised Carrots isn't saddled already. Having no experience with equines, the warrior priest has absolutely no intention of even attempting to saddle the beast. [Cannot use Handle Animal untrained]
Seeing Arminas and Any watching him, the black bearded dwarf turns to them. "I know not how to saddle it," he tells them matter-of-factly. "I request your aid."
Pending the elves' comment, Bralin isn't embarrassed to ask for help with something he doesn't know how to do. He'd expect that out of any reasonably intelligent being.
Arminas and Any (Lyle posting) 2nd illegal post d20+5=20 Monday January 9th, 2006 4:41:14 PM
OOC I am combining actions both characters have committed to for convenience in posting.
As Bralin requests assistance, Any moves forward with the corn he has ready, and putting the feedbag on the mule, he not only distracts Carrots from what they are doing, but covers the dangerous mouth with the canvas bag.
Arminas again shows his skill with animals, and steps in showing Bralin how to place the saddle blanket, and the mechanism behind the saddle and its use (handle animals 20).
Once all is ready, he offers Bralin a hand up, and Any gives him a share of whatever food they have been able to procure. Any will also make sure that the other non-riders are able to attach their saddle in a manner to avoid it falling off a mile down the trail.
Both Any and Arminas, who grew up around animals, are amazed that someone would not know these simple tasks, but they realize that the group represents a wide range in backgrounds. They give each a other a look and a shrug, and mount their own steeds, prparing for the trail.
Andrath Monday January 9th, 2006 6:55:54 PM
Andrath watches as Arminas and Any get the party set up for the day's travel. As with Harvest, he is a little stiff, and hobbles around in the morning until the kinks stretch out. He spends a few minutes reading his spell book, and then takes some breakfast. He pays the farmer 3 gp for his trouble, and for the safe place to spend the night.
He asks the farmer, "Did you see a halfling envoy and four bodyguards pass this way a few days ago? They have not reported in on their journey, and we are trying to find out what happened to them. Also, we are heading in that general direction. Can you tell us what to expect? Will there be another place to spend the night?"
After finding out whatever information is available, Andrath climbs onto the large draft horse, and helps Harvest up and to get seated.
DM Kathy Tuesday January 10th, 2006 1:09:47 AM Arminas has little trouble saddling the animals.
Any inquires of the farm folk for supplies, and his skillful words procure a small basket of apples and a loaf of bread. Harvest's offer is accepted; she is put to work feeding the chickens and gathering their eggs. As payment, she is given a small sack of oats for the horses. She is also offered a few eggs, if she wants them.
Andrath inquires about the envoy, and the daughter of the house does remember seeing the group of them go by. "Real fine they looked, in their uniforms and all," she says. She also says that the group did not appear to be in any kind of hurry, nor did they seem afraid of anything.
You mount up and head off again, still following the tracks. As Harvest had predicted, you see fewer and fewer farmhouses as you go. Just past midday, you complete your descent to the sedge fen, a swampy, low-lying scrubland good for little but grazing sheep. You see a few of the creatures about. There do not appear to be any shepherds.
After a couple of hours traveling through this lonely country, you come upon a house, standing quite near the trail you are following. Curtains flutter at the open windows, but there doesn't seem to be anyone about.
Lorth Tuesday January 10th, 2006 8:15:16 AM
(Sorry I missed a day, was sick)
Lorth rides along with his companions. At the sight of the abandoned looking house he slings his shield on his arm and approaches it.
Arminas (Lyle posting) d20+10=12 d20+10=22 d20+7=13 Tuesday January 10th, 2006 9:43:58 AM
As they approach the farmhouse, Arminas first looks to the sky, and seeing that his friend Ewan is there and safe, he dismounts Darkfire and waits for what will happen.
He looks around the perimeter of the area, keeping watch, and trying to see any clues as to who might live here (listen 12, spot 22, search 13).
Any d20+4=18 d20+4=6 Tuesday January 10th, 2006 9:52:49 AM
Any drops from Moonshadows back, and seeing Lorth approaching beginning to approach the house says,
"Had we not better announce ourselves? We would not want to give some poor farmer, or shepherd, a fright."
So saying, he raises his voice,
"Hello the house! Is anyone to home? We mean no harm, but only seek information."
His actions almost belie his words, for his hands have unconciously gone to the hilts of his weapons, though he has not drawn them yet.
He looks around to see the movemnets of the rest of the party, and scans the area for signs of trouble (spot 18, search should be 7 as if it matters, forgot to change the modifier).
Harvest d20+13=25 d20+13=18 Tuesday January 10th, 2006 11:33:11 AM
Harvest slips from Fyrda's back as Anthos Westar hails the silent cottage. For a moment, she stands protectively, a small girl before a large horse. Then, calmly and quietly, she approaches the front door. Her eyes stray to the open windows. An thing from with her heart translates the language of the scene into a story of loneliness and tragedy, a feeling of emptiness.
Perhaps the heart worries over much. She walks to the front door and pushes it open.
"Hello? Is everything alright here?" Even her voice sounds alone.
Rolls and Actions Spot 25 Listen 18
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Bralin d20+4=14 d20+5=23 Tuesday January 10th, 2006 3:53:34 PM
Bralin gratefully dismounts, and rubs his rear end. Should riding an animal hurt like that? The dwarf isn't sure. And he's not about to ask anyone. Maybe Lorth. Later. When Arminas isn't within earshot.
In the meantime, his comrades are approaching an abandoned house in the middle of nowhere. Bralin looks about for signs of activity or watchers.
[Listen 14, Spot 23]
Andrath d20+13=29 d20+13=23 d20+17=28 d20+13=21 Tuesday January 10th, 2006 8:08:06 PM
Andrath slips off the back of the house, and whispers to Harvest, "I am going to sneak around the back, and look for trouble. Give a shout if you need me to come out."
Then the elf fades back from the party, and moves into the bushes, making his way as quietly as possible around to the rear of the house. [OOC: Hide 29, Move Silently 23, Spot 28, Search 21]
Is Anyone Home?
DM Kathy Wednesday January 11th, 2006 1:13:30 AM
Cautiously, you approach the house. There is no reply to Any's call.
Arminas and Bralin survey the surroundings. The house is well-made, and shows every sign of being inhabited. The tidy flowerboxes in the front have been tended recently. The roof is sound, and no grass grows on the little path leading to the door. There are a few outbuildings scattered at a distance, but they, too appear deserted.
Harvest enters the house and finds herself in a tidy front room smelling faintly of lavender. A low fire burns in the fireplace grate, and someone's knitting has been placed neatly in a basket between two large, comfortable-looking chairs. But there is nobody here.
Lorth readies himself in case of trouble, and Andrath goes around back. He notices that the back door is ajar, and sees tracks headed away from the house.
Lorth Wednesday January 11th, 2006 7:37:48 AM
When his friends enter the house Lorth dismounts and gathers up the reins of all his friends mounts, lest they wander off. He's sure Darkfire would just love to run off and explore. He quickly scans the area for a tree or post to hitch them to.
Harvest d20+13=15 d20+13=18 Wednesday January 11th, 2006 9:58:54 AM
The sleeve of her worn robe slides back up her arm as Harvest waves to her companions from the front door.
"There is no one here," she calls out. "And yet, a fire still burns in the hearth. Someone must be nearby."
"I will explore the house further to see that nothing is amiss," she announces before ducking back in. Moving from room to room, she makes her way to the back of the house.
Rolls and Actions Spot 15 Listen 18
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas (Lyle Posting) d20=5 d20+10=17 Wednesday January 11th, 2006 10:00:45 AM
Upon finding the house empty, Arminas proceeds out the back door where he finds Andrath looking at some tracks. He stoops down to see how long ago the tracks were made (2nd roll with modifier Spot 17-don't know Rangers DC for track sorry). Rising, he calls to Ewan. When the great bird arrives, he asks Ewan to scan the area for people, or (Gods forbidding)any bodies.
Arminas has felt lately as if someone else were dictating what he would do. The time has come to take charge of his own actions. He matches thought to deed, and states,
"While Ewan looks from above, I will see what I can discover below."
He then proceeds to study the tracks, first to determine who has left them, then to find that individual.
OOC Kelly--I posted today not knowing if you would be back in time. I didn't kill him--yet.
Any Wednesday January 11th, 2006 10:09:42 AM
Any notices Lorth gather the reins of the horses, and says,
"You need not fear for Moonshadow. He will not leave that spot without me, save only to preserve his own life, and e'en then, he would return when he was able."
He then moves into the house with Harvest and Arminas. While Arminas goes out the back door, and Harvest moves to investigate the rest of the house, Any looks around at the room they first entered. When he hears Arminas outside declare his intentions of tracking the residents of the house, he steps out also saying,
"It would not be wise to follow tracks alone. I will come with you, and tho' I cannot track as well as you, at least I will provide an extra set of eyes to watch your back."
So saying, he quickly retrieves his bow and quiver, and prepares to follow Arminas.
Bralin Wednesday January 11th, 2006 10:39:01 AM
The dwarf paces about, working the flow of blood back into his legs.
He wonders why his companions are scuttling about in search of some shepherd who likely is performing his daily labors, but says nothing.
If Andrath calls, he heads 'round the house. Otherwise, Bralin stays put with Lorth.
Andrath d20+13=18 d20+17=36 Wednesday January 11th, 2006 8:42:39 PM
Andrath waits out back as Arminas joins him. "These look like tracks to me, but you are definitely the specialist. Can you tell if there is just the one set, and if they were running or merely walking?"
Then he pokes his head into the house and calls out, "Can anyone see a sign of a struggle?" He moves into the house, and looks around for anything out of place. This is more his style, he thinks to himself. [OOC: Search 18, Spot 36]
DM Kathy Thursday January 12th, 2006 1:23:32 AM Lorth gathers up the reins of the horses and looks around for something to tie them to. There are several bushes in the area, but no trees that you can see. There is the house itself, and what appears to be a water trough off to one side of the house. Perhaps there's something there that the reins can be tied to.
Bralin stays near Lorth, and tries to work out some of the kinks from the journey.
Harvest begins going through the rooms in the house. Moving through the front room, you find yourself in the kitchen. A small fire burns here as well, and there is a half-eaten bowl of porriage on the table. Near it, a chair lies on the floor, as if whoever got out of it was in a hurry. The back door, as Andrath has already noticed, is ajar.
A doorway off the kitchen leads to a small, tidy bedchamber. Steep stairs lead from the kitchen to more space above. [Harvest, do you climb the stairs?]
Andrath moves into the house through the back door, and immediately notices the half-eaten bowl of porriage and the overturned chair. There is no sign of a struggle as such, but the person who had been sitting in the chair clearly left in a hurry.
Arminas can tell that the tracks are quite fresh, probably made earlier today. There are two sets, but he can't discern more than that. He begins following the tracks. Any accompanies him, advising caution.
Lorth Thursday January 12th, 2006 7:53:03 AM
Lorth walks over to the water trough, horses in tow. He lets them drink if they want while he searches for something to hitch them to.
Any d20+5=25 d20+4=11 Thursday January 12th, 2006 9:43:38 AM
Any walks along behind Arminas, not wanting to spoil any tracks that are present. He carefully watches the trail and the area around, looking for clues as to what has happened here (Search 25, spot 11). He keeps his bow ready, and watches Arminas, trying to pick up some of the tracking skills the Ranger has learned.
Harvest d20+13=22 d20+13=22 Thursday January 12th, 2006 9:45:48 AM
"Perhaps they ran away from us, Andrath Silverhand." Harvest Moon raises a hand to rub her head in puzzlement. Her fingers brush the short stubble of hair at the back of her head. "This does not appear to be a place, though, that would hold a fear of strangers."
She rights the chair, pushing it in neatly to the table.
Harvest glances briefly into the bedroom before turning to the stairs.
"I will climb to the second floor, Andrath Silverhand," she announces before ascending the stairs. "Perhaps," she calls over her shoulder, "there is a window from which more of the countryside maybe be seen."
Question How many pillows on the bed?
Rolls and Actions Spot 22 Listen 22
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Bralin Thursday January 12th, 2006 11:39:39 AM
The dwarf wordlessly accompanies the paladin. He glances about, taking in the scenery, while absentmindedly scratching at his whisker covered chin.
Arminas d20+10=21 d20+10=24 d20+10=13 d20+13=24 Thursday January 12th, 2006 1:00:36 PM
Arminas carefully looks at the tracks as he follows them (track 21). He looks up, and scans the area in front (spot 24), and tries to listen for any sound (listen 13).
He motions for Any to be quiet as they move forward.
Rolls track 21 spot 24 listen 13 move silently 24
Andrath Thursday January 12th, 2006 9:26:04 PM
Andrath watches as Arminas and Any head off after the tracks. "Be careful, and don't head off too far. I think that Harvest is going to check upstairs, and then we can all join up with you."
DM Kathy Friday January 13th, 2006 1:29:09 AM Lorth walks to the trough, and, with a little searching, finds an iron ring set into one end. It seems a good place to tie the animals. There is a little water left in the trough.
Bralin accompanies Lorth, looking about him. If it weren't for the nagging sense that something isn't right, this would be a peaceful pastoral scene. Birds twitter in the bushes, and the breeze plays gently with the window curtains at the front of the house. Pansies nod from the window boxes.
With Any beside him, Arminas continues to follow the tracks. They lead through a fenced pasture at the back of the house, toward a field beyond it. The two of you are now about 100 feet from the house.
Back at the house, Harvest notes that the bed in the bedroom has two pillows. She climbs the stairs to the loft and finds another sleeping room tucked under the eaves. Here is another tidy bed, a trunk, and a chest of drawers. A tiny window looks out toward the pasture in the back, and you can see Any and Arminas making their way across it.
Andrath stays on the ground floor and calls out to the trackers, advising caution.
Lorth Friday January 13th, 2006 9:16:34 AM
Lorth waits for the rest of his friends to come out of the house and give a report. He tries to keep an eye on Any and Arminas.
Any d20+5=13 d20+4=12 d20+8=27 d20+2=19 Friday January 13th, 2006 9:57:43 AM
Any takes the directions from Arminas, and glides along beside him, keeping an eye open for anything out of the ordinary (Search 13, spot 12, move silently 27). He hears the admonishment of Andrath, and acknowledges his suggestion with a look and a nod, then he too concentrates on listening for sounds which might aid them in their search (listen 19).
Something about this entire situation does not seem right to Any. Either the people from the house left chasing something, or someone, or they left fleeing that motivating cause. The signs of abrupt departure were everywhere.
Any moves closer to Arminas, and whispers in a voice which is barely a breath,
"Were they running, and from or to what?"
Harvest d20+13=24 d20+13=18 Friday January 13th, 2006 10:26:07 AM "There is another bedroom upstairs," the brown girl calls out. "It appears that there may have been three people living here, Andrath Silverhand."
Harvest Moon leaves the private things of the house's occupants as they are. Instead, she goes to the window. From the height of the 2nd story, she looks out over the landscape a far around as she can see.
Questions Is the window large enough to climb through? Is it Glass? Is there a way to open it? Or, is it a shutter affair and open already?
Rolls and Actions Spot 24 Listen 18
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Bralin Friday January 13th, 2006 10:58:03 AM
Bralin frowns. His comrades were correct to investigate. Something is amiss. More information is required.
"Be the third a child?" he calls up to Harvest.
The dwarf circle the house to join Andrath. "How many do they follow?" he asks the rogue, while pointing a chin towards Any and Arminas.
Harvest Friday January 13th, 2006 11:06:37 AM
Harvest turns as the words of Bralin Stoneminder drift up from below. Her eyes scan the room for incidentals.
Question Are there any toys in evidence? Any clothing? Any thing that might indicate whether the bedroom is used by a male or female? Or is the room so neatly clean that nothing further might be gleaned from it?
Arminas d20+10=13 Friday January 13th, 2006 2:16:17 PM
Arminas looks toward the field beyond the fenced pasture. He slowly follows the tracks towards the field. In response to Any's inquiry, he carefully examines the tracks.
Questions What can I tell about who made the tracks? Size of person? Were they running or walking? What is growing in the field? How far to trees or other type of cover?
Andrath d20+13=14 Sunday January 15th, 2006 6:16:49 PM
Andrath moves into the house, carefully looking around, but not noticing anything new. [OOC: natural 1 rolled for the search.]
DM Kathy Sunday January 15th, 2006 10:31:11 PM
Responding to Andrath's shout, Any and Arminas stop where they are to look and listen. You find the atmosphere eerie, but you don't see or hear any specific signs of danger. You note that the field ahead of you seems to be growing hay. There are no trees in the area, although there are several bushes scattered about. The closest of these is about 20 feet from you. It wouldn't really provide cover, but it might be a place to hide. There are several other bushes in the area as well.
[OOC: Are you stopped, or do you continue moving forward?]
Arminas can see more than one set of tracks, but he can't tell much more than that. [OOC: your intial Survival roll wasn't high enough to tell you much more than the basics.]
Bralin's question prompts Harvest to take another look around the loft room. You see no toys or childrens' possessions. All of the clothing seems to be put away. You note that the bedcover is woven with a colorful flower design. From the window, you can see the hay field directly behind the pasture, and a few more fields in the distance, although you cannot tell what grows in them. You also see several bushes and, of course, your companions. The window has no glass, but closes with shutters. It is too small to fit through.
Lorth Monday January 16th, 2006 8:24:05 AM
Lorth waits with the horses. He tries to listen to what his friends are discussing.
Harvest Monday January 16th, 2006 9:53:43 AM "I do not think so, Bralin Stoneminder," Harvest Moon calls out of the small open window. "The room is very neat and well kept. Perhaps the room of a young woman."
The small brown girl spares a moment to admire the pastoral view before putting her back to it and once again taking in the room. In her mind she pictures another girl who wakes every day to the neat little room, the smell of the new day, and the sun streaming in through the tiny window.
Harvest Moon's jaw tightens with a twinge of envy. Then, with a small sigh, she leaves the window to join Arminas Calaelen and Anthos Westar in their search of the ground at the back of the house.
Question How high is the ceiling on the 2nd floor? Any other windows, or just this one?
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Bralin Monday January 16th, 2006 10:58:53 AM
The dwarf nods in acknowledgement of Harvest's words. His theory of parents rushing to rescue a child is incorrect. There is but one way to solve this mystery.
Bralin looks at Andrath. "We must find these people," he states. Should Andrath confirm his proposition, the dwarf will trot after Arminas and Any (mindful to stay behind the tracking elves).
Any d20+5=17 d20+4=7 d20+2=11 Monday January 16th, 2006 12:17:04 PM
Any continues to keep an eye on the surrounding territory, looking for clues as to what has happened here (Search 17, Spot 7, Listen 11). He follows along with Arminas as they continue, but as he sees the others start to follow too, he stops and says,
"Bring the horses! If our search proves fruitless here, we can just proceed from where we stop. It's probably a better idea to stay together anyway, just keep the horses back a little bit so they don't spoil our search."
Arminas d20+10=26 d20+10=17 Monday January 16th, 2006 2:21:06 PM
Seeing that everyone seems intent on joining him, Arminas goes about carefully searching the ground and the area about him. He takes a careful look at the bushes to see if anyone is hiding in them. He holds his bow handy, as there is a general feeling of anxiety. Once he is sure it is safe, he continues to follow the tracks.
Rolls Spot (looking at bushes) 26 Listen 17
Andrath Monday January 16th, 2006 8:06:51 PM
"All right, we can follow the tracks for a little while. But, if nothing new comes to light, we need to get back on the trail of the envoy. Arminas, lead on."
DM Kathy Monday January 16th, 2006 11:37:11 PM Harvest finds that the second-floor ceiling varies in height, sloping with the peaked roof. In the center it is about eight feet high.
Andrath, Any, and Bralin are keen to follow the tracks, and Any suggests bringing the horses along, just in case.
Arminas studies the bushes carefully, but sees no sign of a hidden enemy. He listens, but hears no sounds that shouldn't be there.
Lorth Tuesday January 17th, 2006 7:47:30 AM
Lorth mounts Tobiasz while holding the other horses reins in his hand. He then catches up to his friends, bringing there mounts.
Arminas d20+10=21 d20+10=27 d20+10=28 Tuesday January 17th, 2006 10:31:05 AM
"Yes Andrath, I agree, we should not get distracted. Give me just a few minutes to check these tracks, and if I don't find someone then we can go. I was hoping these people could tell us some answers about those we seek."
Arminas then goes about following the tracks, until he loses them or the group is ready to leave.
Roll Survival 21 (not sure if you wanted another roll, but just in case) Spot 27 Listen 28
Harvest d20+13=29 d20+13=14 Tuesday January 17th, 2006 11:12:27 AM
At the back of the house, her companions appear largely engaged in a search for the people who live in the house. Emerging from the back door, Harvest takes a look around at the pleasant open land from a ground level perspective.
"Maybe they ran away because they are afraid of us?" she suggests.
The brown girl cups her hands around her mouth and calls out into the empty landscape.
"We mean you no harm. We would only ask of you a few questions about a party that may have passed this way five days ago." She stands a moment in thought.
"We may be able to help. If you have reason to fear those who come to your house. We already have a task that we must accomplish. But if it is within our power, we will do what we can."
Rolls and Actions Spot 29 Listen 14 (Nat 1)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Any d20+2=4 d20+4=12 d20+5=20 Tuesday January 17th, 2006 12:17:49 PM
Any doesn't know very much about tracking, but something still does not seem right. However, if they don't find these people soon, he agrees that they should just move on with their mission.
"Let's give it 10 minutes, if we haven't learned anything by then, then we should just continue on."
He is still watching for anything out of the ordinary (listen 4, spot 12 , search 20).
Bralin d20+4=23 d20+5=10 Tuesday January 17th, 2006 3:15:26 PM
Having caught up with Arminas and Any, Bralin stands a few paces behind them.
Out of habit, he scans the terrain. [Listen 23, Spot 10]
DM Kathy Wednesday January 18th, 2006 12:56:59 AM Lorth and Bralin move to the back of the house to join the others. Harvest comes out of the house to join them. She calls out, but hears only birdsong in reply.
Arminas, having had a moment to study the tracks, realizes that there are two sets--a smaller, lighter person walking, and a larger, heavier person running.
You all begin to follow the tracks through the pasture, then through the field. The hay is high, and it rustles about you as you move. It makes it difficult to see or hear anything.
Nevertheless, as you reach the edge of the field, Arminas sees something that doesn't look right. There appear to be places where the earth has been freshly turned--but it isn't plowing season, and they are outside of the field.
Harvest sees the turned earth too--and she also sees a splotch of color on the other side of it. It looks like a discarded piece of clothing, or perhaps a person lying very still.
Lorth Wednesday January 18th, 2006 9:36:46 AM
Lorth again rides Tobiasz while leading the other horses, he attempts to keep up with his friends but behind them.
Harvest d20+13=25 d20+13=27 d20+8=23 Wednesday January 18th, 2006 10:57:54 AM
The thick cuff of her sleeve falls back as Harvest raises her hand and then points to call attention to the mounds of turned earth, and the unusual color beyond.
"We wish to do no more than ask some simple questions," she repeats in a softer voice.
With no desire to frighten, Harvest approaches on quiet feet, hoping against all hope that what lies just beyond is not the dead or injured body of one of the people from the house.
Rolls and Actions Spot 25 Listen 24 Move Silently 23
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas d20+10=29 d20+10=18 Wednesday January 18th, 2006 11:02:21 AM
"There are two sets of tracks. The smaller one was walking, and the larger person was running. I can't tell yet who was in front. I need to find overlapping tracks."
Arminas looks to find who was following who.
When they get to the turned earth, he adds:
"Someone has disturbed the earth here. Perhaps someone or something is buried. Bralin, do you carry digging tools? ........... Why do I ask, I just assume dwarves like to dig, that's all."
Rolls Listen 29 Spot 18
Any d20+4=16 Wednesday January 18th, 2006 12:16:36 PM
Any listens to Arminas, annd wonders if this ground is disturbed enough to be a burial plot, or if it is just churned up from some struggle. When Harvest draws his attention to what she sees, he to moves to see what is lying upon the ground ahead. He looks around to see if there are any immediate threats (spot 16), then holsters his bow and draws his sword as he approaches the find.
"What do you see Harvest?"
OOC Can I see around well, or is the brush too heavy? Any might want to switch weapons from bow to sword as he approaches, as long as he doesn't think someone is hiding just out of sight.
Bralin Wednesday January 18th, 2006 3:21:32 PM
The dwarf looks around at the turned earth while dropping his pack to the ground. He does, in fact, possess a shovel. And Arminas' idea has merit, albeit for other reasons.
Bralin keeps his eyes roving over the turned spots as he digs around in his pack and pulls out his shovel.
Mayhap, as Arminas suggests, someone was buried. Mayhap, as Any suggests, there was combat.
Its the third possibility that's got the warrior moving with the deliberate, careful motion of a man expecting combat to erupt at any moment.
"'Ware a burrowing creature," he warns his comrades.
Andrath Thursday January 19th, 2006 12:02:28 AM
Andrath stands with the rest of the party, waiting to see what comes from the examination of the cloth, and the fresh digging.
DM Kathy Thursday January 19th, 2006 1:16:00 AM
You approach the turned earth cautiously, hoping for more clues. As you get closer, Bralin calls out to warn of burrowing creatures.
And truer words were never spoken, for just as you approach the ground begins to rumble and shake. A huge segmented insect emerges from the ground in a burst of rock and dirt. A tough chitonous brown shell covers its entire body, and its slender legs end in sharp claws. Glistening black eyes peer out from above powerful mandibles.
Before you can react, a second beast erupts, then a third. All three are facing you, and all three seem ready for a meal. If you hadn't been approaching so carefully, you might have been attacked before you even knew what was coming. As it is, the beasts moved just a hair too soon, and you have the chance to strike back.
[OOC: I am sending a map. If you do not get it, please let me know.]
Lorth Thursday January 19th, 2006 7:28:36 AM
At the sight of the creatures Lorth drops the reins of the horses he has been leading and draws his sword and readies his shield.
Any (20 AC, 20/20 HP) d20+7=12 d6+2=4 Thursday January 19th, 2006 10:03:05 AM
Any has just turned to investigate the cloth which Harvest has seen when three creatures burst from the ground ahead! He immediately begins to sing (Inspire courage +1 to will save, +1 to hit), and draws and fires his bow at the creature nearest him (A2, hit AC12 for 4 HP DAM--probably not). He will then drop his bow and switch weapons (Draw sword and dagger next round). His song sounds throughout the area,
"Demons from the depths, Our courage they will try, Show them your sword's edge, And from us they will fly!
Our arms are strong and bright, Our spirit tried and true, Together we will conquer, And share the vic'try too!"
Arminas (AC 22, HP 33/33) d20+9=10 d20+9=21 d8+4=6 Thursday January 19th, 2006 10:53:17 AM
Arminas raises his bow and lets two arrows fly at A1. The first misses, but the second arrow flys more true.
"Bralin is right! Lorth, can you not rush to the front? I am in need of your aid."
Attack (inspire courage bonus added below) 1st arrow Hit AC 11 2nd arrow Hit AC 22 Damage 6
Harvest (AC18, HP34/34) d20+6=21 d6+1=4 d20+13=21 d20+13=25 Thursday January 19th, 2006 12:30:01 PM
A frown clouds the brown girl's face. There would be no speaking to these giant ants. And yet, there may be people in need of help just beyond. Harvest Moon strains for a glimpse of the colored object. With her ears, she listens for sounds that might indicate more digging.
Harvest reaches into the pouch of the haversack behind her, and her hand closes upon the smooth sides of a wooden wand. Her voice rings in the air as she points the wand and cries out the trigger word. A dark coruscating ray springs forth to drain away the strength from one of the enormous ants.
Rolls and Actions Touch Attack vs A1 AC21, STR Damage 4 STR Spot 21 Listen 25
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Bralin (AC 21, 52/52, Inspired, Divine Favor) Thursday January 19th, 2006 1:55:05 PM
Bralin doesn't say anything. Bralin just moves.
Dropping the shovel, the dwarven warrior draws out his axe as he steps past Harvest and Andrath toward one of the creatures (A1).
Stopping some 15' short of the creature, he barks out one guttural syllable, invoking the tattoo on his arm [Brahmah Tattoo - Divine Favor].
Bralin awaits the creature's attack.
Inspire courage +1 to will save, +1 to hit Divine Favor 1/10: +1 to hit, +1 dam
Andrath (AC25, 37/37 hp, shielded 10 rounds remaining) Thursday January 19th, 2006 9:54:08 PM
[OOC: Your map is great, Kathy. Very easy to read. Can I suggest that you put a grid on the map as well? Maybe the numbers 1-30 going across the top, and the letters A-Z going down the left side? That way, we can state to which square exactly we are moving.]
Andrath starts as the huge insects rise up from the dirt. He takes a breath and speaks the word that causes a shield spell to spring up in front of him. He moves directly to engage A1, drawing his long sword as he moves.
DM Kathy d20+5=19 d20+7=12 Friday January 20th, 2006 1:39:45 AM Lorth drops the reins and readies his sword and shield.
Any's single shot skitters off the insect's shell. He begins singing to inspire his companions.
Arminas's first shot is also deflected by the creature's shell, but his second one hits true.
Harvest listens, but can hear no sign of more creatures. She retrieves a wand and fires a greenish ray at the same creature Arminas wounded. The ray strikes, and the giant insect seems to wilt a little.
Bralin clanks forward until he is in front of the wounded and weakened insect. He activates his tattoo, and stands ready for the creature to approach.
Andrath shields himself, then he also moves to engage the wounded creature, drawing his sword as he does so.
The weakened, wounded insect [A1] bites at Andrath. Its powerful mandibles close on him, but can't overcome his armor and magical protection.
Meanwhile, another of the creatures [A2] comes after Any. It snaps at him, but Any is able to dodge the bite.
The third creature [A3] burrows back into the ground and disappears from sight.
Where the creatures first emerged, you can now see areas of tumbled and torn-up soil, with glimpses of the burrow beneath. The areas look quite unstable.
[Map to follow via email.]
Harvest (AC18, HP34/34) d20+6=25 d20+13=28 d20+13=27 d20+10=19 Friday January 20th, 2006 8:30:58 AM
How is it that ants grow so large? They must be new to the area, else the people from the house would have fled long ago.
These thoughts roll through Harvest Moon's head as she strains once more to catch a glimpse of the bit of color that she had seen before. Her arm shoots out with the wand again, and again the ray lances forward to strike.
Then she rushes across the ground, robes fluttering around her. Diving into a summersault, she rolls under the jaws of the Ant-thing and comes up upon the other side.
"Anthos Westar, I will attempt to distract it" she shouts. And even with the large and deadly ant creature before her, Harvest listens for the digging sounds of the one who may possibly coming from behind ... and underground.
Rolls and Actions Touch Attack vs A2 AC26, STR Damage 4 STR Spot 28 (Still looking for that colored thing Harvest saw earlier. Listen 27 (for the approach of A3) Tumble 19
Movement and Position Tumble at 1/2 speed to Just south of A2 on the western half. Flanking bonus for Any if he shifts 5 feet north. And Arminas if he shifts 5 feet Northeast.
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Bralin (AC 19, 52/52, Inspired, Divine Favor, Charging, pwr atk[2]) d20+12=24 d10+8=17 Friday January 20th, 2006 9:01:29 AM
Bralin launches himself at the wounded creature attacking Andrath [A1], bursting across the intervening space while bringing his axe whistling overhead.
Dwarf, axe, and insect meet with a resounding crash.
[Atk ac 24 for 17 hp damage]
Inspire courage +1 to will save, +1 to hit Divine Favor 2/10: +1 to hit, +1 dam Charge: +2 to hit, -2 AC Pwr attack: +2 dam, -2 to hit
Arminas (AC 22, HP 33/33) d20+7=16 d20+7=17 d8+4=5 d8+4=6 Friday January 20th, 2006 11:10:05 AM
Arminas decides that he needs to finish the creature he wounded (A1), and again lets two arrows fly its direction. The tough shell seems difficult to pierce.
"Harvest, these creatures may be the Ankheg. If so beware the acid."
Attack Hit AC 16 Damage 5 (just in case) Hit AC 17 Damage 6 (just in case)
Any (20AC, 20/20 HP) d20+8=13 d20+8=21 d8+4=7 d8+3=5 Friday January 20th, 2006 11:54:06 AM
Any dodges away from the bite of the ant abomination (the Gi-Ant), and his weapons flash out to the attack. Hearing Arminas' warning about acid, he warily watches the creatures, preparing to dive away from the liquid if it comes. If only his shield were not upon Moonshadow!
His voice continues to sound around the battle area, encouraging his companions to resist these creatures.
"Tho' our foes persist, Our strength to try, They press our list, We will not fly. Now gather in Our fight to win, And carry the day, Come what may."
He tries to move as he fights to maneuver around to the south of the creature, attempting to draw its' attention away from where Harvest has rolled, giving her an opportunity to strike it unhindered.
Any (Supplemental post) Friday January 20th, 2006 2:47:03 PM
OOC forgot to post my attacks
Attacks: Hit AC 13 for 7 HP Hit AC 21 for 5 HP
Spells:
Inspire Courage +1 to hit, +1 Will save
Andrath (AC25, 37/37 hp, shielded 9 rds remaining) d20+7=15 d20+7=8 d8+5=7 d6=2 Sunday January 22nd, 2006 11:32:18 PM
[OOC: If A1 is still alive...] Summoning the fire onto his longsword blade, and the ice onto his shortsword, Andrath swings at the huge insect in front of him. [OOC: Hit AC 15 with the longsword, for 7 plus 2 fire damage.]
[OOC: If A1 is already down...] Andrath moves to engage the second insect creature that is still above ground, swinging with his longsword. [OOC: Hit AC17, for the 7 plus 2 points of fire damage.]
DM Kathy 4d4(4+3+1+2)=10 d20+7=10 d20+7=18 2d6(2+2)+7=11 d4=2 Monday January 23rd, 2006 12:14:35 AM Harvest can still see the splotch of color quite clearly. It's on the other side of the Ankhegs [at O4 on the map], and it appears to be the unmoving form of a person. Harvest hits the second beast with a jolt from the wand, then tumbles to a position near it. She strains her ears, and seems to hear the third beast burrowing under the party.
Bralin charges the wounded creature, striking it for a lot of damage. The insect remains on its disgusting feet, however.
Arminas sends two arrows flying, but both skip of the hard shell of the giant bug.
Continuing to sing, Any shifts to the south of the second creature. He strikes at it twice, and his second blow does some damage. Now both creatures are wounded, the first one badly.
Andrath tries to finish off the first creature, but cannot penetrate the tough outer shell. The giant insect is sill up and fighting.
Clearly on its last legs, the first creature rears back and spits a line of acid, right at the dwarf who did him so much damage. Bralin, take 10 points acid damage (Reflex save DC 14 for half damage).
The second creature makes a grab for Any, but misses.
The third creature erupts from the ground right next to Lorth! It makes a grab, not for the paladin, but for the horse he is riding. [Hit AC 18 for 11 points damage plus 2 points acid damage. If that hit, the horse must beat a Grapple check of 22 or be grappled.]
[Map to follow.]
Harvest (AC18, HP34/34) d20+6=11 d6+1=4 Monday January 23rd, 2006 8:22:41 AM "You! Go Right! I! Go Left!" Harvest Moon's voice is high with tension. Her eyes flick again to the unmoving form on the ground beyond Bralin Stoneminder and Andrath Silverhand. They must quickly convince these ... Ahn-keg creatures to flee.
The sound of unturned earth! From behind! A quick snap turn of the head. The wand points, a trigger word, and again the dark ray strikes out, this time at the creature attacking Paladin Lorth's horse.
"Please Anthos Westar," the brown girl's voice is calmer, only the breathy and staggered quality of her words speak to the stress of combat. "Please move right. I will move left. We will encircle the Ahn-keg."
Rolls and Actions Touch Attack vs A3 AC12, STR Damage 4 STR (Touch 12 with Inspire Courage)
Movement and Position 5-foot step to J11
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Question What program are you using to create the maps, Kathy? Sorry, the New and Improved maps.
Bralin (AC 21, 47/52, Inspired, Divine Favor) d20+3=22 d20+12=32 d20+12=21 d10+6=12 d10+6=14 d10+6=13 Monday January 23rd, 2006 8:25:28 AM
Hearing Arminas' words about acid, Bralin shifts to bring his shield in line with the insect's mouth. And just in time, as the stream of acid strikes the dull black shield square on. A bit splashes the dwarf, but not nearly as badly as might have been. [Reflex 22]
Having blocked most of the attack, the warrior retaliates with another massive blow. [atk A1: NAT 20!, crit threat ac21 - 12 hp damage - 39 hp if critical]
Inspire courage +1 to will save, +1 to hit Divine Favor 3/10: +1 to hit, +1 dam
Lorth AC: 19 HP: 58, Tobiasz AC: 18, HP 42 d20+11=20 d20+11=31 d20+10=18 d8+5=7 d20+8=12 d20+8=11 Monday January 23rd, 2006 8:33:18 AM
(Sorry I missed a post, computer problems)
Lorth sees the insect burst from the ground and instinctively rears Tobiasz up to dodge its attack. (Mounted Combat Check: 20) The insect's jaws barely miss Tobiasz's legs. As Tobiasz regains his footing Lorth Slashes out with is longsword. (Control warhorse Ride Check: 31, Hit AC: 18 DM: 7)
Urged on by Lorth, Tobiasz attacks with his hooves. (Hit AC: 12, 11)
Arminas (AC 22, HP 33/33) d20+7=12 d20+7=27 d20+7=9 d8+4=8 Monday January 23rd, 2006 11:01:00 AM
Bralin has done well against the creature. With a smile of satisfaction that his warning may have saved the dwarf against the acid, Arminas turns toward the second creature.
Arminas sees that he has a clear shot at the creature attacking Any and Harvest, and he lets two arrows fly. The first arrow clatters off the creature, but the second strike solidly and sinks deep. Unfortunately, the vital organs are difficult to hit on such creatures.
Attacks 1st arrow Hit AC 12 2nd arrow Hit AC 27 (perfect 20), critical check miss, Damage 8
Any (20 AC, 20/20 HP) d20+8=27 d20+8=26 d8+3=7 d4+2=6 Monday January 23rd, 2006 5:22:50 PM
Any acknowledges Harvests directions with a nod, as he dodges away from the bite of the creature. His weapons flash out again as he takes a 5' step (right and up to M11), both his sword and dagger strike true this time, slashing into the thorax area of the beast.
His song changes to a darker tune as the battle continues.
"Their blood will flow, By sword and bow, Our shields stand bright, Through day and night. Our foes will flee, Past brook and tree, Our eyes are bright, With Vict'ries light!"
Attacks: Hit AC 27 for 7 HP DAM Hit AC 26 for 6 HP DAM
Spells: Inspire courage +1 to hit, +1 Will save
Harvest - OoC Monday January 23rd, 2006 6:05:37 PM
Isn't that first strike a crit, Lyle? Don't forget the +2 from flanking. Harvest really wants to get over to save that downed person in the dirt there. She thinks that it might be a child. And it's such a tragedy to die at a young age.
Andrath (AC25, 37/37 hp, shielded 8 rounds remaining) d20+11=22 d8+5=7 d6=2 2d6(4+6)=10 Monday January 23rd, 2006 9:18:55 PM
Figuring that Bralin has finished off the first insect, Andrath moves to help Lorth. He moves back [OOC: to P14], into a flanking position on the emerging insect, and stabs with his longsword. [OOC: Hitting AC22, for 7 hp, plus 2 points of fire damage, plus 10 points of sneak attack damage, for a total of 19 hp.]
DM Kathy d20+5=7 4d4(3+3+2+1)=9 Tuesday January 24th, 2006 12:49:49 AM Harvest uses the wand again, this time striking the third insect with the sickly-looking ray. She calls instructions (or rather, suggestions) to her teammates as she steps to flank the second of the beasts.
Bralin deals the first creature a mighty blow, cracking its carapace clean in half and sending a nasty, brownish ichor flying everywhere. The Ankheg falls to earth, squashed flat like one of its smaller cousins under a bootheel.
Lorth controls his mount to avoid the grasp of the third insect, then strikes out with his sword. The blow connects, and does damage. His steed also attacks, but to no effect.
Arminas turns and looses two arrows at the second creature. The first misses, but the second penetrates.
Any five-foots to flank the second creature with Harvest and lands two good, solid blows, still singing.
Andrath moves to flank the third beast with Lorth, and manages to stab it in a vital area.
Both of the remaining creatures are looking decidedly the worse for wear, but they still have some fight left in them. The second creature makes a grab for Harvest, but misses badly. The third one rears back and spits a line of acid at Lorth and Tobiasz. Each of them take 9 points of damage (Reflex save DC 14 for half).
Lorth AC: 19 HP: 53/58, Tobiasz AC: 18, HP 42 d20+5=24 d20+6=19 d20+11=27 d20+10=21 d8+5=7 d20+8=16 d20+8=21 d6+4=9 d6+4=9 Tuesday January 24th, 2006 9:09:53 AM
Lorth rears Tobiasz again when he sees the acid stream coming towards them. He manages to get mostly out of the way but takes some splash damage for his efforts. (Reflex Lorth: 24, Tobiasz: 19 No damage improved evasion)
Again he and Tobiasz attack... (Lorth, Control warhorse: 27, Hit AC: 21+2 Flanking DM: 7) (Tobiasz, Hit AC: 16+2, 21+2 flanking DM: 9, 9)
Bralin (AC 19, 47/52, Inspired, Divine Favor, Charging) d20+14=20 d10+6=14 Tuesday January 24th, 2006 9:19:58 AM
Bralin wheels about, slinging bug guts off helm and axe. Two foes remain. Lorth needs little help, so the dwarf instead thunders toward A2, axe high.
Reaching the bug, he slams his axe down 'pon its body. [atk ac 20 for 14 hp damage]
Inspire courage +1 to will save, +1 to hit Divine Favor 4/10: +1 to hit, +1 dam Charge: +2 to hit, -2 AC
Harvest (AC18, HP34/34) d20+5=9 Tuesday January 24th, 2006 11:24:35 AM
The thunk of an axe against chitin carapace announces the arrival of Bralin Stoneminder. But even before confirming whether the strange and curious ant-like ahn-keg stands or falls, Harvest Moon sprints away.
What injuries might these large and savage looking creatures have inflicted upon the figure lying upon the ground?!?
Heedless of her own safety, the small brown girl scoots across the grass in her flapping robes to reach the fallen body. On her knees, Harvest blinks and stares, unsure of how to proceed. Where to begin first? Then, bringing her hands together in the sign of Alemi, she touches the hem of the god with her soul.
Alive or dead, the figure upon the ground receives the healing hand of the god of comfort, scourge of pain. Alive or dead his balm eases the way.
Rolls and Actions Heal 9 (To determine status) Burn Mend to Heal 1hp with Cure Minor Wounds.
Movement and Position N5 If Ankheg is not yet down, then AC is 22 vs an AoO. Mobility.
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, *Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Any (20 AC, 20/20 HP) d20+10=22 d20+10=12 d8+3=11 d4+2=4 Tuesday January 24th, 2006 11:48:16 AM
Any is joined by Bralin, attacking the Anhkeg from the side. He swings sword and dagger, attempting to end this creatures share of the battle. He stops his singing, but all can feel the surge of support his song brings still within the clearing.
"Lorth! How do you fare?"
The question rings across to the Paladin. When Any is free, he will turn to give what aid he can to finish the last creature.
OOC if both Anhkegs drop, Any will follow Harvest to see about the previous victims.
Spells: Inspire courage +1 to hit, +1 to Will save Duration 5 more rounds
Attacks: +1 Inspire courage, +2 flanking Hit AC 22 for 11 HP DAM Hit AC 12 for 4 HP DAM
Arminas (AC 22, HP 33/33) d20+7=20 d20+7=21 d8+4=7 d8+4=8 d8+4=8 Tuesday January 24th, 2006 12:16:21 PM
Arminas puts two more arrows into the Ankheg (A2) as Bralin moves toward it. Both arrows sink deep into the creature.
Attacks 1st arrow Hit AC 20 7 HP damage 2nd arrow Hit AC 21 8 HP damage
Andrath (AC25, 37/37 hp, shielded 7 rounds remaining) d20+9=13 d20+9=24 d6+3=6 d6=2 2d6(3+4)=7 Wednesday January 25th, 2006 12:46:27 AM
Andrath continues to chop at the insect beast between him and Lorth. His longsword swings wide, but his shortsword bites into the creature. [OOC: Hit AC 24 for 6 plus 2 cold plus 7 sneak attack damage for a total of 15 hp damage.]
DM Kathy Wednesday January 25th, 2006 1:07:49 AM Lorth strikes the third creature with his sword. Tobiasz adds a hoof, but it is unnecessary. The big insect goes down.
Bralin polishes off the second creature in spectacular fashion. The dwarf is now generously splattered with the innards of his foes.
Arminas and Andrath add arrows and a sword thrust, just to be on the safe side. All the insects are now thoroughly dead.
Harvest and Any rush to the aid of the fallen figure. It is a young girl, no more than twenty. She is still breathing, and Harvest's spell heals her a little. She does not awaken, however.
Lorth Wednesday January 25th, 2006 7:51:07 AM
"The insect is down.", Lorth replies to Any's query. Lorth looks to see Harvest administering to the fallen girl, he knows she is in the best care so he moves off to round up the other horses, hopefully they haven't wandered far.
Harvest (AC18, HP34/34) d20+13=30 d20+13=15 Wednesday January 25th, 2006 9:51:31 AM
The girl is very near her own age. Harvest Moon, cradles the girl's head in her lap. From under her brown crest of hair, she looks up at Anthos Westar. She has seen it. The bard has stronger healing magic than she.
Harvest brushes a small hand across the girl's brow, the girl who must surely sleep in the tidy room under the roof of the house. But where are her parents? They must be somewhere about. Like a doe, startled by the snap of a twig, Harvest lifts her head and looks about the field.
"Where are her parents?" Harvest Moon wonders aloud and half to herself. "It does not bode well that she lies injured and her parents are nowhere to be seen. Could they have been taken under the ground?" the brown girl asks.
Rolls and Actions Spot 30 Listen 15
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, *Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Any d20+5=6 d20+4=13 Wednesday January 25th, 2006 10:00:52 AM
Any can see that Harvest has the young girl in hand, but weren't there two sets of prints? He rises from her side and carefully looks around the area.
"Friend Arminas, there were 2 sets of tracks were there not? Help me see if we can find the other, perhaps they too are still alive."
If they find anyone, Any will administer what aid he can, otherwise, he returns to see how Harvest's patient is doing. He sings a little song as he goes, cleaning the ichor from his weapons and clothing, then turns to offer the same service to any who require it--first going to Bralin who seems to have accumulated the most of all present.
Spells: Inspire courage 4 rounds +1 to hit, +1 Will save Prestidigitation 1 hour
Search a natural 1! for a 6 Spot 13
Any (2nd illegal post) 2d8(5+7)+4=16 Wednesday January 25th, 2006 10:10:50 AM
OOC Al posted while I was entering my post. It would probably change what Any does. If he returns from his search to Harvest, and the girl is still unconcious, Any would offer to provide a healing spell prior to castng the prestidigitation. Supplemental post to change the order of his actions.
Any returns to Harvests side after searching only to find the young girl in Harvest's care still unconcious. He says,
"Harvest, would a healing spell aid in her recovery?"
Any begins to sing, casting (CMW 16)his spell of healing upon the young girl. He watches to see how she responds.
OOC Any then finshes his previously stated actions, provided this heals the girl completely
Arminas (AC 22, HP 33/33) d20+10=25 Wednesday January 25th, 2006 11:00:35 AM
Looking about, Arminas is very satisfied about the battle. His knowledge of the Ankheg perhaps saved Bralin from a nasty burst of acid to his face.
"Bralin friend, you should clean that acid off as quickly as possible. It has power to continue to burn, no doubt from some ancient magics these insects aquired."
Looking over to Harvest and the young woman, he replies: "Yes, there were two sets of tracks. The smaller ones look to have been made by the lady. I will try and find the other set."
Arminas then looks around, circling about the disturbed area looking for the larger track set.
Actions Survival check for tracking 25
Arminas - Kelly second illegal post Wednesday January 25th, 2006 11:01:52 AM
OOC: In circling about, I mean staying off the unstable ground and check to see if the man moved beyond this area.
Bralin d8+3=7 Wednesday January 25th, 2006 2:24:29 PM
Bralin nods at Arminas. A sound recommendation. He pulls out his waterskin and empties the contents on his shield to wash away any acidic residue.
A studied scan of the local area satisfies the warrior that no further combat is imminent. He buries his axehead in the ground a few times to clean the edge.
The rest of the ichor splattered across his shoulders and into his beard will just have to wait until a decent water source becomes available.
Bralin also wordlessly waves off Any, thinking the bard should hold his healing in reserve. He casts a healing spell on himself, curing his wounds. [CLW over Detect Evil - 7 hp healed]
DM Kathy Wednesday January 25th, 2006 11:24:07 PM Lorth moves to gather the horses. None of them have gone farther than the hay field, so the task is relatively easy. Darkfire has managed to get his reins tangled, but all the mounts are fine.
Bralin heals himself and cleans up as best he can. Arminas looks around for tracks, taking care to avoid the churned-up areas where the creatures emerged. Unfortunately, the tracks he was following are now so mixed up with the tracks of the beasts and the chaos of the battle that the trail is very difficult to follow.
Harvest cradles the young woman while Any casts a healing spell. The young woman stirs, blinks, then starts. "Father!" she cries. Looking frantically from Harvest to Any, she says, "Please! Please, you've got to help my father."
Lorth Thursday January 26th, 2006 7:39:03 AM
Lorth untangles Darkfire's reins and gathers up the rest of the horses. He then quickly heads back to where the girl is being tended by his friends.
Any Thursday January 26th, 2006 9:52:57 AM
Any faces the young girl,
"Calm yourself down, and try to tell us what has happened. All we know is that we found you here near these terrible creatures, and if they are to blame for the trouble your father is in, I fear there will be little hope for him. Come, tell us your story."
Any then stands nearby to listen to her tale. His weapons are out again, and he is alert and listening, while watching the area around for further signs of trouble.
Any (Supplemental) d20+4=22 Thursday January 26th, 2006 9:54:21 AM
OOC sorry forgot ny spot check roll
Spot 22
Bralin Thursday January 26th, 2006 10:52:50 AM
Overhearing Any's words, Bralin mentally shrugs. He agrees with the bard's assesment, but doubts this is the optimal time to deliver news of her sire's death to the girl.
Bralin notes he still has much too learn about interactions among people, and waits for further direction.
Arminas d20+10=26 d20+10=13 d20+10=22 Thursday January 26th, 2006 10:55:28 AM
Coming back to the group, Arminas seems very disappointed.
"I cannot find where the other tracks lead. They are lost in the turned ground. I am afraid he may have fallen or been taken into a tunnel."
Then, as he hears Any speak to the young lady, he adds:
"Any, there is always hope."
"My lady, we will look for him."
Arminas then takes his silken rope from his pack and ties one end around his waist.
"Any, will you tie this end to Moonshadow. I may fall into a tunnel."
Arminas then goes to where last he saw the mans tracks, and follows them forward. Peering into the ground where the tunnels come to the surface.
Actions Survival check for tracking 26 Spot 13 Listen 22
Harvest (AC18, HP34/34) Thursday January 26th, 2006 11:11:06 AM
Harvest Moon takes the girl by the elbow and helps her to her feet.
"We are here to help you." Speaking words of comfort, Harvest remains by the girl's side. "What is your name? I am Harvest Moon. This is Anthos Westar. That is Bralin Stoneminder, Arminas Calaelen, Andrath Silverhand, and Paladin Lorth Jeradosta who has gone to fetch our horses. We are called the Swords of Light."
Harvest considers, for a moment, the things that she had seen inside the house, before she asks the next question.
"Is your mother around as well?" she says at last. "We have not seen her either."
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, *Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
DM Kathy Friday January 27th, 2006 12:22:10 AM Any, Arminas, Bralin, and Harvest gather around the young woman as she speaks. "My name is Meg," she says. "Meg Thistleburr. One of those--those things grabbed me and was pulling me down. I fought, but I couldn't get away. Father must have heard me screaming. He came running, just as I was being pulled down the tunnel. He--he came down after me and he--" she shakes her head. "I'm not sure. He got me loose, somehow. I was pretty groggy by then. He pulled me out, put me here on the grass. Then--" the tears begin to flow again. "Then the thing grabbed him, and pulled him..." She points with a shaking finger at the first burrow. "There. Down there. Please. Please, you've got to see if he's all right."
Lorth comes up with the horses at that moment, and can hear the end of Meg's story.
Lorth Friday January 27th, 2006 9:07:14 AM
Lorth looks at the burrow then at the rest of his friends. He takes off his pack and rumages through it and produces a lantern and 50' of silk rope. "Well I'm not looking foward to this, but I'll do it.", he says. "I'm going to tie this rope around me so that if the tunnel colapses, you'll know where to dig me out." Lorth lights up his lantern and prepares to crawl into the burrow unless his companions have a better idea or someone else demands to go.
Harvest d20+13=22 Friday January 27th, 2006 10:16:10 AM
"First thing, I think, Meg Thistleburr," Harvest Moon takes the girl by the arm, "is to see to your safety. It is what your father would wish. Don't you think?" She steers Meg toward the party's mounts and away from the burrow and the area of turned up earth. "This is Fyrda. She is very gentle. And that is Darkfire, and Carrots, and Tobiaz who is a friend of Paladin Lorth. They need a place of safety, just as you do, while we search for your father underground."
"Can you take them to as safe place for us? Then, go into the house. Lock the doors. Watch from the window upstairs if you wish. Please allow us to seek your father. We will be able to do it much easier if we know that you are safe."
Harvest smiles, and looks into the girl's eyes. "Do you understand? Please."
As Harvest returns to the party, her eyes scan the area for other entrances, other burrows. (Spot 22)
"Perhaps," she suggests in a voice pitch to include only her companions, "it would be better if Bralin Stoneminder were to enter the burrow. Dwarves can see in complete darkness, can they not, Bralin Stoneminder?" She tips her head to the side as though questioning her own knowledge. "Do you also have a sense for the underground?" she asks.
From her pack, she removes another coil of silk rope, should they need more length. Also, she brings forth a plain wooden rod.
"The magic from this wand will allow speaking over a distance. If the tunnel is unobstructed, one need speak no louder than a whisper and you will be heard. But if you pass beyond one hundred and ten feet, or should the tunnel collapse, your words will not be able to reach me. But, if the trail of Meg Thistleburr's father leads further down than 100 feet, then, perhaps it would be best for all of us to go together. Don't you think?"
Rolls and Actions Spot 22 (for other burrows) When whoever is going in is ready, Cast Message on them from wand.
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, *Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas d20+10=22 Friday January 27th, 2006 11:37:10 AM
Arminas shrugs as Lorth takes out a rope and ties it around himself.
Elves seem to be so often ignored, is it any wonder that I try to make up for it a haughty attitude. Perhaps if they paid me heed, I could learn to be a friend. Oh well, duty above all.
Arminas unties his rope and quietly coils it and stores it in his pack. Perhaps his ears may still provide a clue that the others might miss.
Actions Listen 22
Bralin Friday January 27th, 2006 11:53:35 AM
Bralin nods at Harvest's words. "Ye are correct," he responds. But he looks to Andrath for confirmation of the plan, while adding his own idea.
"Lorth's steed should remain. Secure the rope to Tobiaz. He possesses both the strength and intelligence to pull out anyone trapped inside."
Any Friday January 27th, 2006 12:19:47 PM
Any turns to Harvest and says,
"If needed, I too can cast the message spell."
Then turning back to Arminas he speaks to him,
"Friend Arminas, I know of your courage, and that you were ready to descend, but I agree that Bralin is perhaps a better choice for this task. A dwarven perspective of the tunnels, their stability, size, and our ability to travel within them will be invaluable. Your skills above ground have helped us to this point, and I am sure that e're we return from this search, we shall all have contributed again in some way. We will all need to descend into the burrows to assist in this rescue. Do not begrudge Bralin the right to be first."
Any then turns again to the young girl,
"Please take Moonshadow with you also. We will bring your Father back to you if it is within our power, and if the fates and gods decree that we are not to return, take good care of all these animals, but pray that all will work out for the best."
Any then speaks to Moonshadow, and takes what gear he might need for this expedition from his saddlebow. He leaves his bow, but takes his shield, and makes sure he has water and rations. He leaves his cloak and staff, and removes his lantern from his pack.
When all is prepared, he looks to the others, and waits to see how things will progress.
Arminas (second illegal post) Friday January 27th, 2006 12:25:30 PM
With a puzzled look at Any, Arminas says:
"I have no problem with Bralin leading. I merely put my rope away."
Any - OOC Friday January 27th, 2006 4:48:09 PM
Any was not responding to Arminas' thought, only his actions. One moment he was ready to descend on his rope, the next simply putting the rope away.
Andrath Sunday January 29th, 2006 7:11:17 PM
Andrath watches as the party sorts out who is going where. He moves carefully over to the tunnel, and looks inside. [OOC: Kathy, how big is the tunnel? Can we all fit?]
"I don't think Bralin going down on his own is a good idea. As a group, we were able to make short work of these creatures. But alone, Bralin may run into more trouble than he can handle."
The elf calls down the tunnel, "Mr. Thistleburr, are you there?" Then he turns back to the party and says, "Bralin should go, and Arminas and I will go with him. We will travel the length of the rope, and if we haven't found anything yet, then the rest of you can join us; we can tug on the rope. That way, you can quickly run down to us if we run into trouble."
He takes his lantern from his pack and quickly lights it, as Bralin and the others fasten the rope.
DM Kathy Sunday January 29th, 2006 10:44:43 PM Harvest encourages Meg to return to the house, which she does, leading the mounts behind her. She dawdles along the way, though, and stops several times to look back over her shoulder at what you are doing.
Lorth and Arminas both have ropes ready, but Arminas puts his away again. Any and Andrath grab light sources and prepare to help their friends.
By common consent, Bralin is determined to be the logical choice to go in first; his darkvision will give him a distinct advantage down there. As he prepares for his descent, you all eye the burrow.
The creatures you fought were Large, so the burrow would be about 10 feet wide. You can tell, however, that the creature did not leave a neat, well-defined tunnel behind it. Much of the earth has collapsed back into the tunnel, and it appears that as it dug, the creature kicked dirt out behind it, almost re-filling the burrow as it went. In short, these creatures burrow to get from place to place, not to build passageways beneath the ground. You're not sure how far you can get down there, but you doubt you can get very far.
Lorth Monday January 30th, 2006 7:33:25 AM
Lorth keeps Tobiasz in the area snd ties the other end of Bralin's rope to his saddle. "I'm thinking that your going to be doing alot of crawling, perhaps you want to leave most of your belongings up here.", he says.
Any Monday January 30th, 2006 9:53:29 AM
Any asks,
"Do these creatures have a mound home similar to ants? If so, how many of these can we expect to encounter? If we are going to attack the mound eventually, would it be easier to find the mound itself? Maybe there is a permanent opening there which we can enter easier. Attacking a burrowing creature underground, where we cannot move freely, seems foolhardy at best. If these tunnels do not open up quickly, we should consider other options for our rescue attempt. Myself, I have no skills in tunnelling to match that of these creatures."
Any then considers the advice given by Andrath, and with some obvious regret, removes his lute from his back. Addressing Lorth he says,
"Would you tie this to your saddle bow?"
He then hands the Lute-case and all-to Lorth. He then turns and lights his lantern, preparing himself for whatever the group decides, his weapons in his hands.
Harvest Monday January 30th, 2006 10:36:23 AM
Harvest Moon nods and replaces the wand in her haversack. "Your magic is stronger, Anthos Westar," she replies, "providing for more people, for longer, over a greater distance. Please." The brown girl smiles and one of her small hands peeks from her large sleeves as she indicates that he should provide the Message spell.
"I will return, shortly."
"Meg Thistleburr?" Harvest calls out after the girl, hurrying after her for some last few questions before the girl closes herself into the protection of the house. "Please tell us more of how you came to be attacked. Are these Ahn-keg native to this area? Have you heard recently of such creatures attacking others in the area? Have neighbors mentioned strange goings on underground?"
Harvest takes a quick glance back at the preparations at the mouth of the burrow.
"You keep the house very well," the brown girl smiles at Meg. "It is very neat."
Question I take it that Harvest did not spot any other burrows last post?
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, *Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Bralin Monday January 30th, 2006 11:11:06 AM
Stonefaced, the dwarf drops his pack to the ground and makes his preparations. He ties the rope around his waist. In his hands he holds his shovel. He also carries his axe on his back, and a dagger in his belt. Otherwise he has left his gear behind.
As he prepares, he glances at Any and Harvest, noting the tone and tenor of their questions. Bralin shakes his head and stops next to Andrath. "This is folly," he murmurs to the elf. "Thistleburr is consumed."
Having voiced his doubt, the warrior proceeds to carry on with this useless venture, and crawls into the burrow.
Arminas d20+10=18 d20+10=26 Monday January 30th, 2006 12:40:48 PM
Arminas sets his gear aside, taking his rope once more out of his pack. He ties one end around his waist and leaves the other end ready for someone to grab if needed. Two daggers tucked into his belt and a sword on his back, he looks about for anything to dig with.
"I am ready Bralin, I will follow you into the burrow."
In a low voice, so that Meg will not hear he adds:
"You are correct, he was likely killed by the Ankheg, or buried alive in the burrow. Chances of finding him alive is slim. Yet we should still look."
Action Spot 18 Listen 26
Any (2nd illegal post) Monday January 30th, 2006 12:41:55 PM
Any rethinks his preparations, and instead puts away his lantern. He takes a piece of string from his pack and then reaches down and picks up a small branch from the ground (About a two foot section). He begins to sing lightly and the branch takes on a brilliant glow. He then breaks off pieces of this branch, and hands them around to the others of the party, tying his own to the end of his string. He attaches his new light source to his left wrist, where he can hold it aloft.
"Keep your lanterns handy, this spell will only last for a little while, but will help preserve our oil in the meantime. I cannot renew it in this manner unless we can find another twig later."
"I can only unite four of us in my message spell, and I must be one of those. If Bralin is to lead, he must assuredly be one of those, and whomever is to bring up the rear must also be included. Who should be the fourth? Since Harvest carries the rod of healing, perhaps she should be the last. The others must arrange themselves to be near one of those effected to ensure communication."
Any will complete his spell in that manner. He begins to sing again, words of power tying the group together in a message spell.
Spells:
light 40 minutes message 40 minutes, range 140'
DM Kathy Monday January 30th, 2006 11:04:01 PM
On second thought, Lorth keeps his mount with him, and ties the rope to the steed's pommel. Any also makes preparations, safeguarding his precious lute and lighting his lantern. He wonders aloud about these creatures' habits.
Harvest notes only those burrows created by the creatures during the fight--that is, the three they initially emerged from and the additional one from where the third creature tunneled under you. She hurries after Meg and asks more questions.
Meg shakes her head. "I've never seen anything like them before," she replies. "There is a legend among the farm folk of these giant ant-things, but I've never met anyone who's actually seen one. We don't have many neighbors," she adds, gesturing to the lonely countryside around her, "and I haven't spoken to any of them recently. The last time I talked to anybody, though, I didn't hear anything about strange noises underground."
Bralin takes up rope, axe, dagger, and shovel, and prepares to descend. He's of the opinion, though, that this is a lost cause.
Arminas shares his opinion, but he, too, prepares for the descent, readying his own rope and keeping his weapons close to hand.
As his companions prepare, Any casts a Message spell.
Bralin crawls into the burrow, feeling the loose soil shift and bunch under his hands. Dry motes of soil puff into the air, giving the place an earthy smell and making Bralin want to sneeze. Tiny avalanches sliding down the burrow walls warn that the ground he travels is none too stable.
Your darkvision allows you to see a ways in front of you, and now that you are inside the burrow, you realize that there is some room to maneuver in here. True, there is a lot of loose earth, but you are considerably smaller than the ankhegs and can generally find a way over or around the shifting dirt and loose places. You need to go slowly, though.
Lorth Tuesday January 31st, 2006 7:21:15 AM
Lorth carefully ties Any's Lute to Tobiasz. He then plays the rope tied to Bralin out a bit at a time as he needs it.
Any Tuesday January 31st, 2006 9:50:56 AM
OOC- What happened to my "light" spell? Is breaking the stick afterwards not allowed?
Any waits, listening to Bralin by way of the message spell, to hear of the conditions of the tunnel. Then, with the others, he will proceed to follow Bralin. He has already voiced his opinion on the likelihood of finding the girl's father alive. He turns to Lorth,
"I suppose you can instruct Tobiaz in what you want him to do before you follow. Will you bring up the rear, or would you like me to?"
Harvest Tuesday January 31st, 2006 11:01:07 AM
"We will find your father." Harvest gives Megs hand a brave squeeze before the farm girl returns to the house. Then, the little brown monk sets her mouth into a line of determination and prepares to enter the tunnel with the others.
As Bralin Stoneminder disappears into the soft freshly turned earth, Harvest Moon shapes her hands into the symbol of Alemi, bringing a greater stride into her step. She has little in the way of possessions to divest herself of. So, directly, she enters the burrow on the heels of the dwarf.
Active Effects Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from entrance to tunnel)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, *Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas Tuesday January 31st, 2006 11:07:40 AM
Arminas prepares to enter the tunnel, and in response to Any's question of who is bringing up the rear, says:
"I think we are just going a short way down to look for the girl's father. Perhaps a couple should stay up here in case the tunnel collapses. I would love to have someone to dig us out in that case. If we find a large tunnel that we will explore for a time, we could signal you to come in. Once we find it is stable of course. Besides, our gear should be watched."
Arminas then descends down into the tunnel, hoping that someone takes his advice and stays topside.
Bralin Tuesday January 31st, 2006 5:02:42 PM
Bralin continues moving forward. He remians convinced Thistleburr is dead. However, he has been underground in some time, and finds he has missed it.
"The tunnel is passable," he reports. "I continue."
Andrath Tuesday January 31st, 2006 11:12:13 PM
Andrath waits up top with Lorth. "I guess since there was no answer, it is unlikely that anyone is alive down there," he says to the paladin.
DM Kathy Tuesday January 31st, 2006 11:15:05 PM Harvest and Arminas cautiously follow Bralin into the hole, while Lorth carefully lets out the rope.
[OOC: Sorry I missed the Light spell, Lyle. I'm going to say that you can break up the stick as you described, but that the light grows correspondingly dimmer as you do. Each of the party now has a stick that glows, but sheds little light. Great for finding each other; not so good to see by.]
Any passes out glowing sticks to everyone, then pauses to see who is going in next.
Bralin goes farther into the burrow. He's picking up the rhythm of the place now, glad to be underground again--even if it is just an earthen burrow rather than good stone.
You work your way over one loose pile of earth, and around another, and then you see what you'd kind of been expecting to see down here--the lifeless form of a human man.
Lorth Wednesday February 1st, 2006 7:10:37 AM
"I'm going to wait up here.", Lorth says to Any. "I doubt Bralin will be going far." Lorth continues to play out the rope and get ready to pull Bralin in, in case of emergency.
Any Wednesday February 1st, 2006 11:24:47 AM
OOC I need to post now, so I will make the assumption that Bralin will notify us, VIA the message spell, of finding the body.
Any is saddened, but not suprized when Bralin reports finding the body of the Thistleburr father. He speaks to Bralin, saying,
"Maybe we should bring out his body to give the young girl at least the satisfaction of a burial. If you were to tie your rope around him, Lorth and Tobiaz could bring him out most easily, and then we can proceed with our journey, unless anyone sees the need to do anything more?"
Any will then work from his position to follow up on this suggestion, clearing away an easier path for the body to follow.
Bralin d20=12 d20+4=21 Wednesday February 1st, 2006 11:42:30 AM
"I have found a body," Bralin reports upon seeing the form. The dwarf is rather surprised he found anything at all, and decides to tempt the gods and check if the figure is actually alive. [Heal check 16]
If the man lives, or Bralin cannot tell, he casts a healing spell to stabilize him. [Cure Minor Wounds over Read Magic] If the man is obviously dead, Bralin quietly relays that as well.
Bralin hears Any, but isn't about to trap himself in this dangerous place. Instead he simply clamps his powerful hands onto the man's arms, and calls out "Pull us out" [Strength check 21 to maintain his grip].
Arminas Wednesday February 1st, 2006 11:50:21 AM
Upon learning that the man has been found, Arminas decides he would really like to see the Sun again. When he hears Bralin say "Pull us out", Arminas hurries to get out of the tunnel before any of it collapses around him.
Hopefully, he clamers to the surface. Brushing the dirt from himself, he goes to collect his gear.
"These things seldom turn out for the good. I wonder why the Ankheg moved into this area?"
Harvest Wednesday February 1st, 2006 12:48:57 PM
All is darkness save for the tiny glow from Anthos Westar's sticks of light. Harvest holds hers high.
"I have found a body ... " The voice of Bralin Stoneminder. "Pull us out."
The brown girl's heart falls within her chest. Poor Meg. The pain of her own mother's death returns again from out of the dark free-range where memories live. So many people, so rudely parted, taken to Gargul's place.
Halfway up the tunnel, Harvest Moon finds that she has been wringing her hands.
Active Effects Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from entrance to tunnel)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, *Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
DM Kathy Thursday February 2nd, 2006 12:32:12 AM Bralin takes a closer look at the body, just to be sure. He's dead, all right. And there are bits missing. No Heal spell in the Wold is going to bring him back.
Bralin relays the sad news to his companions. Any suggests retrieving the body, and begins clearing a path to make that operation easier. He finds it slow going. Every time he pushes aside a pile of loose earth, it seems that more tumbles in from the sides or even the ceiling of the burrow. The entire thing is pretty unstable.
Arminas makes his way back to the surface, wondering about the Ankhegs. Where had they come from?
Harvest, too, begins heading out of the burrow, thinking of the young woman in the house. This is going to be hard on her.
Lorth stands by the rope and (presumably) begins pulling when Bralin requests it. It takes some doing, but you are able to get the body back to the surface.
In the light, the corpse looks bad. Chunks of flesh are missing, and the face is a mottled purple color.
In the adjoining fields, birds continue to sing. A bumblebee drones lazily past your group. The ordinary sounds contrast sharply with the gruesome sight before you.
Lorth Thursday February 2nd, 2006 7:44:13 AM
Lorth guides Tobiasz away from the burrow and pulls Bralin out. "We will have to take the child to her nearest relatives or bring her along.", Lorth says when he sees that Meg's father is dead, "It isn't safe to leave a child out here alone." Lorth unties Tobiasz and Bralin from his rope and puts it away.
Arminas - prepost Thursday February 2nd, 2006 11:41:23 AM
"Lorth, by elven standards she is a child. Yet she is human, and looks to be in her 20th year. Doesn't that make her a woman, and capable of making her own decisions. Harvest is not much older, at least she doesn't look any older."
Harvest Thursday February 2nd, 2006 12:22:27 PM
"I am less than 20 years of age, Arminas Calaelen. Seventeen, possibly eighteen." Harvest Moon's brown eyes rove like stunned and sleepy bees across the grassy landscape. "My mother ... she was ... simple ... and her counting ... "
Harvest draws in a deep breath. Then she slowly lets it out. One must remain strong when there are others who need you.
"Meg," Harvest begins, her voice firming as she speaks, "can care for herself, I think. And yet, there are times when it is best to have others around. The Wold does not always end at the limits of bodily well being."
Harvest turns and begins the long walk across the short distance to the door of the tidy little house.
"Meg Thistleburr spoke of neighbors. Perhaps she has friends or kin nearby. If she wishes, I will accompany her there and catch up with the rest of you."
Active Effects Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from entrance to tunnel)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, *Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Bralin Thursday February 2nd, 2006 1:48:55 PM
Bralin is a mess. Bug ichor and dirt make for a cake-like consistency on his armor and face. Even the normally uncaring dwarf would admit he really needs to wash.
Now is not the time.
"We must return Thistleburr to the earth," he points out, referring the to dead man. "Mayhap his daughter has a preference?"
Bralin isn't about to ask her himself. He's well aware of both his appearance and his social limitations.
As to the question of what to do with the girl, the dwarf says nothing. She's perfectly capable of deciding for herself.
Arminas d20+10=16 Thursday February 2nd, 2006 2:15:04 PM
Upon Harvest's word of her age, Arminas adds:
"You are so young, yet you have done so much. I'm sure you will offer excellent advice and compassion to Meg. I realize it is a difficult time, but could you ask if she saw the people whom we seek?"
Arminas then gathers his gear, and brushes the dirt off as well as possible. Looking at Bralin, he give a strained smile.
He is even more filthy than usual, yet he is a dwarf. Perhaps it does not bother him.
Arminas then shudders, for no obvious reason.
"I'm going to seek the tracks of Remo and the men."
He hurries off, to check tracks near the front of the house.
Actions Survival for tracking 16
Any Thursday February 2nd, 2006 5:04:40 PM
Any too is saddened for the girl, and her loss.
"Let us use some of the loose dirt from the burrow to bury this man. No woman should have to see one they have loved in such a condition. Bralin, could we use your shovel to accomplish this task, I will help as I can with the edge of my shield, and when we are finished I can clean us both up with my still active spell of prestidigitation."
Any hopes that Bralin will accept his offer of cleaning this time. Something within the half-elf just cannot accept the state Bralin's clothes are in. Maybe it comes from his early childhood. His mother had been so meticulous in her appearance at all times, perhaps that has been passed on to Any.
After the burial is complete, any will clean his own clothing, and then those of Bralin if he accepts the offer.
When all is back in order, Any turns to the grave and begins to sing. There is no power in his words, but the emotion and feeling is evident.
"The Sun has passed through months and years, Has warmed our hearts, shone on our tears. We cannot change the night to day, Nor bring back the soul who is gone away.
Our friends have passed from this mortal realm, They take with them no crown or helm. We cannot change the night to day, Nor keep Lord Gargul and his kin at bay."
As he stops singing, Any quickly turns and moves to his horse.
"Let us be off. I will see what Arminas has found."
Andrath Thursday February 2nd, 2006 9:59:16 PM
"Wait one minute Any. Let's wrap the body in a blanket, and ask the young lady what she wants to do with him. Maybe her custom is to cremate the body, or maybe she will insist on touching him one last time to say goodbye. I don't think that we should make that determination for her."
"Harvest, can you go back to the house and get an old sheet or blanket, and ask the girl to join us in a few minutes?"
DM Kathy Thursday February 2nd, 2006 11:50:47 PM Lorth puts his gear away and suggests that the young woman in the house will need looking after. The others seem inclined to dispute him on that.
Bralin emerges from the burrow looking quite a mess, and not sure what to do about it.
Obviously, disposing of the body is a priority; the companions seem to agree that Meg shouldn't see her father looking like this. Any is all for burying the body, but Andrath suggests waiting. Perhaps the daughter would prefer a cremation.
Any performs a short lament and uses his Prestidigitation spell to clean himself and Bralin.
Harvest returns to the house to speak to Meg. You find the young woman hauling buckets of water from the well to the animal trough, where she has the horses tied up. Clearly, she is trying to keep busy. She looks up as you approach. "Father? Did you--?" Seeing the expression on your face, she stops. Her face crumples, and the tears begin to flow.
Arminas returns to the tracks of the envoy and his escort. He can clearly see the tracks as they move past the house and meadows, toward a nearby wood.
Lorth Friday February 3rd, 2006 9:35:12 AM
(OOC: thought she was younger)
Lorth helps with the body if he can, otherwise he tends the horses.
Harvest Friday February 3rd, 2006 10:52:35 AM " ... We cannot change the night to day ... "
Strains of Anthos Westar's song float across the sward from the direction of the churned and up-turned earth.
" ... Nor bring back the soul who is gone away ... "
The sting of tears comes to Harvest Moon's own eyes, called forth by Meg Thistleburr's sobs of grief.
"Meg? Thistleburr?" She enfolds the young woman in the solace of her embrace, and the two girls stand in a world apart, a world filled with nothing but the burning weight of loss and with each other.
"Meg Thistleburr?" Harvest gently strokes the woman's hair. "We ... we cannot remain here long. There is ... there is a man we follow. But I am loathed to leave you here. By yourself."
A crushing emptiness comes with the realization that this girl may indeed be here all alone, left with no one in this Wold now. A tear escapes and rolls down Harvest Moon's cheek, and she holds to Meg even tighter.
"What is your wish, Meg Thistleburr? We can take you to another place if you desire." Poor Meg Thistleburr. "Please tell me what it is that you desire."
Active Effects Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from entrance to tunnel)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, *Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas Friday February 3rd, 2006 11:22:41 AM
Arminas does not attend the funeral, but waits by the trail they have come to follow.
Looking about at the trees, his eyes follow the movement of a pair of birds. They seem content, somehow they have more joy than he has found lately in the world of men.
Any Friday February 3rd, 2006 11:35:39 AM
Any retrieves his lute, and prepares himself for the continuation of their journey. He restrains himself from approaching the two young women as they console each other. From what he has learned of Harvest, her story has echoes in the plight of Meg Thistleburr, and they share this time of grief together.
Rather than sing, and interrupt, Any finds a piece of wood from near the house, and begins to carve a small figure. If anyone draws near enough to see, it looks like a young women in prayer.
Bralin Sunday February 5th, 2006 3:25:02 PM
The dwarf nods to Any, simultaneously signalling both acceptance of, and gratitude for the spell that cleans his face and armor.
Otherwise, Bralin waits wordlessly.
DM Kathy Sunday February 5th, 2006 10:43:07 PM Arminas waits by the trail, idly watching a pair of songbirds. Your eyes drift toward the woods, where their trail leads, and you note more birds aloft there. Then you realize with a start that these are not songbirds, but carrion birds. Circling.
Bralin is glad to be cleaned up again, and nods his thanks to Any. Otherwise, he stays out of the way, waiting patiently.
Lorth goes to tend the horses. Meg had made a good start of this, but you are able to finish watering them, and check over their equipment.
Any retrieves his lute and, deciding to leave the women alone, picks up a bit of wood to do a little carving.
With an effort, Meg stops crying, scrubbing a hand over her teary face. "I want to thank you for your help," she tells Harvest. "All of you," she adds, glancing around at the others. "Had you not come along when you did, I'd likely have joined Father down in the---down there. In fact," she says, suddenly struck by an idea, "I'd like to give you something. Come with me."
She leads Harvest (and anyone else who decides to come along) into the house, to the bedroom on the first floor. Kneeling beside a trunk, she opens it and reaches inside. She pulls out an object wrapped in cloth and carefully unwraps it. Gleaming inside is a well-made throwing axe, which she holds out to you. "It was Great-Grandfather's," she explains. "It's magical. He was an adventurer of sorts, Great-Grandfather, but we're all farmers now." She gives you a sad smile. "Such a weapon should be in the hands of those who know how to weild it, and you did me a great service today. I'd like you to have it."
Lorth Monday February 6th, 2006 7:46:03 AM
If Lorth hears Meg's offer, he says "Thank you, but we require no payment." He then rounds up the horses and gets them ready to leave.
Harvest Monday February 6th, 2006 9:59:16 AM
"There was a man who helped to raise me," speaks Harvest Moon as she takes the weapon in both hands, accepting it from the other girl, "he was a fine and wise man." No comment is necessary as Paladin Lorth withdraws, presumably to tend to the horses. "His name was Pasix Mixmindor, and he was often fond of saying, 'Cherish the gift. But cherish more the gift giver.'"
"We will gladly carry the legacy of your great-grandfather, Meg Thistleburr, and I would hope that by doing so, we continue his work. And yet, beyond that, I am concerned for you. What is there that we can do to help you in this, your time of need?"
Active Effects Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from entrance to tunnel)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, *Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas Monday February 6th, 2006 11:10:00 AM
Arminas watches the vultures circle, cleaning up a kill. Many do not realize the importance of such a bird, yet all have a place in nature. When others come out, Arminas points up to the circling birds.
"Something has died over in the woods. From the number of vultures it is probably something large. We should investigate it, but it is probably a deer or a boar. Maybe even a horse, we should definitely find out."
With a whistle, Arminas calls his eagle friend to him. He gestures while saying arcane words, and soon Arminas is talking in the screeches and screams of an eagle.
"I have asked Ewan to fly over and investigate. If it is just a deer she will save us time. Soon she will return with news of what the vultures feed upon."
Day's Spell Speak with animals x 2 (both used now)
Any Monday February 6th, 2006 3:31:41 PM
Any takes note of the exchange with Meg Thistleburr. He has no need of the axe, nor does he have a desire to use it, but he can accept the sentiment with which it is given. If one of the others dain to use this weapon, they are welcome to it. If no one wishes to use it, perhaps the group can find someone to bestow it upon who will.
He continues to work on the carving untill Arminas points out the circling vultures. He has seen this large of a gathering of vultures only around the site of battles with robbers and brigands. Ewan will be able to check out the situation soon enough. In the meantime, his carving progresses.
Bralin Monday February 6th, 2006 4:52:33 PM
Bralin waits, arms folded across his chest. The dwarf is the very model of inertia, waiting patiently to be set into motion.
DM Kathy Monday February 6th, 2006 10:55:14 PM Lorth is inclined to refuse the offered reward, but Harvest seems to feel that accepting it is the right way to honor the fallen. She asks young Meg if the party can be of further service.
"I thank you for your concern," she says, "but I think I will be all right. I must see to the stock, then I believe I will walk to the neighbors' place. They will look after me, and I can figure out what to do with the farm." She sighs, looking around at the tidy farmhouse. "I'd like to keep it, if I can, but--" breaking off, she gives you a wan smile. "Go, join your friends," she says. "I'll be fine. And I shall never forget what you have done for me."
Outside, meanwhile, Any continues carving, while Bralin waits, a study in patience. Andrath, in contrast, paces furiously, clearly impatient to be off.
Arminas sends Ewan off to see what the carrion birds are so interested in. After a time, she comes back. "People," she reports. "And horses."
Arminas Monday February 6th, 2006 11:01:09 PM
Arminas talks with Ewan, with screechs and screams. He then rubs the feathers on the back of her head.
"She says that there are dead horses and people over there."
He points to the circling vultures.
"Perhaps our quest is almost over. We should check to see if it is Remo and the guards."
He then turns to Ewan, and with the voice of an eagle asks:
"Do you see any alive, save for the vultures? Is there a black pony among the dead?"
Lorth Tuesday February 7th, 2006 7:58:34 AM
Lorth mounts his horse and gets ready to investigate this new situation. He gives Harvest a disapproving look when she emerges with the axe, certainly it is not proper to receive a gift for helping someone in need. Could not of Meg sold or traded, this "magic" axe, in the future, if she was in dire straights? Perhaps the crops wilt and die some year. Certainly Lorth's friends are not in dire straights to take a peasants family treasure. Meg's heart may have been in the right place, but certainly her head wasn't. And on another hand, this family heirloom, axe, will probably not even be used by Lorth's friends, but will most likely wind up being sold to the catacombs for some item that they might want to have. And that is a damm shame. Certainly Meg's grandfather would rather she keep the axe or even sell it herself, to get something to make herself happy.
Harvest Tuesday February 7th, 2006 10:50:02 AM
Harvest Moon looks down at the wonderfully crafted weapon in her hands. She hesitates.
"I have nothing, Meg Thistleburr, that is so dear to me that I can give to you in return. But after we have discharged our task, I will return to see that you are well, and to aide you in any way that I can. If you are in need, of anything at all, please ask at the Pitchfork Council in Jarlwolf."
And still, the brown girl hesitates.
"I am new to Alemi," she says, her hands are wrapped tightly around the haft of the small hatchet, "and yet I have been told that he is a god of mercy, who lends his hand to those who suffer." Harvest Moon reaches up to touch the brow of the taller girl.
"May the blessings of Alemi be upon you. May he take your pain and turn it to health, and bounty of spirit. Be well, Meg Thistleburr," she says. "Until we meet again."
Then Harvest Moon hurries to join her companions. The small axe remains at her side, draped in the thick cuff of her sleeve, as she takes in the various activities of the others.
Active Effects Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from entrance to tunnel)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, *Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Bralin Tuesday February 7th, 2006 11:30:16 AM
Bralin makes no comment regarding the axe. He has no judgement either way.
At Arminas' words, he moves to the burro and clambers back aboard. It is time to leave this place and seek out more answers.
Any Tuesday February 7th, 2006 12:13:50 PM
Any listens to Arminas' traslation of Ewan's report. It is as he had thought--a battle has been fought. Now it is only necessary to determine who won, who lost, and if this is the party they have been seeking.
His sentiments concerning the axe have not changed, he does not want it, but the girl has the right to give what is hers. She would probably be better off to keep it herself for protection, or to sell later.
"If we cannot help you further, we should probably be on our way. We need to investigate this new development. Evidently, there has been a battle nearby, we should discover, as Arminas has said if our quest is over. Even if many of the party has died, the ambassador may yet live, if this is his group."
Any then mounts Moonshadow,carefully placing his carving in his saddlebags, wrapping it in a piece of his old shirt.
OOC What time of day is it? Would we want to spend the night here, rather than in the woods?
Hot on the Trail
DM Kathy Wednesday February 8th, 2006 12:57:44 AM Harvest and Lorth take their leave of Meg Thistleburr and the little farmhouse--with some disagreement on the ethics of accepting her gift.
Arminas gets a report from his eagle, and asks some questions in return. Ewan reports that, apart from the carrion birds, everything she saw was dead. She has a little trouble with the other question; she doesn't quite grasp the difference between "horse" and "pony," and she is largely colorblind. She doesn't believe the animal is among the dead, however.
Any and Bralin mount up, and soon the party is ready to be underway.
[OOC: It is past mid-afternoon, but only just. You could travel a couple more hours, or you could conceivably stop and spend the night. I'm going to assume the party at least wants to examine the scene of the battle.]
You continue to the edge of the forest, following the tracks made by the envoy and his party. Near the forest's edge, you come upon the scene. The bodies of four humans, wearing the insignia of the Jarlwolf militia, lie scattered about. You also see the bodies of two horses. All of the bodies appear to have been mangled and mauled--long before the carrion birds got to them.
Lorth Wednesday February 8th, 2006 7:33:00 AM
Lorth dismounts and attempts to discern if the bodies have any acid damage. He think maybe the giant ants did this, but then he decides that is unlikely as they probably would have eaten the bodies.
Andrath (sub post) d20+17=27 d20+13=31 Wednesday February 8th, 2006 9:59:46 AM
Andrath is more than willing to be on his way, standing around has never been his strong point. He mounts the huge draft horse with Harvest, and moves out, heading towards the carrion birds.
On their arrival, he leaps down, and begins to look around the battle site. At first glance it is not easy to know what has happened, but a closer search may reveal something.
"Arminas, perhaps it is best for you to make the first circuit, to see what you can tell from the tracks before we disturb them all."
Andrath settles himself as much as possible, and stands tapping his fingers against his leg as he waits for Arminas to look around. Before Arminas is completely around the scene, he steps out and begins to follow in his track, searching in his own right for clues as to what happened here.
Spot 27 Search 31
Any d20+5=14 d20+4=19 Wednesday February 8th, 2006 10:11:22 AM
As Any and the group arrive from the Thistleburr farm, he is struck by the carnage he sees inthis clearing. He has seen the like many times in his time with his acting troupe, but in most of those cases, the bodies that were found were those of unwary travelers, stripped of all their belongings. These were soldiers, with armor and weapons, and would not have been so easily overcome by the usual small band of brigands that frequent the trails. In fact, those bands rarely stary this far from a main trail in search of prey. Whoever did this must have been looking for this group in particular.
"I feel that this is no random attack. The fears of our Patroness seem to have been well founded. We can only hope now to find her ambassadour still alive, and if captured, recover him from his present situation. That is if we all agree that this is the troupe we have been looking for."
Any himself dismounts from Moonshadow, and draws his weapons, standing guard over those who are better suited to searching than he.
Search 14 Spot 19
Harvest d20+5=17 Wednesday February 8th, 2006 10:51:39 AM
Souls at rest. Such is the way of Lord Gargul. Everything meets its end in death. The sin lies in not Passing to the Beyond.
And yet, through the eyes of Alemi, Harvest Moon sees the pain and fear of lives cut short by a violent death. She views the scene from high up on Fyrda's back. One hand strokes the soft warm hair on the old plow horse's neck. The other still clutches the handaxe, the legacy from Meg Thistleburr.
As Andrath Silverhand concludes his search, the brown girl kicks one leg over the saddle and slides down to the ground. She moves from body to body both man and horse. With a touch at face and neck, with a probing of wounds, she examines each of the fallen for what they may still be able to tell from beyond the door of death.
Rolls and Actions Heal 17 (To determine how long the guards have been dead and the nature of the wounds.)
Active Effects Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from entrance to tunnel)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, *Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Bralin d20+5=14 Wednesday February 8th, 2006 11:02:35 AM
The dwarf clambers off the burro, pulls out his axe and scans the perimeter [Spot 14].
His comrades will discern what happened. Bralin will concentrate on not letting it happen to them.
Arminas d20+11=20 d20+7=25 Wednesday February 8th, 2006 11:03:51 AM
Upon arriving at the scene, Arminas talks to Ewan in the eagle language. Ewan flies up above the trees, circling high above the vultures.
"I have asked Ewan to warn us if she sees any large creature or people in the area."
"These must be the guards we are searching for, none other have been reported missing. How they died seems obvious, what killed them and where Remo is though I will try and determine."
Arminas then searches around the perimeter, looking for tracks leaving the scene. When he is done, he will search around the bodies looking for more tracks and evidence of what killed the soldiers. He also looks to see if the weapons and other possessions of the soldiers were taken.
Actions Survival roll for tracking 20 Search 25 (to see any unusual marks upon the bodies)
DM Kathy Thursday February 9th, 2006 1:57:08 AM
Looking at the carnage, you fear that all is not well with the ambassador. You dismount and begin to search the area for clues.
Bralin finds a clump of tawny fur snagged in a bush near the battle site.
Any finds a spot where it appears several horses ran from the fighting.
Andrath sees drag marks, headed away from the site. He is not enough of a tracker, though, to be able to tell who or what was dragged (or doing the dragging).
Harvest notes that there are different kinds of wounds on the militia people. She spots several sword cuts, and also wounds that seem to come from claws. Perhaps those of a great cat? A couple of the guards have puncture wounds, as from spears or javelins, and at least one has been trampled.
Arminas sees several tracks, some of which he can't explain at all. Some seem to be goat tracks, which makes no sense, and there are lion tracks as well. There are also booted humanoid feet. Arminas finds the spot where several riderless horses fled the scene, and he can also see where a halfling was dragged away by two of the booted humanoids.
Lorth Thursday February 9th, 2006 8:44:55 AM
Lorth waits for his friends to finish surveying the battle site. His thoughts turn to burying these dead men quickly, so that they may be off in search of the beings that did this.
Arminas Thursday February 9th, 2006 10:00:48 AM
"This was a strange battle, and one with a purpose beyond theft I fear. The tracks here were made by several different creatures. I see lion, goat and boot tracks. Why a lion would fight alongside a goat and people I do not know. Perhaps it was a satyr instead of a goat. Most important though, I have found where a hafling was dragged away by two people."
When Lorth mentions burying the dead, Arminas looks anxiously at the tracks.
"I fear that we are very late in coming. A delay could be deadly, if Remo is not already dead."
Looking up at the vultures circling above and sitting in trees around them, Arminas adds:
"Vultures need to eat too, but if you must bury the dead let us do so quickly. This track calls to me."
Harvest Thursday February 9th, 2006 10:43:19 AM
Harvest nods at Arminas Calaelen's reading of the tracks.
"They were attacked by Men. And animals." Harvest stands and surveys the battle site. Her gaze comes to rests on the mysterious depths of the nearby forest. "Animals with claws and animals with hooves. Swords, spears, claws and hooves."
"Arminas Calaelen, the tracks of the lion and the goat ... they ... " Harvest frowns as she tugs and teases at the thread of mystery that holds itself just beyond her grasp. " ... can you see if they show a difference between a two footed creature and a four footed creature?"
"This must be a strange and terrible forest to be home to such things that fight as one."
Question Did Harvest get any clue on how long these have been dead? Do the bodies appear stripped or looted? Are there weapons still lying about? Armor on the men? Saddles? Bags?
Active Effects Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from entrance to tunnel)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, *Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Andrath (sub post) Thursday February 9th, 2006 2:36:11 PM
Andrath agrees with the sentiment put forth by Arminas. The vultures need to eat too, let the bodies lay where they fell.
"We need to find this Remo, if he still lives. Let us be on our way."
If the others want to stay and bury the dead, Andrath will help them, but it seems a waste of time, and he is anxious to be moving.
Any Thursday February 9th, 2006 2:40:34 PM
It does not sit right to Any to allow these men to be left unburied. The caravan would never have left any in this manner. However, he can see that many of the group are ready to be moving.
"I suppose that Lord Gargul will claim them whether they are buried or not. Let us be off to accomplish our task, if that is what you all want."
All can tell that Any is reticent to leave the men like this, but will do so if everyone agrees.
Arminas - second illegal post d20+11=22 Thursday February 9th, 2006 5:26:15 PM
"Harvest, that is a good question. I will do my best to see if the creatures walked upon two or four feet."
Arminas then carefully examines the tracks of the goat and lion.
Action Survival roll for tracking 22
DM Kathy Friday February 10th, 2006 12:55:54 AM Harvest and Arminas compare notes on the strange tracks and signs they are seeing. Arminas looks at the goat and lion tracks, trying to determine how the creatures move. What you see is as strange as everything else. Based on the angle and depth of the tracks, it appears that the creatures' weights were distributed among four feet. Looking at the tracks carefully, though, you can only find them in sets of two. Of course, the battle scene is very chaotic, and it's hard to see prints very clearly. Probably you're just mistaken...
Meanwhile, the others debate the relative merits of burying the bodies or getting a good start. You only have so much daylight left today.
Lorth Friday February 10th, 2006 8:58:38 AM
"Well, if we aren't going to stay to bury the bodies, at least let me offer them a prayer." Lorth quickly lays the bodies out side by side and says a quick prayer to Gargul to speed them on their way. With that he mounts Tobiasz and is ready to go.
Andrath (sub post) Friday February 10th, 2006 9:58:32 AM
Andrath helps Lorth in lining up the bodies, and once finished he turns to Arminas,
"Can you track where the halfing went while on horseback, or do you need to be afoot? I think that you and I should take the forefront, and let us find our errant ambassadour."
If Arminas says he needs to walk to track, Andrath will offer to lead his mount, allowing Harvest to care for Fyrda.
Any Friday February 10th, 2006 10:03:06 AM
Any too will assist in the arrangement of the bodies, and while Lorth is offering his prayer to Gargul, he will begin piling rocks around and on the makeshift site. When the others are ready to go, he will hesitantly give up his task and take up the rear guard. He mounts Moonshadow, and makes sure his bow and quiver are ready to hand. Anyone close enough to him might hear,
"May Domi watch over them on their journey to Gargul's realm."
Any (supplemental post) d20+5=10 Friday February 10th, 2006 10:13:09 AM
OOC I decided to make a DC check for knowledge to see if Any would know what might have attacked these men. If this 10 is enough for a common knowledge roll, then I will suggest what "I" believe this to be.
Arminas d20+7=9 Friday February 10th, 2006 11:26:11 AM
Arminas looks at the strange tracks upon the ground.
"I cannot see more than two goat tracks, which appear to be the hind feet. The lion tracks are also strange. I see only two at a time, it does not appear to have set down all four feet."
He carefully looks at the tracks, and then adds:
"The weight is clearly distributed amoung four feet, though I only see tracks one pair of goat and one pair of lion tracks. Perhaps this is a creature that is new to me."
With a call to Ewan, the great eagle flies lower. In eagle, he adds:
"Ewan, watch carefully. There is a strange creature about. Watch and warn me if you see anything unusual."
Ewan then climbs higher in the sky.
"Any, I can track better on foot. If the trail is very clear then I will get back on the horse, but for now I want to find more of this mystery."
Arminas then follows the tracks of the dragged hafling, bow in hand.
Actions Knowledge of nature 9
Harvest Friday February 10th, 2006 11:45:22 AM
OoC: Question Did Harvest get any clue on how long these have been dead? Do the bodies appear stripped or looted? Are there weapons still lying about? Armor on the men? Saddles? Bags? If at all possible, I would like these questions answered as I think it might be better to leave the horses behind at this point.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
May Gargul grant you peace in death, as Alemi would in life.
Harvest turns a worried eye from the small ceremony to the tidy little house that they had just left. How could peaceful farmers have settled near such danger? Built homes and lives? These must be new dangers, newly arrived to this area.
"They must be stopped." Harvest Moon speaks without elaboration, on the tail end of the sermon provided by Paladin Lorth. Her voice is quiet, but firm. "Lion-goats and Ahn-kegs never seen here before. And men who come to a place of peace, leaving violence behind."
The brown girl turns to gentle Fyrda.
"They must be sent back to the place from which they came."
Active Effects Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from entrance to tunnel)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, *Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Bralin d20+5=19 Friday February 10th, 2006 3:34:16 PM
While Arminas tracks, and Lorth and other attend to the bodies of the soldiers, Bralin maintains his defensive vigil.
Whatever attacked the soldiers may return. Someone must guard against that possibility. The dwarf chooses himself for the role. Axe in hand, he strides and scans the perimeter, alert for any dangers.
[Spot 19]
DM Kathy Sunday February 12th, 2006 11:57:33 PM Lorth, Andrath, and Any lay out the bodies and offer prayers for the dead. All are anxious to continue; Lorth and Any mount their horses.
Bralin stands guard while his companions finish dealing with the scene.
Any give it some thought, but doesn't have a clear idea what may have attacked the militia--other than people with swords.
Arminas sends Ewan aloft, with orders to watch for an unusual creature. He, too, tries to think what the creature might be, but draws a blank.
Harvest estimates that the bodies have been here for several days. They have not been looted extensively, although none of them have belt pouches. The three men and one woman each have a weapon, either in hand or on the ground right next to them. Their armor and other gear appears to be intact. The dead horses are saddled and bridled, and the saddlebags are still in place.
Once everyone is ready to go, Arminas begins leading the way after the dragged hafling.
[Arminas, please make a couple of tracking rolls to follow the trail. Everyone, please make spot checks. Also, anyone with Knowledge (Arcana) can make a check.]
Arminas d20+11=15 d20+11=25 d20+10=26 Monday February 13th, 2006 9:27:24 AM
Arminas watches for the telltale signs, bent grass and snapped twigs as he follows the footprints and the occasional marks indicating the hafling was dragged.
The mystery has him on edge, and he looks about as he follows the trail.
Andrath d20+17=33 Monday February 13th, 2006 9:54:54 AM
While laying out the bodies, Andrath quickly searches them. Unless the weapons and armor appear of extraordinary quality, he lets them lay with the victims. Anything small, or of value, quickly goes into a bag. He feels no compunction against doing this--the men no longer have any need for these items, and after all, he is a rogue.
Andrath then takes the reins of Wildfire, and follows along behind Arminas, but just barely behind. His sharp eyes dart back and forth along the trail, searching for clues as to what has happened, and where their prey has gone.
Spot 33
Any d20+4=14 d20+5=17 Monday February 13th, 2006 10:04:09 AM
OOC Sorry Andrath's post is a SUB POST
There is not time for a memorial for these men, and Any has offered what service he can to the dead in the time available. He turns and mounts Moonshadow, again following along towards the rear of the party. He tries to keep an alert stance, watching for any signs of danger, but his thoughts keep returning to the unusual tracks in the clearing. He is sure that he has heard of something like this, either in some old song, or bit of parchment which he read while with his master. He begins to mutter and hum to himself, trying to recall the remote lay that might contain the information he is seeking.
Spot 14 Bardic Knowledge 17
Bralin d20+5=10 Monday February 13th, 2006 10:06:32 AM
The dwarf mounts the burro, and directs it to fall in behind the rest of his companions.
Bralin spends a lot of time looking over his shoulder. The unfamiliar, and unsettling, motion of the burro makes it difficult to see any but the most obvious of features.
[Spot 10]
Harvest d20+13=16 d20+3=9 Monday February 13th, 2006 11:34:11 AM
"Those that attacked the Emissary may not have done so strictly out of want. They left weapons, armor, boots and other things of use and value. I wonder whether this was a crime of opportunity or not."
Harvest Moon remains upon the ground as she and the other Swords of Light follow the trail of the kidnapped Emissary. Instead, she walks beside Fyrda stroking her shoulder in a comforting motion. "I wish we could leave you with Meg Thistleburr, Gentle Fyrda," the brown girl whispers to the horse as they walk. "But the attack appears days old and we may have many miles remaining to catch those responsible."
Within the little monk is the growing realization that they are taking the horses with them into danger. And yet, there is little that can be done for that. Still, the thought weighs heavily upon Harvest Moon as she watches the trail for danger and contemplates the nature of the mysterious attackers.
Rolls and Actions Spot 16 Knowledge Arcana 9
Active Effects Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from entrance to tunnel)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, *Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Lorth Monday February 13th, 2006 2:03:19 PM
Lorth follows along until the party is ready to stop to rest. It seems plainly to him that whatever attacked the emissary was not normal bandits as they would of looted the bodies. Something else is going on.
DM Kathy Tuesday February 14th, 2006 1:12:09 AM
After leaving the scene of the battle, Arminas initially has trouble picking up the trail. It would seem that the halfling is no longer being dragged, but perhaps carried. At any rate, the signs become more difficult to see.
He is helped by Andrath's keen eyesight; the rogue catches a glimpse of a spot of red in a clump of grass. It proves to be a bit of sealing wax, obviously torn from some document because a bit of parchment is still attached. The wax is imprinted with the seal of the Pitchfork Council.
With the help of that clue, Arminas picks up the trail again and is able to follow it steadily for about an hour.
Any is sure he's heard of some kind of creature like this before, but the details remain maddeningly elusive.
It is now quite late in the afternoon; the sun is getting low. Ewan returns to Arminas, making little avian complaining noises. She will not be comfortable flying at dusk.
Andrath (Sub Post) Tuesday February 14th, 2006 9:46:33 AM
"I believe we need to make camp. Let us find a suitable place before we lose our light. I suggets a cold camp, and set a watch for the night. I will take the mid watch with whoever else wishes."
Andrath then puts words to action seeking a defensible spot for the nights camp. He is looking for a heavily wooded grove, or a cliff and overhang. Something which will allow the group to have their backs protected in the case of an attack.
Any Tuesday February 14th, 2006 9:55:22 AM
Any helps in locating a suitable camp. This seems to come as second nature to the half-elf, with his years on the road, traveling with his troupe. Once a spot is found, he will quickly set a bundle of wood near the back end of their retreat, ready to start a fire.
"If we are attacked, this will come in handy. We can light this to show us our attackers, robbing them of their night sight while preserving ours. I would be glad to take last watch with anyone else desiring to do so."
Any again refrains from singing this night. With possible enemies about, drawing attention to the groups location would not be wise. He brings his carving from his pack and begins to whittle while the light holds. He also removes a piece of trail ration and some jerky, along with a few pieces of dried fruit and nuts. This, along with some water, make a sufficient, if not satisfying meal. He will then turn in for the night, untill his watch.
Lorth Tuesday February 14th, 2006 10:36:32 AM
Lorth follows his companions into the camp. Before Lorth beds down, he strips off all his gear and cleans it meticulously, making sure all the bug parts are gone. Then he oils the metal to ward off rust. Satisfied, he gets some sleep before his watch.
Bralin Tuesday February 14th, 2006 11:54:40 AM
"I will take dawn watch with Any."
Bralin checks his gear, and drops off to sleep.
Arminas d20+9=24 d20+6=9 d20+9=11 d20+16=28 d20+10=28 d20+10=17 Tuesday February 14th, 2006 1:00:47 PM
"Since Andrath and I can see well in the dark of night, I will take mid watch with him. Seems if Bralin and Any are taking last watch, that would leave Harvest and Lorth to take first watch."
Arminas looks over at Lorth who is preparing for sleep.
"It's not my call, but we can't all take last watch."
Hopefully, his comments make sense and the other do not think he is trying to "take over".
He eats a light supper of cold rations, and decides to sleep up in a tree. He climbs high, and loses his balance and falls. He floats slowly to the ground. Attempting to climb a second time seems to be difficult. Instead, he sets his bedroll upon the ground off to one side and calls Ewan to come and perch near him. He wraps his elven cloak around him, almost disappearing into the brush. Giving a signal for Ewan to guard him, he goes to sleep. When he awakes, he will let Ewan know that it is time for her to rest.
Actions for watch Climb 24 Balance 9 (his feather falling ring catches him as he slips from the branch, Arminas decides to try again.) Climb 11 Hide 28 Listen 28 Spot 17
Harvest d20+13=17 d20+13=25 Tuesday February 14th, 2006 2:57:02 PM
First thing upon stopping for the night, Harvest Moon removes the bags of feed for the horses. The food is simple. She provides for each animal. At that point, however, she stand, perplexed. Harvest runs the tips of her fingers through the short hair at the side of her head.
"Arminas Calaelen," she asks turning her eye to the brush in the area about, "do the horses require a place in which to lie? Where will they sleep?"
Later the small brown monk attempts to provide for the comfort of her two-legged companions, as well. She removes from her pack the very first magic stick to come into her possession. Casting a Prestidigitation spell, Harvest brings warmth to the cold trail rations, and the flavor of corned beef.
And before first watch, Harvest Moon sits with her new book, back against a tree. Each and every page is blank. From her bag, she brings pen and ink. Sitting against the tree, she thinks upon the day's journey. The road from Jarlwolf to Rowena, the farm just off the road, the small tidy house where they fought the Ahn-kegs. She opens to the first page, and Harvest Moon begins to draw. A thick line marks the main road. A dotted line traces the party's trail as they depart overland, following the Emissary on his detour. She draws trees and low hills. A small barn with a corral. And she places a little house upon the map as well. Harvest eyes her handiwork. Colors. Perhaps it would look better with colors.
As a last little detail, Harvest pens a name above the little house. "Meg Thistleburr", she writes. And then she closes the book with one map within, returning it to her haversack for now.
Rolls and Actions Spot 17 (In case you need them for Watch) Listen 25 (In case you need them for Watch)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, *Mend Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas - second illegal post Tuesday February 14th, 2006 3:13:38 PM
"Harvest, thanks for your care of the horses. They do not require a place to lie, as they will sleep upon their feet. However, we should prepare in case they are attacked. I will tie them up so that a normal pull upon the rope will let them know they are secure. However, if they are attacked or frightened and pull hard, it will come loose and they can flee from those who attack."
"Thanks for the meal, it is much better than the nuts I had."
DM Kathy Wednesday February 15th, 2006 12:19:15 AM
With evening approaching, you decide to make camp. Andrath and Any locate a tightly-packed grove of trees atop a small rise. It will make for a pleasant campsite, and the trees are thick enough that an opponent would have a hard time attacking.
Lorth and Bralin tend their gear and stay alert. Harvest makes sure that the horses are well-settled.
You divide into watches, and keep watch throughout the night. The ordinary sounds of the forest are familiar to most of you, and you don't hear or see anything that night that shouldn't be there.
Dawn comes, and your trail awaits.
[Arminas (and anybody else who can track), please make some Survival checks.]
Lorth Wednesday February 15th, 2006 7:33:38 AM
Lorth has no problem taking first watch, after which he gets some rest. In the morning he wakes refreshed, stretches and summons Tobiasz. He sits on Tobiasz's back and waits for the rest of the party to be ready to move out.
Arminas d20+11=13 d20+11=17 d20+11=23 Wednesday February 15th, 2006 9:44:55 AM
Arminas wakes early and checks on the horses. He moves them to a clearing with more grass, while his companions are still waking up. Calling down Ewan, he moves through the meadow and kicks up a rabbit. The eagle quickly snatches it in her talons, and begins to enjoy her breakfast.
Arminas then rolls his bedroll, and eats a light meal of dried fruits and nuts. Ready to leave, he looks about for the trail he has been following. At first he has some trouble, but continued searching proves successful.
Actions Survival tracking 13, 17, 23
Andrath (Sub Post) Wednesday February 15th, 2006 9:47:14 AM
As morning dawns, Andrath quickly rises, and after making a survey of the surrounding countryside, he turns to the others.
"When all are ready, we should continue as we did yesterday. Arminas, Did you notice if the tracks seem to be getting fresher as we follow, or are we losing ground on them?"
While awaiting the response, Andrath is almost unconciously checking over his gear, making sure all is in proper condition. He will pace the camp while the others make their own preparations before they leave.
Any Wednesday February 15th, 2006 10:05:19 AM
Any, having taken the last watch with Bralin, presents a small kettle of water to the others as they rise.
"I have heated this with a spell. You may use your portion for tea, or for washing up, or any other use--your preference."
Any himself has a small brass cup of an herbal tea, which smells faintly of peppermint. He offers this to Harvest.
"I have had a cup already."
He then sits down and carefully checks his weapons and gear. When finished, he takes out his small carving, and continues to work upon it. Finer details are appearing. (Roll spot check to see spoiler) Highlight to display spoiler: { The carving is begining to look like Harvest }
Harvest d20+13=18 d20+13=18 Wednesday February 15th, 2006 10:47:24 AM
Morning comes with the chirp and peep of the first forest birds. Harvest wakes to the sound, then rolls from her bedding to take up her devotions to Alemi. From her place upon the forest floor, Harvest Moon contemplates the beams of morning light as they slant down through the trees. It comes to her that there could be some of Alemi in these diaphanous rays. At least, there could be, in her imagination. It then comes to her as well, to ask herself whether simply believing might make it so. Surely not in all things. But, perhaps in some. Her eyes stray over the patterns of heavenly light. Perhaps in some.
The brown girl returns to find water on the boil. Harvest Moon washes her face. And, with a cloth, pulls up her robe to clean the rest of her body. An aroma, sweet and of soothing spice, tickles her nose. She follows it to the small brass cup in the hand of Anthos Westar. Accepting the brew, she sips at a cup. A broad grin breaks out across her face.
With the peppermint tea, she breaks her fast, and tries to give only the occasional curious look at the carving taking shape in the hands of the bard.
Rolls and Actions Spot 18 Listen 18
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas - second illegal post Wednesday February 15th, 2006 11:52:27 AM
OOC: Forgot to mention the day's spells
Day's Spells Speak with Animals x 2
Bralin Wednesday February 15th, 2006 9:51:46 PM
The warrior stays alert through the false dawn, relaxing somewhat as the sun peaks over the treeline.
He communes with The Chamber, choosing his standard spells.
Bralin eats anything offered, and is ready to move.
DM Kathy Thursday February 16th, 2006 12:23:23 AM
Morning comes, and you go about your normal routines in camp--with perhaps a bit more urgency. You are concerned for the safety of the envoy and the success of your mission.
Arminas has trouble finding the trail again, but eventually is able to follow it further. It winds up into the hills, where the trees get farther apart. You can tell that you are very slowly gaining ground on those you pursue. Whether that will be enough is anyone's guess.
In the afternoon, you follow the trail around an outcropping and see, above and ahead of you, a tall, lonely building. It sits perched above a gorge, where a rushing stream froths below. The tracks you are following lead in its direction.
Lorth Thursday February 16th, 2006 7:34:35 AM
Lorth takes a good look at the building, perhaps our answers are there, he thinks.
Andrath (Sub Post) Thursday February 16th, 2006 9:46:45 AM
After a hurried breakfast, Andrath prepares for the day.Those with quick eyes might notice a small grey rat slipping quickly from among Andrath's robes to take a share of his trail rations. Following again along Arminas' lead, Andrath sees in the distance the building as they top a rise. Caution or boldness? Which would be the better approach? As far as Andrath is concerned, there really is only one choice. He is eager to resolve this search--eager to be doing something. However he turns to the others.
"How do we play this? Stealth or head on?"
He then waits with the others, making sure that all stay off of the ridgeline to avoid detection.
Any d20+4=23 Thursday February 16th, 2006 10:05:32 AM
Any follows along behind the group, eyes alert to any danger that might present itself. When Andrath puts his question to the group, Any responds,
"If you wanted, I could approach the castle alone, posing as a traveling troubador. It is a part I have played often in my lifetime, and the risks are no greater here than they have been at any other time. I will offer to perform in return for a hot meal, and then beg off staying the night, claiming to have an engagemnet I must make further down the road. It would allow us the chance of seeing inside the keep, assessing strength, and possibly determining if the halfling we seek is held within. If this plan does not suit, I will help in any other that you all might suggest."
Any then awaits the others response.
Spot 23
Harvest Thursday February 16th, 2006 10:21:47 AM
"Is is often best, Andrath Silverhand," Harvest replies as she gazes at the distant tower at the edge of the plunging cliff's edge, "to know as much about a thing that may possibly be dangerous, before encountering it."
"Would there be harm in inspecting the tower from afar, before announcing ourselves to the inhabitants? Perhaps, Arminas Calaelen can examine the ground near the are for the kinds of feet that most often fall around the tower. Paladin Lorth may feel the presence of evil, and that would surely tell us something of the nature of the inhabitants."
"I have a scroll that will place invisibility upon one of us. But, I would not wish to use it to unjustly invade someone's home."
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas Thursday February 16th, 2006 12:42:49 PM
Arminas looks as the tracks continue in the direction of the tall building.
"The lack of cover proves a problem. Tall buildings where land is plentiful are built to provide a views of visitors, we will not be able to sneak up upon this house in the day. Harvest's spell will work for one, but should they be detected there is great danger. Any may be able to bluff his way in, but I also fear for him if they do not wish visitors to know they are there. They may silence all witnesses."
Arminas then thinks a while upon the problem facing them.
"I have two ideas, though I am not sure they will work.
First, I would be willing to sneak up upon the house with Harvest's invisibility spell. I have a potion that allows me to pass without leaving a trace. No footprints or scent to give me away.
Second, if we decide that we don't want me to do that, I could send Ewan. I can speak with her and have her fly near the house. She can tell us some things, though she will not be able to gather the same informatin as I could. Perhaps she could carry Andrath's pet rat, and drop it onto the house. It could scurry inside and prove a valuable spy. That is if Ewan decides not to eat it instead."
Bralin Thursday February 16th, 2006 4:46:33 PM
"Stealth," Bralin replies immediately to Andrath. "We require information."
Many of his comrades agree, and all have ideas. Some have more merit than others.
When Arminas presents his idea, the dwarf responds, "Both. Send yon bird. Learn what is possible. Then Arminas afterwards to learn more."
Arminas - second illegal post Thursday February 16th, 2006 6:20:56 PM
Upon Bralin's suggestion, Arminas casts a spell to speak with Ewan. In eagle, he says:
"Go, circle high and look at house. Look for life. Find way for me to cross river. Stay high, come back quickly."
DM Kathy Friday February 17th, 2006 1:13:12 AM
The party debates the relative merits of stealth and the security of traveling in a group. Any offers to charm his way into the building, while Harvest offers an Invisibility scroll and Arminas mentions a potion that would also help.
In the end, you decide to enlist Ewan's help, and Arminas sends the eagle skyward. She flies toward the target, and is soon a small spot in the sky, very difficult to make out.
Through your empathic link, Arminas, you suddenly get a powerful sensation. Danger-Predator-Big-Strange! Ewan returns, and seems very anxious to be where you are rather than out on her own. She conveys that she saw signs of life, but it was a big, ugly, strange predator and she didn't like it. She also said the house has holes in it. [The building is on this side of the river, so you do not need to find a way to cross it.]
Lorth Friday February 17th, 2006 8:45:23 AM
Lorth waits for his friends to do their investigations. He has no penchant for stealth.
Andrath (Sub Post) d20+17=32 Friday February 17th, 2006 10:02:12 AM
Andrath waits while Ewan reports to Arminas, and then listens carefully to the translation.
"It sounds as though whatever attacked the other group is at large somewhere between the keep and our location."
He arms himself with his bow, knocking an arrow ready for an attack. His searching eyes scan the forest land that lays before him.
Spot 32
Any d20+7=12 d20+4=21 d20+6=26 Friday February 17th, 2006 10:09:23 AM
Any is again worried about the strange creature. If only he could remember anything about it, but whatever song or poem the information was in has fled his memory for the present. His bow is prepared, and he too searches for any sign of an enemy. He steps away from Moonshadow, and puts a tree to his back attempting to blend into the landscape as much as possible.
If only he could remember....
Knowledge 12 Spot 21 Hide 26
Harvest Friday February 17th, 2006 10:51:36 AM
Harvest Moon draws a wand from her haversack. With stoic calm she applies a sheath of protection to her body.
"If there is a dangerous predator about," she says, gazing again up at the house upon the bluff, "then it must be dealt with. Driven from this area. Or, if necessary ... slain."
She starts up the path toward the distant house.
"It has already proven that it roams as far as the edge of the forest, and there it has slain men. That is too close to the farms beyond."
How the small brown girl would deal with such a creature is unclear. And yet, she walks up the path as though this is her every intent.
Day's Spells Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas Friday February 17th, 2006 11:10:49 AM
Arminas talks quickly with Ewan, sensing her fear and listening to her words.
"I have never seen her so afraid. Whatever is out there is not natural, Ewan fears no natural creature. I am going to tell her to leave us, and go hunt in the forest far away. I will not let her be struck down as she was when we were taken as slaves."
Arminas then speaks to Ewan in the language of eagles.
"You have done well, thank you for the warning. You must leave me now and go to hunt in the forest far away. When the predator is dead I will call to you. Do not stay, go now."
When he is done, he is surprised to see Harvest walking down the path towards the house and the mysterious predator.
"Harvest, do we have a plan? I am afraid the holes in the walls are meant to allow them to attack us from afar. Ewan's warning should be taken seriously. Perhaps we should find a way to kill this creature from a distance, it sounds very dangerous. Does anyone have a spell of haste? I can shoot four arrows in the space of time most could shoot one if I were hasted."
Bralin Sunday February 19th, 2006 10:21:58 PM
"To assault a keep with but six is folly," Bralin agrees.
"We may infiltrate by night. Else we may advance to the open and wait, seeking to draw them out. If we are perceived to be weak, they may come to us."
DM Kathy Sunday February 19th, 2006 10:42:14 PM
As Arminas discusses things with his companion, Harvest uses her wand, then calmly begins walking up the trail. The others aren't sure that's such a good idea.
[OOC: I think I'll give everybody another days' worth of posts to discuss strategy and figure out an approach.]
Arminas sends his companion away, and she obediently flies off.
Andrath Sunday February 19th, 2006 11:29:05 PM
[OOC: Lyle, I think it was you filling in for me, thanks very much.]
As Harvest sets out on the trail, Andrath says, "Wait, Harvest. The eagle may have seen a dangerous creature, but we saw the creature's tracks at the same time as booted tracks. I think that this creature, whatever it is, is under the control of whomever took the envoy. It is likely that the creature acts as a guard, and the halfling-nappers are holed up in that building ahead. I suggest that we wait for nightfall, and try to get closer under the cover of darkness. Also, if we watch the tower until dark, we may get a sense of what is going on there. We may see someone come out or go in, or we may in fact see the creature. I want us to have a better idea of what we face, and to get closer, before we make a move on the tower."
Arminas Sunday February 19th, 2006 11:37:43 PM
Watching Ewan fly away from danger, Arminas sighs deeply.
"I cannot watch her be struck down again."
Arminas is glad that Bralin once again sides with him. Andrath too sees the folly of a direct assault against the fortress.
"We can wait until dark, or we can go back to the second part of the plan we discussed. If I use the invisibility spell of Harvest's and the potion to make myself leave no trace, I should be able to get close and find out even more. That is of course if this creature cannot see the invisible. I have heard tales of such. Regardless, I will go. If we had a way to make me move faster then the danger will be even less."
Arminas then looks around at his companions.
"Well, shall we wait or shall I go investigate? If not me, then I suppose anyone could go, I have two potions."
Harvest Monday February 20th, 2006 10:38:15 AM
Harvest Moon halts. The wisdom of investigation is undeniable.
"I have a scroll that will provide you with added speed. But it lasts no more than a minute. The spell of Invisibility lasts for two minutes. That is not long, Arminas Calaelen."
"I ... " Harvest Moon hesitates. "I have learned ways to greater speed," she begins. "I have a spell as well that will grant even more speed for an hour, but only to myself. I may be the best choice to investigate what lies within these holes in the walls of the tower up above."
"But, even before that, perhaps it might be best to approach as closely as we can as a group." Harvest returns and lays a hand upon Fyrda's shoulder. "This may mean leaving the horses in a safe place behind us, while we creep as close as we dare without revealing our presence."
Questions How far away are we now? What does the land around the area look like? Any brush to hide in?
Day's Spells Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Any Monday February 20th, 2006 11:23:22 AM
Any has suggested his approach, and none have thought it carried merit. He places his bow upon Moonshadow, keeping only his other weapons--sword,dagger, and his Lute. He hesitates over the shield, remembering the Ankhegs, but leaves it anyway. Then throwing his cloak over all, he turns to the others.
"I still believe that I can enter this keep, without spells, and spy out the lay of the land, posing as what I am--a Bard. Often I have played to the lonely castle or keep, and they are more than willing for the diversion offered by a little entertainment. And, even if they refuse me, we are no worse off than we are--I do not think they would kill a traveling troubador out of hand. Only you care for Moonshadow whilst I am gone, and I will discover what I may."
Bralin Monday February 20th, 2006 3:38:11 PM
The dwarf has nothing more to offer, and so remains silent.
Lorth Monday February 20th, 2006 5:08:34 PM
"Any, I have nothing against you trying your tactic. But will go along with whatever is decided.", Lorth says.
Harvest (2nd Illegal Post) Monday February 20th, 2006 7:55:37 PM
The lonely house sits upon the high bluff, and Harvest Moon raises a hand to shield her eyes as she surveys it from afar.
"I think there would be a greater likelihood that we may follow an attempt to scout the house while invisible with an attempt in which you present yourself as a wandering bard," she says, "than there would be if we attempted the two in reverse."
"Anthos Westar, are you certain that they would believe that you chanced upon their home, wandering bard or not? This does not appear to be a well traveled area. Perhaps they chose it for just such a reason, and are prepared to greet all with aggressive intents?"
Arminas Illegal second post d20+16=20 d20+10=16 d20+11=23 d20+10=29 d20+10=13 Monday February 20th, 2006 9:05:22 PM
"I agree with Harvest. Let us try and get as close as possible, and then we can send a scout. I would be able to look for tracks, but perhaps it is already obvious that this is where Remo has been taken. Mostly, I think we need to find a weakness in the defense of the house."
Looking at the group, he adds:
"Those of us who are more likely to succeed in moving quietly should go first."
Andrath Monday February 20th, 2006 10:38:50 PM
"Anthos, I am worried that we would lose sight of you. How would we know that you were alright, or if you had been taken prisoner? Our strength lies in numbers, and in not being seen until we are ready. Harvest, I am certain that the potion lasts for three minutes. [OOC: Invisibility potion is 2nd level spell, requiring 3rd level caster to create at a minimum, so the spell acts at 3rd level, thus three minutes.]
"Let's tie the horses here, and move a little more closely, and observe for a while. Then Harvest can cast here spell, drink the potion, and check the keep out. Just be careful not to approach too closely to any beasts, as their sense of smell may detect you."
DM Kathy Tuesday February 21st, 2006 1:37:33 AM
You decide to approach the keep as stealthily as you can. You believe you can approach a little closer, at least, before the need for extra stealth comes into play.
The terrain is rocky hills, lightly forested in scrubby pines. The road follows a bare, rocky ridge toward the building, and if you stick to it you will soon be in danger of being seen. If you leave the road, however, and make your way through the forest, you can probably get quite a bit closer.
It is rough going off the road, however, and Arminas is having some difficulty finding your way.
[OOC: Arminas, give me another Survival roll please. Also, are you leaving the horses or bringing them along with you? And what is your final plan for approaching the building?]
Any d20+8=21 d20+4=18 Tuesday February 21st, 2006 9:57:45 AM
Any bows to the requests and logic of the others, and he looks for a secure place to leave Moonshadow, and finally decides that his horse's best hope lies in being able to move around. He strips his gear from the back of Moonshadow, carefully placing what he will leave behind concealed near a boulder, or tree, off of the trail, covering all of it with the saddle blanket, and concealing it as best he can with loose branches and scrub. He marks the area with a blaze on one of the rocks near the trail. This done he bids Moonshadow to take care and asks Lorth,
"Would you please ask Tobiaz to keep an eye on my friend here?"
He then follows the group down the trail and off into the woods towards the manor, moving as quietly as possible, and keeping an eye out for trouble.
Move silently 21 Spot 18
Harvest d20+1=17 d20+13=28 d20+13=30 d20+8=24 Tuesday February 21st, 2006 10:59:50 AM
Harvest Moon nods to Andrath Silverhand. Three minutes then. She estimates the distance. With the spell of Longstrider upon her, she could easily jog over five miles in that time. ([100 feet per round with double moves] times [300 rounds] is 30000 feet or 5.68 miles.)
The little monk rubs Fyrda's side in a quiet gesture of parting. "Please, follow Tobiaz and Moonshadow," she says to the gentle elderly horse. "They will take care of you, and we will return shortly."
When the time comes, Harvest casts from the scroll and hustles up toward the house by the quickest path available, to see what she can see.
Rolls and Actions (If agreeable to all this round of posting. If not, hold these for later) Spell Failure for Invisibility Scroll 17 vs DC4 Spot 28 Listen 30 Move Silently 24
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Invisibility (Duration 3 minutes from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace???
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas d20+11=25 d20+16=30 d20+10=29 d20+13=27 d20+10=18 Tuesday February 21st, 2006 11:00:54 AM
Thrilled that they have found a wooded area to move through, Arminas is confident that they will be able to get very close. He checks for tracks as they move through the trees. Those who are in the house probably moved along the road, but it is best to be sure.
"With my elven cloak I can practically be invisible in the forest. We can decide once we get closer as to how we will proceed."
He then looks about at the group.
"At least those are my thoughts, I do not mean to lead the group."
Arminas - second illegal post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 11:02:23 AM
"Harvest, if you wish to use a potion to pass without a trace you may."
He holds a small bottle out to her.
Lorth Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:10:55 PM
Lorth attempts to instruct Tobiasz to keep the other horses in the general area, through their empathic link. He imagines the area where they are now with the mounts grazing in it, Tobiasz on the outskirts nudging the other horses back if they stray. Lorth then follows the rest of the party.
Andrath Tuesday February 21st, 2006 1:48:46 PM
Andrath watches as the mounts are dealt with, thinking how useful Lorth's horse-friend is in such a circumstance. Living in the cities and towns, Andrath never had much use for mounts, but for travelling, they are definitely useful.
The rogue moves carefully forward with the rest of the party, and warns Harvest, "Be careful not to move too quickly, or your sound may give you away."
Bralin Tuesday February 21st, 2006 8:27:19 PM
The dwarf dismounts the burro and ties it to Tobiaz's reins. Given the size of the warhorse, Bralin figures the mule will give it heed.
Arminas and Andrath both mention silence, and so Bralin is forced to belabor the obvious. "I have no skill at quiet movement. I will stay back as best as possible."
The warrior/cleric will take rearguard, giving a good 20' of space behind the next-to-last memeber of the party.
DM Kathy Wednesday February 22nd, 2006 12:17:55 AM Any leaves his mount with the watchful Tobiasz, and Lorth directs his warhorse to keep an eye on the other animals. Tobiasz seems to have things well in hand.
You begin making your way through the forest, and this time Arminas has no trouble finding a good route to follow. You see occasional animal tracks, but nothing belonging to humanoids. Probably those you pursue used the road.
Harvest is invisible, and Arminas is the next best thing in his elven cloak. The two of them and Any are able to move through the forest making little noise at all.
Not so Lorth and Bralin who come clanking in their wake. Luckily, you are still a distance from the building, but eventually you will have to decide whether the stealthy people go out ahead, or whether you all approach together.
About 100 feet from the building, your cover comes to a stop. There is nothing but open ground between yourselves and the structure, which now appears to be an old abbey or monestary. You can also see now what Ewan meant by "holes in the building"; it is a tumbledown structure well on its way to becoming a ruin. The front building has lost its roof, and broken shards are all that remain of the glass that apparantly used to be in its windows. The large wooden doors hang loosely on their hinges.
[Everybody make a Spot check. Also, those approaching the building across the open ground need to make Hide and Move Silently checks. Invisible people can skip the Hide. :) ]
Lorth d20+1=16 Wednesday February 22nd, 2006 7:30:55 AM
Lorth eyes the building (Spot: 16) then whispers, "I'll stay here in the treeline till the more stealth inclined motion me to come foward."
Harvest d20+13=27 d20+13=32 d20+8=25 Wednesday February 22nd, 2006 9:14:36 AM "I go," Harvest whispers. Then, quick as a wink, the little monk hikes her robe and hies across the open space separating the edge of the covering brush and the old ruined wall.
Craning her neck, and leading with a curious nose, she peers out from under her brown crest of hair into the tumbled down building.
Rolls and Actions Spot 27 Listen 32 Move Silently 25
Movement and Position Double Move of 100 feet to cross to the Keep.
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Invisibility (Duration 3 minutes from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Any d20+4=12 d20+6=14 d20+8=23 Wednesday February 22nd, 2006 9:56:51 AM
Any waits to see the result of Harvest's scouting. He does his best to remain concealed in the treeline, while keeping an eye on the area around. He removes his pack, and hangs it concealed in the lower limbs of a nearby tree. He hesitates a moment, but leaves his Lute with the pack. Thus divested of his bulkier gear, he draws his weapons to be ready for what may come.
As he watches for any sign of the invisible Harvest returning, he looks around the clearing. What sort of monastery was this? To what God was it devoted? Though never devoutly religious, Any thinks of his chosen protector Domi, and hopes that he will bless the groups efforts this day.
Any (supplemental) Wednesday February 22nd, 2006 9:58:17 AM
OOC Sorry forgot to include my rolls
Spot 12 Hide 14 Move Silently 23
Arminas d20+10=28 d20+16=36 Wednesday February 22nd, 2006 11:28:23 AM
Arminas watches as Harvest slips from the trees and approaches the building. Sitting at the edge of the treeline, he holds his bow ready.
Actions Spot 28 Hide 36 (perfect 20)
Bralin d20+5=10 Wednesday February 22nd, 2006 11:29:56 AM
Bralin wordlessly waits, and watches. [Spot 10]
DM Kathy Thursday February 23rd, 2006 1:39:29 AM
The others wait at the treeline, while the invisible Harvest approaches the building, making little noise. Indeed, the rest of the party soon lose track of exactly where the little monk might be.
Harvest and Arminas both see that there is a very faint path that leads around to the western wall. Perhaps there is another door over there.
Meanwhile, you see or hear nothing. For those back at the treeline, it is nearly impossible to tell where Harvest is or what she is doing.
Lorth Thursday February 23rd, 2006 8:33:36 AM
Lorth waits, as quietly as possible.
Any d20+4=14 d20+6=16 Thursday February 23rd, 2006 9:47:55 AM
It is difficult for Any to stand here,waiting to see what will come of this scouting foray of Harvest's. He is surprized to note that he is nervous becuase it is her doing this. He wishes that he could sing, or whistle, or do something other than just stay here hidden--but that is all he does.
He continues to watch the building and its surroundings, both for any sign of trouble, and for the return of Harvest.
Spot 14 Hide 16
Harvest d20+13=24 d20+13=21 d20+8=14 Thursday February 23rd, 2006 10:04:19 AM
A trail. Faint. Used infrequently. But used none the less. A thing to investigate.
Later.
Harvest Moon enters through the front of the old building, stopping between the two loosely hanging wooden doors.
The front of the building. Harvest examines all viewpoints from which one might spy upon the approach from which the rest of the Swords of Light must cross to approach. Up above. She raises a hand to shield her eyes. Are there points from which one might hide in watch?
Only when convinced that the party might cross without detection, does the brown girl return and whisper to her companions that all is clear.
Rolls and Actions Spot 24 Listen 21 Move Silently 14
Movement and Position Depends on what's there.
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Invisibility (Duration 3 minutes from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas d20+13=18 d20+16=26 d20+10=25 d20+10=21 Thursday February 23rd, 2006 11:20:47 AM
Arminas sits and waits quietly, they have a plan, and unless Harvest is gone more than two minutes he does not worry.
Looking over at the building, he spots a faint path.
I hope Harvest sees the path.
While he waits, he drinks down his potion to allow him to pass without a trace.
I suppose if this predator is as fearful as Ewan says, I should try and hide my scent.
When Harvest returns and whispers that it is clear, Arminas whispers to the others:
"I have seen a path, I will check for tracks. Come when I motion that it is clear. Try though to be quiet. Harvest, come with me."
He looks directly at Lorth and Bralin, hoping to emphasize his point.
Arminas then moves as quietly as possible to the area near the path, hiding among the stones at the edge of the building. Carefully, he looks for the tracks that have become familiar.
DM Kathy Friday February 24th, 2006 1:48:25 AM
Cautiously, Harvest approaches the structure. The eerie silence continues. She steps between the broken, hanging front doors.
The moment she sets foot on the flagged stone floor of the interior, an alarm sounds! The unearthly keening seems impossibly loud after the silence of your approach.
More ominous still is the roar that responds to the wailing alarm. It sounds as if it comes from the throat of some beast--not nearly far enough away. It is a sound of rage, and hunger.
Lorth Friday February 24th, 2006 7:57:41 AM
(I am supposing that we can hear the alarm) Lorth hears the alarm them looks to his friends and says quickly, "We should probably go to Harvest's aid seems the time for snaeaking is over." Lorth moves to the tower as soon as any of his friends make a move to do the same.
Harvest d20+13=17 d20+13=23 d20+8=14 Friday February 24th, 2006 8:09:20 AM
The alarm sounds! And, for a moment, Harvest Moon stands frozen. Exposed in the doorway of the old building.
Then greater wisdom returns to her a calmer state of mind. The situation is ideal. The alarm will call all within the building. And she, with her companions hidden in the brush, will now get a good look at just what the building holds. The attackers of the Envoy's party, no doubt. And those who threaten the farmland.
Unseen, Harvest covers the ground between the doorway and the edge of the brush as only she can.
"Did you hear the roar?" she asks unnecessarily. "Be ready. I believe it may emerge soon."
Rolls and Actions Spot 17 Listen 23 Move Silently 14
Movement and Position Back at the brushline.
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Invisibility (Duration 3 minutes from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas d20+16=23 d20+9=27 d20+9=23 d8+3=8 d8+3=5 Friday February 24th, 2006 9:45:16 AM
Arminas sits, hidden in the forest edge. When the alarm goes off, he tenses. Yet the spells upon Harvest should keep her safe, he waits a moment longer.
The only evidence that Harvest has made it back is the sound of Harvest's voice. Arminas smiles, she is safe.
His bow already in front of him, he draws back an arrow, and awaits the creature. As soon as it shows itself, he lets an arrow fly.
OOC: Arminas does not sit directly in front of the group, he sits off to the side about 20 feet so that he remains undetected if the group is seen.
[Actions] Pass without a trace - 1 hour Hide 23 Arrow attacks if needed: 1st arrow Hit AC 27 Damage 8 2nd arrow Hit AC 23 Damage 5
Any d20+7=8 Friday February 24th, 2006 9:58:04 AM
Any is starteled to suddenly hear the wailing of an alarm, its noise piercing the silence which had preceded it, jarring the nerves of the half-elf. At Lorth's words, Any is preparing to charge the building, when suddenly he hears Harvest's own voice, she having returned quickly at the sounding of the alarm.
Then Harvest's words sink in, whatever the beast is, it appears it is near and on the way. Any begins a complex chant, and upon its completion his image begins to shift before the eyes of all around.
His mind is still upon the nature of this foe, and he tries to recall without success where he has heard of a beast like this.
His weapons are out and ready, and he waits for what will come.
Knowledge 8 (a natural 1!)
Spells:
Blur 4 minutes
Bralin Saturday February 25th, 2006 11:47:38 AM
Again, the dwarf agrees with Arminas.
"Wait," he cautions Lorth. "Harvest is not visible. Let us see what emerges in response to the alarm."
Andrath (AC20, 37/37 hp) d20+13=32 d20+13=23 d20+17=30 Sunday February 26th, 2006 7:22:17 PM
Hearing the alarm and the animal roar, Andrath turns to the others and says, "Wait here, and I will try to see what has happened to Harvest. If I call out, come running. I just hope that she is OK."
Then Andrath uses whatever cover he can find to make his way cautiously towards the fallen-down keep.
Hide 32 Move silently (probably not necessary with the alarm and the roaring, lol) 23 Spot 30
DM Kathy d100=78 d100=75 Sunday February 26th, 2006 11:45:43 PM
When the alarm sounds, Lorth holds himself ready to rush to Harvest's aid, and Bralin stays where he is, waiting to see what will happen next.
Any racks his brains, but can't think what kind of creature this might be. He, too, holds himself ready.
Andrath begins to move cautiously toward the building. He stays low, but there's really no cover to be had; he's pretty exposed out there.
Harvest begins moving back to the group. They are 100 feet away, farther than a double move, so she needs to run to reach them. She passes Andrath on the way, then warns the others of the roar she heard.
You hear the roar again, and now you see...something inside the building. It's difficult to make out; the light in there isn't good and you're looking at it through the shattered abbey windows 100 feet away. It's about the size of a horse, and it seems to have wings. And you're pretty sure it has more than one head.
When he sees it, Arminas lets two arrows fly. Both strike cleanly, drawing another roar of pain from the beast.
[OOC: The creature is now in shadows. Any ranged attacks have a 20% miss chance due to concealment. Anybody making a ranged attack, please also roll the miss chance.]
Lorth Monday February 27th, 2006 7:46:08 AM
Lorth has no ranged attacks and waits impatiently for the sign to close the distance and attack. If Bralin goes Lorth follows.
Harvest -OoC Monday February 27th, 2006 8:24:03 AM
Kathy, Harvest has a Landspeed of 40. Currently Longstrider is active. That makes a double move 100 feet.
Arminas (AC 22, HP 33/33) d20+9=10 d20+9=10 d20+16=32 Monday February 27th, 2006 9:40:30 AM
Arminas is elated, no better situation could have occurred. The predator that has so frightened Ewan is now the prey.
Arminas readies more arrows, when he sees that Any is moving towards the building, and Lorth prepares to do the same.
"Hold, let us do what we can from here. Can anyone light the inside of the building from here?"
Arminas then lets two more arrows fly. This time, the lack of lighting causes some problems, and the arrows clatter off the shattered windows.
Actions Pass without a trace - 1 hour (minus two rounds) Hide 32 Arrow attacks if needed: 1st arrow Hit AC 10 (nat. 1) 2nd arrow Hit AC 10 (nat. 1)
Any (20AC, 20/20 HP) Monday February 27th, 2006 9:55:07 AM
At Arminas' request Any springs into action. He begins to sing, and as he does so, he steps to Arminas' side and touches the arrow that he is drawing from his quiver. It begins to glow with a soft white light.
"Do you take care to put this one inside the building , or better yet into our foe--it should give us the light we need to see more clearly."
He then changes his song into one of encouragement for his friends and allies, his voice rising into the morning air.
His weapons are ready for what may come.
Spells:
Blur Inspire courage- Bardic song +1 to hit, +1 will save
2 0-level, 4 2nd-level, 1 3rd level remaining
Bralin Monday February 27th, 2006 11:43:33 AM
Bralin waits, more patiently than the paladin.
"If Arminas can draw it out to open ground, we gain the advantage," he murmurs to Lorth.
Harvest Monday February 27th, 2006 12:12:56 PM
"Andrath Silverhand! Please come back!" Harvest whispers, her voice hard within her own ears. But what is done is done. If the elf has sense he will use his exposed position to draw attention away from the main group allowing a surprise of sorts.
From her pack, she draws two wands.
"When the time comes, I will conjure magic shields," she whispers to the rest of the Swords of Light still within the brushline.
Rolls and Actions Draw Wand of Shield Draw Wand of Ray of Enfeeblement
Movement and Position Back at the brushline.
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Invisibility (Duration 3 minutes from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Andrath (AC20, 37/37 hp) d20+9=17 d100=72 d8+4=10 Monday February 27th, 2006 9:19:47 PM
"Harvest, could I have one of those shield spells?" the elf asks, as he draws his bow and shoots an arrow at the beast in the shadows. Once his shot is released, he backs up 5' towards the rest of the party. [OOC: Miss is 72%, so a chance to hit, Hit AC17, for 10 hp damage.]
[OOC: How far is Andrath from the keep and the beast?]
DM Kathy Tuesday February 28th, 2006 1:02:45 AM Lorth and Bralin hold their ground, waiting for the beast to approach.
Arminas fires two more shots, but they are rushed and miss badly.
Any casts light on one of Arminas's arrows, and instructs the ranger to fire it into the building. [OOC: casting a spell and starting bard song are both standard actions, so you can only do one of them this round. You can start bard song next round if you like.]
Harvest draws two wands and prepares to use them. [OOC: The building interior is shadowy illumination for everybody, although those with low-light vision can see farther into it.]
Andrath is about 30 feet from the group, and about 70 feet from the building. [That assumes you took a double move, moving at half-speed because you were also trying to hide and move silently] He fires a shot at the beast, but his arrow does not seem to penetrate the creature's skin.
The entire party is waiting for the beast to emerge into the bright light, but it appears that--for now, at least--that isn't going to happen. The creature roars again, and you can see glimpses of it as it moves about, but it does not emerge.
Lorth Tuesday February 28th, 2006 7:15:21 AM
Again Lorth waits. But he is ready to move in an instant.
Any (20AC , 20/20HP) Tuesday February 28th, 2006 9:47:00 AM
Any's voice sounds as he sings a song that lifts the spirits of those around him. He realizes that if this creature does not come out into the light, the chances of defeating it from here are slim. He switches his weapon choice to his bow, and prepares to join the others in the long range attack.
Harvest d20+13=33 d20+13=33 Tuesday February 28th, 2006 10:05:42 AM
"What an unusual beast," Harvest Moon comments, as the creature makes no move to exit the building and close for an attack. Her alarm turns to curiosity.
"Perhaps there are men in there who have convinced it to remain for the moment. Perhaps it is tethered."
"I am ready with a Shield spell, Andrath Silverhand," Harvest replies. As she peers with curiosity into the dimly lit portal and the beast beyond. She eyes the beast with care for signs of domestication, and then turns an eye to the building searching the shadows for the men who must surely be there somewhere.
"But it may be possible that we will not need such protections."
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Invisibility (Duration 3 minutes from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas (AC 22, HP 33/33) d20+10=16 d20+10=13 d20+16=22 Tuesday February 28th, 2006 10:41:22 AM
A tethered monster? Perhaps if this were a noble animal, Arminas would have a second thought on firing arrows at it. Monsters though, what better way to deal with one?
Again, he lets two arrows fly. Hopefully, the song of the bard will make them fly true. Yet he misses twice again. Perhaps the gods conspire against him. He looks at his bow and checks to make sure his arrows are fletched properly. All looks good. Perhaps I just need to concentrate.
Actions Pass without a trace - 1 hour (minus 3 rounds) Hide 22 Arrow attacks: 1st arrow Hit AC 16 2nd arrow Hit AC 13
Any 2nd post Tuesday February 28th, 2006 11:53:53 AM
OOC Did Arminas' first arrow at least enter the building? If so, we should at least be able to see by the light it provides.
Bralin Tuesday February 28th, 2006 9:34:50 PM
Bralin continues to wait.
Andrath (AC20, 37/37 hp) Tuesday February 28th, 2006 10:22:12 PM
"Arminas, stop shooting. This does not make any sense. That animal must be chained up in there. Why have an alarm, and then have a chained up animal?"
He whispers quietly, "Harvest, are you there? Did you see any sign of anyone before you hurried back here? I presume you are still invisible; can you go back and have another look around. The alarm and the roaring don't seem to have caused any danger to occur. We need to know what is going on in that tower."
Then Andrath moves back towards the party, to wait and see what happens next.
DM Kathy Wednesday March 1st, 2006 1:05:18 AM Any begins his bard song and readies his bow. Lorth and Bralin continue to wait.
Harvest speculates that the beast may be chained. Andrath, too, thinks this is a possibility, and returns to the group.
Arminas fires two more arrows, but is still unable to hit the beast. One of the arrows, however, is the one with the Light spell cast on it, and it serves to illuminate part of the building's interior.
By this new light source, you finally get a decent look at this creature. Your only view is through the broken windows, so you cannot see its feet or legs. You can see, however, that it has large, leathery wings and three heads: a horned goat, a maneless lion, and a fierce dragon.
When it is lit up, the lion head gives a snarling roar, and the beast moves back--away from the windows, and the light.
Lorth Wednesday March 1st, 2006 7:28:15 AM
Lorth waits for Harvest to scout again. His shield and sword at the ready, although he relaxes his stance a bit as it seems he will be waiting sometime.
(OOC: Nect tuesday will be my last post for 2 weeks, as I am going on vacation. Would anyone be willing to post for Lorth?)
Any d20+7=19 d20+6=25 d6+2=4 Wednesday March 1st, 2006 9:57:40 AM
Three heads? A lion, a goat, a dragon? Now Any is sure he has heard of this creature. (Knowledge check 19, this should allow me to remember this info)
"This is a Chimera, an evil construct, beware of the dragon head, it's breath weapon wil be that of it's dragon color. That is all I can remember, and it is no wonder it took me so long to recall, for the lay from where this information comes is very old, and I learned it in the original draconic tongue. This is no natural beast, it is someone's perversion of nature. Do not hold your arrows friend Arminas, to end this things life would be a mercy, and a boon to the natural world."
Any then matches words to deed, and fires an arrow at the creature (hit AC 25 for 4 HP DAM).
Harvest Wednesday March 1st, 2006 10:56:59 AM
"Very well, Andrath Silverhand. I will approach closer once again." There is, however, little sound of her movement. "Though the creature appears upset at our approach," her voice whispers, still nearby, "It does not appear disposed to attack beyond the bounds of the building. Perhaps, we can devise a safe approach. Or subdue it from afar."
Harvest's voice again. But this time a nonsense word. A wooden wand becomes visible as it drops to the ground.
"I have linked Andrath Silverhand and myself with a spell of Message. If I discover anything of note, I will whisper to him."
Request Can we have a map of the visible area so that we can lay out an attack? Place that need to be secured or scouted before we commit an approach, etc.
Rolls and Actions Draw Wand Cast Message on Self - Link to Andrath Drop Wand
Movement and Position Back at the brushline.
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Invisibility (Duration 3 minutes from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas (AC 22, HP 33/33) d20+10=21 d20+10=12 d8+3=9 d20+16=28 Wednesday March 1st, 2006 11:07:17 AM
Arminas looks between Any and Andrath, who have conflicting advice. His own feelings though match those of Any's, to kill such a beast would mercifully end its life.
"You are mistaken Andrath, this is not an animal. It is a cruel twist of nature, and should not exist."
Arminas then lets two more arrows fly.
Actions Pass without a trace - 1 hour (minus 4 rounds) Hide 28 Arrow attacks: 1st arrow Hit AC 21 Damage 9 2nd arrow Hit AC 12
DM Kathy Thursday March 2nd, 2006 12:49:40 AM
When the creature is revealed, Any at last remembers what he has heard of it. It is called a Chimera, and it is both vicious and cunning.
Any and Arminas send arrows after the retreating beast, and both score hits.
Harvest decides to approach again. The alarm is still wailing, and provides a good cover for her movement. Before she goes, she casts a Message spell so that she can communicate at a distance with Andrath.
[OOC: I've been meaning to do a map for some time, but it's hard to fit everything in when you're working 12-hour days. Fortunately, that project is over with and I hope to have some time to complete the map very soon. In the meantime, please bear with me.]
Lorth Thursday March 2nd, 2006 7:31:49 AM
Lorth who feels a bit helpless, waits some more, while Harvest goes to investigate. He has never heard of a Chimera but takes heed of Any's warnings.
Bralin Thursday March 2nd, 2006 8:58:29 AM
Bralin has never heard of a chimera either, but any creature with three heads, and one a dragon, must be a worthy foe.
The dwarf continues to wait patiently as Arminas and Any continue to annoy the beast with missile fire. Eventually the creature, or its captors, will tire of this and emerge.
Any d20+4=17 d20+2=22 Thursday March 2nd, 2006 9:48:46 AM
The Chimera has moved back away from the window where Arminas and Any can no longer get a shot at it. Any moves, hoping that by so doing he can not only see the beast, and shoot again, but that he can betteer cover Harvest's further scouting of the creature. He stops singing for the present, but the feeling of hope given by his song lingers in the air around the party.
His eyes and ears are alert for any movement within the edifice. He is also watching the air, as he warns the others,
"The ancient song tells that this beast can fly, however clumsily, so ware an attack from the air."
Spot 17 listen 22
Inspire courage from Bardic song duration 5 rounds Blur Duration 4 rounds from sounding of alarm
Harvest d20+13=15 d20+13=33 d20+8=27 Thursday March 2nd, 2006 10:10:57 AM
"I go."
Mindful of the warning from Anthos Westar, Harvest again crosses the open area to the front of the building. With nearly inaudible subvocal whispers, she communicates all that she sees to Andrath Silverhand.
Movement and Position 100 foot double move to a safe place at the front of the building from which Harvest can see the Chimera and the entire interior of the building but not be attacked. ^_^
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Invisibility (Duration 3 minutes from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas (AC 22, HP 33/33) d20+10=27 d20+10=12 d8+3=5 d20+16=30 Thursday March 2nd, 2006 7:15:43 PM
Arminas can still see the creature (I think) and fires two more arrows at it. The first hits while the second goes wide.
Actions Pass without a trace - 1 hour (minus 5 rounds) Hide 30 Arrow attacks: 1st arrow Hit AC 27 Damage 5 2nd arrow Hit AC 12
Andrath Thursday March 2nd, 2006 10:02:34 PM
Andrath waits with the rest, to see what Harvest has to say. "Arminas, can you send your eagle to fly around the other side of the keep, and see if there is anything alive that we may not have noticed?"
DM Kathy Friday March 3rd, 2006 1:44:53 AM Lorth and Bralin continue to wait patiently for the beast to emerge--or for more intel from Harvest.
Andrath suggests that Ewan might be of some help--but Arminas sent her away earlier.
Arminas and Any both look to fire shots, but the creature has moved out of sight.
Harvest approaches the front of the structure. Rather than walk through the door, she goes to a window, and cautiously looks through.
The bottom of the window is nearly 5 feet off the ground, so you have to stand on your toes to see through it. Most of the glass is broken out, though, so your view is unobstructed.
The large building is mostly taken up by a single large room with a vaulted ceiling. There are benches down its length and some sort of alter at one end. You speculate that this must have been the chapel. The far wall, opposite where you stand, has tumbled down in a couple of places; there are large openings into what looks like a courtyard. You can see that other buildings also face this same courtyard, and you get a glimpse of rows of arches that seem to be some kind of walkway.
Occasional movement indicates that the Chimera has retreated to the courtyard area, although it seems to be sticking to the shadows.
Harvest Friday March 3rd, 2006 8:20:46 AM "Andrath Silverhand, the ... chimera has retreated into an inner courtyard. It may be possible for the group to approach and attack it from outside the door."
"This appears, perhaps an old monastery. Within the confines of these walls, it may be possible to entrap it within a web. I can also set the door afire, to discourage it from coming out of the doorway to attack us."
"I am not certain, however, whether it can fly up out of the inner courtyard, and attack us from above."
From her pack, Harvest removes two flasks of oil.
Question Do we have any idea of the colour of the Dragon Head?
Movement and Position Under the Window
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Invisibility (Duration 3 minutes from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Lorth Friday March 3rd, 2006 11:12:58 AM
Lorth waits...
Any d20+8=9 d20+2=6 d20+4=6 Friday March 3rd, 2006 12:20:52 PM
OOC assuming Andrath passes along Harvest's message.
Any responds to Harvest's call by quickly and quietly moving up to the building. He still can't see her, so just picks a window to approach and look through. Unfortunately, as he gets near the building he stumbles on a lose rock, and the resulting effort to keep his balance causes his weapons to ring against the stone of the building. He winces at the sound, then looks sheepishly around at the others.
Inspire courage 4 more rounds Blur 4 rounds from sound of alarm
Arminas (AC 22, HP 33/33) d20+13=33 d20+9=19 d20+16=34 d20+10=28 Friday March 3rd, 2006 12:46:16 PM
Arminas moves as quietly as possible towards the building (perfect 20). He looks for a place where he can climb to an opening, perhaps a place where the stones have fallen higher than the window area. Carefully, he climbs trying to get a better view of the interior. Once to an opening, he looks carefully at the area that separates them from the beast. Perhaps there is a trap laid, one he does not want to stumble into.
Actions Pass without a trace - 1 hour (minus 6 rounds) Move silently 33 Climb 19 Hide 34 Spot 28
Any (2nd Illegal Post) Sunday March 5th, 2006 10:05:16 AM
Any had moved straight from his last position to K-9 on the map.
Andrath (AC20, 37/37 hp) d20+13=18 d20+13=26 d20+13=31 d20+17=20 Sunday March 5th, 2006 7:31:31 PM
Andrath moves up with the rest of the party, wincing at Any's failed attempt to sneak up to the building.
He whispers, "I am going to check around the left side of the building, Arminas, you move around the right side. The rest of you, keep moving through the building. If we can attract that thing back into the building, we can take away its advantage of flying. If it stays in the courtyard, pepper it with arrows. Be careful and don't group up; I expect the dragon head will have some sort of breath weapon."
Then the rogue moves forward to the left side of the broken-down building.
Hide 18 Move Silently 26 Search 31 Spot 20
DM Kathy Monday March 6th, 2006 12:01:03 AM Harvest continues feeding information to Andrath, and retrieves two flasks of oil.
[OOC: Sorry, you had asked about the dragon head before and I spaced on it. It was a little hard to tell, but the head looked dark--a dark gray, it seemed. You can deduce that it definitely wasn't white, and is unlikely to be red. There may have been a tinge of blue or green that you didn't see, but black is the most likely candidate at this point.]
Arminas and Andrath approach the building stealthily. Any makes a lot more noise as he approaches, and, since the alarm has stopped, it sounds very loud.
[OOC: I'm assuming that people didn't take a -5 penalty to Hide/Move Silently at full speed? You would therefore move at half speed, and if you double moved, you would be able to go your full movement. For most people, that's 30 feet. Let me know if I'm mistaken about this. If not, then Any, Andrath, and Arminas are 70 feet from the building, with Lorth and Bralin still 100 feet away.]
Andrath proposes to check the west side of the building, and asks Arminas to check the east side.
Lorth and Bralin stay where they are.
Lorth Monday March 6th, 2006 8:21:04 AM
Since Any has gone to the building and made plenty of noise, Lorth also moves up to the building, he makes sure to use the wall for cover between him and the creature. He makes NO attempt to peek through windows or cracks to see it.
(OOC: tommorow will be my last post for 2 weeks, I will be on vacation and not sure if I'll have internet access from the cruise boat. If anyone would like to play Lorth please let me know)
Harvest d20+2=12 Monday March 6th, 2006 10:54:32 AM "I will attempt to close one of the doors, Andrath Silverhand." Harvest gives a small grunt as she puts her back to the old and sagging door. "With the door half closed we will be able to pass through. And perhaps with the size of the beast, its passage will be hindered."
Rolls and Actions STR 12
Movement and Position 9O or 9P depending on success of the STR check.
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Invisibility (Duration 3 minutes from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas (AC 22, HP 33/33) d20+16=20 d20+13=27 d20+10=25 d20+10=16 d20+10=18 Monday March 6th, 2006 11:30:48 AM
Arminas decides to take Andrath's suggestion, even though that will leave him vulnerable. As quietly as possible, he slips around the East side of the building, keeping to the shadows. He leaves no footprints and has no scent that will give him away. Perhaps he can remain unseen.
Any (20 AC, 20/20 HP) d20+4=22 d20+8=24 d20+3=22 Monday March 6th, 2006 12:03:43 PM
Any recovers himself after his stumble, and moves up along the building. He goes to assist Harvest in attempting to close the doors. He speaks quietly as he approaches, so as not to run into her. As he gets closer, he looks in through the window near the door to see if he can spot the Chimera.
Spot 22 move silently 24 strength 22
Spells:
Inspire Courage +1 hit +1 will save --5 rounds from end of bardic song Blur 4 rounds from sound of alarm
Andrath Monday March 6th, 2006 9:43:16 PM
Andrath waves back for Bralin to approach as well, and continues to snead towards the left side of the building.
DM Kathy Tuesday March 7th, 2006 1:09:16 AM
[Since everyone continued to move silently and assume they reached the building, we'll assume several rounds have passed.]
Any steps up to a window and sees much the same view Harvest did. The interior of the large building is mostly taken up by a single, high-ceilinged space with benches down the length and an altar at one end. The opposite wall is broken and tumbled down in several places. Beyond it, you can catch a glimpse of a courtyard area. There seem to be other buildings that also open onto the courtyard.
Andrath slips around to the west side of the building, where the faint path leads. You discover another building there, adjacent to the large building. There is a small, unassuming door facing you.
Arminas works his way around to the other side of the building. You see a couple more buildings over here, both of which seem to face some kind of courtyard.
Some general notes about this place: all of the buildings are in poor repair, as if they have been uninhabited for some time. You can kind of see the courtyard, but you can't see it very well. You don't know how big it is, or what other buildings might be around it.
Lorth and Bralin approach the building with no attempt at stealth, and take up positions where they can't see through the windows.
Harvest is trying to shut the outer doors. You quickly realize that this isn't a matter of strength; you can move the doors easily. Getting them to stay put is another matter. No sooner do you push one shut than in swings open again. If there was ever a latch on these things, there isn't one now, and the hinges sag in such a way that the doors really want to be open.
You all can occasionally hear the creature moving or snorting, but you don't see it right now. The interior of the large building is still lit up, thanks to the light arrow that was shot in there earlier.
Lorth Tuesday March 7th, 2006 8:19:40 AM
Lorth stays low out of sight, ready to rush to aid any of his friends that might get into trouble.
Any d20+4=12 Tuesday March 7th, 2006 9:56:37 AM
Any moves over next to Harvest (V-17), looking for a rock as he goes. Using this impromptu rock wedge, he helps Harvest block the doors partially closed. He can hear the beast moving around inside, but is still wary of the surroundings, watching for anything unusual.
Spot 12
Blur and Bardic song are gone
Any (second post) Tuesday March 7th, 2006 10:12:13 AM
OOC I think those spells are gone, I was judging from time passage. Please let me know time remaining.
Harvest Tuesday March 7th, 2006 10:21:52 AM
"Thank you, Anthos Westar. I do not think the door will keep the ... chimera ... from exiting. But it should give it pause."
When the door appears blocked and stable, Harvest enters the doorway again. A dark amber liquid flows from out of thin air and covers the area behind the closed door.
Rolls and Actions Pour oil onto floor at 16V
Movement and Position 16W
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Invisibility (Duration 3 minutes from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas (AC 22, HP 33/33) d20+13=14 d20+16=29 d20+10=16 d20+10=18 Tuesday March 7th, 2006 11:24:43 AM
Arminas attempts to remain silent as he sneaks around the East side of the building. However, a small dry stick unseen by Arminas snaps as he steps upon it. The sound sends shivers down his spine.
I sound like a stupid dwarf, I must be more careful.
Deciding that since the sound probably has given him away, he moves a little faster to get a chance to peak around the corner and into the courtyard. His peers carefully around the corner of the building into the courtyard, keeping his body shielded by the building.
Bralin d20+5=18 Tuesday March 7th, 2006 4:45:54 PM
Axe in hand, Bralin takes a step to move beside Lorth [M17] and look through the nearby window. He looks about for some kind of movement or something that will give away the position of the beast. [Darkvision 60']
[Spot 18]
Andrath (AC20, 37/37 hp) d20+12=15 d20+13=19 Tuesday March 7th, 2006 7:28:46 PM
Andrath whispers to Harvest, "There is another building blocking my passage along the west wall. There is a door here, and I am going to try to open it."
The rogue quietly approaches the door [OOC: at G10-11] and puts his ear to it, trying to hear any sound from inside.
Listen 15 Move silently 19
DM Kathy Wednesday March 8th, 2006 12:33:11 AM Any and Harvest manage to wedge the doors shut. Harvest pours oil into the building.
Arminas moves to the end of the building and peeks around the corner. You get a clearer look the courtyard area. You can see that there are walkways consisting of a series of arches, which connect the buildings. Under the arches is a shadowy area that's difficult to see into. You are pretty sure, though, that you see something large headed toward you. Which is unfortunate, because you weren't as quiet getting here as you would have liked.
Bralin steps up to one of the windows and looks through. With your Darkvision, you can also make out the courtyard area, and the walkway arches going from building to building. And just as you look, you catch a glimpse of the Chimera moving past the building, toward the east edge where Arminas went.
Andrath, meanwhile, is examining the smaller door. You listen, but can hear no sound in the room beyond. You do hear, however, the sound of a large creature hurrying across the courtyard away from you.
Lorth remains where he is, ready to assist wherever needed.
Bralin Wednesday March 8th, 2006 7:58:39 AM "WARE ARMINAS! TIS ON YOUR LEFT!" the dwarf bellows.
Bralin sets off at a dead run toward the eastern side of the building. [Run 60' to Z17]
Arminas (sub post) d20+10=27 d20+13=19 d20+10=15 d20+16=30 Wednesday March 8th, 2006 9:46:52 AM
Arminas quickly spots the creature moving towards him, and if he hadn't Bralin's shout would certainly have alerted him.
Stupid Dwarf, making all that noise. At least he means well.
He contemplates quickly letting two arrows fly at this creature, but decides discretion is the better part of valor in this instance.
He moves as quickly and as quietly as possible back to where the others in th party are located. Better to face this monster as a unified team than one on one. (location Y-17)
OOC If Arminas feels that the monster is too close for him to make this run, he will simply move 10' away from the building (AB-12) and drop and cover with his elven cloak.
Actions Pass without a trace - 1 hour (minus 11 rounds?) Move silently 19 Hide 30 Spot 27 Listen 19
[ Edited by Al to fix the Italic tags ]
Harvest d20+1=9 Wednesday March 8th, 2006 9:47:08 AM
"WARE ARMINAS! TIS ON YOUR LEFT!
Left? Arminas? Harvest Moon turns from the oil upon the floor. Without thought or hesitation, the brown girl draws a scroll from her haversack and quickly reads from the contents. As the words fade from the parchement, she points at a space just outside the broken north wall, and a mass of sticky web blooms to fill the area.
Rolls and Actions Caster Level Check 9 (vs DC3) Cast Web from Scroll (Centered at 9U) Reflex vs DC12 to avoid being caught. See Web Spell for movement restrictions.
Movement and Position Draw scroll as move action 16W
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Invisibility (Duration 3 minutes from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Web Center 9U (Duration 10 minutes from post Tuesday March 7th, 2006 11:33:11 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Any d20+4=22 d20+2=19 d20+6=14 Wednesday March 8th, 2006 9:56:56 AM
Any watches with some trepidation as Harvest moves into the building. Though he does not see her, he does see her oil flask appear as if from nowhere to cast oil along the front of the closed door. When Bralin suddenly shouts a warning to Arminas, Any quickly reacts. Stepping to the corner of the building where Arminas has gone, Any quickly peers around the corner to see what he can see. His bow is ready, and if necessary, he will cover Arminas from this position.
It seems that their hope of keeping the creature inside the building, or courtyard, is going to be in vain.
OOC I still do not know if my Blur spell is still in effect. Bardic song is definitely gone.
Spells
Blur 4 minutes from sound of Alarm
Spot 22 Listen 19 Hide 14
Andrath (AC20, 37/37 hp) Wednesday March 8th, 2006 9:10:36 PM
Hearing the shout from Bralin, Andrath abandons his door and runs around the side of the building, drawing his shortsword as he moves. [OOC: Andrath runs to the square that Bralin just left, M17.]
DM Kathy d20+7=19 3d8(6+4+7)=17 Thursday March 9th, 2006 1:37:45 AM Bralin shouts a warning to Arm and sprints to the end of the building. [Ordinarily you can't run through occupied squares, but I'm going to allow it this time; you're in a pretty open area.]
Arminas hears the warning and reminds himself that his friend means well. He retreats around to the front of the building.
Harvest abandons her oil-pouring project and instead retrieves a scroll and casts a spell. Hundreds of strands of spider silk instantly fill the walkway area and spill into the ruined chapel.
Any moves to the corner of the building and stands ready with an arrow. [You've still got a little over 3 minutes on the Blur spell.]
Andrath leaves his door and moves around the front of the building.
A roar of rage greets the arrival of the web, and you can only guess that Harvest's aim with the sticky mass was accurate. The beast is not held immobile by the web [Reflex save 19], but it has at least stopped where you can see it.
Rather than trying to move out of the web, however, it simply turns its dragon head toward Harvest and unleashes its breath weapon! A 40-foot line of acid streams toward the monk. Harvest takes 17 points of damage! [Reflex save DC 17 for half.]
Harvest (AC22, HP 34/34) d20+7=16 d20+7=19 d20+6=17 d6+1=3 Thursday March 9th, 2006 10:36:51 AM
The wave of burning acid strikes full on. Harvest Moon, caught in the blast, turns to present a narrow profile to the deadly stream of acid. She feels the first stinging drops, and drops into a crouch. The acid flies harmlessly over her head.
"YOU ARE BAD!!!" With narrow eyes burning with fury, the small brown girl reaches to her pack for an alchemist fire. Ignite the web and burn this creature. "YOU'RE BAD!!!"
"Commitment is strength, Little Boo." The words within her head speak with Pasix's voice. The words are calm and even, presented in his ever reasoning tone. "Commitment is the foundation of your house. Consider your commitment to Solonn and to Alemi. You have placed your feet upon their path."
Instead of a flask, Harvest Moon's hand comes back with a wand. A word from Harvest, and a dark beam cuts the air of the small abbey, lancing in the direction of the many headed beast.
With a greater calm, the small brown girl now visible, steps back out room and into the light.
Rolls and Actions Reflex 16 Reflex 19 /No Damage from Evasion (Reroll with Hero Point) Touch Attack 17 Damage -3 STR
Movement and Position Draw Wand as move action Cast Ray of Enfeeblement from Wand 5-foot step to 17W
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Web Center 9U (Duration 10 minutes from post Tuesday March 7th, 2006 11:33:11 PM) Ray of Enfeeblement (Duration 1 minute from post Thursday March 9th, 2006 12:37:45 AM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Bralin (ac 21, 52/52 hp, Divine Favor 1/10) Thursday March 9th, 2006 1:37:12 PM
Bralin turns the corner and notes Arminas coming back the other way. The dwarf slows down and cautiously advances halfway to the other side of the building. [Move 20' to AA13]
Then he pauses for a moment, invoking the tattoo underneath his armor. The pause should also allow for a coordinated attack. [Brahmah Tattoo - Divine Favor]
Arminas and Any d20+8=26 d6=1 Thursday March 9th, 2006 3:50:20 PM
OOC I lost power today at work, so could not post earlier. Since the actions these two will take are similar, I decided to post them together today.
Arminas and Any hear Harvest's cry of pain and annoyance.
"You are Bad!"
Both of them, with Arminas in the lead rush through the door to see what has happened. Arminas steps in to the left (V-15) of Harvest, raises his bow and fires at the Dragon head of the Chimera (even with this move, should have time for one attack this round). Then to avoid bunching up the group for another simialr attack, he moves further away from the group (T-16)
Any, acarcely a step behind Arminas, steps towards the small girl,
"How can I help?! Where is the injury?"
Seeing the spreading acid burn, any quickly pulls out a water bottle, and offers it to Harvest to wash away the burning liquid before it can do more damage. Then a fey light seems to come into his eyes, and his face hardens. He turns, and charges across the room, trying to put the wall and the web between himself and the Chimera. (full run to Q-11) Upon reaching this spot, he begins to sing.
Arminas--
Actions Pass without a trace - 1 hour (minus 12 rounds?) Arrow hits AC 26 for 1+ --Kathy,I do not have Arminas' sheet with me here at home, would you add his bonus for damage on an arrow.
Any--
Blur --3 minutes remaining
Andrath (AC20, 37/37 hp) Friday March 10th, 2006 12:49:09 AM
Andrath continues to move closer. [OOC: move to Y18].
DM Kathy d20+3=16 Friday March 10th, 2006 1:57:15 AM Harvest manages to duck the acid stream at the last second, then retrives a wand and aims it at the creature. A sickly green ray strikes the beast, who seems to shrivel a bit where it stands.
Bralin works his way up the side of the building and activates his tattoo.
Arminas moves in through the door and fires a shot at the creature. It strikes true and inflits a little damage. [I don't think Arminas has the Shoot on the Run feat, so he can't move both before and after he shoots.]
Any follows Arminas through the door and, seeing that Harvest took no hurt, continues across the room, trying to stay out of sight of the creature. [OOC: I altered the actions somewhat; you can't move, then take an action, then move again in a single round]
Andrath and Lorth begin moving across the front of the building, getting into position. [By my count, Andrath can make it to Z-18, unless there's a reason you wanted to stop earlier. Let me know.]
His breath weapon spent for the moment, the beast attempts to move out of the web. He manages to shove his way forward 5 feet.
Any (20 AC 20/20 HP) Friday March 10th, 2006 9:43:15 AM
Any's song takes but a moment, but in that moment first a spark, then a flame starts among the web spell of Harvest Moon. The flames roar across the web to the entrapped Chimera! Any then steps back slightly and prepares an arrow for the beast. HIs Bardic song begins again with a slightly dark, minor note.
Though evil in its many forms Confronts us from its loathsome home, Still we stand, we do not quail, For right shall win, and never fail!
Spells:
Blur 3 minutes from web spell cast Prestidigitation -1 hour start fire on the web Bardic Song +1 to hit +1 to will save
Arminas (22 AC, 33/ 33 HP) Friday March 10th, 2006 9:48:16 AM
Arminas sets himself, then fires two arrows at the beast entangled in the web. He then makes a 5' step away from Harvest as the web explodes into flame from Any's spell!
He is horrified as he sees more fully how this monster is constructed. Who has twisted nature in such a way as to produce this creature! He sorrows for the animals used to create it, even as he so strongly desires to end the misery of its existence.
Pass w/o trace 1 hour minus 13 rounds
Arminas (sub post, 2nd post) d20+9=29 d20+9=22 d8+3=6 d8+3=4 d20+9=13 Friday March 10th, 2006 9:53:27 AM
OOC sorry forgot to roll hit and damage, and add my sub post notification.
Hit AC 29 and 22 for 6 and 4 HP DAM First Hit Critical Hit not confirmed 13
Harvest (AC27 vs Chimera, HP 34/34) Friday March 10th, 2006 9:53:34 AM
"HOLD IT WITHIN THE AREA OF WEB!" Harvest shouts. "It's claws and bites will be entangled in the sticky strands!"
The second flask of oil falls from her hand as she releases it. Quickly drawing the wand of shield, Harvest races out of the door, around the corner, and down toward the opening from which the beast is about to emerge.
"YOU! STAY!" Hiding around the corner, Harvest shouts commands at the chimera. How she possibly hopes to hold it at bay, is something she has most likely given little thought to.
Rolls and Actions AC 27 recap (+10, +5 Wis, +3 Dex, +4 Mage Armor, +1 Dodge, +4 Cover from Corner of Building)
Movement and Position Draw Wand as move action Move to 11AA (Movement with Longstrider is 50)
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Web Center 9U (Duration 10 minutes from post Tuesday March 7th, 2006 11:33:11 PM) Ray of Enfeeblement (Duration 1 minute from post Thursday March 9th, 2006 12:37:45 AM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Bralin (ac 21, 52/52 hp, Divine Favor 2/10, Inspired, Bulls Strength) Friday March 10th, 2006 10:05:52 AM
Still waiting for Lorth, Bralin takes the opportunity to cast a spell of strength upon himself. [Bulls Strength]
And then Harvest runs past him right into the beast. "By the Stone," the dwarf mutters to himself. The girl is too impulsive.
The die is cast, and so Bralin adjusts.
He moves into the open, crossing into view, but out of reach of the chimera. Axe in hand, he waits for its attack. [Move to AB 10]
Andrath (AC20, 37/37 hp) d20+13=23 Sunday March 12th, 2006 7:53:48 PM
[OOC: Kathy, I am at my mother's house, and I don't have access to my email, and so will not be able to see the map (unless one of the other players can provide a web-link in the gamesite here). I will try to describe where I want to go, and if you could make the right move, that would be great, thanks. I will be back home on Thursday night, barring bad weather.]
Andrath, both weapons drawn, runs over to the north side of the animal, and presses himself up against the side of the building, trying to hide himself out of sight, and wait for his chance to flank. [OOC: Hide 23]
DM Kathy d20+3=12 Monday March 13th, 2006 12:01:57 AM Any casts a spell and sets the web alight. One square is now burning, and will soon spread. He then steps back away from the conflagration. [Casting a spell and starting Bardic Song are both standard actions, so you can't do both in this round.]
Arminas fires two shots at the creature, both of which hit. The beast snarles in pain and frustration. Arminas then steps back, away from the burning web.
Harvest pulls a wand and moves right up to the creature, shouting commands. She seems unconcerned about what it might do with its claws, or its vast number of teeth.
Bralin casts a spell to strengthen himself, then moves up so that Harvest isn't facing the monster alone.
Andrath works his way past the creature and in between the buildings, trying to get out of sight. [You'll need to spend a move action to hide next round, if you're going to do that. You double-moved this round, so you weren't able to hide when you got there.]
Moving as quickly as he can in his armor, Lorth steps up near Harvest.
The beast tries again to move out of the web, but this time is unable to wrench himself loose. The dragon head gnashes its teeth in sheer rage.
Harvest (AC23 vs Chimera, HP 34/34) Monday March 13th, 2006 10:30:46 AM
"Bralin Stoneminder, do you wish your form to become larger?"
Before receiving a reply, she drops one of her wands and draws a scroll. Then, with her remaining wand, she touches the dwarf with a spell. An invisible shield springs up before him.
Rolls and Actions Cast Shield on Bralin from Wand.
Movement and Position Draw scroll of Enlarge Person as Move Action 11AA Dang. Misread the grid last time. Wanted to be at Z11. Oh well, no harm came of it.
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Web Center 9U (Duration 10 minutes from post Tuesday March 7th, 2006 11:33:11 PM) Ray of Enfeeblement (Duration 1 minute from post Thursday March 9th, 2006 12:37:45 AM) Shield On Bralin (Duration 1 minute from post Sunday March 12th, 2006 11:01:57 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Bralin (ac 25, 52/52 hp, Divine Favor 3/10, Inspired, Bulls Strength, Shield) d20+14=18 d10+9=10 Monday March 13th, 2006 11:37:50 AM
"Nay," Bralin replies to Harvest. "Lorth needs room."
He does nod in grateful acknowledgement of the protective spell. The shield will be of much use.
The time for waiting is at an end. Bralin steps into the beast's range and swings [Move to Z9].
Any (20 AC, 20/20 HP) Monday March 13th, 2006 12:15:11 PM
Any begins to sing his Bardic song strengthening the will of his fellow Swords of Light. He moves towards the door which he entered, offering a better shot at the Chimera.
Blur- 4 minutes from sound of Alarm
Bardic song- +1 to hit, +1 to will save
Prestidigitation- duration 1 hour
Arminas (22 AC, 33/33 HP) Sub post d20=3 d20+9=24 d20+9=28 d8+3=10 d8+3=11 d8+3=8 d8+3=8 d8+3=7 Monday March 13th, 2006 12:22:56 PM
Arminas fires 2 more arrows at the back of the beast. He does not know where the remainder of the party has gone, untill suddenly Bralin steps into his view attacking the Chimera from the front!
Arminas is not the strongest infighter, so chooses to continue in his chosen course of action, firing arrows from where he is at. The flames started by Anthos are not interfering with his aim as yet, and he can always go out the door if needed.
Pass w/o trace 1 hour minus 14 rounds
OOC ignore first roll-did not mean to hit the roll button, and ignore the lasst 3 D8 rolls Total brain malfunction :0)
Hit AC 24 and 28 for 10 and 11 points of damage
Andrath (AC20, 37/37 hp) d20+13=32 Monday March 13th, 2006 9:11:18 PM
Andrath hides between the buildings, hoping that the party will allow the creature out into the courtyard where all of their strength can be brought to bear. [OOC: Hide check of 32]
DM Kathy d20+10=25 d8+3=10 3d8(8+6+7)=21 Tuesday March 14th, 2006 12:26:40 AM Harvest uses one of her wands to cast Shield on Bralin, then draws a scroll from her pouch.
Bralin steps up and swings at the creature. It's a good blow, but the beast's hide and scales are surprisingly thick, and the attack is ineffective.
Any begins to sing, heartening his companions and giving them an extra edge.
Arminas fires two more arrows, and even with the strands of web between him and the monster, he is still able to hit it and do damage.
Lorth moves up to engage the creature, brushing past Harvest to avoid an attack of opportunity. He swings his sword, and connects. The beast roars with pain.
Trapped in the web and pressed by the melee fighters, the three-headed monster gives up on trying to move. Instead, the dragon head turns toward Lorth and Harvest. Another stream of acid shoots forth! Lorth and Harvest take 21 points of damage (Reflex save DC 17 for half).
Harvest (AC23 vs Chimera, HP 34/34) d20+7=21 Tuesday March 14th, 2006 3:30:36 AM
This time when the spray of acid comes, Harvest Moon is ready. She ducks, and once again, the deadly spray goes over her head.
Paladin Lorth!
She touches him with the Shield spell as well before dropping the scroll and drawing the healing wand that the group had purchased with the money from the Pitchfork Council. (CMW)
Rolls and Actions Reflex Save 21 (No Damage from Evasion) Cast Shield on Lorth from Wand.
Movement and Position Drop scroll of Enlarge Person Draw wand of CMW as Move Action 11AA Dang. Misread the grid last time. Wanted to be at Z11. Oh well, no harm came of it.
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Web Center 9U (Duration 10 minutes from post Tuesday March 7th, 2006 11:33:11 PM) Ray of Enfeeblement (Duration 1 minute from post Thursday March 9th, 2006 12:37:45 AM) Shield On Bralin (Duration 1 minute from post Sunday March 12th, 2006 11:01:57 PM) Shield On Lorth (Duration 1 minute from post Monday March 13th, 2006 11:26:40 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Bralin (ac 25, 52/52 hp, Divine Favor 4/10, Inspired, Bulls Strength, Shield, pwr atk[2]) d20+12=25 d10+11=19 Tuesday March 14th, 2006 7:45:21 AM
The beast is trapped. It is still dangerous, but Harvest will be able to heal wounds nearly as quickly as it can apply them.
Bralin redoubles his effort. This time, the axe slams home.
Arminas (22 AC, 33/33 HP) Sub post d20+10=11 d20+10=25 d8+3=9 Tuesday March 14th, 2006 9:49:00 AM
Arminas comtinues to pour a stream of arrows from his bow, as 2 more fly at the Chimera. He feels the strength added by Any's song, and his second arrow penetrates the web to strike home, while the first arrow hangs up in the sticky subsatnce ensnaring the beast.
Arminas stays alert in case the monster turns to use its breath weapon in his direction.
Pass w/o trace 1 hour minus 15 rounds hit AC 11 miss, and 25 hit for 9 HP DAM
Any (20 AC, 20/20 HP) d20+6=16 Tuesday March 14th, 2006 10:08:43 AM
Any takes a 5' step (to Q-13), allowing a better angle to attack the Chimera. His bowstring sings in counterpoint to his voice as Any sends an arrow on its way. He is frustrated by the webbing, and his arrow does not reach its target.
Now through the opening he can not only see the Chimera, but he also sees Lorth and Bralin attacking from in front of the monster, stepping in and out of range in a deadly dance.
Suddenly the Chimera's dragon head spits a stream of acid out into the courtyard! They must end this battle soon.
Any's song continues to sound,
"Our foe among us stands, The evil in him speaks. Our weapons make demands, Targets they do seek.
His blood will fall like rain, We turn away his powers. He shall feel the pain, The vict'ry shall be ours."
Blur- 4 minutes from sound of Alarm
Bardic song- +1 to hit, +1 to will save
Prestidigitation- duration 1 hour
Andrath (AC20, 37/37 hp) Tuesday March 14th, 2006 8:40:35 PM
Andrath calls out, "Lorth, Bralin, back away from the creature. As long as it is entangled in the web, we can use our missile weapons. If it breaks free, we can all attack it together. Spread out, so that it can't catch any of us in a line."
[OOC: Thanks for posting the link to the map, Al. It is a big help.]
DM Kathy d20=15 d20+10=28 d8+3=6 d4=1 d20+3=8 Wednesday March 15th, 2006 12:53:12 AM
[Oops, I forgot to have the fire spread last round. I'll spread two rounds' worth this time.]
The fire continues to burn merrily, clearing the web as it goes.
Harvest manages to duck the acid stram yet again, and uses her wand to cast Shield on Lorth.
Bralin clobbers the creature with his axe, and the three-headed monster is beginning to look very hurt.
Arminas fires two shots, one of which connects. The creature's back and side now have several arrows sticking out of them.
Any tries his hand with an arrow, but can't get it through the web. His song continues to bolster his friends, though.
Andrath calls for the others to back away so they can lure the creature out.
Lorth is able to avoid the worst of the acid damage, but he lacks Harvest's nimbleness and can't quite dodge it all. Grimly determined, he strikes the creature again with his sword, then takes step back.
The monster roars again in rage and frustration, and tries to pull itself out of the web. It is held fast, however.
Bralin (ac 25, 52/52 hp, Divine Favor 5/10, Inspired, Bulls Strength, Shield, pwr atk[2]) d20+12=23 d10+11=15 Wednesday March 15th, 2006 9:30:04 AM
Bralin makes a face at Andrath's instructions. The beast is caught, why retreat?
But Andrath is the leader, and the warrior will comply. In a moment.
Bralin takes a parting swing at the chimera, and then dutifully backs away. [hit ac 23 for 15 hp damage] [Move to AA 8]
Arminas (22 AC, 33/33 HP) Sub post d20+10=18 d20+10=20 d8+3=11 Wednesday March 15th, 2006 9:42:34 AM
Arminas does not change his attack plan. Why move in on the monster, when you can shoot it from relative safety? He fires two more arrows at the Chimera. His first arrow narrowly misses over the creatures back, but the second again strikes home.
Pass w/o trace 1 hour minus 15 rounds hit AC 11 miss, and 25 hit for 9 HP DAM
Attacks Hit AC 20 for 11 HP DAM
Any (20 AC, 20/20 HP) d20+6=20 d6+2=4 Wednesday March 15th, 2006 9:54:03 AM
Any coughs lightly from the smoke of the burning web. As he does so, he discontinues his song, but its effects are still felt by all of the group. He notches another arrow, and fires at the Chimera, striking the beast just behind the shoulder. His vision from this point is beginning to be obscured by the fire, so he shifts over closer to Arminas (takes another 5' step diagonally). He had thought the fire would burn more quickly, when suddenly it flares up, and engulfs the webs stretched across the courtyard.
Blur- 4 minutes from sound of Alarm
Bardic song- +1 to hit, +1 to will save
Prestidigitation- duration 1 hour
Attacks Hit AC 20 for 4 HP DAM
Harvest (AC23 vs Chimera, HP 34/34) 2d8(4+3)+3=10 Wednesday March 15th, 2006 12:01:32 PM
Life and Death. Harvest Moon takes in the struggles of the wounded beast. Gargul will soon open his doors for this one. In that split second the question comes to her: Why must this be so? Why are creatures created to kill, and, being opposed, be slain?
Gargul and Alemi. The god she had served and the one she serves now. Death and Life.
Automatically, and without thought, Harvest stores the wand of shield within her pack. The dance of Life and Death runs through her mind, the differences, the confluences.
In the end, she returns to herself and steps to the side of life. With a word, she calls Alemi's magic from the stick in her hand. And touching the arm of Paladin Lorth, steps behind him.
Rolls and Actions Cast CMW on Lorth from Wand: Heal 10hp
Movement and Position Store Wand of Shield as Move Action 5-foot step to 11AB
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Web Center 9U (Duration 10 minutes from post Tuesday March 7th, 2006 11:33:11 PM) Ray of Enfeeblement (Duration 1 minute from post Thursday March 9th, 2006 12:37:45 AM) Shield On Bralin (Duration 1 minute from post Sunday March 12th, 2006 11:01:57 PM) Shield On Lorth (Duration 1 minute from post Monday March 13th, 2006 11:26:40 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
DM Kathy Thursday March 16th, 2006 12:41:52 AM Bralin swings his axe and strikes the beast again, even as Arminas and Andrath's arrows hit home. With a final, deafening roar from its three throats, the mighty monster collapes into the strands of the Web, dead. Bralin takes a step back, but there will be no luring the beast out now.
The web continues to burn merrily.
Harvest uses one of her wands to cure Lorth. The paladin is restored to full health, and offers his thanks.
The ruined abbey is now silent but for your own footfalls and the faint whooshing of the burning web.
Arminas-- Sub post Thursday March 16th, 2006 9:46:08 AM
Arminas sees the Chimera collapse--it has stopped breathing--at last its tortured life is at an end. He quickly exits the building, going out to join the others examining the dead beast.
"Your last stroke was well done friend Bralin. To kill a creation such as this was a mercy. Those responsible for such an unnatural joining of animals should pass the same way."
Arminas stays alert, and wonders aloud,
"I wonder where Remo is in all of this, if the beast did not bring him here as a midnight snack."
Pass w/o trace 1 hour minus 16 rounds
Any d20+4=14 d20+2=10 d20+10=16 d20+10=19 Thursday March 16th, 2006 9:58:40 AM
Any is relieved when the Chimera dies. Then just as quickly a worried look comes over his face, and he follows Arminas out the door to where the others wait. He face reflects quickly relief, then calm, as he sees that Harvest, Bralin, Andrath, and Lorth are all safe.
At Arminas' question, any is reminded of their task, and his bow is raised slightly, arrow nocked, and he says,
"This beast did not work alone in defeating the companions of Remo. There were men with it. Let us search to see if he is here, or if he has been taken to a further keep. This place may only have been the lair of the Chimera, and its human companions may have lived elsewhere."
If all are in agreement, he will aid in the search of the abandoned monastery, hoping to find this Remo, or some trace of where he was taken.
Blur- 4 minutes from sound of Alarm
Bardic song- +1 to hit, +1 to will save 4 rounds left
Prestidigitation- duration 1 hour from start of fire -3 rounds
Spot 14, listen 10 for Any
OOC forgot Arminas' spot and listen checks 16 & 19
Harvest d20+13=27 d20+13=16 Thursday March 16th, 2006 10:43:05 AM
Her small hand reaches out, emerging from her large sleeve, and with a simple downward sweep, the mass of sticky web disappears leaving the body of the strange many-headed beast lying in the pathway between the two buildings. It lies in peace now. Its fierce nature quelled.
"I wonder what power would convince such a beast to lend its ferocity in aide of men?"
Harvest Moon dips to recover her scroll from off the ground, then tips her head up to join Arminas Calaelen and Anthos Westar in an attitude of listening.
Rolls and Actions Dismiss Web Spell Listen 27 Spot 16
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Shield On Bralin (Duration 1 minute from post Sunday March 12th, 2006 11:01:57 PM) Shield On Lorth (Duration 1 minute from post Monday March 13th, 2006 11:26:40 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Andrath (AC20, 37/37 hp) d20+13=31 Thursday March 16th, 2006 10:21:04 PM
Andrath steps out from between the two ruined buildings, and watches as the web disappears and the creature falls dead. "Good job all. But in future, when we attack one large creature, I think it makes the most sense for all of us to be able to reach it, or we keep it trapped in the web and take it out with missile weapons." Then he turns his head and cocks his ear, to hear for anything that might have been disturbed by the noise of the combat. [OOC: Listen check of 31]
If he does not hear anything, he starts to look around the ruins.
DM Kathy Friday March 17th, 2006 12:57:24 AM Harvest dismisses the Web spell, and the fire burns itself out shortly thereafter.
Any and Arminas join the rest of the group, and you all begin to discuss strategy. The signs back at the battle scene clearly indicate that there were humanoids, but looking around you see no sign of them here--just the broken hulk of the ex-chimera. Of course, you haven't explored the entire complex yet.
From where you are standing, you can see that several buildings face this central courtyard; the four that you have already seen (i.e., the four on the map), plus more buildings farther back. The arched walkways link most of the buildings.
None of the buildings is in pristine repair; all have sustained weather damage and a few have had minor collapses. Random bits of masonry are scattered on the ground.
Searching the complex is probably a good idea--but where are you going to begin?
Arminas -- Sub post d20+10=17 d20+10=18 d20+10=14 Friday March 17th, 2006 12:08:58 PM
Arminas examines the Chimera up close. He is attracted and repulsed at the same time over this monstrous creation.
"Surely those who created this beast are of a twisted mind, and should be punished for their affront to Mother Wold."
Then turning to the others,
"I will search the area for more tracks. Perhaps I can find where Remo was taken--if he still lives."
Any Friday March 17th, 2006 12:13:10 PM
"I will accompany you friend Arminas. None should be alone untill we are sure of our position. I can at the least act as a second pair of eyes and a guard for your back."
Before leaving, he quickly retrieves his gear from the edge of the forest where it had been cached.
Arminas--2nd sub post Friday March 17th, 2006 12:15:59 PM
OOC sorry, not playing Arminas very well
Arminas sends a message to Ewan through his link, asking his friend to return now that the Chimera is defeated. He suggests that Lorth do the same for the horses. Let them bring the rest of our gear up to the relative safety of the monastery.
Harvest d20+27=34 d20+2=8 d20+27=40 d20+2=14 d20+27=35 d20+2=10 d20+27=31 d20+2=13 d20+27=33 d20+2=11 d20+27=32 d20+2=22 Friday March 17th, 2006 12:51:47 PM
She had left a wand on the ground by the treeline. Such things were not to be so thoughtlessly forgotten.
Harvest returns the wand of curing to her pack and trots around to the front of the building to retrieve the wand of message. From across the stretch of open ground, the little brown monk raises her eyes from under her crest of hair and eyes the line of the roof.
Perhaps from above she would see something that could not be seen from the ground. Coming down would be a simple thing for her.
From her pack, she draws a simple scroll of Jumping. Cast the spell, sprint across the open space and leap up the wall ...
But her hands do not quite catch, and with a slow slide down the side of crumbling masonry, Harvest alights upon the ground. Back up. Try again. Back up. Try again. And again. And Again ... Six times. But on the sixth, Harvest clings to the wall, climbing upwards toward the roof.
Rolls and Actions Final (Retries are after a Slow Fall back to the ground) Jump 32 (8 feet) Climb 22 (Nat 20)
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Shield On Bralin (Duration 1 minute from post Sunday March 12th, 2006 11:01:57 PM) Shield On Lorth (Duration 1 minute from post Monday March 13th, 2006 11:26:40 PM) Jump (Duration 1 minute from post Thursday March 16th, 2006 11:57:24 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Question How high are these buildings?
Bralin Saturday March 18th, 2006 2:51:08 PM
Bralin nods wordlessly in reply to Arminas' remarks about killing the chimera, although he's confused about the elf's sentiment. Whether the beast was natural or unnatural is not relevant.
It attacked. Bralin defended. It died. Further discussion is unnecessary.
As everyone splits up, the dwarf decides to keep an eye on Harvest. From the ground he watches her climb to the roof.
Andrath d20+13=29 Sunday March 19th, 2006 7:19:09 PM
Not hearing anything in the complex, Andrath moves to the small building at the extreme east of the compound [OOC: the easternmost building on your map, Kathy]. He tries to find an entrance, and moves inside to search. [OOC: Search 29]
The Abbey
DM Kathy Sunday March 19th, 2006 11:42:14 PM Arminas sends a mental call to Ewan, and she begins the flight back to where he is. In the meantime, he looks around where you fought the Chimera, but finds no humanoid tracks other than your own.
Any recovers his gear from the treeline, and stays with Arminas.
Harvest returns for the wand she left at the treeline, then tries to jump onto the roof, aided by magical enhancement. The buildings vary in height; the large chapel (or whatever it is) at the front is about 30 feet high. Harvest is able to jump up onto it. She finds that the roof is pretty steeply peaked, and that it's not in good repair. Walking around up here is going to be a challenge.
Bralin keeps an eye on Harvest, and watches her climb onto the roof.
Andrath moves to check out the easternmost building. You find a door on the west side, which you are able to open. You see a room, which you estimate takes up about half of the width of the building. A set of stairs lead up from the room, and there is a door on the wall to your left.
Lorth decides not to summon the horses just yet. "Your companion can fly away, if trouble finds us," he explains to Arminas, "but the horses cannot. They will be all right where they are." Instead, the paladin accompanies Andrath.
Harvest d20+5=17 Monday March 20th, 2006 11:46:53 AM
Harvest peers out from over her nose. It looks quite far down to the ground. Surely not so far, though that she could not slide down the side and roll to safety. Surely not so far. It only looks a terrible distance.
Raising a hand, the small brown girl waves a hand to Bralin Stoneminder, watching down below.
Staying above the supporting outer wall may be the safest. Balancing above the outer wall, Harvest makes her way around the eastern side of the building. Peering around the corner of the roof, she eyes the building across from the narrow alley through which the Chimera had come. Would it be an easy jump down to the other building? Or a more difficult jump up?
Then, retracing her steps to the west, Harvest again peers around at the side of the building she has yet to see.
A door!
"Andrath Silverhand, there is a door on the western side of the building." she whispers through her Message spell.
She eyes the building which holds the door. Is there a way to get up onto the roof of that building from here?
Rolls and Actions Balance 17
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Shield On Bralin (Duration 1 minute from post Sunday March 12th, 2006 11:01:57 PM) Shield On Lorth (Duration 1 minute from post Monday March 13th, 2006 11:26:40 PM) Jump (Duration 1 minute from post Thursday March 16th, 2006 11:57:24 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Question How high the other two buildings on the map? The one to the Northeast and the one to the west with the door in it?
Any d20+4=5 Monday March 20th, 2006 12:22:21 PM
Arminas is having no luck finding any tracks here. Any decides to suggest a new course of action.
"Arminas, perhaps if we were to assist in exploring the rest of the Abbey, we will find some clues as to where the humans accompanying the Chimera have gone. Wherever they went, they must have taken Remo with them. Let us fins Andrath, and try to keep the party together."
Turning, he sees Harvest standing atop the chapel, and he stumbles slightly watching her move around on that unstable surface. He then moves to join Andrath, hoping that Arminas will follow.
Spot---a natural 1, no wonder I stumbled
Spells: Blur 4 rounds from sound of alarm Prestidigitation from start of fire 1 hour
Arminas (AC 22, HP 33/33) d20+10=23 d20+13=31 d20+10=25 d20+16=27 d20+10=23 Monday March 20th, 2006 2:42:06 PM
Remembering the path he saw on the Western side of the building, Arminas says to Any:
"Come, let us check the path that leads to the Western building. It is faint, yet even a faint path is there only if used. I think it is the best clue we have. If you wish to follow, please be as quiet as possible."
Arminas then goes over to the path and checks for tracks.
Any (supplemental) d20+6=11 Monday March 20th, 2006 3:28:27 PM
Any turns to Arminas,
"I will follow you. As I have said, we should stay together to watch each others back."
Move silently ---(Great) 11
Bralin Monday March 20th, 2006 9:54:35 PM
The dwarf continues to follow Harvest's movements from the ground, and also works his way around to the western side of the larger building.
Having just fought a pitched battle, Bralin doesn't worry much about making noise. Not that he ever worried much about making noise any other time, either.
Andrath Tuesday March 21st, 2006 12:10:16 AM
Glad to have Lorth along for company, Andrath searches the room, then moves over and opens the door to the next room.
DM Kathy Tuesday March 21st, 2006 12:50:09 AM Harvest attempts to move along the rough, but it is rough going and you progress but slowly. You makes your way to the eastern wall, and see Andrath and Lorth exploring the smaller building there. You attempt to move back toward where you started, but as you put your foot on one of the roof tiles, it suddenly gives way, skidding down the steep slope of the roof! Make a Reflex save (DC 16) to avoid skidding down the roof with it!
Bralin remains on the ground, keeping an eye on Harvest.
Not finding any tracks where they are, Any and Arminas decide to try the western side of the building, and the faint path they saw earlier. Arminas examines the ground, and sees what he is looking for, the faint signs of humanoids having passed this way.
Andrath continues to explore the smaller building. You step through the door and find yourself in what is obviously a kitchen, although it is bare of furniture and supplies. You see a large fireplace with a built-in bake oven, a broad counter, and rows of shelves, all empty.
Harvest d20+7=18 Tuesday March 21st, 2006 10:46:07 AM
*chiek*
A moment of vertigo as the roof tile slides out into space. For an imaginary moment, Harvest Moon is there as well, falling toward the ground.
But she is not. When the brown girl catches up to her beating heart, she is still crouched upon the roof. This will be difficult and dangerous. But it is still possibly worth the effort.
Harvest forges on, moving to the west across the front of the chapel, around to the west side.
Rolls and Actions Reflex 18
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Shield On Bralin (Duration 1 minute from post Sunday March 12th, 2006 11:01:57 PM) Shield On Lorth (Duration 1 minute from post Monday March 13th, 2006 11:26:40 PM) Jump (Duration 1 minute from post Thursday March 16th, 2006 11:57:24 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Question How high the other two buildings on the map? The Kitchen and the one to the west with the door in it? Also, has a minute elapsed between the combat and the current time? That would be the duration for the Shield spells on Bralin and Lorth.
Arminas (AC 22, HP 33/33) Tuesday March 21st, 2006 11:12:50 AM
Arminas, seeing the tracks whispers to Any.
"The tracks we follow lead to this door. Perhaps we should gather the others."
Then, hearing a tile crash to the ground, he looks up to see Harvest clinging to the roof. Behind him he sees Bralin come around the corner. Time is of a factor, they may kill Remo instead of allowing his rescue.
Arminas looks up at Harvest, waving to get her attention. He then points to the ground and using two fingers makes walking motions and then points to the door.
"Hopefully she will understand that the tracks lead to the door, and send a message to Andrath. Meanwhile, perhaps we can approach the door as a group. Bralin could go through and we could back him up."
Harvest (2nd llegal Post) Tuesday March 21st, 2006 12:00:23 PM
A thing from down upon the ground draws Harvest Moon's attention. It is Arminas Calaelen. He makes motions with his fingers that resemble a walking man.
Harvest frowns in puzzlement.
"Andrath Silverhand," she whispers into the Message spell, "Arminas Calaelen, wishes us to come to him. I think. Perhaps he has found something."
Any Tuesday March 21st, 2006 7:00:22 PM
"Arminas, I am sure that I saw Andrath pass this way earlier searching the ruins. Are these his track?"
Any asks this question in a normal voice. With Bralin coming up behind them, clanking away in his armor, he sees no need to whisper, or be quiet. He finds this slightly amusing, but restrains himself from laughing at his friend. After all, Any is not the Ranger here, perhaps there are more tracks to be found than those of Andrath.
Any catches his breath with a sharp intake when Harvest slips on the roof tile, but relaxes when she regains her balance.
Spells: Blur 4 rounds from sound of alarm Prestidigitation from start of fire 1 hour
Bralin Tuesday March 21st, 2006 7:27:45 PM
Bralin watches Harvest. The girl is having some trouble on the steep roof, and the dwarf casually raises his shield to bat away a falling tile. The monk recovers her balance, and the dwarf continues to follow.
Rounding the corner, he comes upon Arminas and Any. Hearing their words, he nods and heads for the door. Bralin doubts anyone is about. Surely they would have heard the recent battle and either joined or fled. The time for stealth is over.
Bralin shoves the door open and steps through.
Arminas - second illegal post Tuesday March 21st, 2006 8:16:29 PM
"No, I saw the path before Andrath came here, and these do not look like his prints. These are the tracks we have followed."
Just then, Bralin barges through the door.
"I hope it is not trapped like the other door."
Andrath Wednesday March 22nd, 2006 12:28:16 AM
Andrath calls out, "Arminas, before we leave, we need to have a good look around. If this chimera was used by the abductors, they may have left something here that the creature was guarding. We can follow the tracks once we are sure that there is nothing in the buildings of interest."
Finding nothing in the kitchen, Andrath climbs the stairs and searches the second floor.
DM Kathy Wednesday March 22nd, 2006 12:59:36 AM Harvest manages to catch herself before she falls. Looking around, you note that the small easternmost building (the one Lorth and Andrath are exploring), is about ten feet shorter than the building you're on, and that the adjoining building (the long, thin one) is some twenty feet higher than the building you're on. You begin making your way westward, to see what can be seen there. [Make another Balance check, please.]
[It's been less than a minute since the fight began, but not by much. The Shield spells will run out in a few rounds.]
Arminas and Any continue following the faint path around to the other door. Arminas is concerned about noise and wants the group to gather together in one spot.
Andrath climbs the stairs and finds himself in a short hallway. Three doors stand open, and the rooms beyond them also appear empty.
Bralin marches to the western door, heedless of any noise he might be making. He boldly pushes the door open and walks in.
The familiar peals of yet another Alarm spell ring through the complex. It's a good thing you'd already decided to abandon stealth....
Any d20+4=15 d20+2=20 Wednesday March 22nd, 2006 9:00:18 AM
Any gives an exagerated shrug to Arminas, as if to say,'What can you do?', then he readies his sword and dagger, following Bralin into the building.
Spells: Blur 4 rounds from sound of alarm Prestidigitation from start of fire 1 hour Spot 15 Listen 20
Arminas (AC 22, HP 33/33) d20+10=25 Wednesday March 22nd, 2006 11:19:39 AM
Somewhere is the distance he hears Andrath yelling something, but his words are lost as the alarm sounds.
Smiling and shaking his head, he follows Bralin and Any into the building.
Harvest d20+5=8 d20+10=13 d6=4 Wednesday March 22nd, 2006 12:26:34 PM
Something interesting is going on around the corner. Harvest cranes her neck, her nose leading the way as though sniffing at the breeze. An alarm goes off, and Harvest starts!
A misstep? Another broken tile? How quickly such things happen. Who knows just why? What is known is only the gut realization that one is no longer standing firmly where one is supposed to be, and the frantic knowledge that one is now in peril.
Harvest Moon's training shoves aside all conscious deliberation. Rather than flail in open air, she relaxes into the fall. A small hand reaches from out of her large sleeve to touch the crumbling masonry of the wall. The desperate plunge slows, and slows, and slows some more.
Harvest Moon's fall slows, but not slow enough. She hits hard, turning to take the impact in her legs, she tumbles forward into a roll before coming to her feet.
Harvest rubs the bruise at the back of her head. She frowns, and aiming a puff of breath to blow the crest of hair out of her eyes, she looks up at the roof as if it were in some way the building's fault for her fall.
The alarm continues to sound loudly. The Shield spells upon Brailin Stoneminder and Lorth Jeradosta will end soon. She quickly orders up the wand of Shield from her haversack, and shuffles around the corner toward the blaring alarm.
Rolls and Actions Balance 8 (Fail) Slow Fall 20 feet out of 30 feet. Tumble 13 (To reduce fall by 10 feet. Fail) Fall damage 4hp
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Shield On Bralin (Duration 1 minute from post Sunday March 12th, 2006 11:01:57 PM) Shield On Lorth (Duration 1 minute from post Monday March 13th, 2006 11:26:40 PM) Jump (Duration 1 minute from post Thursday March 16th, 2006 11:57:24 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Bralin d20+5=8 Wednesday March 22nd, 2006 1:38:31 PM
The dwarf jerks as the alarm suddenly peals, but quickly recovers and continues clomping into the room. He scans the interior, a bit too quickly [spot 8], clanks over to any other doors he finds and opens it as well.
DM Kathy Thursday March 23rd, 2006 1:25:49 AM Any, Arminas, and Bralin, apparently feeling that the die has been cast, push their way into the western building. The building proves to be in very poor repair. Rubble and stone blocks are scattered about on the floor, roof beams lying aslant on top of them. Nearly everything is covered with a layer of fine dust--the exception being an uneven path winding through the rubble to a door in the east wall.
Whether it is the alarm or whether she simply pushed her luck, Harvest loses her balance and tumbles off the roof. Using her monk's training, she is able to slow her fall somewhat, and by the time she lands she has wounded little more than her dignity. Hastily, she retrieves a wand and hurries after the rest of the party.
Arminas (AC 22, HP 33/33) d20+10=15 d20+10=15 d20+10=17 Thursday March 23rd, 2006 10:16:15 AM
Arminas looks about the room, surprised that it has not been occupied recently. Looking down at the path through the dust, he checks to see if it is the same tracks they have followed.
"The door seems to lead back into the courtyard. Do you think it may be trapped?"
Actions Listen 15 Spot 15 Survival 17
Lorth Thursday March 23rd, 2006 10:18:09 AM
(OOC: Hey everyone, I'm back, thanks for playing Lorth)
Lorth follows Bralin into the building, cautiously.
Harvest (30/34) d20+7=27 d20+6=19 Thursday March 23rd, 2006 10:53:40 AM
This is a strange place. So far away from things, here upon a lonely cliff. What might it have been?
A monastery?
Harvest searches her knowledge of this area. How isolated would this lonely outpost have been? What is the nearest town? Is there any way other than the forest path to reach a building that must once surely have required many masons and carpenters to construct?
How odd.
It also appears to have it's own chapel. As she passes a window, Harvest goes up on tiptoes. Glancing in a window, she looks about for markings, wondering to herself, just what god might wish to be worshipped in such a remote location.
All of these thoughts roll through Harvest Moon's head as she comes up from behind the group to enter the door in the western building.
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Shield On Bralin (Duration 1 minute from post Sunday March 12th, 2006 11:01:57 PM) Shield On Lorth (Duration 1 minute from post Monday March 13th, 2006 11:26:40 PM) Jump (Duration 1 minute from post Thursday March 16th, 2006 11:57:24 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Bralin Thursday March 23rd, 2006 2:41:29 PM
Arminas is overly concerned about traps. With the alarm sounding already, no one will hear if something else happens.
Bralin works through the rubble and opens the far door.
Any d20+4=11 d20+2=10 Thursday March 23rd, 2006 6:48:14 PM
Any continues to shake his head at the actions of Bralin. Doesn't he see the danger of barging through door after door? However as long as he continues to lead, Any will follow and support him in whatever way he can. His weapons at the ready, and with the alarm blaring in his ears, he follows through the newly opened door, along the track whose footprints Bralin destroys with every step. Arminas will have little to read here once the party is done. Spells: Blur 4 rounds from sound of alarm Prestidigitation from start of fire 1 hour Spot 11 Listen 10
Andrath d20+13=22 Thursday March 23rd, 2006 10:36:25 PM
Andrath continues to search the building, checking each of the three rooms in turn. [OOC: Search 22]
DM Kathy Friday March 24th, 2006 1:47:23 AM
To the horror of the sneakier members of the party, Bralin continues to plow straight ahead. He opens the door and steps into the central courtyard.
Several buildings open onto this courtyard, including the chapel, the house Andrath is exploring, and the ruined building you just came through. All of these buildings, and more buildings on the north side of the courtyard, are connected by rows of arches forming walkways. You can just make out the body of the dead chimera on the east side of the courtyard.
Before Bralin completely spoils the tracks, Arminas is able to take a look at the path through the dust--but his findings are inconclusive. The path was created by many roughly human-sized creatures moving through the building, probably over time. Any particular sets of tracks are impossible to follow--although it is obvious there are no tracks leading anywhere else in the room.
Lorth and Any follow Bralin, as does Harvest. Harvest searches her memory, and is able to associate some of the symbology in the chapel with a sect of Pantheon that has since died out. From what she knows of the area, Harvest doesn't know of any towns near here at the present time, although things may have been different when the complex was built.
Now on his own, Andrath continues to explore the house. He finds a button, a broken spoon, and a few dead flies. Otherwise, the rooms are quite empty.
Lorth Friday March 24th, 2006 7:41:02 AM
Lorth tries to keep pace with Bralin, he is much happier moving swiftly through the complex, then sneaking around.
Harvest (30/34) d20+13=22 d20+13=25 Friday March 24th, 2006 10:11:52 AM "Bralin Stoneminder," Harvest Moon scoots forward, catching up with the dwarf. She whispers as they enter the courtyard. "Did you see the symbols within the chapel? They mark a devotion to Pantheon, god of Justice. This was once a place where the Lawful walked."
The brown girl turns her gaze to the courtyard. Across the way is the gap in the buildings through which the Chimera had come. To the right, the chapel with the holes in its wall.
Harvest steps quietly out between the rows of columns and turns back toward the door. She turns to the chapel, and then again to the gap between the buildings. Pushing the cacophony of the alarm away for a moment, she mulls the small puzzle.
"Arminas Calaelen," she calls back in low tones, "I cannot understand why these creatures would come through the two doors of this room, when they could come through the gap between the buildings, or through the old chapel."
"Can you see a reason why they would chose this path?"
Rolls and Actions Spot 22 Listen 25
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Shield On Bralin (Duration 1 minute from post Sunday March 12th, 2006 11:01:57 PM) Shield On Lorth (Duration 1 minute from post Monday March 13th, 2006 11:26:40 PM) Jump (Duration 1 minute from post Thursday March 16th, 2006 11:57:24 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas (AC 22, HP 33/33) d20+10=15 d20+10=22 Friday March 24th, 2006 11:03:47 AM
With a puzzled look, Arminas looks about the courtyard. Turning to Harvest, he says:
"I do not know why they have come this way, but I am starting to wonder if this creature and the alarms are not designed to slow us down. I wonder if even now they are escaping down the cliffs. If they have a boat, we will have a hard time catching them."
Looking about at the tracks, Arminas tries to determine if they were moving quickly as they passed this way, and how long ago they left the tracks.
"Perhaps Bralin is right, to move slowly may allow their escape."
Arminas looks up to the sky and whistles for Ewan.
"I hope she comes soon."
If she shows up this round, Arminas will cast speak with animals and ask her to check to see if the people are escaping.
Actions Spot 15 Survival 22 Pass w/o trace 1 hour minus 20 rounds Prepared spell - speak with animals
Any d20+4=18 d20+2=12 Friday March 24th, 2006 6:12:48 PM
Any continues to follow Bralin. It appears that those the group is seeking have fled this area. Maybe they have a keep somewhere else close by, and they just left this area to their "watch cat". Any smiles to himself at the thought.
When he sees Harvest, he says,
"You made that descent quickly. Did you find a shortcut?"
He then begins to sing lightly, and as he does he touches each member of the party present. (joins those here in a message spell)
"Now we can all communicate if we get spread out again."
Spells: message 40 inutes Blur 4 rounds from sound of alarm Prestidigitation from start of fire 1 hour Spot 18 Listen 12
Bralin Sunday March 26th, 2006 8:30:03 PM
Bralin comes through the door and stops, for there is nowhere to continue. He nods at the words of Harvest, but does not pause to consider them. The fate of the ancient sect is not relevant at the moment.
As Arminas has the only suggestion that makes sense, the dwarf follows up on it. He moves purposefully toward the cliffs. Mayhap the mystery will clear at that place.
DM Kathy Monday March 27th, 2006 12:03:25 AM Arminas goes to call again for Ewan, but finds that she is already spiraling down toward him. [Sorry about that; I meant to have her show up in Thursday's post, but I forgot.] You send her aloft again to search for anyone leaving the complex. She flies toward the cliffs, but all you get through your empathic link is empty/boring/nothing moving.
Harvest wonders about the path of the abductors. Why come through here? You look and listen, but see or here nothing but your companions. [Make a Knowledge (Arcana) check if you're still curious about their route.]
Any casts a spell to allow the group to communicate over distances.
On hearing the theory of escape, Bralin begins moving toward the cliffs, with Lorth behind him. The cliffs are east of the complex, so you move toward the body of the chimera and the building Andrath is exploring.
Harvest (30/34) d20+3=15 Monday March 27th, 2006 9:26:49 AM
Following behind Bralin Stoneminder, Harvest considers the nature of the Alarm spells that must surely have been permanently placed in the spots in which they have been discovered, that, or it is refreshed each day. The alternative is to consider that they have been expected, an unlikely consideration at best.
"I think the construction of these magic alarms may tell us something of the inhabitants here," Harvest Moon whispers to her companions. "I will do a brief examination."
The brown girl steps quickly to the door through which they had just exited. She aims her hands in toward the far door, and with a few quick words, calls upon Alemi to give her the insight to see magic.
Even after that, the spell can still be of use. Harvest follows in the wake of the others in the group. Her hands point forward as she concentrates upon the spell. If there are any traces or objects of magic, they will be revealed.
Rolls and Actions Knowledge Arcana 15 Cast Detect Magic (Not concerned with the Schools of magic. Only the number of Auras
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Shield On Bralin (Duration 1 minute from post Sunday March 12th, 2006 11:01:57 PM) Shield On Lorth (Duration 1 minute from post Monday March 13th, 2006 11:26:40 PM) Jump (Duration 1 minute from post Thursday March 16th, 2006 11:57:24 PM) Detect Magic (Duration 1 minute from post Sunday March 26th, 2006 11:03:25 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, uDetect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Lorth Monday March 27th, 2006 9:49:03 AM
Lorth continues to follow Bralin. He keeps his sword and shield at the ready. Although he also is starting to think that the Chimera and alarms where placed here as a means to slow down any persuers.
Arminas (AC 22, HP 33/33) d20+10=29 d20+10=14 Monday March 27th, 2006 11:05:57 AM
Arminas watches as Ewan takes to the sky, flying high and strong towards the cliff and the possible fleeing enemy.
Again, a look of confusion crosses his face, and Arminas says:
"I sense that Ewan does not see anyone escaping down the cliff face. Perhaps our best bet is to have me follow these tracks. We could also split up and communicate via the spell Any has woven."
Arminas then uses all his concentration to look at the tracks and learn from them.
How many passed this way? How long ago? Were they moving fast, running perhaps? Was anyone dragged or moved against their will? Where did they go?
Actions Spot 29 Survival 14 Pass w/o trace 1 hour minus 21 rounds Speak with animals 50 rounds
Bralin Monday March 27th, 2006 11:16:24 AM
Bralin pulls up and stops at Arminas' words. He turns back toward the complex, but takes care to follow the elves so as to not destroy any other evidence they may find.
Tis hard to be patient, but the dwarf wills himself to do so. The enemy is not at the cliffs and not in the complex. Neither is the halfling. Where they have gone is not a fact he is likely to discover. His comrades are much better suited to the task. Therefore, he must wait.
Any (sub by Kelly) d20+5=11 d20+4=20 d20+2=18 Monday March 27th, 2006 1:16:57 PM
Any steps out into the courtyard following behind his companions. His eyes squint in the sun, and he looks about in curiousity. He was fully prepared to meet the foe in the building, and he stands sword and dagger in hand. Looking about, he too is curious about the complex. Concentrating does not seem to help, the complex and the route of the kidnappers is a mystery.
Looking at Arminas, he says: "Where have they gone? If not by the cliff, they must still be hiding in one of the buildings. Unless of course we are days late. How recent were these tracks made?"
Then, realizing that if they see the enemy soon it will be at a distance, he sheaths his weapons and grabs his bow.
Actions Knowledge Arcana 11 message 40 minutes Blur 4 rounds from sound of alarm Prestidigitation from start of fire 1 hour Spot 20 Listen 18
Andrath d20+17=26 d20+13=27 Monday March 27th, 2006 10:26:16 PM
Finished with the building, Andrath moves back to the courtyard and meets up with the rest. He says, "Why don't you explore the outside, while I continue to examine the remaining buildings. If one of you with the message spell stays with me, we can communicate quickly if needed."
Then he moves to the next building, and pokes his head inside. If he spots no danger, he moves in to search around. [OOC: Spot 26 Search 27]
DM Kathy Tuesday March 28th, 2006 12:15:17 AM Harvest casts a Detect Magic spell. Aside from the various goodies on your companions, you note two areas that detect as magic, one inside each of the doors where the Alarm sounded. You recall from your magical training that the Alarm spell can be cast with a password, so that anyone who knows the password can move through the area without setting it off.
Arminas returns to looking at the tracks. There is precious little to go on in the stones of the courtyard, however, and he cannot tell where the humanoids may have moved.
Any looks cautiously about for enemies, but the complex remains eerily quiet. He switches weapons and stays alert.
Andrath leaves the building he's been exploring, and proposes to continue looking through the other buildings. He moves into the long, narrow building north of the small house he'd been exploring. You get the door open and see a foyer of sorts, with halls leading to either side and a wide staircase going up. Everything is covered in dust, and the staircase doesn't look safe.
Bralin continues toward the cliffs, with Lorth behind him. However, Arminas is getting nothing from Ewan but cliffs and trees. She sees no signs of humans moving--apart from Lorth and Bralin.
Harvest (30/34) Tuesday March 28th, 2006 12:20:13 PM
Nothing here.
Harvest turns her spell to the tall western building. It rises 50 feet up above. She turns her spell upward at the tower, questing for magical signatures.
Question Can we get a Map of our current positions and what we can see from there? Are there any doors in the eastern tower?
================================== Rolls and Actions Cast Detect Magic (Please post the Strength of the Auras as well.)
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Shield On Bralin (Duration 1 minute from post Sunday March 12th, 2006 11:01:57 PM) Shield On Lorth (Duration 1 minute from post Monday March 13th, 2006 11:26:40 PM) Jump (Duration 1 minute from post Thursday March 16th, 2006 11:57:24 PM) Detect Magic (Duration 1 minute from post Sunday March 26th, 2006 11:03:25 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, uDetect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas (AC 22, HP 33/33) d20+10=15 d20+10=30 Tuesday March 28th, 2006 12:27:06 PM
Arminas looks about at the courtyard and contemplates the mystery before them.
"Even stone can reveal tracks, I will search again."
Arminas them looks about in ever widening circles, hoping to find some trace of where the enemy went (rolled perfect 20 on tracking).
He continues to have Ewan search by air.
Actions Spot 15 Survival 30 (perfect 20) Pass w/o trace 1 hour minus 22 rounds Speak with animals 49 rounds
Any (sub by Kelly) d20+4=20 d20+2=16 Tuesday March 28th, 2006 4:26:27 PM
Any waits, his bow at the ready as Arminas scouts the courtyard. He strains his eyes, looking at windows and doorways to see if he can catch anyone watching them.
Actions message 40 minutes Prestidigitation from start of fire 1 hour Spot 20 Listen 16
Bralin Tuesday March 28th, 2006 4:52:02 PM
Bralin returns to stand by Any. He waits patiently for something to turn up.
Andrath d20+13=32 Tuesday March 28th, 2006 10:04:48 PM
Andrath calls out, "I am in here, and the floor is covered in dust. I am going to look around the main floor, and maybe try to find a way upstairs. The stairs don't look the safest."
That being said, Andrath searches the main floor of the building. He is careful to look at the ceiling, to make sure that he is under safe sections in each room. [OOC: Search 32]
DM Kathy Tuesday March 28th, 2006 11:57:32 PM Andrath starts down one of the corridors. You find that it extends the length of the building, and that there are many small rooms along it, on either side. Each room has a built-in bunk and a small cupboard. You examine a few, and none hold anything of interest.
Bralin and Lorth return and wait with Any. Any scans the other buildings, but sees no sign of anyone looking back at him.
Harvest notes that the two alarmed entrances have Moderate auras. She turns her attention to the western structure, but aside from the entrance, does not see any auras. [I think we may have our wires crossed. The 50-foot-tall building is the long, thin one that Andrath is currently exploring. It's to the east. The western building is the one you just came through, the one with the alarmed entrance and dust everywhere except the clear path. So yes, there are doors in it; you've just come through them.]
Arminas has another stab at reading the signs in the courtyard, and this time notices that the lichens which grow on the cobbles have been scraped off in places, as though by passing boots. The scraped places form a path of sorts to the north side of the complex--the side opposite from where you came in, and where you have not yet explored.
Arminas (AC 22, HP 33/33) Wednesday March 29th, 2006 12:05:29 AM
Arminas looks up from examining the ground and stares off to the North side. Quietly he says:
"They have gone that way, to the North."
With a whistle he calls Ewan down, and with a series of eagle screams tells her:
Fly that way (Arminas gestures to the North), fly high. Tell me if you see any creatures or people.
Looking at Bralin, he says: "Shall we, I think we may be expected."
Lorth Wednesday March 29th, 2006 7:18:50 AM
Lorth looks in the direction Arminas suggests. He squints instinctivly to see better, then turns back to his companions. "I'm ready to move", he says.
Harvest (30/34) Wednesday March 29th, 2006 10:58:52 AM
"Take care," Harvest whispers over the Message spell. "The Alarm spells at the doors are fairly powerful."
Moving across the courtyard, Harvest adjusts her sense of height and redirects the Detect Magic spell up at the tower which is now plainly in the east and not the west.
================================== Rolls and Actions Cast Detect Magic (Please post the Strength of the Auras as well.)
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Shield On Bralin (Duration 1 minute from post Sunday March 12th, 2006 11:01:57 PM) Shield On Lorth (Duration 1 minute from post Monday March 13th, 2006 11:26:40 PM) Jump (Duration 1 minute from post Thursday March 16th, 2006 11:57:24 PM) Detect Magic (Duration 1 minute from post Sunday March 26th, 2006 11:03:25 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, uDetect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Any (sub by Kelly) d20+4=22 Wednesday March 29th, 2006 11:22:57 AM
Looking off to the North, Any notches an arrow.
"They know we are here, we should go introduce ourselves. Harvest, can you let Andrath know we move to the North now?"
Actions message 40 minutes Prestidigitation from start of fire 1 hour Spot 22
Bralin Wednesday March 29th, 2006 9:31:35 PM
Bralin actually smiles at Arminas.
"Aye," he replies.
The dwarf pulls out his axe, and moves northward.
DM Kathy Thursday March 30th, 2006 12:17:48 AM Harvest directs her magic detection toward the building Andrath is exploring, but sees no magical auras that could not be attributed to her companion.
Arminas announces that he has picked up the trail, and the group turns its focus to the north.
[Anybody moving north, please make a Spot check. Ewan needs to make one, too.]
Lorth d20+1=21 Thursday March 30th, 2006 7:05:22 AM
Lorth carefully looks ahead, flanking Bralin as they move. If they know we are coming, they will probably try an ambush he thinks. Where could they be hidden?
Bralin (ac 21) d20+5=14 Thursday March 30th, 2006 10:04:51 AM
[Spot 14]
Bralin moves toward the north, scanning the horizon, watching for any movement that may signal an imminent attack. His thoughts parallel those of the paladin. The foe knows we are here, and has time to prepare. They will strike first.
Bralin moves forward, staying in front. It will be his job to receive the foe's attack, so that his comrades will be free to react.
Any (sub by Kelly) d20+4=9 Thursday March 30th, 2006 10:11:55 AM
Any looks to the North, but does not see anything. He holds his bow at the ready, as he follows Bralin.
Spot 9
Arminas (AC 22, HP 33/33) and Ewan (AC 14, HP 9) d20+6=23 d20+10=17 Thursday March 30th, 2006 10:21:15 AM
Ewan flys high above the buildings, looking down she tries to spot any danger that might come the way of her elven friend.
Arminas allows Bralin and Lorth to take the lead, as they make their way to the North. He holds his bow at the ready, as his eyes scan for danger.
Harvest (30/34) d20+13=26 d20+13=25 Thursday March 30th, 2006 10:27:33 AM
Nothing magic that may come down upon the party from above.
"Arminas Calaelen says the tracks lead to the North, Andrath Silverhand," whispers the brown girl. Then she swings her hands around to the north, casting about for hidden magical signatures while she follows at the rear of the group.
================================== Rolls and Actions Spot 26 Listen 25 Detecting Magic to the North (Please post the Strength of the Auras as well.)
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Shield On Bralin (Duration 1 minute from post Sunday March 12th, 2006 11:01:57 PM) Shield On Lorth (Duration 1 minute from post Monday March 13th, 2006 11:26:40 PM) Jump (Duration 1 minute from post Thursday March 16th, 2006 11:57:24 PM) Detect Magic (Duration 1 minute from post Sunday March 26th, 2006 11:03:25 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, uDetect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
DM Kathy Friday March 31st, 2006 1:34:01 AM
With Ewan aloft, you make your way to the north side of the complex. As you approach, you all catch sight of the small figure crouched in an alcove between two of the buildings. It is a halfling man, and his leg or foot appears to be stuck. He reaches down and pulls on--something--with his hands. It's hard to see what, exactly, in the shadowy alcove. He looks up, sees you approaching, and puts a finger to his lips. He glances furtively around him, then beckons urgently to you.
Arminas gets a bit more from his empathic link with Ewan. Danger/hidden/lurking, the bird sends.
Harvest catches a glimpse of movement from the window of one of the buildings.
Lorth d20+1=12 Friday March 31st, 2006 7:42:51 AM
Lorth follows Bralin, but begins to examine the area intensly. He is already expecting ambush. (Spot 12) He looks over the stuck halfling briefly, and since it looks like it is not in immediate danger, he ignores him for now.
Harvest (30/34) d20+13=18 d20+13=25 Friday March 31st, 2006 10:49:06 AM
"BEWARE! The Window!" the subvocal whisper is harsh with tension over the magic Message spell. (I think that goes to everyone.) Harvest swings her hands around to point in the direction of the Window. The cone of Magic Detection swings with the movement.
================================== Rolls and Actions Spot 18 Listen 25 Detecting Magic In the Direction of the Window from which Harvest saw the Movement. (Please post the Strength of the Auras as well.)
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Shield On Bralin (Duration 1 minute from post Sunday March 12th, 2006 11:01:57 PM) Shield On Lorth (Duration 1 minute from post Monday March 13th, 2006 11:26:40 PM) Jump (Duration 1 minute from post Thursday March 16th, 2006 11:57:24 PM) Detect Magic (Duration 1 minute from post Sunday March 26th, 2006 11:03:25 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, uDetect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Any (sub by Kelly) d20+4=19 Friday March 31st, 2006 11:34:48 AM
The message from Harvest comes through clearly, an ambush is set.
Message to all: An ambush then, perhaps we can shed light on the enemy. Arminas, shoot an arrow to the window. I have lit the end again.
Actions spot 19 light spell on arrow message 40 minutes Prestidigitation from start of fire 1 hour Spot 22
Arminas (AC 22, HP 33/33) and Ewan (AC 14, HP 9) d20+6=8 d20+10=21 d20+11=23 d8+3=4 Friday March 31st, 2006 11:39:39 AM
Ewan flies high, giving warning to Arminas.
Upon the warning from Harvest and Ewan, Arminas looks up at the window and looks for the enemy. Seeing a glow on the arrow from Any's spell, he lets the arrow fly towards the window. If he sees someone he will aim for him, otherwise he attempts to get the arrow into the room.
Actions Spot (Ewan) 9 Spot (Arminas) 21 Arrow Hit AC 23 Damage 4 Pass w/o trace 1 hour minus 25 rounds Speak with animals 45 rounds remaining
Bralin (ac 21, 52/52, Bulls Strength) Friday March 31st, 2006 2:41:13 PM
Harvest finds the trap, and Arminas and Any move to expose it. Bralin nods with satisfaction.
The dwarf uses the slight break to cast a spell on himself, and then he continues to advance on the halfling. Bralin's axe is already drawn, and he will not get closer than 20' to the figure. ------------ Bulls Strength - round 1 of 30
Andrath Sunday April 2nd, 2006 9:21:13 PM
Hearing Harvest's whisper, Andrath moves to the door of the building (the one opening into the courtyard) that he is in, and peeks around the corner, to see what is going on. [OOC: Kathy, might at new map be in order?]
Remo's Rescue
DM Kathy d20+9=25 d8=3 Monday April 3rd, 2006 12:02:57 AM Bralin casts a spell on himself and approaches the halfling, with Lorth right behind him.
Harvest warns her companions by means of the Message spell they all share. She directs her Detect Magic cone toward the building, and is aware of several auras. [I think you have to concentrate one more round to get their number and strength.]
Any again casts a Light spell on one of Arminas's arrows, and the ranger sends the lighted missile flying toward the window. He still doesn't see a target, but the arrow flies through the window nonetheless, illuminating the room.
Andrath steps out of the building he's been exploring and takes in the scene.
Losing no time, the figure in the window fires a crossbow at Bralin, hitting the dwarf for 3 points of damage. Thanks to the lighted arrow, you all can catch a glimpse of an elven or half-elven man before he drops below the level of the window, out of sight.
[Map to follow.]
Lorth AC: 19, HP: 58 Monday April 3rd, 2006 8:27:09 AM
Lorth moves up to the side of the building (H4), he isn't sure if he should attack the halfling who lured them into the ambush, as he doesn't know exactly what Remo looks like.
He waits for Bralin's que.
Bralin (ac 21, 49/52, Bulls Strength /Sub Al) d8=3 d20+5=6 Monday April 3rd, 2006 11:20:19 AM
The halfling is no threat for the moment. The crossbow bolt in Bralin's shoulder, however, speaks to the both the threat and the intentions of those within the building.
Something to convince them not to show themselves.
Bralin lifts the sphere of his god and points at the window. Then, as the burst of sound errupts, he makes for a position of cover by the wall.
------------ Rolls and Actions Cast Soundburst Centered at F5 (10-foot radius spread) Sonic Damage 3hp (Fort Save vs DC15 or be stunned for one round) Spot 6 (Nat 1 /For any Doors or other entrances to the building)
Position and Movement Move 20 feet to H6
Bulls Strength - round 2 of 30
Harvest (AC22, HP 30/34) d20+13=22 d20+13=21 Monday April 3rd, 2006 11:33:25 AM
Ambushers. With bows. Hiding within the windows. They must be convinced that their position within is of no value to them.
Harvest drops the Detection spell and looks about the building for the door from which they are most likely to come. She draws a scroll, something more to confound them than anything else. Then she rushes to the wall of the building for cover.
"Are you Remo Thistlefoot?" she asks the halfling. "We have been sent by the Pitchfork Council. They were concerned at your lack of whereabouts. Who are these men? And why have they taken you? Are you injured?"
================================== Question Kathy, are those Shield spells on Bralin and Lorth still in effect?
Rolls and Actions Spot 22 (For a door leading into the building as well as for further ambush.) Listen 21 (For signs of ambushers)
Movement and Postion Draw Scroll of Obscuring Mist Move 35 feet to I5
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Shield On Bralin (Duration 1 minute from post Sunday March 12th, 2006 11:01:57 PM) Shield On Lorth (Duration 1 minute from post Monday March 13th, 2006 11:26:40 PM) Jump (Duration 1 minute from post Thursday March 16th, 2006 11:57:24 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, uDetect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas (AC 22, HP 33/33) and Ewan (AC 14, HP 9) d20+6=24 d20+10=21 d20+9=18 d20+9=20 d8+3=10 d8+3=8 Monday April 3rd, 2006 11:44:11 AM
Ewan flies above, out of arrow range, looking down upon the ambush. She can hear as Arminas screams in eagle:
Where is the enemy?
Though he screams to Ewan, his eyes are focused on the window where the crossbow bolt came from. Arminas draws back his bow, his arrow aimed at the opening. As soon as the enemy shows himself, Arminas lets an arrow fly, and if given time he follows it with another.
Actions Spot (Ewan) 24 Spot (Arminas) 21 1st Arrow Hit AC 18 Damage 10 2nd Arrow Hit AC 20 Damage 8 Pass w/o trace 1 hour minus 26 rounds Speak with animals 44 rounds remaining
Any (20AC, 20/20 HP) d20+4=15 d20+2=9 Monday April 3rd, 2006 7:46:14 PM
For the third time this day, Any begins to sing. His song once again raises the spirits of those in the party who hear it. His bow stays at the ready, and he continues to scan around the courtyard for signs of more of the ambushers.
The words of his song seem slightly subdued, almost questioning as he sings,
"Where are your arrows and where is your test? Whence do you come from and what is your quest? Whom do you serve here, and why do you fight? Who will morn you come the fall of night?
Your arrows fall short of their intended mark, Go back to your homes ere' falls the dark. Your master forsakes you your fight is in vain, Your own death awaits you, our swords are your bane."
Actions spot 15 blur 4 rounds from sound of Alarm message 40 minutes Prestidigitation from start of fire 1 hour listen 9
Andrath (AC20, 37/37 hp) d20+17=28 Monday April 3rd, 2006 10:41:57 PM
Andrath exits the door and heads straight north along the building, looking to see if he can get around behind the building containing the archer. [OOC: Spot 28]
DM Kathy d20+6=16 d20+3=6 d20+8=14 d20+9=28 d20+8=18 d4+1=2 Tuesday April 4th, 2006 12:29:05 AM Lorth moves up next to the building and waits for Bralin to make his move.
Bralin casts a spell and a deep whoomp! of sonic energy bursts in the building. Then he, too, moves up close to the structure.
Harvest looks about for a door, and finds one at B5. She pulls out a scroll and moves toward the building. [The Shield spells have expired by this point]. She speaks to the halfling, but he only puts his finger to his lips again.
Arminas asks his companion for help. In return, he gets the strong mental picture of a rabbit hiding in its warren, and feels an inner tug toward the building. Ewan does not seem to have specifics, however. Arminas aims an arrow at the window and waits.
Any begins to sing, a tune aimed as much at demoralizing his foes as bolstering his allies.
Andrath moves north along "his" building, looking for another way into the ambush building. He doesn't see one.
Again, a head pops up at the window. Anybody who can make a Spot DC 15, Highlight to display spoiler: {it is a different archer. The first one was an elf or half-elf; this one is definitely human.} Arminas fires twice, but the archer has cover from the window and even the ranger's excellent shots don't quite hit their target. The archer returns fire, but misses Arminas.
At the same time, the door is shoved open and a figure emerges. It is an elf with dusky black skin and white hair. She moves up to Bralin, a heavy flail clutched in both hands. She swings at him, and succeeds in hooking the chain around his leg. She pulls, nearly pulling the dwarf off his feet! However, Bralin is able to keep his balance. [I think. It's hard to tell without a character sheet. By the Woldian special-attack rules, Bralin is assumed to take 10 on his resist. He gets to add his strength or dex modifier (whichever is higher), plus 4 for being a dwarf (stability). He needs to beat an 18. Does he have at least a +4 strength modifier? I'm assuming he does. If I'm wrong, let me know.]
From the now-open doorway, a magic missile shrieks across the courtyard, hitting Arminas for 2 points of damage.
Lorth AC: 19, HP: 58 d20+13=31 d8+10=13 Tuesday April 4th, 2006 7:58:12 AM
Lorth hears the sound of fighting and since the halfling doesn't seem to be any threat he moves around the corner to help Bralin (H7).
He immediatley engages the female elf attacking Bralin. "Gargul, give me strength", he intones (Smite evil). (Hit AC: 31, Damage: 13)
Bralin (ac 21, 49/52, Bulls Strength /Sub Al) d20+10=24 d10+9=14 Tuesday April 4th, 2006 10:19:36 AM
The chain of the flail around Bralin's leg do not warrant a glance. Tis the arrogance of the elves that will be their downfall.
"Ye'll not trip a dwarf, Drow." The instruction is simple, but maybe too late to do the drow much good.
Bralin swings adding his own attack to Lorth's blow. With the bard's song to bolster his heart, he puts power behind the swing.
------------ The Trip With Bull's Strength, Bralin has a STR Mod of +6 That puts his Take 10 on Trip at DC20 Reading the rules, the Drow now needs to make a Reflex check vs DC20 before the events of this round or either be tripped herself or lose her weapon.
Rolls and Actions Power Attack +2 Hit AC25 Damage 15hp (+1 Weapon, +6 STR, +2 PA) Forgot Inspire Courage. Rolls listed here are adjusted for Inspire Courage.
Position and Movement 5-Foot Step to G7
Bulls Strength - round 3 of 30 Inspire Courage.
Harvest (AC22, HP 30/34) d20+5=15 Tuesday April 4th, 2006 10:49:08 AM
Harvest Moon's eyes narrow with suspicion.
"Do not trust the halfling," she whispers into the Message spell. "His behavior is not in accordance with the situation."
"I will return, and you will explain yourself," Harvest says to the halfling before scuttling around the embattled drow. With superior speed, she hurries to the doorway that she had seen earlier. The memory of the battle at the river return to her, the scroll she had lost due to the pain from an unexpected attack. This time Harvest bolsters her concentration before unfurling the scroll.
As the words vanish from the parchment, an Obscuring Mist rises from around Harvest Moon clouding the view of the archers in the windows.
==================================
Rolls and Actions Concentration 15 (Though if the figure in the door has a Ranged weapon there should be no AoO) Cast Obscuring Mist from Scroll (This is designed to cover all the way to the window at F6. But I don't know where you start the center from which you count the 20-foot radius. If you need Harvest 5 feet to the east in order to cover the window, feel free to consider her there.)
Movement and Position Move B6 (45 feet, skirting area of AoO from Drow)
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Obscuring Mist - (Duration 10/10 Rounds from post Monday April 3rd, 2006 11:29:05 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, uDetect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas (AC 22, HP 31/33) and Ewan (AC 14, HP 9) d20+6=12 d20+10=15 d20+8=10 d20+13=28 Tuesday April 4th, 2006 11:54:47 AM
Ewan knows they are hiding, prey for the hunters. With an eagle scream, Arminas says:
Warn me if you see them.
As the obscuring mist rises, Arminas quickly decides he must deal with the mage. Using the message spell, he says:
I'm going in the door, Any will you follow?
Arminas then hustles over to the door (double movement speed), drawing his sword as he goes. Hopefully, he will surprise those inside, shileded by the mist from Harvest. He continues into the building, looking for the mage who cast missles at him. His sword at the ready, he swings it at the first enemy he finds, but cannot connect.
OOC: Because of the Pass w/o a Trace, do I need to roll move silently? He leaves no footsteps, so his feet should make no sound.
Actions Spot (Ewan) 12 Spot (Arminas) 15 Move silently 28 Sword Hit AC 10 Pass w/o trace 1 hour minus 27 rounds Speak with animals 43 rounds remaining
Any (20 AC, 20/20 HP) Tuesday April 4th, 2006 7:29:24 PM
Any sees the attacks upon his friends, and hears Arminas whisper through the message spell. His answer is immediate, and strong, and blends seamlessly into the song he is singing,
"Yes!"
Then he too switches his weapons to sword and dagger, following Arminas into the door. His singing now echoes off the walls of the room they have entered.
Spells: blur 4 rounds from sound of Alarm message 40 minutes Prestidigitation from start of fire 1 hour Inspire courage +1 hit +1 will save
Andrath (AC20, 37/37 hp) d20+10=23 Wednesday April 5th, 2006 12:15:33 AM
Seeing that the rest of the party has the elf well in hand, Andrath runs over to the halfling. "Are you the envoy that we are looking for? What is going on here? Are you trapped?" He listens closely for the halfling's answers. [OOC: Sense motive check of 23]
DM Kathy d20+3=23 d20+9=24 d20+8=12 d20+3=11 d20+9=20 d8=8 Wednesday April 5th, 2006 1:20:47 AM Lorth uses his Paladin ability to strike a mighty blow against the dark elf, and Bralin follows with a powerful blow of his own. She is now badly wounded.
Harvest darts nimbly around the embattled dark elf and pauses in the doorway of the building to cast Obscuring Mist from her scroll. [You can pick any corner of your square as the center of the spell; I centered it on the northeast corner of B6. Let me know if you'd prefer to tweak it a little.] A thick fog surrounds the monk, and flows through the open doorway into the building beyond.
Arminas double-moves to the open doorway, with Any right behind him. The mist fills the building too, however, and you do not yet see any foes. [With the sound of a battle going on, I don't think moving silently is going to be an issue.]
Andrath approaches the halfling, only to see the little fellow wink out!
The dark elf manages to retain her weapon, but she is clearly badly wounded. She switches targets and this time tries her luck with Lorth. Her flail wraps around his lower leg [hit touch AC 24], but she doesn't pull with enough strength to trip the paladin, and she must drop her weapon to keep from being tripped herself. She takes a 5-foot step back into the mist.
The archers at the window are stymied for the moment, but one of them appears to have moved. Andrath sees a face appear at a window facing him, a second before a crossbow bolt comes flying toward him. The bolt strikes solidly and bites deep. [Hit AC 20 for 8 damage]
Of the other archer, and whoever unleashed the magic missile, there is no sign. Perhaps they are stymied by the mist.
Lorth AC: 19, HP: 58 Wednesday April 5th, 2006 8:14:50 AM
Lorth untangles himself from the flail and moves foward into the mist (E7). "Surrender elf.", he says. "You have no weapon, to even defend yourself." Lorth cannot bring himself to attack a defenseless being, so he waits to see the elf's reaction.
Bralin (ac 21, 49/52, Bulls Strength /Sub Al) d20+11=25 d10+10=16 d100=58 Wednesday April 5th, 2006 10:45:04 AM
Lorth holds his sword, possibly from a paladin's sense of honor. Bralin has no such hesitation. The drow remains a danger until unconscious or otherwise subdued.
Bralin strikes again, feeling the bite of his axe as it strikes the drow standing within the cloud of mist.
------------
Rolls and Actions Power Attack +2 Hit AC25 Damage 16hp (+1 Weapon, +6 STR, +2 PA, +1 Inspire) Miss Chance <20 = 58
Position and Movement Bralin took a 5-Foot step to G7 last round.
Bulls Strength - round 4 of 30 Inspire Courage.
Harvest (AC22, HP 30/34) d20+6=17 d6=3 d20+13=15 Wednesday April 5th, 2006 11:09:51 AM
The wizard and the archer remain inside. Neither position is known.
Harvest scurries into the door and turns the corner to take her in the direction of the last know position of the archer. Length of reach may be important, so Harvest draws her chain as she moves through the mist.
Harvest emerges, and he has moved. Of course, he must have, the window is blocked. Harvest Moon changes direction, coming in from a direction from which she can command the greatest area of the room with her chain. With her foot, she lashes out at the nerves that cluster at the man's inner thigh. The right strike should cause him enough pain to make him pause for a moment.
Even before her blow falls, the brown girl turns her eyes and ears to the rest of the room, searching for the one other foe that she knows must be present.
[ OoC: The position of the mist is perfect, Kathy. Thanks. ]
==================================
Rolls and Actions Hit Archer X AC18 (Stunning Fist /Fort vs DC17 or be Stunned for 1 Round) Damage 4hp (Non-Lethal Damage) Sorry, Forgot Inspire Courage again. The +1 is added here.
Listen 15 (For the position of other opponents)
Movement and Position Draw Spiked Chain as part of Move Action /Note: Now threaten 10 feet. Also note: Get 3 AoO as per Combat Reflexes. Move G3 (35 feet)
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Obscuring Mist - (Duration 9/10 Rounds from post Monday April 3rd, 2006 11:29:05 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, uDetect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas (AC 22, HP 31/33) and Ewan (AC 14, HP 9) d20+8=14 d20+6=9 d20+10=14 d8+3=9 Wednesday April 5th, 2006 11:32:10 AM
The mist has allowed us to enter the building, but now hides the enemy. Arminas quickly moves through the mist (to C2, or to confront the mage if seen), his sword at the ready. He glances about, looking for the enemy.
Upon finding the enemy, he lashes out with his longsword.
I must spend more time with the sword prior to battle.
Using the message spell, he adds:
"Inform others if you find the enemy!"
Actions Spot (Ewan) 9 Spot (Arminas) 14 Sword Hit AC 15 (with inspire courage) Damage 9 Pass w/o trace 1 hour minus 28 rounds Speak with animals 42 rounds remaining
Any (20 AC, 20/20 HP) d20+8=12 Wednesday April 5th, 2006 6:38:11 PM
Any enters the room and slides along the wall to his right, searching for the archer who fired from this window. He comes out of the mist and spies a foe, striking to stop any attacks that may be coming. His blow goes wide of its mark, but he sets himself to attack again.
His Bardic song still lends aid to all in the party. He sees that Harvest has made a telling blow to the man before him.
Spells: blur 4 rounds from sound of Alarm message 40 minutes Prestidigitation from start of fire 1 hour Inspire courage +1 hit +1 will save
Attack: hit AC 12 (probably a miss) forfeit my second attack for movement
Andrath (AC20, 29/37 hp) d20+8=12 Wednesday April 5th, 2006 9:42:37 PM
Andrath feels the bite of the arrow, and winces, but shakes off the pain. He concentrates on the disappearing halfling, trying to figure out if the little man used a spell, but has little luck. [OOC: Spellcraft check of 12]. "I will need to spend more time looking over those magic texts," he thinks to himself. Then he moves to the square recently vacated by the halfling, trying to find him.
DM Kathy d20+8=21 d20+12=30 2d6(4+5)+8=17 d4+1=3 Thursday April 6th, 2006 1:16:43 AM Lorth, seeing his opponent disarmed, calls for her to surrender. Bralin, however, doesn't feel bound by such niceties. With one mightly blow of his axe, he ends the life of the unarmed dark elf.
Harvest plows through the mist, drawing her spiked chain as she goes. Reaching the corner, she unleashes an attack on the archer she sees (the half-elf). The man is quite nimble, though, and his light chain shirt is enough to block the blow.
Arminas, too, moves forward through the mist, and finds an opponent. He swings at the human man, and his sword seems to pass right through it! [Arminas make a Will save.]
Any moves into the room behind Harvest. He, too, approaches the archer and attacks, but the half-elf easily dodges.
Andrath keeps moving toward the shadowy area where the halfling was just seconds ago. He looks around, but can see no trace of the man.
The half-elf calls "Thayves, over here!" and steps into the corner, dropping his crossbow and drawing a rapier as he moves. The other former archer, the human, crosses the room to flank Harvest with the half-elf. As he does so, Harvest gets an AoO.
Both men attack the monk. The half-elf stabs with his rapier, just missing. The human swings a greatsword, hitting Harvest for 17 points damage.
From somewhere near the ceiling, a voice speaks a magic word, and a magic missile comes racing at Any, hitting him for 3 points damage. As it does so, a figure winks into view. It is a human man, and appears identical in every way to the opponent Arminas just swung at with so little effect. He is hovering up near the ceiling.
Lorth AC: 19, HP: 58 Thursday April 6th, 2006 8:13:17 AM
Seeing the elf fall, Lorth moves into the building (Double move). He tries to use the sounds of battle to guide him through the mist, emerging near Any and Harvest (E4).
Bralin (ac 21, 49/52, Bulls Strength /Sub Al) Thursday April 6th, 2006 10:12:48 AM
The drow will be harming none for the moment. Bralin strides into the mist on the heels of Lorth. Using the wall as a guide he moves through the fog at his own slow and steady pace.
------------
Rolls and Actions
Position and Movement Double Move to D5
Bulls Strength - round 4 of 30 Inspire Courage.
Harvest (AC22, HP 30/34) d20+11=28 d20+11=12 d20+7=8 Thursday April 6th, 2006 10:36:49 AM
The man with the greatsword approaches quickly. Harvest Moon can almost feel the painful cutting strike of the blade.
"Arminas Calaelen! there is a man flying in the far corner of the room," Harvest Moon has time for this short reply.
Then things happen quickly.
Harvest disarms T avoiding the 17hp. Harvest fails in a disarm vs B and loses the spiked chain. Harvest draws a Wand of Ray of Enfeeblement. Harvest moves 5 feet to F4 to be clear of the Flanking
If T reaches for his weapon, Harvest takes the AoO but misses.
================================== Kathy, I'll play it where you've placed it. But last round I indicated G3 rather than G5. Instead of clutter things with description, I've stripped everything to basics above.
Rolls and Actions AoO Disarm vs T 28 (+6 MAB --4 Non-proficient, +1 Masterwork, +2 Spiked Chain per PHB, +4 Two-handed Weapon, +1 Inspire Courage) Disarm vs B 12 (Nat 1 /Harvest loses the chain) If T reaches to pick up his weapon. AoO vs T 8 (Nat 1 /Stunning Fist) Lorth should get an AoO also in this case.
Movement and Position Take Wand of Ray of Enfeeblement from HHH as Move Action. No AoO per HHH. 5-Foot step to F4 to step out of Flanking.
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Obscuring Mist - (Duration 9/10 Rounds from post Monday April 3rd, 2006 11:29:05 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, uDetect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas (AC 22, HP 31/33) and Ewan (AC 14, HP 9) d20+5=23 d20+9=19 d20+9=17 d8+4=9 d8+4=6 d20+6=17 Thursday April 6th, 2006 1:14:29 PM
While more accustomed to using his bow in battle, Arminas has done significant training with his sword. It has never gone completely through someone without cutting them in two. Something is not right here.
Harvest sends a message Arminas Calaelen! there is a man flying in the far corner of the room.
Looking up, Arminas sees an exact replica of the person he just attacked, although he seems much more real.
Dropping his sword to the floor, he draws forth two arrows. His bow, still clutched in his left hand goes into action.
Actions Spot (Ewan) 17 Will save 23 1st Arrow Hit AC 20 (with inspire courage) Damage 9 2nd Arrow Hit AC 18 Damage 6 Pass w/o trace 1 hour minus 29 rounds Speak with animals 41 rounds remaining
Any - sub Kelly d20+7=13 d20+7=23 d4+3=4 Thursday April 6th, 2006 4:24:33 PM
Any flinches at the sting of a magic missile from a figure floating near the ceiling behind him, but he shrugs off the attack, and uses his sword and dagger upon the half-elf in the room.
His song conitinues to echo in the room, but has now taken on a more martial note.
"All hope is lost, you shall not prevail, Your hateful plan is doomed to fail. Your swords are dull, your spells are weak, You shall not have the vic'try you seek."
Actions Sword attack Hit AC 14 Dagger attack Hit AC 24 Damage 4 blur 4 rounds from sound of alarm presitidigitation 1 hour from start of fire Message 40 minutes from casting Inspire courage +1 to hit +1 to will save
Andrath (AC20, 29/37 hp) Thursday April 6th, 2006 10:13:47 PM
Andrath moves around the corner [OOC: to G6], but can't see any farther due to the cloud of fog. "Where in the name of Wark's black beard is the door! I can't see a thing!" he shouts, drawing his shortsword.
DM Kathy d20+10=25 2d6(3+2)+8=13 d20+11=24 d20+11=31 d20+8=27 3d6(3+1+3)+2=9 d100=39 Friday April 7th, 2006 12:53:32 AM Lorth and Bralin enter the building, searching for opponents.
Seeing the human approach, Harvest goes after his weapon with her spiked chain, and succeeds in disarming him. She calls out to Arminas, and attempts to disarm the half-elf, but muffs the attempt and has to drop the chain. She pulls out a wand and sidesteps to get clear of her attackers.
When Arminas's sword passes right through the man in front of him, he realizes that the figure is an illusion (although it still looks real enough to the rest of the group). He drops his sword and once again plies his bowstring. His first arrow strikes true, earning him a curse from the flying human. The second shot appears to deflect at the last instant.
Ewan sees no new foes, and in fact is having a hard time seeing anything through the mist.
Any continues to sing, and lashes out with sword and dagger. The latter hits and draws blood.
Andrath struggles to find his companions, and calls out for directions through the mist.
The figure up near the ceiling speaks an incantation and vanishes again.
The human fighter shifts sideways (five-foot), then leans in to pick up his greatsword from the adjacent square. He provokes AoOs from Harvest (who misses), and Any, but avoids one from Lorth. Assuming he survives that experience, he swings his greatsword at Harvest, hitting the monk for 13 points damage.
The half-elf dodges nimbly to the other side of Any, avoiding AoOs from Any (Tumble 24) and Harvest (Tumble 31). He thrusts at Any with his rapier, hitting the bard for 9 points of damage.
Lorth AC: 19, HP: 58 d20+10=25 d8+5=9 Friday April 7th, 2006 8:01:44 AM
Lorth scans the area quickly, and with what he can see in the room he decides to help Harvest and Any. He moves quickly to engage the enemy (F3) and attacks. (B) (Hit AC: 25, DM: 9)
Bralin (ac 21, 49/52, Bulls Strength /Sub Al) d20+13=26 d10+8=12 Friday April 7th, 2006 8:59:40 AM
Sounds of combat come from straight ahead. That is where Bralin heads, straight ahead along the wall. When he comes to the edge of the fog, the blood on the man's sword leaves Bralin no question as to what must be done. The dwarf strides forward, crashing his axe into the man's side.
------------
Note 20% miss chance against Bralin from Obscuring Mist.
Rolls and Actions Hit T AC26 (+10 MAB, +2 Bull's Str, +1 Inspire) Damage 12hp
Position and Movement Move to F5
Bulls Strength - round 5 of 30 Inspire Courage.
Harvest (AC22, HP 17/34) d20+7=15 d6=6 Friday April 7th, 2006 9:26:16 AM
The pain cuts as deep as the long two handed blade.
SWILLING PIG FORNICATOR!!!
The curse rages through her brain. But this time Harvest Moon grits her teeth instead, and the words do not leave her mouth. Instead, she speaks to her companions in a whisper strained through blood and pain.
"Anthos Westar, take to the corner. The quick one tries to flank us."
Then, taking a short step behind Paladin Lorth, the brown girl speaks a trigger word, and a dark beam shoots forth touching her attacker and draining his strength through necromantic magics. (Range Touch Attack vs T, Hit AC15, Str Damage 6)
Harvest draws from her Haversack once again. This time a scroll of Invisibility Purge.
"I will attempt to draw the Flying Man from his cloak of invisibility," she says.
==================================
Rolls and Actions Ranged Touch Attack Hit AC15 STR Damage 6
Movement and Position Take Scroll of Invisibility Purge from HHH as Move Action. 5-Foot step to E3.
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Obscuring Mist - (Duration 7/10 Rounds from post Monday April 3rd, 2006 11:29:05 PM) Enfeeblement on T - (Duration 10/10 Rounds from post Thursday April 6th, 2006 11:53:32 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, uDetect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas (AC 22, HP 31/33) and Ewan (AC 14, HP 9) d20+16=29 d20+13=14 d20+10=17 d20+6=7 Friday April 7th, 2006 11:14:03 AM
The human can disappear as well as fly, he proves to be a difficult opponent. Arminas glances at the illusion in front of him, to see if his movements will give a clue as to what the mage is doing. With a whispered message, he says:
The man near me is an illusion of the mage.
Stooping down, Arminas picks up his sword, still holding his bow in his left hand. Two can play at disappearing. Arminas steps back 5 feet into the mist and wraps his elven cloak around him. He moves until his back is against the wall, and then with all the stealth he can muster he moves North along the wall to B1.
Any (20AC, 8/20HP) d20+8=23 d20+8=10 d8+3=11 Friday April 7th, 2006 12:03:43 PM
Any is struck deeply by the rapier of his foe, but rather than giving in to the pain, he strikes back, slicing his foe with his sword, his dagger skittering off his armor. As he strikes he follows Harvest's advice and steps into the corner of the room, putting all of the enemy in front of him.
His song ceases when he is struck, but all of the "Swords" feel the power still as they attack those in the room.
OOC Is my Blur spell still active?
Actions Sword attack Hit AC 23 for 11 HP DAM Dagger attack Hit AC 10 blur 4 rounds from sound of alarm presitidigitation 1 hour from start of fire Message 40 minutes from casting Inspire courage +1 to hit +1 to will save for 5 more rounds
Any (8/20 HP, 20 AC),supplemental post d20+8=23 d20+3=16 d8+3=10 Sunday April 9th, 2006 9:47:22 AM
Any takes an AOP attack as the half-elf moves, and hits him again with his sword.
Hit AC 23 for 10 HP DAM (ignore roll of 16, forgot to change the dice to D8)
DM Kathy d20+10=23 2d6(2+2)+8=12 d20+9=21 3d6(3+2+2)=7 Monday April 10th, 2006 12:59:53 AM Lorth steps up and attack the nimble half-elf. His sword hits home, and the man hisses in pain.
Bralin moves through the mist and delivers a solid blow to the human.
Harvest steps behind the paladin and fires off her wand. She has to be extra cautious, however, to avoid hitting a friendly target, and she overshoots her target. [I think. There's a -4 penalty for making a ranged attack into melee combat, and I didn't see Precise Shot on Harvest's character sheet. And judging from the numbers, it didn't look like you'd taken the penalty on the roll. That would make the ranged attack an 11, which wouldn't hit. Please let me know if I've made a mistake.] She then pulls out a scroll.
Arminas warns the others of the illusion, then disappears into the mist. He vanishes quite handily, but has trouble moving without sound in an environment where he can barely see the floor.
Any attacks the half-elf, and scores a hit with his sword. The man lets out a soft grunt, then falls to the floor. Blood begins to pool beneath him. [The Blur spell has expired.]
The illusion winks out. The human fighter steps into the corner, clearly badly wounded. He swings his greatsword at Any, and connects for 12 points damage.
Without warning, Lorth is attacked! A rapier is thrust between his ribs, seeming to find a particularly vulnerable spot. Lorth takes 7 points of damage from the now-visible mage. He is still flying, but is within reach. His invisibility has been negated by his hostile action.
Lorth AC: 19, HP: 58/51 Monday April 10th, 2006 7:43:55 AM
Lorth is surprised by the man's appearance, flinching in pain he instinctivly moves his shield to intercept any other attacks and gets ready to retaliate when he sees Any go down. He decides to quickly move to Any's side (G5) and grabs hold of his body. Calling on the power of his god he lets the warmth of healing flow through his hand into Any's body. (Lay on hands 15 points)
Harvest (AC22, 23 vs K, HP 17/34) d20+9=20 d8+3=9 Monday April 10th, 2006 11:26:11 AM "Anthos Westar!" The cry of alarm is ripped from the brown girl's throat as Any is cut down by the greatsword wielding miscreant.
Then Paladin Lorth risks his own safety. Ignoring the threat of the man with the rapier, he stoops to succor the fallen bard. Harvest knows what she must do next.
"You!" she shouts at the rapier wielder. Crabbing sideways around the man, she attempts to draw his attention. "Ignore me at your own risk." Placing herself opposite the paladin, she steps in close and strikes with an elbow, once again attacking the nerves near the groin. Hopefully that would give the man a thing or two to occupy his mind.
==================================
Rolls and Actions Hit K AC20, Damage 9 hp Non-lethal (Stunning Fist, Fort vs DC17 or be Stunned for one round)
Movement and Position Move to F1 to Flank K Take AoO from K, but AC is 27 vs K for Dodge and Mobility. And, it's also possible that K has already take his one AoO vs Lorth.
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Obscuring Mist - (Duration 6/10 Rounds from post Monday April 3rd, 2006 11:29:05 PM) Inspire Courage - (5/5 Rounds)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, uDetect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *uLongstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas (AC 22, HP 31/33) and Ewan (AC 14, HP 9) d20+6=14 d20+6=19 d20+6=26 d20+6=8 d8+4=10 d8+4=9 Monday April 10th, 2006 6:12:43 PM
The mage materializes and attacks Lorth, yet Lorth turns his back and helps the fallen bard. Perhaps the code of the paladins is worth knowing.
Arminas has a clear view of the mage, time to stop him while he is visible. He must be careful to avoid hitting his own companions, so Arminas aims towards the side of the mage away from Lorth. This shot will be more difficult. Drawing forth two arrows, he lets them fly.
Actions Spot (Ewan) 14 1st arrow Hit AC 19 Damage 10 2nd arrow Hit AC 26 (natural 20, critical check 8) Damage 9 Pass w/o trace 1 hour minus 31 rounds Speak with animals 39 rounds remaining
Any (20AC, 11/20HP) d20+8=23 d8+3=8 Monday April 10th, 2006 7:09:56 PM
Any watches the half-elf fall at his feet. Suddenly he feels the strike of the humans sword, its steel biting into his flesh, and then he knows nothing. His next awareness is to look up to see Lorth standing above him, the glow of healing power just leaving his hands.
Any looks to the corner where he had intended to step, and sees instead his foe standing there. Anger flashes across his face, and with one motion, he rises and strikes with all the power he can muster, and slices into the man with his sword. (Sacrifice second attack for down time)
Thanks to Lorth will need to wait untill this melee is over.
Spells: message 40 minutes Prestidigitation from start of fire 1 hour Inspire courage 4 more rounds +1 hit +1 will save
Actions: Hit AC 23 for 8 HP DAM
Bralin (ac 21, 49/52, Bulls Strength) d20+13=30 d10+8=15 Monday April 10th, 2006 8:28:09 PM
Any should not be in melee. Bralin isn't sure what he's doing there, but strives to end the threat. The dwarf pursues the wounded fighter and strikes him again.
Andrath (AC20, 29/37 hp) Tuesday April 11th, 2006 12:19:50 AM
Andrath feels his way along the wall, looking for an entry way in the fog cloud. Reaching the open door, he enters and moves towards the sound of combat. [OOC: I figure that Andrath can reach D3 this turn.]
DM Kathy d20+9=26 d6=3 d20+10=24 2d6(5+2)+8=15 d20+4=17 Tuesday April 11th, 2006 12:54:52 AM
Seeing Any go down, Lorth immediately steps to his side, drawing an Attack of Opportunity from the rapier-wielding spellcaster. He tags the paladin for 3 more damage. Then Lorth uses his special ability to heal his companion. Unfortunately, this provokes a second AoO from the greatsword-weilding human in the corner. His blow also connects, for 15.
But Lorth's sacrifice is not in vain. Any bounces to his feet and goes after the fighter who struck him down. His blow is a good one, but it is Bralin who walks up and finally finishes the man off.
Meanwhile Harvest dodges to the other side of the spellcaster and unleashes an unarmed attack that hits home.
Arminas fires a couple of arrows. The first one, again, seems to deflect away at the last moment, but the second one hits.
Andrath makes his way into the room and joins his friends.
The caster shakes off the effects of the Stunning Fist [Fort 17], and takes a five-foot step away from Harvest. "Curse you all!" he shouts, before speaking an incantation and once again winking out.
Harvest (AC22, 23 vs K, HP 17/34) Tuesday April 11th, 2006 7:59:41 AM
"You will not escape," Harvest Moon says, glaring into the space just now occupied by the rapier wielding man. "Surrender and you will be shown mercy."
Then she reads the scroll of Invisibility Purge. They had purchased the scroll from the money given to them by the Pitchfork Council. Now that money would do the Council's work.
It's a difficult scroll, but her reading goes well. And, as the magic words fade from the parchment, all invisible things for 25 feet around her appear.
==================================
Rolls and Actions Caster Level Check 18 vs DC6
Movement and Position Move to Caster.
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Obscuring Mist - (Duration 5/10 Rounds from post Monday April 3rd, 2006 11:29:05 PM) Inspire Courage - (4/5 Rounds) Invisibility Purge 25 foot radius (Duration 5 minutes from Monday April 10th, 2006 11:54:52 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, uDetect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *uLongstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
BTW, Kathy, looking at the previous map, there's nowhere that the caster could have moved to from which he would not have drawn an AoO. He's wedged between Lorth and Harvest. Any five-foot step would have drawn an AoO from one of the two.
Arminas (AC 22, HP 31/33) and Ewan (AC 14, HP 9) d20+6=23 d20+10=23 d20+10=23 d20+10=28 d8+4=10 d8+4=7 Tuesday April 11th, 2006 4:18:07 PM
The fighting mage blinks out again! Looking about Arminas tries to find some clue as to where he might go. He watches the mist, to see if it swirls like someone is moving through it.
Perhaps Harvest will make the man visible. Regardless, if Arminas sees swirling mist or the suddenly visible mage he lets arrows fly.
Ewan flies around outside, looking for the enemy.
Actions Spot (Ewan) 23 Spot (Arminas) 23 1st arrow Hit AC 23 Damage 10 2nd arrow Hit AC 28 Damage 7 Pass w/o trace 1 hour minus 31 rounds Speak with animals 39 rounds remaining
Any (20AC, 11/20HP) d20+5=23 Tuesday April 11th, 2006 6:26:22 PM
Any turns after Bralin finishes off the Broadsword wielding human, just in time to see the half-elf disappear.
He hears the spell that Harvest is reading from the scroll, and recognizes it (knowledge check 23) for the spell it is--purge invisibility. He quickly begins to scan the room for anyone "appearing" due to this cancellation spell. His sword and dagger are at the ready.
OOC where are we? I didn't see a map. I was confused as to who was standing where. I thought we started this fight with the half-elf in the corner, and the human further out in the room. Then suddenly they have switched places when I tried to step into the corner.
Spells: message 40 minutes from defeat of Chimera Prestidigitation from start of fire 1 hour Inspire courage 3 more rounds +1 hit +1 will save
Bralin (ac 21, 49/52, Bulls Strength, Inspired) Tuesday April 11th, 2006 8:11:34 PM
The fighter is down. Bralin turns to see the wizard disappear. Harvest and the others try to cancel that effect? Mayhap.
The dwarf notes there is but one way out. He moves to block it.
[Move to stand in the doorway]
[Bulls Strength - round 7 of 30]
DM Kathy Wednesday April 12th, 2006 12:59:57 AM Harvest pulls out a scroll, and, mustering every bit of spellcraft she possesses, casts a spell off it. Her casting is a spectacular success, and the form of the startled caster is visible to everybody in the room.
Any stands ready, and Bralin moves to cover the door. Arminas lets two arrows fly, and both find their targets. With a shriek, the mage crumples and falls.
Mysterious Figure d20+19=35 d20+19=32 Wednesday April 12th, 2006 11:18:17 AM
A lone figure slips through the entrance into the courtyard closest to the building in which our heroes now reside. Like a shadow along the wall, it silently glides cautiously toward the edge of the mist.
It's difficult to tell who or what the person is. Fairly short of stature and fairly long on hair, it might be an elf or a human woman, but it's stride suggests male. In its hand, it holds a long pole-like item, perhaps a staff or bow?
================================================
Actions Move Silently - 35 Hide - 32
Movement Along the wall toward B6 (or as close as it can get from where it would have entered the courtyard)
Harvest (AC22, HP 17/34) d20+13=15 d20+13=31 Wednesday April 12th, 2006 1:21:15 PM
All of the attackers have been taken to the ground. And yet, to assume that this would mean a cessation of attack would be imprudent.
Harvest Moon moves swiftly into the edge of the mist and huddles near the ground. She listens carefully for other attackers. Her eyes peer about her.
==================================
Rolls and Actions Listen 15 Spot 31
Movement and Position In the edge of the mist
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Obscuring Mist - (Duration 4/10 Rounds from post Monday April 3rd, 2006 11:29:05 PM) Inspire Courage - (3/5 Rounds) Invisibility Purge 25 foot radius (Duration 5 minutes from Monday April 10th, 2006 11:54:52 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, uDetect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *uLongstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas (AC 22, HP 31/33) and Ewan (AC 14, HP 9) d20+6=9 d20+7=10 d20+10=14 d20+10=28 Wednesday April 12th, 2006 4:14:10 PM
The hunters have indeed become the hunted. A smile plays upon the Arminas' lips. Those that prey upon the weak are seldom as strong as they seem.
Laying upon the floor, the warrior mage is a reminder of the danger they face. They have yet to find Remo, and there may be more of the enemy about.
Arminas says:
"If somebody wants to search these men I will look about for clues to where Remo is. Remo must be found."
Then he notices Any, who seems severly wounded.
"Any, are you alright? Harvest, our friend here looks to be in need of healing."
Arminas then checks to see if there are other doors or stairs in the room, checking also for hidden doors.
Any (20AC, 20/20HP) 2d8(5+1)+4=10 d20+4=8 d20+3=10 Wednesday April 12th, 2006 6:40:33 PM
Any turns to Arminas,
"I am better now than I was mere moments ago. I fear at that time I was walking Gargul's Path. Thanks be to Lorth for his healing and care, even though he was struck in doing so. Thank you my friend, I shall not forget it! But perhaps Lorth is in need of that healing, since he used his power to heal me, I can do now return the favor of healing if you need."
If Lorth requests the healing, Any will heal him for 10 HP. If not, then...
Any begins to sing, his wounds closing before the eyes of those in the group. As the singing stops, he carefully looks around the room for signs of any more enemies.
"Harvest, can you dispel the mist so we can see what is around, and none can sneak up on us?
Spells: Cure Moderate Wounds 10 hp message 40 minutes from defeat of Chimera Prestidigitation from start of fire 1 hour Inspire courage 2 more rounds +1 hit +1 will save
Actions: Spot 8 Listen 10 (lousy rolls)
Andrath (AC20, 29/37 hp) d20+13=25 Wednesday April 12th, 2006 7:52:22 PM
Taking Arminas' suggestion, Andrath searches the fallen foes, looking for loot and any sign of who they were, and what they were doing in the ruined keep.
Search 25
Bralin (ac 21, 49/52, Bulls Strength, Inspired) d20+4=17 Wednesday April 12th, 2006 8:15:02 PM
The battle is won. Bralin moves to inspect the mage, and then the fighter with the greatsword. [Heal check 17] Should either still live, he casts Cure Minor Wounds upon them.
Time permitting, the dwarf will move back down the stairs to check the condition of the other opponents.
DM Kathy Thursday April 13th, 2006 1:13:37 AM Harvest begins looking and listening for any sign of more foes, but doesn't see or hear anything.
Arminas is concerned for Any, and is also concerned about finding the envoy. He begins looking around for other entrances. You find an interior door toward the back of the room. It is shut.
Recovering nicely, Any casts a healing spell.
Andrath searches the fallen enemies, and recovers some loot [exact items to be emailed]. [Do you just search the three in the room, or do you also go outside and search the fallen dark elf?]
Bralin also moves among the fallen, but he is looking for signs of life. He finds that the spellcaster and the nimble half-elf are both still breathing, and is able to stablize them. The human greatsword fighter is dead, and you judge he was probably dead when he hit the floor.
As the party goes about its business, an unknown figure approaches, drawn by the sounds of battle and curious as to what it could mean. Skilled at moving without being noticed, he has so far been able to approach without being detected.
[OOC: Everybody say hi to Philip, our new ADM. Try not to kill his character. :) ]
Lorth Thursday April 13th, 2006 7:19:20 AM
(OOC: sorry missed 2 days, having floors refinished in my house and couldn't get to the computer :) )
Lorth turns to Any, "Please heal the others and yourself first, I can wait." Lorth then accompanies Bralin while he checks over their downed adversaries.
Mysterious Figure d20+19=37 d20+19=22 d20+10=25 Thursday April 13th, 2006 10:56:58 AM
The sounds of battle at an end, the shadowy figure slows his movements and appears to be listening for movement. With the clanking armor of Bralin and the rolling over of bodies during the search, it's obvious that at least one person is still alive in the building.
The figure draws forth, what it most likely an arrow from the pack on its back and nocks it on the bow in hand. Hopefully, those inside the building are friendly, but it would be foolish to make such assumptions out here in the wilderness.
Movement Half move (30ft) closer toward the door at B6
[ooc: Hi, everyone. Sorry I was so late on posting, Kathy gave me the ok nearly 2 weeks back and I overlooked the email somehow, oops]
Harvest (AC22, HP 17/34) d20+13=19 d20+13=32 Thursday April 13th, 2006 11:10:05 AM
"Very well, Arminas Calaelan. Who is wounded?"
Harvest Moon draws a smooth wooden stick as she turns to face the mist. With a wave, she dismisses the spell to reveal ...
"BEWARE!" the brown girl calls out as the new figure is revealed. "In the doorway!"
==================================
Rolls and Actions Dismiss Obscuring Mist Draw Wand of CMW Listen 19 Spot 32
Movement and Position No Movement
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Inspire Courage - (2/5 Rounds) Invisibility Purge 25 foot radius (Duration 5 minutes from Monday April 10th, 2006 11:54:52 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, uDetect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *uLongstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
[ Hey ya, Philip. ^_^ -- Al ]
Arminas (AC 22, HP 31/33) and Ewan (AC 14, HP 9) d20+10=28 d20+10=26 d8+4=5 d8+4=6 d20+6=18 d20+10=12 d20+10=20 Thursday April 13th, 2006 6:16:47 PM
Arminas hunts around the room, looking for traces of Remo or evidence that more of the enemy lives.
Harvest lifts the mist, then yells a warning.
Spinning, Arminas sees a stranger sneaking toward them, arrow ready to release. It has just been seconds since they were fighting, and apparently there is more of the enemy.
Drawing forth an arrow, he lets it fly at the armed intruder. Another follows closely behind.
OOC: Sorry, but we just barely finished this battle seconds ago, and were looking to see if more of the enemy lives. You sneaked up on us, weapon drawn. I had no choice. I wonder why Arminas has such few friends?
Actions 1st arrow Hit AC 28 Damage 5 2nd arrow Hit AC 26 Damage 6 Spot (Ewan) 18 Listen 12 Spot 20 Pass w/o trace 1 hour minus 33 rounds Speak with animals 37 rounds remaining
Bralin d20+3=19 Thursday April 13th, 2006 6:50:59 PM
At Harvest's warning, Bralin whirls on the new foe.
He moves forward as Arminas' arrows sing over his head toward the man. The dwarf is more than ready to join the fray, but something in the man's manner is not right [Sense Motive 19]. Why would one purposely attack six?
"HOLD!" he bellows loudly.
Bralin advances on the newcomer.
"State your purpose," the warrior announces brusquely. His axe is at the ready, clearly indicating what will happen should the answer prove unsatisfactory.
Any (20 AC, 20/20 HP) d20+5=12 Thursday April 13th, 2006 9:22:32 PM
Any spins at Harvest's yell of warning, his sword and dagger singing as they come about to face this new intruder. He watches with satisfaction as both of Arminas' arrows strike home. With Bralin's challenge and charge, Any holds his actions and watches Bralin's back. If this person is a threat, they will face it, and Arminas has given them a good start. If he is no threat, the group can apologize later by healing him.
Once this stranger is taken care of, Any will turn his attention to those already defeated. This includes tying those whom Bralin has stabilized, making sure the mage cannot speak, or move his hands to produce arcane results.
Spells: message 40 minutes from defeat of Chimera Prestidigitation from start of fire 1 hour Inspire courage 1 more rounds +1 hit +1 will save sense motive 12
DM Kathy d100=2 d100=26 Friday April 14th, 2006 1:49:52 AM Ril'Veynel approaches the building, hoping those within are friendly. The sight of a dead dark elf, slumped against the outer wall of the building, must surely give him pause. Or perhaps he doesn't see it in the fog.
Inside the building, Lorth is primarily concerned with healing his companions and seeing to the fallen foes.
Harvest attempts to dismiss the spell, but unfortunately Obscuring Mist is not dismissible. The thick fog still hangs in the room. As such, Harvest can hear, but not see, that someone has approached and is pausing in the doorway.
Things start to happen quickly at that point. Arminas temporarily abandons his search and fires a couple of shots. He can't see his target, however, and must guess at the newcomer's location. Both shots miss their target in the fog.
Then Bralin calls for his companions to hold, even as Any pulls his weapons and stands ready.
Things are very tense in the building, and the fact that the parties can't really see each other isn't helping matters.
Lorth Friday April 14th, 2006 7:11:14 AM
Bralin usually a has a good sense of judgement and clearly someone is moving about in the mist, so Lorth turns to face the general direction of the door, moves his hand to his temple and concentrates on the area. He takes a deep breath and slowly exhales searching the mist to foul intent. (Detect evil) He states anything he feels or does not feel to his friends.
Harvest (AC22, HP 17/34) d20+17=24 d20+8=23 Friday April 14th, 2006 10:09:18 AM
The mist will not go away. Harvest Moon reacts to the surprise by lifting one eyebrow. Curious. But it should not last for much longer. A few more seconds.
"I will attempt to circle around and catch them from behind," she whispers into the Message spell. On quiet feet, Harvest rushes to the Western window and leaps through. She creeps around the corner and enters the mist from the outside.
==================================
Rolls and Actions Jump 24 Move Silently 23
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Obscuring Mist - (Duration 2/10 Rounds from post Monday April 3rd, 2006 11:29:05 PM) Inspire Courage - 1/5 Rounds) Invisibility Purge 25 foot radius (Duration 5 minutes from Monday April 10th, 2006 11:54:52 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, uDetect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *uLongstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas (AC 22, HP 31/33) and Ewan (AC 14, HP 9) d20+6=11 d20+10=18 d20+10=18 Friday April 14th, 2006 11:24:50 AM
The mist hides the foe, and Arminas' arrows miss. Harvest sneaks behind the man, it should not take much to finish this.
Yet something strange happens, Bralin becomes the diplomat.
Arminas shakes his head and waits. Arrow nocked, he waits to kill the last of the enemy should he attack.
Any (20 AC, 20/20 HP) Friday April 14th, 2006 5:15:11 PM
Any awaits impatiently the results of Harvest's scouting. His weapons at the ready. He has not forgotten those who they have so recently defeated, but they must wait untill this issue is resolved. Any does step to a position which allows him to watch the door, and their fallen enemies. Since Harvest cannot dispel the mist, Any uses his still active prestidigitation spell to try to move it away from the door.
Spells: message 40 minutes from defeat of Chimera Prestidigitation from start of fire 1 hour
Ril'Veneyl d20+10=28 d20+19=34 d20+19=38 d20+10=30 d20+1=10 Friday April 14th, 2006 7:02:09 PM
Hearing the two arrows zip by, dangerously close, followed shortly thereafter by something thumping to the ground to his left, Ril'Veneyl backs away from the doorway. For a brief moment, Lorth can feel that a person was at the doorway, but sensed no evil from him.
"I am a scout, sent to explore this area for a new settlement. I heard the alarms and came to investigate. Upon hearing the sounds of battle, I felt it prudent to approach cautiously and defensively. I am armed, though only for my own protection. From the accuracy of those arrows and what sounds like someone attempting to flank me, it seems my defensive posture is justified."
Ril'Veneyl scans the fog, attempting to spot whoever it was that jumped out of the window. Though obscured, it's possible he sees a figure moving toward him. He raises his bow, though holds his shot. If these are brave adventurers fighting the good fight, he definitely doesn't want to start any unwanted fighting that might lead to any of theirs or his own demise.
"Who might you be? What are you doing so far from civilization? And what transpires here, battle obviously, but with whom and for what reason?"
===============================================
Actions Listen - 28 Move Silently - 34 Hide - 38 Spot - 30 Diplomacy - 10 (he's not lying, but he's also obviously not a great diplomat, either)
Movement Move to E6 (15 feet)
Harvest (AC22, HP 17/34) - 2nd Illegal post Saturday April 15th, 2006 9:07:16 AM
Harvest Moon peers cautiously around the corner. The brown crest of hair the hangs over her forehead leads first, followed by the tip of her nose.
"We are here to rescue the trade envoy to Rowena," she says. "The mist will be gone in but a moment."
Then she simply steps from around the corner. Barely five feet tall, dressed in but a single tattered robe of several sizes too large, the girl stands very plainly exposed at the corner of the building. The cuffs of her robe enfold the wands in either hand, but as she raises both before her, the bulky sleeves fall away.
"Peace be with you, Scout," she says, forming her hands into the symbol of Alemi. "I am Harvest Moon."
Bralin Saturday April 15th, 2006 1:36:42 PM
Bralin continues moving forwad. He lowers his axe, holding it at his side as he clomps through the mist toward the voice.
"I am Bralin Stoneminder," he announces to the scout. "Have ye seen a halfling, Scout? Tis he whom we seek." The dwarf is armored in breastplate and shield, both unadorned and dull black in color. He is also pretty dirty, coated in sweat, dust, and blood (very little of which is his).
DM Kathy Sunday April 16th, 2006 10:49:26 PM Lorth extends his senses, looking for evil, but finds only the two enemies that you captured. The newcomer, whoever he is, does not have an evil aura.
Harvest scrambles through the window and moves to get behind the newcomer.
Arminas and Any remain on alert, weapons at the ready. Any attempts to move some of the mist away from the door, and seems to be making some headway.
Ril'veneyl explains that he was scouting the area and heard the sounds of combat. He demands to know the identity of those he faces.
Harvest and Bralin reply, and at that moment, the mist falls away, the spell having expired. All of the parties can now see one another. [Feel free to add descriptions to your post.] And, while everyone is still wary, it seems that you are potential allies--or at least, not enemies.
Arminas Sunday April 16th, 2006 11:31:13 PM
A suspicious looking elf looks at the stranger who has crept up upon them.
"I am Arminas Calaelen, scout and guide for the Swords of Light. Perhaps if you were to lower your weapon and tell us who sent you we could reach an understanding. As you can tell, just moments ago we finished battle, and are even now looking for more of the enemy and the emissary they kidnapped."
Arminas keeps his bow at the ready, awaiting the stranger to lower his. To the others, he adds:
"I'm sure I do not need to remind the dwarf about the treachery we have seen among elves as of late."
Harvest (AC22, HP 17/34) d20+11=28 Monday April 17th, 2006 10:21:15 AM
Harvest Moon stands with hands exposed. Blood drips from her rent clothing. If the arrows come, then they come. She watches the bowman closely as she speaks.
"As Arminas Calaelen has said, there may be other kidnappers about. We must swiftly recover the Trade Envoy, the halfling Remo Thistlefoot. Each moment that we wait places his life in jeopardy."
"I will move now," she says in warning before approaching the unknown drow scout and archer. She enters the doorway and then turns.
"Perhaps you can help us immediately with some information. This dark one," she indicates the fallen Drow, her flail lying near her body, "do you recognize her as from ... the place from which you come?"
"Also, from which direction did you come? Have you seen any other entrances or evidence of others about?"
==================================
Rolls and Actions Sense Motive 28
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Invisibility Purge 25 foot radius (Duration 5 minutes from Monday April 10th, 2006 11:54:52 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, uDetect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *uLongstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Ril'Veneyl Baenate (AC19, HP48) Monday April 17th, 2006 11:28:38 AM "I am Ril'Veneyal of the family Baenate of house Bralfah out of Dradah Delmah and more recently Plateau City. I was contracted to search for a possible new settlement area by the mayor of Merrydale in Cinnamon Valley.
"I have seen no one in nearly two days, including yourselves." this last word escapes his mouth at nearly the same instant the fog disapates. He squints at the newfound sun as his sensitive eyes struggle desparately to refocus. Seeing Harvest's open stance, he begins to slowly lower his bow. "Well, that is much better, were it not for the glaring sun."
Before her, Harvest sees a drow, barely taller than herself. His hair is mostly silvery-white with the right side of his hair in tight red and gold braids. His bluish-silver eyes are noticably keen, his right eye outlined by a red and gold tattoo that vaguely resembles a 3. For his size, he appears to be slightly overly built in the chest and arms which suggests that not only does he use a bow frequently, but that it likely has a significant pull on it. His blackened chain shirt makes very little noise and over his heart are the symbols of Pantheon, Domi and Warrd. For someone that claims to have been int he wilderness for at least 2 days, his gear and clothing are immacuately clean. As his bow lowers, the sunlight catches it just right that she can see that it is intricately carved and nearly jet black in color.
With to what many would be seen as a flashy and unnecessary display, Ril'Veneyl unnocks his arrow and twirls it slightly as he returns it to the quiver on his hip. Despite the seeming flare of the movement, close examination reveals that very little, if any, movement was wasted in putting the arrow away. This man obviously has been using a bow for quite a long time.
As each member of the Swords shows and introduces themselves to him, Ril'Veneyl makes eye contact and nods a couteous bow to each.
A suspicious looking elf looks at the stranger who has crept up upon them. "I apologize if I unnerved you with my approach, but I'm sure you can understand both my curiosity and then my caution. I mean no harm, so long as you mean none toward me."
Looking to Arimas, "I imagine you're referring to the awakening of the Fae King? Though I don't expect you to believe me, but I assure you, I had not part in that. I even spoke out against it in the conclave. His presense is part of why I'm here. Merrydale, being so close to Culverwood, has experience some unwanted hardships from which many would like to escape."
Looking back to Harvest, "I certainly hope you don't normally walk around with blood dripping from your garments. People might get the wrong impression of you." A slight grin flashes over Ril'Veneyl's lips. Unable to take the direct sunlight in his eyes any longer, he pulls the darkened goggles up from his neck to cover his eyes. "Ahh, that's better. Well, perhaps, since I'm in the area, and this looks like a suitable beginnings to a settlement, I could assist you in searching for this Remo Thistlefoot while I explore the area in fuller detail?"
Following Harvest into the building, Ril'Veneyl looks down at the fallen drow. He kneels down, takes her chin in his hand and turns her head from side to side to examine her face more carefully. He then pushes the handle of the flail about a bit. "Hmm, perhaps a lesser matriarch, but not one I recognize. I sincerely doubt she's from Dradah Delmah. Very few of my brothers and sisters of the Above have travelled from there as yet."
"I entered the compound from over there." he says as he points toward the nearest entrance to the compound. "I haven't seen anyone else since I entered. Except for the alarms and the fighting, which I assume was from you all, I would have thought this place deserted."
================================================
Actions None to speak of
Movement Various, mostly toward the fallen drow and into the building.
[ooc: Whew, that's a long post. =) ]
Arminas- 2nd illegal post d20+10=14 Monday April 17th, 2006 12:57:56 PM
The mist clears, and the newcomer is revealed.
Drow!
He then speaks to Arminas, words only a drow would speak.
"I do not speak of the awakening of the Fey King. I rejoiced in his coming. Nature rejoices! Man must learn to live with Nature, not fight it."
Then the drow speaks of Merrydale!
"I myself am from Merrydale, I know of its plight. The problem stems from foul Parnoth taking elves as slaves. Treachery I speak of is from sister elves, who have turned from the path and fought against us. I do not expect a drow to understand."
Looking at his fellows, he adds:
"Enough, if Lorth does not claim him as evil then let us resume our search."
Arminas then lowers his bow and goes back into the room. Looking at the interior door, he checks the floor for tracks.
Actions Survival 14
Harvest (AC22, HP 17/34) - 2nd Illegal Post d20+5=17 d8+1=5 d8+1=6 Monday April 17th, 2006 1:48:47 PM
"Villemus Bralfah was a drow elf as well." Harvest Moon adds. She shakes her head as she re-enters the building. "He was ... very unusual."
"My wounds will heal in time, Ril'Veneyal of the family Baenate of house Bralfah," she replies. "But now we must find the Envoy. If you are a scout, then perhaps you might circle the outside of the building to the east. That is where these upon the floor set their trap for us. If you could find other doors and see what might be within, that would be of use."
"I will awaken one of these and put questions to him."
Harvest packs away her wands and brings out one other and a coil of rope. With the rope she binds the hands of the magic user, and then touches him with the wand.
"You have been captured and bound," she says to the man. "Please now tell us where you are holding the Trade Envoy from Jahrwolf, the halfling Remo Treadlefoot."
==================================
Rolls and Actions Use Rope 17 CLW on Magic User K, Heal 5hp or 11hp. (Heal till he wakes.)
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Invisibility Purge 25 foot radius (Duration 5 minutes from Monday April 10th, 2006 11:54:52 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, uDetect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *uLongstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Ril'Veneyl Baenate : "Illegal 2nd post" Monday April 17th, 2006 2:47:01 PM
Hearing Arminas' words about him, particularly the judging him by race alone, Ril'Veneyl's chin drops and he shakes his head slightly. <sigh> "Yet another that judges me by my skin and not by my actions. Seems I and my brothers and sisters in the Above have much to prove still." He whispers softly to himself, dejectedly.
Bralin Monday April 17th, 2006 5:09:16 PM
The newcomer is not a foe. With a nod, Bralin dismisses the interruption and returns his thoughts to the task at hand.
He bends over the fallen drow, checking for signs of life.
"Revive one. Mayhap they know the status of our diplomat," the dwarf states/suggests to Andrath.
Any d20+5=10 d20+4=16 d20+3=14 Monday April 17th, 2006 6:38:28 PM
"My name is Anthos Westar, but you may call me Any."
As the newcomer looks at Any, he sees an individual taller than most elves, but shorter than a human, probably due to what is evident as you look at him--he is part human. Features of both races battle throughout his appearance. He is about 5' 9" tall, and sturdily built, with blond hair and bright green eyes. You can just see the mithril chain armor peeking from under his shirt--mainly due to the cuts his clothing has taken in battle. His clothes are of good quality, but not exactly suited to adventuring, being of brown and green, with gold piping. Over all he wears a long, dark forest green cloak. He is armed with sword and dagger, which he now cleans and sheathes. He has at his side a bow and quiver, and a lute rests on his back.
Any turns after determining this drow is no threat at this time to the party, and assists Harvest in binding their prisoners. When finished, and while the others questions their captives, he quietly steps back and begins passing his hands over his clothing and body. Where his hands move, the blood is cleaned from his clothing, and the rips and cuts in his shirt disappear (Prestidigitation). Soon, all evidence of the battle is removed. Any pays close attention to all that is said and done, while also keeping an eye on the door and courtyard.
Spells: message 40 minutes from defeat of Chimera Prestidigitation from start of fire 1 hour
Actions: sense motive 10 spot 16 listen 14
DM Kathy Monday April 17th, 2006 11:46:53 PM
The party and the dark elf introduce themselves, and a truce of sort is formed. At any rate, it would appear that you are not enemies.
Harvest revives the spellcaster and tries to question him, but he is not feeling espcially chatty. "Curse you all!" he says. "Why should I help you put a noose around my neck? Find the runt yourselves, if you're so clever."
Arminas returns to searching the room. Any tracks on the floor are confused because of the battle--however, there is still the door on the far wall. You have not yet had a chance to open it...
Lorth Tuesday April 18th, 2006 9:07:48 AM
Lorth looks the Drow over, but doesn't comment on him. He visibly relaxes, and removes his hand from his temple. He believes his friends should easily see this cue as he has done it many times before. There is no black aura on this one.
Lorth aprroaches the Drow bowman, "Lorth Jeredosta", he states.
Harvest (AC22, HP 17/34) d20+10=23 d20+10=13 d20+10=25 d8+2=9 d8+2=4 d8+2=5 Tuesday April 18th, 2006 10:15:21 AM
"Very well," Harvest Moon replies. "But we cannot leave you behind to potentially escape. I am sorry, but I must take your consciousness."
She strikes him swiflty and the man slumps, once again oblivious to the Wold.
"I would like to think that these are all of the kidnappers, and that we need but call out to the Envoy in order to find him," Harvest whispers through the Message spell. "But I do not think that acting under this assumption would be wise. There is but the single door in here. Where is Andrath Silverhand? Perhaps it may be best if he examined it first. If there is a trap, it may endanger the Envoy as well."
"Or, perhaps ... "
"Ril'Veneyal of the family Baenate of house Bralfah," she asks the drow scout, "do you have a familiarity with traps?"
==================================
Rolls and Actions Hit AC23, AC13, AC25 (Helpless target) Damage, Non-lethal 9, 4, 5. As many as necessary, but I think the first strike should do it.
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Invisibility Purge 25 foot radius (Duration 5 minutes from Monday April 10th, 2006 11:54:52 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, uDetect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *uLongstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Ril'Veneyl Baenate (AC19, HP48) Tuesday April 18th, 2006 11:32:50 AM
As Lorth approaches and announces his name, Ril'Veneyl puts out his arm in friendship. Though he does not follow Gargul, he does sense a kindred spirit of attitude in Lorth. Ril'Veneyl has a firm, but not overwhelming grip.
Seeing Harvest hit an unarmed and bound prisoner causes a noticable unease in Ril'Veneyl. For a moment, it appears as though he might speak out, but for the moment holds his tongue.
"I'm afraid my skills lie more in archery, stealth and crafting. I have no special skills in find nor disarming traps."
"You honor me by using my full name and title, but I would not be offended if you simply called me Ril'Veneyl."
"Unless you need me in here, I will search outside for other entrances as you suggested."
Ril'Veneyl waits a moment and should he be needed, he remains, otherwise, he steps outside, draws an arrow, nocks it and proceeds along the wall slowly around the compound.
Arminas (AC 22, HP 31/33) and Ewan (AC 14, HP 9) d20+6=18 Tuesday April 18th, 2006 1:54:24 PM
"Well, too bad. He would have been useful if this door is trapped."
Arminas looks about.
"I mean our new friend or the mage that Harvest just knocked out. Bralin, you interested in opening another door?"
Arminas steps back to allow whomever is opening the door plenty of room, lets say about 20 feet of room.
Outside, Ewan searches for movement. (spot 18)
Harvest (AC22, HP 17/34) - 2nd Illegal Post Tuesday April 18th, 2006 2:26:59 PM
"I believe that if the door contained a trap that extended beyond five feet," Harest Moon says, "that the man on the floor may have show more concern for his life."
"I will open the door if there is no other alternative."
Arminas- 2nd illegal post Tuesday April 18th, 2006 2:57:52 PM
"Actually Harvest, that was my attempt at humor, since Bralin busted through the other doors. Andrath, don't you have the skills to find traps?"
Any d20+3=20 d20+4=16 Tuesday April 18th, 2006 6:24:51 PM
Any has some minor skill with locks and traps, but nowhere near the ability of Andrath, with his rogue skills. He does not volunteer to bash through the door as Bralin has been doing.
"Our new acquaintance seems an interesting sort. I am interested in hearing his story."
Any continues to watch, while waiting for Andrath to look at the door. However, he [underline]will[/underline] follow Bralin's path through this door before he will allow Harvest to do so.
Spells: message 40 minutes from defeat of Chimera Prestidigitation from start of fire 1 hour
Actions: spot 16 listen 20
DM Kathy Wednesday April 19th, 2006 12:09:11 AM Lorth relaxes enough to introduce himself to Ril'Veneyl, and it seems the parties will be working together, at least for the time being.
Unimpressed with the spellcaster's answer, Harvest knocks him out and turns to the riddle of the closed door. It could be trapped.
Ril'Veneyl moves to scout around the outside of the building. He does find another door, but it appears to be blocked shut.
Andrath finally steps up and opens the door. [We haven't heard from him in a while, but I feel okay hijacking him for a moment because the door isn't trapped.]
Beyond the door, you find a smaller room. A few mismatched pieces of furniture are scattered about, including a moth-eaten couch, a couple of chairs, and a low footstool. Sitting on the stool, bound and gagged, is a dark-haired halfling man. He appears identical to the halfling you saw in the courtyard--but he's clearly been in here the whole time.
Nearby, a bottle of ink, a couple of pens, and a few pieces of parchment are strewn over the top of a scarred wooden desk.
Lorth Wednesday April 19th, 2006 7:17:42 AM
Lorth scans the room quickly for anything hostile, if he finds nothing he moves to untie the halfling.
Harvest (AC22, HP 17/34) d20+5=13 Wednesday April 19th, 2006 10:11:20 AM
The Envoy, rescued at last. Now there remains only to explain the mysteries behind the events leading to this place. What are these dangerous men doing in this old building so far from the nearest road? Are they simple bandits? And how did the Envoy come to have placed himself in this situation? Why did he leave the main road in the first place?
"We have yet to encounter a camp or living quarters of any kind." Harvest Moon enters the room behind Paladin Lorth, and as he tends to the bindings upon the halfling she begins an examination of his health. "Should we find such it may tell us if there are more of their numbers about. It may also tell us how long they have been here and what their purpose is in this area."
"I am Harvest Moon," she says to the halfling. "If you are the Trade Envoy, Remo Treadlefoot, then we have been sent by the Pitchfork Council to investigate your disappearance. Can you tell us how you came to be in this situation?"
==================================
Rolls and Actions Heal 13 to Examine the Halfling
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Invisibility Purge 25 foot radius (Duration 5 minutes from Monday April 10th, 2006 11:54:52 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, uDetect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *uLongstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Ril'Veneyl Baenate (AC19, HP48) d20+19=33 d20+19=33 d20+10=23 d20+16=35 d8+2=7 Wednesday April 19th, 2006 11:07:11 AM
Staying as close to the wall to keep in the shadows, Ril'Veneyl looks around the wall near the door for any windows. Confident that his current position should block him from any projectiles from above, he fires an arrow at the doorframe where the Swords of Light are presently conducting business. The arrow from Shining Thunder finds its target in the wood of the frame with a satisfying <thunk>.
Hopefully the others will see the red and gold fletchings and connect it with Ril'Veneyl's tatoo and hair and know it's a signal from him and not an attack.
================================================
Actions Hide - 33 Move Silently - 33 Spot - 23 (to find any windows) Attack the doorframe (arrow) - AC 35, dmg 7
Movements None
Arminas (AC 22, HP 31/33) and Ewan (AC 14, HP 9) d20+6=19 d20+10=15 d20+10=18 Wednesday April 19th, 2006 11:41:01 AM
Arminas looks into the room and sees the envoy. His tracking has once again solved a problem. He is pleased.
The moment looks to call for compassion to deal with Remo and someone learned to read the parchments. Clearly Harvest and Any are needed in the room. Glad that he is not needed, Arminas decides to walk outside and confer with Ewan. The battle may still not be over.
As he walks toward the door, an arrow strikes the door frame.
Quickly, Arminas notches an arrow and goes to the window. Looking out, he searches for the archer. Calling out to Ewan in a series of screams and screeches, he asks:
The envoy is found. Lorth and Harvest move to help, and so Bralin waits, his eyes instinctively scanning the room for warning signs.
The arrow hits the doorframe. Like Arminas, the dwarf simply reacts. Axe drawn, he moves through the doorway and down the steps, seeking the archer.
Any d20+5=15 Wednesday April 19th, 2006 5:15:43 PM
Any follows Harvest and Lorth into the room, only to find what appears to be the halfling envoy Remo trussed up in one corner. He allows Lorth and Harvest to care for the envoy, and turns his own attentions to the papers scattered upon the desk, hoping to find some clue as to who is behind all of this. (knowledge 15).
Turning to the newly freed halfling, he asks,
"Who did this to you? What were they after?"
Spells: message 40 minutes from defeat of Chimera Prestidigitation from start of fire 1 hour
Actions: knowledge 15
DM Kathy Thursday April 20th, 2006 1:12:06 AM Lorth moves to untie the halfling, who reaches up and removes his own gag. "Thank you," he rasps, his mouth and throat obviously dry. "Thank you for finding me."
Harvest examines the captive and finds that whoever tied the ropes was not especially gentle. Angry red welts mark the halfling's wrists and ankles. He also appears to be somewhat dehydrated.
"They attacked us in the valley," he says, his voice still a harsh rasp. "They had some kind of beast--a chimera, I believe it was. It obeyed them......please, could I have some water?"
Ril'Veneyl fires an arrow at the window frame as a signal to the others. Unfortunately, they are not yet accustomed to his ways, and Arminas and Bralin react as if under attack.
Arminas queries his animal companion, and receives a sense of calm/no-threat through his empathic link.
Meanwhile, Any examines the documents on the desk. He finds what appears to be several attempts at a ransom letter. "If you want your envoy back, you will pay us 3000 gold pieces" seems to be the general theme.
Lorth Thursday April 20th, 2006 8:48:39 AM
After releasing the halfling, Lorth steps back and lets Harvest take over. She is much more accomplished in the healing arts. He turns around and begins to follow Bralin outside.
Harvest (AC22, HP 17/34) d20+13=22 d20+7=20 Thursday April 20th, 2006 10:03:53 AM
Harvest Moon places her waterskin into the halfling's hands. She looks up from the Envoy and observes the actions of her companions without a word.
"How many of your captors were there?" she asks. "We have defeated the beast. The Chimera. The way may be clear to return you to Jarlwolf or to take you on to Rowena, whichever you think best."
"Why," she asks then, "were you compelled to leave the main road in the first place, Remo Thistlefoot?"
Harvest removes a Healer's Kit from her haversack and combines several herbs into a soothing poultice. As she works, she watches the face of the Envoy from out of the corner of her eye.
==================================
Rolls and Actions Sense Motive 22 Heal 20
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Invisibility Purge 25 foot radius (Duration 5 minutes from Monday April 10th, 2006 11:54:52 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, uDetect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *uLongstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Ril'Veneyl Baenate (AC19, HP48) d20+19=32 d20+19=39 d20+5=25 Thursday April 20th, 2006 11:02:47 AM
Seeing Arminas, Bralin and Lorth emerge from the building, Ril'Veneyl pulls another arrow from his quiver. He steps just to the edge of the shadows in which he's hiding and holds out his arrow. Tilting the arrowhead ever so gently this way and that, he tries to catch the sunlight off it's polished, sharpened edge and glint it toward the members of the Swords to signal to them where he is.
================================================
Actions Hide - 32 Move Silently - 39 (nat 20) Dexterity to aim the glint properly - 25 (nat 20)
Movement Hopefully no more than a 5 foot step to the shadow's edge.
Arminas (AC 22, HP 31/33) and Ewan (AC 14, HP 9) d20+6=24 d20+10=24 d20+10=20 Thursday April 20th, 2006 11:23:48 AM
Upon Ewan's declaration that it is safe outside, Arminas leaps from the window onto the ground outside the building. Looking about, he sees the drow waving an arrow. Apparently he is trying to signal. Bralin and Lorth step from the building, and Arminas says:
"What do expect he is up to? I don't trust him. Perhaps he is one of the kidnappers. Lorth, is there a way for one to hide his true heart from your perception? He is a drow afterall."
Any Thursday April 20th, 2006 6:30:04 PM
Any stays in the room with Harvest and Remo.
"It appears they meant to ransom you back to Jarlwolf. Though I don't understand why they would take the chance of attacking an armed envoy for this purpose. Mayhap the presence of their tamed Chimera gave them confidence in overcoming you. Do you think there is some other plot behind this besides ransom?"
Any digs into his pack and brings out some dried meat, fruit, and nuts. If they have not given him water, it is possible they have not fed him either.
"I would heal you of your wounds, but I fear my abilities have been pushed to their limit today--I have not the power. Harvests ministrations must do for now. By the way, this is Harvest Moon--who appears to be but a girl, but is far more--and I am Anthos Westar--who appears to be for more than I am."
Bralin d20+4=10 Thursday April 20th, 2006 6:55:38 PM
The sunlight from the reflected arrow reflects off his eye, and Bralin looks toward the drow while Arminas voices his concerns. The dwarf trusts Lorth's abilities, and therefore assumes the newcomer's intentions are not hostile.
Not hostile. Not clear either. So Bralin clangs over to the elf to see what he wants.
DM Kathy Friday April 21st, 2006 1:10:08 AM
"Treadlefoot," the halfling corrects Harvest. "Thank you for this." He picks up the waterskin and drinks a healthy pull. "Much better," he says, and his voice has lost its rasp. "We were not forced to leave the road, good lady, but rather chose to take our journey cross-country. A more pleasant trip, and safe enough. Or so we believed." His face grows solemn. "They--they didn't make it, did they? My escort?"
At Any's question, he shrugs. "If there was a greater plot," he says, "they didn't share it with me. They seemed to be merely interested in money. Though it would be interesting to know whether they were told of my route in advance, or whether my presence was unexpected."
He looks around anxiously. "Tell me they don't know of this in Rowena. We're so close to an agreement now--I would hate to be the cause of disrupting the process at this point. It is imperetive that I get to Rowena as soon as possible."
Outside, Ril'Veneyl experiments with another type of signal. Any hopes for subtlety he had, however, are dashed when Bralin comes clanking over to his position, followed by Lorth.
Harvest (AC22, HP 17/34) Friday April 21st, 2006 9:28:54 AM
"I'm sorry," Harvest Moon apologizes, "'Remo Treadlefoot'." Her eyes remain upon her work, but at the words of Anthos Westar, her skin blooms with a tinge of pink.
Her hands spread a thin layer of clay upon a wide strip of cloth. Atop that Harvest spreads ground lemon peel and dried peppermint. Folding the cloth over the top, she moistens it with water from the skin. Then she daubs the moistened poultice against the halfling's wrists.
"This will bring comfort to the skin chaffed by your bindings," she says. "If you wish, you may tie it about a wrist or ankle."
"No. I'm sorry, Remo Treadlefoot, your guards have left this Wold to be judged by Gargul. But we still live, and if it is important for you to proceed to Rowena, then that is where we must go with all haste."
"But tell me, why do you believe that these kidnappers may have known of your route in advance? You took a route that was, from our knowledge, unplanned. I doubt that they would have known to send to Jarlwolf for ransom had you not told them of your connection as Envoy."
She stands away from her work.
"Shall we be on our way?" she suggests. "We have horses waiting in the brush."
==================================
Rolls and Actions
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Invisibility Purge 25 foot radius (Duration 5 minutes from Monday April 10th, 2006 11:54:52 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, uDetect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *uLongstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Ril'Veneyl Baenate (AC19, HP48) d20+19=34 d20+19=31 d20+10=27 d20+16=20 d8+2=6 Friday April 21st, 2006 10:54:04 AM
With the two heavily armored members of the Swords of Light tromping loudly toward him, Ril'Veneyl has no doubts that others will not hear his movements, but takes care nontheless. As they get closer, he reveals himself to them and begins to make hand signals.
He points to his eyes. Gestures toward the door. Hold up one hand, palm open, then presses his fist into it, but does not let it move.
He then redraws his bow. He steps back from the door 5 long paces and a like number to the side on which he suspects (or sees) hinges. As he's in the the shadow of the compound's wall, he pulls his goggles down from his eyes, allowing him the full use of his vision. His position should allow him to see quite a ways into the room beyond the door once it's been opened. He keeps his eyes open from movement around the doorway and up the wall, his bow following wherever his eyes go.
Movement 20 foot move diagonally away from the door.
Lorth Friday April 21st, 2006 11:02:32 AM
Lorth grins... The logical thing to do would be to open the door, so he stands aside and waits for Bralin to do it. He readies his shield and sword and backs Bralin up.
Arminas and Ewan d20+6=8 d20+9=25 d20+10=24 d20+10=21 Friday April 21st, 2006 2:28:03 PM
Arminas shakes his head, drow seem to have their way. Perhaps Bralin or Lorth can figure out what he wants.
Whistling brings Ewan flying close. Using the spell that allows Arminas to speak as an eagle, he says:
"Ewan, thanks for keeping watch. I will join you up high. Keep an eye on the dark elf."
Arminas then starts to climb up the side of the building that he just exited. His ring of feather falling gives him confidence to climb where many would not.
When he gets to the roof, he will look about for enemies.
Any Friday April 21st, 2006 5:23:26 PM
Any listens to Remo's account, and Harvest's response.
"Let us gather up our fellows, if you feel up to it, and be on our way. We have not found any mounts belonging to those who captured you, so unless you know of such--and where they are--you must perforce ride double with one of us. My good companion, Moonshadow, should make little heed of your extra weight. Shall we be off?"
Any then motions for the others to lead the way. Upon reaching the other room he asks,
"And what shall we do with your former captors? Maybe we need to call in the others and decide this issue."
Any then steps to the door, and seeing the others across the courtyard, waves them over.
Bralin - charging, pwr attack d20+6=14 d10+10=13 Friday April 21st, 2006 7:18:59 PM
Bralin takes in Ril'Veneyl's hand signals. A locked door?
Lorth moves to back him up, and the dwarf raises an eyebrow. Locked doors are best opened by rogues. And yet....Bralin looks over the door. A test of strength, then.
As Lorth seems to expect it, Bralin moves to open the door the old-fashioned way. Pulling his axe, the dwarf rumbles to the door and flings his axe toward the handle.
[charging, power attack] hit ac 14, 13 hp damage to door.
DM Kathy Monday April 24th, 2006 12:20:12 AM
"I don't necessarily believe they knew about my route in advance," Remo answers Harvest. "I just find the circumstances...oddly convenient for them. Still, it could have been a coincidence. As you say, our route was somewhat unorthodox."
At Any's suggestion, the Halfling rises to his feet. "I shall gladly ride with one of you, if you'll have me," he says. "Though I shall miss my poor Blackie." He looks troubled. "And I'm sorrier than I can say about the militia who accompanied me. They were good folk, and served with honor."
Outside, Arminas climbs to the top of the building. He scans the area, but sees no sign of any foes--or much of anything at all. Delighted with the new game, Ewan comes to join her friend with a happy little scream.
Meanwhile, Ril'Veneyl attempts to convey a message to the two approaching him. Lorth stands back to allow the dwarf to do the honors, and Bralin obliges by attacking with ferocity. The bad door will never harm anyone again.
Any Monday April 24th, 2006 8:59:10 AM
Any steps out of the door of the room just in time to see Bralin smash through another door across the couryard! What is going on? He can see that the others are in a defensive pattern as they approach the door--are there more of the enemy around? His weapons ring lightly as the come free and into his hands. He turns to Harvest and Remo still inside the room,
"Wait here a moment, there seems to be something going on. I'm not sure what, but Bralin just broke through a door, and Lorth and our new friend have weapons drawn. There may still be danger. How many captors were in your party friend Remo?"
Harvest (AC22, HP 17/34) d20+2=8 Monday April 24th, 2006 9:27:03 AM
"Yes, I find the circumstances unusual as well, Remo Treadlefoot," Harvest Moon agrees. "And yet there is much room for circumstance."
As she continues to speak with the halfling Envoy, she sneaks a sidelong glance at Anthos Westar. A slight pinkish tint spreads across the bridge of her nose.
"It is possible that they lost you at the road and have been tracking you. We did the same. It was not difficult."
"There is the series of notes that implies that the reason that they captured you was no more than ransom." Harvest Moon frowns. "Remo Treadlefoot, did you tell your captors that you were the Trade Envoy from Jarlwolf to Rowena?" she asks.
Just then a crash sounds from outside and Any calls to wait.
"Things happen around us while we speak. It is possible that your horse Blackie survived, Remo Treadlefoot. We saw the bodies of only two horses at the site where you were ambushed. The rest may have been brought here. We will also need extra horses with which to carry these men we have captured, but we may have to leave at a moments notice. We may have to leave them behind."
At that thought, Harvest tips her head to one side in a gesture of thought.
"Remo Treadlefoot, did it appear to you that one of these men and women in particular was the one controlling the Chimera? Following your trail, we came upon a group of Ahn-kegs that had attacked a farm family. Now I am wondering if that may not have been the work of these people as well. Perhaps something that they hold may tell us more."
At that thought, she begins going through the clothing and accoutrements of the fallen kidnappers.
==================================
Rolls and Actions Search the bodies 8
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Invisibility Purge 25 foot radius (Duration 5 minutes from Monday April 10th, 2006 11:54:52 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, uDetect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *uLongstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Ril'Veneyl Baenate (AC19, HP48) d20+10=21 d20+14=25 d20+14=29 d8+2=4 d8+2=5 Monday April 24th, 2006 10:58:27 AM
Ril'Veneyl stands his ground as Bralin smashes through the blocked door, ready to fire up anyone threatening inside. Should none present themselves from his present vantage point, he waits to follow Bralin and Lorth inside.
Excellent he may be with a bow, but in close quarters, he comes up short and knows it. Better to have people such as these in front of him to keep enemies away from his while he does what he does best.
================================================
Actions Spot - 21 If he spots someone that appears hostile, he'll fire two arrows at them. (AC 25 & 29, Dmg 4 & 5) If he spots no one, he'll wait and follow behind Bralin and Lorth.
Lorth Monday April 24th, 2006 11:56:24 AM
Lorth tries to see inside the building and follows Bralin in as soon as he moves. He glances back at Ril'Veneyl to make sure he is covering them.
Arminas and Ewan d20+6=19 d20+10=18 d20+10=12 Monday April 24th, 2006 1:06:59 PM
Upon the roof, Arminas welcomes Ewan as she flies down. It is good to see his friend, unhurt and enjoying the day. From his perch on high, Arminas watches Bralin bust down a door and Lorth carefully move in after him. The drow follows them, bow drawn.
Looking at Ewan, Arminas says in eagle: I hope the drow is not leading them into a trap. We should keep watch just in case.
Looking down, Arminas sees Any come out of the building below.
"Hoy, up here. I don't know why, but the drow signaled Bralin and Lorth. They ran over there and busted through the door. The drow is following them inside. Wierd, but they seem to trust this drow more than they do me. I hope he does not lead them into too much danger."
Arminas stays upon the roof, looking about. Ewan flies in circles about the building, also on the lookout. If it seems like Harvest and Any are ready to leave, Arminas leaps from the building, trusting in his ring of feather falling to gently float him to the ground.
Bralin d20+5=20 Monday April 24th, 2006 5:01:17 PM
The door splinters into pieces, eliciting a short nod of satisfaction from the black armored dwarf.
Axe at the ready, Bralin crosses the threshold and peers about.
[Spot 20, Darkvision]
DM Kathy Tuesday April 25th, 2006 12:25:39 AM Any reacts to the noise in the courtyard, moving outside to see what is the matter.
Lorth, Bralin, and Ril'Veneyl approach the newly-opened door carefully. You see what appears to be a hallway, leading straight back. Dust filters through the air, doubtless disturbed by Bralin's chopping at the door. Just inside the doorway, a collection of miscellaneous broken furniture and lumber would make it difficult to enter. Bralin and Ril'Veneyl, with their Darkvision, can see all this rather better than Lorth.
Arminas watches from the rooftop, wondering what is going on. He calls down an update to Any.
Meanwhile, Harvest continues speaking with the envoy.
"I did tell them who I was," he admits. "I was trying to make them see reason, get them to let me go."
The crash comes from outside, but it's somewhere on the outside of this building. Harvest and Remo can both hear splintering wood, and the sound of something falling. It sounds like it's coming from the next room.
Lorth Tuesday April 25th, 2006 7:24:55 AM
Lorth tries not to choke on the dust. He then examines the room to see if it looks like the furniture and lumber where piled here on purpose, or it is just a decrepit building.
Any Tuesday April 25th, 2006 9:01:53 AM
As Any continues to watch, Bralin and the others seem to be peering into the door so recently opened. Their stances suggest curiosity rather than danger, but weapons are still in evidence. Any relays this information to Harvest and Remo as Arminas lightly touches down nearby.
"Shall we all join them in their search of whatever it is they have found? Perhaps Remo could choose a weapon from those we have captured--that is if you desire and are skilled in that area. Harvest, you still bear the injuries of our last battle. Do you have charges left to heal yourself? If not, we must bind your wounds, or see if Lorth can help you. Untill we have a chance to rest and recuperate, I do not have the power to heal you or anyone. I am afraid your robe has seen better days."
So saying Any passes his hands near to Harvest, cleaning away blood and bringing the robe as much as his meager powers allow back to a more whole state.
"If you would like, we can alter my spare shirt and pants to give you a temporary solution, untill we have the chance to find a better solution."
Harvest (AC22, HP 29/34) 2d8(6+3)+3=12 Tuesday April 25th, 2006 11:20:30 AM
The pink across Harvest Moon's nose spreads to her cheeks and brightens considerably. She holds a hand out to Any in which she clutches a wooden wand.
"I ... Thank you, Anthos Westar." Harvest recovers herself somewhat. At least enough to realize that the wand should be for herself. She touches the wand to the wound in her side and hit heals, absorbing some of the blood that stains her pale skin. Any's magic cleans away the rest.
The brown girl looks down at her clean but tattered robe, the mystery of who controlled the Chimera is temporarily forgotten.
"If you do not mind," she says, "I will wear your shirt and pants, Anthos Westar. Until ... Until such time as we can find a better solution."
Her eyes lower. Then as though physically turning the subject, she looks in the direction from which the disturbance had come and she looks for a door.
==================================
Rolls and Actions CMW Heal 12hp
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Invisibility Purge 25 foot radius (Duration 5 minutes from Monday April 10th, 2006 11:54:52 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, uDetect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *uLongstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Ril'Veneyl Baenate (AC19, HP48) d20+19=25 d20+19=31 d20+10=30 d20+10=26 Tuesday April 25th, 2006 1:36:26 PM
Ril'Veneyl follows the two armored Swords through the threshold, allowing them about 15 feet of distance. This allows them to have plenty of room to swing their weapons and provides him with the best angles for his shots, should any be needed.
Despite the volume of his newfound companions and the dim lighting of this building's interior, Ril'Veneyl treds deliberately and lightly, keeping to the deeper shadows. He keeps a sharp eye and a keen ear on his surroundings to alert the others of possible ambush. This is a tactic learned when fighting with his brother, before he was killed. Allow the armored ones draw out and occupy the targets while he fills said targets with arrows.
Movement Moving behind Bralin and Lorth, keeping them about 15 feet ahead.
Arminas - place holder Tuesday April 25th, 2006 7:05:18 PM OOC: Waiting to see if the falling noise involves Arminas.
Bralin Tuesday April 25th, 2006 10:16:00 PM
Wordlessly, Bralin tromps into the room, looking about for another door or anything interesting.
Arminas and Ewan d20+6=22 d20+10=17 Wednesday April 26th, 2006 12:19:51 AM
Arminas waits upon the roof, keeping an eye out until Harvest comes out. When she does, he steps off the building and starts floating gently to the ground. Speaking to Ewan, Arminas asks him to try and pull him along so that he moves horizontally as well as slowly falling.
"Ewan, try and pull me. It is a game.
Spot Ewan 22 Spot Arminas 17
DM Kathy Wednesday April 26th, 2006 1:17:16 AM Any hands Harvest a wand and does his best to set her robes to rights. His actions seem to fluster the usually-serene monk.
Harvest is able to heal herself with the wand, then looks about for what caused the disturbance. The only door into or out of the room you are currently in, leads back out to the larger room where the fight took place.
Looking a little concerned, the halfling envoy glances about the room. "I don't suppose anybody has any halfling-sized weapons I could use?"
[OOC: I am assuming that the door Ril'Veneyl pointed Bralin at was the door I had mentioned earlier--the back door into this same building that was blocked. If that is incorrect, somebody let me know.]
Bralin tromps into the hallway. Well, he sort of weaves. There are a lot of obstacles near the door, and it isn't easy to move around. He sees another door at the opposite end of the hallway.
Lorth estimates that furniture and wood was deliberately used to block the door shut. How long ago that happened is anybody's guess.
Ril'Veneyl keeps his companions covered as they examine the hallway.
Arminas jumps off the roof, his ring making this a less dangerous passtime. Ewan registers surprise at first, then, as Arminas instructed her, tries to pull him. Unfortunately, the Feather Fall spell does not actually make objects as light as a feather, and Ewan has no better luck pulling the much-larger Aminas than she would on the ground.
Lorth Wednesday April 26th, 2006 7:20:04 AM
Lorth attempts to keep up with Bralin. He relaxes a bit, since this place doesn't look like it has been disturbed for a long, long time. Every once in a while he glances behind him to see if the Drow follows.
Any Wednesday April 26th, 2006 8:52:43 AM
Any looks across the courtyard, and just sees the last of that group of their companions-the new drow elf-as he disappears through the door. Evidently they are investigating the rest of the compound, but why would they not wait for all of the group to get together before starting such a venture? He is still puzzling this thought as Arminas touches down on his descent from the roof.
Speaking as much to himself, to clarify what is going on, as to Harvest and Arminas he says,
"Bralin, Lorth, and the drow have gone through the door there, I'm guessing to see what they can find. We should follow, so that the group does not get separated. Friend Remo, I have a second dagger that you may use, if nothing that your former captives were using will work."
Then turning to Harvest he says,
"I fear we shall have to wait in replacing your robe. What repairs we have made will have to suffice untill there is more time."
So saying, he smiles broadly, and hands Remo a dagger from his boot.
Ril'Veneyl Baenate (AC19, HP48) d20+5=17 d20+19=26 d20+19=25 d20+10=12 d20+10=18 Wednesday April 26th, 2006 11:19:20 AM
Ril'Veneyl keeps pace with Bralin and Lorth, following deeper into the building. Seeing the doorway at the end of the hall, Ril'Veneyl will step up closer to Lorth so that if Bralin decides to charge through that door, he'll be closer and more able to provide cover fire.
He stays close to the walls and opts to step over as opposed to around debris on the floor. A weaving target in the hall is more likely to be outlined by the dim light from their entrance.
================================================
Actions Dexterity - 17 to step over the debris and not trip Hide - 26 Move Silently - 25 Spot - 12 Listen - 18
Movement Move to within 5 feet behind Lorth, unless that takes him closer than 15 feet from the door at the end of the hall.
Harvest (AC22, HP 29/34) Wednesday April 26th, 2006 12:06:08 PM
"Yes, Anthos Westar," Harvest replies. Still, she frowns at the tattered mess of her clothing. It is a thing that had never concerned her before. How unusual that it should be a thing of such consternation now.
"I am sorry, Remo Treadlefoot," Harvest follows the others as they head to the door into which the others had gone. In her hand she retains the wand of curing. "But you did not address several questions earlier, questions that may shed much light onto our understanding of the nature of this group that has captured you and their motives."
"We have seen three people, a drow woman, a man wielding a greatsword, a quick man with a rapier, and a magic user with a rapier. Are there more in this party of your captors than this? And have you noticed any one in particular that can be said to have had control of the Chimera?"
==================================
Rolls and Actions
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Invisibility Purge 25 foot radius (Duration 5 minutes from Monday April 10th, 2006 11:54:52 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, uDetect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *uLongstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas and Ewan d20+6=17 d20+10=25 Wednesday April 26th, 2006 2:33:09 PM
The game did not work. Arminas says to Ewan:
I float like a feather, yet I am heavy. I wish I could fly like you. Eagles are superior creatures. Thanks for befriending a simple elf!
While they speak in screams and squaks, they both look around, always aware of their surroundings.
Actions Spot (Ewan) 17 Spot 25 Pass w/o trace 1 hour minus 40 rounds Speak with animals 30 rounds remaining
Bralin Wednesday April 26th, 2006 8:28:09 PM
Bralin keeps tromping. Convinced there is no one else about, he moves to the far door and opens it.
DM Kathy Thursday April 27th, 2006 1:23:12 AM
With Lorth and Ril'Veneyl behind him, Bralin continues down the hallway and opens the door at the end. He finds himself in the front room, where he and his companions recently defeated the kidnappers. The body of the human fighter is still sprawled on the floor.
Arminas touches down and takes a look around, but sees no sign of anyone other than his companions.
Any offers a dager, and the envoy takes it reluctantly. The handle is the wrong size for his smaller hands, and you can see at a glance that he would wield it awkwardly.
Remo tucks the oversized dagger into his waistband and replies to Harvest's questions. "Those were the only ones I ever saw," he confirms. "Well, and the monster. The mage fellow seemed to be the one in charge, and it was he that controlled the chimera. Mostly. It often seemed to do as it pleased, though. I don't know how much actual control he had over the thing. Enough, apparently."
Harvest, Any, and the envoy step back into the front room, and see Bralin, Lorth, and Ril'Veneyl enter from the other door. Arminas is outside the building, but the rest of the group is together.
Lorth Thursday April 27th, 2006 8:23:23 AM
"Looks like no one else is about", says Lorth. Lorth moves to the bodies of their slain enemies, "I've got a mind to move these bodies outside, at least then nature can claim them." Lorth makes sure all the bodies have been well searched then he starts to drag the outside, nearby.
Any d20+5=19 Thursday April 27th, 2006 9:02:08 AM
"We have not taken the time to search these men carefully, other things have taken our attention. Let us search them now, and make sure of the bonds of the ones still living-especially the mage. He should be bound and gagged to ensure that he uses none of his arts against us."
Any then proceeds to match actions to words, starting with the mage. He uses the mages own shirt to put a makeshift bag over each of his hands, and a gag over his mouth. Then he searches for anything which may be of use on those he helps with.
When all is done, he asks,
"Should we remain here one night to recuperate? We could easily secure one of the rooms of this place. Or, would it be more prudent to put some distance before we rest, in case these men had friends we do not know about. What do you all think? I do think we should call up our horses."
Any will then await the consensus of the group.
Search 19
Ril'Veneyl Baenate (AC19, HP48) d20+10=20 d20+10=16 d20+10=20 d20+4=23 Thursday April 27th, 2006 11:09:15 AM
As Bralin opens the door, Ril'Veneyl pulls fully on his bowstring. The red ang gold fletching lightly tickle his cheek as he eyes down the shaft. He spots a couple people standing in the next room and almost looses an arrow when he recognizes Harvest. He eases back on the string and with one fluid movement, un-nocks the arrow and with a slight twirl, places it head first into the quiver on his hip.
"Well, it appears my discovery simply circled us back around. My apologies for the added stress that may have caused to you all. The door I had found didn't seem to have any connection to this building."
Ril'Veneyl steps back outside, leaving the Swords to their spoils. He gives a nod of acknowledgement and respect to Arminas. He lifts his goggles over his face and steps out toward the center of the courtyard. Once he reaches the center, he turns to face the sun and holds his arms outstretched, tilting his face toward the sun. He stands like this for several minutes, then begins to scan the area.
He thinks to himself...This could very easily be what the council was looking for. This structure looks quite sound and would provide protection for the earliest refugees until they can expand a fuller settlement. Yes, I think this would do nicely.
================================================
Actions Spot - 20 (inside to not shoot anyone) Spot - 16 (outside to see anything out of sorts) Listen - 20 (to hear any movements other than the Swords Search - 23 (to determine the worthiness of the structure)
Movements Move to the center of the courtyard after apologizing to the Swords for the wild goosechase.
Harvest (AC22, HP 29/34) Thursday April 27th, 2006 11:58:32 AM
"This man, I believe, is dead." Harvest Moon stoops over the body of the man who had wielded the greatsword. "The mage still lives. The other man as well. I am unsure of the drow woman."
Harvest walks back out to the courtyard and examines the flail wielding drow, searching for signs of life.
"Arminas Calaelen, can you find signs of other horses about. We saw the bodies of only two horses at the site of the attack. Remo Treadlefoot has a horse named Blackie who may be in the area and it would be well to find more horses if we are to take these men from the woods and deliver them to civil justice."
"I will leave momentarily to fetch Fyrda, Darkfire, and Carrots."
"Perhaps, Remo Treadlefoot has a time by which he must be in Rowena, Anthos ... Anthos Westar," Harvest Moon comments as she leaves for the animals. "To ensure the trade negotiations proceed well, it may be best to attempt to meet his scheduled arrival."
==================================
Rolls and Actions
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Message - To Andrath (Duration 10 minutes from post Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:05:18 AM) Invisibility Purge 25 foot radius (Duration 5 minutes from Monday April 10th, 2006 11:54:52 PM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, uDetect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *uLongstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
Arminas and Ewan d20+6=19 d20+10=22 d20+11=13 Thursday April 27th, 2006 3:46:26 PM
The drow comes out and gives a nod to Arminas. Arminas meets him with a curious stare, unsure of what to make of the dark elf or his presence here.
Harvest comes out and asks Arminas to look for horses.
"Yes, I would be glad to scout for tracks. I will have Ewan look from the sky as well."
Arminas then speaks to Ewan with the screams of an eagle. Soon Ewan flys high, circling around the deserted fortress looking for horses. Arminas goes to the edge of the forest and checks for signs of horses crossing through to the open areas.
Actions Spot (Ewan) 19 Spot (Arminas) 22 Survival for tracking 13 Pass w/o trace 1 hour minus 41 rounds Speak with animals 29 rounds remaining
Bralin Thursday April 27th, 2006 9:26:46 PM
Bralin replies to Any's query about remaining or leaving.
"These will not wake for many hours, perhaps days. We are not sufficiently wounded to warrant delay. Leave now for Rowena."
DM Kathy Friday April 28th, 2006 2:13:48 AM Lorth and Any search the bodies of their fallen foes, and make sure the prisoners are stripped of useful gear as well. When you check, you find the dark elf woman in the courtyard is quite dead.
Meanwhile, Ril'Veneyl seems more interested in looking over the abandoned complex--but he keeps his own council as to why.
Harvest suggests finding the other horses and departing at once. Bralin, too, is keen to depart.
You return to the point where you left your own horses, several minutes' walk down the road. You find Fyrda munching grass, Carrots irritably brushing flies away, and Darkfire with his reins once again tangled in a bush, stamping and prancing and likely to do himself injury. Tobiasz gives Lorth a look that says, plain as day, "It's not my fault; he's impossible!"
Farther still down the trail, you come to the site of the ambush. Remo is visibly shaken at the sight of his slain escort.
Arminas is able to follow the tracks of the fleeing horses, and within an hour returns to the group leading two full-sized horses and a handsome black pony. "Blackie!" Remo calls out, running to take the pony's reins from Arminas. "I thought I'd never see you again. Clever fellow, did you hide from them?"
Lorth Friday April 28th, 2006 8:25:25 AM
Lorth gives Tobiasz a quick rubbing and brushing while waiting for Remo to gather up his horse. Thank you Tobiasz for watching the others, he thinks, I'm sorry my friend but you must remain with me for a bit longer. After tending to Tobiasz Lorth waits silently for his friends to decide where they will be going next.
Any Friday April 28th, 2006 8:52:14 AM
After greeting Moonshadow (I am assuming I am greeting Moonshadow too), Any stows his gear. Turning to the others he says,
"How far are we from Rowena here, and which direction is it? If we are going to move on today, we might as well make the best use of the daylight, and cut as straight a line towards Rowena as possible. I still do not trust what has been happening here. If there is some greater plot, these two prisoners may have aid that we know not of. Remo, do you know where we are in relation to Rowena?"
Any looks askance at those around, and will take up one of the tail positions in the party when they move out.
Arminas and Ewan Friday April 28th, 2006 10:01:10 AM
With help from Ewan, Arminas is able to find the horses, and returns them with great pride to the group. He is especially happy that Blackie was found and reunited with Remo.
He is surprised though to see that the drow is still with the group. Arminas then decides to address the fellow, and find out what his plans are.
"Excuse me, your name is Ril'Veneyl correct? I take it you finished your scouting. Where do you go from here? Perhaps I can point you in the right direction. Though it may seem dangerous because of what happened to Remo and his men, I have scouted these woods and they are safe."
Ewan sits upon Arminas' shoulder, staring down at the dark elf.
Upon Any's question about directions, Arminas points:
"Rowena is that way."
Harvest d20+6=23 Friday April 28th, 2006 11:53:41 AM
Harvest Moon considers their position on the map. Without knowing the route which Remo Treadlefoot had intended to take, she gives instead, her best guess of the time it might take to return to the main road and then onto Rowena.
Harvest stands next to Fyrda, the great plow horse, comforted by her pace and her solidity.
"Is there still a reason to continue along your original route to Rowena?" she asks the halfling Envoy. "It may be best to return to the main road and continue from there. In addition to the greater safety, there will be inns at which we may stay."
==================================
Rolls and Actions Knowledge Geography 23
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, uDetect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *uLongstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
HP 29/34
Ril'Veneyl Baenate (AC19, HP48) Friday April 28th, 2006 12:41:43 PM
Looking to Arminas and responding to his questions, "That is indeed my name, Arminas. And, assuming that no organization has claim over this structure, I believe that this may be a good place to begin a settlement. The walls seem solid and would provide protection until a settlement could better get on it's feet."
"As to where I shall go next, I do need to return to Merrydale to let the town council know of this place. Beyond that, I'm not in any particular hurry to get anywhere."
Looking more to the group as a whole at this point, "I know you do not know of me and I'm acutely aware of how many in the Above see members of my race. When the Dragons helped my people escape the oppression in the Below, we only sought escape from it and gain acceptance in this new world. I wish to explore the Above more and be a voice of my people. Perhaps, if I were to accompany you, I might achieve both of those goals? If nothing else, perhaps I could accompany you to this Rowena and lend my 'Shining Thunder' should you find yourselves beset by allies of these?" He asks as he points to the bodies of the fallen bandits.
Harvest (2nd Illegal Post) Friday April 28th, 2006 2:06:30 PM
"How do many in the Above see your people?" Harvest Moon asks with genuine curiosity. "I have seen one other of your people. His name was Villemus Bralfah. I did not notice that anyone treated him in a way better or worse than anyone else."
"I do not wish to speak poorly of one who is not here, but I did find him an extremely unusual person, and somewhat difficult to be around. You, on the other hand, Ril'Veneyal of the ... I am sorry. Ril'Veneyal. You on the other hand Ril'Veneyal, strike me as more disciplined."
Ril'Veneyl Baenate - 2nd post Friday April 28th, 2006 9:55:43 PM
Looking to Harvest after her inquiries, Ril'Veneyal responds... "That's quite all right Lady Harvest. I've noticed that you refer to most of your party by their full names. If you feel you must, you may call me Ril'Veneyl Baenate. Though somewhat shortened, it is an accurate depiction of the meaning of my name."
"In answer to your questsions, the majority I have met view my people with distrust at best and outright hostility at worst. Elves..." Ril'Veneyl gives a slight nod toward Arminas and Andrath, "No offense intended toward you, sirs. I have found, tend to have the worst attitude toward us, but, I suppose, understandably so. Our cousins in the Below would often do horrible things to elves they found. Yet another reason why House Bralfah wanted to escape the Below."
He approaches a bit closer to Harvest, drawing his longbow slowly from his quiver. He holds it out in front of him with both hands, parallel to the ground. As he gets close enough, Harvest sees extremely intricate runes and symbols detailing the entire length of the bow. "As for my discipline, it is all but essential to my chosen profession as a craftsman. I also feel a calm demeanor only helps with my archery skill as well. Often I've seen fellow archers miss what normally would be an easy shot because they allowed themselves to become distracted."
Arminas Illegal second post Saturday April 29th, 2006 5:56:44 PM
In response to Ril'Veneyl Arminas says:
"I bear no malice towards you specifically, yet I have found it is difficult to determine who to trust. Twice I have been betrayed during the last moon by wood elves such as I. Along with Bralin there, I was almost killed by Parnoth's minions. Dwarves I thought cared only for digging up wealth from the Wold, leaving scars upon the land. I am finding that I have been wrong about many things. It is very confusing ......"
Arminas then decides he has had enough with speaking, as it has only brought trouble and resentment in the past. He goes back to scouting the path before them.
Bralin Sunday April 30th, 2006 6:35:56 PM
As usual, Bralin takes no part in the discussions. But the dwarf finds he now listens to the words of his comrades. The talking has a purpose, however tangential they may be to the actual quest. Like water on rock, words carve away at the 'known', revealing a new reality.
It is not lost on the dark bearded warrior that the elf just voiced his own thoughts. There is much to learn.
Bralin waits, and listens.
DM Kathy Monday May 1st, 2006 1:05:11 AM
With the horses safely gathered (including Moonshadow, who I inadvertently left out), the party spends some time discussing strategy and making the acquaintance of the dark elf.
Remo says there is no particular reason to follow the route he'd been on. "Since you all have replaced my escort, I will follow whichever path you feel is best and safest. I only ask that you also take speed into consideration. I need to get to Rowena as soon as I safely can."
You also have two prisoners to transport--or otherwise dispose of.
Arminas and Ewan are pretty sure they know which way to head to reach Rowena overland. Harvest suggests that returning to the road will be safer, although it will take longer.
Lorth Monday May 1st, 2006 7:27:37 AM
Lorth doesn't take part in the discusions, he just listens. Ril'Veneyl can stay or go as he pleases.
Any Monday May 1st, 2006 8:53:39 AM
Turning to Ril'Neneyl, Any says,
"As you can see we have our own mission to accomplish with all speed. If accompanying us would not hinder your own charge, then I have no objections. Another well handled bow is always welcome in these times."
Any then works to make sure the prisoners cannot get off ,or fall off, their respective horses by binding them to the saddle bow and stirrups. If they are concious at all during this process, he cautions them not to try an escape, for arrows fly swifter than horses.
Then, mounting himself, he speaks once more to the rest of the Swords,
"Whatever we do, whichever route we take, if we are going to get somewhere today, we should begin. We can discuss other matters either on horseback, or in camp later, don't you agree?"
He sits calmly, humming lightly to himself, watching the others, although his gaze does seem to find Harvest more often than the others.
Harvest Monday May 1st, 2006 11:02:04 AM
"The drow are know to be fearsome and cruel, Ril'Veneyl Baenate." Harvest Moon climbs up onto Fyrda and sits behind Andrath Silverhand. "But I have known of many humans too, who have been fearsome and cruel." She pauses in her conversation as the group moves along.
"And yet, humans are not generally known to be either fearsome or cruel." She cocks her head to one side. The movement is not a shrug. But it is a gesture so very much like a shrug as to be instantly taken as such. "I would like to hear more of your people and lands someday, Ril'Veneyl Baenate."
Harvest lends a glance at their two bound prisoners.
"We may find authorities along the road to whom we may entrust the prisoners," she says. "But before deciding on a route, it may be best to determine how much time each will take." Once again, she considers her knowledge of the way via the road, and she gives her best estimate of number of days.
"How long do you think it will take off the road, Arminas Calaelen?" she asks.
==================================
Question Do we have a list of the equipment taken from the party that we just defeated?
Rolls and Actions Knowledge Geography 23
Active Effects Mage Armor (Duration 1 hour from post Friday February 17th, 2006 12:13:12 AM) Longstrider (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM) Pass Without a Trace (Duration 1 hour from post Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:37:33 AM)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, uDetect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *uLongstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
HP 29/34
Ril'Veneyl Baenate Monday May 1st, 2006 11:02:59 AM
Looking to Arminas, Ril'Veneyl responds..."I appreciate that you hold no resentment toward me and I'm sorry for all your recent trauma. Perhaps, by my actions, I may come to prove myself to you."
As Any expresses his concern for Ril'Veneyl's mission, he replies..."My mission was not under any particular time constraints, though I should alert the council to my progress within at least a week, two at the most. If you do decide to go cross country as opposed to established roads, perhaps it might be best to have another to help protect envoy, Remo was it?"
Looking to Harvest, Ril'Veneyl gives a slight smile at her acceptance. "I would be most happy to talk with you about Dradah Delmah or even the Below, sometime."
Obviously addressing the party as a whole..."I do not mean to interject myself into your numbers. Once in Rowena, should you determine that I am not needed, I would graciously take my leave."
Arminas and Ewan Monday May 1st, 2006 3:42:07 PM
Ewan flies in slow lazy circles above the group as they move slowly along on horseback. Harvest questions Arminas about the time required to move overland to Rowena. Looking about, Arminas says:
"It is difficult to determine for sure how long it would take, but we will cut off much distance by taking a direct route. We have the added benefit of enjoying the forest as we move, and are less likely to run across any people. People seem even less trustworthy lately."
Then looking at Ril'Veney he adds:
"Of course, you never know when you will find someone far from the roads."
DM Kathy Tuesday May 2nd, 2006 1:06:26 AM Harvest and Arminas compare notes and conclude that it will take approximately two days to get to Rowena overland, and about four days to go via the road.
You can hedge your bet a little bit this afternoon, and travel a diagonal route that doesn't take you too far off from either course. You need to make a decision by the morning, however.
From the kidnappers you have recovered the following: -leather armor (detects as magic) -rapier (magic) -ring (magic) -wand (magic) -chainmail (magic) -mithral chain shirt (magic) -heavy flail (magic) -well-made greatsword (non-magic) -well-made rapier (non-magic) -two well-made longbows -well-made crossbow -ordinary chainmail -two quivers of arrows -one case of crossbow bolts
You also recovered a locked chest, which you have not yet tried to open. (Sorry, forgot to mention the chest before).
Lorth Tuesday May 2nd, 2006 7:48:38 AM
Lorth gets Tobiasz ready to move out. He gives Ril'Veneyl a welcome nod, then moves himself somewhere near the rear of the marching order.
Any Tuesday May 2nd, 2006 8:59:29 AM
Any finds a position in the marching order towards the middle of the group. He trails along with the others through the rest of the afternoon. As it gets closer to sundown, he begins to look, along with Arminas, for a likely camp for the night. He asks Arminas,
"Would you, and your wonderful friend Ewan, try to find us a couple of rabbits, or something, to add to a stew for the night?"
When they find a suitable spot, he removes the captives from their horses, and again makes sure they are secure. Once that is done, he begins to gather wood for the night's fire, all the while looking for tubers and roots which might make a welcome change from trail rations, when added to whatever Arminas may find for the stew.
Ril'Veneyl Baenate d20+13=19 d20+13=30 d20+13=18 d20+13=32 d20+13=22 d20+13=19 Tuesday May 2nd, 2006 11:12:05 AM
As the Swords pack up their horses with prisoners and recovered gear, he takes note of the bows, crossbow, arrows and bolts. "Hmm, those appear to be well made. Would you mind if I take a look at those bows, crossbow and the projectiles? I may be able to give you a fair determination of quality and price. I do not need them as I have been developing a connection with both Shining Thunder and Righteous Clash."
Ril'Veneyl stays near the party, but keeps his distance so as not to make the others feel he's trying to put his nose in their business. Harvest spoke true, drow do have a reputation of being fearsome and cruel, but that's their Below cousins. Dradah Delmah's inhabitants want to put all that behind them. It will be a long journey, but with emmissaries such as himself, perhaps they will all have a chance.
Once in the camp, assuming he's allowed the opportunity to examine the items, he opens his toolkits. Each toolkit is packed precisely, each tool obviously has it's specific place. He retrieves various measuring tools and goes over each item meticulously, measuring widths, lengths, pulls, etc. Once done, he cleans and replaces each tool and appears to sa a prayer with each one.
Arminas and Ewan d20+12=15 d20+10=16 d20+6=8 Tuesday May 2nd, 2006 12:13:16 PM
"Since it looks to take twice as long by road, I say we travel overland to Rowena. I will scout the way it that is what we choose to do."
Arminas then nods to Any's suggestion.
"Sure, a nice coney or two would be great in a stew. Ewan and I will hunt."
Arminas then whistles and calls Ewan down from the sky. With a series of signals Ewan flys high above Arminas while Arminas kicks brush to scare out rabbits. He keeps his bow handy in case something larger is found.
Once dinner is cooked, Arminas keeps a watchful eye on the drow as he looks over the weapons.
Actions Survival 15 Spot 16 Ewan spot 8
Harvest d20+6=17 Tuesday May 2nd, 2006 1:52:43 PM
"If you believe that the way overland to Rowena is safe, Arminas Calaelen, then I have faith in you." Harvest Moon spends the rest of the day with the rhythmic sway of Fyrda's gait. Her eyes are far away, and they look into a troubled place.
With Anthos Westar, she forages for edible plants, drawing up the hem of her robe and collecting things within its fold. In silence, she walks, sometimes near, sometimes drawing away to pull a cluster of edible mushrooms or the greens of a dandelion.
At last, she draws a deep breath.
"Do you like me, Anthos Westar?" she asks. She looks off into the woods, and in the dying light of evening, the pinkish heat of her face could be just another shadow. "Would you ... Could we sleep together this night?"
==================================
Rolls and Actions Survival 17 (For foraging)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, uDetect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *uLongstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
HP 29/34
Bralin Tuesday May 2nd, 2006 3:41:25 PM
Bralin rides the burro, Carrots, within the midst of the party. While still occupied with rediscovering the interaction of individuals, he does not miss the more tactical requirements of the quest.
He nods his head in agreement to follow the overland route to Rowena. And he stays close to the two prisoners Any brought along.
When the group makes camp, the warrior/cleric casts a spell over the wand to determine its purpose. No one else makes a move to determine the contents of the chest, and so Bralin makes the attempt - using a War Hammer to break the lock if necessary.
[Cast divine Identify on wand - no material component required]
Any (2nd post) Tuesday May 2nd, 2006 7:22:00 PM
Now it is Any's turn to be at odds.
"My lady, in truth I do care for you. I have found in you qualities of caring and giving that are to be envied by anyone. You have an innocence about you that is belied by your wisdom. I would share blanket or bower with you at any time, and feel honored to do so. Forgive me if I go on, but 'tis the curse of the Bard to say more when surprised than is truly necessary, especially when it deals with something so close to the heart. Would that I had approached you first, but I felt the time was perhaps not yet. I see that once again I have underestimated you."
Any seems slightly surprized at his own words, and turns to seemingly pick a mushroom whose top is just showing beneath the leaves on the forest floor. As he stands, he turns with a mountain columbine cupped in his hand, and with a deft motion places it behind Harvest's ear. Then he begins to slowly walk back towards camp, picking a tuber here and there to add to the growing stew. He now openly watches Harvest as she moves with him to join the others.
DM Kathy d20+17=29 d4=3 Wednesday May 3rd, 2006 1:33:46 AM
You travel for the rest of the day, then Arminas finds you a suitable campsite and heads of with Ewan to do a bit of hunting. The two of them kill several rabbits and bring them back to camp.
Ril'Veneyl examines the weapons and ammunition you captured from the enemies. He discovers that the longbows and crossbow are all masterwork quality, while the ammunition is the ordinary mundane kind.
Bralin identifies the wand as a Wand of Magic Missiles. He begins to tinker with the chest, and the lock. As he tries to open it, a dart flies out at him! It strikes him and opens a small wound. The injury itself is nothing, a mere scratch, but the dwarf feels a sudden heat in the wound that spells trouble. [Hit AC 29 for 3 points damage. Make a Fort save DC 14]
Meanwhile, Harvest and Any are feeling more and more drawn to one another, and are contemplating a move that could change the party's dynamics considerably. They carry on a low-voiced discussion at the edge of camp.
Your prisoners are inclined toward sulkiness, especially the mage. He perks up, however, when the poison dart strikes Bralin.
Remo takes painstaking care of his horse, and tries to strike up a conversation with Lorth. "How did you all come to be at that place?" he asks. "Were you looking for me specifically, or was it just a happy coincidence?"
Any (20 AC, 20/20 HP) Wednesday May 3rd, 2006 9:01:50 AM
As Any and Harvest arrive back in camp, Any starts to prepare the items they have gathered for a stew--chopping wild onions into the pan, and cutting up the tubers, roots and mushrooms they have found. He works easily, singing softly to himself as he does. Within a short time a savory pot of stew, including the rabbits brought in by Arminas, is simmering on the edge of the fire. He dips a bowl full, and hands it without words to Harvest, then goes back and dips one for himself.
After the meal is consumed, he goes to his saddlebags and brings out a shirt and pair of pants, along with a small kit with needle and thread. With experience gained from years with his traveling troupe of entertainers, he begins to alter the size of these items, with ocaasional appraising glances in Harvest's direction. Before long he rises, and in an apologetic tone says,
"I wish these were of a kind that you truly deserve, but I fear they will have to do, that is if you still want them."
He then hands Harvest the newly altered clothes, and sits down by the fire at her side.
Lorth Wednesday May 3rd, 2006 9:20:04 AM
When the party makes camp, Lorth dismiss's Tobiasz. "Go and rest, my friend.", he says.
Lorth watches Bralin fumble with the chest while speaking idly to Remo. "Actually we were sent to look for you, seems the council wants to make sure your mission suceeds. Anyway I am glad we rescued you, it was to bad we couldn't do the same for your companions, Gargul rest their souls."...
...when the dart releases and strikes Bralin, Lorth abruptly stops talking and waits to see Bralin's reaction. After a moment he says, "Do you need help Bralin?"... Not quiet sure what he could do.
Ril'Veneyl Baenate Wednesday May 3rd, 2006 11:00:50 AM
Ril'Veneyl keep close enough to the fire to keep warm, but keeps his distance. He eats his own trail rations so as not to impose himself upon the others.
As he completes his examination of the bows and such, he informs the others..."The bows and crossbow are from a master's hand. In the Catacombs, you should be able to get approximately 340 gold each and close to 300 for the crossbow. The arrows and bolts are another story. Although they will fly true, they were likely crafted by apprentices."
Upon seeing Bralin shot by the dart, Ril'Veneyl springs gracefully to his feet and steps over to him. "Are you ok, Bralin?"
Harvest d20+7=22 Wednesday May 3rd, 2006 11:11:46 AM
Quietly, Harvest Moon trails after Anthos Westar. She sits nearby as he goes about the cutting and spicing that would turn their forage into food. She watches his face, intent upon the wild ingredients at his fingertips. She watches his hands as they move through the brown bits and the green bits and the creamy white bits. Her nose sniffs as the air fills with the bright tang of wild scallions.
When it is done, she takes a bowl from him. Her eyes are bright, as though embarking upon a new journey, the road beckoning before her. Harvest raises the bowl to her lips and sips from the broth. Her eyes close, and when they open, they look up into his, speaking to him of the wonderful mix of flavors that he has brought to such a simple thing as a meal.
There is a sharp sound, and the brown girl's attention is torn from her communion with the food made by Anthos Westar. Bralin Stoneminder kneels by the chest that they had taken from the kidnappers. A trap? Quickly, but with reverence, she lays aside the bowl of stew before moving to Bralin's side. Fanning her fingers out before her, she calls on Alemi's gift, channeling the ability to Resist any debilitating affects that may come from the trap.
Then, unrolling a healer's kit onto the ground, Harvest picks out several herbs. For the second time today, she creates a poultice, this time one that should counter any secondary effects of poison.
Danger is still with them. This incident makes that clear. Harvest eyes the two prisoners. They will be brought to justice. But what mischief might they get into in the meantime? And what might be within this mysterious chest that Bralin Stoneminder has just opened at risk to himself?
After applying the poultice to Bralin Stoneminder's wound, she returns to sit near Anthos Westar. She eyes the work in his lap with curiosity. He is sewing. And the clothing is for her. A feeling wells up within her chest, as though her heart grows to twice its size. She does nothing but sit for some moments and watch as he sews. Then she takes up her bowl of stew again, eating while he works.
"I will put them on." A broad grin lights the brown girl's face as Any presents her with new clothing. She rises to her feet to pull her robe over her head. Harvest stops. She feels his eyes. The nakedness that had never been a thing of importance to her before is now different. It is different with his eyes upon her. Such a strange thing. But it is so. She clutches the new clothing to her chest. "I will put them on." She grins and hurries to a nearby clump of bushes behind which to change.
When she returns, the shirt is untucked, but belted at the waist with the old bit of rope from her robe. The trousers are tucked into the tops of her boots. They reveal the slimness of her legs. Harvest walks forward, her old robe folded in her hands. Her hand rises to brush from her face the crest of hair that hangs down over her forehead and over one eye. She looks to Any, as though for approval.
==================================
Rolls and Actions Cast Resistance on Bralin (+1 to his Fort Save) Heal 22 (To Treat Poison)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, uDetect Magic, uResistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *uLongstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
HP 29/34
Bralin (-3 hp) d20+12=19 Wednesday May 3rd, 2006 11:58:49 AM
Having identified the wand, the dwarf bangs on the chest. The dart flies into his hand and he feels the heat of poison coursing into his body.
His comrades flock to help, but Bralin has determined the initial wound is not overly dangerous [Fort 19]. "Tis poisoned," he announces calmly to Harvest, Lorth, and Ril'Veneyl. "But not strongly so. I am unaffected." He turns slightly to glare in irritation at the mage prisoner, while allowing Harvest to attend to the wound. The look on his face and the war hammer in his hand should make plain to the wizard that he would do best to remain silent.
As an aside to the group, he adds, "The wand is arcane. It releases the Magic Missile spell."
Arminas and Ewan d20+6=8 d20+10=15 d20+10=15 d20+6=8 Wednesday May 3rd, 2006 5:08:18 PM
Arminas enjoys the stew and is glad that Ewan contributed to the meal. He is not too keen on having prisoners, and states:
"Make sure they are bound well and gagged, the mage may have more tricks."
Arminas will in fact make sure, and if necessary gag them himself.
"You can eat when we get to Rowena."
Arminas does not seem to notice much about the group dynamics, and the absence of any opinion by the supposed leader Andrath does not worry him. Any and Harvest seem to be spending much time together, yet not nearly as much as Arminas spends with Ewan.
Arminas says: "I'll keep my watch from above, and will watch during the late night to early morning. Ewan will help me. If the prisoners move, I'll have a clear shot at them from up high."
He then climbs high into a tree, and Ewan perches near him. (Arminas will climb, and if he falls climbs again.)
Any (2nd post) Wednesday May 3rd, 2006 7:03:00 PM
As Harvest emerges from behind the bushes, Any smiles and says,
"Truly you do those old clothes of mine more justice than I ever did. Remember though, that we still have an appointment made in the Giggling Ghost, to find some clothes for you that YOU will chose. I look forward to that time."
Turning to the others,
"I will take the first watch, as I do not feel tired at present. Perhaps Harvest will share that watch with me?"
The question hangs in the air as the others around prepare their place of rest.
DM Kathy Thursday May 4th, 2006 1:10:45 AM Any reveals his domestic side, making stew and altering some of his clothes to fit Harvest. [OOC: I didn't see any Craft checks, so I'll assume you took 10.] The resulting ensemble is hardly high fashion, but the monk doesn't seem to mind
Bralin's doughty dwarven constitution easily throws off the effects of the poison, and with Harvest's help suffers no lingering ill effects. The mage may not be so luckly.
After dinner, Arminas climbs a tree, the better to keep watch over camp. Ewan perches nearby, preens for a bit, then settles down to sleep.
Harvest and Any volunteer to take first watch, although given the way they've been looking at each other it's debatable how much actual watching is going to happen.
The prisoners are secured. The mage seems to be content with glaring at you all, but the nimble half-elf displays a tendency to wriggle about, with a look of supreme innocence on his face.
Remo thanks you all again for his rescue, and tucks into the stew with enthusiasm. After you've eaten, he tells you a few tales of some of his earlier assignments. He is an engaging speaker, and his stories entertain.
[Everyone who will be on watch tonight, please make Spot and Listen checks.]
Lorth d20+1=12 d20+1=18 Thursday May 4th, 2006 7:39:58 AM
Lorth volunteers for second watch, but he will do whatever is needed. He is sure Any and Harvest won't allow their carnal instincts to interfere with their duty to their friends while they are on watch. He sleeps just as easy as ever. On his watch, he is sure to keep an eye on the prisoners lest they try to escape. (Spot: 12 Listen: 18)
Any d20+4=23 d20+2=9 d20+5=22 Thursday May 4th, 2006 8:57:57 AM
After all have settled down for the night, Any takes the first watch with Harvest. He is careful to watch away from the fire, so as to preserve his night vision to it's fullest, but there is much that he wants to say to the young monk who has captured his attention.
As their watch goes on, the two will speak in quiet whispers, Any mostly telling of his life when he was younger. Their conversations prevent Any from hearing much outside of the range of the fire, but nothing escapes his watchful eyes. More than once, he stops near the prisoners to insure they are still securely tied.
When Lorth rises to take over the middle watch with Andrath, Any will move to a spot prepared earlier, where there is just room for two to sleep, just beyond the light of the fire....
Spot 23 Listen 9
(OOC forgot to roll craft check. Any is quite handy due to his time with the troupe of performewrs Craft 22)
Harvest d20+13=31 d20+13=16 Thursday May 4th, 2006 11:43:10 AM
Night settles over the camp, leaving her alone with Anthos. Or, at least more alone than they had been previously. He talks, and she listens. The sound of his voice becomes the Wold. In the flickering light of the fire, she becomes filled with his life. It echoes, pulsing against her own. So different from her childhood in the squalid camps, and yet, to Harvest Moon, so many of the small joys and triumphs that he describes are the same.
Harvest rises when he does to make the rounds of the camp. The scene is so still, and yet so filled with the little goings on that make up life. Even the prisoners play a part. How is it that the Wold can blossom so suddenly with such perceptions? The night seems so clear and light.
When Paladin Lorth and Andrath Silverhand rise to take the watch, Harvest follows Anthos to the edge of the firelight. She kneels next to him and places a small hand upon his chest. Then she lowers herself to the ground and fits herself into the crook of his arm. With her cheek against his chest, she listens to the beating of his heart.
==================================
Rolls and Actions Spot 31 Listen 16
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, uDetect Magic, uResistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *uLongstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless
HP 29/34
Ril'Veneyl Baenate d20+19=32 d20+10=28 d20+19=29 d20+10=15 Thursday May 4th, 2006 1:54:19 PM
Willing to do his part on the trek to Rowena, Ril'Veneyl suggests that he take the middle watch. Being the darkest part of the night, his dark elven vision is keenly useful for that time. Also, as he has no spells to worry about, taking split shifts at sleeping shouldn't hinder him either.
From a safe distance from the fire, he conceals himself in the brush, Shining Thunder at the ready. He keeps his senses peeled to their utmost. Though off the trail, they're not likely to encounter any bandits, but wild creatures may be another story.
Arminas and Ewan d20+6=17 d20+6=14 d20+10=28 d20+10=30 d20+12=29 d8+4=10 Thursday May 4th, 2006 6:25:16 PM
Arminas settles into a large crook in the tree, Ewan nearby.
Upon seeing the half-elf prisoner wiggling about, Arminas gives a call down from up high in the tree. With an arrow nocked in the bow, and the bow drawn back he takes careful aim at the half-elf.
"If I see you move again, this arrow flies, followed by more. Now, go to sleep so that you will have the opportunity to awake tomorrow."
Arminas then puts the arrow back into the quiver, and settles down, keeping an eye on the prisoners. When darkness comes, he takes his turn resting. He will awaken for the third watch, which he will keep with Ewan.
Actions Spot Ewan 17 Listen Ewan 14 Spot Arminas 28 Listen Arminas 30 (perfect 20) Arrow attack on prisoner if he sees him loosening his bonds Hit AC 29 Damage 10
Bralin d20+4=13 d20+5=8 Thursday May 4th, 2006 8:29:03 PM
Bralin also volunteers for third watch. The dwarf takes care to check the prisoners often. They shall not escape.
Also, he wants to ensure they don't meet up with any 'unfortunate accidents' Arminas might have planned.
[Listen 13, Spot 8]
DM Kathy Friday May 5th, 2006 3:45:24 AM
A well-placed threat from Arminas causes the half-elf to subside, at least temporarily.
To their credit Harvest and Any maintain their vigilance during their watch, and only after it is over do they move on to other pursuits.
During second watch, Lorth and Ril'Veneyl keep a sharp eye on the half-elf, who had resumed his activities the minute Arminas began to trance. Between them, however, the paladin and the dark elf, foil any attempts he may make to escape, and eventually he drops off to sleep.
Bralin sits dawn watch with Arminas. Ewan declines to help until dawn, giving her friend a reproachful little shriek if he tries to rouse her before then.
Remo joins you on third watch, but he is a poor sentry. He is obviously a social man, and would clearly rather talk to people than be off on his own looking for danger. He talks first to Bralin, then to Arminas, then to Bralin again, not seeming put off at all by any lack of response. And he does try to watch; he just doesn't seem suited for the task.
Morning comes with a high, light overcast that will likely burn off by noon. Birds twitter in the treetops, and Ewan seems keen to go catch some breakfast.
And the group has a decision to make: whether to head to Rowena overland, or to go back to the road. Oh, and there's that chest that still hasn't been opened.
Lorth Friday May 5th, 2006 8:17:43 AM
Lorth wakes and takes his time packing his belongings while his friends get ready. He puts everything in its place being sure to inspect his things for damage. After packing he gets some breakfast, he has become accustomed to his friends cooking something, but in a pinch he will eat trail rations. Lorth thinks they should take whichever route is shorter and voices his opinion as such, although he will aquiesce to the group if they feel differently. He summons Tobiasz right before they head out.
Any (2nd post) Friday May 5th, 2006 8:56:07 AM
Any awakes with the first light, and then feeling the weight of Harvests head upon his arm and chest, he cannot help but smile. He looks down at her, the first rays of the sun just touching her face. He has not felt such peace and contentment for many years. It has been far too long that he has walked a lonely path, maybe that is why he decided to join with this group. He finds that he has missed the association of the troupe.
Hearing the others beginning to stir, he gently whispers,
"My Lady, let us rise and greet the sun. There is much to be done today."
When Harvest wakes, and moves, Any will rise and assist in warming water for breakfast. He greets the others, and takes a cup of water to the prisoners, checking their bonds, and assisting them in drinking without releasing their hands.
Arminas and Ewan Friday May 5th, 2006 10:27:10 AM
Arminas final is able to rouse Ewan as the sunlight filters through the leaves of the tree. Movement begins in the forest, as birds and animals make use of the first light to forage for food. Time also for Ewan to hunt. She takes to the sky with a screech, and climbs high. This time Arminas will not join her.
Arminas steps from his perch, and his ring causes him to float slowly to the ground. First he walks over to the half-elf prisoner.
"I see you are still with us, and still alive. My promise still stands."
Walking over to Any, Arminas gives a broad smile and says:
"Well, you look happy this day. What shall we have for breakfast?"
Once breakfast is eaten, he responds to Lorth's statement.
"I agree with our noble knight, we should travel the shortest distance, and go overland. I am afraid our prisoners are getting restless, and that I may have to kill that one before we make it to town. Perhaps the reward would be the same be he dead or alive."
Arminas then gives another sharp look to the half-elf.
Harvest Friday May 5th, 2006 1:29:55 PM
The Wold is warm and comforting. Enfolding and protecting. Harvest snuggles against the chest of Anthos Westar, her head rising and falling with his gentle rhythmic breathing. For the first time in recent memory, she does not wish to rise.
She searches the feeling, like holding a newborn chick in one's hand and looking down at it in wonder as it looks up with innocent eyes at you. And in the feeling, Harvest Moon recognizes a thing that she had not thought that she had been missing: A sense of being more than One. A person is rarely by one's self, many others are ever around. But even though one is within a crowded place one can still be alone. Not necessarily lonely, but not necessarily connected with any of the others around, connected in a way that is important.
" ... There is much to be done today."
Harvest reaches over him and hugs his chest in a momentary embrace.
"Good morning, Anthos." Her brown eyes catch the morning light as they look up into his. She rises with him, straightening the new clothing, his clothing, that she had received the night before. Then, as he tends to the preparations to break the morning fast, she kneels beneath a nearby tree and prays to Alemi.
"So we will proceed overland?" she asks upon returning to the cooling morning fire.
==================================
Rolls and Actions Spot 31 Listen 16
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless, Shield of Faith
Ril'Veneyl Baenate Friday May 5th, 2006 1:59:44 PM
Ril'Veneyl takes particular care in gathering his belongings. Each item has a specific plae within his pack. Once he has completed his packing, he withdraws a smaller pack and rolls it open carefully. Within it are various well made tools.
He withdraws his bow from his quiver and with a very small and obviously very sharp knife, he begins to carve into the surface of the bow. The intense concentraion that comes over his face almost seems to be more than that employed by other craftsmen. It's almost as if the world around him is gone and all that exists is him, his bow and his tools.
Shortly before the others are ready to go, he finally looks up (did he even blink the entire time?). For a moment, the tattoo around his eye catches the light and seems to shimmer slightly. He straightens his back, rolls his neck an shoulders, then places each tool he used back into the kit and carefully rolls it up and places it away in his pack.
"The truest path is often the straightest path. Though roads often make the journey easier for the foot and hoof, they seem to be riddled with adversity as those would you resort to thievery and harm often watch such paths."
================================================
Actions
Working on my bow to show continuous work toward making it magical eventually (see Artisan's Innovation in the Sharpshooter class).
Bralin Friday May 5th, 2006 4:13:02 PM
In the morning, Bralin rises and moves off a little ways to commune with The Chamber. He produces a fist sized sphere of obsidian, and stares into it for an hour.
After the gods grant him his requested spells, the dwarf rises, gets out his war hammer, wedges a stone between the lock and the chest, and beats on the lock until it breaks. Then he opens the chest.
He'll also fire off a round of magic missiles from the wand to determine how many are released with a single charge. [Magic Domain - Bralin can activate the wand as the equivalent of a Level 1 wizard]
Everyone makes their respective comments about going overland. Bralin agrees, and so moves with them on the quickest route to Rowena. He gets himself close to Arminas so they can talk out of earshot of the prisoners. The elf's continuous threats to them are becoming tiresome - and ineffective.
"Arminas," he quietly greets the ranger. "Words lose power with repitition. Their respect for you diminishes. Thusly their willingness to attempt escape increases. We have stated our intentions plainly enough."
Arminas - 2nd illegal post Friday May 5th, 2006 4:58:00 PM
Listening to Bralin, Arminas nods and smiles:
"The words were more for your ears than his. I don't want you to be surprised when I kill him. He does plan to escape, as would I. But it does my heart good to know you take an interest in me. Thanks."
Day's spell Entangle x 2
Any (2nd post) Sunday May 7th, 2006 12:23:57 AM
Any works quickly around the camp, checking gear and weapons, and making sure the prisoners are ready to travel.
He seems to be humming a tune over and over, singin lightly to himself. Those who listen closely can hear that he seems to be composing a song.
When all are ready to go, he falls in line atop Moonshadow somewhere near to the middle where Harvest is riding. His eyes meet hers occasionally as they ride along, but he also keeps an eye on the captives.
Time and time again he thinks of how long it has been since he has felt his way about anyone. There have been friends to be sure, and even some he would have laid down his life for, but somehow this is different.
DM Kathy Monday May 8th, 2006 1:10:12 AM
Discussing your options, you decide to take the most direct route to Rowena. Among other things, it gives you the best chance of arriving with both your prisoners still alive.
Arminas sends his companion off to hunt up her breakfast. She doesn't return until you are nearly ready to depart, but your empathic link tells you that her hunt was successful.
Ril'Veneyl works on his bow with the kind of concentration normally reserved for spellcasting. The weapon that is taking shape under his hands is truly a work of art.
Bralin tests the wand and finds that it fires a single missile.
Any and Harvest seem to be having an especially good morning, and seem to want to be near one another.
Remo smiles as he watches them. "I see that love has bloomed on this journey," he says to Lorth. "Have they known one another long?"
You all keep an eye on your prisoners, but they seem more resigned to their fate today. There are no escape attempts, and the mage is looking decidedly fatigued.
Your journey is a pleasant one. As you thought, the overcast burns off before noon, leaving the day pleasantly warm and sunny. A light breeze rustles the treetops and keeps the afternoon from heating up too much.
You journey through wilderness for a time, then towards the end of the day you begin to see signs of habitation once again. Fences, plowed fields, cart tracks, and the occasional wisp of smoke on the horizon indicate that there are people nearby.
You could still find a place to camp this evening, or you could try to talk to a farmer about spending the night in a barn. Of course, having two bound prisoners with you could raise awkward questions....
Lorth Monday May 8th, 2006 8:33:43 AM
"A few months at least", Lorth replies to Remo. "Harvest joined our little adventuring group a long time ago, while Any has come more recently. Hmmm, you've got me thinking about all the members who have come and gone from our group." ... he pauses ... "Andrath and myself are the only original members left out of I beleive six or seven." Lorth stops speaking and smiles, I wonder what they are all up to, he thinks.
Any Monday May 8th, 2006 8:55:02 AM
Any rides throughout the day in a quiet mood, He never strays too far from Harvest, but does not ride too differently from a regular marching order would be. As he rides he is humming and singing to himself, and occasionally he talks to Harvest to point out something he has noticed along the trail, or just to hear the sound of her voice.
He keeps an eye on the prisoner's, offering them sips of water when rest breaks are called. He is careful at these times, warning the mage,
"I know many of the words of power, and can recognize spell casting. Do not attempt anything."
Arminas (Lyle sub) d20+4=20 d20+2=7 d20+10=15 Monday May 8th, 2006 9:03:34 AM
OOC Any's spot and Listen checks spot 20, listen 7
Arminas is happy to be on the move again, and back in the forest. His tracking and ranger skills can truly help the party here.
Ewan seems happy to be on the move too. She took extra time to hunt this morning, perhaps she needed this time in the forest too. He smiles at the thought.
He rides ahead of the others, seeking to find the easiest, but most direct route, to their destination. By afternoon, he is pleased to show the others the houses beginning to appear on the horizon.
"I think we can make it to Rowena by noon tomorrow, or shortly after. Perhaps we should camp away from the farmhouses, too avoid complications with the prisoners."
OOC Kathy, I do not have Arminas' sheet here with me this morning, could you make his spot, listen , and survival checks needed. Thanks
Ril'Veneyl Baenate Monday May 8th, 2006 11:13:44 AM
As the Swords come upon the farmland, Ril'Veneyl pulls up the hood on his cloak to hide his face. He knows full well how simple folk tend to take to drow. It's often simple villages such as this that his cousins in the Below gathered their slaves. Better to cover up and look a little conspicuous than to bare his face for all to see and possibly cause the others problems.
"I agree with Arminas, such simple folk may not take kindly to having prisoners paraded through their town. It would probably be best to camp somewhere on the outskirts." The timbre of his voice does give away that he was probably hiding more than just concern for the villagers seeing the prisoners.
Harvest Monday May 8th, 2006 2:12:40 PM
As much of the day is spent walking as it is mounted. Harvest Moon slides from the back of Fyrda to walk beside Moonshadow. Her arms swing, and the cuffs of Anthos Westar's shirt flap in the breeze. She pets Moonshadow's dark sleek neck while speaking with Anthos. Then, so that Fyrda not feel neglected, Harvest walks by her side for a while, rubbing her shoulder and bringing the soft tops of dandelions for her to eat.
Harvest brings water to the prisoners. And ensures that they are allowed to urinate when they feel the need.
"It is wrong to harm others," she says at one point walking beside them. "Is there not a more productive pursuit to which you could turn your skills?" she asks. "To befriend such a fearsome beast as the Chimera could be very useful." Harvest looks up at the wizard. "It seems to me that there would be many who would look to you for such skill and pay you well. Just before we came upon the site at which you and your men attacked the Trade Envoy, we encountered a family who met tragedy under the claws of beasts that Arminas Calaelen names Anhkegs. They may very well have survived with the help of someone like you present. You could help people rather than harming them."
The brown girl leaves them with that thought. Though, later, as the sun sets and talk turns to a place for the evening, her eyes glance at the prisoners and the snarl that she had received from the Magicer the day before comes fresh to her mind.
"I would like to see these two men that we have in our custody reform their ways," she says. "But, perhaps, for the safety of the people in this area, we had best stay apart."
==================================
Rolls and Actions
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless, Shield of Faith
Bralin Monday May 8th, 2006 10:22:49 PM
[OOC - Was Bralin able to bash open the lock and open the chest?]
Bralin rides near the prisoners, keeping an eye on them. He says nothing.
His comrades favor camping apart from any locals, and this suits the dwarf. "Mayhap Arminas can locate a defensible site," he notes.
DM Kathy Tuesday May 9th, 2006 1:14:16 AM
Upon reflection, camping for another night seems your best option. Arminas is able to find a decent campsite in the shelter of a grove of trees.
Any and Harvest continue to prefer one another's company, although both spend some time chatting with the prisoners. Any speaks words of caution to the mage, who really doesn't seem to have much fight left in him.
Harvest tells both men of the advantages to helping others, rather than using one's abilities for selfish game. The mage seems uninterested, but the half-elf pays close attention and makes some emphatic "mmmff!" sounds through his gag.
Ril'Veneyl seems uneasy this close to human settlement, fearing what kind of reception he may get. The few people you see about their business, however, pay your group little heed.
Lorth muses about companions past, and he and Remo swap stories for a bit.
In camp, Bralin has another shot at the chest and this time manages to get it open. [Sorry, I must have missed the earlier attempt. It's open now, though. :) ]
Inside the chest, you find about 1800 gold pieces, some assorted jewelry, four potions, and a silver circlet.
"Hey!" says Remo when he sees the circlet. "That's mine!" He picks it up and looks it over anxiously, seeming relieved to find it undamaged. "You clodhoppers!" he says, waving the circlet under the noses of the prisoners. "This is no mere trinket, you know! This is a valuable magic item and you could have broken it! Flinging it into a chest like some nobleman's toy." He shakes his head, and seems inclined to scold a little more.
Lorth Tuesday May 9th, 2006 7:33:47 AM
"Well if it is powerful, then perhaps it is a good thing they put it in there instead of using it", Lorth says to Remo. At the camp Lorth dismisses Tobiasz and goes about cleaning up and repairing his equipment, then he finds a suitable place for sleeping, somewhere on the far side of wherever Any decides to sleep. Best to give his friends privacy.
Any d20+4=11 d20+2=21 Tuesday May 9th, 2006 8:55:22 AM
Once camp is made, Any once again goes about the tasks of preparing a meal, and finding a resting spot for the night, and once again volunteers for the first watch, if Harvest will join him.
Throughout the day, his emotions have become clearer to the Bard. He is not sure yet where his association with Harvest will go, but he knows he enjoys her company, and he does want it to go somewhere.
He once again goes through his watch with the same care as always, checking on the bindings of the prisoners periodically through the watch.
When the watch is over, he invites Harvest with the motion of an arm to join him in the rest they both need.
Arminas (Lyle sub) d20+10=13 d20+10=17 Tuesday May 9th, 2006 9:02:20 AM
Arminas finds a beautiful spot for camp, water nearby, trees close giving shelter, but defensible in case of attack. It has been a good day of travel. He speaks to Ewan, telling her to hunt, and then join him later in a nearby tree to rest. He volunteers to take the last watch again, saying,
"As I told you before, I sleep lightly, and my bow is always ready."
Once dinner is finished, he climbs his chosen tree, trusting to his ring if he falls. He then spends the night untill he is woken for his watch.
He checks the prisoners, making sure they are secure, and completes his watch.
Harvest d20+13=26 d20+13=33 Tuesday May 9th, 2006 10:36:33 AM
"If you could explain to us how it is that you and the others came to attack the Trade Envoy," Harvest Moon says to the Half-Elf as she removes his gag to give him water, "then it is possible that we may find words in your defense. We must present you to the authorities at some point," she says. "But, the more we know about yourself and the situation, the more we will be able to intercede on your behalf."
"My name is Harvest Moon ... " She smiles and waits for him to speak.
Later, after the sun sets on the evening watch, Harvest lies next to Anthos. Again, as with the night before, he cradles her in his protective arms. Again, as with the night before, she pillows her head against his chest finding comfort in the steady beat of his heart. This night, Harvest takes his hand in both of hers. His fingers she presses gently to her lips, then cradles his hand to her breast like a precious thing.
Thus is the way she drifts off to sleep.
==================================
Rolls and Actions Spot 26 Listen 33
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Comprehend Languages, Bless, Shield of Faith
Ril'Veneyl Baenate Tuesday May 9th, 2006 12:08:15 PM
Much like the previous day, Ril'Veneyl retrieves his bowyer's kit from his pack, then his bow, Shining Thunder from his quiver. He begins again to carve you various symbols along the length of his bow. If anyone comes near enough, they can see that the runes and symbols are from a variety of languages, some of which are easily recognized, such as common and elven, others are not so easy to understand.
As his concentration grows and the evening begins to fade into nightfall, the tattoo around his eye seems to glow and his skin begins to pale slightly.
After several hours, he finally looks up from his work to find that the sun has completely set. He flexes his fingers, neck and back as he painstakingly cleans and replaces his tools in his kit and places it away. He then returns Shinging Thunder into its quiver and lays back on his bedroll. "I will be glad to take my share of watches this night. Whoever has decided on first watch, please wake me in a few hours and I will take the middle shift." He then falls fast asleep, flat on his back with his head craddled in his hands.
Bralin Tuesday May 9th, 2006 7:58:33 PM
Bralin shakes his head. Treasure is falling out all over the place, and none of his companions are remotely interested. He's become accustomed to this reaction from Lorth - an oath, no doubt. But, the others? Tis a puzzlement.
The dwarf has no such qualms, and casts a spell to identify the ring before bedding down.
He takes the last watch.
DM Kathy Wednesday May 10th, 2006 12:42:12 AM
"My apologies," Remo says to Lorth, seeming to recover his temper somewhat. "You're right of course; in the wrong hands a Circlet of Persuasion could be used for something much more sinister than trade agreements." The halfling settles the circlet on top of his dark curly head and seems to feel more himself.
Lorth, meanwhile, sees to his mount and his gear and retires to a discreet distance from Any and Harvest.
"My name is Balen," the half-elf rasps in response to Harvest's question. He takes another swallow of water. "I have to say, you've given me a lot to think about. I mean, Karthak promised us riches and power, and look where we wound up." He sighs, looking contrite.
Any cooks for the group, and again shares first watch with Harvest.
Ril'Veneyl continues working on his bow.
Bralin identifies the ring as a Ring of Protection +2, which goes a long way toward explaining why that blasted mage was so hard to hit.
The next day dawns clear and sunny. You make your preparations and depart, riding past more fields and farms. You pass through the first little town just before mid-morning.
Unlike yesterday, today's weather is shaping up to be uncomfortably warm. The horses are sweating, and those of you in armor are starting to feel it.
So it is with some relief that you see the famed city of Rowena ahead of you, for it means a chance to stop moving and perhaps hoist a mug of something cool and foamy.
"Before I left Jarlwolf," Remo says, "I bespoke several rooms at a very good inn in Rowena. With any luck, they are still holding them. I'd be honored if you would joint me there, as my escort had intended to do. Of course, if you have other demands on your time I will understand." He glances over at the prisoners. "And---what do you intend to do with them?"
Lorth Wednesday May 10th, 2006 7:45:03 AM
Speaking with Remo has gotten Lorth curiosity piqued. He decides to head over to Bralin when he has a chance, and asks, "Bralin, anything interesting in that pile of equipment we captured?" He continues to ride near Bralin and waits for a response.
Any Wednesday May 10th, 2006 8:48:29 AM
Any awakes again with the dawn, a feeling of comfort so complete that he does not wish to rise. The pleasant warmth of Harvest nestled against his side begs him to stay where he is. Years of training take over instead, and he bends an wakes Harvest with a kiss to her forehead.
"My Lady, the sun calls us."
With that, he rises from the ground, stretching, and looking around. He makes preparations to break camp, and prepares for the day.
As they ride along, at times he talks with Harvest, speaking of the master Bard who befriended him and gave him his training. At other times, he rides quietly at her side, or sings softly to himself. The song he is mumbling over seems almost complete, and by the time they reach Rowena, he smiles as he finishes a rendition. It has been impossible to hear what he is singing, or at least to understand the words.
Arminas (Lyle sub) Wednesday May 10th, 2006 8:55:14 AM
Arminas rises for his watch, and when the sun makes her appearance, he begins to start a pot of water on the fire.
What a glorious morning! Once camp is broken, he takes his place at the front of the troup, wary of any they pass, and leading the way to the city of Rowena.
Although he prefers the forest (who wouldn't), he agrees with Remo,
"Our job was to find you, and bring you safely to Rowena. Once there, I believe that charge will not be complete untill you have met with those who await you. If the other's agree also, we would accept your invitation."
He turns to the others to see what they think.
Ril'Veneyl Baenate Wednesday May 10th, 2006 11:13:04 AM
With the sun beaming directly into his face, Ril'Veneyl squints uncomfortably and pulls his goggles into place. "Much better. Some day, I hope my eyes will accustom themselves to the daylight."
Ril'Veneyl painstakingly gathers and packs his things. He cleans off any dirt or grime he can find on his armor and is ready to leave with the others. As they pass through the town, Ril'Veneyl is careful to keep his dark elven features well covered so as not to alarm the townsfolk.
As the day warms, Ril'Veneyl keeps the cloak over his head as his drow skin is very unused to the sun. Upon arrival in Rowena, Ril'Veneyl takes in the sight of the city from a distance. "A fine city, one in which I might find a horse or other transportation so that I might return to Merrydale with my report."
As Remo offers rooms for the night, Ril'Veneyl is overcome by mixed emotions. Although he has helped protect Remo during the travel from the outpost, he was not really involved in the rescue. "Remo, though I would understand your offer not applying to me as it was just happenstance that I was even near the outpost, I could use a room and bath."
Harvest d20+11=27 Wednesday May 10th, 2006 11:43:18 AM
Harvest Moon walks with Anthos back into the center of camp. Before moving off to offer prayers to Alemi, she takes his hand and leans in to kiss his cheek. She hums a tune as she walks away. It is one of his.
This morning, Harvest asks Alemi for something a little different than before.
"Balen," she removes the gag from his mouth, "I do not believe that you need be inconvenienced with this any longer. But I wish to look into your soul. Will you allow this?"
"To reconsider one's bad deed is good, Balen," she says. "But that alone does not reform one's character. That can only be done through actions. Tell me, what would you intend to do were we to secure your release?"
Harvest speaks of the many needs she has seen since she has entered the Valley, the soldiers killed at Stormwind Castle, defending Magpie Crossing from the Dread. The elven refugees near Jarlwolf. Meg Thistlburr, alone in the Wold. Needs to be filled. And they can be found everywhere. She watches his face as she speaks. She smiles when he shows interest, guiding him through her own kindness.
The day passes, the clothing lent her by Anthos are very comfortable in the heat.
"And there are many tasks still remaining for us in Rowena, Remo Treadlefoot," she adds on the heels of Arminas Calaelen's acceptance of the Envoy's hospitality. "We must present these two to the proper authorities, where I will speak on the behalf of Balen. Through right of combat their gear is ours as well. We must needs dispose of it and Rowena appears a sizeable enough town in which to do so."
She looks about at the streets of the new town. I her eyes is an eagerness. Here is a new place to explore. And, perhaps, doing so with a new person would be even more pleasurable. Harvest steals a glance at Any.
"We have many things to do."
==================================
Rolls and Actions Cast Detect Evil on Balen if he agrees. Sense Motive 27 (to determine the degree of Balen's intent to reform.)
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Detect Evil, Bless, Shield of Faith
Bralin Wednesday May 10th, 2006 8:20:16 PM
Harvest answers Remo's query concerning the fate of the prisoners. Bralin nods in agreement with her words. The two will be turned over.
His head also ducks as his comrades accept Remo's offer to stay in the inn with him. Guarding the emissary appears to be their next task.
He hears Harvest's attempt to convert one of the prisoners. The dwarf is unsure as to the purpose of such an excercise, but there is no harm in it. He says nothing.
Lorth appears inquiring about the treasure. A surprise, yet a pleasant one. "The wand discharges a Magic Missile spell. Tis not powerful enough to aid us. The ring offers protection of a stout shield. Tis more powerful than the one I wear. This will be of aid. The others, I have yet to determine."
DM Kathy d20+7=26 Thursday May 11th, 2006 1:35:55 AM
As you ride along, Any works on his song while Bralin and Lorth discuss the loot you recovered. Ril'Veneyl concentrates on keeping himself protected from the sun.
Harvest continues to speak with the half-elf you captured. "What would I do?" he replies to her question. "I hardly know where to begin. There are so many people, you know, who could use my help. I could protect villages and rescue people and...well, I'm not sure." He gives a charming, self-depricating smile. "I'm kind of new at the whole 'good works' idea, you see. But I'm sure I could learn...if I had help."
He spins a good yarn, does Balen [Bluff 26], but Harvest suspects he isn't being truthful.
Arminas is the first to mention it, but several of the party agree: you should probably accept Remo's offer of a place to stay and keep an eye on him.
"I would appreciate it," he admits. "I should be safe enough in Rowene--but then, I though I'd be safe enough traveling cross-country and look how that turned out." He shudders.
Hot, tired, and hungry, you reach the city just after the noon hour. As you move to enter the gates, you see two gate sentries look at your bound prisoners and exchange glances. Seemingly by mutual consent, they step forward to block your path.
"Good day to you, gentlemen, milady," one of them says. "May we inquire as to your business in Rowena?"
Lorth Thursday May 11th, 2006 7:29:45 AM
Lorth nods to Balin, "Well if you can use it, I certainly have no problem with you taking it. Of course the rest of our companions like to divide things very evenly, so I suppose you will have to wait."
When they get to the gate Lorth stops and waits patiently for others in the party to speak, he doubts he will have to interject anything.
Any d20+7=24 d20+4=14 Thursday May 11th, 2006 8:54:09 AM
The group has arrived at the gate, and now the guards are questioning. Any can see their point, we do make quite the procession. He waits a moment for someone to speak, and when no one does he responds,
"We are from Jarlswolf, and are escorting that city's trade representative to meet with your city elder's. Enroute, the party was attacked by these men and their companions--they lost. We desire to enter the gates, turn these men over to your good care, and proceed with our mission. May we enter?"
Any then sits back calmly on his horse awaiting the guardsmen, and their response. He is smiling widely at the guards, but he is also casually looking around to see who else is taking an interest in the scene at the gate--and what weapons might be aimed in their direction.
Spot 14 diplomacy 24
Arminas (Lyle sub) Thursday May 11th, 2006 8:59:46 AM
Arminas is proud of the skills he has used in getting his party to Rowena. This scene at the gate is not his strength, so he allows the others to handle this. Any is quick of speech, and if their is anything to add when he is done, Arminas can consider it then. His hand does not stray far from his bow, and he can see his friend Ewan circling overhead.
'I'm sure this is just a formality', he thinks to himself. 'I just hope Bralin controls himself, the dwarf does seem to be a bit rash sometimes in his decisions, but what can you expect from a dwarf.
Ril'Veneyl Baenate Thursday May 11th, 2006 12:14:18 PM
Ril'Veneyl keeps his cloak over himself as they approach the gates. Though such a simple thing is normally innocuous, in heat such as this, it probably looks a bit conspicuous. "Greetings, guardsmen. I concur with my companion about these prisoners. This just band was beset by them, but they were able to apprehend these two for proper trial."
We seek shelter and protection within the city walls and I seek a steed or other transportation with which to return to Merrydale to make my report to the council there. May we pass?"
The whole while, Ril'Veneyl holds his hands to his sides, plams facing the guardsmen, though they are under his cloak to hide the color of his skin. Though he does wear archery gloves, much of his hands are still uncovered.
Harvest Thursday May 11th, 2006 1:48:14 PM
Harvest stares at Balen in a silence that changes in meaning as it stretches on in length. Finally, she sighs and shakes her head.
"I am sorry, Balen." Harvest looks up at the half-elf from under the brown crest of her hair. The ends of Anthos Westar's shirt hide her hands. "I cannot help you if you do not wish to truly change yourself," she says.
"But, I thank you for teaching me. I am grateful for the lesson."
"And please, could you give us directions to the local Gaol?" Harvest asks the guards, stepping up beside Anthos. "We should send these men off as soon as possible along the path that they have chosen."
==================================
Rolls and Actions
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Detect Evil, Bless, Shield of Faith
Bralin Thursday May 11th, 2006 4:04:57 PM
The dwarf answers Lorth's supposition with a characteristic nod and a grunted "Aye".
Bralin takes the questioning by the guards in stride. They'd be poor guards had they not asked a question. He waits unconcerned as his companions reply.
DM Kathy Friday May 12th, 2006 3:54:32 AM
The guards are satisfied with your reply, but want to take the prisoners into custody then and there. "You good folk can stop by and make an official statement at your leisure," they tell you, "and we will use it at their trial. But we cannot have adventurers hauling bound captives through the streets."
Providing you agree, they take the prisoners off your hands then and there, and you are free to continue into the city.
Remo leads the way to the inn, a quality establishment called the Golden Bough. He makes inquiries and finds that they are still holding five rooms for him and his party. He asks about additional rooms, but unfortunately none are available.
Soon you are all seated in the inn's common room, sampling a very fine selection of cold meats served with bread and cheese. Wine and ale are available, both quite good.
"I shall require one of the rooms for myself," Remo tells you, tucking into roast beef. "I hope you can manage with the other four. We could put some of you at another inn, I suppose, but I'd rather have you close by--just in case of more trouble."
He smiles at you. "I also hope you find some time to explore the city," he says. "There is an entrance to the famous Catacombs here, and many other interesting sights to be seen. I'd appreciate your escort to and from the trade talks each day, but between times your time is your own."
Any Friday May 12th, 2006 8:40:18 AM
Any moves with the rest of the group, following Remo to the Inn where they are to stay the night. He nods in agreement to Remo's suggestion. Turning to Harvest he will ask,
"My lady, are you agreeable to share a room with me? And I believe we have enough time to do some shopping, I have promises to keep with you."
Once settled into a room, Any will accompany Harvest to the shops in town, looking for just the right type of outfit for her. He himself will find a sturdier outfit, his doublet does not seem to fit the need for his actions lately (Buying an adventurer's outfit without the boots and cloak). When they are finished, they return to the inn and order a meal. While waiting for the food to come, Any swings his Lute around and begins to sing, his eyes watching those of Harvest,
As night rests upon the earth, And the darkness takes it's toll, The peace you bring to me, Has worked to make me whole.
The Harvest Moon shines in the sky, A guide to this lost soul, Emptiness is just a word, Whose meaning has gone cold.
The daylight does not dim the fire, It's glow reveals no sin, It simply serves to show all men, What smolders deep within.
I have been a wanderer, No place to call my own, But since you have entered in, The world's become my home.
Your name becomes my byword, Your face becomes my view, Your smile brings light to darkest night, Each thing becomes as new.
The day brings no deep regrets, The darkness brings no fear, Love has shown it's shy face, The one that I wish near.
Arminas (Lyle sub) Friday May 12th, 2006 8:55:46 AM
Arminas rides along through the city of Rowena, now trailing the rest of the group. He ahs been in large cities before, but does not like the experience. How can so many people live so close together? There is not a tree in sight! He shakes his head in wonder.
On arrival at the Inn, he too agrees to Remo's proposal, and in a flash of diplomatic inspiration says,
"Bralin and I can share a room, I am used to his slovenly habits by now. Perhaps Lorth and Andrath could also share a room, and allow our new comrade to have the 4th room to himself, since he does not know us as well."
He then beams at Any and Bralin, pleased with his tact and consideration. He speaks briefly with Ewan, telling her to hunt and enjoy a rest and he will call if there is need. He also arranges to meet her each morning just outside the walls.
Lorth Friday May 12th, 2006 9:30:56 AM
At dinner Lorth says, "Thank you Remo for your generosity". then add, "I have no problem sharing a room with any of our party." A slight grin shows on Lorth's face when Arminas calls Bralin slovenly, but it is quickly replaced by Lorth's normal outlook.
Ril'Veneyl Baenate Friday May 12th, 2006 10:46:13 AM
As it is only a matter of time before he is revealed as a drow, Ril'Veneyl pulls his hood down once inside the city gates. Though he does not like the jibes and sneers his race often draw forth, the only way to repair and relieve the tensions to to show those in the Above that the drow of the Above are trustable.
Upon arrival at the inn, Ril'Veneyl bows his head to Remo when he makes the offer for rooms for everyone again. As Arminas suggests a room arrangement for the group, Ril'Veneyl can't help but to speak up...[b]"I appreciate the gesture, Arminas, though it is unnecessary. While here in the city, I will attempt to revert to sleeping during he day and being awake at night, so anyone I and anyone with whom I might room would likely hardly see each other. Besides, you are all a group and are the true recipients of the mission to protect Remo. It's only right that one of you have the private room."
As room assignments are finalized, whether his is private or not, Ril'Veneyl retires after a very quick meal. Shortly after dusk, he rises and takes watch upon Remo's door. He is more than ready to watch throughout the night as he's already had his sleep.
Bralin Friday May 12th, 2006 2:11:49 PM
If Bralin is concerned about sharing a room with Arminas, he doesn't show it.
Once Remo has left, the dwarf turns back to the matter of the treasure. He casts Identify on the Mithral Chain Shirt, and then addresses his comrades.
"I can only identify one item a day. Tomorrow I will identify one more, and take the remainder to The Catacombs to identify all and appraise the jewelry. Tomorrow night we can divide it among ourselves."
[ooc - Kathy, any xp? ooc - Philip, what's your email? pklafta@gmail.com - Edited by PhilipK for the email addy]
Harvest Friday May 12th, 2006 3:37:24 PM
Harvest Moon says nothing when Anthos asks whether she will share his room. Instead, she takes his arm, hugging it to herself. And though she does not, will not, cannot look up at him, the smile that spreads across her face beams for all to see.
The shops are filled with such opulence. All of the things that she never even saw as a child. Harvest runs her fingers over the material of a dark green vest, soft crushed velvet with two silver buttons. There are dresses and skirts, bodices, shirts, tunics and cloaks, coats, leggings and trousers and myriad other things. How can one wear so many clothes? Better yet, how does one decide what are the right clothes for you?
Harvest asks Anthos, though despite his explanations the knack of it does not find a home within her heart. Why are Solon's ideas on the pacifism of Alemi so easy to grasp? And yet the proper choice of clothing so difficult to understand?
In the end, the only thing that Harvest Moon buys is a small black shapeless velvet cap. It calls out to her from a shelf, like a small animal poking a nose from its burrow. She fits the band of the cap down over the crest of her hair, and pushes the material of the cap to one side. A smile spreads across her face as she models it for Anthos.
Maybe tomorrow there would be other clothing. Maybe with further discussion, Anthos might help her to understand. But, for another day, she would wear his clothing. That would not be a bad thing.
Later, at the inn, Anthos sings. Harvest Moon's eyes light as he sings her name into the song. She stands from her chair and touches his arm. Then she curtsies to him and begins a dance. It is a quiet suffling thing, back and forth, side to side, skipping in a circle around him.
==================================
Rolls and Actions
Day's Spells Level Zero 3: Guidance, Detect Magic, Resistance Level One 3 + 1 DC16: Domain: *Longstrider, Detect Evil, Bless, Shield of Faith
Any (2nd post) Friday May 12th, 2006 6:21:57 PM
Any sits in the dining room of the Inn with Harvest. Although he doesn't show it, he is a little exasperated with the young Monk. With all the clothes they had to choose from, and all she comes away with is a hat!
He tries to get her to understand. He asks,
"What do you wish to do in your clothes? I have always been a performer, and my clothes reflect that. Lately though, I have realized that my performer's clothing is not sturdy enough to stand up to the battles that are becoming more frequent in the Wold. That is why I sought the clothing I did. The clothing you choose should fit you. Not just in size, but your personality and activity. Due to your special talents in movement, perhaps they should allow you to move easily-be comfortable. You cannot tell how something will feel or fit if you don't try it on. If you like something, the clothier can usually make adjustments to allow it to fit you, but you must decide what you like and what feels right. We will try again tomorrow as we have free time."
He gives her shoulder a squeeze as they go to their room for the evening.
Arminas post from Italy Saturday May 13th, 2006 11:44:32 AM
Arminas walks up to Any.
"I do not want to share a room with the dwarf. Perhaps you and I could share."
OOC: Dang, these keyboards are different. Having fun, I mean learning alot in Italy. Chao!
DM Kathy Monday May 15th, 2006 1:06:32 AM
After your meal, you negotiate rooms. Harvest and Any are more than willing to share accommodations. Arminas is willing, at first, to share a room with Bralin, but declines at the last minute, leaving the dwarf to share with Lorth. Arminas and Ril'Veneyl each end up with his own room.
Harvest goes shopping, but is so overwhelmed by choices she comes away with only a hat, much to Any's bewilderment. For his part, the bard purchases some sturdier clothing, and performs the song he's been working on.
Bralin casts his spell and discovers that the shirt is a +1 Mithral chain shirt.
After dinner, Ril'Veneyl keeps a vigil outside Remo's door, but the night is uneventful.
You spend several days in Rowena while Remo conducts his negotiations. Each day, you escort the Halfling to the government offices where the talks are taking place, then escort him back to the inn when they are done. The long days appear to take their toll on the Halfling; by the end of your stay he is looking tired and drawn, and his voice is decidedly hoarse.
At last, however, you are summoned to the offices in the middle of the day. A beaming Remo awaits you outside. "Good news, friends!" he says. "I have negotiated what I believe is a very good trade arrangement. Tomorrow we shall depart for Jarlwolf. I do hope you are all ready."
Unfortunately, it seems not all of you will be returning. Andrath, who has grown increasingly quiet of late, has decided to stay on in Rowena, and perhaps embark on adventures of his own. Ril'Veneyl, whom you have barely begun to know, must now return to his kin and report on what he has seen and discovered.
The rest of the party, however, prepares for their final afternoon in Rowena.
[OOC: please post what your character does in the several days you have. If we need an extra day or two for character posts, we'll do them; there's no hurry.]
Lorth Monday May 15th, 2006 8:11:08 AM
Lorth wanders around the city during the day when he is not escourting Remo. During the early evening hours he leisurely passes the time in the inn's common room.
Lorth bids his oldest friend Andrath goodbye, feeling a bit nostalgic about being the only original party member left.
Any [Lyle] Monday May 15th, 2006 8:53:44 AM
Any is enjoying life perhaps more than ever in his life. For the first time, he has someone to share the experiences with. As the days go on, he learns a little more about the young monk. He has enjoyed watching her experience new things, coming slowly out of the shell of solitude that she had held so closely before. In her turn, she has brought him to a realization of what he had been missing in his life---someone to care for. With the passing of his mother, and then of his old master, he had slowly withdrawn into himself. He had been content to watch life from the outside, but not to be a participant. He had played at weddings and festivals, for the high court and the peasants, but he had still been apart from it all.
Harvest's view of everything is one of wonder and excitement, a respect for the life in each thing. Anthos cannot watch her and not smile. She has opened his own eyes to how marvelous the Wold is.
When Bralin returns one day with a list of the things that were taken in battle, Any makes his suggestions.
"Arminas, Bralin , and Lorth have all expressed an interest in the ring of protection. Perhaps they should have a game of chance over what should be done with it. Or, if one of them would take the mithril shirt in lieu of the ring. As for the rest, sell it for the gold value, and allow each to purchase what they wish, or perhaps to buy items that will help the entire party--rods of healing for example. What do you all think?"
Arminas (Lyle sub) Monday May 15th, 2006 9:05:05 AM
Arminas cannot see the lure of these rooms, he would much rather sleep in a tree, close to nature, with the breeze playing about his face, and his friend Ewan perched nearby. There are too many people here. However, there is a job to be done, so he simply takes what time he needs to leave the city on occasion, and explore the countryside.
He can appreciate the city in one way, it is certainly easier to find food here, and he can take advantage of the shops to restock his dwindling supply of trail rations. He also looks to see if any in this town can continue his study of the short sword--a valuable skill to have he has found.
He is a little mystified that his friend Any would did not want to share a room with him, but shrugs it off.
When the prospect of the treasure comes up, he expresses an interest in the ring of protection, but also agrees that to sell what is not claimed , and give all an equal share, is a good idea.
OOC It is hard for me to say what Kelly would want for Arminas. I think the gold value split is the fairest way, then he can get what he wants with his share. He already has a mithril shirt, but I can't remember what his ring is, the sheet is at work.
Harvest Monday May 15th, 2006 2:10:10 PM
"Perhaps I should buy two, Anthos." Harvest says, clutching a skirt of rich dark chocolate brown, its entire waistband is embroidered with a pattern of Autumn leaves.
Money must be handled wisely ... The words she herself had said to the boy Kiel back at Magpie Crossing. But how many clothes are too much? She picks up a pair of sturdy home-spun trousers, loose to allow movement, much more practical. And yet ...
"Anthos," she pauses in her shopping, "I have seldom spent money on things outside of food, lodging, and the magic that will help preserve the lives of others." She sighs. "I find it more difficult to judge my own situation than the situation of another." She looks down at the beautiful skirt, tracing the outline of a single embroidered leaf with her finger. "You will not think badly of me if I bought two, would you?" she asks.
In the end, Harvest buys two outfits. Loose home-spun trousers in oatmeal cream under a light-brown belted chiton. The trousers come down only as far as mid-calf, and the chiton falls to mid-thigh. To wear over that, she picks out a dark brown hooded jacket, oiled to repel water. As she tries on the jacket, her hands naturally find the large front pockets.
Then, with a sense of guilt, she also chooses the skirt with the embroidered waistband. To accompany the skirt Harvest picks out a pair of soft black slippers and a blouse of sunflower yellow.
"If you go to a place of importance, Anthos," she explains sheepishly, "I wish to be presentable." With great care, she watches his eyes, takes in the landscape of his face. Even now, it is near to a dream to have someone so handsome, and yet so gentle and with such nobility, who is attracted to her in the way of men and women.
Later, Harvest bids goodbye to Andrath Silverhand. She had watched him in the alley so long ago in Magpie Crossing as he had performed the ritual which had drawn his familiar to him. But all things change upon the road of life, and one cannot expect paths not to diverge.
Snug in her new clothing, Harvest Moon sits next to Anthos as the group discusses the spoils that had fallen to them from their attackers.
"There are scrolls and other items that require replacement," she adds. "Aside from that, I can find little use of the captured items for myself."
Ril'Veneyl Baenate Monday May 15th, 2006 3:58:30 PM
Throughout the days of the negotiations, Ril'Veneyl sleeps, but takes a quiet vigil each night. Though he wishes to acclimate to the light of day, it is still far too harsh on his dark elven eyes, so for now, night is the bast time for him.
By the end of the negotiations, he congratulates Remo on a job well done, but informs him that he will be unable to return to Jarlwolf with him. He has his own tasks to perform.
"My thanks for allowing me to travel with you all, if not for a short time. I must get on to Merrydale while the route to that outpost is still fairly fresh in my mind. Perhaps someday our paths will cross again. Until then, I bid you all, farewell."
Ril'Veneyl offers his hand in friendship to any that will take it, then mounts his horse and heads off.
[ooc: Good luck all. In case you hadn't heard, I will soon be leaving the Wold altogether for personal and religious reasons. I wish you all the best and I hope your story (both in RL and the Wold) unfolds in the best way possible. Philip]
Any [Lyle] Monday May 15th, 2006 6:22:08 PM
"Goodbye Ril'Veneyl. May the gods bless your path. Goodbye Andrath. May good fortune always be yours."
Any shakes his head lightly as he says these goodbyes. We meet people, they enter our lives. Some come, some go, some have a great effect, others very little. Such is life. He wonders how he has touched others. Has he changed them in any way? Was it for the good? Who can say? Then he turns to look at Harvest. She has certainly effected his life for the good.
"Harvest I think your choices were perfect for you. Clothes for both work and for play."
OOC Thanks for the good thoughts and wishes Phillip, and you take the same with you as you leave us. May all work together as you wish it too.
Harvest (2nd llegal Post) Monday May 15th, 2006 6:57:54 PM
Harvest Moon stands next to Anthos. She raises her hand and waves as the third drow that she has ever met heads off on his way to Merrydale.
"The drow are not at all as tales would have one believe," she says, taking Any's arm. "I wonder if any being can said to be absolutely evil or absolutely good?"
Bralin Monday May 15th, 2006 8:57:12 PM
"One Being, Mayhap," the dwarf replies to Harvest. "An entire race, no"
The departure of his comrades raises some issues, but it is not time to face them yet.
Today's issue is the newly won items. Bralin takes the unidentified magic, and heads for the Catacombs.
DM Kathy Tuesday May 16th, 2006 1:25:06 AM
It is with some regret that you bid farewell to your companions. You can't help but wonder where your paths will take each of you in future.
Harvest tries her hand at shopping again, and this time comes away with an extravagence of TWO complete outfits. Any is just happy to be by her side, and to experience the world through her eyes.
Bralin pays a visit to the legendary Catacombs, to see what secrets the rest of your loot holds.
Arminas is uncomfortable in the large city, but bears it as best he can for his friends' sake. Ewan is even more unhappy, and makes it clear to Arminas that a steady diet of city rats is simply unacceptable.
For his part, Remo sleeps for much of that last afternoon, rousing briefly for the evening meal, then returning to his quarters. By the next morning he is looking much better rested, and says he is looking forward to the journey. "I think the Council will be well pleased with my efforts," he says. "And yours as well. Although," he grimaces, "we should probably stick to the road this time."
And so you set out for home: Remo, Any, Arminas, Bralin, Harvest, and Lorth--not to mention Ewan, Blackie, Carrots, Darkfire, Fyrda, Moonshadow, and Tobiasz. You enjoy good traveling weather and an uneventful journey, and before the week is out you look up to see Jarlwolf on the horizon.
Lorth Tuesday May 16th, 2006 8:03:44 AM
"There is no need for me to partake in a game of chance for the ring." Lorth says, "Since Bralin and Arminas both have interest in it, I will wait for something else. I could use the mithiril shirt, but would like to wait to see what the other items are before I make a decision."
When the party arrives in town Lorth takes his leave, "I have two quick things to attend to, I will meet you all at the inn later." He then heads into the forest to visit his mother. After making sure she is well, he goes into town to visit the blacksmith, to inquire about purchasing a lance.
Harvest Tuesday May 16th, 2006 4:24:05 PM
The journey home is a long road through paradise. Harvest rides Fyrda all alone and by herself. Less from a lack of desire to ride behind Moonshadow beside Anthos, than from a desire to keep her company and to keep gentle Fyrda from feeling left out.
Each evening the closeness with Anthos becomes more and more comfortable. More natural. Quiet. Sometimes just sitting together, with the touch of her shoulder against his. Or back to back as she draws in her book of maps, outlining the off-road route from Jarlwolf to Rowena.
And there is the soft kiss of his lips in the darkness of the night. Such an indescribably gentle act that stirs a thing within Harvest that she had never known existed before. For the first time, life is a beautiful thing that takes in more than duty, more than survival, more even than the Wold itself.
Returning home almost seems a new beginning rather than an end to things.
"I will report to Dulcet and inform her that we have returned, Paladin Lorth," Harvest waves as the Gargulite leaves on his errands. "The Pitchfork Council may wish to hear the events of what occurred to us in the course of rescuing the Trade Envoy."
"Anthos," she says more quietly to the bard, "I would also like to visit the refugee camp later as well. I would know if there was anything that they required. And I would like to stop at the shop of the Map Maker. I am interested in how my drawings compare with the representations of others."
Harvest takes Any's arm. "Are there things that you wish to do?" she asks.
Any Tuesday May 16th, 2006 6:17:54 PM
Any relaxes, perhaps more than he has in years, as the party travels back to Jarlwolf. The return journey seems to go by much more quickly than the outgoing search did. With Harvest riding along on the gentle Fryda, Any laughs and sings, sharing with her the joy of life that he now finds with her by his side.
By day, they talk and visit with the others. By night, they lie together, sharing stories of life, things they have seen, or just enjoying each others company.
On arrival in Jarlswolf, Any again finds reason for his admiration of this young monk, as she tells him of her desire to check on the rerfugees, and help them. He quickly agrees,
"I have no family, nor friends in this area other than our small group. I would be happy to accompany you. Let me see to the housing of Moonshadowand Fryda, and I will meet you here to go to the refugee camp."
When Any returns, he bears with him a large basket filled with what foodstuffs he could gather quickly.
"It is better to come bearing food to those who might be hungry."
He smiles and takes Harvest's arm as they walk towards the camp.
Arminas (Lyle sub) Tuesday May 16th, 2006 6:20:41 PM
Arminas is very happy to be on the trail again, and back out in the country. With Ewan, he rides ahead of the group, again scouting for any trouble. Each night upon the trail, he finds a suitable roost in the nearby trees, and relaxes when not on watch. Ewan too is much happier--the silly country rabbits here make easy prey to the great raptor.
As Arminas rides along, his mount dancing beneath him, he occasionally drops back to ride beside Bralin on Carrots. Careful not to get too close to the teeth of the mule, he tries to draw the taciturn dwarf into conversation. Perhaps if he can learn more about the dwarf, he can begin to understand what makes him tick, or be ticked off as the case may be. He smiles to himself at the thought.
On arrival in Jarlswolf, he decides to fend for himself in choosing a place to stay. He locates a large sycamore a short way from the village, and makes loose camp there. This is more like it! The blessing of sleeping in nature, with the advantages of the nearby village.
He watches for the others, to see when they will report to the council.
Bralin Tuesday May 16th, 2006 8:36:01 PM
The dwarf journeys back to Jarlwolf in customary silence. He is becoming more accustomed to Carrots, and finds he can move the beast without as much effort as before. The extra freedom allows his eyes and his mind to wander.
The loss of Andrath again raises the question of who to lead this band. One by one, Bralin analyzes and dismisses his companions. Any might serve as spokesman, but none have the tactical skill to lead a battle.
Excepting himself.
However, Arminas would not accept his leadership.
Bralin considers the question for several days. He will have to consult privately with Lorth, he decides.
The growing attraction between Any and Harvest does not escape notice, but the dwarf is undecided if it will endanger the group. He waits, and keeps his own council.
At Jarlwolf, his comrades scatter. Bralin seeks out a stone shop to purchase a block of white marble.
DM Kathy Wednesday May 17th, 2006 2:01:58 AM
When you reach Jarlwolf proper, Remo thanks you again, then bids you farewell.
Lorth goes to see how his mother is getting along. He finds her well, but worried. About him. She always worries about her boy--a little--but this time is different. "I have a horrible feeling that something is going to go dreadfully wrong," she says, clutching his arm with surprising strength. "Take care, Lorth."
Harvest tries to see Dulcet, but is told by the smooth-faced servant that Dulcet will be unavailable until tomorrow. So she and Any take a trip to the refugee camp.
About the best that can be said for the camp is that it's orderly. Tents and lean-tos are arranged tidily in rows or clusters, and there have evidently been arrangements for trash pickup. The residents of the camp, however, look sad and underfed. Looking into their eyes you see resignation, sorrow, and in some cases, despair.
Any's foodstuffs are welcomed, and the refugees seem glad to have someone, anyone, to talk to. All in all, however, it's a depressing visit.
Arminas finds a likely-looking tree to camp in, to his satisfaction and Ewan's. The eagle amuses herself by becoming re-acquainted with Jarlwolf's environs. When she returns from her daily excursions, Arminas is treated to a confusing flood of images and a feeling of intense joy.
Bralin considers the problem of leadership in the group, now that Andrath has departed. There doesn't seem to be anyone in the party with the requisite combination of charisma and tactics. Perhaps a sharing of responsibilities?
The day after you arrive, all of you are summoned to speak with Dulcet, who is delighted at your success. "Remo can't seem to stop singing your praises," she tells you with a smile. "And the Council, too, is grateful. Remo's new trade agreement is an important step for all of Cinnamon Valley, and it would not have been possible without your help. I thank you all."
[OOC: We'll take a few days of in-town roleplaying, then embark on the next adventure sometime next week. I still need a character sheet for Bralin. :) ]
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