Dinner and Plans---DM Nellie Wednesday October 22nd, 2008 11:05:33 PM
And so...once back at the Manor, the Order begins formulating their plans to uncover the shapechanging menace. Wynum comes up with a well thought out plan that is seconded by several. Edmund discusses the creation of a costly but enormously helpful magic item. Knowing that he doesn't have the feats nor the lab to craft such an item, he is fairly certain that a large quantity store like the Catacombs would likely have one...of course, it would consume a large portion of party funds (75,000gp).
The discussions continues until late in the night. Finally, everyone heads for their rooms and enjoys the first comfortable nights sleep in a long time. After awakening and performing the normal morning duties, the group gathers back in the common room to finalize their plans for the day.
OOC: Scott, thank you sooo much for DMing!!! You did a great job. BTW...did you guys get an estimate for the value of the vials? Also, just curious...what defenses, if any does the Manor have?
Arm Thursday October 23rd, 2008 6:04:45 AM
Waking refreshed, Arm awaits the rest of the group's decisions, though he is convinced that Wynum's plan is the way to proceed. While waiting, he says to the group, "Has anyone thought about how the manor could be defended?".
OOC: Hm, I never thought about defenses for the Manor...interesting..
Kadaz Thursday October 23rd, 2008 6:46:27 AM
Kadaz answers Arm's questions. "None. We never considered how to defend it. It's a home, not a fortified stronghold. And it has some secret tunnels in the basements that the shapechangers know about. So no easy answers here."
"And I too like Wynum's plan. Lure them out into a trap. Let's get Rabbitsfoot on board and get started!"
Edmund Thursday October 23rd, 2008 12:44:02 PM
Edmund smiles confidently.
"The Manor is protected by various arcane arts which I have set in place. Invisible to the naked eye, they will catch and depower any person--or thing--who enters the Manor with evil intentions. There is nothing to fear whatsoever!"
Glancing sideways for a moment, Edmund continues, "That said, of course it might be worthwhile to install more conventional defences, just in case something should--er, not... go wrong, but rather, in the case that ah... the magic wears off. Yes. Just in case."
Wynum Thursday October 23rd, 2008 1:29:30 PM
Wynum comes down cautiously down the stairs, stretching painfully. "Good morning friends. I would be good to improve the defense, but I must say the rooms need improvement too, they're quite cramped. Also what is the purpose of those flat and soft things?"
He produces a purse full of gold coins.
"The good thing about an ambush is we will not need at first to spot changers. All attackers will be guilty! But I can help for the diamond. I have gathered sixty, no sixty-one gold pieces, quite a fortune isn't it? Also, indeed, what can we do about that whistle? I have no idea.
"In the meantime, we should go to Rabbitsfoot, a small group should suffice to not arouse suspicion. We should leave Rabbitsfoot decide on the best vial transfer plan, according to the constables' normal practices. Maybe we should get the empty vials back and fill them with some liquid. Do you have any ideas on what would best?"
Shadow Thursday October 23rd, 2008 2:29:20 PM
Shadow smiles a little when the group starts discussing the defense of the manor. "Edmund, I have installed numerous traps/alarms at all of the secret entrances, including the tunnel that we collapsed just in case they try to re-open it." He has the utmost confidence in his traps, "We can also be assured that no one of my Guild will bother this house as it is protected by the Guild. We can easily assume that anyone breaking in is an enemy."
Thar Thursday October 23rd, 2008 3:16:52 PM
Thar listens to the various discussions, but can't immediately think of anything major to add to the house's defenses. "The only thing I would add is that we need some sort of escape tunnel for ourselves that we will follow in case things go sour. Also, if someone attacks us, we need to have a stronghold within the house that we can defend, especially one that has ways of protecting us (e.g. a sanctuary vs. evil) vs. evil. I can cast a spell on one or more of these places, but I can't make anything permanent right now."
"I'm still a fan of Wynum's idea too and once we get the Vials back, let's make that ambush happen."
Looking at Ed, he asks "Can you do any magic that prevents us from being overheard (via magic) in the manor? I'd hate for them to be listening in to our plans..."
Kirsten Thursday October 23rd, 2008 6:57:23 PM
Kirsten can't help but wonder if Edmund is quite telling the truth about his magical defenses, but she can only shrug a little helplessly and hope her friend knows what he's doing.
"Strange that we should have to defend our home in such a way," she sighs somewhat, "but Thar is right, we will need to create a stronghold of sorts just in case the worst happens."
She likes the sound of Wynum's plan.
Arm Friday October 24th, 2008 5:54:12 AM
Arm rolls his eyes to the heavens at Ed's statement, wondering whom the traps would harm more...then enemy or them. Nodding at Shadow, he says, "I have no doubt that your Guild is the least of our troubles, or no trouble at all actually.". To the rest he continues, "We really should be on our way. I volunteer to head to see Rabbitsfoot..who's with me?".
Edmund Friday October 24th, 2008 12:34:51 PM
Edmund nods to Thar's question.
"Yes, there should be some spells I can put in place to make sure we are not overheard. I may have to buy a scroll or two, in case they are not in my book, but they should be well within my capacity."
Wynum Friday October 24th, 2008 6:52:52 PM
Wynum shifts in place. "Excellent. While Arm goes to Rabbitsfoot, I think it would be wise to visit a library. Edmund, would you guide me, I'm sure this wonderful city has a few? With a bit of time, we could find more info on what these changers can and cannot... wait... shapechangers?"
Wynum paces around excitedly. "Julian, Thar, do you know about Druids in this city? Back in the isles, some followers of Eberyon, they could change shape as well. Maybe, if we can find Druids here, they might give us clues. We need to know whether they can imitate everything, if we can find a way to spot them even when they're disguised. Hints, details, I don't know, things they can't see, like scars, tatoos!"
Of to see the Constable---DM Nellie Saturday October 25th, 2008 12:55:26 AM
The plans are formalized, more defenses for the Manor are in the works, and Arm is anxious to put their plan into action. He readies himself to head out.
OOC: Anybody else going with Arm, or is he going it alone?
Thar d20+6=16 ; Saturday October 25th, 2008 7:58:37 PM
Thar tries to think of any druids he has come into contact with. Surely, as an elven priest and ranger, he would have come into contact with several other individuals who also love nature. "Well, there was this one.... I can't remember his name..... Let me see now...." (Know religion? = 16)
Thar agrees to go with Arm, and says "I'll watch your back Arm. However, I'll stay in the shadows and try to remain unobserved as I track you towards Rabbitsfoot's location."
Kadaz Sunday October 26th, 2008 6:28:05 PM
"I think we should all go to see Constable Rabbitsfoot. We don't want to split up if we can avoid it." Kadaz and Birdie prepare to leave with Arm and help plan the deception.
Edmund Monday October 27th, 2008 10:10:23 PM
Edmund agrees to go to the library with Wynum.
"Surely, my courageous quadruped. To the library, post-haste!"
Despite this, Edmund takes an uncommonly long time to get ready, and spends easily three quarters of an hour running back and forth from his room to the larder, exclaiming things like, "Oh yes, musn't forget my extra pens... will need a biscuit or two... oh, what about ink... and lemon curd!"
Wynum Tuesday October 28th, 2008 9:04:46 AM
Leaving most of his clumsy gear at home, Wynum prepares to depart with only his dagger, sling and magic items. He answers to Kadaz: "Splitting up might be risky, but I would believe that the shapechangers have no more to do with us. I don't know of your previous adventures, but why would they try to do more harm to you, they already have what they want? Besides, now that we're warned, an attack on us would surely be dangerous for themselves!"
While Edmund searches for vital items, Wynum offers tentative help. In the meantime he stands rather stupidly in the entrance, waiting nervously.
"Why...?" he asks "Is that library so far away? Or that big?"
Worried, he straps back all of his gear, shovel, rations and all.
"Do you think we can find a ten-hoof pole on our way?"
Shadow Tuesday October 28th, 2008 9:43:56 AM
Shadow will go around the house and double check his traps to make sure they have not been disturbed, and then he will get ready to once again go see Rabbitsfoot.
Kirsten Tuesday October 28th, 2008 10:11:20 AM
Kirsten, this time, decides to stick with Edmund and agrees to go to the library with them.
She'll wait with Wynum at the entrance, commenting to their new friend, "Don't worry, he's always like this."
Edmund Tuesday October 28th, 2008 5:10:21 PM
Once Edmund is loaded up with everything from shortbread biscuitss to wet-weather writing gear, he is ready to depart. The trip to the library is not far, and they are sure to arrive quickly.
Meanwhile, Edmund explains to Wynum, "One must be adequately provisioned for study, for once hunger rears its ugly head, out goes all chance of academic progress. No, far better to keep hunger staved off. Have a shortbread with lemon curd. It's very good!"
Edmund offers Wynum one of the biscuits and helps himself to several as well.
"What about you, Kirsten? Fancy a bite?"
Julian (small size) Tuesday October 28th, 2008 5:36:28 PM
Julian eyes everyone suspiciously upon hearing that the shapechangers know about the secret tunnels.
Wynum - hmmm, hard to tell, I don't know him yet. Very suspicious then. Shadow - checking the traps to the tunnel, very suspicious activity that is. Arm - doesn't seem to trust Eddy, that sounds about right. Trusts Shadow, very suspicious indeed. Thar - Rangers - untrustable Kadaz, has a dog, therefore trustworthy Kirsten - apparently has taken vows of honesty - would be a good person to mimic. Suspicious.
Have I missed anyone? Probably. That's very suspicious too. I'll have to watch him very closely. Or her, whoever, and her dog.
Julian will follow the others to Rabbitsfoot, taking his trustworthy long time companions (two badgers and a dog) with him.
DM Nellie Wednesday October 29th, 2008 12:23:43 AM
Ahaa!!! I'm back! Sorry guys, but I'll have to post in the morning. It's good to be back on the board!
Al - As Sysadmin Wednesday October 29th, 2008 7:31:52 AM
OoC: Arm/Lenny is having trouble logging onto the Wold. Could someone sub for him until such time as we have this worked out?
Thank you.
The Constable Once More--DM Nellie Wednesday October 29th, 2008 11:32:51 PM
The party heads out once more to the Constable's office. Though everyone is on high alarm, there are no problems on the trip there. Two different guards are posted outside the office, but they are able to give the appropriate hand signal for the day. Saluting, they look a little surprised to see you, but you are ushered into the Constable's office shortly after arriving.
Rabbitsfoot also provides the appropriate signal and looks surprised to see you so soon. "My goodness, you people work quickly, don't you?! So, tell me what you've learned."
Shadow Thursday October 30th, 2008 1:13:40 PM
Shadow will watch the guards and after the hand signal will feel a little bit more at ease, but still pretty high strung. He will wait for the others to address the plan with Rabbitsfoot.
Thar Thursday October 30th, 2008 3:21:23 PM
Thar relaxes a little when the guards give the right signals, but still is on alert. With all he's seen in the past, he doesn't discount anything these dopplegangers might throw at them.
He briefly explains the status of the vial cleansing and how they can expect to get them back in a few days. He does not, however, share where precisely the vials are kept and who is working on them. If pressed, he'll explain that its best for only a limited number of people to know all the detail...
Arm Thursday October 30th, 2008 3:31:19 PM
While Thar explains the situation to Rabbitsfoot, Arm smiles inwardly at his discretion..it's best that only a few people know where they are. After his friend is finished, he looks expectantly at Rabbitsfoot for his response.
OOC: I'm BAAAAAACCCKKKKK...or more precisely fitting in with the 'holiday season', I'm HEEEEEERRRREEE....Thanks Al for your help!
Wynum Thursday October 30th, 2008 5:37:28 PM
(OOC: Wynum was supposed to go separately with Ed to the library and stuff but I'll roll with the DM and assume we all went to Rabbitsfoot for now.)
After Thar's introduction about the vial, Wynum explains his ideas to the constable, though he is less excited and more intimidated, not knowing what to expect from the halfling.
"So... I had this idea, after our first attempts... that maybe it would be simpler and more effective... if you would call a meeting, and tell your fellow constables and others, that you had been given these vials and had planned a tsecret ransfer to some secure place. You should only tell them the day and the destination. Our hopes is that they will try to attack the carriers or the place. We will of course be there to ambush the shapechangers if they attack, or follow them to their lair if they just steal the vials. Err.. maybe you could suggest to use a civilian for the carrier. That way they will probably have a shapechanger do it, which would reduce the chance of someone getting harmed, and we might follow him to the lair directly. Ah, what you think? Sir?"
Edmund Thursday October 30th, 2008 6:42:58 PM
Edmund, despite meaning to lead the way, ends up following along blindly, digging in his pack the entire time for a tin of biscuits. When he finally looks up, they are outside the Constabulary.
"No, no, no," he chastises Wynum, "We were supposed to go to the library, not follow that lot. Bother. Well, now that we're here, we might as well go in."
Once they meet with the Constable, Edmund has nothing really to add. He is eager to get to the library and has, in the interval, started in on the biscuits. Spilling more than a few crumbs on the Constable's floor, Edmund offers some to Wynum and Kirsten to show there are no hard feeling for them going to the wrong place.
"Easy to mix up, Constabulary, Library, Constabrary, Libulary, no harm done," Edmund says with a mouth full of shortbread. "Here, have a biscuit."
Kirsten Thursday October 30th, 2008 6:47:45 PM
Kirsten shrugs as they follow along with the others.
"No thanks, Edmund," she smiles somewhat and shakes her head at his obsessive eating of biscuits. "You're making a mess."
Julian (small size) Thursday October 30th, 2008 9:53:47 PM
"Thanks, Eddy," says the halfling taking a biscuit. Julian chews thoughtfully, watching and listening to his companions, determined to figure out who the shapechanger amongst them is. Suddenly he raises his eyebrow, and looks at Edmunds. He spits out the biscuit into his handkerchief, careful to remove all traces of the poison. He nods at the mage, knowing that no-one outsmarts this barbarian halfling.
Arm Friday October 31st, 2008 9:36:10 AM
Arm refuses a biscuit as well, and seeing what Julian has just done, makes 'the sign' in Ed's direction while waiting for Rabbitsfoot to respond.
Shadow Friday October 31st, 2008 11:00:09 AM
Shadow raises an eye brow at the sudden and weird exchange between Julian, Ed, and Arm. He will have to watch the three and make sure nothing happens here with the sudden but apparent mistrust.
Edmund Friday October 31st, 2008 3:41:34 PM
Edmund frowns at Arm, not sure what on earth he is doing, and suspecting that it might be some sort of obscene gesture.
"What a birk," Edmund thinks to himself. "What did I do to him this time?"
The fact that Arm and Julian are nevertheless helping themselves to the biscuits is not lost on Ed either. He frowns even more deeply and puts the biscuits back into his pack--not before cramming one more into his mouth.
"Memmon cud," Edmund says with a mouthful of biscuit. "Muffing wike it."
Kadaz Friday October 31st, 2008 6:15:26 PM
Kadaz looks at the avalanche of crumbs hitting Rabbitsfoot's floor. This distracts him from paying too much attention to the plan Wynum is explaining. He reaches his hand out and accepts one of Edmund's biscuits. Need jam, the thinks to himself. He bites off a bit, then gives the rest to Birdie.
Julian (small size) Friday October 31st, 2008 6:21:44 PM
Julian is wide eyed as he watches Kadaz give the biscuit to his dog. Perhaps Kadaz isn't really Kadaz?! I wonder what happens to a shapechanger if I knock it out? Will he change back to its real form? Who can I trust to ask the question? Would anyone mind if I experimented on.... who? I wish Podo was here....
The halfling sits on the floor in a slump, and takes the two badgers in his lap, patting them for comfort.
Rabbitsfoot--DM Nellie Friday October 31st, 2008 11:43:10 PM
The Constable listens patiently to Thar's explanation, nodding in apparent approval as certain key information is withheld.. "Yes, that's very good. It's good to hear that they are being cleansed."
As Wynum informs them of their plan, the halfling breaks out into a grin. "Why that's just...ingenious!" He begins pacing as the wheels begin to turn. "So... Is it your intention to wait until the vials are cleansed to set up the ambush, or are you hoping to do it sooner without the actual bait in hand? Of course I can set up the meeting whenever you want. Just let me know."
OOC: Sorry about the posts. I will try and post again tomorrow.
Rabbitsfoot--DM Nellie Sunday November 2nd, 2008 11:23:22 PM
Hey folks, I'd love to move along with your plan...just need to know whether you wanted the Constable to call the meeting now (while the vials are being purified) or whether you want to have the vials in your possession. Once I know that we can roll. :)
Edmund Monday November 3rd, 2008 1:32:34 AM
Edmund pipes up finally,
"I really think we should wait until we get our hands on a Diamond of True Seeing," he says. "We should be able to do it quickly enough if we can get over to the Catacombs right away."
That said, Edmund returns to thinking about the library and what he might be able to look up there.
Arm Monday November 3rd, 2008 6:00:12 AM
Arm nudges Kadaz and whispers, "Ed didn't return the sign..keep an eye on him.". He then says to Rabbitsfoot, "I think we should take care of business now, and put our plans into motion as soon as possible. The sooner we do, the better.".
Thar Monday November 3rd, 2008 12:00:32 PM
Thar takes a moment to ponder Rabbitsfoot's questions. "I would say that we should do the plan immediately, rather than wait a few days. Every day we wait means that the doppleganger's infiltration gets deeper and deeper. We don't really need the physical vials in our hand, and I'd like to keep them out of danger."
He looks around and asks "What does everyone else think?"
Shadow Monday November 3rd, 2008 1:50:09 PM
Shadow notices Julian slouched on the floor and worries about what is affecting him. He listens to the group and nods his head, "I agree we should get going with the plan as soon as we can."
Julian (small size) Monday November 3rd, 2008 9:05:10 PM
OOC I meant to say this out loud last post
Julian can be heard to sigh, "I wish Podo was here."
Sitting up attentively, he responds to Thar, "Yeah, provided we're ready (if we really are we) then the sooner the better."
Wynum Monday November 3rd, 2008 10:15:47 PM
"I agree. Even if the meeting is called now, we still have time to wait for the vials, and to purchase that item. No? I have not been to the catacombs since a long time, so I'm ready to go the library in the meantime. Also, Thar and Arm, would you have leads to the druids? Julian, maybe your friends can help with that?", he adds, pointing to the badgers.
Rabbitsfoot--DM Nellie Tuesday November 4th, 2008 12:10:02 AM
The Constable nods. "That will work very well indeed! Now, just to make sure...did you want me to include the Councilmen in on this "transfer" of the vials, or just the Constable? Either of those two arrangements are easily enough made, considering I have meetings with them all this evening. And I'm assuming you want the ambush to take place tomorrow? Very good indeed!" Rabbitsfoot chuckles. "I can't wait to see the looks on their faces..." smiling, the Constable waves dismissively toward the Order. "Well, go on then...I'll need to talk to the others, and I'm sure you'll be needing to make some arrangements of your own."
OOC: I'm on vacation and I'll have 0 internet conncection on from Thursday on....sooo...after Wednesday's post ya'll can talk amoungst yourself, but I won't be able to post. :(
Arm Tuesday November 4th, 2008 5:57:01 AM
Arm speaks up, "I think we should include the Councilmen in on the deal..best to get everything out in the open and get things moving, as it were.". He then looks to Julian, glad that he has suffered no ill effects.
Kadaz Tuesday November 4th, 2008 9:05:04 AM
Kadaz looks carefully at Edmund and waits until he catches the mage's eye. He then repeats the recognition hand sign Arm made, hoping that Edmnd hasn't been replaced. As soon as he makes it he puts his hand on his axe and prepares for a fight. "Arm, get ready" he whispers back.
Birdie, the perceptive one, catches the sudden increase in tension and looks quickly around the room, trying to find a threat.
Shadow Tuesday November 4th, 2008 9:36:47 AM
Shadow tenses as he sees Kadaz looking closely at Ed. He worries that everyone is not trusting everyone else because of these dang shape changers. He will make sure that he has the entrance blocked just in case.
Thar's level Tuesday November 4th, 2008 11:53:38 AM
Thar nods at Arm's suggestion, but asks "Are we saying we're going to tell the councilmen about the fake goods (i.e. the fact that they are fake and not real) or are we simply telling them about the transfer? I know we're concerned that some may have been replaced, and I don't want them to know about it being a trap."
Thar picks up on some of the tension and sees Kadaz and Arm looking oddly at Ed. He notices that Shadow seems to have the entrance blocked too. Deciding to clarify things, Thar walks over and sits next to Ed. "So Ed, how have you been lately? Do you remember about that first time we met? You were .... I'm not sure... What were you eating?...." While doing so, he'll give the sign subtly, trying to see if it is the real Ed or psuedo-Ed.
However, he does think to himself, "If this is the fake Ed, I wonder how it will imitate him. It might be worth waiting to see some of the antics..."
Edmund (L.8) Tuesday November 4th, 2008 4:35:48 PM
((Edmund's L.8 character sheet can be viewed at: http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dgf47fxt_5ftj5vrc7&hl=en))
Edmund spent most of his time at the manor house and, as such, was not around when the decision was made to have a gesture. ((If he was, I have forgotten, but I am pretty sure he was at the Manor when everyone else made that decision.)) When Kadaz makes the same gesture at Edmund, the half-elf mage frowns darkly.
"Now see here," he begins, in the usual tone he reserves for lecturing, but is interrupted by Thar's remarks. When Thar finishes, Edmund addresses Thar, Kadaz, and Arm with an air of exasperation.
"What the deuce are you three on about? Trying to be clever, eh? I suspect Arm put you up to it. Well I don't know what that silly gesture means--I'm not from around here, as you know--but I don't think it is very funny. I haven't done anything to him, so if he has conned you into making me into a figure of fun, I think he's out of order, and the two of you should be ashamed, well ashamed, for going along with it. After eating up my biscuits, too!"
Turning to Thar, Edmund scolds him roundly. "And you, I thought better of you than this. First time we met, indeed. Is that some sort of joke? You lot knocked me out of my chair and spilled my tea all over the floor, as if you could pretend to have forgotten."
That said, the clearly upset mage addresses the Centaur. "Come on, William. Let's go to the library and finish up our work so this lot can get on with their weapon-waving folderol."
Kirsten Tuesday November 4th, 2008 5:52:30 PM
Kirsten peers at Edmund, having been entirely sure that he was very much the real one. Her gaze shifts between the group and then back to her childhood friend, before muttering, "Thar's right about the vials, anyway."
Wynum Tuesday November 4th, 2008 7:41:20 PM
Puzzled, because he had been concentrating on Rabbitsfoot rather than the Edmund-changer situation, Wynum answers absent-mindedly. "Oh, ah yes, err... Edward, I am coming. But we should tell the council these are the real vials, not fakes, that's for sure!"
Wynum follows "Edmund" outside.
Arm (Lvl 8) Wednesday November 5th, 2008 5:59:19 AM
Arm responds to Thar, "No, we shall just tell them about the transfer..NO mention of fakes, as the last thing we want to do is arouse suspicion.".
Glaring at Ed, Arm half-draws his sword and nods to Shadow, intent on keeping him here until this is resolved. When the exchange between Ed and Thar is complete, he looks to Thar to verify if the information is in fact correct.
OOC: Sorry, never got the hang of the google docs thing, as it never seemed to work when I tried it. :S
Shadow Wednesday November 5th, 2008 9:15:35 AM
Shadow blocks the exit keeping Ed from leaving until Arm and Thar decide if it really is Edmund. "Sorry, Ed but we need to make sure."
IF everyone is in agreement that it really is Ed Shadow will let him pass, but not until that point.
Edmund Wednesday November 5th, 2008 1:01:47 PM
Edmund's face becomes rather red and he stamps his foot.
"Need to be sure of what?" he demands angrily. "That you've eaten all of my biscuits?"
Eyebrows raised at Arm's drawing of his sword, Edmund grits his teeth. "Oh is that what this is, you've finally resolved to murder me or something? Well, I can't say I am overly surprised, you've only ever barely concealed your contempt for me. No doubt, your born out of your own inadequacies and inferiority. Though, I must say, deciding to do the deed here in the Constable's office betrays not only your own idiocy, but also your naturally inexecrable taste."
Turning to Kirsten, he implores her, "Now, it appears I might need your help, Kirsten. And if they do manage to hurt me, make sure that Caspian and my father know what has been done here. You have to escape to let them know so that I can be avenged."
With that, Edmund runs to the nearest corner, raises his hands, and begins shouting at the top of his lungs, intent on raising a hue and cry, "HELP! HELP! GUARDS! HELP! MURDER! MURDER! HELP!"
Edmund will cast Mage Armor on himself given the chance.
Thar's level Wednesday November 5th, 2008 4:10:17 PM
Thar tries to calm Ed down and says in his most diplomatic and clerical way, "Now Edmund, my friend. Let's not overreact here. We're just worried about how you're acting and want to make sure that you are who you say you are. We're not going to murder you either. Please, do me a favor and show me the countersign and then all will be resolved."
Kirsten Wednesday November 5th, 2008 4:33:56 PM
The paladin's gaze shifts quickly from Arm towards Edmund and then back again.
Anger flashes in her eyes as she places herself firmly between Edmund and the bard, "Is that really necessary Arm? Are you so quick to draw your blade on a companion?"
The anger fades quickly, however, and she lets out a heavy sigh. "Edmund please, just calm down."
Nevertheless, she seems entirely sure that this is the real Edmund and not some fake... as a result, she will remain where she is.
Julian (small size) Wednesday November 5th, 2008 6:36:33 PM
"Dear gods," mumbles Julian. "So glad I am not a mage, look what it does to you."
Speaking up, "Certainly sounds like Eddy to me. I guess I didn't need to waste that biscuit."
Off for Preparations---DM Nellie Thursday November 6th, 2008 12:42:17 AM
Rabbitsfoot nods and acknowledges that he will inform the councilmen, but will not let them know that the vials are fake. He lets the party know that he will send a town's guard to the Manor to let everyone know when all the arrangements have been made. He is just about to dismiss everyone when Edmund begins yelling. The two guards stationed outside rush in with worried looks on their faces. Rabbitsfoot rises and raises his hand calling for quiet. "It's alright gentlemen...just a little good natured prank...nothing to worry about..." When the guards leave, Rabbitsfoot gives Thar a questioning look. "Everything is alright, isn't it? Or should I summon one of the high level clerics to ensure this fellow's identity?"
OOC: Folks, I am really sorry about the lack of posts. I haven't had the free time that I anticipated. I will be unable to post until Sunday night...so, please go ahead and formalize any preparations that you would like before the ambush.
Arm (Lvl 8) Thursday November 6th, 2008 6:01:37 AM
To Kirsten, Arm replies, "I would not raise a sword to a companion, but at this point we are not sure that he IS our companion.".
When Rabbitsfoot speaks, Arm re-iterates his point to him without taking his eyes off of Ed or resheathing his sword, "He refuses to give the counter-sign, Constable, so whatever you feel is best is fine with me.". Making sure that Ed can hear, he continues, "If by chance he has 'forgotten' the sign, it makes me wonder of his worthiness as a mage and whether or not he is an asset to us any longer. If he cannot remember a simple counter-sign, how can he possibly remember a spell?".
Shadow Thursday November 6th, 2008 10:07:28 AM
OOC: I am sure whether or not Edmund was present when we decided on the hand signals, the group would have informed him the first chance they got. (So he should know it.)
Shadow will remain where he is, but is feeling more and more like this really is the Edmund they all know, "I am pretty sure it really is him. Just listen to what he is saying."
Wynum Thursday November 6th, 2008 10:13:58 AM
Putting his hand on Arm's shoulder, Wynum speaks in a tense voice
"See, those signs were obviously just a bad idea... if all they do is sow mistrust, then the shapechangers have had what they wanted and we were but fools. If a couple shadowy figures are enough to break this party apart, what good it is to save the city? As I pointed out already, they don't need to infiltrate our party anyways - they've had what they wanted, and they are alreay in the council. "
He moves towards Edmund and tentatively between him and the others. "Besides, we must keep our sense of measure. If they are so numerous that they can replace so many people, and if they can impersonate anyone without showing any flaw, we are doomed anyways - here, are you so sure about Rabbitsfoot identity? And what if they can replace Birdie? Or the high priest? We must find their limits, not that of our trust."
Edmund Thursday November 6th, 2008 12:47:17 PM
((OOC: Well, it would be silly to change premise in mid-stream. I'm going to continue with the form that Edmund wasn't shown the sign.))
Edmund fumes, becoming more angry by the minute.
"What counter-sign," he demands of Arm. "No one has shown me any counter-sign. Certainly not you, either, you insufferable oaf! Put your sword away at once, or you'll regret it. Somehow I doubt your amazing superbard powers will prevent a fireball or two cooking you like a Turkey."
Continuing in his invective, Edmund hops up and down with fury.
"Is this the way you mean to run things? I know you aren't the brains of the operation, but there's no reason to display it so obviously. How am I supposed to return counter-signs that no one has even bothered to show me? Moreover, whatever happened to the codeword that we agreed upon using some time in the past. Why are we changing things now!?"
Edmund decides to keep it to himself that he has forgotten what the codeword actually is, from having not used it in months. ((OOC: As you will recall, we did actually come up with the idea of using a codeword months and months ago. I can't remember what it was, though, or even when it was.))
Turning to the Constable, Edmund shakes his fist adamantly. "Yes, by all means summon ALL of the high level clerics and the town watch too. I want the largest possible group here to stand witness when this imbecile is shown to be as bereft of intelligence as he is of common sense."
"Besides that," he adds. "Why would I be suggesting that we use diamonds of true seeing if I was an imposter? How would I had MY biscuits and MY possession? How would I know about Caspian? How would I know that you fools knocked me out of my chair at Sampsons? How would I know all about Kirsten and my Father and where I am from?"
"I know it is hard," Edmund continues, speaking with a sarcastic, caustic sort of patronisation to Arm. "I know it really is. But try, try for me, try for the whole Order, try for the first time in your entire life to USE YOUR BRAIN!"
Thar's level Thursday November 6th, 2008 2:46:19 PM
Thar continues trying to calm down Edmund and apoligizes profusely to the constable for his companion's behavior. "I'm sorry for the problem constable, and apoligize if it is causing you any trouble. In this case, I believe that if he were evil, as most of the dopplegangers are, then our earstwhile Paladin would be able to detect his evil aura. For now, let's hold off summoning any priests."
To Kirsten, he requests, "Madam, would you mind verifying that Edmund is not evil? That way, we can get on with our plans and end the confusion over his true identity. I think we would all be grateful."
To the rest of his companions, Thar asks, "Um, did anyone specifically show Ed the sign or are we assuming that someone else did it? I know I didn't ..."
Julian (small size) Thursday November 6th, 2008 4:11:32 PM
Julian gets up to his feet, speaking loudly.
"Wow. We've had tense moments amongst us halflings, but it was always after someone had done something - it was always me come to think on it, I'd done something rash. "Eddy here is thought to have done something, or been something, and I was worried too that he wasn't our Eddy. But looking round I think everyone has proven themselves to be themselves. Not one of us is standing back and chuckling to himself - everyone is trying (perhaps too hard) to make sure that we're not shiftshapers. "Can we move on now? Leave apologies for later and lets go kill something that should be here. I mean, capture, I meant to say capture. It is the K sound that I just stumble over. Not really meant for talking like this, me. Not at all. Let's go capture some baddies."
Edmund (2nd post) Thursday November 6th, 2008 5:10:37 PM
Edmund manages to restrain himself and--this time, at least--doesn't turn Arm into a newt. Characteristically, he also manages to forget his own recent blustering, and directs his ire at everyone else.
Nodding to Wynum and Julian, Edmund exclaims "Finally, some sense!" with no small amount of huffing, hands on his hips. "If I was one of those shape-shifting monsters, intent on infiltrating the group, I'd have cast Invisibility on myself and gone--ages ago! But I'm still here, patiently waiting."
"As you may recall," he adds, "They were able to disappear with a bit of whistling. They didn't stick around, waiting for us to verify their identities!"
"Now," he continues, "If one of you wants to show me the sign so I know what the heck you're going on about, I'll do my best to remember it. Then, William and I can go to the library and actually get on with things, rather than standing around here, shouting at each other and accusing each other of being monsters. I can't help but wonder what Mira would think if she saw this whole mess. Probably, she'd despair of having left us to run things into the ground with mistrust and suspicion."
Edmund is still upset, but he is also getting hungry, and is all the more ready to be done with the latest round of nonsense so that he can get on to dinner.
"Anyway, I could have poisoned you with my biscuits," Edmund says. "You're still alive. Now, can we please get back to work?"
Kirsten Thursday November 6th, 2008 5:54:04 PM
"He's right about the biscuits," the paladin muttered, shrugging somewhat.
To Arm, she says, "Of course."
She will use her ability to cast 'detect evil' and will concentrate on Edmund, muttering apologetically, "Sorry, Edmund."
Julian (small size) Thursday November 6th, 2008 6:15:15 PM
2nd Post
Julian exclaims triumphantly, "I knew it. I was right about the biscuits - well, woodda been if Eddy weren't Eddy."
Edmund (OOC) Thursday November 6th, 2008 10:37:08 PM
OOC: Well, since you're making a Detect Evil check against Edmund, I guess I can tell you that Kirsten doesn't detect any Evil. Edmund is still the same old hysterical and over-the-top Lawful Good mage he's always been.
Sorry to disappoint. ;)
Arm Friday November 7th, 2008 6:03:09 AM
Finding several holes in Ed's story, he forcefully resheathes his sword, but not before parting a final comment, "If you'd worry more about the tasks at hand instead of your damnable biscuits and baths, we'd ALL be better off, and as far as intelligence goes, don't even START...".
Turning to Rabbitsfoot, he apologizes as well, explaining, "We've all been on edge as of late, and of course when you have less than co-operative people in the mix, it makes it all the worse. We'll carry on with the plans as scheduled.".
Thar Friday November 7th, 2008 9:35:55 AM
Thar shakes his head at all the comments and exclaimations going back and forth between members. He says "Thank you Madam" to Kirsten and then apologizes to Ed for doubting his authenticity.
Now that things are better, he agrees with Arm and moves to the door, readying himself for the plan to commence.
Shadow Friday November 7th, 2008 9:36:31 AM
Shadow is relieved that they have discovered that Ed is really Ed, "Well here is the signs we are using." Shadow will show him the finger sign and that it switches with the day of the week.
Edmund Friday November 7th, 2008 12:08:53 PM
"It changes daily?" Edmund laments. "Is that really necessary? I have enough to remember without having to learn sign language at the same time."
"Well, William, are you ready to go to the library? Or have our plans changed? I am quite confused, thanks to the ludicrous nature of the past few minutes. What are we doing again?"
Wynum Friday November 7th, 2008 2:56:41 PM
Falling back again into a prudent restraint, Wynum follows Edmund outside. "The pattern of signs is quite simple, so you don't need to remember much. We were going to the library indeed. Show me the way, I know not of their location."
(OOC: As far as finger signs are concerned, I just hope it wasn't wednesday...)
Kirsten Saturday November 8th, 2008 12:50:26 AM
"I told you it was the real Edmund," she muttered, grumbling faintly. "I'd think I would know, seeing I've known him since we were oh-so-small."
The paladin nods once the group seems to get on task once again. "Lead the way."
Arm d20+13=33 ; d20+7=12 ; Monday November 10th, 2008 5:57:00 AM
As they leave, Arm murmurs to Kirsten, "We were ALL fooled by people that we thought were whom they appeared to be, my dear.". As they leave, he takes a quick look around at the surroundings (listen=33-nat. 20, spot=12).
Arm Tuesday November 11th, 2008 8:03:25 AM
While walking, Arm hopes that this upcoming plan will finally put an end to their troubles, but somehow he doubts it.
Shadow d20+9=14 ; d20+5=22 ; Tuesday November 11th, 2008 9:30:48 AM
Shadow will keep an eye out as the group heads out.
Actions: Spot=14 Listen=22
Edmund (OOC) Tuesday November 11th, 2008 1:07:07 PM
OOC: Anyone know what happened to Nellie?
Arm Wednesday November 12th, 2008 5:53:25 AM
OOC: I thought she said she'd be back this week...hm...
Shadow Wednesday November 12th, 2008 10:40:16 AM
OOC: I thought so too!
Will the Real Edmund Please Stand Up, Please Stand UP---DM Nellie Wednesday November 12th, 2008 11:34:08 PM
OOC: LOL...That RP was too funny!! 500 xp to all involved during my unfortunate disappearance!!
There are some terse interchanges among Order members and things looks stick, but eventually everything settles down as it usually does. Kirsten does indeed verify that Edmund is not evil (and for that matter no one else in the room is!) and feathers are eventually smoothed.
Rabbitsfoot looks relieved and smiles reassuringly. "No...no need to apologize. It's those dratted shapechangers that have got us all in arms. But that'll soon be taken care of! So, if you don't mind, I'll arrange the "transfer" of the vial for noonday tomorrow at the village square. I'd better hurry if I'm going to catch everyone in time..."
And so, the Constable dismisses the Order, who are left to make their final preparations for what is sure to be an interesting day to come.
OOC: I'm really, really sorry about the posts!! It looks like you guys are ready for the show down. If you need more prep time, just post it, otherwise we will roll into combat tomorrow.
Arm Thursday November 13th, 2008 5:59:09 AM
Arm gives a slight bow to the Constable and wishes him well. He then takes leave with the others, still keeping as far away from Ed as possible. To Kadaz, he says, "I know know about you, but I'm itching to hit something...". As he says this, he thinks to himself that it would have provided no small sense of satisfaction for his target to have been Ed.
Julian (small size) Thursday November 13th, 2008 6:21:53 AM
Julian's ears prick up at Arm's comments. He has a grin like a Cheshire cat.
Shadow Thursday November 13th, 2008 1:44:42 PM
Shadow hears Arm and shudders slightly, although he is hoping for a quick resolution to the current problem he is not sure a direct confrontation is his first choice. Unfortunately, the order does not have much of a choice considering the alternative.
Thar Thursday November 13th, 2008 2:37:56 PM
Thar continues waiting and is very relieved that Ed is who he says he is. After all, the adventures would be boring without Ed's humor and bright personality... Once everyone else seems calm, he'll go out the door, waiting on everyone else to be ready...
As the group leaves, Thar readies himself, shines his weapons and makes sure his armor is as it should be. He also plans on casting a magic circle vs. evil spell, which has a 1 hr duration, plenty to get him through any upcoming battles. He'll cast it about 10 mins before when he estimates the "fun begins", to save him at least the first round of action for other needs.
Now, he's finally ready for a fight.
Edmund Thursday November 13th, 2008 3:58:04 PM
Edmund leads Wynum along to the library where they can do some research into spells that might help to do... something. What was it again? Edmund has forgotten.
"Ahh, here we are," he says, after they arrive by the most circuitous route. "Took rather longer to get here this time. I wonder if they've moved the Library since I was last here."
That said, Edmund ambles in serenly--an outward attitude that little belies the way he is racking his brain trying to figure out what they are there for.
"Ahh, hmm," he says to Wynum. "Rather! Dontcha know. Where to, where to?"
Preparing the Manor securely, that's what he was here for. Suddenly realising this, Edmund exclaims "Ah ha! Yes!" loudly, drawing nasty looks from others who are trying to study in silence.
"Oops, right," he says more quietly. "We need to look up some ways of securing the manor, both physically and magically. We don't want people able to just wander in, we want to keep evil out, we don't want to be overheard, and we want our defences reinforced. We should be able to find all sorts of spells for those things here."
"And once we've found them, William," Edmund says by way of explanation, "We can pip off to the Catacombs and purchase them, and then put them in my book so that we'll always have them. Then I'll cast them on the manor. Couldn't be easier!"
That said, Edmund leads the way to the shelves to begin looking for spells that might help.
((Would be appreciative for any DM suggestions regarding what sort of spells he might find!))
Kirsten Thursday November 13th, 2008 6:13:39 PM
Kirsten will go with the others and wait for the appointed time. She smiles smugly when the group finally acknowledges that Edmund is the real Edmund, a fact that she had been sure of since the beginning.
She will prepare for trouble, know that so far, that's all the group has managed to get her into.
Wynum d20+2=14 ; d20-2=12 ; Thursday November 13th, 2008 7:02:58 PM
Troting between the library stacks, desperately trying to reduce the noise of the hooves on the stone, Wynum tries to vaguely acknowledge Edmund's dissertation about magical defenses, as he is absorbed by the wonderful collection. "This is excellent, Edmund" he comments "Wonderful. Do not forget the lemon." he adds absent-mindedly.
Meanwhile, he searches for tales and legends pertaining to shapechangers, and if that fails, historical overviews or details will have to do. Abashed by the lack of decent books in tauric, he has to contend with common and elvish which, fortunately, he reads much better than he talks - though unfortunately, he does not master the technique for reading quietly Propping up a reading stand on a table, he begins browsing the books.
[Know:history 14, Search 12 if needed].
Edmund (addendum) d20+12=18 ; d20+8=19 ; d20+18=20 ; Thursday November 13th, 2008 8:12:08 PM
((Forgot my rolls, if needed.))
Know. Arcana: 18 Search: 19 Spellcraft: 20
Shhhh!!!!---DM Nellie Friday November 14th, 2008 12:57:40 AM
Edmund and Wynum head to the library in search of further resources. While Edmund seems quite at home, Wynum finds himself the subject of many a dirty look due to his hooves, plus his habit of reading out loud. Edmund finds many interesting spell combinations, most of which rely heavily on the high level spell "Permanency", such as "Symbol of Death, Symbol of Fear, and Symbol of Insanity"...though those are awfully high level spells . "Explosive Runes", "Firestorm" "Illusionary Wall" and "Glyph of Warding" look like promising ideas, though the later spell is divine. "Sepia Snake Sigil" is always fun.
{OOC: Not sure what you're after. There's a decent sized library here, so you can safely assume you have access to whatever spell you want.)
Wynum struggles through his readings, but find some interesting tid bits of information. He finds a tome that focuses on the mating habits of Phasms...strange blob like creatures that can assume any form. Some of the illustrations are....aheem....informative. He does gleam that the phasm communicates telepathically and are so intune with the ground that they can sense vibrations up to 60 feet away (tremorsense). A slightly slimmer volume contains a rather boring thesis about Dopplegangers ability to Detect Thoughts at will.
OOC: If you could guide me toward whatever information you might be after, I'd really appreciate it. :)
Meanwhile, Thar, Arm, Shadow and Kadaz head out to ready themselves for the upcoming trap, which is set to occur at noon day tomorrow. As they head toward a nearby Inn, a hooded figure beckons to Shadow from a nearby dark alley.
Arm Friday November 14th, 2008 5:59:12 AM
Startled a bit by the hooded figure's appearance, Arm looks to Shadow to see if he acceeds to the stranger's wishes. If he does so, he will stand at the ready to assist him should he need help.
Wynum Friday November 14th, 2008 2:13:03 PM
Even if he does notice the other patrons' looks, Wynum ignores them and continues his study. Though the first finds are fascinating, and he writes down a few notes, he will concentrate his search on the issue of what shapechangers of all kinds can and cannot imitate, e.g. personal quirks, non-human forms, invisible details, such as scars, manerisms. But because he is not versed in the arcane and monster lore, instead of looking for "ecology of shapechangers" works, he will to that end search for stories of shapechanger or doppleganger intrusions, such as political histories, recounts of events where people turned out to have been replaced, and even legends which to him hold great strength. If shapechangers are somewhat frequent in the Wold, then there ought to be a few stories about their actions, or even whole history books sections pertaining to their race, kind or past. In any case, their capacities for imitation and limits thereof are his focus for study.
Thar Saturday November 15th, 2008 9:45:59 AM
Thar is surprised by the hooded person, but doesn't react immediately. He'll stand next to Arm and make sure things stay calm if Shadow chooses to meet with the stranger. For now, he stays silent...
Edmund Saturday November 15th, 2008 10:13:11 AM
Edmund is disappointed when he realises that most of the strongest protection spells are well beyond his capability. There are things like Alarm and Hold Portal though, which might prove useful--though only for a short while. Permanancy is what Edmund really needs, though it will be a little while before he can use it. ((At the next level--L.9--in fact.))
Armed with this information, Edmund tracks down Wynum and Kirsten to let them know that he is done studying and ready for lunch.
"Come on, then," he whines. "All work and no play makes William a dull Centaur. And that goes for Paladins too, Kirsten!"
Julian (small size) d20+7=18 ; d20+3=19 ; Saturday November 15th, 2008 4:30:04 PM
Julian follows along quietly. With all the fuss of what is happening he wonders if he is being overlooked (height joke intended). He chooses to utilise this and walks right past the Mithril Order, as though he wasn't with them. He makes a fuss over his animals, as though he wants them to stay outside as he enters the shop across from the inn. He is telling them to sit, and stay, in Common, where he usually gives them commands in Halfling. The dog is confused and thinks it is a game, jumping about and barking, hoping to play or run or fetch. The larger of the two badgers named Shark (his familiar) is confused because he knows that Julian's intention is not what his body language is saying. Shark's new girlfriend finds this whole city thing new and exciting. Julian does his best to look beyond the hooded figure further back into the dark alley. Bluff 18 Spot 19
Arm Monday November 17th, 2008 5:58:42 AM
Arm waits patiently for Shadow's decision on whether he approaches the stranger or not.
Shadow Monday November 17th, 2008 3:24:40 PM
OOC: Sorry guys! Was not at work on Friday and did not check this at home.)
Shadow notices the figure and waves his friends off, as he assumes it is one of his Guild but will give the 'Thieves sign' just in case. If he gets the return sign then he will continue into the alley but still be wary. IF he does not get the return sign he will act the same, but be ready to grab the hooded figure.
Kirsten Monday November 17th, 2008 4:03:00 PM
"Edmund, it's Wynum... his name is Wynum, not William," she mutters to Edmund as they walk.
"Sorry about that," she apologizes to the centaur. "He's very bad with names."
Wynum Monday November 17th, 2008 4:30:28 PM
"What?" Wynum replies to Kirsten's explanation, "Oh, that, I thought it was one of your elf people oddities. Calling things other names."
Edmund Monday November 17th, 2008 5:29:39 PM
"What what?" Edmund says incredulously. "Why-numb? Now you're just having me on."
But when Wynum seems to confirm this, Edmund looks surprised. "I say, that's really your name? Good heavens, how odd. I thought you had a speech impediment and found it hard to say William. Sorry about that, quite sorry. Wynum it is, then."
It Takes a Thief---DM Nellie Tuesday November 18th, 2008 12:47:06 AM
Wynum and Edmund rejoin the group just in time to see Shadow disappear down an alley...
Shadow flashes the Guild sign and receives the appropriate counter sign. The Guild member keeps to the shadows and keeps his voice low. It's hard to tell for sure, but Shadow thinks he might vaguely remember the voice. "We don't have a lot of time. You're being watched...all the time. Here, take this. I think you'll find it interesting." Shadow sees a small piece of paper flutter to the ground at his feet. The member begins to back down the alleyway as he mutters a whispered "Good luck" over his shoulder.
Arm Tuesday November 18th, 2008 6:27:12 AM
Arm keeps a close eye on the exchange between Shadow and the stranger. Once he sees the 'signs', he relaxes a bit, but wonders what it all means.
Thar d20+13=23 ; Tuesday November 18th, 2008 9:19:10 AM
While waiting for Shadow's meeting to take place, Thar meanders around the general area, trying to spot anyone who might be watching them...
Spot = 23
Shadow Tuesday November 18th, 2008 10:05:32 AM
Shadow will say fairly loudly, "Well I guess I don't have anything for you after all. Oh, crap!" He says as he had just dropped a dagger, and he bends down to pick it up and retrieves both the piece of paper and his dagger. He will palm the piece of paper, put his dagger back and head back to his waiting party members. "Well I thought that was a friend of mine that I owed a dagger to, but it wasn't. Let's get going." He says just above his normal tone of voice. As the group turns to head to the manor he will say under his voice, just loud enough for the others to hear but not much past the close members, "We are being watched so be careful what you say or do."
When the group gets back to the manor Shadow will take the paper out and see what it contains.
Wynum Tuesday November 18th, 2008 10:25:19 AM
The centaur continues his research and readings, but he sometimes mumbles things which are probably not part of his current book. "Wee-numb, yes, yes, impediment, right. Elves. Now, Edmooond, uh? Eh eh. Ed Mound. Ah. Mmm."
Compulsive twitching of his right hind leg causes even more disturbance in the quiet of the library.
A Notable Note---DM Nellie Tuesday November 18th, 2008 11:58:51 PM
The group heads back toward the manor. Though everyone is on high alarm, no one spots anything out of the ordinary. Lots of people are seen here and there along there trek, but no one looks out of place or appears to watch the group for any length of time. If the Guild member is correct, then whoever is watching the group must be fairly adapt at blending in...no doubt aided by shapechanging ability.
Once back at the Manor, Shadow opens the note. It contains a easily recognized Guild symbol on the upper right corner. A rough map of the Nightmare Quarter is sketched below it. At the intersection of Finger Road and Roulette Street, there a red X over the top of one building and the neatly penned words "Councilmen held here."
Arm Wednesday November 19th, 2008 7:28:43 AM
After peering at the note, Arm says, "So I assume that this Councilman is the REAL one? If so, and we can liberate him, this may be a better plan to expose the dopplegangers than we already have.".
Thar Wednesday November 19th, 2008 9:45:12 AM
Thar is surprised at the change in their situation, especially now that they have a lead on the councilmen.
"I'm with Arm on this one, since it seems that we have an opportunity to hit the dopplegangers right in their HQ. If we trust this messenger, then I recommend we do this plan rather than our previous plan at deception."
After a moment, he adds, "If we decide to ogo this route, I think that a few of us stealthy types should recon out the house ahead of time, and look for any secret entrances." Looking at Ed, he says, "Ed, do you have any contacts with any of the builders in the city? I'm curious if we could subtly and quietly get a copy of their floorplan for this building. If it will alarm the dopplegangers, I don't want to, but if we can get it covertly, then we may have an advantage before we hit the building."
Shadow Wednesday November 19th, 2008 10:00:21 AM
"We can trust the messenger as well as we can trust Rabbitsfoot, so I think we should hit them in their hideout as quickly as possible." Shadow says. If the group is in agreement then he will get ready by getting all of his 'work' gear in order.
Wynum Wednesday November 19th, 2008 12:18:40 PM
"If you can trust your guild contact, by all means, let us use this information. But I think Rabbitsfoot might already have begun the other plan. Also, we wish to do more than expose them, rather incapacitate them. But maybe we could do both. Even if we retrieve the councilmen, it will not prevent the shapechangers from believing the vial transfer story and trying to stop it, these are unrelated stories and sources! So if we do everything smoothly..."
"As for that assault, I fear I am of little help in tight quarters such as a house, and easily recognizable. If we storm the place, I can help, otherwise I'll position myself near the castle gate or near the skull to cover you."
Edmund Wednesday November 19th, 2008 4:46:33 PM
Edmund relates quickly the spells he researched, including means of keeping doors shut, setting alarms, and magical traps for the unwary. Unfortunately, making anything permanent is still just a bit beyond him. Eventually, he'll figure it out. He just needs some time. ((OOC: Next level, boys & girls.))
When Edmund hears the plan about storming the hideout, he blanches a bit. "Attacking them in their headquarters?" he asks with more than a hint of worry in his voice. "They'll have the home turf advantage, of course. Defences, traps, everything we'd like to have ourselves."
"But, if everyone's agreed," he adds, "I suppose there's nothing for it. I'll come along as well."
Julian (small size) Wednesday November 19th, 2008 7:59:15 PM
Quickly rejoining the group, "Okay - their house then. Just tell me who to hit, and who to not hit. Though I'll use all non-lethal damage anyway, so that we can talk to them without needed a cleric to draw back the soul."
To The Nightmare Quarter---DM Nellie Wednesday November 19th, 2008 11:12:11 PM
The note is examined and verified, leaving the group with a conundrum...proceed with the plan to shanghai the shapechangers, or try and rescue the councilmen. Wynum brings up an interesting idea though... **IF** the group were to attack the changer's base tonight, there would still be time to set up the trap tomorrow. However, as Edmund points out, it **would** involve heading into distinctly hostile territory with almost no recon. Still, there is a chance it could work. So it would appear there is a decision to be made.
OOC: Not trying to lead you guys by the nose. Both options are extremely doable...even the combined attack, though it could be more challenging.
Arm Thursday November 20th, 2008 6:02:00 AM
Resolute, Arm says, "Let us proceed with this new idea. A bit of quick recon would be in order, but I agree that we should waste no time in this. If everything goes well, there may not be a need to continue with tomorrow's plan.". He then makes preparations for the upcoming fight, making sure that his sword and rod of wonder are secured on his person.
Thar Thursday November 20th, 2008 10:44:29 AM
Since it seems that everyone is on board with the new plan, Thar nods and changes out of his clerical gear. He says quick prayer for their success and then puts on his covert gear, making sure everything shiny has been blackened and any loose items are secure.
Once done, he prepares to leave and says "OK, are we ready? Who is coming to scout it out? We may not want everyone there in the immediate proximity, and the non-stealthy types could wait a few blocks away. With a message spell, we could call them if things get hairy. I'm not saying we should attack right away, just that we need to get an idea of what we're against..."
Shadow Thursday November 20th, 2008 1:57:44 PM
"I think I will be one of the best to scout out where they are holding the councilmen." Shadow says as he secures his equipment under his dark gray, almost black, cloak. "I think we should all go, but only those of us scouting to move from this area." Shadow indicates a street back from the house.
Kirsten Thursday November 20th, 2008 2:25:35 PM
"It won't be so bad, Edmund," she comments, adding, "Something to write home about, anyway. Everyone is always so entertained by your letters."
Kirsten will change into her evil-fighting gear and will check her warhammer one last time to see that everything is in order. Once she is ready, she will go with the others.
"Just tell me where you want me to be."
Julian (small size) Thursday November 20th, 2008 5:53:21 PM
"Shadow, what about the drains and secret tunnels? I could check them out - I'd fit better then Wynum..."
Edmund Thursday November 20th, 2008 10:41:16 PM
Edmund worries about this new plan, and is very reluctant to go ahead with it. Nevertheless, he prepares his equipment and reads over his spellbooks.
"What kind of a hideout is this, that we're going to? Does anyone know?"
And They're Off!!--DM Nellie Friday November 21st, 2008 1:09:03 AM
And so, without further ado, the group winds its way through Plateau City, headed for the Nightmare Quarter. The journey is a pleasant one, if it wasn't for the thought of heading into quite possibly the foulest area of Plateau City! There is a slight chill to the air as travel which increases the closer you get to the Nightmare Quarter. It is as if the very air around the place is repulsed by the presence of good in its midst. There are still a couple of hours left until sunset, but the Nightmare Quarter is already darkening as if it is perpetually covered in shadow.
The group is currently located just outside on Skull Street, just outside of the temple of Gargul. Just let me know who is scouting where.
Arm Friday November 21st, 2008 6:03:35 AM
Arm says, "I fear that I would not be much help in scouting, but if any of you need a backup in case of trouble, I'd be happy to provide that. Otherwise, I'll try to make myself as inconspicuous as possible as near as the address that I can get to and wait for your reports.".
Shadow d20+11=23 ; d20+17=18 ; d20+9=28 ; Friday November 21st, 2008 9:23:59 AM
"Hey Ed, do you have that handy message spell handy? That would sure make communication with us scouts easy." He looks over at the mage. "Julian, why don't you try your route from below and I will scout above." Shadow will wait for any other preparation the group needs to come up with.
Once the group is ready, he will head off down the street and find the nearest alleyway to the actual building and move down it. He will find a building/house that is taller than the surrounding buildings that will hopefully give him a good view of the headquarters. He will then climb up the outside and get to the roof so he can scout out the building from above and see if he sees anything that might indicate defensive positions or trapped areas.
Actions: Climb=23 Move Silently=18 Spot=28
Thar d20+13=32 ; d20+10=25 ; d20+10=23 ; Friday November 21st, 2008 9:33:25 AM
Thar listens intently to Shadow's instructions and once Ed casts message upon him, he'll head out and help begin scouting.
Seeing that shadow is much more adept at climbing, Thar will volunteer to help Julian from below. "I don't know the sewers in this area real well, so lead the way..." Once ready, he'll go with Julian, trying to remain quiet and looking for any threats or ways to get into the enemy HQ.
Spot = 32 MS = 25 HIS = 23 Check for avoid any sewer diseases, the plague, and intestinal parisites = I'll take a 10 on that + my 30 point modifer for my holiness = 40 ;-)
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC: 16) Message, Mage Armour Friday November 21st, 2008 3:30:20 PM
Edmund, as requested, casts Message on everyone. He also casts Mage Armour on himself.
"Well, here we go," he says dismally. "Best of luck."
Edmund checks his dagger and crossbow, just in case.
((OOC: Will have a spells for today list up shortly, don't have time to type it up now.))
Spells in Effect Message (on Everyone): 80 minutes Mage Armour (on Self): 8 hours
Wynum Friday November 21st, 2008 4:20:29 PM
"I will position myself, says the Centaur, call on me if we get down to charging the place, or if you're confronted with invisible opponents as the other time around. I will be there fast. In the meantime I will try to find an appropriate spotting place. Be cautious and remember to use hand signals when you get back!"
Wynum will go the the castle gate area through Ripper Lane, then decide whether it is best for him to stand there or around the Skull Market to cover the house's entrance with his bow (if any place actually offers a view). He will idly stand there, ready to spring into action. Uncertain about the Message spell range, he will stay near Roulette street entrance either way.
Julian (Tiny size) AC hp Friday November 21st, 2008 6:42:12 PM
To everyone, "Let's make this snappy then, a quick game is a good game."
"Thanks, Thar, some company should be good. Let's go, lift this with us?" says Julian pointing at a drain grate. Before they jump down Julian pulls out a wand and offers to use it on Thar as well, "It's Reduce Person, it'll make this easier, and you can dismiss it when you need."
Julian then casts some spells of his own. He tells the dog Sally to take the other badger back to the manor. Carrying Shark he jumps into the drain and uses the wand on himself (and Thar?) when they are in the drain system.
Cast on self - and shared with Shark Mage Armour, Bear's Endurance, Expeditious Retreat.
OOC: gotta fly, kids need attending - will post stats asap.
Kirsten Friday November 21st, 2008 7:48:47 PM
The paladin decides to wait until danger is closer before casting her customary Bless spell, as she doesn't want its effects to wear off during combat. She will check her gear one last time and then move to place herself somewhat out of the way as she waits to hear what the scouting turns up.
"Call us if you need us," she mutters to the others as they leave.
Thar Saturday November 22nd, 2008 5:12:58 PM
Thar helps Julian lift up the gate, trying to do it quietly and covertly. Once they're ready, he thanks Julian for his offer and says "Sure That way, we can get around easier in the dank depths of the sewer. On the other hand, rats may seem a lot bigger than us ;-)"
Julian (Tiny size) AC 23 hp 77 (Bear's Endurance, Mage Armour, Reduce Person) Saturday November 22nd, 2008 8:08:09 PM Reduce Person: This spell causes instant diminution of a humanoid creature, halving its height, length, and width and dividing its weight by 8. This decrease changes the creature's size category to the next smaller one. The target gains a +2 size bonus to Dexterity, a -2 size penalty to Strength (to a minimum of 1), and a +1 bonus on attack rolls and AC due to its reduced size. A Small humanoid creature whose size decreases to Tiny has a space of 2½ feet and a natural reach of 0 feet (meaning that it must enter an opponent's square to attack). A Large humanoid creature whose size decreases to Medium has a space of 5 feet and a natural reach of 5 feet. This spell doesn't change the target's speed. All equipment worn or carried by a creature is similarly reduced by the spell. Melee and projectile weapons deal less damage. Other magical properties are not affected by this spell. Any reduced item that leaves the reduced creature's possession (including a projectile or thrown weapon) instantly returns to its normal size. This means that thrown weapons deal their normal damage (projectiles deal damage based on the size of the weapon that fired them).
"Err, it's that way right," pointing ahead through the sewers, "How's your sense of direction and distance?" Julian then climbs into the saddle on his badger and brings out his lance from his HHHaversack. "Tally Ho. Let's go hunting." Cast per Day: 6 / 5+1 / 3+1 Used today: 0 / 1 / 1
Scouting---DM Nellie d100=6; d100=17 ; Sunday November 23rd, 2008 11:25:33 PM
Edmund casts his message spell before everybody breaks up in order to facilitate communication.
And so the Order splits up... Arm looks for a place to hang out until everybody's done poking about. He cuts down an alley and hunkers down. There's a lot of noise coming from a nearby tavern. A few orcs rush by Arm's location and take note of him as they head into the bar.
Shadow looks around for a suitable tall building and since there are people around, goes to the rear and begins scaling it. He manages to get about half way up with out incident. As he continues to amble up, he hears a sound in the alleyway below. First there is a small tinkling of liquid being released, then a loud, obnoxious laugh, followed by "Ay, Raxlar...lookie ere. Somebody's shimy'n up de wall!" (75% chance for Shadow to remain undected...rolled a 17, so he's spotted) Another climb check, plus a hide check if you'd like. :)
Thar and Julian team up and decide to check out the underbelly of the underbelly as it were. Thanks to Julian's Reduce Person, it's not a problem fitting in the tight quarters, even for Thar. Julian, however, in his tiny state finds it difficult for he and his badger to navigate through all the...muck. The stench is horrid, and it's pitch black. Without a light source, it's going to be almost impossible to figure out which way them might need to head.
Edmund casts a spell and ducks down an alley while he casts his Mage Armor spell (OOC: Just let me know if he wants to go with any of the others, or if he wants to just loaf around. ;))
Wynum and Kirsten, likewise find a place to hold tight while the others poke around. The waiting is almost unbearable for Kirsten in particular, as the area reeks of evil. The aura is so thick the paladin practically
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC: 16) Message, Mage Armour Sunday November 23rd, 2008 11:40:04 PM
Edmund, ever eager to assist the combat-oriented methods of the Order, does his best to facilitate the break-in by... wandering around outside, walking up and down various adjacent alleys. He does his best to appear as though he is looking for something. Anyone who passes him by might hear him mumbling to himself, "I thought... I thought I dropped it around here. Dash it all, where is it?"
Of course, he is listening intently to the Message spell, and is ready to assist the moment he is needed. Or soon thereafter. Same difference, really.
Julian (Tiny size) AC 23 hp 77 (Bear's Endurance, Mage Armour, Reduce Person) Monday November 24th, 2008 2:23:38 AM
"Hmmmm, its extra dark down here," mumbles Julian. He shakes his lance, and commands it to bring forth light. Cast Light upon my lance tip.
Tiny Julian sits in the saddle upon his Small badger as they make their way through the muck. "Ha, we can't blame the dog for the smell this time. There must be a dwarf nearby! Hey, that's funny, don't you think Thar?"
Through the Message spell: "Hey Eddy, I think you'd like down here in the sewers. I'm pretty sure that I just passed a few bars of brown soap that you could take home."
Cast per Day: 6 / 5+1 / 3+1 Used today: 1 / 1 / 1
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Monday November 24th, 2008 6:05:17 AM
Trying to remain inconspicuous but not seeming to do so, Arm is VERY tempted to go after the orcs and dispatch them, as it has been a LONG time since he has done away with his mortal enemy, but realizes that his friends are relying on him to be ready. Through the message spell, he says to Shadow, "See anything? I'm right below you, but some orcs have noticed me standing here.".
OOC: Since I'm in the same alley that Shadow went down, can I hear the commotion from his ascent as well?
Sure, I don't have a problem with that.---Nellie
Thar Monday November 24th, 2008 10:00:36 AM
Thar tries his best to avoid most of the muck, and agrees about the smell. He smiles at Julian's comments, and responds "I know a dwarf named Kadaz who would love to hear you share that joke. I'll introduce you two sometime, and I think you'll get along fine".
Once they can see, Thar says "I'll take the lead, if that's OK. Thanks for the light and know lets figure out what we can find. Keep the light hooded as much as you can, and I don't want to trigger any guards." As soon as he is clear on their direction, Thar will start moving towards the building, remaining stealthy and quiet. He'll count his steps and try to determine when they are near the house. He'll watch for any obvious traps or openings..
Shadow d20+17=33 ; d20+10=14 ; d20+11=12 ; Monday November 24th, 2008 10:29:23 AM
Shadow will continue up the wall and hopefully out of site of the watchers below. "I think I have been spotted up here, so if someone could get a distraction going down there it would be greatly appreciated."
Actions: Climb=33 hide=14 move silently=12
Julian (Tiny size) AC 23 hp 77 (Bear's Endurance, Mage Armour, Reduce Person) Monday November 24th, 2008 7:22:57 PM
OOC 2nd post
Julian nods to Thar, agreeing with everything he said.
Wynum Monday November 24th, 2008 8:04:27 PM
(If Wynum can hear Shadow's message, not sure how you actually handle the Message spell)
Wynum communicates with Shadow, trying to ascertain his approximate location in the street and the actual peril. He whispers to the others. "Kirsten, can you help with that? Edmund, you seemed good with crowd control last time. I will stay put and cover you if things go bad."
He changes position if needed to cover the general area where Shadows seems to be.
(OOC: Speaking of dwarves, what's up with Kadaz? We seem to have lost him at Rabbitsfoot's. Maybe Edmund's evil self got him!)
Edmund (OOC) Monday November 24th, 2008 10:38:01 PM
OOC: Wynum beat me to it. Does Kadaz need a sub or something? Or is he MIA?
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 d20+17=25 ; Tuesday November 25th, 2008 6:01:05 AM
Hearing the voices, Arm moves toward them, and in a friendly manner, says "Isn't he something? I bet him a gold piece that he couldn't scale that wall, but he certainly proved me wrong. Here, take this for your troubles, and we're sorry to have disturbed you." (diplomacy=25). He then tosses them each a gold piece, figuring that they will get quite inebriated with it and forget this ever happened...OR chalk it up to an alcoholic delusion.
Kirsten Tuesday November 25th, 2008 6:23:07 AM
Upon hearing Shadow's request for help she will shift subtly in that direction, though stops when it seems Arm had beat her too it. Good thing, too, as she no doubt would look quite out of place there. The paladin shifts about at the feeling of evil in that place.
"This place swims with evil," she mutters through the message spell. "Be careful."
The Wrong Side of Town---DM Nellie d100=45 ; d20+11=14 ; Wednesday November 26th, 2008 12:06:02 AM
In order to distract attention, Edmund works his ruse. It certainly does seem to be attracting quite a bit of attention, as several dark figures poke their heads out of windows. Seeing the lone figure of Edmund, several of them begin to smile...unpleasant, ugly smiles indeed.
Meanwhile, down in the sewer, the travel is going quite a bit faster thanks to Julian's spell. Slogging through the muck and the current is still incredibly hard going, particularly for the 2 foot tall Julian and his little stead, but somehow they push forward. Now, the big question is, which way is that enemy's hideout. Without the buildings as landmarks, it's getting increasing difficult to navigate the further into the sewers the duo go. Survival check DC15 to maintain course.
Wynum moves to provide cover if needed, but doesn't reveal himself just yet.
Kirsten too moves to help, but relaxes a little as Arm comes over.
Hearing that Shadow's in trouble, Arm moves in to help out. Ignoring the orcs, he attempts to placate the drunken man...and his friend who has just joined him. The men look at Arm and then roar in drunken laughter. The one identified as Raxlar snorts derisively. "I tell ya what...I got 5 gold here that says I can pick your friend off before he reaches the top..." With that, the man pulls out a bow and looses an arrow. He misses Arm, but Shadow can tell that even inebriated, the man has some talent with the bow. Raxlar's buddy finishes putting his "package" away and begins to cheer his friend on. "A lil to the left Raxlar, he's over der in dat shadowy area."
OOC: Ladies and gentlemen, please remember that you are in the ugly part of town. Folks aren't as nice here as they would be in the rest of PC. Just a friendly reminder. ;)
Hmmm...not sure what's up with Kadaz. I'll try and email him tomorrow. Also, we just celebrated Thanksgiving today (long story) so, if we can, I'd like to catch up the missed post this weekend. It's a holiday, so if you can't post, don't worry about it. I promise I won't kill your PC...just maim them. :)
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Wednesday November 26th, 2008 5:57:02 AM
Incensed by the man's actions, Arm draws his sword and says, "Do that again, and you'll never draw ANYTHING again, much less a bowstring. Now be off with you before I change my mind and dispatch you both to whatever rotting hell you'd call the afterlife!".
Thar d20+9=26 ; Wednesday November 26th, 2008 10:19:41 AM
Thar tries to do his best to maintain some sort of direction in the muck and mess. It's hard with no landmarks, but with his tracking skill, he hopes to get lucky.
Survival = 26
Hold that Thought---DM Nellie Thursday November 27th, 2008 12:25:31 AM
Well folks, with only 2 PC posts, I suppose I'll hold off until tomorrow. Happy Thanksgiving everyone!!
Julian (Tiny size) AC 23 hp 77 (Bear's Endurance, Mage Armour, Reduce Person) d20+3=11 ; d4=1 ; d20+5=22 ; Thursday November 27th, 2008 4:19:28 AM
Julian keeps his lighted lance tip low, and cautiously follows Thar through the muck. There is a sense of gloom now that overpowers the halfling's mirth and he puts more attention into his job.
Spot 11 Listen 22 d4 roll was an accident.
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Thursday November 27th, 2008 6:56:00 AM
Arm again waves his sword menacingly in their direction, hoping that they will be smart enough to leave, but prepared to fight if they are not.
Shadow d20+17=30 ; Thursday November 27th, 2008 9:30:02 AM
Shadow knowing that he needs to hurry will continue his climb up, hoping to make it up before the man hits his mark.
Actions Climb=30
Wynum Thursday November 27th, 2008 11:00:32 AM
The centaur stays put, waiting for any instruction, and squinting to see what's going on, less and less unconspicuous.
Some Like it Rough---DM Nellie d20+17=34 ; d6+2=7 ; d20+11=26 ; d12=12 ; d8+1=7 ; d6=3 ; Friday November 28th, 2008 12:12:04 AM
Down in the sewers, Julian and Thar continue on. Thar is positive that they're headed in the right direction. Still, it's getting increasingly difficult to navigate the farther they head in. Survival Check DC20 this go round. Also, Spot and Listen checks DC 20 for the duo. :)
Up in the fresh air... Arm, angered by the man's actions threatens him menacingly with his sword. Raxlar smiles, his crooked teeth bared as he continues to focus on Shadow. "Ay Scracky, looks like dis fellow wants to play..." Raxlar's companion grins as he pulls out a short sword and charges Arm. The blade slices a small nick in Arm's leg (AC34 for 7), but the warrior feels a strange throbbing from the wound (Fort. DC 13 or fall unconscious). Ignoring the threat from Arm, Raxlar plinks another arrow toward Shadow, which definitely connects (AC26 for 7, Fort. DC 20 or loose 3 Con points... AoO on Raxlar from Arm if he wishes).
Though he finds it increasingly difficult to climb with an arrow sticking out of his leg, Shadow presses on, knowing that he has only a few more feet to go...(2 more rounds worth of climbing).
Hearing the sounds of a scuffle, the two orcs that Arm saw earlier poke their heads out from around a corner and appear to be sizing up the confrontation.
Meanwhile, Edmund, Wynum and Kirsten hang back, unsure whether they should attack and blow their cover.
OOC: Happy Turkey day to all in the US. :)
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC: 16) Message, Mage Armour 4d4+4=17 ; Friday November 28th, 2008 2:02:02 AM
Around the corner, Edmund hears the sounds of combat. Already aware, thanks to the Message spell, that Arm is having some trouble, Edmund turns around and heads straight for the action. As soon as he steps into the entrance of the alley, he raises his hand and lets fly with a barrage of Magic Missiles at the sword-toting fellow who is attacking Arm. (17 Damage)
"Take that, you..." Edmund shouts, finishing up his taunt with some language not fit for children. "Come here, so I can turn you into a nice, squishy toad!"
Then, into the message spell, Edmund says, "We've got some trouble up here. Let's see if a little magic is enough to convince them that they'd better pip off..."
Shadow d20+7=11 ; d20+17=37 ; Friday November 28th, 2008 6:51:28 AM
Shadow flinches as the arrow penetrates, but he knows that he must continue climbing or he will suffer worse.
Actions: Fort=11 climb=37 (nat. 20)
Arm AC 22 HP 27/33 d20+2=7 ; Friday November 28th, 2008 9:22:31 AM
Feeling the world turning dark around him, Arm last thought is "Oh, no, not again..." as he crumples to the ground unconscious.
OOC: Must be all the turkey from yesterday...I'm feeling sleepy....zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Thar d20+13=31 ; d20+11=31 ; Friday November 28th, 2008 12:18:16 PM
As he continues through the muck and mire, Thar hears the comments re: battle through the message spell. Looking back at Julian, he whispers, "Julian, it sounds like our friends are getting into a little scuffle up there. If things get worse, we may have to turn back. For now, I'm game to continue on, as long as we can keep track of where we are."
He'll keep trying to maintain some idea of where they are in relation to the house and hopefully not get too lost...
Spot = 31 Survival = 31 (nat'l 20... I'll take that thank you very much ;-) ) Listen = Spot = Listen =
Thar 2nd post d20+13=27 ; Friday November 28th, 2008 12:18:56 PM
(Sorry, hit submit too early. I was excited about the nat'l 20 for my survival/tracking check..)
Listen = 27
Wynum d20+13=28 ; d6+6=11 ; Friday November 28th, 2008 5:38:39 PM
Wynum will walk towards the area, just up until he sees Edmund, while pulling out and loading his sling quitely. He will then prepares to shoot at anyone coming close to the mage.
[Ready action: Ranged attack (beats AC28 minus range pen [50" increments] ; dmg 11) at any stranger that appears roughly within 60' of Edmund and moves towards him or wields a ranged weapon wihtin that range.]
Julian (Tiny size) AC 23 hp 77 (Bear's Endurance, Mage Armour, Reduce Person) d20+3=8 ; d20+5=15 ; Friday November 28th, 2008 8:13:01 PM
"Yeah, okay Thar. Maybe we shouldn't have split up. It's hard to know if we're doing the right thing by trying to make sure that possible secret exits are covered."
Spot 8 Listen 15
Foul Play---DM Nellie d20+16=19 ; d20+6=16 ; d20+10=23 ; Saturday November 29th, 2008 12:42:34 AM
In the sewers... As Thar and Julian move forward, they begin to wonder whether they've made the right decision. That point is further muddied when the Message spell breaks off. (Ok, I've been pretty leaniant with the Message spell, but I think it's safe to say that the duo is under more than 1 foot of sold stone. Sorry :( ) Thar's navigation proves faultless, and he guides them right past several sink holes that could have served a lot of trouble for Julian and his mount! Things are going well until Thar spots movement up ahead...a whole lot of movement! The foul waters up ahead swirl and eddy and a defining squeaking is heard. It doesn't take long for Thar and Julian to realize that a whole wall of rats is headed their way!!
Up above... Edmund rushes in with magical hands blazing and rips into the archer who growls in anger. Then Wynum scoots around the corner just in time to see Arm hit the deck. He takes up a support position in front of Edmund, lest anyone get any funny ideas. Kirsten remains where she is, overwhelmed by the sheer evilness of this place.
Raxlar looses his concentration on Shadow who amazingly manages to practically sprint up the last remaining feet of his climb (nice check!!). Turning to face Edmund, the man's smile fades as Wynum takes up his spot. He lowers his bow uncertainly. As he does, his friend with the sword suddenly just disappears. It is as if the shadows just swallow him up! Raxlar looks around in amazement, muttering a "What the!".
OOC: Spot check DC 19 for an interesting revelation. Sense Motive DC 23 to notice something else.
Wynum d20+6=24 ; d20-2=0 ; d20=6 ; Saturday November 29th, 2008 2:29:03 PM
(OOC:I sort of gathered you meant us to post on the W-E if possible, so here go!) (OOC2: My intention was to stay at a distance and shoot but I'll roll with the way it is!)
Rather out of reflex, Wynum reaches to the fist-shaped talisman on his neck, then moves on top of or near Arm's body. Meanwhile, he speaks out in the direction of Raxlar:
"Here's the devil! Run away!"
If the spell effect allows Wynum to see "Scracky" (on any other invisible opponent!) he points to his location as he speaks, and with a glance makes sure Edmund has seen his gesture.
[Std Action: Activate See Invisibility (30 min) from Hand of Glory, then Move Action: up to 80'] Spot: 24 Sense Motive: 0 as in zero. (I knew it! Edmund was the doppleganger all along!) Bluff or intimdate: 6 or 10
Ummm, I wasn't intending to move Wynum, just stating that he saw Arm hit the ground.---Nellie
Shadow d20+9=26 ; Saturday November 29th, 2008 3:16:48 PM
Shadow only takes a second to catch his breath as he makes it to the top and up and over onto the roof. He will then chack back down to see what is happening in the street.
Actions: Spot=26
Thar 2nd post Saturday November 29th, 2008 5:24:03 PM
"Oh heck" Thar says to Julian, as he sees the mass of rodents head his way. "I think we need to get out of here. Our friends are in a fight and we're about to be outnumbered," he adds. He moves backwards about 30' and says furiously "I'm going to bring us some help to cover our rear."
He quickly casts Mon Sum 3 and calls upon a Small Water Elemental and places it in front of him and Julian. (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/monsters/elemental.htm) The spell allows him to have this creature for 3 rounds and if possible, he'll order it to make a vortex to stop the rats. Highlight to display spoiler: { Vortex (Su)
The elemental can transform itself into a whirlpool once every 10 minutes, provided it is underwater, and remain in that form for up to 1 round for every 2 HD it has. In vortex form, the elemental can move through the water or along the bottom at its swim speed. The vortex is 5 feet wide at the base, up to 30 feet wide at the top, and 10 feet or more tall, depending on the elemental's size. The elemental controls the exact height, but it must be at least 10 feet.
The elemental's movement while in vortex form does not provoke attacks of opportunity, even if the elemental enters the space another creature occupies. Another creature might be caught in the vortex if it touches or enters the vortex, or if the elemental moves into or through the creature's space.
Creatures one or more size categories smaller than the elemental might take damage when caught in the vortex (see table for details) and may be swept up by it. An affected creature must succeed on a Reflex save when it comes into contact with the vortex or take the indicated damage. It must also succeed on a second Reflex save or be picked up bodily and held suspended in the powerful currents, automatically taking damage each round. An affected creature is allowed a Reflex save each round to escape the vortex. The creature still takes damage, but can leave if the save is successful. The DC for saves against the vortex's effects varies with the elemental's size. The save DC is Strength-based.
Creatures trapped in the vortex cannot move except to go where the elemental carries them or to escape the whirlwind. Creatures caught in the whirlwind can otherwise act normally, but must make a Concentration check (DC 10 + spell level) to cast a spell. Creatures caught in the whirlwind take a -4 penalty to Dexterity and a -2 penalty on attack rolls. The elemental can have only as many creatures trapped inside the vortex at one time as will fit inside the vortex's volume.
The elemental can eject any carried creatures whenever it wishes, depositing them wherever the vortex happens to be. A summoned elemental always ejects trapped creatures before returning to its home plane.
If the vortex's base touches the bottom, it creates a swirling cloud of debris. This cloud is centered on the elemental and has a diameter equal to half the vortex's height. The cloud obscures all vision, including darkvision, beyond 5 feet. Creatures 5 feet away have concealment, while those farther away have total concealment. }
Kirsten d20+2=20 ; d20+4=11 ; Saturday November 29th, 2008 8:52:03 PM
Kirsten, shaking off the feeling of evil and realizing that her friends might need her assistance, moves in the direction she had seen Wynum and Edmund move... towards where Arm is.
"What's going on?" she asks when she arrives, looking around slowly.
Spot: 20 Sense Motive: 11
Julian (Tiny size) AC 23 hp 77 (Bear's Endurance, Mage Armour, Reduce Person) Saturday November 29th, 2008 9:40:01 PM
"Yeah, you're right. Friends first."
Julian turns and follows Thar, placing the lance to the quiver and returning to normal size.
"Come on Shark, there's more fun to be had aboveground."
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 77 (Bear's Endurance, Mage Armour) Saturday November 29th, 2008 9:45:06 PM
OOC forgot to change the header.
Round 3 of Bear's Endurance and Mage Armour.
Only the Shadow Knows---DM Nellie d20+16=22 ; Monday December 1st, 2008 12:00:44 AM
Down below... Julian and Thar agree that it would be best to return to their friends. Seeing the rats moving forward, Thar begins casting his spell...but its a rather long spell. (OOC: From the PHB "A spell that takes 1 round to cast is a full-round action. It comes into effect just before the beginning of your turn in the round after you began casting the spell." Sorry, but it takes all round to cast and then the elemental will appear at the beginning of the round. Technically, Thar can't move any more than 5 foot and cast the spell, but I'm feeling nice. :)) Both Julan and Thar begin to back peddle, but the rats (ooooh, and they are biiiig rats!!) will be upon them next round.
On the flat top: Wynum activates his Hand, but he doesn't see any invisible foes nearby. His keen eyes, however, make out a figure hiding in the shadows nearby Arm. Raxlar looks distinctly concerned about the centaur's approach and bolts back toward a nearby alley.
Shadow feels more tired from the climb than he normally would (don't forget the 3 Con loss). More than a little woozy, he looks down on the battle and is barely able to make out the figure hiding in shadows near Arm.
Those that have spotted the figure hiding in the shadows notice that he is moving slowly in Edmund's direction, shifting from shadow to shadow. Spot DC22 to know the figure's current location.
OOC: It's really not necessary to include spell descriptions in posts. I'll look them up if I need them. Thanks anyway. :)
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC: 16) Message, Mage Armour, Fly d20+3=18 ; d20+11=30 ; Monday December 1st, 2008 3:35:13 AM
((OOC: Presuming that those who saw the Shadow moving toward Edmund were good enough to let him know through the Message spell. Edmund cannot see it, though. Spot=18))
Edmund, with more than his customary level of bravery, addresses the area around him with bravado, doing his best to make it seem as if he cannot only see the figure, but also as if he has no fear of it, and indeed is eager to get his hands on it. "Ah ha! I see you there, lurking in the shadows. Come any closer and you'll spend the rest of your short life as an experimental specimen for some of my more interesting spells!" (Bluff=11)
Turning to Wynum, Edmund declares, "If he comes any closer, knock him out, but don't kill him. I can't use him if you kill him!"
Edmund will then cast Fly on himself, and he will go straight up in the air to hover over the street at rooftop level. "Take him alive! I need him alive! I've no use for a dead specimen!" he says to the others below.
Edmund (OOC) Monday December 1st, 2008 3:36:06 AM
It is very late. Bluff=30, not 11. Sorry!
Arm AC 22 HP 27/33 Monday December 1st, 2008 6:03:10 AM
zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.......
Thar 2nd post Monday December 1st, 2008 9:50:39 AM
(OOC = Nellie, so I assume Thar is casting the spell, but also backpedaling somewhat (though not as far as I would have liked ;-) )
Back to full size, Thar looks at Julian and says "We've got to get the heck out of here. My elemental will be able to help fight them off, but we may have a few rounds of trouble on our hands as we run for cover."
He'll mentally direct it to hit the rats with a vortex (the spell desc.seems to imply that it will attack on its own to the best of its ability) and if he can, he'll use his full round action to double move and get the heck out of Dodge City. In other words, RUN!!!
Thar AC 23/24 vs nearest rat; 70/70 hp Monday December 1st, 2008 9:53:23 AM
(Posted my stats so Nellie has them...)
Wynum d20-2=-1 ; d20+6=20 ; Monday December 1st, 2008 3:39:24 PM
Barely keeping an eye on the shadowy figure, Wynum checks on Arm to ascertain his status. Unable to recognize the signs of poisoning, but seeing that he is not bleeding much, he retrieves a couple potions from his belt (DM: Highlight to display spoiler: { Cure LW and Delay Poison}) while staying on top of him to prevent further attacks. To Kirsten arriving on the scene, he shouts: "Arm is down. Watch out for the shadows!", pointing to the vague direction of the last known location of the opponent.
Heal: -1 Spot : 20 Flat-Footed AC vs. shadowy opponent: 14
Shadow d20+9=15 ; Monday December 1st, 2008 3:40:28 PM
Shadow hangs on to the edge to catch his breath and get his body back into control, 'I am getting out of shape or something else has affected me' Shadow thinks to himself. He peers down to see what is going on again. "He was in the shadows but I have lost him." Shadow says (using the message spell) to let his companions know where the person that disappeared is.
Spot=15
Kirsten Monday December 1st, 2008 5:34:18 PM
She nods when she hears Wynum's warning and instantly moves to bring out her warhammer and ready herself for battle. The paladin will look around slowly and make her way towards where Arm had fallen to see if she can help him to recover.
"What happened to him?"
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 77 (Bear's Endurance, Mage Armour) Monday December 1st, 2008 5:43:47 PM
Julian says as he turns tail and runs, "Friends first! Let's go!"
Julian and Shark make a double move outta there.
Round 4 of Bear's Endurance
And So, Ado---DM Nellie Monday December 1st, 2008 11:58:54 PM
In the sewers... The vortex forms behind Thar and Julian as they bolt. The horde of rats are sucked into the churning waters with a loud screeching.
Up top... The combined effect of Edmund's bravado and Wynum and Kirsten's overbearing presence is too much for the would be thrill seekers. Raxlar and Scraky tuck tail and cut and run, leaving the Mithril Order alone is the noisy murkiness that is the Nightmare Quarter.
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC 16) Message, Mage Armour, Fly Tuesday December 2nd, 2008 1:52:48 AM
Edmund shouts after Raxley, "Come back here! Stop him! Where am I going to get a fresh pair of lungs if he gets away!?"
With a grin, the mage descends slowly to hover above Wynum and the others. Into the Message spell, he says, "Good heavens, that was well done, chaps! But something's happened to Arm..."
Peering down at the Bard below, Edmund squints, trying to see if his injuries were that severe. "Is he dead?" he asks querulously, and unable to hide--is it...? just a trace... of concern. "Kirsten, can't you do something for him? I was just a moment too late, it seems."
Arm AC 22 HP 27/33 Tuesday December 2nd, 2008 5:57:41 AM
Arm silently dreams of a time and place where he NEVER gets knocked out. He feels like he is floating on a cloud and wonders if this isn't a better place to be after all.
Shadow d20+9=25 ; Tuesday December 2nd, 2008 7:12:30 AM
Shadow seeing the two ruffians take off, breathes a sigh of relief. He will make his way to the real reason he just made the treacherous climb. He will make it across the roof to take a good look at the head quarters of the shape changers. "Okay, I am in place. Give me a couple of minutes to check it out." He says in the message spell. He will start scanning the head quarters to see if how much activity there is and if there are any easy access points.
Spot=25
Wynum d8+1=9 ; Tuesday December 2nd, 2008 10:11:08 AM
Responding to Ed's and Kirsten's inquiry, Wynum appears really worried. "Yes, we're too late. He doesn't... he seems to be..."
He forces a Large Monstrous Cure Light Wounds potion [for 9hp] down the bard's gulley. "Where are the clerics? Clerics!"
Stepping out, he appears powerless. "Kirsten, can you do something? This is no proper place to die!"
Thar AC 23/24 vs nearest rat; 70/70 hp d20+11=22 ; Tuesday December 2nd, 2008 2:46:54 PM
(OOC = Assuming we're not on a round x round posting)
Thar continues rushing toward the surface and once he reaches the top through the sewer grate, he hears Wynum's plea for clerics. "I'm coming, so hold your horses" Thar says with a grin. "We had some unwelcome visitors in the sewer and decided to come back later when they're not home."
If possible, he'll run to their earstwhile bard and cast Delay Poison, as well as examining him and trying to find a way to permanently counteract that poison.
Heal = 22
Up on the Roof---DM Nellie Wednesday December 3rd, 2008 12:52:58 AM
Shadow makes it to the roof and scopes out the warehouse. He watches it for several minutes and spots no signs of activity, but finally he spots a cloaked figure leaving the building and heading down a nearby street.
Thar and Julian make it back to the others. Everyone is very concerned about Arm's status. Wynum's attempt at healing him has no affect. Thar arrives and casts another spell which also fails to revive sleeping beauty. Wracking his brain, Thar finally comes to the conclusion that Arm is probably suffering from some sort of poison. From his studies, the cleric knows that more than likely the poison will work its way out of Arm's system. Or, Neutralize Poison could take care of it.
Arm Wednesday December 3rd, 2008 5:57:27 AM
Although Arm feels fully refreshed, he can't quite seem to break out of his stupor, so he decides to stay there for a little while longer...
Thar AC 23/24 vs nearest rat; 70/70 hp Wednesday December 3rd, 2008 9:39:26 AM
"I've only managed to delay the poison for a little while, and can't cast neutralize poison. However, it seems that his body will eventually fight the poison off and it won't kill him."
Returning to his patient, Thar continues examining him and makes sure that Arm is at least kept warm and comfortable until he wakes up. If his condition worsens, he'll take more drastic measure and cast more CLW's to at least keep him above 0 hps until they can reach a temple.
To the others, he adds, "For now, we may want to rest somewhere nearby in a dump they call an inn and reformulate our strategy. Splitting up may not be our best idea for the future..."
Shadow d20+9=14 ; Wednesday December 3rd, 2008 10:50:56 AM
"Hey everyone, someone just left the warehouse and his headed down the street over there." Shadow relays through the message spell. "Otherwise there has been no movement over there." Shadow will try and spot any extra entrances, other than the one the figure left from.
Spot=14
Wynum (See Invis.) Wednesday December 3rd, 2008 2:18:16 PM
Wynum appear relieved to hear of Arm's status. He lifts the bard up in his arms and follows the group.
"If we decide to stick together, we have no option but to go in. And now that there's one less ennemy we might as well go in now. But Arm doesn't seem keen on action right now... I'm not sure Inns will accept unconscious patrons, even here. Unless they drank themselves into that state. Why not go and rest in the woodsy area just north of here? Then you could continue the search from the sewers, or maybe magical means to spy inside the house?"
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 77 (Bear's Endurance, Mage Armour) Wednesday December 3rd, 2008 6:16:07 PM
"So are we ready to storm the place?"
Rise and Shine Sleepy Head--DM Nellie Thursday December 4th, 2008 12:27:56 AM
Thar and Wynum tend to Arm as Shadow keeps an eagle's eye on the warehouse. There is no further movement, but Shadow thinks he might have spotted an open second story window.
Plans are discussed, including where the group might stash Arm when low and behold...Arm wakes up in the arms of Wynum.
Arm Thursday December 4th, 2008 6:01:06 AM
Arm awakes suddenly and almost falls out of Wynum's arms when he catches sight of him close up. He apologizes to him profusely, "I am very sorry my friend, I was simply startled to suddenly see you in front of my face. I meant no offense by it, I can assure you. Um, while you're at it, could you let me down please?". Once he is again vertical, he asks what happened to him, remembering only the pending battle with the 'inebriated' thugs. He also inquires as to Shadow's well being, as he only remembers him being a target for the thugs arrows.
Once he regains his senses he looks around inquisitively and says, "Well, what's next?".
Thar AC 23/24 vs nearest rat; 70/70 hp Thursday December 4th, 2008 11:03:54 AM
Thar breathes easier now that Arm is awake, and checks to see if anyone else needs any immediate healing.
In response to Wynn's suggestion, he says "I think that woodsy area is a good idea, at least for us to rest and regain some of our spells. I've burned several up and we might want to prepare ourselves before storming the place. The second story window looks promising when we're ready..."
Shadow d20+9=16 ; d20+17=26 ; Thursday December 4th, 2008 3:47:21 PM
Shadow will take one more look at the warehouse and memorizes exactly where the open window is, and he will mentally try and map out he might access it from the street. (His climbing route.) He will then start back down from the roof.
Actions: Spot=16 Climb=26
Kirsten Thursday December 4th, 2008 5:44:55 PM
"Best we rest and let things settle here, you're right," she agrees, relieved that Arm has awakened. "And we certainly shouldn't split up again. I'd like to keep my eye on the lot of you, make sure you don't get into any more trouble."
The paladin shrugs somewhat, and waits to hear what the others would like to do.
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 77 (Bear's Endurance, Mage Armour) Thursday December 4th, 2008 6:32:46 PM
"Second storey window - they'd never expect someone to enter from there. Particularly if we use this wand," retrieving the wand he used to Reduce himself and Thar, "and have Wynumm toss us up through the window..."
The overly enthusiastic halfling looks excitedly at everyone at his great suggestion.
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC 16) Message, Mage Armour, Fly Thursday December 4th, 2008 10:06:19 PM
Edmund looks shocked and relieved when Arm awakes, but only for a moment. He immediately begins dressing down the bard.
"What do you mean, charging in there waving your sword about? You're going to get yourself killed and the rest of us discovered. For heaven's sake, we'll have to assign Wynum to be your babysitter from now on. Remember your place!" Edmund stomps his foot and adds, "You're not Kadaz!" to make the point a little more clear.
"Speaking of," Edmund says, "Where is Kadaz? Back at the Manor? Maybe a rest is in order, back at home perhaps, and we can check on Kadaz whilst we're there. Probably had a bit too much beer and fell asleep under the table."
Wynum (See Invis.) Thursday December 4th, 2008 11:08:23 PM "I think... resting is always good. Except when opportunities are to be taken. Shadow's been spying, why waste that advantage we have? Besides, Julian has an infaillible plan for getting in." The centaur takes an advantageous pose. "I have to tell you I am quite the sharpshooter - tossing tiny elves through windows, that'll be easy." It is not clear what is more worrying: Wynum's self-confidence, or his confidence in Julian's plan. He continues nonetheless. "I reckon Kadaz would be a good choice for tossing as well. But I suspect he might not agree anyways. Unless he is indeed drunk."
Plans and Poisons--DM Nellie 2d6=6 ; Friday December 5th, 2008 12:32:06 AM
On the ground, various ideas are thrown around about what to do next. Should the group rest or strike immediately? Wooded area or the Manor? Halfling tossing or perhaps a more subtle approach? It is rapidly approaching dusk, so whatever the group decides, it would appear that they need to decide it sooner rather than later.
Up on the building, Shadow shimmies skillfully down, but then once more begins to feel poor as the poisoned arrow from before begins to throb once more. Fort. DC20 or lose 6 more Con points.
There are a few moments of silence, and then the sounds of footsteps drawing closer.
OOC: I sent an email off to Kadaz's human, but I haven't heard back from him yet. :( But, on the bright side, please welcome our new player Jim Webber. :)
Ruby Friday December 5th, 2008 1:57:21 AM
As Ruby moved down the paved road in the city she was whistling a merry little tune. She was dressed in soft green clothes of fine quality, though they are made for the more dangerous activities that she finds to be her lot in life. Her knee high black boots are trimmed in the same soft green and the heels click as she walks upon the stoneway. Her left ear is adorned with at least seven silver studs and the right has five small silver hoops hanging in it.
A rapier lays easily on her left hip with a matching longdagger next to it. Both seemed to have seen a lot of use but are still in fine shape otherwise. The cloak she wears hides a small pack that is strapped to her back, along with the bow and quiver of arrows that ride there as well. Long copperish red hair is pulled back into a neat ponytail behind her and the fancy hat that she wears matches the rest of her outfit nicely.
Moving with a natural grace she glances to each of you that she can see as she draws near, but says nothing. From her look though, you get the idea that she is wondering what you are doing here and maybe if she should ask. As she flicks back the edges of her cloak to allow better access to her weapons, you notice that she is wearing the pin of the Woldian League of Adventurers proudly displayed on her tunic. Strangely, her movements don't seem to disturb the owl that is perched upon her left shoulder. "What doe you say Hermes...should we inquire as to why these people are in such a bad part of town?" Her head has tilted slightly to take in the owl that turns it's own head and hoots once.
Arm Friday December 5th, 2008 6:02:38 AM
Arm rolls his eyes at Ed and says, "Perhaps you'd be happier if Shadow was used for target practice, as you seem to care little for anything but biscuits and baths? You'd best remember YOUR place and mind your tongue, lest it end up squirming on the street for everyone to see...".
Noticing the stranger, he nods toward her and lays his hand on his sword hilt, hoping that the outcome won't end up like the last time but prepared to fight if necessary. In a calm tone, he says to the stranger, "Can we help you?".
Thar Friday December 5th, 2008 9:42:22 AM
Thar smiles as he listens to Kirsten's "dressing down" of Arm and others. Adding with a wry smile, he says, "Kirsten, if they didn't get into some kind of trouble, then you and I would be out of a job. After all, someone has got to do the healing."
"Does everyone feel well enough to go to the wooded area? I don't care how we get someone into the building after resting, but we need to decide soon."
Thar notices Arm's gesture and comments towards the impressively dressed lady that comes her way. He looks at the owl and hears her talking to it. "Another ranger or wizard?" he thinks to himself? He doesn't say anything yet, allowing Arm to do the talking.
(OOC = Welcome aboard Jim!)
Shadow d20+5=22 ; d20+17=31 ; d20+11=24 ; d20+14=15 ; Friday December 5th, 2008 9:52:29 AM
Shadows leg twinges a bit as he is scaling down, reminding him that he did get an arrow in the leg but he pushes on. He hears the group talking below and slows down a bit trying to make sure that he remains quiet and hopefully unnoticed this time. Wondering, "What now"
Actions: Fort=22 Move Silently=31 Climb=24 Hide (in shadows)=15 (not much chance there, lol)
(OOC: Welcome back Jim - but you know Shadow is not as trusting as some of the other characters :)
Wynum (See Invis.) Friday December 5th, 2008 1:07:22 PM
Wynum seems a bit confused and asks Kirsten in a low voice, pointing his chin at the newcomer. "Mmm... you better check it out. I bet Kadaz shapechanged into this human. He found out at last that bow is better than axe. Look, he even shapechanged Birdie!"
And then to the group at large. "Well it seems that the majority's for a rest... Let's go to these woods together, besides Shadow doesn't seem well, but how long will it be till you can recover your needed spells?
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 77 (Bear's Endurance, Mage Armour) Friday December 5th, 2008 5:12:16 PM
"Oh," says the halfling with a dedected look on his face. "Well, a rest is a good idea, but I perfer the experience of a fight. How about we make better plans now that we have had a look around."
Kirsten Friday December 5th, 2008 5:30:34 PM
"I suppose you're right Arm, and I rather like remaining 'employed' in that sense, " she smiles faintly, but then falls silent as the newcomer draws the groups attention.
The paladin eyes the woman slowly, she looks vaguely untrusting. She nods somewhat to Wynum's suggestion, and will center her attention on her, trying to sense whether she is evil or not.
Ruby Friday December 5th, 2008 7:20:54 PM
Nodding to the small owl she glances back as she is addressed by Arm and smiles. "I thought to ask you the same question. I heard through the vine that there were strangers is this section of town. That usually means trouble and we have enough of that without more." She glances over the rest of the group as each speaks or keeps quiet, but makes no moves to touch her weapons.
"I have taken it as my duty to try and make sure that strangers are unmolested in this area...unfortunately, I cannot be everywhere." There is a quizical look to her eyes as she tries to figure out how best to go about this. With a last nod of her head she sighs. "I am a twilight ranger and most likely the only one trying to keep this area safe. With part of the rumors floating around being true, I have been kept rather busy...but this city is in need of more direct help than I can give alone." Trying to get a feel for these people, she has a pretty good idea who they are and they might be worth her time.
"I doubt that you are down here for your health and I am in the need of steadier employment. Would you by chance be in the market for new talents?" She crosses her arms over her chest, not a good position to put yourself in if you are planning to fight. One thing that Kristen will be able to tell right away, is that there is no evil about this young woman.
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC 16) Message, Mage Armour, Fly Saturday December 6th, 2008 1:42:17 AM
Edmund scowls at Arm, "You're lucky I showed up when I did, else he would have poked so many holes in you that you'd be nothing more than a flute-tooting sieve!"
Turning to the newly approaching woman, Edmund purses his lips. "Oh, how convenient," he says drily. "I'm not fooled, shapeshifter! It'll take more than that feeble act to put one over on the world's greatest wizard!"
If unhindered, the floating Edmund will sieze Ruby by the ears and pull with all of his might, trying to lift her off the ground by them. "Take that! Let's see what you really are! Enough of your disguises!" he shouts. "Have at you!"
Arm Monday December 8th, 2008 6:04:38 AM
Arm scowls at Ed once more, saying "MY hero..." before he turns his full attention to the woman. Sighing at Ed, he once again draws his sword and says "Unhand her, or I'll will be forced to do something that I've dreamed of for a VERY long time!".
Bowing slightly to Ruby, he says, "You'll have to pardon our 'associate' here...he's not quite right in the head most of the time and is prone to bouts of outright insanity. Have you been harmed? If not, then yes..we could always use an extra hand...er hoof (glancing at Wynum). Where are you from?".
He then looks to Kirsten to affirm that she is in fact not evil.
Shadow d20+11=28 ; d20+17=31 ; d20+5=8 ; Monday December 8th, 2008 1:54:12 PM
Shadow tries to make progress down the face of the building (well the rear in fact), but is still trying to shake off the effects of the poison that is in his veins from the damn arrow. He will stop a little bit above the group if he has not been noticed by the newcomer just in case.
Climb=28 Move Silently=31 Listen=8
Ruby Monday December 8th, 2008 7:52:57 PM
Hermes is jarred from his position on the young woman's shoulder as she is grabbed. "Now, there is no call for that." Her voice is just slightly raised and her once crossed hands are already reaching for weapons. With a slight jerk back she tries to get her ears free and then as she is spoken to in a nicer tone, she leaves the weapons to check on her ears.
She moves further away from the fanatical flying man and scowls as the owl settles back into place. "I have never been treated so rudely when I have done nothing to warrant it." Both hands have come to settle upon their respective weapons as she keeps a wary eye upon the flying one still.
She glances to Arm but does not let here eyes stray for long from Edmund, though her owl is currently watching him as well. The owl adds in a couple of extra hoots of protest and clacks his beak. "My ears are a little sore and luckily he did not pull out any earrings. That tends to break many deals that I try to make as I suppose that bodily harm tends to do." As she turns more attention to Arm she cocks her head to the side and nods her head. "I once lived in this area...but no more will I say about that. That is not safe territory for either you or me. Still I am looking to get back into adventureing and I hear that the Mithril Order is a respectable group." She raises an eyebrow as she allows her gaze to settle back on Edmund, maybe rethinking that exact statement.
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 77 (Bear's Endurance, Mage Armour) Monday December 8th, 2008 10:06:24 PM
Julian watches the proceedings, raising an eyebrow at Eddies shenanigans. The halfling in armour stands back, curiously watching the interactions between humans. "Strange creatures..."
You Never Get a Second Chance--DM Nellie Monday December 8th, 2008 11:58:03 PM
Though Shadow has a shaky time of getting down, he does find his way safely to the ground and keeps his eye on things.
Edmund and Ruby get off to a rough start, but Arm does a decent job of smoothing things over. The group heads out of the Nightmare Quarter and makes it over to the wooded area nearby.
OOC: Please state a watch order. :)
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC 16) Message, Mage Armour, Fly Tuesday December 9th, 2008 2:15:08 AM
Edmund frowns, surprised that Ruby's ears did not come off, after all.
"Well, I think she's mighty suspicious. You're all pretty keen on suspecting me of being a shapeshifter, and here's someone we've never even met and you're ready to have her along for larks. I don't like it. It's too convenient!"
Edmund resolves to watch Ruby very carefully.
Arm Tuesday December 9th, 2008 5:59:10 AM
Arm sighs and says to Ruby, "Yes, for the most part we are. Try to ignore the flying imbecile, though as of late it has become increasingly harder to do so. Forgive me, my dear..I have forgotten my manners." The bard then introduces himself to her. As they walk to the wooded area, he gives her a short, though not complete, history of their recent troubles with the shapeshifters, adding "By any chance, is your owl adept at detecting people that are not what they seem to be? One of our companions had a dog that could do that, and it was a great help to us.".
Once they reach the woods, Arm volunteers to take first watch, since he has already had a bit of sleep today.
Wynum Tuesday December 9th, 2008 12:07:22 PM
When given the opportunity, Wynum confides in Ruby in a low voice. "Them elves. They can't stand rounded ears. Trust me on that. I have seen their looks. The others can't reach, and it's only because I am too heavy that the mage hasn't done that to me already, I tell you."
Removing some of his cumbersome gear, he asks the group. "This is the druid quarter, isn't it? Wouldn't it be a good idea to get some information about the changers here? Maybe we could ask those druids... Will someone come with me and try this? I don't feel that tired - the day's gone so fast!"
With whomever comes with him, Wynum will look around for people with brambles in their hair. (OOC: unless some event prevents him leaving for now, of course, or if it would be better if you we just get on with the rest).
Shadow Tuesday December 9th, 2008 12:59:21 PM
"I can take the last watch, after I sleep off the effects that arrow left." Shadow says as he carefully removes the arrow (if it is still in his leg).
"I really am not excited about waiting any longer, but since the group wants to lets do it." He is impatient to get started on this mission.
Thar Tuesday December 9th, 2008 2:05:58 PM
Thar watches the interactions between Ruby and the rest of his gorup. He shakes his head at Ed's latest faux pas and is glad that Arm interceded before they drove away the new arrival.
Once they arrive in the woods, he volunteers to take the first watch with Arm and then will pray for the remainder of his spells before resting.
When he has a chance, he'll introduce himself to Ruby and welcome her to the group. "It is good to have another ranger join us. I've been acting as the resident cleric and ranger, and the more help we have, the better. We're about to enter a sticky situation and a new blade is welcome."
He'll take a few treats out of his backpack and offer them to the owl, trying to be friendly to it and make it feel welcome. "What's your owl's name? I haven't found a companion yet, but plan on doing so in the future. They are majestic creatures and quite handy for spotting trouble."
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 77 (Bear's Endurance, Mage Armour) Tuesday December 9th, 2008 4:27:51 PM
in the wooded area:
"It's great to have a few more animals about. This is my badger, Shark. I've left Sally the dog to look after the other badger back at our house."
Julian will take a first or last watch, preferring some uninterrupted sleep for spell casting purposes. Given the chance he will eat quite a lot of the provisions from his pack, generously sharing with Shark as he goes.
Kirsten Tuesday December 9th, 2008 8:11:07 PM
The paladin volunteers to take one of the middle watches, having not used up any of her spells in their latest mini-adventure.
She'll introduce herself to Ruby and apologize for Edmund's antics.
Ruby Tuesday December 9th, 2008 9:51:52 PM
Ruby cuts a bow that seems more formal than is called for and something might needle your minds, though she does not seem to realize what she has done. "I had another name once and might use it once more in the future....but for now, call me Ruby." As she follows the rest she listens to them talk.
Glancing sideways to Arm she looks to Hermes and then shrugs. "He notices things that I don't. I suppose that it is the unnaturalness of the doppleganger that puts them off." Settling her pack on the ground once they get to the area that it appears that they will be staying...at least for a little while.
As she visits with the rest of the group she lets them know bits and pieces about herself, though you get the idea that she is being rather guarded about others things. Laughing at the claims of Wynum she shakes her head. "I had a best friend that was an elf...he was almost like my brother. As she visits with Thar she quirks an eyebrow and then nods her head. "I have no spells that would be of use but do have other skills." Reaching up and gently scratching the head of the owl she smiles. "He is one of my newest friends really and his name is Hermes." Lastly she moves off to speak with Kristen, who is quick to apologize about Edmund.
Glancing in the direction of the mage she simply shrugs her shoulders. "I guess that I cannot blame him for being suspicious. Though he could have found a better way of showing it." She reaches up and rubs her still slightly sore ears. Glancing to the others she sighs a little bit content to be back in the game once again. "I can take a watch..." Glancing to Edmund she gives him the best cheshire cat smile possible. "...unless someone does not want me to." Her eyes twinkle with mirth as she cannot help but needle the poor mage.
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC 16) Message, Mage Armour, Fly Wednesday December 10th, 2008 12:49:25 AM
((Edmund will take first watch so he can get a full block of rest to recover his spells, if possible.))
Arm Wednesday December 10th, 2008 6:06:10 AM
Arm sits back and contemplates their situation...so many friends have come and gone, yet their troubles linger. Staying away from Ed, he retreats to the other end of their group and is content to set up a watch on his own.
Shadow Wednesday December 10th, 2008 9:41:39 AM
Shadow will check the edge of the area (that which is the city part to see if there are any signs from his Guild as to the wooded area), and then say to their newest 'friend', "I am known as Shadow and usually am more active, but the arrow I took in the leg as I tried to get up the wall has made me feel a little sluggish. Please excuse our hesitance to accept everything at face value because we have run into a little problem with people we know not really being the people we know." After his introduction he will move off to get some rest, and as soon as he feels secure (after checking outside the wooded area and seeing a post has been set) he falls asleep.
During his watch he will do some stretching and even do some active movement (silently - or at least as quietly as he can) to make sure the affects of the poison have worn off.
Ruby Wednesday December 10th, 2008 11:46:39 PM
Ruby shrugs as Shadow speaks to her and nods her head. "I have the same problem...but I cannot tell who my enemy is as easily." As he moves off she makes herself comfortable as can be and will take a watch that is assigned to her. She has already let it be known that she has no spells and thus can take a late or inbetween watch.
She will also offer to go with anyone that wants to speak to the druids. Though she is not sure how much help she can be.
Things that go bump in the night--DM Nellie d8=2 ; d20+16=19 ; Thursday December 11th, 2008 12:28:28 AM
Everyone becomes acquainted, and settles in. Wynum looks around for a druid to question, but can't find one in the immediate area to question.
Everyone is anxious to make the raid, and watches are set. Around the second watch of the night, Edmund hears some nearby rustling. Spot check DC19 to notice someone hiding in the shadows nearby.
Arm Thursday December 11th, 2008 5:47:11 AM
His watch finished, Arm settles down comfortably for a rest, hoping that his companions can get the same.
Arm Thursday December 11th, 2008 5:47:26 AM
His watch finished, Arm settles down comfortably for a rest, hoping that his companions can get the same.
Wynum Thursday December 11th, 2008 7:51:31 AM
Slightly disappointed to have failed on his idea, Wynum at least enjoys the opportunity to talk with the newcomer as they fruitlessly search for information. After some chit-chat about the best fletchery woods, and before going back to camp, he asks her a question that obviously has been on his mind for some time. "Tell me Ruby - that league of adventurers, I have seen the insignia on the others, what deeds does one do to become one? I mean, an adventurer like you?"
Thar Thursday December 11th, 2008 11:44:15 AM
Glad that the 1st watch was quiet, Thar reports to the 2nd watch (Ed?) that all is well. After saying his prayers, he takes a brief reverie before praying for his new spells.
Shadow Thursday December 11th, 2008 1:30:59 PM
"ZZZZZZZZZ" Shadow snores his way through the first and into the second watch.
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC 16) Message, Mage Armour, Fly d20+3=13 ; Thursday December 11th, 2008 1:44:58 PM
Once he relieves Thar, Edmund props himself and begins studying his spellbook--paying less attention than he probably should. When he hears a noise, he glances over at the rustling, concluding it is just Arm making a racket. (Spot=13)
"Sh!" he whispers quietly, shaking his head a bit before returning to studying his spells.
Edmund Thursday December 11th, 2008 1:45:33 PM
((Correction to above, Message and Fly have worn off by now, though Mage Armour might still have an hour or two left.))
Ruby Thursday December 11th, 2008 9:07:53 PM
Glancing to Wynum she nods her head. "Joining is easy and they have a branch here in the city...though I joined sometime before coming here. I did a little traveling of the Wold till I came to settle here. As to joining, that one is easy...all you need to do is pay dues to the League and they will provide different forms of training. I have seen them giving weapon training to new members and I myself learned to use a bastard sword when I joined up. They also teach you riding, climbing or a host of skills that are useful to adventurers...though most of this is little tricks that allow you to be better at them." Though she does not want to pitch the League, she is duty bound as a member to provide information to those that are interested. "What is really nice is that they can provide you with information on the local areas, equipment that might be needed and emergency lodging should you need that as well."
When she finally turns in for the night, she figures that she will have a late or early morning watch. This is of course fine with her and will give her a chance to go through her morning exercises as well. That way she will be ready when this group is ready to move out, as she has never skipped her training.
Ummmm...This is Awkward--DM Nellie d20+17=18 ; Thursday December 11th, 2008 11:10:42 PM
Edmund sits as everyone else rests. He is so absorbed in his preparations, that he doesn't notice the figure creeping up on him, until he feels a rush of air, very close...too close for comfort!! Spinning around, Edmund notices a dark caped figure nearby with a dagger in hand. Though its hard to make out exact features, Edmund **can** tell that the person is none too happy that he just missed the mage..as is evidenced by the low muttered swearing.
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC: 16) Mage Armour Friday December 12th, 2008 12:47:20 AM
Edmund, being a fellow whose capability and cleverness know no end, has exactly the right tool to deal with this particular threat. He begins shrieking on the top of his lungs.
"ALARM! ALARM! AWAKE! AWAKE! TO ARMS! TO ARMS!"
Edmund will get as far from the cloaked figure as possible (either a 5ft step if the figure is within melee range, or a 30 feet away if not), and will then immediately cast Slow (PH 280) on it. (Will DC 20 Negates)
"TO ARMS! TO ARMS!" he shouts again, just to drive the point home.
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 77 (Bear's Endurance, Mage Armour) d20+13=28 ; d10+5=8 ; Friday December 12th, 2008 3:41:29 AM
Julian jumps up, Falchion near to hand, wearing his chain shirt. He is ready for action, looking for the 'whatever' that woke him up he runs around in a short circle. Spotting Eddy as the source he slumps his shoulders. "What now?"
IF Eddy is still within 5' then Julian would probably notice the dagger-man, and charge in: Attack hit AC: 28 NON-LETHAL DAMAGE: 8 Julian's AC 15
Otherwise; he glares at the mage.
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 d20+7=18 ; Friday December 12th, 2008 5:57:28 AM
Rudely awakened from his slumber, Arm casts about for the source (spot=18). If he sees the intruder, Arm draws his sword and moves as close as possible in order to join the fight.
OOC: Not sure if he'd make it into melee or not, so that's why I didn't attack. :)
Shadow Friday December 12th, 2008 8:33:46 AM
Shadow who sleeps fairly lightly is still a little slow to wake, even though he has his weapons at hand it takes him a bit to see what is going on. Once he notices the figure he will draw his rapier and move to engage (I assume it will be next round before he can bring his rapier in range).
Wynum (See Invis.) d20+6=24 ; Friday December 12th, 2008 11:31:18 AM
How many crying babies does it take to wake up a sleeping Centaur? Answer: one screaming mage. As everyone knows, a Centaur's awakening begins with the head and proceeds towards the tail. Right now, Wynum's front legs have barely been reached, so he merely assesses the situation at hand and as a reflex grabs his talisman and activates its See Invisibility effect.
Spot check just in case: 24
Thar d20+13=29 ; Friday December 12th, 2008 1:26:38 PM
As Thar is resting in Reverie, he hears Ed's yell and wakes quickly. He sees the others react and instead of focusing on that figure, he moves into a crouch and draws both weapons. He immediately looks around and watches for other unseen threats.
Spot = 29
Ruby d20+6=7 ; d20+6=13 ; Friday December 12th, 2008 6:24:14 PM
Years of finely honed skills brings Ruby from her bedroll. Deciding to get back into the habit of sleeping in her light armor, she easily rises to her feet...rapier and longdagger in hand. Her eyes cast about though they do settle upon the mage for an instant, as she is wondering if this is part of his exciteable nature...like before.
Still her other instincts lead her to look around for signs of danger as well.
[listen 7 and spot 13]
Kirsten Friday December 12th, 2008 10:04:23 PM
Kirsten jumps awake at the sound of Edmund's shrieking. She is on her feet in a moment with her warhammer in her hand. The paladin will move quickly towards the source of the sounds and hopes that she can get there in time.
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 d20+9=20 ; d20+4=14 ; d8+6=13 ; d8+6=8 ; Monday December 15th, 2008 5:54:25 AM
If he is able, Arm closes into combat with the mage, unless he is already there. Swinging twice, he attempts to dispatch him/her (attk: 20,14 dmg: 13,8).
Capital Loses--DM Nellie d20+5=19 ; Tuesday December 16th, 2008 12:02:55 AM
Edmund, startled by the figure's arrival raises the alarm and fires off his spell. Clearly stunned and very, very outnumbered, the man mutters something about "Not worth it, reward or no reward for those vials.." before slowly climbing into a nearby shadow and disappearing! Wynum's keen vision does not even locate the man.
OOC: Very, very funny interactions, all!!
Ruby Tuesday December 16th, 2008 12:28:37 AM
She takes note of stranger but he is gone soon afterwards and she lets both weapon fall to her side. "Well at least he was not yelling for nothing. I as starting to wonder about his stability." With a last look around, not expecting to find anything, she moves back over to her bedroll. She stifles a yawn as she does and looks to the sky to see if it is time for her watch or not...if not, she is back to sleep.
Arm Tuesday December 16th, 2008 5:57:05 AM
Arm smiles at Ruby's comments, resheathes his sword, and tries to go back to sleep. After a bit, he is finally able to do so.
Shadow d20+14=27 ; d20+9=13 ; d20+5=19 ; Tuesday December 16th, 2008 9:26:06 AM
Having seen this trick before, Shadow will also merge with the shadows and remain motionless to see if he can detect the now unseen attacker.
Actions: Hide=27 Spot=13 Listen=19
Wynum (See Invis.) Tuesday December 16th, 2008 12:07:21 PM
Having seen nothing at all except dark shadowy darkness, Wynum, now fully awake, is grumpy as Centaurs can be, diminishing the quietness of the quarter some more.
"Not for nothing! Indeed! For less than nothing! Good thing we didn't start attacking each other. So what, was it an attack from the darkness? Invisible shapechanging darkness, maybe? I think I'll take over the watch, for what it's worth, now I'm awake."
Thar Tuesday December 16th, 2008 1:46:17 PM
Seeing no other threats, Thar relaxes and after a few minutes, re-enters reverie and the memorization of his spells. He's confident that Shadow and the others in the party can assure his safety, and regaining his spells is a top priority for him.
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC: 16) Mage Armour Tuesday December 16th, 2008 2:30:04 PM
Edmund declares, "Well, he cannot have gone far. In fact, he must be right around here, no more than fifteen feet away from where he was! Can't someone find him?"
Having seen the individual move and then disappear, Edmund casts Glitterdust centred on the point of disappearance. (Affects a 10ft radius spread, blinds and outlines invisible creatures, and gives a -40 to hide checks, no save.)
"Show yourself, you fiend!" he shouts into the shadows.
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 77 (Bear's Endurance, Mage Armour) Tuesday December 16th, 2008 3:04:28 PM
"I'm a little concerned that this can happen in the druid's quarter..."
Julian stands to watch Edmunds little show. He will then retire to bed.
Wynum (See Invis.) Wednesday December 17th, 2008 12:22:20 PM
His curiosity piqued by Edmund's persistence with tracking imaginary opponents, Wynum moves near him.
" 'tis is but darkness, Edmund, and beneath the darkness, nothing, look!"
Saying that, he touches the clenched fist on his chest, nudging the little pinky just so, bathing the whole area in a crude, shimmering radiance, revealing a large portion of the surroundings to the elf's and centaur's eyes, and diminishing his reputation with his tentatively resting friends.
[Use Daylight from 2-in-1 Hand of Glory. Bright light 60' + dim light 60', 50 min, negates and is negated by magical darkness effects. Also, allows the See Invisibility to be actually functionnal...]
Arm Wednesday December 17th, 2008 3:43:26 PM
Arm continues to sleep despite his friend's discussion.
Ruby Wednesday December 17th, 2008 8:12:03 PM
Ruby rolls over with the arrival of more light, though she does not let her hands stray far from her weapons. Despite the seeming dismissal of the whole event she is actually ready for more trouble. Her mind is wandering through all the things that could have brought a lone assassin to this camp and to this group. Maybe there is more that that she must find out.
Shadow Thursday December 18th, 2008 1:52:47 PM
Shadow, hopefully still in the shadows, will continue to search for the attacker(s) whether it is only one or more.
Only the Shadow knows--DM Nellie Friday December 19th, 2008 12:37:52 AM
With the disturbance over, some of the Order continue to search for the attacker, while some go back to sleep. Edmund bathes the area in Glitterdust, only to confirm what Wynum tells him...there is no invisible attacker nearby. Even Wynum's daylight doesn't reveal anything particularly interesting. It's as if the attacker just disappeared into the shadows. After everyone is fully sure that the threat is dispelled, rest is resumed (with watches, of course!) and the night passes without further incident. Thankfully, all of the spellcasters were able to recover all their spells.
With the first light of dawn beginning to break, the Order rises and prepares for what is surely to be a memorable day. For within mere hours, they will be invading enemy headquarters!!
OOC: I'm sorry everyone...my boy was very ill the last few days.
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC: 16) Mage Armour Friday December 19th, 2008 2:42:50 AM
"This is asinine!" Edmund declares angrily. "Not only can they appear to be whatever they like, but they can teleport from place to place instantly as well, without having to use such common-or-garden methods as Invisible or Fog Cloud!"
Edmund sits down on the ground with a bump and stuffs his book back into his haversack. "This whole dratted thing is stupid!" he exclaims. "It's someone else's turn to be a pincushion for the omnipotent, omnipresent jackanapes. I've had my fill!"
With that, he pulls his covers over his head and does his best to go to sleep, though his dreams are plagued by fearful imaginings of shadowy figures trying to stab him with daggers.
Arm Friday December 19th, 2008 5:10:18 AM
Arm awakes somewhat refreshed. When the rest of the group is up and about, he says, "Well, let's get this operation started. I fear that, due to last night's encounter, they may already know that we are in the vicinity, so a stealthy attack may no longer be an option.".
Shadow d20+9=29 ; d20+11=26 ; Friday December 19th, 2008 9:33:19 AM
Feeling better since the weakness has left him, and they did discourage the attacker, Shadow will take his watch (the last one). He will get his stuff ready as the group sleeps.
Once the group is ready Shadow will once again move the group to where they were the night before, and he will move along the building to where he can see the warehouse again. If he does not see anyone watching them or watching the building he will move to the side of the warehouse where the window is, that was open. He will then start working his way up the side of the warehouse to the window.
Actions: Spot=29 (nat. 20) Climb=26
Wynum Friday December 19th, 2008 2:02:27 PM
The centaur tries to reason Edmund after the incident. "Well Edmund, I heard nothing*, didn't see nothing, and you weren't harmed in any way, and there was hardly much time for an escape between your scream and now. So you must concur it was but an illusion. Maybe you were abused by lack of sleep and cast spells at the darkness? Or maybe a mishievious illusion was cast upon us?"
Pending his answers, he would add during the walk to the house. "This is quite crucial. If indeed there was an opponent, we are now wallking straight into an ambush, with foes so formidable they made a mockery of our talents!"
Upon reaching the skull temple area, Wynum will stay with the others, instead of going to the castle gate.
(OOC: how are 1-use-per-day items handled in the Wold? Is this a 24h rollover, "refresh at sunrise", or an eight-hours rule of some sort?) * With Listen -2 it's unlikely Wynum heard the foe's muttering...
Thar Friday December 19th, 2008 4:05:09 PM
(OOC = I'm sorry to hear about your boy and we'll keep him in our prayers. What is his name so I'll know who specifically to pray for? Not that God doesn't know who we pray for, but it helps me to have a name to focus on besides "Nellie's son" ;-) )
Waking up refreshed and with a full load of spells, Thar nods in agreement at Arm's astute observation. "Yes, let's stay together and I like the idea of going in through a 2nd story window was, if it is still open. I agree with Wynum that we don't want to walk into an ambush, but somehow we need to roll over it or simply avoid it."
To Ed, he says "Would you mind casting Message again on us, so that we can communicate easily and quietly?"
As the group moves towards the warehouse, he'll take a point position and watch for any threats. (let me know what rolls you need, if any)
Kirsten Friday December 19th, 2008 4:42:15 PM
(OOC - I hope your boy is feeling better! I've been sick the last few days too :( it's that time of year I guess )
The paladin blinks at Thar's words, "Through a window? What about Wynum, I think he may have some issues with climbing..."
She fails to mention that she isn't all that fond of climbing, either. The paladin shrugs, however, and will follow along with the rest of the group once they've made a decision. She'll check her things one last time to make sure she is prepared.
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 64 (Mage Armour) Friday December 19th, 2008 6:24:04 PM
"G'morning all. Nice day for a, err, a.... what are our plans. Rush in quickly? wait for signs of movement? I think we should hit them now, and hard."
Julian casts Mage Armour for the day, shared with his familiar.
Ruby Friday December 19th, 2008 7:30:50 PM
Ruby wakes to the last watch as well and though she has thoughts of talking to Shadow, she does not know him that well and is not sure how he really feels about her being here now. So after awhile she falls into her morning daily exercises before the rest of the group wake; her rapier and longdagger making the graceful sweeps, strikes and parries that she has come to use in combat. To some it looks to be just a beautiful dance, but to those that know what they are looking for...it is also deadly.
Once she cleans herself and eats a light breakfast she looks to the group and with a shrug follows along. "Exactly what are we up to?" Noone has filled her in on what job they are doing and she did not think to ask about it last night. She is also not sure how she falls into the group either. Her talents are to tracking, moving along silently and mainly just getting into and out of trouble with the least damage.
As they stop and she listens in on what is being said she frowns. "What is my role with the group?" She has been wondering this for the last few minutes they have been walking. The real question is, will anyone answer her or ask questions of their own.
Arm Monday December 22nd, 2008 6:04:53 AM
Arm takes time to console the apparently distraught Ruby, "Your role, my dear, is the same as all of ours...to use your talents to both vanquish the enemy and to assist the rest of us. Despite our differences, well...difference (casting a withering glance in Ed's direction), in a pinch we all act as one, it seems.".
OOC: Sorry to hear about your son, too...my son had a stomach virus last week, and he was in severe pain from it (I could feel it as well!). Hope he's better now.
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC: 12) Message Monday December 22nd, 2008 2:18:19 PM
Edmund wakes up and flips through his spell books again.
Just before they leave, he will cast Message on everyone--but not until. (It has an 80min duration.)
Wynum Monday December 22nd, 2008 3:10:35 PM
"Well Ruby, what we need more now is a keen eye. And you said you were on the lookout for evildoers here. That is pretty much what we are doing right now! If our information are right, this building houses captured city council members, who have been replaced by shapechangers. One reason we especially need your help is that they might recognize us, but not you. Plus, bow."
(OOC- last posting chance. I am probably off the 'net until the 27th. Happy holidays y'all!)
Arm Tuesday December 23rd, 2008 6:01:21 AM
Arm nods at Wynum's statement, adding, "Yes, and your owl will probably come in handy to tell the difference.".
OOC: I'll be around tomorrow, but I'll take this time to wish the Brightest Blessings for a Merry Yule (even though it was on the 21st ;) ) to you and yours!
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC: 16) Message, Mage Armour Wednesday December 24th, 2008 2:39:56 AM
Edmund will also use the time to cast Mage Armour on himself.
"Anything else you can think of?" he asks the others. "Otherwise I'm ready here."
((OOC: Happy Christmas everyone. Apologies for any missed posts over the holiday and through the weekend. I have people coming in from out-of-state and out-of-country and may well forget!))
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Wednesday December 24th, 2008 6:00:10 AM
Arm grips his sword hilt firmly and says, "Well, let's go.".
Thar Wednesday December 24th, 2008 9:18:13 AM
Thar nods at Kirsten's observation re: the window and says "You're right. Maybe there is an alternative to that window, but I'm not sure what the best approach is. We'll have to think about that some..."
He listens to the rest of the party explain the situation to Ruby and prepares himself for the upcoming confrontation.
Thar OOC Wednesday December 24th, 2008 9:21:12 AM
(And to all of you, a very Merry Christmas! I hope you all have safe travels in addition! We're supposed to have 3-5" of snow tonight so hopefully I"ll be able to make it to the service. Of course, you can't have a service of the preacher doesn't show up, so I better find a way ;-) Anyway, you all take care!!!)
Nellie Wednesday December 24th, 2008 11:14:57 AM
Guys, my whole family is sick. I've contacted Jerry and am trying to get a sub. I'm really sorry!!
Ruby Monday December 29th, 2008 6:07:06 PM
Nellie - don't let it get to you. I am pretty sure that we all understand and personally, I would be very upset if you did not consider family first. You take care of yours and we will be just fine till then. Prayers always. ~~ JimW
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Tuesday December 30th, 2008 6:05:14 AM
Yeah, like Jim said...don't sweat it! I'll check in every day, and resume posting when appropriate. Take care, and best wishes to you and yours.
Shadow Monday January 5th, 2009 9:31:26 AM
I am back from vacation and I hope everyone had a wonderful break and a happy new year!
I hope everything is getting better for you.
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC: 16) Message, Mage Armour Friday January 9th, 2009 2:06:22 PM
((Any update?))
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 64 (Mage Armour) Friday January 9th, 2009 5:07:44 PM
I will be out on holiday next week, with no net access. I don't know if I should organise a sub, or do we just hope that things kick along in Feb. My local group always has Jan off.
Thar OOC Saturday January 10th, 2009 11:20:26 AM
Echoing Ed's questions... What's the latest status...
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Monday January 12th, 2009 4:46:51 AM
OOC: I emailed Jerry, but I didn't get a response...I honestly don't know what's going on..
Shadow Monday January 12th, 2009 1:47:52 PM
I got a response from Jerry:
It was the holidays. I talked to Nellie about it today and she is onto things now. I am working on getting her a partner which hopefully will happen before Monday.
So yes, I know about it and yes we're solving the problem. ;)
Thanks for bringing it to my attention! Always do that. ;)
Jerry
Ruby Tuesday January 13th, 2009 11:44:10 PM
Just going to do like the rest and hang out till we know something for sure. Thought that Jerry was already in the loop though or I would have emailed him as well. :(
Knocking on Satan's Front Door Friday January 16th, 2009 1:33:19 PM
Alrighty...I am really sorry about that folks!! We had sickness in the house for about a month! Everyone is better, and I've got a new co-DM, so let's roll!!
Moving things along...
Day breaks in the Druid's section after a eventful night. Everyone is refreshed and all spells are renewed. After a short journey, the enemy headquarters are nearby and no one has noticed any movement. If there is going to be a plan on how to enter the warehouse, now would be the time.
Wynum Saturday January 17th, 2009 1:57:10 PM
The Centaur sticks with the main group and follow, as entering is not his forte. Not wanting to appear useless, he comments:
"Now, call me if you need doors, or people broken down."
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC 16) Message, Mage Armour Saturday January 17th, 2009 4:42:34 PM
((Glad to be back and playing again!))
Edmund scratches his head and stretches. "Well, I suppose we should get Message ready," he says, "And if combat is likely, you'll want to stay near each other so I can Haste us when it begins."
Edmund will then cast Message on everyone, and Mage Armour on himself.
Thar OOC Saturday January 17th, 2009 5:40:14 PM
Thar waits to hear what the overall plan is. Group tactics are not his strong point, but he does add: "I can cast a Circle of Prot from Evil to give us a boost. Also, I would recommend we come in some other way than the front door. Also, For those of you who haven't fought with us in the past, I usually stay on the flank or in the middle. I do most of the healing, but wield my two wicked darlings here (pointing to his short swords) when I need to. Lastly, I can help out with being sneaky and investigating, along with my friend Shadow."
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Message Monday January 19th, 2009 7:22:05 AM
Arm nods at Thar's suggestion, "Yes I agree...a frontal assault would not be wise. There is probably one or more other entrances, so I say we hit that one first.". As he says that, he looks at Wynum and grins.
OOC: Yes, welcome back, and I'm glad to hear you're all feeling better. :)
Knocking on Satan's....Ahhhh...2nd Story Window? (Nellie) Tuesday January 20th, 2009 12:01:07 AM
Preparations are made and the intel is analyzed. Shadow remembers from his time on top of the building that there is a window entrance that looks promising. Other than that, he hasn't seen anyone entering or leaving by any means other than the front door. Of course, there is a chance that there are other entrances that can be uncovered upon closer examination of the warehouse.
Window is 15 foot up and the wall looks to have several foot holds if that's what you guys desire. :)
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Message d20-4=1 ; Tuesday January 20th, 2009 6:01:53 AM
Arm waits for the rest, as he would not be the first to climb up. When it is his turn, he attempts the climb.
OOC: I'm not sure if a climb check would apply here and if I would take the -4 armor penalty with elven chain +2. If both of these are true, he will slip immediately upon his first attempt (apply dmg if necessary ;) ).
Shadow d20+9=10 ; d20+5=10 ; d20+11=25 ; d20+9=13 ; Tuesday January 20th, 2009 9:19:28 AM
"I suggest that I scout the entirety of the outside to see if there is another entrance, and then if so use that and the window at the same time." If the group is in agreement Shadow will scout the rest of the building, but if not then he will climb the wall to the window and trail a rope down for the others.
Actions: Search=10 Listen=10 Climb=25 Use Rope=13
Thar OOC Tuesday January 20th, 2009 2:21:16 PM
Thar nods at Shadow's wise suggestion and says "Good plan. Some in our party will have trouble climbing and we'll need to make allowances for that. Also, if we have to make a hasty retreat, jumping out of a high window won't be the best idea..."
While Shadow is scouting, Thar will remain vigilant and quiet, trying to detect anyone unfriendly who comes near and avoid detection himself.
Ruby [message] Tuesday January 20th, 2009 6:21:40 PM
Ruby pulls the hat off her head(think three muskateers but without the feather, she is not a peacock :)) and wiped her head as she glanced to the others. "I have some small skill at moving around without being seen or heard." It was just an off-hand comment as she had never worked with this group before and it would be wise, or at least she felt so, to let them know at least a little about her.
Still part of her wondered if any of them could be her enemy and worse, she would never know it till it was too late. Shrugging this off she returned to the matter at hand and waited, unless she was given other orders. The hat was soon back on her head and she was checking the position of her rapier and longdagger.
[Glad to hear that things are doing well for you again. Though I am happy that the game is moving again, that was my main concern.]
Wynum Tuesday January 20th, 2009 11:03:11 PM
Wynum doesn't seem to have received Thar's comment personnaly.
"Well I don't know. Kadaz is not here, and Edmund can fly, can't he? Why not make it through the window if that's the only entrance?"
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC 16) Message, Mage Armour d20+8=23 ; Tuesday January 20th, 2009 11:26:50 PM
Edmund performs a brief survey of the scene whilst the others talk. (Search=23)
"Hm, what's that?" he says when he hears the Centaur's voice. "Fly? Yes, I can do that. Can make anyone fly, in fact. Why do you ask? I don't want to go up there, particularly. I like it down here."
Edmund scratches his head a bit. "Could probably make everyone fly, if you want to give me some time to look over my spells again. Or maybe mostly everyone. Even you, my four-footed fellow."
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 64 (Mage Armour) Wednesday January 21st, 2009 4:28:16 AM
"Storming the front door - very obvious, they'd never expect it. What to do?" Julian casts Mage Armour, Bear's Endurance and Expeditious Retreat (sharing all with his familiar the badger), and makes ready with his weapons.
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Message Wednesday January 21st, 2009 6:02:32 AM
At Ed's suggestion to make Wynum fly, Arm grimaces, not thinking that someone as firmly grounded as their companion would enjoy flying very much. However, he keeps his comments to himself for the moment, and awaits their decision on how to get in.
Kirsten Wednesday January 21st, 2009 9:14:43 AM
The paladin looks nervous at the prospect of having to climb. Her gaze shifts briefly down to her heavy armor and then up to the window.
"Ah, climbing," she sighs. "Not my favorite passtime, but if that is the only way I'm sure I could... manage... possibly."
Recon (Nellie) Thursday January 22nd, 2009 12:34:41 AM
Shadow and Ruby make the rounds, skirting around the building, looking for another way in. Shadow has no luck whatsoever on his initial pass. (Jim, please make a spot check for Ruby). Thar keeps watch, but doesn't notice too much activity. It would appear that there aren't very many morning people in this Quarter.
Ruby [message] d20+6=12 ; Thursday January 22nd, 2009 1:10:38 AM
Ruby continued to watch the area and put her own eyes to the test to search out the area. She is not sure what she might spot that the others have not, but she is looking to be more of a help. Maybe once they get into a fight or something she will feel more comfortable with the group.
[spot 12]
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Message Thursday January 22nd, 2009 5:59:32 AM
OOC: Sorry, but I'm confused...there is NO upper window for us to climb to?
Sorry about that...there is a upper window. Shadow and Ruby are looking for any other entrances in the warehouse.---Nellie
Shadow Thursday January 22nd, 2009 1:34:49 PM
"Well it looks like the window is it, unless we want some to go through the main entrance and the others through the window. I think we need to make sure we get everyone that is involved in one shot." Shadow says to the group after his search of the building.
Once the group decides whether to split up or not, Shadow will start his climb up to the window, and then check out what is inside the window. (Use the rolls earlier?)
Thar Thursday January 22nd, 2009 2:19:16 PM
Thar replies, "Shadow, if you want to go first and check out the room, I'll follow you and help the rest up the rope. I don't think we should split up, since we know what happened last time. This way, we stick together..."
Once its his turn, he'll climb up and follow Shadow into the room. If things are quiet, he'll turn, look back out the window and help out whomever is next get in through the window.
Thar 2nd post d20+4=20 ; Thursday January 22nd, 2009 2:19:58 PM
Here is my climb roll = 20
Ruby [message] d20+9=24 ; d20+14=18 ; Thursday January 22nd, 2009 6:10:35 PM
Ruby watches the others and then moves to take her turn climbing up to the window. Hopefully there is more than enough room for her to move to the side and be out of the way, especially if they are all coming up.
Glancing to Shadow and Thar she nods her head, though she does stay away from the window...not wanting to be spotted. Finding the most shadowed place possible she tries to blend in, just in case anyone should pass by.
[climb 24 and hide 18]
Up, up, and ummmm...Hmmm (Nellie) d4+7=9 ; d20+7=19 ; d20+7=14 ; d20+7=20 ; d20+7=9 ; d20+7=16 ; d20+7=13 ; d20+8=25 ; d20+8=25 ; d20+8=18 ; d6+4=9 ; d6+4=6 ; d6+4=8 ; Friday January 23rd, 2009 12:58:55 AM
And so, Shadow and Thar climb up the building and slide in through the window. Looking in, Shadow gives the room the once over and doesn't see anything amiss. Waving Thar in, Shadows steps into the room, and is immediately greeted by the sound of a loudly ringing bell. That, however is the least of his worries as a huge mass of thick black rubbery arms appear all around him, filling up the room. Nine tentacles lash out, trying to grab a hold of Shadow. Though Shadow easily evades six of the rubbery arms, three of them wrap around his body and begin to slowly squeeze. (23 damage this round).
I'm going to assume that Thar is still in the window, but not in the room yet, and that everyone else is either climbing the rope or on the ground (Since Shadow and Thar said they would scout out the room first). 2 people may climb the rope a round. Down on the ground, the ringing of a bell can be clearly heard, and a big black mass is seen through the warehouse building. Though none of the locals has made note of the ringing yet, it's probably only a matter of time...
OOC: I'm using the Woldian rules for grapple, which are here. The tentacles have an attack of +7, and a grapple check of +8 (+4 str. and +4 for being Large) Shadow's DC for grapple is 10 + 1 Str. Shadow can break the grapple that the tentacle have on him if he makes either a grapple DC 18 or an Escape artist DC18 against each tentacle (3 checks). Note that the Escape artist check is a standard action, and any movement in the room is now reduced to half speed. The room is 20 foot by 20 foot.
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 24/47] d20+7=8 ; d3=3 ; d20+7=24 ; d20+7=10 ; d20+1=5 ; d20+1=3 ; Friday January 23rd, 2009 9:24:04 AM
"Blood and hell." Shadow curses as he is suddenly grabbed by three of the black tentacles that just suddenly appeared. He is able to escape one of the tentacles, but is not able to escape the other two. He is hoping that Thar can help him out, but says instead, "I am not sure you can help me here, you might want to drop out the window."
Actions: Escape Artist = 8, 24, 10 Grapple=5, 3 (not sure if I can try both, but it did not matter, lol)
the d3 roll was a mistake
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Message d20-4=-1 ; Friday January 23rd, 2009 9:27:35 AM
Growling, Arm tries once again to climb the rope, but his hands slip off of the surface even more so than the last time (climb = -1...am I getting lousy rolls or what? ).
Ruby [message] Friday January 23rd, 2009 12:40:11 PM
Ruby easily slips up the rope when she finds it free and then instead of seeking the shadows as she normally would, looks down. "Tie yourself off and I will pull you up." She looks all dainty but she is not as frail as she looks. While whoever is coming up next, most likely Arm, ties themselves off she finds an area that she can brace herself. She knows from experience that seated and with your feet braced is the best way and silently she hopes that the taur is not the next one to try.
Otherwise she will just brace the rope for whoever is next and wait to lend assistance to Arm after that. She will be patient and allow Thar to help out Shadow with the mess that he is in. "Trap." Should have figured that one, but if Shadow was unaware of it what chance did I have.
Wynum d20+7=18 ; Friday January 23rd, 2009 12:50:46 PM
(OOC: Sorry, IF THEN post. I miss the info regarding the window's size!)
[IF the window is large enough for the Large Wynum:]
Wynum waits for his turn, making sure nobody else's on the rope and begins climbing, crossing his fingers that this frail two-legger rope can withstand his weight of a half-dozen plate-clad warriors. With surprising ease, he rappels up the rope - having obviously done that before. (Climb 18)
[IF the window is too small:]
"Shrink me!" Wynum, shouts to Julian "I need to go through", he adds, pointing to the window up above. (Which he would do if shrinked, with a climb now reduced to 14 for new str and encumbrance but a more reasonable weight of about 350lbs)
Thar 2nd post Friday January 23rd, 2009 2:42:06 PM
Thar curses loudly and since their surprise is gone, yells back down to the rest of the group "We need help up here now!!! Shadow's getting squeezed to death and we're in deep trouble!!!"
For now, he'll remain by the window without going in, since he's not going to do much vs. the mass of tentatcles. If anyone does climb up, he'll move aside to help them out.
For his action, he'll cast monster summoning 3, and bring in a fire elemental. He'll aim for a location on the other side of the room but in the midst of the tentacled monster, so as to avoid frying Shadow. He figures this is the best idea, since if the monster attacks the fire elemental, it will take fire damage itself (and possibly be set on fire) and this may help keep its attention. Yes, fire is a danger, but when its 9 tentacles against 2 people, desperate times call for desperate measures...
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 64 (Mage Armour) Friday January 23rd, 2009 2:51:54 PM
"Shouldda done that BEFORE you went up, you silly Clydesdale!"
Julian retrieves his wand and Shrinks his familiar, popping him into his pack (now a tiny creature). Gripping the wand in his teeth Julian will begin his ascent next turn.
Kirsten d20-5=15 ; Friday January 23rd, 2009 5:33:06 PM
The paladin will also make her way up the rope when the opportunity arises (next round?). She finds the idea of climbing not so terrifying as she might have, knowing that she'll be needed to help the others. (Climb = 15 nat. 20)
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC 16) Message, Mage Armour, Fly Saturday January 24th, 2009 2:45:52 AM
Edmund immediately casts Fly on himself and sails straight up in the air, hovering level with the window, but about thirty feet from the casement itself. ((That is, he is at the same height as the window, but he is thirty feet out from the wall that the window is in.))
"Ah..." he says through the message spell. "You might want to hurry. Shadow is being eaten by what appears to be an enormous, sentient plum pudding. Also, it seems to be angry. Maybe it doesn't like bells."
The mage takes a moment to consider the best way to cook the floppy foe without incinerating his friend as well.
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Message d20-4=9 ; Monday January 26th, 2009 6:02:14 AM
Angered by his futile attempt to ascend, Arm tries once again to climb the rope, this time with marginally better results (climb=9).
Sticky Situation (Nellie) d20+8=19 ; d6+4=7 ; Monday January 26th, 2009 11:13:18 AM
Shadow continues to wrestle with the tentacles. (OOC: My bad on the tentacles. Seems that we should consider them as one grappler. So, Shadow is grappled, but he only takes 9 points of damage. Yay!! His escape artist check of 8 fails, so he is still grappled...for now. :) Technically, Shadow should be pinned, but since I had the snaffu with the tentacles I'll give you an extra round to try and get out.) Continuing to lash out, the rubbery arms solidify their hold on Shadow and a cracking noise comes from his ribs (Grapple 19 vs. 11, 7 pts. damage. Shadow, make and Escape Artist DC18 or be pinned...which basically means you will be held immobile for a round. If you succeed, then you can move at 1/2 movement through the tentacles).
From his window seat, Thar has a great view of the goings on. Thinking on his feet, he begins summoning a creature to help out...though the spell does takes a long while (remember, SM is a full round action...the elemental appears this round where you specified it and you can do another action...casting, running in terror, the like **wink**)
Ruby and Kirsten make it to the window ceil, and Thar offers to move aside. Sooo...into the tentacle filled room or some other action for the heroines?
Things are getting really crowded on the side of the building as Ruby and Kirsten begin scrambling up the wall to help out. Wynum is not really sure whether the rope will hold his weight all the way up, but he's also absolutely sure that in his large form he cannot get through the window now that Thar is perched in the seal. He calls out to be reduced in size, but the spellcasters are a little busy at the moment. Edmund takes to flight and gets a really good view of Shadow and his new wrestling partner. Looks crowded in there!
Julian shrinks his familar and grabs hold of the rope, ready to climb up next round. The ringing bell is still busily clanging, and Julian hears someone nearby shout out in a groggy voice "If you don't shut that *&*!! thing up, I'm going to go over there and stick it up your poop deck!!"
Wynum Monday January 26th, 2009 1:28:12 PM
Seeing that the way up is rather crowded, Wynum stands back. "Right, I... I cover your hinds, eh?"
The centaur moves across the street, in a connecting passage if possible, draws and loads his sling, paying attention to the main door and possible party crashers.
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 31/47] d20+7=14 ; Monday January 26th, 2009 1:54:52 PM
Shadow attempts to get out of the grasp of the tentacles but is unable to. "Crap guys, I am having too much difficulty with these bloody things." He hopes his companions can get him out with out endangering themselves. 'How many burglaries have I done and get caught like this for the city, how ironic.' the one time thief thinks to himself.
Actions: Escape Artist = 14
Thar 2nd post d20+5=22 ; d20+3=7 ; Monday January 26th, 2009 3:06:50 PM
Thar moves aside for the others to enter the room, and then decides to enter himself. His best bet, for now at least, is to help out Shadow and help him break free.
Escape Artist to aid Shadow = 22
He'll command the fire elemental to attack the tentacled monster also.
Fire Attack = 7 miss...
Note: If the tentacled thing attacks the elemental, it will take fire damage as if it would have been successfully hit. Creatures hitting a fire elemental with natural weapons or unarmed attacks take fire damage (1d4) as though hit by the elemental's attack, and also catch on fire (1d4/round) unless they succeed on a Reflex save. Elemental is AC 15, 9/9 hps
Ruby [HP: 74/74 - AC: 22(23)] [message] d20+4=16 ; d20+6=11 ; d20+11=30 ; Monday January 26th, 2009 9:18:06 PM
Ruby brings herself to the window and peers inside, trying to figure out which way would be the best way to go. Once she finds what she feels might be the safest path, she will drop inside. Rapier and longdagger are now pulled, but she is more worried about the tentacles that she can do little about. She also wants to put herself clear of them in case anyone tries anything dangerous.
Her immediate thought though is to find the source of the ringing alarm and hopefully silence it, unless it is attached to the trap spell.
[search 16, spot 11, tumble 30]
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC 16) Message, Mage Armour, Fly 4d4+4=15 ; Monday January 26th, 2009 11:58:46 PM
Puzzled at how best to attack the foe without catching his friends in any of the spells at his disposal, Edmund falls back on the safe--if somewhat weak--Magic Missiles. Gesturing at the tentacled foe, Edmund ensures that the bolts of energy sail unerringly to their intended target. )(15 Damage)
Speaking into the message spell, Edmund keeps the others apprised of the situation. "It seems," he says blandly, "that the giant blancmange is trying to crush Shadow. Not sure what I can do to help. Suggestions?"
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Message d20-4=1 ; Tuesday January 27th, 2009 5:57:45 AM
Arm once again tries to climb the rope, but with equally disasterous results (climb=1). Looking to Wynum, he says, "Well, as much as we didn't want to get separated, we're going to have to make a frontal assault if we hope to get in there. Are you with me?".
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 31/47] Tuesday January 27th, 2009 9:25:28 AM
Shadow worries about the reason they came here since he cannot do anything else. "Watch the front just in case." Shadow calls out to Edmund and the rest of his companions.
Kirsten (AC 22, HP 81) Tuesday January 27th, 2009 11:19:36 AM
Surprised that she actually managed to climb up into the window but not having time to dwell on such thoughts, Kirsten peers inside the room to ascertain whether it would be safe for her to enter without getting caught within the creature's tentacles. Once she sees a relatively safe place she will drop into the room and draw her warhammer.
It is only then that she realizes she can do little to help Shadow escape, not wanting to get too close to the tentacles herself or in the way of the spells of her companions. As she thinks of what to do, she will cast Bless on the party.
Bless (PHB 205) - 50ft Range - Allies gain +1 morale bonus on attack rolls and on saving throws against fear effects - Duration: 7 minutes
A Fly In the Ointment (Nellie) d20+7=23 ; d20+7=17 ; d20+8=23 ; d20+8=19 ; d20+8=10 ; d6+4=7 ; d6+4=9 ; d6+4=9 ; Tuesday January 27th, 2009 11:55:16 AM
Shadow does his best to break free from the black tentacles. Thar even joins in and yanks at his friend's feet in order to help free him. It's not quite enough, and the tentacles wrap tighter around Shadow. (He takes 7 pt damage...I'm not going to throw in the pin thing, it looks like it just unnecessarily complicates things) Thar's summoned fire elemental begins to throw itself toward the tentacles, but can't connect with its blow.
Ruby looks in, searching for a safe way into the tentacle filed room. There isn't one. The room is jam packed full of the black squiggly arms. Entering the room means dealing with the tentacles. She also can't spot a source of the ringing, but in her experience there are spells that can produce the same effect. The bell is either not in sight, or is a spell effect.
Kirsten also sees that there is no safe spot in the room. By some miracle, she too perches in the window and casts her Bless spell. Everyone feels the positive energy flow over them.
Edmund sends his glowing bolts toward the menacing limbs. Unerring, they zip toward the creature and slam into it. It's obvious that they hit the creature, but it doesn't seem to effect it...there are no signs of damage what-so-ever on the thing!
Meanwhile, the wavy masses launch themselves toward both Thar and the fire elemental. Both priest and elemental alike feel the rubbery tentacles wrap around arms and legs (both grapples succeed. D20+Str. or Escape Artist Vs. 18 to break the grapple). The weird thing is that the flames from the fire elemental don't appear to be doing any good against the creature...there is no incriminating sizzle...no burning flesh smell...nothing. The tentacles, on the other hand, began to crush and squeeze (9pt. to Thar, 9pt. to elemental). Then, to top it off, Thar very clearly hears footsteps on the other side of the room's door!
Down below, Arm give the rope one final go with no success. He decides it might be better to go with Wynum. The duo move around to the front to guard or storm the main entrance. Even over here, the ringing bell can be heard, and it's beginning to attract more attention. Several angry shouts are heard, and Wynum sees some motion in the direction of the Black Cathedral.
Wynum Tuesday January 27th, 2009 1:02:36 PM
Wynum stops for a moment, thinking about what derogatory comments Edmund might have produced, had he witnessed Arm's rope climbing efforts, and shakes his head.
He whispers back to Arm, gesturing towards the cathedral with his head. "The main door will be too dangerous for us... But not for them. I have an idea."
Making sure the newcomers are not near enough to see him, Wynum puts back his bow and retrieves his two large clay jugs and places one on the ground under the window and rope, and unstops the other one.
"Arm, help me convince them. You know, do your elf thing."
Standing close to the door, but not touching it, he waits for the crowd, drinks a large gulp of wine from his jug, and generally enjoys not being in the clutches of a giant tentacle mass.
(Not sure where Julian is, so I'm assuming he's up there)
Thar 61/70 hp d20+6=7 ; Tuesday January 27th, 2009 1:34:45 PM
Thar curses and says "Um, Ed... anyone... we need a little help here.... (Crunch, crunch go his bones) Oh crap, someone else is coming to the party! We've got more company here!!!... Sorry about not being able to free you Shadow..."
The elemental also winks out, due to the increasing pressure of the tentacles...
Focusing on his own problem, He does his best to free himself from the tentacles. (Fails Esc Artist...) But that doesnt' work and he's still getting squished...
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC 16) Message, Mage Armour, Fly d20+8=18 ; Tuesday January 27th, 2009 3:32:01 PM
"Oh! Maybe this will work!"
Remembering that he himself has a spell to summon black grabby tentacles, Edmund considers this might be something very similar. Targetting the floppy flaying fiend, Edmund uses Dispel Magic (DC 18).
Ruby [HP: 74/74 - AC: 22(23)] [message] d20+11=31 ; d20+11=31 ; Tuesday January 27th, 2009 9:26:04 PM
With little options open to her, she glances to Kristen and then with a shrug just drops lightly into the room. She twists her body as she falls to try and avoid the tentacles as she does. Not sure if she will be able to reach the ground or not she figures that it might put her in a better position. Besides, it is getting rather crowded at the window.
[tumble 30, 31, 31: Not sure if tumble can be used this way or not but thought to give it a try.]
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 64 (Mage Armour) Tuesday January 27th, 2009 10:10:09 PM
Having not yet found time and space to climb the rope Julian is as concerned by what is going on around him on the street as he is about his friends upstairs. He joins Wynumm and Arm by the front door, ready to storm in. "This isn't going so well. It sorta looks like we're trying to break in..."
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Message Bless Wednesday January 28th, 2009 5:03:49 AM
Not exactly sure what Wynum's statement meant, Arm shrugs his shoulders and casually leans against the building, waiting for the inevitable crowd to arrive and start asking questions.
OOC: FYI, Wynum: the rope to the window is by the rear of the building, so since we are now out front, I would imagine that the soon-to-be gathering crowd wouldn't see it. ;)
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 31/47] d20+7=22 ; Wednesday January 28th, 2009 9:43:31 AM
"Yes, we have company. I am also sorry Thar that you are now caught up with me." Shadow says as he tries to escape once again.
Actions: Escape Artist=22
Breather (Nellie) Thursday January 29th, 2009 12:59:16 AM
Shadow and Thar continue to struggle with the creature, while Ruby prepares to drop in and help out. Thar is stuck fast in the waving masses, while Shadow finally wiggles lose. And just as the rubbery arms reach out for Ruby, bam...they all disappear!! Of course, Edmund knows that it the disappearance is due to his handy spellcraft! With the bell still clanging away, Shadow, Ruby and Thar hear the footsteps getting a whole lot closer...as a matter of fact, the doorknob to the room is beginning to turn!
With the obnoxious clanging going on, Wynum, Julian and Arm are playing it cool outside the front entrance when a man in black robes comes blustering out of the Black Cathedral. Under the black cowl, red eyes glare as a deep voice rumbles. "Why in Marteaus' holy name do you disturb the sacred morning hours with this incessant noise?!" Arm spots a couple of really haggard looking drow coming around the corner, and Julian hears the thud, thud, thud of heavy footsteps headed their way.
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Message Bless d20+17=35 ; Thursday January 29th, 2009 5:57:51 AM
Arm looks at the speaker and says, "We did nothing of the sort, sir. We were simply out for a walk to enjoy the morning air and stopped for a rest when the alarm began to sound. Perhaps their setup is defective?" (diplomacy=35).
Thar 61/70 hp 2d8+5=20 ; Thursday January 29th, 2009 9:29:36 AM
Released from the tight grip of the monster, Thar says "Thanks Ed for pulling our rears out of the fire. I owe you one." He quickly moves over to Shadow and uses a CMW's to make up for some of the damage he took. "OK, it's time we got back to doing our job, don't you think?" he asks with a smile.
He'll then move to the door
Hps to Shadow = 20 pts healed
Spells used =3rd level = SM3, 2nd Level = Resist Energy
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 47/47] d20+9=12 ; Thursday January 29th, 2009 9:48:09 AM
"Thank you." Shadow says to Thar quietly as he joins him by the door. He hopes that they still might get the jump on whoever is entering the room. He will try and hide in the shadows brought on by the dim room.
Actions: Hide=12
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 64 (Mage Armour) Thursday January 29th, 2009 3:48:18 PM
Julian stands by Arm, agree with his friend. The badger pops his head out from the pack and has a look around.
Kirsten (AC 22, HP 81, Bless) d20-7=11 ; Thursday January 29th, 2009 8:03:56 PM
Seeing that the others are trying to hide and realizing the nasty-tenticle-creature is gone, Kirsten will enter the room from the window. The paladin will then try to hide as well, though she isn't all that confident in her hiding abilities.... all that shining armor, you know. Regardless, she will stand with her warhammer at the ready for when the door opens.
Hide = 11
Ruby [HP: 74/74 - AC: 22(23)] [message] d20+14=15 ; d20+4=19 ; d20+6=22 ; Thursday January 29th, 2009 8:20:25 PM
A quick glance around the room to take in the layout of the inside is all that she gets time for, before she is back on her feet and moving. Her first priority is to find a nice place to hide that will put her close to the door, or if one of the others has not already taken the position...to put herself behind it when it opens.
The rapier and longdagger has appeared in her hand now and she takes the time once hidden to once again look over the inside. She so much would love to shut off that blasted alarm, to be honest it is starting to give her a headache.
[hide 15, search 19 and spot 22]
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Message Bless Friday January 30th, 2009 5:55:42 AM
Arm casts a sidelong glance at Wynum to see if he is ready for battle should things get ugly. His thoughts then turn to his friends inside, as he hopes that they are faring well.
Wynum Friday January 30th, 2009 9:07:06 AM
Totally awed by Arm's truer-than-truth and flecks-of-gold-in-the-eyes argument, Wynum stands motionless, jug in hand, gazing back and forth between Arm and the priest, his own shrewd but dodgy plan involving rabble, wine and door bashing evaporating as the morning dew on a blade of grass.
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC 16) Message, Mage Armour, Fly Friday January 30th, 2009 12:26:02 PM
Flying Edmund decides that, with the arrival of people below, he might want to go somewhere less conspicuous, and therefore flies up onto the roof where he can lie down and be out-of-sight for a few minutes.
"I'll be up here hiding," he says into the Message spell. "Let me know when the coast is clear. I think floating half-elf mages might be somewhat suspicious."
Temper, Temper! (Nellie) Monday February 2nd, 2009 12:51:55 AM
Up in the warehouse... The continued tinkling of the bell is contrasted by a quick **thud** as the door is kicked open. There is the brief thudding of boots on the wooden floors, but no one is to be seen.
On the street... There is a flicker of anger to the red eyes as Arm speaks. A sickly gray arm reaches out and push him out of his way. "Then be gone, rabble!" Padding toward the door, the hand flicks out briefly from behind the black robes. Suddenly the front door implodes as if hit by an enormous battering ram!
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Message Bless Monday February 2nd, 2009 6:00:26 AM
Arm motions to Wynum to take leave, and wonders how they are going to get back in to help their friends, who are surely NOW in dire peril. Perhaps he should try climbing the rope again, or maybe his friend will have a better idea. Once they are far enough away as to not attract any notice, he confers with Wynum about this.
Wynum Monday February 2nd, 2009 1:07:03 PM
Wynum seems, and acts, rather confused. Bufuddled, he follows Arm around, whispering: "How did you make him do that? And how did you know that was my plan?"
Once settled, he confers: "Why don't we just enter with them by the front door? They'll clear the entrance for us. Evidently they don't live here, or they have a distrust for keys. Otherwise Julian can shrink me, I'll climb and pull you up with the rope."
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 47/47] d20+5=18 ; d20+9=20 ; Monday February 2nd, 2009 1:43:36 PM
Shadow will make sure his back to the wall so he can keep whatever/whomever it is in front of him at least. He will try and see if he can make anything out (whether it is dust from foot prints or sound).
Actions: Listen=18 Spot=20
Thar 61/70 hp Monday February 2nd, 2009 2:33:16 PM
"What the...?" Thar asks himself, seeing that nothing appeared in front of the door. Quickly reaching into his backpack, he'll take out a few pieces of chalk (3), crumble them up in his hand and subtly throw (while tryign to avoid being seen) them out towards the doorway entrance. His plan is to have them outline or at least identify if something invisible is standing nearby...
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 64 (Mage Armour) Monday February 2nd, 2009 4:00:47 PM
"Well, the front is open now. Let's quickly get in there and find what we're after."
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC 16) Message, Mage Armour, Fly Monday February 2nd, 2009 5:49:13 PM
When the door implodes and the suspicious characters head inside, Edmund flies down until he is level with the casement again. As Thar throws chalk around the room, Edmund realises that something is up. "More invisible cretins?" he says into the Message spell. "I've just the thing for them!
Targetting the doorway itself--and therefore that which is on both sides of it--Edmund lets fly with Glitterdust.
"Now you don't see it... Now you do!" the mage quips to his friends.
Ruby [HP: 74/74 - AC: 22(23)] [message] d20+6=21 ; d20+4=16 ; d20+6=21 ; d20+14=20 ; Monday February 2nd, 2009 9:07:09 PM
Ruby is suddenly glad that she did not try and hide behind the door as she is sure she would have ended up with a busted nose or something. From her crouched spot behind some barrels she peeked between them but could see nothing. Her mind raced as doors just do not kick themselves in.
So she needed to rely upon her other senses and started to search the floor for signs of movement. Her ears were trying to pick up even the slightest betrayal of sound as well. Still her grip had tightened upon both of her weapons and she wondered if this was the end of things.
Luckily for her, Hermes had taken to the rafters and settled up there so she did not have to worry about her own friend. She only glanced up to see what he might be up to and see if he was watching anything from his position.
Temper, Temper! (Nellie) Monday February 2nd, 2009 11:53:46 PM
Waiting on Kirsten...I'll post in the am.
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Message Bless Tuesday February 3rd, 2009 5:57:44 AM
Arm grimaces and says, "Well, I suppose we could enter the front door, but since they told us to leave, they won't be very happy when the find us OR the rest inside.". Drawing his sword, he strides back to the front door intently, confident that Wynum will have his back.
Kirsten (AC 22, HP 81, Bless) Tuesday February 3rd, 2009 9:17:50 AM
Kirsten, realizing that their foes are probably invisible, will take a moment to concentrate and see if she can sense evil and, if she does, where exactly it is coming from.
(OOC - sorry about the delay! )
Wynum Tuesday February 3rd, 2009 11:40:51 AM
Wynum follows the bard, jug in hand, making sure to stay out of sight of the priestly figure. In the meantime, he checks on the crowd or people gathered near the door, ascertaining whether they look more like accolytes and people from the church of Marteau, or assorted rogues and scum from the quarter.
Snap Goes the Mousetrap (Nellie) d20+15=21 ; d20=13 ; d20+4=10 ; 10d6=30 ; Tuesday February 3rd, 2009 1:30:48 PM
In the 2nd story of the warehouse... Quick on his feet, Thar crumples up his chalk and throws it in the air toward the door. Nothing. He watches as the chalk dust floats down and forms a fine film on the ground. Edmund also casts his spell, but nothing is illuminated by the Glitterdust.
Kirsten begins concentrating, and locates a big source of evil somewhere in the center of the room.
Shadow strategically places himself with a back to the wall and looks around carefully. Though he can't spot the invisible foe, he can hear him...toward the center of the room. Ruby hears it distinctly as well. Then, ever so fortuitously, they see footprints in the chalk dust on the floor. They are headed toward Thar!! On the lookout, Thar and the others in the room spot the footprints...good thing too! Thar feels a blade rush past his chest. As he turns just in time to avoid the invisible blow, he sees a familiar figure reappear behind him (everyone else in the room sees him too). Why if it isn't the youthful city guard that they had the run in with earlier! With a most unpleasnt smile, the youth leers over at Thar and the others in the room. His voice is an interesting mixture of boredom and mockery. "Oh my...if it isn't the Mithril Order."
At the front entrance... The black cloaked figure storms toward the front door, not remotely concerned with whether Julian, Wynum and Arm are following or not. It is met by a nasty surprise, however, as a bolt of lightening shoots from somewhere in the room and slams directly into his chest! There is the unpleasant scent of burning flesh and a howl of rage as the figure doubles over in pain. With some murmurs, the small group that was gathering around the front interest quickly begins to disperse.
Thar 61/70 hp, AC 24 d20+12=31 ; d20+12=32 ; 2d6+3=9 ; d6=3 ; d20+12=30 ; d6+3=8 ; Tuesday February 3rd, 2009 2:25:22 PM
Thar is surprised at first, but then recognizes the young man. With a mirth expression on his face, Thar says, "Well, hello my friend. It's good to see you again. I'd ask you how the wife and kids are doing, but that's not really what you want to talk about, right?"
That said, he launches into an attack with both blades, hoping to at least get some payback for the guard's treachery...
Attack 1 = (Silver, Flaming, +1 SS) = Hit AC 31, Critical Hit, Crit Check = 32 (Now, why am I wasting all of these 20's), Yes, critical was affirmed Dmg = 9 + 3 fire = 12
Attack 2 = (+1 SS) Hit AC30 Dmg = 8
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 64 (Mage Armour), Boldly Going.... Tuesday February 3rd, 2009 6:58:31 PM
"Err, do you reckon that was a one-shot lightning bolt? Can't believe I am saying this, but where is Eddy and all his knowledge when you need him? "I'd guess that it was a one time spell, some sort of alarm. I don't know much about magic, but it seems to take a lot of effort to make one spell work once. "All this thinking hurts - I'm going in to find out. They really won't expect that."
Bravely, foolishly, rapidly, the armoured halfling charges into the building, sword raised high (well, relative to him) in his two hands.
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC 16) Message, Mage Armour, Fly 4d4+4=12 ; Tuesday February 3rd, 2009 7:45:59 PM
Flying up above, looking through the window casement, Edmund has no intention of letting Thar and the others down.
"I think not!" he declares, before letting fly with a series of Magic Missiles at their guard friend. (Damage=12)
Ruby [HP: 74/74 - AC: 23(24)] [message] d20+10=29 ; d20+10=29 ; d6+3=4 ; 2d6+3=12 ; d20+14=26 ; Tuesday February 3rd, 2009 9:32:14 PM
With the attacker suddenly revealed she starts to move forward, only waiting long enough to ask one question. "You want him alive or...." She just simply shrugs her shoulders as there is only one other option that she can see besides alive. Just to be on the safe side and till she knows something for sure, her rapier comes in straight ahead aiming for weapon spots in the man's defenses. But it is the longdagger that she is more worried about, as she brings it around not to wound but to catch the man's weapon with the intent to jerk it from his grasp.
[rapier vs. Man - hit: 29*crit29* and damage: 4*crit12*] [longdagger disarm: 26]
Wynum Tuesday February 3rd, 2009 11:13:12 PM
Taken aback by Julian's swift maneuver, Wynum merely follows a dozen feet behind. If nothing happens immediately, he will check on the electrified priest's health.
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Message Bless Wednesday February 4th, 2009 5:52:55 AM
Gripping his sword tightly, Arm follows behind Wynum, and if he stops, will continue past him to follow Julian.
Kirsten (AC 22, HP 81, Bless) d20+10=18 ; d8+4=11 ; Wednesday February 4th, 2009 6:26:16 AM
Kirsten will move to attack the guard now that they are able to see him, swinging her warhammer.
Attack: Hit AC 18, for 11 DMG
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 47/47] d20+9=21 ; Wednesday February 4th, 2009 9:24:12 AM
Shadow seeing that the group has 'youthful guard' engaged, he will quickly move to the door to make sure he does not have support coming in to surprise the group.
If he does not see anyone he will move so that next round he can get a swing in at the doppleganger.
Spot=21
The Sound of Silence(Nellie) 3d10=21 ; d20+15=35 ; d20+15=31 ; 2d6+4=11 ; 5d6=14 ; d20=2 ; d20=9 ; d2=2 ; d20+15=20 ; d20+15=31 ; d20+15=28 ; d2=1 ; d20+12=22 ; d20+12=30 ; d20+15=21 ; d20+22=39 ; 2d8+3=15 ; d20+15=34 ; d6+2=6 ; 5d6=15 ; 2d6=5 ; Wednesday February 4th, 2009 3:57:49 PM
2nd Story... The battle rages on. Thar, Ruby and Shadow whale away at the young man, while Edmund fires off some long range deadly missiles. (OOC: Sorry Jim, but you can't move and then fire off 2 attacks. I'll count the crit. with the shortsword, but not the disarm.) Kirsten also tries her luck, but her blow goes wide. The young man is definitely beginning to look haggard. Tumbling nimbly out of the way (an AoO from Thar, but no one else gets one), he melts away into the shadows of the room. Spot DC39 to locate him. Shadow moves to guard the door and meets with an unpleasant surprise. There is a burning in his leg as a large wound opens up (17 pts. damage and 1 pt. Con damage, Fort. Save DC17 or an additional 5 pts. Con damage). There is an unhealthy throbbing to the wound that is more worrisome, not to mention the fact that it looks like it's bleeding more than normal. Just behind the doorway the elder "guard" from the previous engagement materializes (Edmund has no line of sight). A cocky smile flits on his face as he flicks Shadow's blood from his shortsword. (OOC: Sorry Scott, but the guy is able to bypass your improved uncanny dodge). On the bright side...that annoying bell stops sounding.
1st Story... Throwing caution to the wind, Julian charges in sword drawn. He is halfway surprised that no lightening bolt heads his way. His smile fades as he feels a burning sensation in his side. Looking over, he finds a young woman with a bloodied shortsword and a very nasty grin. (25 pts. dam. and 1 pt. Con loss to Julian, Fort. Save DC11 or lose 2 pt. Dex. Please remember to figure in any HP and/or AC loss this might cause).
Wynum makes a quick check of the cleric's wounds, which look to be very devastating. Growling in anger, the figure pushes the centaur away. With more than a few profanities aimed at the warehouse, the priest begins to limp back to the temple. Having no priest to worry about, Wynum turns his attention back to Julian and finds that he's in trouble (mostly working the priest thing in for RP fun Florian. The attack on Julian happened after Wynum's turn, so I wanted to give him something to do. Don't worry, you're in a good position to mount an attack next round :) ). Arm also moves into the room to help out the impatient halfing.
Thar 61/70 hp, AC 26/ (vs dude by front door)25 d20+14=22 ; d6+3=8 ; d6=3 ; d20+13=18 ; Wednesday February 4th, 2009 9:05:37 PM
Watching the annoying little man trying to get away, Thar stabs at him with an AoO. Attack = Hit AC 22 for 8 pts + 3 fire damage.
As the man disappears, Thar tries to spot him (only a nat'l 20 will get me a DC 39...) but no luck... "Ed, I can't find this guy!!! Cast something, if you can, to detect him!!!!!!"
Since there's dust all over the place, (both chalk and glitter), he'll watch for other creepy characters.
Hoping to boost their abilities, He'll cast Magic Circle against Evil, 10' radius.
Everyone, this spell gives the benefit if you're w/in 10' radius of me. It gives you a +2 deflection bonus to AC and a +2 resistance bonus on saves. Both these bonuses apply against attacks made or effects created by evil creatures. It also prevents summoned creatures from coming w/in that circle...
Spell lasts 1 hour...
Spells Cast = MCvE, SM3 2nd level = Burned up 1 spell for CMW
Att1 vs. Other man
Ruby [HP: 74/74 - AC: 26(27)] [message, magic circle] d20+6=21 ; Wednesday February 4th, 2009 11:48:19 PM
With the disappearance of the man again she calls out a simple order and one that she hopes the others will follow. "Thar, Kristen...triangle formation with backs to each other." She moves just right to put herself in a position to guard the other twos backs as she fall into a defensive stance. Not sure what else is going on she tries to keep an eye out for signs of movement, searching both the floor and otherwise.
[spot 21]
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC 16) Message, Mage Armour, Fly d20+3=23 ; 4d4+4=14 ; Thursday February 5th, 2009 12:26:28 AM
Edmund flies right up to the window and peers into the room. He immediately sees the recently-vanished fellow, but realises the glitterdust isn't working to uncover him to the others. (Spot=23, Natural 20!)
"Why isn't my dust working?" he asks irritably. "It's all over the floor!"
Edmund racks his brains trying to figure out how to detect people who have disappeared into the shadows through non-magical means, and comes up empty-handed. "I don't know how to find them if they aren't invisible with magic," he finally declares. "If they are using some sort of trick or artful skill, there may be nothing I can do. But this might make his location a little clearer..."
With that, another set of Magic Missiles are sent flying into the young man straight from Edmund's magical arsenal. (Damage=14)
Once this is done, Edmund will tell the others, "There he is, where my missiles hit!"
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Message Bless d20+9=14 ; d20+4=16 ; d8+6=7 ; d8+6=8 ; Thursday February 5th, 2009 5:58:48 AM
Growling, Arm swings twice at Julians attacker, but he's not quite sure that he hits her (attk=14,16 dmg=7,8..15 total...IF I hit).
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 25/47] d20+5=15 ; d20+14=24 ; d6+2=7 ; Thursday February 5th, 2009 1:47:46 PM
Shadow will snarl, "Here is another one!" and grimaces from the wound in his leg as he swings at the elder guard. He will give a little ground to try and draw the guard into the room.
Actions: Fort save=15 (not good enough - applied the extra 5 dmg) to hit=24 dmg=7
Ouch!! Actually, that's 6 Con. pts total lost. Which means Shadow goes from a +2 modifier (15) to a -1 (or 9 Con). Which means that Shadow loses 3 hit points per level. 3*7=21 hit points lost due to the Con. loss. That would put Shadow at 9 HP. It's up to you, but if you want to make a different post, that's ok.---Nellie
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 31+14 Raging (Mage Armour) d20+15=26 ; d20+12=20 ; 3d6+10=16 ; Thursday February 5th, 2009 6:58:39 PM
Fort Save 26 = success versus Dex loss.
"Yeah, nice one Sweety. Talk to you more later."
Julian's eyes become bloodshot and he appears to almost grow within his boots. He swings his Falchion down upon her body...
Attack NON LETHAL DAMAGE Merciful Falchion, Raging. Hit AC 20 Damage 16 non lethal damage
3 AoO - here's hoping.
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 31+14 Raging (Mage Armour) Thursday February 5th, 2009 6:59:15 PM
Rage round 1 of 7
Wynum AC18 d20+7=22 ; d4+3=6 ; Thursday February 5th, 2009 7:31:55 PM
The centaur waves the priest goodbye and mumbles "Well I see what Marteau's all about."
For now Wynum merely draws his medium dagger while avancing towards the young woman. He will try to put his bulk in a flanking position if possible, otherwise between the exit and her (move up to 80'). In any case he attempts a distracted stab while shouting to the two others, still in elvish for no good reason (Unless the woman is obviously elvish, in which case common will do).
Highlight to display spoiler: {"We should grab her or she'll disappear!"}
(Attack with inappropriately-sized dagger: Hit AC22, 24 if flanking. Dmg 6.)
Sweet Whispers (Nellie) d20+15=18 ; d20+15=25 ; d20+15=26 ; d20+15=20 ; 2d8+3=14 ; d20+22=41 ; d20+17=19 ; d20+12=18 ; Thursday February 5th, 2009 10:20:09 PM
2nd Story... Thar lashes out and hacks into the shapechanger before he tumbles away. There is a tingling after Thar's spell as those in the immediate area begin to feel empowered. Ruby calls for a strategic formation and links up back to back with Thar. She can't spot the pesky guard, but she knows he's out there...no doubt watching and plotting. Then suddenly Edmund catches sight of the fellow...it's almost as if he is cloaked in shadows. No worries, the quick thinking wizard fires off his missiles and is rewarded by watching them slam into his opponent. Ed watches as the "youth" mumbles something and then smiles. Then, once more, the slippery fellow slides into the nearby shadows, disappearing from sight (Spot DC41, Listen DC19 gives approximate area).
Shadow lashes out with another attack on the older youth, managing a small gash. . The elder "guard" grins wickedly as he swings at Shadow (missing narrowly). "Hey, you don't look so good. Tell you what... Why don't we all save ourselves a bunch of hassle. You give us the vials and leave, and we'll make sure that there's a nice big bag of gold waiting for you over at that place of yours. You've got to admit...it's a whole lot easier than this mess."
1st Floor Julian whips himself up into a rage and lashes out at the lady but misses.
Arm moves in and lashes out at the woman attacking Julian. She's a difficult one, always twisting and shifting. He does his best, but Arm is likewise unable to get a blow in.
Wynum moves for the flank and lashes out. The strange thing is, no matter how he angles in on the woman, she seems to follow all her opponents with ease and Wynum can't seem to get an edge on her (no flank bonus, sorry). Still, he is able to get one in past her guard.
The woman looks at her opponents and clucks her tongue. "Now, now, gentleman...that is no way to treat a lady!" Tumbling back 15 feet (1 single AoO from Julian), she melts into a nearby shadow. (Spot DC 18 to locate her). The trio hear her muttering what surely must be a spell (Listen DC 15 to know her approximate location). Her voice adopts a sing song melody that makes limbs feel heavy and eyes droop. (Will save DC14 or fall asleep).
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 31+14 Raging (Mage Armour) d20+12=18 ; d20+5=18 ; d20+14=15 ; Thursday February 5th, 2009 11:37:55 PM
AoO Hit AC 18 = miss
Will Save: 18 (should've been +2 more)
Julian's rage continues unabated despite the spell, perhaps even in spite of the spell. He charges the woman, swinging wildly. "Let's tango with steel, not words, you witless woman!"
Power Attack 3
Attack, Charging Hit AC 15
Rage round 2 of 7
(Nellie) Thursday February 5th, 2009 11:41:36 PM
Julian, please give me a Spot and Listen check. The woman is hiding. You need to find her before you can attack.
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 31+14 Raging (Mage Armour) d20+3=23 ; d20+5=22 ; Friday February 6th, 2009 5:58:34 AM
OOC Sorry I missed that - too worried about the Will save Spot 23 nat 20! Listen 22
I guess Julian can see her, but still she dodges the blow.
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Message Bless d20+7=8 ; d20+13=14 ; d20+6=18 ; Friday February 6th, 2009 6:02:00 AM
Angered by the woman's vanishing act, he is totally oblivious to her whereabouts (spot=8, listen=14...can you believe I min'd TWICE? lol). However, he DOES manage to shake off the effects of the spell that she cast (will=18, which doesn't matter because I'm immune to sleep spells anyway...lol...just not my day :*().
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Message Bless-update post d20+9=22 ; d20+4=7 ; d8+6=8 ; Friday February 6th, 2009 6:05:21 AM
Thanks for the update, Julian! :)
Seeing that Julian is fighting SOMETHING in the area, Arm moves next to him and attacks vigorously...hoping to hit something (attk-22 & 7...feel free to apply any penalties for invisible-dmg on 1st attk: 8).
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 9/47] d20+14=30 ; d6+2=7 ; Friday February 6th, 2009 9:49:50 AM
Shadow will move swing once more at the shapechanging guard, but knows he is in real trouble if he does not get any help. "It might seem a mess to you now, but you are in for a big surprise. Haven't you figured it out yet? It does not pay to mess with the Mithril Order, those that do end up losing in the end." Shadow hopes to keep him talking maybe he won't be able to concentrate on the fight.
Actions: to hit=30 dmg=7
Wynum d20=4 ; Friday February 6th, 2009 11:39:14 AM
Cursing his using his Daylight during the night, Wynum calls out for lighting, both as a shadow countermeasure and a final Goetheian plea: "Light! More light!" ... as he falls soundly asleep, in the typical centaur way.
(Will save 4)
Thar 61/70 hp, AC 26/ (vs dude by front door)25 d4=2 ; Friday February 6th, 2009 2:43:05 PM
(I'm not sure how close Thar is to Shadow since we don't have a map, but for now, I'm going to assume I can take a step, heal him and move back to my previous defensive position...)
Seeing that Shadow again needs some TLC, Thar moves quickly, and casts Lesser restoration on Shadow, trying to cure the magic affect on his Constitution... While doing so, he murmurs with a smile at his bloodied friend, "You know Shadow, I do have other people that sometimes need healing..."
Cures 2 pts of Con...
Spells Cast = MCvE, SM3 2nd level = Burned up 1 spell for CMW, Less Restoration
Note that this spell dispels any magical effects reducing one of the subject's ability scores or cures 1d4 points of temporary ability damage to one of the subject's ability scores. It also eliminates any fatigue suffered by the character, and improves an exhausted condition to fatigued. It does not restore permanent ability drain.
Ruby [HP: 74/74 - AC: 24(25)] [message, magic circle] d20+6=11 ; d20+6=12 ; d20+10=28 ; d20+10=19 ; d6+3=8 ; 2d6+3=11 ; Friday February 6th, 2009 8:41:41 PM
Ruby feels Thar move away and knows that he has stepped away to help out on of the others. That is as it should be and she is more worried about this person that attacked them. She glances in all directions but finds herself unable to do more than that.
Without much hesitation she moves away to put her back against something that will provide protection. "Not good." Muttering under her breathe she decides to fully adopt a guard stance and protect herself as best she can. At least that is what she is hoping her enemy will think as she sets herself to snap an attack off as soon as he appears near her.
[ready action - hit: 28*crit19* and damage: 8*crit11*]
[listen 11 and spot 12]
Pleasant Dreams and Grim Realities (Nellie) d100=47 ; d20+15=35 ; d20+15=27 ; d6+2=8 ; 5d6=19 ; d6+2=5 ; d6=3 ; d20+15=17 ; d20+15=18 ; d20+15=24 ; d20+15=22 ; d20+22=34 ; d20+17=36 ; Sunday February 8th, 2009 11:19:39 PM
2nd Story Thar moves from his protective position to give some much needed healing to Shadow. The rogue feels the healing wash over him like a summer rainstorm (10 hp returned).
Shadow launches another attack, and is rewarded by seeing his opponent wince. Shrugging as his offer is rejected, the guard lashes out with his shortsword, but can't connect with Shadow.
Ruby maintains her position, but has a nasty little surprise in mind should that other fellow reappear. Sure enough, her patience pays off as the fellow emerges from the shadows and spears Thar in the side (32 pts. damage and 1 pt. Con damage, Fort. DC24 or lose 3 pts. Str.). He is caught completely off guard by Ruby's attack, and frowns at his new position.
Edmund appears dazed and just flies beside the window seal, trying to determine the best course of action.
1st Floor Julian catches a flash of movement and tracks down his foe. Though his attack misses, Arm links up and takes a swipe where he thinks the woman might be. He is pleasantly surprised when his sword comes back bloodied (50% chance of hit, 47=success!!). Wynum tries with all his might to throw off the spell, but he just can't manage it, and he hits the floor snoring.
The woman looks perturbed at being discovered so easily and takes a poorly aimed swipe at Julian (which misses). Rolling out of the way, she heads further into the shadows (no AoO from Julian or Arm this go) and once more begins the game of cat and mouse (Spot check DC34, or Listen DC36 for approximate location).
OOC: I waited as long as I could for Kirsten and Edmund to the post, but I can't wait any longer.
Further OOC: My apologies for the first post...didn't quite cut and paste all the text.
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC 16) Message, Mage Armour, Fly, See Invisibility Monday February 9th, 2009 4:39:04 AM
((Sorry about that, was at a birthday party and when I got home this completely slipped my mind!))
Growing irritated with the appearing and disappearing foes, Edmund will cast See Invisiblity on himself.
"I thought this might happen," he says into the Message spell. Let's see if I can mark our targets."
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Message Bless-update post d20+13=31 ; d20+13=18 ; d20+7=18 ; Monday February 9th, 2009 6:02:23 AM
Arm swings at the thin air, having no idea that the enemy has moved (ignore middle roll...twitchy finger...I'd never make the dc even with a nat 20 anyway..lol).
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 9/47] d20+14=25 ; d6+2=5 ; Monday February 9th, 2009 1:52:32 PM
Shadow feels invigorated by Thar's administration and that he connected with the guard. "Thanks Thar, and I would love not to need help but this pesky guard just does not want to give up." With that Shadow will launch yet another attack on the guard.
Actions: to hit=25 dmg=5
Thar 29/70 hp, AC 26/ (vs dude by front door)25 d20+12=13 ; d20+12=28 ; d6+3=4 ; d6+11=13 ; Monday February 9th, 2009 2:14:16 PM
Thar grimaces in pain as he feels the deep cut of his opponent's blade. "Shadow, you have a point there. Now it looks like I need some of my own healing..." Deciding that its payback time, he turns and stabs both his swords at the man's vitals.
Att 1 = Hit AC 13 (miss) Att 2 = Hit AC 28 for 4 pts of dmg
He also calls out to Ed, "Ed, I could use some help here my friend. Both Shadow and I aren't doing real well..."
Save = Miss my fortitude save so Str down to 11... New Con = 14 but no hps lost, at least for now...
Spells Cast = MCvE, SM3 2nd level = Burned up 1 spell for CMW, Less Restoration
Thar 29/70 hp, AC 26/ (vs guy I'm attacking)25 Monday February 9th, 2009 2:14:54 PM
(OOC = Sorry, AC 26 is vs the guy I'm attacking and 25 vs. guy by door...
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 31+14 Raging (Mage Armour) d20+10=29 ; Monday February 9th, 2009 3:59:10 PM
Watching his foe tumble out of reach and disappear into the shadows Julian acts quickly (and might think about it later...) He thrusts his hand into his left trouser pocket, retrieves a small objects and tosses it 15-20 feet ahead (in the direction he last saw the woman). The small ball races through the air, and upon impact disappears in a deafening implosion. [a single move action(?) and an attack - thunderstone: You can throw this stone as a ranged attack with a range increment of 20 feet. When it strikes a hard surface (or is struck hard), it creates a deafening bang that is treated as a sonic attack. Each creature within a 10-foot-radius spread must make a DC 15 Fortitude save or be deafened for 1 hour. A deafened creature, in addition to the obvious effects, takes a -4 penalty on initiative and has a 20% chance to miscast and lose any spell with a verbal component that it tries to cast. Since you don't need to hit a specific target, you can simply aim at a particular 5-foot square. Treat the target square as AC 5. ] hit AC 29
Wynum Monday February 9th, 2009 6:03:36 PM
Mumbling something odd about windows and tentacles, Wynum's sleep seems to be disturbed. He might snore quite a bit, but wouldn't hit the floor considering he sleeps in the typically centaur way. A centaur has its dignity!
Kirsten (AC 22, HP 81, Bless) Monday February 9th, 2009 7:15:12 PM
Kirsten, seeing Thar injured by the sometimes-invisible foes, moves to his side to use her Lay on Hands ability.
Heal Thar for 14 Pts of DMG
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 31+14 Raging (Mage Armour) Monday February 9th, 2009 8:11:58 PM
OOC: I just though.... Perhaps the thunderstone will wake Wynum
Ruby [HP: 74/74 - AC: 24(25)] [message, magic circle] d20+12=17 ; d20+7=10 ; d20+16=22 ; d6+3=8 ; d6+3=7 ; Monday February 9th, 2009 8:26:47 PM
With just a slight turn, Ruby is now in a position that is more to her liking. It appears that a slight shift will put their guard enemy between herself and Thar...not a nice place to be, at least for him.
Without a moments hesitation she lets her rapier slip in, trying to find a ripe position to take the man in vital areas. This time her longdagger is more useful for slipping into his guard, trying to snag that annoying sword and send it flying.
[rapier vs. man - hit: 17/10 and damage: 8/7] [longdagger vs. man - disarm: 22]
Upping the anty (Nellie) d20+7=13 ; d20+15=26 ; d20+15=34 ; d20+15=20 ; d20+15=22 ; d20+22=35 ; d20+17=36 ; d100=81 ; Monday February 9th, 2009 11:49:26 PM
2nd Story Floating in front of the window, Edmund casts his spell and finds that nothing has changed...whatever is going on with all the melting into shadows thing isn't invisibility as far as he can tell.
Shadow continues to struggle against his opponent, and scores another hit. The man looks mildly annoyed at the wound. The elder guard lashes out and barely misses Shadow...it would appear that luck is not with the fellow.
Thar strikes out at the young whiper snapper and cuts a gash in his lanky side. Meanwhile, Kirsten senses Thar's urgent need and send some desperately needed healing his way.
Ruby steps in to help out and though she almost catches the fellow in an awkward situation, she just can't find a way to get into flanking position on the little squirt. She strikes out twice with her rapier and almost gets a shot in. Then she flicks her dagger expertly, trying to disarm her foe. At the last minute, the lad twists and is able to remove himself from her attack.
Still, the youth isn't looking so good. It would appear that the combined attacks are slowly wearing him down. Tumbling out of his opponent's reach (AoO from Kirsten), the fellow fires off a spell. A thick nasty fog rapidly pours into the room. Visibility rapidly disappears inside the room (visibility is reduced to 5 foot). Anything more than 5 feet away has total concealment (50% miss chance). From his outside position, Edmund can see nothing but a huge gray cloud bank and a few shifting shadows.
(OOC: Jim, we're using the Woldian improvised rules for disarm. Sooo...as I understand it, Ruby has the following modifier for a disarm...10 (attack) -4 (light weapon) +4 feat= +10. I used the +10 for the attack because you are fighting with two weapons and therefore draw the -2 penalty. The guards DC is 25. In the future, if you do not beat 25, then roll a Reflex DC 25. If you fail, then you drop your weapon. I know it might take some time to get used to the house rules, but let me know if you need any help.)
1st Floor Searching desperately, Arm waves his sword around, but can't find the lady in front of him.
Julian decides on a different strategy. Pulling out his thunderstone, he slams it to the ground (Ok, I'll be nice and say that Arm in no where nearby the stone. :) ). There is a deafening explosion followed by a light ringing of ears. Wynum is suddenly jolted immediately out of his slumber. (Nice one Julian!! One hero pt. for the quick thinking!) It takes the centaur a couple of moments to figure out exactly where he is.
From somewhere out in the room there is a light shuffling of feet. (Spot DC35, Listen DC36....otherwise, 50% chance of missing).
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Message Bless d100=61 ; d20+10=30 ; d20=17 ; d20+5=15 ; d8+7=8 ; d8+7=8 ; Tuesday February 10th, 2009 6:01:50 AM
Not really seeing or hearing anything, Arm swings on instinct and connects solidly (1st attk=30,nat 20, crit confirm=17?-dmg=8 (or 16 if crit), 2nd attk=15 dmg(?)=8).
OOC: Thank you for not deafening me, Nellie :)
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Message Bless update Tuesday February 10th, 2009 6:02:19 AM
chance to hit=61% :)
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 9/47] d20+14=18 ; d20+5=19 ; Tuesday February 10th, 2009 9:26:56 AM
Before the fog will hide his opponent Shadow tries to get one more attack off on the guard. After that he will have to use his ears instead of his eyes to locate his foe.
Actions: To hit=18 Listen=19
Wynum Tuesday February 10th, 2009 11:08:25 AM
Wynum wakes up suddenly as from a nightmare, unaware that the nightmare is actually going on. Still dazed, he doesn't move a bit, but begins whispering semi-coherently to everyone, his eyes wide open in a cold, quiet panic.
"The shadows, always behind us... Gods, stop that whistle! Stop that bell! Don't trust the window! Don't knock! The guild, the guild was changed! That's right, the councilmen... are shadows?"
Thar 29/70 hp, AC 26/ (vs guy I'm attacking)25 2d8+6=11 ; Tuesday February 10th, 2009 2:41:47 PM
"Thanks Madam" Thar responds to Kirsten as he feels the healing fill him. As the fog begins to fill the room, Thar realizes that he's not going to be able to find that pesky man. He yells to Shadow, Kirsten and Ruby, "Let's go back to our previous formation, back to back!!! We need to get to a corner or wall also, so we can't get picked off by our foes..."
For now, he'll move to Shadow's position and pulling out his wand of Cure Medium wounds, he uses another charge (down to 45 now) on his friend.
Cures 11 pts of dmg on Shadow
Str down to 11... New Con = 14 but no hps lost, at least for now...
Spells Cast = MCvE, SM3 2nd level = Burned up 1 spell for CMW, Less Restoration
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 31+14 Raging (Mage Armour) d100=90 ; d20+13=32 ; d20+13=21 ; d10+8=15 ; d6=3 ; Tuesday February 10th, 2009 3:33:43 PM
Cautious so as to not hit Arm, Julian swings wildly with his falchion. "Show your face, harlot! I thought you wanted to dance." His sword seems to jar something, and an orange glow eminates, "Ha-ha! Mind if I cut in?"
% miss chance 90 (high is good right?) Hit AC 32 crit check 21... (I don't think that is high enough) Damage 15+3 = 18 points of non-lethal damage Rage round 3 of 7
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC 16) Message, Mage Armour, Fly, See Invisibility Tuesday February 10th, 2009 4:01:53 PM
Unable to see what is going on in the room, Edmund floats impotently outside the window.
"Ah... everything all right in there?" he asks querulously. "I don't think there's anything I can do about this. I don't have any spells that can summon winds, and I'm afraid of casting anything else for fear of hitting you lot!"
"Might be time to come down to the ground level and help the others," he adds. "Sounds like they're not having the best go of it either."
Ruby [HP: 74/74 - AC: 24(25)] [message, magic circle] d20+12=29 ; d6+3=4 ; Tuesday February 10th, 2009 8:51:46 PM
Ruby follows the suggestion and motion of Thar as she puts herself back into formation. She does not want to expose herself to any other risks and at least this way she can guard the others' backs as well.
If they do not have to move that far than she will once again hold onto her attack, just in case the man is not smart enough to learn from his earlier mistake.
[delayed action vs. man - hit: 29 and damage: 8]
Strange Weather, Eh? (Nellie) d20+15=23 ; d20+22=40 ; d20+17=30 ; d20+22=29 ; d20+17=18 ; d20+22=38 ; d20+17=28 Tuesday February 10th, 2009 11:41:56 PM
2nd Story Thar, Ruby and Kirsten link up once more, trying to minimize any damage. Thar heals himself with his wand while he waits. Ruby, on the other hand, sets up for another shock and awe...still, with all the fog around, it's going to be hard to tell where the little weasel is until he's right up on the group. (Spot DC29, Listen DC13, roll d6 for direction, then 50% miss chance)
It's hard to tell exactly where, but out in the fog, there is the distinctive sound of spell casting.
Unable to cast any spells without collateral damage, Edmund calls out his regrets and suggests linking up downstairs.
By the doorway, Shadow takes a swipe at the elder guard, but can't connect. Just as he feared, the fog spills into the hallway and the visibility is immediately reduced to next to nothing. The last thing he sees before the elder guard disappears into the fog is an unnerving grin on the fellows face...and then there's the sound of spellcasting. Probably not a good sign. (Spot DC38, Listen DC23roll d6 for direction, then 50% miss chance)
1st Floor While Wynum tries to orient himself, Julian and Arm are finding themselves with much better luck. Both are able to score a couple of hits. If they could only see the woman... It's strange, but it's almost as if she pulls the shadows in closer and it's even harder to find her (Spot DC40, Listen DC30...roll d6 to pick a direction, then 50% miss chance).
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 31+14 Raging (Mage Armour) Wednesday February 11th, 2009 12:48:20 AM
OOC: just to clarify, if we can't make the Spot or Listen check ('cause we're not gods yet) then we should roll d6 and make a 50% miss chance. Does a natural 20 on a Spot check automatically succeed?
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Message Bless d6=1 ; d100=13 ; d20+13=25 ; d20+7=20 ; Wednesday February 11th, 2009 5:59:54 AM
Arm tries swinging again, but somehow he feels that he doesn't connect (direction:1 chance to hit-13...doh!).
OOC: I'm not sure about the nat 20 spot & listen check myself..I HAD a nat 20 on one the other day, so if it IS true, let me know, Nellie, and I'll add an extra attack to my next post...none today, though... :)
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 9/47] d20+9=10 ; d20+5=24 ; d6=4 ; d100=47 ; d20+13=29 ; Wednesday February 11th, 2009 9:25:24 AM
Shadow worries about what the elder guard is up to since he is grinning as he disappears into the fog. Shadow unsure of where exactly he is decides that he will do the unexpected and will throw himself towards the floor and tuck his head and roll with the momentum to the left of where he last saw his opponent. If during the roll he runs into anything other than the wall he will kick his feet out using his momentum to add to the kick. He hopes this might disrupt the guards casting at the very least, and if he does not run into anything other than the wall he will have moved out of the way of a direct casted spell.
Actions: Spot=10 (nat. 1, lol) Listen=24 direction:4 - 47% To hit with kick (not sure of any minuses and only if he actually rolls into him)=29 (don't know how that would impact damage, but really trying to disrupt spell casting and find out where he is)
Nellie Wednesday February 11th, 2009 9:55:53 AM
Yes, Robert, you got it right. If you miss the Spot or Listen, then roll a d6 and then d100 (high is good). Your opponent has moved, and you don't know where she is anymore. If you make the Spot or Listen check, then you know where she is and don't have to worry about guessing where she is. Of course, a natural 20 would succeed...that's what they do those nat. 20's.
Lynn, yes, I saw your natural 20 and Arm's first attack connected, which I put in my post. The 2nd attack didn't connect because you didn't have a high enough attack to get past your foes armor.
I know it doesn't seem like it folks, but I am being generous with the Spot and Listen checks in the fog (and the reason is similar when they are hiding). With visibility reduced the way it is, you can't see anything beyond 5 feet out. Which means you can't seem them **and** they can't see you. The d6 is to try and figure out what direction your foe is in. If you are able to succeed on the Spot or the Listen, I'm being nice and saying that you automatically know where they are. Yes, they are very high numbers to achieve, but then again, these are challenging foes.
It looks like some of you are getting frustrated, which is not my goal. Tell you what, we'll say that anything above a 17 (unmodified d20) automatically succeeds on Spot or Listen (Waard's boon to ya'll). If you roll 17 or higher on either check, you know where your foe is and don't have to worry about the d6 or the concealment. I'll also wave the concealment on the 1st floor battle.
I'll restate... 17 or high on Spot or Listen means you know where your opponent is...roll attack as normal.
2nd Story If you miss your Spot or Listen, roll d6 and then d100 (above 50 is success). The d6 will allow me to know whether you found your foe.
1st Floor If you miss your Spot or Listen, roll d6, which will allow me to know whether you found your foe.
Now get out there and start having fun.
Wynum Wednesday February 11th, 2009 2:52:00 PM
It's quite obvious that Wynum snaps back to his senses, however he doesn't charge into battle with the shadows. Instead, he picks up his fallen dagger, and moves just next to the exit door, all the while whispering to his comrades.
"Everybody, we should not have entered. The councilmen are not here. This is only a trap. They're not here. Let's get out now."
Thar 62/70 hp, AC 26/ (vs guy I'm attacking)25 d20=16 ; d20=9 ; d6=2 ; d100=49 ; 2d8+6=19 ; Wednesday February 11th, 2009 3:23:30 PM
With his back finally against Ruby, Thar feels slightly more comforted than before. He takes a moment to try to hear or see any signs of his foe (Spot = Rolled 16, miss..., Listen = Rolled 9 miss, 2 for d6 direction, 49 for d100 )
But as before, he has no luck. For now, he'll whisper to Ruby, "I think we should think about retreating for a moment. Maybe we should go back out the window, and go back down the rope and try to reconnect with those on the 1st floor." Since she is at full hps, he'll user the wand (44 charges left now) on himself and hope for the best... 19 hps recovered...
If she agrees with his plan, he'll move quickly along the wall toward the window
(Note that my last post was wrong for the header... I should have had 43 hps since Kirsten healed me. With the added 19, I now have 62...)
Kirsten (AC 22, HP 81, Bless) d20+2=19 ; d20+2=19 ; d20+10=18 ; d20+5=13 ; d8+4=6 ; d8+4=5 ; Wednesday February 11th, 2009 9:10:22 PM
At the appearance of the fog, she sticks close to the others and struggles to make sense of where the opponent might be (Spot = 19 (17+2) Listen = 19 (17+2). She will turn to the others and mutter, "If you want to retreat, I'll follow."
(OOC: So I think this means I know where the guy is and can attack, right?)
She will attack again.
Attack 1 - Hit AC18 for 6 DMG Attack 2 - Hit AC 13 for 5 DMG
Ruby [HP: 74/74 - AC: 24(25)] [message, magic circle] d20+6=17 ; d20+6=9 ; d6=6 ; d100=28 ; Wednesday February 11th, 2009 9:22:53 PM
With a simple nod of her head she thinks the plan might be good, though she is not sure how far it is back up to the window. Whispering through the message spell that they have up she notes her concern. "How high is the window...don't want to leave ourselves open as we get out. The door they came through might be better." Depending on what Thar has to say, she will move in whatever direction that he wants, trying to keep the contact between them as best she can. With these ones, unprotected backs could be a big problem.
As she moves, she continues to hold herself ready for another attack against the rogue...though she is not sure how that is going to work with the fog. She can see Thar and Kristen, but nothing else around them for some ways.
[listen 17, spot 9, d6= 6, %= 28]
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC 16) Message, Mage Armour, Fly, See Invisibility d20+6=25 ; d20+6=10 ; d6=4 ; 4d4+4=10 ; Wednesday February 11th, 2009 10:30:47 PM
(Sorry. Ignore d6, I made my spot check)
Unable to tell by sound where anyone is--there's far too much commotion--Edmund flies onto the casement of the window and sticks his head into the foggy room. His sharp eyes are able to pick out the foes and, once again, he lets fly with another set of Magic Missiles. [b](Spot=25, Listen=10, M.Miss. Damage=10)[b] ((OOC: Edmund will target the youth from before if possible, or the new arrival if not.))
"This is ridiculous," Edmund declares. "It's just about impossible to see anything! And everyone is too close together for me to risk a Fireball or two!"
More than a little annoyed, Julian swings his falchion this way and that. "What now - is your dance card full?"
Hit AC 26 damage 15+2 = 17 Non Lethal Damage
Nellie Thursday February 12th, 2009 12:11:44 AM
It's late...post in am.
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Message Bless d20+13=15 ; d20+7=15 ; d6=3 ; d100=79 ; d20+10=18 ; d20+5=12 ; d8+7=10 ; d8+7=15 ; Thursday February 12th, 2009 6:01:23 AM
OOC: WOW, even with the new rules I can't find her...lol
IC: Arm again swings in a random direction, hoping to finally connect with her (attks: 18,12..direction 3..79% to find-dmg (if any...lol) 10,15).
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 9/47] Thursday February 12th, 2009 1:36:23 PM
(I will stick with Shadows post above, although he did find him by sound, so he will roll towards him and kick like it is stated.)
:)
Two Steps Forward... (Nellie) d20+35=42 ; d6+2=5 ; d20+35=41 ; d6+2=8 ; d20+5=14 ; d20+5=22 ; d20+15=20 ; d100=42 ; Thursday February 12th, 2009 4:21:05 PM
The battle continues as some members of the order begin to have second thoughts about the battle. Thinking it's a trap, Wynum calls for a retreat. Thar would like to like up with his friends and begins to try and work his way back to the window...now which way was that again??
2nd Story Kirsten locates the guard as Thar is backing out and lashes out. Her blows connect, but are absorbed by his armor. Ruby moves with Thar, but she keeps any eye on the guard as she does so, lest he try any funny business. Edmund suddenly gets a bead on the runt through the fog and lights up his life with a volley of magic missiles. Kirsten sees him grunt with pain from the blow. He's definitely not looking if very good shape right now. Growling, he shouts out "Kill the captives! We don't need them anymore!" Angry and in pain, he lashes out with shortsword and spears Kirsten (5 pts. damage, 1pt. Con loss). Then he tumbles toward the doorway (no AoO from Kirsten)...and unknowingly, Shadow (there's about 10 feet separating the two after his move...Shadow's in the hall way, and "elder guard" just entered the doorway). The fog follows him, and Thar and Ruby are now able to see the window side of the room clearly.
Over by the door, Shadow follows his opponent and lashes out connecting solidly (sorry Shadow, but the fellow was done casting his spell before you could act). Looking highly peeved at the rogue, he lashes out with his short sword in a very accurate blow (8 pts. damage, 1 pt. Con loss). An evil twinkle in his eye, he rolls past Shadow (AoO from Shadow) and sprints down the hallway toward another door. As he reaches for the knob, he takes the time to thumb his nose at Shadow...just as that pesky fog starts rolling into the hallway.
1st Floor Wynum retrieves his dagger and advises everyone to pull out. Arm and Julian look determined to stick out the fight. Arm waves his weapon around wildly. Although one of his blows bounces off armor, he is disappointed to see his weapon come back clean. Julian, on the other hand, spots the lady and puts a nice goose egg on the top of her head. She looked bruised and battered and flustered as she tumbles past Julian and toward a staircase that leads to the 2nd Story. There is a rather loud mumbling of spellcasting and then the woman completely disappears from view.
Thar 62/70 hp, AC 26/ (vs guy I'm attacking)25 2d8+6=14 ; Thursday February 12th, 2009 5:08:27 PM
Thar curses as the room clears and it appears their enemy is running. "Well heck... We didnt' get them and now they're running... "
He stops and looks at Ruby, Kirsten and Shadow, and says, "Let's decide this quick. Do we stay here, since the room is clear or do we go downstairs and try to link up with our friends? I think we should go down the rope to the front door and try to meet up with them, vs. fighting our way down the hall. I'll do whatever you all wish..."
While they discuss it, he'll move quickly to Shadow and burn up another CMW charge, hoping that it helps for now...
CMW's = Cured 14 hps
(Shadow, are your hp's on your header up to date? Didn't I heal you before when you had 9?)
Thar 62/70 hp, AC 26/ (vs guy I'm attacking)25 Thursday February 12th, 2009 5:09:09 PM
(Sorry, Thar will also direct his comments to Ed also)
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 31+14 Raging (Mage Armour) Thursday February 12th, 2009 6:00:18 PM
"Wynum, Arm, ho! They flee! They flee! We'll meet our friends upstairs. I bet the councilmen are in here somewhere."
Julian rushes up the stairs, and is confronted by the fog. He move headlong towards the sounds of combat calling, "Kirsten! Thar! Shadow! Eddy! We come to save you!"
Double Move action = max 40 feet OOC actually I cast Expeditious Retreat just before the Tentacles appeared and attacked - that would be less than 4 minutes ago? If so then Julian would move a max of 100 feet.
Kirsten (AC 22, HP 81, Bless) Thursday February 12th, 2009 9:29:25 PM
"I agree with Thar," the paladin says as she watches the enemy move to escape. "We need to meet up with the others and decide what to do from there. It's too dangerous to continue on by ourselves."
She looks to the others, preparing to move towards the window and head back the way they came.
Ruby [HP: 74/74 - AC: 24(25)] [message, magic circle] Thursday February 12th, 2009 10:16:39 PM
Glancing to Thar she simply shrugs her shoulders, though she does point out the obvious. "Did they have captives or was that a ruse?" She does not want to leave anyone to the mercy of these theives and they have them on the run at least. Either way she is willing to pull out, but will take it badly if she finds out there were innocents that lost their lives due to their inaction.
"If they have innocents...I can not agree to leave without trying to save them." With the message spell she is able to relay this to all those in the group and though she is new, she feels responsible for them. Still she had made an oath to guard those in this part of the city and she cannot just abandon that oath.
Wynum just can't follow the halfling tornado, or the situation, for that matter. Grumbling, he settles for a rather unglorified function: doortaur. Stepping back, he places his forebody in the doorframe, making sure to block it thoroughly against any invisible trespasser larger than a house cat, and waits, dagger in hand.
[Here's some rolls just to roll something : Listen 17, Spot 14]
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC 16) Message, Mage Armour, Fly, See Invisibility d20+6=18 ; d20+6=19 ; Friday February 13th, 2009 2:20:48 AM
When the halfling starts shouting, Edmund instinctively claps his hands to his ears, though it does nothing to dampen the effect of the Message spell.
"Yes! Yes! We can hear you! You don't need to shout!" he snaps back, crossly. "And as for saving, we're quite fine, thank you very much. Though these boobs are running away down the stairs toward you. You might want to stop them."
Edmund floats down into the second-floor room, but remains hovering about a foot above the floor, his back to the window. "Leaving so soon, Kirsten?" he says with a grin. "These close quarters don't suit me either, except for traps. Can't do that with all of you lot standing around. Last thing I want to do is catch you in a Web[/] or a [i]Fireball."
After a brief survey of the situation, Edmund is already bored. "What now, what now?" he idly enquires. (Spot=18, Listen=19)
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Message Bless Friday February 13th, 2009 5:58:00 AM
Determined, Arm follows his friend up the stairs to see if he can aid his companions on the second floor, hoping that it isn't too late for them.
Wynum Friday February 13th, 2009 9:31:15 AM
[DM: Speaking of close quarters, I realize I might have the wrong picture of the place. It was described as a "Warehouse" but I sort of figured it was a small room. How big are those rooms, roughly?]
Good question!! The first floor is large approximately 100 ft. square. There are several rooms on the 2nd floor. which look to be 20 ft. square (like the one you were in).---Nellie
Thar 62/70 hp, AC 26/ (vs guy I'm attacking)25 Friday February 13th, 2009 2:29:30 PM
Hearing his friends come up the stairs, Thar says, "OK, well, since they are coming up the stairs, it makes sense that we work towards meeting them. My opinion is that we should go out the door and follow the sound of their voices. As long as we stay out of the fog, we should be OK for now. Shadow, do you feel like taking point or do you want me to give you a break and do it for a while?"
If they agree, he'll either take point or 2nd position (b/h Shadow) and go out the doorway, looking down the hall for the sound of his friends... (Let me know if I need Spot, Listen.... or whatever checks...)
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 1/47] d20+14=23 ; d6+2=7 ; Friday February 13th, 2009 3:33:12 PM
OOC: Thar, unfortunately they are up to date, have been hit quite a bit. Also, would Shadow have at least disrupted his escape or damage him?
Shadow not feeling well will take a final swing at his opponent.
To hit=23 dmg=7
Nellie on Shadow Friday February 13th, 2009 10:45:15 PM
Actually, I show Shadows HP as 26 after the guards last attack (His Con score is 10 or +0).
Yes Shadow, you got an AoO, but didn't have a chance to stop him from heading to the door.
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 26/47] Sunday February 15th, 2009 11:51:21 PM
ooc: kk, must have not put in a heal spell, thanks Nellie.
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Message Bless Monday February 16th, 2009 7:35:28 AM
Arm continues his ascent behind Julian, hoping that he can at least get a few good whacks in at something on the upper floor.
Thar 62/70 hp, AC 26/ 25 Monday February 16th, 2009 2:37:29 PM
(OOC = That looks much better now Shadow ;-))))))
Parting of Company (Nellie) 2d8+3=17 ; d20+15=35 ; Tuesday February 17th, 2009 1:12:50 AM
Regrouping seems to be the plan of the day... With legs like a whirling dervish, Julian shoots up the staircase and into the fogged area. Like the others previously discovered, once in the fog it is very difficult to determine direction or see anything (vis. Reduced to 5 foot). Arm makes it to the top of the staircase this round and watches Julian head into the fog. Wynum is still hesitant and calls out a warning to his fellow adventurers. He parks himself in the door frame, making sure no one gets in or out. Right now he doesn't see anything headed his way.
Up top, things are happening fast. Thar, Ruby and Kirsten head toward the doorway, though they do not head into the fog. Shadow makes one last jab at his fleeing foe and cuts into him, but he can't stop his progress. Then the fog rolls in, but he still sees the guard headed his way (go ahead and keep the healing since it was hard to tell where everyone was without a map). Edmund steps into the room well out of fog range and looks around. He's pretty sure he sees something through the fog, but is that the baddy or Shadow??
Meanwhile, Shadow looses track of his original foe, but he does hear and ominous click like a door being opened, and the sounds of footsteps headed into a room further down the hallway. Then, as if out of nowhere, a figure tumbles past Shadow in the same direction as his original foe. The fog seems to cling tightly to the figure as he twists out of Shadows range (no AoO from Shadow). Thar, Kirsten and Ruby notice the fog roll out of the room and further into the hallway, while Edmund loses track of the figure in the doorway. Julian also finds the fog lifted from his position.
OOC: I've got a very rough map here,...if you guys post a private post with your google docs addies, then I can add you as editors to the document and you can move your character on the map. :)
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Message Bless Tuesday February 17th, 2009 6:07:11 AM
Arm does his best to make his way to Julian to see if he can aid his friends in any way.
OOC: sorry, but the google docs thing never worked right for me, and I'm not even sure I know how to access it anymore...lol
In the long term that's not really good. Any changes to your CS should be made on the google doc. It would be best if you could find your account so that you can update your CS. You could always create another google account and transfer your CS there. If you can figure out your password, I can probably help you with anything you need to know. Just send me an email. :)---Nellie
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 26/47] d20+14=27 ; d6+2=6 ; Tuesday February 17th, 2009 9:32:21 AM
Shadow will call out, "They are headed down the hallway and into another room." He will head towards the direction he saw both of them go.
IF he gets within range of one of them he will attack, but if he does not he will try and get close enough to the wall to be able to see doors/doorways.
IF he gets an attack in: to hit=27 dmg=6
Wynum Tuesday February 17th, 2009 10:11:12 AM
Looking very lonely and very useless in the vast empty room, Wynum mumbles to himself (and coincidentally to everyone). "Well. These sneaky shapechanging freaks don't use doors anyways."
He moves towards the back of the building (80') where the windows are, resheats his dagger and readies his bow. "Everybody, I'll be in the back. Warn me if any tries to escapes."
Thar Tuesday February 17th, 2009 12:14:34 PM
After telling the others of his plan (e.g. follow Shadow, find the others too) Thar hustles out after Shadow, trying to remain close to him. His goal is to stay w/in ~ 10' of Shadow, so he'll be protected by the Prot from Evil Spell (Shadow - remember the bonus for your AC, as well as other mods )
Once in the hall, he'll look down both sides of the hallway, trying to see if he recognizes either friend for foe...
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC 16) Message, Mage Armour, Fly, See Invisibility, Bless, Haste Tuesday February 17th, 2009 3:54:36 PM
Edmund looks to Ruby, Thar, and Kirsten, and shrugs his shoulders.
"After them, I suppose?" he says. "But first, this."
Edmund will cast Haste on the four of them, aware that it will now be easier for them to catch the fleeing foes.
"Off you go," he adds. "Should find it easier to keep up with the enemy now!"
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 31+14 Raging (Mage Armour) d20+8=9 ; d100=95 ; d20+3=11 ; Tuesday February 17th, 2009 4:18:36 PM
Julian wants a piece of the action. Hearing Shadow announce "down the hallway" the little halfling puts his right shoulder forward and charges headlong into the fog.
Improved Overrun (http://www.woldiangames.com/Woldipedia/index.php/Combat_Rules#Overrun) Str Check 9 = natural 1 (would only be +4 if against a Medium character, but a nat 1 is a nat 1) Reflex save = 11 guessing here: 50% miss chance 95
OOC this suggests that IF Julian does run into someone Julian will fall back 5' landing prone. With that Reflex save this will probably happen even if he hits a wall.
(Nellie) Tuesday February 17th, 2009 4:49:55 PM
Folks, if you could please, please, please put your email addy in a private post, I will add you to the google doc for the map. That way you can place your character exactly where you want him/her on the map. This should reduce confusion on my behalf and also speed up combat. I've already got Florian and Ken added. I see that Ken has already moved Thar (Thanks Ken!!). If this works, it should really help out with combat.
Ruby [HP: 74/74 - AC: 24(25)] [message, magic circle, haste] Tuesday February 17th, 2009 7:40:10 PM
Trying to be as careful as possible but not lose Thar, she races off after him. She tries to keep him in sight and as close as possible, without causing problems, so that she can continue to guard his back. This was one messed up situation, but she had to admit that she was having fun.
Prep Time (Nellie) 2d8+3=13 ; d20+9=27 ; 2d8+3=11 ; Wednesday February 18th, 2009 12:06:56 AM
The Order links up once more and prepares to put the smack down on evil.
Shadow scouts ahead and finds what he was looking for (Spot=18). Stepping forward, he cuts into the younger guard.
Edmund gives Thar, Ruby, Kirsten and himself a nice boost.
Julian, in typical form charges in and barely makes out a figure before he smashes into it and bounces back 5 feet to land on his keister (-4 for melee attacks made from the prone position or take a move equivalent action to get up from prone).
The hastened Thar moves out to keep track of Shadow, while Arm comes up from the stairway and heads into the fog. It's amazing how dense the fog is, and Arm finds something at his feet...could that be...yep...it's Julian! Meanwhile Ruby takes up a position to guard Thar's back.
Down on the bottom floor, Wynum moves away from the door and toward where the windows are on the 2nd floor. He keeps an eye out, but he still doesn't see anything suspicious.
And for the bad guys... The elder guard looks to be on his last leg, he is bleeding massively. Snarling, he hustles away from Shadow (withdraw...no AoO from Shadow). The fog surrounding him begins to dissipate quickly as he ducks into the room that the younger guard disappeared into (Bleh..forgot the mist was supposed to be stationary in the room...oh well...we'll just remove it from the equation). There is a muffled sobbing from further down the hall, and then a bellowed command. "I'm warning you...if you set foot in this room, I'll slice the councilwoman's throat!
OOC: If you don't already have access to the google doc (BTW, apparently I can allow access from *any* email addy, not just a google one..yay!!), then you can see the map here. Thanks to those who have already given me there addies. I think this will definitely be the way to go with the maps. If there are any problems, just drop me a line.
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Message Bless Wednesday February 18th, 2009 5:59:51 AM
Arm tries to help Julian to an upright position so that they may all continue the fight or whatever they decide to do.
OOC: Not sure if assisting him will allow him to regain his footing faster, but I thought I'd try ;) I'm going to send you my email, Nellie and try the google doc thing again...if I have any problems, I'll let you know :)
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 26/47] d20+17=32 ; d20+9=27 ; Wednesday February 18th, 2009 10:00:17 AM
Shadow will move quietly to the doorway and see if can peer in to see what is going on in the room.
Actions: Move Silently=32 Spot=27
Thar d4=3 ; d20+13=24 ; Wednesday February 18th, 2009 2:03:21 PM
Thar greets his other companions who are coming up the hall, and ask he walks away, calls "Let me know if you need healing!" As they go past the first empty room, Thar pauses and looks in briefly. He doesn't stand in the doorway, but stands to the side and peeks his head in and looks around to see if anyone of anything is there. If not, he'll try to close the door and hopefully secure the room...
Spot = 24
Wynum d20-2=2 ; d20+6=17 ; Wednesday February 18th, 2009 7:35:01 PM
Wynum moves to position himself beneath the windows. He shifts so as to have the best position to peer into the windows and tries to look inside. [Spot 17 just in case]
Meanwhile, he whispers, with forlorn emphasis to the others: "Why are you still inside? Get out of this trap, I am *certain* the councilmen are not here. Can you still see some ennemies?"
(I put Wynum on the map, though its exact position would depend on the 3-D geometry of things... Also, I am assuming Wynum did not hear the ennemy's shouted warning through the window with a brilliant listen check of 2, assuming a DC of about 5 {-5 for the shout,+5 for the window, +5 for the distance})
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 31+14 Raging (Mage Armour) Wednesday February 18th, 2009 7:54:36 PM
"Thanks Arm. Fancy meeting you here..." Julian hastily accepts Arm's offer to help get up. "What? Now the fog lifts?!"
Julian is almost a blur in his movements, he really wants to get his sword into whoever he should. "Where to? Who to hit?"
"Wynum, sure they're here - they just said they are. And Thar is here to help."
Ruby [HP: 74/74 - AC: 24(25)] [message, magic circle, haste] Wednesday February 18th, 2009 9:39:10 PM I can flip a couple daggers at the one doing the threatening and maybe distract him. But that will only give a few seconds if you wish to try and save her life? Her voice is calm even through the message spell as she pulls up closer to Thar, still guarding him from attacks from behind. She will hold off on whatever she is to do till she is given some sort of orders, as she does not want to put anyone's life in danger.
Her thinking does not lead to the conclusion that the one they might be attempting to save could be a doppleganger in disguise. Maybe she might consider it later, but right now she is focused on saving people.
Promises, Promises (Nellie) 2d6=10 ; d2=2 ; 2d8+3=13 ; d20+6=13 ; d20+6=14 ; d20+6=25 ; Wednesday February 18th, 2009 11:43:39 PM
2nd Story Arm helps Julian to his feet and of course, the warrior is eager to get at the baddies!
Thar heads toward the combat area, but stops to check out the middle room. He doesn't spot anything and goes ahead and shuts the door behind him. No sense in undo surprises!
Shadow zips around and positions himself so that he can get a good look at the room with the guards. He's got a great view of the elder guard, and sees the elbow of the younger guard. Peering around the corner, he sees the younger guard reach out and touch the elder guard. Many of the elder guards wounds start to close up. Out of the corner of his eye, Shadow spots a flicker of movement as the young guard shifts position...he's pretty sure he spots a feminine figure held close against the young guard! She's bound and gagged and looks scared. Of course, she probably has good reason, seeing as there's a shortsword held to her throat!
Through the message spell, Ruby queries whether it would be feasible for her to wing off a couple of attacks. It is more than a little unnerving knowing that there might well be captives in the room.
1st Floor From his guard position on the first floor, Wynum continues to advise the group to get out. Finding that there are no windows to look through, he looks about the room, always on the watch for anything out of the ordinary. He still doesn't see or hear anything suspicious.
OOC: Ok Florian, I confess that I'm really confused by your post... You're on the first floor of the building on the window side of the warehouse, right? There really aren't any windows on the first floor, but that really doesn't matter. Also, please note that there is a 1st Floor tab on the map. I've put Wynum on there, so he really doesn't need to be on the 2nd story map. :)
OOC: I'll continue to post the Map, but please go ahead and edit the google document to reflect your moves. This is a really big help to me. Thanks guys!!
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Message Bless Thursday February 19th, 2009 6:02:42 AM
Arm moves to a point behind Shadow, gripping his sword tightly in anticipation of attacking, but holding back at the thought that he may endanger hostages.
OOC: Nellie, I actually got the google docs to work...yay! I updated my position on the map, but I'll have to check later to see if it actually updated. :)
Wynum Thursday February 19th, 2009 12:02:52 PM
[Wynum actually ran *outside* (map updated, didn't notice the tab!). He's standing roughly beneath the 2nd floor windows and trying to peer up through them. Judging from the map, he could see something. How much does he sees of the hostage situation?]
Whispering through the message spell: "I'm out below the windows. I think I see someone to the right. Can I shoot?"
(Further actions depending on what he sees!)
(Nellie) Thursday February 19th, 2009 12:24:34 PM
Nellie update....my little guy has the stomach virus (again!!). I'm still going to try and post tonight, but if I don't that's what's going on.
Florian, I'm really sorry, but the windows on the other two windows are boarded up (finally figured out how to merge cells on the google map, so now you can read that). I didn't understand previously that you wanted to go *outside* of the building. Now that I understand, feel free to place yourself wherever you want to be (including someplace on the 2nd story if that's where you want to be...**know** I understand what you were intending to do ). I just didn't understand what your intentions were. I don't want you to lose any actions, so you are free to place yourself wherever you need to be. :)
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC 16) Message, Mage Armour, Fly, See Invisibility, Bless, Haste Thursday February 19th, 2009 1:42:56 PM
Edmund follows along behind everyone else and finally arrives near the hostage situation.
"Do you want me to try to incapacitate him with a spell," Edmund asks. "I can possibly put him to sleep or fascinate him. Or, barring that, I may be able to kill him outright. Of course, if it fails . . ."
Edmund watches the situation with grave concern and wonders whether he will really be able to pull it off if requested to do so.
((Waiting until I see what everyone else has to say before I finish my action this round. Don't want to start chucking spells without some sort of agreement.))
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 26/47] Thursday February 19th, 2009 2:01:17 PM
Shadow motions to trade places with Arm and he says quietly, "stay here for a second" and he moves back towards Edmund. Once he is a few steps away from the door he says quietly to Ed, "Do you have the ability left to turn one of us invisible again? If you do Arm or I could go in and try to grab the hostage before they know what is going on and the rest could rush in for the rescue." Shadow hopefully lays out a decent plan for the rescue of the councilwoman.
Thar d20+13=24 ; 2d8+6=17 ; Thursday February 19th, 2009 4:34:41 PM
Confident that the middle room is safe, Thar moves toward Shadow. (Assuming they all still have the message spell), Thar says, "That's a good idea Shadow. We could charge in and one of you could get her free. Let me know what you exactly want us to do... Is there anyway that someone could charge in through the window, sort of how the Plateau City SWAT teams enter buildings?"
Deciding that he's got a moment, Thar looks at everyone's condition and since Shadow is still the most grievously wounded, he'll use up another second level spell and heal some more points.
Healed 17 more points so Shadow should be up to 43...
Con = 14 but no hps lost, at least for now... Spells Cast = MCvE, SM3 2nd level = Burned up 2 spells for CMW, Less Restoration
Wynum - The Plateau City's WHAT team Thursday February 19th, 2009 7:37:43 PM
[Nellie thanks for the quick update.]
Wynum stays where he is, below the barred windows. He tries to check very carefully for any crack, disjointed or poorly fitted planks - any gap, even small - (I know the window's quite far away but...).
Having pieced together what's happening inside, he chimes in again. "I don't want to repeat myself too much, but the councilmen are not here. By that I mean, neither councilman Lynom, nor councilman Mobec, nor councilman Saisset. Now, will you either rush in and finish them before they vanish again - or maybe just leave this trap?"
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC 16) Message, Mage Armour, Fly, See Invisibility, Bless, Haste Thursday February 19th, 2009 8:06:24 PM
Edmund nods and casts Greater Invisibility on Shadow, indicating to Arm that he's next.
((Just an FYI: Shadow will get Greater Invisiblity allowing him to attack and such without losing the spell effects. Arm will only get Invisiblity proper, as Edmund didn't have enough spell slots to memorise more than one of each.))
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC 16) Message, Mage Armour, Fly, See Invisibility, Bless, Haste Thursday February 19th, 2009 8:08:15 PM
((Update to post above.))
Edmund will add into the message spell, "If there are no councilwomen, then that one's an impostor. All the better that Shadow is invisible to finish them off using the element of surprise!"
(Nellie) Thursday February 19th, 2009 8:51:45 PM
LOL...ummmm...councilman Saisset is actually a girl...shrug...symantics have never been my thing.
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 31+14 Raging (Mage Armour) d20=14 ; Thursday February 19th, 2009 9:42:49 PM
Julian is very agitated - waiting is not his thing, not even for 6 seconds.
He moves into the middle room, not closing the door behind. He walks to the far wall to inspect, tapping around with his knuckles looking for beams within the structure (or is it a brick wall?)
Search? +0 Wis? +1 Int? +0 unmodified roll: 14
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Message Bless Friday February 20th, 2009 6:07:11 AM
Arm switches places with Shadow (OOC: hope you don't mind but I updated YOUR position on the map as well ;) ). While he's waiting for Ed to make him invisible, he yells into the room, "You realize that if you continue to resist, you'll never leave this building alive...whether or not you kill the hostage. Your best course of action is to surrender and let the authorities decide your fate.".
Once he is invisible, he will move in with Shadow and attempt to grab the hostage.
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 43/47] d20+15=31 ; d20+14=16 ; d6+2=8 ; Friday February 20th, 2009 9:36:10 AM
"Thanks Thar" Shadow says as he is healed once again. "On the count of 5 after Edmund is done we move into the room, and then count to 15 silently and we will go for it. You try to get the woman and I will try and take out the elder guard holding her." Shadow quietly says to Arm. "Now you all will need to rush in once you hear us go for it, at about a 15 count."
"5..4..3..2..1.." Shadow will move in as quietly as he can, and position himself behind the elder guard all the while counting to himself, "1..2..3..4..5..6..7..8..9..10..11..12..13..14..15" and as soon as he sees the woman move from being grabbed by Arm he will step forward trying to shove his rapier through the elder guard.
Actions: Move Silently=31 to hit=16 (not sure of what bonuses I should get from being invisible and attacking from behind, but I will use a heroic point to make sure I hit) dmg=8 (not sure of what I truly get from attacking from behind with surprise - used to be at least double damage for thieves but i don't have my PHB at work so I can't look it up)
Thar AC 26/25, 62/70 hps d20+13=18 ; d20+13=21 ; d6+4=10 ; d6+4=5 ; d6=3 ; Friday February 20th, 2009 12:27:32 PM
Thar listens to Shadow's plan and nods his understanding. Before the fun begins, he'll cast Magic Weapon on his fire sword to boost it's ability...
Once the silent count is done and Arm and Shadow make their moves, he'll charge in towards the nearest enemy with both swords blazing...
Attack 1 = AC 18 for 10 pts + 3 fire Attack 2 = AC 20 for 4 pts +
(MW lasts for 6 mins ..))
Con = 14 but no hps lost, at least for now... Spells Cast = 3rd level = MCvE, SM3 2nd level = Burned up 2 spells for CMW, Less Restoration 1st level = MWeapon
(Nellie) d20+6=8 ; Friday February 20th, 2009 12:35:26 PM
Whoa guys, let's just get one rounds actions at a time. I don't mind if you want to add some flavor now that you've got a plan, but just stick to one action for this round please. I am hoping to get a DM post in this afternoon.
Ruby [HP: 74/74 - AC: 24(25)] [message, magic circle, haste] Friday February 20th, 2009 7:18:19 PM
Ruby listens with great interest to the ideas that are being thrown around. With a nod of her head, she places herself near the door but so that those invisible can go in first. When it is time, she will lunge through the door herself and go for the guard that is not grappling with the councilwoman.
Seems to her that the other one will be handled rather nicely by the two invisible people anyways. If nothing else she can place her own body inbetween this one and the councilwoman, meaning that he will need to go through her first.
Kirsten (AC 22, HP 81, Bless) Friday February 20th, 2009 10:08:51 PM
She will move up to stand near Ruby and listen to the plans of the others. The paladin nods, and prays that it will work. Once the others make their moves to save the captive, she will rush in with the others and hope for the best.
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 31+14 Raging (Mage Armour) Saturday February 21st, 2009 12:35:06 AM
Julian is looking to kick his way through the wall. He wonders to himself how soon after ten does fifteen come...
Best Laid Plans (Nellie) d20+17=37 ; d20+17=23 ; 2d6+4=14 ; 5d6=15 ; Saturday February 21st, 2009 12:49:45 AM
A plan of attack is formulated and instituted. In the meantime, Thar takes the time to heal Shadow some more. Edmund casts his spell and Shadow disappears from view... (OK, the plan is that Shadow waits until Arm has his invisibility spell, right?! I'll amend the post after I know the answer to that question.) Ruby and Kirsten stand by, ready to assist once Shadow and Arm are in.
Julian can't stand the inactively and bursts into the room that Thar just secured. Throwing aside a couple of moldy bags, he begins tapping at the wall looking for weak spots. After a couple of seconds he finds a promising area. Still, he anticipates that it will take him several rounds (we'll say about 5) before he could cause enough damage to the wall to get through to the other side. Suddenly there is a searing pain in Julian's back! Spinning around, who should he see but his very on dance partner from before! Julian feels a large gush of blood flowing from the expertly placed wound. (29 damage and 1 Con. Pt. lost. I show that Julian is now at a Con score of 14.) Julian feels the blade get pushed deeper. His limbs begin to tingle frighteningly as the blade nears his spine (Fort. DC19 or be paralyzed).
Outside, Wynum examines the window closely, there are a couple of small holes, but really not anything he can snipe through. (Good idea, though Florian!!)
Inside the hostage room, Arm's comment is met with laughter. "Yeah, like you stopped us in the streets?! Are you really willing to risk these good peoples lives? You really have no idea what you're up against, do you? Pathetic!" Arm notices that one of the guards disappears from view!
OOC: If possible, I'd like to post this weekend to make up for the lost post.
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 2 +14 Raging (Mage Armour) d20+13=31 ; d20+13=29 ; d10+6=7 ; d6=6 ; d12+6=10 ; Saturday February 21st, 2009 2:47:50 AM
Julian shakes the sword out from his shoulder and faces the woman. He carefully aims his blow, swinging with carefully trained precision, with unstoppable strength, with the natural killing power of the barbarian. "You look tired. Why don't you lie down for a while?" Hit AC 31 / 10 damage 7+6 =13 NON LETHAL damage "Hey Ruby, why don't you join me here?"
Julian has suffered 25 + 29 = 54 points damage, + 2 Con loss (7 hp lost): total 61 down 63 hp originally Fort Save 29 :) Raging second time today (different encounter, right? Having left the fight downstairs, had a moment to catch my breath again...)
Wynum Saturday February 21st, 2009 12:59:13 PM
Wynum thinks for a second then puts back his bow in its sheath, then draws and loads his sling, moving a bit {map updated}.
Ruby [HP: 74/74 - AC: 24(25)] [message, magic circle, haste] d20+10=20 ; d6+3=5 ; Saturday February 21st, 2009 6:36:56 PM
Hearing the call for assistance and seeing how she is close to the door anyways, she moves in that direction. What she finds, is not what she was expecting and she says nothing as she nods to Julian. Without any extra thought on her part she brings her rapier lancing in at the lady that is harrassing Julian, trying to find some opening in her armor.
[Ruby vs. Lady - hit: 20 and damage: 5]
[Figured could get out one attack at least if she moved into the room. Not sure if she would get any flanking bonuses with Julian or not so not going to apply them.]
Thar AC 26/25, 62/70 hps Sunday February 22nd, 2009 5:39:57 PM
Thar waits for the action to begin in the hostage room...
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Message Bless Monday February 23rd, 2009 6:00:13 AM
As Arm awaits Ed's invisibility spell (I would imagine Shadow will wait for me until I am invisible as well), Arm retorts, "We shall see who is pathetic when this is over. For us to leave here would not be any worse than their deaths.".
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 43/47] d20+15=33 ; d20+9=23 ; d20+5=15 ; Monday February 23rd, 2009 2:11:25 PM
Shadow will wait for Arm to disappear, and then he will head into the room. He will position himself behind the guard holding the captive. He will try and see any other advantages that he might make use of.
Actions: Move Silently=33 Spot=23 Listen=15
OOC: Sorry for the multi-turn post, but thought we might have that much time because of the hostage situation.
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC 16) Message, Mage Armour, Fly, See Invisibility, Bless, Haste Monday February 23rd, 2009 3:15:10 PM
Edmund follows up by casting Invisibility on Arm. (Reminder: Shadow has Greater Invisibility.)
"Alright guys," he whispers. "That's no councilwoman. If you can take her... or it... alive, we can probably squeeze more than a little information out of her... or it. Good luck!"
Arm AC 22 HP 33/33 Message Bless d20=13 ; Tuesday February 24th, 2009 5:58:50 AM
Once he is invisible, Arm follows Shadow into the room, this time standing in front of the guard, providing a flanking opportunity for Shadow, should he decide to attack (move silently=13).
Ok, On Three...One, Two, Thr... (Nellie) 2d6=8 ; 2d6=10 ; d20+15=26 ; d6+2=8 ; d20+15=30 ; d20+15=23 ; d20+20=38 ; d20+12=21 ; Tuesday February 24th, 2009 8:04:15 AM
Everyone anxiously awaits the shock and awe...
Edmund casts his Invisibility spell on Arm, while Shadow, already endowed with Greater Invisibility mentally goes through his plan of attack. As soon as Arm is ready, he heads into the room. (Since Shadow and Arm are both invisible, I'm emailing what happens to them so that they can have fun RPing it.) As Shadow contemplates his new position, he feels a burning from one of his old wounds (Fort. save DC17 or 9 pts. Con. Damage!). Meanwhile, Thar and Kirsten wait for the signal to head into the hostage room. Outside the door, they hear a couple of thuds and the sounds of spell casting. Th en there is a terrible laughter from one of the guards. "Play games with me, will you?! Let's see how you like this..." Shadow and Arm watch in horror as the younger guard (at least, I think that's the one with the hostage....LOL!) runs his shortsword across the dark haired captives throat! There is a muffled scream and then terrible silence as the hostage slumps to the ground bleeding profusely!
In the other room, Julian suddenly figures out where the lady has gone. With heroic effort, he brings his falchion down full force on her and slices a big gash on her arm. There is a rugged determined look on her face as Ruby shows up. Ruby finds that no matter how she tries, she can't flank the pesky lady. Ruby takes a slice at her, but she barely misses. Julian also experiences the uncomfortable burning as the poison attempts to invade his body (Fort. save DC11 or 2 pt. Dex. Damage from the previous poison). Meanwhile, the raven haired shapechanger grins as she plundges her shortsword into Julian once more (8pts. dam., 1 pt. Con loss). With amazing grace she tumbles out of Ruby and Julian's reach and melts into the shadows (17 and up on Spot, you know where she is, otherwise Listen DC21 gives 50% chance of hit).
Outside, Wynum switches weapons and waits. It's pretty clear outside. Apparently after the priest incident, nobody cares to play neighborhood watch.
OOC: I apologize for not posting last night, but the internet went down in the hotel I was at. :(
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 33/47] d20+5=24 ; d20+5=10 ; d20+9=24 ; Tuesday February 24th, 2009 12:09:43 PM
Shadows post is via email.
Actions: Fort save=24 listen=10 Spot=24
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 2 +14 Raging (Mage Armour) d20+13=21 ; d20+3=14 ; d20+5=6 ; Tuesday February 24th, 2009 7:22:33 PM
Fort save 21 Con down to 13 ( no extra hp loss at the moment) Spot 14 Listen 6
Julian swings his pack off his shoulders, and quickly rummages through for his tanglefoot bags.
Thar AC 26/25, 62/70 hps d20+13=27 ; d20+7=15 ; Tuesday February 24th, 2009 8:19:15 PM
Since it sounds like the game is afoot, Thar looks at Kirsten and says, "Ready?" He then kicks in the door (or opens it, but I wanted it to sound cooler) and tumbles to the left, trying to gain an idea of who is where in the room, while clearing the way for Kirsten to enter...
Spot = 27 Tumble = 15
Ruby [HP: 74/74 - AC: 25(26)] [message, magic circle, haste] d20+6=14 ; d20+6=14 ; d20+11=16 ; d20+12=32 ; d20+12=17 ; d6+3=9 ; 2d6+3=10 ; Tuesday February 24th, 2009 10:45:47 PM
With little recourse open to her as she is not even sure where the lady tumbled to, she moves to put her back near Julian. If by chance she should happen to bump into something hidden as she is moving back, she will dive forward into a roll. This should give her distance and maybe put her out of reach of whatever it is.
As she does move she glances to Julian to see what he is going to do. She cannot really figure out anything of her own to do. Her only idea would involve something that would be useless at this point. The ony thing that she knows she can do is set up her little ruse, though she has used it before...that was against a different opponent.
[listen 14 and spot 14, tumble 16] [held attack - hit: 32*crit17* and damage: 9*crit10*]
(Nellie) Tuesday February 24th, 2009 10:47:08 PM
Julian, please don't forget that 8pts. of damage from the woman.
Wynum d20+19=37 ; d6+4=7 ; d20+3=8 ; Tuesday February 24th, 2009 11:47:43 PM
This time Wynum shouts loud and clear, trying to get heard from up there in a oh-so clever ruse:
"Tell me if they get out! I stay here!"
Then he shoots a slingshot at the rightmost window, banging the planks hard enough to dent one - but most important to make some serious affirmation of his presence. (sunder hit 37, 7dmg - though it's irrelevant)
He then moves away, stealthily (half speed, map updated), and whispers: "I'll move to the front and come up." [Move silently 8]
[OOC: Btw Nellie if I'm correct the dopplegangers Tumble out of combat to avoid AoOs. Is that a special Feat/ability of theirs, or is that a game specific use of the skill that we can also use? If yes, is the DC higher than going past/through? Very much important for Shadow and Wynum!]
Great question Florian!! I'm using the standard rules in the PHB. The dopples are very skilled at performing the tumbles, but they don't have any special feats. Tumble can be used with a half move to avoid AoO's. The DC is 15, but you add +2 to the check for each opponent you have. Very handy if you can acquire the skill!!---Nellie
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 2 +8 Raging (Mage Armour) Wednesday February 25th, 2009 2:19:40 AM
OOC: Sorry - it took me all day to write that, so I had to refresh a few times to see if others had updated. You can see that I have amended the header in this post.
Rage round 3 of 7
Hey, don't worry about it...just wanted to make sure you knew where you were at as far as HP. I forget things all the time...LOL!! Love the tanglefoot bag idea!!---Nellie
Arm AC 22 HP 25/33 d20+9=22 ; d20+4=21 ; d8+6=10 ; d8+6=9 ; Wednesday February 25th, 2009 6:05:40 AM
rolls for email post.
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 33/47] d20+14=30 ; d6+2=5 ; Wednesday February 25th, 2009 9:26:21 AM
email post
Actions: to hit=30 dmg=5 (not sure if Shadow will get a crit - attacks from behind?)
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 33/47] d20=11 ; Wednesday February 25th, 2009 12:07:59 PM
DC=11
Edmund (HP: 44/44, AC 20) Message, Mage Armour, Fly, See Invisibility, Bless, Haste, Shield Wednesday February 25th, 2009 6:20:41 PM
Edmund takes advantage of the assault by Arm and Shadow to cast Shield on himself.
"Alright," he whispers into the Message spell. "I'm ready. They'll not get past my fireballs!"
Dancing on the Ceiling (Nellie) 2d6=8 ; 2d6=5 ; d20+15=28 ; d6+2=5 ; d20+15=33 ; d6+2=7 ; Thursday February 26th, 2009 1:30:44 AM
With the hostage down, the Mithril Order determine to press in on the shape shifters.
Ready for action, Thar kicks at the already open door and tumbles toward the left. As soon as he enters the room, something bizarre happens. Suddenly Thar feels the floor slip from underneath his feet as he is pulled toward the ceiling. His stomach turns and threatens to empty its contents as gravity itself seems to have reversed itself! Before he knows it, Thar finds himself lying flat on his back on the ceiling (8pts. of damage)! Somewhere nearby he feels something brush up against him and then move away. (Even though Thar was tumbling, I'm ruling that it doesn't reduce the fall damage, since Thar wasn't aware that he was going to be falling. Thar is prone on the ceiling. It takes a move action to get to his feet.) From his interesting new position, Thar sees the room clearly. There is the former hostage lying on the floor in a large pool of blood. The younger guard is just behind her and has a cocky smirk on his face. Over on the left side of the room there are four chests. One is empty, the other has something squirming in it, and the remaining two are closed. Thar also hears something hit the ground near the hostage.
Falling from the ceiling, the invisible Shadow lands very close to the hostage. The smell of blood is nausiating, and rage boils up inside him like a snake ready to strike. Wait...what was that...could it be that he just saw the woman's finger twitch?! Could it possibly be that the hostage is not dead yet?! Arm watches the guard step toward the open chest and then he casts a spell. As the young guard disappears from view, he calls out. "How sad! Such bloodshed just because you are too stuborn to negotiate. Will you make me kill this hostage as well?! Leave the room, give me the vials and I will release the remaining three hostages alive. If not, I will be forced to kill the one called Lynom."
In the hallway, Kirsten hears a thud as something falls to the floor in front of the door (the invisible Arm! 5pts of fall damage). Edmund spots Arm's rather ungraceful arrival as he casts a prep spell. Then Edmund sees something more disturbing! The older guard peaks his head out of the doorway and crawls along the wall toward him! Crawling off the wall, he moves right in front of Edmund and spears him with his shortsword. As he does, he pops into the view of Arm and Kirsten. The guard looks frustrated at the mage, as if he expected the strike to do much more damage (5pts. damage and 1 pt. Con loss).
In the other room...
Julian and Ruby face their own problems as the pesky female warrior does the disappearing trick. Julian starts rooting around in his pack...a strip of beef jerky...some matches...ahhh...there's the tanglefoot bag! Meanwhile, Ruby falls back on her previous tactics...back to back with Julian, waiting for the opportunity to pounce on the unsuspecting. Her shortsword in his side, the woman suddenly appears next to Julian. She smiles as the halfling warrior slumps to the ground (7 pts. dam. and 1 pt. Con loss), but is caught off guard by Ruby's immediate counter attack.
OOC: Julian, you took 8 pts. of damage last round...shouldn't that be 4 temp. HP left, not 8???
Down on the ground...
Wynum fires off a round and cracks a board...just a ruse for the enemy as he begins working his way around the building to link up with his friends!
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp -7 (Mage Armour) Thursday February 26th, 2009 2:20:11 AM
OOC yes, I ended up rushing. Sorry. 14 - 8 = 6 though, plus the 2 normal hitpoints takes me to 0. The extra Con loss is more hp draining away...
Julian, caught off guard by the dance partner from hell, slumps forward onto his knees. His momentum carries him forward and he lands solidly on his face. With his arms beside him he has one hand still gripping his sword, the other still holding 4 small bags.
Goodnight, brave halfling. Sleep well, little fool.
Edmund (HP: 31/36(44), AC 21/23) Message, Mage Armour, Fly, See Invisibility, Bless, Haste, Shield, CON-1 3d6=10 ; Thursday February 26th, 2009 4:04:01 AM
((Forgot my Haste bonus. Edmund's AC is 21--and 23 vs. Evil when within range of Thar's MCvE effect.))
Letting out a howl of pain, the half-elf mage flies five feet diagonally up and backwards away from the guard and conjures up his most fearsome spell.
Uttering the words darkly, a scowl on his face, Edmund works something of pure devilry, directing it upon the guard who has wounded him. What Edmund creates, no one else can see--in fact, even Edmund only sees a vague shadow--but the guard's view of the situation is far, far more terrifying. It is, in fact, a Phantasmal Killer. (Will Save DC 21; if failed, Fort Save DC 21. If Fort save failed, target dies from fear. If Fort save succeeds, target takes 10 damage)
"One of those guards is out here!" he shouts into the Message spell. "He's stabbed me with a sword!"
Arm AC 22 HP 20/33 d20+7=24 ; d20+4=5 ; d8+6=13 ; Thursday February 26th, 2009 7:20:52 AM
Arm lets loose with several curses that would make even the most rowdy sailor blanch, and picks himself up off of the floor.
OOC: Sorry, didn't take into account my getting up off of the floor...I'll save my attack on E1 until tomorrow. :)
Kirsten (AC 22, HP 81, Bless) d20+10=13 ; d8+4=6 ; Thursday February 26th, 2009 10:41:59 AM
Kirsten will turn and step forward to attack E1 after it attacks Edmund. She seems distracted, however, wondering what the mage could be up to.
Attack E1: AC 13, for 6 DMG
Wynum Thursday February 26th, 2009 11:33:48 AM
Wynum moves quickly around the building (160', mapped).
[OCC: I drew the stairs on the first floor. Is that how you meant it to be? Also (this will have some importance) is the area right above the stair open on its whole length (as suggested by the 2nd floor plan)?] [OOC: Also... what I meant is that the PHB's rule covers tumbling "past" or "through" opponents, not "away from". Hence my question!]
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 27/47] d20=11 ; Thursday February 26th, 2009 2:02:51 PM
Shadow is not sure what he could do for the hostage that appears still alive. He suddenly thinks, I might be able to staunch the flow of blood to give her a little more time. He hurries over to her and tries to use her own clothing (stretching but ripping if he must) to try and bandage the wound.
Actions: bandage (DC=11) - but I think I will use one of Shadows Heroic Points to try and stop this from happening
OOC: Next round he will try and track down the guard in the room.
Thar AC 26/25, 62/70 hps Thursday February 26th, 2009 3:22:16 PM
Thar takes a moment to get his bearings, since literally, his world has been upside down.
He tries to quickly decipher what is going on (Arcane = ) too and says "Ed, can you identify this affect???"
Moving quickly while talking, he goes to ....
(OOC = I'm a little unclear re: if E2 is against the floor or the ceiling. If he's on the floor, can I reach him with my swords? If not, I was going to cast dispel magic to try to eliminate this wierd affect. If I can reach him, I was going to move to Y22 and then attack...)
Ruby [HP: 74/74 - AC: 25(26)] [message, magic circle, haste] d20+15=27 ; d20+6=7 ; d20+6=16 ; d20+11=25 ; d6+3=9 ; d6+3=8 ; d20+11=19 ; d4+2=5 ; Thursday February 26th, 2009 9:29:04 PM
Ruby watches as Julian goes down, but has no choice but to try and take out the pesky woman before she can turn her attention to that matter. Then a thought that maybe someone else can help enters her mind and she calls out through the message spell. "Julian is down and I have a problem in here still alive and kicking...assistance would be good." The first flick of her rapier is an attempt to flick the weapon out of the woman's hand, before she turns the rest of her uses of the rapier into strikes at vulnerable spots. Not to be taken lightly she brings the longdagger in her other hand to snake strike at the woman from the other side.
[improved disarm vs. woman - hit: 27] [rapier vs. woman - hit: 16*hero point*/25 and damage: 9/8] [longdagger vs. woman - hit: 19 and damage: 5]
Dancing on the Ceiling II (Nellie) d20+9=13 ; d20+7=27 ; d20+5=19 ; d20+15=32 ; d20+20=33 ; d20+12=13 ; d20+15=26 ; d20+20=40 ; d20+15=35 ; d20+15=20 ; d100=61 ; Friday February 27th, 2009 1:22:47 AM
In the hostage room... Shadow struggles to close the woman's wounds Removing a cloth from his belt, he stauches most of the blood and notices that the woman's breathing is no longer ragged, though she is still unconcious. (No hero points needed here).
Thar gets up on his feet to stand on the ceiling. It's odd, but the rest of the room isn't upside down. His enemy, the younger guard, and the chests are firmly on the floor. Since he can't attack the guard (who is inivisible anyway!), Thar sees if he can't dispel the strange spell he finds himself in. He casts his spell, but remains firmly glued on the ceiling (Thar's caster level for cleric spells is 5th, right?). Just after he finishes casting, there is a strange burning from his old wound (Fort. DC 24 or 8 pts. Str. damage from previous poison).
Thar and Shadow hear the invisible guard sigh. "Very well then, if this is how it must be. I must say, I am disappointed..." (taking E2 off the map since he's invisible and no one can see him).
In the hall... Skewered, the bleeding Edmund has had enough of this little game. He floats up and out of range. A shadowy figure appears behind the elder guard who very uncharacteristically screams like a girl at the sight! A small gash appears in his side seemingly out of nowhere. Kirsten follows up with a hasty attack that doesn't connect, while Arm picks himself up off the floor and readies himself for next round. Looking more than a little shaken, the elder guard tumbles out of Kirsten and Arm's reach and disappears into the shadows (ummm...he got a nat. 20 for the hide and the listen, so pretty much nobody can see him this round).
In the other room... Ruby watches as Julian falls. He's bleeding massively (Julian does not stabilize this round, and is at -7 this round), but she has other pressing matters. With expert skill, she swats aside the warrior woman's shortsword, which goes skittering across the room. Continuing her onslaught, she strikes out repeatedly, but only manages to get past the woman's defenses once. Brused and battered, the woman tumbles away from Ruby (no AoO) and heads toward her dropped weapon. She picks it up and blends into the shadows once again (Spot 17 and up...Moves Silently was a nat. 1, so you pretty well know where she is...50% chance of miss, however).
Outside... Wynum moves quickly across the outer perimeter, ready to join up with his brothers in arms. (Well, the stairs would be angled, of course. And yes, there is a open space in front of the staircase. As far as the tumbling out of combat to avoid AoO's, obviously if the baddies can do it, then the PC's can to.)
Arm AC 22 HP 20/33 Friday February 27th, 2009 6:02:46 AM
Frustrated, Arm brushes past Kirsten in the general direction that his foes took, calling out "If you are so confident, why do you hide so much from us? You are lower than the weakest washerwoman, and we all laugh at your fright!".
Wynum d20+34=43 ; d20+34=48 ; d20+34=50 ; d20+6=20 ; Friday February 27th, 2009 10:23:24 AM
Moving towards the stairs, Wynum hops up on the first third then makes two standing long jumps above the stairs. He fittingly appears at the second floor landing, sling in hand.
"Where are the corpses? And the enemy?", he whispers, with short breath.
(Jump 34 for hop up, then 48 and 50. I assumed each 5' "stair-square" to be about 1,5' high. I have written the movement points on the map to clarify.) [Spot:.. trying out my luck with a nat 20... nope]
Ruby [HP: 74/74 - AC: 25(26)] [message, magic circle, haste] 2d8+3=14 ; Friday February 27th, 2009 8:18:00 PM
With the woman dashing away to get to her weapon and then slipping into the shadows, Ruby makes a decision that might cost here in the longrun. Kneeling by Julian, she lays both her weapons upon the floor and then pulls out a potion from her haversack. "You had better not die on me." Keeping one eye upon Julian and at the same time trying to watch for the woman, he feeds the potion to Julian.
[Julian - 14 HP healed]
Thar AC 26/25, 62/70 hps d20+11=29 ; d20+13=19 ; Friday February 27th, 2009 9:56:33 PM
Thar feels the poison try to work its way through his system, but he luckily resists its affects (Fort = 29). Sadly, he doesn't have the same luck with his spell and he's still stuck to the ceiling.
Since his enemy is still invisible, Thar tries to see if he can get an idea of where he is... (Spot = 19...) It seems for now, at least, he can't find him.
(OOC = Am I glued to the ceiling or merely upside down?....)
If Thar can move, he yells at Shadow (loud enough for hopefully all of the invisible guys to hear), "Get the wench and let's get out of here... We've got hurt people everywhere and these guys aren't worth our trouble... They want the damn vails and we've already sold them... Let the catacombs worry about them, not us!!! He'll try to begin moving out of the room if he can move... If he can't, he'll try his best to break free of the magic...
(OOC = Does haste and magic circle against evil help me at all in this case????)
Thar is not glued to the ceiling. It's reverse gravity. If you want Thar to enter the hostage room, you can. Either way, once you leave the reverse gravity area, you will fall.---Nellie
Kirsten (AC 22, HP 81, Bless) Saturday February 28th, 2009 9:39:08 AM
The paladin looks thoroughly frustrated when their foe once again disappears. Kirsten curses faintly and then turns to the others.
"Thar's right," she agrees. "We need to get out of here and stop playing around with these people."
Thar AC 26/25, 62/70 hps d20+7=23 ; Saturday February 28th, 2009 12:31:54 PM
Since Thar can move, he'll try his best to move out of the reverse gravity area. He'll leave the room and using his Tumble skill, he'll try to fall gracefully to the floor when he leaves the effected room...
Tumble = 23 (DC 15= Treat a fall as if it were 10 feet shorter than it really is when determining damage.)
Edmund (HP: 31/36(44), AC 21/23) Message, Mage Armour, Fly, See Invisibility, Bless, Haste, Shield, CON-1 Saturday February 28th, 2009 1:55:19 PM
Edmund flies towards the hostage room door, ready to start throwing fireballs at the vicinity of any disappearing foes.
"I've had enough of this," he announces to the enemies. "Either show yourselves, or my fireballs will set you on fire and we'll find you by the light of your burning flesh."
"The time for surrender is now." he adds, firmly. "I suggest you take advantage of it before it passes."
Jay, Nellies assistant Saturday February 28th, 2009 2:03:15 PM
Hello folks. We need to ask you to post your PC sheets this week, please. It helps you, us and your co-players in the long run. Thanks for your cooperation. :)
LOL...Jay is too humble! Folks, Jay is my new co-DM. We need to have a look at everyone's sheets, and I haven't had the time to do it. If you could please post a link to your google docs copy of your sheet, that would be most appreciated! Oh, and make sure your sheet is up to date. :) Thanks folks!---Nellie
Ruby [HP: 74/74 - AC: 25(26)] [message, magic circle, haste] Saturday February 28th, 2009 10:28:33 PM
Character sheet is updated after the use of a potion and hero point. You should be able to get to it just by clicking on her name in the Post Field. :)
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 7 (Mage Armour) Saturday February 28th, 2009 11:26:13 PM
http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dfn4386n_0fk9vxnhd&hl=en
Julian's eyes open and he almost chokes on the potion. "Yes, Domi, ready to serve you. "What?! Here again?
Julian crawls to his feet, sword in hand, looks Ruby in the eyes and says humbly, "Thank you."
Edmund (HP: 31/36(44), AC 21/23) Message, Mage Armour, Fly, See Invisibility, Bless, Haste, Shield, CON-1 Sunday March 1st, 2009 1:49:24 PM
(Character sheet at : http://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=dgf47fxt_5ftj5vrc7 -- also available via the Woldipedia Plateau City page, link at bottom)
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 7 (Mage Armour) Monday March 2nd, 2009 12:02:43 AM
testing the html in the title bar
Arm AC 22 HP 20/33 Monday March 2nd, 2009 6:00:15 AM
Mine's at http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dc6mf9qf_0dg93tb8g&hl=en...sorry, don't know how to do the name-link thingy :)
Jay, Nellies assistant Monday March 2nd, 2009 11:39:35 AM
OOC: Thanks all, this will help tons. ~Jay
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 27/47] d20+9=16 ; d20+5=22 ; Monday March 2nd, 2009 1:54:40 PM
OOC: http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dfnk5hq_0hk7sz7fv&hl=en, and I would like to know how you put as a link in your name (I would do that if I knew how - I tried to inspect and it was garbage :)
IC: Shadow is relieved to have stabilized the woman and tries to locate his foe.
Actions: Spot=16 Listen=22
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 27/47] Monday March 2nd, 2009 1:55:25 PM
I hope it is up to date (It is as far as I can tell, but it seems so long ago that I actually updated it)
Thar AC 26/25, 62/70 hps Monday March 2nd, 2009 2:19:34 PM
Here is Thar's....
Ruby [HP: 74/74 - AC: 25(26)] [message, magic circle, haste] Monday March 2nd, 2009 7:30:00 PM
Shadow, just use the following and add in the bracket at the end of the [/link and it will work.
Once you paste this into your field it will be there everytime for you.
Slippery Shadows (Nellie) d6=4 ; d20+15=30 ; d6=3 ; d20+15=25 ; d6=1 ; d20+15=17 ; Tuesday March 3rd, 2009 1:17:39 AM
Outside... Wynum moves quickly across the outer perimeter, ready to join up with his brothers in arms. (Well, the stairs would be angled, of course. And yes, there is a open space in front of the staircase. As far as the tumbling out of combat to avoid AoO's, obviously if the baddies can do it, then the PC's can to.)
In the hostage room... Shadow does his best to spot the younger guard, but he can't see the slippery fellow.
In the other room... Knowing that time is of the essence, Ruby gives Julian a life saving potion. Wounds close, and the grateful halfling finds his way to his feet.
In the hall.. Unable to locate his foe, Arm calls out insults to his unseen foes. Meanwhile, Wynum comes tearing back into the building and bounding up the stairs. Out of breath, he searches for the unseen foes.
Meanwhile, Thar tumbles from the ceiling (4 pts. fall damage) and narrowly avoids hitting Edmund who has positioned himself outside the door. As soon as he takes his spot, he sees one of the guards clinging to the side of the wall.
Things suddenly liven up as the older guard and female warrior suddenly appear and shoot down the hall and into the first room. They tumble out the window and land with a soft thud outside.
Edmund sees the young guard land in the doorway under him and then withdraws down the hallway. Arm and Kirsten both hear the distinctive sounds of footfall nearby. (AoO from Arm and Kirsten, since the fellow was being so loud (roll 50% miss chance..1-50 fails).
Arm AC 22 HP 20/33 d100=5 ; Tuesday March 3rd, 2009 6:01:14 AM
Arm tries in vain to swing at the area that he thought he heard something, but fears he only hit the air (chance to miss: 5...DOH!!!).
Arm AC 22 HP 20/33 Tuesday March 3rd, 2009 6:01:34 AM
WOOHOO, the link worked :)
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 27/47] d20+10=30 ; Tuesday March 3rd, 2009 9:39:30 AM
Shadow will check the open chest to see if the figure in it is still alive. He hesitates to cross the 'anti-gravity' area, so stays in the room to check the chests for traps.
Search=30 (nat. 20)
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 27/47] Tuesday March 3rd, 2009 9:39:58 AM
OOC: Thank you so much (it works).
Kirsten (AC 22, HP 81, Bless) d100=4 ; Tuesday March 3rd, 2009 10:00:10 AM
Kirsten, hearing footsteps, moves to strike out with her warhammer but finds that her ears are not quite as reliable as she might have hoped. (miss = 4)
Wynum AC18/23 vs. E2 (mobility+dodge) d20=9 ; Tuesday March 3rd, 2009 10:17:56 AM Important: Wynum would like to act after Edmund (don't want to spoil his fireballing fun) but before the others.
Quickly, Wynum touches the magical hand on his chest, then moves in pursuit to the leftmost room. He rushes towards the window and positions himself in front of it, then whispers:
"Block the door! Grab him if he gets through."
[OOC: Arm/Kirsten, free one hand if needed. Stand just outside the door on row 20 and Ready an action to Grapple him if your hear him get through it. If it fails and you get an AoO as he tries to tumble past, always use Trip instead of an attack. I don't see another way to get him.]
[OOC: Use See Invisibility from the Hand. I don't know where the door is. If it's on column Q or R, Wynum will only suffer an AoO (if the ganger chooses to reveal himself) passing by. If the door's on column S or T, we're in a mess as I can't Overrun. If Wynum can squeeze through colum R that's what he'll do (he has enough speed for that). Otherwise he'll do a standing 15' long jump from row 20 (7.5' high over the changer. I'm rolling the d20 only to check for a nat 1, no need to roll as my jump score is more than 30) Sorry for the complications - don't want to let them bugger off once more.]
Wynum Tuesday March 3rd, 2009 10:31:24 AM
(Sorry I realize it's very much likely the reason I don't see the doors on the map is because of a display bug with my browser. In that case, please enlighten me with their location!)
(Also Edmund, if you've got a Dispel Magic left, please by all means forget the fireball, and target the changer's Bracelet of Friends if he has one: That'll buy us a couple rounds of time to get rid of it physically!)
Thar AC 26/25, 58/70 hps Tuesday March 3rd, 2009 2:32:24 PM
Since his companions are pursuing the fleeing "baddies," Thar moves quickly to the hostage. He checks her wounds (Heal check =
Thar AC 26/25, 58/70 hps d20+11=20 ; d20+8=10 ; Tuesday March 3rd, 2009 2:34:00 PM
(Sorry, here is the heal check = 20). Thar checks her wounds and attempts to stablize her. However, he doesn't trust her, so while checking her wounds, he'll surreptitiously remove any weapons she might be carrying (Search? = 10)
Edmund (HP: 31/36(44), AC 21/23) Message, Mage Armour, Fly, See Invisibility, Bless, Haste, Shield, CON-1 8d6=30 ; Tuesday March 3rd, 2009 7:05:11 PM
((No more Dispel Magic left for the day. Sorry!))
Edmund watches the young man run off down the hall past Kirsten and Arm. Flying up near the ceiling, he has a fine vantage point and, following, targets the young fellow with a Fireball.
((Edmund will move where necessary to make this shot. He has a 60ft. fly radius thanks to Haste, can make the shot at ranges up to 720ft., and needs line of sight. I do not know if E2 is the guard Edmund saw withdrawing, but I should like to add that Edmund will do everything he can to target a location that can hit the guard but not Wynum (or any other of his friends). If necessary, Edmund will target the ceiling directly above or near the fellow, so that Wynum is not caught in the blast (given a three-dimensional 20 ft. radius as indicated in the spell description).))
"You were warned," he says blandly as the spell sails towards its intended target, detonating with a fiery roar. (Fire Damage=30, Reflex DC 20 for half damage.)
"Now, let's see about your friends," the mage adds. "Perhaps they might now realise I wasn't joking."
"Surrender, you lot!" he shouts. "You'll be treated well and not harmed. Or, you can burn. Your decision, really. I'm not picky!"
Ruby [HP: 74/74 - AC: 25(26)] [message, magic circle, haste] Tuesday March 3rd, 2009 8:23:59 PM
Ruby just shrugs as Julian slowly stands. "Don't mention it." She was more than happy to make sure that he survived, if for no other reason than it proved her loyalties. As she grabbed back up her two weapons she was also moving towards the door, but slowly as she is not sure if their attacker is still in the room. She had been distracted with healing someone and not paying as much attention as she should have.
Have the gotten away? She cannot help but ask through the link that they are sharing right now about this. Then her thoughts turn to the hostages and she shivers. What about the hostages?
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 7 (Mage Armour) Tuesday March 3rd, 2009 9:04:21 PM
"Where's she gone? Darn it!" and in frustration Julian throws one of his tanglefoot bags across the room, striking the wall next to the window.
"What now Ruby?"
Going..Going...Gone (Nellie) d20+12=25 ; d20+7=10 ; 2d6=5 ; d20+7=26 ; d6=5 ; d20+6=26 ; Wednesday March 4th, 2009 1:01:26 AM
With two of the guards outside, the Mithril Order split up in order to do the mop up...
Thar heads back into the hostage room. He tries to tumble gracefully back into the reverse gravity area, but isn't very successful. Crawling to the edge, he is able to do a much better job as he tumbles to the hostage's side (10 pts. of damage from the fall up then down). Checking out her wounds, he is further able to stop the flow of blood from the wound on her neck. Still wary, he checks her body over....she is still bound and gagged, but there are no signs of weapons on her body.
Shadow moves over to the chests. He sees a middle aged gentleman bound and gagged in the open chest. From the way he's squirming, he doesn't look too bad off. Moving over to the locked chest, Shadow discovers that surprise, surprise...there's a trap. He doubts that he'll have much problem getting around the simple trap (Disable Device DC17).
In the hall... Arm and Kirsten are stunned by their foes cowardice. Unable to hit as the invisible thing that passes by, they take a good look around them. No foes to be seen.
In the second room... Ruby is glad to see Julian up and moving, but is worried about the enemy and the hostages. She asks the fate of both, but it would seem that her comrades are busy. She looks anxiously around the room, but finds no sign of the disappearing woman. Frustrated, Julian throws this bag against the wall, where it splatters and covers a section in gooey ick.
In room numero uno... Edmund flies over and decides to give the little runt a good fireball...floating just below the doorframe, he fires one off. Looking a little startled, the young guard spins out of the way of the ball of fire. Twisting with amazing agilty, he manages to avoid the deluge of fire entirely! Then Wynum activates his hand and shoves his way through the room, blocking off the little twerp's exit. Raising an eyebrow, the guard smiles at the Edmund. "I'm afraid it's time for me to take my leave...another time, perhaps." The fellow's smile is annoying to say the least. "Watch your back...you never know when you'll find my sword sticking out of it!" That being said, he brings his fingers to his lips and lets out a shrill whistle and disappears from sight! Spinning around and looking out the window, Wynum finds that the elder guard and the woman are nowhere to be found.
OOC: This ends the combat. Everyone did very, very well!! I'm awarding one hero point to all combatants. I'll notify you of XP and other hero pts. in the next couple of days. Great job everyone!
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 27/47] d20+10=16 ; Wednesday March 4th, 2009 9:19:17 AM
Shadow will try and disable the simple device, but fails at his first attempt. He realizes that there is no hurry to get into the chest, so will take a full turn to study it and get it disabled.
Actions: Disable Device=16 (then afterwards take 20)
Wynum [See invis. 3 temp hp] d20+34=40 ; d6=3 ; Wednesday March 4th, 2009 10:12:37 AM
Right after the Guard's whistle, Wynum immediately calls out for everyone to follow, then he squeezes out through the window and down, then activate his Daylight ability. If he can't squeeze (He'll use Escape Artist as needed), he gives his Hand of Glory to Edmund instead, and runs out through the stairs.
If they just ran they can't be further than 120' away at this point. If they hid in shadows, the Daylight would dispel any shadow they're hiding in, and if they used mundane hiding, they can't be further than 60': we're a party of 8 to search and wait them out. Also Kirsten didn't act this round and can immediately use Detect Evil, while Edmund can get a bird's eye view of the situation.
Once spotted, they can hardly flee: both Wynum (80') and Edmund (60'+30') are three times as fast as them. We can gain at least 200' of ground on them every round if they run, and if they're forced to hustle, we can gain ground AND fireball/Staple them to walls at the same time.
Now of course if they all teleported we're bust, but until now only smirk-face used the whistle trick, so Wynum is assuming something can be done. And the only way to be certain of their teleporting abilities for future fights is to do the above!
[Jump down for 3 non-lethal.]
Edmund (HP: 31/36(44), AC 21/23) Message, Mage Armour, Fly, See Invisibility, Bless, Haste, Shield, CON-1 8d6=37 ; Wednesday March 4th, 2009 12:39:42 PM
Edmund flies straight out the window and after the foes, with no intention of letting them get away. The moment he is within range of them, he will let fly with another Fireball--which he can do at ranges up to 720ft. (Additionally Edmund can fly 60ft. per round, and can fly 120ft. if he doesn't act) (Fire Damage=37, Reflex DC 20 for half--Also, I'm not sure how the guy Reflex DCed his way out of all the damage yesterday, as even a Nat. 20 on a saving throw should still only halve damage--is this a Woldian house rule?)
If Edmund cannot reach the people this round, he'll cast Expeditious Retreat on himself, increasing his speed still further to 90ft./150ft. He will continue to pursue them, with Wynum, and will verbally warn the enemies, if they get within hearing range, that there is no escape and they must surrender.
"Resistance is futile!"
Edmund (HP: 31/36(44), AC 21/23) Message, Mage Armour, Fly, See Invisibility, Bless, Haste, Shield, CON-1 Wednesday March 4th, 2009 12:44:17 PM
((Correction to Edmund's move distances: currently 60/90ft. without Expeditious Retreat; 90/150ft. if he should cast it. Haste doesn't modify base move distances; Expeditious Retreat does. Sorry for any confusion.))
Arm Wednesday March 4th, 2009 2:30:14 PM
Shaking his head, Arm moves back into the room with the hostages. Sighing with relief that the woman is still alive, he begins untying her and removes the gag from her mouth. He then inquires about her well-being, other than the wound to her neck.
Thar AC 26/25, 48/70 hps Wednesday March 4th, 2009 3:21:30 PM
Feeling like a pinball, Thar bounces up and down on the ceiling. Now that the woman is stabalized, he'll say gently, "Madam, I'm afraid I'm going to have to leave you bound up. I can't have you getting up and hurting yourself some more. If you move around, you could break open some of your wounds and this is for your own good." With that, he'll use whatever rope or strips of clothing he can find to bind her up so that she can't get away. He'll be gentle, but he still doesn't trust her...
Then, he'll move over to the bound and gagged man and check him for any injuries. He'll remove his gag, but not his bindings. He'll say, "Can you tell me who you are sir? How did you get here?"
Kirsten (AC 22, HP 81, Bless) Wednesday March 4th, 2009 6:13:00 PM
At Wynum's call, the paladin will move quickly to the window to climb down after Wynum and Edmund. Once on the ground she will use her Detect Evil ability to see if she can sense where the baddies ran off to and direct the others to follow.
This done, she will begin summoning her trust warhorse, Wolfgang, to help in the pursuit.
(Nellie) d20+15=17 ; d20+15=19 ; d20+15=24 ; Wednesday March 4th, 2009 7:11:18 PM
The young guard has evasion. A successful Reflex save means no damage. Sorry.
DM note, you guys are free to try and pursue the baddies. I do want to remind you that you are in the middle of the city once more. There are lots of alley ways and buildings to hide in. Further, remember, you are in the Nightmare Quarter, which is the nasty, nasty, NASTY part of town. The guards are not the only bad guys in this part of town, and if you go poking around too many of the buildings at this hour of the day (before everyone has slept off their hangovers!), it's likely to get unwanted attention.
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 7 (Mage Armour) Wednesday March 4th, 2009 7:38:07 PM
Worn out, angry, and bleeding Julian is exasperated at this turn of events. "Darn those cowards."
Watching some of the party give chase Julian calls out "Wait, we can't... they'll just keep... we should stick together. Some other time."
Julian wanders round to the other room where he can hear his friends talking.
Edmund (HP: 31/36(44), AC 21/23) Message, Mage Armour, Fly, See Invisibility, Bless, Haste, Shield, CON-1 Wednesday March 4th, 2009 7:46:24 PM
((Evasion! Well I'm dashed! Blasted rogues!))
Ruby [HP: 74/74 - AC: 25(26)] [message, magic circle, haste] Wednesday March 4th, 2009 8:52:06 PM
Ruby slips both weapons back into their sheaths and sighs. Glancing to Julian she shrugs, as she follows him towards the next room. Leaning against the doorframe she watches the others as they attend to the hostages or at least she hopes they are hostages.
"What is our next move?" She is not sure if they should talk about it outloud here, but she figures that if that is the case someone will tell her. It has been awhile since she has had to do any fighting like this and she is starting to feel it. "Have to get back into shape." Still there is a smile upon her face, though she is not sure how she escaped harm. Then a thought comes to her and she puts her fingers to her lips, giving a three toned whistle.
From the room that she had began in comes the sounds of wings and then a small owl is once again seated upon her shoulder. "I am sorry about leaving you there Hermes...but thought it would be safer." She reaches up and scratches the chest and head of the owl with obvious delight, for both of them.
Flitting Shadows and Other Wrap Up(Nellie) Thursday March 5th, 2009 12:30:25 AM
Wynum, Edmund and Kirsten head out the window in search of the fleeing guards. Wynum jumps, Edmund flies, and Kirsten has to settle for shimming down the rope (takes one round...being really nice here). Activating her Detect Evil spell, Kirsten is sent reeling. Once more her paladin senses scream at her to get out of here! The place is practically oozing with evil, and she feels the beginning of a pounding headache. As Edmund hovers in the air, he cannot spot any signs of their prey in the nearby streets. Wynum's hand begins to emanate bright light from around his neck, but he still can't spot the baddies. He does notice what appears to be fresh tracks. (Survival DC14 to follow the tracks).
DM note...you are certainly welcome to continue to pursue the bad guys, but as noted before, there are potential negative consequences. Just want to let you know that ahead of time.
Back in the building... Shadow's first efforts with the lock are in vain, but he takes his time and works it loose without setting off the trap. As he opens the chest, he sees a finely dressed half-elf bound and gagged and unconscious.
Arm and Thar continue to tend to the wounded hostage. Arm removes her gag, and is about to remove her bonds when Thar suggest leaving them in place. The woman whimpers and tries to speak, but she is extremely weak. The effort is apparently too much and she falls unconscious once more.
Turning to the bound man in the first chest, Thar finds that other than a few bumps on his head, the gentlemen appears to be in relatively good condition. Once the gag is removed, the man looks up at Thar in obvious relief. "Thank goodness you came! I am councilman Lynom. I'm not exactly sure how I got here. I was in my garden, watering my flowerbeds...I remember hearing a brief scuffle nearby and then something hit me in the back of the head. The next thing I knew, I was dressed up like a turkey and stuffed in a chest!"
Ruby and Julian head outside the hostage room. Thankfully, there companions warn them about the reverse gravity inside the room before Julian finds out the hard way.
Arm Thursday March 5th, 2009 6:00:40 AM
Nodding at Thar's sage advice, he moves to Lynom, and gives him a partial explanation of what is going on...not the whole story, just the part about them wanting ot take the place of the councilmembers, as he figures that will spur him to the most action.
Wynum Thursday March 5th, 2009 10:17:25 AM
The centaur stomps his hoof on the pavement in further frustration, listening to a little voice of wisdom in his head. He continues to whisper.
"They had their escape well-planned.... we might fall into one more of their traps if we try to pursue in these buildings. They might just as well be in hiding, waiting for us to reveal more information or to strike us down cowardly once more. I think we should regroup and set up another trap of our own, maybe directly at the Manor, as the vial plan is dead now. Kirsten, we should go see Rabbitsfoot with due speed and set up another plan while the rest prepares for another fight with them."
Jay, Nellies assistant Thursday March 5th, 2009 11:47:02 AM
OOC: Checking in
Thar AC 26/25, 48/70 hps d8+5=12 ; Thursday March 5th, 2009 12:45:40 PM
Thar moves to the latest hostage (1/2 elf that Shadow found) and checks him out for any injuries. If he appears OK, he'll remove the gag and ask the man the same questions as he did with the other hostages.
Then, he'll move back to the young woman and seeing that she's in serious trouble, will case a CLW's upon her, curing 12 pts of dmg...
To the three people, he'll say "Have you seen anyone else that needs rescuing? What do you know about this building?"
Spells used
1st level = 2 used up (Bane, Bless, Shield of Faith left...) 2nd level = burned up 3 spells (only Hold Person left) 3rd level = all gone...
Edmund (HP: 31/36(44), AC 21/23) Message, Mage Armour, Fly, See Invisibility, Bless, Haste, Shield, CON-1 d20=4 ; Thursday March 5th, 2009 3:21:05 PM
Edmund comes to a stop next to Wynum, and slowly floats down to the ground below.
"Lost them," he says to the centaur. "Very tricky, very adroit, flipping out of the way of my spells. I'll have to remember that one for next time. I think I know how to take care of that."
"All right, chaps," Edmund says into the Message spell. "They seem to have made off. Everything all right up there?"
(Survival=4)
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 27/47] d20+10=13 ; Thursday March 5th, 2009 6:08:59 PM
Shadow moves to the last chest and checks it for anything that might cause them trouble.
Actions: Search=13 (but again he will take his time to make sure)
Kirsten (AC 22, HP 81, Bless) Thursday March 5th, 2009 8:58:27 PM
Kirsten visibly shudders at the feeling of evil coming from everywhere in this place. She looks rather pale as she brings a hand to her head, as if to rub the feeling away.
She nods at Wynum's suggestion.
"You're right," she mutters. "This place makes me nervous. Too much evil here."
She looks up to Edmund and asks, "Is everyone okay up there?"
Ruby [HP: 74/74 - AC: 25(26)] [message, magic circle, haste] Thursday March 5th, 2009 10:54:10 PM
With Hermes still perched upon her shoulder she listens to the play-by-play through the message spell and smiles. It might not have been a total waste since they saved the councilmen and councilwoman, but the enemy got away. Shaking her head she does not voice any thoughts at this time as she is thinking over a few things and planning a few ideas. "Have to see about a new weapon." With a last sigh she turns her attention back to the room that she is looking into and waits to see what they will be doing next.
Seems that they might just be going home, wherever that is and she feels a pang of regret that she cannot return to her true home anytime soon. A hurt expression passes across her face and the sign of tears can be seen glistening just at the edge of her eyes. She wipes them away, only to have them replaced by new one, while her other hand continues to scratch the head of her friend.
The Councilmembers (Nellie) d20=10 ; Friday March 6th, 2009 12:45:55 AM
Wynum, Edmund and Kirsten return to the others. Though they have not defeated the enemy today, the heros know that they have learned many things about their foes Doubtless that the next time the Order runs into the shapechangers, the shoe will be on the other foot!
Meanwhile, Thar and Arm tend to the various Councilmembers. Thar finds the half-elf in the chest unconscious. He looks to have a rather nasty blow to the base of the skull, but is breathing. Returning his attention to the woman, Thar casts his spell and watches as the wound at the woman's neck completely closes, leaving only a thin scab to mark the death dealing blow. The color returns to her cheeks, and she looks up at Thar. "Thank you! Thank Alemi that you came! Oh, it was so dreadful! I don't remember much about how I got here, but they kept locked up in those chests. They would sometimes give us food and water, but we've haven't been outside this room for a long time. Days, I think, but it's hard to tell..." The woman pauses, the stress of the situation obviously wearing on her. From outside the room, Julian and Ruby see Thar apparently tending to their recent opponent (DM note to set off potential player confusion.... Except of course, this woman is the actual Councilman!)!
Arm fills in Lynom in broad terms about the shapshifters. The Concilman frowns, his fine features obviously unused to the motion. "That is very troublesome news! At first I thought that we were probably being held for ransom. Not that unusual for a person of my stature. But...take our places..." the man gasps. "Perhaps they had a more permanent idea in mind all along. Several times I heard them mention something about trying to locate the vials so they could use some Dagger to swap the souls. Then there was a big fight between a couple of them. One of them said that they should just get another shipment of vials from their pirate connections. The other was convinced that if they offered up a reward they could probably get them back. I'm not sure what happened after that." Lynom looks up at Arm. "I don't suppose you can get me out of this chest and take off the ropes? I'm dying to stretch my legs!"
Shadow works on the next lock. At first he doesn't see anything wrong, but he double checks, just to make sure. Yep...definitely trapped. Taking his time, he works at the lock and is able to bypass the trap. Inside the chest he sees a young man in silk pajamas. He's bound and gagged like the others, and thrashing about quite a bit!
Arm Friday March 6th, 2009 6:04:37 AM
Arm smiles at Lynom and releases him from his bonds. Helping him out of the chest, he adds, "There is a much larger plot at work here, as if they'd assume your identities, who knows where they would go after that..I am no councilman, but I strongly suggest that you call a secret meeting among you to discuss the matter...also, you all need to get a gem of true seeing if you're able to use it, as that is the easiest way to tell the imposters from the real people. Until then, trust no one..they can assume anyone's identity at any time.". He then lets him know where they are staying and offers the council their assistance. Looking around appraisingly, he is anxious to get the group together privately so that they can discuss the recent events and how to procure the dagger that Lynom mentioned.
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 27/47] d20+10=30 ; Friday March 6th, 2009 9:19:22 AM
Shadow will remove the gag and the bindings from the gentleman in the pajamas. He will then move around the rest of the room making sure there is nothing else the group is missing.
Search=
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 27/47] Friday March 6th, 2009 9:20:04 AM
OOC: The roll was a search roll (forgot to put it in the post - natural 20 btw :) )
Wynum [See invis. Dayligh. 4 temp hp] Friday March 6th, 2009 12:32:48 PM
Leaving, Wynum leaves further comments with Edmund outside.
"There is a remote possibility that they will attempt on Rabbitsfoot's life, now that they didn't manage to kill us. Plus, the transfer must be canceled anyways. If for some reason they still believe it to be real, that would lead to unecessary deaths. I suppose we meet at the Manor..."
Wynum's plan (in case we want to play it fast) is to go with Kirsten and see Rabbitsfoot. If he's here, we'd use the signs then tell of the events, making sure no-one can overhear. The idea would be to cancel the transfer and leak to the guards in charge of that transfer that the vials are in fact secured at the Manor. Surely the changers already have searched the Manor thorughly but hopefully that would draw attacks away from civilians and unto the Order.
Edmund d20+12=16 ; Friday March 6th, 2009 6:36:20 PM
After Edmund talks to Wynum, he heads up to meet with the rest of the Order and to see the newly released captives. Edmund will try to identify them based on sight when he arrives. (Know. Nobility=16)
"Once we take care of things, it might be a good idea to return to the Manor," he opines. "Not to press the matter, but it might be best if we got ourselves in order before sallying forth again."
Having said this, Edmund heads back down to join up with Wynum.
"Where to, my fine, four-footed fellow?" he enquires. "A visit to the constable?"
Thar AC 26/25, 48/70 hps Friday March 6th, 2009 8:13:52 PM
Thar continues tending to the wounds of the various people that Shadow keeps discovering. Convinced now that he's dealing with real people rather than dupes, he'll untie them and allow each to get up and stretch their muscles. He'll also take food out of his pack and give each of them food and water to quench their hunger and thirst.
To the councilman, he says, "A shipment of vials, you say? Did he say much more about these pirates and where they would come from? And what about this "Dagger" thing to switch souls?"
Ruby [HP: 74/74 - AC: 25(26)] [message, magic circle, haste] Friday March 6th, 2009 8:42:44 PM
Ruby has very little that she can add to the conversation or the plans for what to do next. She knows the rough details and has not had time to get the full story...though a lot of it is falling into place rather quickly from the hints she has gotten so far.
Glancing around one last time she tries to figure out if there is anything else that she could be doing. "Who owns this warehouse?" She is curious if the person that owned it was part of this plot or not.
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 7 (Mage Armour) Friday March 6th, 2009 9:07:34 PM
through the message spell, to noone in particular "It would be good to catch up with them before they could heal and all that, except that we need it too..."
Escape from Nightmare Quarter and a Date with the Constable (Nellie) Monday March 9th, 2009 12:39:22 AM
Convinced that the hostages are who they are supposed to be, they are release from their bonds and filled in on the situation. All of the Councilmembers take the news in different strides. Lynom is very interested in what the Order has learned, and is very appreciative of the help they have provided so far. Saisset is very, very anxious to leave the Quarter and all the bad luck that the place exudes. The sooner they get back to Rabbitsfoot the better! Once revived, Gibbard seems very initated that the group has taken so long to find them. "If you two morons had just passed that initiative forming the citizens watchgroup none of this would have happened!" he grumbles as his bonds are loosened. "Now we've had to drag a bunch of "adventurers" in, trapsing around the city, doubtless doing all kinds of damage..." (grumble, grumble, grumble). Mobec seems to be in shock and though he seems appreciative, says very little.
Though questioned by Thar and others, the councilmembers are unable to provide much more information.
After everyone is ready to depart, the trip back to Constable Rabbitsfoot's office is uneventful. You are met at the door by two new guards who provide the appropriate handsignals and salute smartly when they see the Councilmembers. More than one furtive glance is cast toward Saisset, but the guards are too well trained to speak the questions that are obviously percilating in their minds. Leaning forward at his desk, Rabbitsfoot's grin spreads from ear to ear when the Councilmembers are ushered in. "By Waard, you did it! How in the world did you find them?!" a shadow clouds the halfling's face. "These are the real ones, right? After that mishap with the guards..."
OOC: Still working on the XP and hero points.
Arm Monday March 9th, 2009 6:00:14 AM
Arm grimaces at the coucilman's remarks, thinking "Better to be an 'adventurer' than mired in hypocracy. So much for gratitude..".
Once they reach Rabbitsfoot, Arm assures him that these are in fact the real articles, and fills him in on the rescue.
Wynum [See invis. Daylight. 4 temp hp] Monday March 9th, 2009 11:22:47 AM
[OOC: We did Detect Evil AND Detect Magic (for that pesky undetectable alignment) on them guys?]
The centaur seems surprised to see everyone here, and eager to talk:
"Well, he explains, that's the strange part. We had a tip on their location, in the Nightmare quarter ; it came from the guild. But we have little reason to believe it was not a lure, because Shadow had been followed to the guild just a couple hours before and the tip was received in the most uncustomary way. But you see, despite this, it was actually quite exact. I think they actually have much more limited resources that we might presume and they couldn't reliably safehold the hostage and set up a trap at the same time."
"So it's quite clear they knew we knew about the councilmen since yesterday, so to set up the vial transfer plan is useless. In fact we know they know everything, so you might as well inform the council and, well, everyone about that threat. Also I suggest you tell the guards to cancel the transfer and that the vials have been secured at the Manor instead. This way we can wait for them there. What do you think?"
ADM Jay B Monday March 9th, 2009 11:32:18 AM
Hi all. Just as soon as some information is checked with Nellie, I'll be stepping in.
If you have concerns, doubts or questions.... or just want to know wh the answer is 42, email is axemaster1010 AT yahoo DOT com.
Glad to be on board.
Thar AC 26/25, 48/70 hps Monday March 9th, 2009 2:04:23 PM
(OOC = Glad to have you aboard Jay ;-) Also, from what I remember, Kirsten did check them out for evil and I checked them out for magic...)
Now at Rabbitsfoot, Thar listens to Arm describe the situation and events of the last encounter. At a suitable time, Thar pulls Wynum outside and reminds him (and anyone else that needs to know) that the vials are actually at a temple that only Thar and Kirsten know of. The vials are being purified so they can be sold. He also reminds everyone that they were planning on selling the vials ASAP if the vial transfer idea was scrapped, since the group has had no income at all during the last several adventures and desperately needs the funds.
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 27/47] Monday March 9th, 2009 2:25:46 PM
Shadow is on high alert as the group makes its way to Rabbitsfoot. He is relieved when they arrive there and are able to get the correct hand signals from the guards. He takes note of the questioning looks the guards give councilman Saisset.
He will hang back as some members relate the events of the night. He cringes a little as Wynum is so open about the reference to his Guild, and shutters as he quickly shrugs off the resources of the Guild. He thinks, 'I will have to have a long chat with our new member about his openness with our sources of information.'
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 7 (Mage Armour) Monday March 9th, 2009 8:17:34 PM
Julian is glad to see the sensible halfling constable, though he has little to add to the discussion.
Ruby [HP: 74/74 - AC: 25(26)] [message, magic circle, haste] Monday March 9th, 2009 9:37:32 PM
Ruby hangs back a little as she trails the group. It is something that she has become accustom to, living by herself and being on the paranoid side. To be honest she does not fully trust the Mithril Order as of yet but they have no reason to suspect who she really is and that is good enough for her.
Unconsciously, she rubs the ring on the rawhide necklace that lays under her armor and shirt. Stepping inside she leans against a wall to listen to what is said, though she has very little to add. Her eyes catch a number of odd things and she will mention them when she has the chance.
That chance comes when Thar pulls them outside to have a little talk with them. She listens and then moves close enough that only he will hear her. "I have to ask about the hand signal that was passed earlier." She had gotten some strange looks from the guards when she did not return it, but had been allowed inside anyways. Still it appeared that they still watched her with maybe a touch of hostility. "When we get back to this home of yours, you will have to fill me in fully. I fear that I am missing a lot here and I hate to be in the dark." Her eyes have been watching the darkness for as long as you can remember being with her, though during battle she was occupied with other things. Still she seemed to miss nothing and note a lot of details with her eyes.
Edmund Monday March 9th, 2009 9:50:20 PM
Edmund regards the councilors icily as they argue with each other and talk about the Order as if they were not present--and not in a positive way. He thinks they might have been better off left tied up, but has enough sense not to say so.
The half-elf mage also saves some attention for Ruby, whom, he continues to treat with a degree of caution, having had enough unpleasant experiences with dopplegangers. As for the constable, he has nothing to say to him this time, content to let everyone else sum up the situation.
"Time for dinner yet?" he asks of no one in particular.
Arm Tuesday March 10th, 2009 5:58:00 AM
OOC: Welcome, Jay! I look forward to gaming with you :)
IC: As Arm waits for Rabbitsfoot's reply his mind wanders to thoughts of taking a vacation, but then realizes that once you choose the path he has, you can NEVER be on vacation.
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 27/47] Tuesday March 10th, 2009 9:59:27 AM
OOC: Yes, welcome Jay!
IC: While waiting for the constable to answer Shadow struggles with how he will broach the subject of keeping the Guild kinda hush hush, especially with the agents of law.
Lucky Rabbitsfoot (Nellie) Wednesday March 11th, 2009 12:44:34 AM
Rabbitsfoot bobs his head in agreement as he is filled in. Thankfully, the mention of Shadow's Guild reference seems to slide mostly under the radar as many people are contributing to the discussion at mostly the same time.
Putting all the pieces together from the Order and the Councilmembers, Rabbitsfoot's face pales. He nods at Wynum. "You're right, there's no sense in going through with the trade. You seem capable of dealing with the vials..." He taps his diminutive chin "I will leave them in your protection, but please notify the council and myself should something untoward occur. All this talk of "swapping souls" makes me distinctly uncomfortable!" The halfling fidgets nervously behind his desk as he looks up at the Councilmembers. "I will of course dispatch the town guard to search for the shape changers, but I doubt it will prove fruitful. We could notify the Dragon Consortium, but they seem taxed with more Wold shaking projects of late." A thin frown mars the Constable's face. "This will definitely require further thought." Rabbitsfoot chuckles merrily at Edmund's comment. "I suppose a good meal would do everyone well. It's a bit early for dinner (it's about midday by now). Tell you what...let's head down to the Dragon's Breath. I'll buy lunch."
And so, the Councilmembers are escorted to their homes under heavy protection from the town guard (as well as a few personal bodyguards!!). Lunch with Rabbitsfoot is fulfilling and enjoyable as the Constable regals the Order with stories of some of the stranger encounters he had when he was in the town guard. Like all good times, the lunch is soon over, and the Constable and Order head their separate ways.
OOC: Okay folks, XP is going to be 2750 for this module. The vials are purified. Please let me know if you are going to sell them, so I can notify the Catacombs. Please update your sheets. We'll be having a few days of down time, so if scrolls need to be scribed or your PC needs to work on anything, let me know. :) Jay will be taking over soon, and I need to address some issues with sheets, so I'll be around. I'll also go ahead and take submissions for hero points until 3/20/09. So take a look at the battle, and let me know who you think went the extra mile. :)
Also want to let you know that a reward from the Councilmembers is coming soon. :)
Arm Wednesday March 11th, 2009 6:02:58 AM
After they leave the tavern, Arm is overcome by a weariness he has not known in a while. Leaning against a wall, he says to the rest, "I for one could use a short nap at the least..THEN we need to discuss what to do with the vials..although it would profit us greatly to sell them, it would be FAR to easy for the dopplegangers to buy them back and again use them for their nefarious purposes. I think it best that we hang on to them for now...at least until we can permanently eradicate this threat. If we are in dire need of coins, I can always perform a few songs.".
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 7 (Mage Armour) Wednesday March 11th, 2009 6:46:32 AM
Hero Point for Ruby who risked being attacked to save Julian from early retirement. It could well have ended her life as well.
I will spend a day or two or three updating Julian's character sheet. I've found a few things that I missed on the previous level up. And I need to decide between another point into Dex (currently 15) and Con (16)...
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 27/47] Wednesday March 11th, 2009 9:51:23 AM
After a great lunch, Shadow agrees with Arm that he needs some time with his bed to recover from this last encounter. "I agree, that we should hold onto those vials at the very least until we have gotten past this threat." He will head back to the manor in hopes to spend an uneventful afternoon and night in his bed (snoring loudly).
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 27/47] Wednesday March 11th, 2009 9:54:06 AM
OOC: Does anyone have any online resources like the PHB (or at least the experience tables)? I don't have my PHB with me at work and I usually forget to check it at home. Any help will be greatly appreciated.
Wynum Wednesday March 11th, 2009 3:14:15 PM
Wynum is sorry for his mistake about the guild and goes into some more explanation while they eat.
"Well... I though.. because it was a guild, it would be well-known and not secret, so...
And I still fear that tip did not came from your friends. You said your first visit was unsuccessful, and also that you were followed. Then, very shortly afterwards the guild would suddenly procure that information? Because we know we have been followed most of the time, it stands to reason that it was a trap. This is why I was quite convinced the counclimen were not there. In fact even if it wasn't a trap, there was little reason to keep them here, except if they're only the three of them. Anyways... we've lost the advantage, but we saved them."
To which he suggests a toast, even if the hostages' reactions were, shall we say, mixed.
[OOC: Here's the best online SRD I know of: http://www.systemreferencedocuments.org/35/sovelior_sage/home.html]
Thar AC 26/25, 48/70 hps Wednesday March 11th, 2009 3:26:00 PM
Thar enjoys the time for relaxing and attends to everyone's wounds while they're healing up to full.
He listens to Arm's and Shadow's comments and replies, "I must say that I vote for selling them to the catacombs. We know that now that the evil is cleansed from them, they are useless for the doppleganger's to use. Also, remember that they mentioned they were going to get other vials from their own sources so ours are now merely expensive pieces of jewelry. Lastly, I think we should assume that the Catacombs is a pretty secure location."
(OOC = And also on a personal note for those of you who may not track it, we haven't got any treasure back since Feb of 2008. Since then, we've not received much of anything in spite of our efforts....
(With the 2750 xp, Thar is 200 xp short of next level... Ouch....)
Edmund Wednesday March 11th, 2009 7:37:25 PM
Edmund is only too happy to take the constable up on his offer of a free lunch.
"The sooner we're rid of those vials, the better. And, we could use the money, to be sure. Or at least I could."
Edmund considers the potential purchase of more spells to be a very exciting proposition.
Ruby Wednesday March 11th, 2009 7:55:55 PM
Ruby was more than happy to allow the Constable to treat her to a little bit of lunch. Making it a point to order a single glass of a nice wine to go with her lunch she enjoys herself for the first time in a long while.
Not bothering with the others for now, she makes it a point to test out the wine to see how it would have held up against the ones of her own vineyard. The wine was not bad, a nice fruity flavor that she enjoyed rather well.
When at last they are on their way back to this home of the Order she pulls up alongside Thar once again. "I would ask that you indulge me a couple of little things. Tonight you set a guard at the door of whatever room you put me into. Tomorrow could you put me under a truth spell and I will leave all my magical gear in my room." Her eyes are searching as he asks this and she will not take no for an answer, unless there is noone that can perform the spell.
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 7 (Mage Armour) Wednesday March 11th, 2009 9:10:32 PM
Oops, forgot the In Character stuff.
Julian was near to falling asleep at the conversation in Rabbitfoot's office, till food was mentioned.
He eats like he hasn't been fed for days, almost rivalling those ravenous male teenage humans. "Surely the Catacombs is as secure as it gets, right? Otherwise every thief and mage would be throwing everything they've got at getting in. Sell the vials."
Julian secrets some food to his two badgers and riding dog. He sits slumped within his armour, feeling around the back of his neck where there is considerable damage. He sighs, then gulps half a pint of ale.
"Ruby, thanks for saving my neck. Literally. I owe you."
Standing up Julian tries to attract the attention of the Mithril Order. Quickly flustered by the height of the table he jumps up, standing on his chair, flapping his arms and calling out. "Err, okay, that wasn't as subtle as I'd have liked... "I am sorry that I let you lot down today. I am meant to be protecting you as Domi has had me trained. He sent me back with the reminder that I should be protecting. He taught me some more as I stood with him in the Land of Shadows, and I will working harder keeping you from harm."
OOC Thar, did you include the level x 50xp for the Hero Point?
After Lunch (Nellie) Thursday March 12th, 2009 12:46:36 AM
The Order enjoys a well deserved free lunch and discuss various options regarding the vials. Some think it best to keep them in safe keeping, others would prefer to sell them at the Catacombs. There is the off chance that the vials could be used as a lure to try and capture the shape changers, but there is no assurance. Though the Catacombs are a very secure location, it is also possible that the enemy may purchase them back. It is a difficult decision, and one that the Order discusses once they are back at the Manor.
OOC: Alright folks, let's take the next few days to work on a couple of days worth of RP stuff you'd like to take care of. Update the sheets and get them on google docs. We'll be moving on to the next module on Monday.
Edmund Thursday March 12th, 2009 1:06:00 AM
((Updated my sheet yesterday, it should be visible on Google Docs already. Also, I'm not familiar with what Julian is talking about regarding Level x XP for Hero Points. Another Woldian Rule? Someone care to explain? Thanks!))
Once the group returns to the manor, Edmund tries to get everyone to come to some sort of agreement on the vials.
"We really could use the funds," he puts in. "And if we're worried about them being bought and reused, why not have them cut down first? Granted, we might lose some of the value, but then they can't be reused as vials. It's a good compromise, don't you think?"
"Anyway," he continues, "The sooner we sell them, the sooner I can investigate getting some new magic to protect us from the machinations of the doppleganger brigade."
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 7 (Mage Armour) Thursday March 12th, 2009 4:03:15 AM
http://www.woldiangames.com/Woldipedia/index.php/House_Rules#HERO_POINTS_ETC
When a PC performs an action that is heroic according to his class etc. during a session, the DM will award a hero point when experience is given out. The number of hero points a PC has cannot exceed his current level. These may be spent to re-roll any roll once, or combined to add 10% per hero point to percentile roles and +2 to d20 roles. Once used, they are gone until more are earned. Other role-playing points of various types may be given which aid in role-playing only. Each Hero Point also comes with an automatic (30xp X character level) bonus.
More In Character stuff to come later, back to work for me now..
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 7 (Mage Armour) Thursday March 12th, 2009 4:04:43 AM
Sorry, I think I said it was 50xp X Character Level - it is only 30xp per level.
Arm Thursday March 12th, 2009 6:01:30 AM
Arm nods as he changes his mind, "You are correct...I suppose they COULD get replacement vials, so it's best that we sell them and try to stop them once and for all before they can acquire new ones.".
Thar AC 26/25, 48/70 hps Thursday March 12th, 2009 11:23:18 AM (OOC - Bless you for reminding me about the Xp bonus!!!! I totally forgot that and finally I can make the level up... The bonus gets me barely into the next level and that's great news!!! I owe you one!)
To Ruby, Thar nods his agreement and in a comforting and friendly tone says, "I will personally serve as the guard for your room Madam, and none shall pass, including you, until the morning. In regards to a truth spell, I will memorize it and cast a zone of truth around you to prevent any falsehoods. Are there any specific questions that I should ask? Also, do you want to keep this between you and I, or should I include others in our conversation? If you need it to remain private, then I will consider it as a conversation between you and your priest and vow that it will remain so."
To Arm and Ed, he says, "Great point. They can always buy new ones if they want to move ahead with their plans. I'm not fond of cutting them down, since I'd assume crystal vials aren't hard to find and these dopplegangers have proved that they are resourceful. If we cut them, we'll lose a lot of their value..."
To the rest of the group, he says, "Should we put this up to a vote and try to decide? We've got a few days free and if we're going to sell them and use the proceeds, we should get moving now and as Ed wisely mentioned, we need to get some magic to catch them next time and stop their ability to become invisible and avoid us."
Lastly, to Julian, in a reassuring voice, he adds, "My friend, we all fell short today and let the enemy get away. However, remember that we did free some innocents and that's something to celebrate. We'll do better next time and I personally was reassured to have you with us in our battle. Also, knowing you'll be with us next time makes me comforted too."
Thar AC 26/25, 70/70 hps Thursday March 12th, 2009 11:24:00 AM
(Sorry, need to change my header, since I assume Thar is at max hps since we're resting...
Thar AC 26/25, 70/70 hps d8=1 ; d8=7 ; Thursday March 12th, 2009 11:42:36 AM
Rolled for Thar's hps...
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 27/47] Thursday March 12th, 2009 1:49:33 PM
Shadow nods in agreement at Thar's statement to the group, "I agree we all did our best, but fell a little short in regards to those nasties. We did get the councilmen out alive and even if they did not all show it they will realize how grateful they really are. As for the vials I think we keep them secure until at least our little group of nasties has been dealt with."
Shadow will take the first night to rest himself and get recouped from the ordeal. Once he gets done it will be a matter of repairing his gear (or having it repaired) depending on which piece of gear.
Edmund Thursday March 12th, 2009 2:58:30 PM
((I had no idea about that Hero Point rule! I will have to try and figure out at what levels I got the points I have, and then work out what my actual XP is. Perhaps during American Lit. class tonight . . .))
Edmund considers the matter a bit before adding another line of thought.
"Arm makes a good point. Crystal vials are not impossible to get ahold of. If we don't sell the ones we have, they will just buy them somewhere else. They appear to have vast resources. I doubt the cost of some crystal vials will be a problem for them, nor would it even delay them much. Whereas, in our case, that money could be used here, immediately, to combat them before they have a chance to recover, regroup, and hatch a new plan."
"Let's sell them and go after them at once," he concludes. "Even if they wanted to buy the ones we sell to the shoppe, if we attack them immediately they won't have time to get them purified anyway. And if we don't sell them, they'll just get them somewhere else. So let's get to it. The job soonest started is the job soonest ended, after all!"
Ruby Thursday March 12th, 2009 9:10:58 PM
With a smile to Thar she nods her head. "I would much rather have all those present that want to be. That way noone can say that I used my womanly ways to get into your good graces. This will also allow for the detection of evil and magic as well...that way there will be no doubt of the full effects." She stops only once to look into your eyes, maybe searching for something there and then sighs. "Be aware that I will not be able to answer all the questions that maybe asked. I have far more powerful enemies than dopplegangers after me and I would rather keep all of you out of that if possible. Otherwise you will be able to ask whatever you want." She has not bothered to say anything about the vials as she was not there for that and did not have a say...at least as far as she was concerned.
"I am sure that I will be well protected and that the rest of your group will be as well. At least after this is over, most of you can rest a little easier about my allegiances to the group." Her hand once again strays to the head of the little owl that is perched upon her shoulder and she gives a sad smile. It has been a long time for her; either being on the run or being so suspicious of people that she has never gotten that close.
[Nellie:Highlight to display spoiler: {Not how sure how much over the base level of experience for 7th I was suppose to have as noone said. I will just assume for right now that I have what is printed on my CS. Just did not want to fall too far behind the rest of the group, though if only one has leveled up than I don't have to worry too much.]}
Arm Friday March 13th, 2009 6:01:39 AM
Arm nods, grateful that he has such friends that will stick up for each other. To the conversation, he adds, "Um, I think I need to remind you that the vials are DIAMOND and not merely crystal, though I still think they'll have enough resources to procure others. What we need to do is make sure that that does NOT happen.".
Wynum Friday March 13th, 2009 12:25:28 PM
Back at the Manor, Wynum keeps pacing about in anticipation of a future confrontation. It is quite clear he has become obsessed with these elusive ennemies, or maybe compensating for his lack of clairvoyance at the warehouse. Nightly pacing about of his bedroom produces considerable sleep disturbance in the manor.
"We really need to understand what they are about, he repeats, sometimes with a slight hint of recent wine consumption. We have to. What led you to these vials? Edmund, we need to know more about that dagger, and the soul transfer, can you do that? Maybe Thar can help, it's about souls after all... We need to know if they're after the blood or just the vials, if they can hold souls. They didn't talk about the blood."
"Meanwhile we must set up another trap, and we know how. We have the advantage again, thanks to Lynom! Ruby and Shadow you seem to know the city, what about those pirates? Arm, I'm sure you can get to know more about that, asking the right questions. We need to know what's their contact, and then pose as sellers of vials, this way we'll trap them. I'm not too good about inquiries, but I can go about equipping ourselves adequately for the confrontation."
Thar AC 26/25, 70/70 hps Friday March 13th, 2009 3:28:22 PM
Thar listens carefully to Ruby and in a friendly, pastoral response, gives her a shoulder hug. "Don't worry about your womanly ways, as I've gotten pretty good at ministering to beautiful women such as you. We will care for you while you sleep and make sure no harm comes to you or us. Once you wake, we'll ask you a set of questions."
"And don't worry about keeping us out of your problems from the past. You're part of our team now and your enemies are our enemies and if they come after you, they come after us. And remember, you've fought next to us in battle and bled for us. That's means a great deal to me and others."
Finally, he listens to the continued conversation and waits to hear if there is a consensus on the vials.
(OOC = Here is how it seems the votes stack up: Thar = Sell Shadow = Sell Ruby = Abstain Ed = Sell Wynum = ??? Arm = Sell (I think?) Julian = ??? Waiting on the rest of the votes...
Julian (Small size) AC 22 hp 7 (Mage Armour) Saturday March 14th, 2009 8:00:49 AM
Sell - they've been cleansed, right? They are no more evil than a glass for whisky... ;)
Wynum Saturday March 14th, 2009 11:23:41 AM
If asked, Wynum states his position on the vials:
"I was not in your party when you risked your lives for those vials, so I don't feel I have rights or voice on those vials, so do as you please. However, I want to point out that it might be the vials, and not their contents they were after. I don't know how these soul transfer work, or what would be the use of the blood for that. Any idea?"
Thar AC 26/25, 70/70 hps Saturday March 14th, 2009 2:27:45 PM
Thar answers Julian's question, "Yes, they've been totally cleansed and all traces of evil are gone. As a result, they are ordinary diamond vials."
While the group is discussing things, Thar will ask Shadow if he'll join him in going to the Catacombs and getting their value estimated...
DM's Nellie/Jay = Do we need to go through the whole Catacombs posting thing to get the value estimated or can you give us the appx value?
Arm Monday March 16th, 2009 5:57:39 AM
Once back at the manor, Arm excuses himself to his room, and slumps down on the bed. Rubbing his eyes fiercely as if to remove offending particles, he tries to figure out a plan to stop their foes, but his mind seems to flit constantly from one thought to another, and he comes up with nothing. Going over to a basin, he splashes some water on his face, though he doesn't feel clean afterward.
Shadow [AC 24/19 HP 27/47] Monday March 16th, 2009 1:35:18 PM
"I will go with you to the Catacombs, Thar. Is that what we all agreed upon though? I thought we were going to hang onto them or put them in a secure place and wait until after the shapechangers have been dealt with." Shadow looks questioning at Thar and then the rest of the group.
Edmund Monday March 16th, 2009 2:27:16 PM
Edmund looks to Shadow and shakes his head, saying, "Frankly, we could use the money to prepare for fighting them, and they could easily get their hands on another set of plain diamond vials. There's no real purpose in holding onto these. Nearly everyone has agreed to sell them now, so please, let's just get on with it. The sooner this is done, the sooner we can use the money to prepare, the sooner we can go smash them up."
"Anyway," Edmund adds, "I'll come to the Catacombs with you. I want to see what sort of scrolls they have. I might be able to find some of those things I looked up in the library before. If so, we can put an end to their hiding all the time, and maybe I can do something about their rolling around on the floor when we're trying to fight them."
Wynum Monday March 16th, 2009 2:54:42 PM
"If you go to the catacombs, remember to get defenses against poison. And magical light. And poison, too. But what about the soul thing? And what about the plan I have suggested? Does it sounds right?"
LOG ON