


	LOG ON

The Mithril Order Archives

Return To Index

Joint Investigations

Raising Glasses and Cheer (DM JohnP)
Saturday July 15th, 2006 11:14:47 PM
The introductions and sharing of information have really started to flow. Most of the Crimson Shields have introduced themselves except the bugbear. The others have referred to him as Lang but he hasn't yet spoken for himself. On the other hand, all eight of the Plateau City adventurers have said something. Well, the half-elf with the wolf didn't really say anything but then he doesn't seem the talkative type.

As for the information flowing around the table, the Shields have shared what they have learned so far:
- they defeated a vampire in it's lair on a farm outside the City.
- the vampire had been corresponding with people inside Plateau City.
- Belkior copied a diagram from the vampire's shrine, and it matched one from the death cult's shrine
- checking the addresses, one was Lady Ilonia's mansion
- the second address was a tenement in Nightmare Quarter.

They also found some things that may, or may not, be important but relate to Floating City:
- stone statue of a spider, identical to some found near Floating City
- correspondence from the vampire about Floating City.

For their part, Mira from the Plateau City group relates the events that led up to this point. The other parts of their chase of the ringleaders of the death cult are also recounted:
- they have a list of buildings owned by Lady Ilonia
- they've also been recommended to learn what they can from the two temples who sent clerics to Lady Ilonia's mansion - Alemi and Gargul. And from the Mage Guild.

Like any meeting of adventurers, everyone is a little cautious. The only two who have really shared much about what they contribute to their respective parties are the two clerics, Arm and Conner. Although it's a safe bet that Wynn is a bard, after that impromptu performance. Time will tell how these two groups function together.

Kadaz suggests putting words into action and going to check out some of the addresses they were given. Is that what people will do? Or will they agree on which address to check first?

Edmund
Sunday July 16th, 2006 3:07:43 AM
Edmund takes a liking to Wynn instantly. Raising an eyebrow at Xenia's dancing, he light elbows Wynn in the ribs after her dance is finished. It's clear Edmund hasn't had much to drink, but it has probably been a little too much.

"Kindred spirits, what? You and I, I mean. You sing, I speak. Bards and Orators, united in their entertainment of the people. Of course, it's been a long time since I did any sort of real enterttainment in oratory--dramatic soliloquies, readings, and the like. Still, refreshing to hear a professional of the verse at work. Of the muse even. Not sure what muse, but definitely one of the better ones.

Edmund is excited at the prospect of fighting vampires. "Back at home, I was considered a regular vampire slayer," he proclaims confidently. "I'm not afraid of their silly little hats! Have at 'em!" He raises his glass at this point, and then drains the remainder of its contents.

It is not entirely clear that Edmund knows what a vampire actually is. However, attempting to educate him at this particular moment would probably be a futile endeavour. But then again, when isn't it?

Having no preference about where they should begin their investigation, he merely says, "Wherever there are Vampires. I'll take care of them. You just leave it to me!"

Further information doesn't seem to be forthcoming from Edmund at this time.

Wynn
Sunday July 16th, 2006 6:24:24 PM
The bard leans over and places a kiss on the dark rogues lips, and then gently helps her up. "Beautiful" he says, leaving it to Xenia to figure out if he means the dance or simply her.

Conner
Sunday July 16th, 2006 6:36:42 PM
Conner begins to clap in time with Xenia as she twirls about, encouraging her further. The fighter has seen many women dance in his time, albeit most more skimpily clad than the rogue, and he whistles his appreciation loudly.

[OOC just to avoid any confusuion, Conner is not a cleric]

Kadaz d20+9=27
Sunday July 16th, 2006 8:06:31 PM
Kadaz stands and picks up his axe, settles his shield on his arm, and quickly loosens his daggers at his belt. "Enough talk, Plateau City is in danger. We have an address - the tenament Nightmare quarter. We should go now since we're concerned about them reestablishing their alter. Once we've cleared that location we can search out the clerics or do something else."

Kadaz is rather brusque and would much rather be out doing something than sitting around talking. He turns to look at the others expectantly. "Come Birdie" he says to his dog. "Time to work." Birdie stands up from his place on the floor and trots over the door, ready to start again. (handle animal 27)

Xenia
Sunday July 16th, 2006 9:27:45 PM
Lips warm, and soft as velvet leaves. Xenia melts into Wynn's arms. It's the dwarf, the Kadaz guy, who breaks her out of her romantic mood. "Reminds me a bit of Bralin. 'Cept Bralin didn't talk as much." she whispers.

"Like Belkie says, we went out there already," she announces. "To your Nightmare Quarter place. One a those places that you don't really want to go at night. Unless, that is, you're one of those kinds of people that folks aren't looking to meet in those places at night, if you get my meaning."

"Weerdo place. Couldn't shake the feeling that someone was watching us the whole time." Xenia retrieves her cloak and walks over to the haversack, strung onto the back of her chair. She folds the cloak and pushes it down into the largest compartment. From one of the smaller compartments, she draws a black ribbon and proceeds to tie her hair back into a tight ponytail.

"Kadaz, why don't you fill us in, huh? What exactly is this Danger that Plateau City's in? I mean like, what kind of Ceremony were these Bearer's of the Chalice types putting on at the de Montmorency place? What kind of Undead did you see and how many?"

The dark-skinned rogue sighs and looks around the inn.

"And if we're going out to that Nightmare place again, I'm gonna need some place to change real quick."

Syr
Sunday July 16th, 2006 9:38:34 PM
Syr blinks in surpise when he is corrected, "Why yes, Edmund it is... and I haven't even had a beverage yet." He looks up as the party is leaving and cocks his head to the side, "Did I hear that right? You have a dog named 'Birdie'? Hey Lang, is this guy a friend of yours? We have a couple hounds named Birdie and Sunshine. I know the bad guys are shaking now?" He smirks at Sunshine before reaching down and patting the dog on the head.

Preparing to get up, he looks over at Angus to see what direction the sorceror wants to steer the group.

Mira
Sunday July 16th, 2006 9:58:29 PM
Mira sips from a glass of wine as the story gets filled out by the poetic bard. Mira's eyes flick to Arm's face when Xenia does her hoochy-coo, and the be-spectacled sorcerer leans a little more towards her bard. Mira is about to ask Kadaz to take back his seat while the party strategizes, and then the drow-girl says something about her party being watched from the building in Nightmare Quarter.

"We have no time to loose, then!" she announces. "If they've spotted you, they may be clearing out and moving to the next place as we speak!"

Mira starts to give instruction, "anything you don't want to carry, you can leave at our place. It's just a couple of doors behind Sampson's. If it's a scouting mission, Shadow should go with you. He knows this city like the back of his hand, and can get around pretty well undetected. Conner and Kadaz will be back up. You'll need a healer, too, in case you get into...trouble." The woman looks at the strange little catling dubiously, and then turns to Thar. "What do you think? You wanna' go?" While waiting for an answer from the elf, Mira continues, "take a magiker too. Turning to those she hasn't addressed, "The more diplomatic types could pay a visit to the investigators who checked out the de Montmorency pile after we left, or we could check out another address and maybe catch Lady Iliona and her people in a pincer movement. Whatever we do, we shouldn't split up into more than two groups." Putting her hands on the table, she leans forward and addresses the thin flute playing guy who seems to be a leader of sorts for the Crimson Shields and asks, "what-daya think?"

Lang & Sunshine
Sunday July 16th, 2006 10:21:51 PM
Lang & Sunshine are the last ones of the Crimson Shields to enter the tavern called Sampsons. He and Sunshine move slightly to the side of the doorway as Xenia and the rest of the Shields make their way towards a group of people she seems to know. He follows their movement for but a moment before he focuses his attention on the rest of the patrons in the Tavern.

Lang is looking for two things as he surveys Sampsons. One is to see if there are any other animals in the place so he can determine if Sunshine should stay inside or outside. He is happy to see that one of the group the Shields is heading for has a dog at his side. The other thing Lang is looking for is how much attention he is drawing from the other patrons. Ever since his transformation into a Bugbear, he gets a lot more stares than he is used to. Mainly though, he is trying to determine if any of the stares will turn violent.

Comfortable, for the moment, that everything is peaceful he and Sunshine move towards the 2 groups that appear to be conversing quite well with each other. They get there just in time to see Angus, Wynn and Xenia perform. As always, he is amazed how the three of them can burst into a performance at the drop of a hat. Lang also hears some of the group finishing up introductions.

"If you do not know already from my companions, I am Lang and this is my friend Sunshine", Lang says as he absent mindedly scratches behind Sunshine's ears. Lang was never the talkative type when he was a human, letting the rest of the Shields do most of the talking for him. He is even less talkative now that he is a Bugbear.

Lang moves off to the side waiting to see if the group stays or goes.

Ash
Sunday July 16th, 2006 11:31:59 PM
Watching the event unfold, Ash is amused by watching the various interactions that take place. He studies the partiers with the scrutiny of one studying the cultural activities of a primitive culture but otherwise seems uninterested in their goings-on. He does notice that half the people seem intent on having some fun and relaxing (presumably blowing off steam after their experiences) while the other half seem intent on proceeding to the next stage in their endeavours. As for himself, he will go where the wind blows him....or as an alternative, where the others decide to go.

He is impressed with with other party and their adventures, despite himself. He has heard tales of the Vampires...or Strigoi as he has heard them called...and believes them to be a difficult challenge at best.

The bugbear interests him and he is impressed to see it showing kindness to an animal and relaxes somewhat. His studies of that race do not indicate such behaviour to be the norm and as such, this particular bugbear merits some study.
"Greetings Sunshine and Lang, this is Shelya and my name is Ash." Other than to continue scratching behind Shelya's ears, Ash makes no other action or comment.

Famina
Monday July 17th, 2006 1:42:46 AM
Famina is quite happy with the song, and after it, she claps Wynn happily on the back. "That was very good! I'm amazed at your talent." She turns to Xenia and grins, "And you move so wonderfully! Like a shadow-fighter." She shakes her head, pondering. "Or a puppet on a string..." She searches for suitable words, but as one who hasn't seen much dancing, she is at a loss.
She drains another mug and refills her tankard, pondering Mira's proposal. "I agree! Tough-types from both parties go one way, diplomatic types the other... and we meet afterwards."

Arm
Monday July 17th, 2006 5:55:12 AM
Although he admires the beauty of Xenia and her dance, Arm prefers the beauty of Mira, both inner and outer. As she nuzzles closer to him, he squeezes her shoulder to show her that she has no reason to fear.

As the talk turns to action, Arm agrees, "Yes, let us depart before it is too late. I will go with the diplomatic party, and when our business is concluded, we shall come and seek the rest out, just in case they should require some help. We will all meet at the tenament, then.". As he says this, he looks to Mira to see if she thinks that is a sound plan, and that she will accompany him.

Angus
Monday July 17th, 2006 8:43:55 AM
Angus greatly enjoyed performing with Wynn and Xenia, that was a good one, he thinks to himself.

Angus raises an eyebrow when Edmond talks of fighting vampires, the last one was one tough customer.

When Mira and kadaz talk of immediate action, Angus speaks up "This city is new to all of us. There seems to be an underlying evil at work here. You have been investigating this evil longer than us and it appears that you have more information to investigate, but Xenia is very astue in that the nightmare quarter could be more dangerous at this time of night. If these investigators are available for an interview at this time of night, then I say split the groups. If not, we can progress as two groups to the nightmare quarter, the shifty ones first and the rest as backup following behind."

Angus looks at all those in attendance. "We normally form up combat teams based on the situation. If we split, Belkior, Syr and myself can check with the investigators and the rest can go to the nightmare quarter. If we stay together and all go to the nightmare quarter our portion of the recon group will be: Wynn, Lang, Xenia, and Syr."

Angus asks Lang "In either senario, are you taking Sunshine?"

Angus looks to Mira "How are you going to split your group and can we visit both the nightmare quarter and the investigators at this time?"

Thar ail Baerer
Monday July 17th, 2006 10:29:15 AM
As the new party members dance and celebrate, Thar smiles and enjoys watching the camraderie. He is interested in the dark elf that hass joined the party and realizes that he should speak to her at a later date and find how she has come to this place.

Thinking for a moment, Thar replies to Mira "Yes, I think we should act now and I'll go with the group to the Nightmare quarter. I'm interested in finding out what denizens are occupying or influencing that place."

Standing, he readies himself to leave, once everyone else is prepared.

Shadow
Monday July 17th, 2006 10:45:37 AM
Not one for performances himself unless necessary is thrown off a little by the sudden performce by both groups. He looks a little startled at Edmunds claim of being a vampire slayer, never having experienced a fight with one before has heard terrible rumors about them and therefore is a little sceptical of his claims.

Hearing the group decide to split up right now and go in two seperate directions, Shadow decides it is time to speak up, "I do know the city well, and you are right about the Nightmare Quarter, but if we stay together until we actually do some close recon we should be okay. If you need somewhere to change and leave your belongins, "he looks over the whole group, both his and theirs, "you can do so at our apartment. I need to get geared up also." With that Shadow will go with the groups back to the apartment to get ready for the recon they talked about.

Scott (ADM for PC - OOC) (aka. Shadow)
Monday July 17th, 2006 10:46:54 AM
Who is the ADM for FC game. We need to do our posting report, but they said they only wanted one. Do ou want to handle it this week and then I will next week and we can rotate it?

Scott the Southern One-OOC
Monday July 17th, 2006 2:44:31 PM
Hmm, is it a wierd coincidence that both ADM's are named Scott? I'll handle it and we can alternate.

Scott the Southern One-OOC
Monday July 17th, 2006 3:39:48 PM
With the merging of the two games, I wasn't quite sure where to break it so I used the chapter break of the DM post on Saturday as the last. The last post I have logged is the ADM posts (although considering Belkior hasn't posted yet, I'm giving him credit cause it's always good to suck up to the DM.)

Plateau City
Kadaz: perfect
Arm: perfect
Ash: XXOXX
Shadow:perfect
Edmund:X0XXX
Mira: perfect
Connor:perfect
Thar: perfect
Overall: 95% effective

Crimson Shields
Syr: perfect
Lang: OX00X
Belk: perfect
Famina:perfect
Wynn: perfect
Angus: perfect
Xenia: perfect
Overall: 91.4% effective

JimF
Monday July 17th, 2006 3:47:57 PM
Scott do not forget to list DM post too.

Kadaz
Monday July 17th, 2006 7:51:13 PM
Kadaz glances back at the party getting ready. Too much talking, not enough doing, he thinks as he idly rotates his axe.

He glances over at the bugbear with the dog and nods, approvingly. "Lang, can you see in the dark?" he asks. "If so, you should go near the front with me."

Birdie is a bit more cautious about the new dog. He moves a bit towards Sunshine and sniffs, trying to get a read on the friendliness of this newcomer.

Belkior
Monday July 17th, 2006 9:17:03 PM
The halfling cleric listens to Angus' proposal to separately check with the temples and other investigators and also send people to the tenement.

"Angus, it's past supper time. While there will surely be priests and other attendants at the temples, I doubt that we could easily find the senior priests who would have investigated. And, for that matter, I doubt that we could find the investigators from the Mage Guild, either."

Then he nods to both Shadow and Xenia. "But I like the idea of checking the place out first before we go in."

Moving Out (DM JohnP)
Monday July 17th, 2006 10:42:30 PM
With kadaz' suggestion, the two groups immediately start to plan and prepare to head out. There is a discussion of exactly how to go about it. Angus, among others, had suggested that some people go to spy out the tenements while others go to speak to the investigators from the temples and Mage Guild. However, Belkior reminded everyone that it is after supper and actually fairly late. After thinking about, everyone comes to that same conclusion.

At this time, it appears that Mira is speaking for the Plateau City group while the Shields are looking to Angus for direction. Mira's suggestion of stashing gear at their apartment makes sense. Those people who want to investigate tonight pay for their food and drink at Sampson's and then walks over to the apartment. The warehouse is also close but probably not as secure unless some people were left behind to guard whatever is left behind.

Moving the short distance to the apartment reveals the difficulty of moving so many people with any kind of ... discretion, Shadow might put it. If they want to check out the tenement before going in, they will need to send some people ahead of the main group.

Once the Shields have stored their gear in the apartment, it's time to sort out exactly who is going where. Right now, there seeem to be four, or maybe five, options. People could either:
- stay behind in Sampson's to keep drinking;
- stay at the apartment;
- try to find investigators from the temples and Mage Guild;
- go ahead to scout the tenement; or,
- ready themselves as part of the main group going to the tenement.

Of course, some method of communication between the scouts and the others will need to be worked out.

DM Request - Please indicate what each character is doing.

Edmund
Monday July 17th, 2006 10:57:41 PM
After listening to the plans being formulated, Edmund agrees that little could be accomplished in the evening. "Hunting vampires at night?" Incredulous, he shakes his head. "No, no. You must hunt them when the moon is full, and in Orion. Only then can you pierce their hats with weapons!"

It is apparent however much Edmund has had to drink (though it didn't look like much), it was too much. He also doesn't seem like the sort of person inclined, even in the best of circumstances, to be quiet. These are clearly not the best of circumstances. Therefore, he makes his way off to his room in the apartments for, "Research, research, that's the way to get 'em!" Once there, he promptly falls into bed, where he will sleep until the following morning, if left uninterrupted.

Wynn d20+16=29 d20+10=28
Monday July 17th, 2006 11:05:47 PM
As talk turns more serious and plans are discussed, the bard leans in and voices his opinion. "I don't know much about this 'Nightmare Quarter' but by the looks of it, I think we should wait for daylight to investigate...but if there is going to be a scouting party back to the tenement, I'll be going."

The bard pulls his hat out of his vest pocket, puts it on, and with a few careful adjustments soon looks eerily like one of the many denizens he had seen earlier outside of the tenement; a dirty, thin, unkempt beggar or thief with a patch over one eye and a decided limp. His cloak has taken on the appearance of an old winterblanket, moth-eaten and filthy from too many nights on the street. Any clues as to his armour and weaponry are concealed beneath the disguise. He coughs once, a wet sounding cough that sounds as if it comes deep from within his bronchial passages. [Diguise=29, Perform=28]

"I can also cast a simple spell that allows me to whisper what we may see to as many as four others, although it does not last but 40 minutes".

Wynn will accompany any who go into the Nightmare Quarter, although he will try to make it look as if he is on his own and not part of the group, perhaps he will be unnoticed as just another outcast of society. He will cast message on two of the scouts and two of any back-up party just before they split up.

Conner
Monday July 17th, 2006 11:14:05 PM
The fighter rises to his feet and crosses his massive arms. A smile of anticipation crosses his face. "Lots of nightwork to be had soldiering" he says. "Sounds like I'd be better off as part of the second wave, reinforcements if you like" he pats the hilt of his sword and reaches for the spiked shield that leans against the wall behind him.

"Can you use that sword you hid beneath yer cloak?" he asks Wynn.

Conner will accompany any scouting party to the edge of the Nightmare Quarter and then take up a ready position where he can provide immediate support to the scouts if required.

Arm
Tuesday July 18th, 2006 5:54:32 AM
After cotemplating the situation for a bit, Arm realizes that it is probably best if they wait until the morning to inquire with the investigators. Turning to Mira, he voices this and continues, "If you wish to hang back a bit and follow the lead group, that's fine with me.".

To the newcomers, he says, "Do you have a place to stay? Unfortunately our apartment is not large enough to accomodate all of you, but we can certainly take some of you in until you find more permanent lodgings.". After he says this, he wonders if Mira would be willing to share a room with him, but for some reason he is pensive about asking her at the present.

Angus
Tuesday July 18th, 2006 8:20:27 AM
The tall sorcerer stands and stretches. "Fighting some undead at night is not a healthy proposition, if that is what you think we will be facing during our scouting of the Nightmare quarter. We could not defeat the vampire Sarah at night, as she was too strong. If we wait until morning we can all prepare spells for the day and then also not split our forces. We can go see the investigators at the Mages Guild after breakfast and then check on the Nightmare Quarter after lunch. This way we all have the same information to work on, we do not know what the investigators have found that may be helpful in the Nightmare Quarter. Full sun is a good time to investigate the Nightmare Quarter, especially if we suspect vampires or their ilk. Mira What do you think?"

Angus finishes his wine and leaves some money for the bill and winks at the big bugbear "Thanks Lang" as some inside joke just transpired between them.

Angsu looks at Wynn "Excellent tactics my friend and you may want to link your message or I can use mine to like the two groups together, recon and support, just in case things get hot. Mira do you also have a message cantrip at your disposal, very handy you know."

Belkior
Tuesday July 18th, 2006 9:48:12 AM
The halfling cleric stands with the others, slowly stroking the fur on one leg with his fingers while he listens.

"If you're planning on scouting tonight, there should be some people ready to rescue them if need. Not that they'll probably need it but just to be careful, of course."

"Although it now sounds like we'll be doing this in the morning. In which case we should turn in and get a good sleep tonight to be prepared. In the morning, I can either go with the backup for the scouts or head to the Cathedral of Light. I do know several people there from when I attended seminary. The Gargulites ... well, I didn't associate with them much."

Sub needed - Does anyone want to take over Belkior for the next while?

[ I'll take Belkior, John. Last CS I have for him was dated: "Date Updated: May 11, 2006". Is that the latest? Do you have a Spell List for the day? -- Al ]

Thar ail Baerer
Tuesday July 18th, 2006 10:18:31 AM
The elven ranger/cleric waits in the apartment for a short while, as everyone gathers their equipment. He then says "Well, I'd like to be in the scouting group, as I want to get an idea of what we'll be facing. How will the scouting group let the 'reinforcements' know if we need help? I don't have any spells that could do that, but does anyone else?"

He then prepares to leave, once the scouting group exits.

Shadow
Tuesday July 18th, 2006 10:24:49 AM
Shadow was all for using the cover of night for his and Xenia's recon, but listening to the conversation of undead he pipes up, "I think you might be right in your guess that it would not be smart to think there are no undead involved if this tenemant is housing some of the cult. We should probably wait till morning to do a full recon, but I am willing to still go tonight if the group decides they can't wait." He looks around the two groups to see what everyone decides.

Mira
Tuesday July 18th, 2006 10:30:50 AM
Mira stands, and wraps her big cloak around her. When several of the party suggest waiting until morning because the night might favour their enemies' strengths, she stops.

Pulling on her lower lip, she thinks for a bit before answering. With an applologetic look at those who are making ready to go into action, she says, "Angus has a valid point. We should have our wits about us before checking out something so dangerous." The sorcerer's eyes follow the progress of the inebriated wizard, Edmund, as he makes his way through the tavern. "Famina and Xenia can crash in my room, and if you've got bedrolls and such, there's space in the common room...I think. A short rest for those who need it to be at their best. Those who don't need a lot of sleep, can work on strategy."

A sly smile plays across the woman's face, "we move out at sunrise!"

Xenia
Tuesday July 18th, 2006 12:09:24 PM
"I think it's worth a look see." Xenia pulls a shirt of flowing black enameled mithril links from her haversack along with a large square of black cloth. "The streets are different at night. Different people. Mostly people what don't ask questions and don't get into other folks' business 'cause they don't want other folks to get into theirs."

The dark rogue begins tying the square of cloth around her head in a bandana that hides her red hair.

"Remember when we went in earlier today? Everyone was staring at us. Just the plain folk who live there. That's 'cause we don't belong, and they know it. We go in like that in the morning with a group of ten or more and it's gonna be like coming in with an army. That's fine if that's what you want. Or if you're the City Guard. It's safe. But the stuff you're gonna find out is gonna be over by the time you find it out."

"I think Mira was right. If this Lady Ilonia girl is on the run, then it might be time's against us. If there are Undead, they're gonna be working in the dark, and that means they'll have a whole nights jump on you while you sleep."

"I say we do a soft recon. No contact. Fixed objectives. We go in. Find out if they got sentries, guards, or watchers. Find out if there are any undead guys. Map all entrances and exits."

"If it's all quiet, then could be the place is clean. Or, probs we're too late."

"We could use backup, a'cause there's always the chance of trouble. And it wouldn't be a bad thing to have everyone along. In case we come on something really big going down. With two Message relays, the main body of folks could follow over 500 feet behind pretty safely."

"Me and Shadow on point. Wynn following 130 feet behind in disguise. Angus and Syr 130 feet behind Wynn and the rest 180 feet behind Angus and Syr."

"I'm for having a look see now. Unless you need the sleep or there's something else you wanna do tonight."

"Um," she holds up the mithril shirt, "there any place I could change into this, Mira?"

Angus (Illegal second Post)
Tuesday July 18th, 2006 1:11:27 PM
Angus smiles at Xenia "I am always up for some excitement."

Angus then looks at Mira "As Xenia indicated we can do a layered approach, but I leave it up to you if we do a quick recon now and then more exact in the morning, as it is your city and you have discovered most of this evil. If we do go I suggest you stay with my group and we can add a few warriors in to, can never have enough warriors around, maybe Conner to balance out Syr." As Angus seems to take the measure of Conner, as he tries to mix the two groups.

Lang & Sunshine
Tuesday July 18th, 2006 1:41:26 PM
"Yes, Kadaz I can see in the dark. I would say my dark vision starts to fail at about 60 feet."

Sunshine's tail keeps wagging as he and the dog Birdie make acquaintances. Sunshine does not approach the other dog Sheyla, but stays near Lang.

OOC - There are 2 dogs in the PC group?

Lang listens to the plans that are starting to formulate. His interest in meeting with the investigators is minimal. His ears perk up when they start talking about doing a little recon. He frowns slightly and shakes his head when he is left off the front lines of the recon team.

"Xenia, I should be at the front of the recon group. Do not let my new form make you forget that I am quite adept at keeping out of people's views and people's ears. This new form also granted me darkvision so I can easily move around without having any light source. Also, I have the power to enhance my speed to move faster than most humanoids. And lastly, if things go bad I will be where I need to be."

Xenia (2nd Illegal Post)
Tuesday July 18th, 2006 2:28:17 PM
"Sounds good," Xenia calls out from the small space she's found in which to change. "Haven't seen you slink around since you changed into a bugbear, Lang. But you did a good job snipping when we took on the Hearts in that Courtyard on Trash Level."

"Be good to have your sense of smell there too. Think you could scent undead inside if we get outside one of the windows in that building?"

Xenia comes out dressed in black chain armor, rapier at her side. Her velvet party shirt she folds and slots into her haversack.

"I mean, it's not like we didn't get a good whiff of them back at the plantation, is it?"

Syr
Tuesday July 18th, 2006 2:45:44 PM
Syr runs a hand down his black ponytail, "Sounds like we have some work tonight. I'll go to wherever there is need boss. Paired with Conner is fine be me."

Lowering his voice so the barbarian can't hear, he mentions to Connor, "I could use a new partner. Famina's great but she's more of the grunt and nod type." Looking up at the large man the elf smiles modestly, "I know I don't have a sword like you but I think you'll be pleasantly suprised that I can take care of myself." He clenches his fists before him as tendons and veins pop up from his arms in response.

Wih a thoughtful look, he asks those assembled, "Hey, I know everyone wants to have input but it might be best to appoint a single tactician? I mean, we are all after the same thing, right? To make this work effectively it helps to make one decision. Just look at this situation, we have people going to the apartment, going on recon, hanging back, staying with the forward group. I just want a little bit of organization. On top of all that, we don't know what each is capable of. Me for example, don't let these good looks fool you." He smiles as he pokes fun at himself, "I tend to fight unarmed, unarmored and fast."

Famina
Tuesday July 18th, 2006 3:09:37 PM
"I suppose you're right, dawn it is." Famina is somewhat disappointed...what's the point of fighting undead if they can't fight back? Still, it's probably more effective. Going in at night to look around seems foolish, but fun. Still, she knows she'll not get in the group, what with her plain old human senses. She feels like pouting a bit, but decides it's better to just overlook it and puts away her beer. "Scouting might be good, but wouldn't it be worse at night? I mean, if the undead are out, they might feed on you. Wouldn't it be better to scout during the day? ..or better yet, scout at just before dawn, when the undead return to their crypts, and people have yet to awaken, and there's a good solid hour or so..." Famina shrugs. "In any case, I suppose I'll turn in early, to prepare for tomorrow. Thank you, Mira."

Thar ail Baerer
Tuesday July 18th, 2006 4:03:08 PM
Listening to the discussion re: the advance scouting group, Thar speaks up and says "I'd like to be with the advance party instead of sitting back. I dont have to necessarily be with Shadow and Xenia, but do want to be involved in the recon efforts vs. being part of a relief party. My ranger skills could come in handy."

Kadaz
Tuesday July 18th, 2006 4:25:08 PM
Kadaz listens to the strategy and hears some good ideas. "I haven't fought vampires before while you have, Xena. The idea of a scout tonight with an open attack in the morning makes sense. So I suggest you direct us for this night time scout. But I'm not sure we need 500' from front to the back of the group - that's a long way for reinforcements to come if they're needed. How about 3 groups each only about 150' apart. Will the message spell go that far? I'll be in the last group as I am probably the noisiest one here." He glances ruefully at his armor - no way to move quietly in this pile of metal.

He looks over at the bugbear. "Lang, keep Sunshine away from Sheyla. The wolf is not very friendly.

(OOC - I'm also looking for a subsutitute for Kadaz for next week. He's very easy to play - just pound anything in his way into the dust!)

Off Into the Dark (DM JohnP)
Tuesday July 18th, 2006 9:52:14 PM
Even before various options are discussed, Edmund decides that it's time to rest. Since he was making even less sense than usual, that's probably for the best.

After some hurried discussion, the others arrive at plan to scout the tenement. At least the outside to determine who or what might be guarding it. After some discussion, the group decides to split into three parties.

The first group - Lang, Shadow and Xenia - will approach the closest to the building. As Xenia suggested, they won't actually go in but will see (and smell) what they can. Lang's companion Sunshine may be convinced to stay with the others or accompany the ranger.

The second group - Conner, Syr, Thar and Wynn - will hang back farther but will keep the advance scouts in sight and range of the Message spells cast.

Then, at a greater distance, most of the others will try to stay out of sight. That group will contain Angus, Belkior, Famina and Kadaz. Birdie, of course, is with Kadaz.

Arm and Mira waver about staying or going out, but still have a chance to make that decision. From what they said, they'll probably go with the main group.

That still leaves the druid Ash who hasn't said anything. And, of course, the sleeping Edmund.

+++++

Those who decide to go out make their way through the darkened streets of Plateau City. Here in Trade Quarter, a large group of people would seem unusual unless they were heading home from a tavern or suchlike. As everyone moves east in loose groups, they manage to sort themselves out and try to be inconspicuous.

Once they enter the Rogue Quarter, it's a bit easier to blend in. Despite the hour, there are still groups of revellers and other less honest folk still out on the streets. Several of the taverns are still open and music flows from the open doors and windows. The streets get darker and rougher as they get closer to Nightmare Quarter. At this time of night, it's difficult to tell exactly where the dividing line is, particularly since many of the beggars are working the crowds in Rogue Quarter. The main group decides to linger on Skull Street which forms part of the boundary between the two quarters. There's enough traffic here that they're not too obvious.

Even in Nightmare Quarter, it's not too difficult to blend in. Or, rather, to be not noticed since few, if any, people wandering the streets of this Quarter at this time of night have wholly legitimate business in mind. Men and women of all races and descriptions linger on the street corners offering to sell various substances, services or themselves.

The second group decides to wait on the edges of Skull Market around the Temple of Marteaus. The advance scouts creep closer to the tenement.

DM Note - The above groups are only approximate. If your character is doing something else, describe and the groups will be adjusted.

Advance Scouts - Into Nightmare Quarter (DM JohnP)
Tuesday July 18th, 2006 10:13:36 PM
Lang, Shadow and Xenia only - Highlight to display spoiler: {The trio drift forward towards the tenement. As they move, they try to keep one another in sight without seeming to. The spell really helps since they can communicate by only whispering.

Crossing Skull Market at night is far different than during the day. There are vendors who set up stalls in the evening. Some, offering more legitimate goods, are beginning to close up their stalls and head home. Others offering illegal goods or services are only now displaying them for all to see. Added to that are the people drifting about, making whispered offers of even less reputable goods. Some offer to sell right there while others suggest visiting shops in the streets and alleys leading away from the market.

Finally, everyone is relatively close to the tenement. Unlike the day time, there aren't any people obviously loitering on the steps.

Please describe your approach, etc., making skill rolls as appropriate.}

Back-up Scouts (DM JohnP)
Tuesday July 18th, 2006 10:21:18 PM
Conner, Syr, Thar and Wynn only - Highlight to display spoiler: {The edge of Skull Market is decidedly bad. And over it all looms the Temple of Marteaus. For some reason, the temple is lit by magic fires than burn with bilious flames that cast everything in the market with a sickly green tinge. In this light, it is impossible to determine healthy from sick.

And the goods and services offered in this market are definitely less than legal. Even if the spellcasters doubt that much of it actually does anything, the goods are still illegal or, at least, repugnant.

It's already beginning to wear on the nerves, this silent waiting for word from the advance scouts. It would be even worse without the spells that allow communication.

Please indicate what you are doing, making skill rolls as needed, etc..}

Wynn [AC=21; HP=59] Message, Disguise d20+6=25
Tuesday July 18th, 2006 10:45:30 PM
Excited by the adventure ahead, the bard recites a poem he picked up along his travels. It certainly helps to calm his own nerves.

Deep at the end of Nightmare Street
Lies a heart without any beat
It rests inside a man so old
His veins run with blood that's icy cold

If you dare and seek him out to learn of his ways
You'll be forever sorry and always rue that day
For you'll be turned to cold grey stone
No longer a living person of flesh and bone

Down the road lies the Black Cathedral, Shrine to Lord Marteus
For the great pandemic he surely dost prepare us
Domi's greatest enemy, he cleaved his heart in two
Made the Wold a dangerous place for the likes of me and you

Filth and disease are his calling card
Those he touches are forever scarred
Their minds are tormented and their bodies wracked with pain
If they don't die early they will surely go insane

Right in the middle is a barren space
Despite the prayers and wishes it remains an unholy place
Permanently in ruin and forever cursed this way
The Scar's a place of legend where monsters yet hold sway

Still, the Nightmare Quarter isn't really oh so bad
If you are a wizard that's gone decidedly mad
Lots of poor downtrodden to turn into undead
Their eyes on fire glowing bright bloody red
Yes the Nightmare Quarter is the place of dreams
Wakes you up in cold sweat just to hear your screams

At the appropriate time he casts message on Xenia, Shadow, Conner, Syr and Angus. He also offers to cast disguise on one other member of either the scouting party or his own team in close support "It will let you blend right in" he offers.

Once they actually enter the Nightmare Quarter, Wynn, disguised as one of the downtrodden denizens of the quarter makes his way from one refuse bin to the next, trying to remain inconspicuous. "Let me know what you see" he murmers to Xenia and Shadow from a safe distance. "Angus, Conner,Syr, can you hear me?"

Wynn maintains a watchful eye on those around him as he awaits word from the advanced scouts [Spot=25]

OOC: Message lasts for 50 minutes

Conner [AC=22; HP=62]Message d20+4=16
Tuesday July 18th, 2006 10:48:40 PM
Conner saunters casually down the streets of the Rogue Quarter and finally into the Nightmare Quarter. He accepts the message spell from Wynn but declines the disguise. "I think I fit in pretty well here" he rubs his mohawk and taps his temple near the large ornate tattoo.

Once in the skull market he loiters about and tries to keep alert for any danger whilst listening to any whispered messages. [Spot=16]

"I can hear you fine" he whispers back to Wynn.

Xenia (AC22, HP 48/48) d20+19=30 d20+14=27 d20+16=31 d20+16=20
Tuesday July 18th, 2006 11:27:08 PM
"We're outside the tenement, Wynn." Xenia walks tall and casual through the darkness that fronts each building. What she can't cloak in the shadows, she hides with the heedless walk of a native with no more to hide than anybody else. The eyesight of her elven heritage drinks in the slightest bit of light and paints the dark like daylight for 120 feet in all directions.

"Shadow, Lang, I'll stand off and watch the roof and the windows from across the street. Why don't you move in and work your way around the building. I'll warn you of anything your coming up on. Or of anything that's coming up on you."

"How far off are the others, Wynn? Just in case this all breaks down? Looks quiet for now. But you never can tell. I'll feed you a running report."

Rolls and Actions
Spot 30
Listen 27
Hide 31
Move Silently 20

Active Effects
Message (Duration 50 minutes)

Mira
Wednesday July 19th, 2006 12:21:12 AM
The sorcerer blows a little air through pursed lips, which causes a loose whisp of her hair to rise up, then return to the same place. Impatiently she brushes the stray strand out of the way. "Look," she says, "if it was up to me, I'd just as soon fireball the place and leave it at that!"

There is an exasperated look on the sorcerer's face, "I'll come, but I'll need to get at least a little sleep before the night is out." The woman looks briefly at her newest aquisition, worn on the middle finger of her right hand, then she looks at Arm. "How about you?" she asks, adding, "should we fetch Edmund, and see if we can sober him up?"

(OOC: Mira will swing by the apartment to see if Edmund can be helped, before joining up with the others...those at the very back.)

Edmund
Wednesday July 19th, 2006 2:01:07 AM
When and if awakened, Edmund will protest rather violently, but more or less nonsensically--"Not in the mustard pot!" before he realises what is going on.

"Time to move out already? Good heavens, you people don't waste any time. Whatever happened to rest and relaxation? I mean, really! I don't expect there's time to have bath first, is there? I should at least like some time to arrange my thoughts, read over my spell book, and that."

If given such time, Edmund will use it to study his spellbook and memorise his spells for the day. He doesn't appear to be at all inebriated any more, but this is almost certainly because he had very little to drink.

"You do know," he says rather miserably, "That the moon is almost certainly <i>not</i> in Orion, and consequently, the destruction of any vampires encountered will be most difficult. Once they curl up into their hats, they will deploy their whatsits, and there'll be nothing we can do about it!"

If this doesn't make much sense, what comes next is possibly even worse, all said with the straightest face whilst he manages his morning preparations.

"My brother and I used to go out of an evening to step on the little blighters, but they'd always pull up into their hats. It wasn't until much later that we were told the trick about the moon. Sure enough, they didn't have their hats on then. They take them off to charge the follicles. Keeps their hair lustrous. Clever little people. But vicious. Terribly vicious."

It should now be fairly self-evident that Edmund is not talking about the same kind of 'vampires' as the rest of the party. Either that, or he is lying outright.

Once prepared, he nods decisively to Mira. "All right, I'm ready. I hope we'll all come back from this mess alive. I expect the Evil Elf Sorceress Queen will have more up her sleeves than a few paltry vampires."

Kadaz (AC 24, HP 63/63) & Birdie (AC 17, HP 7/7) d20+1=6
Wednesday July 19th, 2006 5:45:18 AM
At the back of the group Kadaz tries, not very well, to keep an eye on what is going on around him. At least he can see in the dark and doesn't depend on the irregular lighting. (spot 6)

Even though he understands the reason for the party division it rankles that he's not in the front. Tomorrow morning it will be his turn to kick down some doors.

Arm
Wednesday July 19th, 2006 8:51:37 AM
Turning to Angus, Arm says, "Even if Mira does not have the 'message' cantrip, I do, so we'll be fine.".

Clearly seeing Mira's consternation, he attempts to calm her down, "It won't take very long, my dear, and I confess that I am a bit curious as to what we'll be getting into. If you get too tired, I'll gladly return home with you.".

Angus - message
Wednesday July 19th, 2006 9:17:52 AM
Angus casts message also and uses it to keep Mira, Arm and Syr to keep the group connected and up to date on information.

Through the message spell Angus talks to Mira and Arm "Take you time and get Edmund it you can. Then work your way back toward our group. No rush and do not draw attention to yourself."

Through the message spell to Syr "Hi quick one. I trust you are ready to run in either direction."

When Angus heres Arm's grumbling he comments through the message spell "You should see me in the morning if I do not get my eight hours of sleep."

Active spells:

Message

Shadow d20+4=21 d20+10=29 d20+10=16 d20+4=16 d20+4=17
Wednesday July 19th, 2006 10:40:16 AM
When Wynn offers a disguise Shadow asks, "Could that be used on our big friend here?" Shadow indicates Lang. "It would help us to be more incospicous when we actually get to the building."

When Xenia suggests that she stay and watch the front of the building, Shadow nods. He then grabs Lang's arm and pulls him a little ways away from Xenia and says too loudly, "Oh, I thinksss I ammm gonna be sick. Come on and keep meee from dropping in me own vomit." He pulls Lang to the side of the building wobbling like he is way too drunk. Once on the side of the building he will bend over like he is emptying his stomache and will look between his legs his legs to see if anyone is watching. He will remain this way until he is sure there is no one watching. He will then move off around the building to see what info they can gather.

Rolls for actions:
Perform = 21
Move Silently = 29
Hide = 16
Listen = 16
Spot = 17

Syr d20+9=23 d20+9=29 d20+4=20 d20+8=21
Wednesday July 19th, 2006 12:26:42 PM
Nodding to the message in his head from Angus he whispers back, "Don't take this the wrong way but I could go either way."

He points once at Wynn to acknowledge that he hears and then moves slightly away from the group, blending into the dark walls on the street. Looking for any spotters from above and behind he waits there to hear from the front party.

Hide in Shadows 23, Move Silently 29 Listen 20, Spot 21

Lang (AC 24; HP 92/92) & Sunshine (AC 22; HP 47/47) d20+14=23 d20+17=25 d20+15=26 d20+6=7 d20+6=17
Wednesday July 19th, 2006 2:00:44 PM
Lang nods in agreement as the groups are decided. He moves towards Angus with Sunshine at his side. Lang looks down at Sunshine and says, "Defend", giving the order for Sunshine to defend Angus (animal handling 23).

Lang moves off with Shadow and Xenia. As is his custom when in a city and expecting violence, Lang retrieves his quarterstaff from his quiver and uses it as a walking stick. He stays behind Shadow and Xenia to give them a clear view as they move towards their destination. Lang hears Xenia's order and he follows Shadow's quick plan of deception, and adds his own part.

"Yes, my friend let's move over here so you do not make a mess on the street. Ugh, not on my feet again."

Lang gets a little distracted to notice much behind him, but keeps an ear out for Xenia or other noise.

Move Silently 25
Hide 26
Spot 7
Listen 17

Sunshine remains next to Angus, ready to defend him if needed.

Thar ail Baerer d20+8=25 d20+8=25 d20+10=21
Wednesday July 19th, 2006 6:55:01 PM
Noticing that he didn't have "Message" initially cast on him, Thar asks Wynn (before he finishes the casting, etc.) to add him to the distribution.

As the 2nd group continues moving, Thar will attempt to silently move towards the edges and dark areas of the street, blending in to the best of his ability and moving silently. He'll also watch for anyone that could be acting as lookouts or early warning scouts.

He'll go to the opposite side of the street from the dark elf.

MS - 25
Hide - 25
Spot - 21

Belkior/Sub Al (AC20, HP40/40)
Wednesday July 19th, 2006 9:28:10 PM
Belkior walks on cat feet along side Angus, Famina and Kadaz. That is not to say that the halfling was quiet as a cat. But surely there must be some advantage if you're going to have the legs of a cat.

When he had been in Plateau City before he had rarely gone out at night, and certainly not to these Quarters. Now, here at last, he looks around with a dubious eye.

"Angus, do you think ... " He shakes his head. " ... Well, if there are going to be undead ... " Belkior sighs. "I suppose we'll just have to wait for a sign from the others." Belkior looks up at the evil facade of the Temple of Marteaus, his face is a mask of trepidation.

Advance Scouts - Around the Tenement (DM JohnP)
Wednesday July 19th, 2006 10:29:41 PM
Lang, Shadow and Xenia only - Highlight to display spoiler: {The three scouts get closer to the tenement, trying to determine who (or what) is standing guard.

Xenia stands back across the street and looks over the building. She doesn't see much at this time of light. There are some faint lights inside some of the apartments, probably just candles or the like. Nobody is standing watch on the steps of the tenement.

Shadow concocts a ruse that he executes with Lang's assistance. He seems quite convincing as a drunken reveler who had too much to drink. With the bugbear's assistance, he mvoes closer and eventually circles the building. The sides of the tenement are close to the neighbours and the night sky is nearly blotted out. There is an alley behind the tenement that looks to be where most of the refuse is deposited, not all of it in the bins provided. There is also a rear door that isn't secured, moving slightly in the breeze.

None of the three are close enough to hear very much. If there ever really any watchers on the tenement, they're doing something else now.}

Back-up Scouts - Hanging About (DM JohnP)
Wednesday July 19th, 2006 10:36:44 PM
Conner, Syr, Thar and Wynn only - Highlight to display spoiler: {These four are mainly occupied with relaying messages between the advance scouts and the others. So far there hasn't been any screams for help or, for that matter, ominous silences.

Loitering about Skull Market, the four are able to observe some of the other people who are there. One person who catches their eyes is a tall person - they're not really sure what race because of the full plate armor they are wearing - who is striding towards the Temple of Marteaus. It's the way that the crowd parts for this person that is striking, that and the swirl of the crimson red cloak that hangs from their shoulders.}

Everyone Else - Hanging on Skull Street (DM JohnP)
Wednesday July 19th, 2006 10:44:07 PM
The others loiter about on Skull Street, waiting for word from the scouts. As they wait, Mira appears with the new wizard in tow. Edmund is still muttering about vampires in hats and Belkior is beginning to wonder if he needs to examine Edmund's head for injuries. Of course, nighttime on Skull Street means that nobody looks twice at a raving drunkard being supported by a slight woman.

Those trying to hide are both hindered and aided by Belkior's presence. The Paragon emits a slight glow here that draws the attention of people passing by. While most simply stare at the halfling with the wweird legs, he also draws a crowd of people seeking healing or other attention.

In comparison, Kadaz and Famina pass nearly unnoticed. And, as far as the casual eye can tell, Angus is simply a mage shopping for spell components. Arm hangs back in the shadows and waits for things to happen.

The druid, Ash, must have decided to stay back in the apartments.

Xenia (AC22, HP 48/48) d20+19=35 d20+14=28 d20+16=35 d20+16=34
Wednesday July 19th, 2006 11:32:41 PM
"Nothing so far, Wynn." The dark rogue moves down the street parallel to Shadow and Lang as they make their way toward the side of the tenement. "A few small lights in some of the windows. No one on the roof that I can see. No watchers on the front steps. Lang and Shadow are headed around back. I think they said something about an open back door."

"Lang, Shadow, looks tight in there. We go in, we can be boxed real easy. Lang, why don't you check out the back alley. You're probs the only one who can really see back there anyway. Shadow, watch Lang from the rear corner. I'll watch your back from the front corner."

Xenia crosses the road, quick and silent. Her slim dark form merges with the corner of the building. The elfish girl's green eyes drink in the street at night. Her rogue's instinct itches to take this inside. But the discipline of her training keep her at her post.

"What do you see, Lang?"

Rolls and Actions
Spot 35
Listen 28
Hide 35
Move Silently 34

Active Effects
Message (Duration 50 minutes)

Mira d20+2=13
Wednesday July 19th, 2006 11:58:40 PM
"Snap out of it, Edmund!" says the green eyed woman with the dark hair, as she grasps the wizard's shoulders and gives him a shake. "If you don't stop talking, I'll...I'll use my magic."

Mira isn't sure what spell to cast, seeing as she doesn't have Silence. She does have some rather nasty scrolls, in her scroll case though.

After a quick look around (Spot=13), the sorcerer looks past Edmund, and over to Arm. "What's going on? What are they telling you?"

Kadaz (AC 24, HP 63/63) & Birdie (AC 17, HP 7/7)
Thursday July 20th, 2006 6:27:26 AM
Kadaz looks at Edmund and in suport of Mira shakes his axe at the nattering wizard.

(OOC: still looking for a sub for next week. Without one Kadaz is going silent.)

Arm
Thursday July 20th, 2006 8:41:56 AM
Retrieving his hat from a pocket, Arm affixes it to his head and attempts to help Mira with Edmund, "I don't have a silence spell, but I DO have charm person. Do you understand, little one? Cease and desist before you ruin it for us all and force me to do something that I'd really rather not.".

To Mira, he says, "As of this moment, they're still planning on how to enter the tenament.".

Famina
Thursday July 20th, 2006 8:58:27 AM
(I'll take over your character if you want for a week... send it over to mikey_powell@hotmail.com)
Famina doesn't try to look out of place...she knwos that in trying, often one will draw too much notice. Instead, she just casually waits, leaning against a wall, watching nothing in particular. Though she does occasionally glance at a woman selling herself, with great distaste. If any guy event hinks about approaching her asking for a good time, she glares angrily at him, and reaches for her weapon slightly...

Lang (AC 24; HP 92/92; Sunshine 22; HP 47/47) d20+6=20 d20+17=22 d20+15=33 d20+6=25 d20+6=25
Thursday July 20th, 2006 9:41:18 AM
Lang hears Xenia's instructions to continue the reconnaissance of the building. Lang quickly looks around to see if they have aroused anyone's attention by being on this street and near this building.

Spot 20

Satisfied that the area is clear of observers, or at least anyone that is interested in what the three of them are doing, Lang creeps forward down the alleyway.

"Watch my back Shadow", Lang whispers to his new companion.

Lang stealthily slinks down the alleyway. With Shadow at his back they make there way towards the partially open door. Stopping near it he goes still and listens intently for any noise inside the doorway. Without opening the door anymore than it is, Lang peers inside while remaining hidden and quiet.

Move Silent 22
Hide 33
Spot 25
Listen 25

Sunshine nuzzles Angus's hand as he waits for his master to return.

Belkior/Sub Al (AC20, HP40/40) d20+4=23
Thursday July 20th, 2006 12:19:18 PM
" ... er, no. I don't come here often ... "

" ... the Temple of Light has wonderful facilities for that ... "

" ... yes, well cleaning can be a bit of a problem ... "

Belkior feels like doing nothing more than hiding in and amongst the forest of his companions' long legs. But the Paragon of Alemi hold his own amongst the curious and the seekers. He smiles and nods and the right things to say just seem to come to him. Even amidst the swirling crowd of Big People. (Diplomacy 23)

Thar ail Baerer d20+4=19
Thursday July 20th, 2006 3:16:55 PM
Thar tries to remember what sort of person would be wearing a red cloak and going to the temple of Marteaus. It could be a paladin or some other clerical figure, but this is an odd place for such a person to be around, especially traveling in such a bad part of town.

He continues skulking in the darkness, watching for anything suspicous to happen and
hopes that the Advance party is having success.

Knowledge (Religion) = 19

(OOC - John, do you need Spot/MS/Hide checks each round for the Second scout party or just when we move to new areas?)

Wynn [AC=21; HP=59] Message, Disguise d20+9=17
Thursday July 20th, 2006 3:30:06 PM
Wynn continues to play the part of a beggar and keeps tabs on the progress of the advance scouts through Xenia's running commentary.

"Angus, Syr, nothing to report so far. Lights on in the tenement but no movement, and there aren't any guards to report. Shadow and Lang are checking out an open back door." Wynn whispers back to the rear guard. "Almost forgot, Belkior seems to be drawing a crowd. He's glowing faintly and the locals seem to know he is a healer. Must be something to do with the strange lights here".

Wynn observes the cloaked figure striding towards the temple. Obviously a person of power in his armour and cloak. He tries to remember what else he has heard about the Black Cathedral, its worshippers and clergy, and the general area of the Nightmare Quarter and it's strange lighting. [Bardic Knowledge=17]

[OOC Wynn could only cast message on 5 persons so he chose two of the advance scouts, one middle scout, and two of the rear guard - none left over for Thar - Sorry!]

Conner [AC=22; HP=62]Message d20+4=17
Thursday July 20th, 2006 3:36:23 PM
Conner listens to the group's progress but says nothing. His unease with the surroundings only grow as he observes the cloaked figure head for the Temple of Marteus. He keeps a sharp eye out for anything else untoward [Spot=17]

Edmund
Thursday July 20th, 2006 3:58:56 PM
Shocked by the threats, less so by threats of charm person, more so by threats of a giant axe, Edmund is reduced to a meek silence preceded only by the words, "I say!"

Briefly flirting with the idea of casting a silent, motionless Charm Person spell on Arm, he decides against the idea as it would almost certainly jeopardise him, as well as everyone else. Looking around, he sees they are all involved in some great plan of which he is not entirely aware. Left out of the message loop, having not been told to prepare a message spell of his own, he feels even more isolated.

Unable to talk, unsure of what to do, and having no idea what is going on, he wonders at what steps he might need to take to facilitate a swift 'tactical withdrawal'. Considering what would happen if twelve heavily-armoured sorcerer-warriors came bounding towards them, he realises his spells aren't much use by themselves. One doesn't defeat groups of enemies with web and glitterdust.

Reaching down to touch the dagger at his waist, he also is comforted a little by the weight of the light-crossbow on his back. This comfort is small indeed. Knowing he would probably succeed only in making his would-be-killers angrier by shooting at them, he continues to look about for possible routes of escape, becoming more and more nervous and frightened, not at all aided by being prevented speaking.

Finding no way of sneaking off without alerting the entire party, and discovering he likes adventures far less than he originally expected, he contents himself with staring at the ground rather sullenly. "At least I shall cast a web spell on the whole mess when they come for us, and maybe that will give me time to get away," he thinks to himself. He doubts it though, being as he doesn't much know the way back to Sampson's for starts.

He doesn't give any other outward signs of his feelings rather than a miserable frown and dim eyes which lack any of their usual excitable glint.

Sighing quietly, he is forced to come to the mental conclusion, "Such is the adventuring life, what."

Ash
Thursday July 20th, 2006 5:00:16 PM
Ash, having decided to watch out for the inebriated Edmund, decides to hold back and watch what happened.

(OOC sorry John, been a very bad week :( )

Angus - Message d20+3=13
Thursday July 20th, 2006 7:17:07 PM
Angus draws back a bit and looks down on Belkior "Uh, Belkior, why are you starting to glow? Do Alemi and Marteus have problems with one another?"

Angus will attempt to shield Belkior from view with his body.

Spot 13

Angus scans the crowd, hoping that Belkior does not draw a big crowd, but if he does, hopfully it is a big one so that it will serve as a diversion to help the scouts.

Syr
Thursday July 20th, 2006 9:33:48 PM
Syr nods slightly out of reflex as he receives Wynn's status report. Other than that the elf is prepared to sprint towards the reinforcements behind him.

The Advance Scouts - Peeking Inside (DM JohnP)
Thursday July 20th, 2006 9:56:33 PM
Lang, Shadow and Xenia only - Highlight to display spoiler: {Xenia checks over her shoulders, looking for any hidden watchers. But nothing stirs, and she is simply a slightly deeper patch of darkness on this poorly lit street. She whispers to Lang, asking what he sees in the alley.

Lang creeps closer to the back door, trying his utmost to remain hidden. When he gets closer to the unlatched door the ranger's ears detect a low, sonorous chanting coming from inside. When Lang peers inside, his dark-adapted eyes show him a small landing and stairs leading up and down. After concentrating on the noise, Lang thinks that it comes from the basement.

Shadow trails behind Lang in the alley.}

The Back-Up Scouts - Mysterious Stranger (DM JohnP)
Thursday July 20th, 2006 10:12:57 PM
Conner, Syr, Thar and Wynn only - Highlight to display spoiler: {Each of the four loitering in Skull Market noted the person walking towards the Temple of Marteaus. The cloaked figure is upon the steps of the Temple before something connects for Conner and Thar. That red cloak ... it was very similar to those worn by the cultists they fought in the basement of Lady Ilonia's mansion.

Wynn can't recall anything of significance about it, however.

Meanwhile, they continue to relay messages between the advance scouts and the others. It's not too difficult to remain hidden here in the market but it might be if they decided to move. As planned, the four are about 150' from the mansion.

DM Note - Move Silent and Hide only when moving, Spot if you think you might want to notice something.

}

Everyone Else - Still Loitering on Skull Street (DM JohnP)
Thursday July 20th, 2006 10:24:38 PM
Mira and Arm finally manage to quell Edmund but the wizard is none to happy about it. Somehow, in all those stories, there was nothing about standing around and waiting. Or having to be quiet when standing around and waiting.

Meanwhile, Mira asks Arm to share what the scouts are reporting. Provided that the old saying "no news is good news" is correct, everything is going well.

Famina tries to stare down some of the passersby who pay too much attention. That scares most of them off but a loud, very drunk man does approach and inquires loudly as he gestures vaguely towards himself. "Wha' chew lookin' at? Ya lookin' for summa this?"

Angus stands near Belkior, wondering why the mutant halfling is drawing so much attention. The Paragon looks over and shrugs as he talks to the people.

And Ash finally shows up with Shelya in his wake.

Right now, everyone is about 300 feet from the tenement. There isn't any real need yet to hide or sneak but there might be if they wanted to move closer to the tenement.

Arm d20+4=6 d20+9=26
Friday July 21st, 2006 6:07:34 AM
Grateful that Edmund has finally come to his senses, as they were anyway, Arm reports again to Mira the preparations, then scans the area for trouble (spot=6, listen=26).

Famina
Friday July 21st, 2006 7:41:33 AM
Stupid old man! Famina curses her luck, as the fool brushes closer, and her hand itches for her sword. Still, that wouldn't be nice..he's just drunk, not fully in control of himself. She might be ruining the others chances, though...
So, she does the only thing she thinks she can do, without risking the others. Slouching her shoulders, she quickly walks back down the street and heads into the closest alley, vanishing from view. (That is, heading away from the temple)
Once out of view, she moves to the side, wondering if the drunk will pursue her. If he does, when he gets to the alley, she'll be able to at least deal with him out of the temple's view.
Still, this means she's not entirely aware of what might be going on back in the temple area.

Shadow (AC 21/18 HP 28/28) d20+4=18 d20+4=23 d20+10=25
Friday July 21st, 2006 9:48:15 AM
Shadow will continue to watch both directions (the alleyway with Lang and down the narrows between the buildings towards Xenia). He will take out one of his daggers and palm ready to throw in case of any situation that might arise. He tries to blend into the very dark area around him.

Actions:
Spot=18
Listen=23
Hide=25

Xenia (AC22, HP 48/48) d20+19=33 d20+14=25 d20+16=34 d20+16=31
Friday July 21st, 2006 9:53:07 AM

Chanting? Did he say, 'Chanting'?

"Lang, Shadow. Chanting sounds like cultists to me. I'm gonna relay the main group with a request to move on this place. Hold put for now. But be ready to receive reinforcements and move in. If we get a go, we'll finish the circuit of the Tenement and identify all exits before they arrive. Don't want to let anyone escape."

"You guys see anything wrong with that?"

"Wynn, Lang hears chanting coming from the basement. Tell, um, .... " Who runs things on their side? The dark rogue draws a blank. " ... Mira. Tell Mira we got chanting here, and ask her if she wants to surround the place and take it."

From the corner of the building, Xenia looks up the street and then down. Then she casts a glace at the rooftop, eying the distance from one roof to the other and searching for possible escape routes.

Rolls and Actions
Spot 33
Listen 25
Hide 34
Move Silently 31

Active Effects
Message (Duration 50 minutes)

Thar ail Baerer d20+10=28
Friday July 21st, 2006 11:05:59 AM
Finally realizing what the red cloak (on the large man heading to the temple) could represent, Thar relays that it is similar to what he had seen cultists wear in Lady Ilonia's house.

He will continue to watch the man in the cloak and see if anything further erupts.

Spot = 28

"We may have found something that is pretty key to our plans and I agree with Xenia, as this may be the break we've been waiting for. We've got a pretty strong group and if we're going to start a fight, now's the optimum time."

(Wynn, thanks for the info on message. No harm, no foul ;-) )

Kadaz (AC 24, HP 63/63) & Birdie (AC 17, HP 7/7) d20+1=4
Friday July 21st, 2006 4:28:39 PM
All is quiet in the party at the rear. Kadaz assumes guard position - back to a wall, axe head resting on the ground but haft in hand. He keeps an eye on those walking by has he waits patiently. For whatever reason he is distracted and notices nothing beyond his immediate group. (spot 4)

Birdie also knows what to do in these situations. He shuffles around a bit to smooth the ground and curls up for a nap.

Belkior/Sub Al (AC20, HP40/40)
Friday July 21st, 2006 4:47:54 PM
"Well ... " Belkior tries to smile at a passing human, boils covering the side of his face. " ... I've always glowed with health, Angus," the halfling replies. "It's part of being a Paragon of Alemi. But ... "

"No. No cat under here. You eat ... Oh my." The halfling draws back a bit toward his friends.

" ... But I suppose being here outside the Temple of Marteaus, amid all of this sickness and disease, makes my Aura of Health that much more apparent."

"Any word from Xenia and Lang? Have they spotted any Undead? I have a spell that can confirm the presence of Undead prepared and ready."

Angus - Mage Armor & Message
Friday July 21st, 2006 5:00:30 PM
Angus steers clear of the wandering man and takes Belkior's explaination in stride "Well good for you. Lets saunter forward and see what we can see and give Mira and her tardy friends time to catch up."

Angus moves with Sunshine toward Wynn's group. With the message spell he relays to Syr "We are closing the distance. Keep us up to date."

Angus calls on his group of companions "Lets keep up and close ranks on Belkior so he does not draw too much attention."

Angus casts mage armor on himself.

Edmund
Friday July 21st, 2006 9:31:04 PM
Still behaving rather sulkily, Edmund continues to stare determinedly at the ground, not knowing what on earth he could possibly be good for at the moment. He considers, at turns, readying his crossbow, preparing himself the casting of Web, and hiding under the nearest dungcart, but gives them all up as being likely to provoke danger. This places doesn't look like the sort of neighbourhood where people would take kindly to mages brandishing crossbows.

After several minutes of this, Edmund notices his own feet, and with some amount of surprise and shock declares quietly to himself, "Good heavens! My boots are muddy... or is that mud?"

Sighing dejectedly, and with more than the usual pathos, he does his best to wipe the indeterminate muck off his shoes on some nearby straw. The success of this venture is marginal at best. Feeling more stifled and frustrated than ever, he returns to staring at the ground.

Already he has decided that he would very much like for this particular adventure to be over. He thinks to himself ruefully, "Whatever happened to slaying dragons, rescuing fair damosels in distress, and all that? There are no dragons or damosels here. Just mud--at least I hope it is mud--and dark alleys!"

Edmund does his best not to sigh again.

Lang (AC 24; HP 92/92; Sunshine AC 22; HP 47/47) d20+6=10 d20+6=20 d20+17=20 d20+15=34
Friday July 21st, 2006 9:35:45 PM
Lang looks back towards Xenia and makes a hand gesture and a sharp nod of his head to show that he understood the directions she gave. He also gives a quick glance towards Shadow to see if he has any information to give out.

Lang quietly stows his quarterstaff and withdraws his two shortswords, all the while listening to the chanting in case it stops or changes.

Spot 10
Listen 20
Move Silent 20
Hide 34

Wynn [AC=21; HP=59] Message, Disguise
Friday July 21st, 2006 9:59:54 PM
Wynn relays Xenia's message back to Angus and the others. "The advance scouts have heard chanting from inside the tenement. Xenia suggests we move in and take them by surrounding the building. If we do, keep your eyes open for sewer outlets, the cultists seem familiar with them and may escape through them again!

Conner [AC=22; HP=62]Message d20+1=9 d20+2=15
Friday July 21st, 2006 10:04:06 PM
"I vote we take them now" the fighter whispers to the others. He starts slowly moving towards the tenement in case his support is needed. He tries to stay in the shadows as much as possible without overtly looking like he is hiding. [Hide=9, Move silently=15]

Syr
Friday July 21st, 2006 10:07:23 PM
Dropping his voice to a whisper, he tells the group he is with, "The cavalry is coming in. I haven't heard anything from up front yet."

To Angus, he 'whispers' "Wait until Wynn chimes in with a report from the front." At just that opportune moment, Wynn updates Angus. "How about we assemble the troops here while the advance team decides where we need to allocate people."

Mira
Saturday July 22nd, 2006 11:48:11 PM
"What are they saying?" whispers Mira, excitedly. "If we are to move forward, I can make some invisible for a little while." Turning to the sulky wizard, she asks, "what about you, Edmund. Surely you have something up your sleeve?"

The Advance Scouts - Whispered Messages (DM JohnP)
Sunday July 23rd, 2006 9:30:57 PM
Lang, Shadow and Xenia only - Highlight to display spoiler: {Shadow keeps watching Lang as the bigbear listens outside the back door of the tenement. He manages to find a very comfortable, if smelly, spot to hide beside a large bin of refuse. Meanwhile, Lang hears the whispered communication from the red-haired rogue and prepares for action.

As he crouches there, Lang continues to hear the chanting. He is now certain that it is coming from the basement. Glancing inside, he can see through the shadows to see both the stairs to the basement and up to the first floor. He doesn't see any other exits here in the alley.

Xenia whispers a message back to Wynn and looks around the front of the tenement. Besides the front door, she doesn't see any other doors. But the first floor windows are low enough that a person could drop from them without too much difficulty.

Then the messages start coming back. The others are starting to close in so they can close in quickly, if needed. And it's not long before Xenia sees the tattooed fighter ... Conner, that's it ... quietly walking through the shadows.}

The Back-Up Scouts (DM JohnP)
Sunday July 23rd, 2006 9:38:02 PM
Conner, Syr, Thar and Wynn only - Highlight to display spoiler: {The messages go back and forth. Reports from the tenement and the main group. Soon they'll all have company.

Thar keeps an eye on the figure wearing the red cloak and sees them enter the Temple of Marteaus. Whatever happens, the group probably shouldn't try going in there after the presumed cultist.

Wynn and Syr are involved in passing messages back and forth but Conner gets tired of waiting. The tattooed fighter starts moving forward. He doesn't have the skills of the others, though, so while he is quiet he doesn't do much more than stay on the shadowed side of the street.

After a short while, the three see their companions approaching from Skull Street.}

Everyone Else - Getting Moving (DM JohnP)
Sunday July 23rd, 2006 9:55:49 PM
The messages get passed back and forth and Angus tells everyone to move ahead to Skull Market. And to try to close up around Belkior, hoping that the Paragon will attract less attention.

Arm and Mira prepare to move forward. Mira offers to make someone invisible and inquires if Edmund could do the same. No one accepts her offer yet which is probably a good thing since it's difficult to tell how the people here would deal with open spellcasting.

The new wizard, Edmund, is lost in his private misery while he waits. Then the message to move forward is given. He now knows that he has to watch where he places his feet in these streets.

Belkior wonders if any undead have been seen, indicating that he has some detection magics available. He accepts Angus' statement with a shrug.

Birdie has barely settled himself before Kadaz starts moving forward. With a big sigh, the dog heaves himself to his feet and follows the sorcerer and the others. When Famina moves off briefly the drunk man makes a feeble wave and her and wanders off into the centre of the market. The barbarian sees that the others are moving off and follows along. As does Ash, even though the druid has again lapsed into silence.

Clustered around Belkior, the group moves along Skull Street and into the market. They can see more of the stalls and other vendors moving about. Things look to be quieting down but it's still enough that their group doesn't stand out. Too much, anyway.

After a short while, they catch sight of Syr, Thar, and Wynn. There's time and opportunity for a hurried conference and planning.

Ash
Sunday July 23rd, 2006 10:18:07 PM
Ash and Shelya follow the others, listening to hear what the plan is. Ash grips his staff tightly, knowing that with the others around, violence is likely. Shelya just sniffs the area.

Xenia (AC22, HP 48/48) d20+19=35 d20+14=25 d20+5=17
Sunday July 23rd, 2006 10:30:45 PM

"I see the guy Conner coming down the street. We got reinforcements, guys."

"You say the Stairs go up and down, Lang? I'm going to pop in the Ground floor and make sure those are the only stairs they got. If that's the case, we can block all exit from the Basement except for any secret escapes that they might have underground."

"Shadow, why don't you link up with Lang and see how far the stairs go down and whether they've posted any guards in the stairwell. I'll place Conner at the front door. Don't get seen. WE don't want to spook them before we're in place."

Xenia watches the street before stepping out of the shadows and sauntering toward the front door.

"I got Lang and Shadow checking out the stairwell, Wynn. I'm going to check the basic plan of the Ground floor. Make sure we have them boxed in. I'll post Conner at the front door."

As the tattooed fighter approaches up the street, Xenia extends skinny arm and beckons as though calling a customer to the sweet delights under her cloak.

"If I get the layout of this building right, Wynn, we'll have to all move quickly down the single stairwell in a hurry. It's a bottleneck, but if we got surprise on your side, and if we all hurry, we can be on them before they know it. We'll need heavy armors in front, though."

Rolls and Actions
Spot 35
Listen 25
Disguise 17 (To Act in Character)

Active Effects
Message (Duration 50 minutes)

Edmund
Monday July 24th, 2006 2:28:19 AM
Edmund looks over to Mira and shrugs plaintively. "I don't know how to cast Invisibility, I'm afr--"

He pauses for a moment, thinking.

"Well, I do have those two scrolls you gave me, actually. I could cast Invisibility with them. They are one-use only, however."

"As for having something up my sleeve, I have lots of things up my sleeve--but probably not very useful things. Daze, Detect Magic, Colour Spray, Grease, Hypnotic Pattern, Web, to name a few. I'm not certain what good any of that is for sneaking about dark streets. What do you suggest?"

Arm d20+4=18 d20+9=14
Monday July 24th, 2006 5:52:19 AM
Arm relates to Mira what is going on then suggests that they move forward a bit and be at the ready. As he is scanning the area for 'surprises' (spot=18, listen=14), he wonders how they got themselves into an all-out battle plan when they were only supposed to be 'taking a look at the situation'...perhaps these newcomers aren't what they are perceived to be. While they advance, he expresses his concerns to Mira, "I hope we're ready for this.".

Famina and Kadaz (Subbed by Mikey)
Monday July 24th, 2006 6:08:39 AM
The two fighters stand ready to charge in after the others with only a second's notice. Both are eager to start a fight; the only thing stopping them from going in now is the willingness to work with the rest of the group. So, they stand and listen to the others, complying with the plan.

Conner [AC=22; HP=62]Message d20+4=23 d20+3=9 d20+2=17
Monday July 24th, 2006 7:33:19 AM
Conner sees Xenia beckoning him forward and he makes his way towards her [Move Silently=17]. "The front door it is" he agrees, "but do not hesitate to call me below, this sword isn't just for decoration. Where do you want the others when they arrive?"

Once at his post, the fighter finds a darkened corner to stand in, and keeps a watch for any signs of danger from either inside or outside of the building [Spot=23, Listen=9]

Wynn [AC=21; HP=59] Message, Disguise
Monday July 24th, 2006 7:47:41 AM
Wynn passes along what information he has to the rear guard who have now joined them in the market. "Xenia believes they are in the basement with but a single set of narrow stairs as the only entrance or exit. I guess they will also have a way in through the sewers from what Conner and Kadaz have said. I think we should make our way to the tenement in small groups of two or three to remain unobtrusive. Xenia wants some armor to lead the charge down the stairs. Conner is already there as is Lang. Syr and Kadaz should join them first, perhaps with Mira in tow. I can take the next group, and then Arm can follow with Edmund and Ash. Does that sound reasonable?"

If the group is in agreement, Wynn will wait for Syr and his group to make it to halfway across the market before starting across with Famina, Belkior and Thar. Wynn leads them along the edge of the market so as to not look like they are following Syr and the group in front.

"Xenia, Syr and Kadaz will be with you in a moment, I'm bringing the next group right behind. Where do you want us?" Wynn whispers his message to the rogue.

Shadow (AC 21/18 HP 28/28) d20+10=12 d20+3=11 d20+3=19 d20+10=23
Monday July 24th, 2006 10:40:23 AM
Shadow listens intently to Xenia as she sends the messages. Once he gets the indication to join Lang he will move forward quietly to where the bugbear is stationed in front of the back door. As he moves over there he will put his dagger away and unsheath his rapier.

Once there he will look into the stairwell (from outside first). If he does not see anything he will move into the landing and check both up and down for any signs of sentries. (he will indicate what he finds to xenia)

Actions
Move silently=12
Listen=11
Spot=19
Hide=23

Posting Record for Week of 7/17/06 - ADM Scott (for PC)
Monday July 24th, 2006 10:57:09 AM
Plateau City
DM John: perfect
Kadaz: perfect
Arm: perfect
Ash: OOOXX
Shadow:XXXOX
Edmund:X0XXX
Mira: XXXOX
Connor: XXOXX
Thar: perfect
Overall: 84% effective

Crimson Shields
Syr: OXXXX
Lang: OXXXX
Belk: perfect
Famina:XXOXX
Wynn: XXOXX
Angus: perfect
Xenia: perfect
Overall: 88% effective

Xenia (AC22, HP 48/48) - 2nd Illegal Post
Monday July 24th, 2006 11:19:38 AM
"We'll need most 'round at the back of the Tenement, Wynn," the rogue replies. "With a small group at the front. The group at the back will enter first. The group at the front will wait for a reaction, then follow next or stay above, depending on what happens."

"Hey, you know, I just had an idea. If Angus can do his Invisible thing on me, Lang or Shadow, we could maybe sneak into the basement and seal off any escape route to the sewers before we close this thing down. What do you think? Ask Mira if anyone in her group can make with the Invisibility too."

Rolls and Actions

Active Effects
Message (Duration 50 minutes)

Belkior/Sub Al (AC20, HP40/40)
Monday July 24th, 2006 11:49:56 AM
Belkior scampers down the street as fast as possible, the wall of his much taller companions shepherding him along. "Wait. Please." A few skips and he forms his hands into the Symbol of Alemi. The he stops and concentrates on the spell. Belkior feels awash with the wisdom of health and well-being.

"Alright. Lets go. So what are they saying? Have they discovered anything? How close are we?"

From down in the Well of his Companions it's very difficult to see out.

Active Effects
Owl's Wisdom (Duration, 8 minutes)

0 Level: Detect Magic**, Detect poison*, Light*, Read Magic*, Resistance*
1st Level: Bless**, Detect Undead*, Hide from Undead*, Magic Stone*, Sanctuary*, (Protection from Evil+)
2nd Level: Hold Person*, Owl's Wisdom*, Silence, Spiritual Weapon* (Aid*)
3rd Level: Dispel Magic*, Prayer*, Searing Light*, Speak with Dead (Magic Circle against Evil+*)
4th Level: Death Ward*, Freedom of Movement*, Summon Monster IV+, (Holy Smite+*)

Thar ail Baerer
Monday July 24th, 2006 11:56:08 AM
Thar will continue forward, following Wynn's lead. He'll try to saunter casually, trying to not look like he is following anyone. He will keep his arms close to his twin short swords, to ensure that they are close, if needed.

Lang AC 24 Hp 92 d20+17=27 d20+15=33 d20+6=20 d20+6=26
Monday July 24th, 2006 12:32:41 PM
Lang looks back at Shadow and the with short swords out, the big Bugbear attempts to enter the unlatched doorway as quietly as possible (move silently 27).

Lang will then find the deepest shadows a few feet in (hide 33) and take a better listen (listen 20) and see what he can see (spot 26, nat. 20).

Lang is ready to relay what he sees to Shadow.

Angus - AC 16
Monday July 24th, 2006 12:41:03 PM
Angus continues to move forward with his group and casts and extended protection from evil on himself, using his new rod. Angus mumbles to himself "I am going to like this new toy."

Using the Message Angus relates to Syr "We are still coming up. I think we see you now. When we get to your position, you should move up to support. If you wait for me I will make you invisible."

Communicating with Mira "The front groups are doing a quick recon and we are moving up to support. Bring your group up casually to our position."

Angus reaches down to stroke Sunshines coat as he is very thankful for the protection.

Spell Slots

0 Level 1/5
1 Level 2/8
2 Level 0/8
3 Level 0/8
4 Level 0/4

Spells in Effect

Message (Mira, Arm, Syr)
Mage Armor - Hours
Protection from Evil - 16 minutes (extended)

Rod of extend 1/3

Mira (AC 13+4,40 HP) Mage Armour d20+3=14
Monday July 24th, 2006 1:14:50 PM
Mira does as she is bid, and with her group, makes her way to catch up with the others. She continues her dialogue with the party wizard. "Those are all good Edmund," she enthuses in a hushed voice, continuing, "just keep your wits about you, and be careful not to hit any of our group, unless it is to give them extra protections or other benefits."

When the small group makes their next pause, Mira stands with her back against a wall, and whispers to Arm, "lean in towards me, like...ah...you know, like you're going to kiss me...or something. I don't want to be seen quite yet." With the bard's body helping to block her from view (Hide=14) the sorcerer fumbles with her spell component pouch, makes a few quick movements with her hands and mumbles some archaic words to cast a protective spell upon herself.

DM Sanity Info:

Spells In Effect:

Mage Armour - on Mira
Message - on Mira, cast by Angus

- Spells: (0-level 6 per day, 1st level 7 per day, 2nd level 6 per day, 3rd level 4 per day)
0-level: detect magic, read magic, light, mage hand, opn/close, ray of frost
1st-level: magic missile, burning hands, mage armor#, shield
2nd-level: glitterdust, invisibility
3rd-fireball

Syr (AC 21/20 HP 62) d20+9=11
Monday July 24th, 2006 7:18:51 PM
The elf lightly grabs Kadaz's forearm and says, "Hold on a few moments for the rear group to catch up and then we move forward to help

As he waits for the sorceror's group, "Unseen and underappreciated, that's me." Assuming Angus casts the invisibility, he keeps a hand on Kadaz and prompts him to advance with a subtle pull. (Move silently 11)

Advance Scouts - Creeping Inside (DM JohnP) d20=18
Monday July 24th, 2006 10:13:09 PM
Conner, Lang, Shadow and Xenia only - Highlight to display spoiler: {At the tenement, everyone prepares to investigate more closely.

Xenia saunters up to the front entrance, up the short flight of stairs to the door. As she might have expected, the door is propped open and she can glance inside. A dark hallway stretches ahead of her to where she can see the shadows of cross hallway. There is one doorway a short distance down this first hallway, also held open. She can hear the sounds of chanting coming from somewhere ahead.

Right behind her, the tattooed fighter lounges against the wall in what Conner hopes is a large enough shadow.

At the back, Lang and Shadow creep inside the building towards the stairwell. Lang manages to move quietly but the Plateau City adventurer scuffs something with his feet. When the bugbear looks down the stairs, he sees that the basement is dimly illuminated by flickering lamps or candles. He can see a humanoid figure just beside the base of the stairs. His nose, however, tells him that the undead at the bottom of the stairs is beginning to get ripe ... several days past his best before date, as it were.

The messages keep flying back and forth. It won't be long before the others are all here and it's time to plunge into the basement. Or, there might still be time to back away and come back tomorrow.}

In the Market - Everyone Else (DM JohnP)
Monday July 24th, 2006 10:26:20 PM
Gradually, the people who were waiting on Skull Street move forward to join the others in Skull Market. There are whispered conversations back and forth, wondering about what the scouts have seen and heard. And how to prepare for the fight that looks to be coming.

Some of them, like Mira and Angus take the time to cast protective spells in anticipation of the fight. The fighters, like Famina and Kadaz simply loosen their weapons. Others, like Ash, Arm and Edmund are simply dragged along with the others.

Finally, everyone reaches the edge of Skull Market and can see the tenement ahead. Guided here by Wynn and Syr, this looks like a good spot for casting spells and preparing for the assault. Or, to exercise the better part of valour and come back in the daylight. But everyone's blood seems to be up too much for that.

Xenia has by now whispered back her findings to Wynn. It's now time to determine whether the main attack will go through the front or back doors, or if the group will split up. And who might be casting Invisibility on any who care to sneak inside.

Ash
Monday July 24th, 2006 10:38:44 PM
Ash, concerned that a battle might happen shortly, decides that defence is the best offence. Raising his hand over Shelya, he casts Barkskin on her. He doesn't know if it will happen, so he holds back on any offensive spells for the interim.

DM Info:
Spells:
Level 0:
Cure Minor Wounds
Flare
Guidance
Read Magic

Level 1
Cure Light Wounds (x2)
Goodberry
Magic Fang
Summon Nature's Ally I

Level 2
Animal Trance: Fascinates 2d6 HD of animals.
Barkskin
Summon Nature's Ally II
Summon Swarm

Level 3:
Cure Moderate Wounds
Summon Nature's Ally III

Xenia (AC22, HP 48/48) d20+17=28 d20+14=27 d20+16=31 d20+16=36
Monday July 24th, 2006 11:02:26 PM

"I think we can confirm the undead," Xenia sends the message back to Wynn. "Also pretty sure the front entrance connects with the back stairs, Wynn, though I'm just about to confirm that. If it does, then we can take the whole group in through the front. I'll check for traps too. Not likely, but always better safe than sorry."

"What's the word on the Invisibleness? And we got something that can make Silence? Maybe a spell that can block the hallway?"

"I'm going in."

Xenia leans into the Tattoo Guy. "I'll be right back, um, Conner. Gonna make sure the front door way checks out," she whispers. Then she switches from lenses to Goggles and quiet as a mouse, she slips inside.

Rolls and Actions
Search 28 (For traps.)
Listen 27
Hide 31
Move Silently 36 (Nat 20)

Active Effects
Message (Duration 50 minutes)

Mira (AC 13+4,40 HP) Mage Armour
Monday July 24th, 2006 11:14:58 PM
"Kadaz, you ready for this?" asks the sorcerer, touching the homely dwarven fighter lightly on the shoulder. The sorcerer plucks one of her eyelashes and rolls it in a bit of gum arabic. A few graceful movements with her hands and the whispered words amin quella. Mira touches Kadaz lightly on the forehead, and his image starts to fade. "You have about 3 minutes, ai atar! Make good use of them."

Turning to the others, she asks, "who's in contact with the lead group? Tell them Kadaz is on his way...invisible." With a smile, she adds, "who's next? Wynn? Famina?"

DM Sanity Info:

Spells In Effect:

Mage Armour - on Mira-3 hours
Message - on Mira, cast by Angus
Invisibility - on Kadaz - 3 minutes (30 rounds)

- Spells: (0-level 6 per day, 1st level 7 per day, 2nd level 6 per day, 3rd level 4 per day)
0-level: detect magic, read magic, light, mage hand, open/close, ray of frost
1st-level: magic missile, burning hands, mage armor#, shield
2nd-level: glitterdust, invisibility#
3rd-fireball

Edmund
Tuesday July 25th, 2006 2:50:25 AM
Somewhat more nervous and panicky than usual, Edmund is already considering what to do when the horrible heavily-armoured sorcerer-warriors come bearing down upon him. His plan is relatively simple, and is etched upon his mind in a formula similar to this:

1) Monsters attack in force.
2) Run away.

The method of adopting this policy is, of course, entirely speculative. Edmund now rues, not for the last time, the lack of Teleport.

"Why don't we come back during the daytime? It really looks like it could stand to wait. And I'm not feeling entirely well. It'd be much easier to come here with some of the guards. Possibly a score of them. And a siege engine. It'd be much safer. Much safer indeed. I'm the last person to advocate anything which might be misconstrued as cowardice, but discretion is the better part of valour. He who runs away lives to fight another day. And that."

Yet, desite all of this, Edmund still seems dependable enough. In his head, he goes over the spells at his disposal. Largely area-of-effect, he is none too certain of being able to cast them without hitting his new acquaintences as well. "Still, one must do their best, what what?" he thinks, dismally.

DM Sanity Info
Spells in Effect: None
Spells Memorised:
L.0: Daze (x2), Detect Magic, Read Magic, Resistance
L.1: Charm Person (x2), Colour Spray, Grease, Hypnotism, Sleep
L.2: Daze Monster (x2), Hypnotic Pattern, Web
L.3: Hold Person, Slow, Suggestion

Arm d20+4=9 d20+9=20
Tuesday July 25th, 2006 6:01:34 AM
Doing as Mira wishes, he blocks her as best he can from obvious view while she casts her spell. When she finishes he DOES give her a quick kiss, "For luck," he whispers afterwards.

Scowling at Edmund, he says to him, "It's a bit late now to back out, as it seems they've already begun entering. You may leave if you wish, but you'll be on your own returning.". He then scans the area while he grips the pommel of his sword. (spot=9, listen=20).

DM Clarification (DM JohnP)
Tuesday July 25th, 2006 7:38:51 AM
I just realized that it wasn't clear from my posts. There is a front stairway to the basement AND a rear stairway.

Conner [AC=22; HP=62]Message
Tuesday July 25th, 2006 7:44:21 AM
Conner nods to Xenia and taps the hilt of his sword. "I've got yer back" he whispers. The tattooed fighter grins in the darkened corner, "this one has pluck!" he thinks to himself. He takes a quick mental recount of his potions, Blur and Haste in the right belt pouch and two healing potions in the left. Very quietly he straps his shield into position and readies himself for the onslaught.

Wynn [AC=21; HP=59] Message, Disguise d20+6=16 d20+9=20
Tuesday July 25th, 2006 7:53:00 AM
Wynn shakes his head at Mira's offer, "This disguise will suffice, your spell is better spent on Famina, but thanks anyway."

As the bard approaches the house he spots Conner against the wall and raises a finger to his nose in recognition. Sounds like two sets of stairs he whispers back to Angus. "I suggest we split into two groups and catch them between us" Wynn slips past Conner into the hallway, creeping along the wall towards the stairs as quietly as possible [Spot=16, Move Silently=20].

"Don't wait there forever Conner" he whispers as he passes. "When the rest arrive, move up. We are going to need that sword arm of yours".

Angus Hp 33 AC 14/16 for evil
Tuesday July 25th, 2006 8:53:11 AM
Angus moves forward with his group and listens to Syr and Wynn "Yes we should split up and cover all entrances. Wynn you cover your sweet. I will send you Ed, Thar, Belkior, Mira and Arm for support. Syr, Kadaz, Famina, Sunshine, Ash and me will support Lang and Shadow."

Angus relays the message to Mira as she approaches and also includes the rest of the middle group in the conversation. "Did I forget anyone? Lets send the sneaky ones in first to check the situation. Combat as a last resort. Warriors protect the spellusers and be ready to support the scouts."

Angus will then turn Syr invisible and whisper "Go forward and help out Shadow and Lang, we will follow behind you."

Before spliting the groups Angus talks to Belkior "Please cast you detect undead and any other protective spells. I want both groups to have a bit of information before we split. Lets get closer to the building before we split."

OOC: John can we have a map of the building so we know how far apart the groups will be? John how much time is elasping per post, we need to keep rack of spells.

Spell Slots

0 Level 1/5
1 Level 2/8
2 Level 1/8
3 Level 0/6
4 Level 0/4

Spells in Effect

Message (Mira, Arm, Syr)
Mage Armor - Hours
Protection from Evil - 16 minutes (extended)
Inviso on Syr - 8 minutes

Rod of extend 1/3

Lang d20+17=28 d20+15=19 d20+6=10 d20+6=15
Tuesday July 25th, 2006 9:02:02 AM
Lang's nose never seems to fail him and he relays the information to Shadow "lets move down and see what else we can see and maybe take out this one undead guard. How accomplished a rouge are you Shadow? Can you take the undead with one blow or do you want me to slice and dice him?" Lang flexes his ample muscles.

"I really want him, all those zombies and vampires at the farm house got my dander up, but lets see what we are facing before potentially alerting the whole place." Lang smiles a toothy grin, showing oversized canines.

Lang will take his time and move into position (move silent 17), ready to strike killing blows. Lang will then hide (hide 19) and see what he can see (spot 10) and hear (listen 15) again from his new vantage point.

ooc: How is the area lit? Is Lang using darkvision?

Posting Correction - ADM Scott (PC)
Tuesday July 25th, 2006 9:26:50 AM
I apologize there was an error in the posting record for Edmund in the week of 7/17-7/23, it should state he had a perfect posting record. Sorry Shawn.

Posting Report For
Tuesday July 25th, 2006 10:26:23 AM
Game #9 Crimsom Shields
Week of July 17, 2006

Name MTWTF
DM John XXXXX

Xena XXOXX
Angus XXXXX
Lang XXXXX
Wynn XXXXX
Syr XXXXX
Famina XXXOX
Belkior XXXXX

Adm Ceil; Almost perfict!

DM Clarifications (JohnP)
Tuesday July 25th, 2006 10:38:26 AM
In answer to the OOC questions:

MAP will show up tonight. The building is approximately 100 feet (front to back) but Lang and Xenia think that the basement is slightly smaller.

TIME - consider that 30 seconds (5 rounds) have elapsed on spells, other than Message. Don't bother with durations for Message or Mage Armor.

LIGHTING - is described in the spoiler post for the scouts. Lang doesn't need to use darkvision.

Shadow (AC 21/18 HP 28/28) d20+3=21 d20+10=14 d20+9=14
Tuesday July 25th, 2006 11:11:18 AM
Shadow mentally critizes his botched attempt at moving in silently, but recovers quickly. He hears Xenia talk about traps and he realizes he should have thought of that also and begans scanning the area. He comes up short when he spots the human, but then hears Lang report it is an undead. "We are not going to be able to sneak in from the back. I am not sure we can take this undead down quietly, so we will wait here until you are ready." Shadow will wait patiently for the backup to arrive.

Actions
Spot=21
Hide=14
Search for traps=14

Thar ail Baerer AC 19, hp 41
Tuesday July 25th, 2006 11:11:19 AM
Thar will continue moving to support Wynn and the rest of his group. He will check his holy symbol carefully, to ensure that he is ready to try and turn any undead that appear.

DM Sanity Check

L0 Spells: Det Magic (2x), Det Poison, Read Mag
L1: Bless, Shield of Faith, SumMon 1, Prot from Evil
L2: Delay Poison, SumMon 2, Spiritual Weap

Turn Undead Attempts - 4/4

Famina (AC 19, hp 84/84) and Kadaz (AC24, hp 63/63, subbed by Mikey, invisible)
Tuesday July 25th, 2006 12:29:48 PM
The dwarf nods in thanks to Mira, then chuckles as he realizes she can't see that gesture. "Thanks, Mira.." He swiftly moves forward, running if necessary to get to near the entrance of the house. While he's got the invisibility running he wants to make maximum use of it.

Meanwhile Famina moves up just a little but stays near the mages, or at least Mira. The woman may be capable at magic, but she doesn't look very good at fighting...and she'd hate to have someone sneak up on them from behind and take out their support. "You guys all right here, or should i go rushing ahead?"

Belkior/Sub Al (AC20, AC22 vs Evil, HP40/40)
Tuesday July 25th, 2006 5:42:06 PM
"Another moment. Bother." Short legs at times have a decided drawback. Belkior stops to cast another spell. His companions around him are covered in Alemi's Holy Protection against Evil.

But others all around are casting spells, preparing to go into the Tenement.

"Would you like Silence as well as Invisibility ... er ... " The halfling looks around the street. " ... Kadaz?"

Active Effects
Owl's Wisdom (Duration, 7.5/8 minutes)
Magic Circle Against Evil (Duration 90 minutes)

0 Level: Detect Magic**, Detect poison*, Light*, Read Magic*, Resistance*
1st Level: Bless**, Detect Undead*, Hide from Undead*, Magic Stone*, Sanctuary*, (Protection from Evil+)
2nd Level: Hold Person*, uOwl's Wisdom*, Silence, Spiritual Weapon* (Aid*)
3rd Level: Dispel Magic*, Prayer*, Searing Light*, Speak with Dead (uMagic Circle against Evil+*)
4th Level: Death Ward*, Freedom of Movement*, Summon Monster IV+, (Holy Smite+*)

Inside / Outside the Tenement (DM JohnP) d20=11
Tuesday July 25th, 2006 10:13:23 PM
The others have finally made their moves up to the tenement and, following the directions of Angus, moved to either the front or back doors.

At the back, Lang creeps down the stairs until he is on the bottom steps. Shadow is right behind him. The two can see almost all of the basement now. There is a zombie guarding the base of this stair and one opposite as well. Mostly, they see the backs of kneeling cultists facing towards one end of the basement. Somewhere in front of them, out of Lang's sight, is the person who is leading the service. Among the cultists is the bugbear that they had seen earlier in the day.

Several archways lead from the main basement room into what look like storerooms. Lang's eyes can see partway into them but he can't see much.

Angus leads Ash, Famina, Kadaz and Syr around to the back. Along the way, Ash casts a protective spell on Shelya. Famina moves to protect Angus as the four wait outside the back door. Syr remains quiet and contemplative. The trip was a little confusing since Kadaz was invisible.

At the front door, Xenia creeps down the hallway to the door to the stairs with Wynn right behind her. Conner moves to the hallway when the others arrive. Before they split up, Mira cast Invisibility on Kadaz. As he moves up, Belkior casts a protective spell that shelters several of his companions. Arm mutters something to Edmund but the wizard now appears ready for combat. Thar simply fingers his holy symbol.

Player Sanity
Back Door Group
Angus - outside
Ash - outside
Famina - outside
Kadaz - invisible, outside
Lang - hidden, bottom of stairs
Shadow - hidden, bottom of stairs
Syr - invisible, outside
Birdie - following invisible Kadaz
Shelya - following Ash
Sunshine - guarding Angus

Front Door Group
Arm - outside
Belkior - outside
Conner - outside
Edmund - outside
Mira - outside
Thar - outside
Wynn - top of stairs
Xenia - hidden, top of stairs

Posts from now on will take place in rounds

MAP

Xenia (AC22, HP 48/48) d20+14=27 d20+14=17 d20+16=31 d20+16=34
Tuesday July 25th, 2006 11:12:18 PM
"Looks like there are two sets of stairs, Lang." Xenia puts an arm around Wynn as he comes in from outside. "We're at the top of the stairs on the other side."

"I think we got some Invisibles coming in. Why don't we let them through first. They can get a good look at exactly what's down there and report back. For now, we'll just hold the stairs and monitor things from just outside the room, alright?"

Xenia gives Wynn's hand a squeeze before she creeps down the stairs, her eyes open for sentries. She thinks of a certain potion that she has in storage, and, as she reaches over her shoulder, her haversack puts it right on top.

Rolls and Actions
Spot 27
Listen 17
Hide 31 (1/2 speed for Max Hiding.)
Move Silently 34
Draw Potion of Barkskin.

Movement and Position
15 feet to E10

Active Effects
Message (Duration 50 minutes)

Question: How high are the ceilings?

Arm d20+4=23 d20+9=27
Wednesday July 26th, 2006 5:59:56 AM
Arm grips Mira in a hug, then tell her, "Well, this looks like it...stay close if you like, and I'll do my best to watch over you.".

He then draws his sword before entering the front door so as not to make any undue noise, and is ever watchful for trouble (spot=23, listen=27).

Wynn [AC=21; HP=59] Message, Disguise d20+9=22
Wednesday July 26th, 2006 7:47:47 AM
Wynn reacts instantly when Xenia mentions invisibility. "I can make you invisible if you think it would help" he suggests. If Xenia approves he will cast invisibility on the rogue, otherwise he casts it upon himself and proceeds down the stairs [Move silently=22]

[OOC Wynn's invisibility spell lasts for 5 minutes]

Conner [AC=22; HP=62]Message d20+2=13
Wednesday July 26th, 2006 7:52:41 AM
Conner waits until the rest of the group has assembled outside before entering the house himself. "Keep an eye to the street" he advises the group, and then follows Arm inside [move silently=13]

Mira (AC 13+4,40 HP) Mage Armour
Wednesday July 26th, 2006 8:05:17 AM
"Stand still!" admonishes Mira as she casts Invisibility upon the woman-warrior from the Crimson Shields before the group splits up. "Remember, you loose the advantage once you strike out at the enemy," she reminds Famina.

*****

The green eyed sorcerer looks up into the bard's eyes, as she briefly hugs him back. "I'll stay back a bit...be one of the last to go in, okay?"

Mira lets Conner, Thar, and Arm pass through before she follows after. "Come along Edmund, and keep an eye on the little guy with the funny legs," she says as she follows the bard over the threshold of the front door.

DM Sanity Info:

Spells In Effect:

Mage Armour - on Mira-3 hours
Message - on Mira, cast by Angus
Invisibility - on Kadaz, - 3 minutes (5/30 rounds used)
- on Famina, - 3 minutes )30 rounds)

- Spells: (0-level 6 per day, 1st level 7 per day, 2nd level 6 per day, 3rd level 4 per day)
0-level: detect magic, read magic, light, mage hand, open/close, ray of frost
1st-level: magic missile, burning hands, mage armor#, shield
2nd-level: glitterdust, invisibility##
3rd-fireball

Angus AC 14/16 evil Hp 33
Wednesday July 26th, 2006 9:58:19 AM
Angus looks for the invisible Syr "Syr, Syr, where are you?" Angus whispers at the back entrance. Once Syr answers Angus continues. "You are very sneaky. Go forward and see how Lang and Shadow are doing. Maybe you can sneak or tumble past any guards and get mor information. But be quite. We want information and if necessary we can capture the whole evil lot and turn them over to the authorities."

Angus will look to Ash "We do want to take them to the authorities, don't we? Or are they too evil to save? This is crunch time, are we going to subdue?"

Angus will hang out by top of the back stairs (S9) and scratch Sunshine behind the ears.

Spell Slots

0 Level 1/5
1 Level 2/8
2 Level 1/8
3 Level 0/6
4 Level 0/4

Spells in Effect

Message (Mira, Arm, Syr)
Mage Armor - Hours
Protection from Evil - 7/160 rounds (extended)
Inviso on Syr - 6/80 rounds

Rod of extend 1/3

Lang AC 24 Hp 92 d20+17=28 d20+6=12 d20+6=7
Wednesday July 26th, 2006 10:01:24 AM
Lang will listen to the ceremony as best he can from his vantage point and relay the information to Shadow, via hand signals.

Two fingers and point at the Zombie.

Flash a handfull of fingers 3 times (15) and the big bugbear points at shadow.

1 finger and Lang points at himself.

Lang indicates to Shadow that he want the rouge to pass the information forward.

Lang will let Syr pass when he comes forward and is ready to back up his friend if there is any trouble.

Hide 28
Spot 12
Listen 7 (natural 1 - was concentrating too hard on shadow.)

Shadow (AC 21/18 HP 28/28) d20+10=25 d20+10=24 d20+3=4 d20+9=26
Wednesday July 26th, 2006 10:29:14 AM
Shadow carefully follows Lang down the stairs trying to make no noise and continue to hide his presence from those below. When the bugbear starts giving him information Shadow realizes he wants him to relay the info, so he moves back up the stairs.

As he is concentrating on Lang and his message Shadow is unable to determine what is actually being chanted by the cultists. Once back a safe distance Shadow will communicate their findings to the group, "There are 2 zombies, one each guarding the stairs, 15 cultist chanting, and 1 bugbear down here." As he is telling this to the group he feels Syr pass him and allows his invisible comrade to pass by. He will wait a second to see if there are any further instructions and then will move back down to Langs position ready for what is about to happen.

Actions:
Move silently=25
Hide=24
Listen=4 (nat. 1)
Search=26

Xenia (AC22, HP 48/48) - 2nd Illegal Post and Change of Move
Wednesday July 26th, 2006 11:20:09 AM

"You do!" The rogue's excitement is clear even through the whispered Message. She spares her handsome bard a kiss. "Do it to me," she says before heading down the stairs.

"Zombie on the right at the bottom of the stairs, Wynn," she reports. The girl rogue eyes the cultists, getting up real close, enjoying the freedom that invisibility lends. It's pretty spiff. She reports back on just who and what she thinks they are, and she's half thinking about how this might be kinda fun just she and Wynn back at a room at an inn ... when she sees something that brings her to a stop.

The dark rogue freezes and backs quickly away from the gathering of cultists.

"Lang! That bugbear's down here. Everyone there's a bugbear down here. That means he can smell us. Right, Lang? Is that right?"

Bugbears is north of the stairs and to the east. I'm gonna back off to the south and wait.

Rolls and Actions
Spot 27
Listen 17
Hide 46 (-5 for Full Range of Movement. +20 for Invisibility.)
Move Silently 34

Movement and Position
Move to H12

Active Effects
Message (Duration 50 minutes)

Question: How high are the ceilings?

Belkior/Sub Al (AC20, AC22 vs Evil, HP40/40) d20+1=20
Wednesday July 26th, 2006 11:42:44 AM
Kadaz is nowhere to be seen.

"I'm not sure whether the spell will see through the walls, Angus," the halfling replies. "But, I'll see what I can do."

Hands out before himself, forming the symbol of Alemi, Belkior calls upon the spell to Detect Undead. Then, with a quiet that amazes even himself, the halfling moves step by step through the front door of the Tenement, seeing through the lens of the spell.

Rolls and Actions
Cast Detect Undead (First Round: Presence or absence of undead auras.)
Move Silently 20

Movement and Position
Move in 20 feet. Possibly to the top of the stairs.

Active Effects
Owl's Wisdom (Duration, 7.5/8 minutes)
Magic Circle Against Evil (Duration 90 minutes)
Detect Undead (Duration Concentration or 9 minutes)

0 Level: Detect Magic**, Detect poison*, Light*, Read Magic*, Resistance*
1st Level: Bless**, uDetect Undead*, Hide from Undead*, Magic Stone*, Sanctuary*, (Protection from Evil+)
2nd Level: Hold Person*, uOwl's Wisdom*, Silence, Spiritual Weapon* (Aid*)
3rd Level: Dispel Magic*, Prayer*, Searing Light*, Speak with Dead (uMagic Circle against Evil+*)
4th Level: Death Ward*, Freedom of Movement*, Summon Monster IV+, (Holy Smite+*)

Thar ail Baerer AC 21, hp 41 - Belkior's PfE spell, Bless
Wednesday July 26th, 2006 11:46:58 AM
Thar first cast Bless upon the group he's with (he'll try to hide behind the nearest person, so that no one outside will be able to observe him or hear his whispered words.

He'll will follow behind Wynn and whisper "If you need me to try to turn the zombie guard, let me know. Otherwise, I'll wait for the action to begin b/f doing anything.

Spell Affects - Belkior's Prot from Evil, Thar's Bless

DM Sanity Check

L0 Spells: Det Magic (2x), Det Poison, Read Mag
L1: Shield of Faith, SumMon 1, Prot from Evil
L2: Delay Poison, SumMon 2, Spiritual Weap

Turn Undead Attempts - 4/4

Bless duration - 1/15 rounds, +1 attack and ST's vs. fear

Affected by Bless - Arm, Belkior, Conner, Edmund, Mira, Thar, Wynn, Xenia

DM Clarification (DM JohnP)
Wednesday July 26th, 2006 12:49:58 PM
Ceiling Height - The ceiling is low, about 7 feet in most places. Consider archways and entrances from stairwell to be closer to 6'. In other words, cramped and claustrophobic but no penalties for combat for medium character. Now, if someone summons a large animal ... or turns into troll ... it might experience some penalties.

Edmund
Wednesday July 26th, 2006 1:05:34 PM
Edmund still remains at the rear of his group and, after some thought on the issue, follows them in. He nods to Mira's instruction but, perhaps surprisingly, doesn't speak.

The first spell he can think of which would be of any value is Web, so he immediately goes over the mental preparations involved. He feels some small relief that he will not, at least, have to deal with any of that spell component nonsense. Still, he does need to remember the correct movements and words, so he goes over them again and again in his head. He has to ensure this doesn't go all wrong.

As a result, Edmund has a kind of distant look, his mind more on his preparations than the reality of impending battle.

Syr (AC 20/19 HP 62) Indivisible d20+9=20 d20+8=13
Wednesday July 26th, 2006 9:30:17 PM
Syr tweaks Angus on the arm as he moves past. He whispers, "I'll look for spell casters." (spot 13)

Giving the Zombie as wide of berth as possible he moves into the room. He heads toward K13 while moving through N11 so that he never closes on the bugbear. (Move silently 20) Once there he relays anything he sees with the whispered message cast by Angus.

Creeping and Peeping (DM JohnP) d20=2 d20=13 d20=1
Wednesday July 26th, 2006 10:51:22 PM
Everyone starts moving closer to the basement and some of the scouts sneak in.

At the back door, Lang uses some impromptu sign language with Shadow. The rogue understands what the bugbear intended and goes back up the stairs to pass the information to the others. Angus has a quiet conversation and directs the others. Syr listens to his instructions and sneaks downstairs, avoiding the bugbear. Ash and Kadaz simply wait at the top of the stairs.

At the front stairs, Wynn offers to cast Invisibility on his companion. Xenia accepts and sneaks down the stairs, an invisible and silent zephyr that curls around the zombie standing guard. Wynn and Thar follow her down the stairs. Neither of them can see much of the basement.

At the top of the front stairs, Arm and Conner prepare to follow the others down the stairs while Mira casts Invisibility on Famina. The tall barbarian woman hurries around the building. Edmund hangs back, waiting to see what happens down below.

In response to Angus' earlier suggestion, Belkior casts Detect Undead and begins scanning the area. The floor of the building is thin enough for the Paragon to detect the presence of undead. He doesn't say anything since everyone knows about the zombies, and he doesn't want to distract anyone.

Down in the basement, Syr and Xenia can now see more of the basement. At the far end, in the torchlit area, a robed figure is leading the service. Like the kneeling people, he is facing a rough altar at the far end with his back to the stairs. Looking about, the rogue and monk can see more of the basement. The storage room beside Xenia is piled full of broken furniture and other cast-off belongings. The one on the opposite side of the basement beyond Syr is similar except that it looks like most of the junk has been recently moved out. There is mud tracked all over the floor in this end of the basement. The two cannot see into any of the other storage rooms.

+++++

The bugbear cultist lifts his head and looks about. He inhales and then gets to his feet. So far, none of the other cultists have moved or responded to his actions.

Player Sanity
Back Door Group
Angus - outside
Ash - outside
Famina - invisible, outside
Kadaz - invisible, outside
Lang - hidden, bottom of stairs
Shadow - hidden, bottom of stairs
Syr - invisible, basement
Birdie - following invisible Kadaz
Shelya - following Ash
Sunshine - guarding Angus

Front Door Group
Arm - hallway, top of stairs
Belkior - hallway, top of stairs
Conner - hallway, top of stairs
Edmund - hallway, top of stairs
Mira - hallway, top of stairs
Thar - stairs, behind Wynn
Wynn - stairs
Xenia - invisible, basement

Posts from now on will take place in rounds. Please make it easier for me and indicate destination squares for movement, etc..

MAP

Ash
Wednesday July 26th, 2006 11:26:42 PM
Ash sticks beside where he thinks Kadaz is, all the while ensuring that Shelya is ready for anything that might come out the door.

Xenia (AC24, HP 48/48) d20+19=37 d20+14=21 d20+16=24 d20+16=32
Wednesday July 26th, 2006 11:28:06 PM

"Wynn!!!" Tension fills the whispered voice of the dark rogue. "I think the bugbear's onto us. He's standing up and sniffing around."

Remaining where she is, Xenia reaches quietly quietly behind to her haversack for a potion. It's right on top, and she feels her skin toughen as she drinks it down.

"The floor on the area to the south is all muddy. Like if maybe someone came out of the sewers they'd muck up the floor and stuff. So if there's an entrance to the sewers, could be it's at the South end of the room. If anyone else invisible comes down here, tell them not to walk in the mud. They'll leave tracks and get spotted like real quick."

"Um, there's an altar to the north and there's a guy doing culty chanting stuff there. He might be the strongest culty magic guy here."

"Gonna try and see who the fighters are and stuff. Anything I should look out for for Spellcasters? Holy Symbols! Right! No, but if this is a cult, you'd think they'd all have weerdo holy symbols. Even if they're magic guys or not."

The rogue's green eyes roll over the crowd of cultists, searching for the glint of weaponry.

Rolls and Actions
Spot 37 (For Weapons)
Listen 21
Hide 44 (+20 for Invisibility.)
Move Silently 32

Draw and Drink potion of Barkskin

Movement and Position
No Move. At H12

Active Effects
Message (Duration 50 minutes)
Invisibility (Duration 3 minutes?)
Bless (Duration 2/15 rounds)
Barkskin (Duration 3 minutes)

Mira (AC 13+4,40 HP) Mage Armour
Thursday July 27th, 2006 12:16:36 AM
Treading close on the heels of those in front of her, Mira whispers for Conner. If the fighter lets her get within range, she will cast the Invisibility spell once again.

DM Sanity Info:

Position: Mira-in the hallway, trying to get down the stairs (towards G10?)

Spells In Effect:

Mage Armour - on Mira-3 hours
Message - on Mira, cast by Angus
Invisibility - on Kadaz, - 3 minutes (6/30 rounds used) - on Famina, - 3 minutes (1/30 rounds) - on Conner, - 3 minutes (30 rounds)

- Spells: (0-level 6 per day, 1st level 7 per day, 2nd level 6 per day, 3rd level 4 per day)
0-level: detect magic, read magic, light, mage hand, open/close, ray of frost
1st-level: magic missile, burning hands, mage armor#, shield
2nd-level: glitterdust, invisibility###
3rd-fireball

Syr (AC 19/20 hp /62) d20+9=26 d20+8=15
Thursday July 27th, 2006 2:30:39 AM
The elf relays what he sees to Angus, Mira, and Arm. Next he whispers, "They aren't really doing anything bad that I can see. No real reason to jump them other than suspicion."

Pausing as he sees the bugbear move, "If you guys hold fast for a little longer, I'll get in a position to take out the priest quickly if need be. Tell Lang and Shadow to back off a bit, Lang's got a brother that is moving. I need to be quiet now."

Using the chanting to mask his movements (Move Silently 21) and watching where he walks carefully, the elf moves around the group of chanters towards the front, keeping the same distance (25') between himself and the suspicious bugbear (should end in F9 and next round up front). While there he tries to discern what type of rite is being performed. (spot 15)

Famina (AC 19, hp 84/84, invisible) and Kadaz (AC 24, hp 63/63, invisible, subbed by mikey) d20+1=13
Thursday July 27th, 2006 4:35:39 AM
Famina accepts the invisibility spell somewhat tentatively, uncertain as to its complete effects. Kadaz shakes his head in response to the halfling's question, then realizes that won't do. "No thanks, Alemite," he politely says. "Uh, Birdie, Protect him..." He gently instructs his dog, hoping it understands his command. It seems to do so (dc 13), stopping following his voice/smell to stand next to Belkior and guard him.

So it is that both of them move in. Invisible, and hopefully not too loud, or at elast at a distance such that it won't make a difference. They descend slowly. They make sure to keep ahead of the others in the group that they can see so that they can easily defend them. If any non-sneaky person moves up, such as Angus or Belkior, they will move along with them. If any cultist moves to attack anyone else near the back door, they will move to intercept and attack those people back. The key being, to quickly respond to an attack and/or quickly be part of one in the next few rounds.

Arm (AC14, HP 27/27)
Thursday July 27th, 2006 6:01:59 AM
Arm waits for Conner to see if he proceeds down the stairs. If he does, he will follow behind him (OOC: I'll be 1 square behind wherever he stops). While he is waiting, he whispers as quietly as he can in Mira's ear, "If there IS an entrance to the sewers to the south down there, we need to make sure that we block off that escape route. If Ilonia is here, we cannot allow her to escape again.".

Conner [AC=22; HP=62]Message, Bless, Invisible d20+2=13
Thursday July 27th, 2006 7:57:21 AM
Conner feels the warm touch of the cleric's spell wash over his body and smiles at the deformed halfling in acknowledgement of his efforts. He also accepts Mira's invisiibility spell. "I'll try to block off any exit through the sewers" he whispers, and sets off down the stairs in search of the muddy footprints [Move Silently=13]

Wynn [AC=21; HP=59] Message, Disguise, Bless
Thursday July 27th, 2006 8:03:31 AM
Wynn waits quietly on the stairs as the invisible rogue investigates the basement. "See if Lady Ilonia is down there" he whispers. When he hears the bugbear is sniffing around he instinctively reaches for the hilt of his longsword.

Lang AC 24 HP 90/92 d20+15=34 d6+6=7 2d6(2+4)=6 d20+13=28 d6+6=10 d20+8=12 d6+6=11 d20+10=20 d6+6=12 2d6(6+1)=7 d6=2 d6=6 d20-1=18
Thursday July 27th, 2006 9:04:16 AM
Lang is getting concerned about the opposing bugbear and thinks that it is time for a distraction.

Lang flexes and positions his short swords to strike the Zombie in front of him, making sure that Shadow sees the movement. Lang Whispers to Shadow, just before his strike "Distraction time, get everyone ready, especially those invisible."

Full Attack (Did not take any flanking bonuses)

RH AC 34 - damage 7 +6 for vicious - 13 total
LH AC 28 - damage 10
LH AC 12 - damage 11, if hit
RH AC 20 - damage 12 +7 for visious - 19 total

Lang will hold his last strike with his vicious weapon, if the Zombie is already destroyed.

Damage to Lang

2 and 6 if necessary

Once the Zombie is redead, Lang will boldly step in the basement and announce "I hear this is the place to come join the death cult. Did I find the right place or do I have to go an pound that half orc that told me." Lang's short swords hang loosly at his sides, but they are ready at a moments notice. Lang give the crowd a big toothy bugbear grin.

Bluff 18

Lang looks at Shadow with hs periphial vision to make sure he and the other are getting in position.

Lang is at N10

Angus Ac 18/20 evil, HP 33 d20+6=20
Thursday July 27th, 2006 9:12:45 AM
Angus hears the action at the bottom of the stairs and moves into action. In a rushed whisper Angus calls those outside to action "If you are invisible, get down the stairs and get in the basement. Do not attack, unless you or Lang are threatened, lets see how far Lang can take this."

Angus rolls his eyes and casts Shield on himself and then looks at Sunshine and mutters "What is your master getting us into?"

Angus will attempt to reinforce Famina's ordres for Birdie "Come her pup, be a good dog."

Handle animal untrained 20

Spell Slots

0 Level 1/5
1 Level 3/8
2 Level 1/8
3 Level 0/6
4 Level 0/4

Spells in Effect

Message (Mira, Arm, Syr)
Mage Armor - Hours
Protection from Evil - 8/160 rounds (extended)
Inviso on Syr - 7/80 rounds
Shield - 1/160 rounds (extended)

Rod of extend 2/3

Shadow (AC 21/18 HP 28/28) d20+10=20 d20+10=29 d20+5=25 d4+1=5 d20+5=7
Thursday July 27th, 2006 10:52:50 AM
Shadow will move into a flanking position near Lang in case his attacks do not drop the zombie. If the zombie does not go down Shadow will assist the bugbear with this opponent. If the zombie drops, Shadow will try and remain hidden as to be able to attack a different target as needed. (either way will try and be near O-10 or N-11)

Actions
Move Silently=20
Hide=29

Attack=25 (nat 20 no crit)
dmg=5

Belkior/Sub Al (AC20, AC22 vs Evil, HP40/40)
Thursday July 27th, 2006 11:07:49 AM
"Just a little more, and I'll know how many undead and how strong the strongest is."

One hand extended before himself, the halfling Paragon of Alemi maintains his concentration on the undead in the basement while he reaches for a wand in the haversack on his back.

Rolls and Actions
Detect Undead (Second Round: Number of undead auras in the area and the strength of the strongest undead aura present.)

Movement and Position
MEA: Take out Wand of CMW
Remain at the top of the stairs.

Active Effects
Owl's Wisdom (Duration, 7.5/8 minutes)
Magic Circle Against Evil (Duration 90 minutes)
Detect Undead (Duration Concentration or 9 minutes)

0 Level: Detect Magic**, Detect poison*, Light*, Read Magic*, Resistance*
1st Level: Bless**, uDetect Undead*, Hide from Undead*, Magic Stone*, Sanctuary*, (Protection from Evil+)
2nd Level: Hold Person*, uOwl's Wisdom*, Silence, Spiritual Weapon* (Aid*)
3rd Level: Dispel Magic*, Prayer*, Searing Light*, Speak with Dead (uMagic Circle against Evil+*)
4th Level: Death Ward*, Freedom of Movement*, Summon Monster IV+, (Holy Smite+*)

Thar ail Baerer AC 21, hp 41 - Belkior's PfE spell, Bless
Thursday July 27th, 2006 11:20:35 AM
Thar will continue waiting b/h Wynn, and will draw his shortbow. He'll continue hiding also, trying to keep an eye on what's occurring, but not attacking until he get's the signal.

Spell Affects - Belkior's Prot from Evil, Thar's Bless

DM Sanity Check

L0 Spells: Det Magic (2x), Det Poison, Read Mag
L1: Shield of Faith, SumMon 1, Prot from Evil
L2: Delay Poison, SumMon 2, Spiritual Weap

Turn Undead Attempts - 4/4

Bless duration - 2/15 rounds, +1 attack and ST's vs. fear

Affected by Bless - Arm, Belkior, Conner, Edmund, Mira, Thar, Wynn, Xenia

Edmund
Thursday July 27th, 2006 3:58:15 PM
Edmund follows at the rear of his group ((along row 10 towards the interior, I presume)), as yet taking no provocative action. He is happy, however, to be the recipient of Thar's Bless--the use of magic by the others gives him hope for victory, for he has a fairly dim view of weapons and what they can achieve.

DM Sanity Info
Spells in Effect: Bless (Thar)
Spells Memorised:
L.0: Daze (x2), Detect Magic, Read Magic, Resistance
L.1: Charm Person (x2), Colour Spray, Grease, Hypnotism, Sleep
L.2: Daze Monster (x2), Hypnotic Pattern, Web
L.3: Hold Person, Slow, Suggestion

Battle in the Basement - Round 1 (DM JohnP) d20=5 d20+14=22 d20+14=20 d2=1 d2=1 d2=1 d2=1 d2=2 d2=1 d2=2 d2=2 d2=1 d2=2 d2=1 d2=1 d2=2 d2=2 d2=2 d2=1 d2=2 d2=1
Thursday July 27th, 2006 11:05:35 PM
Outside the back door, Ash and Shelya wait patiently. The invisible Famina and Kadaz join the line of people going down the back stairs.

In the upstairs hallway, Mira casts another Invisibility spell on Conner this time. Then the sorcerer joins the queue of people going down the stairs, right behind Arm who has slipped in ahead of her. The invisible Conner leads the way but Wynn is still waiting at the bottom of the stairs.

Downstairs, Xenia remains within her little quiet happy place as she fortifies herself with a potion from her pack. She sees that the bugbear has two of the curved sword-daggers called kukris at his belt. All of the other cultists are wearing shapeless robes and are carrying only small weapons if they're even armed at all. The cleric looks to have a light mace at his belt.

Syr silently slips around the back of the gathered cultists, over towards the bottom of the front stairs. The altar at the front of the room is bare except for a heavy green stone bowl or chalice that seems to be the focus of the cleric's attention. The elven monk is right ... nothing bad happening here, if you overlook the undead guards, that is. Syr's not certain but he suspects that Plateau City probably has a "No Undead Creation" bylaw or something similar.

The people outside the front and back stairs now hear the sound of combat coming from the basement. Lang lashes out at the zombie, which is slow and unarmored, and drops it with his final swing. Then he moves 5 feet into the room and challenges the room.
DM Note -- I took your actions to be Full Attack, then 5' shift. The zombie had Cover (+4 AC) from the wall and the third attack missed as a result.

Angus encourages the others to move down to the basement and then casts a protective spell on himself, while looking down at Sunshine. Shadow follows Lang into the basement but remains hidden.

Upstairs at the front, Belkior scans one end of the basement through the floor. He pales for a moment and then brightens. He whispers to those nearby, "Lots of undead ... nine just in this end. But the strongest one is no more than half my strength, weaker than any of these Plateau City folk." Those nearby think that Belkior is scanning the end of the basement where Zenia said the altar was.

Thar draws his shortbow, scanning for targets. Behind him, Edmund waits in the upstairs hallway.

+++++

Lang's action has got everyone's attention. The bugbear looks at him and tilts his head. The cultists scramble to their feet and edge away from this seeming mad bugbear that has just destroyed one of their guardians. And the cleric at the end of the room also comes to his feet and turns towards the back stairs.

The bugbear draws his two kukris as he looks at Lang, then speaks.

"If you want to join us, why do you destroy our god-given servant? And you're not alone, either ..."

The bugbear concentrates for a moment, then snaps a command to the cleric.

"They have clerics with them, powerful too! They mustn't take the chalice!"

He then whistles and prepares to enter battle. The knowledgeable in the basement might have a chance to determine what he did.
Lang, Shadow, Syr, Thar, Wynn, Xenia - Spellcraft DC 16 - Highlight to display spoiler: {Detect Good}

This triggers a frenzy of movement among the cultists. The cleric moves to pick up the stone chalice in front of him and then calls out.

"To me! Guard me!"

The people in the basement now see undead - skeletons and zombies - moving out of the storerooms in the basement. Four skeletons come from the end rooms (1 and 2) and assemble around the cleric. Zombies come from two next rooms (3 and 4) and shamble towards the entrances. And from the south two rooms (7 and 8), three more skeletons clatter towards Lang. Each of these undead are armed with a simple wooden club.
Syr - can make an AoO against Z4.
Shadow - can make AoO against S5 &/or S6

And a hulking dire rat comes from a storeroom (6) with fragments of cloth and bone clinging to it's fur.

The cultists surge towards the exits. Some draw daggers but others simply seem to want to escape. None attack any of the party .... yet.

MAP

Ash d20+5=15
Thursday July 27th, 2006 11:16:51 PM
Ash, hearing the noises, decides that they have been discovered. At this point he asks Shelya to enter the stairwell and follows her down [Handle Animal=15]

Xenia (AC24, HP 48/48) d20+16=25 d20+16=30
Thursday July 27th, 2006 11:39:00 PM

"Uh oh. That's gone and done it. Lang's stirred the pot here. You close enough to see, Hon? Looks like skeletons and zombies. But the other ones, tell all the others that most of these cultists look like just harmless nutjobs."

"The main guy, he's got this Chalice thing that he seems to think is real important ... And you know what, Wynn? I'm gonna get it."

The dark rogue once again dips into her pack for a potion. She drinks it down and then rises five feet into the air and flattens herself against the ceiling.

"Remind me later to tell Lang he's a lunatic. hehe." The rogue's chuckle tumbles over the Message link, like water gurgling through a stream.

Rolls and Actions
Hide 45 (+20 for Invisibility.)
Move Silently 30

Draw and Drink potion of Fly

Movement and Position
Five foot Rise. At H12 (5 feet up)

Active Effects
Message (Duration 50 minutes)
Invisibility (Duration 3 minutes?)
Bless (Duration 2/15 rounds)
Barkskin (Duration 3 minutes)
Fly (Duration 3 minutes)

Syr (AC 20/19 HP 62) Indivisible, G3 d20+10=23 d20+10=24
Thursday July 27th, 2006 11:47:31 PM
Syr silently curses to himself and mumbles VERY quietly to the linked, "... and I thought I was the impulsive one." With a sigh, "Okay, I'm moving to the front corner and waiting of an opportunity."

He then precedes to weave as delicately as possible through the cultists without touching any. He heads toward the corner of the room and waits to see what everyone else is doing. (Not sure what skill to use: Tumble 23, Move silently 24)

ed. DM JohnP - Tumble skill is appropriate and the DC would be 29 (25 for first opponent, +2 for each additional). Ordinarily, the failed roll would trigger an AoO but these are zombies. So no movement, and Syr can attack if he wishes.

Edmund (AC:12+2, HP:27/27) Bless d20+10=27
Friday July 28th, 2006 3:43:12 AM
As the moment of choice comes, Edmund will proceed into and down the stairs as far as he dares ((towards a destination at square D-10)) without any intention of being quiet. "Foul creatures! Foul villains! Foul wretches! Prepare to meet thy fate!" As brave (and somewhat over-the-top) as these words are, he nevertheless is more than a little frightened.

Still, he will keep his head and begin casting Web on the large room ahead ((target centred on square J-10)) with the intention of creating a mass of webs anchored between the floor and ceiling to impede or trap the cultists and their associates. Whilst he does this, he keeps his eyes open and his wits about him, casting defensively so as not to endanger himself (Concentration: 27)

The spell begun, and the arcane motions of his hands fluidly performed, Edmund will speak the words quite firmly without any noticeable quaver to his voice. Perhaps he is braver than even he thought he was. "Ecce tela mea!" he will declare, calling the Web into existence.

DM Sanity Info
Spells In Effect: Bless (Thar), Web (Duration: 50 minutes)

Spells Memorised:
L.0: Daze (x2), Detect Magic, Read Magic, Resistance
L.1: Charm Person (x2), Colour Spray, Grease, Hypnotism, Sleep
L.2: Daze Monster (x2), Hypnotic Pattern, Web
L.3: Hold Person, Slow, Suggestion

Arm
Friday July 28th, 2006 6:03:08 AM
Impatient at not being able to join the fray, Arm instead clears his throat experimentally, then begins to sing a song of people who excel at what they do (bardsong: inspire competence - +1 vs. charm, +1 attk, +1 dmg - 30' radius cast on himself). He knows that his stylings won't reach the entire group, be for the moment he can at least help out those that are with him.

OOC: I don't know what the duration of this song is, as I don't have my PH at work here...if someone can help me out, it'd be greatly appreciated... :)

ed. DM JohnP - The song you're thinking of is "Inspire Courage". It takes a standard action to start, free action to continue and continues for 5 rounds after Arm stops singing. Casting a spell or using most magic items will also cause it to end.

DM Clarification (DM JohnP)
Friday July 28th, 2006 7:48:03 AM
I meant to do this last night but ran out of time.

Marching Order - Front Door
People lined up to go down the stairs are, from bottom to top:
- Wynn (in basement, on map)
- Thar (in basement, on map)
- Conner (on landing, on map)
- Arm (off map)
- Mira (off map)
- Edmund (off map)
- Belkior (off map)
- Birdie (off map)

Marching Order - Back Door
- Famina (in basement, on map)
- Kadaz (in basement, on map)
- Angus (on landing, on map)
- Sunshine (off map)
- Ash (off map)
- Shelya (off map)

In the Basement
Alphabetical
- Lang
- Shadow
- Syr
- Xenia

Movement Notes
Movement through square occupied by a friend costs normal movement. (This is different than rules, but in tabletop movement would end up being sync'd through use of Held actions and I'm not going to bother with that.) I'm also going to allow the front people to act &/or move, then the people behind, rather than strictly posting order.

Movement through square occupied by an opponent requires a Tumble check. Calculate the DC for the check by counting opponents between start and open square (DC 25 for first, +2 for each additional). And Tumbling is at half-speed unless you take a -10 to move at full speed.

Any character on the map can see far enough into the basement to cast area spells.

Wynn [AC=21; HP=59] Message, Disguise, Bless d20+11=30 d20+10=24 d8+3=5
Friday July 28th, 2006 8:06:46 AM
Wynn darts quickly through the gap between the cultist at the botom of the stairs and the zombie, clearing the way for those behind him [Tumble=30 Ends up in G-11]. The half elf then turns and slashes wickedly at the zombie [Hit AC=24 for 5 HP] "Come on" he calls back up the stairs. "There's no time to waste!"

Conner [AC=22; HP=62]Message, Bless, Invisible d20+6=18 d20+13=33 d8+7=15
Friday July 28th, 2006 8:19:30 AM
Once Lang prematurely springs the trap, the fighter realizes his invisibility will serve little purpose. Trapped on the stairs he cannot slip through the crowd in time to stop the cleric escaping with the alter. When Wynn clears a space at the bottom of the stairs he will dart through.

If the Zombie remains standing, Conner hewes him in two [Hit AC=33; Nat 20 for 15 HP] and the tattooed fighter pops back into sight standing in E-10.

If the Zombie fell under Wynn's attack, a still invisible Conner slips past the fallen undead and to his left F-9.

Lang AC 24 87/92 Hp d20+15=25 d6+6=7 2d6(5+1)=6 d20+13=30 d6+6=11 d20+8=18 d6+6=12 d6=3
Friday July 28th, 2006 9:05:46 AM
Lang is disgusted with his diplomacy skills and attacks a zombie (Z1) with full abandon. Lang growls through gritted teeth "Foul undead"

RH AC 25 for 7 damage + 6 for viscious total 13
LH AC 30 for 11 damage

If these two thrusts drop the zombie, Lang will switch to a new opponent S6, if not he will finish off the zombie.

LH AC 18, for 12 to the zombie or 9 to the skeleton.

Viscious damage to Lang 3

Lang looks frustrated and bellows "Everyone drop you weapons and kneel on the floor and you will not be harmed!" Lang is doing his best to push into the room, so that those behind him can come in. Lang will also do his best to keep the cultist from leaving.

Lang thinks to himself, diplomancy is not my stong suit.

Angus AC 23/25 evil HP 33 d20+3=10 d20+9=18
Friday July 28th, 2006 9:25:23 AM
Angus realizes that things are moving fast now and he has to get out of the way so that others of this diverse group can enter the fray. Angus polymorphs himself into a pixie.

Angus's features begin to rapidly shrink and he takes on more sylvan caracteristics, including wings. Angus flying into the room and scans it hovering (H11) close to the ceiling.

Spot 10

In a high pitched voice Angus adds, "Everyone calm down and surrender, we do not need to spill living blood today if you cooperate."

Diplomancy 18

Spell Slots

0 Level 1/5
1 Level 3/8
2 Level 1/8
3 Level 0/6
4 Level 1/4

Spells in Effect

Message (Mira, Arm, Syr)
Mage Armor - Hours
Protection from Evil - 9/160 rounds (extended)
Inviso on Syr - 8/80 rounds
Shield - 2/160 rounds (extended)
Polymorph - 1/80 (18 Dex and natural AC improvement)

Rod of extend 2/3

Shadow (AC 21/18 HP 28/28) d20+5=15 d4+1=4
Friday July 28th, 2006 9:26:09 AM
Shadow is not sure he approves of his new companions tactics, but no sense in trying to put the coins back in the purse. He will take a swing at skeleton S5, and try to make room for those behind to get up front.

Action
To hit=15
dmg=4

Belkior/Sub Al (AC20, AC22 vs Evil, HP40/40)
Friday July 28th, 2006 10:47:26 AM
The voices and hubbub drift up the stairs. Sounds like the cat's out of the bag so to speak.

Jump *clank*
Jump *clank*
Jump *clank*

Armored in breastplate and buckler, Belkior hops up and down on his cat feet, trying to see around the line of humans on the stairs.

"The undead aren't very powerful!" he calls down to his companions. "I'd ... " Jump *clank* " ... try to turn them ... " Jump *clank* " ... But the stairway is too narrow."

Rolls and Actions
Jumping up and down

Movement and Position
Remain at the top of the stairs.

Active Effects
Owl's Wisdom (Duration, 7.5/8 minutes)
Magic Circle Against Evil (Duration 90 minutes)

0 Level: Detect Magic**, Detect poison*, Light*, Read Magic*, Resistance*
1st Level: Bless**, uDetect Undead*, Hide from Undead*, Magic Stone*, Sanctuary*, (Protection from Evil+)
2nd Level: Hold Person*, uOwl's Wisdom*, Silence, Spiritual Weapon* (Aid*)
3rd Level: Dispel Magic*, Prayer*, Searing Light*, Speak with Dead (uMagic Circle against Evil+*)
4th Level: Death Ward*, Freedom of Movement*, Summon Monster IV+, (Holy Smite+*)

Famina (AC 19, hp , hp 84/84, invisible) and Kadaz (AC 24, hp 63/63, invisible, subbed by mikey) d20+8=24 d6=5 d6=4 d20+12=29 d10=8
Friday July 28th, 2006 1:48:50 PM
The battle has begun! And there's no way Famina or Kadaz is going to be kept out of it.
"Lang, move to the left just a little..." an invisible voice behind him chirps excitedly. She brushes right past him (moving through his square) and continues on. Hopefully he managed to drop that zombie he's been focusing on. If he hasn't, she heads into the empty area next to Lang and resumes his attack on that very same zombie. (Along the way, I believe I provoke attacks of opportunity from the two zombies and the skeleton next to Lang, but I have Mobility for +4 AC)
If that zombie has fallen, which she hopes it has, she moves into the square in which it was standing and takes a swing at the skeleton six that is next to Lang. Hopefully, she can help clear out the way for others to get in.
Either way, with a chopping blow with some force thrown behind it, she deals her enemy a powerful blow. (using power attack -4, hit AC 24, did 9 + 8 (PA) + 6 (strx1.5) +1 = 24 damage)
And becomes visible right afterwards. (though I think the invisibility doesn't matter to the zombies anyways)

Kadaz is right on the tail of the barbarian, even though he can't see her. He, too, brushes past Lang, and the undead have probably just taken a swing at Famina and can't get an attack against the dwarf. At this point, things get complicated.
If the zombie has fallen, and Famina appears in that square attacking the skeleton, then Kadaz goes into the empty square next to Lang. He will then join in the attack on the skeleton, unless it is ashes, in which case he will attack the zombie (with cover).
If the zombie has fallen but Famina is not in its square (aka, Famina managed to finish it off after moving), Kadaz moves into that square and will attack the skeleton.
And finally, if the zombie has survived this round, then Kadaz has no place to go to, as he unfortunately finds out. He tries moving into Famina's square, then into the dog's square, then heads back into his very own square, feeling very sad he can't be in the fight.

If he does get an attack in with his adamantine battle axe, he's pretty happy. He chops off an arm or leg with a good swing (hits AC 29, does 13 damage).

Thar ail Baerer AC 21, hp 41 - Belkior's PfE spell, Bless d20+1=14 2d6(3+2)+4=9
Friday July 28th, 2006 3:20:18 PM
Seeing that the fun is know beginning, Thar will squeeze to the side of the passageway, trying to allow his companions to pass.

He will look at the closest group of enemy undead that are still standing and attempt to turn them w/ his cross.

Turn Check (most powerful I can turn) = 1d20+Chr bon = 14 = 4th Level (my cleric level + 1)

Turn Dmg = 2d6 + your cleric level + your Charisma modifier = 9 HD turned

Turned Rounds = 1/10

Spell Affects - Belkior's Prot from Evil, Thar's Bless

DM Sanity Check

L0 Spells: Det Magic (2x), Det Poison, Read Mag
L1: Shield of Faith, SumMon 1, Prot from Evil
L2: Delay Poison, SumMon 2, Spiritual Weap

Turn Undead Attempts - 3 left /4

Bless duration - 3/15 rounds, +1 attack and ST's vs. fear

Affected by Bless - Arm, Belkior, Conner, Edmund, Mira, Thar, Wynn, Xenia

Battle in the Basement - Round 2 (DM JohnP) d20+1=12 d20+1=9 d20+1=15 d20+1=17 d20+1=5 d20+1=12 d20+1=13 d20+1=8 d20+1=19 d20+1=12 d20+1=13 d20+1=15 d20+1=13 d20+1=3 d20+1=6 d20+1=7 d20+1=11 d20-1=6 d20-1=10 d20+17=35 d20+5=11 2d4(1+1)=2 2d4(3+3)=6 d20+4=7 d20+4=12 d20+1=9 d20+1=18 Cultist 4 d20+2=7 Cultist 9 d20=11 Cultist 18 d20+2=20 d4+1=3 Cultists d20+1=18 d20+1=10 d20+1=2 d20+1=11 d20+1=18 d20+1=6 d20+1=3 d20+1=18 d20+1=4 d20+1=17 d20+1=16 d20+1=3 d20+1=4 d20+1=6 d20+1=21
Sunday July 30th, 2006 10:05:54 PM
The battle intensifies down in the basement as bits of rotting corpse go flying about the room. Thinking to try a different approach, Xenia downs another potion from her haversack and rises up towards the ceiling of the room.

Syr slips by the zombies in front of him. Since he was invisible, the zombies couldn't move to block him and he moves into the corner of the basement.

Upstairs, Arm starts to sing a rousing song to inspire his companions. Because he's still in the hallway, his voice reaches only the others in the hallway and those near the bottom of the stairs.
DM Note -- Those affected, at present -- Arm, Belkior, Conner, Edmund, Mira, Syr, Thar, Wynn

Wynn rolls past one of the clumsy zombies and slices into it. Conner pushes through and finishes that undead off, leaving two large pieces on the floor.

Once Conner moves, there is room for Edmund to squeeze through. The wizard makes it down to the landing and he casts a spell into the basement. A mass of webbing grows from the walls, floor and ceiling to engulf anyone in the centre of the basement. That includes a newfound companion -- Wynn. But he's caught virtually all of the cultists in the webbing.
Wynn -- Please make Reflex saves vs. DC 17. If successful, you are simply Entangled (half speed, -2 Attack, -4 DEX). Failure requires a full-round DC 20 Strength or DC 25 Escape Artist check to get free and simply be Entangled.
DM Note -- Since area effect spells are centred on square corners, I default to the top left corner for centring spells.

Nearly all of the cultists are caught in the webbing although a couple are able to twist away as it formed. The zombies, of course, were too clumsy to escape but the bugbear appears to be unaffected. The dire rat looks stuck, though.

On the other side of the room, Lang hacked into another zombie in front of him. His shortswords plunge into the soft flesh of the zombie and don't harm the undead like they would a living opponent. Still, his weapon's magic and the strength of his arms combine to destroy the zombie. Then he steps aside to clear the doorway.

Angus shifts himself into the form of a pixie and flies forward. The Web and the skeletons block his path, however, so he cannot advance as far as he wants. He cries out to the cultists to surrender. Some of those who are simply trying to escape listen to his words but they're all inside the Web.

Now that Angus has moved, Ash can send Shelya into the stairs.

Shadow swings at the skeleton in front of him but his rapier simply rattles through the bones of the undead's ribcage.

In the hallway upstairs, Belkior tries to see around his larger companions.

Famina and Kadaz cannot move forward to attack, so they stay invisible and waiting behind Angus.

Thar gestures with his holy symbol from the stairs and calls forth positive energy to repel or destroy undead. The zombies turn and struggle in the web ... but the one on the far side runs into storeroom 4. The three skeletons in front of Lang and Shadow are destroyed, falling into splintered bone and dust. Now that room is available, Shadow and Angus move forward into the room. And that means that there is room for Kadaz and Famina to move as well.

Mira waits patiently upstairs.

========================================

Wynn starts with alarm as the torch on the wall ignites the webbing. It flares briefly before burning out. The same occurs at other points in the basement, catching a zombie and a cultist in the resulting flames.

Shadow can see into storeroom 6 where the dire rat came from. There is much more mud on the floor of this storeroom than in the main part of the basement.

+++++

The bugbear steps out of the webbing and calls out to Lang.

"Brought friends, did you? Well, how about I slice you up first before I start on the rest? That's for trying to trick me, yes it is."

The bugbear mutters a few words and a malignant aura settles around one of his kukris.
Spellcraft DC 16 - Highlight to display spoiler: {Corrupt Weapon}

Then he calls out again, presumably to the dire rat.

"Philemus! Get out of the web and attack!"

The dire rat struggles in the Web but cannot break free.

The cleric grips a medallion around his neck and mutters some words. Then he commands the skeletons to protect him and move with him.
Lang & Syr - Please make Knowledge (Religion) checks.

The closest zombies is caught in the Web. It thrashes and throws itself about but cannot get any further away from Thar and his holy symbol. The other one is free of the Web but cannot push past the cultists caught in the Web.

Cultist 4 moves slowly through the Web until he is out and then he closes with Lang. He jabs at Lang with a dagger but doesn't come close to harming the ranger. Cultist 9 also moves out of the Web and also attacks Lang with a rusty dagger.
Cultist 4 - dagger misses AC 7
Cultist 9 - dagger misses AC 11

Cultist 18 also jabs at Wynn. Because Wynn is within the Web, his dagger manages to slip by the bard's armor.
Cultist 18 - dagger hits AC 20, 3 damage

All of the other cultists attempt to break free of the Web's bonds. Only one of them does so but when she tries to run, she bumps into an invisible figure. One had the webbing burned away and is covered in terrible burns. He slowly makes his way out of the Web, sobbing with pain.

Player Sanity Info
Skelton -- AC 13, DR 5/bludgeoning
Zombie -- AC 11, DR 5/slashing

Web - anyone entering Web's area is Entangled (half speed, no Run or Charge, -2 on Attack, -4 to Dexterity and Concentration check required to cast spell)

Moving Through Opponents - There are two, or three, possible methods of moving through a square occupied by an opponent.
a) Tumble skill - DC 25 for first opponent and +2 for each subsequent. Failure means that movement stops at the first opponent, who gets an AoO.
b) Overrun special attack - move into the square and opponent can choose to either block or allow movement through square. If the opponent blocks, determine whether they are knocked down and movement can continue. Opponents can only choose to block opponents that they are aware off (my ruling), so Invisible characters who have made Move Silent checks can attempt this.
c) Bull Rush special attack - pushes the opponent back 5' or more.

MAP

Xenia (AC24, HP 48/48) d20+16=36 d20+16=26 d20+11=20
Sunday July 30th, 2006 10:36:10 PM

"Framble farping fan pans!!!" From her horizontal position at ceiling height, the dark rogue watches the chaos as everyone thrashes around in the web stuff.

"What idiot put the web up?!!! Watch out, Wynn!!! Frapping Framble Matter!!!" grrrrrrrrr

The flame headed rogue can feel a tiny growl ticking away at the back of her throat.

She grits her teeth and plunges into the web anyway. Head first, she flies at ceiling height. Bending and flexing her body around strands of web, Xenia weaves her way to the other side. Until, at last, she breaks free! She's on the other side!

Arcing around the edge of the crowd, swift and silent, the invisible rogue swoops in directly behind the ususpecting weirdo cultie cleric.

Rolls and Actions
Hide 51 (Nat 20+20 for Invisibility. -5 for Full Movement)
Move Silently 26
Reflex 20

Movement and Position
(Half speed through H11 to H7)
95 effective feet out of 120-foot double move. Now at L4(5 feet up)
How about a 4th way, John? Fly over their heads. ^_^

Active Effects
Message (Duration 50 minutes)
Invisibility (Duration 3 minutes?)
Bless (Duration 3/15 rounds)
Barkskin (Duration 3 minutes)
Fly (Duration 3 minutes)

Famina (AC 17, hp , hp 98/98, invisible) d100=8 d100=56 d100=82 d20+9=23 d6=2 d6=1
Monday July 31st, 2006 12:16:15 AM
The barbarian is normally a frenzied fighter, but this time there's too much confusion, and she understands the value of tactics at times. Besides, she always prefers the bigger fight. Picking from her enemies, she chooses the monstrous rat just over to her left.
NOW she is ready to unleash her fury! She yelps out an attack cry, something in dwarven vaguely, "Ishkhaqwi ai durugnul ur druggen dundiggen nackhnal!"
which translates vaguely to 'I spit upon your grave, you stinking nose-picking rustbucket!'
She skirts the web and moves into position just to the side of the huge critter and bursts out of her invisibility with a wild chop!

(Moving south to M13, then heading west to K13. I don't think I provoke attacks since I am invisible [according to aoo rules I think] If it does I have +4 AC (AC 23 till I rage) since mobility. Then, raging and taking a power attack -5 at the dire rat at K12. Hit AC 23, did 3 base + 10 pa + 9 str + 1 magic = 23 damage. Poor critter!)

(For fun, use http://www.delving.com/swear.html to make your own dwarven curse! :D)

Edmund (AC:12+2, HP:27/27) Bless, Inspire Courage d20+10=27
Monday July 31st, 2006 1:42:13 AM
Edmund cannot see Wynn from his position, but he can see a cultist missed by the web, and this particular cultist seems to be slashing at something. Certain this cannot be a good sign, Edmund holds position and readies Charm Person. Still casting defensively (Concentration: 27), he makes the arcane movements with practised ease--the words of his voice firm, but strangely pleasant, encouraging, and friendly. Smiling, he looks to the dagger-wielding cultist (at F-11), and warmly ends his incantation. "Amicus!"

If successful, Edmund will adopt a casual and good-natured attitude with the cultist and say, "Ho there, my fine fellow. You look like a man of intelligence and devotion. Let's consider things as equals, what. I know I can trust you--I'm an excellent judge of character--and I can tell you're the sort of fellow willing to help a chap out when he's in a bind. You see, I've got a bit of a difficulty here. Lots of stuff going on, can't really keep an eye on it all, but I'm certain you can help. If you could just poke about and make certain none of my friends have gone and gotten themselves caught in that nasty web, silly twits, I'd really appreciate it. Just do your best to cut them free, if they have, and you know such deeds will never go unrewarded. My gratitude will be unrelenting."

"Once you've done that, if you would be so good as to pip off down this hallway here and just round the corner to the local guard post, I've an important message which I'm trusting you to deliver. If you could just let them know that my friends and I are all here, I would be--once again--deeply appreciative. I know it's not too much to expect of someone as accomplished and helpful as you, especially as between friends. And, you'd be doing yourself no small amount of favour as well, if you know what I mean."

DM Sanity Info
Spells In Effect: Bless (Thar), Web (Duration: 50 minutes), Inspire Courage (Arm), Charm Person #1(Duration: 5 hours)

Spells Memorised:
L.0: Daze (x2), Detect Magic, Read Magic, Resistance
L.1: Charm Person (x2), Colour Spray, Grease, Hypnotism, Sleep
L.2: Daze Monster (x2), Hypnotic Pattern, Web
L.3: Hold Person, Slow, Suggestion

Arm
Monday July 31st, 2006 5:16:57 AM
Unable to do much more at the present, Arm resorts to continue his song, and hopes that it provides some help for those down below.

Kadaz (AC24, hp 63/63), invisible
Monday July 31st, 2006 5:52:43 AM
The invisible Kadaz takes a quick look around and sees the others handily taking care of the undead. But that cleric and bugbear are a concern. He's going after them!

Kadaz decides to take advantage of being invisible. He steps into the web (move to M10) and struggles to make any headway at all. He forces his way through the web (to L9), trying not to touch the cultists and alert them to his position. Kadaz makes no attempt at moving quietly - he's too busy forcing his way though the webs. Hopefully the sounds of active battle will overwhelm his jingling. But, he suddenly notices, he's leaving a wake in the web! What genius had the bright idea to cast a web?

If one of the cultists does attack Kadaz will take the blow and not retaliate. He grits his teeth keeps struggling forward.

Spells In Effect:

Invisibility - (10/30 rounds used)

Wynn [AC=21; HP=56/59] Message, Disguise, Bless, Inspired d20+9=27 d20+11=23 d8+4=10
Monday July 31st, 2006 7:52:32 AM
Wynn manages to avoid the web and easily slips out of the sticky mess [Reflex=27; Move to G12]. He does not take his eyes off the dagger wielding cultist and once out of the web slashes at the man with his longsword [Hit AC=23 for 10 HP].

Conner [AC=22; HP=62] Message, Bless, Inspired d20+5=25
Monday July 31st, 2006 8:02:29 AM
The fighter sees the escaping cleric and plunges into the web in pursuit [Reflex=25]. The going is slow as Conner carefully steps between the strands of webbing [New Position I-11?]

Shadow (AC 21/18 HP 28/28)
Monday July 31st, 2006 9:20:17 AM
Shadow will scoot back a little to get better shot at the cultists 'I really want to get a shot at the bugbear or cleric, but just way too many bodies in the way' he thinks to himself as he puts his rapier away and get his bow out.

Thar ail Baerer AC 21, hp 41 - Belkior's PfE spell, Bless, Inspired d20=14 2d6(5+2)+4=11
Monday July 31st, 2006 11:54:39 AM
Thar will move forward into the position that Conner just vacated (E10) and can now see Skeletons S1-4 (near the Bugbear)

Readying his cross again, he'll try to turn these abominations. Since he has already affected the zombies near him, he'll ignore them this time and focus on other targets.

Turn Check = 15 = 4 HD Max affect
Turn Dmg = 11 HD turned

First Turn Attempt Rounds (Z4-6) = 2/10
Second Turn Attempt Rounds (S1-4) = 1/10

Spell Affects - Belkior's Prot from Evil, Thar's Bless, Inspired

DM Sanity Check

L0 Spells: Det Magic (2x), Det Poison, Read Mag
L1: Shield of Faith, SumMon 1, Prot from Evil
L2: Delay Poison, SumMon 2, Spiritual Weap

Turn Undead Attempts - 2 left /4

Bless duration - 4/15 rounds, +1 attack and ST's vs. fear

Belkior/Sub Al (AC20, AC22 vs Evil, HP40/40) d20+14=20
Monday July 31st, 2006 1:01:55 PM
A space opens up ahead.

"Excuse me." Belkior pushes past the talkative member of the Plateau City group. Edumnd. Yes that was his name.

"Sorry. Excuse me, Edmund."

There looks to be more space in front of ... Thar ail Baerer was his name. Wasn't it.

"Excuse me, Thar."

The halfling cleric eases past Thar as well, only to find himself stuck in some sort of sticky web with robed, dagger-wielding humans ... and zombies all around him. Quickly, Belkior forms his hands into the Symbol of Alemi and casts a spell upon himself to be Free of the webs that bind his Movement.

Rolls and Actions
Cast Freedom of Movement Defensively 20 vs DC19

Movement and Position
Move to F10. Draw AoO from 18 as Belkior moves from E10 to F10. If 18 is still standing after Wynn's last hit, that is.

Active Effects
Owl's Wisdom (Duration, 7.5/8 minutes)
Magic Circle Against Evil (Duration 90 minutes)
Freedom of Movement (Duration 90 minutes)

0 Level: Detect Magic**, Detect poison*, Light*, Read Magic*, Resistance*
1st Level: Bless**, uDetect Undead*, Hide from Undead*, Magic Stone*, Sanctuary*, (Protection from Evil+)
2nd Level: Hold Person*, uOwl's Wisdom*, Silence, Spiritual Weapon* (Aid*)
3rd Level: Dispel Magic*, Prayer*, Searing Light*, Speak with Dead (uMagic Circle against Evil+*)
4th Level: Death Ward*, uFreedom of Movement*, Summon Monster IV+, (Holy Smite+*)

Mira (AC 13+4,40 HP) Mage Armour
Monday July 31st, 2006 4:44:42 PM
"This should help you get about," the sorcerer whispers to the bard in front of her in the line-up to get into the fray. Mira extracts a scroll from her case, and chimes out the words she had nearly memorised during previous study. As the scroll disolves, she directs the magic the bard's way. "You should be able to climb along the walls and the cieling, but you must always be in contact with the surface to do so," she says, adding, "see if you can get the chalice, but be careful."

DM Sanity Info:

Position: Mira-in the hallway, still trying to get down the stairs, but happy to be buffing folks up and sending them down before her!

Spells In Effect:

Mage Armour - on Mira-3 hours
Message - on Mira, cast by Angus
Invisibility - on Kadaz, - 3 minutes (10/30 rounds used) - on Famina, - 3 minutes (5/30 rounds) - on Conner, - 3 minutes (30 rounds)
Spider Climb - on Arm - 3 minutes (30 rounds)

- Spells: (0-level 6 per day, 1st level 7 per day, 2nd level 6 per day, 3rd level 4 per day)
0-level: detect magic, read magic, light, mage hand, open/close, ray of frost
1st-level: magic missile, burning hands, mage armor#, shield
2nd-level: glitterdust, invisibility###
3rd-fireball

Syr (AC 19/20 hp /62) Inspire, Invisibility d20+10=30
Monday July 31st, 2006 7:31:02 PM
Syr grins at the comic scene before him as everyone struggles with the web. Prior to laughing aloud, he remembers the seriousness of the situation and moves on the source of the problem. Moving with the utmost of care, he sneaks up on the priest. Thinking to himself that even Xenia would be proud of his stealthiness. He stands just behind the priest and flexes his muscles in preparation.

(OOC: I'm one of those rule challenged people, what kind of modifiers do I get next round for attacking?)

[ Invisible creatures get +2 Bonus To Hit against Sighted creatures. -- Al (Just helping out.) ]

Lang (AC 24; HP 79 or 81/92) & Sunshine (AC 22; HP 47/47) d20=4 d20+13=28 d20+13=18 d20+8=13 d20+8=21 3d6(2+3+1)+6=12 d6=6 d6+6=9 3d6(2+3+6)+6=17 d6=2 d6+6=9
Monday July 31st, 2006 8:55:44 PM
Knowledge Religion 4.

Lang does not understand the motion the Cleric made.

Lang hears the Bugbear taunt him and responds with his own.

"Bugbear you and your foul friends will meet death today. You are next."

Lang continues his methodical killing of the evil cultists.

Attack Cultist #9 and then Cultist #5:

RH hit AC 28; damage 12; damage to me 6
LH hit AC 18; damage 9
RH hit AC 13; damage 17; damage to me 2 (let me know if this hit)
LH hit AC 21; damage 9

If Lang kills the 2 cultist he will step forward, closer to the Bugbear (into cell M8).

"Famina take care of that rat."

Sunshine hears the strong tone in his Masters voice. A low growl starts in the dog's throat.

Angus AC 23/25 evil HP 33 d20+4=13 d20+4=21 d20+8=23 4d6(6+2+4+4)=16 4d6(6+6+6+4)=22
Monday July 31st, 2006 9:10:53 PM
Angus's view of the room is severely hindered by the web spell. He sees Wynn and a cultist stuck in the web in front of him and a large rat off to his right a short distant.

He decides to soften up the rat for Famina, after hearing Lang's command.

Cast Scorching Ray - 2 rays
Hit TAC's 13 & 21
Spell Resistance 23 (if needed)
Damage 16 & 22

Spell Slots:

0 Level 1/5
1 Level 3/8
2 Level 2/8
3 Level 0/6
4 Level 1/4

Spells in Effect:

Message (Mira, Arm, Syr)
Mage Armor - Hours
Protection from Evil - 10/160 rounds (extended)
Inviso on Syr - 9/80 rounds
Shield - 3/160 rounds (extended)
Polymorph - 2/80 (18 Dex and natural AC improvement)

Rod of extend 2/3

Ash
Monday July 31st, 2006 9:28:26 PM
Ash follows Shelya down the stairs, preparing to check for wounded compatriots

Battle in the Basement - Round 3 (DM JohnP) Cultist 9 d100=99 d20-1=17 Listen d20=14 Bugbear d20+14=15 d20+14=21 d20+9=23 d20+9=10 d20+4=17 Cleric d20+17=33 Skeleton S3 d20+1=21 d20+1=20 d6+1=7 d6+1=4 Skeleton S4 d20+1=9 Zombie 4 d20+1=18 Cultists d20+1=12 d20+1=14 d20+1=11 d20+1=5 d20+1=18 d20+1=19 d20+1=15 d20+1=2 d20+1=14 d20+1=10 d20+1=13 d20+1=8 d20+1=4 d20+1=10
Monday July 31st, 2006 10:40:11 PM
The parties start manoeuvring around the Web in the centre of the room.

Xenia has one solution, flying nimbly directly through the centre of the area. She manages to avoid the worst of the webbing and emerges on the far side of the area. She finishes her movement directly behind the cleric who is clutching the stone bowl.

Famina ... well, the barbarian princess takes a more forceful approach. Brandishing her greatsword, she moves around the webbing until she can attack the dire rat. One mighty swing is enough to destroy the creature.

On the stairs leading to the front hall, Edmund tries to enchant the cultist that attacked Wynn. Unfortunately, he cannot see enough of the cultist to target him.
DM Note -- No Line of Effect to Cultist 18 since he has Cover from Edmund. The spell isn't expended.

In the hallway, Arm keeps singing since he didn't see any way forward down the stairs.
DM Note -- If you do want to move, put your intended destination in the next post since there should be room.

Like a dwarf in a china shop, Kadaz simply bulls his way through the webbing until he realizes that he is probably showing everyone where he is. Cultist 9 jabs out when he moves but cannot hit the heavily armoured fighter.
Cultist 9 -- 99%, dagger misses AC 17

Wynn, encouraged by Xenia's words, managed to avoid being caught by the spell. He steps out of the webbing and attacks Cultist 18, killing the poor deluded fellow. Actually, the cultist looks even worse than the dire rat that Famina chopped.

Following Kadaz' example, Conner plunges into the webbing also. He makes his way partway in and none of the cultists attack him.

Shadow moves to get a better line on the bugbear, shuffling his weapons as he does so.

On the stairs, Thar steps forward and again tries to turn undead. He seems to have done everything correctly, but nothing happened that he could see.

Sensing that there is space up ahead, Belkior pushes past the people from Plateau City and into the webbing. Then he casts a spell to allow him to move freely within the spell's area.

The sorcerer Mira reads a scroll to cast a spell upon Arm. She tells the bard that he can crawl on the walls and ceilings now.

Back in the basement, Syr the invisible elven monk creeps close to the cult cleric and his skeleton guards.

Lang swings at the two cultists in front of him and easily cuts them down with his first two swings. Then he steps closer to the bugbear cultist and taunts him some more.
DM Note -- I'm assuming that you actually meant Cultist 4, the one that attacked you not the unarmed Cultist 5 who is deeper in the Web.

Angus was going to attack the dire rat with a spell but it died from Famina's mighty swing.
DM Note -- spell not expended.

Finally, Ash creeps down the stairs behind Shelya.

++++++

The bugbear steps closer to Lang and starts swinging. At the end of it, none of his attacks manage to hit the ranger from Floating City.
Primary hand -- misses AC 15 (natural 1)
Off-hand -- misses AC 21
Primary hand -- misses AC 23
Off-hand -- misses AC 10 (natural 1)
Primary hand -- misses AC 17

The cleric casts a spell, unaware that there are any invisible opponents nearby. Once he has done that, he moves closer to the bugbear.
DM Note -- Syr, roll an AoO if desired. I'll adjudicate the results of the attempted spellcasting following that.
Lang, Syr and Xenia - Spellcraft DC 18 -- Highlight to display spoiler: {Magic Circle Against Good}

The four skeletons move to protect the cleric's back. If Syr revealed himself, the closest ones will attack. The first one gets a lucky swing in with it's club and manages to hit the elven monk. The second misses badly.
Skeleton S3 hits AC 21 (threat), possibly confirmed AC 20, 7 or 11 damage. Who was Syr dodging?
Skeleton S4 misses AC 9

The zombies keep trying to run away from Thar. One is still stuck in the Web and the other can't get past the other cultists.

The cultists keep trying to escape the Web but none break free. One who had escaped before manages to make it out and approaches Ash, pleading.

"Please! Don't kill me! Don't let them kill me!"

Player Sanity Info
Cultist -- AC 11, 7 hitpoints
Skeleton -- AC 13, DR 5/bludgeoning
Zombie -- AC 11, DR 5/slashing

Web - anyone entering Web's area is Entangled (half speed, no Run or Charge, -2 on Attack, -4 to Dexterity and Concentration check required to cast spell). Five full feet of Web also provides Cover and 20 feet provides Total Cover.

MAP

Xenia (AC24, HP 48/48) d20+10=24
Monday July 31st, 2006 11:41:24 PM

Spell stuff.

Hey! HEY!!! Framblemation! the rogue curses inwardly as the Cleric Guy moves away and the Skellies close in behind him. Alright, you. Gonna do this the hard way. The dark rogue spots a clear spot just inside the door to the nearby store room.

"Lang," Xenia whispers over the Message Link. "I'm going to go for that Stone Chalice. Keep the Bugbear guy off of me, will you?"

With effortless grace, Xenia rises upward and flattens herself against the ceiling. The mass of Skeletons and Cultie Weirdoes pass below as she glides toward the door. She slips in ... reaches around the corner ... grabs the Chalice thingie ... AND YANKS!!!

Suddenly, Xenia appears floating up above the ground next to Lang.

It happens so fast, that the dark rogue isn't quite sure whether she's got it or not.

Rolls and Actions
Disarm 24 to Grab item. (Base 11, -4 per Woldian Rules, +1 Bless, +2 Invisible)

Movement and Position
N7 (5 feet up)

Active Effects
Message (Duration 50 minutes)
Bless (Duration 3/15 rounds)
Barkskin (Duration 3 minutes)
Fly (Duration 3 minutes)

Question: Does Xenia have the Chalice, John? If she does, there's some shouts and threats from the girl rogue that follow.

Edmund (AC:12+2, HP 27/27) Bless, Inspire Courage d20+10=25 2d4(3+4)+5=12
Tuesday August 1st, 2006 1:01:01 AM
Edmund tries to make his way down the hallway a bit (towards a desired destination of E-10 or farther), disappointed at the sudden death of his target and the failure of his spell due to an intervening wall. Still, he keeps his chin up, and upon reaching his destination, make the swift gestures necessary for Hypnotic Pattern, (Targetted on the upper-left corner of I-9, affects 12 hit dice of creatures) whilst continuing to cast defensively (Concentration: 25).

DM Sanity Info
Spells In Effect: Bless (Thar), Web (Duration: 50 minutes), Inspire Courage (Arm), Hypnotic Pattern (Duration: Concentration+2 Rounds)

Spells Memorised:
L.0: Daze (x2), Detect Magic, Read Magic, Resistance
L.1: Charm Person (x2), Colour Spray, Grease, Hypnotism, Sleep
L.2: Daze Monster (x2), Hypnotic Pattern, Web
L.3: Hold Person, Slow, Suggestion

Syr (AC21/20 HP 62) Inspire d20+12=18 d20+10=29 d20+14=22 d10+6=11 d20+13=17 d20+13=28 d20+7=17 d10+6=16 d10+6=13 d10+6=12
Tuesday August 1st, 2006 1:02:38 AM
Seeing the priest trying to move away from him, the monk panics and grabs his fleeing collar (Touch attack 21). With a quick yank, he drags the priest back to him and gets him in a bear hug (grapple check 30). Squeezing until the veins stand out on his arms, he wrestles with the cleric (att 21 damage 11).

OOC: Trying something new so feel free to correct me. So not only should the spell be interrupted for a grapple, he also did damage. Not sure if he gets multiple attacks or not but I rolled them above)

Edmund--Correction, 2nd illegal post
Tuesday August 1st, 2006 1:07:09 AM
((OOC: Correction to previous post. Edmund's move description should read 'towards a desired destination of E-10'. Please ignore the words 'or farther'))

Arm (AC14, HP 27/27)
Tuesday August 1st, 2006 5:58:04 AM
Finally seeing his way clear, Arm heads down the steps past Edmund and to the right of Belkior (F11). He realizes that he may be attacked by one of the cultists doing this (#14), but while still singing, he renews his original intent to block off the southern area so that none escape.

Kadaz (AC24, hp 63/63), invisible d20+12=15 d10+5=15 d20+7=9 d20+12=24 d10+5=12
Tuesday August 1st, 2006 6:23:37 AM
With all that is going on, Kadaz finds it impossible to ignore the cultists in front of him. He targets one carrying a dagger (#16) and suddenly becomes visible as he swings twice. (hit AC 15 for 15 damage, hit AC 9).

If the first swing hits and kills the cultist Kadaz takes advantage of the momentum of the axe to continue swinging at the next armed cultist (#12). (use cleave feat, hit AC 24 for 12 damage)

Conner [AC=22; HP=62] Message, Bless, Inspired d20-2=8
Tuesday August 1st, 2006 7:35:49 AM
Conner continues working his way through the web, cursing the mess of sticky strands that impede his progress [Move 1/2 speed and arrive at K-7]. "I'm coming for you!" he threatens the cultists that might block his way, hoping they stand aside as he passes. He is not at all sure this will work, but he is determined to get to the cleric [Bluff=8]

Wynn [AC=21; HP=56/59] Message, Disguise, Bless, Inspired d20+16=34 d20+7=27
Tuesday August 1st, 2006 7:47:05 AM
Wynn decides to follow Conner through the web, counting on the tattooed fighter clearing a path. Anyone paying attention to him will note a slight shimmer as the facade of a beggar becomes the cloaked figure of a cultist [Disguise=34]. "Make room, make room!" he commands any of the cultists that might impede him. "I must protect the chalice!" [Bluff=27, Nat 20]

Wynn advances behind the fighter and slips between him and the Bugbear [L7]. He will dodge the Bugbear if it looks like his impersonation of a cultist has failed.

Results of Syr's Grapple AoO (DM JohnP) d100=65 d20+1=7
Tuesday August 1st, 2006 7:57:55 AM
DM JohnP - this Grapple attack changes the results of the cleric's spellcasting and subsequent movement. I'm not going to change the skeleton's rolls, though.

Syr manages to grab the evil cleric by the collar. Using some secret elven martial art, he wraps his arms around the cleric and interrupts his spell casting.
DM Note - Spell fails, no damage this round from Grapple but can try in following rounds

The cleric calls out, "Invisible! They're invisible! Save me, you wretches!"

The skeletons move to attack the person who assaulted their master. Skeleton 3 steps closer and catches the grappling Syr with a hard knock.
Skeleton 3 - hits AC 21 (threat), confirmed AC 20, 11 damage
NOTE - Grappling means that attacker (Syr) also loses his DEX bonus to AC

Skeleton 4 swings wide of the elven monk.
Skeleton 4 - misses AC 9

Skeleton 2 moves to attack Syr and bumps into an invisible opponent. It swings it's club through space L4, but misses whoever is standing there.
Skeleton 2 - 65%, misses AC 7

The other skeleton stays where it is.

DM Announcement - I'm going to try to get the map updated.

Anyone who has already posted, feel free to re-post considering this outcome of an AoO.

MAP UPDATE!!! (weeee!)
Tuesday August 1st, 2006 8:11:55 AM
Map Update Right Here, Y'all.

Xenia (AC24, HP 48/48) - Move Redo
Tuesday August 1st, 2006 9:29:51 AM

"Woooo! Go, Syr!!!" Xenia's voice comes out of the thin air next to her companion and the grappled Cult Cleric.

"I'll take that off your hands," the rogue whispers softly as she reaches in, grabs hold of the stone Chalice, and yanks it loose.

Visible, now, the flame-headed rogue backs away from the phalanx of skelies and the whole melee mess. With a practiced reach, she stuffs the Chalice into the haversack behind her.

"I got your Chalice!" the rogue shouts to the room. "Surrender! Or you'll never see it again!"

"Probs never see it again anyway where you're going," Xenia whispers, unaware that her subvocalization is going to Wynn, Lang, and Shadow over the Message spell. "Weerdo undead lovers."

Rolls and Actions
Disarm 24 to Grab item. (Base 11, -4 per Woldian Rules, +1 Bless, +2 Invisible)
:: Using same Roll from Original Post ::

Movement and Position
Back up 5 feet to L3 (Near the ceiling.)
ME: Put Chalice into Haversack.

Active Effects
Message (Duration 50 minutes)
Bless (Duration 3/15 rounds)
Barkskin (Duration 3 minutes)
Fly (Duration 3 minutes)

Please say "Here"
Tuesday August 1st, 2006 10:39:33 AM
Plateau City:
DM POSTS XXXXX
Mira XXXOX
Kadaz XOXXX
Ash XXXXX
Thar XXXXX
Conner XXXXX
Shadow XXXXX
Arm XXXXX
Edmund XXXXX
95% effective

Crimson shields:
Xenia XXXXX
Syr OXXXX
Angus XXXXX
Wynn XXXXX
Lang XXXXX
Belkior XXXXX
Famina X0XXX
% Effective 94.3%

Shadow (AC 21/18 HP 28/28) d20+6=13 d4+1=4
Tuesday August 1st, 2006 11:39:55 AM
Shadow will take aim at the bugbear that is attacking Lang, and let go of the arrow. He will then ready another arrow to shoot at the bugbear or a new target depending on how good his new companion is.

Actions:
To hit=13
dmg=4

Famina (AC 17, hp , hp 98/98, invisible) d20+4=10 d20+6=10
Tuesday August 1st, 2006 12:18:24 PM
Famina rushes into the web, intent on enemies...only to find herself caught by strands that even her great strength can't break through. She spends the round cursing and thrasing against them, just ten feet away from the cultists she wishes to cut down...

Belkior/Sub Al (AC20, AC22 vs Evil, HP40/40)
Tuesday August 1st, 2006 12:26:26 PM
The Web is impossible! Can't see a think through it.

"Invisible! They're invisible! Save me, you wretches!"

Belkior focuses on the voice. Heedless of any attack, the Paragon of Alemi hustles around the south edge of the crowd. He passes Wynn and Conner. The edge of the mob curves north back in the direction of the voice. Belkior rushes through a gap between the cultists and comes face to face with ... A Skeleton!

Rolls and Actions

Movement and Position
Double Move to K7
Draw AoO from Z4/Unless turned, 16, 11, 12, 3 - AC22 vs Evil. (14, 15, 7 I assume are unarmed.)

Active Effects
Owl's Wisdom (Duration, 7.5/8 minutes)
Magic Circle Against Evil (Duration 90 minutes)
Freedom of Movement (Duration 90 minutes)

0 Level: Detect Magic**, Detect poison*, Light*, Read Magic*, Resistance*
1st Level: Bless**, uDetect Undead*, Hide from Undead*, Magic Stone*, Sanctuary*, (Protection from Evil+)
2nd Level: Hold Person*, uOwl's Wisdom*, Silence, Spiritual Weapon* (Aid*)
3rd Level: Dispel Magic*, Prayer*, Searing Light*, Speak with Dead (uMagic Circle against Evil+*)
4th Level: Death Ward*, uFreedom of Movement*, Summon Monster IV+, (Holy Smite+*)

Lang (AC 24; HP 73/92) & Sunshine (AC 22; HP 47/47) d20+13=27 d20+13=31 d20+8=26 d20+8=27 d20+13=22 d20+8=9 d20+8=15 3d6(2+6+3)+6=17 2d6(1+2)+12=15 3d6(6+5+4)+6=21 d6+6=10 d6=5 d6=3
Tuesday August 1st, 2006 12:27:54 PM
A small look of concern comes across Lang's face when he realizes that he will not be able to match the Bugbear swing for swing. Well he will just have to make his swings hurt more.

Lang continues to taunt the Bugbear.

"You're first Bugbear. Then your cleric friend."

Attack Bugbear. Probably hit 4 times with 3 criticals - but only 1 confirmed:

RH hit AC 27; 17 damage; damage to me 5
LH hit AC 31 (22); 15 critical damage
RH hit AC 26 (9); 21 damage; damage to me 3
LH hit AC 27 (15); 10 damage

Sunshine continues growling.

Angus (AC 23/25 evil; HP 33/33) d20+3=21
Tuesday August 1st, 2006 12:37:58 PM
The web and its stuck creatures are becoming a visual nuisance. Angus can hear his friends, both new and old on the other side in combat. He also hears the enemy commanding creatures and threatening his pal Lang. Angus needs to see what is happening on the other side of the room. He carefully flies his way over ending up in square H4, looking around as he goes.

Spot 21

Spell Slots:

0 Level 1/5
1 Level 3/8
2 Level 1/8
3 Level 0/6
4 Level 1/4

Spells in Effect:

Message (Mira, Arm, Syr)
Mage Armor - Hours
Protection from Evil - 11/160 rounds (extended)
Inviso on Syr - 10/80 rounds
Shield - 4/160 rounds (extended)
Polymorph - 3/80 (18 Dex and natural AC improvement)

Rod of extend 2/3

Thar ail Baerer AC 21, hp 41 - Belkior's PfE spell, Bless d20+8=13 d20+8=15 d6+4=6 d6+4=8
Tuesday August 1st, 2006 12:54:20 PM
Thar silently curses to himself, b/c his turning effort didn't seem to work as planned.

"Edmund, I'm moving in and go ahead and follow me, if you'd like. I'll try to ensure that no one gets past me."

He looks around and seeing that the time for him to use his trusty short swords has arrived, Thar moves to F11 and attacks C14. "Alright girls, let's go do some damage, since it's been a while," he whispers to his swords, as he moves in for the attack.

1st Attack = 13, 1st Dmg (if any) = 6
2nd Attack = 15, 2nd Dmg (if any) = 8

Use Dodge against F11 (AC21 vs. him, 20 vs. other targets)

DM Sanity Check

First Turn Attempt Rounds (Z4-6) = 3/10

Spell Affects - Belkior's Prot from Evil, Thar's Bless, Inspired

L0 Spells: Det Magic (2x), Det Poison, Read Mag
L1: Shield of Faith, SumMon 1, Prot from Evil
L2: Delay Poison, SumMon 2, Spiritual Weap

Turn Undead Attempts - 2 left /4

Bless duration - 5/15 rounds, +1 attacks and ST's vs. fear

Still Inspired = +1 on attacks/dmg

Ash d20+5=14
Tuesday August 1st, 2006 4:05:56 PM
Shelya moves to guard Ash from the cultist, moving between the Druid and the cultist, hackles raised and teeth beared in a threatening growl.

Ash surprised by someone coming up to him and begging to be taken prisoner, agrees to the surrender and asks Shelya to guard the cultist (Handle Animals= 14)

Looking beyond he notices the other cultists and prepares to summon a swarm of rats to attack them.

DM sanity:
Level 0:
Cure Minor Wounds
Flare
Guidance
Read Magic

Level 1
Cure Light Wounds (x2)
Goodberry
Magic Fang
Summon Nature's Ally I

Level 2
Animal Trance: Fascinates 2d6 HD of animals.
Barkskin (cast)
Summon Nature's Ally II
Summon Swarm (casting next round presumably)

Level 3:
Cure Moderate Wounds
Summon Nature's Ally III

Further Note: I have 6 points to put into skills (probably some of which will be in Handle Animal) but given the period between the stories, I have decided that Ash wouldn't actually have had time to actually improve them)

Mira (AC 13+4,40 HP) Mage Armour
Tuesday August 1st, 2006 7:32:57 PM
Now that Arm has entered the fray, Mira is impatient to do her part. Placing a hand on the person in front of her (Edmund?) she gives him a shove...into the room. The sorcerer looks to see if there are any enemy, and gets ready to start casting.

DM Sanity Info:

Position: F9

Spells In Effect:

Mage Armour - on Mira-3 hours
Message - on Mira, cast by Angus
Bless - Mira, from Thar
Inspire Courage - Mira, from Arm
Spider Climb - on Arm - 3 minutes (1/30 rounds)

- Spells: (0-level 6 per day, 1st level 7 per day, 2nd level 6 per day, 3rd level 4 per day)
0-level: detect magic, read magic, light, mage hand, open/close, ray of frost
1st-level: magic missile, burning hands, mage armor#, shield
2nd-level: glitterdust, invisibility###
3rd-fireball

Battle in the Basement - Round 4 (DM JohnP) Cultist saves d20=2 d20=15 d20=12 d20=5 d20=6 d20=11 Shadow miss d20+6=17 Bugbear d20+14=28 d4+5=9 d20+14=22 d20+9=13 d20+9=11 d20+4=7 Cleric d20+2=11 Skeletons S1 d20+1=10 S2 d20+1=12 S3 d20+1=11 S4 d20+1=20 Zombie d20+1=21 Cultists d20+1=14 d20+1=5 d20+1=3 d20+1=18 d20+1=5 d20+1=2 d20+1=9
Tuesday August 1st, 2006 10:17:17 PM
Syr's move has surprised the cultists, making escape and protection of their chalice look nearly impossible.

Inching closer, Edmund casts a spell into the concentration of cultists. A pattern of lights emerges within the Web. The only response is a muttered, "Oooh, look at the pretty lights."

After gripping the cult cleric last round, Syr tries to continue holding him and hurt him this time. He steps closer and squeezes the cleric, hurting him.
DM Note -- I interpreted your post as meaning the following:
- Maintain grapple by moving into cleric's space
- Inflict damage by making another Grapple check (which beat cleric Grapple DC), rolling monk unarmed damage
If this is not correct, you'll need to provide more information in your posts.

Arm moves into the basement and continues to sing. Everyone in the basement can now hear his voice.

Deep in the Web, Kadaz tries to attack one of the cultists. His axe goes wide, however.

Conner pushes his way through the Web, going right past two of the dagger-wielding cultists. Neither can act, however, since they are both firmly caught in the webbing.

Manipulating his spell, Wynn moves through the Web right behind Conner. He tries to look and act like one of the cultists and, so far, it seems to be working.
DM Note -- Double move at half speed doesn't quite take you where you want to finish.

Seeing her chance now that Syr has the cleric in an elven monkey-death grip, Xenia reaches in and grabs the chalice away. Then she retreats and threatens to destroy the chalice.

From the far end of the basement, Shadow looses an arrow at the evil bugbear. The arrow doesn't even come close to the cultist. It does come dangerously close to Lang's ear, though.
DM Note -- Applying the Woldian house rules for firing into melee, since you didn't take the -4 for firing into melee and the -1 for the intervening figure (Lang), the DM rolled for accidentally hitting Lang in the back.

Famina rushes in and gets caught up in the Web.

Belkior freely moves through the Web, moving up to where Wynn and Conner are. None of the cultists could attack since they are caught in the Web.
DM Note -- Belkior's intended destination was where Conner finished his move. Belkior could also move to J7 or L7. Let me if you want him moved further and I will correct map.

Fighting the evil cultist toe-to-toe, Lang responds with a similar flurry of attacks. He hits with all four attacks and seems to have hurt the bugbear.

Angus weaves his way through the maze of webbing.

Wanting to take the fight to the cultists, Thar was going to step in but finds Arm in front of him.

Ash accepts the surrender of the cultist and order Shelya to guard. Then he starts casting a spell.

Mira moves into the basement.

++++++

The bugbear again swings repeatedly at Lang. This time he hits once, then steps back away from the ranger.
Primary hand -- hits AC 28, 9 damage
Off-hand -- misses AC 22
Primary hand -- misses AC 13
Off-hand -- misses AC 11
Primary hand -- misses AC 7

The evil cleric cries out, "Save the chalice! The chalice!", as he struggles against Syr's grip.
Grapple check = 11 vs. unknown DC
DM Note -- if you're using Grapple, please determine what your own DC is and post it.

The four skeletons move to attack Xenia. None of them manage to hit the agile rogue, their clubs swinging by her head.
Conner -- please make an AoO vs. S2
S1 -- misses AC 10
S2 -- misses AC 12
S3 -- misses AC 11
S4 -- misses AC 20

The zombie struggles against the Web spell and finally breaks free. The other one cannot move past the cultists.

The cultists continue to try to escape the bonds of the Web spell but the spell holds them fast.

Player Sanity Info
Bugbear -- AC 22
Cultist -- AC 11, 7 hitpoints
Skeleton -- AC 13, DR 5/bludgeoning
Zombie -- AC 11, DR 5/slashing

DM Sanity Plea - If you're casting spells or other actions that require saves by the targets, please list the DC. It saves me a lot of time referring to character sheets.

Speaking of character sheets, some of you still owe me sheets.

And, if you're using Special Attacks, please provide all the necessary information to determine the outcome.

MAP

Conner [AC=22; HP=62] Message, Bless, Inspired d20+14=27 d8+8=15 d20+16=28 d20+10=12
Tuesday August 1st, 2006 10:43:40 PM
Conner swings his longsword at S2 as it attacks Xenia [Hit AC=27 for 15 HP AoO] and then turns his attention to the bugbear. Stepping forward [L6] he attempts to disarm the creature. The fighter slides his blade along his opponents weapon and gives a hard inward twist, trying to wrench it from the bugbears hand [Improved disarm=28 trying to disarm primary weapon]. He then follows up with a shield bash, hoping to further unbalance the beast [Hit AC=12].

Xenia (AC24, HP 48/48) d20+13=32 d6+1=6
Tuesday August 1st, 2006 10:44:38 PM

"Wah!" The dark rogue is suddenly surrounded by Skelies!

Tumbling through and just flying away shouldn't be too hard. But ...

"Wynn!!!" Xenia steps back and orders up her Light Mace from the Haversack. "I, uh, got the Skelies trapped back here! Help!" And she punctuates her cry by bringing the little spiky ball of her weapon right down on top of one of the boney heads with a crunch.

Rolls and Actions
Hit Skeleton S1 AC32, Damage 6hp w/Inspire Courage

Movement and Position
Back up 5 feet to M3 (Near the ceiling.)

Active Effects
Message (Duration 50 minutes)
Bless (Duration 3/15 rounds)
Barkskin (Duration 3 minutes)
Fly (Duration 3 minutes)
Inspire Courage (On going)

Wynn [AC=21; HP=56/59] Message, Disguise, Bless, Inspired d20+11=25 d8+4=9
Tuesday August 1st, 2006 10:57:01 PM
Wynn reacts immediately to Xenia's cry for help. His longsword flashes as he strides forward and slashes down on S4 [Hit AC=25 for 9HP]. He prepares to dodge this same opponent should the skeleton attempt to return the favour [Effective AC=22, 25 vs AoO]

"Hold on Xenia, I'm on the way" he calls out as he strikes at the skeleton.

[Wynn is now in space K5]

Edmund (AC:12+2, HP:27/27) Bless, Inspire Courage
Tuesday August 1st, 2006 10:57:11 PM
Edmund stands a little to the side, allowing Mira to pass him as Thar and Belkior did, if she feels it impossible to resist plunging into the larger area of the basement. As for being shoved about, he doesn't take well to that sort of outrageous behaviour, and remains in the position he recently took up ((at D-10 apparently, according to the map)). He does not attempt to move any further into the basement and will resist, strenuously and to the very utmost of his physical ability, anyone's attempt to forcibly propel him in any direction.

Unable to determine whether or not the fanatics are fascinated by his Hypnotic Pattern--these things being rather difficult to tell under the circumstances--he continues concentrating on the spell to maintain its effect. Ruefully, he considers it really is his only significant option other than to dismiss his Web, which would of course free all of the evil fanatics, their friends, and the undead servants of the Evil Elf Sorceress Queen simultaneously. Absolutely resolute in his determination that such an eventuality must not come to pass, he carries on the good work of trying to fascinate the cultists instead.

"Good thing I'm here," he says to himself with a smile. "Otherwise all of these EVIL VILLAINS would have escaped in a trice!"

DM Sanity Info
Move: None
Position: D-10
Action: Concentrating (Hypnotic Pattern)

Spells In Effect:
Bless (Thar)
Web (Duration: 50 minutes)
Inspire Courage (Arm)
Hypnotic Pattern (Duration: Concentration+2 Rounds)

Spells Memorised:
L.0: Daze (x2), Detect Magic, Read Magic, Resistance
L.1: Charm Person (x2), Colour Spray, Grease, Hypnotism, Sleep
L.2: Daze Monster (x2), Hypnotic Pattern, Web
L.3: Hold Person, Slow, Suggestion

Syr (AC 14 HP 51/62) Inspire d20+10=15 d20+14=25 d20+14=21 d20+14=21 d20+9=15 d10+6=8 d10+6=7 d10+6=9 d10+6=7
Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 12:50:18 AM
Refusing to be distracted by the priest's calls, he tightens his bear hold and shifts his hips to knee the man in the thigh area several times. (grapple check 15, att 25,21,21,15 dam 8,7,9,7). Meanwhile, he messages to Angus and the others, "I've got the priest in a hold but we are outnumbered over here. Xenia's got her hands full and she's closer to the one trapped."

Famina d20+6=12
Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 4:51:42 AM
The barbarian is roaring with rage, but the webs still hold her. Damned magic!

Arm d20+6=20 d8+5=7
Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 5:58:52 AM
Thrilled to finally see some action, Arm strikes out at the cleric nearest to him (#14), quite probably connecting with him (attk: 20, dmg: 7). All the while, he continues his song to aid his companions.

OOC: Remember all, you all get +1s to attk & dmg from my song... ;)

Kadaz (AC24, hp 63/63) d20+12=18 d10+5=7 d20+7=17 d10+5=13
Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 6:48:36 AM
Now visible, Kadaz concentrates on the two armed cultists in front of him. He yells "Drop those weapons" as he swings at one (#16). (Hit AC 18 for 7 damage; hit Ac 17 for 13 damage).

Shadow (AC 21/18 HP 28/28) d20+6=11
Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 8:56:56 AM
Shadow noticing just how close he was to hitting Lang, will change his target to one of the cultist to discourage them (#16). He does miss, but maybe will discourage them to attack.

Actions
To hit=11 (or 6 if DM feels this is into melee) miss either way

Thar ail Baerer AC 21, hp 41 - Belkior's PfE spell, Bless
Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 10:07:36 AM
"Well, crap. I guess I'm going to have to do something else now," Thar says to himself, as he realizes that he can't get directly into melee w/o getting trapped in the web.

"Arm, move and give me some room! I can't get into combat with you in the way!" yells Thar to Arm, hoping that he'll give Thar some room to move.

While he's waiting for Arm to move, Thar will cast Monster Summoning 2 and call a Celestial Giant Bombardier Beetle (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/monsters/giantBombardierBeetle.htm) into spot J3.

DM Sanity Check

First Turn Attempt Rounds (Z4-6) = 4/10

Spell Affects - Belkior's Prot from Evil, Thar's Bless, Inspired

L0 Spells: Det Magic (2x), Det Poison, Read Mag
L1: Shield of Faith, SumMon 1, Prot from Evil
L2: Delay Poison, Spiritual Weap

Turn Undead Attempts - 2 left /4

Bless duration - 6/15 rounds, +1 attacks and ST's vs. fear

Still Inspired = +1 on attacks/dmg

Beetle - HP 13, AC 16

Lang (AC 24; HP 53/92) & Sunshine (AC 22; HP 47/47) d20+13=30 d20+13=23 d20+8=26 d20+8=12 d20+13=28 d20+8=9 4d6(5+5+5+1)+12=28 d6+6=12 3d6(4+6+3)+6=19 d6=6 d6=5
Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 12:46:51 PM
Lang steps forward after the retreating Bugbear (square M7).

The taunts continue to fly out of his mouth.

"Is that the best you've got? This isn't even a fair fight. Maybe I should only use 1 arm this time. Better yet, I should let our Sorcerer fight you. Then maybe you would have a chance."

Attack Bugbear. Hit 3 times with 2 criticals - 1 confirmed:

RH hit AC 30 (28); 28 damage; damage to me 6
LH hit AC 23; 12 damage
RH hit AC 26 (9); 19 damage; damage to me 5
LH hit AC 12; 0 damage

"Sunshine defend." Sunshine moves forward to guard Lang's back (square M8).

Belkior/Sub Al (AC20, AC22 vs Evil, HP40/40) d20+3=19 2d6(6+5)+4=15
Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 1:47:42 PM
Belkior rushes through the gap in the cultists on the heels of Conner and Wynn. His aura of Protection Against Evil keeps pace with them, covering them.

The scene is one of classic Undead Evil. The halfling Cleric calls upon his god to strike down the blaspheme of those who should have left this Wold. Alemi answers with all of his might, Turning the ghastly Skeletons and casting them down.

Rolls and Actions
Turning Check 19 (Can Turn 6HD baddies)
Turning Damage 15hd (Directed at Skeletons in the corner)

Movement and Position
Move to K6.
Covers the following with Magic Circle Against Evil: Conner, Wynn, Lang, Syr

Active Effects
Owl's Wisdom (Duration, 7.5/8 minutes)
Magic Circle Against Evil (Duration 90 minutes)
Freedom of Movement (Duration 90 minutes)

0 Level: Detect Magic**, Detect poison*, Light*, Read Magic*, Resistance*
1st Level: Bless**, uDetect Undead*, Hide from Undead*, Magic Stone*, Sanctuary*, (Protection from Evil+)
2nd Level: Hold Person*, uOwl's Wisdom*, Silence, Spiritual Weapon* (Aid*)
3rd Level: Dispel Magic*, Prayer*, Searing Light*, Speak with Dead (uMagic Circle against Evil+*)
4th Level: Death Ward*, uFreedom of Movement*, Summon Monster IV+, (Holy Smite+*)

Turning 3/4 per day

Ash
Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 1:56:52 PM
Ash continues to cast a spell: concentrating on his link to the natural world, As requests the aid of the smallest of small, summoning a swarm of rats to attack the cultists cought in the web (specifically cultists 12, 13, and 16)

Shelya continues to guard the prisoner.

Angus (AC 23/25 evil; HP 33/33) 4d4(3+2+1+4)+4=14
Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 2:07:19 PM
Angus (AC 23/25 evil; HP 33/33)

Angus readies a magic missile spell to cast against the Cleric if the cleric escapes from Syr's grasp or tries to cast a spell.

Standard Action: Ready Magic Missile for 14 damage

Angus hears Lang tell the Bugbear to fight a sorcerer. What?!?! I am that Sorcerer. What is his friend thinking?

Spell Slots:

0 Level 1/5
1 Level 3 or 4/8
2 Level 1/8
3 Level 0/6
4 Level 1/4

Spells in Effect:

Message (Mira, Arm, Syr)
Mage Armor - Hours
Protection from Evil - 11/160 rounds (extended)
Inviso on Syr - 10/80 rounds
Shield - 4/160 rounds (extended)
Polymorph - 3/80 (18 Dex and natural AC improvement)

Rod of extend 2/3

Mira (AC 13+4,40 HP) Mage Armour d20+16=17
Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 6:07:18 PM
"MOVE!" yells the mage, and she squeezes past the wizard pressed against the hall wall, and behind Thar. Mira tries to concentrate on casting a simple offensive spell, but the press of so many foe affect her concentration (Casting Defensively=17, nat. 1, oh crud...)

A dribble of fire lands on the ground at the sorcerer's feet.

DM Sanity Info:

Position: F9

Spells In Effect:

Mage Armour - on Mira-3 hours
Message - on Mira, cast by Angus
Bless - Mira, from Thar
Inspire Courage - Mira, from Arm
Spider Climb - on Arm - 3 minutes (2/30 rounds)

- Spells: (0-level 6 per day, 1st level 7 per day, 2nd level 6 per day, 3rd level 4 per day)
0-level: detect magic, read magic, light, mage hand, open/close, ray of frost
1st-level: magic missile, burning hands#, mage armor#, shield
2nd-level: glitterdust, invisibility###
3rd-fireball

Battle in the Basement - Round 5 (DM JohnP) d2=2 Swarm d6=3 d6=6 d20=18 d20=1 Bugbear d20+12=17 d20+12=25 2d8(3+5)+3=11 Cleric d20+19=26 Cultists d20=3 d20=10 d20=10 d20=8 d20=13
Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 10:24:10 PM
Conner smashes skeleton S2 before it had a chance to attack the half-elven rogue who snatched the chalice away from the cleric. Then the tattooed fighter make a short step forward and twists the spell-enhanced kukri away from the bugbear cultist. The shield bash, however, goes wide.

Faced with three remaining skeletons, Xenia steps back and lashes out with a light mace that she pulled from her belt. It connects with one of the skeletons and crumples it, falling into a pile of disconnected bones on the floor.

Wynn moves in to attack one of the skeletons threatening his lady love, nearly smashing it to pieces.

Over on the other side of the room, Edmund wonders why everyone is so impolite and pushy. As far as he's concerned, he's captured all of the evil cultists and continues to concentrate on keeping them in place.

Now that the evil cleric is firmly in the elven monkey death grip, Syr starts punching him using the woodpecker technique. He misses his first try, but manages to hit with some subsequent attacks.
DM Note -- Using Woldian special attack rules, if you want to attack the cleric no grapple check is required. However, the attack rolls are made at --4. Using the attack rolls, modified with a -4:
Attack 1 -- hits, 8 damage
Attack 2 -- hits, 7 damage
Attack 3 -- hits, 9 damage

Famina is starting to get really angry with this Web!

Near the front stairs, Arm cuts down an unarmed cultist while continuing to sing.

Two screams come from deep inside the Web where Kadaz is hacking at the cultists. He cuts down two of the dagger-wielding cultists, leaving their bodies hanging in the webbing.

Shadow was about to shoot at the cultists but Kadaz killed his target.

Since he can't move forward, Thar begins the preparations to summon a creature.
DM Note -- You could move through the space occupied by Arm.

Lang keeps up the pressure on the evil bugbear, hitting him three times. Sunshine moves forward to protect Lang.

Calling upon the divine light of Alemi, Belkior rushes in and attempts to turn the remaining skeletons. He does manage to frighten them off but that is all that he is able to do.
Knowledge Religion DC 15

Ash calls forth a swarm of rats to attack the cultists inside the web. The swarm arrives where he directs and promptly sets to attacking the only surviving cultist in the area. The cultist starts screaming, "Ah! Ah! Get them off! Please! Please!"

And Kadaz is attacked, too, since the dwarf is within the area.
Kadaz -- takes 3 hitpoints damage and must make the following checks:
- DC 12 Fortitude to avoid disease,
- DC 12 Fortitude or become nauseated (single move only possible action) for 1 round.

Across the room, Angus prepares himself in case the cleric escapes Syr's grasp. And he wonders why Lang would think it a good idea for him to fight the bugbear. Isn't it more fitting that the bugbears fight one another?

Mira pushes past Thar and Edmund and approaches the zombies. The jostling and web disturb her spellcasting and she cannot complete her spell.

+++++++

Both Conner and Lang both press the bugbear hard and he may actually be getting worried. Or maybe that's just the light of fanaticism in his eyes. He mutters the words of a spell and gestures with his free hand, then reaches out to touch Lang.
Concentration = 17 vs. DC 17, No AoO
Touch attack = 25
Lang - 11 hitpoints damage, Will save DC 14 for half damage (Belkior's Circle of Protection covers you and provides +2)

The cleric struggles with Syr, then mutters the words of a spell. The elven monk feels the death magic touch him.
Concentration - 26 vs. DC 23, able to cast
Syr -- Fort save vs. DC 18 or become Blind (Belkior's Circle of Protection covers you and provides +2 to save)

The skeletons cower against the wall.

The zombies are both free but can't make any progress against the cultists who are stuck in the Web.

The cultists keep struggling but none can break free. The cultist next to Angus pleads, "Please! Don't hurt me any more!"

Player Sanity Info
Bugbear -- AC 22
Cultist -- AC 11, 7 hitpoints
Skeleton -- AC 13, DR 5/bludgeoning
Zombie -- AC 11, DR 5/slashing

MAP: Is Now Good

Edmund (AC:12+2, HP:27/27) Bless, Inspire Courage d20+9=22
Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 10:52:02 PM
Edmund watches Mira move past to run into the web and fizzle a spell. This is precisely why he didn't move forward. He shakes his head, wondering why on earth all this commotion is taking place seeing as he has wrapped it up neatly for them. "People losing their heads, getting carried away, no doubt." he says, rather dismally.

Intent upon keeping his position so as not to foul himself in the chaos ahead, and continuing his concentration on Hypnotic Pattern ((if possible, considering his following actions)) he hears more shouting from the room--shouts for mercy from voices he doesn't recognise. As this is not the first time he has heard such cries, this strikes even Edmund as being odd behaviour for devoted fanatics, and he makes an incredible leap of logic as a result.

"I think," he begins, "I think they might want to surrender. Maybe we should stop attacking them. Perhaps they were being controlled by the Evil Elf Sorceress Queen."

Edmund writhes a bit, trying to decide if he is allowed to accept surrenders or make parleys. Unsure of who the leader actually is, he decides he is as good as the next fellow to offer conditions--it is his Web, after all.

Shouting to be heard over the din, Edmund cries out, "I am Edmund, Lord High Archmage of... Sampsonia! Throw down your weapons, put your hands in the air, and move towards my voice. You will be unharmed if you do not put up a fight! Those who resist will surely perish. This web is only the first taste of the destruction I am capable of! We have no wish to harm you if it can be avoided!" (Diplomacy=29)

Edmund hopes the other members of the party have heard him and will hold off on attacking any cultist who is no longer a threat. The sound of cultists screaming in agony is turning his stomach.

((OOC: As I understand it, changing the attitudes of people in combat with Diplomacy takes ten full-round actions. In this case, Edmund's primary goal is not trying to change attitudes (as from Enemy to Neutral), he is trying to encourage and direct in a uniform way any desire to surrender which is already there. Essentially, the die roll is there in case you have a use for it, not to indicate a decisive Diplomatic action on the part of Edmund.))

DM Sanity Info
Move: None
Position: D-10
Action: Concentrating (Hypnotic Pattern)

Spells In Effect:
Bless (Thar)
Web (Duration: 50 minutes)
Inspire Courage (Arm)
Hypnotic Pattern (Duration: Concentration+2 Rounds)

Spells Memorised:
L.0: Daze (x2), Detect Magic, Read Magic, Resistance
L.1: Charm Person (x2), Colour Spray, Grease, Hypnotism, Sleep
L.2: Daze Monster (x2), Hypnotic Pattern, Web
L.3: Hold Person, Slow, Suggestion

Xenia (AC24, HP 48/48) d20+12=22 d20+7=23 d3+1=4 d3+1=3 4d6(3+5+2+3)=13 4d6(1+4+5+2)=12
Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 11:03:36 PM

All of the sudden the Skelies are pretty much gone. Not like last time at the plantation at all. Most of it's just screaming and thrashing around. Most of these folks look pretty harmless too.

'Course, there's Syr who's wrassling with the Cult Cleric guy. And there's Lang is trading insults with the Sickie Bugbear guy. Both of them sound kinda like problems. But doncha know, killing them just don sit right. You know, like, maybe they're, like, evil and stuff. That is, they're, like, Undead Lovers, right? But does that make them Evil? Or just stupid?

Xenia sighs. This religio-morality stuff is just too much sometimes. But it's, like, even if they don't deserve to die, they're still causing problems, right? They're doing all this spell casting stuff and that's gotta stop.

Xenia glides sideways in behind Syr and the Cleric.

"Hey you. Cleric guy," she says. "Shut up."

*bap*bap*

The dark girl smacks him good a couple of time with her bare fist. And the places she hits, you just know they gotta hurt. Hurt a lot.

Rolls and Actions
Hit Cleric with Unarmed Strike Hit AC22/AC23, Damage 4+3+13Sneak+12Sneak = 32hp Non-Lethal w/Inspire Courage (Maybe minus -4 from Cover for Striking into a Grapple)

Movement and Position
Move Back 5 feet to L3 (Near the ceiling.)

Active Effects
Message (Duration 50 minutes)
Bless (Duration 3/15 rounds)
Barkskin (Duration 3 minutes)
Fly (Duration 3 minutes)
Inspire Courage (On going)

Kadaz (AC24, hp 60/63) d20+8=14 d20+8=13 d20+12=28 d10+5=14 d20+7=23 d10+5=13
Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 11:52:42 PM
"Ahhh" yells Kadaz to alert the others. "They summoned rats!" (fort saves of 14 and 13 to resist disease & nausea)

Not one to take a bite lightly Kadaz swings wildly at the rats that are attacking him. (hit AC 28, damage 14, hit AC 23, damage 13). Turns out a really big axe is good at hitting these small rats!

Syr (AC 14 HP /5162) Inspired d20+7=16 d20+9=15 d20+9=25 d20+9=16 d20+4=13 d10+6=13
Thursday August 3rd, 2006 12:37:52 AM
Syr hangs on to the priest and continues pummeling him despite Listening to the priest, he realizes that a spell is being uttered and he tries harder to disrupt it (failed save). Suddenly, the lights go out. Cursing to himself he continues to pummel the man (att 15,25,16,13 after the -4, damage 13). Speaking loudly he says, "GUYS! he got me, I'm blind. Need help over here!"

Mira (AC 13+4,40 HP) Mage Armour d20+10=16
Thursday August 3rd, 2006 1:01:54 AM
A quick recon of the room, and Mira comes to the same conclusion as Edmond. Animated skellies, and un-dead aside, the cultists seem a pretty sorry lot. "Like the archmage said, throw down your weapons, and put your hands in the air, or I fireball the place!" (Aid another, Bluff=16 (or if Diplomacy is more appropriate it would be 14)) Mira starts to move her hands, as if readying to cast...

DM Sanity Info:

Position: F9

Spells In Effect:

Mage Armour - on Mira-3 hours
Message - on Mira, cast by Angus
Bless - Mira, from Thar
Inspire Courage - Mira, from Arm
Spider Climb - on Arm - 3 minutes (2/30 rounds)

- Spells: (0-level 6 per day, 1st level 7 per day, 2nd level 6 per day, 3rd level 4 per day)
0-level: detect magic, read magic, light, mage hand, open/close, ray of frost
1st-level: magic missile, burning hands#, mage armor#, shield
2nd-level: glitterdust, invisibility###
3rd-fireball

Famina d20+6=9
Thursday August 3rd, 2006 1:46:21 AM
Famina doesn't hear the words of peace and reconciliation...but she doesn't need to. Because she's still stuck in the bloody damned webs! She curses and thrashes about, twisting herself even more into them. Poor barbarian, she just can't seem tog et leverage to use her impressive strength.

Arm (ac: 14 hp 27/27) d20=17 d20+6=16 d8+5=10
Thursday August 3rd, 2006 5:58:29 AM
Arm grimaces a bit at Thar's insistance on his moving. Not wanting to get caught up in the web, he reluctantly moves over a step and seems to avoid it (DC=17). He then proceeds to attack the next cleric within reach, hoping to bring down this one as well (attk: 16 dmg: 10).

OOC: Sorry I couldn't be more precise with my actions, but the map is down... :(

Shadow (AC 21/18 HP 28/28) d20+6=7 d4+1=5
Thursday August 3rd, 2006 7:34:54 AM
Shadow hears the two mages suggest surrender to these cultist, but is not sure they will take it. He lines up to fire an arrow at any of the cultists that continue to fight (except the bugbear engaged too closely with Lang, and the cleric enganged with Syr)

Actions: (if having to attack)
To hit=7 (nat. 1, not good)
dmg=5

Conner [AC=22; HP=62] Message, Bless, Inspired , Prot Evil d20+14=34 d20+14=24 d8+8=12 d8+8=10 d20+9=19
Thursday August 3rd, 2006 7:39:03 AM
Conner grins with satisfaction when the bugbear's Kukri hits the floor. His demeanor changes however when the beast begins casting spells at Lang. The longsword flashes again and finds it's target. Conner can feel the blade pull across exposed flesh and hears the hissing sound as it does so. [Hit AC=34 critical confirmed with 24 for 22 HP].

The tattooed fighter flexes his massive forearm and the inked dragon seems to writhe. The blade of the longsword snaps back towards the bugbear, narrowly missing the exposed neck area [Hit AC=19]

Wynn [AC=21; HP=56/59] Message, Disguise, Bless, Inspired, Prot Evil d20+11=30 d20+11=18 d20+8=20 d8+4=12 d8+4=10
Thursday August 3rd, 2006 7:54:23 AM
Wynn steps in to assist Syr. He allows the guise of a cultist to fade away and becomes the well armoured and well armed half-elf that is his normal appearance.

With a firm and well controlled timbre in his voice he warns the cleric. "Either surrender now, or I will send you to Gargul without the benefit of retaining your head" [Intimidate=20].

Wynn presses his blade against the man's throat to emphasize his intent. If the cleric does not immediately show signs of surrender the bard will follow through and end the man's life. [Held Action - Coup de Grace - Hit AC=30 (Critical cinfirmed with 18) for 22 HP]

[OOC Wynn's AC vs AoO during Coup de Grace is 25]

Al/OoC
Thursday August 3rd, 2006 9:15:41 AM
Map is now working.

Thar ail Baerer AC 21, hp 41 - Belkior's PfE spell, Bless d4+2=6
Thursday August 3rd, 2006 10:03:19 AM
Once the beetle appears at J3, Thar will order it to move and attack the skeletons that are nearby. He knows that they won't surrender and should be taken care of immediately, while they are still turned.

He thinks to himself "The rest of the group has the cultists handled, so this should help finish things off."

He'll order the beetle to move backwards (towards I3) and use it's acid spray against the two skeletons, hopefully doing 6 points of dmg to each, but not affecting Xenia or any other companions.

(... the creature can release a 10-foot cone of acidic vapor once per round. Those within the cone must succeed on a DC 13 Fortitude save or take 1d4+2 points of acid damage. The save DC is Constitution-based. )

For his own action (I assume my commanding the beetle was a standard action?), Thar will move towards G14 as best as he can. (It looks like he can avoid the web that way and also avoid Arm, since he moved to give Thar some room. Not sure how far I can get though...)

DM Sanity Check

First Turn Attempt Rounds (Z4-6) = 5/10

Spell Affects - Belkior's Prot from Evil, Thar's Bless, Inspired

L0 Spells: Det Magic (2x), Det Poison, Read Mag
L1: Shield of Faith, SumMon 1, Prot from Evil
L2: Delay Poison, Spiritual Weap

Turn Undead Attempts - 2 left /4

Bless duration - 7/15 rounds, +1 attacks and ST's vs. fear

Still Inspired = +1 on attacks/dmg

Beetle - HP 13, AC 16

Lang (AC 24; HP 38/92) & Sunshine (AC 22; HP 47/47) d20+4=7 d20+13=28 d20+13=33 d20+8=11 d20+8=24 d20+13=23 3d6(1+4+6)+6=17 2d6(4+5)+12=21 d6+6=8 d6=4
Thursday August 3rd, 2006 10:46:39 AM
The touch of the Bugbear leaves Lang with a nice wound on Lang's arm (Will save 7+2 = 9). The evil creature will pay for touching him.

The Bugbear makes it too easy for Lang as he presses the attack against the creature.

"You are not very good at fighting are you? You can't even hold onto your weapon."

Attack Bugbear. Hit 3 times with 1 critical - 1 confirmed:

RH hit AC 28; 17 damage; damage to me 4
LH hit AC 33 (23); 21 damage
RH hit AC 11; 0 damage; damage to me 0
LH hit AC 24; 8 damage

Sunshine looks for a way past Lang to attack the Bugbear, but cannot get past Lang or the Web spell (square M8).

Belkior/Sub Al (AC20, AC22 vs Evil, HP40/40) d20+8=11
Thursday August 3rd, 2006 12:15:24 PM
Belkior focuses on both the bugbear and the cleric, trying to determine the nature of the spells being cast. But it isn't until Syr calls out that it becomes apparent.

"Hold on, Syr," he replies. "I can't do anything about it right now, but in the morning I will be able to restore your sight. In the meantime, keep hold of that cleric."

The halfling holds his hands out, forming the symbol of Alemi. "And I will see what can be done about the bugbear."

Rolls and Actions
Spellcraft 11
If Bugbear is still standing:
Cast Hold Person on Bugbear (Will vs DC19 or be Held for 8 rounds)

Movement and Position
K6.
Covers the following with Magic Circle Against Evil: Conner, Wynn, Lang, Syr

Active Effects
Owl's Wisdom (Duration, 7.5/8 minutes)
Magic Circle Against Evil (Duration 90 minutes)
Freedom of Movement (Duration 90 minutes)

0 Level: Detect Magic**, Detect poison*, Light*, Read Magic*, Resistance*
1st Level: Bless**, uDetect Undead*, Hide from Undead*, Magic Stone*, Sanctuary*, (Protection from Evil+)
2nd Level: Hold Person*, uOwl's Wisdom*, Silence, Spiritual Weapon* (Aid*)
3rd Level: Dispel Magic*, Prayer*, Searing Light*, Speak with Dead (uMagic Circle against Evil+*)
4th Level: Death Ward*, uFreedom of Movement*, Summon Monster IV+, (Holy Smite+*)

Turning 3/4 per day

Ash d8=1 d8+5=9
Thursday August 3rd, 2006 2:14:32 PM
Ash moves in in order to cast cure light wounds on Kadaz (heal 9 points)

Angus (AC 23/25 evil; HP 33/33) 4d4(3+1+1+2)+4=11
Thursday August 3rd, 2006 8:27:31 PM
Angus casts magic missile spell at the cleric for 11 damage.

Spell Slots:

0 Level 1/5
1 Level 4/8
2 Level 1/8
3 Level 0/6
4 Level 1/4

Spells in Effect:

Message (Mira, Arm, Syr)
Mage Armor - Hours
Protection from Evil - 11/160 rounds (extended)
Inviso on Syr - 10/80 rounds
Shield - 4/160 rounds (extended)
Polymorph - 3/80 (18 Dex and natural AC improvement)

Rod of extend 2/3

Battle in the Basement - Round 6 (DM JohnP) Swarm HP 4d8(5+6+6+6)=23 Skeletons d20=16 d20=19 Swarm d6=3 d6=1 Zombie d20+2=5 Cultists d20+1=6 d20+1=5 d20+1=2 d20+1=4 d20+1=19
Thursday August 3rd, 2006 9:54:32 PM
The combat is drawing to a close. Acting upon the calls for mercy that he is hearing from inside and beyond the Web, Edmund calls for the cultists to surrender. His call is answered in a variety of ways.

"Please! Keep them off me!"

"Kill them! Their touch profanes the Chalice! Kill them!"

"Don't hurt me!"

And there are some sounds of people simply crying in terror and pain.

After some internal debate, Xenia steps closer and knocks the cult cleric on the head with her bare fist. Immobilized in the elven monkey death grip, the cleric is unable to protect himself and slumps unconscious after the first blow.

Deep inside the Web, Kadaz starts swinging at the rats that have attacked him. He hits twice but there are so many of these things and they're crawling all over the dwarf.

Syr did not resist the foul magic from the cleric and can no longer see. He feels the cleric go limp after Xenia says something, though.
DM Note -- If you want to pummel the unconscious cleric, go ahead but I'm assuming that you did not do so.

On the other side of the Web, Mira threatens more violence if the cultists do not surrender.

Since her companions want the cultists to surrender, maybe it's a good thing that Famina is still stuck in the Web.

Ignoring the words of Edmund and Xenia, Arm moves into the Web and cuts down one of the unarmed cultists.

Shadow prepares to shoot any of the cultists that threaten his companions.

Conner's longsword hits the bugbear cultist with a "Thwack!" like cleaver chopping soupbones. The evil bugbear drops to the floor but not before moaning some final words.

"I go to meet my Lord. We shall free the Old One soon and you will pay!"

Wynn holds his blade to the throat of the cleric, watching for signs that the cultist is not truly unconscious.

A celestial giant bombardier beetle appears next to the skeletons and is commanded to attack by Thar. The beetle sprays the two skeletons but they both withstand the attack. The beetle then moves backwards at his command. Meanwhile, Thar moves to the south side of the Web.

Lang stands over the fallen bugbear, hoping that he'll get up for more beating.

Belkior also stands ready to subdue the bugbear, this time with magic.

At the back entrance, Ash moves up to heal Kadaz. He manages to heal the dwarf but the swarm keeps biting the dwarf.
DM Note -- Concentration broken by casting a spell, but swarm stays for 2 more rounds.
Kadaz - 3 hitpoints damage, and two DC 12 Fortitude saves again.

The cultist screams one final time, "NOoooo!".

Angus would cast a Magic Missile but the cleric is already subdued.

++++++

Both the bugbear and cleric are subdued. The bugbear may bleed out, but the cleric is simply unconscious.

The skeletons cower against the walls.

When Thar moved, he got too close to one of the zombies that he had previously turned. Zombie 4 attacks Mira but misses badly. The other zombie is still trying to get away and there's the other one cowering in storeroom 4.
Zombie 4 - misses AC 5

The cultists keep trying to escape from the Web but none can.

Player Sanity Info
Cultist -- AC 11, 7 hitpoints
Skeleton -- AC 13, DR 5/bludgeoning
Zombie -- AC 11, DR 5/slashing

MAP

Xenia (AC24, HP 48/48)
Thursday August 3rd, 2006 11:03:17 PM

With the two really troublesome ones down, Xenia puts some distance between herself and the Skelies. Flying over Syr and the unconscious Cult Cleric, the dark girl touches down at Wynn's side.

"You okay, Syr? What's wrong with him Belkie?"

"Hey! Whoever put this WEB stuff up, could you take it down already?" she shouts into the dark. "I can't see through all this, Wynn. How we supposed to know who's wants to give up and who don't?"

Rolls and Actions
MEA: Replace Light Mace in Haversack.

Movement and Position
Fly to J5 and land.

Active Effects
Message (Duration 50 minutes)
Bless (Duration 3/15 rounds)
Barkskin (Duration 3 minutes)
Fly (Duration 3 minutes)
Inspire Courage (On going)

Famina d20+6=20
Friday August 4th, 2006 12:37:06 AM
Famina can't really see any enemies, and doesn't know what's happening, and she manages to struggle through the webs just a bit closer to the cultists.

Edmund (AC:12+2, HP27/27) Bless, Inspire Courage d20+10=24
Friday August 4th, 2006 3:45:55 AM
Preparing to step forward and dismiss the Web, Edmund is horrified to see Arm cutting down an unarmed cultist who posed no threat. Revolted by this display of brutality, all thought of dismissing the Web or concentrating on maintaining Hypnotic Pattern disappears from his mind. Surely Arm must have lost his senses!

Thinking quickly about a non-lethal, temporary way to prevent Arm continuing his rampage without endangering him, he comes to a quick conclusion and, with a wave of his hands, the pronouncement of arcane speech, and focus upon a small bar of metal from his component bag, he casts Hold Person on Arm. (Will negates, saving throw 18 [10+3+5]). Edmund casts this defensively, as he is unsure whether or not Arm is in control of himself at the moment (Defensive Casting=24).

The Hypnotic Pattern, no longer being focused on, should persist for a little while longer.

DM Sanity Info
Move: None
Position: D-10
Action: Cast Spell (Hold Person: Arm)

Spells In Effect:
Hold Person (Duration: 5 rounds, or until negated/dismissed)
Bless (Thar)
Web (Duration: 50 minutes, or until dismissed)
Inspire Courage (Arm)
Hypnotic Pattern (Duration: 2 Rounds)

Spells Memorised:
L.0: Daze (x2), Detect Magic, Read Magic, Resistance
L.1: Charm Person (x2), Colour Spray, Grease, Hypnotism, Sleep
L.2: Daze Monster (x2), Hypnotic Pattern, Web
L.3: Hold Person, Slow, Suggestion

Arm AC 14 HP 27/27 d20+5=25 d20=4
Friday August 4th, 2006 6:00:05 AM
Arm feels the tingling of a spell sent in his direction, but he brushes it off like so many leaves (will save=25-nat. 20). Glaring in the direction of Edmund, he says, "I don't know what you had planned for me, but we'll discuss it later...". Saying so, he attempts to move toward the cleric by the steps (#17) to ensure that he does not escape, but finds himself tangled in the web (Dex=4).

Knowing that even if one of these dead-worshippers escapes, they can rise up again to cause more problems, he calls out to Ash, "Mind the one by the steps! Don't let him escape!".

Kadaz (AC24, hp 60/63) d20+8=28 d20+8=11
Friday August 4th, 2006 6:02:37 AM
The rats just aren't going away! There're too many of them. Ash healed Kadaz's wounds but the rats jut reopened them. (save 28 vs disease, 11 vs nausea).

The rats crawling all over his armor and biting at him through the joints turns his stomach. Kadaz struggles to move out of the web but he is in so much distress that he can't do much more than slump limply against the webs. "Ash" he pleads, "I don't feel so good."

Thar ail Baerer AC 21, hp 41 - Belkior's PfE spell, Bless d4+2=3 d20+10=27
Friday August 4th, 2006 10:21:52 AM
While his companions subdue the rest of the cultists, Thar will move towards E14 and see what is in that room.

He'll command the beetle to again spray the two skeletons, while avoiding hitting any of his friends.

Spray damage = 3 points

Spot (for Thar looking into the storeroom) = 27

DM Sanity Check

First Turn Attempt Rounds (Z4-6) = 6/10

Spell Affects - Belkior's Prot from Evil, Thar's Bless, Inspired

L0 Spells: Det Magic (2x), Det Poison, Read Mag
L1: Shield of Faith, SumMon 1, Prot from Evil
L2: Delay Poison, Spiritual Weap

Turn Undead Attempts - 2 left /4

Bless duration - 8/15 rounds, +1 attacks and ST's vs. fear

Still Inspired = +1 on attacks/dmg

Beetle - HP 13, AC 16

Syr 51/62 blinded
Friday August 4th, 2006 11:55:24 AM
As night closes in on his vision, the elf hears Belkior's words and takes same reassurance in them.

Then hearing a much closer voice nearby, "I guess it was you that clocked him but this guy is limp. I can't see much right now, can you tie him up? Oh, and Xenia... unless you have something specific going on... please don't go too far? I've never been unable to see before." His voice and confidence are a bit unsteady at this request.

Belkior/Sub Al (AC20, AC22 vs Evil, HP40/40) d20+21=37 d20+8=27
Friday August 4th, 2006 12:38:56 PM
"Excuse me," Belkior again pushes through the crowd of his companions. Along the way, he examines the cleric. And the takes a look at the bugbear. The cleric appears to be no more than unconscious. But the bugbear is dying.

"I'm sorry." The halfling looks up at Lang and Conner. "But as much as he deserves it, I can't let him die." Belkior kneels by the bugbear's side and begins tending to the worst of the wounds, staunching the blood to ensure that he unnamed bugbear is in at least stable condition.

All the time, he wonders why it was that the skeletons had not crumbled. Generally weak creatures, they should have been destroyed by the turning.

Rolls and Actions
Heal 37
Knowledge Religion 27 (Sorry, I forgot to roll for this last round.)

Movement and Position
Move to M5
Covers the following with Magic Circle Against Evil: Conner, Wynn, Lang, Syr

Active Effects
Owl's Wisdom (Duration, 7.5/8 minutes)
Magic Circle Against Evil (Duration 90 minutes)
Freedom of Movement (Duration 90 minutes)

0 Level: Detect Magic**, Detect poison*, Light*, Read Magic*, Resistance*
1st Level: Bless**, uDetect Undead*, Hide from Undead*, Magic Stone*, Sanctuary*, (Protection from Evil+)
2nd Level: Hold Person*, uOwl's Wisdom*, Silence, Spiritual Weapon* (Aid*)
3rd Level: Dispel Magic*, Prayer*, Searing Light*, Speak with Dead (uMagic Circle against Evil+*)
4th Level: Death Ward*, uFreedom of Movement*, Summon Monster IV+, (Holy Smite+*)

Turning 3/4 per day

Shadow (AC 21/18 HP 28/28) d20+6=20 d4+1=5
Friday August 4th, 2006 4:53:32 PM
Shadow will continue to keep watch over the cultist, and if any of them make a move to attack or escape Shadow will say, "Hold or die."

Actions (if needed):
to hit=20
damage=5

Conner [AC=22; HP=62] Message, Bless, Inspired , Prot Evil d20+12=21 d20+10=25 d8+8=12 d6+5=9
Friday August 4th, 2006 4:59:50 PM
Conner watches with grimsatisfaction as the bugbear drops. "The old one be damned!" he replies to the dying creature " the old one won't be helping you now."

Conner turns his attention to the cleric, and seeing that Wynn, Syr and Xenia have the situation under control he strides towards the beleagured Kadaz [K8] and swipes at the swarm of rats. Conner tries first with his longsword [Hit AC=21 for 12 HP] and then bashes at a second rat with his spiked shield [Hit AC=25 for 9 HP]. "Can any of you mages or clerics call off this swarm?" he calls out.

Wynn [AC=21; HP=56/59] Message, Disguise, Bless, Inspired, Prot Evil d20+11=22 d20+11=15 d8+4=8 d8+4=11
Friday August 4th, 2006 5:18:41 PM
Wynn steps past Syr and his unconcious victim and wades into the two skeletons, being extra careful to avoid the spray of the large beetle.[Position K4]

The bard spins on his plant foot as he swings his longsword, slashing across both undead [S3&S4]in a whirlwind attack [Hit AC=22 and 15 for 8 and 11 HP respectively].

"Foul undead" he mutters.

Mira (AC 13+4,40 HP) Mage Armour d20+3=20
Friday August 4th, 2006 6:54:47 PM
"Noooo!" cries the mage. Unsure of Edmund's intentions, she blurts out what she knows. "He's sipped from the chalice! I don't know if he has been affected, but he may not be himself!" Not heeding the enemy who may very well lash out at her, the human sorcerer races after the bard, and possibly into more trouble. (Dex=20, vs Web )

DM Sanity Info:

Position: K10 (or near Arm as appropriate)

Spells In Effect:

Mage Armour - on Mira-3 hours
Message - on Mira, cast by Angus
Bless - Mira, from Thar
Inspire Courage - Mira, from Arm
Spider Climb - on Arm - 3 minutes (3/30 rounds)

- Spells: (0-level 6 per day, 1st level 7 per day, 2nd level 6 per day, 3rd level 4 per day)
0-level: detect magic, read magic, light, mage hand, open/close, ray of frost
1st-level: magic missile, burning hands#, mage armor#, shield
2nd-level: glitterdust, invisibility###
3rd-fireball

Xenia (2nd Illegal Post)
Saturday August 5th, 2006 12:01:18 AM
"Um, sure. Not going anywhere, Syr. Though I don't think he is either. I clocked him pretty good. Should be out for a couple of hours at least."

"Hey, Wynn. You hear that? That you, Mira?" Xenia peers through the Web stuff, trying to get a look at what's going on.

"'Sipped from the chalice ... ' Whaddya think that's supposed to mean, Wynn?"

Edmund (2nd Illegal Post)
Saturday August 5th, 2006 12:06:10 AM
Edmund starts in surprise as Mira shouts and bolts off, into the web, towards the bard.

"He's sipped from the Chalice? Good heavens! No wonder. I didn't think he was the murdering sort, but if he's been drinking at tainted cups, there's no telling what he's capable of."

With a horrendous shock, Edmund realises he has just seriously annoyed the tainted bard. Terrified, he begins considering how he might escape the Wrath Of Arm.

Angus (AC 23/25 evil; HP 33/33) d20+3=19 d20+3=4
Saturday August 5th, 2006 1:26:44 AM
Angus continues to hover in his polymorphed self. He listens to the conversation of the other group and also for any more enemies that may pop out.

Listen 19
Spot 4

Spell Slots:

0 Level 1/5
1 Level 3/8
2 Level 1/8
3 Level 0/6
4 Level 1/4

Spells in Effect:

Message (Mira, Arm, Syr)
Mage Armor - Hours
Protection from Evil - 11/160 rounds (extended)
Inviso on Syr - 10/80 rounds
Shield - 4/160 rounds (extended)
Polymorph - 3/80 (18 Dex and natural AC improvement)

Rod of extend 2/3

Lang (AC 24; HP 42/92) & Sunshine (AC 22; HP 47/47)
Saturday August 5th, 2006 1:44:01 AM
Lang stands over the fallen Bugbear, the adrenaline rush of the battle still upon him. He looks down at the dying Bugbear, wondering if he should end its evil life now.

Belkior, however, steps in his way before he can make up his mind. Lang, in his battle lust, glares at the little healer.

"Exactly what do you plan on doing with him when you get him healed up? They may be doing something illegal here, but what do you think the authorities are going to do to us after they find out how we came into this building?

Lang stands there bleeding from all the cuts inflicted by the Bugbear and his own weapon. He awaits a response from Belkior or anyone.

Sunshine whines softly as he hears the frustration and anger in Lang's voice.

Ash d8=5 d8+5=9
Sunday August 6th, 2006 5:37:55 PM
Ash, feeling guilty that he caused Kadaz harm, casts another Cure Light Wounds on him. (9 points)

Battle in the Basement - Round 7 (DM JohnP) d20=5 d20=16 d20=12 d20=8
Monday August 7th, 2006 7:35:43 AM
DM JohnP - Apologies for missing the regular post last night. I'll get back on the usual schedule tonight.

Xenia moves about, getting closer to Wynn. She's concerned with what happened to Syr. And the Web is now getting annoying so she calls for it to be dismissed.

At the other end of the basement, Famina keeps struggling in the Web.

Edmund was about to dismiss the Web but Arm's callous killing of the cultist has enraged him. The wizard tries to control Arm by casting a Hold Person spell but the bard shrugs it off. After doing so, he glares at Edmund and promises to "discuss" the matter later before getting stuck in the Web.

Inside the Web, the rats have been crawling over Kadaz and the smell is too much for even his dwarven stomach. After he's still a little squeamish after watching ... eat breakfast this morning.

Thar tells the summoned beetle to keep attacking the skeletons. It does so and one of the skeletons is weakened. The elven cleric moves to examine storeroom 5, finding nothing more than cobwebs, broken furniture and a box of chipped crockery.

In the dark, Syr asks for assistance while he kneels over the unconscious cleric.

Wanting to save the life of the bugbear, Belkior moves over and checks the cleric as well. He manages to bandage the wounds of the cultist. Thinking on it, he thinks that the cleric had strengthened or bolstered the skeletons to protect them from turning. It's all rather academic since one of the skeletons has now recovered from the turning.

Shadow keeps watching the cultists, particularly the one near the stairs that has surrendered.

Wanting to rescue his companion from the rats, Conner moves down and smashes the last of the little creatures.

Wynn cuts down both of the remaining skeletons.

Concerned about her friend's actions, Mira moves through the Web to stand beside where he is caught. Her movement allows one of the zombies to attack her back but it misses.
Zombie 4 AoO -- club misses AC 12

Angus watches and waits.

Lang questions why Belkior has preserved the life of the bugbear cultist but makes no move to end the creature's life.

Ash heals Kadaz once more.

+++++++

The cleric is still unconscious on the floor and Belkior has managed to prevent the bugbear from dying.

Zombie 4 keeps attacking Mira but does no better than before.
Zombie 4 -- club misses AC 8

The cultists keep struggling within the Web.

MAP

Syr 51/62 blinded (Sub/Al) d20+4=13
Monday August 7th, 2006 11:08:14 AM
Blind, Syr feels for a hold on the cleric's clothing. Without the benefit of eyes, the elfish monk turns to his ears. (Listen 13) There's a scrabbling behind and to the right.

"Are all the skeletons gone? I remember the wall behind me, and a corner close by. If you don't mine, I'll just take this Evil Cleric and we'll get out of everyone's way."

(Drag Cleric with him to M3)

Belkior/Sub Al (AC20, AC22 vs Evil, HP40/40) d20+8=25 4d8(2+8+6+6)+9=31
Monday August 7th, 2006 11:37:31 AM
"I'm sorry, Lang, but this bugbear is a living being." The halfling healer shakes his head. "I can't just let him die if the cost is as simple as staunching the flow of his wounds. Through my inaction I would be responsible for his death."

"Your actions are your own, though. We all have only so much influence on each other. Kill him if you feel that he is deserved of death. But keep in mind that we only just encountered these people moments ago. Their use of Undead aside, as far as we know, they've done nothing more than fight as fiercely as we would have to protect what is theirs."

"I think we need to know more of what is going on here. Now, let me tend to some of your wounds ... "

Belkior steps toward his towering bugbear companion. Then he stops. Placing both fists upon his hips, he tilts his head back and looks all the way up to meet Lang's eyes. (Knowledge Arcana 25)

"Is that a Vicious weapon that I see?"

Belkior gives his companion a disapproving look, but still steps forward to apply Alemi's healing magic. "Your body is a temple, Lang. You should treat it with respect."

Rolls and Actions
Burn Deathward for Cure Critical Wounds Heal Lang 31hp

Movement and Position
5-foot step to M6
Covers the following with Magic Circle Against Evil: Lang, Sunshine, Ash, Kadaz, Conner

Active Effects
Owl's Wisdom (Duration, 7.5/8 minutes)
Magic Circle Against Evil (Duration 90 minutes)
Freedom of Movement (Duration 90 minutes)

0 Level: Detect Magic**, Detect poison*, Light*, Read Magic*, Resistance*
1st Level: Bless**, uDetect Undead*, Hide from Undead*, Magic Stone*, Sanctuary*, (Protection from Evil+)
2nd Level: Hold Person*, uOwl's Wisdom*, Silence, Spiritual Weapon* (Aid*)
3rd Level: Dispel Magic*, Prayer*, Searing Light*, Speak with Dead (uMagic Circle against Evil+*)
4th Level: uDeath Ward*, uFreedom of Movement*, Summon Monster IV+, (Holy Smite+*)

Turning 3/4 per day

Thar ail Baerer AC 21, hp 41 - Belkior's PfE spell, Bless d20+9=23 d20+4=9 d20+4=8
Monday August 7th, 2006 11:57:44 AM
Seeing that the skeletons are now gone, Thar will dismiss the beetle from the battle.

He will then go towards Mira and attack Z4 with his twin short swords, frustrated that he had to enter the ill-timed web from earlier. Luckily, he is only entangled and can still attack the zombie

Reflex Save in Web = 23

Attack1 (+6-2 entngl +1 bless) =10
Attack2 (+6-2 entngl +1 bless) =9

DM Sanity Check

First Turn Attempt Rounds (Z5-6) = 7/10

Spell Affects - Belkior's Prot from Evil, Thar's Bless, Inspired

L0 Spells: Det Magic (2x), Det Poison, Read Mag
L1: Shield of Faith, SumMon 1, Prot from Evil
L2: Delay Poison, Spiritual Weap

Turn Undead Attempts - 2 left /4

Bless duration - 9/15 rounds, +1 attacks and ST's vs. fear

Xenia (AC24, HP 48/48) d20+19=38 d20+15=31
Monday August 7th, 2006 12:15:26 PM

Grrrrrrr ... This is all still SUCH A MESS!

She looks around, eying the situation. (Spot 38)

"HEY!!! You know, we got a few folks here who just don't get the idea and they're still holding onto their weapons. Yeah, I see you there." The dark rogue tracks around the edge of the web, drawing a spiked chain. "I wantcha to PUT THAT DOWN!" The spiked chain lashes out and strikes the weapon from the hands of one of the cultists. (Disarm #3)

"And that goes for all of you Cultie Guys. You lay down your weapons now and we won't have to kill you any worse than we are now. Hear?"

"Everyone sound off and give a report in! This is Xenia. North is secured down. We got the Head Cultie Cleric guy and the Bugbear. All undead are gone."

"How you doing in the south? Make sure you check for secret doors. I think maybe with all the mud they've tracked around, they got a way from here to the sewers."

After giving her report, the dark rogue gives a listen. She listens into the Web stuff for a particular voice. The she calls out in an exaggerated whisper.

Mira!?! Hey, Mira? You okay in there?"

Rolls and Actions
Spot 38
Disarm #3 +31 [+11 MAB, +1 MW, -4 Non-proficient, +4 Two Handed, +2 From Chain, +1 Bless]

Movement and Position
Move to H5.

Active Effects
Message (Duration 50 minutes)
Bless (Duration 3/15 rounds)
Barkskin (Duration 3 minutes)
Fly (Duration 3 minutes)
Inspire Courage (On going)

Arm (AC 14, HP 27/27) d20=20
Monday August 7th, 2006 1:27:12 PM
Casting one more glare at Edmund, Arm manages to extricate himself from the web (Dex=20-nat. 20). Moving himself across the room to the rear steps, he yells to Mira, "I'm OK. Don't worry about me, but mind the southern area. We can't allow any of these scum to escape. If we do, we may never sleep easy again!".

After he says this, he thinks to himself, "Perhaps if we rid the Wold of these creatures, I will have some peace as well.".

Famina d20+3=14
Monday August 7th, 2006 2:07:57 PM
Hearing the battle is over, and not being able to see any enemies are up (the web blocks sight), Famina drops out of her rage and tiredly tries to pull herself out of the web. She promises to have a few words with whatever mage put up the blasted thing.

Edmund
Monday August 7th, 2006 2:27:04 PM
As the battle seems to be winding up save for a block of cultists and zombies caught in his web, Edmund finds himself at a loss of what to do next. Distressed by everything which has happened, and sickened by the battle, he backs up a bit (to C-10) to sit down at the top of the stairs.

Frustrated, angry, and more than a bit ill, Edmund remembers all too clearly the spectacle of the miserable cultists begging for mercy. Having signed up for adventure, not murder, he is revolted at having participated in what was essentially a massacre.

Edmund puts his head in his hands and waits for someone to come tell him everything is settled. He wants no more part of this infamous affair.

DM Sanity Info
Move: 5 feet to C-10
Position: C-10
Action: None

Spells In Effect:
Bless (Thar)
Web (Duration: 50 minutes, or until dismissed)
Hypnotic Pattern (Duration: 1 Round)

Spells Memorised:
L.0: Daze (x2), Detect Magic, Read Magic, Resistance
L.1: Charm Person (x2), Colour Spray, Grease, Hypnotism, Sleep
L.2: Daze Monster (x2), Hypnotic Pattern, Web
L.3: Hold Person, Slow, Suggestion

Mira (AC 13+4,40 HP) Mage Armour 3d4(2+3+3)+1=9
Monday August 7th, 2006 2:31:21 PM
"Whew! That was close!" thinks the sorcerer as she ducks the zombie's club and moves back up the stairs towards Edmund. Mira registers the bard's voice, and wonders if Arm really is OK.

"Just a minute, Xenia," she calls out to the rogue somewhere past the web-mess. Hands outstretched before her, Mira sends the full force of a ball of magical energy into the chest of the creature that had been plaguing her. (9 pts. magic missile dmg. to Z4.)

DM Sanity Info:

Position: E10

Spells In Effect:

Mage Armour - on Mira-3 hours
Message - on Mira, cast by Angus
Bless - Mira, from Thar
Inspire Courage - Mira, from Arm
Spider Climb - on Arm - 3 minutes (4/30 rounds)

- Spells: (0-level 6 per day, 1st level 7 per day, 2nd level 6 per day, 3rd level 4 per day)
0-level: detect magic, read magic, light, mage hand, open/close, ray of frost
1st-level: magic missile#, burning hands#, mage armor#, shield
2nd-level: glitterdust, invisibility###
3rd-fireball

Kadaz (AC24, hp 63/63) d20+4=24 d20+6=24
Monday August 7th, 2006 3:25:24 PM
A wave of healing washes over Kadaz, closing up rat bites and calming his stomach. The dwarf straightens to his full 4' height and grabs his axe again. "Thanks Ash, those rats were annoying. Did you see where they came from?"

Seeing most of the party to the north of the room Kadaz decides to cover the south. He struggles though the web and manages to move 10' (to M11). He breaks out of the web into a clear spot and involuntarily shivers, glad to be free again. (strength check 24, natural 20)

When he gets there he glares at the cultist in front of him (#17). "Surrender" he orders. And shouldn't Birdie be up those stairs a bit? "Birdie come here!" he orders. Birdie hears and starts moving towards his friend. (handle animal 24).

Ash
Monday August 7th, 2006 6:58:36 PM
Ash looks to see if anyone else needs healing. "Is everyone okay?" he yells. He then looks to Shelya to ensure that she is okay with his prisoner.

Angus
Monday August 7th, 2006 7:14:37 PM
Angus has had enough of watching and waiting and tries a new tact, and backs up Xenia's words "Surrender now, resistance is futile."

Angus then cast charm person on one of the still armed cultists in the web (DC 16 will save). Angus then call out to his new found friend "Put away the dagger, we just need to talk. Work your way over to me if you can. I am the small pixie flying up by the ceiling."

Angus sees that Belkior has saved the cleric and suggests "Anyone have some stout rope." in his new squeeky pixie voice.

Spell Slots:

0 Level 1/5
1 Level 4/8
2 Level 1/8
3 Level 0/6
4 Level 1/4

Spells in Effect:

Message (Mira, Arm, Syr)
Mage Armor - Hours
Protection from Evil - 12/160 rounds (extended)
Inviso on Syr - 11/80 rounds
Shield - 5/160 rounds (extended)
Polymorph - 4/80 (18 Dex and natural AC improvement)

Rod of extend 2/3

Conner [AC=22; HP=62] Message, Bless, Inspired , Prot Evil d20+3=16 d20+4=21 d20+14=24 d8+8=10 d20+10=28 d6+5=8
Monday August 7th, 2006 7:57:27 PM
Conner hears the warnings to look to the south and plunges back into the webbing. He manages to evade most of the sticky strands and easily brushes off any of the others [Dex=16, Str=21]. The armed and dangerous fighter moves to assist Mira [H-10] and slashes at the Zombie if it remains standing [Hit Z4 AC=24 for 10 HP]. If the zombie has fallen, Conner will turn his attention to the cultist and cleric stuck in the web. If either move against him he will drive his forearm up and into them and let the shield spikes do their work [Held Action, shield bash hit AC=28 for 8 HP]

"What do we do with this lot?" he asks Mira. "Is Lady Ilonia in there anywhere?" he waves at the wall of sticky webbing.

Wynn [AC=21; HP=56/59] Message, Disguise, Bless, Inspired, Prot Evil d20+11=30 d20+11=29 d8+4=8 d8+4=12 d20+8=18
Monday August 7th, 2006 8:14:00 PM
"You heard the lady" Wynn calls out to the ensnared cultists "drop those daggers and give yourselves up!" Wynn moves within reach of the cultists [Intimidate=18]and slashes into the webbing with his longsword should any move to attack him. His actions are swift, sure and threatening [Held action; Hit 30 critical, confirmed w/ 29 for 20 HP damage]

Position =H6

Lang (AC 24; HP 73/92) & Sunshine (AC 22; HP 47/47)
Monday August 7th, 2006 8:16:55 PM
"Thank you Belkior for the healing."

"Yes, Belkior this weapon has been enchanted with the power of Vicious. After the last battle with the Undead where I was unable to inflict a lot of damage I felt I had to improve my damage capability. This enchantment was the cheapest and quickest way. The damage done to me is a small price to pay to quickly end the life of my adversaries."

"Plus I always have you to heal me if it gets out of hand," Lang says with a lopsided grin.

Lang looks around and it appears the 2 groups have everything under control. His swords are not needed down here anymore. There is nothing more that Lang can do downstairs.

"I will go upstairs and keep lookout on the back entrance. Someone should do the same for the front entrance."

"Sunshine heel."

Battle in the Basement - Round 8 (DM JohnP)
Monday August 7th, 2006 10:30:55 PM
Trying to get out of the way of the others, Syr gropes his way into the corner of the basement. He drags the limp body of the evil cleric with him. The blind monk hears the discussion between Belkior and Lang about the evil bugbear and the new weapon that Lang wields. They don't seem to come to an agreement before Lang leaves to guard the rear entrance.

Wanting to deal with the remaining zombies, Thar moves closer and manages to avoid getting stuck in the Web. He swings at the nearest zombie but cannot hit it. The celestial beetle returns to its home since it is no longer needed.

Xenia wants this all to end. She whips a chain at the nearest cultist and whips the dagger from her hand. That cultist was strangely distracted or dazed. She calls out to the other cultists to drop their weapons.

Famina is still struggling with the Web. It's creator, Edmund isn't sure what to think of things. He's rather sickened by the bloodshed here in the basement.

Mira blasts the nearest zombie with a Magic Missile but is not able to drop it.

Kadaz moves through the Web towards the rear stairs and glares at the cultist there. Ash and Shelya are still guarding the man who surrendered to them and Arm was already there.

Angus Charms one of the cultists who is still trying to fight and then orders the man to come to him. The cultist is still stuck in the Web and cannot move.
Charmed Cultist 1

Conner keeps forcing his way through the Web and gets close enough to attack Zombie 4. His sword swing cuts the zombie apart and it hangs in the webbing. Wynn moves over to the few remaining cultists that have some fight in them.

+++++++

The cleric and bugbear are unconscious and out of the fight.

The remaining zombie tries to push past the cultists but they are stuck fast in the Web. The zombie that went into the storeroom can't be seen but it can be heard crashing about in the room, trying to get farther away from Thar.

The only cultist who is trying to get out of the web is the unarmed one next to Sunshine (#5). She can't break the webbing, however.

Player Sanity Info
Cultist -- AC 11, 7 hitpoints
Zombie -- AC 11, DR 5/slashing

MAP

Xenia (AC24, HP 48/48) d20+15=19
Monday August 7th, 2006 11:21:14 PM

"Hey, Wynn, I ... you know ... I don't think these folks are, like, responsible for themselves, you know. I mean, look at them. They're, like, all Zombied out." From behind Wynn, Xenia again flicks the chain out at the middle cultist's dagger to send it to the floor.

"Maybe they're, like, mind controlled or something. You think?"

"Weerd ... " she whispers as she waits for the Web to come down.

Rolls and Actions
Disarm #2 19 [+11 MAB, +1 MW, -4 Non-proficient, +4 Two Handed, +2 From Chain, +1 Bless]

Movement and Position
Move to H5.

Active Effects
Message (Duration 50 minutes)
Bless (Duration 3/15 rounds)
Barkskin (Duration 3 minutes)
Fly (Duration 3 minutes)
Inspire Courage (On going)

Edmund (AC:12+2, HP:27/27) Bless
Tuesday August 8th, 2006 1:47:23 AM
With an anticlimatic 'pfft!', Edmund's Hypnotic Pattern spell exhausts itself. Edmund takes no notice, remaining in position with his face in his hands.

DM Sanity Info
Move: None
Position: C-10
Action: None

Spells In Effect:
Bless (Thar)
Web (Duration: 50 minutes, or until dismissed)

Spells Memorised:
L.0: Daze (x2), Detect Magic, Read Magic, Resistance
L.1: Charm Person (x2), Colour Spray, Grease, Hypnotism, Sleep
L.2: Daze Monster (x2), Hypnotic Pattern, Web
L.3: Hold Person, Slow, Suggestion

Kadaz (AC24, hp 63/63) d20+8=28
Tuesday August 8th, 2006 5:40:35 AM
Kadaz looks at the shadowy south end of the cellar and has a thought. He unlaces a belt pouch and pulls out a smaller bag. From inside this bag he pulls out a small cube that has been enchanted with continual flame. He tosses the cube at the south wall of the cellar. "Hide now, evil ones!" he taunts. (hit AC 28, nat 20, with thrown light cube)

He moves slowly past Arm to the the first side entrance and looks in. (stands at M14 and looks into room 6).

Arm d20=19 d20=12
Tuesday August 8th, 2006 6:00:48 AM
Arm moves up to stand directly in front of the cleric (#17 at M10). Holding his still-dripping sword at his throat, he says, "Where is Ilonia, you dog? Speak fast, and speak truly, otherwise you'll have more than three holes to breathe from, at least until you drown in your own blood!" (dex=19, intimidate=12).

Angus (Ac 23/25 evil) Hp 33/33 d20+8=22
Tuesday August 8th, 2006 8:41:40 AM
Angus is happy to see that the one cultist is under his spell and cautions "Just relax, we will free you from thw web in short order. Have your friends stand down so that it is easier for us to free all of you from the web."

Angus also sees Syr in distress. "Let me see if I can take care of that for you Syr." Angus comments to the blind monk in his new high squeeky voice.

Angus cast a targeted dispel magic on the blindness.

Dispell 22

Angus looks around the room and calls out. "Lets quickly dispatch the undead and then have a parley with our new guests. Who ever is closest, please check the front and back entrances for possible friends of our new guests."

Spell Slots:

0 Level 1/5
1 Level 4/8
2 Level 1/8
3 Level 1/6
4 Level 1/4

Spells in Effect:

Message (Mira, Arm, Syr)
Mage Armor - Hours
Protection from Evil - 13/160 rounds (extended)
Inviso on Syr - 12/80 rounds
Shield - 6/160 rounds (extended)
Polymorph - 5/80 (18 Dex and natural AC improvement)

Rod of extend 2/3

Syr 51/62 blinded (Sub/Al)
Tuesday August 8th, 2006 11:13:41 AM
"Thanks ... er, Angus." Syr stretches a hand out in front of his face. He blinks and squints as though to restore his sight by that act alone. At the same time, he reaches for rope to bind the unconscious cleric. Until, that is, he remembers that he doesn't have any.

Belkior/Sub Al (AC20, AC22 vs Evil, HP40/40) d20+8=19
Tuesday August 8th, 2006 11:28:37 AM

The halfling devotee of Alemi shakes his head, a gesture of sadness. The things that some will do in the name of inflicting harm upon others.

Belkior watches Lang move off through the Web to guard the outer exit. But are things indeed over here? And how to bring things to a safe and merciful conclusion? Is this Web now functioning to protect and preserve lives? Or is it merely serving to promote fear and uncertainty?

From the sound of things, there is more than enough strength in these two groups to control this small group of Undead worshippers. Perhaps it is time to see this spell gone.

"I will attempt to bring the Web spell down," Belkior announces. "Please be ready." He forms his hands into the symbol of Alemi and directs the divine magics toward the Web.

Rolls and Actions
Dispel Magic 19 (Targeting Web Spell)

Movement and Position
M5 No movement

Covers the following with Magic Circle Against Evil: Syr

Active Effects
Owl's Wisdom (Duration, 7.5/8 minutes)
Magic Circle Against Evil (Duration 90 minutes)
Freedom of Movement (Duration 90 minutes)

0 Level: Detect Magic**, Detect poison*, Light*, Read Magic*, Resistance*
1st Level: Bless**, uDetect Undead*, Hide from Undead*, Magic Stone*, Sanctuary*, (Protection from Evil+)
2nd Level: Hold Person*, uOwl's Wisdom*, Silence, Spiritual Weapon* (Aid*)
3rd Level: uDispel Magic*, Prayer*, Searing Light*, Speak with Dead (uMagic Circle against Evil+*)
4th Level: uDeath Ward*, uFreedom of Movement*, Summon Monster IV+, (Holy Smite+*)

Turning 3/4 per day

Thar ail Baerer AC 21, hp 41 - Belkior's PfE spell, Bless d20+7=23 d20+10=27
Tuesday August 8th, 2006 11:48:40 AM
In a grateful tone, Thar says "Thanks Conner, for handling that Zombie."

He'll leave the webbed area and go south, to check out room #7. If he needs light, he will light one of his torches to help inspect the room.

Search = 23
Spot = 27

DM Sanity Check

First Turn Attempt Rounds (Z5-6) = 8/10

Spell Affects - Belkior's Prot from Evil, Thar's Bless, Inspired

L0 Spells: Det Magic (2x), Det Poison, Read Mag
L1: Shield of Faith, SumMon 1, Prot from Evil
L2: Delay Poison, Spiritual Weap

Turn Undead Attempts - 2 left /4

Bless duration - 10/15 rounds, +1 attacks and ST's vs. fear

Mira (AC 13+4,40 HP) Mage Armour
Tuesday August 8th, 2006 1:01:19 PM
Eyes forward on the meeting room of the cultists, Mira backs carefully up the stairs until she bumps into the distraught wizard. After a quick glance to assure herself that it is indeed Edmund, she asks, "why the long face, Edmund? You did fine, and we still need you!"

Mira places a hand on the man's shoulder, and gives him a gentle shake, "the lady has yet to be found, and I fear some of our party would prefer to extract confessions at the point of a sword!" Hand still on Edmund's shoulder, Mira stoops to bring her face closer to the wizard's. "I'll stay here until the hall is secured. Send a fighter to me. Find one of the healers, the little one with the furry legs, and go question the...survivors."

Mira will squeeze against the hall wall in order to let Edmund pass.

As an afterthought, she adds, "be careful. The lady may still be in the room, masquerading as a follower."

DM Sanity Info:

Position: D10

Shadow (AC 21/18 HP 28/28) d20+6=13 d4+1=4
Tuesday August 8th, 2006 1:29:36 PM
Shadow will make ready for the release of the web spell. He will keep an arrow knocked in case the cultists do not surrender. He will release if one of the cultist makes an aggresive move towards any of his companions or makes to exit the room.

Actions
To hit=13
dmg=4

ADM Scott A - Posting for 7/31/06
Tuesday August 8th, 2006 1:40:37 PM
Plateau City
DM John: perfect
Kadaz: perfect
Arm: perfect
Ash: perfect
Shadow: perfect
Edmund: perfect
Mira: perfect
Connor: perfect
Thar: perfect
Overall: 100% effective

Crimson Shields
Syr: perfect
Lang: perfect
Belk: perfect
Famina: perfect
Wynn: perfect
Angus: perfect
Xenia: perfect
Overall: 100% effective

Outstanding everyone posted for every day!

Ash
Tuesday August 8th, 2006 4:38:14 PM
Seeing that everything has been handled in a professional manner by everyone involved, Ash stands beside Shelya and his prisoner and watches to see what happens next.

Conner [AC=22; HP=62] Message, Bless, Inspired , Prot Evil d20+3=17 d20+4=21 d20+14=22 d8+8=12 d20+9=13 d8+8=12
Tuesday August 8th, 2006 5:17:06 PM
"No worries Thar" Conner gives a quick glance back to his companion in arms. Conner is sure that the remaining zombies must be dispatched. He steps forward and to hack at Z5 with his now well blooded blade. [Dex=17 to avoid web, Str=21 to push through any stray strands, Hit AC=22 and 13 for 12 and 12 HP respectively].

"It may be fine to release the cultists, but these undead must be sent back to their graves" he grunts as he slashes into the zombie.

Wynn [AC=21; HP=56/59] Message, Disguise, Bless, Inspired, Prot Evil
Tuesday August 8th, 2006 5:24:38 PM
Wynn maintains his vigil over the cultists and prepares to defend himself and Xenia depending on the actions of the ensnared worshippers once the web comes down. [Held action from previous round; Hit 30 critical, confirmed w/ 29 for 20 HP damage]

"you may be right Xenia, but there's been lots of spells flying around, and as far as I'm concerned they're responsible for whatever they've done. Keep your guard up when this web falls!"

Lang (AC 24; HP 73/92) & Sunshine (AC 22; HP 47/47) d20+6=18
Tuesday August 8th, 2006 8:15:07 PM
Lang and Sunshine continue moving up the stairs to the rear entrance. Once there they remain quiet listening to the sounds coming off the street.

Listen 18.

Battle in the Basement - Round 9 (DM JohnP) d2=1 d2=2 d2=1 d2=1 d20+1=7
Tuesday August 8th, 2006 10:44:58 PM
Xenia disarms another of the cultists while speaking with Wynn. The two disarmed cultists seemed unaware of anything but the fading pretty lights. Their creator, Edmund, barely notices that his spell has run its course. He is still very disturbed by the violence that his fellows have visited upon these poor misled people. Mira backs up the stairs and reaches out to the wizard, trying to console him.

Kadaz tosses a light cube into the shadows at the south end of the basement. The magical glow from the cube banishes nearly all of the shadows. The dwarf fighter then moves to the opening into storeroom 6 and peers inside. His darkvision reveals a great deal of mud and debris on the floor along with a rat-gnawed sack of grain. Unlike the other storerooms, this one is empty of broken furniture except for a tattered rug hung over the outside wall. Kadaz senses that there is an opening behind that curtain.

There is now a knot of people at the rear stairs. Arm has moved up to threaten the cultist there, who cringes away from him. Ash and Shelya continue to guard the cultist. Lang pushes past the group and goes to the rear door with Sunshine.

Angus issues further instructions to his new friend and casts a spell that removes the magical blindness from Syr's eyes. The sorcerer instructs the others to both deal with the remaining undead and watch for any reinforcements.

With his vision restored, Syr moves to bind the unconscious cleric but doesn't have any rope. Belkior has tired of the problems that the Web is causing and dispels it. The webbing shrinks away from the cultists and party members caught within it until there are only wisps clinging to the ceiling and walls. The cultists are now free to act.

As soon as the Web disappears, the charmed cultist 1 moves toward Angus. He is tucking his dagger back into his belt as he moves.

Thar thanks Conner for dealing with the zombie and then moves to the south end of the basement. His elven eyes show nothing in the storeroom but broken furniture and some crates stuffed with rags.

Shadow readies an arrow in case any of the cultists do not surrender.

With the Web gone, Conner has a clear route to the last zombie. He steps up and chops it into pieces.

Wynn stands ready to defend Xenia and the others in that corner of the basement.

Famina waits patiently.

++++++

When the spells holding them end, the cultists are free to move. Some choose to run while others try to surrender.

The only remaining zombie keeps banging against things in storeroom 4.

The cultists vary in their reactions depending on their devotion to the chalice. The ones who had earlier been trying to simply escape (Cultists 5, 7 & 10) now drop to the floor and try to surrender.

Cultist 17, who surrendered before, blurts out a response to Arm's threats.

"Ilonia! Don't know now Ilonia! Don't know names of any of the bosses! They left today, before service! Don't know where!"

Cultist 2 reaches down for his dropped dagger. Wynn sees this action and chops down with his sword, neatly skewering the cultist.

Cultist 3 holds up her empty hands, indicating that she wants to surrender.

The other two cultists are both fanatics and they try to fight their way out of the basement. They both make for the front stairs since this exit is closer and, frankly, Mira and Edmund seem like weaker opponents. But they both have to get past Conner. Cultist 6 sees no way to get past the fighter, so he stabs and misses with his dagger.
Cultist 6 - dagger misses AC 7

Cultist 11 tries to run past Conner, allowing the fighter an attack. Shadow holds his shot because of Kadaz and Famina.
Conner - take an AoO vs. AC 11

Player Sanity Info
Cultist -- AC 11, 7 hitpoints
Zombie -- AC 11, DR 5/slashing

MAP

Angus (Ac 23/25 evil) Hp 33/33
Tuesday August 8th, 2006 11:02:29 PM
Angus smiles when he sees Belkior add a dispel magic to his own and feels like he may want to try out his new found wings a bit. "Nice job Belkior." Angus squeeks.

Angus then flies over to the middle of the room.

K6

Angus call to his new found friend. "Follow me. Lets calm your friends."

Angus also takes note of the female cultist and thinks that seems to be a novelty and wants to add a new friend to his list.

Cast charm person on the female cultist DC 16. "Come over here my dear." Angus becons as two friends are better than one.

Angus then spreads his even smaller arms as he hovers and calls out. "Surrender and you will not be harmed. Kneel down in the center of the room and remain calm."

To the others Angus adds, "Shields and friends, lets quickly check all of the rooms, but some must watch our new found friends and the exits. Lets be quick as we might get company."

Spell Slots:

0 Level 1/5
1 Level 5/8
2 Level 1/8
3 Level 1/6
4 Level 1/4

Spells in Effect:

Message (Mira, Arm, Syr)
Mage Armor - Hours
Protection from Evil - 14/160 rounds (extended)
Inviso on Syr - 13/80 rounds
Shield - 7/160 rounds (extended)
Polymorph - 6/80 (18 Dex and natural AC improvement)

Rod of extend 2/3

Syr 51/62 (Sub/Al) d20+10=29 d20+9=23 d20+10=19 d10+4=9
Tuesday August 8th, 2006 11:08:39 PM

"Domi! It's good to see again! Thanks, Angus!" Syr looks around the room, lit bright as day in his elvish sight. The Web is gone, and across the room is a cultist wielding a dagger against ... Conner.

With startling speed, Syr glides across the floor and (Touch #11 AC29, Trip 23 [+4 STR, +5 Improved Trip]) kicks the man's feet out from underneath him.

"And stay down!" Syr winds up and plants (Hit #11 AC19, Damage Non-lethal 9hp. Follow up on Improved Trip. Stunning Fist, Fort vs DC15 or be Stunned for one round.) a fist into a place between the muscles of the man's arm designed to cause stunning pain.

Move to I11

Conner [AC=22; HP=62] Message, Bless, Inspired , Prot Evil d20+10=30 d20+10=20 d8+8=9 d8+8=11 d20+16=35 d20+7=24 d3+5=8
Tuesday August 8th, 2006 11:23:30 PM
Conner's exasperation with these cultists begins to show, he lashes out at the escaping man's temple with the hilt of his sword, catching the cultist squarely as he goes by [AoO critical hit confirmed for 20 hp non-lethal damage; took -4 penalty on attack]

The cultist with the dagger is the next focus of his attention. Just as Syr knocks the man down, Conner bats the man's dagger from his hands with his own blade [improved disarm=35] He then slams his boot into the cultists mid-section in an attempt to knock the wind out of the man [unarmed strike hits AC=24 for 8 HP non lethal].

Conner's blood is up and the fierce look in his eye speaks to his ardent wish that the man attempt to pick up his dagger. "They want you alive, but nobody said you had to be healthy!" he growls. Conner's tattoo has taken on a deep shade of crimson, a sure sign he means what he says.

Edmund (AC12+2, HP:27/27) Bless
Tuesday August 8th, 2006 11:27:36 PM
Edmund nods slowly to Mira as she talks, then suddenly starts to his feet. "Someone has dispelled my Web!" he declares, worriedly. I expect it's not sa--"

Interrupted mid-word, Edmund sees a cultist running towards them, just beyond Mira, who has pressed herself up against the wall to allow him to pass. In distress, Edmund cries, "Look out!"

Interposing himself between Mira and the Cultist (at F-10), Edmund readies Colour Spray (Saving Throw DC 16, Will Negates). With a few words and a quick gesture, he lets fly with it towards the oncoming Cultist (burst direction is to the right, emanating from the bottom right Corner of F-10).

DM Sanity Info
Move: 15 ft to F-10
Position: F-10
Action: Cast Spell (Colour Spray)

Spells In Effect:
Bless (Thar)
Colour Spray (Instant)

Spells Memorised:
L.0: Daze (x2), Detect Magic, Read Magic, Resistance
L.1: Charm Person (x2), Colour Spray, Grease, Hypnotism, Sleep
L.2: Daze Monster (x2), Hypnotic Pattern, Web
L.3: Hold Person, Slow, Suggestion

Wynn [AC=21; HP=56/59] Message, Disguise, Bless, Inspired, Prot Evil d20+11=25 d8+4=8
Tuesday August 8th, 2006 11:34:43 PM
"Stay here and keep your sword on them" he tells Xenia. "There's something in that storeroom that needs to be put to rest." Wynn advances on the trapped Zombie and slashes at the undead creature with his longsword [Hit AC=25 for 8 HP].

There is no pity in the bard's eyes for the Zombie, only remorse that these cultists have raised the creature from death and now he must dispatch it.

Kadaz (AC24, hp 63/63)
Wednesday August 9th, 2006 5:42:53 AM
Looking over his shoulder at the fight in the celler Kadaz shakes his head in disbelief. That idiot is attacking Conner with a dagger? Where does this cult recruit its members - the insane asylum?

Turning his attention to the room in front of him Kadaz examines it more closely. "There's an exit in this room!" he announces to the group. "I'm going to check it out." He holds his axe and shield at the ready and moves towards the blanket covering the back wall. He extends his axe and with the blade moves the covering aside to see what's behind it.

Arm d20+2=14 d8+5=8
Wednesday August 9th, 2006 6:00:46 AM
Tired of showing mercy to these scum, Arm instead slashes at the cultist's arm (-4 penalty to hit=14 dmg: 8) and says "Let this be a lesson to you.". To Lang he says, "If this thing tries to escape rend it's limbs from it's body, then turns to see if Conner needs help with dispatching the other two.

Thar ail Baerer AC 21, hp 41 - Belkior's PfE spell, Bless d20+7=27 d20+7=23 d6+3=9 d6+3=4
Wednesday August 9th, 2006 10:25:26 AM
Remembering that there is still one zombie left to deal with, Thar yells "We've got one more zombie to deal with" and runs at top speed towards the zombie in room 4 and aware that it will cancel the turning, swings both swords (if this round or next round, when he reaches the room since he's running) at his target.

If both hit (likely, hit AC 27, 23), they do 13 points of dmg (9, 4)

Famina d20+3=19
Wednesday August 9th, 2006 1:14:56 PM
Still in the web. Not much else to do. Famina also has a terrible urge to scratch her nose, and can't do it. Oh, the agony!

Xenia (AC24, HP 48/48) d20+9=22 2d4(3+1)+1=5
Wednesday August 9th, 2006 1:52:50 PM

"Sure, Wynn. Got it here." The rogue floats to within range of the cultist intent on sticking Mira's Tattoo Head friend.

"Don't even think about it, You," she warns. "We're merciful folks here, but if you keep trying to fight us, I'm gonna wang you with this chain here a good one. Got it?"

"HEY!" Xenia shouts across the room. "Yeah, you. um ... Arm! Whatcha cutting on folks for who don't have no weapons?"

All the time, the dark rogue is thinking to herself ... Uh oh. This is the one that's Mira's boyfriend, isn't it?

Rolls and Actions
Ready Attack vs #6 if he continues to fight.
Hit #6 AC22, Damage 5hp

Movement and Position
Move to G5.

Active Effects
Message (Duration 50 minutes)
Bless
Barkskin (Duration 3 minutes)
Fly (Duration 3 minutes)
Inspire Courage

Belkior/Sub Al (AC20, AC22 vs Evil, HP40/40) d20+21=36
Wednesday August 9th, 2006 2:05:45 PM
"Thank you, Angus."

"Alright, now that the Web is gone, gather around. Lets see to your wounds." Belkior tugs on the arm of a nearby cultist and examines his health. (Heal on #5 to check general health.)

"Famina, if Kadaz is looking into a secret exit, maybe you should follow to back him up."

Rolls and Actions
Heal Check on #5 36

Movement and Position
Move to K7

Covers the following with Magic Circle Against Evil: Syr

Active Effects
Owl's Wisdom (Duration, 7.5/8 minutes)
Magic Circle Against Evil (Duration 90 minutes)
Freedom of Movement (Duration 90 minutes)

0 Level: Detect Magic**, Detect poison*, Light*, Read Magic*, Resistance*
1st Level: Bless**, uDetect Undead*, Hide from Undead*, Magic Stone*, Sanctuary*, (Protection from Evil+)
2nd Level: Hold Person*, uOwl's Wisdom*, Silence, Spiritual Weapon* (Aid*)
3rd Level: uDispel Magic*, Prayer*, Searing Light*, Speak with Dead (uMagic Circle against Evil+*)
4th Level: uDeath Ward*, uFreedom of Movement*, Summon Monster IV+, (Holy Smite+*)

Turning 3/4 per day

Shadow (AC 21/18 HP 28/28) d20+6=11 d4+1=5
Wednesday August 9th, 2006 3:27:50 PM
Shadow will move to L15 to get a better area to effect with his coverage with his bow. He will keep his arrow nocked and ready to realease if the cultists do not surrender. "Hold there and listen before you lose your lives." He adds to the noise of what is going on.

Actions if needed:
to hit=11
dmg=5

Edmund (second illegal post)
Wednesday August 9th, 2006 3:44:33 PM
Hearing Xenia shout at Arm, Edmund's mouth drops open. He shouts to the rest of the party, "Someone, stop Arm! He's drunk from the Chalice and has gone beserk! DO SOMETHING!"

Mira (AC 13+4,40 HP) Mage Armor
Wednesday August 9th, 2006 3:50:54 PM
Once again behind the wizard, Mira stops at the base of the stair where she can see what is going on in the room, but block the way out for any who might try to escape.

With Edmund in front of her, she is unable to see clearly what is going on, but hearing his warning, Mira casts a quick spell of her own, transfering the magic (Mage Armor) to the wizard standing between her, and whatever is in the room.

"Oh, no!" She groans, when she hears Edmund call out the bard's name, "what has he done?"

DM Sanity Info:

Position: F10

Spells In Effect:

Mage Armour - on Mira-3 hours, Edmund-3 hours
Message - on Mira, cast by Angus
Bless - Mira, from Thar
Inspire Courage - Mira, from Arm
Spider Climb - on Arm - 3 minutes (7/30 rounds)

- Spells: (0-level 6 per day, 1st level 7 per day, 2nd level 6 per day, 3rd level 4 per day)
0-level: detect magic, read magic, light, mage hand, open/close, ray of frost
1st-level: magic missile#, burning hands#, mage armor##, shield
2nd-level: glitterdust, invisibility###
3rd-fireball

Lang (AC 24; HP 73/92) & Sunshine (AC 22; HP 47/47) d20+15=34 d20+15=34 2d6(3+6)+12=21
Wednesday August 9th, 2006 8:44:47 PM
Lang continues up the stairs to Q10 or farther, but not out the doorway into the alley. Sunshine remains right behind him, protecting Lang as he always does.

OOC - What is Cultist 17 doing besides blabbering? If he tries to leave Lang will threaten him with his shortswords. He he continues, Lang will swing at him with the flat of his blade (non-lethal damage from his non-vicious sword).

Hit AC 30 (30); Non-lethal damage 21; assuming you can critcal non-lethal.

If Lang makes it to the exit doorway he will take guard and not let anyone in or out.

The Battle is Over ... Aftermath (DM JohnP)
Wednesday August 9th, 2006 9:41:17 PM
Conner hits the fleeing cultist with the flat of his sword and lays him out flat. Then he turns and disarms the other cultist, following it with another blow that knocks the cultist out.

With that, the only remaining combatant is the zombie in storeroom 4. Thar and Wynn move into the storeroom and deal with that threat. Syr doesn't need to attack the cultist and Edmund doesn't need to cast a defensive spell.

Now there are only bleeding and unconcious cultists around the basement. If the party moves quickly they will be able to keep all of them alive. Belkior starts dealing with the injured cultists.

Angus charms another of the cultists who has surrendered and issues a set of orders. There are now two charmed cultists, six who have surrendered and ten who tried to fight and are now either unconcious or bleeding. Not to mention the unconcious bugbear and cleric.

Most of the drama occurs over by the back exit. Arm whacks the cultist with the flat of his sword and backs it by threatening violence from Lang. That elicits more wailing and protestations of knowing nothing. Not to mention concern from Xenia and Mira about Arm's actions.

"I don't know! Really!"

The other nearby cultists back up his story.

"They took off, all but Wyman and Otto there!"

"Talk to them two, not us!"

"They don't tell us nothing!"

Kadaz starts investigating what he thinks is a passage. He moves the rug aside with the flat of his axe and peers into the gloom. A low tunnel, low enough that a human would have to stoop, is shored up with bits of wood. From the smell, the dwarf figures that it's another connection to the sewers. Looking at the mud, he sees a mass of footprints and animal tracks. Maybe Lang could tell more.

Famina would go to help the dwarf but she seems to think that the webbing is still present.

Now it's time to complete treatment of the wounded and all the other post combat niceties.

Angus d20+9=15
Wednesday August 9th, 2006 11:08:49 PM
Angus is very surprised by Arm's recent actions and call out to the warrior and Mira "Arm. Stand down! There is not need for more bloodshed amongst the living."

Angus then looks to Mira and in his new squeeky voice call to the sorceress "Please control Arm, his blood lust is up. If you can not we will quickly have to subdue him before he causes to much trouble. I may have to give him a case of the giggles."

Angus readies his Laughter spell and will cast it at Arm if his continues to be belligerant or does not listen to reason from his mates. DC 17 will save.

Angus calls up both sets of stairs "Are our flanks protected? Do we have a clear path to leave if we must? Any sign of trouble?"

To Angus's two new found friends he asks "What are your names? What can you tell me about your two friends Wyman and Otto over there? Also what can you tell me about the ritual you were participating in and why your joined the cult?"

Diplomancy 15 unmodified for the charm spell.

Spell Slots:

0 Level 1/5
1 Level 5/8
2 Level 1/8
3 Level 1/6
4 Level 1/4

Spells in Effect:

Message (Mira, Arm, Syr)
Mage Armor - Hours
Protection from Evil - 14/160 rounds (extended)
Shield - 7/160 rounds (extended)
Polymorph - 6/80 (18 Dex and natural AC improvement)

Rod of extend 2/3

OOC: How much time will elaspe from spells?

Syr
Thursday August 10th, 2006 1:44:08 AM
Relieved to be able to see again, he stands by and watches as the last cultist is taken down. Stooping over he places his hands on his wound and concentrates. When nothing happens after a moment, he looks confused and puzzled. Looking down at the priest, he moves away a few feet and tries again. A look of relief crosses his face as he feels the healing touch spread through his body (cure 11hp). Muttering to himself, "Get over it, it's all in your head, just cause he took your vision, it don't mean he can change you." Taking strength from his own words, "Besides we have our own magic to use." The last he includes Angus on the whisper.

Arm d20=18
Thursday August 10th, 2006 5:59:02 AM
His job done here, at least for the moment, Arm heads toward either Wyman or Otto, whichever is closest. Forgiving the new people, he is nonetheless concerned about Mira, as he thought she understood their (and especially HIS) situation.

Flashing his best smile to her and giving a 'thumbs up' sign, he approaches one of the above and says, "Even though my friends here seem to think you deserve to live, I don't happen to share their opinion. Whether you do or not depends on how you answer me...where is the witch Ilonia?"(intimidate=18).

Kadaz (AC24, hp 63/63) d20+1=7
Thursday August 10th, 2006 7:15:42 AM
Investigating the dwarf-sized tunnel seems like a natural job for the dwarf fighter. "Tunnel here, I'm going in to see what's there" he announces to the group. With that, he heads down the tunnel carefully, watching for weak spots in the wall. (spot 7)

Ash
Thursday August 10th, 2006 7:31:06 AM
Ash continues to stand over his prisoner, all the while looking to see if anyone needs healing.

"Um, excuse me. But does anyone want to do something with this fellow?", he asks, "Or should I let him go?"

Conner
Thursday August 10th, 2006 7:53:44 AM
"Domi's Fist!! Well done, lad!" Conner thumps Edmund hard in the shoulder. "Your spells kept everything bottled up and we came in and swept up the lot!" The fighter moves on to congratulate Syr as well. "That was great!!" he says "I thought that clerics eyes were going to pop right out when you gave him that last big squeeze!"

Kadaz discovery of a tunnel shakes the fighter from his reverie. "Whoa there Kadaz, better bring someone with you! Anybody here a tracker?"

Wynn
Thursday August 10th, 2006 8:01:04 AM
Wynn spends a moment wiping the blood from his longsword before sheathing it. A cultists cloak serves as a useful rag.

Once that is done he begins searching the clerics and cultists for anything suspicious, patting each of them down, examing their hands for rings and looking for any amulets, wands or other potentially magic items. Once he is satisfied he moves on to the cleric, bugbear and finally the corpses

Angus (second Illegal Post)
Thursday August 10th, 2006 9:18:48 AM
Angus is relived that Arm does not immediately draw blood again and stays his readied spell.

Angus looks to Mira "What is this about drinking from the Chalice?"

Thar ail Baerer AC 19, hp 41 d20+6=10
Thursday August 10th, 2006 10:15:54 AM
After finishing off the zombie, Thar leaves the room and in an answer to Conner, says "Yes, I can help track, as I have experience tracking foes and beasts. I'll follow behind Kadaz and see what we can find."

As he is moving towards the tunnel, he adds "Someone should check the storerooms out thoroughly, making sure that nothing of importance is hidden in them."

For Survival check, assuming following condition for DC5 (soft mud, recent track, 1-2 people? (If 3 or more, DC is now 4))

Survival = 10

Shadow d20+7=16
Thursday August 10th, 2006 12:29:50 PM
Shadow will put up his bow and move over to Syr who had looked to secure the cleric, but had nothing to do it with. "Here let me do that." and he will then grab some of the rope they had used previously and will bind the cleric.

Actions:
Use rope=16

Xenia (AC24, HP 48/48)
Thursday August 10th, 2006 3:07:39 PM

"HEY, I'm talkin' to you!" Grrrrr ...

Xenia balls her gloved hand into a gloved fist as the Arm Guy just walks away without so much as a Hey don't worry about it. or an It's alright. I know what I'm doing. Flame-head begins the long stalk that winds up with her giving this guy a piece of her mind. Or at the very least a piece of her fist.

But something inside, maybe it's the magic of her new Circlet, something whispers into the girl rogue's mind telling her that maybe it's best to go through channels on this one. Maybe it's best to talk to folks in their group who have calmer heads, the one's with more control and common sense and who are more likely to see this in the Right way.

That, of course, has gotta be Mira.

The rogue veers in mid-stride.

"Hey, Mira!" The dark rogue comes in at an angle and walks a circle around the Mira to wind down her momentum. It puts her facing direct line toward the guy in question where he's gone to maybe do some more roughing up of the two captive head guys, the cleric and the bugbear. Xenia folds her skinny arms across her chest and watches him from across the room.

"So, uh, what's with your guy, huh? Looks like he's into the rough stuff."

Active Effects
Message (Duration 50 minutes)
Bless
Barkskin (Duration 3 minutes)
Fly (Duration 3 minutes)

Belkior/Sub Al (AC20, AC22 vs Evil, HP40/40) d20+23=34
Thursday August 10th, 2006 3:23:34 PM

"Don't let them go," Belkior replies to Ash standing over with the prisoners. "We'll need to turn them in to the authorities. I believe that consorting with and or raising the Undead is still a crime in Plateau City. At least it was when I left."

Then the halfling Paragon of Alemi steps directly into the path of the half-elf, Arm.

"You will not harm these men unless you intend to slay them, do you understand. And if you intend to slay them you'd better have a pretty good reason." Belkior stands his ground until he receives acknowledgement from the bard. Then he leaves to go from body to body looking for signs of life and staunching its ebb wherever he might find it.

Rolls and Actions
Heal Check 34 (To Stabalize any dying cultists.)

Active Effects
Owl's Wisdom (Duration, 7.5/8 minutes)
Magic Circle Against Evil (Duration 90 minutes)
Freedom of Movement (Duration 90 minutes)

0 Level: Detect Magic**, Detect poison*, Light*, Read Magic*, Resistance*
1st Level: Bless**, uDetect Undead*, Hide from Undead*, Magic Stone*, Sanctuary*, (Protection from Evil+)
2nd Level: Hold Person*, uOwl's Wisdom*, Silence, Spiritual Weapon* (Aid*)
3rd Level: uDispel Magic*, Prayer*, Searing Light*, Speak with Dead (uMagic Circle against Evil+*)
4th Level: uDeath Ward*, uFreedom of Movement*, Summon Monster IV+, (Holy Smite+*)

Turning 3/4 per day

Mira
Thursday August 10th, 2006 6:34:47 PM
The sound of fighting dies down, and with Edmund moving further into the room, the sorcerer surveys the scene. Dead skellies and zombie remains mix with the blood of witless cult members, while the incapacitated leader-types from the Bearers of the Chalice are in the capable hands of the Crimson Shields.

Mira takes a seat on the second step from the bottom. The shadows of the stairwell accentuate the dark shadows under the mage's eyes. Removing her glasses, she starts to polish them with the hem of her tunic. Squinting up at Angus, and Xenia she explains: "The first time we checked out Lady Iliona's place, we went under the guise of Bearer wanna'be's. At a certain point in the ceremony there was a general invitation to 'sip from the chalice'. We were all spread around the room, watching different stuff, when Arm felt compelled..." Mira finishes cleaning her spectacles and places them back on her nose, adjusts them until they are comfortable, and then looking at those gathered 'round, "...well, he drank from the chalice, that's what he did!"

Quickly she adds, "look, Arm's had a traumatic childhood. Its left...scars...if you know what I mean." There is a look, kind of like a plea for understanding, then Mira reaches out for Xenia to give her a hand up. "Look," she says again, "he's been having dreams, and hearing things. Let's go talk to him." Mira takes a few steps into the room, then stops, and exclaims, "Gargul's eye! The chalice! Who's got the chalice!"

Xenia (2nd Illegal Post)
Thursday August 10th, 2006 7:06:31 PM

The dark rogue reaches out to take Mira's hand and sets her weight without thought.

"Drank from the chalice, huh? Wonder what that did? Coulda done nothing." She sighs. "Have you thought of bringing him to the Temple of Light for, like, a check or something? I mean, they could probably do a Detect Something-Or-Other on him. Better safe than sorry, you know."

"No worry." Xenia hooks a thumb back at her haversack when Mira mentions the Chalice. "I got it right here in the bag. hehe Ran a snatch and grab on the Cultie Cleric."

"Lets go talk to your guy."

Lang (AC 24; HP 73/92) & Sunshine (AC 22; HP 47/47) d20+6=13 d20+6=22 d20+5=13
Thursday August 10th, 2006 7:53:12 PM
Lang waits by the back doorway. He sheathes his shortswords and retrieves his quarterstaff from his quiver.

Reaching down, Lang scratches Sunshine behind his ears. He stays silent and listens. If he hears nothing he will open the door slightly and take a peek outside.

Every now and then he glances down at Sunshine to see if he has picked up any sound.

Listen 13
Spot 22
Listen 13 for Sunshine

Edmund
Thursday August 10th, 2006 8:09:17 PM
When Edmund hears Arm's words, his eyes widen and he shakes his fist at Arm.

"You'll do no such thing! He's bloody SURRENDERED! Lay one finger on that fellow and I'll see you in the dock myself! You're acting as bad as any of the Evil Elf Sorceress Queen's minions! You've already gone too far as it is. Stand down!"

Edmund looks and sounds like he has every intention of carrying through with his threat to have Arm brought up on charges for the outrageous behaviour he has witnessed. Sickened, angry, and disappointed that only Belkior seems willing to take a firm and resolute stand in defense of right, the wizard, normally genial and pleasant, is not about to tolerate any more nonsense from Arm. He is clearly serious.

Time for Talking (DM JohnP)
Thursday August 10th, 2006 10:21:50 PM
The parties move to secure the basement, stationing people on both stairs to watch for any reinforcements. Or for the Guard, too. Lang and Sunshine look out the back door and there's a cluster of people on the front stairs. So far, there's no sign of any reaction to the fighting in the basement.

After a minute or so, with the combined efforts of Syr and Shadow, all of the cultists bound and secured in the centre of the basement. Ash and Shelya were watching all the while. Some of the cultists are still unconcious, but better to be safe than sorry. At least that's what Belkior always says.

Not all of the cultists are tied up. Two are listening avidly to Angus' words and reply to his questions with enthusiasm.

"I'm Tompkin Carver. Wyman over there always did the services, like the usual one tonight. Otto, he's new. He showed up last week, I guess. I heard about the Chalice and thought that it might be a way to communicate with Sherry, my wife. She died in the Troubles and I miss her so much. I sipped from the chalice and I knew that they were right."

"I'm Maria Clarkson. I didn't always have to live here in Nightmare Quarter, no way. I got cheated out of my inheritance after the Troubles and heard that the Chalice would help me get my own back. Wyman there, he told me how the Chalice would give me power. As long as I believed and worked, I'd get power and get my own back on that useless sister of mine. Otto there, he came from Floating City a week or so ago."

Others are also interested in talking to the cultists to find out what they know. Arm doesn't realize that the cleric, Wyman, and the bugbear, Otto, are still unconcious when he starts questioning them. And Belkior doesn't see fit to revive them simply so that the bard from Plateau City can hit them.

Kadaz carefully checks out the tunnel after Thar has had a chance to examine the tracks. From the looks of it, the tunnel is recently dug and none too stable. It runs not very far before it breaks into a sewer. Thar doesn't see any really fresh tracks in the mud. From the looks of it, nobody really looked at the tunnel after it was excavated. Certainly nobody walked down it in the last day or so.

Ever practical, Wynn was busy locating and examining the possible spoils. The run-of-the-mill cultists all carried daggers. Not very good daggers, but that's the only things of note besides a few coppers. The undead were armed with simple wooden clubs, table legs and broken boards for the most part. It's only Otto and Wyman who have anything of interest. Otto, the bugbear, has a good set of studded leather armor and two kukris, obviously silvered and well-made. Wyman, the cleric, has well-made breastplate armor and light mace.

All the while, there is a hushed conversation at the front stairs between Xenia and Mira about Arm's actions. Mira is rather worried about lingering effects of the sip that Arm took from the chalice, and Xenia suggests examination by skilled clerics and healers.

Edmund, of course, isn't shy about speaking his mind even though Conner has just been congratulating him on how he performed in his first battle. On the upside, Xenia managed to grab the chalice and that's got to be worth something.

Famina still stands in the centre of the basement. Nobody has yet carefully searched any other storerooms.

Located Loot
Studded leather armor
Silvered kukri
Silvered kukri
Breastplate armor
Light mace
18 daggers
Chalice

Elapsed Time
1 minute (10 rounds)

Famina
Friday August 11th, 2006 1:48:48 AM
(Darn I just barely missed posting before the DM)
The reason Famina has been standing there so long is that she has to catch her breath. Going into full combat mode always takes a lot out of her.
Now, the fight seems over, and she has rested long enough to gain back her strength. So, she walks on over to examine the bugbear. "Hmmm... These cultists weren't as tough as we expected." She turns and looks at them and decides to give them a hard time. She strides over to them.
Like a reproachful teacher, she scolds them. "And what do you think you were doing, worshipping a god of testing? You've probably done all sorts of horrible things to other people...but the moment something bad happens to you, you cowards start crying for mercy. Why can't you find some sort of decent activity to do, like drinking or gambling?" She pokes one in the chest. "You! With the dagger! Where do you get---"
And so on, a bit.

Arm
Friday August 11th, 2006 6:05:07 AM
With a look of disgust, Arm confronts Belkior, "And who are YOU to say who shall live and govern the actions of others? You and your troupe come in and act all sanctimonius, disregarding what we have endured recently. Then, when you leave, we'll STILL have these vermin to contend with, and you'll be free as birds!". Turning his back on him, he forcefully sheathes his sword, not even bothering to clean it first, "I'll NEVER have any peace with the likes of them around," he thinks.

As he passes Edmund on his way to Mira, he growls, "Mind your tongue, little one...I still haven't forgotten what you did. You'd best sleep with one eye open from now on.".

Kadaz (AC24, hp 63/63)
Friday August 11th, 2006 6:45:43 AM
After coming back from inspecting the tunnel to the sewer entrance Kadaz calls to Birdie and sets him at the covered blanket, guarding the entrance. Then Kadaz carefully goes from store room to store room, inspecting each carefully for hidden doors as well as clues. "Shadow, will you help me search?" Kadaz asks. Shadow seems to be good at finding things.

Conner
Friday August 11th, 2006 7:36:36 AM
Conner's enthusiasm for the outcome of their little set-to is not dampened by the verbal skirmish between Arm and Edmund. "The new fellow seems quite excitable" he thinks to himself.

"What did you find Kadaz? Is that where Lady Ilonia travelled escaped to?

Wynn d20+3=13
Friday August 11th, 2006 7:39:06 AM
Wynn removes the weapons and armour from the bugbear and cleric and deposits them in the middle of the basement along with any other weapons he can gather up. He then assists Kadaz and Shadow with searching the storerooms [Aid another=13]

Angus d20+15=22 d20+15=33 d20+15=21 d20+15=27 d20+15=34 d20+15=30 d20+15=24 d20+15=29 d20+15=21 d20+15=19 d20+9=20
Friday August 11th, 2006 8:40:36 AM
Angus is happy to see Xenia and Mira attempting to work out the Arm problem, until Arm opens his mouth again. "Mira get control of Arm or we will have to take him down. Arm, stay away from Belkior, and watch your tounge."

The now pixie sorcerer now pleads with Mira in calmer tones "After this is all done with, we may have to make a closer inspection of Arm, using magic to see if there is anything amiss or anything we can do about it. When did Arm drink from the Chalice and when did the dreams start?"

Angus casts detect magic to look at the items that Wynn collected and Arm.

Angus calls to Xenia "Let me view the Chalice, so I can see if there are any magical effects."

Spellcraft rolls to determine magic types:
22, 33, 21, 27, 34, 30, 24, 29, 21, 19

Angus then turns to his two new friends and asks "Maria and Tompkin what can you tell me about a mysterious Lady Ilonia? Have you had the pleasure of meeting the Lady and do you know where she may reside?"

Diplomancy 20 (unmodified for the charm spell)

Angus scans the basement and it looks like the cultist are under control "Lets search each room and see if we can get ourselves out of here. That is unless anyone want to make a foray upstairs? Anyone stealthy want to investigate?"

Spell Slots:

0 Level 2/5
1 Level 5/8
2 Level 1/8
3 Level 1/6
4 Level 1/4

Spells in Effect:

Message (Mira, Arm, Syr)
Mage Armor - Hours
Protection from Evil - 24/160 rounds (extended)
Shield - 17/160 rounds (extended)
Polymorph - 16/80 (18 Dex and natural AC improvement)

Rod of extend 2/3

Thar ail Baerer d20+7=23
Friday August 11th, 2006 9:38:11 AM
Thar climbs out of the long tunnel and reports to the group that they have had little luck in finding any fresh tracks in the sewer. "It seems to be a dead end, at least in tracking them that direction."

To make himself useful, Thar will accompany Shadow and Kadaz in searching the various storerooms, for any other loot, secret doors, etc.

Search = 23

Mira
Friday August 11th, 2006 9:44:20 AM
Mira's green eyes flash when the little pixie squeaks out orders. "Look, you, Angus is it? I don't 'control' Arm, anymore than you 'control' your bugbear friend over there, or miss thing with the hair!" Mira flicks a finger at the Amazonian fighter, Famina.

The flash of irritation disappears when she turns to face Arm. Reaching a hand to cup his cheek she peers into his eyes. "Arm! " she whispers, "you must fight the demons that torment you!" Trying to read the half-elf's face, she continues, "it is the right thing to return the un-dead to the Shadowlands where their fates can be determined by the grey-eyed one. "Removing her hand, from his face, and placing it on his chest, where she can feel the beating of his heart, she continues, "but these others, the followers, have their own motives, misdirected as they may be. They are victims caught in a web of lies. Let us get what information we can regarding the Lady Iliona and the rest of the cultist leaders, and continue the hunt. Leave the followers to the guards. They will not go unpunished."

Before Arm leaves to do his duty, Mira will grasp his arm, and ask one more favor, "do not be too hard on Edmund, or the others. We are all working to the same ends, to make the Wold a good place."

Releasing the bard, Mira gives Xenia a look. "Let's see what needs to be done, question the ring-leaders, and send someone for the Plateau City Guards. We are known to them. When the guards arrive, let Kadaz and Conner do the talking."

"Can you bring these two 'round?" she asks the cat-ling cleric.

"Edmund, come help me question these two! Let's find out when, and where the lady was last seen."

Belkior/Sub Al (AC20, AC22 vs Evil, HP40/40) d20+8=21
Friday August 11th, 2006 10:58:23 AM

"It's the LAW, you fool!" Normally sedate and well reasoned, the halfling cleric raises his voice in frustration. "If you would like us to have regard for what you've endured all you need do is explain ... "

But the angry half-elf is gone before he can finish. Belkior closes his eyes and calms himself before continuing any further.

"I'll see what I can do, Mira," he replies to the bespectacled sorcerer. Walking back across the room to the bound cleric. He searches the human for a holy symbol and ensures that it is out of reach. His companions are thorough and they most certainly know more about the binding of prisoners than he. But Belkior ensures that the cleric's hands are bound well also before bringing the man to consciousness.

"Welcome back, Wymann," he says as the human comes awake. "I'm Belkior Orvisson, Cleric of the Order of Alemi. We have some questions for you."

Rolls and Actions
Knowledge Religion 21 (To identify the holy symbol)

Active Effects
Owl's Wisdom (Duration, 7.5/8 minutes)
Magic Circle Against Evil (Duration 90 minutes)
Freedom of Movement (Duration 90 minutes)

0 Level: Detect Magic**, Detect poison*, Light*, Read Magic*, Resistance*
1st Level: Bless**, uDetect Undead*, Hide from Undead*, Magic Stone*, Sanctuary*, (Protection from Evil+)
2nd Level: Hold Person*, uOwl's Wisdom*, Silence, Spiritual Weapon* (Aid*)
3rd Level: uDispel Magic*, Prayer*, Searing Light*, Speak with Dead (uMagic Circle against Evil+*)
4th Level: uDeath Ward*, uFreedom of Movement*, Summon Monster IV+, (Holy Smite+*)

Turning 3/4 per day

Xenia (AC24, HP 48/48) d20+16=20 d20+19=25 d20+14=27
Friday August 11th, 2006 11:50:47 AM

Xenia stands behind Mira as she talks with her guy. The rogue's eyes stray to Wynn as he helps the others in a search of the rooms, helping the dwarf where he might not know the places to look and the human where his eyes might not see in the dim illumination. He's just so perfect, and she feels her heart swell up, like, twice its size inside her just thinking about it.

The half-elf can't help but feel like the luckiest girl in the Wold.

"We're all here for each other," she adds on the tail end of Mira's talk with her guy. She reaches up and places a hand on the arm of each, Mira and her guy. "I guess sometimes it doesn't feel like it. Ask me sometime about these Chaos guys we met once. But we really are here to help each other, um, Arm."

"Yeah, um, I'll be right there, Angus."

"Sorry, gotta go. You guys gonna be alright here?" Immersed in the depths of her feelings, Xenia wants to just reach out and hug the both of them. But 'cause of the place they're in and a'cause maybe she doesn't know them really that well enough to do a thing like that, she just kinda leaves it there. "Alright. I'll be 'round."

"Gotcher Chalice here, Angus," she whispers. Xenia flies to a shadowy spot and pulls the stone Chalice from her haversack. She places the big stone cup-thing on the ground in an out-of-sightish sort of place. "I think maybe you wanna be, like, careful with this thing. I mean, seeing it might get these Culty guys excited again, you know. And it's not like that would be a big problem, but they might, like, you know, hurt themselves."

"I'll recon the upstairs while I still got the Fly on," the rogue volunteers. "I can take a look in all the windows. Be right back, 'kay?" And she zips off silently through the air.

Active Effects
Recon rooms upstairs (Flying)
Hide 20
Spot 25
Listen 27

Active Effects
Message (Duration 50 minutes)
Bless
Barkskin (Duration 3 minutes)
Fly (Duration 3 minutes)

Shadow d20+10=26 d20+10=16 d20+10=23 d20+10=27 d20+10=14 d20+10=28 d20+10=21 d20+10=25
Friday August 11th, 2006 1:59:13 PM
Shadow finishes up securing the cultists, and is interupted by the commotion Arm and Belkior have started causing. He is about to head over there to see what he can do to help, when Kadaz calls to him. He looks one more time at Arm heading over to Mira, and he think, 'that should take care of it, I hope.'

"Let's take a look." He says to Kadaz as he goes and checks out the storerooms.

Actions:
Search (8 rooms=8 rolls)=26,16,23,27,14,28,21 & 25

Ash
Friday August 11th, 2006 7:32:28 PM
Ash stands aside, watching and listening to what is happening. His offers of healing having had no response he kneels down beside Shelya and relaxes.

Syr
Friday August 11th, 2006 7:59:08 PM
Syr echoes Xenia's comments and snorts in contempt at her mention of the Children of Chaos group. "Arm, just take care of your own and things will work out." He stays down near the cultists and stands guard over the lot.

DM JohnP
Friday August 11th, 2006 10:32:29 PM
DM post coming over the weekend when I'm not so tired.

Edmund
Saturday August 12th, 2006 2:03:10 AM
Shaking his head disgusted at Arm's comment, Edmund follows Mira over to the cultists who need to be questioned, glad to finally be given a task at which he is both capable and reasonably gifted.

"Right so. I think I'll be of use to you, finally." he says.

Lang (AC 24; HP 73/92) & Sunshine (AC 22; HP 47/47) d20+6=22 d20+6=12
Saturday August 12th, 2006 9:13:30 AM
Lang watches the crowd that has gathered. He tries to spot any armor or arms on the people (spot 22). He also tries to pick up on any conversation they are having (listen 12).

If nothing of interest happens he will try to get someones attention from downstairs and whisper to them what he sees.

Wrap-Up (DM JohnP)
Sunday August 13th, 2006 9:21:12 AM
People are doing a lot of different things following the battle.

Lang is waiting on the back stairs, trying to spot anyone interested in the tenement. There isn't much to see in the alley, certainly no great crowd of people. But he does hear some doors opening inside the tenement. From what he can hear, some tenants are wondering what all the noise was. But no one does more than open their door slightly to peer out.

The party members on the front stairs are too busy talking to hear much from upstairs. But Xenia flies upstairs after leaving the chalice with Angus. Lang sees her flit through the first floor. Like the bugbear, Xenia hears whispered conversations behind closed doors and people peeking from slightly open doors. From what she can hear, the tenants in this building are too afraid to confront the building super about what happens in the basement. But one or two of the braver ones seem to be working up the nerve to fetch the Guards.

+++++++

After finishing their investigation of the tunnel, Kadaz and some others search the storerooms and the rest of the basement. Wynn, Shadow and Thar prowl in an out of the storerooms. Most of the rooms are full of broken furniture and discarded belongings, none of any value. The exception is storeroom 2 where a broken desk has been propped up with some bricks and a cot has been rebuilt. Searching the desk, they find a collection of notes written in tiny, cramped script. A quick glance indicates that it's a diary, of sorts, and details preparations for some sort of ritual. They see references to both Plateau City and Floating City. And there's a crude map in the book showing Floating City and the lake it sits in. They figure that it will take half a day for someone familiar with both cities to figure out what the book contains.

When they come back with their findings, they pile it all with the things taken from the cultist. Angus casts a divinatory spell and examines all of it. Nothing too interesting, really, but at least some of the equipment is magical. Except for that chalice ... it seems to be simply a lump of carved stone. Maybe Kadaz or another dwarf could tell more about it ...
DM Note - Results of Detect Magic are shown at bottom of post

There are, however, lingering traces of magic from whatever the chalice held. From what he can tell, it seems to be Illusion magic. The fact that there is still a trace in the chalice suggests that it was a fairly strong effect.

+++++++

The confrontation near the front stairs continues. Arm is none too pleased about being lectured to, especially by some visitors to the City. As for Edmund, well the less said the better. And when the pixie thing suggests magical examination, well ... he is fairly steaming when he goes to stand beside Mira.

Mira defends her friend, bristling at the suggestion that she somehow controls him. Still, she admonishes Arm herself for his actions against the cultists while attempting to keep everyone focused on the overall task. She suggests that someone run to fetch the Guards, but it doesn't look like anyone does.

Conner stands off to the side, watching the interaction between Arm and Edmund. But the afterglow of battle is still upon him and everything is right with the world. Like the fighter, Ash simply waits patiently.

++++++

Famina recovers from her exertions and moves over to question the cultists and berate them about their worship. Syr is already there, watching over the lot of them.

While she is doing this, Angus asks his two newest and dearest friends about Lady Ilonia. The response he gets is the same:

"Never heard of her. Sounds like one of them snooty types, too good to talk to the likes of us."

After nearly erupting over Arm's remarks, Belkior calms himself. He goes over to the unconcious and bound cleric and searches him. He finds one holy symbol around the cleric's neck, clearly a symbol of Marteaus. Then, to his surprise, he finds a second holy symbol pinned inside the man's robe. This one looks like a symbol of Gargul but it's different, somehow. When he studies it for a bit, he concludes that it's an old symbol from before the Year of Ascension.

Then Belkior gently awakens the cleric. Edmund has come over, too, and prepares to question the human.

++++++

wymann's eyes flicker open to see the halfling standing over him. He flexes his arms and legs, testing his bonds while a snarl comes to his lips.

"Blasphemer! You profaned the Chalice! You shall all pay for that when we ..."

He stops speaking then, glaring about at the people standing near him. It will take a terribly persuasive argument or magic to get anything more from him.

Located Loot & Results of Detect Magic
MW Studded leather armor - faint abjuration
MW Silvered kukri - faint evocation
MW Silvered kukri - faint evocation
MW Breastplate armor - faint abjuration
MW Light mace - none
18 daggers - none
Chalice - traces of illusion
Book - none

Total Elapsed Time
2 minute (20 rounds)

Diary Map

Kadaz
Sunday August 13th, 2006 6:10:16 PM
Kadaz looks over the captured cultists and loot. He motions to the other adventurers to move out of hearing of the prisoners and speaks softly.

"It's time to visit the guard" he explains. "We have a working agreement with 2 constables, Rabbitsfoot and Gormley. We have been exchanging information on this cult. I think the prisoners, especially that cleric, may know more than we are able to get out of them. But the constables may be able to learn more. We should hand these folks over. Also that diary. But we should understand what's in the diary before we give it up."

"Also, there are number of bodies here that will have to be taken care of. Any chance they might rise as undead?" Kadaz looks over at Belkior as he asks this question.

Angus
Sunday August 13th, 2006 8:47:55 PM
Angus points out the magic items so that both parties know what is what. Angus hold on to the Chalice until Xenia returns. "Lets take the loot. Who can carry, we have alot." At least to a pixie Angus thinks.

Angus is pleased that one from the City speaks well and wise. "Kadaz, an excellent Idea, and you have contacts with the guard. That is most fortunate. Can you lead this entourage out of hear and to the countstable? I think we have may more than a nuisance of ourselves here."

Angus smiles when he looks over at the loud mouthed subdued cleric. "Don't worry, we have ways to make you talk."

Just as a first attempt, Angus casts Charm Person on Wymann DC 17 will save. "There is more where that came from." Angus smiles again.

Angus looks to Syr and Shadow "Do you two want to stay behind and see what happens after we leave. I will make you each invisible for eight minutes, to assist you ample skills."

Angus looks to his two new friends "Please escort me a a bit of a walk." Angus still flying for a bit more queues up behind Kadaz and waits for him to lead the group out of the building.

Spell Slots:

0 Level 2/6
1 Level 6/8
2 Level 1/8
3 Level 1/6
4 Level 1/4

Spells in Effect:

Message (Mira, Arm, Syr)
Mage Armor - Hours
Protection from Evil - 24/160 rounds (extended)
Shield - 17/160 rounds (extended)
Polymorph - 16/80 (18 Dex and natural AC improvement)

Rod of extend 2/3

OOC: How much time to mark off spells?

Xenia d20+3=22
Sunday August 13th, 2006 10:12:05 PM
"Hey guys." Xenia pads down the stairs. "The folks upstairs are pretty harmless. 'Side from being kinda worried 'bout what was going on down here, they're not up to nothing."

"What we got here?" The rogue picks up one of the silvered kukris. This is like that thing the Scorpion Boy was using, huh?" She takes a grip around the hilt and swings it through the air a couple of times. "Weirdo thing. Dunno how you'd use that. But the silvered blade might be useful. Those Vampies. 'Member?"

"Hmmm. Whatcha got there?" The rogue leans over the map with her hands behind her back. "Hey, that's Turtle Lake, isn't it? There's the Float. But what's this "Beach" thing here? That's pretty far away. I mean, look at it. It's all the way 'cross the lake, and that's one big lake."

"Wonder what someone would want out there." She thinks on what might be going on at the Big Float that these Culty guys might be up to. Then she gets this idea connection thing.

"Hey, Angus," the rogue calls, "wonder if this place on the map is the place that that Thundir at the party was talking about? You know. The Hill place. Big snake. Lizard things and the biggest fram frambin' spiders he ever seen."

"Wouldn't that be a coincidence?"

Rolls and Actions
Knowledge Local 22

Active Effects
Message (Duration 50 minutes)

Famina
Monday August 14th, 2006 5:11:47 AM
Having finished berating the prisoners, Famina makes a little tour of the dungeon, checking on how the other adventurers are doing. Everyone seems all right, so she's pretty happy.
"Turtle what?" Famina overhears Xenia as she's passing by. "Hmm..." She peers at hte map and nods at the half-elf's assertions.

Arm
Monday August 14th, 2006 6:07:12 AM
Before joining Mira, Arm barks at Angus, "I'd rather leave the whole LOT of you be...". As he approaches Mira, he is finally able to shed most of his anger at the new group's unwillingness to remove their current menace. After her dissertation, his shoulders slump as he envelops her in a hug, not wanting to let go, yet knowing that he must, "You realize," he says to her, "that they have have no idea what they are dealing with here, or how far the corruption goes with these fools.". Softening a bit, he continues, "Thank you, my dear...you are my one and only sanctuary.".

Falling in behind Mira, he snorts derisively at their feeble attempts to question the prisoner, "Let them go," he thinks sardonically, not trying in the least to aid them.

Conner
Monday August 14th, 2006 7:50:17 AM
Conner gathers up the two sets of armor and makes ready to leave. "Famina isn't it" he waits until she looks his way. "Why don't you make sure that one stays quiet during transport" he nods his head towards the vitriolic cleric.

"Good idea Angus, never know who might come looking for that chalice".

Wynn
Monday August 14th, 2006 7:52:49 AM
Wynn gathers up the remaining unconcious cleric in what might resemble a firemans carry. "What happens to the rest of these pathetic followers, do we escort them to the guard or just take names?"

Mira d20+3=19 d20+8=15 d20+5=18 d20+8=14
Monday August 14th, 2006 8:07:17 AM
Mira waits for Angus in pixie form to finish with Wymann, spending her time in study of the diary. She doesn't know much about the island or the lake, but she grew up in Plateau City. She pays more attention to the diary and any references to the city or things arcane (knowledge local=19, knowledge arcana=15). If there appears to be any secret script, she will attempt to read it (decipher script=18).

When Edmund gets ready to question the captured cultist leaders, Mira lends her support (aid another, diplomacy=14).

*****

When the party prepares to leave, the sorcerer voices her opinion, "I'd rather not leave anyone behind, if we are going to quit this place. We should seal off the entry to the sewers. We should make the basement safe for the inhabitants as well. I'm not a holy person, but I've got some Holy Water. Will that do?"

Thar ail Baerer
Monday August 14th, 2006 10:02:55 AM
Listening to the various conversations going on around him, Thar adds "I'm interested in what this map describes, as I'd be relieved to finally get out of this cities tight confines. I miss the outdoors and feel of the grass under my feet. Should we send a party to scout it out?"

In response to Mira, he says "I'll help seal off the entry. Kadaz, would you use your dwarven skills to help me make sure it is totally sealed?"

Belkior d20+8=22
Monday August 14th, 2006 10:54:01 AM

"I don't think that it's likely that these people will rise as undead unless someone specifically raises them, Kadaz," the halfling cleric replies. "And if that is to be the case then there's little we can do without catching those who intend to do the raising."

"Unfortunately, I haven't prepared the proper spells today. Otherwise we could put these two to question. But, if they're in custody, I don't think it would be too difficult to convince the Guard that allowing us to question them later would be in the best interest of Plateau City."

The halfling eyes the basement.

"I think that's an excellent idea, Mira. And normally I would have a spell to consecrate this area. I might have a spell to seal the way to the sewers as well. But, I didn't foresee the need this morning. Do you have any knowledge of collapsing tunnels, Kadaz? What do you think it might do to the ground on the surface, Thar?"

Rolls and Actions
Knowledge Religion 22 (For Kadaz' Undead Question)

Active Effects
Owl's Wisdom (Duration, 7.5/8 minutes)
Magic Circle Against Evil (Duration 90 minutes)
Freedom of Movement (Duration 90 minutes)

0 Level: Detect Magic**, Detect poison*, Light*, Read Magic*, Resistance*
1st Level: Bless**, uDetect Undead*, Hide from Undead*, Magic Stone*, Sanctuary*, (Protection from Evil+)
2nd Level: Hold Person*, uOwl's Wisdom*, Silence, Spiritual Weapon* (Aid*)
3rd Level: uDispel Magic*, Prayer*, Searing Light*, Speak with Dead (uMagic Circle against Evil+*)
4th Level: uDeath Ward*, uFreedom of Movement*, Summon Monster IV+, (Holy Smite+*)

Turning 3/4 per day

Shadow
Monday August 14th, 2006 3:46:06 PM
Listening to the group discuss what to do next, Shadow is a little worried about collapsing the tunnel. "How about Xenia and I rig a couple of traps to deter people to use the tunnel and we can return tomorrow ans seal it. Unless Kadaz does have a way of closing it off without destroying the building."

"Xenia, you are familiar with the place on the map. Is it something we should check out after questioning these folks. Even though it does sound like Ilonia is sticking around we should make sure, if possible."

Edmund d20+9=28
Monday August 14th, 2006 4:05:03 PM
Edmund steps over to the human, kneeling down before him to look into his eyes. He speaks quietly, pleasantly, and seems wholly genuine in his demeanour. (Diplomacy=28)

"Listen, friend, let us put our quarrels aside. We surely have no desire to interfere with a peaceable religious gathering. The sooner you cooperate with us, the sooner all of this will be settled and things can return to normal, right? So let's work together so everyone ends up satisfied. We just have a few questions for you, you're in no danger, and then we'll be on our way."

"First, I'd like to know if you have heard of the noble Lady Ilonia. If so, where has she gone? We would very much like to speak to her, to settle our differences and remedy the situation we are all facing."

"Could you tell me more about the Chalice, and why you revere it so? Surely it has power--but what sort? The sooner we know about it, the sooner we can dispense with it and return it where it belongs."

"There seems to be an entrance, in the back there, to some sewers. Did you create it, and where does it lead. We are concerned for your safety and health, really. It is unwise to conduct a religious gathering so near an open sewer access. Who knows what might come out of it."

"Lastly, could you tell me about your gathering--what the purpose is, who you are worshipping or venerating--what deity it serves? I'm quite interested, in fact, and would very much like to know more about your customs and beliefs."

Edmund listens intently to the results of his inquiries, maintaing a friendly, non-threatening demeanour throughout.

Xenia (2nd Illegal Post)
Monday August 14th, 2006 6:03:10 PM
"'Member when we first met, Shadow? We were talking about having come from a party? Well, one of the guys at the party, he was talking 'bout exploring a place on Turtle Lake. Temples, and big snakes, lizard men and big, big spiders."

The dark rogue rummages around in the mess of stuff from out of the side rooms, looking mostly at boards and stuff.

"It's a big lake, you know. I mean, could be the place on the map has nothing to do with this place that Thundir was talking about. But, you never know. Know what I mean?"

"Hey, Shadow. What do you think of this?" She grabs up an old board and then arranges some of the cultist's daggers along its length. "Tie a few of these to the board like spikes. Tie some rope to each end and stick the ropes to the ceiling with pitons. Pile up some furniture in front of the doorway. When the start taking down the furniture, this swings down and spikes them."

"Or we could dig a shallow pit. Nothing they'd fall into. But we could put a few of these sticking up in the bottom of it. They step in and get a dagger up their foot."

"Whaddya think?"

Lang (AC 24; HP 73/92) & Sunshine (AC 22; HP 47/47)
Monday August 14th, 2006 9:08:40 PM
Lang relaxes a little bit by the back entrance as it appears that things are quieting down and no one ventures close enough to see what has happened.

He thinks back on the battle, happy that the Shields and their new friends were successful in overcoming the cleric and the cultists. If the two groups stick together for a while they will need some more organization in their battle tactics.

"You guys almost done down there?" Lang whispers down the stairs.

Ash
Monday August 14th, 2006 9:48:42 PM
Ash listens to all the debate in confused amusement. "What will happen, will happen. Emotions only confuse matters. The only thing that man or elf can know is that so long as we have choice, the forces of good and evil will continue to struggle over us. Only by denying both, can we overcome this mortal coil. Oh well."

With that, Shelya and he go up the stairs in order to breath in the fresh air.

Getting Ready to Leave ... Maybe (DM JohnP)
Monday August 14th, 2006 11:05:59 PM
Kadaz suggests going to the Guards and turning over what they've found particularly since he expects that the constables will be better able to interrogate the important cultists. He does wonder about the possibility of more undead but Belkior reassures him that the animated corpses shouldn't rise up of their own accord. Magic, of course, might do the trick and the little cleric hasn't memorized the necessary spells to prevent a necromancer from doing so.

After pointing out the items with magic auras, pixie Angus agrees with Kadaz' suggestion to go to the Guards. He asks his new best friends to follow him from the basement and prepares to leave himself. Before he does, he tries casting a spell on Wymann to get him talking. The evil cleric simply glares at Angus and doesn't respond to the spell.

d20+12=22

Arm, of course, doesn't think much of the attempts to question the cultists. Not this namby-pamby talking, anyway.

His friend Mira doesn't think so, though, and she asks some questions about the contents of the diary that seem to improve the mood of Wymann. Priming the pump, so to speak, for Edmund to apply his skills.

The wizard pulls up a ... well, something less disgusting than the floor ... and speaks to Wymann. After offering to protect him from Arm, and with Mira's assistance, the cleric softens a little. But not really enough to do more than expound on his beliefs.

"The Chalice is the symbol of our faith, and our vessel that brings Truth. Drinking from it allows someone to see their destiny, their path, or their fate. And sometimes to connect with our God's true nature and He will send dreams and visions.

"When we awaken Lord Gargul's true nature, balance will be restored to the Wold. Those who were true, even when our Lord was not, will be raised to serve him."

++++++

Xenia plays with the magical kukris, marvelling at how they reflect the torchlight in the basement. Not to her taste, really, but they might be useful against undead types. She's actually more interested in the crude map inside the diary. It really does look like New Turtle Lake ... or whatever people are now calling the lake where the Float is since it moved ... but she can't recall hearing of anyone travelling that far down the lake. It might be where Thundir was since he did mention mountains and the only mountains close to the Float now are on the east side of the lake.

Famina looks over the rogue's shoulder and shrugs.

When she gets a chance, Mira looks at the diary and leafs through it. There are references to trips to libraries here in Plateau City and preparations for travel to Floating City. And there are words, or maybe names, listed in the book that she doesn't recognize. Overall, it reinforces the impression that someone will need to spend at least half a day with the diary before they can completely understand what is going on.

++++++

Finally, people make preparations to leave the basement. Conner grabs the two suits of armor, thinking that leaving some watchers here might be an idea.

Wynn stoops and takes the bugbear up onto his shoulders, straining to do so. But it does show off his athletic build quite nicely, at least he hopes so. Then he asks the obvious question - what happens with the rank and file cultists?

Then Mira pipes up with her suggestion to seal the tunnel. Thar volunteers to help but wonders if Kadaz would be better suited.

Shadow proposes trapping the tunnel and Xenia's interest is peaked.

Nobody moves to do anything, though.

+++++++

Outside the back stairs, Lang and Ash are getting impatient. What's taking them so long?

DM Note - Sorry for the abbreviated (?) post. Lot's doing tonight and I didn't have time to really advance things.

DM Request (JohnP)
Monday August 14th, 2006 11:07:41 PM
Would one or both of whoever is serving as ADM please contact me at petherick AT personainternet DOT com?

I would like to know which one of you is best able to take over at the end of the week. I need to go out of town this week and will miss the Thursday and Friday DM posts.

Arm
Tuesday August 15th, 2006 5:50:34 AM
Impatient to get moving, Arm leans in close to Mira and says, "Are we ready to leave yet? Also, is there any way that we can stop our new 'friends' from staying with us?".

Kadaz d20=11
Tuesday August 15th, 2006 7:04:18 AM
Kadaz looks over the pile of captives and loot and then at the basement. "We can't leave traps here. There are folks in this building who had nothing to do with the cult. And that means there may be kids playing down here. I'm not willing to risk injuring an innocent. But I'm willing to try to collapse the tunnel. And Edmund can persuade one or more of the residents to let us know if the cultists come back. They'll be able to keep a better watch on what goes on than us."

"There are enough of us to split into 3 groups. One to stay here and work on the tunnel and clean up. Another group can take the captives to the constables. And Mira, you work on that diary with some of the smart folks. Maybe with a visit to the libraries you can get more out of it. And then we all can meet at Sampson's tonight."

"And finally, those kukris look interesting. May I see them?" Kadaz already has 3 kukris secured to his weapons harness. One looks to be normal, the second is looks to be made of some sort of dark iron, and third is very shiny. He is obviously a collector of these funny curved knives.

After examining the kukris Kadaz will move to the tunnel and try to figure out how to collapse it. Having been raised above ground in the city his experience with stone and dirt is less than might otherwise be expected. Once he decided on a plan he'll move the dead bodies into the tunnel and try to bury them as part of sealing the way to the sewers. (unmodified 11 on some sort of check to know what to do)

Posting Report For
Tuesday August 15th, 2006 7:19:10 AM
Game #8 Chrimson Shield
Week of Aug 7,2006

Name. . ..MTWTF
DM John. .XXXXXS
Xena. . ..XXXXXS
Angus. . .O2XXXS
Lang. . ..XXXXOS
Wynn. . ..XXX2X
Syr. . . .XXXXX
Famena. ..XOXOX
Belkior. .XXXXX Sub ny Al

Game# 12 Plateau City
Week of Aug 7,2006

Name. . .MTWTF
DM Jim
Shadow. .OXX2X
Edmon. ..X2XXOS
Arm. . ..XXXXX
Thar. . .XXXXX
Conner. .XXXXX
Kadaz. ..XXXXXS
Mira. . .XXXXX
Ash. . ..XXOXX

ADM Ceil No report on Monday. So I did it.

Angus
Tuesday August 15th, 2006 9:26:10 AM
Angus is pleased to see Kadaz take the reins and adds his voice to his "Sounds like a great plan. Kadaz take who you need to destroy the tunnel, but do not take too long. Mira does not have to read the diary right hear and can move out with the rest of us. Lets round up all the cultists and move out. Lets let the guard decide what to do with them, even though they seem to have been duped."

Before Kadaz heads to the tunnel Angus adds "Who else know the guard in Plateau City or should we just wait for you and your crew before we move out?"

Angus flies over to the subdued cleric. "I will try your friend next as I feel he will be easier to crack, but do not worry we will get the information we need out of you." Angus smiles as he flies away, hoping to unsettle the Cleric.

Angus settles next to Xenia "It looks like we might be going back to the Float before long. Lets make sure we have all the information we need from this side before we cross over."

Angus takes his two new frinds and moves up the stairs to Lang and Ash. "Can we join you?" he squeeks.

Thar ail Baerer
Tuesday August 15th, 2006 10:03:54 AM
Pondering Belkior's question for a moment, Thar says "Well, as long as we collapse part of it near larger structures, like the sewer or this building, it shouldn't hurt the ground above. If we collapse the entire tunnel, then it would likely show some sort of depression above or even worse, cause a sinkhole."

"I agree that we shouldn't put up traps, because some poor beggar or other transient may come through here sometime and I would hate for them to be injured. Collapsing parts of it would make the most sense and be the safest for transients. If the cultists come back, they would have to do a great deal of work to reestablish the tunnel anyway."

Thar will stay with Kadaz and hoever else is staying to work on collapsing the tunnel. He goes to the far end of the tunnel (near the sewer) and tries to figure out which supports to destroy. Being that he has little skill in this sort of engineering, he figures that they could just collapse every support near the sewer, out at least 10-15'.

Xenia
Tuesday August 15th, 2006 10:36:48 AM
"Yeah. Good thought, Kadaz." Xenia puts the daggers back into the pile of loot. "Wouldn't want any of the folks upstairs to get hurt for no reason."

"Well, then, I think we need to go back and see Ashbeard, Angus. See if we can talk to his cousin Thundir. He'd be the one to tell us whether or not this place on the map is his Snake Temple place or not."

"Some of you guys might wanna come too, Mira. I mean, you guys know your thing here best. If this place on the map is the same place as Thundir's Snake Temple thing then you'd be the best to ask questions that might find out how your cult thing here figures in this place way out there."

"Um, and, you know, we might, like, you know, stop in at the Temple of Light on the way." The rogue's green eyes track to Arm and she adds a little point with her head. She begins collecting up the loot and stowing it in her haversack for the trip to the guard. "We could ... check into some stuff, you know, Mira?"

Active Effects
Message (Duration 50 minutes)

Belkior (Sub/Al)
Tuesday August 15th, 2006 11:05:06 AM

"If we wait until tomorrow morning," Belkior turns his back on the practitioner of Marteaus and wanders over to the room that contains the secret tunnel, "I can ask Alemi for a spell that will fold the stone over the entrance." The halfling cleric touches the wall. "I might be able to seal off the entire room."

"Tell me if you think that's the best way to precede."

"A trip to the Temple of Light may be a good idea, Xenia." He uncovers the extra symbol that he recovered earlier from the Cleric of Marteaus. "Do you see this, Angus? It looks to me to be an earlier version of the Eye of Gargul. A very old symbol, from before the Year of Ascension."

Belkior looks up into the faces of the larger people. A sudden awareness of the setting invades the consciousness of the little cleric, underground, in the dark of night in the disease-ridden midst of Nightmare quarter.

"Listen to his words." He points to the cleric. " ... awaken Lord Gargul's true nature ... " Belkior repeats. "These people are secretly dedicated to reverting Gargul to a time when he was known as Gargulus. At that time he was immensely powerful and truly evil. Do you have any idea of the havoc that such a thing would wreck upon the Wold? I'm not even sure that they themselves can imagine it. Consider what the Wold would be like, if our Lord of the Dead should become ... Truly Evil."

Active Effects
Owl's Wisdom (Duration, 7.5/8 minutes)
Magic Circle Against Evil (Duration 90 minutes)
Freedom of Movement (Duration 90 minutes)

0 Level: Detect Magic**, Detect poison*, Light*, Read Magic*, Resistance*
1st Level: Bless**, uDetect Undead*, Hide from Undead*, Magic Stone*, Sanctuary*, (Protection from Evil+)
2nd Level: Hold Person*, uOwl's Wisdom*, Silence, Spiritual Weapon* (Aid*)
3rd Level: uDispel Magic*, Prayer*, Searing Light*, Speak with Dead (uMagic Circle against Evil+*)
4th Level: uDeath Ward*, uFreedom of Movement*, Summon Monster IV+, (Holy Smite+*)

Turning 3/4 per day

Shadow
Tuesday August 15th, 2006 11:22:38 AM
Shadow is thinking of goin with the group taking the cultists, but then hears Belkior's suggestion about getting some magic to seal the tunnel. "I think that would be the best Belkior, if we are worried about traps then we should be more worried about collapsing the tunnel. Even if we are trying for only a small section you are still talking about what is above. What if collapsing the tunnel weakens the foundation of the whol structure. Could be a real problem, but if we wait for Belkior we don't have to worry about anyone. I do say we split up and do our different things, but one of the groups should stay here and make sure nothing goes in or out of the tunnel until we can seal it. I would be willing to stay, and you never know we might get lucky and one of the upper beings in the cult might show up."

ADM Scott AE from PC (message to DM and Ciel)
Tuesday August 15th, 2006 11:25:30 AM
First, Ciel thank you for doing the posting record (I was waiting to see if the other Scott was going to do it, and if not then I was going to do it), so thank you for doing it.

Second, John I am not going to be able to cover for you this weekend (bad weekend for me also, not sure I will be in town and probably no internet - sorry).

DM JohnP
Tuesday August 15th, 2006 11:42:45 AM
I will be out of town on Thursday and Friday nights and most of the weekend.

Adam S., the incoming DM for Floating City, will be taking over for those posts.

Angus (second Illegal post)
Tuesday August 15th, 2006 12:32:42 PM
When Belkior rehashes what the cleric retorted he comments mostly to himself "Now that would be just bad."

Mira
Tuesday August 15th, 2006 4:45:33 PM
Mira pockets the diary. "Okay," she says, "lets march these folks to the constabulary. If Kadaz is staying behind, do you want to lead the way, Conner?

Mira raises a hand to stiffle a yawn. "Lets drop these folks off, hole up at the apartment to study the diary and evaluate the goods, and freshen up. We can visit the library...and the clerics...when things open up in the morning." Mira yawns again, and leans against the bard. In a low voice she whispers, "Arm, Xenia and Wynn are my friends. These people are good people. They may not do things the same way as we do, but they do them for the same reasons." Turning to face the half-elf, she continues, "please be nice," adding, "for my sake?" The sorcerer takes one of the bard's hands in hers, and lifting it to her lips, brushes it with a kiss before releasing it.

"Sampson's by six," she calls to those of her party who stay behind, "or we come and get you!"

Edmund
Tuesday August 15th, 2006 5:32:30 PM
Edmund looks to Mira.

"Constabulary, what? I'll come to, if you don't mind. I'd like to have a look around!"

Scott the Southern One
Tuesday August 15th, 2006 6:33:14 PM
Thanks again Ceil, I actually started doing role call and then stopped when I saw that I did it last week. Amazingly enough, forgetting that we had 2 'Scotts'. I do have dirty blond hair and that's my excuse for confusing the other Scott ADM. I'll do it next week, Scott.

Syr
Tuesday August 15th, 2006 7:14:09 PM
Syr eyes the halfling carefully as he casually mentions 'folding stone' like a bed sheet. Volunteering to do guard duty, he helps herd the colonists out of the basement and to the constables.

Trekking Through Nightmare Quarter with a Coffle of Prisoners (DM JohnP)
Tuesday August 15th, 2006 11:04:15 PM
Arm mumbles to Mira that he is ready to go, hopefully without the Floating City group.

Kadaz dismisses the idea of trapping the area because innocent bystanders might get hurt. Then he makes the suggestion that the parties break up into three groups to continue the investigation. One group would take the prisoners to the guards, one group would investigate the book and one would seal the tunnel. Xenia then chimes in with the suggestion that they go back to speak to Ashbeard and his cousin, mainly to see what Thunir can tell them about the map. The red-haired rogue also suggests -- with an wink and nod towards Arm - that the party investigating the diary go to the Cathedral of Light for some other reasons.

Belkior suggests sealing the tunnel with magic but that would have to wait until morning. After some thought, the halfling cleric expounds on what the two parties might have stumbled into. Those listening, especially those with some knowledge of history and religion, think that his comments make sense.

Kadaz moves to the tunnel to figure out how best to collapse or seal it off. Thar stays to help him, suggesting that collapsing the tunnel would probably create a problem in the alley or nearby buildings. Shadow, the rogue from Plateau City, agrees that trapping the basement is a bad idea and volunteers to stay and guard the tunnel until it can be magically sealed. The elven monk Syr will also stay.

Angus asks Kadaz who else would know the Guards, then leads his two charmed cultists up the back stairs to Lang.

Mira agrees to lead the group investigating the diary. But she suggests that both groups go together to turn the cultists over to the Guard since it is the middle of the night. Besides needing rest, none of the libraries or other places is likely to be open. Edmund seems interested in the idea of going to a library.

Ash, Conner, Famina, Lang and Wynn don't respond and make no actions. Presumably they join the group heading to the nearest Guard post. After joining Lang in the alley, everyone troops through the streets of Nightmare Quarter. The streets are pretty much deserted now and Skull Market contains only the most desperate of the beggars and others looking for quick coin. The size of the group, even if some of them are obviously bound, deters any interference. This is, after all, a part of town where groups of prisoners being dragged through the streets might be a common occurrence.

Conner remembers that the nearest Guard post is close by Skull Market. In fact, there are several such small stations near the market but the largest one that is still open is likely to be close to the river near the Falls. It's in the opposite direction of their beds, but it's probably for the best.

When they get close, Conner and the others familiar with Plateau City approach the post. There's still lights on ... apparently a busy night on the river and that's what this station is mainly here for. When the group of prisoners is brought forward, the desk sergeant looks up with an expression that is a mix of curiosity, resignation and anger of having the last part of his shift occupied by dealing with this.

"What do you want? Who are all these people?"

Ash
Tuesday August 15th, 2006 11:13:16 PM
Ash finds all of this quite fascinating. The aspects of lust, hate, anger, and jealousy, as they are exposed in daily activity suggest to him some inbalance in the inner beings. He wonders aloud at the wisdom of thinking with one's heart and not the head, but directs it at no one individual.

Otherwise, he and Shelya follow along quietly.

Famina
Wednesday August 16th, 2006 1:40:30 AM
The barbarian keeps her sword drawn as she escorts the cultists. Along the way, she takes the opportunity to berate them a bit more. "Worship a good god, like Alemi or Domi... Living this life will only lead to more suffering for you." She doesn't really know much about gods, but tries not to let this show.
She switches tactics when they arrive at the guard, falling silent and moving into the back. But she doesn't put away her sword.

Edmund d20+9=26
Wednesday August 16th, 2006 2:52:36 AM
Relieved at avoiding the duty of going door-to-door in the dead of night, Edmund steps to the front when they arrive at the guard post.

"What ho there, my good man. We've been working with Constables Rabbitsfoot and Gormley with regard to this cultist situation you fellows have been experiencing. We found a number of the villains, armed to teeth, carrying out some sort of evil service over in the Nightmare Quarter. We've brought along some of the ringleaders here, figuring you'd like the chance to question them yourselves about what they intended and what they are responsible for." (Diplomacy=26)

Arm
Wednesday August 16th, 2006 6:24:08 AM
Losing himself yet again in Mira's beauty, Arm takes both her hands in his and presses them to his heart, "For you, anything, my dear..".

On their way home, he leans over to her and says, "Perhaps tomorrow, would you mind accompanying me to a temple? I would like to speak with someone there, and perhaps someone should bring that damnable chalice as well.".

Kadaz
Wednesday August 16th, 2006 6:36:02 AM
Back in the cellar Kadaz looks over at those remaining. "Belkior will try to seal the stone in the morning. But I think we should try to collapse some of the tunnel before that in order to be sure it is closed."

Kadaz starts cleaning up the cellar by taking dead bodies to the tunnel. After they are lined up in the tunnel near the sewer he starts trying to collapse the tunnel.

Angus d20+9=19
Wednesday August 16th, 2006 7:21:50 AM
Shortly after leaving the temple, Angus reverts back to his tall skinny human form and exclaims "Well that was fun." not really specifing what exactly was fun.

Angus will attempt to charm the cleric two more times as the group forms up to leave DC 17 will save. Angus smiles at the bound cleric the entire time. If successful, Angus will ask about the organization of the death cult and the msyterious Lady Ilonia.

Angus talks with his two new found friends "You two must find a new path. The one you have choosen is fraught with danger. The group you WERE associated with is evil and only thought to use you for its own purposes. After we speak to the guard and find what they want to do with all of you, you will have to go an restart your lives in the image of Domi or Alemi."

Angus is more than a bit annoyed at the guards reaction, but keeps it to himself. In a calm even voice Angus adds to Edmunds intorduction "What is your name and who is your commanding officer? I think he may be more interested in this situation than you. We just thought that you may have wanted to take some credit for bringing in the prisoners. My mistake. We will take all the credit if you do not want to assist." Angus pauses "Names please?"

Diplomancy 19

Conner
Wednesday August 16th, 2006 8:10:18 AM
The tattooed fighter joins the group escorting their captives to the guard post. He carries the sets of armor, switching off with Wynn part way to take on the somewhat larger load of the unconcious bugbear. When they arrive at the guardpost he waits for Edmund to finish what thankfully a short description of their business. "This" he lays the bugbear across the table, "this along with the cleric over there seem to be leading the group, the rest seem to be mostly deluded followers of the death cult."

Wynn
Wednesday August 16th, 2006 8:13:14 AM
At first Wynn is reluctant to switch burdens with the burly human, but the considerable weight of the bugbear eventually wins out and he greatfully accepts Conner's offer. "Thanks, at first it looked like just so much fur, but the damn thing is heavy".

At the guard post he maintains a low profile and keeps his eyes open for any cultists that may decide to bolt.

Thar ail Baerer
Wednesday August 16th, 2006 9:33:56 AM
After saying goodbye to his companions, Thar will go and begin helping clean up the room, especially the blood from the floors, walls, etc.

Remembering his religous duty, he'll give last rites to the dead men and women, hoping that they won't rise in the future as undead abominations.

Once his sad, but necessary task is done, he'll go over to Kadaz and help him with the tunnel work.

To the rest of his companions (that are staying for the night) "If we're going to here overnight, we should set a watch schedule, to make sure we don't have any unexpected company. I'll volunteer to go first."

Xenia
Wednesday August 16th, 2006 10:20:52 AM
The place is dark and grody. But no more so than Trash Level on the Float. And you can see the stars here. Xenia pads through the street next to Wynn. She takes his arm when he straightens from the transfer of his burden to Conner. The dark-skinned, red-headed girl nuzzles her cheek against the bard's shoulder.

"I love you, Wynn," she whispers. "No reason. Just a'cause."

For some reason, it doesn't take them long at all to get where they're going.

Shadow
Wednesday August 16th, 2006 10:56:23 AM
Shadow glances over at Syr as Kadaz has them stacking bodies in the small tunnel, and talking about collapsing the tunnel. He shakes his head in wonder that his argument about trying to collapse the tunnel might be more unsafe than trapping, but does not speak out again. When Kadaz starts to try and collapse the tunnel, Shadow will make sure he is fairly far away from the tunnel and hopes that nothing bad happens.

Lang & Sunshine
Wednesday August 16th, 2006 6:36:53 PM
Once the group reaches the guard station, Lang and Sunshine melt into the background. They do not try to draw attention to themselves.

Lang takes the opportunity to clean his weapons.

Mira d20+8=20
Wednesday August 16th, 2006 7:18:04 PM
Before departing the basement Mira presses two vials of Holy Water into the hands of the cleric Thar. "My...faith...isn't very strong" she says, not making eye contact with the cleric, "but I know there is a difference between that which is good, and that which is bad. Maybe it was superstition that swayed me to pick these up when last I was in the Catacombs." The sorcerer smiles apologetically at Thar, "I guess you sprinkle it around the room and on the...bodies?"

Mira then leaves the dank basement to the small group made up of brave members from both parties who are willing to stay behind, and trails after the larger group. Threading an arm around the bard's waist, she leans in close to Arm, as tears spring to her eyes at the tenderness he shows her.

"The others...they just don't understand him," she thinks to herself.

"Yes...dearest, "she responds, tentatively. "First thing in the morning, the Cathedral of Light." Mira looks 'round for Xenia, to see if she overheard the comment, and makes a mental note to speak to the dark rogue later about the chalice.

Mira supports Edmund as he does the talking (Aid Another, Diplomacy=20) adding simply, "my friend speaks the truth. We can all attest to that" while she remains near the back of the group with Arm.

(OOC: Please use the Holy Water. I am deleting it from my CS-Mira/Carla)

Belkior (Sub/Al)
Wednesday August 16th, 2006 7:57:57 PM
"If you're standing guard, I'll settle ... somewhere for a bit of rest." Belkior looks about the dirty basement with a disapproving frown. Dirt and germs are two distinct problems, and dirt is not necessarily unhealthy. But it is, none the less, not a place that he would chose to bunk down.

Still,the halfling removes a bed roll and choses one of the northern corners in which to sleep.

Syr
Wednesday August 16th, 2006 9:13:13 PM
Seemingly accustomed to doing the dirty work, the elf works quickly and efficiently. Turning to his grimy partner, "Hey Shadow, that a given name or a nickname? Seems appropriate of course."

After waiting for his answer, "You know, this Plateau City seems like a nice place. Did you know we move our orphanage just outside of town. I know you guys are around here a bit more... if you ever get some free time, feel free to check on them for us? I, for one, would feel better that they could come to someone closer in time of need. After all, you guys do seem fairly close and trustworthy. I dunno, it's jsut a thought."

Walkback (DM JohnP) d20+12=20 d20+12=15
Wednesday August 16th, 2006 10:40:46 PM
The walk to the Guard post was pretty quiet, some people enjoying the night sky that is visible overhead.

Ash and Shelya have tagged along with the group escorting the cultists, the druid wondering why these people are so concerned with emotional matters. Famina has also tagged along, mainly as an opportunity to harangue the cultists about their religion.

After thinking a bit about the whispered suggestions, Arm murmurs to Mira that he'd like to visit one of the temples tomorrow to see what lingering effect that drink from the chalice has caused. Not to mention taking the chalice there for examination. Mira agrees with what he suggests and plans to do that first thing in the morning.

After returning to his human form, Angus tries to charm the cleric. The cleric resisted the magic the first time but finally Angus' persistence is rewarded when Wyman smiles back at him. When Angus asks about the organization of the cult, Wyman pauses for a moment and then starts talking.

"Well, I look after the circle in Nightmare Quarter. Since I'm from there, originally, you know. Most of the people were there tonight. I'm supposed to look for new members and perform the services."

"I report to Saxmuir. He normally supplies me with the Drink but tonight Otto there brought it. I don't know who Saxmuir works with but I think he's responsible for most of Plateau City. He had me busy for the last couple weeks going back and forth the libraries, preparing for something in Floating City. I saw a map and sketched a copy. Knew I shouldn't, but I'm always curious."

"A couple days back, some people came and Saxmuir asked me to put them up. I didn't learn their names but I think they were from the circle in the rich parts of town. The circles don't mix much, so I'm not sure. They left this afternoon after Otto said he saw some people snooping around. I don't know, but I think they left for Floating City."

The Guard Sergeant was a little surprised and, frankly, upset about having the quiet end of his shift disturbed by the arrival of the parties and the cultists. The party responds in a variety of ways.

Edmund tries to smooth things over, explaining where they've come from and why they're come to the post. With Mira's assistance, he ingratiates himself with the guard, enough so that the words of Angus don't do more than make the sergeant work faster.

The sergeant starts booking the people in, recording their names and what they were accused of doing. He asks if any of the prisoners have "special" abilities and when Conner responds after dumping the bugbear on the counter, the sergeant arranges for manacles and gags for Wyman and Otto.

Wynn and Xenia stand back and watch, leaning against one another. Lang also tries to melt into the darkness outside the Guard post, unsure of how the Guard will react to a bugbear.

The sergeant speaks after he has completed signing in the prisoners.

"Morning comes, the dayshift will send a runner to these constables you mentioned. Don't know them but I guess they're from a different quarter. We'll keep them locked up 'til we can move them to Central.

"I didn't think to see these people down here. The notice said they was from Wealthy Quarter."

With that, the night's work seems to be done. Everyone goes outside and start walking back to Trade Quarter. Conversation is muted despite the earlier excitement. Maybe it's the hour, maybe everyone is simply tired. The trip is quiet since virtually no one is on the streets at this hour.

It's only a short time before the parties are back at the apartment shared by the Plateau City group. Eventually sleeping arrangements are made and they settle down for the night.

++++++

Morning comes and it's time to keep investigating. After a quick breakfast, people decide where they're going to go and what questions to ask. Everyone is eager to go but they have to cool their heels while waiting for the people who stayed in the basement.

Creepy Night in the Basement (DM JohnP)
Wednesday August 16th, 2006 10:41:39 PM
The people who remained behind in the basement prepare to seal off the tunnel. Kadaz starts hauling the bodies of the undead into the entrance, heaping them there. If nothing else, the bodies will form a barricade if something comes from the sewers. Shadow and Syr help out with moving bodies. The zombies, particularly, each require several trips since the magic holding their rotting corpses together ended. Finally, the bodies are moved and it's time to work on the tunnel.

Thar performs a short service over the group of bodies using the holy water provided by Mira. He hopes that the service will provide solace for the souls of the people whose bodies were corrupted into undead. Then he starts knocking out supports with Kadaz. The pair work carefully and trigger several slides of earth. Looking upwards after one of the slides, Kadaz sees the underside of some paving stones and figures it's time to stop.

Belkior also prepares a place to rest, clearing away the worst of the debris before shaking out his bedroll. He will be ready in the morning to seal the tunnel. When he hears Syr suggesting that the Plateau City group look after the orphanage, he pipes up in agreement.

++++++

Morning comes and the party is ready to seal the tunnel. Then it's time to meet up with the others before starting the day's investigations.

DM Addendum (JohnP)
Wednesday August 16th, 2006 10:44:23 PM
I won't be posting for the next two nights. Please be nice to Adam and clearly indicate what you're doing to investigate.

Mira d20+8=17 d20+3=16
Wednesday August 16th, 2006 11:42:12 PM
On arriving home safely, Mira offers her room to Xenia, and Famina. There are two plain cots, a simple low table against the wall between the headboards. Above one bed is a shelf with a few personal items: an interesting rock, some bits of glass worn smooth by time spent in water, a small box, a bug in a jar, and a chipped bowl. A scroll case, a velvet bag, and a very old and faded silk mage's robe hang from pegs under the shelf. Against the wall in one corner is a long staff, the figure of an owl carved at one end. A jumble of adventuring gear is piled on the floor at it's base.

Twisting the ring on the middle finger of her left hand, Mira volunteers, "I don't need as much sleep as I used to. Two hours should be sufficient. I'm going to make some tea, and have a look at the diary again." (Knowledge Arcana=17, Basic Knowledge=16) Mira will ask Edmund's opinion, sliding over on the bench to make room for the wizard. When fatigue overcomes her, she retires to her room, and lays down fully clothed, removing only her fanciful belt, on top of her bedroll on the floor.

+++++

In the morning, Mira washes her face, brushes out her hair, and braids it tightly in a single tail as is her habit. She replaces her tunic with another equally simple, and equally worn, but clean. Using the sleeve, she cleans any smears off her glasses, before exiting to the common room. After settomg the big pot of joe to brew, she plans her day, scratching out a to-do list on a cheap piece of paper:

1. Cathedral of Light with Arm, and chalice. Ask questions about 'the drink'. Any traces on the chalice? Share info with the clerics. Marteaus and Gargulus connection?

2. Royal Library with diary?

3. Meet up at Sampson's. Dinner?

Ash
Wednesday August 16th, 2006 11:47:34 PM
Ash awakens the next morning to find that Shelya has decided to use him as a pillow. Moving carefully so as to not wake her (hopefully), Ash finds a quiet part of the apartment and commences his meditations.

Having completed his meditations, he waits to see what the cityfolk are planning on doing. He has learned alot about himself and other people. "My master was correct, this was worthwhile," he muses to himself as he waits, looking forward to future studies.

GM Notes:
Spells for today
Level 0:
Cure Minor Wounds
Flare
Guidance
Read Magic

Level 1
Cure Light Wounds (x2)
Goodberry
Magic Fang
Summon Nature's Ally I

Level 2
Animal Trance: Fascinates 2d6 HD of animals.
Barkskin
Summon Nature's Ally II
Summon Swarm

Level 3:
Cure Moderate Wounds
Summon Nature's Ally III

Edmund d20+10=16
Thursday August 17th, 2006 12:35:16 AM
Looking at the diary, Edmund smiles broadly. "Well, it's quite obvious," he says. "It's a map!" (Knowledge Arcana: 16) If then asked about what it is a map of, with regard to the outlying area, or respective to some other location, Edmund will prevaricate, dither, and if necessary outright lie to the effect of, "Oh, probably somewhere in the Samoil Highlands, west of the Borgar Tree. Leagues and leagues away." If asked where the 'Borgar Tree' or the 'Samoil Highlands' are, Edmund will simply say, "Far away." and will refuse to discuss it further, making a show of considering it unimportant.

Rising early the next day, excited about the prospect of going to a library, Edmund washes up, has a bit of breakfast, and studies his spells. Having learned a bit from his first fight--not counting all those fights with tiny hat-wearing vampires--he modifies his spell list to better suit what he feels to be his heroic and invaluable combat style.

DM Info:
New Spells Memorised!
L.0: Daze, Detect Magic, Ghost Sound, Read Magic (x2)
L.1: Charm Person, Colour Spray, Grease, Hypnotism, Obscuring Mist, Sleep
L.2: Daze Monster, Fog Cloud, Hypnotic Pattern, Web
L.3: Hold Person, Slow, Suggestion

Syr
Thursday August 17th, 2006 1:04:34 AM
Following Shadow and Kadaz back to the apartment, he sees an open area against a wall. With a loud sigh, he sinks down and goes through the long series of stretches that he uses to stay limber. Finally, he leans back against the wall and rests with images of the kids running around their new home.

In the morning, he is roused by Edmund's all too knowing voice. Rolling his eyes, he growls with a rough voice, "Let's just figure out where to go and get on the move. Too much talk and leadership by committee gets people dead. Not to mention the death caused by inaction."

Arm
Thursday August 17th, 2006 6:03:55 AM
Arm smiles gratefully at Mira's acquiescence, feeling that at least part of the weight of the Wold has been lifted from him. Before they retire for the evening, he reassures her, "Please don't get the idea that I have any designs on that chalice...I wish now that I had never even TOUCHED that gods-forsaken thing, and would like nothing better than to smash it into unrecognizable pieces. I WOULD like to see what the Light clerics have to say about it, though. The only fear I have is that now that we have it, we are even moreso a target for Ilonia.".

Once they are back at the apartment, fatigue overcomes his hunger, and he falls into a deep sleep that is only disturbed by the smell of brewing coffee in the morning. Smiling at the thought of the beautiful woman who has made it, he rises and goes to join her, eveloping Mira in a hug and hoping to gain strength for the day...a day that he may learn things he doesn't want to hear.

Kadaz
Thursday August 17th, 2006 7:04:53 AM
Kadaz spends the night in the cellar preparing to seal the tunnel. As the others rest as best possible he stands watch, needing no lights to keep an eye out for intruders.

In the morning, after the tunnel is sealed, he walks with the others back home. He is finally tired and ready for a bath and then a short rest in his bed. Birdie, as always, is looking forward to the next meal.

Shadow
Thursday August 17th, 2006 10:31:44 AM
Shadow knows that he will not get any rest in the night they spend in the basement, so he ivestigates the basement and surrounding area to the apartment. He is not expecting to find anything, but just wants to be sure. When Belkior returns and seals up the tunnel he will then be relieved to return to the apartment and get some rest. That will be most of his day, but when the party meets up (either back at the apartment or at Sampson's) Shadow will ask, "First, did we find out anything useful, and second what are we going to do with the gear we secured from the mob?"

Thar ail Baerer
Thursday August 17th, 2006 10:41:25 AM
After a long night in the cellar, performing last rites (w/ the holy water) and working w/ Kadaz on collapsing the tunnel, Thar is glad to finally get back to the apartment.

Once there, he greets his companions (at least those who are awake) and retires to the nearest flat spot and tries to rest for a short while.

After his nap, he rises and asks his companions "Well, we may want to investigate this Saxmuir fellow. I'm curious about his background and what info we could find out. I could check at my temple and see if anyone has heard of him."

Xenia
Thursday August 17th, 2006 11:29:52 AM
"Thanks, Mira." Xenia hugs the other woman. "But I think I'll just curl up with Wynn," the rogue whispers into Mira's ear. Not that it'll be much of a secret. And not like it's something they haven't done in front of the rest of the group before. They still got their bedrolls that they can put together. But it just seems like a better idea in this new group of folks. Maybe it's another idea from this new Circlet thing she's got.

Morning smells like kaffe! Xenia rolls up from sleep in just her undies. As she pulls on a shirt, the half-elfish girl once again regrets the loss of her jammies in the collapsed apartments in Floating City.

"So, we gonna go see Ashbeard this morning," she asks of Angus over the lip of a steaming mug. "Mmmm. This is good, Mira. You got good beans 'round here."

Belkior (Sub/Al)
Thursday August 17th, 2006 11:43:03 AM
Morning comes in the basement of the tenement in Nightmare quarter. Belkior rises, dresses himself, and then tends to his devotions to Alemi before folding his bedding neatly together and stowing it away.

"Good morning, Syr, Thar, Shadow, Kadaz," he nods to each in greeting. "Alright." He eyes the room again in which the door to the sewer is cut. "I'm going to take this wall," he points to his right, "and remove it, folding it over the entrance to the sewers. Does that sound safe?"

With the approval of the excavationists, Belkior calls on Alemi to Shape the Stone and cover the entrance. Then with some relieve, he accompanies the others out of Nightmare quarter and the clean freshness of the other parts of Plateau City.

Day's Spells
0 Level: Detect Magic**, Detect poison*, Light*, Read Magic*, Resistance*
1st Level: Bless**, Detect Undead*, Hide from Undead*, Magic Stone*, Sanctuary*, (Protection from Evil+)
2nd Level: Hold Person*, Owl's Wisdom*, Silence, Spiritual Weapon* (Aid*)
3rd Level: Dispel Magic*, Prayer*, Searing Light*, uStone Shape (Magic Circle against Evil+*)
4th Level: Death Ward*, Freedom of Movement*, Summon Monster IV+, (Holy Smite+*)

Turning 4/4 per day

Famina
Thursday August 17th, 2006 2:01:14 PM
Famina gladly takes up Mira's offer of hospitality and finds herself a place one the floor with a bedroll. Mira wakes up long before the barbarian, who snoozes silently, contentedly nuzzling the pillow till mid-morning. Then she wakes and dons her garments, taking care to keep her sword sharp.
"Hmmm...so, what's the plan? Head over to the Float and then the strange area our dwarf patron told us about? Look for other cultists here? What do you think we should do?" she queries whoever she finds in the inn's common room in the morning. Well, she queries AFTER having a muffin and a morning pint of ale.

Wynn d20+7=8
Thursday August 17th, 2006 5:29:38 PM
The bard spends the night wrapped in the warm embrace of his half-drow sweetheart. He is continually amazed at just how much heat her lithe body can generate and several times during the night he slides a leg from beneath the bedroll to find the cool night air.

Wynn rolls on his side when Xenia rises and he watches her dress and ready for the day, quite thankful that her funny pajamas were lost during the fae uprising. He manages to suppress the urge to wolf-whistle and draw attention to her skivies.

One he has a mug of coffee of his own, he spends some time examining the diary in Mira's possession and scans the entries for names or places that he might recognize and attach some significance to, however his relative newness to both Plateau City and Floating City work against him [Bardic Knowledge=8; Natural 1 d'oh!]

Conner
Thursday August 17th, 2006 5:44:02 PM
Conner arrives back at the apartment and finds his way to his own bed. The grating voice of the mage keeps him from sleeping and he momentarily contemplates hurling his heavy boot at Edmund, but others are in the way and his aim from a prone position would be suspect. "Domi's breath! take yer prognosticatin' to orators corner or the library, I'm trying to sleep"

Once the mage quiets down, Conner's sleep is deep and restfull, unplagued by dreams or worries. In the morning he examines the scraped knuckles of his powerful fists, a pleasant reminder an evening well spent.

After coffee and bread, the fighter takes time to clean and treat his weapons and armor and then scans the apartment for packages. "Any deliveries from the catacombs while we were out?" he asks aloud.

Angus
Thursday August 17th, 2006 5:56:02 PM
To make Lang feel more comfortable around the guard he polymophs him into a human. "Come in for a brief stay if you like or move on back to the apartments with ease." Angus goes back to his charges with the guards.

Angus has a few more questions for Wymann before his is button up for the night. "Can you tell me where this Saxmuir lives? I would just love to speak with him. Also what can you tell me about the powers of the magical elixir that Saxmuir brings you, it seems amazing."

After getting his answers, Angus will leave with the group and go back and rest for the night. Angus moves up between Conner and Edmund "Nice job with the guards. Good contacts are always helpfull."

Before bed Angus appoaches Mira "Would you like to try being turned into a pixie to see how it feels? It takes getting use to, but it give a great vantage point for spell casting." Angus waits expectantly for an answer.

In the morning after a meager breakfast and some of Mira's wonderful coffee "Mira this is excellent." Angus beams.

Angus listens to Xenia idea of a visit to Ashbeard "Not a bad idea. We may want to not reveal everything we have discovered. It is interesting that the dwarves have sent an scout to the location that we seem to have found on our map. Very curious."

Still with Xenia, but looking over at Mira and Arm Angus confides "The Temple of Light is also a must."

Lang (AC 24; HP 89/92) & Sunshine (AC 22; HP 47/47)
Thursday August 17th, 2006 7:21:11 PM
Lang thanks Angus for the polymorph spell. The spell may come in handy where situation dictate that he not be a bugbear.

Lang is pleasantly surprised when the polymorph spell ends and some of his wounds are healed (healed 8 for polymorph and 8 for nights rest).

In the morning Lang joins the groups and listen to the plans for the day. He also takes Sunshine outside to do his business.

Xenia (2nd Illegal Post) d20+2=20
Friday August 18th, 2006 2:20:58 AM
The rogue takes out pen, paper and ink. With many looks over at the diary, Xenia copies the map. Folding the thing into quarters, she gives it to Angus.

"There you go. Now you don't have to tell them anything you don't want to," Xenia says. "But I think probs best to play it straight with them, Angus. If they're anywhere near as good as they seem to be, wouldn't be hard for them to find out where we were last night. Means they can connect the map we're gonna show them with the cult. And they look to be playing pretty square with us, you know what I mean? They put out a lot of resources for our kids. Lotta stuff they didn't have to, you know."

"You do what you think's best, but that's my take on the thing, 'kay?"

Rolls and Actions
Forgery 20

Post in Progress (DM Adam)
Friday August 18th, 2006 4:26:38 AM

{ OOC: Had some reading to catch up on. Breaking for dinner. Will have posted in the next couple of hours - sorry for the delay. }

Arm
Friday August 18th, 2006 5:57:33 AM
Arm sits idly by, entwining his fingers in Mira's hair and slowly massages her head, grateful as always for her closeness and support.

Rest and Research (DM Adam)
Friday August 18th, 2006 2:57:30 PM

The Guard Post

Intent on gleaning further information from Wymann, Angus asks the cleric for Saxmuir's whereabouts and the properties of the elixir. Wymann, however, is tight-lipped and refuses to say any more.

-- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --

The Basement

Shadow confirms there is little of interest, or relevance, to be found in the basement. Meanwhile, Thar completes the last rites ceremony and the rest of the night passes slowly under Kadaz's careful watch.

When Belkior wakes, he dutifully performs his morning rituals and approaches the door to the sewers. Calling on the power of Alemi, he neatly folds the stone of the nearby wall over the opening.

Quite tired, Thar, Shadow and Kadaz return to the apartment with Belkior just as dawn breaks.

-- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --

The Apartment

Mira generously offers room for Xenia and Famina to sleep, while the rest of the Crimson Shields claim whatever space remains for their bedrolls.

Before resting, Mira flicks through Wymann's diary - at times asking Edmund for his opinion. Together, they realise (of note) that: Highlight to display spoiler: { Wymann has made several visits to Plateau City. On each of these occasions Wymann has sought out libraries, such as the Temple of Gargul, the Cathedral of Light and the Mage's Guild. There is also some mention of the purchase of "special weapons". Lastly, an odd name seems to recur: "Atmahlanto".}

In the morning, the groups discuss the options available to them and attempt a plan. Arm, Famina, Angus and Syr (with his call for action) are the most vocal.

So far, some of the suggestions are:

- Visit the Cathedral of Light?
- Visit the Royal Library?
- Visit Ashbeard.
- Visit the Float and the 'strange area'?
- Seek out other cultists?
- Investigate Saxmuir?

With a hot mug of coffee, Wynn settles down with Wymann's diary. Inside, he scans for names and places and notes the following: Highlight to display spoiler: { There is some correspondence with a vampire, Sarah, who was not a member of the Red Testers, but was sympathetic. It seems she provided some unspecified information. Also, Wymann describes preparations to move to Floating City ... something about stealing boats ... }

As the discussion continues: Lang returns with Sunshine from their morning walk; Xenia hands Angus an excellent copy of the map; Ash completes his meditation; Wynn and Mira agree that further reading of Wymann's diary may prove useful; Conner cleans and treats his weapons and armour; And, the rest of the group returns from the Nightmare Quarter.

{ OOC: Sorry folks - it took much longer to post than I anticipated (it's 4:45 am Saturday, here). The good news is I'm now very familiar with what's happening and will be more punctual (and less 'dot-pointy') in the future. Oh, and on Conner's question regarding a Catacombs delivery ... can someone help me out here? Is it ready, etc? }

Edmund
Friday August 18th, 2006 3:45:54 PM
Happy to have been of some service to Mira, he ponders the meaning of what they discovered in the diary. He has never heard of anyone named Atmahlanto before, though with a name that complicated, it is probably someone important.

Edmund joins the rest of the party and gives his own ideas about what they should do, "Oh, the Royal Library, let's! I love libraries! I'm sure there's all sorts of stuff there, and then I can try to look up this Athamantio fellow. Or fellow-ess, I suppose. Either way, there's bound to be loads of stuff there. I remember the last time I had a chance to visit a library, it was when I was studying my basic cantrips, and I found all sorts of interesting books about all manner of things, including some of the most arcane..."

Edmund continues, regardless of whether he is being listened to, until asked to stop or until he wanders off to his room, shaking his head and talking to himself all the way there, with the occasional chuckle at his jokes.

Syr
Saturday August 19th, 2006 7:35:10 PM
Anxious to be out and about the elf rises early. Looking around at their new surroundings, he asks Wynn, "You ever miss our old place? I wonder what we are going to do once things settle down? I've been an orphan and now I'm homeless. I mean the city is destroyed and even finding a place vacant will be hard enough. I guess you are more used to the wandering thing than I am, it's not so bad, eh?"

Standing near the door and obviously eager to be on the move, the elf looks at Angus and Mira, "What's on the plan for today? The dwarves and the temple? The time is wasting..."

Kadaz
Sunday August 20th, 2006 7:04:16 AM
Tired and dirty, the cellar party stumbles home with the rising sun. Kadaz tries to step over the sleeping folks on the floor but short legs make this difficult. He collapses into his bed and intens to stay there until noon or so.

Xenia
Sunday August 20th, 2006 10:52:11 AM
Clad in nothing but the shirt, Xenia pads into the pantry to looks for maybe a roll with jam or something. Something to go with her kaffe.

"I'll go see Ashbeard," she calls out. "But I wanna get back in time to go to the Temple of Light, 'kay?"

The rogue pads back out empty-handed. She pulls up her haversack and begins taking stuff out.

"Anyone want to take some of this stuff to the Catacombs and get it identified while you're out?" She turns one of the silvered kukris once again in the morning light. Unless one of you guys can identify it. Doesn't look like it's special much, but could be useful."

"I'm gonna use the room to clean up a bit, 'kay?" Xenia whispers to Mira before disappearing into the sorcerer's room toting her haversack in one hand. Inside, the rogue does a quick sponge bath as quietly as possible so as not to wake Famina. She gets dressed and armored up again in the black mithral shirt. Today's another work day.

"You know, I was thinking that getting a new place in the Float was a pretty good idea too, Syr," she says coming back out with dark ribbon between her teeth. Her hands are up behind her head in the act of binding her hair into a ponytail. "I mean, it's really bad and all that lots of folks got killed when the plants attacked from the Crying Woods. But, you know, that also means that there's lots of places out there without owners now. We could maybe pick up land pretty cheap. We could put up a place and rent out the ground floor for shops while we put our apartments up above. Whaddja think? We could even use it to sell some of the stuff we pick up from all around."

From the corner of her eye, Xenia eyes Wynn for a reaction. The thing with his mother's trading company mighta put him off business and that sorta stuff for good. He was kinda quiet about it. Maybe she shouldn't oughta bring this sort of stuff up at all.

Recap of Loot
MW Studded leather armor - faint abjuration
MW Silvered kukri - faint evocation
MW Silvered kukri - faint evocation
MW Breastplate armor - faint abjuration
MW Light mace - none
18 daggers - none
Chalice - traces of illusion
Book - none

Ash
Sunday August 20th, 2006 2:37:19 PM
Ash sits writing in his journal, waiting to see what more these fascinating people decide to do.

Mira
Sunday August 20th, 2006 7:10:05 PM
Mira makes sure the pot of joe is kept full and hot. The table is set with an assortment of mis-matched cups and plates. "Since the 'troubles' it has been hard to provision," she says apologetically, volunteering, "and none of us are much at cooking. We usually just head to Sampson's. I guess you could call us 'regulars' there." To Syr's enquiry she responds, "I'd like to go to the Cathedral of Light as soon as Arm is ready.

The sorcerer listens to Xenia's friends talk about the place they call home, and makes an enquiry to those who are nearby, "so your home was affected by the upheaval of nature as well? Were you visited by the Fey Lord, or his minions?" Mira remembers the meeting at the Giggling Ghost that she was priveldged to attend, as a guest of the half elven bard. She looks at Syr, Xenia, and Wynn, as well as the other Crimson Shields, and breathlessly asks, "did you sing?"

Wynn
Sunday August 20th, 2006 7:32:51 PM
When Xenia's vanishes into the bedroom to do whatever it is half-elven girl's do to get ready for the day, Wynn takes out his journal. Taking a seat at the table in the common room, he makes an entry describing recent events, as well as his thoughts and feelings.

Conner
Sunday August 20th, 2006 7:45:44 PM
Satisfied that his equipment is in tip top shape, the burly fighter waits on his companions. He watches the dark-half-elven girl from the other group until she disappears into Mira's room. Skinny bone-rack, he thinks to himself, but a head on her shoulders.

When she starts unpacking stuff and suggests a visit to the Catacombs he speaks up from his seat next to the only door leading out of the ground floor apartment. Hands crossed over his chest, he looks at the rogue with fierce dark eyes under thick black eyebrows, "Yer not thinkin' of sellin' the chalice now, are ye, lass?"

Xenia (2nd Illegal Post)
Sunday August 20th, 2006 8:52:08 PM
"Hmm?" Xenia turns out of her covert glance at Wynn. It's the Conner guy.

"Well, that depends on what it is, don't it? I mean, what kind of magic did you say this had on it, Angus?"

"But, whatever it is, you guys helped fight for it, so you get a say in what we do, yeah? That seems fair, right?" the rogue says to the guy with the tattoo eye.

Angus
Sunday August 20th, 2006 10:19:17 PM
Angus wakes late as usual and get a small bite to eat and loads up a cup of coffee with milk. Angus sees that several people are ready to go already. "Just give me a minute Xenia and I will go with you to Ashbeard's. The temple sounds like a nice stop afterwards."

Taking a moment for reflection "Xenia you have fun with the shopping at the Catacombs. I will give Sampson's a good once over and wait for everyone to assemble there for our evening meal and parlay."

When Xenia asks aboutt he Chalice Angus looks up from his coffee. "Oh, it is not magical, just a symbol, but it held a powerful elixir. I saw remnants of it. I would really like to see some up close for inspection, it could be curious." Angus looks introspective. "The temple could prove interesting also." The sorcerer ponders.

Angus waits for Xenia to finish preening before heading out with the rouge.

Lang (AC 24; HP 89/92) & Sunshine (AC 22; HP 47/47)
Sunday August 20th, 2006 10:19:53 PM
Lang grabs a little breakfast and takes a seat at the table. He sits and listens to the conversation.

Arm d20+3=22
Monday August 21st, 2006 6:03:11 AM
His bitter mood beginning to return from listening to Edmund's prattling, Arm asks Mira if he may look at the diary to see if he can shed any light on it, especially the name Atmahlanto (bardic knowledge=22).

After perusing it for a bit, he says to Mira, "If we check at the Catacombs for these 'special weapons', I highly doubt that we will find out anything, since I can only assume that their transaction histories are private, although I suppose it couldn't hurt to ask. Then again, they may not even be COMING from there, and they wouldn't have any knowledge of them...who knows? The third possibility is that these weapons are already here...in the form of those stylized daggers. In that case, someone should take them to the Catacombs to see what they make of them.". Pausing for a moment to gather his thoughts, he continues, "I am ready to head to the temple when you are, my dear, and if we have time after that, I'd like to visit the library as well, although I'm sure they'll kick Edmund out once he starts babbling.".

Thar ail Baerer
Monday August 21st, 2006 10:08:07 AM
After waking up, Thar eats a quick meal (berries, nuts, etc., that he kept in his pack) and asks the group "I'd like us to keep making progress on our investigations, as the longer we delay, the more time the cult will have to execute their plan. Also, they're going to eventually find out we've wiped out their group that was meeting in the basement and have the chalice. Possibly, they may be trying to find us and get their chalice back."

Waiting for anyone to comment, he adds "I think we should continue breaking off into groups, but need to have a strong group at least guard the chalice for a short while, until something comes up in our investigations. I'm not picky about which group I go with, and will help wherever I can."

Turning to Mira, who often acts as their leader, he says "What do you want us to do?"

Shadow
Monday August 21st, 2006 12:10:07 PM
If the group is still around after his cat nap (too long a night in the basement left him worn out) he will join them at the table. Otherwise he will see if any notes are left for the group that was recovering from the night ordeal.

Finding nothing he will head over to Sampson's to see if the group is meeting there. If anyone else is up he will drag them along.

Belkior (Sub/Al)
Monday August 21st, 2006 3:01:08 PM
Belkior enters the apartments of the Plateau City group on the heels of Kadaz, Thar and Syr. From a pouch he draws a light rice cracker wrapped the leaf of a dark dried sea plant.

"The entrance to the sewer is sealed," he reports.

"Might I brew some tea?" the halfling asks Mira. "The Floating City was attacked by the Crying Woods," he says in reply to Mira's question. "Over 20 orcworts gathered by the shore and extended vines the size of giant cables to the top of the city and attempted to pull it down. There were rose vines growing everywhere. Shambling Mounds and Tentriculos roamed the streets. We were finally able to make it to the walls of Open Level where we sprayed the giant vines with a mixture invented by an unusual gnome who we rescued. The vines let go and the entire tower of the city swung back and forth with the momentum. It's fortunate that many of the people had already been evacuated to the shore. As it is, only the structures originally built by the Teruci were able to withstand the force as the city swung back and forth."

Belkior sighs and takes another bite from the rice cracker. "So many people lost their lives."

"Angus, I'm ready for a trip to the Temple of Light any time you are," he says at last.

Day's Spells
0 Level: Detect Magic**, Detect poison*, Light*, Read Magic*, Resistance*
1st Level: Bless**, Detect Undead*, Hide from Undead*, Magic Stone*, Sanctuary*, (Protection from Evil+)
2nd Level: Hold Person*, Owl's Wisdom*, Silence, Spiritual Weapon* (Aid*)
3rd Level: Dispel Magic*, Prayer*, Searing Light*, uStone Shape (Magic Circle against Evil+*)
4th Level: Death Ward*, Freedom of Movement*, Summon Monster IV+, (Holy Smite+*)

Turning 4/4 per day

Scott the Southern one
Monday August 21st, 2006 3:19:52 PM
Plat City
Shadow XXXXX
Ash XOXXX
Arm XXXXX
Edmund XXXXX
Mira XXXXX
Conner XOXXX
Thar XXXXX
Kadaz XXXXX

Floating City
Lang XOXXX
Syr OXXXX
Xenia XXXXX
Wynn XXXXX
Angus XXXXX
Belkior XXXXX
Famina XOXXO

Getting Ready to Hit the Town (DM JohnP)
Monday August 21st, 2006 10:29:06 PM
In the apartment, several people have labored over the diary taken from Wymann in the cult temple. They learned a fair bit, although none of it did much to reveal anything about the death cult. Angus thinks back to the last words Wymann exchanged with him before they left the Guard post in Nightmare Quarter.

"I can't tell you where Saxmuir lives. He contacts me, usually by coming to the space there in the basement. He tells me what he wants me or the circle to do, and turns over the mead. I've never visited his circle."

"I can't tell you much about the mead. Some people dream after drinking from the chalice. Some people see visions. There's no real pattern that I can tell. And I don't know how Saxmuir makes it, if he does."

The contents of the diary are fodder for investigations in the libraries of the city. But there are other possible places to visit, too. Arm asks to examine it but he doesn't recognize anything other than the names of places in either city. The name "Atmahlanto" isn't known to him.

Several people simply sit back and watch, allowing the others to decide for them. This research stuff is more for the scholars and spellcasters, anyway. This group includes Syr, Lang and Wynn from Floating City and the druid, Ash from Plateau City. The druid and bard are making notes to check against their memories of recent events.

Others, like Kadaz and Shadow, are more interested in sleeping.

Edmund, of course, indicates his preference for visiting the Royal Mage Guild library.

Xenia proposes going to Ashbeard's and then to the Temple of Light. She asks whether someone else is interested in taking the weapons and armor to the Catacombs for identification and appraisal. When she mentions the Catacombs, Conner questions the wisdom of selling the chalice.

Mira wants to get Arm to the Cathedral of Light as early as possible and the bard agrees with this. Thar defers to Mira's wisdom in selecting a course of action.

Angus agrees with Xenia's proposal and elaborates on what he learned with his divination magic. Then he waits while Xenia finishes her girl stuff and Belkior is ready to go with them.

+++++

After it is all said and done, it looks like most people are getting ready to visit Ashbeard and then the Cathedral of Light. This group includes Angus, Belkior, and Xenia.

Mira and Arm, with Thar tagging along, may go directly to the Cathedral of Light.

Edmund wants to go to the Royal Mage Guild library. Of course, someone mentioned before that it's probably not a good idea for a person to wander about alone.

Several people are available to go with one of the above groups: Ash, Conner, Lang, Syr, Wynn. Even Kadaz and Shadow can join in if they wake up soon.

Someone might take the armor and weapons to the Catacombs, too.

Famina sits by herself in the corner. She's getting homesick for the woods where she was raised and might need to go back. She hasn't said anything to the others, yet.

DM JohnP - I'm gonna try to get this part over fairly quick. If your player is going to one of these locations, ask away or elaborate on what someone else asks.

Von Otten Family Mercantile Combine (DM JohnP)
Monday August 21st, 2006 10:36:32 PM
Angus, Belkior, Xenia and whoever else has tagged along with them cross through Trade Quarter as they walk towards the office of the Von Otten family trade concern. The streets are clean this morning as the morning rush of people dwindles. There is a clean smell to the air even though it didn't rain overnight.

When the group comes up the street towards the offices, the scene outside is quieter than usual. They wonder about this until they recall that Steve is still out at the plantation putting it to rights so that the children will have a safe place to stay. Again, the same guard is on the door but this time they aren't made to wait. The adventurers are shown directly in to the offices and they only have to wait a little bit before Ashbeard completes an entry into a ledger.

"Back so soon, eh?," the dwarf asks. "Do you need something, or have some questions?"

Cathedral of Light (DM JohnP)
Monday August 21st, 2006 10:42:46 PM
When the groups meet up at the Cathedral of Light, they are again awed by the size of the place. But Belkior has been here before, quite recently too. So he knows which librarian to track down about this kind of thing.

Turning to the right after coming through the main entrance, Belkior leads the party to the office of the Chief Librarian. The elderly man is seated behind a desk that has been carefully organized. It's not that the desk is bare, for it is not. Instead, the books are neatly stacked so that their spines are even and flush with one edge of the desktop. And the scrolls are neatly arranged in a basket. Alert eyes realize that the scrolls have been bound with coloured cord, presumably as some hint of the contents.

The librarian looks up towards Belkior. "Back so soon. What can I assist you with?"

Royal Mage Guild Library (DM JohnP)
Monday August 21st, 2006 10:48:26 PM
Edmund leads his companions up the stairs of the great library in Merchant Quarter. While perhaps not quite as extensive as the holdings of the Star Mages, the Royal Mage Guild library is open to all and sundry. Of course, since the riffraff can come in, the really interesting books are all kept in the Special Collections. But Edmund thinks that he can probably sweet talk one of the junior assistant librarians into letting him peek at some of those texts. The history texts, that is.

When he finally makes his way through the stacks, he sees a wizened old gnome perched on a stool behind a bare desk.

"What do you want?"

Xenia
Monday August 21st, 2006 10:56:10 PM
"Yeah, we found something." The dark rogue gives a little handwave to the dwarf and flashes her pearly whites. "We went into Nightmare quarter last night and broke up a little party. Found something I think Thundir will want to see."

Xenia sits on the corner of the desk and turns her gaze to Angus as though passing the ball in this game to him.

Edmund d20+9=29 d20+10=22
Monday August 21st, 2006 11:09:42 PM
Edmund happily leads his companions (if there are any) to the Library, eager to immerse himself in the familiar surroundings of books, books, and books. When he reaches the desk, he peers down at the Gnome with a pleasant smile on his face. (Diplomacy=29, Natural 20!)

"What ho there, master Gnome, I'm here for some research of absolutely vital importance for the security of Plateau City--and very possibly the whole region. I need to search your texts for some History, and also for anything relating to someone named..." Edmund pauses, to check a slip of paper he has scribbled notes on. "Ah... At... mah... lanto. Atmahlanto."

If the Gnome Librarian resists Edmund's diplomatic efforts, Edmund will then attempt to persuade him with his impressive credentials, official standing, and legal basis. (Bluff=22).

"You do realise who you are speaking to, don't you? It would be very unwise for you to impede the progress of this vitally important, official, state-sanctioned investigation. I advise you to cooperate with me and provide me the information I am looking for, lest you be considered aiding and abetting those who would seek to do harm to these fair lands!"

Arm
Tuesday August 22nd, 2006 6:06:13 AM
Arm grips Mira's hand firmly on the way to the cathedral. While walking, he says to her, "Did someone bring the chalice so that they may examine it?".

Once they get to the librarian's office, he waits patiently for his turn to speak. Still gripping Mira's hand for support, he tells in detail everything that has happened to him since he drank from the chalice, including the dreams that he's had and his recent mood change.

Angus
Tuesday August 22nd, 2006 6:16:11 AM
Angus nods to Xenia as she starts introductions with Ashbeard. "Yes surprisingly we are back so soon." Angus relates what happened last night and even takes out the map that Xenia drew for him. Angus continues "Thundir made mention of, what we feel, is the place indicated on the map. He may have been their himself. We think Thundir can give us background information on the area."

Angus scratches his chin and adds "Do you know of anyone named Saxmuiror the name Atmahlanto?" Angus will be sure to ask Thundir also.

At the Temple, Angus will not participate, but will closely watch Mira and Arm, especially arm. While leaving the temple Angus will cast detect magic, descreatly, and concentrate on Arm, to see what he can see.

Kadaz d20+1=10 d20+5=24
Tuesday August 22nd, 2006 6:20:42 AM
Kadaz wakes up in time to hear what the plans are. And even though he knows this is going to hurt, Kadaz decides Edmund shouldn't go out by himself. "Edmund, I'll go with you to the mage's guild. Let me get ready." Kadaz spends a quick 15 minutes cleaning the worst of the muck and mire off his armor and weapons and then walks with Edmund, watching for threats. (spot 10)

In the Royal Mage Guild Library Kadaz tunes out and ignores what Edmund is saying. Instead he mentally considers the size of the bonfire that could be made with all of these books and papers. Birdie starts sniffing around trying to pick up a hint of anything interesting. (tracking by scent 24)

Wynn d20+7=16
Tuesday August 22nd, 2006 7:23:37 AM
The bard accompanies Edmund and Kadaz to the library. He discreetly stays upwind of the dwarf who still smells a bit 'off'.

Once at the library he leaves Edmund to his own devices and begins scanning the stacks for popular accounts of the more recent history of Floating City and Plateau City. He keeps his eyes peeled for any mention of the names Saxmuiror or Atmahlanto. He also looks for acounts of giant spiders and tales of vampires. Wherever possible he looks into the written accounts of the more well known bards of the two regions.

The half-elf remains immersed in his search until he is called to leave by his companions or until he is asked to leave at closing.

[OOC Knowledge History or Local = 16]

Ash
Tuesday August 22nd, 2006 7:31:12 AM
Ash decides to follow the group heading to the mages library...he has heard of it and would like to see it for himself. Once there, he just stands looking at all the books, and more importantly, all the scholars working there.

Conner
Tuesday August 22nd, 2006 7:32:15 AM
The fighter accompanies the group headed to the Cathedral of light. On his way he stops in at the stone mason's to check on the progress of the monument and informs them of the approval for the location of the monument along the river by Open Palm Market. "You may want to check out the spot in case a base must be built."

Once at the Cathedral he stays mostly near the back, taking in the proceedings and hoping that they can provide more information about the Chalice. If an opportunity arises to speak with one of the more senior clerics he will ask if they might be willing to consecrate the monument and address any gathered for the unveiling. "A few words about love thy brother and walk in thy neighbours shoes would go a long way about now" he suggests.

Thar ail Baerer
Tuesday August 22nd, 2006 11:31:36 AM
Thar will quietly walk to the Cathedral of Light, following Mira and Arm. When he gets there, he admires the handiwork and beautiful architecture surrounding him.

Belkior (Sub/Al)
Tuesday August 22nd, 2006 12:30:06 PM

*** AT The Cathedral of Light ***

"Remember the group that you mentioned last time?" Belkior looks up over the edge of the desk at the Librarian. "The ones who you thought were using the old version of the High Woldian symbols for Gargul? Well, we came upon them last night in the Nightmare Quarter, and from what we've gleaned, it doesn't look as though they are using the symbol simply to lend history or relevance to their group. They had several undead under their control. And I found this on the head cleric, a human by the name of Wymann."

Belkior reaches up on his tip-toes and places the Holy Symbol that he had recovered the night before onto the edge of the Librarian's desk.

"In his ravings, Wymann also let slip that they were attempting to awaken Lord Gargul's true nature and restore a balance to the Wold."

"They have a higher contact by the name of Saxmuir who apparently supplies a potion that may be illusory in nature. We've recovered some of their writings as well. The mention special weapons. And the name Atmahlanto. There also seems to be some connection to the Floating City, and a site to the south of Turtle Lake."

"I know that's a lot to take in at once. But we were wondering if you might know of any of these things. They may fill in holes in the bits of information that you may have as well."

"Er ... And we'd also like to know if you have anyone available who might know anything about curses." The halfling Cleric of Alemi takes a sidelong glance at Arm. "How to detect them and what might be done about them."

Day's Spells
0 Level: Detect Magic**, Detect poison*, Light*, Read Magic*, Resistance*
1st Level: Bless**, Detect Undead*, Hide from Undead*, Magic Stone*, Sanctuary*, (Protection from Evil+)
2nd Level: Hold Person*, Owl's Wisdom*, Silence, Spiritual Weapon* (Aid*)
3rd Level: Dispel Magic*, Prayer*, Searing Light*, uStone Shape (Magic Circle against Evil+*)
4th Level: Death Ward*, Freedom of Movement*, Summon Monster IV+, (Holy Smite+*)

Turning 4/4 per day

Mira d20+8=19 d20+2=17 d20+3=21 d20+7=23
Tuesday August 22nd, 2006 4:41:08 PM
Before Mira leaves the apartment, she asks Xenia if she could bring the chalice to the Cathedral of Light. "Like the wizard said," Mira nods at Angus, "it is the traces of the contents that are magical, and not the goblet itself" With a beseeching look, she adds, "it may be the only lead we have to what is ailing Arm." Pointing to the little cleric of Alemi, she adds, "he can carry it."

At the Cathedral of Light...

Mira nods as Arm advocates for himself. She takes it as a good sign, that he hasn't tried to hide anything. The others fill in the blanks, so Mira tries to underscore the seriousness of their quest, and the time pressures inherent with wanting to catch Lady Iliona and the other leaders of the death cult. (Diplomacy=19) Mira speculates that the cultists may have infiltrated other communities, namely the Floating City and environs. She also volunteers that the enemy cleric had a diary, which she has in her possession.

She stays with Arm for as long as he needs her.

At the Library...

On her way to the library, Mira will try to continue the discussion the wizard Angus had started earlier. "I have no desire to spend time as a pixie, but I have always fancied a turn as a..." Mira looks both ways, before putting a hand up the skinny mage's ear and whispering Highlight to display spoiler: { "as a... dragon!"}. Flushing a little, she waits for his response, hoping he won't take it wrong.

The sorcerer doesn't need books for her magic, but she is not immune to their appeal. She is also curious to see how the newest member of their party acquits himself in an environment more in tune with his inclinations. While Edmund does his thing, Mira observes the people using the library. (Sense Motive=17) If the library has a section where they keep records of current events, the kind that are usually written or printed out on cheap paper and distributed amongst the populous for a few coppers. She will have a look, paying particular interest to anything mentioning sightings of undead in and around Plateau City or Floating City, or mentioning Marteaus or Gargul. (Search=21, Gather Information=23)

Xenia (2nd Illegal Post)
Tuesday August 22nd, 2006 5:20:30 PM
*** Flashback to the Morning ***

"Check," Xenia whispers in reply and gives a covert wink to underscore the accord. Girls gotta stick together.

She hands the stone chalice to Belkie before taking off to pay a visit to the Von Otten Family.

"See if maybe you can help Mira's guy, huh?" She frowns at the stone cup before releasing into the halfling's hands. Looks like a stone cup to her, not much more. "Thanks, Belkie." That's all she says, but the words convey her concern.

Just a stone cup. But what does she know? Could be bad magic. It could. But, then again, sometimes folks are that way just 'cause they're that way. No magic involved at all. Xenia takes a sidelong look at Mira, and inside she hopes not. Girls gotta stick together, and sometimes that means looking out for each other's hearts.

Syr
Tuesday August 22nd, 2006 5:55:28 PM
The elf watches as everyone finally leaves and grins to himself, "You just gotta keep pushing to get things done." Whistling happily, he scoops up the loot from the cult and organizes it into his backpack. Turning to an empty room he peers around, "Anyone left to visit the catacombs?" Shrugging his shoulders, he turns and leaves.

Lang (AC 24; HP 89/92) & Sunshine (AC 22; HP 47/47)
Tuesday August 22nd, 2006 5:55:41 PM
Lang provides bodyguard support for the group heading over to Ashbeards. Once inside he will remain in the back and quiet as Xenia nad Angus report in their findings.

Edmund (second, illegal post)
Tuesday August 22nd, 2006 7:17:21 PM
((OOC: Edmund is making inquiries about searching the "Special Collections", though I forgot to mention that explicitly in my text. I expect it is inferred from the fact he is asking permission, which he would not need to do if he was only interested in the public offerings. Still, I thought it better to be clear, just in case. D'urr! Sorry!))

Talking to Ashbeard & Thunir (DM JohnP)
Tuesday August 22nd, 2006 10:59:55 PM

Xenia waves nonchalantly and mentions that the Shields found something in Nightmare Quarter that might interest Thunir. Angus elaborates further and Ashbeard looks thoughtful. All the while, Lang is busy holding up a wall.

"Well, I can't answer for Thunir, of course. But he should be along shortly since he's preparing to head out again sometime soon. I'll send a message so that he comes up here as soon as he arrives." Ashbeard summons his secretary and asks her to send Thunir as soon as he arrives.

"What were those other things you were mentioning?"

When Angus mentions Saxmuir and Atmahlanto, Ashbeard simply shrugs. "I've never heard those names before."

A while later, Thunir opens the door to Ashbeard's office and looks about.

"Oh, it's all of you. I was wondering what Cousin Ashbeard wanted with me."

When he hears the party's questions, Thunir starts fingering the tasseled fringe of his leather jacket. After being shown Xenia's copy of the map, he points to some features on it.

"I was up in these mountains, here. I was hoping to come down close to the bay and get back on the lake, in order to sail back. The ruins I found are here, a fair bit away from this thing marked down there."

Thunir's gestures indicate that he only skirted the edge of the area marked "Beach" and the other symbol.

"It took me several days to sail back, skirting the shore so that I could camp overnight. Do you have anyway of crossing the lake? I'm not sure that you can count on getting boats. For some reason, the fishermen in Floating City don't like going too far out of the bay where the City is."

"I owe you still, really. If you need help with a boat, I can manage it. Do any of you know how to sail?"

In the Cathedral of Light (DM JohnP)
Tuesday August 22nd, 2006 11:02:00 PM
Arm walks with Mira towards the Cathedral of Light, gripping her hand firmly. He's not really sure what to expect when he asks about his visions. Maybe the news will be good, maybe it will be bad. Maybe it would be better not knowing.

Conner detours in order to speak with the dwarven stonemason who is preparing the monument. The dwarf nods gruffly when told about the planning approval and returns to carving the names into the sides of the pillar.

Angus stands off to the side as the others speak to the librarian. Thar is gazing at the murals painted on the ceiling of the library.

Once they are in the library, Belkior does most of the talking. The librarian looks up when he mentions the information about Wymann and what was found in the basement.

"So, they're here in Plateau City again? We had to run a pack of them off some time ago, not long after the Troubles. Nasty types, of course."

"Oh, you don't know? They're called a lot of things, most commonly Red Cloaks on account of the cloaks that they all wear. How much do you know about the Year of Ascension?"

"That was when the Gods of the Wold and the Gods of Testing moved into their current patterns. Now, Gargul is the Lord of Death and Life and is in both the Gods of the Wold and the Gods of Testing because he's neutral. But before, he was evil. When the change came, some of the former worshippers of Gargul rejected his change in role and alignment. Some of them set out to 'restore' Gargul to his former ways. For some reason, Marteaus allowed these rebels into his church and grants them spells."

"Today, they often work through fronts like this death cult you mention. If they're actually working openly, they wear red cloaks to recognize one another and indicate their ranks."

Belkior continues on and mentions some other names, including the ones from the diary.

"Atmahlanto ... that's the second time recently that there's been someone interested in that creature. But, from what you say, that's no surprise to you. Let me get a history book out."

The librarian goes off to a cabinet, unlocks it and withdraws a thin leather-clad volume. He moves to a nearby table and motions Belkior over.

"This book is really old, back to the Second Age. It's been faithfully copied several times and we think it's correct."

"Things were different back then as you might guess. The Wold was different, in both shape and form. One of the most feared names from that time was At-mah-lan-to, an elven wizard who feared losing his faculties as he aged. He might have been one of the first liches, for he transformed himself with foul magic to continue his studies. Over time, he came to rule a mighty city dedicated to the worship of Gargul, the evil god of the dead."

"In addition to undead armies, At-mah-lan-to used monsters bred from spiders to control his slaves. He was, apparently, enamoured of poison and poison spells. Eventually, a party of adventurers managed to destroy his physical body and liberate the slaves when his magic faded. But they couldn't destroy the phylactery, the thing enchanted to hold his lifeforce. Somehow, it's not clear in the book, the adventurers managed to somehow prevent At-mah-lan-to from reforming."

"The adventurers then buried the phylactery along with the bodies of At-mah-lan-to's servants and guards. It was well that they did for the servants were somehow transformed into undead when they died. The tomb was sealed with a magic ritual that was not described and is no longer possible. After the adventurers left, the former slaves guarded the tomb. Apparently, they were cursed somehow and would not be freed until the lich was permanently destroyed."

After expounding on this, the librarian hears mention of Arm's curse.

"You mean that he sipped from an unknown, potentially magical drink? Why don't you adventurers ever learn? I'm not the one to examine him; he should go to the infirmary. They can probably tell you something about this drink, too."

When the party walks with Arm towards the infirmary, Mira sticks close to his side.

Infirmary tomorrow - it's late already

Talking to Thelonius Longbottle in the Mage Guild (DM JohnP)
Tuesday August 22nd, 2006 11:03:38 PM
Kadaz rouses himself to accompany the wizard so that he won't get himself into too much trouble. Birdie tags along, happy to be going for a walk in the morning.

Edmund turns all of his charm upon the wizened gnome and, surprisingly, didn't turn him off with his chatter. The gnome looks up and studies Edmund. The gnome smiles when the wizard mentions his background and relations.

"Say, that wouldn't be the Greenleafs of the Windbourne Hills, would it? My second-cousins have a small forest fruit winery there and they constantly go on about how nice the Greenleafs are. So, since you are related, I suppose I can help you out."

The gnome goes puttering off to a door and unlocks it, looking both ways to ensure that no one is seeing where he keeps the key hidden.

After the gnome left, Birdie continues to nose about. After casting back and forth for a short while, the dog pushes some books from a low shelf and pulls out a sack. Birdie tears the sack open and an awful smell pours out. Ash reels away in disgust since the last time he smelt something like this it was a swamp-lizard left rotting in a stagnant pool for a fortnight.

Wynn, fortunately, is off browsing the books in the nearby stacks. He finds nothing interesting in the history section but does find a travelogue written by a elven bard who claimed to be in the first party who explored the lake where Floating City is now located. The book mentions the hazards of the Crying Woods and some of the other areas bordering the lake. An area, close to where the "Beach" marking was located in the diary map, was described as having unusually large jungle creatures. Actually, it's described as a bit of a "lost world". As for vampires, there are numerous treatises on the best methods for dispatching vampires, famous and infamous vampires, and fanciful romance stories involving vampires. But nothing about Sarah.

Mira finds some stacks of broadsheets intended for use as packing material. Looking through it, she sees little mention of undead besides the events under Lady Ilonia's mansion.

The gnome comes back with a tottering stack of mouldy books. He gently eases them onto his desk, making sure than none fall.

"Good thing I hadn't put these back. Someone else was in here a few weeks back asking about the same thing. Fascinating stuff, really, these books that purport to describe the Second Age. Look here."

"The story is that Atmahlanto was a priest-wizard of Gargul. Back when he was the God of the Dead. Apparently Atmahlanto was rewarded for faithful service by being transformed into a lich. Or something like a lich, anyway. The books aren't clear."

"He built a great temple complex to honor his God using undead hordes and living slaves. The legend is that an early adventurer group, much like you lot, managed to destroy his physical body. However, they couldn't destroy the phylactery that held his lifeforce but they somehow prevented At-mah-lan-to from reforming. The adventurers then buried the phylactery along with the bodies of At-mah-lan-to's servants and guards."

"Like a lot of books from back then, nothing much is said about the slaves. Except that Atmahlanto liked to experiment, grafting different animal parts onto them and enchanting them. Supposedly some of these former slaves guard the tomb to this day. And they're good guardians since they're supposed to be both magically adept and unharmed by normal weapons."

"After the cataclysms came to the Wold, the location of Atmahlanto's temple-tomb was lost. People still read about him because he was supposed to be Gargul's only mortal confidante and then he became undead. If his tomb was ever found, and a historian managed to talk to him without being instantly destroyed, that historian could learn a lot about what Gargul was like back then."

Arm
Wednesday August 23rd, 2006 6:07:23 AM
Arm pales visibly at the thought of undead, liches, and the like. Feeling rather ill, he allows Mira to guide him to the infirmary for some apparently much-needed care.

Going to the Infirmary (DM JohnP)
Wednesday August 23rd, 2006 9:25:15 AM
After being directed to the infirmary, Belkior leads the small group back into the main part of the Cathedral of Light. After some twists and turns, the group comes to a waiting room filled with all manner of sick and injured people.

Motioning to his companions to wait, Belkior approaches the attendant. After a whispered conversation, Belkior comes back to his companions.

"He says it shouldn't be too long. The specialists who treat ... ahhh ... problems of this nature ... aren't too busy. Most of these people are sick or injured."

After a short wait, Arm is summoned into an examination room where an elf and a dwarf wait. Mira and Belkior follow along in case Arm needs some support. Arm is motioned towards a low chair in the centre of the room.

"How long has he been like this?," the elf asks as he bends over Arm's head. "Have you noticed any unusual changes in behaviour?"

The elf's long fingers lightly press on bumps and other points on Arm's head. The sensation would almost be soothing if it weren't for the anxiety of wondering what the diagnosis might be.

As the elf does this, the dwarf takes a small silver hammer from a pocket of his white overrobe. After polishing it on a sleeve, he bends and taps Arm's right knee with the hammer. Then the left knee. Then both ankles. The dwarf watches Arm's reactions as he does so. Finally, the dwarf elbows the elf aside and taps Arm on the top of the head with the hammer. The dwarf cocks his head, seeming to listen to some noise.

As this is going on, Belkior looks over at Mira and shrugs.

Since he can't measure the bumps on Arm's head any longer, the elf starts asking more questions. As before, he speaks to Mira and Belkior rather than Arm.

"Do you have any remnants of the potion he drank?"

"Has his diet changed recently? Any unusual cravings?"

"Has he ever suffered a serious head injury? One where he lost conciousness?"

"He's never been infected with Southern Brain Worms, has he? Or Jungle Skull Rot?"

After several exploratory taps on the top of Arm's head, the dwarf hits Arm's head with the silver hammer with gradually increasing force. This is definitely getting bothersome.

The poking and prodding continues until Arm is ready to throw himself out of the chair. Finally it ends, but not before Amr can feel many tiny bumps starting to swell on his head. The two healers move over to a corner and whisper to one another.

"Nothing wrong, as far as we can tell. Did he fall out of a tree as a child?"

"Nope, the resonances all check out. There is a sub-harmonic on the ninth pressure point but that's probably just this morning's breakfast not agreeing with him. Or something else irritating him."

"He's good to go. Now shoo, we have really sick people to see, don't we Thurible?"

When Mira mentions a more traditional magical examination, the elf and dwarf shrug and look at one another.

"What, you want him magically examined? Why didn't you say so? Hummpf, waste of time in my opinion. Cranial sonic resonance imaging is the latest technique in diagnosis of diseases of the mind. I said so in my paper, accepted for print in the next issue Annals of Diagnostic Acoustics."

"This new-fangled dwarven technique is all well and good but nothing is better than craniometry. You don't need specialists like us for magical examination, any Healer can do it."

Despite these statements, the two temple acolytes stand back and cast magic spells at Arm. When Mira holds out the Chalice, they examine it also.

"Like we said, anyone could do it. No trace of lingering magic and no sign of continuing mental influence."

"And there's no trace of anything left in the fancy bowl, either."

Syr
Wednesday August 23rd, 2006 9:25:50 AM
Syr stands impatiently in line at the catacombs.

Angus
Wednesday August 23rd, 2006 9:34:17 AM
Angus listens intently to Ashbeard and Thunir before answering Thunir " Hey if you could arrange sailing transportation that would be great. Just remember their are 15 of us and several animals. Should we check back tomorrow for details."

Angus follows Xenia to the temple and he listens in horror to all that is revealed. "Just great." Angus mumbles " And I am the one that always wants more information. This just might be too much information."

Angus is very interested in finding out more about the magical Elixir that Arm foolishly drank and he tags close along. "So how are you going to analyze the magical echoes and effects on our friend and the chalice?" Angus asks with boundless curiousity. Angus walks next to Mira on the way. "This should be interesting." Angus then adds "Want to try out being a mini dragon?"

Angus moves over to Xenia. "I will come to the Catacombs with you. We have to see if they sell and Lich bane." Angus smiles weakly.

Shadow
Wednesday August 23rd, 2006 10:46:19 AM
Partially waking up as the group heads out, Shadow rests his head back on the pillow and is instantly back ot sleep.

He dreams of the 'good old days' when all he had to worry about is the occasional mark waking up as he was leaving with the 'confiscated' item or two.

When he wakes up he will head over to Sampson's as his stomache is growling. After a quick sponge off, he checks to see if anyone else is around. Not seeing anyone he heads over to Sampson's.

Mira
Wednesday August 23rd, 2006 11:53:07 AM
Mira doesn't know what to think...

As the group makes their way back to the rendezvous point, she watches the bard out of the corner of her eye. The healers at the Cathedral of Light seemed like a bunch of quacks to her, but the news that Arm was unaffected by he elixir was good, right? What would account for the half-elf's short temper then, and disturbing streak of violence?

More disturbing though is the news gained regarding the monstrous evil that seems to have pervaded their part of the Wold. Mira feels sick to her stomach, and her hands go cold and numb at the thought of what could happen if the 'cult' goes unchecked and somehow goes looking for this preist-wizard-undead -Atmahlanto-creature. Mira checks her group: Conner, Kadaz, Thar, Shadow, Ash, Edmund. Are her friends, old and new, up to this? Is she?

Xenia
Wednesday August 23rd, 2006 2:07:15 PM
"Yeah, we done some sailing," replies the dark rogue. "Well, more like rowing."

"But did I hear you were heading out again, Thunir?" she asks. "I mean, you wouldn't happen to be headed out to the same area, would you? If you were, It might, you know, be to the benefit of both of us to go the same way. You'd get the backing of swords, stealth and magic. And we'd get the benefit of a guy who knows not only the area, but how to sail too."

"Whaddja think? Pretty good deal, huh?"

========================================

Later, along with Angus, Xenia heads to the big Temple of Alemi out on the island in the river.

"Um, I think Syr took the stuff down to the Catacombs already, Angus. You wanna go check things out with him?"

Somehow everything looks really familiar. Maybe it's from when she was flying over it in gryphon form the other day, but it doesn't seem like it. More like ... like having seen it in a dream. Weird. Very weird.

Hearing from Belkie about the Gargul-Marteaus guys brings back the same feeling. Red Cloaks. She can even see herself fighting them. Again, very weird.

The rogue shakes off the feeling as they head down to the Infirmary place. It's like Mumbo-Jumbo-Land down there, but the upshot is there's no curse on Arm. That's bad. Means maybe this guy's got a bad streak in him. Maybe, just maybe, this guy's a hitter.

"Well, that was pretty bizarre, huh?" Xenia comes up behind Mira and Arm. "I mean, those two guys. I think they been down in the basement too long, huh?" She chuckles, but it's a nervous sort of chuckle. "So, um, we going back to Sampson's now? They do pot pies?"

Belkior (Sub/Al)
Wednesday August 23rd, 2006 2:53:59 PM
"Yes, the 'Red Testers,'" Belkior nods as the Librarian gives a synopsis of the Year of Ascension. "I should have guessed from the symbol."

Then the Librarian wanders into new territory with his description of Atmahlanto.

"Spiders, you say? Remember the stone figure that we found in the throne of the vampire, Sarah? The figure shaped like a Spider? Could that have been a symbol connected to Atmahlanto? Maybe a symbol of office carried by Sarah as one of Atmahlanto's undead emissaries. Or, perhaps the symbol of a courier that Sarah might recognize as coming from Atmahlanto?"

The halfling cleric of Alemi ponders the implications.

"There were also indications that the cult was moving their base of operations to Floating City. And we've met a merchant who's reported giant spiders, spiders large enough to ride, he said. He saw these things somewhere on Turtle Lake."

"Thank you." Belkior inclines his head to the Librarian. "I think our next avenue of investigation lies in the direction of Floating City. Hopefully we'll be able to send a report back to you for your archives."

==========================================

Later, in the Infirmary, Belkior pays the pair and their experimental therapies little heed. Instead, he spends the time reporting the findings that they had gleaned from the trip to the Librarian.

"So it looks like we'll need to follow the cult back to Floating City, Angus." Belkior looks around at the others. "Do you think we should ask the Plateau City group to come along as well? They have as much a stake in this as we do."

Day's Spells
0 Level: Detect Magic**, Detect poison*, Light*, Read Magic*, Resistance*
1st Level: Bless**, Detect Undead*, Hide from Undead*, Magic Stone*, Sanctuary*, (Protection from Evil+)
2nd Level: Hold Person*, Owl's Wisdom*, Silence, Spiritual Weapon* (Aid*)
3rd Level: Dispel Magic*, Prayer*, Searing Light*, uStone Shape (Magic Circle against Evil+*)
4th Level: Death Ward*, Freedom of Movement*, Summon Monster IV+, (Holy Smite+*)

Turning 4/4 per day

Edmund
Wednesday August 23rd, 2006 5:16:04 PM
"Greenleaves," Edmund says to the gnome with a smile and a wink. "I'll give them your regards!" Then, as the wizened old fellow pips off to check the archives, Edmund turns to the rest of his group and gives them an enthusiastic thumbs-up with a big grin to boot.

When the Gnome comes back to deliver his findings, Edmund's happy smile becomes rather strained. "Liches... chimeras... undead... unharmed by weapons... magically adept..." he says quietly, staring through the Gnome, as opposed to looking at him. "Right. Jolly good. Probably vampires too. Good thing I know how to deal with them. Good thing..."

Edmund trails off, looking a bit pale, but then blinks, eyes focusing again.

"Wait a minute. What do you mean someone else has been asking after this information? Who else has been?"

Kadaz
Wednesday August 23rd, 2006 8:40:13 PM
Kadaz jumps a bit when Birdie breaks open the smelly bag. He moves over to the bookshelf and nudges it back in with foot. Then he nudges a book over in front of the bag.

Kadaz listens carefully to the mage reporting on what he knows. Kadaz pipes up with his own questions. "What did this phylactery look like? Like a bowl or a box? How big? And this grafting of animal parts. Could that be like a halfling with cat legs?" This doesn't sound good.

Thar ail Baerer
Wednesday August 23rd, 2006 9:06:02 PM
As the day passes on, Thar's head begins to ache as he tries to take in all of the information regarding Gargul, Ah-whatchamacallit and the cultists wearing Red Cloaks. "Why do these humans always have such complex schemes? Life in the outdoors was so much simpler. Basic healing, hunting and chasing maids made life so much easier. Oh well, at least I won't get bored."

He follows Mira and Arm back to the rendezvous point, disappointed that the "healers" (or so they claimed) seemed involved in quite a bit of quackery. But he does give himself a sigh of relief, when it appears that Arm doesn't have anything significantly wrong with him. "I'm glad you're OK, my friend," he says to Arm, while walking with the group.

He then falls silent, waiting for someone to propose some different options, either in Plateau City or Floating City.

Ash
Wednesday August 23rd, 2006 9:59:14 PM
Shuddering at the memory of that previous odour, Ash continues to follow along and see what happens.

Wynn
Wednesday August 23rd, 2006 10:15:18 PM
Wynn browses the travelogue and takes mental note of the hazards mentioned by his fellow bard. Unable to find anything else of interest he joins Edmund and the others to hear the gnome's summary of Atmahlanto. A chill runs through the bard as the tale is recounted to them. A lich whose phylactery cannot be destroyed...that can't be good.

Conner
Wednesday August 23rd, 2006 10:20:50 PM
The fighter tags along with Belkior and the others and silently thanks the gods that he himself does not require medical treatment.

On the way back he keeps his own council, but is definitely worried about the possibility of this death cult awakening the lich and enabling him to re-form.

Talking to the Von Ottens (DM JohnP)
Wednesday August 23rd, 2006 10:43:35 PM
Ashbeard and Thunir listen to the questions that the Shields and the people from Plateau City have. When Angus and Xenia invite him to accompany the parties, Thunir looks over at his cousin.

"Well, my boat would be a bit cramped for that many people. It would be especially tight with the animals coming along, too. But I suppose that it would be possible, if I am permitted to go. And I really would like to get a better look at that area, especially with some other people to watch out for the spiders."

The two dwarfs lean close and whisper back and forth. Thunir turns back and nods to them.

"I can go along with you. Send word when you're ready to depart and I'll meet all of you at the Teucri portal to Floating City. Maybe the portal guards can tell you something of when these people crossed."

Back from the Cathedral (DM JohnP)
Wednesday August 23rd, 2006 10:44:50 PM
Arm sits patiently under the examination by the specialists. He now understands why those two aren't very busy. Walking back from the Cathedral, he keeps close to Mira who seems to be lost in thought. Both of them should be heartened by the lack of any lasting effect from Arm's drinking the potion, but neither seems to be.

Xenia tries to cheer the group, joking along with Angus. But she's having either premonitions or flashbacks, too. Walking with them, Belkior thinks about how it now looks like everyone will need to travel to Floating City. It would be nice to see what has happened there.

Thar walks along, wondering what sights and places he will experience next. Conner keeps pace with him as they all walk back to Sampson's.

Back from the Library (DM JohnP)
Wednesday August 23rd, 2006 10:46:36 PM
Edmund's high spirits are barely dampened by what the gnome tells him. But then he asks about the others who have been seeking the same information. The gnome quickly replies.

"A divine, I think he followed one of the Gods of Testing. Gave me the heebie-jeebies, he did. Name of Wymann, or something like that."

As this exchange goes on, Kadaz tries to get the weeks-old forgotten food away from Birdie. He manages the task and, fortunately, the gnome is so taken with Edmund that he doesn't notice that Birdie almost ate his slime mould starter culture. The dwarf also asks some questions of the gnome.

"The phylactery? No details are mentioned except that it was too big to move and it was somehow invulnerable to damage. Not the way these things are made nowadays, but Atmahlanto was one of the first, if not the first, lich."

"The stories don't mention animal parts, at least not cats or wolves or the like. Spiders and insects and crossbreeding with outsiders, that's what was mentioned. And gruesome experiments to create living undead, but those seem to have ultimately failed."

Ash and Wynn listen to all of this, wondering how the entire thing fits together. They lead the group from the Mage Guild back to Sampson's.

Elsewhere & At Sampson's (DM JohnP)
Wednesday August 23rd, 2006 10:48:17 PM
Syr waits impatiently in the line at the Catacombs outlet.

After awakening, Shadow looks for any companions who have stayed in the apartment. He finds the tall barbarian woman who is sitting and compulsively polishing her greatsword. When the rogue enters the common area, Famina looks up at him.

"I've had a bad premonition. I should stay here to protect the children at the farm. Can you tell my companions that I can't accompany them?"

With that, Famina stands and walks out the door. After making himself presentable, Shadow heads towards Sampson's. It's early when he gets there but that simply means that it will be easier to have the staff push a couple tables together so that everyone can sit together.

DM JohnP -- Mikey, Famina's player, is going on walkabout for a couple weeks with the start of school.

Edmund
Thursday August 24th, 2006 3:29:32 AM
"Ah! Wymann!" Edmund exclaims. "Have no fear, master Gnome. He is now in the hospitable custody of the town constabulary."

When Edmund hears the Phylactery is invulnerable to danger, he blanches. "Invulnerable... to damage?" he repeats quietly, eyes sinking down to the floor. "I say."

Thanking the Gnome profusely, with much shaking of hands, bowing, and offers of a drink together at the Gnome's convenience, Edmund returns to Sampson's with his friends. Along the way, Edmund can be heard muttering to himself repetitively. "Spiders... Living Undead... Invulnerable Liches... Chimaeras... Evil Gods..."

Once they reach Sampson's, Edmund is looking none too good. "Not feeling well, chaps." he says miserably. "Been a rough few days. Very stressful. Most upsetting. Hope you understand. Should be better in the morning, what? Then we'll set off to destroy this Lich King. No fear, it should be easy with me on your side. As you know, I've lots of experience with this sort of thing. I've handled liches plenty of times. For now, though. I think a bit of rest, what? Yes..."

Edmund, for what might be the first time ever, will pass up attempts at conversation and rush off to his room instead, shutting the door, tumbling into bed, and hiding under his covers. "What am I going to do now!?" he whispers pathetically to himself, once he is alone. "What am I going to do!?"

Arm
Thursday August 24th, 2006 6:10:27 AM
Arm is about a tenth of a second from grabbing the hammer from the dwarf and adding a few bumps to HIS head when he thinks of Mira and instead suffers the exam. With a scowl of disgust, he leave the two inept healers and accompanies Mira out of the Cathedral of Light.

Leaning on her to combat the occasional dizzy spells from the "examination", Arm throws an arm across Thar's shoulders as well, "Thank you, my friend. I don't know how much credence we can put behind those two, but your sentiments are appreciated.". Looking to Mira, he continues, "If its all the same to you, my dear, I'd like to head back to the apartment for some rest...I don't feel quite well at the moment. If you could bring me some food, as well as any news, back from Sampson's, I'd really appreciate it.".

Angus
Thursday August 24th, 2006 8:27:34 AM
Angus reflects on all he has learned today and it is more than he cared for. "Lets all meet up at Sampson's with the others and swap information and plan out the next few days. It looks like we will get to so you folk our city this time around. Although, it is not in as good a shape as your. I trust they have been working on the reconstruction, but I fear it will take time."

Angus walks in silence for a bit longer and then adds "If you can think of any supplies that will help fight undead and spiders, go pick them up now. We may be a bit of money from the latest run in with the cultists. Time to stock up now if we are going sailing and camping in the woods." Angus gives an involuntary shudder as he knows how much he misses a soft bed when the Shields hit the woods.

Lang & Sunshine
Thursday August 24th, 2006 9:18:17 AM
Lang trails along with the group lost in his thoughts about the lich and fighting more undead. The group will have to be very prepared if a lich is stronger than the vampire they recently fought.

"Perhaps we need to do some research on the strengths and weaknesses of a lich before we sail. We may need to stock up on some undead supplies also."

Shadow
Thursday August 24th, 2006 10:54:14 AM
Shadow arrives at the nearly empty Sampson's, "Hey {insert name of the waitress/waiter that is working}, could you help me move these table together?" He says as he points to a couple of tables and starts putting them together. Once the tables are situated, "I will take a tankard of Sampson's famous brew, and wait for the rest of my companions to show up." With that he will take one of the chairs next to the wall (facing the entrance) and lean it against the wall with his feet on one of the other chairs near. Feeling very refreshed he waits comfortably sipping his ale.

Thar ail Baerer
Thursday August 24th, 2006 12:18:54 PM
Thar will continue accompanying Arm and Mira back to the apartment, ensuring that their journey is uninterrupted.

Once back at the apartment, Thar says "Arm, if you're going to take a nap, I'll head over to Sampson's and see what everyone wants to do next. Do you need me to bring you any food?"

Once he hears Arm's response, Thar heads to Sampsons.

Xenia
Thursday August 24th, 2006 12:35:31 PM
Back at Sampson's Xenia curls up in a chair next to Wynn.

"How was the Library? Any interesting books? Anything with ... pictures?" She twirls the tip of her finger across the top of Wynn's thigh, drawing invisible doodles in long caressing strokes.

"Fram and framblation," Xenia suddenly snaps her fingers in irritation as the thought comes to her. "You know, I forgot to ask Ashbeard about land prices in Floating City. You figure he's got to know that sorta thing. I think it would be great to have a little shop underneath our new apartments." The rogue's green eyes search for eavesdroppers first, then she whispers.

"And my Da is always looking for new ways to move goods out of Dirt City, if you know what I mean."

Belkior (Sub/Al)
Thursday August 24th, 2006 1:12:30 PM
At Sampsons, Belkior offers the information that they learned from their talk with the Librarian of the Temple of Light. In turn, he listens quietly as the others speak of the details that the others learned of the Lich Atmahlanto and the offer of a boat from Floating City with Thunir of the House Von Otten.

"Poisons, Angus," Belkior adds to the sorcerer's call for supplies. "The Librarian at the Temple of Alemi said that Atmahlanto was fond of Poison and Poison spells," he says to the others gathered there. "So in your supplies and preparation, take care to plan for that as well as wards against Undead."

The little cleric of Alemi puts his hand to his chin as he considers the situation.

"As we are dealing with both poison as well as undead, I think we should seriously consider investing in a wand of Restoration. That would be the Lesser variety for now as I doubt that we collectively have the funds for anything else. What do you say?" He looks to both Angus and Mira for their input.

Day's Spells
0 Level: Detect Magic**, Detect poison*, Light*, Read Magic*, Resistance*
1st Level: Bless**, Detect Undead*, Hide from Undead*, Magic Stone*, Sanctuary*, (Protection from Evil+)
2nd Level: Hold Person*, Owl's Wisdom*, Silence, Spiritual Weapon* (Aid*)
3rd Level: Dispel Magic*, Prayer*, Searing Light*, uStone Shape (Magic Circle against Evil+*)
4th Level: Death Ward*, Freedom of Movement*, Summon Monster IV+, (Holy Smite+*)

Turning 4/4 per day

Kadaz
Thursday August 24th, 2006 4:52:05 PM
Finally back at Sampsons with food and ale in him, Kadaz looks around at the group and wonders where this is heading. He decided now is the time to bring up the issue.

"We've broken up 2 of these cult circles in Plateau City. Wyman seemed to imply that other quarters of the city also had circles. They have to be stopped. But Wyman also said that their leaders have fled to Floating City. Without the leaders the other circles may be easier to find and destroy."

"Angus, thank you for inviting us to travel with you to Floating City to track down these leaders. But I just want for my friends here to understand that this may leave some danger behind us in Plateau City. I'd like for us to discuss this."

"Personally, I feel we've lessened the danger to Plateau City from this cult. I want to follow the leaders and stomp out this evil where they've gone to ground. So I vote to travel. What do you think?" With this last question Kadaz turns to look at the other members of the Plateau City party, wanting them to speak their minds.

Mira
Thursday August 24th, 2006 9:25:00 PM
Mira moves close to the bard, and gives Arm a kiss on the cheek. She stays close, and reaches up to brush the hair back from his forehead. "Quel kaima, melamin,"* she says before turning to follow Thar to Sampson's.

Mira waves to Shadow, and crosses to where the rogue has claimed a table for the party. Opening her scroll case she takes out some sheets of cheap paper, and an implement for writing and starts to make notes about what she has learned so far.

Who? Death Cult/Red Cloaks

What? Interest in raising dead/undead- interested in At-mah-lan-to (priest-wizard-lich?) corporal body destroyed-entombed in phylactery-uses poison/poison spells

Why? to restore Gargul (former/evil ways) with support of Marteaus (testing/disease-supports)

Where? Presence in Plateau City-Floating City?-other places?

How? Does the draught factor in? 'Mead' made by Saxmuir-drink from chalice and have dreams/see visions-no lasting affect? Something else? Wyman's research-just At-mah-lan-to or more? What is Lady Iliona's connection?

When?

*Sleep well, my love.

Ash
Thursday August 24th, 2006 10:39:33 PM
Ash returns to Sampsons, getting increasingly confused by the events he is finding himself involved in.

Getting Together (DM JohnP)
Thursday August 24th, 2006 10:54:33 PM
The parties drift back to the apartment and Sampson's where they had arranged to meet.

After muttering a few pleasantries, Edmund retreats to his room. Blessed silence lingers in his wake.

Arm and Mira walk in together, and the bard also retires. Mira sits at the table and begins scribing some notes about what they've learned. Thar waits to hear what Arm says before retiring, then goes to Sampson's.

++++++

Angus continues past the apartment and goes directly to Sampson's. Lang walks beside the sorcerer, musing about what preparations should be made. Xenia and Belkior enter together, also talking about what preparations should be made.

Once they arrive, they move over to the table that Shadow has put together. Kadaz arrives shortly and puts his feet up on the table. The dwarf debates whether departing for Floating City would leave too much danger behind. Ash drifts in shortly after, Shelya at his heels.

After talking over a meal and drinks, everyone eventually heads back to the apartment. Mira and some others are still awake but the others look to have retired for the evening. Maybe the time for planning is in the morning. Everything will seem brighter then, won't it?

Edmund d20+9=22
Friday August 25th, 2006 12:38:48 AM
Edmund rises in the morning and, after washing up, reads over his usual spells for the day. Still unsure of what to do, he is at least certain on what he doesn't want to do. When he meets everyone else later on to begin planning what to do next, he immediately puts in his two pence worth. (Diplomacy=22)

"Setting off to destroy liches is all well and good, but if the phylactery is immune to damage, I doubt there is anyway we can truly stop this creature. Even my formidable talents, along with my exhaustive experience in defeating liches, will most likely be of little avail to you. I could not advise such a mission as this."

"I think we ought seek out this Evil Elf Sorceress Queen and put a stop to her instead. This Athamantlos fellow has been around for ages, right? But, the problems only began recently! It is reasonable to assume that the existence of this lich is not the direct cause of the problems you have suffered. It is far more likely that some malevolent force is at work directing things, and that force is clearly something new--the Evil Elf Sorceress Queen, obviously! Let us find her and dispose of her! If we dispose of the lich, she will merely find some new villainy to turn to her ends. But, if we dispose of her, I suspect the problems will cease, and there will be no need to essay upon nigh-suicidal missions in far-away lands. If the evil continues after her death, then it will be time to up the stakes and risk a little more. We will be stronger then, as well, and better ready to handle such a creature as Atlamanthys."

"Until it is necessary, why risk life and limb if we could put end to this by a safer means? Common sense dictates we risk only what is necessary. It would be folly to do otherwise!"

Xenia d20+7=24
Friday August 25th, 2006 4:41:35 AM

New day dawns, and this time the girl rogue is ready for it. She rises early and dresses quick in shirt and leggings. With a few coppers, she bops out to a little store for some fresh baked rolls with strawberry jam centers for everyone to have with their kaffe.

"That makes sense, Ed," she says from around a mouthful of jam. "But, if your Evil Elf Sorceress Queen Ilyona is one of the leaders of this cult you got, I think she's gone off to Floating City by now. Leastwise that's what I read from the stuff we found out yesterday."

Xenia takes another sip of kaffe and looks at the mug she's borrowed. There's a rough but appealing hemisphere with rays, a sunrise over the water, embossed on the side and painted in blues and orange.

"That should be pretty easy to check," she continues. "Just ask them down at the Teleport Pad."

Rolls and Actions
Diplomacy 24 (26 if sitting near Belkior)

Arm
Friday August 25th, 2006 6:00:06 AM
Arm doesn't settle for a simple kiss on the cheek. Summoning what strength he has remaining, he draws Mira close and kisses her full on the lips, "Thank you, my dear," he whispers to her, yet the expression in his eyes says more than words ever could.

Nodding gratefully to Thar before he leaves, Arm wearily lays down on his bed, then watches the room spin for a bit before he falls asleep. Even in sleep, he feels as if he is spinning, tumbling around a dark vortex just to land once again in the desert, just as before. He awakes with a start, thinking, "Will I ever be free of this?" just before Mira and the rest return. Going out to the common room, he accepts the food hungrily from Thar upon his return. Perhaps it was the short rest or the ingestion of food, but his dizziness seems to have passed, albeit he STILL has one killer of a headache.

After asking Thar if he knows of a cure for it, he whispers to Mira over his cup of java, "I was thinking my dear...if you are willing, I would like it if you would either move into my room or I into yours.".

Kadaz
Friday August 25th, 2006 6:25:31 AM
Kadaz has finally had it. Edmund's words, while fine and smooth, make no sense to him. This guy thinks way too much of himself. The dwarf leans over, picks up Birdie, and sets the dog on the table in front of Edmund. "Hey, Ed, talk to the dog! Maybe he'll believe you."

To the rest of the party Kadaz summarizes his feelings. "Let's find the source of this cult in Floating City and pound it to dust. I'm ready to go."

Conner
Friday August 25th, 2006 7:44:27 AM
Conner rises early and takes a seat at the bottom of the stairs. There is a soft 'schwkkk...schwkkk...schwkkk' as he repeatedly draws his whetstone down the blade of his sword, stopping only to search for unseen burs with the side of his thumb.

He makes room for Xenia to get by him when she returns with provisions. She squeezes past and her hair brushes against him, his thoughts turn briefly to Amy.

Wynn
Friday August 25th, 2006 8:01:28 AM
The half-elf rises at the smell of Kaffe and bread. He finds an old chipped mug without a handle and pours himself a cup. He sits near the window, his feet propped up on the sill, thinking about the lich, the Crying Woods and what he has read about the dangers they may face. "If we are going to visit the Crying Woods we should visit the elves and check on Prionel. They may be able to provide us with assistance, or at the very least allow us safe passage." His thought turn back to their last encounter with the jungle, Prionel's daughter, Perimon's folly at establishing a colony on it's shores, and the rumors of a 'Lost City of Gold' hidden from the ages deep in the jungle.

His quiet thoughts are interrupted by Kadaz' outburst. "Talk to the Dog...", its too much for the bard and his chair tips back just a bit too far. The ground rushes up to catch him. Lying on his back, Wynn can only laugh at the proposition of Edmund and Birdie in an intellectual showdown.

Mira
Friday August 25th, 2006 10:56:59 AM
Mira marvels at how good she feels after only a couple of hours of sleep. Holding out her hand, she looks at her newest acquisition, and smiles. The sorcerer sets things up for breakfast, then takes up her pack and heads out to the public baths. It is early and still dark outside. She will likely be one of the first at the facility, but who knows when next she will have the luxury, or the opportunity.

On her way back, she runs into Xenia. Sniffing at the bag held by the rogue, she licks her lips, and then grins. "I've never been to Floating City, well not beyond the confines of the Giggling Ghost, anyway," she says. The sorcerer remembers what Angus and Belkior said about the destruction that occurred, and grabs Xenia's arm. "The Ghost! It still stands? And Happy? Is he okay? I don't suppose we could stay there, if we go back with you and the Crimson Shields?"

Back at the apartment, she pours herself a coffee and listens to what folks have to say. She is about to answer Arm's question when Kadaz's outburst draws her attention. Mira's melodic laugh join's that of the others, and she ruffles the half-elven wizard's hair.

Shadow
Friday August 25th, 2006 11:00:24 AM
After a good meal and a couple of ales at Sampson's Shadow is ready to head back to the apartment. When he sees that decisions won't be made until morning and since he is not ready for bed Shadow says, "I am going to head over to the guild to see if they have any more information." With that Shadow will gear up and then make his way through the early evening towards the rogue hideout. Once he is there he will let them know that he needs to see the nightmaster (or daymaster if he is still there). He will chat with some of his one time accomplaces if they are around waiting for his meeting.

Once in with the day/night master he will explain what has transpired and let them know it seems like he and his companions are headed to Floating City in search of more ringleaders. He states that he is sorry to inform them that he does not yet know where Lady Ilonia is, but hopes they are still on the right trail.

Angus
Friday August 25th, 2006 12:10:56 PM
Angus muses to himself after taking in all of the information at Sampson's "Lets go cash in the supplies we liberated from the death cultists and use the funds to fight them. I like your idea Belkior about the lessor restoration wand, but lets see what kind of funds we get. We also may want to get a few delay poisons or neutralize poison scrolls to spread around, just in case. Who will do the shopping?" Angus finishes looking full at Xenia.

Hearing Edmond complain about changing focus, Angus adds. "Edmond, this is our most solid lead right now. As Xenia stated, your lady may even be in our fair city and not your at the moment. Two groups of cultists have been smashed to date, let our combined forces track down this third lead and see what we can learn. If we discover the lich and it is too much for our combined might, we can always retreat and seek council with the Platinum Dragons as they spend alot of time in the Floating City. In fact, the Paltinum Dragons came to the defense of the City during the troubles."

Angus looks around att he group. "Any reason we should not leave for the Floating City tomorrow morning? We can stop by and tell Thunir our plans today."

After lunch, Angus will leave word for Ashbeard and Thundir of the groups plans and where to reach them.

Belkior (Sub/Al)
Friday August 25th, 2006 1:32:48 PM
Belkior enters the room after tending to his morning's devotions.

"Some Antitoxin may be useful as well, Angus." He reaches up to the table for one of the rolls and examines one carefully before nibbling a small bite. "They provide an inexpensive boost to the body's defenses for those of heartier constitution."

The roll tastes nutritious, but the sugar in the jam at the center worries the little healer. Perhaps he would eat around it.

Day's Spells
0 Level: Detect Magic**, Detect poison*, Light*, Read Magic*, Resistance*
1st Level: Bless**, Detect Undead*, Hide from Undead*, Magic Stone*, Sanctuary*, (Protection from Evil+)
2nd Level: Hold Person*, Owl's Wisdom*, Silence, Spiritual Weapon* (Aid*)
3rd Level: Dispel Magic*, Prayer*, Searing Light*, Speak with Dead (Magic Circle against Evil+*)
4th Level: Death Ward*, Freedom of Movement*, Summon Monster IV+, (Holy Smite+*)

Turning 4/4 per day

Syr
Friday August 25th, 2006 5:08:48 PM
Entering Sampson's he spies the rest of the group and reports in as he sits down, "Still waiting to hear from the people at the Catacombs but we should know soon."

(OOC: I'll post the ID results once I get it except for the chalice which was with someone else, although technically I guess I could toss it in and now will)

He nudges Angus, "'fair city'? Weren't you there the last time?"

Hearing that the party will be returning to Floating City, he takes a little skip as they rise from the table, "Home at last!" Then with a puzzled look, "...although we don't really have a home." Just as quick a smile returns, "Well, at least we'll be in familair territory."

Xenia (2nd Illegal Post)
Friday August 25th, 2006 5:11:58 PM
"hehe." Walking back up the street with Mira, Xenia sighs. "Yeah. The Ghost is pretty much one of the only buildings that made it through the mess down on Fence Level. I mean, after the vines let go and the whole city went swinging back and forth, whatever buildings that were standing just came apart. 'Cept the Ghost. That's Teruci building for you. Even after all that it still held up. Not our apartments, though. Did I tell you, we used to live just around the corner from the Giggling Ghost?"

"Anyway, just by chance, Happy was out of the city when things let go. He was down by the docks just outside with those Chaos guys I was talking about. Got a dunking in the lake. But that was about it. Pretty lucky, don'cha think?"

Bag of rolls in her arms, the girl rogue leans in and bumps Mira's shoulder with her own.

"'Course we'll stay at the Ghost. Happy likes us. We saved Daphne once from Witches in the Crying Woods. He'll like you guys too. He's got some Lux Suites up on the third floor that, maybe he'll give us. The Giggling Ghost was pretty much the only place left to stay anyway. Leastwise it was at the time we left."

+++++++++++++++++++++++++

Later, with the practiced ease of a tumbler, the rogue slips and rolls to the floor from her cross legged seat on a chair. Lying on her back next to Wynn, she holds out her roll so that he can take a bite between laughs.

To Angus, she grins and gives a thumbs up.

"Just gimme the cash and I'll do the buying," she replies.

Angus (Second Illegal Post)
Friday August 25th, 2006 7:52:24 PM
Angus throws his head back and laughs when Xenia is sooo ready to go shopping. "Let get the count from Syr first. You'll get your chance."

Thar ail Baerer d20+8=28
Friday August 25th, 2006 8:32:51 PM
In the apartment, Thar will attempt to use some of his healing knowledge and aid in helping to relieve Arm's headache.

(Heal = +8= 28 (Good ole' natural 20. That's got to help me somehow....)

Once done there, he'll return to Sampson's and listen to the group's deliberations. "I'm indifferent to whichever way you all want to go. I'll support the consensus and will help where i can. I just want to destroy the cult in any way possible."

Lang & Sunshine
Saturday August 26th, 2006 1:05:02 AM
Going back to the Floating City. Hopefully it is in better shape than when the Shields left. It will be nice to see Happy again.

This Way ... or That Way (DM JohnP)
Sunday August 27th, 2006 4:16:15 PM
The groups' consensus seems to be that the investigation should be pursued in Floating City. Two groups of the death cult have been broken up here in Plateau City and, as someone pointed out, the leadership seems to have left for Floating City for their own purposes.

Of course, the Floating City folks are a little anxious to see their homes. Not to mention worried about what might happen if the cultist's were able to awaken the master lich that is supposed to lurk in the nearby jungle.

After they've discussed that, everyone gradually turns in for the night. Some, of course, prefer to close Sampson's before turnign in and others want to take an evening stroll.

++++++

Come morning, it's time to make preparations. There's been a lot of discussion of what might be needed for this excursion. And since the status of shops, even the Catacombs outlet, in Floating City is unknown it would probably be best to do the shopping here.

Not to mention that they need to do something while they're waiting for the Teucri portal to open for traffic to Floating City. When they sent word to the Von Ottens, Thunir sent word back that he would be waiting at the portal after the noon hour when traffic started going towards Floating City.

Angus
Sunday August 27th, 2006 5:30:58 PM
Angus is ready for morning as he is happy to soon be seeing the Floating city again. At breakfast Angus announces "Lets get pack up and everyone meet at the teleportation portal for noon. Thunir will met us to take us through. Everyone make what arrangements need to be made."

Angus silent wishes that Syr and the Catacombs selling would go faster, but we may be able to continue the transaction from the Floating city also.

Angus will bid farewell to Famina. "Take care of the kids and watch for undead. We may send word for you to assist us. Your sword arm will be missed."

On his way to the Teleportation platform, Angus will stop by the guard to see how Wymann and Otto are getting along in their new surroundings.

Once at the platform, Angus is anxious and ready to step through, but waits for the full head count. Angus practices his dwarvish on Thunir when he appears.

Kadaz
Sunday August 27th, 2006 6:08:21 PM
Kadaz spends the morning getting ready for departure. His preparations involve buying food for him and Birdie for a week, sharpening weapons, cleaning armor, oiling leather, and finally giving Birdie a quick bath.

While working he'll ask those who know "What's the best way to fight undead? Holy water maybe? Any spells that can make my axe more effective? And since I've never teleported before, what should I expect?"

Xenia
Sunday August 27th, 2006 10:32:15 PM
Xenia licks jam off the tips of her fingers. From the corner of her eye, she watches as Famina leaves for the Plantation. "Weird girl," she comments to herself. "Got no sense."

"You know, Angus, I don't know how much gold we got left for supplies. I mean, I think we spent a lot of our Resurrection Fund these last few weeks. I know I don't have but a few hundred gold left. Don't think we're gonna get that much from the stuff off the bugbear and the cult priest either. Not with splitting it with the Plateau City guys. Sure's not gonna buy enough stuff for fighting Liches and giant spiders. What we gonna use for cash?"

Walking to the teleport pad, Xenia drifts next to Mira.

"You ready with a description of this Illiyona Death Cult Queen of Evil, Mira? 'Course, she coulda gone through in disguise. But best to ask if she's been through anyway. I mean, long as we're here, you know?"

Edmund
Monday August 28th, 2006 12:10:29 AM
Rising in the morning, Edmund runs over his usual spells in the most sulky and sullen manner he has heretofore displayed. He stomps about a bit, washes up quickly, and hardly touches his breakfast. He does drink his tea, of course.

When the time comes for everyone to head to the teleport pad, Edmund tags along at the back, dragging his feet and proceeding with an entirely dismal aspect about his person. He is clearly not enthusiastic about going to Floating City, whatever he might have said about his expertise in these matters.

If asked about his behaviour, Edmund will smile weakly and explain it away. "Didn't sleep well, breakfast not agreeing with me, that's all. Ready to take on the Invincible Lich King. Glad to be here. Wouldn't let you fellows sink alone, dontcha know. Gotta have someone about who knows how to do these things..."

For all of his confident prattle, Edmund looks a bit green and seems as if he might be ill at any moment. Nevertheless, he goes along with the party, though without the usual endless chatter.

Arm
Monday August 28th, 2006 6:03:27 AM
Arm laughs aloud as well at Kadaz' comment, thinking that Birdie would probably win any arguement that he was put to by Edmund.

Preparing to set off for the day as well, he wonders why Mira did not answer his request, "Perhaps I spoke too hastily, and it is not yet time," he thinks to himself.

Thar ail Baerer
Monday August 28th, 2006 9:24:53 AM
Thar agrees with the party's decision and after notifying his temple of their plans to go to Floating City, buys several more days of food, to ensure that he has a week's worth.

He follows the rest of the group to their planned destination at noon.

Syr
Monday August 28th, 2006 10:33:46 AM
Overhearing Angus' comment about supplies he steps in between Xenia and the sorceror, "If we need some specific supplies, I can take care of it from my own funds. I have a nice little deal coming a bit infrequently with royalties. Just let me know what we need and I'll take care of it."

OOC: I wasn't quite sure how to roleplay the slow moving catacmobs and continuing to stay with the rest of the group, so I figure a messenger to Syr with transaction details should cover things? Of course, I prolonged things with a bit of debate :).

Shadow
Monday August 28th, 2006 10:46:39 AM
Once back from the Thieves Guild (DM John, hint, hint, wink, wink) he will check back in at Sampson's (if it is not too late), and let the group know if there is any news there. He will stay with them until they return to the apartment. Having a quite night at the apartment, Shadow is ready to help the group do what ever is needed to prepare for their trip.

Once the group heads to the transporter he will watch closely as what happens having never really seen what goes on here. He is a little apprehensive about this, but sees the confidence in others so will not say anything.

Belkior (Sub/Al)
Monday August 28th, 2006 10:56:09 AM

Fifteen people ... No. Fourteen without Famina.

The halfling cleric taps the quill pen against his lips as he stands upon the chair at the breakfast table composing his list.

After breakfast, he hops down off the chair and presents the list to Angus.

"I've cataloged our contingent of people from both the Shields and Plateau City group. We have several people who should be able to cast the Lesser Restoration spell and the Delay Poison spell. But I believe that I am the only one with the ability to completely Neutralize Poison once it is in a person's system. The same goes for a full Restoration of a person's abilities once they've been damaged. But I think that Restoration should only be necessary if we experience an attack from an Undead with the ability to strip away one's life experience."

"What do you think?"

Antitoxin 50gp - 10
Scroll Restoration, Lesser 150 gp - 5
Scroll Restoration 800 gp - 1
Scroll Delay Poison 150 gp - 5
Scroll Neutralize Poison 375 gp - 3

Total 3325 gp???

Day's Spells
0 Level: Detect Magic**, Detect poison*, Light*, Read Magic*, Resistance*
1st Level: Bless**, Detect Undead*, Hide from Undead*, Magic Stone*, Sanctuary*, (Protection from Evil+)
2nd Level: Hold Person*, Owl's Wisdom*, Silence, Spiritual Weapon* (Aid*)
3rd Level: Dispel Magic*, Prayer*, Searing Light*, Speak with Dead (Magic Circle against Evil+*)
4th Level: Death Ward*, Freedom of Movement*, Summon Monster IV+, (Holy Smite+*)

Turning 4/4 per day

Weekly Post Update (8/21/06) - ADM Scott (Shadow)
Monday August 28th, 2006 11:00:06 AM
Posting for week of 8/21/06

Plateau City
DM John: perfect
Kadaz: XXXOX
Arm: perfect
Ash: XXXXO
Shadow:XOXXX
Edmund:perfect
Mira: perfect
Connor: XXXOX
Thar: perfect
Overall: 91% effective

Crimson Shields
Syr: XXXOX
Lang: XXOXX
Belk: perfect
Famina:OOOOO
Wynn: XXXOX
Angus: perfect
Xenia: perfect
Overall: 78% effective

Xenia (2nd Illegal Post)
Monday August 28th, 2006 12:03:26 PM

Xenia eyes Mira's guy, Arm, as they walk on their way to the Teleport Pad. She angles her path to intersect with his.

"Each girl is different, you know," she says, sorta half looking up at the sky and half not. "And I don't mean to say that I know what you and Mira are about or nothing. But sometimes it's hard to make something to be so just by the saying of it, you know what I mean? I mean, sometimes it's better to get there by the doing of things, Arm."

"I still remember seeing Wynn for the first time. Coming up out of the water in that cave outside the Crying Woods, he coulda been like, you know, a god or something rising up outta the sea. Since then, we've had sorta some ups and some downs, you know. Mostly me, I guess. But it's been worth it. Going through, I mean." The rogue nods to herself. "Yeah. Even the down parts. I don't think I'd trade any of it for anything in the Wold, 'cause it's all what makes up what we got right now, me and Wynn."

"And I guess that's what I'm trying to say now, Arm. It's like, the important thing in being with someone isn't in getting there. It's in the ride, Arm. It's in the getting there."

"Just, you know, be with her. Keep treating her in the way you think she should be treated and feel the way you feel about her. Things will come along. You know?"

"Anywho." Xenia tucks her hands behind her back and looks up at one of the big fluffy clouds up above. "Just wanted to let you know you weren't alone in all this, you know? Good luck."

"Hmm-hmm-hmm ... " The girl rogue wanders back to Wynn's side. She takes his arm and hugs it to her. She's such a lucky girl.

Angus (Second Ilegal Post)
Monday August 28th, 2006 1:22:41 PM
To Syr and Xenia, Angus adds "I have no money to spare in fact I owe the big furball 200 gp." As Angus hooks his thumb in the direction of Lang. Angus continues "Syr, I think the Catacomb's branch was still open even during the worst of the troubles so you should be able to continue your transaction from there."

To Belkior "Not a bad start for the supply list, but we do need to find out how much coin we will get back from our sale of the cultists supplies."

Kadaz (2nd ilegal post)
Monday August 28th, 2006 5:22:13 PM
On the way to the transporter Kadaz finally notices Edmund's sulk. Is that his fault? he thinks to himself. Well, a quiet Edmund is a step in the right direction. But can't have him this way in combat.

Kadaz walks over to Edmund and gives him a hearty slap on the back. "Cheer up Ed! We're off for some adventure. And I'm looking forward to seeing a new city. I wonder if they brew a good ale there?" he asks, somewhat rhetorically.

Lang & Sunshine
Monday August 28th, 2006 7:47:27 PM
Lang & Sunshine take position in the back of the large group as it makes its way to the teleporter to the Floating City.

He chuckles softly when Angus refers to him as a "furball".

"Don't forget that the interest is compounded daily. It adds up quickly at 25%."

Lang has his quarterstaff out in case anyone makes any trouble to the two groups.

Wynn
Monday August 28th, 2006 8:16:41 PM
Wynn walks along with the others towards the portal, taking in all he can of Plateau City, the names of the streets, the bars, the oddity and curio shops. He takes mental note of the architecture of important buildings. He barely notices when Xenia leaves his side to speak with Arm, but he gives her a quick smile when she returns.

Conner
Monday August 28th, 2006 8:19:51 PM
The fighter takes a backward glance at Sampsons and again at the Open Palm Market where one day a monument will stand in memory of all those who perished. He wonders if he will return to see it...

Departure Time (DM JohnP)
Monday August 28th, 2006 10:54:12 PM
Preparations are made for the departure from Plateau City. Angus and the other Shields say goodbye to Famina as she departs for the plantation. They might miss her fighting skills in the coming days but everyone knows how barbarians are about these premonitions.

A debate swirls in the apartment over what to purchase in preparation for the possible fight on the other side. Kadaz wonders about holy water or weapon enhancements while Xenia, ever sensible, wonders how the necessary money will be acquired. Syr suggests that he might be able to provide some of the funds. Thar recognizes the importance of trip planning and buys several days worth of trail rations for himself. Belkior is the first one to make some specific suggestions, mainly for protective and healing magics.
DM Note - I'm prepared to allow some retroactive purchases, or delivery of goods in Floating City. And ... nudge, nudge ... Belkior can put up some cash, too.

Before they leave the house, a quiet tapping is heard on one of the windows of the apartment. When someone goes to look, they see what looks to be a levitating package with a note attached to it. Glancing at the note, it's clearly addressed to WYNN and bears the label of a well known Plateau City delivery and retrieval service that uses the motto "Anytime, Any Place, Anyone ... We'll Get It There and Back".

++++++

The procession to Merchant Quarter and the Teucri portal is somber. Everyone wonders exactly what they will encounter on the far side. Even Edmund is quiet although, for some reason, Birdie seems to be paying particular attention to the wizard. Arm, of course, thinks this to be funny and a distraction from his personal romantic entanglements. He glances over at the silent Mira and wonders what she is thinking.

Lang takes the rearguard position, watching for anyone taking too much interest in the party. Wynn and Conner aren't too far ahead. Ash is somewhere around, too.

++++++

Shadow thinks back on his conversation with the local Daymaster. The news that Lady Ilonia was still missing was greeted with a shrug but the Guild boss did look up when Shadow mentioned going to Floating City.

"Be careful over there. They've got some rough and ready types there, not like here in our City. Especially on the lower levels, so watch your step. With the refugees here, there's been some trouble with them wanting to set up shop here."

"You might be interested that there's been some unusual traffic heading to the Float lately. And the Guards on the Float end have clamped down, searching most shipments through."

++++++

The Central Guard headquarters isn't too far from the Teucri portal in the centre of the city, so it's not out of the way for Angus to go by there. He cannot gain admittance to see the prisoners, however. The desk sergeant gruffly responds to his request, "No Visitors. None but Constables and their lawyers get in to see them."

++++++

When everyone reaches the Teucri portal, they see a low building with several ramps leading to large doors below ground. The Floating City people came to Plateau City through this portal but it was a very rushed time. They recall that the Floating City portal is in the uppermost Open Air level while here in Plateau City the portal seemed to be below ground. The actual travel seemed instantaneous, if a little nauseating.

A slight human walks up to Angus and extends his hand.

"Thunir, here. Thought it best to look different, as it were. At least until we're out of Floating City. All of you know what happened last time."

Looking around, the Floating City folks see a small pile of packed goods guarded by a couple of teamsters. The teamsters look familiar from the Von Otten's business, so this is probably what Thunir has brought. There's no sign of a boat, though.

"I've booked our departure slot. Unless things speed up, we're looking at about two hours before we can get through. Is there anything that you want to do before we go? Or anyone that you want to talk to?"

"Cousin sent along enough provisions for the trip. I guessed maybe a week, more of less, to sail down the lake to where your map is marked. Then maybe another week to this place marked, depending on how hard the traveling is. If we have to clear trails or find our own way around cliffs or rivers, it might be longer. We might be able to hunt or fish for food but sometimes that's not a good idea."

"I was thinking of sailing down the shore, putting in every night. With all of us, it'll be pretty squeezed in the boat and it would be better to camp ashore. Not to mention that no one seems to have good charts for the south end of the lake. Any questions?"

Edmund
Monday August 28th, 2006 11:10:17 PM
"Boats? We're going to be putting about in boats?" Edmund cannot keep the shock out of his voice. "I say, this merry little adventure gets better with every passing moment. Invincible lich kings, evil elf sorceress queens, and now boats. Next they'll be telling me we're going to have to sleep in dragon nests for warmth!"

"Yes, yes, I had some naval training. It was required. Sent off on it, really. My brother and I both had a thorough grounding in that sort of thing--it was deemed necessary for any sort of politician of merit to have a knowledge of military affairs. And, of course, I excelled at it. In fact, they put me off the ship in less than a quarter of the time it usually took to graduate. Saw the excellence of my ability and didn't feel the need to carry on testing what was clearly solid gold... but boats, why must we use boats? Couldn't we just... build a bridge? Or perhaps drain the lake? I'm certain there is a spell for it somewhere. Perhaps, if I were able to simply take all of the water out and put it somewhere else . . ."

Slightly less sulky, and already dreaming of an invention to drain the water from the lake, Edmund seems to be back to his old self again.

Arm
Tuesday August 29th, 2006 6:02:56 AM
Somewhat startled by Xenia's openness, Arm looks at her curiously, then listens intently while she passes along her sage advice. Smiling at her and telling her "Thanks!" whe she is done, he smiles inwardly as well, thinking, "Perhaps they are not ALL bad, these newcomers.".

After she returns to her chosen, Arm grips Mira's hand firmly but tenderly, thinking he is a lucky man as well.

Wynn
Tuesday August 29th, 2006 8:09:08 AM
Wynn grabs the package and opens it. A puzzled expression crosses his face as the contents are revealed. [OOC I think the package was meant for Conner]

When they meet Thunir at the portal he greets the adventurer and listens to his advise. "Yes" he replies, I think I will visit the catacombs for a few provisions, anyone interested in joining me?"

Wynn heads back to the catacombs with whoever is interested in joining him.

Conner
Tuesday August 29th, 2006 9:14:27 AM
"I'll go with you" Conner replies to the bard. "I've got a few potions to replenish".

Shadow
Tuesday August 29th, 2006 12:20:05 PM
Shadow is a little concerned with what the Daymaster has to say about the lower levels of the city, and the inspections of those going to the Float. He is not sure what this all means, but will definitly pass this information on to his companions. Once he is with the group and headed to the portal he will ask, "Could someone explain the general layout of the Floating City, and what is meant by the Float? I am a little confused and do not feel that comfortable jumping into this without some knowledge." He hopes his new companions can shed some light on the subject.

If some of the group is staying at the portal while they wait and no one has anything for him to do, Shadow will find a quiet place and rest his eyes while they wait. When the time comes to depart he will show a brave face, but is not very comfortable with this type of transport that he has not had any experience with.

Angus
Tuesday August 29th, 2006 3:00:53 PM
Angus is pleased to see Thunir is disguise and smiles "One can never be too careful. So you have food for the trip, excellent. Now this boat of yours, what can you tell me about it. Do we need to hire a crew? I am just glad we do not have to travel by giant turtle."

Angus is pleased with Shadow "You have now given us more pieces to the puzzle. The Floating City gets poorer and more cutthroat as you go down in levels or safer and richer as you rise. It depends on your perspective."

Angus will wait with Thunir and the other for the backlog to clear as he has no money to spend. Angus does look at Lang "Any more spare change in those fur lined pockets of your that you want to part with?"

----------------------------------

OOC: John can you give us an estimate on how much money we expect from the loot so that we can do some planning in advance. It may speed things along. The Catacombs is being painfully slow with Syr.

Xenia d20+3=18
Tuesday August 29th, 2006 3:09:59 PM
"The Turtle ride was great, Angus." Xenia is all grins at the memory.

Floating City is, like, this huge tower that floats around on Turtle Lake, you see?" Xenia says to the guy who just calls himself Shadow. "It's got these levels where everyone lives. And it's totally enclosed, but you can see the sky on each level 'cause there's, like, this projection of the sky on the ceiling that comes through by magic."

"Well, everywhere 'cept Trash Level, that is."

"There's six common levels. On top is Open Level. That's open to the sky, and it's where the Overlord lives. Next is Gold Level. That's where the nobles and the mega-wealthy live. It's also where we have our Temple of Alemi. Next is Merchant Level, then Barracks Level for the City Guard, then Fence Level. Fence Level is flush with the surface of the lake outside. That's where the Giggling Ghost is, Mira," she adds. "And it's where we used to live. I mean, it's where our apartments used to be 'til they got flattened."

"Underneath that is Trash Level. Most of the poor people live down there. And the gangs. There's not supposed to be any gangs in Floating City. But they spring up now and again."

"Some people say there's even levels lower than Trash. Some sort of Teucri built levels that no one can get to. Some even say that the Underlord lives there."

"Nothing really to worry about. It's safe as walking around here." (Knowledge Local 18)

"Hey! Wait up, Wynn!" Xenia scrambles after the bard as he heads off for the Catacombs. After all, who in their right mind would pass up a chance to go shopping with their Honey?

Belkior (Sub/Al)
Tuesday August 29th, 2006 3:23:10 PM

"It may pay to stop at the Giggling Ghost on the way down to the docks," Belkior suggests as they meet Thunir on the Floating City side of the Teleport Pad. "He usually seems to know what is happening in the city."

"It's on the way, at least."

Day's Spells
0 Level: Detect Magic**, Detect poison*, Light*, Read Magic*, Resistance*
1st Level: Bless**, Detect Undead*, Hide from Undead*, Magic Stone*, Sanctuary*, (Protection from Evil+)
2nd Level: Hold Person*, Owl's Wisdom*, Silence, Spiritual Weapon* (Aid*)
3rd Level: Dispel Magic*, Prayer*, Searing Light*, Speak with Dead (Magic Circle against Evil+*)
4th Level: Death Ward*, Freedom of Movement*, Summon Monster IV+, (Holy Smite+*)

Turning 4/4 per day

Lang & Sunshine
Tuesday August 29th, 2006 7:33:50 PM
"Angus I have a little money left, but not much. How much do you need?"

"What are we going to do first when we get to the Floating City?"

Mira
Tuesday August 29th, 2006 8:06:30 PM
The sorceress accompanies the two groups to te portal. She notes that Conner and Edmund seem quieter than normal and wonders if they share her own self-doubt at leaving the familiar streets of Plateau City for the unknowns of the Crying Woods and Floating City.

When Wynn and the others leave for the Catacombs she stays behind and speaks with Thunir, asking him about Floating City, his adventures in the wilds, and anything he might know about libraries and mages guilds in Floating City.

Ash
Tuesday August 29th, 2006 8:43:20 PM
Ash can barely contain his excitement....he is going to see a new city...not too long ago he had never left the grove; and now, he was going to see a second City.

Stopping, he rubs Shelya once for good luck and then tries to enter a meditative state. "Ohm Nadda Shi, Ohm Nadda Shi". Unfortunately, he is too excited and can't do it. He mumbles under his breath "The Master would rap me on the knuckles for behaving like such a schoolboy".

"Ohm Nadda Shi", the second time is the charm and he calms down sufficiently.

All through this crisis, Ash has stood motionless, showing no signs of the internal conflict.

Waiting in Line (DM JohnP)
Tuesday August 29th, 2006 10:32:44 PM
Everyone is milling about as they wait for the line to start moving. Thunir explains that it's often like this, especially when the afternoon shift is coming on. As he said before, probably a couple hours until they can get through the portal.

Several people take advantage of the time to dash off and make some quick purchases. Even if they want special orders, the magic of the Catacombs means that they can still get service even on the other side in Floating City. At least until they get out of delivery range. Wynn and Conner lead the way to the Catacombs. Syr comes back from the Catacombs, muttering about surly mind-flayers and slow service.

Edmund doesn't go shopping. Instead, he seems to be fretting over the prospect of boating on the incompletely charted waters of New Turtle Lake. Or was it the Floating City folks telling him about the sea serpents and other monsters rumored to lurk in the lake?

Belkior suggests stopping by the Giggling Ghost in Floating City to catch up on gossip. Not to mention the group will need a place to stay since the Shield's apartment was destroyed. Lang is simply anxious to get going. Ash tries to pass the time in meditation, but inside he is excited about the prospects of seeing a wild area that few people have disturbed. Thar also seems anxious to get back into the wild.

On the other side of the pile of supplies, Shadow sits with Xenia. He listens intently while the more experienced rogue describes the basics of Floating City.

Arm stands by Mira and Angus as they converse with Thunir Von Otten. The dwarf is pretty talkative, although he tries to stay in character as a young human.

"Ahh, I should tell you that the portal Guards will want to take down names and similar information before we go through. Standard practice, but they're more vigilant now, even before the Float got up in arms. People were thinking that some fey-touched people or creatures crossed through during the Troubles."

"I don't know much about Floating City. I've just passed through a couple times on my way into the wilds. Like my cousin said, I'm the one who looks for new markets or suppliers. Not to mention prospecting and the like. Once I find it, it's up to others to negotiate terms but I sometimes have to get them there."

"My boat is right here," and he pats his haversack. "No crew needed, good thing too with all of you going along. I'll show the basics of sailing and we'll get along."

While he is talking, the line finally starts moving. Shortly, the parties can see the portal ahead of them. There is a circle of eight low pillars spaced with enough room that a small cart or wagon can fit between. The pillars and the centre of the circle are somehow marked with complex patterns that no one recognizes.

There's still time for people to come back from the Catacombs before the group goes through the portal to Floating City.

DM Addendum - Everyone can expect about 450 gp from the sale of the items, after paying for identification and then splitting 14 ways.

Thar ail Baerer
Tuesday August 29th, 2006 10:55:34 PM
Thar sighs to himself, resigned to waiting for their trip to resume. "Well, at least I get to see a new city. I was finally getting used to this city and learning about it, but I guess you have to go where goodness leads you," he thinks to himself.

During their waiting time, Thar will try to cheer Ed up and ask him some nonsensical questions about sailing and such. Mostly, it is to get him talking about anything, which usually has seemed to work in the past.

Syr
Wednesday August 30th, 2006 3:48:13 AM
Syr decides to spend the time in line grumbling to himself, replaying the conversation with the mind flayer in his mind. As they begin to approach the gate, his attention is diverted to the process going on before him.

OOC: Thanks for the heads up on the appraisal, service is a might slow, I've held off posting because of that.

Kadaz
Wednesday August 30th, 2006 6:11:57 AM
Kadaz watched quietly as the party waits for their turn at the portal. Now that they are getting closer he starts to get some butterflies in his stomach. He kneels down to pet Birdie. "Hey, we're going to have some fun" he says to the dog.

The dwarf fighter takes this time to make sure all of his gear is securely tied to his pack or belt. Wouldn't want anything coming lose during the trip - don't know where it might end up.

Arm
Wednesday August 30th, 2006 7:35:38 AM
With all the talk about money, Arm leans in to Mira and whispers, "Are we paid up to date on the apartment, especially since we may be gone for a while? The last thing we need is to come home homeless...".

Depending on what Mira says, Arm will rush back to Sampson's to pay for at least 3 months more on the apartment, then return to her.

Angus
Wednesday August 30th, 2006 8:55:37 AM
When Angus sees Syr return he asks and finds out about his troubles with the evil mindflayer at the Catacombs "I think we will have enough money if we pool our recent gains to purchase the items that Belkior indicated. That will leave some pocket change for everyone and bolster our magical protections. Syr, just go place the order and we can pick it up on the other side after everything is identified."

Angus suffles along on his way to the gate.

Hearing Lang respond to his money question "I will take whatever you can spare. No need to weigh you down with it. Are there any magical enhancement you want to puchase that I can cast on you with a momnts notice?"

To Mira Angus adds "Are you folk, pure city people or have you camped out under the stars before? I prefer the city, but we have ventured out into a forest or two. Not to mention the jungle that attacked the Floating city during the troubles."

Xenia
Wednesday August 30th, 2006 11:33:50 AM
Just on her way to hot foot it to the Catacombs after Wynn, the dark rogue holds up at something Angus says.

"Hey, you mean like you keep a scroll for us and cast it when we need it, Angus?" she asks. "That's a good idea. And it would be cheaper. I wasn't gonna buy anything, but maybe I should buy one of them Flying scrolls. It's cheaper than the potion."

"By the way, Angus, you might tell them about the Crying Woods while your at it. I mean, the beach is pretty harmless. But remember them Assassin Vines? And those vine things that grew out of the ground when we were sleeping? The ones that tried to suck our blood?"

"Yucko." Then Xenia's gone, running up the street after Wynn.

Belkior (Sub/Al)
Wednesday August 30th, 2006 11:51:42 AM

Belkior taps his chin as he does some mental calculation.

"Angus," he says, tapping the sorcerer on the side of the leg, "with the proceeds that will come to the six of us from the sale of the Cultist items, I don't think that we will be able to meet the budget for that list."

"Unless you are including the portion that belongs to the group from Plateau City, that is."

"Er," the halfling healer of Alemi fidgets uncomfortably. "Is that what you had intended?"

Day's Spells
0 Level: Detect Magic**, Detect poison*, Light*, Read Magic*, Resistance*
1st Level: Bless**, Detect Undead*, Hide from Undead*, Magic Stone*, Sanctuary*, (Protection from Evil+)
2nd Level: Hold Person*, Owl's Wisdom*, Silence, Spiritual Weapon* (Aid*)
3rd Level: Dispel Magic*, Prayer*, Searing Light*, Speak with Dead (Magic Circle against Evil+*)
4th Level: Death Ward*, Freedom of Movement*, Summon Monster IV+, (Holy Smite+*)

Turning 4/4 per day

Edmund
Wednesday August 30th, 2006 2:35:00 PM
Edmund trudges along, talking to himself as he follows the party into the queue for the teleport pad. Most of what he says will probably sound like nonsense to the party. "Yes... with a series of screws, and possibly a large flywheel to keep inertia... hmm maybe several thousand gallons? No, probably not... with runoff--but somesort of wetskin, oiled leathers... yes, yes. Much more efficient. . ."

When Thar tries to speak to him about his experience with sailing and the navy, Edmund stops talking to himself and focuses on Thar, beaming broadly. "Oh, you want to know about that, do you? Where should I begin?"

Thar will probably regret his essay into the Land of Small-Talk with Edmund, as Edmund launches into a veritable barrage of anecdotes, stories, and tales of a nautical nature. Carrying on for some time as they wait in line, Edmund says things like:

"Quite simple, really. Leviathans are nothing to be concerned about if you know just what to do, as you see! Most people never think to tickle the chin, but then it's all a matter of applying pressure in the right place--every creature has its weak spot, dontcha know. With Displacer Beasts it's just as simple, though in that case one wants to gently stroke the tentacles in a counter-clockwise manner, best to try to get in at a bit of a run, all things considered, but easy enough once you settle to it. In fact, I used to keep one as a pet. Caged, mind you. Big, giant cage. More of a room with bars. Lots of bars. Still, one just had to stroke those tentacles in just the right way--there's a right way and a wrong way, mind--and it'd go to sleep just as nice as you'd like. 'Course, I let other people try on occasion. Taught a few myself, in fact. Not my fault they couldn't follow instructions and ended up--well, at any rate; the navy! Had a great deal of fun. Didn't learn much, but that's because I did a bit of studying before I ever set foot on the dock. The Captain was incredibly surprised at my aptitude. In fact, he uttered quite a string of oaths whenever I set out to prove myself. Quite invaluable, in fact. Once, I was able to fix some sort of problem they had, the sails were all wound up with cords, quite inextricable to be sure, and I managed to cast Web and use it as a sort of impromptu topsail! Quite effective, seeing as we were just tossing about in that storm until I took decisive action. Of course, the topsail did break off, but I can hardly be faulted for mechanical failures and faulty design! They were VERY grateful for the service, expressed it most enthusiastically, and felt I should be of even greater benefit on other vessels. Quite selfless of them, not to keep me all to themselves, what? Tremendous times. Came to an end too quickly, though. Supposed to last four years, barely lasted six months, but that's life. We can't always do what we want. Well, I suppose one could if one was rich enough and had reasonable enough wants. Still, there you have it."

This continues until Thar escapes Edmund's range of discussion ((OOC: I have no idea what the saving throw versus Verbosity is, or how it would work. Perhaps Will saves, DC 15 or suffer boredom?)) or until someone else comes along to distract Edmund, offering him a new target to converse with. Alternately, Edmund will shut up when it comes time to enter the teleport portal.

"Exciting this, I think. Should prove interesting. I've got a great idea about the lake, too! Just wait until we get there!"

Angus (second illegal post)
Wednesday August 30th, 2006 2:44:27 PM
Angus just shakes his haed and tunes out Edmond, before looking down at what is pulling on his leg. "Hi Belkior. I though your list was for 3325 gp that would leave us almost 3000 gp to distribute to individuals for personal use? I think we will have to forego the wand if that is what you mean, unless we have a generous benefactor to help.

Belkior (Sub/Al) - Second Illegal Post
Wednesday August 30th, 2006 4:24:43 PM
Belkior shrugs and again looks away with discomfort.

"The list is largely our idea, Angus," he replies. "And it is not something that has been approved of by their group yet. I hate to be using any of their money despite the fact that they will still be getting some to spend."

Kadaz (2nd illegal post) d20+6=9
Wednesday August 30th, 2006 4:41:15 PM
Kadaz overhears Belkior's worrying about costs. "Belkior, feel free to use my share of what was found in the cellar. You're buying items that will help us all. I believe most of us will feel the same. And when my friends and I return home we can worry about spitting up what is left. "

Meanwhile, overhearing Ed go on at length with Thar. He nudges Birdie with his foot towards Edmund. "Go on, go play with him". But Birdie doesn't take the hint and just sits by Kadaz's feet. (handle animal 9)

Shadow
Wednesday August 30th, 2006 6:23:48 PM
Shadow has rested his eyes a little too much, and he suddenly jumps when the group moves futher down the line. "Sorry about that." he says to the group as they continue to wait.

Lang & Sunshine
Wednesday August 30th, 2006 9:01:22 PM
Lang & Sunshine wait patiently as the line moves forward towards the teleport portal. It wasn't this slow or crowded when they cam over from the Floating City.

Hopefully they will not have too much trouble getting their large group through.

Thar
Wednesday August 30th, 2006 10:26:00 PM
Listening to Edmund's discourse and thinking that it would make quite the treatise, Thar eventually gets a headache and wonders if Edmund ever breathes in between sentences.

Quickly thinking of a distraction, he says to Angua "I have experience in camping outside, as I prefer it to being in a city. In fact, there is an animal that I'd like," while pretending to see some sort of prey that he can pursue (while waiting for the group to enter the teleport pad).

Getting to The Threshold (DM JohnP)
Wednesday August 30th, 2006 11:02:09 PM
The line slowly moves ahead. Not fast enough for Thar, who simply wanted to distract Edmund and is now being lectured. The prospect of silently scouting ahead of the party through a forest of towering trees seems like such an idyllic prospect right now.

Syr, Wynn and Conner amble back from the Catacombs, passing Belkior as the halfling cleric goes to purchase some items.

Kadaz and Arm are thinking of some last minute things before departure. Angus and Xenia discuss some of their experiences in the woods around New Turtle Lake with Mira, hopefully away from where Edmund might overhear. And Shadow and Lang simply can't wait to get going. Ash is pretty quiet, too.

Thunir simply waits patiently, not really talking. Finally, it is nearly the party's turn to depart. The guards approach as the stevedores prepare to carry the packed food and supplies onto the Teucri portal pad. In bored voices, they ask for both the names of people traveling and request the 10 gold fare. Looking about, the party can see that several other guards are lounging around tables, reading and simply passing the time. From their appearance, it looks like the City takes portal security seriously enough to pay for mages and clerics to guard the portal.

"Name and Place of Residence, please. City alone will do. Hurry it up, keep moving."

Mira
Wednesday August 30th, 2006 11:30:37 PM
Mira can only smile inwardly as Edmund recounts his naval experience to the unwitting Thar. Her quite reverie is broken by Angus' question. "I have some experience with river travel" she offers, "but for the most part I have spent my time within the confines of the city and the farmlands that surround it."

When it is her turn to pass through the portal she answers the guard simply. "Mira Silver, Pateau City" and then steps through with Thunir and Arm.

Edmund
Wednesday August 30th, 2006 11:32:36 PM
Constitutionally incapable of hurrying up his response to any sort of question, Edmund isn't entirely concise in responding to the guard, taking special care to include all of his various titles, some of which seem practically laughable, such as "Sacred Cultivator of the Holy Bramblebush of Chaos".

Soon enough, though, he exhausts the redundant complexity of his titles and gives his full name and place of residence as "Edmund Eustace Greenleaf II, Late of the Windbourne Hills, now residing in Plateau City."

Presuming he is clear to proceed, he'll approach the portal with some trepidation, following whomever is lucky enough to be in front of him (and preceding any unlucky enough to be waiting behind him).

Arm
Thursday August 31st, 2006 5:59:43 AM
Returning just in time to unfortunately hear more of Edmund's ramblings, Arm fervently wishes that the guardian of the pad will turn him away, but that doesn't seem to be the case.

Holding his head up in a show of dignity, he hopes that the guard isn't one of them who has an abhorrance for elves, he announces, "Armathen Ebano-Plateau City" as he waits patiently to pass through the portal.

Kadaz
Thursday August 31st, 2006 6:32:46 AM
Kadaz steps up behind Arm. "Kadaz Guardson, Plateau City, with Birdie." Both take their place in the transport area.

Ash
Thursday August 31st, 2006 7:24:33 AM
Ash walks up to the pad, fascinated by all he sees, looking for any markings on the device, Shelya following warily behind him. He is too distracted to notice the guard, just keeps looking around.

A growl from Shelya wakes him from his revelry and , looking at the guard "Uh...Ash and Shelya". They both then step on the pad.

Shadow
Thursday August 31st, 2006 10:03:07 AM
As the group starts to give name and city of residence, Shadow waits his turn, "Shadow of Plateau City." He states simply and heads up to the platform.

Belkior (Sub/Al)
Thursday August 31st, 2006 11:03:33 AM

Belkior draws a deep breath that speaks heavily of relief.

"Thank you Kadaz," he replies.

"Belkior Orvisson of Floating City," he says when time comes to declare himself.

Day's Spells
0 Level: Detect Magic**, Detect poison*, Light*, Read Magic*, Resistance*
1st Level: Bless**, Detect Undead*, Hide from Undead*, Magic Stone*, Sanctuary*, (Protection from Evil+)
2nd Level: Hold Person*, Owl's Wisdom*, Silence, Spiritual Weapon* (Aid*)
3rd Level: Dispel Magic*, Prayer*, Searing Light*, Speak with Dead (Magic Circle against Evil+*)
4th Level: Death Ward*, Freedom of Movement*, Summon Monster IV+, (Holy Smite+*)

Turning 4/4 per day

Lang & Sunshine
Thursday August 31st, 2006 12:27:35 PM
Lang waits his turn and then speaks.

"Lang Madchel from the Floating City."

Wynn
Thursday August 31st, 2006 1:32:42 PM
"Hurry Xenia!" Wynn extorts the half-drow rogue. "We don't want to miss our appointment at the portal." He grabs her hand and helps steer her through any crowds. They arrive just as Lang and Sunshine step forward.

"Wynn Brightsong from... well from Floating City" he concludes. "One or two more coming right behind me!"

Conner
Thursday August 31st, 2006 1:36:24 PM
Conner hustles back towards the portal as best he can. He admires the two half-elves ahead of him for their ability to dart back and forth between the people who seem determined to impede his own progress.

"S'cuse me...Pardon me...Watch it...Uumph! Sorry about that. Wynn! Xenia! tell them I'm on my way!"

Xenia
Thursday August 31st, 2006 1:42:18 PM
"I'm coming, Wynn." Xenia wends her way through the crowd in the bard's wake. "I'm coming." The rogue throws an occasional look over her shoulder at Conner the Tattoo Eye guy.

"Alexandria Merryman Next." She dips reflexively in a small curtsy. "Fence Level of Floating City."

Angus
Thursday August 31st, 2006 8:20:55 PM
Angus shuffles forward and waits his turn. Angus announces is a strong and maybe overly loud voice "Angus Deminoff of the Floating City."

Once in the Floating City Angus seeks out Mira "This is what is left of our fair City." Angus only uses the greeting as an opening and in a lower voice "What do you think of our plan to sell the cultist booty and purchase group items for our latest foray. The Shields are very group orientated, but we just met you and your friends. How do you want to proceed?"

Syr
Thursday August 31st, 2006 8:57:11 PM
Syr is still distracted by the events at the store but does manage to mention to the guards, "Syrdeth Redbow of Floating City sir, nice place that you have here but it's good to go home."

Thar ail Baerer
Thursday August 31st, 2006 9:00:36 PM
Bringing up the rear and glad they are finally moving, Thar responds "Thar ail Baerer of Plateau City." He ensures that no one has been left behind and then goes into the portal.

Once the group reaches it's destination, he goes up to Mira and asks her "Where should we head first? I'd like us to consider scouting out the woods that we've been hearing about, but I don't think the whole group needs to go there.

Return To Index Next Scene (Into the Woods)