DM Kathy Monday August 14th, 2006 10:55:19 PM Arminas and Florin introduce themselves to Fosco, who answers a few questions about himself and this land. It seems Fosco is not native to this place, but he has heard tales.
Any remains suspicious of Baelfred, but decides to accept his and Devrin's answers. He pauses to make sure Harvest is doing all right with leaving the children.
Harvest and Davros take a moment to be sure there is no misunderstanding between them, and indeed there is none. In Koshe-Marr, surely it is natural to be wary of strangers.
Lorth and Bralin merely make sure they are ready to go.
Taking advantage of the pack's absence, you begin retracing your steps toward the place where Baelfred said the Still could be found. The odd lavender-colored moon sinks lower as you travel, making it more and more difficult to see your way.
As you travel, Harvest remains alert to any sights or sounds of danger. She sees and hears things, but nothing that seems to be an immediate threat to your party. Still, it is unnerving, walking through the endless lavender twilight with the strange, spindly shapes of the local vegetation all around you.
It is nearly full dark when Baelfred points the way to the abandoned mine where the Still is concealed. He seems to have little trouble finding his way in the dim light--but then, he was born to this place. Just as the moon is finally setting, you find yourselves facing a ragged opening that leads into a gently-sloping hillside.
"The Still is within," says Baelfred. "Legend says it is protected by many traps."
Fosco d20+10=18 d20+12=16 Tuesday August 15th, 2006 12:46:42 AM
Moving up to stand beside Arminas before the group enters the opening, he whispers to the man: Traps and locks are my specialty. And I hear the traps around here are deadlier than normal. Perhaps super caution is warranted.
<*> I forgot how to do the private post so bear with me. It is for Arminas only <*>
Then leaning closer to him he whispers so only Arminas can hear: I think someone, like Florin, should be near your guide should his true colors show. I fear he hasn't been totally truthful with you all. I can't put my finger on it but I doubt he's what he seems to be. (I say all this to Arminas without once looking at or gesturing to Baelfred)
Continues being wary of his surroundings. Spot: 18 Listen: 16
Any d20+10=20 d20+10=17 d20+5=8 Tuesday August 15th, 2006 9:54:54 AM
As they reach the opening of the cave where Baelfred says the Still is concealed, Any ponders the best way to enter. Turning to Bralin he says,
"Master Bralin this is your area of expertise, both in battle and caverns. Does this cave look sound? How shall we proceed?"
Turning to the others,
"Do any have the ability to sense traps, so that we can avoid them? I do not think that the straight-forward approach, bashing through these traps, is our best option."
Any smiles to take away any bite from his words. He extends that smile as he looks on around the group to Harvest. Then, drawing his weapons, and settling his gear, he prepares for this siege to claim the Still.
Spot 20 listen 17 sense motive 8
Arminas Tuesday August 15th, 2006 10:31:11 AM
They reach the entrance to the abandoned mine, and a look of discomfort comes across Arminas' face. When Fosco come up and mentions traps, Arminas stiffens even more.
"Mister Fosco, you are more than welcome to lead through the tunnel, though Bralin over there needs to be consulted. Excuse me while I talk with him."
Arminas then asks Bralin for a private council. He moves away from the group and in a low voice whispers:
Bralin Highlight to display spoiler: {"Fosco was suggesting a Paladin keep close to Baelfred, why I do not know. He also suggests that he is trained in the detection of traps. As you know, I do not desire the lead beneath the ground."}
Bralin d20+12=16 Tuesday August 15th, 2006 11:07:09 AM
Bralin looks at Any for several moments, his expression unseen beneath his dull black helm. Has not the halfling just volunteered for the task? he wonders.
Nevertheless, the dwarf give the outside of the mine entrance a brief inspection (touching nothing), and gazes down the tunnel to the extent of his darkvision [60'] in an effort to determine the stability of the shaft. Heeding Baelford's warning, Bralin takes care not to cross the threshold of the entrance. [Craft - Stonework check 16]
Arminas makes his comments, and the warrior nods in silent reply.
He returns his attentions to the group. "Fosco shall lead," he instructs. "I shall follow him. Florin shall assume rearguard. Baelford shall stay in the middle ... with Lorth." Having covered the key positions, Bralin looks to the halfling. "Do ye require light?"
Fosco d20+10=30 Tuesday August 15th, 2006 11:28:07 AM
I am afraid I do require some type of light source. My eyesight is not the same as back in the Wold. Putting up his crossbow, Fosco begins his search for traps. And then begins leading the group on in. <*> Will be moving at 1/2 speed because he's on "don't step on a trap" mode. <*>
Search for traps: 30 <nat. 20>
Harvest d20+14=25 d20+14=15 Tuesday August 15th, 2006 1:20:44 PM
As the others begin preparations to enter the trap laden entrance to the place of the Still, Harvest places herself near Anthos. With one eye on their surroundings, she begins preparations to enter into danger herself. A coat of magic armor. Extra speed to her feet. Who knows what may be called for.
Davros AC 18 HP 29/29 d20+6=18 d20+6=14 Tuesday August 15th, 2006 7:05:49 PM
Davros stops at the entrance and prepares himself for danger.He first casts mage armor upon himself and then gets out an everburning torch which was wrapped up in his pack.Moving towards the middle of the group so all may take advantage of the light,he wonders what dangers lurk within.
Davros tries to recall what he can remember of underground areas (knowledge dungeoneering 18) and of mining construction (knowledge architecture and engineering 14). He imparts the information to the group in a scholarly but unfortunately lecturing manner.He seems rather animated as he talks, enjoying the captive audience.
Lorth (Sub Joe) Tuesday August 15th, 2006 7:25:27 PM
Lorth Draws his weapons and takes his place where Bralin Ordered, ready to meet any threats to the Party from either Direction.
Arminas - (illegal?) second post Tuesday August 15th, 2006 8:42:19 PM
Arminas takes his place behind Lorth and Baelfred in the marching order.
Florin Jadenth Tuesday August 15th, 2006 9:28:32 PM
Florin slowly slips from the saddle of Ajax and pats the horse's armored neck, "Thanks for bringing me this far my friend but is there are alot of traps in there then I rather not see you get hurt, let alone if it gets smaller as we go then you won't help as much. Go home now and rest."
After sending his horse back Florin slips his mithril longsword from it's sheath and looks to the others as he readies his shield too, the High Woldian runes spelling "Glimmer" glows lightly and he is ready, "Let me know where you like me and I will cover that area as best I can my friends." Florin still being new to the group rather be pointed to his place for the moment being till it becomes a regular position for him.
DM Kathy Wednesday August 16th, 2006 12:30:52 AM
You spend a few moments outside the mine entrance discussing strategy. Harvest takes a moment to cast a couple of spells, and Davros armors himself magically.
With his darkvision, Bralin sees that the opening leads to a tunnel, which slopes sharply downward into the hill. The tunnel appears to be shored up here and there--but not as well as a dwarven tunnel would be. It should hold, but there's a chance it won't.
Baelfred seems nervous at the prospect of going with you. "Couldn't I wait for you?" he asks. "Just inside the entrance? I don't think anything could find me there, especially if you are quick."
[I'm going to assume that you insist he comes along, which he does reluctantly.]
Fosco leads the way, searching for traps by the light of Davros's everburning torch. Bralin walks behind the halfling, followed by Any and Harvest. Davros comes next with his everburning torch, then Lorth and Baelfred. Arminas follows them, and Florin brings up the rear, dismissing Ajax before moving into the tunnel.
As you walk, Davros begins a list of the types of creatures that can sometimes be found underground. It's a depressingly long list, and some of the methods of attack sound gruesome in the extreme.
He is describing the tactics of Cloakers when Fosco calls a halt. His sharp eyes have spotted a trap. Its trigger is a particular piece of the stone floor. Impossible to go around. It might be disabled, or the party could try jumping over it. At least, Fosco is fairly certain that the floor immediately beyond the trap is all right.
Fosco d20+11=30 d20+10=12 Wednesday August 16th, 2006 3:19:33 AM
Motioning everyone to stay put, I slowly move up to the trap. Examining it for a few seconds, I attempt to disarm the device. Disable Device: 30 <nat. 19> After being certain the trap has been taken care of, I will motion the others up. Will show them the trap, telling them how it works and what to look for, then move on. Search for traps: 12 <nat. 2>
<*> Kathy, SOP for me will be 1/2 speed while actively searching for traps. <*>
Any d20+10=24 d20+10=22 d20=18 Wednesday August 16th, 2006 10:03:11 AM
Any moves along behind Fosco, watching him, and attempting to learn something of the method he uses to find these traps. It seems painstakingly slow, but he realizes that this must be so for the groups safety. His sharp elven eyes are also watching for anything out of the ordinary, hoping that he might see something that Fosco might miss.
He catches himself starting to hum a tune, and decides that quiet would be better, even if those in armor are clanking like a smithy full of dwarves. He fingers his Mithril shirt, and is grateful for it's protection--and relative silence.
spot 24 listen 22 find trap 18
Arminas d20+16=21 d20+10=20 d20+13=14 d20+7=13 d20+10=30 Wednesday August 16th, 2006 11:16:09 AM
Arminas moves quietly along, more out of habit than need. The group talks and moves loudly. Hopefully the only danger comes from traps.
His bow is hung across his back, and his longsword is held in his right hand. For now, he relies upon the light source of others as he seeks out hidden doors or dangers within the tunnel.
Bralin d20+4=22 Wednesday August 16th, 2006 1:21:39 PM
Bralin waits patiently while Foscoe disables the trap. Once the halfling indicates the way is safe, he continues on. He moves wordlessly, but hardly silently as he clangs along in his full plate.
The dwarf trails Foscoe by about 20', keeping his own eyes on the rock around him. [Search for traps in the stonework - 22]
Florin Jadenth Wednesday August 16th, 2006 9:43:51 PM
Florin moves along with the group but hangs near the back, trying to keep his eyes open for any possible thing that might be a threat to the group.
When the group finds the trap area he is happy they have people capable of taking care of them since he would prefer not to have to trigger them a hard way.
Davros AC18 HP 29/29 d20+3=20 d20+3=12 Wednesday August 16th, 2006 11:13:24 PM
Now underground, Davros turns his significant attentions to concentrating on his environment.He keeps active watch of both sight and sound knowing full well the many dangers that could be present in this place.He sends Whiskers off a short distance to the side to look out for any secret openings or lurking dangers.
"Fosco,I can call upon more magic light or detection of magic should the need arise."
actions: spot 20 listen 12
effects: mage armor- 5 hours duration
DM Kathy d100=60 d20+8=27 d8+4=6 Thursday August 17th, 2006 12:29:21 AM
Working carefully, Fosco disables the first trap, and the party can proceed. Harvest suggests casting an Unseen Servant to help look for traps, but for the moment, the group is relying on the halfling.
Everyone keeps eyes and ears open, but the only sounds you hear are the ones you make moving down the tunnel. The walls of the tunnel are a mix of dirt and rock. Every once in a while, you pass areas where the tunnel has been shored up. A close examination reveals how to get "timbers" in a land where no trees grow. The braces and supports are the large bones of some unknown creature.
Baelfred grows nervous as you go deeper into the tunnel. "Are you sure I can't wait for you?" he asks plaintively.
Unfortunately, Fosco doesn't see the next trap. At 20 feet back, Bralin is not close enough to see it before it goes off. Fosco steps on one part of the tunnel floor, and several spikes spring out of the wall! Fortunately, none of the rest of the party is close enough to be targeted. Unfortunately, the spike aimed at Fosco is right on.
Fosco is hit [AC 27] for 6 damage! Fosco, make a Fortitude save as the poison kicks in!
Fosco *ac18, hp39/45* d20+8=9 d20+8=24 d20+2=16 d20+10=22 d20+10=21 Thursday August 17th, 2006 1:09:24 AM
<*> Fort save, 9<nat.1>, hero point reroll: 24<nat.16> <*>
A muffled escape of air emanates from the halfling as the spike slams into him. Shaking off the strange feeling effects from the spike, Fosco pulls the item from his shoulder and exams it.
Poison he says while looking at the spike.
Then turns back to Baelfred and glares at him. Studying him if you will. Sense Motive: 16 <nat.14> I don't know exactly what you did to help these people that they would risk their lives to help you escape this forsaken realm but it seems to me that the risk they are taking is greater than the risk you took. And if I was in your position, I wouldn't act like a coward and expect them to continue on with your quest. So suck it up and get with the program or you can take the lead.
Turning back to Bralin he says: Im sorry if I spoke out of turn, but twice now he's asked to stay behind while we do HIS quest. And what exactly has he contributed, information wise, about where we are and what we are looking for?
/drops the Poisoned spike.
Waits for Bralin's response, then continues his moving.
Search for Traps: 22 <nat.12> Listen: 21 <nat.11>
Any d20+10=11 d20+10=25 Thursday August 17th, 2006 10:22:20 AM
Any is concerned for Davros.
"Do we have any means to neutralize the poison from that dart? We cannot keep taking these kinds of risks. Harvest, how long will your Unseen Servant last? I am not sure if we want to trigger every trap as we descend, but what other options do we have? I have heard a of a spell of true sight to help in avoiding this type of thing, but we do not possess the ability to perform it.
Baelfred, can you not tell us more of the type of traps and protections that we might encounter as we go deeper?
Davros, would more light help in your searching?"
Any examines where the dart entered Davros, and binds the wound with a dry poultice bandage.
"This may not help the poison, but will at least give some benefit to the wound."
spot 11 listen 25
Harvest d20+7=20 d8+1=9 Thursday August 17th, 2006 11:07:36 AM
"Please, Fosco Loamsdale." Harvest Moon reaches out for the halfling. "Rest a moment. You are injured."
From her haversack she retrieves a healer's kit and the wand given to her by Bralin Stoneminder so seemingly long ago.
"If you were to remain behind, Master Baelfread," the brown girl asks as she applies a poultice to the halfling's wound, "where would you stay? We must ensure not only our safety, but our ability to find you again."
"The herbs within this wrapping should draw the poison from the wound. You should be able to remove and discard in an hour or so, though it is difficult to know without further study of the poison itself." Then she takes the wand, and with a word, uses the healing magic to close the halfling's wound.
Rolls and Actions Heal 20 (For the Poison, can use this instead of Fort) CLW Heal Fosco 9hp
Florin Jadenth Thursday August 17th, 2006 1:43:41 PM
Florin is concerned that one of the group got injured and agrees with the fact that their guide continues to want to let them brave the dangers but also figures that it's not everyone that is as brave as those use to the dangers that the Wold throws at them, not all are suited to face it.
Florin continues to be ready to back up the group as needed.
Bralin Thursday August 17th, 2006 3:43:45 PM
Bralin waits impassively as Harvest tends to Foscoe. The halfling asks why the group risks their lives to aid Baelfred. The dwarf's answer is straightforward.
"We are oathbound to aid him in payment for his service to the children's safety."
Bralin says nothing more. As far as he is concerned, this single reason is more than adequate.
Arminas d20+16=35 d20+10=27 d20+13=21 d20+7=19 d20+10=20 Thursday August 17th, 2006 3:58:13 PM
Arminas watches and waits, the pace is excruciatingly slow. Yet as has been shown, traps are difficult to find and unpredictable.
He waits. Arminas even looks patient, though his mind races to escape this confined tunnel, this grave they are in.
While they wait, he searches the walls around him. His elven cloak is wrapped around him, the hood covering his head. Even as he moves, he is difficult to see.
Davros AC18 HP 29/29 d20+6=14 Thursday August 17th, 2006 10:56:52 PM
Davros examines the large bones holding up the ceiling and wonders what creature they came from.(knowledge nature 14)
"Who would have used such to build a mine? Baelfred, do you know who built this mine? Or what was mined here? Or... is it still in use...?"
and who would go to the trouble of trapping a mine...
effects: mage armor - duration 5 hours
OOC-I assume Any mistakenly posted Davros name instead of Fosco
Lorth (Sub Joe) Thursday August 17th, 2006 11:30:29 PM
Lorth stays Silent waiting to move on, he streches out his sense to try and detect any Evil close by up ahead.
DM Kathy Thursday August 17th, 2006 11:46:41 PM
Baelfred seems taken aback at Fosco's outburst. He looks around at the group, taking in the armor (some of it magical), the weapons (some of them magical), the gear (some of it magical). He looks down at himself, a plain man with thinning hair, dressed in patched trousers and an ill-fitting shirt. There is a hole in one of his shoes.
"I am not an adventurer," he says, a troubled frown creasing his brows. "Common folk lack the skills to do what you do. Still," he adds, his tone sharpening, "I came to the aid of these good folk, and the children they were protecting. I risked myself to help them. I offered them shelter in my home. I procured food for our journey so they could remain undetected. I led them and the children safely to the Inn. I asked them to do this task for me and they agreed. I did not imagine I would be accompanying them, as I am ill-equipped for adventuring. However, since it seems important to you, I will stay with you and say no more about it."
Watching him, Fosco gets the sense of a normally quiet man who is stressed and annoyed.
"We are oathbound to aid him in payment for his service to the children's safety," Bralin adds, which seems to seal the explanation.
Any, meanwhile is concerned for Fosco [Davros would be the other new guy; he's fine. :) ]. He suggests more light and asks Baelfred if he knows more about the traps.
"I have told you all I know," Baelfred replies. "All I ever heard was that the Still was guarded with many traps. I was never able to find out what kind of traps, or where they were, or if there was an easy way around them. I am sorry."
Harvest uses her healing skills to treat the poisoned wound, then uses the wand to heal the wound itself.
Florin, Bralin, and Arminas, each in his own way, waits patiently for all the talking to be done. Men of action, they hold themselves ready.
Davros looks at the bones, but is unable to tell what kind of creature they came from. He wonders about the mine, whether it is still used, why it is trapped. It doesn't look as if it is used anymore.
Fosco's wound is closed now, and he does not seem to be suffering from the effects of the poison. That being the case, he continues down the tunnel. About 50 feet further, he finds the next trap, a cleverly concealed pit.
Harvest Friday August 18th, 2006 12:58:27 AM
"Master Baelfred," Harvest Moon speaks quietly as they wait for Fosco Loamsdale to probe the pit trap, "we have pledged to help you escape Koshe Marr. It is a pledge that we make because we believe you to be worthy of such. As that is the case, we would also not wish you to fall to harm. So, if you believe that you can find a place of greater safety than in our company, please tell us where that place may be so that we may find you after we have found your Still. Then you may go there and wait for our return."
"If you wish, I can even cloth you in an invisible armor of force. It may aid you in case of an attack. Do you wish this? Tell us where you wish to wait."
Any d20+10=30 d20+10=15 Friday August 18th, 2006 10:18:16 AM
Harvest again reveals the side of her nature that so attracted Any. She care for every living creature, and strives to show that empathy.
He cannot help but smile as she offers to protect Baelfred with magical armor, and let him retire to a hiding place. He even sees the wisdom in this choice--one less person to worry about if it comes to a fight.
"Yes Master Baelfred, take Harvest's protection, and find your place of waiting, but tell us where we can find you when we have accomplished the task."
To show there are no hard feelings if he does not accompany the group, Any steps forward and clasps Baelfred's hand in friendship.
Turning he continues to observe and learn from watching Fosco as he attempts to disarm the next trap. He keeps alert, and tries his best to help in spotting these inimical devices.
spot 30 Natural 20! listen 15
Fosco ac18, hp45 Friday August 18th, 2006 10:34:39 AM
Thank you Harvest for your attention of my wounds and to say: you are a bright light of Wisdom in a room of darkness.
Seemingly satisfied with the man's answer, I continue in the job at hand. Halting, then motioning the group to stop, I examine the pit trap with care. Motioning Any to come up, he uses the extra pair of hands to lift the covering up and to shine light into the pit.
(Is the pit standard size? ie, 10'x10'?)
Then, turning to the group he explains the situation and that he just cant turn the pit off so people can cross safely.
This will take a moment longer being that I don't possess a ladder or a pole in which to cross. Anyone have any ideas?
Arminas Friday August 18th, 2006 2:16:35 PM
Arminas watches Fosco, and hears mention of a pole. Reaching into his quiver, he pulls a 10 foot pole out of the short quiver. A seemingly impossible feat, yet he holds the pole.
"Fosco, will this help in crossing the pit? I also have ropes and a grappling hook if they will help."
Bralin Friday August 18th, 2006 2:30:30 PM
Bralin catches the interplay between Harvest and Baelford, and is surprised when Arminas and Any back her up.
Plainly neither trust the guide, and yet they have no dissent when Harvest offers to let the man go back to the surface. Tis inconsistent, and the dwarf finds inconsistancy bothersome.
But, not bothersome enough to comment on.
On the matter at hand, Bralin considers the distnance to the other side of the pit. "I possess a potion which will aid one in leaping over the pit," he informs everyone levelly. "Mayhap that person can secure the ropes."
Harvest (2nd Illegal Post) d20+17=37 Friday August 18th, 2006 3:03:19 PM
"I believe that I can leap the pit easily, Bralin Stoneminder," Harvest says, eying the place in which Fosco Loamsdale has indicated that a pit exists. "But that may not be prudent as there is no assurance that a trap is not set exactly upon the other side of the pit."
"Is there, perhaps a way to investigate the far side of the pit from here? If the far side is secure, I will attempt the leap. If not, I have a scroll that will allow Fosco Loamsdale to traverse the wall in the manner of a spider. In that way, he may safely examine the other side and secure a rope at the same time."
(Jump Check if needed. Just to move things along. Jump 37 Nat 20 w/+8 for speed of 50. Clears over 30 feet.)
Fosco Friday August 18th, 2006 3:08:51 PM
Turning to Arminas: Yes, I think that would. If someone could get to the other side and hold the end of the pole on the ground there so it doesnt move, and someone who can jump across without a problem hold the other end on this side, then we could walk along that pole, and use the wall for a brace, then all could make it with ease.
Arminas - (illegal?) second post Friday August 18th, 2006 4:47:27 PM
Arminas hands the pole to Fosco, and says:
"I do not think it will support weight like a bridge. I have used such to vault over an obstacle, but it is too thin for what you have in mind."
He looks surprised at the comments of Harvest and Any towards Baelfred, yet he does not comment on them. Bralin is in charge, and if there is a decision to be made he should make it.
OOC: Arminas has not been involved in the ongoing suspicion towards Baelfred. He had voiced concern once, but that was long ago. Any was the one concerned with his motive.
Davros AC18 HP 29/29 Friday August 18th, 2006 6:41:18 PM
"I have magical levitation available to use yet this day- perhaps it will be of use?"
"I agree with the others,Baelfred should remain in a safer place.Do you know of a nearby location Baelfred?"
Davros retrieves a wand from a fold in his cloak, and activates it.Targeting a nice round stone, he then offers the stone for someone to toss to the other side of the pit.After this is done, he scoops up Whiskers and makes sure he is secure on his cloak before feeding him a morsel of food.
spells active: mage armor - duration 5 hours light - on a stone - duration 10 minutes
items active: continual flame torch
Florin Jadenth Friday August 18th, 2006 7:39:55 PM
Florin thinks and looks to the others before sighing as he thinks, "To bad we didn't have a way to secure a rope high enough for people to go across using a rope."
Florin shrugs and has a rope, just no way to attach it anywhere.
DM Kathy Sunday August 20th, 2006 10:47:57 PM Harvest and Any invite Baelfred to name a spot where he could await their return. "If I may," he replies. "I would like to await you here in this tunnel, perhaps 100 feet from the entrance. I believe I would be concealed there from the creatures of the surface, and anything from below would have to come through you first. Magical protection would be welcome," he says to Harvest, "but I should not like to deprive you of some spell you may need down there. I can make do without it."
If nobody objects, he moves back up the tunnel.
Meanwhile, you are trying to figure a way past this pit. The tunnel is only 5 feet wide, so the pit is no wider than that. It is, however, 10 feet long, meaning that Fosco can't search from here for any traps that might be on the other side.
Arminas pulls out a 10-foot pole and offers a grappling hook. Florin has rope. Bralin has a potion that would help somebody jump. Harvest appears to need no help in jumping, but has a spell at her disposal that would help somebody move along the walls. Davros offers a levitation.
[In the interest of saving time, I'll take Harvest's Jump check; there are no traps immediately on the other side.]
You discuss possibilities for a while, but Harvest puts an end to the conversation by taking a short running start and then flying across the pit. She lands safely on the other side, and begins casting about for the best way to help the others over.
Lorth Monday August 21st, 2006 9:37:28 AM
(OOC: I'm back from vacation, thanks Joe.)
Lorth waits for instructions on how to cross the pit. He keeps close watch on Baelfred, but does not voice his distrust.
Any d20+10=17 d20+10=24 Monday August 21st, 2006 11:26:55 AM
"I also have 50' of rope, which we can thread back and forth as a support for crossing. I have a potion that will allow me to fly across this pit, and with that I can carry gear, and other things across, but probably not another individual. It will give us one more person on the other side to anchor a rope though. Unless the others can make the jump that Harvest made, I am not sure how else to proceed. Can one among us enlarge Arminas' 10' pole? Do any have that ability?"
Any then listens to the suggestions from the rest of the group.
Seeing the young woman jump the pit with no problem gives the halfling confidence he needs.
So, backing up 20 feet the Halfling tells everyone to clear the lane, and making sure his crossbow is secured on his back along with his bedroll, he takes off. His little legs churning like a waterwheel on the rapids. Passing the others they hear him saying softly: I can do it I can do it I can do it I better do it. And, pushing off with his little legs on this side he flies through the air, arms waving in the air, legs still churning as if he was still on the ground. And, with a little cloud of dirt, lands on the other side!
Smiling at Harvest then turning to the others he says: Next?!
Posting Report Monday August 21st, 2006 12:49:05 PM
Game #9, Swords of Light Week of August 14, 2006
Name M T W T F DM Kathy x x x x x Any x x x x x Arminas x 2 x x 2 Bralin x x x x x Davros x x x x x Florin x x x x x Fosco 2 2 x x 2 Harvest 2 x x x 2 Lorth x x o x o
Bralin d20+13=16 Monday August 21st, 2006 1:57:31 PM
The dwarf starts taking off his armor.
"Without my armor, I can jump it," he informs Any. "On the other side, I will anchor ropes as a safety line or to pull equipment across. As we have time, let us save most of our magics against the day when we not as fortunate."
Unless someone stops him, Bralin removes his platemail and pack, takes out a rope and secures his gear, drinks his potion [Jump] takes hold of the other end of the rope, backs up 20', and powers himself across the pit.
[Jump 16] He lands on the other side with a resounding thump.
Turning, the dwarf proceeds to drag his gear across and (given time) will put it on.
[This does take a while......]
Arminas d20+4=6 d20+9=16 d20+9=15 Monday August 21st, 2006 3:45:14 PM
Upon seeing the halfling and dwarf jump the pit, Arminas decides that he can also do so. Getting a running start, he springs into the air at the edge of the pit.
Flying through the air, Arminas notices that the far edge of the pit is beyond his jump. He reaches out for the lip, and barely catches it, his legs dangling into the pit. Carefully, he climbs up the edge to where Harvest, Bralin and Fosco wait.
A look of frustration is on his face, out jumped by both a dwarf and a halfling. His ego is bruised, and he looks down to see if he is hurt physically as well.
Actions Jump - fail by less than 5 (reflex save needed to grab edge) Reflex save - 16 (grabbed edge) Climb check 15 (barely made it)
Harvest d20+14=25 d20+14=32 Monday August 21st, 2006 4:28:13 PM
"We will return for you as swiftly as possible, Master Baelfred," Harvest Moon calls in low tones from across the pit. She returns the smile as the little halfling easily leaps the pit as well. And then Bralin Stoneminder.
Harvest turns to act lookout, but the sounds of quick scrabbling pull her swiftly around. Arminas Calaelen scrabbles for purchase at the edge of the pit, and Harvest nearly dives to his aide before he pulls himself to safety.
"Please take care, Anthos," she calls back across. "These gauntlets may provide you with some small measure of strength for the jump across." Harvest removes the gauntlets on her hands and throws them across. (Ishgaran Gauntlets of Strength. Only +1 to STR, but might give that +1 more to the modifier.(
Fosco pt2 Monday August 21st, 2006 4:40:19 PM
<*> Will assist Bralin in putting his armor on, to reduce the time needed. <*>
Any(second post) Monday August 21st, 2006 7:52:10 PM
OOC Thought I would speed things up for tomorrow.
Any sees that the die is cast as one after the other of the party jump the pit. He quaffs the potion in his hand, and floats gently across to land beside Harvest.
A big smile crosses his face as he hands Harvest her gauntlets,
"My Love, I believe you dropped your gloves."
He will then anchor himself with one of the ropes, to assist any others who may fall short as Arminas did, and keep himself from being pulled in.
Florin Jadenth Monday August 21st, 2006 9:23:40 PM
Florin shakes his head and watches some of the group jump across but shakes his head once more as he smiles sheepishly, "I wouldn't dare try jumping that hole even without my armor."
Florin sighs and hopes the group nows of a way to get him across without him trying to jump. If he had Ajax and the tunnel was large enough he could have Ajax taking a running jump which his mount could probably clear it easy enough.
Davros d20+3=21 Monday August 21st, 2006 10:30:30 PM
Davros moves to the edge of the pit
"Bralin you give sound advice.I will conserve my magic and use the rope to cross when it is ready.Perhaps we should secure the rope now for an easier time when we leave."
Davros then drops the stone with the light spell on it into the pit to see how deep it is.
actions: spot- 21
spells active: mage armor - 5 hours light on rock - ten minutes
items active: continual flame torch
DM Kathy Tuesday August 22nd, 2006 3:44:26 AM
Seeing Harvest's example, Fosco gives himself a little pep talk and jumps across the gap. Bralin follows.
Arminas also makes the attempt, but lands short. The false floor of the tunnel gives way beneath his weight, and he scrambles to catch himself. He does just catch hold of the edge and manages to scramble to safety.
Any uses his potion to cross with considerably more dignity.
Davros and Lorth are left on the near side of the pit, both expressing doubts as to whether they can make the jump. Some sort of accommodation needs to be made for them.
Meanwhile, the others are crowded into the small space on the other side of the pit, not quite daring to move much farther until Fosco has found the next trap.
Lorth Tuesday August 22nd, 2006 7:29:28 AM
"I will try and jump across if that is the only way, but I doubt I will make it. I'd rather we try and tie up some ropes.", Lorth says.
Lorth then again waits for instruction, he will help with whatever plan the party comes up with.
Any d20=15 d20+10=30 d20+10=22 Tuesday August 22nd, 2006 10:17:20 AM
Any can see that the paladins, Florin and Lorth, do not feel comfortable attempting the jump across the pit, especially in their armor. Florin doubts his ability even without the Armor.
Any begins to secure the ropes to whatever he can find on the near side of the pit. He is also looking for anything which could be used to enable the others to cross.
"Bralin, could any of these strange shaft supports be removed without compromising the tunnels integrity? We could lash them together to make a bridge. That along with the ropes should allow the remainder of the group to cross, or do any have another plan?"
Use rope 15 My Knots will hold! Now if I can find something to tie them to. Spot 30 Natural 20! If it's there to be seen, I can see it! listen 22
Any (2nd Post) Tuesday August 22nd, 2006 10:55:57 AM
"If those remaining tied a rope around their waist, and we pulled as they jumped, would it be enough to assist them in getting across? Or if I were to cast a feather fall spell on them as they jumped, would it be easier to pull them on across? I'm not sure if that spell makes you lighter, or if it just slows you down as you fall. I could certainly cast the feather fall spell so that they wouldn't get hurt if they didn't make the jump across, depending on how deep the pit is."
Any then listens to the others, hoping they will have more insight into this problem.
Harvest d20+14=29 Tuesday August 22nd, 2006 12:50:31 PM
Harvest Moon says nothing in reply when Anthos comes across and returns her gauntlets. Her hands, though, linger upon his as she accepts them back, and the crest of hair that hangs down over her forehead cannot quite hide the pink blush of her face lit from below by the Everburning torch.
"I do not know much about mining or excavating, Anthos," Harvest says as Fosco helps Bralin on with his armor, "but these walls do not look as though they are very sturdy."
"Perhaps it may be best if Davros Sapphiredge and Paladin Lorth were to climb down one side of the pit and then up the other." She peers over the edge, and in the light of the stone that the wizard had just dropped in, estimates the depth of the pit and studies the bottom for spikes or other dangers.
"We could easily cross back over and anchor a rope by which they might descend. Once done, we could return to this side in the same manner."
Rolls and Actions Spot 29 (to see the bottom of the pit)
(BTW, sorry, just noticed that I'd gotten Fosco's last name wrong.)
Bralin Tuesday August 22nd, 2006 1:07:57 PM
"Use two ropes," Bralin offers simply. "Tie both around Florin. I will hold one, Any and Arminas can grasp the other. We will pull him across. And then Lorth."
The dwarf removes the rope from his pack and tosses it across to the paladins.
Arminas Tuesday August 22nd, 2006 2:02:55 PM
Arminas finishes dusting himself off, and tries to forget the humiliation of the moment. Apparently the paladins cannot even attempt the feat, yet he was still beaten by a dwarf and a halfling.
Shaking his head for no apparent reason, he speaks to Harvest.
"Thanks for your offer of help, though I am fine."
Harvest makes some good suggestions of helping the paladins across, yet the leader has a different idea.
Bralin suggests the use of two ropes, and Arminas shrugs and pulls his rope from his pack.
"I have another rope if needed." He then throws the rope to Florin if he does not already have two.
"Beware though, the edge of the pit makes for a hard landing. How do you suggest we pull them across?"
Harvest OoC Tuesday August 22nd, 2006 2:28:20 PM
Of rulls and physics.
1) Pit is ten feet across. 2) Rope tied to one person on the other side should be 10 feet long.
If the person on the other side has a rope around them and simply steps off, they should swing along a line defined by the limit of the rope and hit the near wall of the pit 10 feet down.
As this defines a square 10x10. The distance actually traveled is at a Diagonal and two squares across. That makes the distance traveled 15 feet per the PHB. This means that the person swinging on the rope would logically sustain 1d6 damage for a fall from 10 to 20 feet.
Fosco Tuesday August 22nd, 2006 8:30:06 PM
Stands there watching the group with a smile on his face. Pulling out his crossbow, he cocks and loads it, then watches down the tunnel while everyone else gets the 2 others across the pit.
Arminas - (illegal?) second post Tuesday August 22nd, 2006 9:00:31 PM
Upon seeing Fosco grinning with crossbow in hand, Arminas says to him:
"Why don't you check for traps for short ways down the tunnel? That way we all won't be cramped upon the edge of this pit."
Davros Tuesday August 22nd, 2006 9:33:24 PM
Davros appears to be dismayed at the idea of climbing or jumping and comes up with a better plan.
"Lorth ,if I cast levitate on you,you could carry me and the others could pull us across with a simple tied rope.Does this sound good to you?"
spells active: mage armor - 5 hours light on stone - (in the pit) 10 minutes levitate??? - 5 minutes,500 pounds total weight
items active: continual flame torch
Florin Jadenth Tuesday August 22nd, 2006 9:36:29 PM
Florin looks to Lorth and smiles as he shrugs, "Looks like it is just me and you mainly holding up the group. I never was good at jumping really even for my size and stregnth, before or after becoming a elf."
Florin looks to the other side and smiles as he shrugs, "I can take alittle punishment so the rope idea will work. If there is no spikes or anything like that at the bottom of the pit then I could climb down also."
Fosco d20+9=21 d20+10=20 d20+12=30 Tuesday August 22nd, 2006 10:18:12 PM
Nods to Arminas, puts up his crossbow, and slowly moves down the tunnel, looking for more traps and/or trouble.
DM Kathy d100=59 Wednesday August 23rd, 2006 1:07:16 AM
You turn your attentions to getting the Lorth, Florin, and Davros across the pit.
Any suggests "borrowning" a support, but that does not seem like a prudent idea. He then suggests simply tying a rope around somebody's waist and pulling him across. The trouble with this plan is that the pullee would hit the opposite wall pretty hard. However, he could then be pulled up.
Harvest suggests climbing down and then back up, and peers down into the pit to see whether this is possible. Thanks to Davros's lighted stone, she can easily see the bottom, which looks to be somewhere between 50 and 100 feet down. The stone is rather rough, but there are no spikes or similar hazards visible.
Davros is thinking in terms of magic. He suggests levitating one of the paladins, who could then carry the other two men across, one at a time.
Meanwhile, Fosco moves down the tunnel, looking for the next trap. About 30 feet along, he finds another set of the poisoned spikes, ready to skewer the unwary.
Lorth d20+1=11 Wednesday August 23rd, 2006 7:17:38 AM
Lorth turns to Davros, "Yes, I think I could do that, as long as they pulled me across after I was levitating. I could even drop my belongings on the other side to lighten the load if need be."
Lorth ties the rope bralin tossed around himself then waits for Davros to cast his spell and goes ahead with the plan. (11 rope use)
Any d20+10=29 d20+10=30 Wednesday August 23rd, 2006 10:16:56 AM
Any can see that Davros' plan is the best proposed. He can cast his levitate, and can be pulled back and forth with the two paladins, his magic supporting them. The addition of the little magic user to the party is already showing its benefits.
"Thank you Davros for being among us. This is by far the best solution. Your magics have helped where strength and ingenuity could not, and non need take any injury your way."
Any assists in making this plan come about, securing ropes, and aiding the party members as they arrive on the his side of the pit.
Once all is accomplished, he coils his rope back up, and stows it into is haversack. His attention goes back to Fosco, again watching to help spot traps, and trying to learn more of the technique needed to find and disarm them.
Spot 29 Listen 30 NAtural 20
Fosco d20+11=28 d20+10=20 d20+12=15 Wednesday August 23rd, 2006 11:34:44 AM
Looking over his shoulder and seeing Any approaching, I wait.
When Any kneels down next to me I begin showing where the trap is, what I did to find it, how it works and then, I show him how to disarm the trap. Disable Device 28 <nat.17>
So Any, you ready to try out what you have learned on the next one?
<*> Will hang at this spot til the others catch up. On alert for danger ahead. <*> Listen: 20 (nat.10) Spot: 15 (nat.3)
Harvest d20+6=21 d20+6=26 d20+6=14 d20+6=23 d20+6=16 d20+6=17 d20+6=16 d20+6=23 d20+6=13 d20+6=23 d20+6=14 d20+6=10 d20+6=17 d20+6=25 d20+6=8 d20+6=21 d20+6=23 d20+6=16 d20+5=24 Wednesday August 23rd, 2006 12:41:19 PM
Harvest nods as the paladins begin to levitate across. From her pack, she removes a coil of rope.
"If I may borrow another rope, I will descend and retrieve the glowing stone." Tying the two ropes together, she throws the bulk over the side. "Please hold this end, Bralin Stoneminder," she asks. "I will not be long."
Quickly Harvest scampers over the side and down the side of the pit. She plucks the stone from the floor and places it into her pouch before scampering back up the rope.
"Here is your Stone of Light, Davros Sapphiredge," Harvest says returning the stone to the mage. Then she turns to follow the others down the tunnel.
Rolls and Actions Normal Speed of 40. Climbing 100 feet at 1/4 speed. 8 climb checks going down. Drop 20 feet with Slow Fall. 10 climb checks going up. All Succeed. All Double Moves so 9.5 rounds or roughly one minute. Use Rope 24 (to tie ropes together)
Bralin d20+5=14 Wednesday August 23rd, 2006 1:44:58 PM
A solution agreed upon, Bralin turns his attention toward getting his armor back on.
Busy with this task, when Harvest asks him to hold the rope, he does so with curiousity. It is only when the monk goes over the side does the dwarf understand she plans to climb down into the pit.
He quickly adjusts his grip to get a better hold, and anchors the line. [Strength check 14]
Arminas Wednesday August 23rd, 2006 2:44:49 PM
Arminas watches as Davros uses his magic to levitate a paladin. He floats up into the air, yet it looks like the magic will not move him. Looking around, it seems everyone else is too busy to help.
"Throw me the end of the rope. Keep the end of the second rope on the other side, so as to pull him back."
When the rope land in his hand, Arminas pulls the paladin over the pit. He then waits for him to be pulled back to carry over the last person.
Davros Wednesday August 23rd, 2006 3:22:48 PM
Having cast the levitate on Lorth, we will be pulled across to the other side.
"Lorth, after you set me down on the far side, Florin can you pull you back across to his side and then the two of you can be pulled back here again.I can maintain the levitation for several more minutes so do not worry."
On the other side, Davros turns to Any
"Anthos, thank you for the kind words- it feels very good to me to be needed. I hope I can remain as useful in the future."
"Miss Harvest, thank you for retrieving the stone.I must say that I am very impressed with your climbing abilities.I never had much time to practice such physical activities while I was in school.I would have stopped you from placing yourself in harms way however if I had known what you were about.The spell I placed upon the stone was but a mere cantrip, certainly not worth risking yourself over but I thank you again.By the way, did you see anything interesting at the bottom of the pit?"
Addressing the group: "When we leave this place I think we should try to secure a more permanent means of crossing this pit if we can.It would give the other residents of these lands such as Baelfred a greater chance to drink from the Still and escape through the Inn."
spells active: mage armor - duration 5 hours light - duration 10 total minutes(probably not much left now) levitate - duration 5 minutes
items active: continual flame torch
Arminas - 2nd post Wednesday August 23rd, 2006 3:59:16 PM
Davros mentions making it easier for others to cross the pit and drink from the still.
Arminas adds: "How do we know that those who drink and cross over do not mean harm to the Wold? I don't want to be responsible for the consequences of untold others crossing over."
Florin Jadenth Wednesday August 23rd, 2006 9:33:58 PM
Florin nods and is willing to help out as this plan sounds alot better then him trying to climb down and up the pit.
Florin does think and looks to the side of the pit he is on but decides that worrying about how to get back will come later.
When it is his turn Florin helps pull back Lorth and will go across the pit with Lorth. Florin can't help but be amazed at the powers that the magic users wield and comments, "Maybe I should get some levitation boots or something later."
DM Kathy Thursday August 24th, 2006 1:57:31 AM Davros's plan is agreed upon, and he casts his Levitation spell on Lorth. Arminas then pulls the floating paladin cross the pit twice, once carrying Davros, and again carrying Florin. It is an impressive (and welcome) display of magical prowess.
Meanwhile, Harvest scampers down in the pit to retrieve the lighted stone, aided by Bralin belaying the rope. [And in answer to Bralin's question, Harvest doesn't see anything especially interesting down in the pit.]
With Any studying his actions carefully, Fosco disables the next trap. He is ready to proceed by the time the rest of the party catches up.
[In the interest of moving the story forward, I'll assume Fosco finds the remaining traps.]
You continue down the tunnel, stopping rather often for Fosco to disable traps. Every now an again, you pass what was obviously once a side-tunnel, branching off the main passage, but all have been filled in. Your intended path is quite clear.
At last you reach what appears to have been the bottom of the mine. There is a little, round, hollowed-out chamber here, perhaps 15 feet in diameter. There is a sturdy looking chest over against one of the walls. In the very center of the chamber is a lumpy-looking object, covered with a linen cloth.
Bralin Thursday August 24th, 2006 10:32:58 AM
Trap riddled though it be, this excursion is too easy for Bralin's taste.
"Davros, mayhap magic detection would be most prudent," he offers.
If the wizard doesn't cast the spell, the dwarf does. Otherwise he waits for Davros's report. [Detect Magic]
Any d20+10=13 d20+10=16 Thursday August 24th, 2006 10:45:59 AM
"I can see where an average person would have difficulty in coming this far. Thanks be to Domi that we have Fosco among us to find and bypass these traps.
No friend Fosco, I am content for now to learn from one who is my master in this skill. Perhaps there will come a time when I will attain the ability to do as you do, but that time is not yet.
I agree with Bralin though. We must be wary of magical traps too."
Any does not trust this innocent looking room. All of the protection coming down the mine shaft, only to end in an open chamber with a chest in it?
Alert for any signs of danger, Any watches while those more skilled look for any other traps-magical or non.
Spot 13 listen 16
Fosco d20+9=28 Thursday August 24th, 2006 11:28:01 AM
Turning to the others at the entrance to the room: Please wait here until I deem the room safe to move around in. Something of this importance must be trapped to its fullest and I will need to check the whole room before anyone else enters. Better safe than sorry my master always said. Then turning back to the room, I enter and will start the methodical and thorough examination of the room for traps of all sorts. Search for traps: 28 (nat.19)
<*> Note: In the PHB in the Rogue class section is special rules regarding the detection of traps in case you want to see if it applies in this room. <*>
Harvest d20+14=15 d20+14=29 Thursday August 24th, 2006 11:44:59 AM
Why?
"Why?" Harvest Moon asks the question out loud. "Why would such a thing be down here?" she asks. "Why would it be here in a place where there are no people? No guards and no one to maintain it."
"For the magic The Still has it would seem to have great value. And yet the traps so far have not been that difficult. And we have seen no bodies. There have been no victims of the traps. I saw nothing at the bottom of that pit. There are no bodies here."
"Davros Sapphiredge, without entering the room, can you lift the cloth from the object in the center? I have a scroll that can produce an invisible Servant. With it's aide we may be able to retrieve the Still from the room from afar. We may also be able to retrieve the chest as well."
"If we throw a rope near enough, I also have a scroll that will cause the rope to tie itself to an object. That may be of use in this situation."
Sidling across the dirt floor, Harvest comes up close to Any, watching both ways, up the tunnel the way they came as well as into the room.
Arminas d20+10=15 d20+7=13 d20+10=30 d20+10=27 Thursday August 24th, 2006 4:19:26 PM
Arminas looks back and forth between his companions. Bralin has suggested detection of magic before entrance to the room. Harvest suggests using an unseen servant to delve into the room.
Yet, the halfling who jumps like a hare carefully walks into the room looking about for traps. He either knows more than them or lacks wisdom. Probably both.
Harvest brings up a good point about the traps.
"I also wondered about the lack of victims, and that all traps seem to be set. Do you suppose there is someone or something that comes in and takes the victims and resets the traps?"
While waiting, Arminas decides to look about outside the room. He pays particular attention to the floor, looking for tracks.
"I wonder if I can find tracks of others who have come this far. If others have entered here, the tracks should last a long time."
Actions Listen 15 Search 13 Spot 30 (perfect 20) Survival (looking for tracks of others who may have entered the room) 27
Davros d20+15=17 d20+3=4 d20+15=32 d20+15=17 d20+15=24 Thursday August 24th, 2006 7:02:51 PM
Davros shares the concerns everyone has voiced.
"I can remove the cloth with a spell, but first I will detect for magic.There may be a good reason the object is covered.Some types of magic can affect you merely by seeing it."
Davros gets a wand out of his sleeve and makes a quick gesture along with an arcane word of activation.He then scans the room slowly with his newly magic detecting vision and pauses for any auras he detects to inform everyone where they are.He then concentrates on any auras to determine their strength and type.(spellcraft check to determine school of aura-17 )
Florin Jadenth Thursday August 24th, 2006 11:55:34 PM
Florin frowns when he sees the large room with the chest and covered item and agrees with Harvest suggestion, "I have to admit I like the idea of getting the items out without going in. This room might be the real reason why we have not seen no bodies or might be the real threat."
Florin shrugs and smiles, "I heard amazing things can be acomplished by magic so maybe some magic guards this place or such."
DM Kathy Friday August 25th, 2006 12:56:56 AM
After walking down a passage guarded by poison spikes, hidden pits, magical glyphs, and collapsing walls, the party decides it has been too easy.
Bralin suggests that somebody detect for magic, and Davros obliges.
Any stays alert, and watches the others with an eye to improving his own skills by and by.
Harvest suggests an Unseen Servant spell, which could manipulate at least some of the objects without putting the party at risk. Ropes might also be put to good use.
Arminas looks for tracks. He finds that the stone floor is worn--certainly there would have been many humanoids in and out of here when the mine was active. There is a faint layer of dust on everything, and no footprints in it, so clearly nobody has been here in a while. Arminas is unable to tell for certain whether anybody has been here since the items were placed in this chamber. He believes that nobody has, but can't say for sure.
Davros, meanwhile, scans the room with his arcane eye. He finds a magical aura on the object in the center of the room, and none on the chest by the wall. He notes that the aura is of Moderate strength, but cannot tell what school it belongs to.
Fosco ventures into the room to check it for traps. He finds a trap at the center of the room, under the cloth-covered bundle.
Fosco Friday August 25th, 2006 2:46:34 AM
I retrace my steps back to the group.
Um, yah, Traps. No traps in that room anywhere Except, turning, I point at the covered object in the center of the room. There is a trap under that covering. Now, we could do as Mistress Harvest suggests and send in an unseen servant to uncover the object, possibly setting off the trap so as not to harm any of us, but what if said action destroys the item in the process? What I see we need for sure is that object uncovered but will that set off the trap too? Only thing I see as an option right now is me going back to it, determining what exactly the trap is, if the covering can be removed safely, and getting it disarmed. And without any of you in there in case it goes off.
Any d20+10=11 d20+10=28 Friday August 25th, 2006 10:09:37 AM
"Can you determine what type of trap is under that covering without lifting the covering? I do not think so, and as you have said lifting the covering might set off the trap waiting there. My question is this. Is the item itself the trap? Perhaps we should follow Harvest's suggestion, and have an unseen servant remove the covering. I just don't know. I have had too little experience with this type of thing.
Do any of you have a better suggestion? Fosco has shown his facility with finding, and disarming the traps so far. Are you willing to take the risk this last time? We will certainly support you with whatever we have, but the choice is ultimately yours."
Any stands near to Harvest, and waits for any other suggestions.
Spot 11--DOH! a natural 1 Listen 28
Harvest Friday August 25th, 2006 1:00:48 PM
"I ... I have little experience with traps," Harvest Moon says, turning to look at Any. "And if it is the opinion of Fosco Loamsdown that the Still may be destroyed should we allow the trap to be triggered, then it is, perhaps, best that we heed is words of expertise."
"Recall the time that I allowed the invisible Servant to open the chest in the room at the inn in Jarlwolf, Anthos? Many of the coins became embedded in the wood of the walls, thrown by the force of the explosion."
"How far do you recommend that we withdraw for safety, Fosco Loamsdown?" she asks. "And please remember to care for your own safety as well."
Florin Jadenth Friday August 25th, 2006 1:20:26 PM
Florin has to agree with Harvest, he doesn't want anyone getting injured by the trap in the room since they do not know what it is yet.
Florin sighs as he ponders the dilema, "Could the trap extend back into the tunnel? I mean like to the pit or beyond?" Florin doesn't like the idea of triggering a unknown trap if it comes to that.
Bralin Friday August 25th, 2006 1:49:08 PM
"Open the chest first," Bralin offers. "Tis safer, and may contain clues regarding the Still."
Arminas Friday August 25th, 2006 2:15:31 PM
Arminas points to the floor as he speaks:
"It appears we are the first to this point in the mine, at least in recent times. As you can see, the layer of dust has not been disturbed for a very long time."
Arminas stays out of the room, awaiting final decisions.
Davros Friday August 25th, 2006 4:44:24 PM
"Isn't the Still some kind of fountain?I would expect that no one would have bothered to place it here if a trap would destroy it.Perhaps the trap is to affect the liquid in the Still if it is uncovered."
why WOULD anyone place the Still here? Why does the vampiress who controls these lands allow a possible escape for the people?
Fosco d20+9=26 d20+11=20 d20+15=29 Friday August 25th, 2006 7:47:00 PM
<points at Bralin> Good idea.
Walking over to the unmagical chest, I check it for traps just to be on the safe side. Search for Traps: 26 (nat.15)
If trapped, I disable it. Disable Device: 20 (nat.9)
If not trapped, but locked, I unlock it. Open Lock: 29 (nat.14)
After everything is done, I open it and tell the group what is inside it.
DM Kathy Sunday August 27th, 2006 10:37:20 PM
After some discussion, Fosco opens the chest and finds it filled with gold and platinum coins, with a few gems thrown in for good measure. A search of the chest reveals no clues as to the whereabouts of the Still or how to obtain it.
[Darn! Nothing but money!]
That still leaves the problem of how to get the Still--or whatever lies under that linen cloth.
Harvest d20+14=25 Sunday August 27th, 2006 11:42:32 PM
"The gold we may acquire after securing The Still," Harvest Moon says from the boundries of the room.
"We have faith in you, Fosco Loamsdown. If you require aid, call out," says Harvest Moon. "We will come to you."
She backs away to a place behind which she will have cover and waits, listening to the sounds that come from the room beyond.
Fosco Monday August 28th, 2006 2:22:49 AM
Walks back to the group.
Mistress Harvest. Use your unseen servant to remove the covering. It probably is the most prudent thing to do first. Safer for everyone in question. And we all back up say 20 feet down the tunnel before it does the deed. If nothing happens, then I will do what I was trained to do and we will all have a better visual of the item. If it explodes, well, it saves you from having to scrape my carcass off the ceiling. <Smiles brightly>
Bralin Monday August 28th, 2006 9:23:58 AM
The black platemailed figure nods once with a "clank" in agreement with Fosco.
Lorth Monday August 28th, 2006 9:26:10 AM
(OOC: Sorry, I was without internet access for 2 days, should be back for good now.)
Lorth stays near the rear of the group, sleuthing and searching for traps is not his forte, so he stays quiet and follows along.
Harvest Monday August 28th, 2006 10:09:44 AM
Crouched and low to the ground, Harvest Moon peers out from around the bit of wall behind which she had retreated for cover.
"If you feel that would be best, Fosco Loamsdown," she replies. "But were you not concerned that a trap may destroy the Still?" From her haversack, Harvest retrieves a scroll.
"Davros Sapphiredge, do you think it perhaps prudent to attempt again to investigate the type of magic in the room?"
== OOC == I was looking at the Spellcraft Skill and there seems to be no restrictions on Retry when using Detect Magic.
If all are agreed then cast Unseen Servant from scroll and order it to lift the cloth from the thing in the middle of the room. Harvest will be back 20 feet, hopefully behind cover.
Any d20+3=21 d20+10=19 d20+10=13 Monday August 28th, 2006 10:21:16 AM
OOC-- Kathy, I have not heard from you concerning my e-mail, so will simply assume that Any has the items mentioned.
Any pulls back a corner of his cloak, and all can see that there appears to be several small patches along the sleeve of his shirt. Reaching up to touch one of these, he says,
"Allow me my Lady."
From his position, near to where Harvest is standing, he concentrates on the newly formed apparition of a small pixie, clad in blue clothing. As Any carefully concentrates, this image moves out into the room, and lifts the cloth off of the object--whatever it is.
Any uses the Goblin Seal of the Pixie--a mage hand spell with a range of 35', lasts while Any is concentrating on the spell.
OOC--Sorry about jumping the gun on you Al, just thought we needed to move this along. Plus, I wanted to use this cool Seal!
Concentrate 21 spot 19 listen 13
Arminas Monday August 28th, 2006 11:23:53 AM
Arminas takes the warning, and backs down the tunnel about 60 feet.
The interplay between Any and Harvest is interesting, perhaps thier first argument may be soon.
Harvest (3rd llegal Post) Monday August 28th, 2006 12:52:15 PM
"Anthos!" Harvest starts in alarm as Any steps into the open and directs his magic at the cloth covering what might be The Still. But what is done is done and she can do no more than be ready to pull him back into cover should the result be explosive.
OoC: Unfortunately, there is no way to Aid Another with a Save or I would do so here.
Davros Monday August 28th, 2006 6:11:45 PM
"Uh-Oh..." Davros watches anxiously from the safety of the corridor to the results of Any's actions.
Any (2nd Post) Monday August 28th, 2006 7:47:14 PM
OOC-- For clarification, HArvest said in her post
She backs away to a place behind which she will have cover and waits, listening to the sounds that come from the room beyond.
Then Any said,
From his position, near to where Harvest is standing
Any is trying to be safe too. His spell has a range of 35', and he does not need to be able to see the spell work, only concentrate on it's effects, and stay within that range.
Florin Jadenth Monday August 28th, 2006 9:37:16 PM
Florin looks to the others and waits, hoping everything turns out alright but keeps his mithril longsword ready and his shield strapped and gripped to his other arm, not wanting to be caught off guard by anything.
Posting Report Monday August 28th, 2006 11:01:20 PM
Game #9, Swords of Light Week of August 21, 2006
Name MTWTF DM Kathy x x x x x Any 2 2 x x x Arminas x 2 2 x x Bralin x x x x x Davros x x x x x Florin x x x x x Fosco 2 2 x x 2 Harvest x x x x x Lorth x x x o o
DM Kathy Monday August 28th, 2006 11:18:17 PM
After some discussion, you retreat back up the passageway. Harvest prepares to cast her spell, but then Any remembers a seal he had acquired in his travels. He activates it, and sends a tiny blue creature flitting toward the chamber.
The linen cloth is whisked away. As it moves, a flurry of darts fly out and clatter harmlessly against the cavern wall. The cloth flutters to the ground, revealing the Still.
As you step back into the room, you get your first look at the Still. It is made of heads. Humanoid heads, fused together in a horrible hodgepodge, with twisting tubes of brass twining among them. Your spinning brain registers an orc, a human girl with flaxen braids, a dusky-skinned elf, a goblin. Many, many more. Some of the eyes are open, some are shut. The heads are dead. Yes, they must be. Yes, dead. That movement you thought you saw must surely be your imagination.
Jutting from one side of the Still, at the bottom, is a spigot with a wrought-brass handle. Presumably, whatever the Still makes, it comes out there.
Fosco Tuesday August 29th, 2006 1:21:45 AM
Looking at the still all he can seem to muster to say is: yuk, cover it back up.
Any d20+10=26 d20+10=14 Tuesday August 29th, 2006 9:49:21 AM
Any is glad that all turned out so well with the trapped cloth. He realizes now-after the fact-that maybe he should have waited, but it is in the past now.
"Bralin, Lorth, or Florin, do any of you detect an evil aura from this...thing. It certainly looks evil.
What do we need to do? Do we just fill a flask from this abomination, and bring it to Baelfred to drink? And what do we do with the contents of this chest? Do we claim it as our own for daring the risks of the tunnel, or do we leave it where it is? I get the feeling that it is here as a distraction from the Still. What may be the consequences for taking any portion of it? What do you all think?"
Any wishes he could cast an identify spell, hoping to get some idea of what this thing does, and what it is for, but he does not think that spell would work on an object like this. Plus he has no wine with him to complete the spell, and he is not sure he wants to touch it at all anyway. He stays alert for trouble and watches as the others discuss the next move.
spot 26 listen 14
Bralin Tuesday August 29th, 2006 10:45:45 AM
"Take the chest," Bralin answers automatically.
Then, he swallows hard as he contemplates The Still. He does not possess the capability to determine if it is truly evil, but he cannot see how it would be otherwise.
"I can identify how to use this ... item, as well as its properties," the dwarf relays. "But it will take one hour to do so."
He looks at Any significantly. "Should Florin and Lorth determine it to be evil, we should make the time."
Harvest Tuesday August 29th, 2006 10:58:15 AM
Darts ... There are no more than darts.
Harvest Moon's sense of relief is shattered by the horror that resides below the covering cloth. Her eyes narrow as outrage and a rising sickness boil within her.
"This is evil ... " she hears her own voice whisper. "Such a think could not be otherwise," Harvest Moon continues. "And not for it's construction alone. It lures people here with hope and the promises of freedom. And then it forces them to desecrate themselves as the price for a life that they can only imagine."
"We must destroy this thing." Harvest Moon stands. She is oblivious of all else. "But first is our promise," she says. "We must bring Master Baelfred here to see for himself from what he is purchasing his freedom. It must be his choice to drink from it or not."
Arminas d20+10=18 Tuesday August 29th, 2006 11:12:49 AM
Arminas walks into the room and a look of revulsion comes over him. The device is horrible, that one should drink of it is unthinkable.
Harvest says what Arminas is thinking:
"You are right. This thing should not exist. To take life's energy from others for your own is wrong, it is what the vampires themselves do. Drinking from this puts you on thier level. I agree, it should be destroyed. Should we all go find Baelfred, or do you wish me to do so?"
He carefully looks at the device, certain he saw something move.
Action Spot 18
Fosco Tuesday August 29th, 2006 12:11:42 PM
Yet again he nods to Bralin, pulls out a large bag and walks over to the chest. Putting on a pair of leather gloves and a hand shovel that he removes from his pants pocket, he begins shoveling the gold and gems into the bag. After retrieving everything in the chest, either by the shovel or his fingers, he closes the chest lid, and secures the bag tightly. Then walking back to Bralin while putting the shovel and gloves back into his pocket, he hands him the sack. Here ya go.
Lorth Tuesday August 29th, 2006 1:13:51 PM
Lorth takes a moment to concentrate on the still, he puts his hand to his temple and waits, expecting the feeling of evil to come to him. He also examines to the still to make sure the heads are real and not just well carved or made replicas. Certainly if the heads are real the still must be destroyed he thinks.
Davros d20+15=18 Tuesday August 29th, 2006 5:20:34 PM
"Bralin, go ahead with the identify.We need all the information we can get.Are we sure there are no other traps on the Still?Perhaps it should get checked again."
Davros casts detect magic again and scans the room and the Still once more(spellcraft 18)
"The item is... vile.I have never even heard of something like this before and it will take me longer than I would like to think about to attempt to forget the sight of it."
Any (2nd post) Tuesday August 29th, 2006 7:36:37 PM
"I begrudge the time it would take to identify this item, and as I have said, the spell will not work on artifact type items anyway. I believe this Still falls into that category.
It is evil. I feel that even without Lorth's confirmation. It should not exist. Let Arminas return to get Baelfred, and let us end this quest. Let him drink if he still wishes, and then we can determine how to destroy this thing before we leave."
Florin Jadenth Tuesday August 29th, 2006 9:09:24 PM
Florin looks to the others and then the still and shakes his head, "I elect to not touch that 'thing'." Florin shakes his head and shivers, "Any person who would elect to drink from that is in dire need of something."
Florin looks to the others and shivers lightly before keeping his weapon ready and looks to Harvest and nods in agreement at her comment, "I would agree with you, who ever would make such a object is in need of help. The kind only a swift death could allow I think."
DM Kathy Tuesday August 29th, 2006 11:47:18 PM
Confronted with the horrific reality of the Still, Lorth stretches out with his inner eye, scanning for a taint of evil. It takes him a moment to sort out the resulting roil of impressions.
He recalls that he tried this once before, shortly after the party's arrival, and that the results were...inconclusive. Everything in Koshe-Marr seems to bear the taint of evil. Looking at the Still, Lorth can see it detects as evil. So does the chest. So do the darts, lying harmlessly on the floor. So do the cloth covering, the gold pieces, every gem. The very rock and soil bears a faint miasma of evil. It is all-pervasive.
Davros detects for magic, and is able to determine that the Still bears a Moderate aura of Abjuration.
Fosco and Bralin, at least, do not let their revulsion of the Still carry over to the chest full of coin and gems. Fosco begins shoveling the loot into a bag her carries.
The rest of the party debates this disturbing turn of events. Is drinking from the Still too high a price to escape the horrors of this realm? Should the thing be destroyed? If so, should Baelfred be given the choice of drinking from the vile thing beforehand?
The consensus seems to be that the Still should be destroyed, but not until your promise to Baelfred is fulfilled. You are just reaching that resolution when an insubstantial form comes out of the wall of the chamber, moving toward you.
For a moment, you tense for battle, then relax as you recognize ghostly Gerdi, running toward you just like a real child might. She stops a few feet in front of you. "Devrin's doing something bad," she announces importantly. "He left the Inn. You said we weren't 'posed to, but he left anyway. He's coming here. He's being bad."
Fosco d20+22=37 d20+20=39 d20+12=17 Wednesday August 30th, 2006 1:23:19 AM
Looking at Bralin. How did the ghost and the kid know to come here. I thought only Baelfred knew the way. Something tells me it was easy to get in cuz its gonna be hell to get out. Loads the crossbow. Im gonna scout back towards the pit. And saying that, I pull up the hood of my cloak and step into the shadows with nether a sound. Hide in Shadows: 37 <nat.15> Move Silently: 39 <nat.19> Listen: 17 <nat.5>
Fosco d20+9=17 d20+10=26 Wednesday August 30th, 2006 1:25:59 AM
forgot to add these 2 rolls for scouting. Search: 17 <nat.8> Spot: 26 <nat.16>
Lorth Wednesday August 30th, 2006 7:48:32 AM
A sense of urgency fills Lorth. "We must return quickly to make sure Devrin is allright. I propose we quickly get some of the liquid from the still, then go find Devrin and find out why he is coming here. The lastly give Baelfred his liquid."
Lorth begins to empty his waterskin on the floor, when it is empty he will put some liquid from the still in it, if none of his friends object.
Any d20+10=18 d20+10=30 Wednesday August 30th, 2006 9:58:29 AM
Any is concerned about anyone even having to touch this thing, but sees the necessity to fulfill their oath.
"I agree friend Lorth. This place is no place to linger. I had thought to have Baelfred come here to drink, so that none here would need to go near the Still as it is his choice, but let us get the potion, or whatever it is, destroy this beastly creation-if we can, and depart this foul land.
It will take less time this way, and we can go to intercept Devrin. What do you all think? Bralin? Harvest? Florin? Davros? Arminas? Fosco has already decided it seems, as have I and Lorth. Do any of you have objections? If not, let us move quickly."
So saying, he watches as Lorth fills some of the liquid into his waterskin, and asks,
"Has anyone got an idea of how we can destroy this? Short of setting it on fire, or beating it apart with a sword, I have no idea. From what I know and have heard of powerful magical items, destroying one can be dangerous and difficult."
He then turns with the others, the question still on his lips. He is watching for any signs of trouble as they complete these last tasks before leaving. His thoughts are on Devrin. He does not want another death while in this vile place.
Spot 18 Listen 30 Natural 20 again!
Arminas Wednesday August 30th, 2006 10:41:21 AM
Arminas reacts to the appearance of Gerdi and the disappearance of Fosco quickly.
"I'm going with Fosco."
Then he stops at the entrance of the tunnel.
"I cannot see without some light, yet if I do so I will ruin Fosco's attempt at stealth. I will stay with the group, though I fear Fosco may need help."
Looking up at Gerdi, he asks: "Apart from leaving the Inn, how was Devrin being bad?"
Harvest (AC27, HP42/42) Wednesday August 30th, 2006 10:43:15 AM
"Gerdi," Harvest Moon quickly recovers a wand from her haversack, "go. Find Devrin. Stay with him. Try to convince him to return to the Inn. If you cannot, then protect him as best you are able."
She stares back up the long tunnel as she applies the magic to herself. An invisible Shield springs up before her. Too late to regret not having marked the locations of the traps with chalk.
"The traps may have reset themselves, but there is nothing for it but to run through them," she says to the others. "I will try to find Devrin as well and protect him as best I can until you arrive."
With those words, Harvest sprints back up the tunnel at the greatest of speed.
Arminas - 2nd post Wednesday August 30th, 2006 10:55:59 AM
Assuming Harvest has a light source, she must, Arminas sprints after her.
Harvest - OoC Wednesday August 30th, 2006 11:10:38 AM
Harvest has an Everburning torch stuck in her belt.
Bralin Wednesday August 30th, 2006 1:51:17 PM
Bralin frowns at the news brought by Gerdi. Devrin knows better than to act so rashly. Unless...
"Did he leave to find you?" he accuses the ghost girl.
Fosco leaves to scout the way back, and the dwarf nods in approval.
Then, Harvest and Arminas take off. Bralin frowns more deeply. He and Harvest have discussed running off on your own before. Another lesson is in order.
To Lorth, he says "Aye". The sooner the entire group leaves, the better.
Davros Wednesday August 30th, 2006 11:04:50 PM
"I agree we should leave here as quickly as possible, but getting out won't be as easy as getting in.The traps may or may not reset but the pit remains,and I am fresh out of levitation magic for today.Perhaps those who are able should go ahead and attempt to find Devrin while the rest of us work towards getting ourselves out of here."
Davros waits while Lorth fills the waterskin and then when everyone present in the room are ready, heads toward the pit.As for the Still, it must wait until the child is rescued.
spells active: mage armor - 5 hours
items active: continual flame torch
Florin Jadenth Wednesday August 30th, 2006 11:31:19 PM
Florin looks to Gerdi when she suddenly appears and shakes his head when he hears the news, "I agree, this doesn't sound good at all. We should see to our guide and then get moveing before anything happens. I'm also worried that the getting in here was to easy, maybe it's leaving that will be hard."
Florin moves over by Bralin and speaks low to him, not wanting his voice to carry, "Bralin, I was thinking. What if this 'thing' does something to him and we end up having to fight him or something like that. Is it possible that it could change him for the worse?" Florin doesn't like doubting their guide but has worries now after seeing the still.
DM Kathy 2d8(2+3)=5 Thursday August 31st, 2006 12:26:18 AM
Upon hearing Gerdi's news, Fosco gathers up his things and makes for the exit, blending into the shadows and moving with surprisingly little noise.
Any wonders aloud how the still might be destroyed, but his mind is on Devrin. He watches and listens for signs of trouble, but hears only the sound of Fosco's retreating footsteps.
Arminas asks Gerdi how Devrin was being bad, apart from leaving the Inn. Gerdi looks at him scornfully. "He left the Inn," she says. "That's being bad." She thinks a moment. "And he tried to get me not to tell."
Bralin asks Gerdi if Devrin left to find her. "Nuh-uh," she says. "I left after he did. He left to find Master Baelfred. He said so."
Harvest instructs Gerdi to go to Devrin and watch out for him, and she vanishes into the wall again. Harvest then casts a spell of shielding upon herself and heads back up the tunnel, with Arminas right on her heels.
Davros, running low on magic, suggests following at a slower pace, taking time to overcome obstacles.
Florin wonders aloud whether drinking from the Still will change your guide in a way that you don't like.
Lorth empties out a waterskin and turns the spigot on the still, ready to collect its offering. The entire Still shudders, the heads twitching and jolting with disturbingly lifelike movements. And wasn't that head's eyes closed a second ago? The brass fittings, too, jerk and vibrate, and the entire Still gives off a low thrumming that is somehow menacing. A clear, viscous fluid begins to drip from the spigot into the waterskin.
Fosco had disabled most of the traps on the way down, and most of those remain disabled. Also, not all of the traps reset automatically. When Fosco, Arminas, and Harvest come back up the corridor, therefore, you don't run into too much trouble. You do, however, run afoul of one magical glyph, which sends a blast of acid into the corridor. Everyone takes 5 points of damage (reflex save DC 14 for half). Other than that, there is only the pit to deal with.
Assuming you manage to jump across that, you arrive at the entrance of the mine. Although Baelfred said he would wait for you here, you do not see him.
Lorth d20=17 Thursday August 31st, 2006 8:03:23 AM
Lorth finishes putting the liquid in his waterskin, then quickly places the skin in his backpack. Immediatley he turns to leave, following the rest of the party out the corridor.
Nearing the pit he runs as fast as he can and attempts to jump it. (Jump +2 -2 for Armor so +0 total. Made DC: 17) Lorth holds his breath while sailing through the air and manages to land on his feet on the other side...
Harvest (AC27, HP42/42) d20+7=25 d20+17=26 d20+14=34 d20+14=17 Thursday August 31st, 2006 10:10:41 AM
"Uncertainty makes time of the essence. I will not lose another child!" So says Harvest Moon says as she draws swiftly away from her companions, Fosco Loamsdown and Arminas Calaelen. "I cannot stay."
Heedless of the traps that may be ahead, she speeds ahead, quickly leaving all others behind. There is an explosion, but her training acts automatically to evade the blast, and as she runs on, she does so unharmed. (Evasion for no Damage on successful Reflex Save. Does this also mean that neither Fosco nor Arminas have to make the save, as Harvest triggered it in advance?)
The pit presents as little challenge as it had before. Harvest sails easily over the ten-foot gap without missing a stride.
Where is Baelfred?
Reaching the mouth of the mining shaft, Harvest Moon looks about herself, scanning the train as well as orienting herself before making off in the direction of the Inn.
Rolls and Actions Reflex 25 vs DC14 Jump 26 Spot 34 /Nat 20 Listen 17
Arminas (AC 22, HP 28/33) d20+9=14 d20+4=10 d20+10=12 Thursday August 31st, 2006 10:13:18 AM
Running down the corridor, Arminas has to run hard to keep up with Harvest. She is swift for someone so small.
OOC: Okay, looks like Al posted and I didn't keep up.
Fosco has done well disabling the traps, and soon Arminas confidence is high about getting through without incident. Suddenly, a flash and blast goes off and acid sprays through the corridor. Arminas is running too hard to avoid the spray, which burns at his skin. He quickly rinses with water and runs on.
He gets to the pit and launches himself across the void, his feet barely reach the opposite edge of the pit. Running on, Arminas vows to improve his jumping ability.
When they get to where they left Baelfred, Arminas looks about for him. Not finding him, he searches the ground for his tracks.
"He is gone! I will find him, he has much to answer to."
Actions Reflex save 14 - no save for acid Jump check - 10 Survival check (tracking) - 12 (take 20 if needed)
Any d20+4=18 d20+10=22 d20+10=23 Thursday August 31st, 2006 10:24:00 AM
OOC--I'm still having troubles occasionally with getting kicked off by my server before I can send my post. Frustrating!
Any's mind is awash in conflicting emotions and thoughts. He is worried about Harvest.
Why did she have to race off like that? The group is stronger together.
He is also worried about Devrin. He fears that Baelfred has some control over the boy, and to add to that, he fears just as Florin, that drinking from this still will change Baelfred-but not for the better. How can any good come from this evil thing. He watches as Lorth fills the waterskin.
This thing is abominable!
He does not know if it will help, but he takes the rear as the group begins to leave, and he uses an oil flask, emptying it onto the Still. Then as he leaves the chamber, he ignites the oil with a flicker of magic, and runs up the tunnel after the others.
He takes the gap over the pit without breaking stride, and then stops to make sure that the others also get across. If they cannot jump, then another method will have to be found. Perhaps one of those suggested on the way in--tie a rope around their waist, have them jump, and pull to assist them in making the distance. At least this way if they fall short, they will not fall to the bottom of the pit.
Spells: Prestidigitation--one hour from casting when igniting fire on the still
Saving throws: Jump 18 spot 22 listen 23
Fosco d20+3=16 d20+11=18 Thursday August 31st, 2006 10:42:37 AM
So much for stealth and suprise when you got a impatient monk at hand, Fosco says as first Harvest, then Arminas flies past him. So, throwing caution to the wind he takes off after them. Just like before, and with confidence I jump over the pit with little trouble. Landing on the other side strongly, keep on racing down the tunnel behind the 2. Jump: 16 <nat.13>
Then, an explosion erupts ahead of him. First jumping to the left, then rolling to the right and coming up with his bedroll to help block him from the blast, Fosco is once again relieved to see that the blast of acid misses him and his stuff altogether. Reflex: 18 <nat.7 - Evasion>
Hearing the sound of others behind him, and knowing the trouble they had the last time for the paladins crossing the pit, I will stop here and wait for them to catch up.
Bralin d20=20 d20-2=15 Thursday August 31st, 2006 11:19:42 AM
Lorth activates The Still. The machine whirrs and hums and moves(?!?) in such a menacing fashion that Bralin's axe is in his hand almost of its own accord.
Yet, the paladin safely fills his waterskin. The dwarf turns and leaves with him, stowing his weapon.
At the pit, Any and Lorth both jump over. In his armor, Bralin is loathe to make the attempt without a safety line. He reverts to his original suggestion, removing a rope from his pack. His throws one end to Lorth, and ties the other round his waist. [Use Rope 20 (nat 20)]
Then, getting a good lead, he rumbles down the tunnel and launches himself into the air. Adrenaline proves all the preparations unneccesary. Several hundred pounds of platemail easily clear the pit, and Bralin lands on his feet on the other side. [Jump 15!]
Without comment, he unties the rope and tosses one end to Florin.
Davros d20=2 Thursday August 31st, 2006 4:08:05 PM
"sigh...." "It looks like were jumping..."
Davros appears dismayed at the prospect but will make the attempt.With someone's help,he will tie the rope around his waist, back up down the corridor, ready himself, run up to the pit and... JUMP!(jump check - 2)
The Scream is unable to pierce his lips as he trips over a stone at the ledge and falls into the pit.He prays to the Gods of the Wold that the rope holds...
Any (2nd post) d20=19 Thursday August 31st, 2006 7:50:36 PM
Any takes up the slack of the rope, backing down the tunnel as Davros flies through the air. When the little magician's weight hits the end of the rope, Any is able to hold him, and with Bralin's aid he is soon alongside the others. (strength check 19)
Now all that is left is Florin.
Florin Jadenth d20+11=13 d20=14 Thursday August 31st, 2006 10:16:30 PM
Florin moves with the others back down the tunnel, taking up near the rear and sighs when he looks to the pit, "Oh well, why not. I'm going to do a leap of faith, Domi will guide my landing." Florin reminds himself to take some time and train in jumping sometime as he goes ahead and takes a running start at the pit, knowing his armor will knock out most of his strength but he can also have a rope lowered to help pull him up if he hits bottom.
(Don't know if I needed it but Reflex:13 for the trap damage. Jump check:14.)
DM Kathy Thursday August 31st, 2006 11:56:36 PM
In the treasure room, Lorth finishes filling his wineskin and turns to leave. He makes his way to the pit, and is able to jump across it.
Behind him, Any dumps some oil on the Sill, setting it alight as he leaves. The thing does seem to burn, if the thick, oily smoke is any indication. The choking stuff comes billowing down the passageway after the party as Any jumps safely across the pit.
Bralin puts his fate in the hands of whatever gods might reign in this place, and jumps over the pit in his turn. To everyone's surprise--including his own--he lands safely.
Florin, too, is able to clear the pit, but Davros is not as lucky. He falls well short, then thrashes about at the end of the rope until he can be hauled, panting, to the surface again.
Meanwhile, the three frontrunners have reached the end of the tunnel to discover Baelfred gone. Only Arminas ended up taking damage from the acid trap; both Harvest and Fosco managed to avoid the stuff altogether. Now Fosco stops and returns to help the others cross the pit, while Harvest goes pelting in the direction of the Inn, hoping to reach Devrin before anything happens to him.
Arminas takes a moment to check for tracks. His first muddled glance tells him nothing very clearly. He could spend a little more time at it--but every moment sends Harvest farther away from the safety of the group. It seems nothing will stop the determined monk.
Those outside the mine--I make it Harvest and Arminas--now hear a cry of surprise or possibly fear coming from the direction of the Inn. The rest of the group, meanwhile, has managed to cross the pit and is approaching the entrance.
Lorth Friday September 1st, 2006 8:19:08 AM
"Davros are you ok?", Lorth asks after he helps haul him up. He waits scant seconds for an answer since the man is walking around, then urges his friends on.
Harvest (AC27, HP42/42) d20+14=16 d20+14=33 Friday September 1st, 2006 9:44:13 AM
"Devrin!" Harvest Moon rushes across the bleak landscape in the direction of the cry.
"Concealment and foreknowledge can be mighty shields and swords, Boo." The voice of Pasix plays within her head. Or perhaps, it is herself, she thinks, speaking in the voice of Pasix. "If you confront adversity without them, you enter the arena unclothed."
"No time," Harvest Moon replies to herself. "No time," she repeats under the sound of her own rushing footfalls. "I will not brook the loss of another child."
Fosco Friday September 1st, 2006 10:16:51 AM
Cringes as he sees Davros unable to make the jump and says to himself, I really need to go to that place and get a portable bridge made, like a folding portable bridge.
Seeing the he is safely brought up out of the pit and that Florin and makes it across safely, I give a smile of relief.
Come my friends, any traps that reset have now been set off by Arminas and Harvest. The fool girl has run off towards the inn, leaving everyone in her dust so we must hurry lest she runs into something she cannot handle.
Turns and races on down the tunnel. Doing his best to keep up with Bralin.
Any d20+10=25 d20+10=17 Friday September 1st, 2006 10:41:30 AM
Relieved that all have made it safely across the pit, albeit with a few dents to Davros' dignity and armor, Any turns and races up the tunnel to the opening.
Upon arriving there he finds Arminas puzzling out the tracks, but no Harvest!
"Which way do we go Arminas? Where is Harvest? Have you seen Baelfred or Devrin?"
Without even thinking, Any's weapons are in his hands. He realizes, and takes a steadying breath.
"Lead us friend Arminas, as quickly as our group can move. I do not think that separating again will help us win this conflict."
He moves with the rest of the group in Arminas' footsteps, forcing himself to remain calm and think clearly and logically. He cannot help but think, however, If any harm has come to Devrin or Harvest...
spot 25 listen 17
Arminas (AC 22, HP 28/33) Friday September 1st, 2006 11:37:16 AM
Arminas' head snaps up when he hears the cry from the Inn. Harvest has gone that way, yet she is not there yet. Something else is going on, something bad.
Any comes through the tunnel with the rest of the group, the anxiety on his face is clear. He worries about Harvest.
"She was too fast, I tried to keep up but could not. Harvest has ran back to the Inn. I think she cares little for her own safety. We must hurry back."
Looking towards the Inn and then back to the group, a look of concern on his face.
"Master Bralin, Harvest has moved quickly back to the Inn. Baelfred is not to be found, unless I spend more time searching for tracks. Shall we keep together and move slowly or shall the fastest move quickly to help Harvest?"
Bralin Friday September 1st, 2006 3:14:03 PM
The dwarf emerges from the tunnel and receives the worried report from Arminas and Fosco. He responds with a short phrase in dwarvish uttered in a very disgusted tone. For those who speak dwarf Highlight to display spoiler: {Not fit for translation - Its not very nice :)}
This land is filled with traitors and fools. The latter list appears to be growing by the hour.
"Stay with me," he growls. "Stay together."
Bralin quickly retrieves a potion and drains the contents. Then he takes off after Harvest at a surprisingly fast pace. [Expeditious Retreat - adds 30' to base speed] [Hustle - Bralin is moving at up to 100'/round for the next 10 rounds. He will slow the pace if anyone cannot keep up.]
Arminas - 2nd post , edit for length of run Friday September 1st, 2006 3:54:27 PM
The dwarf can move, Arminas smiles as he runs along with Bralin. His smile becomes a grimace as he runs hard to keep up. Arminas passes the dwarf, and stays just in front of him. A smile once again creeps over his face.
Magic or no, no dwarf shall outrun an elf.
OOC: I should be able to run for 12 rounds at up to 120 feet/round before I need to roll a Constitution check. That should keep me up, if not ahead of Bralin.
Davros Friday September 1st, 2006 4:26:10 PM
After being pulled to the top of the pit,Davros brushes himself off. "It appears I owe you all my thanks for saving my life yet again."
Looking at Bralin,He then smiles "Hmmm...it's been awhile since I've heard that particular curse."
Seeing that speed is necessary,he tries not to slow the group down.Davros runs as fast as he is able and suspects he will soon have another chance to repay his debts.
Spells active: mage armor - 5 hours
Items: put torch away
Actions: run x4 - base speed 30
Florin Jadenth d20+3=16 d20+3=6 Friday September 1st, 2006 10:01:33 PM
Florin moves along with the others as his armor slows him down some and he nods at some of the comments made, he is happy to of kept his sword and shield ready as he thinks he's going to need it soon.
Florin does his best to keep his eyes and ears open as he runs along also.
(Spot:16 Listen:6)
Posting Report Monday September 4th, 2006 12:22:22 PM
Game #9, Swords of Light Week of August 28, 2006
Name.....M T W T F DM Kathy x x x x x Any......2 2 x 2 x Arminas..x x 2 x 2 Bralin...x x x x x Davros...x x x x x Florin...x x x x x Fosco....x 2 2 x x Harvest..3 x x x x Lorth....x x x x x
DM Kathy Monday September 4th, 2006 10:57:55 PM Arminas looks up when he hears the cry, wondering whether to pursue or whether to wait for his companions. Fortunately, they decide the issue by coming pelting out of the tunnel.
Bralin casts a spell and begins running much faster than a dwarf ought. Arminas, Any, and Davros run with him, all concerned about Harvest.
Equally concerned, Lorth and Florin are slowed by their armor, and Fosco has the disadvantage of shorter legs. They begin falling behind the others. Despite Bralin's admonition to stay together, the group is beginning to straggle out. And you still have not reached Harvest.
Harvest, meanwhile, crests a rise and looks down to see Baelfred kneeling next to an inert form. Looking more closely, you see that it is Devrin. He is not moving, and his face is deathly pale. Baelfred looks up at you, tears in his eyes. "I heard him cry out," he says. "I came to help, but--" he waves his hands helplessly in the direction of the still figure. "I was too late."
Fosco <Invisible> d20+10=30 d20+12=27 Tuesday September 5th, 2006 1:13:20 AM
Continues running after the others. 20ft.x 4 = 80ft. per round. Staying alert to the surrounding area. Noticing he is being outrun by everyone else, he quaffs a potion and vanishes from sight.
Spot: 30 <nat.20> Listen: 27 <nat.15>
Lorth d20+12=22 Tuesday September 5th, 2006 8:59:44 AM
Lorth calls Tobiasz as soon as he leaves the cave, (or as soon as he is able) He quickly mounts up, (Quickmount Check: 22).
"Fosco, do you require a ride?" Lorth says quickly to the surrounding area.
If Fosco calls out, Lorth does his best to help the invisble gnome up onto Tobiasz, then he spurs Tobiasz on. (x4 speed, should quickly catch up to the rest of the party.)
Bralin Tuesday September 5th, 2006 9:46:28 AM
The dwarf slows his speed to match the slowest member of the group.
All too soon, he is that person. The effects of his potion wear off, and even at a dead sprint, Bralin slows considerably.
[After one minute, Bralin has to run in order to cover 60'/round.]
Harvest (AC27, HP42/42) d8+1=2 d8+1=9 d20+12=18 Tuesday September 5th, 2006 10:21:30 AM
"Please back away, Master Baelfred." There is an edge to Harvest Moon's voice. Close behind that edge follow grief, a growing panic, and not a small amount of anger.
She draws a wand and motions the man away as she hurries to Devrin's side.
"Gerdi has told us that Devrin left the Inn in search of you. Please tell me why you think that might be."
She kneels at the boy's side and speaks a trigger word. Then, with a touch, sends bright healing energy into the young man's body. Harvest Moon's eyes do not leave Baelfred's face, as she ministers to Devrin.
"Tell me also, why it is that you are here, and not waiting for us within the mine as you had said you would be?"
Rolls and Actions CLW Heal Devrin 9hp (Rerolled the 1) Sense Motive 18
Any d20+10=28 d20+10=17 Tuesday September 5th, 2006 10:24:28 AM
OOC--Not sure how quickly we will catch Harvest.
Any sees the dwarf begin to slow, and he matches his pace so as not to leave anyone behind.
Harvest, Where are you?
He is constantly scanning the horizon and surrounding area, watching for any sign of Devrin, Harvest, or Baelfred. And what has happened to the spirit of Gerdi?
Spot 28 Listen 17
Fosco <Invisible> Tuesday September 5th, 2006 11:27:44 AM
Hearing Lorth's offer, he moves over and touches the man on his right leg. Here I am good Lorth, reach your hand down your right side, I will grasp hold. I am very light so you should not have a problem lifting me.
<Lands securely behind Lorth and immediately grasps as tightly as possible to the Paladin>
Leaning close to Lorth I whisper: I am not a gnome good Paladin. I am a Halfling.
Arminas (AC 22, HP 28/33) Tuesday September 5th, 2006 11:36:28 AM
OOC: Not sure if I can see them or not. If not, Arminas just keeps running.
Upon seeing Harvest and Baelfred, Arminas decides not to slow down. He surges ahead.
When he gets to them, he draws his sword and stands between Harvest and Baelfred.
"Harvest, what type of wounds has Devrin suffered? Check his neck."
Harvest (AC27, HP42/42) 2nd and Possibly Truly Illegal Post Tuesday September 5th, 2006 12:21:59 PM
Freed from the necessity to watch Baelfred, Harvest Moon begins an examination of Devrin. She begins, as Arminas Calaelen suggests, with a quick glance at his neck.
[ OoC: If this presses at the boundries of time-synch, Kathy, please feel free to ignore it. ]
Davros d20+3=9 d20+3=11 Tuesday September 5th, 2006 7:52:43 PM
Out of breath and catching up to the group,Davros takes a moment to take in the scene and also to check the surroundings.
"Let us not forget that we are out in the open in a hostile land. Those of us who are not attending the child should set a watch.
spells: mage armor- 5 hours(from initial cast)
checks: spot 9 listen 11
Florin Jadenth d20+3=20 d20+11=26 Tuesday September 5th, 2006 9:49:11 PM
Florin keeps running along as best as he can, really wishing he hadn't used Ajax already today now as his horse could of really came in handy at the moment.
When Florin does finally reach the others he huffs quite abit from the long run and leans over some, cetching his breath before looking up to find out what has happened and if the child is okay.
(not sure which I needed so Con:20 Fort:26)
DM Kathy d20+16=34 Tuesday September 5th, 2006 11:09:36 PM Harvest orders and motions Baelfred out of the way, and he steps back reluctantly, peering anxiously over Harvest's kneeling form. "Is--does he live?" he asks, concern in his voice.
Gerdi has told us that Devrin left the Inn in search of you. Please tell me why you think that might be.
"I do not know," Baelfred replies wringing his hands. "Poor, brave, foolish lad. This land is no place for mortals."
Harvest pulls out a wand, speaks the activation word, touches Devrin with the tip. The spell flares breifly, golden life-energy pulsing into the still body. But nothing happens. Devrin remains still, his face like wax, his lips colorless.
Tell me also, why it is that you are here, and not waiting for us within the mine as you had said you would be?
"As I said, I heard him cry out." A sad, self-deprecating smile. "Coward I may be, but I am not so craven as to crouch in safety while a child dies alone. I came to see what I could do, and arrived too late."
Meanwhile the rest of the group continues to look for Harvest. Lorth attempts to summon his mount, only to realize that he is not yet able. [Per the PHB, paladin mounts can be summoned once per 24 hours. It is night-time, and you summoned Tobiasz this morning. You've got 6-8 hours before you can summon him again.] He keeps up with the rest of the party as best he can, as do Florin and the invisible Fosco.
Bralin slows down to allow the others time to catch up, and Any, and Davros follow suit.
Arminas, however, does not slow down, and is therefore the first to reach the top of the rise. Looking down, he can see Harvest, kneeling next to the still form of Devrin, and Baelfred, wringing his hands nearby. Baelfred is speaking to Harvest, but she has her back to him.
Sensing the new arrival, Baelfred turns to Arminas, looking him directly in the eye. "Please," he says. "Please, help the boy."
Arminas, Highlight to display spoiler: { make a Will save, DC 15, or be Dominated as if by a Dominate Person spell (caster level 12). If you make the save, you know that Baelfred attempted to muddle with your mind in some way. }
A moment later, the rest of the group comes thundering and panting to the top of the rise.
Arminas (AC 22, HP 28/33) d20+6=23 d20+10=24 d20+10=13 d8+4=8 d8+4=5 Tuesday September 5th, 2006 11:53:29 PM
Arminas crests the hill and quickly assesses the situation. The boy appears dead, and Harvest is ministering to him. Only Baelfred is there, no one else. Surely he is at fault.
Then, Baelfred looks him directly in the eye and seeks help for the boy. Yet, something is not right.
Arminas shakes his head and with a fluid motion draws a silver arrow from his quiver and lets it fly towards Baelfred. He follows it with another.
The rest of the group crests the hill, panting.
"Baelfred is a vampire, he tried to compel me as he did Devrin. He killed the child."
Actions Will save 23 1st silver arrow Hit AC 24 Damage 8 2nd silver arrow Hit AC 13 Damage 5
Fosco <Invisible> Wednesday September 6th, 2006 1:28:01 AM
Stopping next to Lorth on the rise he scans the scene ahead and winces at the child. Then seeing Arminas let loose with 2 arrows at the man he never trusted and hearing that he is in fact a vile denizen of this realm.
Lorth, before you engage this creature, empty the contents of that waterskin onto the ground so that beast cannot use its contents to gain access to our realm.
DM Highlight to display spoiler: { I begin moving towards Baelfred, trying to get within 30' so when I shoot him I will get my sneak attack damage. }
Lorth Wednesday September 6th, 2006 7:42:14 AM
Lorth crests the hill and calls a prayer to Gargul for protection. (Protection from evil) He then removes the wineskin from his pack.
Spells: Protection from evil, 6 minutes, +2 AC, +2 saves
Any d20+10=11 d20+10=16 d20+5=23 d20+8=9 d20+8=9 d20+5=14 Wednesday September 6th, 2006 10:28:06 AM
Any arrives on the scene just as Arminas looses two arrows at Baelfred along with his accusation,
Baelfred is a vampire, he tried to compel me as he did Devrin. He killed the child.
The sense of wrongness about Baelfred again strikes home to Any, and he accepts Arminas' statement as true. Any will wait no longer, but will attack Baelfred, as much for an outlet for the worry and frustration this world has caused the group, as for anything else.
His fury clouds his skill at first and his blows go wildly amiss. He steps off a pace, and takes a deep breath, calming himself, and preparing to attack again.
spot 11 Listen 16 Sense Motive 23
Attacks: TWO NATURAL 1's in a ROW!! and a 14 to follow, I don't believe this!
Bralin (Ac23, 65/65 hp) d20+10=29 2d8(6+1)+3=10 d8=5 Wednesday September 6th, 2006 11:02:38 AM
Bralin tops the rise, and finds himself in the midst of a battle. Time slows as his mind ratchets through the scenario:
Harvest kneels over Devrin. The boy appears lifeless - confirmed by Arminas. Arminas accuses Baelfred as vampire. The party attacks. Yet the accusation goes unconfirmed. Would not Harvest be engaged if true?
The dwarf makes a decision, and leaves his axe sheathed on his back. Instead he closes on Baelfred, casts a spell, and slaps his palm on the man's chest. [Cure Moderate Wounds over Identify - heals 14 hp damage. if undead - touch attack ac 29, 14 hp damage, Will save DC 15 halves]
Bralin eyes Baelford to gauge his reaction to the spell.
This is the first time any of his comrades have seen Bralin initiate combat without axe in hand.
Harvest (AC27, HP42/42) Wednesday September 6th, 2006 1:27:18 PM
No! Oh no! Not Devrin! Harvest Moon's inner voice screams and wails. There is only one reason that the boy would not respond to the divine healing and that is because he is in the arms of Gargul.
Combat bursts all about her, but through it all, the words of Arminas Calaelen come through.
"YOU PRANCING, UNMANNED ... " Harvest Moon clamps down upon the anger that pours forth from her. Hot tears sting her eyes and roll down the soft hills of her face.
"Evil may destroy body and soul," she says from between gritted teeth. "Your evil, the evil of this land ... " Harvest Moon rises to her feet and quickly draws a simple steel mirror from her haversack. She brandishes the mirror at Baelfred. " ... but you will never quell our spirit. You will not break our Faith."
Rolls and Actions MEA: Draw mirror from Haversack. SA: Brandish Mirror at Baelfred to hold him at bay.
Florin Jadenth-AC:20-HP:60/60 Wednesday September 6th, 2006 8:49:51 PM
Florin frowns when he sees whats going on and even more so when he had really hoped their guide was not of evil man but he prepares to fight if needed, moving forward so he will be closer to striking distance then he was. His mithril longsword and his shield still readied for a fight if it comes down to it and he speaks up, "I pray that my friends are wrong but if you are a enemy you have done well in making us all believe you were a decent man."
Davros AC 17 HP 29/29 3d4(3+1+2)+1=7 Wednesday September 6th, 2006 11:58:24 PM
Battle.All too familiar, and as usual, necessary.The evil taint of this land has been traveling with them all along and now another has suffered for it.
Davros waits to see the reaction of Baelfred to Bralin's spell.If he is undead, Davros casts magic missles upon the creature.
spells: mage armor - 5 hours from initial casting magic missles - 9 dmg(I added wrong on the rolling button)
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