DM Jamie Wednesday January 2nd, 2008 1:28:54 PM Quickly... If I have missed something that you feel is important from the last few weeks of kind-of-posting let me know and I will correct it.
A quick recap on the room you are all in:
The room is 30 x 30 with 4 beds evenly spaced down each side to the left and the right of the door. Right across from the door is a set of large windows that are locked and barred. There is a large oval rug in the center of the floor. The lighting for the room is provided by lanterns.
Zita, as you try to remove the earring you find that is firmly attached in place. No amount of manuvering or tugging will remove it.
The calm that descends upon the room is unsettling. Everyone is on edge and it makes all of the sounds seem louder and more menacing. The lights seem to dim or is it just a trick of the mind.
Listen check DC 13 Highlight to display spoiler: { You think you hear screaming and sword fighting in the distance}
Fabersham says, "Bar the door, quickly." He then moves to the side of the door and listens.
From outside the room you hear a sound of something heavy grating against the door.
Rosario d20+1=20 Wednesday January 2nd, 2008 4:43:29 PM
Rosario picks up the sounds of battle, "A fight! I can hear a fight from elsewhere in the building." As the sound of grating can be heard outside the door, "That does not sound like breaking in as it does sound like being sealed in to me."
Rosario's mind races and one thing he knows they need is a way out, an order of retreat. There are many rules of combat young man. One of them is, always allow for the possibility of retreat. The voice of his uncle sounded so clear, he almost had to check over his shoulder for the man. His own voice starts calling out to others in the room without his conscious consent. Adrenaline burned to pure instinct of lessons.
"Zita, move that rug, see if we have another passage out, If they block the door and fire the room we need another way out. What's the possibility of going out the window Picci?"
Farce Wednesday January 2nd, 2008 5:50:37 PM
Farce says, "Well if they are moving this way, then we don't want them in here, do we?"
He sheathes his weapon and looks around the room to see what can be used to bar the door with. Then he grabs the first of those things and starts working on the door.
"Uhhhgh, can use some help here."
-----------
Jamie now takes over for the next scene folks. Enjoy and Thanks Jamie! This frees me to work on all the voting stuff. :)
Jamie, put up the scene sign please. ;)
GigiAC17: HP 13/13 d20+3=22 Wednesday January 2nd, 2008 10:19:37 PM
Giacamo hears the sounds of combat somewhere in the distance and echoes Rosario's statement.
As he sees Farce begin to move a bed in front of the door he adds his strength to the task as well and soon the first bed is in front of the door.
Moving to the next nearest bed, Gigi calls to his friend. "Farce, I think one more might be an added bonus if we can stack it on top."
Zita Wednesday January 2nd, 2008 11:31:17 PM
Zita gives up on the attempt to get the earring off and pulls her rapier. As she glances to the weapon in her hand she realizes that she has never had to use it before and she swallows hard. "The earring is fixed good." She watches as the others start the preparations for a fight and to give them time.
She moves towards a window, though it might be a bad idea, and starts to look it over to see if the bars are solid. The sudden feeling of being trapped starts to build in her and she has to take the time to wipe her sword hand on her pants.
Julien d20+1=16 d20+1=13 d20+4=13 Thursday January 3rd, 2008 12:14:37 AM
Listen DC 16
Julien hears the fighting, and Rosatio has a good point. He's fully prepared to blast anyone who comes in, but right now he helps look for an escape route. Maybe a window, and how far they'll need to jump.
Spot DC 13 Knowledge Architecture and Engineering DC 13
Bendis d20+2=10 Thursday January 3rd, 2008 4:23:09 AM
It had never even occurred to Bendis to try and leave the room. Though, when he thinks on it, Rosario's suggestion seems tactically sound. Probably. Bendis is the first to admit that his grasp of military tactics is tentative at best.
Perhaps his own desire to remain hidden in this room rather than fool attackers by relocating is linked to his dwarven roots, a byproduct of a race who have founded their entire survival strategy upon hiding underground, out of sight, for millenia. Perhaps there is causal link between his dwarven heritage and his fight or flight response to life threatening situations...
The dwarf shakes his head, trying to clear it. This is how you respond to life threatening situations, you oaf! he chides himself. This is how you respond to anything outside your comfort zone! By over-analysing! By getting lost in academic speculation, and introspection, when you should be doing something! This is real life. And quite possibly, very soon, real death! So do something!
He glances around the room, seeing the others moving with purpose and assurance. Why is it that they all seem to know what to do, while he stands here, lost in indecision?
Bendis is far too caught up iwith his own private demons to register any noises outside the room (Listen 10).
He sighs, notices the spellbook in his hand, and remembers he is doing something. He's getting ready to turn a potential attacker into an ally. Focus, Billingstone! he tells himself sternly, and tries to slow his breathing. You have a job to do, so do it.
(OOC: Readying Charm Person still).
DM Jamie d4=3 Thursday January 3rd, 2008 2:11:04 PM
When the sounds are first heard by Rosario you all see a noted change in his demeanor. He seems more confident. He stands taller. He seemingly takes charge and begins to direct those in the room. Fabersham looks at him and those of you looking to him for some guidance see him smile for a moment as a father would look at his son. Before anyone can ask him any questions he says, "Ensure you all work together and stick together should anything happen."
As the first bed is slid against the door, Farce and Gigi, both notice that something begins to seep at first and then begins to billow through the seams around the door. The gas leaves an acidic taste in the back of your throat and smells of lavendar. The blue tinted gas quickly overtakes Farce and Gigi and fills the room casting a somber glow on everything in the room as it filters the lantern light.
I need a fort save DC 22 from everyone
If you make the save Highlight to display spoiler: {you feel nothing at the moment.} If you fail the save Highlight to display spoiler: {you feel noticeably drained. Taking 3 points of dex dmg as paralysis begins to set in.}
Zita and Julien begin to look over the window. Between the two of them they are able to determine that the bars are built into the windows, but that people could fit in between them if the glass was removed and that there is a lock holding the windows in place. If unlocked they would swing out. You can also see that it is about a 20 foot drop onto a hill leading away from this wall. The incline of the hill looks kind of steep, but you can not be sure with lack of light. Nor are you sure of what lies further down the incline.
Bendis steels himself waiting for something to possibly come through the door. Those that look to him see the determination and concentration across his forehead as he readies his magiks for any potential enemies.
Betheas d20=7 Thursday January 3rd, 2008 3:46:24 PM
The elf can't hear the fighting outside, but by the look on Rosario's face, Betheas is quite sure that Rosario absolutely believes what he is saying.
Looking over his shoulder at the window, and then around at his companions, he notes, "why do I feel like I would rather be outside of this room?"
He maintains his position, fully expecting someone else to address the escape issue.
[SORRY GUYS : Jamie beat me while I was posting. So, I will add to my post.]
Betheas d20=14 Thursday January 3rd, 2008 4:32:20 PM
Gagging on the poison gas, Betheas coughs, "we've got - to get out - of here."
Betheas abandons his post and quickly scambles to the window. If no one is doing anything by the time he arrives... he will clear out the window with his glaive, removing all glass.
Picci d20+4=22 d20+4=6 Thursday January 3rd, 2008 6:11:07 PM
Picci's face reflects her shock as she can make out the sounds of battle elsewhere in the building (OOC: rolled a 22 for her Listen check). She gulps, shivering--it was one thing to hear about how some clerics were called upon to bear arms in combat, but quite another to actually be in combat. Even as she opens her mouth to confirm Rosario's statement, the colored gas begins to billow into the room!
"Gigi! Farce!" the good acolyte cries as she instinctively leaps towards her friends in an attempt to seize Gigi's sleeve and haul him away from the lavender-scented mist. Unfortunately, in doing so, Picci catches more than a lungful of the insidious stuff and grows dizzy as well as clumsy and stiff. (OOC: failed her Fort Save with a mere 6.)
"Oh...gods..." Picci says, stumbling against the door and becoming enveloped in the gas.
Bendis 11/14 Dex, Message (all party members) d20+5=12 Thursday January 3rd, 2008 6:30:06 PM
Bendis looks to Fabersham when he speaks and nods, then looks at his companions.
"What do you see, Julien? Zita? Is there a way out?" he asks his companions as they examine the window. Unfortunately that means he is not paying attention to the door; he hears Betheas and Picci cry out and turns back, open mouthed. In doing so he inhales a lungfull of the blue gas. gagging on the acrid taste he backs away (Fort 12).
"Rosario's right!" he whispers via the Message spell. "They're trying to smoke us out! We need to get away!"
He races back to his bedside and grabs his pack. It seems as if they are going to have to leave, and quickly.
A thought strikes him though; perhaps they can delay their atackers a little. He pulls the sheet from his bed and races back, intent upon blocking the gap beneath the door with the cloth.
GigiAC17(15): HP 13/13 d20+4=17 Thursday January 3rd, 2008 9:26:45 PM
(OOC: Just a point of clarification, someone was checking under the rug for an alternate route. As nothing was mentioned are we to assume that nothing is there?)
Just as Farce and he place the first bed across the door he notices the smoke at the same time that he barks his shin on the bed frame causing him to gasp and suck in a lung ful of the colored gas. Save 17 Hacking and coughing, gigi is nearly doubled over when a hand reaches in and grabs him pulling him out of the cloud.
Zita d20+5=20 Thursday January 3rd, 2008 10:37:43 PM
Zita looks to the lock on the window and wonders if it will open. On this instinct she reaches out to open the lock. Looking back to the others she notices them blockadeing the doors.
Then there is the appearance of a strange gas and though she turns to the window and attempts to hold her breathe. She is too slow and actually takes in a small amount of the gas in the process. It sends her into a coughing fit as she tries to clear her lungs.
With the sudden breaking of the glass before she started to work on the window, she tries to clear her mind. "It is a short drop...maybe twenty feet." She is not sure if they all can make it, but better than were they are at now.
Effects * -3 to Dexterity
Julien d20+3=19 d20=1 Friday January 4th, 2008 1:22:47 AM
Fort Save 19 = FAIL!
Coughing, Julien reaches for his pack and pulls out his silk rope.
"We can get out of the window as soon as Betheas has smashed the glass," he croaks. "It's a 20ft drop. I'm going to tie a rope to the bars. Someone who can protect Zita on the ground should go first - then Zita - then Picci and the rest of us. Quick! And try not to breathe! If you've time, throw your stuff out first."
The effects of the gas enable him to do nothing but fumble badly with the rope.
DEX/Use Rope - Nat 1 Sigh....
Rosario AC 15 Dex 13/16 HP 17-17 d20+5=14 d20+3=21 Friday January 4th, 2008 12:09:11 PM
failed Fort save 14 throw object to Zita attack roll 21
The gas grabs at the young man's mind and body. Things begin to slow down and his coordination begins to stumble. A voice calls out in the back of his mind, This had better not be a trend about being right in these cases. "The Window! Betheas get out, then Zita and the rest." Rosario is calling out strongly but not shouting, not yet. The window was getting crowded, they needed organization and light.
Rosario opens his pack and retreives a sunrod. "Zita!" This comes out as a shout as the sunrod is tossed to her.
DM Jamie Friday January 4th, 2008 8:54:52 PM
I wanted everyone to know my post is coming. To let you all know what my schedule is like...
Monday - Thursday I try to have my post on the site by 1200 local. I work nights and try to be in bed by 1300 local. On Fridays I pull about 25 hours straight and will be getting my post in around 2000 local. If I have everyone post over the weekend I will place a post on the weekend as well.
I just wanted to throw that out there for everyone to get so they don't think I am being unpredictable. I will have a post on soon.
BTW, I really enjoy being back and I think you are all doing a wonderful job.
Zita d20+2=16 Friday January 4th, 2008 9:06:59 PM
Zita easily catches the sunrod as it is thrown to her and she waits for the rope to be lowered. When it finally is, she will wait for Betheas to go first and then she will follow. "Ok...we will make a running go for safety." Glancing to the others she shakes her head, worried for all of them.
Effects * -3 to Dexterity
DM Jamie d20+11=20 d20+6=25 d20+1=21 d6+4=8 d6+4=7 d6+4=10 d20+6=21 d20+6=13 d20+6=19 d4=2 d4=1 d4=3 Friday January 4th, 2008 9:58:20 PM There was nothing under the rug. I apologize for the omission.
With everyone crowded around the window it makes it a little cramped, but pays off as soon as the window is broke by Betheas. There is no longer a need for fort saves. The room seems to clear quickly of the gas. Julien seems to have problems getting the rope taken care of maybe it is the lack of good lighting and the sunrod thrown by Rosario and caught by Zita will help.
The odd silence outside only acts to add to the ominous feeling.
Bendis and Farce still being near the door you are able to hear voices with a heavy accent outside the door seem to be chanting something. Then a loud noise from outside the door and the door seems to fragment and explode into the room. Bendis and Farce are thrown to the sides as the door explodes. You are all hit with a blast of noise and shards of wood. Anyone with spellcraft can roll it DC 12Highlight to display spoiler: {Shatter and it looks like it was cast at a high level}None of them seem to have enough velocity to cause any damage. Behind the barrage of wooden shards you all see a humanoid covered head to toe in black cloth tumble in behind and launch three daggers at the group.
In a scene reminding you of stories of the Platinum Dragons, Fabersham launches himself in front of the group. He catches one of the daggers in his left hand and launches it back at the attacker. Then landing in a crouch position ready to attack. The other two, sadly, are missed by him. He does, however, accomplish his mission and prevent those daggers from hitting anyone in the group as the embed in him. One in the left shoulder and the other in the right thigh. You see him begin to slump forward for a moment then right himself. He says one thing without turning... "Run."
You see the humanoid falter for a moment as the dagger launched back at him buries itself into center mass.
Those of you watching see more movement from the hall as another humanoid slowly makes his way through the doorway. Looking right at the group his eyes get wide and then narrow as he closes with the group.
Currently I have Bendis and Farce to the left of the door about 10 feet back. Everyone else is behind Fabersham at assorted positions around the window. Bendis is still waiting for the opportune time.
BTW, we are now in combat ;)
Bendis 11/14 Dex, AC 10, HP 7/7, Message d20+7=25 Saturday January 5th, 2008 8:14:48 AM
Bendis has studied enough magical theory to know that whoever cast the spell that blew in the door is likely to be more than a match for any lowly spell he can cast (Spellcraft 25). He nods to Fabersham as he backs away from the door towards the window, giving the others time to descend. Though he is in near shock at the events unfolding around him his mind is oddly calm; he positions himself so that he is standing in front of Zita, protecting her as best he is able.
He knows he is hopelessly outclassed, but he has to do something. If there's just the faintest chance he can protect Zita, and help Fabersham before he too clambers down the rope...
He glances down at his spellbook, and chants the words he practiced so often. Now, in the heat of battle, his nerves are gone. There is no time to think or over-analyse; there is only time to do. Words he had stumbled and stuttered over before are now cried out with conviction.
He casts his spell at the knife-wielder, and cries "Stop attacking us! Why are you doing this? Please, leave us alone! " before he takes his turn clambering down the rope.
(OOC: Casts Charm Person DC 15 at scary knife guy. Hey, it beats running in circles and shrieking like a girl :-))
Rosario AC 15 (19) Dex 13/16 HP 17-17 Saturday January 5th, 2008 10:09:33 AM
Rosario steps 5' towards Fabersham and to put himself between the assailants and those trying to get out the window. His weapon in front of him and his feet just over shoulder width apart, his eyes flick about preparing his body to turn in any required direction. Not trusting his voice, he says nothing. Afraid it will crack and the panic that is surging through his body will be completely revealed. This was the really real world here.
Full Action Total defensive +4 Dodge AC
Betheas DEX 18 / 15 d20=10 Saturday January 5th, 2008 12:33:32 PM
It's clear that the group is in way over their heads. It's time to make an escape.
For-going the rope, Betheas squeezes thru the bars, and drops his glaive to the ground; then himslef dropping to the incline below. He attempts to land so that he doesn't role down the hill. (Tumble check 14)
The elf scrambles to his feet to assist the next.
Zita [HP: 11/11 - AC: 16(17dodge)] d20+2=18 d20+1=8 d20+1=15 Saturday January 5th, 2008 2:05:44 PM
Zita watches as the first of the men enter the room through the exploded door. Her rapier has never left her sheath as she needed to hold the glowrod. "Do not waste your lives." She tosses first the glowrod and then she drops out the window herself. She falls into a roll at the bottom and tries to stay near the underneath of the window, though she will stay out of the way. Her eyes try to pierce the dark as he picks up the glowrod once again.
[tumble 18, listen 8 and spot 15]
Effects * -3 to Dexterity
Picci Saturday January 5th, 2008 3:16:13 PM
Moving stiffly due to the effect of the gas, the petite jet-tressed girl attempts to follow Zita and Betheas out the window using the rope (if it's there), otherwise having to rely on the others to help her.
ADM Jim Sunday January 6th, 2008 8:58:28 PM
FORT SILENCE - posting report - 12/30/07 to 1/5/08
Character Name - Posts DM Jerry - 2/5 DM Jamie - 3/5*double post once* Rosario - 4/5*double post once* Bendis - 5/5*double post once* Betheas - 2/2*double post once* Gigi - 3/5 Julien - 3/5 Zita - 7/5 Picci - 5/5 Farce - 2/5 *double posts not counted
Julien d20+10=12 d4+1=2 Monday January 7th, 2008 2:19:14 PM
Fighting panic, Julien glances toward Zita and Picci as they exit, assuring himself they've got out. Knowing he can't get out of the window until they have, he turns his attention to the assailants. Spellcraft DC12. In the fog of battle, he thinks he recognises a Shatter spell? Hmmmmm, not too difficult. Maybe these were just thugs. And then again, his mother was always telling him that overconfidence would be his downfall. They had to get out. Right now it was only Betheas who was protecting the girls, and if there was someone else - an enemy - down below.... He raises his arm and flicks his wrist, aiming a Magic Missile at the second humanoid. Damage 2
Right about now he's hoping that window is clear.
DM Jamie d20+3=14 d20+6=26 d6+6=12 d20+4=22 2d6(2+1)=3 d20+10=28 Monday January 7th, 2008 6:40:38 PM
For a moment things seem to slow down. You see people jumping from the window to the ground below. You see two would be assassins in the room. You also see Fabersham, steeling himself for the coming attack, with blood pooling below him.
Bendis releases his words of power, snaping everyone back into the moment. The air seems momentarily charged and then the knife wielding attacker stops for a moment and lowers his knife. He looks back at his parter and says something in that thick accented language and shrugs his shoulders. Fabersham takes advantage of the distraction and lunges at the attacker.
He grabs one of the knifes from his own wounds and drives it deep into the neck of the attacker. Blood sprays up out of the wounds and covers the surrounding area with a fine mist. His eyes bug out for a moment as he grasps at Fabersham and then he collapses.
Fabersham turns towards everyone and then looks at Rosario and tells him, "Run and keep them safe."
Betheas jumps down and looks to secure the landing site. Zita drops the sunrod, shedding some light on their situation and Picci is close behind. Anyone jumping takes 3 hp of dmg.
The last assasin launches a flying attack at Fabersham, who has bee slowed considerably from his wounds. Unable to deflect the attack he takes the full brunt of the hit head on. The dagger plunges deep into Fabershams chest. There is a deep sucking in of air and then a sigh. His body slumps forward against the attacker with his arms outstretched as if trying to grab him is some last ditch effort to save the children. The attacker just smiles as he begins to get out of Fabershams hold. Then he is momentarily dazed as Juliens magic missile strikes true.
Picci (AC16; 7/10hp) Monday January 7th, 2008 7:11:06 PM Current Spell Effects: -3 DEX due to gas
The girl in the studded leather armor lands heavily on her backside, groaning because now she's sure that it will be some time before she will be able to sit down again (OOC: suffered 3hpd from the fall.) She clips her mace back onto its holder and scoops up the sunrod, holding it aloft.
"Where is everyone???" Picci asks anxiously, her obsidian eyes casting about and seeing only Zita and Betheas. She looks up and calls to the window: "Guys! Come onnnnn!"
GigiAC17(15): HP 13/13 Monday January 7th, 2008 9:23:08 PM
Moving slower than normal, but still fairly quickly, and able to breathe now, Gigi takes a look behind him as the attackers move in and are slowed, and quickly makes sure everyone's packs are moved to and dropped out of the window. Drawing his sword he turns and calls back.
"Julian, Rosario, all the packs are out, as are the rest of the group. Make an orderly defnsive retreat now I will move forward in support."
Bendis d20+1=7 Tuesday January 8th, 2008 4:26:44 AM
The dwarf's momentary elation at the success of his spell is shortlived. In a matter of seconds the room is turned in a slaughterhouse. Bendis' eyes go wide with horror as Fabersham slumps forward, seemingly dead by the assassin's hand. "Fabersham is down" he whispers to Gigi via his Message spell. "Fabersham is down!"
All the certainty and calm of moments before drains away as his eyes meet those of the killer. He is conflicted, but only momentarily. A part of him feels duty-bound to remain with Fabersham, to save him if he can still be saved, or else to avenge him. But Picci's cries drag him back to reality; he has a higher duty, one he has sworn to uphold, and one Fabersham has sacrificed everything for; he must protect Zita. It's that duty, not the overwhelming terror he feels, that causes him to turn and flee. At least that's what he tries to tell himself. But those cold, merciless eyes haunt him as he runs, taunting him.
He reaches the window, waits his turn at the rope and then does his best to clamber down without breaking his legs. He does a pretty poor job (Climb 7), slipping when he is less than a few feet down. Not for the first time Bendis curses himself for his lack of athletisism. Normally it has merely made him the butt of his siblings' jibes. This time however, the stakes are a little higher; this time his clumsiness could get him killed. (OOC does Bendis take 3hp?)
DM Jamie: Take 1 since you tried to climb down.
Betheas Tuesday January 8th, 2008 2:06:35 PM
Upon hearing that Fabersham is down, "and so will the rest of you if you don't get out of there!"
OOC: I was helping the others down from the window, if that helps save them from taking some damage. Perhaps I could take more of theirs?
Once everyone is down, and they begin to exit the area, Betheas grabs his weapon off the ground.
"We should head out to the countryside and hide!"
Julien 4/7 HPs d20+4=19 d20+1=14 Tuesday January 8th, 2008 7:24:57 PM
Julien's eyes narrow as Fabersham falls. Before he takes a flying leap out of the window, he tries to get a good look at the attackers. His father mixed with all sorts up in Plateau City - from every social strata, and lots of people came to the house. At the very least he hopes to register their faces for future recall.
You'll pay for this.
Knowledge nobility dc 19 Spot DC 14
Dam 3 on leaping out of the window.
Rosario AC 15 (19) Dex 13/16 HP 17-17 d20+5=23 Tuesday January 8th, 2008 8:00:26 PM
It was just Gigi and him now. The others were out and down. The speed and skill he was seeing from his opponents left no false hope in his mind how fast he would be cut down if he engaged them. They were after Zita and to a lesser extent himself and his duty to family and name meant that Julien would have to be the last one out and possibly die for the rest of them. Suddenly his fathers voice was there in his head.
'So I tapped him on the shoulder and nodded. Dominic simply smiled and some days in the fire I seem him and still shiver.
Until now he had no idea what his father had been saying.
Rosario wheels on his right foot, whispering to Gigi through the spell, "No more than a second or two." and then Rosario is diving through the window. Jump 23 DC 15 to lessen damage by 10'
Zita [HP: 8/11 - AC: 16(17dodge)] Tuesday January 8th, 2008 11:15:40 PM
Zita grabs up the glowrod and glances around as she waits for the rest to get out. Her rapier has founds it's way to her hand now though. The ease that they had been taken by surprise leaves her feeling less than happy. "Come on...let us get out of here." She watches the rest show up and does not want to make the sacrifice that Fabersham has just made, worthless.
She is ready to run when the rest of the group is out and ready.
DM Jamie Tuesday January 8th, 2008 11:50:42 PM Sorry for the late post. I laid my son down for a nap and I got up 11 hours later...
With one attacker still standing everyone makes it out the window and to the ground. Around you is the dark vineyards of Dahlia's winery. The dark is almost welcoming after what you have been through and seen so far this evening. As you wait for the last people to drop you notice that Farce is no longer with you. He is still inside...
Looking up you see the attacker looking down at you. Now you see him smile and it seems as if his teeth are all sharpened. He draws a finger across his throat while looking at you and nods his head. He shakes the bars remaining on the frame of the window and finding them secure he disappears back into the room.
Listen check DC 16 Highlight to display spoiler: { You can hear some voices off to the North (opposite the house)}
Listen check DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {You think you can hear Dahlias voice.}
Bendis d20+2=13 Wednesday January 9th, 2008 7:51:08 AM
Bendis shudders as he looks up at the razor-toothed assassin. The smile and the gesture leave him in no doubt as to their enemy's intentions. the man is a brutal, ruthless killer.
Then he realises Farce is missing; he's still up there with that murderer! He only prays their friend has decided to conceal himself somewhere in the room, working on the theory that the killers would assume everyone had fled out the window. It's just the kind of crazy stunt he'd pull.
"Farce!" he whispers via his message spell, knowing no-one else will be able to overhear. "Farce, if you can hear me, please let me know!" He stumbles after Zita into the darkness. He is glad of its cover; his hands have begun to shake uncontrollably.
He is too distraught to pay much attention to his surroundings (Listen 13).
Rosario AC 15 (19) Dex 13/16 HP 16-17 d20+2=7 d20+1=2 Wednesday January 9th, 2008 5:41:13 PM
Rosario rolls, albeit not so gracefully, to his feet and heads towards and past Zita. "Let's Move Doochi." His free left hand scoops into the small of her back and he hustles her along with him. She has the light the others would follow. Rosario hears nothing, nor does he look back. His course is straight away into the deep vineyards and away from the house along the shortest possible path. He sheathes his sword while doing so.
Picci (AC16; 7/10hp) d20+4=22 Wednesday January 9th, 2008 6:13:00 PM OOC: hmmm...coulda sworn that I posted I had Picci go down the rope and then pick up that sunrod...but, what the heck, I'll roll with it.
The good acolyte tilts her dark head, her ears catching the sound of a familiar voice.
"Mistress Dahlia!" Picci gasps. "I hear Mistress Dahlia--she's that way!" She points in the direction from which she's sure she heard the female halfling's voice.
Zita [HP: 8/11 - AC: 16(17dodge)] d20+1=12 Wednesday January 9th, 2008 8:46:11 PM
Having heard little more than those around her talking in light voices, she takes off in the direction she is guided. She had been getting ready to move anyways and the hand in the small of her back just helps to guide her.
She glances to Picci and nods her head. "Do you think that Dahlia had anything to do with this?" For her it is hard to believe but...might it be possible. The other woman had seemed rather nice and cared for those around her...the rumors spoke of her in a favorable light. Nothing bothering to look at anyone, but keeping her eyes ahead of her she moves. "Do we chance it or make a full retreat." She has not realized that Farce is missing yet as she has not had the chance to count heads.
Betheas d20=16 Wednesday January 9th, 2008 9:03:34 PM
Betheas nods vigorously at Picci, "I do hear familar voices to the north."
The elf's keen eyes peer off thru the darkness toward the voices.
"Zita," Betheas' face is illuminated by the glowrod, "you should lose the glowrod. It draws too much attention out here in the darkness. I can lead us thru the night."
Betheas points to the south and in a harsh whisper, "throw the rod that way."
"Is everyone ready?" Betheas will lead the group by star-light thru the countryside to the north.
GigiAC17(15): HP 13/13 d20+3=12 d20+3=13 Wednesday January 9th, 2008 11:12:51 PM
Gigi hits the ground and counts heads. As he comes up one Farce short he mutters a curse wondering what the boy has gotten himself into now but knows they cant hold stay here and need to move out. Worried about everything else and knowing that some of his friends are injured he hears nothing from anywhere outside of his group.
Whispering to his friends he makes a quick query.
"Is anybody hurt badly enough that they need immediate healing? I have a couple of spells I can use if needed."
Julien 4/7 HPs d20+1=20 d20+1=20 Thursday January 10th, 2008 1:47:24 AM
The fall from the window has knocked the breath out of Julien and jarred his shoulder, but he struggles to his feet and grabs the pack that Gigi threw out of the window. It's all he can do to move and keep up with the others. His hands are trembling. It's the shock - of seeing Fabersham go down, and the utter, utter rage, born of humiliation, of having to run... not knowing if the man was still alive, and Farce - where the heck was Farce? How dare someone do this? How dare they? "I'm banged up but it'll wait," he whispers to Gigi as they follow Betheas. It was important to save all that for Zita, and right now pain and fury were putting quite a spring in his step. He too hears some voices, but he's trusting the others up front know where they're going, while he quietly plots revenge.
DM Jamie Thursday January 10th, 2008 5:52:52 AM Wanted to make sure I got everyones post before I posted. Does posting late like this accomodate everyone? If so I will change my posting time.
The vineyard both protects and confuses you. As you run through the vines pull an your clothes and the roots tug at your teeth. Almost as if they were working against you for the moment. Then, noise from behind. Something bid is moving quickly through the vineyard and they are headed for you all. Bendis your calls to Farce get no reply. It is almost as if he is no longer in your circle of friends.
The wind picks up and the clouds seem to part for a moment letting the moon shine full down upon you all. You can make out the house behind you and the vineyard around you. It seems to go on forever. You can make out some kind of movement and a glow about a quarter mile ahead of you (North). To your rear (South) and to the West you can see other movement that is gaining on your location.
As you decide what to do the attacker from the room springs upon the party. He has a dagger in his hand and he is able to grab Ziti before anyone knows what is going on. I will allow AoO to everyone in the party as he runs through, grabs Zita, and makes his way out of your vicinity. To expedite this the magic number to hit is 17. Zita you will get a chance for attack as well.
Bendis 6/7 HP AC 10 d20+1=17 d3+1=3 Thursday January 10th, 2008 7:25:04 AM
Bendis grows more and more concerned by Farce's absence, but his fears are interrupted by the sudden appearance of their pursuer. Once again, neccessity overtakes fear, and the dwarf finds himself acting entirely on instinct.
"Zita!" he cries as the assassin drags her away. Unarmed, and with no time to draw his dagger (and with precious little skill at using it, to boot), the panicking dwarf does the first thing that comes into his mind; he swings a punch.
Bendis is not well versed in the noble art of bare knuckle fighting. Truth be told, he is not well versed in any of the martial skills, his experience of actual combat extending little further than being beaten up with pillows by his big sister, Brenna.
Whether it is his desperation to keep Zita safe, his rage at Fabersham's casual slaughter, or simply blind luck it is impossible to say. Whatever the reason, the dwarf's fist strikes true, landing a solid blow to the killer's ribs.
{OOC: AoO: 3hp nonlethal damage vs AV 17.)
Bendis is determined to do whatever it takes to keep the assassin from escaping with Zita. He rifles through his spellbook, peering at the curling runes in the pale moonlight. A spell worked before; perhaps it will work again. He cries out the magical syllables, releasing a wave of fatigue towards the killer. Then he stumbles back, searching for another spell.
(OOC: I'm assuming we get our normal round's actions after the AoO, right Jamie? if so Bendis casts Sleep on an area including only the assassin (NOT Zita!). I'll hold that Sleep spell until all other have taken an attack, so as not to have him sleep and then wake up again! DC 15 if he's 4HD or less. Then a move back 15' or so, but keeping the killer in view.)
DM Jamie: You are correct sir.
Rosario AC 15 (19) Dex 13/16 HP 16-17 d20+6=17 d10+6=16 Thursday January 10th, 2008 3:05:49 PM
Rosario nods at Betheas and grabbing the Sunrod he flings down a row ahead of them, to Betheas"Take lead and cut East a couple rows before taking us down one"
Rosario steps right behind the elf, pulling his sword and with Zita on his hip. The flash of movement catches his eye and he instinctively thrusts his weapon into the man grabbing for his sister.
The weapon finds flesh. Hit AC 17 Dmg 16
Zita [HP: 8/11 - AC: 16(17dodge)] d20+5=19 d6+1=5 d20+1=15 d20+5=17 d4+1=3 Thursday January 10th, 2008 8:30:47 PM
Zita was about to throw away the glowrod when Rosario does it for her. She nods her head and then there is a flash of movement. Only able to just get her rapier(hit: 19 - damage: 5) into play she makes a lunging attempt at the figure.
Then she is grabbed and being dragged away. She growls as she fights to get free(Str 15) of the man, knowing that her rapier will be of little help this close. She sends her free hand lashing in at the figure that is holding her(hit: 17 - damage: 3). She does not scream or anything as she does not want to call anymore attention to them.
Julien 4/7 HPs d20+7=19 d20+2=15 d6=5 Thursday January 10th, 2008 9:37:26 PM
In the dark, and with all the activity, not to mention the pain in his shoulder, Julien has to focus. He spins around and reaches out as the assassin brushes past and captures poor Zita. His words are whispered rapidly, the final key held, as he stretches out. Just a touch, please, a brush with the miserable, spine-toothed man's flesh, that's all he wanted. Concentration DC 19 Melee 15 - misses.
Alas, it isn't to be.
((OOC - Kent reminded me below about touch attacks, but I'm not sure if he's wearing armour or not. I'm trying to suck the life out of the rascal and grab his hit points via Vampyric Touch. 5pts if it hits. If not, no worries.))
Picci (AC16; 7/10hp) d20+1=21 d20+1=19 d8+1=6 d8+1=2 Friday January 11th, 2008 3:18:17 PM
"I think Julien can use some healing." the petite girl tells Gigi. "I have a kit so--" At this point she hears Farce being called for...and the ominous silence that follows.
"...Farce..?" she breathes, and all hell breaks loose when the sunrod gets tossed and a figure races between her and Zita, grabbing the young noble.
"NO!" Picci screams in spite of knowing that they're supposed to be trying to sneak away to safety, however the panic that they've already lost Fabersham, Farce and now may lose Zita too overtakes the cleric-in-training. She raises her heavy mace and swings at the assailant, also feeling her weapon connect with a sickening thud.
OOC: booYAH! Natural 20! (does the endzone dance of triumph) Picci has a possible Crit Hit, so it breaks down to the following: initial blow hits AC21 for 6hpd, with the Crit blow hitting AC19 adding 2hpd. Not bad for a blind mini-cleric! ;D
GigiAC17(15): HP 13/13 d20+2=18 2d6(5+5)+1=11 Friday January 11th, 2008 5:56:04 PM
Having stayed at the rear as a rear guard of some sort apparently pays off as some something or someone springs forward into the group and Gigi spots a glint of metal as well. His martial instincts kick in and the great sword in his hands nearly moves on its own accord and slices into the figure AC 18, for 11 points of damage.
It is then that he sees at least three others of his party connect with this unknown foe and he feels an ovrwhelming feeling of pride in his friends.
((Julian don't forget that touch AC is usually lower than regular AC so you may have connected.))
DM Jamie d20+1=18 Saturday January 12th, 2008 7:16:35 AM
The attacker realizes you guys are able to deal out more punishment that he thought. And you can see it in his eyes as the hits just keep on coming.
Bendis, your punch connects and seems to knock somewind out of the attacker. Your spell, however, seems to have no effect on the attacker.
Rosario, as you connect with the would-be assasin you draw first blood. The man's eyes focun on you for a second and then return to the task as hand.
Julien, your fingers glance off of the attacker as you say the final word. Acting as a key in a lock in unleashes the magik built up from you incantation and you feel the life of the attacker flow into your body through your outstretched fingertips. His touch attack AC is 14
Picci's first attack find a home in the attackers thigh and the second finds comfort in the middle of his back. The attacker is visibly shaken by the ferocity of the attacks.
Gigi, is able to connect as well before the man makes it though the gauntlet with his prize.
The attacker is bleeding and not moving very quickly now. He quickly grabs Zita and falls to the ground when Zita connects with him. She is not, however, able to free herself from his grip.
And there is silence. The night seems to wrap it's dark embrace around you. In the moonlight you can see the desperation and determination reflected in the mans eyes. You can hear his labored breathing, perhaps it was Picci's crushing blow from behind, or one of the blade attacks from Gigi or Rosario. You can make out the hint of copper on the air as the mans life force spills out in the vineyard, feeding the plants.
There is a flash of movement and a glint of steel in the moonlight. You all see the dagger held high in the air over Zita and then something strange happens...
A glow begins to emanate from Zita's ear. It pulses and begins to increase in brightness. It radiates slightly through the area immediately surrounding it. So with each pulse you can see through some of Zita's features. As when you were children and used to hold continual light coins in your hands to see the veins and bones.
There is a flash of light and sparks and before you floats a dagger made of red light. It hovers for a split second and then immediately dives into the would-be attacker. The knife falls from the man and you hear him take a sharp breath of air before his eyes grow dim and he falls backwards. There is a sickening plop sound as he falls into the pool of his own blood.
You can all hear movements in the vineyard closer to your location now. Even though you were all as quite as possible the attack still drew attention. Now the question is if it is unwanted or not...
Rosario AC 15 (19) Dex 13/16 HP 16-17 Saturday January 12th, 2008 2:26:27 PM
Rosario shift his weapon back to his left hand and moves to Zita. Hopefully there will be time to fully explore question, come to grips with whatever in Pantheon's name just happened with his sister, but now was not it. Rosario grabs a handful of the now dead assassin and throws his up and over his shoulder. "Betheas lead us out."
Turning east he plunges through the vines and then cuts north up the row. He can't imagine that any words beyond what has been said, are necessary nor that the others will not be right behind him.
Zita [HP: 8/11 - AC: 16(17dodge)] Saturday January 12th, 2008 5:35:17 PM
In the heat of the moment, Zita is unable to register everything that is happening. She only knows that she is fighting to keep from being dragged away from her family.
Then she is slamming into the ground and the wind is knocked from her body. A flash of a knife and the inevitable sinking of a blade in her chest...that is what she expects.
What she gets is a swelling of red light and a feeling of swimming in an ocean. Peace and quiet surrounding here, comforting her. Then the image of a red dagger, the gasp of breath from a dying man and lastly the weight lifting from her.
As if in a trance she comes to her feet, but as the presence or whatever it is leaves...she is shaken. On wobbly feet she almost collapses and does not really hear Rosario, but from a great distance.
Picci (AC16; 7/10hp) Saturday January 12th, 2008 6:16:37 PM
For a moment all Picci can do is stare...there is a rather nauseating maelstrom that whirls through her head for a moment, then she blinks as the movement from Zita catches her obsdian eye.
When the redhead sways on her feet, Picci's healing instincts immediately kick in and take over. The young acolyte clips her mace to her belt and takes the taller Zita firmly in her grasp, her shield arm a bit awkwardly draped around the back of Zita's waist and Picci's now-empty right hand tightly clamped onto Zita's own right forearm.
"Betheas...please...?" Picci prompts the elf, ready to assist the ducal heir out of the area.
Betheas Sunday January 13th, 2008 11:15:38 AM
[ooc: sorry missed post Friday. Sickening hours at work.]
Betheas takes Picci's cue and supports Zita's other side as the group makes its way deeper into the vineyard.
The elf is stunned by what appeared to be Zita's guardian angel finishing off the assassin.
Bendis 6/7 HP AC 10 d20+7=27 d20+4=22 Sunday January 13th, 2008 2:29:33 PM
Bendis feels unsteady on his feet, his mind reeling from the relentless succession of events. He is in shock, and can only stare stupidly as the assassin falls to the magical blade.
Yet even in this debilitated state his academic mind cannot resist the challenge. Perhaps it is a defence mechanism, a way for him to make some sort of sense of events; either way he finds himself turning over the glowing red dagger in his mind. A unusual magical manifestation to be sure. He wonders exactly what it could be (OOC: Spellcraft 27).
Rosario's sharp order breaks him out of his reverie. He stumbles obediently along behind the others, the reality of their situation once more pressing down upon him; they are lost and alone in the dark, with deadly killers hunting for them. The portly dwarf feels a sickening knot of terror tighten in his gut.
"Who was that man?" he whispers to the others, the fear plain in his voice. "Why are the Montdidiers under attack?" He racks his brain for any knowledge of local political rivalries, or razor toothed killers. He thinks back. Other than his teeth was there anything distinctive about the man? Any insignia or detail of clothing? Knowledge: Local 22
Bendis finds that keeping his mind occupied in this way does a little to assuage his fears.
Julien 4/7 HPs +3 temp HPs Monday January 14th, 2008 12:35:54 AM
Julien recovers from his dive at the assassin and bounces to his feet, blinking and energized by the sudden rush of energy drawn from their foe.
It's all done by the time he gets his head straight, and there's no time to wonder about what came out of Zita's earpiece.
He picks up the assassin's dagger, adrenalin and assassin energy rendering him perhaps a little too hyper.
"Bendis, shut it and move!" he hisses, taking the rear guard with Gigi as they move after everyone else.
GigiAC17(15): HP 13/13 d8+1=9 Monday January 14th, 2008 10:26:52 AM
Seeing that at least for the moment the danger is not immediate, Gigi sheathes his sword as he steps over next to Julien.
Julien , I am going to try and heal you now, so please stand still for a moment. Taking hold of his holy symbol and holding his other hand over the wound, Gigi starts chanting quietly and there seems to be a slight glow appear below his hand and over the wound.
Cure light wounds - 9 points back
DM Jamie Monday January 14th, 2008 3:21:52 PM
Rosario leads the pack through the vines ,with the assassin thrown over his shoulder, as he plunges in head first. Julien receives healing from Gigi and feels much better as he picks up the dagger that had fallen from the dead assassins hand. Everyone falls into place as they make their way through the vines, but they can hear movement and voices coming from behind.
The pace quickens and just as you are at the edge of the vineyard several humanoid shapes push through the vines and come at you. A voice, clear and cool pierces through the fear and adrenalin, "Stop. Stay calm. These are the children." It is Dahlia. "I am sorry we could not find you sooner children. Are you all accounted for? Are you all safe?"
Bendis, let me find out about your knowledge roll and I will get back with you.
Bendis Monday January 14th, 2008 3:45:15 PM
"Mistress Dahlia!" cries Bendis, relief flooding through him. It never even occurs to him that it might be a trick, he is so grateful to be rescued, so reassured by that calm voice. "We're here! But... but they got Fuh-Fabersham! He was protecting us in our room, and two men broke in, and they stabbed him, and I think, I think he's dead... and Farce never made it out of the room, I cast a muh-message spell, I should have been able to hear him, but he wouldn't answer, I couldn't hear him..."
The dwarf pauses for breath, and realises he is babbling. He flushes, embarassed; once agin he has revealed his fears and inexperience for all to see.
Picci (AC16; 7/10hp) Monday January 14th, 2008 5:56:26 PM
Picci breathes a sigh of relief that they've all made it to safety...until the words of Bendis register.
"What? Farce? Farce?" the young novitiate to the ranks of the Good clerics of the Wold gasps, turning to look for the gnome who had been so endearingly proud of the fact that he was starting to grow a mustache.
"Oh, no..." Now it is the petite jet-tressed human who sways under a combination of the injury she received climbing out of the window and the cruelty of this emotional blow as she makes the far-too-late realization:
They'd left one of their own behind...
Betheas Monday January 14th, 2008 8:35:00 PM
Betheas gives Bendis a reassuring pat on the back, before himself bending over at the waste; hands on his knees. The elf is visibly gased from the expeditious retreat.
Between gulps of air, he asks aloud, "what is going on?" He eyes Dahlia with contempt as he awaits a reply. Somewhere in the back of his mind he wonders what will happen next, as their mentor has fallen.
There is alot to think about right now. Namely, what of Zita's family?
Did Betheas recognize any of the assailants as those involved in the act that he saw in the woods on that dark day; the demise of the Montdidier men?
Rosario AC 15 (19) Dex 13/16 HP 12-13 Monday January 14th, 2008 9:14:08 PM
Rosario spins as he hears that they are being caught and the assassin hits the ground behind him with a sickening crack. Rosario draws his weapon and corrals his sister behind him. The gleaming blade points skyward, the tip moving in an uneasy grip of fear and exhaustion.
Betheas already asked one question and Rosario had a twisting in his stomach that he felt answered Picci's. The youth tries hard to bring his breathing, emotions and adrenaline under control. Anger leads to mistakes which leads to defeat
Julien 7/7 HPs Monday January 14th, 2008 10:21:45 PM
"Thanks," Julien croaks, feeling odd as one sort of energy supplants the other. Right now he's not for talking. The others were already asking the right questions. Master Fabersham AND Farce? He had to study. Study harder. He couldn't allow these murderous madmen to get the better of them like that. To get the better of him. He couldn't allow it.
GigiAC17(15): HP 13/13 Tuesday January 15th, 2008 6:05:30 PM
Finished whith his healing Gigi redraws his sword and takes a rearguard position sword at the ready.
Zita [HP: 8/11 - AC: 16(17dodge)] Tuesday January 15th, 2008 6:42:33 PM
Zita allowed herself to be lead, more than anything. She had the feeling in the pit of her stomach that he whole world was falling apart. What about her mother and grandmother...the worry and nagging ate at her.
As she finds the voice of Dahlia cutting into her own little world she shakes it off. "We are fine for the moment." She glances around when the comment is made about Farce and she pales. Having spent so much time picking on him as she was growing up, she felt a special kinship with him. "Fabersham and Farce..." She does not say more but she does not have to. The begining of tears have started in her eyes and she makes a silent vow.
No more of her family will die because she is not strong enough to protect them. She would do as her mother would do and move on, but hold her possibly lost friend in her heart. She wipes away the tears and their is a new hardness in her eyes.
Posting Report Tuesday January 15th, 2008 6:44:21 PM
FORT SILENCE - posting report - 1/6/08 to 1/13/08
Character Name DM Jerry - taking time off DM Jamie - 4/5 Rosario - 4/5 Bendis - 3/5 Betheas - 2/5 Gigi - 3/5 Julien - 4/5 Zita - 4/5 Picci - 4/5 Farce - taking time off
DM Jamie Tuesday January 15th, 2008 10:46:26 PM
"I was called away on Dragon business only to find that it was a ruse to get me out of the house and my eyes off of you. What perplexes me is it was a call through the Dragon network so someone had to infiltrate it and that has never been done before. Someone very powerful or lucky is behind this." Says Dahlia as she rubs her forehead.
"Farce has been found by my people. The assassin thumped him a good one in the head and knocked him out, but he is far from finished." The Dahlias countenance changes, "Fabersham, however, was not so lucky. He succumbed from both the loss of blood and from the stab wounds he received."
"I need you all to make it back to your home. We are going to see if we can flush out the last of them and clean this mess up. Please, I beg you get home as fast as possible."
With that Dahlia gives several hand motions to the others with her and they begin to fan out through the vineyards. She gives one last glance and nods to you all before she turns and leaves.
Picci (AC16; 7/10hp) d20+4=24 Tuesday January 15th, 2008 11:54:54 PM
Picci stares as the jovial halfling relates her news with a grim tone. The one thing that stands out for the young cleric-in-training:
Farce has been found by my people. The assassin thumped him a good one in the head and knocked him out, but he is far from finished...
For a moment, Picci's resultant wave of relief and elation threaten to overwhelm her, but she merely sways for a moment as her eyes squeeze shut and she whispers a prayer of gratitude to the good forces of the Wold.
"Ma'am...?" Picci asks just before Dahlia goes. "Farce...will he meet us at home?"
OOC: rolled a voluntary Fort Save versus fainting and made it...wow. That's two 20's in a row for a Level 1 character. Gygaxian Law states that my next ten rolls (at least) are all gonna be 1's. ;D
Bendis Wednesday January 16th, 2008 4:24:04 AM
"Farce is alive? Oh thank goodness, I feared the worst..." The dwarf's momentary elation is quashed by the news of Fabersham's death.
"Oh, oh poor Fabersham, he died protecting us..." He tails off, a horrible thought growing in his mind. Zita was warned of the attack by her grandmother. That had to mean the other members of the Montdidier clan had come under attack. And if they were as dangerous as Dahlia seemed to suggest...
"Mistress Dahlia is quite right" he says briskly, trying to mask his fears. "We need to get you home as quickly as possible, Zita."
Julien Wednesday January 16th, 2008 12:31:33 PM
Well, it's good news about Farce, Julien is thinking, but Master Fabersham... and now they just had to get home? Just like that. With Woldsblood knew what roaming around. Okay. He frowns. "We need a plan," he says out loud. "The danger still might be out there."
Zita Wednesday January 16th, 2008 6:06:36 PM
Zita pulls herself together rather quick as she listens to what Dahlia has to say. Though she is still not sure of how suited she is to taking the reigns of control she shakes it off. "You will care for Farce then...and see to Fabersham for us?" Priority says that they need to move and move now, but she has to make sure of this before they leave.
With an affirmative from Dahlia she will glance to the rest and nod her head. "You are right...we cannot remain her for long." With a decision she starts to move in the general direction of their home. "Let us plan as we move and put some distance between us and the enemy that we know about right now." They know that there are assassins here but what the wilds will hold is unknown. If nothing else they will need to find a safe place to hunker down and plan.
Nodding in understanding to Julien she adds from her own thoughts. "Let us find a place that is more defendable and away from here. Then we plan our next move out better." She starts to move out with the knowledge that the rest will most likely follow her or stop her...but they needed to move one way or the other.
GigiAC17(15): HP 13/13 Wednesday January 16th, 2008 7:20:29 PM
Gigi hangs his head as he wonders if he should have tried to heal Fabersham before leaving and then lifts his chin as news of Farce is passed around. As the group begins to move out the scarred lad grips his sword and continues to take the rear guard.
"When we find somewhere a bit safer I will take a look at what wounds we have and see what I can do for them."
DM Jamie Wednesday January 16th, 2008 10:48:49 PM
Those of you continuing to ask questions are left waiting as Dahlia rushes off with her fellow men at arms looking through the vineyard for any possible remaining men.
Rosario takes the lead again through the vineyards along with Zita as you all try to remain quiet moving through the vines. Occasionally the moon comes out and reveals shadows in the distance. You can not tell who is friend and who is foe and you do not try to find out either. Laying low when you must and continuing on when you can.
After a few hours of this you begin to get to the edge of the vineyards listen or spot checks DC 13 Highlight to display spoiler: {You can make out the glow of a fire and the sounds of hushed chatter around the fire. You can just make out the outlines of men around a fire. You are not close enough to hear what they say, but make out the name "Montdidier".}
Picci (AC16; 7/10hp) d20+4=17 Wednesday January 16th, 2008 11:16:01 PM
Picci heard it before she saw anything. Plucking at Rosario's sleeve, she managed to stand on tiptoe in order to whisper in his ear:
"People up ahead...talking about the family...by name..."
Bendis d20+2=22 d20+2=19 Thursday January 17th, 2008 7:56:46 AM
Bendis falls in with companions and plods as quietly as he is able across the moonlit vineyard.
As the enforced silence falls upon the little band Bendis reflects upon the path that brought him to this spot. Would his father, so determined to see him go a-smiting, really wish this fate upon his son? To be out in the wilderness, hunted by razor-toothed murderers, with countless miles between himself and safety?
Yes, Bendis reflects, he probably would. He'd see it as an opportunity to get a bit of extra smiting in. Far from fleeing from the attackers, Boomis Billingstone would probably be bellowing out challenges to his hidden foes by now.
How can the ore fall so far from the motherload, he wonders. He wishes he could be bold and brave and full of dwarven confidence. But he isn't. Far from relishing this midnight foray Bendis is constantly gripped by an icy dread. Every snap of a twig, every owl's soft hoot is greeted with a start, with the certainty that bloody death is bearing down upon them.
It is little wonder, with his nerves in such a heightened state, that he at once spots the faint glow up ahead, and hears the voices.
He nods vigorously at Picci's words. "Yuh-yes," he whispers, "people talking around a fire, I heard "Montdidier"! We should avoid them, they might be more of the killers."
He glances around nervously, worried that there may be more enemies lurking nearby.
Rosario AC 15 (19) Dex 13/16 HP 12-13 d20+1=11 d20+1=18 Thursday January 17th, 2008 2:16:59 PM
Rosario grabs the body of the assassin again as they move. the man is heavy, but not overly so, Rosario just keeps putting his feet down and walking. The glow ahead pulls him short and then Picci fills him in on what he could not hear. Rosario drops into a crouch and lets the assassin to the ground. He waves frantically at those about him to get dwon. The benefit of a fire is that those around it are far easier to see from a distance.
Rosario looks at Bendis, The dwarf had a point. But would killers have a fire and be hanging out like that. Could be a secure lookout point to catch any of his family that fled this direction. Hell it could be anything. Rosario points to the group and then makes an arc around to the right and away from the glow. He glances at the faces of his friends for confirmation, his eyebrows arching in question.
GigiAC17(15): HP 13/13 d20+3=11 Thursday January 17th, 2008 4:37:49 PM
Following along behind and keeping an ear out for anything or anyone that might be following them, Gigi hears nothing of the group ahead until he nearly runs into Bendis as he catches up to the now stopped group. As Rosario raises his eyebrow Gigi can't help but wonder how many are around the fire and relays that question to Rosario the best he can without making any noise, by pointing toward the area and then counting on his fingers.
Zita d20+1=16 d20+1=14 Thursday January 17th, 2008 6:49:05 PM
Zita slows slightly as the are moving as she too notices the whispered voices. Her family name coming up makes the hairs on the back of her neck stand up.
Glancing to Rosario she nods her head as right now it would be best to avoid people. She also takes note of Gigi asking about numbers and though her eyes are human she attempts to get at least a partial count.
Either way she will motion to the group and then start out to the right, arcing around to go wide around this camped group.
Julien d20+1=10 d20+1=13 d20+1=2 Thursday January 17th, 2008 7:00:09 PM
Julien spots the fire but can't hear what was being said. But after what just happened he's all for being stealthy.
He nods at Rosario and shifts to the left. Maybe if they hung around and listened they might figure out who this was. He squints trying to get a better look. It was to be hoped they didn't have dogs with them, whoever they were, not with all that fresh meat Rosario was carting around.
Another Spot check = 2 (LOL)
DM Jamie Thursday January 17th, 2008 11:29:59 PM
You are able to circumvent the men around the campfire and continue on your way. The going is slow and soon the moon has gone down. It is made slower yet as every time you hear something or think you hear something everyone stops and drops. Was that an owl? Did I hear a branch snap? Did you see that? You know it is about 2 hours until daybreak.
Still mucking about off the road you find yourselves near what appear to be some deserted out buildings (i.e. sheds. Not very nice on the eyes, but would give you some shelter to get some rest before you continue on. You all realize that you have been up for almost a day and have been involved in some heavy physical and emotional situations through the night.
Picci (AC16; 7/10hp) Thursday January 17th, 2008 11:55:00 PM
The petite acolyte blinks at the looming bits of shelter...
"Zita...Rosario..." she says softly, "Do you think we can use one of these sheds to rest up? Gigi and I can heal up anyone who needs it..." She doesn't mention that, by now, she is one of the prime candidates for getting a Cure Wounds of some kind.
Bendis Friday January 18th, 2008 4:31:07 AM
The long march has taken its toll on the portly dwarf. His nerves are frayed and he's pretty much at the end of his tether when the sheds come into view, stumbling along barely able to keep his eyes open. He needs rest, and badly.
Still, he bites his tongue when he see the sheds. He has shown himself to be the band's weak link too many times tonight. If the team want to press on he will do so without complaint.
He is therefore immensely relieved when Picci suggests they stop and rest. "That's probably a good idea" he nods. "Thinking about it I need some time to prepare my spells. Best that we're at full strength for tomorrow. There's no telling what we'll face."
He looks down at his hands. He has taken most of the skin off his palms sliding down that rope as they fled their room. The bleeding has stopped but they are still tender and sore.
"It probably doesn't warrant wasting a healing spell, but if anyone could bandage my hands I'd be grateful."
(OOC: 1 hp to heal, a Heal DC 15 and a night's rest should do the trick)
Rosario AC 15 (19) Dex 13/16 HP 12-13 Friday January 18th, 2008 8:25:01 AM
Rosario moves and marches as if his endurance was endless. Though he has already missed a step here and there, his mind and wits are still alert. Gifts of youth. Luckily Picci is far more practical and Rosario looks at the group and mainly his sister. "Good idea Picci, you guys could probably use a break and we certainly don't want to sit about during the day."
Rosario moves into one of the outbuildings and drops the dead man to the floor. Time to search him and see if there are any clues to be had. [Search take 20 result 21]
Bendis (illegal second post) Friday January 18th, 2008 11:39:10 AM
When Rosario drops the killer to the ground the dwarf peers closely at him, then nods.
"I thought so. That's some sort of assassin guild symbol on his armor. I couldn't be sure before, but I'm sure I've seen it before, somewhere in the Billingstone caves. I wish I could remember where. I don't know much about it, but my Mam used to tell us stories to keep us in line when we were younger. Mostly just about how the Ebon Fold would come get us if we didn't mind our manners. I'm sure it was something like that."
He turns to Julien and says "What did you make of that magical effect on Zita's earring? Obviously some sort of attunement process at work, but like nothing I've ever seen. Even the old Dwarven Magical relics back home, the really old stuff, were nothing like that. That has to be the most powerful magical item I've ever seen. I'd love to know more about it."
If the party settle down for the night Bendis will spend an hour before he sleeps meditating on his spells.
Rosario illegal 2nd Friday January 18th, 2008 2:35:08 PM
Rosario looks at Bendis, "Guess we know who in the Billingstone family wasn't minding thier manners." He turns back to the corpse and with a chuckle to himself, he starts pulling off clothing
Picci (AC16; 7/10hp) Friday January 18th, 2008 6:43:20 PM
Once the group is ensconced within their temporary shelter, Picci uses her Spontaneous Casting ability as a cleric to cast Cure spells as needed by the others. She doesn't cast on herself unless she's sure that nobody else needs it more.
OOC: Picci will swap out Resistance and the Light spells to cure 1hpd each if needed; she will swap out MagicWeapon and SummonMonsterI for CLW (which will cure 1d8+2hpd). As stated, she will not cast on herself unless she is convinced nobody else needs the spell.
Julien Friday January 18th, 2008 7:40:41 PM
Julien is still on edge after the effects of the vampyric touch and the healing spell, and so despite being dog tired there's no way on this flat earth that he'll be able to sleep yet. He spends some time trying to pick a spot where a lit candle won't give their shelter away so he can study, and he offers to take one of the first watches.
Glancing over the top of his spell book, he grins. "Rosario, you know one day I'll be able to make that corpse sit up and dance for you if you like." He's actually impressed that the girls haven't baulked at having dead things accompany them. As it was, Rosario's apparent fascination for them would give Julien enough ammunition to needle him for weeks about it, and it probably wouldn't be the first time he'd almost provoked a brawl over something.
To Bendis about the earring - " That was impressive. I bet they have the spell for it written down somewhere in the Star Tower." He hesitates and clears his throat. "By the way," he adds, "sorry for yelling at you back there. Didn't mean to."
Zita Friday January 18th, 2008 8:33:19 PM
Zita can feel the effects of fatigue starting to set in and she is currently running more on instinct that anything else. In the back of her mind she has set things right and though it weighs heavily on her...she knows her duty.
As the sheds come into sight she nods her head. "We have to rest...and the shelter will be a boon." She plods along with the rest of the group, more robotically as she is just about to the last of her endurance.
The shelter is nice and she finds a place off to the side to set up her blanket. Using her pack for a pillow she lays down but facing Rosario. "So anything of interest?" She would love to know their attacker better and that is the main reason she did not complain about the extra weight on Rosario.
Once she is sure that everything is good with her family, she cannot stay awake much longer. "Wake me for a later watch." She declines any healing as she is not in that bad of shape, then rolls over and falls asleep.
DM Jamie Sunday January 20th, 2008 7:29:57 AM Sorry about the late post guys. Parent in town and we have been packing in alot of stuff each day so they can spend time with us and the grandkids.
As people bed down and healling as cast Bendis shares some information about the kiler.
Rosario finds a dagger along with the clothes the man was wearing, but nothing else.
Watches are swapped and everyone gets a good, if not quick, quick rest. You all wake up with the sun shining down. The mist of the morning has been burned off and it looks to be mid-day. You can hear movement outside of your shed, but upon checking it is merely one of the mut dogs that wander loose and free. Ah, to be free.. Being hunted you now know what it is like to be a caged animal. Not sure who to trust until you get back home.
The road outside looks to be relatively empty today as you look out through a spot in the wall. No traffic going back and forth ad for the time you have all been sleeping between all of you there has only been 2 people on the road.
Betheas Sunday January 20th, 2008 5:24:16 PM
The elf stays on watch for most the night, minus a short bit of respite, sitting cross legged in the corner of the hut.
Knowing day-light would be upon them soon, Betheas scrounges for a potato sack or the like. They were going to have to disguise the dead body, or bury it. Rosario obviously can't carry the body in broad day-light... and on a road.
He assists Rosario any way possible.
When Ziti awakes, Betheas makes it known, "The assassins failed. Their next step would be to intercept us on the road to Fort Silence. I fear there will be more hard-ship before this day is done."
Bendis Sunday January 20th, 2008 6:36:10 PM
A good night's rest has gone some way to soothing the dwarf's jangled nerves. But Betheas's suggestion that they continue to carry the assassin, and that there may be more out there, gets them jangling again.
"Cuh-couldn't we just leave him here?" he asks, nervously.
He gets himself ready, then looks to Zita and Rosario. Whatever they do, he will follow. He has made a promise to stand by the heir to the Montdidier family, and scared or not, he intends to honour that promise.
DM Jamie Monday January 21st, 2008 8:51:50 AM It has been brought to my attention that I have neglected to give any more info on the gas dex damage. After you have rested it is no more
Thank you. That is all. ;)
GigiAC17(15): HP 13/13 Monday January 21st, 2008 4:49:06 PM
Gigi aids Picci with getting people healed up with bandages, 2 cure minor wounds and another cure light if needed and then nearly collapses from exhaustion as the effects of the dexterity loss and strain of the night overcome him.
When the morning arrives, Gigi groggily rubs his eyes and then while the others are breaking their fast he finds a quiet space and kneeling down begins his morning absolutions.
Julien Monday January 21st, 2008 6:20:50 PM
Julien is up fairly early and does a little more studying. He's a light sleeper, but he figures the girls need to get some rest. At some point, he takes out pen and paper, and makes a small sketch of the assassin's symbol that they'd found, along with notes of any other distinguishing marks, then slips the paper into his spellbook. He's not overly concerned that they aren't out on the road at the crack of dawn, because he reckons that's what everyone will be expecting. There's a growing anger, bubbling away under the surface, over what happened - something he's not likely to forget anytime soon.
If Rosario and Betheas decide to bury the body, he'll help with the shovelling, just to get rid of some of his fury more than anything.
"So, what's our next move?" he asks. "Straight home? I suspect we'll need to get real sneaky about it."
Zita Monday January 21st, 2008 7:59:00 PM
Arising feeling slightly better in the morning, Zita looks to the others and nods her head. "We should most likely leave the body here...bury it if you want." Still looking to the others she feels that she might need to explain. "He will just slow us down and right now we need to be fast and mobile. Lets just take what might be needed from them and leave in a few."
Like every morning she starts her day out with an assortment of stretches, though she is not too happy about not being able to get in a little mock fighting. It kept her in better form and allowed her to spend time with Farce.
She makes herself available as they will most likely be needing to make some plans on returning home. "So, how do we want to proceed?"
Picci Monday January 21st, 2008 10:34:30 PM
Picci works with Gigi to make sure everyone is healed up, smiling when he points out that she, too, is in need of healing. She doesn't go to sleep injured.
In spite of the person's evil acts towards her adopted family, however, Picci still prays that Gargul renders a fair and accurate judgment of the assassin's soul based on his entire life.
After she's done, however, the petite girl speaks right up in answer to Zita's question:
"I think Julien's got a point." Picci says. "If we want to make it back to Fort Silence in one--preferably unpreforated, unspindled and/or unmutilated piece--we'd best be sneaky about it."
DM Jamie Tuesday January 22nd, 2008 3:04:56 AM
As plans are made and thoughts shared the morning passes on. As noon nears everyone is healed up and ready to go. The weather is sunny with a cool breeze blowing in from the North. In the distsnce you can see there is a storm comming in with the wind and the air seems charged with energy.
The trees and the grass sway easily back and forth with the strngth of the breeze. The sound of thousands of leaves rustling in the wind fills the area. Off in the distance you can hear laughter of children as they spend their day in play and meriment. In the air... the scent of lavendar.
Bendis 6/7 HP AC 10 Tuesday January 22nd, 2008 6:01:56 AM
Walking out in the open, with the sun shining down, Bendis visibly relaxes. The troubles of the night before drain away as he spends the journey chatting with Julien about magical theory. He actually gets quite animated upon the subject, his face lighting up with genuine enthusiasm. It is noticeable at such times that his occasional stutter leaves him completely.
Then he notices the scent of lavender on the air, and in an instant he is back in that room, seeing the gas rolling under the door, the tight clench of fear in his gut. He shakes his head; it's just a smell, and ironically one he's always rather liked. It doesn't mean they're in danger, it's simply his mind making free associations and linking emotional states. Perfectly understandable given the circumstances. Odd how the gas smelled of lavender, perhaps that was an active component in its creation.
With his mind turned to such matters his heart rate slows, the flush leaves his face, and he starts to breathe m,ore easily.
He seeks out some lavendar, plucks a little and examines it closely, breaking apart some buds between thumb and finger, then breathing in the powerful odour.
He's certainly heard of lavender assisting with sleeping. Perhaps its essence was distilled somehow, serving to infuse the gas with a soporific, debilitating aspect. He wishes he had a pestle and mortar to hand, and an array of alchemical solutions. It sounds likde a fascinating experiment.
Betheas Tuesday January 22nd, 2008 11:14:58 AM
Betheas marches along with the rest. The beauty of the day does much to charge up his soul, however he is noticable allarmed by the coming of the storm; turning often to guage its approach.
He says absently under his breath, "I can't believe Flabersham died."
Rosario d20+1=11 Tuesday January 22nd, 2008 5:17:03 PM
Fininshed with the rifling of the assassin, Rosario sists back. "Lot of nothing unfortunately. At least we know who he belonged to thanks to Bendis. Squirrel that one away, we'll try to find more at home I guess." Rosario looks positively perplexed at the idea of continuing to bring the dead man or on burying him. "We drag him out in to the field a bit and let the animals have him."
Rosario nods at Julien taking point, "Sounds good to me." For himself he falls in line next to his sister on her right and keeps an eye out as best as he can. [spot 11]
Zita d20+1=4 d20+1=17 d20+5=24 Tuesday January 22nd, 2008 8:42:39 PM
Zita nods her head as the group starts out on the road. She had assisted with the moving of the man as she did not want to leave it in someones' shed.
The scent of lavendar sets her nerves on edge and she has to glance around to see if there is any gas in their area. Her hands do not stray far from her weapons and she only talks occassionally.
With a distracted mind she is unable to really keep her ears open for sounds, too many thoughts to go over. Still her eyes do not seem to be failing her and she watches the approaching storm, trying to get a feel for it.
[listen 4, spot 17 and survival(weather) 24]
Julien d20+1=13 d20+1=15 Tuesday January 22nd, 2008 11:27:27 PM
Leaving the dead man in the bushes isn't a problem for Julien. Served the man right for trying to kill them anyway. He wonders though, if they're likely to get into trouble over it. A killing is a killing after all.
The conversation with Bendis is interesting to him because they both appear to focus on different schools, or at least have a slightly different philosophy on the subject. He realizes there are different approaches, some better than others, and like his father said - there's always a better way.
Despite the conversation, he's keeping his eyes open, and listening to the general surroundings. the storm seemed ineviatable, so he wasn't going to worry about that. When it started to rain, then they'd have to find shelter.
Spot 13 Listen 15
Gigi Tuesday January 22nd, 2008 11:47:31 PM
Feeling somewhat uneasy about just leaving the body, Gigi takes up the rear of the party again and as he passes the body's final resting place stops and performs a brief funeral piece consigning the body to Gargul.
Picci Wednesday January 23rd, 2008 12:11:14 AM
Picci, having given her own exhortations to Gargul already, makes sure that her shield is secure and her mace is in hand, as well as praying to the good gods of the Wold that the group's journey home isn't as dangerous as their stay at Dahlia's vineyard had been.
"Don't worry, Bendis," she says, smiling as she takes up a space beside the introspective dwarf, "I'll protect you." The petite human grins and gives him a saucy wink.
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