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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