The Call of the Hunt [DM Inge] d6=1 d6=6 Thursday June 1st, 2006 10:18:22 AM
The sight of the two riders threatening to stretch the Elf does not move Olyn and instead he orders the Celestial Hippogriff to fly forward towards the Inn. His cold answer astounds Vorelle. She turns to look at Olyn not quite believing it was her friend who spoke such harsh words.
"Let the Elf die"
[Olyn, make a 2% Power Check]
Vorelle stays and does not fire another arrow. She can't be responsible for the deaths of the hostages, even is some of her friends may feel different...
Dietrich swears his lungs off when he sees Vauhwyt simply rushing forward into the hounds. But then he sees Mad Jack in the hands of the riders!
"Weīre not going to outrun the dogs! Keep together! Weīll have to fight them anyway, so letīs do it in the best way! We canīt simply leave Jack behind either." he shouts to all and fires another arrow at a hound.
Rose hears Berlon say that he can't outrun the dogs and quickly turns back to him:"Why didn't you ask for help?!?" She cats a protection spell on the Gnome Cleric and considers aquiring a different wand next time.
Berlon is thankful to her but is more concerned with the new events unfolding before them. The spiritual hammer flies towards the nearest Hound hitting the beast full on the flanks followed by a painful bolt in the infernal beasts neck.
"JACK!"Theodore hollers and sees his friends going of in different directions.
As soon as she sees Mad Jack Vauhwyt realises running away is not an option. She reduces herself and moves within 50ft of a hound... Vauhwyt calls the boar to her in a withdraw action.
"Let him go1" Theodore yells at the horseman holding Jack as the thin mage begins to move closer to Jack. Vorelle reaches out and catches hold of Theodore: "St-st-stay b-b-b-b-back," she warns him.
Upon seeing the warriors continued attack, the riders that are holding the Elf between then begin to move apart! The arms and legs of the Elf are being stretches to the maximum and the Elf begins to howl from agonizing pain. You all realize soon his limbs will give in to this brutal torture!!
The one holding Mad Jack chuckles at Theodore's feeble threats and firmly holds on to the rope that is tied around Mad Jack's waist. Vorelle's wolf growling suddenly stops... his tail tucked between his legs.
At last you can see Him face to face... and come he does, riding over the Hillock sitting on a big deep black stallion in casual disregard. A large well-muscled man clothed in leathers rough tanned stands on the hill, arms loosly holding the reigns of this magnificent stallion stares at each of you through the eyeholes of a jester's mask, red and laughing, as if this is all a great sport. And hanging from a golden chain is a ruby carved in the shape of a skull. Trolls follow in his path all holding sacks. They move on untill they are in between you all and the Huntsman and his flock.
The obvious power over soo many creatures pours fear into your hearts. All make another Fear Check DC15.
"Heel!" commands the Jester's Mask, and the Mastiffs move away from the heroes and the trolls drop their packages and also move away. . "Loyal, they are, but lacking in some areas", he tells the heroes conversationally, "dumb as a box of rocks. Still, they have their uses."
From the sacks now laying in the middle more goblins come crawling. Cowering away from the Mastiffs. Apparently they also dropped another human in the center. The Riders that were about to stretch the Elf also stop and release him. Mad jack too is cut loose and pushed away towards the Goblins in the center...
"So you are the ones to have gotten me my newest bauble, (he fondles the ruby skull) and I wish to reward you as you deserve. Join me in a hunt of this offal (pointing at the Goblins, the human, the Elf and Mad Jack), and then we will celebrate in my lodge with strong ale and other entertainment! And let's hunt that girl up there as well as I see you found her... excellent! True hunters you all are!!"
The goblins cower and glare at Vauhwyt in hatred, the elf pauses not at all but begins pulling leather armor and bright swords from his backpack to prepare for a fight checking out the Huntsman's party but also checking you out. The human in the mushrooms shakes himself and stands, and all see the face of Gizur! (The guard Dietrich captured last module and that committed suicide.)
Well my friends. This is the Call of the Hunt!
Shall you join the Hunt?
M1: 9HP +7HP from Dietrich M2: 21HP M3: 12HP M4: M5: M6: 15HP + 3HP from Berlon's hammer + 10HP from Berlon's Xbow ... Boar: 12HP left from basic stats.
Rose d20+8=21 d4+2=5 Thursday June 1st, 2006 10:59:50 AM "Hunt people? You're crazy!" Rose says astonished that someone could even think of such a thing. Sure she's lived in dirt city her whole life, but she's never heard anything like that.
Rose quickly releases the arrow at the huntsman.
attack: 21 damage: 5
Dietrich; AC 19, HP 60 d20+5=24 Thursday June 1st, 2006 12:26:16 PM
Dietrich keeps swearing, as the party seems to fall appart, some running awy, others remaining with him to fight. But than events take a different turn and even Vauhwyt returns.
The fighter is very apprehensive. Just looking over the other side, he can see that the odds are clearly against the party. But despite all Trolls, goblins, hounds and servants and the Huntsman power itself, Dietrich still controls himself (will save 24).
He sees Rose firing again, but now thatīs not an option. The knight looks at his friends and prays they have a trick up their sleaves. Theyīll need something creative to outsmart the Hunter, for in a fight things will go badly.
Even so, Dietrich continues looking for a better defensible position (military check from last turn) and slowly trys to move the party in that direction. Should everything go wrong, better fight where our flanks and rear are protected.
Mad Jack d20=9 Thursday June 1st, 2006 6:34:36 PM
Jack simply rubs the area the ropes had chafed the moment before. Despondent and beaten, he raises his head yto see what was about him. Friendly faces look to hisa gaunt face. Shaking his head in defeat, he returns to look at his feet.
Fail fear check
Theodore & Macaw HP 21/26 AC 16 d20+7=13 d20+7=18 d20+7=17 Thursday June 1st, 2006 7:30:55 PM
Theodore feels the familiar tingle of fear creep up his spine, but grits his teeth and wills it down. (Will save 13, use hero point for an 18; Macaw's save is 17)
Theodore senses that his friends have no intention of playing the Huntsman's game. Calling on the power that he's dedicated his life to, he thrusts his hands forward.
"Huntsman!" he booms. "You'd best leave us to our own devices. You would not want to suffer my wrath!"
That said, a wall of flame, 100 feet long and tall as the trolls, bursts between the hunted (goblins, human, elf, and Theo's friends) and the hunters (trolls, mastiffs, Hunstman, and other numerous cronies).
(Casts minor image to create the image of a wall of flame with crackling sounds and such. Hoping the trolls especially will be frightened. Will save 16 to disbelieve.)
Rose d20+7=22 d20+6=19 Thursday June 1st, 2006 11:22:34 PM
oops, I forgot to make the fear checks.
Rose will: 22, +2 racial bonus against fear = 24 piper will: 19
also Piper is flying over head keeping an eye on things.
Berlon 33/39 AC 24 - Sanctuary 2r, Shield 9r, Spiritual Weapon 4r d100=89 d20+8=19 d20+8=17 d8+2=5 Thursday June 1st, 2006 11:42:02 PM
"Release that prisoner!" Berlon yells loudly at Jack's captor, as he casts a Command spell.
Level 1 Command check 89. Command range 40' Save vs Will 14. (Fear save 19 made)
If the command spell fails, Berlon will direct the Spiritual weapon towards Jack's captor. If it succeeds, he will send it vs. the most wounded critter.
Spiritual Weapon attack hits AC 17 for 5 damage.
Vorelle d20+3=19 Friday June 2nd, 2006 1:23:00 AM
Vorelle recoils from the Huntsman's offer, but seems unaffected by his aura of fear (Will save 19). Clearly, this is some world-class bullying, and Vorelle wants no part of it.
Vauhwyt (AC19 HP34) and Mookie (AC15 HP17) (Unseen Servant, Expeditious Retreat) d20+7=9 d20+2=11 Friday June 2nd, 2006 3:43:57 AM
Mookie's terror is plain, and the bird dives into Vauhwyt's pouch, cowering.
The boar, too flees.
But Vauhwyt looks on impassively. Whatever emotions threaten her, she is the clear master of her fear. But what is that other emotion she feels as she looks at the goblins? Is it disgust? Could it be a kind of hunger?
The liontaur moves up to Jack, now that his rope is cut, and takes his hand. "Come on, Jack," she says, "Get a grip! We're getting out of herre."
She calls out to the Hunter in her high-pitched voice: "I for one would gladly join a goblin hunt! But my friends and I do not hunt humans or elves."
"But I am glad you like the skull. Would you also like to hear the history behind it? Why not forego your hunting of the humans and elf, and let us hunt the goblins! Afterwards, at our feast, I will tell you the story of your skull!"
CHOOSE!!! [DM Inge] Huntsman will save[d20+13=25] Troll saves [ d20+8=16 d20+8=17 d20+8=9] Rider saves [ d20+8=26 d20+8=21 d20+8=12] dispel check d20+4=15] Friday June 2nd, 2006 7:49:55 AM
Mookie, the Boar and Mad Jack are terrified at the sight of the powerful Huntsman. He clearly radiates awesome power. The others gasp at his proposal. But... He does sound rather friendly towards the group itself doesn't He?
Dietrich is apprehensive and realises the odds are against the party...
Vorelle recoils from the Huntman's offer...
"Release that prisoner!"Berlon yells loudly yet Jack is allready cut loose from his captor.
Yet Vauhwyt feels a kind of hunger. Hunting Goblins sounds interesting thus the liontaur tries to cut a deal with the Huntsman...
"I for one would gladly join a goblin hunt! But my friends and I do not hunt humans or elves. But I am glad you like the skull. Would you also like to hear the history behind it? Why not forego your hunting of the humans and elf, and let us hunt the goblins! Afterwards, at our feast, I will tell you the story of your skull!"
But then things heat up...
Rose releases an arrow at the Huntsman! As in slowmotion you all witness the arrow veering towards Him. His jester's mask perpetuously smiling doesn't move as the arrow closes fast ..."thud"...
"Is THAT all you have little one?" the Huntsman sneers. You all realises that Rose's shot wasn't all that bad, but didn't come close to do harm to this man...
Theodore grits his teeth as he feels the familiar tingle of fear creap up his spine but bravely he faces this fearsome man!
"Huntsman!" he booms. "You'd best leave us to our own devices. You would not want to suffer my wrath!"
The muscled man looks perplexed at the heroes reluctance.
"Come, these (and he gives a dismissive gesture) are naught to concern yourselves with. You are strong and full of power, use what you have and do not keep it bound. I have admired your strength, now run with my Pack."
Wolf, who has been helping Vorelle, moves a little ways towards the man, and looks at Vorelle as if to say, come packmate, why do you sit with the weak?
Gizur glares at the heroes, remembering his last humilitating encounter with Dietrich. "Yeah, go on, hero!" The last word is uttered like wiping something foul off a shoe. "You destroyed my future, taking my life would be a blessing!" The goblins say nothing but glare in hatred at the liontaur.
Theodore's answer comes swift... he trusts his hands forward and with that
A wall of flame, 100 feet long and tall as the trolls, bursts between the hunted (goblins, human, elf, and Theo's friends) and the hunters (trolls, mastiffs, Hunstman, and other numerous cronies).
The Huntsman quietly laughs at Theodore's feeble spell (will save 25). There are 3 trolls... usually dumb these are no ordinary Trolls. Some, more cunning than most, are not satisfied with merely eating civilized beings but train to hunt them relentlessly. These troll hunters are fearsome rangers who focus on slaying and devouring humanoid prey. Still one of them veers backwards as he sees the wall of flames come to life! The other two only laugh at their mate.The Rider that dragged Mad Jack behind him also shudders at the sight of the flames. The other two remain unaffected. "Rid me of this pittyful magic." the Hunstman commands to one of the riders and the hooded rider waves his hands. Instentaniously the illusion dissapears...
[dispel magic check 15 vs 13 -- SUCCES]
"You have a choice to run tonight," the Huntsman informs the heroes. "You run as my Hunters or as the Hunted. I grow weary of talk. Quickly, CHOOSE!"
Mists curl about the mushrooms, making strange shadows in the violet moonlight. The compulsion comes upon the heroes of Dirt City, and each knows he must choose; Hunter or Prey? And the Hunt watches with bloodlust rising in his eyes.
Dietrich; AC 19, HP 60 d20+8=26 d8+5=7 Friday June 2nd, 2006 8:29:38 AM
Dietrich sees all attempts to trick the opponent and avoid an uneven battle fail. No ilusion, no command and no diplomacy worked.
Although he realizes the choice offered by the crazy looking Huntsman could mean death or worse, the knight bites his teeth in grimm determination. One thing is sure, heīs not going to hunt down his comrade Jack, nor other sensient creatures, for the pleasure of a mad man. He says to himself: "Domi be with us! My ancestors wonīt be ashamed of this fight!"
The warrior trys to analyze their strong and weak points. - the prisoners can fight on our side, that improves the odds a little, but just a little (the goblins probably will just run, that Gizor is uncertain too) - many of the hounds are already wounded - the party has strong magic - maybe we can use terrain to our advantage - Olyn is already far ahead with the girl, mabe at least they can escape. Dietrich would like the cleric back at the fight though...
Knowing that none of his friends would choose to take part of the hunt on the other side, Dietrich says:
"Comrades, letīs fight this battle with honour! Keep the protective circle around Rose and Theo, protect our flanks and rear! Target the spell-casters first with the long-range weapon!"
With that, he fires at the one who dispelled Theoīs magic: hits ac 26; damage 7 (magic weapon) (donīt have it here, if 18 is critical, if it is: damage 21)
As before, Dietrich tys to keep the party within terrain features (rocks and similar) that protect their flanks and back.
A head start [DM Inge] Friday June 2nd, 2006 8:38:19 AM
Dietrich's decision fall quick and he makes a decision for the entire group.
"I'll give you a head start to make this interesting." The red jester's mask leers at the hunted. "Harrowed Moon is my hunting ground. There is no holy place to escape. The only way you can escape me is by making it to the Inn." A muscled arm points out into the eternal night; a place of safety, but so far away! A Horseman raises a minotaur's horn to her lips and blows a long, undulating sound that freezes the hearts and each person knows but one thing: it has begun.
You are the Hunted...
Run and take advantage of the 10 minute warning or fight the entire Pack right here and now...
The hunted break up into small groups and race across the darkened land. Opposing them, the members of the Hunt merely stand, commanding on the hill, facing you. The gypsy girl is still sitting on the Hippogriff (how long till it dissapears) but she will certainly not make it to the Inn alone and perhaps she should stay with the heroes, the goblins run off together, and the elven ranger moves in another direction.
Gizur in his anger and despair screams defiance and attacks the Huntsman. A thrown stone strikes the Huntsman in the head, a thin trickle of blood meanders over his face... and the man beneath the Jester's mask grins ferally. Hounds leap after Guzir, striking him and bearing him to the ground, writhing and helpless, his screams fill the eternal night. The press of bodies is such that you cannot see Guzir, but the screams are mingled with the loud sounds of meat ripping. .. and chewing... and the screams do not stop.
The Huntsman gets out his great bow slowly, lovingly. He eyes Dietrich and smiles.
(Obvious Power, Dietrich Fear Check DC 15)
"Run now... or die immediately"
Olyn d100=2 Friday June 2nd, 2006 10:34:27 AM
*Sorry for missing yesterday, was at the hospital all day - Sis in law had surgery and was forced to go*
maybe today is my lucky day, here's your 2% roll Inge, rolled a 2.
Continues fleeing with the Hippogrif flying safely above with the girl towards the Inn. Been running for 2 rounds now, have 4 more before it has to land.
OOC second post Dietrich; AC 19, HP 60 d20+5=6 Friday June 2nd, 2006 11:09:07 AM
OOC: just responding to the DMīs second post. 1) didnīt want to arbitrarly decide for the whole party. Only anticipated what would most probably be the groupīs decision anyway. Anticipated apologies for any who feels restricted by it. 2)Did Dietrichīs arrow hit the spell-caster? Critical?
3)Dietrich sucumbs to the Huntsman presence (will save 6...) and is happy to run. The 10 minutes can give the party some advantage.
Mad Jack d20+6=19 Friday June 2nd, 2006 5:15:44 PM
Jack hears the words of the Huntsman. Although verytired, he starts walking in the opposite direction of other captives had taken. after a few steps he finds it in himself to start jogging. This was motthe place tp fight, or was it the overwhelming feeling of dread. As he puts distance between himself and the Huntsman, the fear dissappates, allowing him to think clearer.
Rose d20+7=26 4d6(2+5+6+5)=18 Saturday June 3rd, 2006 12:30:20 AM
Rose thinks quickly, there is no way for Berlon to keep up and she'll slow down when her spell is out. She quickly whispers to the others "does anybody have an expeditious retreat spell for Berlon or could someone carry him for a bit?"
She then points her finger at the huntsman and casts a spell, as she casts a ray shoots out of her finger and strikes him.
As soon as she's done casting and is sure berlon will be ok she heads off.
Active spells shield: negates magic missile, +4 cover bonus to ac lasts 29/30 rounds expeditious retreat: +30' for 30/30 rounds shield on berlon: negates magic missile, +4 cover bonus to ac lasts 10/10 rounds
spells remaining cantrips: message, ray of frost, acid splash level 1: none level 2: see invisible
Vauhwyt (AC21 HP52) and Mookie (AC17 HP26) (Unseen Servant, Reduce Person, Expeditious Retreat) and Boar (HP12 of 25, AC16) Saturday June 3rd, 2006 6:01:37 PM
[OOC: I made a mistake with my hit points! I had ROLLED 34, but forgot to add in Con and Toughness! With those, Vauhwyt has 52, and Mookie, 26!]
[OOC: Rose, Expeditious Retreat and Shield can only be cast on yourself, not on another person. Sorry!]
[It took at least a round for Gizur to die. So that gives us at least two rounds of posting??]
Vauhwyt walks over to the Huntsman, and showing no fear, sticks out her hand for a handshake. "Good luck hunting me, my friend! You'll need it if you want to catch me!"
The next round, Rose tries to blast the Hunter with a scorching ray! If Vauhwyt understands what that means, then Rose has given up her ten minute head start and will now be attacked, just like Gizur.
Mookie, surprised out of his terror by Rose's rash action, asks Vauhwyt, "Boss, was that really a good idea for Rose to attack the Hunter?"
Vauhwyt answers, "Um, I don't think it was, Mookie."
The liontaur calls out, "RUN, ROSE!" She casts a message cantrip linking herself, Mookie, Rose, and Dietrich.
But since she still has ten minutes of immunity, Vauhwyt seems fine to watch and see if the Hunter will shake her hand.
loretta Sunday June 4th, 2006 12:52:30 AM
Um I missed that, can I repost? example rose does not cast scorching ray but will save it for 10 min in the future?
how much does berlon & his stuff weigh?
who has the huntsman's sword?
Vorelle [AC 17; HP 57/57] Sunday June 4th, 2006 12:54:05 PM
Vorelle will gladly take a head start, and begins moving toward the Inn with her friends.
Theodore and Macaw HP 21/26 AC 16 (mage armor) Sunday June 4th, 2006 3:07:54 PM
Theodore is happy for the head start. Hiking up his pants, he begins to run after Jack.
When they get a safe distance from the Huntsman, Theodore urges the group to start thinking of their options.
"This guy, *huff* obviously does this for a living. *huff huff* He's probably seen it all. Woo, this is hard! If we do something that he's not expecting, we might get out of this alive."
Berlon 33/39 - Berlon 33/39 AC 24 - Sanctuary 1r, Shield 8r Monday June 5th, 2006 5:17:55 PM
Berlon watches for a moment as Dietrich is overwhelmed. He points a finger at the Hunstman.
"This is not over."
He then turns to run adding, "Vauhwyt, I might need some assistance...."
OOC: Berlon is 4' 1" and 117 lbs including all equipment.
Jack Tuesday June 6th, 2006 1:32:56 AM
Jack watches over his shoulder as someone is following him. Stopping and turnong he realizes he may know this man. When he talks, Jack listens intensely.
"Is it trully you Theo? I have seen so much that cant be true, please be true." Jack reaches out and touches Theo. Releif can be seen floolding over his face. "Seems we yet live..."
Stage 1 : The Caress ... [DM Inge] d20+16=30 Tuesday June 6th, 2006 9:55:05 AM Olyn continues to fly with the Hippogriff with Jillia and flies far ahead of the group. If he and Hippogriff continue to fly towards the Inn, they can get up to 600' away from the group when the spell ends!
Olyn Highlight to display spoiler: { Since his last encounter with the Huntsman Olyn feels a bit strange. He gave the command to let the Elf die... he feels stronger though, harder, more cruel. But on the other hand his hands feel awkward. As if olyn's fingers are a bit more clawlike... Easy to disguise by a pair of gloves though.
Olyn, you gain +2 to Constitution -- you're hands become somewhat disfigured, but do not lower your use of them at all.
Please add this to your sheet marked with : "KM Level 1" }
Back at the group Dietrich feels horribly for having chosen for the group. His arrow struck the spellcaster but it feels like a less accurate shot would have missed the strong man. Defying the Huntsman's offer prooves to be too much for Dietrich as he shudders in fear, more than willing to take a run for it. Folloing Olyn who hopefully will make it to the Inn before everyone else...
Vauhwyt walks up to the Huntsman. The Shadow Mastiffs around him do not move and simply let the liontaur closing in on their master.
"Good luck hunting me, my friend! You'll need it if you want to catch me!" she says as she extends her hand.
Rose quickly tries to find a way to help Berlon getting out of here, but first prepares to send forth a scorching ray towards the Huntsman. The Jester's mask laughs perpetuously and even though you can't see his face the tinkeling down your spice tells you he is madly grinning back at you. Better save that one till after the 10 minutes...
The well musceled man dismounts his stallion -- man he's big! He's much taller than an average human! He comes close to a Half-Orc -- and faces Vauhwyt with her extended hand.
"Ahh" the huntsman sighs "In every group there's a leader. In every group there's at least one creature with the decency to accept the challenge."
He then shakes hands with Vauhwyt. (STR check 30 -- roll strength to see who is more powerful). Vauhwyt senses the enormous power that goes behind the mask. Truly a powerful opponent this will be...
"May the hunt begin young liontaur. You're skull with look beautifull in our collection. I will enjoy this Hunt! NOW GO!!"
Being so close to the Huntsman Vauhwyt can feel Samule shaking in his pocket. Even though the veil can not move he does seem to tremble... But the Huntsman did not notice him. Thank goodness he's not a psychic!
"This is not over.", Berlon says pointing his finger at the Huntsman.
Jack comes to his senses and greets his friends. Not entirely sure how he ended up here, the warrior seems glad he's reunited with the group. However he is unarmed...
Then the running starts... Back there up the hill, the Huntsman and his pack wait. Looks like they will hold on to their promis...
"This guy, *huff* obviously does this for a living. *huff huff* He's probably seen it all. Woo, this is hard! If we do something that he's not expecting, we might get out of this alive." Theodore says while he's running with the group.
In front of you wide plains with musshrooms stretch. Ahead a vast forest looms -- no crystal trees but ordinary ones...
Looking back you see the Huntsman nocking an arrow in his longbow. Lovingly he readies his bow, aims high and releases the arrow... you can hear the whistle as it flies incredibly high and far!!! Oh yessss.... That man knows how to hunt. Theodore was right... Not targetting anyone, that arrow gave you an excellent impression of the Huntsman's strength...
RUN FRIENDS... RUN!!!!!
[Make DC11 Con check for not being fatigued] [who runs at what speed? To you all run at full speed? Some will be left behind. Olyn is flying ahead of you... do you regroup?]
Olyn Tuesday June 6th, 2006 12:18:36 PM
Urges the Griff to fly at his fastest speed possible. x4 speed for the next 4 rounds.
muttering to himself: this place is not a place to be vain or uppity. she is going to get herself and everyone else killed with that ego of hers.
Dietrich; AC 19, HP 60 d20+3=13 Tuesday June 6th, 2006 2:51:49 PM
Now that they are at a distance from the Huntsman, Dietrich urges his friends to take a pause, though not because of exaustion (Con tes 13)
He agrees completely with Theodore. Also, the enemy has dogs and horses, thereīs no way of outrunning them (except for magic perhaps). But we have one advantage. The enemy has to divide his troops to go after all the different "prey", so we could fight them piecemeal.
So again, the party has the choice of either try to trick this guy, or fight him on our terms. Just running wonīt work.
Theodore and Macaw HP 21/26 AC 16 (mage armor) Tuesday June 6th, 2006 4:02:31 PM
Theodore is overjoyed that they're stopping for a moment. "Th-thank you," he huffs, holding onto Dietrich's powerful frame to keep from falling over. "I'll be good. Just...woo...need a minute."
At the moment, he can't string together a coherent thought on how to escape from their current predicament, so he remains in the bent over position, trying to fill his lungs.
Berlon 33/39 - Berlon 33/39 AC 24 - Shield 7r d20+1=15 Tuesday June 6th, 2006 4:13:49 PM
If he is unable to get a ride or spell or some other solution, Berlon's move is only 15'. If he runs he will run as long as he can to keep up.
The gnome's mind races as he tries to think up a solution. "Help me look. Are there any wide patches in the middle of the mushroom fields? If we light the mushrooms on fire, they would think we are trying to get them to suffer the effects of the mushrooms."
Search check 15
"But what if there was a big enough area to stand in? They might ride by and we could try to figure out something else. Either way, I think we should burn the mushrooms. If we burn them behind us at the very least it will throw off their animals' tracking abilities."
He then gets very solemn. "Either way, we might have to resort to... drastic measures..."
Jack 21AC 47 HP d100=66 Tuesday June 6th, 2006 7:01:14 PM
Jack makes the familiar movements as he casts the armor spell upon himself. "Good idea Berlon, tell us how to proceed.
"I dont have my sword, anyone have an extra weapon? If not I may be able to get one of these sticks to work as a club, or staff."
Cast mage armor asd 10 percent
Vauhwyt (AC21 HP52) and Mookie (AC17 HP26) (Unseen Servant, Reduce Person, Expeditious Retreat) d20+13=26 Tuesday June 6th, 2006 7:41:23 PM
As the Hunter crushes her hand, Vauhwyt waves her other one around and yelps, "Wowsy! That's quite a grip there you've got!"
As she is yelping and waving, she is also doing a bit of sleight of hand! She takes the acorn marked with the rune of death -- the one from the Baby Fey King -- and tries to slip it into the Hunter's pocket. Her skill check is a 26 -- 6 more than the DC20 needed!
If the Hunter notices her doing this, then she says, "You wanted a trophy from me, but this is the only one you'll get!"
Then she dashes off, running at 70, and easily catching up with the group.
Out of sight of the Hunter, Vauhwyt listens to the strategizing. "Yup!" she says, "I could probably out run the Hunter with my magic, but that won't work for the group! So we can try an ambush, surre. But there are a couple other options."
"We could try to find a place to hide. Vorelle, Rose, and I could probably hide us pretty good if we could find a place. We would have to also hide our trail therre. Using burning mushrooms to hide our scent is a good idea. Just don't breathe those fumes."
"Is there any chance that we could take to air and hide somewhere high? At the tops of tall trees, or on a cliff ledge? Olyn's hippogriff could carry us up one at a time. And if we are found, the Hunter will have to leave behind the horses and dogs, most likely, to get us."
Vauhwyt decides that the group needs more info. She takes out Samule. "My friend," she says to the soul in woven form, "what do you know of the lay of the land hereabouts? Are there any high places nearby? Cliffs, maybe? And what about the Hunter? Can he fly?"
In the meantime, Mookie has called the boar back into the Bag of Tricks.
Olyn Tuesday June 6th, 2006 8:10:09 PM
*** I want to point out something to you, Olyn nor the Hippogriff stopped moving. Olyn nor the Hippogriff is there for you to have a conversation with. Olyn's last earshot yell was RUN FOR THE INN and he meant it. ***
Vorelle d20+7=26 d20+13=27 Wednesday June 7th, 2006 12:16:49 AM
Vorelle lopes alongside the rest of the party, easily able to keep up and scarcely seeming winded. [Base move 30; Constitution check 26]
If she has time, Vorelle wants to use her skill to hide or disguise the group's trail--but only after they are out of sight of the Huntsman and his party. [Survival 27]
Dead men running ... [DM Inge] Wednesday June 7th, 2006 10:09:57 AM Olyn Highlight to display spoiler: {flies at high speed with the Hippogriff to maximize his distance available untill the Celestial creature fades away. He increases his distance between him and the rest of the group dramatically and does not stop to regroup at all. The safety of Jillia above all else.
Jillia folds her arms tightly around Olyn's waste he body pressing against him. Olyn feels the voluptuous forms of the young girl close to him her warm breath breathing in his neck.
Ever faster the Hippogriff goes. The wind races past their ears. The Inn is not yet in sight, but at their current speed Olyn hopes to reach the Inn before the Hippo dissapears...
As all the others have started running we'll assume Olyn has flown to the maximum the Hippogriff could reach. By now you are 2400' away from the group... Still there's no trace of the Inn. You've flown over a vast forest, a canyon, and endless planes lit by the purple moon. The Inn must be dead ahead. And the end of the last round for the Celestial creature the Hippogriff makes one last effort to reach out as far as he can, but gradually decends to give Olyn and Jillia a safe landing.
"Look there!!", Jillia suddely shouts in Olyn's ears. "There are the people of my clan!! Hurry go down to them! They know the way to the Inn!!"
Below Olyn the three gypsies come running out of a smaller forest looking up they notice the celestial creature and then... they recognise Jillia!! Laughing and waving they beckon you to decend towards them.}
When Vauhwyt gave the order to start running everyone did so but first she shakes hands with the huntsman. "Wowsy! That's quite a grip there you've got!"
Then she slips the acorn in the Hunstman's pocket... (any special thingies that acorn can do? I was not around back then)
Next she turns around and runs after her friends.
In no time she catches up with Berlon whoom I assume Vauhwyt will help to keep up. After a mad run the group takes a brief pauze. Burning the musshroom to toughen the search for the Hounds sound like a good plan. Not far ahead now the forest looms.
Vauhwyt questions Samule to find out more about the lands ahead.
"No there are no mountains in this dreaded land. The forest ahead is a normal one though. Not Crystal like the one before. After the forest there's a canyon that can be crossed by a single bridge. If there's one place for an ambush that must be the one! I will not tell you what to do, but waiting here to face the Huntsman does not sound like the best thing to do. You all look very powerful, but I'm afraid he outclasses you all by far... I'd run like hell..."
Theodore huffs and puffs but right now no one seems to be exhausted (some did not roll. Those who did not still need to roll the DC11!!)
Mad Jack, glad to have found the group, inquires for something to defend himself with, but so far no one offers him anything. You do have one spare blade...
Berlon finds an ideal spot to start a bonfire. Here the musshrooms appear to be somewhat thicker... There's only a little bit of wind that will probably (hopefully) not turn against you blowing the (poisonous?) fumes toward you...
While each were running Vorelle occasionally stopped to conceal the trail the group leaves. The toughest to hide though are Vauhwyt's hoves...
Ahead the forest which Samule claims is a plain one... No mountain or elevated landscape ahead of you... Samule advises to keep running... Olyn is no where in sight...
Will the Hunt wait 10 minutes?
Olyn d100=95 Wednesday June 7th, 2006 10:37:53 AM
directs the Hippogriff to land about 100 feet from the girls clan. then the Griff goes poof.
before the girl can stop him Olyn begins casting another spell, (rolled 95 so will be a success) Summon Monster III, Celestial Black Bear. will appear beginning of the next round.
(Inge, just so you know, when I summon animals, I have the feat Augment Summoning)
Dietrich; AC 19, HP 60 Wednesday June 7th, 2006 10:53:44 AM
Dietrich listens to his friends and likes the idea of burning the mushrooms. Everything we can do to make the Hunt harder for them the better. He has a little more time to give Jack some attention: "What happened to you man!? We only have one spare blade here, and I wouldnīt advise you to use it. It seemed to be evil, but our more erudite friends can explain it better."
Dietrich likes the sound of Samuleīs words. A canyon would be exactly what he had in mind. After putting the mushrooms on fire, he says:
"Letīs continue! If we can reach the canyon, at least we wonīt be defeated so easely. We can still think about other strategies, but letīs head that way!"
"Do we have any possibility of making the Huntsman think weīve split up? That would force him to divide his troops even further, to go after all the different traces. We could use a summoned monster (or something like that)and some work on our part to creat this effect."
"Maybe Vauhwyt could really separate from the group. Youīre fast enough to outrun them by yourself. You could try to lead them in the opposite direction, letting traces behind, and afterwards join us again at a meeting point. What do you all think?"
Theodore and Macaw HP 21/26 AC 16 (mage armor) d20+1=4 Wednesday June 7th, 2006 2:09:32 PM
(Constitution check 4; I thought we had stopped running for a minute, though)
Theodore manages to retrieve his rapier and hands the blade to Jack. "It's the only thing I've got, unless you want to gamble with a cursed blade."
"How long is the bridge? What's it made of? Perhaps we can destroy the bridge and the Huntsman wouldn't be able to follow us. Or, if he's particularly fond of this blade of his, we can dangle it out over the canyon, give him an ultimatum."
"I don't know." He shrugs his thin shoulders. "Never really been hunted before. I've got one more illusion I can use and I can turn two people invisible for a few minutes, if either of those options spark a plan with someone."
If you rolled the Con check last turn you did not need to roll it again as you all stopped. But there were some that did not roll last turn...
Jack 21AC 47 HP mage armor 2 hours. d20+3=22 Wednesday June 7th, 2006 10:40:29 PM
Jack tkes trhe proffered blade from Theo. "Thanks Theo, I will stay by you, for better or worse."
"Ditrich i have no memory as to what happened to me for some time. I also believe the huntsman to be a great hunter, and therefore he knows what we face. If that beast Vauhwyt is talking to says there is a bridge, Im sure he will want to get there before us. Ask it if there is a faster or easier way to get to the bridge Vauhwyt. I think You would also be good to lead them off our path, as Hwe now knows you better than us. I say we get moving soon, there is no guarnteew he will wait the alotted 10 minutes."
Passed Con check
Vorelle d20+13=30 Wednesday June 7th, 2006 11:46:40 PM
Vorelle continues to cover the party's trail as they go. [Survival 30]
She does have a spare weapon, and shyly offers her extra hand axe to Mad Jack. "I u-usually f-f-fight with t-t-two," she explains, "b-b-but I can m-make d-d-do with o-one."
Rose Thursday June 8th, 2006 6:25:56 AM
Rose stays with the rest of the group, knowing that soon she wont be able to keep up. "Where's Berlon? He cant keep up with everyone, and my spell will expire long before the ten minutes are up."
rose can move 60'/round until spell wears off then 30'. Of course running is faster. It's 3:30am and I'm not going to look up how fast she can run or how much longer the spell has. good night.
Berlon 33/39 AC 24 - Shield 6r d20+1=21 Thursday June 8th, 2006 10:53:26 AM
"No!" Berlon yells and jumps between Theo and Jack, still panting. (Con check 21, nat 20 if that means anything) "No. Jack, if you need a weapon take Vorelle's axe. But," he says taking the sword from Theo and wrapping it thoroughly in his cloak, "weapons aren't going to work here."
"Light the fields. We must run."
"Light the fields. We must run." [DM Inge] d12=3 Thursday June 8th, 2006 1:16:32 PM Olyn Highlight to display spoiler: { does not land next to Gypsies but instead lands about 100ft further. Immediately he casts another powerful spell. Luckily his god is generous at the moment and in a few moments a Celestial Black Bear will appear.
As soon as you touch the ground Jillia runs to her kin embracing them all though one man in particular and kisses that man full on the lips.
While Olyn is casting his spell, Jillia and the three Gypsies start to walk towards you. Smiling, but also cautiously looking around.}
Dietrch likes the idea of burning the musshrooms. Everything that can make the hunt harder the better!
At last the warrior finds a spare moment to greet Mad Jack. Even though he is unarmed, he appears to be in good health. Upon noticing the fact that he is unarmed Rose hands abattle axe and Theodore a rapier. All know handing Jack the Huntsman's Blade may be too risky... though no one has seen the true power of that blade yet... only the small annoying fact that you can't release it from your grip... sigh... with every whish there comes a curse my friends...
But it is Samule's word that brings out new ideas. ... a canyon... THE perfect spot for an ambush!! Or even to offer the Huntsman a last ultimatum!!
Most realise that it is doubtful that the Huntsman will wait the promising 10 minutes so quickly decide to make it to the canyon.
"Light the fields. We must run."Berlon decides.
And so it happens. Though musshroom don't burn that well, with help of some oil an canvas you get the fire going... soon you can feel the heat as the fire begins to spread... okay! Looks like we've got ourselves a nasty fire going!!
You are running in western directions... The fire spreads to the East (direction check 3)
But musshrooms are smelly...
and tend to cause a lot of smoke!!
This will be visible from miles!!!
Run my friends run!!!
Towards the forest and then the canyon!!
Rose does her best to cover the tracks as good as possible and Dieitrich asks of it would be doable to split the Hunt in two by sending Vauhwyt on a little "detour"... she's fast enough to catch up especially since little Berlon allready has enough trouble to keep up. Even though his stamina outclasses all of you this time his short legs can't carry him as fast as they should...
Olyn Thursday June 8th, 2006 1:29:16 PM
as the Bear poofs into existence, and Olyn sees the Gypsies approaching, he warns them by saying: not too close, Kallim here doesnt take kindly to strangers. Can you direct me towards the Inn that will take me and my companions, when they show up, Home? <Looks around him as an afterthought, getting an idea of his surroundings>
Dietrich; AC 19, HP 60 Thursday June 8th, 2006 2:59:35 PM
Dietrich starts moving towards the canyon. He asks Samule if thereīs a shortcut or similar.
Theodore and Macaw HP 21/26 AC 16 (mage armor) Thursday June 8th, 2006 4:42:19 PM
(OOC - Berlon, Theo was giving Jack his regular, run of the mill rapier, not the Huntsman's cursed blade. Sorry for the confusion.)
Theodore takes a deep breath and begins to jog with the rest of the party towards the bridge.
Macaw flies low, and with the party so as not to give away their position.
Vauhwyt (Expeditious Retreat, Unseen Servant) and Mookie Thursday June 8th, 2006 4:47:26 PM
Vauhwyt, back to regular size in order to carry Berlon, is not sure what to do. Is there any other way for Berlon to keep up, or is she needed to carry him?
If Berlon can keep up any other way, then Vauhwyt is eager to go make a distraction behind them and then double back. But she is no druid, and will leave a trail.
She does have two more ideas. They could set up an ambush in the glass forest, so that if anyone follows then, they can bring down trees to cut their pursuers.
Or they could go hide in the Hunter's Lodge! Samule said he knows where that is! The Hunter might not think to hunt them in his own lair.
Meanwhile, until she has another answer on Berlon, she continues to carry the slow short fellow.
[OOC: Sorry I missed a post somehow! Also, the acorn has no property that Vauhwyt knows of. If it the token used to vote for death to the Fey King. She slipped it to the Hunter on a whim.]
Vorelle Thursday June 8th, 2006 11:28:48 PM
[OOC clarification: It's a hand axe, not a battleaxe. And, obviously, Vorelle isn't Rose.]
Seeing the column of smoke, Vorelle abandons her attempt to cover the group's tracks. She runs toward the forest with her friends. She keeps an eye out to make sure everybody is keeping up. If she has to, she can pick up Rose or Berlon and carry them.
Jack 20AC 47 HP mage armor 2 hours Friday June 9th, 2006 1:18:14 AM
"Thank you Vorelle." Im sure I wil be ableto use the axe. That blasted smoke will give us away, but to get to us, the hunters will need to go through it. Sure hope it slows them down. If anyone gets to tired I can help them. Lets hurry." Jack comntinues to run to the forest.
Were that 10 minutes?!? [DM Inge] Friday June 9th, 2006 9:34:25 AM OlynHighlight to display spoiler: { Remains alert when the gypsies come closer. The Celestial Bear besides him growls softly as they draw near. Just a mere warning of what could happen if they come too close...
"Can you direct me towards the Inn that will take me and my companions, when they show up, Home?" Olyn asks.
"Aye", one of them says, "the Inn is just over this little sloped plain. From up there you will see them peaceful lights like a welcome beakon in this eternal night. But you speak of your friends... are they not with you? Are they still alive then? You have brought Jillia to us and for that we are thankful. Will you run with us to the Inn, or will you turn back to meet your friends? Luckily we did not see Him on our way over here... "
Then the man turns to his companions and Jillia :"Come friends. The Inn is near. Let's make a run for it and feast of Jillia's return and this brave soul. Will you come with us?" he says finally eying Olyn.
No matter what Olyn decides, the gipsies will begin running next turn.}
Running! Always running!
As you move towards the forest little whisps of fog thwirll around you feet. Dietrich wonders about a detour but Samule knows none. Vauhwyt carries Berlon to help the little Gnome and all together they enter the forest. She has a few more cunning ideas, but an ambush in the Glass forest would mean running back... into the hands of the Huntsman. The little forest ahead is a normal one. An ambush in his own lodge sounds appealing, though first you would need to find it and second who knows what you will find in the lodge...
Vorelle no longer cares about the tracks they all leave. That blasted smoke is visible enough... Jack, thankful to be able to use the axe is glad to be back with his friends and knows the urgency to get to the Inn.
What's that behind them?!? A horn... mournfull... threathening... bone chilling...
Huntsman horn burning in your ears, the heroes must push on or die. The Inn cannot be far away, not with the pursuit so close... Far close than it should be if they would have waited 10 minutes... but then you remember... did Samule not tell you that Time has a different meaning in this threacherous realm?!?
In the path before you, you see a pile of skulls. The swirling mists around your feet seem to be playing tricks with your eyes for otherwise the skulls would be moving of their own accord.
Olyn Friday June 9th, 2006 10:26:05 AM
I wait for my companions so I can show them the way. You get that girl to safety. Its why we sacrificed time, so she could get safe...
Go!
Olyn will move back to the canyon, (is there a bridge nearby? if so I will move to it, pulling out my crossbow to start adding coverfire when the others start crossing)
Dietrich; AC 19, HP 60 Friday June 9th, 2006 11:32:42 AM
Dietrich realizes that the cards of this game were set before they even got to this place. As Jacl=k said, the Huntsman know this place, he knows the party will head for the canyon. Thereīs no trick to lead him in other directions, nor any sense in trying to hide their traces and their sent. The only thing to do is to get fast to the canyon and cross it before the enemy arrives.
He urges his friends to move and offers to help carrying baggage and even the smaller comrades.
"Soon the hounds will appear. Keep your long-range weapons ready. Keep the spells ready. Now will be the time to use them."
The warrior keeps the long-bow at hands.
Rose Friday June 9th, 2006 2:32:28 PM
Running running running, there is no end to running.
Rose continues to run (or be carried if anyone wants to carry her after her expeditious retreat spell is over.)
dm sanity info (or at least partial as I havent been keeping track of rounds and am not sure if we are in rounds) please let me know what spells are expired.
Rose hp: 32/35 AC20
Active spells shield: negates magic missile, +4 cover bonus to ac lasts 29/30 rounds expeditious retreat: +30' for 30/30 rounds shield on berlon: negates magic missile, +4 cover bonus to ac lasts 10/10 rounds
spells remaining cantrips: message, ray of frost, acid splash level 1: none level 2: see invisible
Jack 20AC 47 HP mage armor 2 hours Friday June 9th, 2006 6:06:50 PM
When Jack eyes the skulls his spirits begin to fade. Their only hope will be the scrid smoke left behind them. Looking over his shoulder he sees Rose fallig a bit behind. He stops and offers to carry her on his back.
rose Saturday June 10th, 2006 6:40:49 AM
if rose's expeditious retreat has ended she will gladly hop on Jack's back. If it has not ended she will hop up when it ends.
Vauhwyt (AC21 HP52) and Mookie (AC17 HP26) (Unseen Servant, Expeditious Retreat) Saturday June 10th, 2006 12:24:47 PM
Vauhwyt eyes the skulls and suggests that the party circle around them.
"As much as I love to fight skulls," she says, "it is more important to get to the canyon fast. Come on, go around these!"
She leads the way around, never getting closer than 70 feet from the skulls.
Berlon 33/39 AC 24 - Shield 4r Saturday June 10th, 2006 9:23:53 PM
Berlon continues to take any assistance he can get, especially from Vauhwyt. He tries to keep up as best he can.
Theodore & Macaw HP 21/26 AC 16 Sunday June 11th, 2006 1:55:09 PM
"Sounds like a plan," Theodore says to Vauhwyt's suggestion of going around the skulls. The mage has no inclination to scuffle with something they don't need to scuffle with.
Vorelle Sunday June 11th, 2006 2:25:18 PM
Dietrich's suggestion is a good one, so Vorelle keeps her longbow in one hand as she runs. Vauhwyt's suggestion is also good, so Vorelle gives the skulls a wide berth. She continues to watch for signs that any of her companions may start falling behind.
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