DM Kathy Thursday September 17th, 2009 12:32:51 AM
[OOC: The swords are longswords and the armor is breastplates. Please understand that I had to make the bad guys in a tearing hurry in order to re-start the game. That included equipping them.]
As you discuss your options, most of you are leaning toward a return to Cinnamon Valley. You bundle up your loot and are soon ready to depart...which means you need to make a final decision about where you're going. :)
Garret Goodbarrel [ AC:22 HP:13/25] Thursday September 17th, 2009 11:21:58 AM
"Well, let's go see what the woman will do with this stinger and poison, shall we?"
Donovan {9 ~ 52hp} Thursday September 17th, 2009 11:42:08 AM
I second that motion.
Cambar (HP19 of 27, AC23) Thursday September 17th, 2009 4:30:48 PM
As the group walks back to the Cinnamon Valley, Cambar takes the chance to tell Zeph about the WLA.
"See, anyone can pick up a sword and some armor and go off looking for loot. Some don't even care too much how they get it. But those are just thugs. The WLA gives you a higher purpose. It is for adventurers who want to make a difference in the Wold -- a difference in the right direction."
She is happy to share all she knows (see link).
Selemar [ac 18 hp 23/23] Thursday September 17th, 2009 7:05:53 PM
'biggest difference i want to make would be a chance to know thee valley is safe' selemar thinks to himself
Zeph AC22 (Shield) HP 15/37 HeroesLoot4 Thursday September 17th, 2009 10:39:44 PM "Yep. To Dulcet..." Zeph says again as the group sets off.
"I would definitely like to join this group. If I had known about it earlier, I would have joined before now. It seems they have some resources I could make good use of." Zeph says.
(OOC: I added up the loot from the last few encounters... all the way back to the ettins and orcs. After we get to Jarlwolf and sell our gear, just add the correct amount of money as listed on the sheet to your character page.)
DM Kathy Friday September 18th, 2009 12:24:14 AM
Your decision made, you bundle up the gear and leave the wyvern's lair. Tired from your battle, weighed down with loot and the sting of a wyvern, still wounded, you do not make good progress on your journey.
Still, you are able to put a mile or two between yourselves and the lair before you call a halt. Setting up camp has never seemed to take so long, and most seem content with cold rations, rather than going to the trouble of cooking something hot.
Fortunately, nothing disturbs your camp during the night, and you awaken to a clear morning with a slightly better outlook on things.
[OOC: Everyone regains their level in hit points overnight.]
Zeph AC22 (Shield) HP 20/37 HeroesLoot4 Friday September 18th, 2009 2:41:52 AM
Zeph yawns when he wakes up and stretches. Then flinches as his ribs hurt under the strain. The bite marks are still rather fresh in his skin as well.
Need a cleric... Zeph thinks constantly, wondering if he can perhaps retrain his own skills to better suit the needs of the party.
Garret Goodbarrel [ AC:22 HP:18/25] Friday September 18th, 2009 8:40:24 AM
Garret also groans a bit as he rises in the morning. He bends and stretches, trying to get past the pain. He notices a few new bruises on his arm and chest.
As they eat, he joins Zeph and Cambar, saying, "That sounds like quite an interesting group. How, exactly, does one go about joining such an honorable organization?"
Donovan {9 ~ 52hp} Friday September 18th, 2009 12:37:28 PM
So cuz, you saying I am a thug? Cuz I choose Not to join a group an organization but rather be on my own and those others I trust? Why must I belong to some fancy shmancy group to want to change the world. Why can't I and those of like minds do it without having to pay someone dues. Isn't my own money, and my blood and sweat and tears enough payment in helping to make the world a better place without having to hand some money hungry group of hooligans more of my money just to have my name on a list marking me as a do gooder? Shouldn't my actions be enough to prove my meat rather than some trinket I wear on my cloak??
Cambar (HP19 of 27, AC23) Friday September 18th, 2009 1:49:19 PM
Cambar laughs and gives Donovan a hug. "Silly boy! You're no thug -- 'cause you got me to make sure you stick on the straight and narrow!"
"He does have a good point, though," Cambar says to Garret and Zeph. "It is WAY expensive. Two grand gold just to start, and lots more than that to get promoted. Course you can be a good guy and not join. You could be a better person than any of us in the WLA if you did not join, and donated the amount of the dues to charity!"
Zeph AC22 (Shield) HP 20/37 HeroesLoot4 Friday September 18th, 2009 1:53:03 PM
Zeph thinks and then smiles. "Well. You see, I like the idea of the group not because it 'proves' anything. I like it because they have services I can make use of. You see, I understand the price is high... but the returns are worth it. I would call it an... investment."
(OOC: Free skill points and a feat to name a few)
Selemar [ac 18 hp 23/23] Sunday September 20th, 2009 8:08:42 PM
'not quite my thing. does anyone require more healing?'
DM Kathy Sunday September 20th, 2009 11:03:51 PM
[OOC: Selemar is our healer until Rollo sorts out his computer problems. So I think the answer to Selemar's question is "heck, yeah!"]
Dawn comes early in high summer, perhaps a little earlier than some of you would like. On the other hand, it's going to be a lovely day.
You take your time getting breakfast and packing up, knowing you'll have plenty of daylight. When you set off, it is to take a pleasant trek across the grassy hills. A light breeze keeps the day from being too warm. Puffy white clouds chase one another across the sky, birds soar on the breeze, and small creatures scurry out of your way as you approach. The rustling of the grasses and the buzzing hum of a thousand happy insects are your constant companions.
The Windborne hills are indeed lonely; you walk pretty much the entire day without coming across another living soul. When you make your camp, it is near the boundary of a lonely farmstead, the first sign of civilization you have seen for days. The farmer's wife, though startled to find travelers so far out, is happy to sell you fresh eggs and milk. You camp in a copse of trees, near a spring. The sunset that evening is spectacular.
Tomorrow, you should reach the road.
Garret Goodbarrel [ AC:22 HP:18/25] Monday September 21st, 2009 8:24:08 AM
Garret smiles and hums to himself as they travel through the abandoned hills. He looks around in wonder at the Wold, happy to be traveling again. If more talk is started about the WLA, he expresses his interest once again. "I have traveled through a lot of these lands, usually just carrying messages. I would indeed like to help others more as I go, and it would be nice to have an organization around that would help me do that."
Cambar (HP19 of 27, AC23) Monday September 21st, 2009 9:04:08 AM
Cambar is happy to be under the sky, riding again. As she rides, she imagines that her faithful mount is a wyvern that she has trained from a pup, and that she is swooping down on enemies.
She directs the conversation to the object of every adventurer's interest: "How you guys divide treasure? Who splits the shares? How do you know who gets what?"
Donovan {13~ 52hp} Monday September 21st, 2009 9:44:45 AM
Greedy cousin, Donovan thinks to himself. And gives Cambar a mischievous smile.
Donovan is also happy to be under the sky again, even if he still has to apply ointments to some of his booboo's. Cringing every so often as a piece of his armor rubs one of his wounds wrong. But no sound parts through his lips of any discomfort.
Hmark(ac18, 35/35hp) Monday September 21st, 2009 10:47:49 AM
Hmark spends the day riding trail, as is his custom. That evening's opportunity for an omlette is too good to pass up, and the archer happily buys the eggs and milk from the isolated farmhouse
While he keeps an ear on the conversation around the WLA, Hmark offers no opinions. He's heard of the organization before, but has to decide if 2000 gp is worth whatever they offer.
Zeph AC22 (Shield) HP 20/37 HeroesLoot4 d20+4=8 ; d20+5=10 ; Monday September 21st, 2009 12:42:32 PM
At the question about the division of loot, Zeph perks up and pulls out a piece of parchment. On the parchment are several charts displaying the division of loot throughout the travels of the group from the very beginning. Most recently, entitled HeroesLoot4 , Zeph shows how the loot is divided.
"Basically, we add up how much we can sell every item for and divide it by everyone who took part in obtaining the loot. Since the first battle you participated in was the one with the Wyvern and those soldiers, that is the battle you get loot from. If you wish to claim an item from the loot pile that is intended to be sold, then the price of that item is simply deducted from your share. If you wish to replace one of your items with a looted item, then you can simply put your old item into the group pile and it will offset the deduction in your gold from your obtained item. Therefore, it benefits you to claim a looted item because it results in being 10% cheaper than if you had purchased it directly. Lastly, you can actually go into the negative number in the gold you are owed if you chose to claim too many items, but that is fine since it saves money over all and the amount will simply be deducted from the next time you are allotted gold." Zeph explains, hoping that his explanation was understood.
(knowledge: math =8? Bleh... lets try Arcana, since math is really magic after all... 10, bleh x 2)
Cambar (HP19 of 27, AC23) Monday September 21st, 2009 1:27:18 PM
OOC: Could I get permission for cayzle@gmail.com to read the treasure doc? Thanks!
Zeph AC22 (Shield) HP 20/37 HeroesLoot4 Monday September 21st, 2009 1:39:45 PM
http://spreadsheets.google.com/pub?key=tGXhVq6r4ty_crtbpbSnKbQ&output=html
Does that work? Sorry. Im still new to google docs.
Cambar (HP19 of 27, AC23) Monday September 21st, 2009 2:54:06 PM
Perfect. thanks!
Selemar [ac 18 hp 23/23] Monday September 21st, 2009 8:10:13 PM
Is it possible to say that Selemar would have done some healing the first day of travelling? He'd burn through a bunch of spells trying to get everyone back to full.
DM Kathy Monday September 21st, 2009 11:20:09 PM
During your first day of travel, Selemar casts a series of cure spells. Between that and another good night's sleep, everyone is at full hit points.
Another beautiful day dawns. You once more strike camp, pack up, and head out over the hills. Today is much the same as yesterday, though perhaps a bit warmer.
You reach the road in the afternoon, and begin traveling south. You pass a drover with a herd of sheep, and realize it's been days since you've seen another traveler. If the drover even counts as a traveler. He stares at you in open astonishment.
You camp that night in a site that has clearly been used for camping before. There is a flat, hard-packed area for tents, a blackened fire ring, and several posts for tying up pack animals. A nearby stream provides water.
Your rest is again undisturbed, and the next day you set out again toward the valley. As the road drops out of the hills, you begin noticing how warm it is. The cooling breeze you had up on the hills is all but gone. In its place is dry heat and trail dust. Those of you in medium and heavy armor are becoming a bit uncomfortable.
As you enter the valley, you pass a couple of tiny hamlets, and you begin to see more travelers. There is some chance you could find an inn for tonight. Or, you can camp agin.
Garret Goodbarrel [ AC:22 HP:25/25] Tuesday September 22nd, 2009 7:06:12 AM
Garret spends part of the night at the campsite in the stream. He enjoys his time there, even while keeping one eye out for others near them. He gets the feeling that they are being followed for some reason.
The next day, as they start to reach civilization, Garret says, "I'm not so sure we should stay in an inn tonight. I just get a feeling that someone is still trying to follow us. We might be better off in the woods somewhere."
Donovan {52hp} Tuesday September 22nd, 2009 11:49:33 AM
Im game for the Inn. A hot bath, a warm meal and a mug or 5 of ale sounds very inviting right about now.
Cambar (HP19 of 27, AC23) Tuesday September 22nd, 2009 9:12:47 PM
Cambar would be glad of a bath. Or even just of a sleep in a hay loft.
Zeph AC19 HP 37/37 HeroesLoot4 Tuesday September 22nd, 2009 10:27:20 PM
Though Zeph also feels an Inn would be a nice change of pace, he has come to trust Garret's instincts. "It's up to you guys, but if Garret feels someone is following us, then that's what I'm with him." Zeph says.
Cambar (HP27 of 27, AC23) d20+12=23 ; Tuesday September 22nd, 2009 11:32:27 PM
"Hey wait! Someone is following us? Maybe it's Canlan, my brother!"
Cambar rides back, waving her lance and shouting, "Who's there! Come out! Let's talk. Come on, we can have a chat!" She tries to be persuasive: Dip 23.
DM Kathy Wednesday September 23rd, 2009 12:03:37 AM
You face the dilemma that has plagued this group almost from its inception. Do you sleep comfortable tonight, and risk being seen by your enemies? Or do you stay away from civilization--which means at least one more day in the same clothes?
Opinion is divided. Garrett feels sure there is somebody following the group. Cambar and Donovan long for the comforts of civilization.
[There is no reply to Cambar's challenge]
As you are still discussing your options, you come to the inn itself. It is a simple country place, one story, made of wood. The painted wooden sign hanging outside shows some kind of four-footed animal, which seems to have an abnormally large head, jumping up on a rock. Or possibly a tree stump. Whoever painted the thing was no artist.
However, whoever is cooking supper is an artist of the highest caliber--or so it seems when you catch a whiff of thyme and summer savory and something delightfully meaty. Still, staying in a public place could be a security risk. Do you stop, or find a place to camp?
Selemar [ac 18 hp 23/23] Wednesday September 23rd, 2009 12:05:37 AM
"I'd suggest we stay near the woods. It is porbably safer, and we seem not to be favored with an overabundance of luck."
Cambar (HP27 of 27, AC23) Wednesday September 23rd, 2009 12:26:50 AM
"I don't get it. Who are we hiding from? Why are we so a-scairt? You all got enemies? Who?"
She sighs. "I say hit the inn, and hit it hard. But if you all have some reason not to, that's fine too."
Garret Goodbarrel [ AC:22 HP:25/25] Wednesday September 23rd, 2009 9:10:27 AM
"Okay, how's this? You guys go ahead into the inn and get set up. I'll hang behind a little bit, take a look around, and then arrive a little later, like I don't know you. I'll keep an eye out to see if anyone looks like they're interested in you. Maybe I won't be noticed."
To Cambar, he says, "Well, you saw that group that attacked us at the wyvern's lair, didn't you? That isn't the first group that's been after us. I'm guessing that someone, somewhere, has put a price on our heads. Sorry to tell you, but since you've been seen with us, that price might extend to you as well."
Donovan {52hp} Wednesday September 23rd, 2009 11:42:10 AM
That sounds like a plan Garret.
And with that said Donovan walks into the inn and inquires about a room and a hot bath. After paying he goes to his room whereupon he drops out of his armor, strips out of his hot, sweaty clothes and dons a cleaner pair. Then saundering back downstairs he asks the innkeeper about laundry services as well, paying for that too if available. Then goes to the tavern and orders a few ales and a hearty meal while waiting for his bath call. Eating hungrily, and drinking thirstily, Donovan stays in the tavern til the bath call is made then he leaves for it, anticipating the hot water to clean off the blood and help with his aching muscles, and the soap to clean the dirt and stink from his carcass. After said bath he goes back to his room where he redresses then hops to the tavern for a couple more rounds of ale. Then retiring to his room he strips down to nothing, climbs under the covers and falls fast asleep.
Hmark(ac18, 35/35hp) d20+5=8 ; d20+5=15 ; Wednesday September 23rd, 2009 8:50:02 PM
"I'm thinking I'll go with them", Hmark says, waving a hand toward Donovan and Cambar.
The archer joins Donovan for a meal, and hangs out in the tavern room awaiting Garret. Otherwise he keeps to himself and watches the goings-on. [Listen 8, Spot 15]
Zeph AC19 HP 37/37 HeroesLoot4 d20+9=15 ; d20+9=11 ; d20+12=13 ; Wednesday September 23rd, 2009 11:20:26 PM
Zeph looks at Garret, then looks at the inn, then looks at Garret again, then at the inn with Donovan, Hmark, and Cambar walking towards it, then looks at Garret and Selemar staying behind. He is clearly torn between two options. "ARG." Zeph exclaims, knowing that the Inn surely would be nice, but would also be higher on the radar.
"Garret, Selemar- thanks for taking one for the team. Hope to see you in there after not too long. Keep a keen eye out." and with that Zeph decides to go to the inn.
Well, I suppose there is need for a wary pair of eyes at the Inn as well. Zeph rationalizes to himself.
Zeph will also go to the Inn, get a room, order a rather large dinner (with red wine) and bath. He will clean his clothes with Prestidigitation and fall asleep after making a small barricade on his door and rigging his window ledge to collapse if the weight of a person was to try to climb up it.
The whole while he will keep an eye out for anything suspicious, as well as an ear out for others' conversations.
DM Kathy Thursday September 24th, 2009 1:01:22 AM
You decide to (temporarily) split up, and Cambar, Donovan, Hmark, and Zeph enter the inn. The delicious smell of cooking is even stronger in here, mingled with the scent of ale and well-scrubbed wood. The furnishings are simple; benches and trestle tables, with a bar at one end.
Several farmers and laborers turn to look at you curiously, then go back to their meals and drink. The human man behind the bar, gives you a friendly nod, wiping his hands on his apron. "Welcome to the Leaping Ram," he says, "what can we do for you?"
You tell him, and he summons his wife to begin heating water for baths. A stable-lad asks you if you've any mounts to be taken care of, and at length another lad arrives to show you to your rooms. The innkeeper informs Donovan with some regret that the washerwoman only comes twice a week, and today isn't one of her days.
Supper proves to be mutton stew, simmered to a thick, savory brown. With it is fresh-baked bread and fresh peach preserves. Drink is ale, though when Zeph requests, they manage to hunt up a bottle of locally-made elderberry wine.
Although you are on the alert, you see nobody paying special attention to your party. The other patrons look very much like farmers; you couldn't really imagine any of them as mercenary fighters in disguise.
Outside the Leaping Ram, Garrett and Selemar find things similarly quiet. Nobody is skulking about the inn, and everyone who enters after the group is obviously local.
Garret Goodbarrel [ AC:22 HP:25/25] d20+13=26 ; d3=2 ; d20+13=30 ; d20+13=22 ; d20+5=9 ; d20+5=19 ; d20+5=25 ; d20+17=23 ; d20+17=37 ; d20+17=21 ; Thursday September 24th, 2009 7:29:02 AM
Garret stays outside for a good while, trying to stay out of sight. He waits until late in the night, until the patrons who are coming and going seem to have mostly gone before he moves out. Then he heads into the stables and sets himself up with the mounts for the rest of the night, hoping that he is wrong and that no one is following them.
-----
A few random rollings: Listens: 26, 30, 22 Spots: 9, 19, 25 Hide: 23, 37, 21
Cambar (HP27 of 27, AC23) d20+5=21 ; Thursday September 24th, 2009 12:20:40 PM
Cambar smells the good food and is eager for it. She enjoys both the bath and the meal very much.
She talks with the innkeeper and the staff. A few locals too. She listens for rumors, news, or other info. Gather Info check 21!
Donovan {52hp} Thursday September 24th, 2009 1:11:23 PM
Will wash my own clothes in the bathtub before I dirty the water with my stinky self. Hanging the well rung out clothes up throughout the room to dry while he socializes in the inn before going to bed, then still so while he resumes his dream from last night about girls and a game called hopscotch....clothing optional.
Selemar [ac 18 hp 23/23] Thursday September 24th, 2009 8:18:52 PM
Selemar will rest beneath the stars. having a bear makes you feel conspicuous, but also somewhat safer than most
DM Kathy Friday September 25th, 2009 1:25:13 AM Donovan solves the washerwoman problem by washing his own clothes in his bathwater. The innkeeper's wife is a trifle tight-lipped upon seeing the state of the bath-house afterward, but Donovan's things are considerably cleaner than they were.
Garrett watches until closing time, then goes to the barn to sleep. With the heat of the day, and the warmth of so many large animals, it is quite warm in the barn. But there are plenty of places to sleep.
Selemar and Shun simply sleep under the stars. It is a clear night, so there are lots of stars for company.
Cambar spends some time chatting with the patrons of the inn. She hears a great deal about a group of black-clad soldiers that came through town just a few days ago. A tough bunch, they seemed, and not entirely reputable, though they paid for their meals without a fuss. They did not stay at the Leaping Ram; only supped her before continuing on their way. Clad all in black they were, led by a tall fellow with a scar on his face.
The night is uneventful, and the sun rises the next morning on another clear day. By breakfast-time, it is warm enough outside that the inn's windows and doors are all opened up. It's going to be a scorcher.
Garret Goodbarrel [ AC:22 HP:25/25] Friday September 25th, 2009 7:35:46 AM
Garret rises early and quickly prepares to depart he slips in the inn for the early breakfast and is ready to go as soon as the other awake. "Let's be on our way, then, shall we?"
Cambar (HP27 of 27, AC23) d20+6=21 ; d20+12=27 ; d20+5=21 ; Friday September 25th, 2009 10:37:46 AM
Cambar's eyes get wide when the patrons mention the tall man in black. She tries to draw them out a bit, spending 10 gp on drinks for folks. "I think I heard tell of that guy," she bluffs. "They say he killed a man in Jarlwolf, just to watch him die. Anybody heard what he's calling himself these days? Those men of his wear armor much? weapons?"
Cambar tells her friends what she learns, and asks if this sounds like someone hunting the group -- tall guy, dressed in black, scar on his face. Has a bunch of thugs with him.
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} Friday September 25th, 2009 11:07:09 AM
After splashing water on his face in the morning, and dressing, he grabs his gear and lugs it down to the inn for a morning meal and some good mead. Turning to the innkeeper he inquires if by chance he has a horse for sale. Eyeing his armor, and then looking outside, Donovan is not looking forward to walking another day in it.
If the innkeeper has a horse for sale, he buys it. Without tack as Donovan plans on using the horse to carry his armor and he will walk with it.
If the innkeeper does not have a horse for sale. He will grudglingly put on his armor and prepare himself for a long, hot, chaffing day.
Zeph AC19 HP 37/37 HeroesLoot4 d20+11=21 ; Friday September 25th, 2009 1:41:37 PM
Zeph chooses not to don his cloak and his darkest clothes, and will ask if he can purchase a straw hat to fend off the heat.
When he hears Cambar, he backs her up (assist bluff ect =21) "Yeah, that rowdy bunch" he says with a smile on his face.
DM Kathy Sunday September 27th, 2009 10:56:17 PM Donovan inquires about buying a horse, but none of the farmers hereabouts are keen to sell theirs. "You might want to ask again in a few months, young fellow, after the harvest is in. Mayhap someone'll have a beast they don't care to feed all winter."
Cambar and Zeph attempt to gather more information about the black-clad men who came through town. You get a little more; descriptions of how much they ate and what their horses looked like.
Really, though, your best source of information is your own brains. You remember the fight with the wyvern, and how the four men who tried to stop you were all dressed in black. You remember that they used military ranks (you know of a Sergeant and a Corporal), and that one carried a letter with orders from somebody else, which at least hinted that they were part of a larger organization. Also, the letter said that "other defenses" would be deployed against these pesky adventurers. And now, lo and behold, you hear of a larger group of men, all dressed in black, with a definite leader, heading toward your base of operations.
At this point, it can honestly be said that you know more about the situation than the locals here at the inn.
You gather your things and set out. Zeph is able to acquire a hat to help keep the sun off. Nonetheless, it is very warm as you set out, and the day grows hotter as you travel.
Garret Goodbarrel [ AC:22 HP:25/25] Monday September 28th, 2009 7:39:09 AM
Garret travels without his shirt, as usual, and enjoys the warm sun on his back. He smiles as they travel, occasionally mentioning how enjoyable the weather is.
Cambar (HP27 of 27, AC23) d20+6=25 ; Monday September 28th, 2009 11:06:51 AM
"We're still going to deliver the wyvern tail, right?" Cambar asks.
She takes a drink and makes sure her horse is doing okay in the heat. Handle Animal 25.
Zeph AC19 HP 37/37 HeroesLoot4 Monday September 28th, 2009 11:52:50 AM "That's the plan, stan." Zeph replies to Cambar
(OOC: DMKathy. For my prestige class, I have to visit the Jancassis guys. Would now be a prompt time to take a walk away from the group to do that? I level up in 800exp, so soon would be good.)
Hmark Monday September 28th, 2009 6:50:43 PM
Hmark nods with Zeph. They need to get back to Dulcet.
The archer makes sure his waterskins are topped off, and Stardancer has had a good long drink, and sets off with the group.
Selemar [ac 18 hp 23/23] Monday September 28th, 2009 7:56:27 PM
"I think we need to head home for a bit, to make sure things are ok. I'm not sure I like the idea of a small army searching for us"
DM Kathy d4=4 ; d4=3 ; d4=1 ; d4=2 ; Monday September 28th, 2009 11:39:03 PM
The prospect of black-clad soldiers in Cinnamon Valley is alarming, but you believe your best course of action is to get the wyvern sting to Dulcet as quickly as possible.
[Zeph, don't leave just yet. :) ]
The temperature continues to climb throughout the morning. By noon, the heat can truly be called "stifling."
[Everyone make a Fortitude save, DC 15. Those wearing medium or heavy armor take a -4 penalty to the save. If you fail, take 4 points of non-lethal damage.]
Looking around, you see that many of the normally hard-working folk of Cinnamon Valley seem to be taking a midday rest. In one field, you see a farmer stop and unhitch a team of oxen, leading them into the shade of a barn. Another group lounge near a village well, shaded by an ash tree, hauling up buckets of water to drink.
[If you continue on your journey, make three more saves, DC 16 or take 3 damage, DC 17 or take 1 damage, and DC 18 or take 2 damage. All damage is non-lethal. Those wearing medium or heavy armor take a -4 penalty to the save.]
Zeph AC19 HP 37/37 HeroesLoot4 d20+5=16 ; d20+5=9 ; d20+5=15 ; d20+5=16 ; Tuesday September 29th, 2009 12:39:46 AM
(Success against the first save. Failure to the second, fourth, and fifth)
Zeph feels his brow gather a bit of sweat and realizes quickly that he hasn't shaved in some time. His black beard is a bit bushy and scraggly.
He can hold himself together through the first leg of the journey (first save), but after the group continues to march, Zeph declares "I do declare, it is quite hot out here. Perhaps a breather is in order?"
Zeph will also approach the men at the village well. "Mind if I take a swig?" Zeph says.
Reminder to self: Memorize Endure Elements Zeph thinks
At the next sleep chance, Zeph will memorize the spell in place of Grease
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25 NLD: 4] d20+5=12 ; Tuesday September 29th, 2009 8:27:25 AM
As they group walks, Garret stumbles a bit and almost falls, catching himself at the last minute. "Whew, it really is getting hot today, isn't it? I know we need to be on our way, but I need to sit down and rest, just for a minute or two. If you guys want to take the banana and continue, I'll catch up."
He heads over to a tree at the side of the road and slumps down, stopping to drink a little. "I'm not so thirsty, as I'm just drained in this heat." His eyes close a little as he sits to rest in the shade of the tree.
-----
1st Fort Save: 12 :(
Cambar (HP23 of 27, AC23) d20+1=18 ; d20+1=7 ; d20+1=8 ; d20+1=19 ; d20+7=20 ; d20+7=11 ; d20+7=11 ; d20+7=15 ; Tuesday September 29th, 2009 10:22:42 AM
At first Cambar shrugs off the heat (saved with an 18), but eventually the sun pounding down overwhelms her (missed two saves, down 4). Finally, despite the fierce heat, she rallies (saved with a 19), and presses on.
"Come on," she urges her friends, "by moving even in this heat, we can be sure we'll get back to Dulcet before those guys in black."
Her horse fares less well, making the first save, then failing the rest [HP24 of 30, now].
Cambar pats the beast, then adds, "But we can't kill our mounts, on the other hand." She looks up at the sky and tries to figure out how many more saves the group will have to make if they press on even more.
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} d20+6=19 ; Tuesday September 29th, 2009 10:34:04 AM
Around noon, Donovan wipes his brow, and feeling his clothes under his armor getting drench and sticky, he walks over to a bunch of shade trees and begins undressing. Armor plopping onto the ground unceremoniously. Then, feeling the entrenched heat leaving, having nothing to hold it in, Donovan pulls out his waterskin and takes a long deep take. Swallowing as if he hadn't drank any of the cooling liquid in ages, then takes another, draining half the bag.
Let's have lunch, and wait til it gets cooler then continue on. It only makes sense. Anyways, with no steed of my own, and the heat becoming unnatural, I suggest we wait. At least I am going to. I can't continue. Besides, {pointing to the farmers}, they know better than we do, so let's emulate their wisdom.
Hmark d20+5=18 ; Tuesday September 29th, 2009 11:28:40 AM
[Fort 18] Hmark rides sweating in the noon day sun, and watches as Garret starts feeling the heat.
"Time for a rest break," he agrees. The archer dismounts and joins his companions in the nearest shade. "Gets like this, best to take a quick nap, start out in late afternoon, and push on till dark."
DM Kathy Tuesday September 29th, 2009 11:51:24 PM
As you start to feel the effects of the heat, you realize that walking in the heat of the afternoon is perhaps not a good idea--especially since the summer day still has plenty of daylight left in it.
So, after the first couple of hours, you take an extended lunch break, relaxing in the shade, tending to your mounts, drinking plenty of water.
[Because you decided to stop, you only needed to make the first two Fortitude saves.]
By the time you set out again, the worst of the afternoon heat has passed. It is still plenty warm, but no longer as wearisome. You make good time after your rest, so that as the sun begins to truly descend, you find that you are almost to Jarlwolf.
You crest a hill, where the road passes close by two adjoining farms. Some of you know the folk that live here--honest, hard-working families both. So it is quite alarming to see the members of both families, lined up along the lane leading from the road, being bullied and threatened by a group of black-clad soldiers. You are too far away, at the moment, to hear what is being said, but it is clear that threats are being made.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25 NLD: 4] Wednesday September 30th, 2009 8:19:19 AM
Garret gives a knowing look to the others, then continues to walk down the road towards the farmhouses, as if he is just out for a stroll and going to walk on by.
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} Wednesday September 30th, 2009 1:52:08 PM
Upon seeing the black clad bullies, Donovan cinches up his armor, puts on his helm, visor up, and the removes his greatsword from its sheath. Hanging his pack and sheath on the pommel of Cambar's horse, Donovan purposefully begins walking forward, in the middle of the road, menacingly, greatsword resting on his shoulder, ready to be used in his deadly dance of flesh and blood. Every 10 or so feet he purposefully clangs the blade of his sword on the metal shoulder covering, so the bullies can hear it.
Zeph AC19 HP 37/37 HeroesLoot4 d20+10=21 ; d20+10=18 ; d20+9=26 ; d20+9=16 ; Wednesday September 30th, 2009 3:30:29 PM
Zeph takes a slightly different approach to the issue. As soon as he notices the black-clad bullies, Zeph whispers to Cambar and Donovan "You guys walk slowly, I'm going to sneak around and figure out what they are talking about. I'll whistle if and when we need to interfere with force." Zeph says, trying to avoid the combat if necessary... but if it IS necessary, then its good to get the drop on them.
Zeph also says to Garret, "Coming?" remembering the Halfing's excellent stealth skills.
With that, Zeph will duck away from the path and take a roundabout way to the scene. He will sneak around the house, remaining in the shadows and peek, trying to get within listening distance (which should be good with that listen roll) BEFORE the rest of the group get noticed by the dark-clad men. His bow is drawn with an arrow notched all the while.
(Hide = 21 Move silent =18 Listen = 26 Spot =16)
Hmark d20+6=13 ; Wednesday September 30th, 2009 5:16:24 PM OOC - How many is a "group"? :)
Stardancer clip clops slowly behind Donovan, as Hmark keeps a good 30' back of the fighter, Red in his left hand, and the reins in his right.
Cambar (HP24 of 27, AC23) Wednesday September 30th, 2009 5:21:34 PM
Cambar grins. "These guys look a lot like the ones who are trying to pick a fight with us!"
She maneuvers her mount so that she has a clear line of charge at the bullies in black, advancing with the group. Although she wants to shout a challenge, she lets Zeph do his sneakery first.
[OOC: Fixed damage since only failed second save. Same for Horse.]
Selemar [ac 18 hp 20/23 3 nonlethal] d20+5=14 ; d20+5=12 ; d20+5=11 ; d20+5=9 ; d8+3=7 ; Wednesday September 30th, 2009 8:11:29 PM
Selemar is feeling the heat and heals himself a bit.
"these people are a menace. I think a message needs to be sent."
He walks down the road with the others, with a hostile look
DM Kathy Thursday October 1st, 2009 12:18:10 AM Garrett starts moving nonchalantly down the road, but the rest of the group has different ideas.
As Zeph sneaks around to get behind them, Cambar, Donovan, and Selemar come down the middle of the road, their carriage and attitude an obvious challenge. Hmark is less obvious, but is ready for a fight nonetheless.
As you approach, the black-clad men see you and stop what they are doing. One of them, who had caught hold of a half-grown boy, negligently lets him drop. He falls to the dust of the lane, then scrambles back to his family.
"Ah. Here they are now," one says. He seems to be the leader. "Excellent. It will save us the bother of looking for them." He draws his sword, and the men with him do the same.
The families scramble for cover.
[OOC: There are 6 bad guys. They did not see or hear Zeph approach, so he gets a sneak attack this round. I will do a map, but I won't promise to have it done tonight.]
Zeph AC19 HP 37/37 HeroesLoot4 d20+7=17 ; d8+2=5 ; d6=6 ; d6=5 ; Thursday October 1st, 2009 1:14:33 AM I can't believe they have come all the way to Jarlwolf to find us! That means they know more about us than I thought. Not good Zeph thinks from his hiding spot.
When he hears the man say "It will save us the bother of looking for them." Zeph quickly lets an arrow fly at one of the henchmen, (Standard Action, Hit AC 17 vs FLAT-footed AC. Damage total =16)
Then Zeph uses his move action to draw his Rapier and Whistles really really loudly.
Cambar (HP24 of 27, AC17) d20+7=19 ; d8+3=4 ; d8+3=9 ; d8+3=9 ; 2d6=8 ; Thursday October 1st, 2009 7:21:47 AM
Cambar immediately charges on her horse! She holds her lance two-handed, standing up in her stirrups and shouting wordlessly as she bears down on the enemy. She aims for one that gives her room to use her Ride By Attack feat, if possible.
Her charge, at +7, hits AC19. That's AC20 if she can gain the "On higher ground" attack mod.
If she hits, she inflicts 22, plus 8 sneak attack damage if the enemy is flat-footed.
If possible, she continues to ride on by, hopefully setting up for another charge next round.
Horse double move on a charge: up to 100.
Cambar's AC while charging (no shield): 17. If she can use her Ride By Attack, then her target gains no AoO as she approaches and then rides by; but if she passes by some other foe, she might provoke an AoO from the bystander if she moves through its threatened squares.
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} d20+10=11 ; Thursday October 1st, 2009 1:23:05 PM
He is well out of range of engaging in to melee. Donovan moves 20 feet. {max allowed per his armor} Then readies an attack. The first unlucky soul to enter his reach with his greatsword gets a good thwack from the business end of his sword.
And will miss that attack, by rolling a natural 1.
Donovan will attempt to feign that miss as a purposeful attack, trying to give the impression that the soldier is a mere insect on the spectrum of life, and that Donovan was just merely attempting to swat his annoiance {sp} away.
Hmark(AC 18, 35/35 hp) d20+11=25 ; d20+11=27 ; d8+2=5 ; d8+2=3 ; d20+6=25 ; Thursday October 1st, 2009 3:28:00 PM
Hmark doesn't say anything as the men draw swords, he just shakes his head in disappointment at their folly. He lets go of the reins, bringing Stardancer to a halt with a touch of his knees [Ride 25].
Meanwhile, Red is again in action. And two more arrow shafts sprout from Zeph's target.
[Atk same target as Zeph. Atk 1 hits ac25 for 5 hp damage Atk 2 hits ac27 for 3 hp damage]
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25 NLD: 4] d20+9=24 ; d4=3 ; d20+9=25 ; d4=3 ; Thursday October 1st, 2009 8:57:03 PM
Garret slips along with Zeph and when the men draw their swords, he joins Zeph in attacking. He quickly slings a stone at the apparent leader's head.
As the others rush down the road, Garret quickly fires another stone at the leader -----
Hit AC 24, Dam: 3 (sneak attack, if allowed) Hit AC 25, Dam: 3
DM Kathy d20+7=21 ; d20+6=20 ; d8+5=10 ; d20+9=21 ; d8+2=5 ; Friday October 2nd, 2009 12:25:23 AM
From his hiding place, Zeph lets fly an arrow at one of the black-clad men. Although the man has no idea the attack is coming, his plate mail saves him from a nasty wound.
Garrett likewise attacks from cover, and is more successful. His sling stone finds a vulnerable spot and draws a curse from bad guy #1. [Please add Sneak Attack damage. However, you got only one attack.]
Cambar charges! The enemy isn't flat-footed to her; they saw the main group coming and have already acted (by drawing their swords). Thanks to her higher ground, however, her lance just slips past her opponent's shield, striking a solid blow to bad guy #5.
Hmark fires two shots at bad guy #3 (Zeph's target), and is more successful. Both shots hit.
The leader of the group, apparantly accepting Garret's challenge, charges him. His sword just misses the gnome. Sometimes it's good to be small! [Hit AC 21]
Zeph's target moves over next to him. It is a double move, so all he can do is glare menacingly at this point.
One of the uninjured opponents charges Hmark, finding an easy target in the lightly armored archer. [Hit AC 20 for 10 damage.]
Another opponent charges Donovan, triggering his ready, which misses. His opponent has better luck, and draws a little blood. [Hit AC 21 for 5 damage.]
The other two are too far away to charge Donovan, so they double move. The very injured #5 keeps his pal #6 close to hand, trying to avoid another charge from Cambar.
[OOC: If you are wondering about attack bonuses, the bad guys all have Power Attack. The ones attacking Zeph and Hmark chose to use their Power Attack option; the one attacking the more heavily-armored Donovan chose not to. And the leader has a higher BAB than his henchmen. That's why all the attack bonuses are different. Math is fun!]
[That thing Zeph and Garrett are hiding behind is a water trough. Cambar is some distance off the edge of the map.]
Cambar (HP24 of 27, AC17) d20+8=24 ; d8+3=10 ; d8+3=11 ; d8+3=8 ; Friday October 2nd, 2009 7:02:24 AM
Cambar turns, and sees that the leader is exposed! "Ha!" she shouts, as she charges him.
Her charge hits AC24 for 29 hp damage!
She keeps on riding by, likely ending up around O-P-1-2 or so?
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25 NLD: 4] d20+9=29 ; d6+1=2 ; Friday October 2nd, 2009 7:47:44 AM
As the man approaches, Garret drops his sling and takes up a posture with no weapon. When the man's sword swings wide, Garret steps up close to him Garret and makes a solid punch to the man's gut, reaching around to attempt to get in a kidney shot.
-----
Sadly, no sneak attack damage, no Rogue levels. :( Stunning Fist hit AC 29, Damage: 2 Stun:Fort Save, DC 15, or stunned for 1 round
Hmark(AC 18, 25/35 hp) Friday October 2nd, 2009 10:37:13 AM
Neither Hmark nor Stardancer are willing to face a heavily armored guy with a big sword up close. The archer grabs the reins and the filly quickly retreats from all the noise, blood, and yelling.
[Withdraw 90' from #2]
Zeph AC22 HP 37/37 (Shield) HeroesLoot4 d20+7=15 ; d20+11=12 ; d100=78 ; Friday October 2nd, 2009 3:48:07 PM
Zeph sees the charges that Cambar are planting on the group of enemies and winces. Yikes, that's gotta hurt. Zeph thinks.
Move-Equivalent: First Zeph bluffs the enemy with a quick swipe of his rapier (DC 12... rolled nat 1) Free Action: 5-foot Hop to square Z-1. Standard Action: Casts Shield on self.
(OOC: The 15 was due to me thinking I would have to take concentration check to cast on defensive, but then I just though, "Hey. 5-foot hop out of his range. You can do that as long as you don't move. But move-equivalent feint does not count as a 'move'.")
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:47/52} d20+6=10 ; d20+6=15 ; d20+6=16 ; Friday October 2nd, 2009 6:57:46 PM
Not appreciating the love he is getting from the men in black, Donovan decides to return the gesture.. Smiling through his visor, he lets out a roar and then, bringing his greatsword up over his head, he, with all the might he can muster, his brings it down upon the bad guy {#4}.
Used power attack and missed with a 10....{disregard the other rolls please, mouse button was stuck}
Selemar [ac 18 hp 20/23 3 nonlethal] 3d6=10 ; d20+6=26 ; d20+6=19 ; d20+6=15 ; d8+6=13 ; d8+6=10 ; d8+6=7 ; d8+6=7 ; Friday October 2nd, 2009 9:34:00 PM
'fools' thinks selemar as he prepares to send them to hell
lightning blasts the leader for 10 (ref 16 for half)
shun charges the nearest guy and tears a chunk out of him. the critter critted and got a 19 to confirm. if that works, then he does 23. ouch
the two extra rolls are computer errors
DM Kathy d20+8=25 ; d20+2=22 ; d20+7=25 ; d8+10=11 ; d20+5=19 ; d20+4=7 ; d20+6=15 ; d20+6=21 ; d20+7=9 ; d8+4=8 ; Sunday October 4th, 2009 11:12:39 PM Cambar charges the leader, hitting him hard enough to rock him back on his heels. Garret follows up with a blow to his midsection. It comes nowhere near stunning him, however. [Fort save 25]
Hmark withdraws. Zeph shifts back and casts a spell.
Donovan takes a big swing, but misses.
Selemar brings lightning down on the leader. He manages to dodge some of it [Reflex save 22], but is clearly badly wounded. Shun does his part with a nasty bite on #2.
The leader shifts to get a better shot at Garret, hitting a glancing blow for 11 damage.
Bad guy #3 shifts up to attack Zeph again, but misses.
Bad guy #2 attacks Shun, but misses badly.
Bad guys 4, 5, and 6 all go after Donovan, two of them maneuvering to get flank. Fortunately, he is only hit once, for 8 damage.
Hmark(AC 18, 25/35 hp) d20+11=22 ; d20+11=14 ; d8+2=4 ; Monday October 5th, 2009 9:15:55 AM
Noticing no one has pursued him, Hmark gives himself a self-satisfied grin, stops Stardancer, and pulls back onRed's bowstring once again. From 90' away, arrows rain down on one of Donovan's opponents.
[Atk #5. Precise Shot feat so no penalty for firing into melee. first arrow hits ac22 for 4 hp damage second arrow misses (ac14)]
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:14/25 NLD: 4] d20+8=16 ; d20+8=14 ; Monday October 5th, 2009 9:34:27 AM
Garret continues to press his attack, trying to get inside the large sword of the leader. However, the strong shot in his arm weakens his blows, and his fists do no damage. At the same time, Garret notices the others falling and he calls out to the leader, "Your men are down! Withdraw now and you shall live!"
----- Flurry of Blows Atk1: 16 Atk2: 14 Gah!
Zeph AC24 HP 37/37 (Shield, Combat Expertise) HeroesLoot4 d20+11=18 ; d20+7=27 ; d20+7=14 ; d6+2=3 ; d6=4 ; d6=6 ; Monday October 5th, 2009 12:04:52 PM
Zeph watches with a bit of relief as bad guy #3's sword bounces off the Shield spell. Whew
Then, Zeph does his own attack in a slightly defensive posture. (-2 hit from Combat Expertise) Move-Equivalent: Feint Bad Guy#3 (DC 18) Standard Action: Attack Hit AC 25 (crit not confirmed... only got a 14. Subtracted 2 for Combat Expertise) Damage = 13 if his sense motive failed against my Feinting. Free Action: Zeph 5-foot hops into Garret's square (a small and a medium guy can share a square right?, just making sure. I'm really just trying to get us into a better flanking position for next turn)
"Back to back?" Zeph suggests to the halfling, seeing the benefit of protecting each other's flanks.
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:47/52} d20+6=17 ; 2d6+17=22 ; Monday October 5th, 2009 1:56:27 PM
Takes a 5' step to E5.
So, it takes 3 of you to equal my might eh? Well, let's dance, shall we...Donovan roars.
{if ac 17 is a hit} Bringing his greatsword up, then, with a roar of strength, Donovan slices his sword down in an arc, top left to bottom right....for 22 points of damage.
{if ac 17 is not a hit, his swing misses} {oh, forgot to say, used power attack again}
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:14/25 NLD: 4] Monday October 5th, 2009 4:40:46 PM
Garret notices Zeph moving up behind him and says, "You bet. Now hurry up and finish yours off, I think I'm outnumbered here!"
Zeph AC24 HP 37/37 (Shield, Combat Expertise) HeroesLoot4 Monday October 5th, 2009 5:08:43 PM
(OOC: Actually Garrett, if you did not use your move action, you could tumble to square Z-4 and we can flank him, providing +2hit bonus and free sneaks for me)
Cambar (HP24 of 27, AC17) d20+10=12 ; Monday October 5th, 2009 9:16:03 PM
Cambar shouts, "Hold on, cousin!"
She charges to I-J-5-6, ending her charge by flanking enemy 6.
Her charge is at +2, and she gains a +2 flanking bonus, and a +1 higher ground bonus. Her charge, at +10, hits AC12, a miss!
DM Kathy Tuesday October 6th, 2009 12:00:27 AM Hmark fires two shots at #5, but only one of them hits. The man is badly injured, but somehow he stays on his feet.
Garret aims two blows at the leader, but neither connects.
Zeph throws a head fake at his opponent, which catches him going completely the wrong direction. He follows up with a deft jab that leaves #3 bleeding and cursing. [OOC: You and Garret could share a square, but you would both be Squeezed, and take penalties to attacks and armor class. You can safely share space with a creature two size categories smaller than you, so Garret would have to be Tiny (cat-sized) in order to pull that off. I therefore didn't move you.]
Donovan shifts over next to Shun, and takes another massive swing. Unfortunately this one, too, misses.
Cambar charges, but misses. [OOC: I thought you were using a lance? Do you have reach?]
The leader takes another swing at Garret, but misses.
Bad guy #3 continues pressing Zeph, but just barely misses thanks to the rogue's Expertise.
Bad guy #2 slashes again at Shun, but misses.
Bad guys 4, 5, and 6 continue to attack Donovan, but all three miss [and the die roller hates me].
Cambar (HP24 of 27, AC17) Tuesday October 6th, 2009 6:42:12 AM
OOC: A lance is indeed a reach weapon; Cambar cannot use it against adjacent foes, as with most reach weapons; she must be one square away. Fun fact: it is the only reach weapon in the game that can be used with one hand. Although Cambar is using it two handed for a little extra damage.
Cambar shouts to Garret: "TAKE ONE STEP TO YOUR LEFT!" (to AA2).
Then she uses the Delay action to see what Garret will do. (OOC: Will post again later, thanks!)
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:14/25 NLD: 4] d20+8=24 ; d20+8=27 ; d6+1=2 ; d6+1=4 ; Tuesday October 6th, 2009 7:08:38 AM
Garret hears Cambar's call, and moves slightly to his left (to AA2, 5' step). As he does so, he reaches back with his foot, and quickly jabs towards the man's head, leaving a mark of mud and dirt from his bare feet on the man's cheek. He continues to talk to the man, "Look, you and your pals are outmatched! You need to give up now, while you can!"
-----
Hit AC 24; Dam: 2 (non lethal damage) Hit AC 27: Dam: 4 (non lethal damage)
Cambar (HP24 of 27, AC17) d20+10=14 ; Tuesday October 6th, 2009 7:17:40 AM
Cambar sees that Garret has taken the crucial step. "Sweet!" she exclaims. She wheels and charges to W-X-5-6, another charging flank!
Her attack, at +10 total, hits AC14, a miss! Cambar's exclamations, following a second attack that goes absolutely nowhere, are not fit for a family-friendly Web site. Her horse blushes.
Hmark(AC 18, 25/35 hp) d20+11=12 ; d3=2 ; d20+11=18 ; d8+2=8 ; Tuesday October 6th, 2009 9:42:21 AM
Hmark continues his rain of arrows in support of Donovan, although his target's armor is proving troubling.
[Attack #5 first arrow - nat 1 second arrow hits ac18 (maybe?) for 8 hp damage]
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:47/52} d20+6=25 ; d20+6=26 ; 4d6+34=43 ; 4d6+34=49 ; Tuesday October 6th, 2009 2:02:55 PM
Getting real tired of this dance, Donovan changes the tempo. Deciding to not move anymore, Donovan, with all his might, brings his greatsword up over his head and like a farmer chopping wood, brings said weapon down upon the man directly in front of him. {#4}
{power attack used again} Stricking true, and with force, the greatsword's blade bites deep, causing blood to spurt out from the cut.
{rolled ac25 {nat.19, crit threat with the greatsword}, rolled ac26 {nat.20 on follow up}} {4d6+34=43 damage}
Disregard second damage roll, this laptop's keyboard needs a good cleaning
Zeph AC24 HP 37/37 (Shield, Combat Expertise) HeroesLoot4 d20+10=24 ; d20+7=12 ; d20+11=23 ; Tuesday October 6th, 2009 3:47:51 PM
Zeph smiles a bit as he sees the opportunity he's been waiting for Garret to give him. Zeph looks at the opponent he is currently facing and says "Bye." as he dives into a tumble, landing in square Y-4 (Tumble check =24, vs dc 15, success, no AOO on me. I moved 15feet, which is half my max move speed) thus using his move action.
Then as he stands up he pokes his rapier feebly at the leader man he is now flanking with Garret (Hit AC 12, bah. still using combat expertise -2. but flank is +2... so yeah.) thus using his standard action.
Free Action: "I think your greaves are unclasped" Zeph says, looking at the man's plated feet in a very convincing manner (Bluff =23)
DM Kathy d20+7=15 d20+7=11 d20+5=21 d8+4=12 d8+7=11 d20+7=16 d20+7=27 d8+4=9 Wednesday October 7th, 2009 1:00:04 AM Garret shifts and attacks the leader again. Just love taps, really, but the man is injured enough to feel them. He sways, but remains standing.
Cambar charges to take advantage of the flank, but misses her target.
Hmark fires two more shots, but both of them miss.
Donovan makes up for his two earlier misses with a devastating blow that lays his opponent out flat.
Zeph tumbles out of reach of #3, but also moves past the leader. [I need another Tumble check. You make one check per opponent you move past. The DC increases by 2 each time. Your Tumble check to move past the leader is DC 17.]
The leader shifts out of flank and next to his man #3. He takes a swipe at Garret, but misses. #3 steps up next to the leader and also swings at Garret, with even less success.
#2 continues attacking Shun, hitting this time for 12 damage.
#4 has a bad case of being dead, but #5 and #6 continue to attack Donovan. One of them hits, for 9 damage.
Zeph AC24 HP 37/37 (Shield, Combat Expertise) HeroesLoot4 d20+10=28 ; Wednesday October 7th, 2009 1:03:26 AM
(OOC: My bad. Second tumble check =28) Zeph's tumbling is much better than his stabbing.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:14/25 NLD: 4] d20+8=26 ; d20+8=10 ; d6+1=6 ; Wednesday October 7th, 2009 7:38:55 AM
Garret, not liking the odds, takes a step back to get the bad guys away from the shelter of the trough (to AA3). He continues his assault on the leader and his barrage of words, "I don't know who paid you, but was it enough to cost you your life? Look around, your men are dying!"
-----
Hit AC:26; Dam: 6 (non-lethal damage) Hit AC:10.
Hmark(AC 18, 25/35 hp) d20+11=16 ; d20+11=23 ; d8+2=8 ; Wednesday October 7th, 2009 9:00:20 AM
Hmark works on improving his aim. The second shot feels very good to the archer. "That ougtta do it," he murmurs to himself, as he reaches for another arrow.
[Atk #5. first arrow misses (ac16) second arrow hits ac23 for 8 hp damage]
Cambar (HP24 of 27, AC17) d20+10=15 ; 3d8+9=21 ; d6=4 ; d6=6 ; Wednesday October 7th, 2009 12:55:08 PM
Cambar wheels and charges Enemy 6. She ends her move at H-I-5-6. Her attack, at total +10 including flank and higher ground mods, hits AC15. That's surely a miss, but just in case it is not, damage is 21 plus 10 sneak attack damage.
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:47/52} d20+10=13 ; Wednesday October 7th, 2009 2:46:49 PM
{takes a 5' step to d4}
Smiling through his visor after dropping the man in black, then cringing as one of the remaining 2 connect, Donovan takes moves to thwart the 2 men from pummeling him from opposite sides. Then with determination on his brain, and the hopes of another successful attack, Donovan swings again, with less strength than before.
Missing.
Zeph AC24 HP 37/37 (Shield, Combat Expertise) HeroesLoot4 d20+7=13 ; d20+11=17 ; Wednesday October 7th, 2009 4:03:02 PM
Zeph takes a 5-foot hop to y-3 so that he is still flanking with Garret. Standard Action: Attack... hit ac 13, miss... even with flanking bonus Combat Expertise +2 still on Move-equivilant action: Bluff feint for NEXT round DC = 17.
DM Kathy d20+4=6 ; d20+7=15 ; d20+7=12 ; d20+7=13 ; Thursday October 8th, 2009 12:49:39 AM Garret shifts and taps the leader again. He goes down.
Hmark fires twice more at #5. The second shot hits, and drops him.
Cambar charges again, but misses.
Donovan also misses.
Zeph moves up and bluffs #3. [I know you were going after the leader, but he is down.] The man seems utterly fooled.
#3 strikes at Zeph, but misses.
#2 abandons his battle with Shun to go after Cambar. He swings, but misses. #6 also moves to attack Cambar, and also misses.
[My highest d20 roll was an 8. I'm just saying.]
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:14/25 NLD: 4] d20+10=18 ; d20+10=27 ; d6+1=5 ; d6+1=4 ; Thursday October 8th, 2009 7:37:46 AM
Garret steps over with Zeph to #3 with a spinning kick aimed for the poor fellow's head. He follows up with elbow to the midsection.
----- Hit AC 18: Dam: 5 Hit AC 27: Dam: 4
Hmark(AC 18, 25/35 hp) d20+11=31 ; d20+11=28 ; d20+11=25 ; d8+2=4 d8+2=7 d8+2=8 d8+2=5 Thursday October 8th, 2009 8:42:20 AM
Hmark elevates Red slightly, and lets fly. He's feeling good and warmed up now, and finds himself in the zone.
[Atk #6 from 105' away. first arrow - nat 20! Crit threat 28! for 19 hp damage second arrow hits ac 25 for 5 hp damage]
Zeph AC24 HP 37/37 (Shield, Combat Expertise) HeroesLoot4 d20+7=12 ; d20+11=22 ; Thursday October 8th, 2009 10:08:08 AM
Zeph tries to stab the bluffed man... and misses... yet again. Even with flanking and feinting, is a miss, full plate mail trumps dex i guess. (don't worry Kathy, I got the same dice rolling problem)
Then he feints again (DC =22)
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:47/52} d20+6=12 ; Thursday October 8th, 2009 1:40:44 PM
{moves over to attack #6}
Starting to feel the upper hand finally, for the group, Donovan marches up to #6 and barks: gotta pick on a girl, you coward. Try this on for size, and then Donovan attempts to dislodge the fellows head from the rest of his body, and fails to do so.
Cambar (HP24 of 27, AC23) d20+8=17 ; d8+3=8 ; 2d6=4 ; Thursday October 8th, 2009 2:40:27 PM
[OOC: I'm presuming that Donovan is moving to F6.]
Cambar takes a five foot step back to I-J-5-6. She thrusts at Enemy 6 with her lance braced two-handed. She is flanking and gets a +1 higher ground bonus ... she hits AC17 for 8 lance damage plus 4 sneak attack damage.
With the move action she has left, she readies her shield, raising her AC to 23. She holds her lance one-handed, now (still has 10-ft reach). Any AoOs she takes will be at -2 due to the attack penalty from a tower shield.
Cambar (HP24 of 27, AC23) Thursday October 8th, 2009 4:57:37 PM
I'm about to embark on a five-day family reunion, AND my laptop is in the shop, so I may miss posts on Fri, Mon, and Tues. If I'm lucky someone else in my family will bring a computer!
DM Kathy d20+4=15 ; d20+7=19 ; d20+7=23 ; d8+2=4 ; Friday October 9th, 2009 3:59:47 AM Garret moves over to pummel #3. His first blow misses, but the second hits.
Hmark unleashes a devastating attack on the previously uninjured #6.
Zeph, Donovan, and Camber all miss their marks.
#2 decides he's had enough. He is not adjacent to anybody, so he hightails it away without provoking an attack of opportunity.
#3 (who has fallen yet again for Zeph's bluff), attacks Zeph again, but misses.
#6 shifts up to attack Cambar, hitting for 4 damage.
Cambar (HP20 of 27, AC23) d20+4=14 ; d8+2=10 ; Friday October 9th, 2009 5:44:46 AM
Cambar backs up 5 feet and attacks enemy 6, at -2, with her lance. Her attack hits AC14 for 10 hp.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:14/25 NLD: 4] d20+12=31 ; d20+12=27 ; d6+1=4 ; d6+1=2 ; Friday October 9th, 2009 8:06:22 AM
Garret again talks to his opponent, this time trying to talk #3 into giving up, "Look, your leader is down. Your friends are falling. Surrender now, this is not worth your life!" As the fellow looks over to Zeph, Garret punches him twice quickly in the kidneys.
----- Hit AC: 31; Dam: 4 (Non-lethal Damage) Hit AC: 27; Dam: 2 (Non-lethal Damage)
Hmark(AC 18, 25/35 hp) d20+11=13 ; d20+11=30 ; d8+2=6 ; Friday October 9th, 2009 9:34:58 AM
Hmark's got a good rhythm going now. Despite the fact #6 is engaged in swordplay with two opponents, the arrows raining from the sky seek out only him.
[Atk #6 First arrow misses (ac13) Second hits ac30 for 6 hp damage]
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:38/52} d20+6=23 ; 2d6+17=24 ; Friday October 9th, 2009 3:28:26 PM
{forgot to deduct the hit point loss from thursday's post, so did it now}
Focusing his attack on #6 still. Donovan steps up, and like a blacksmith hammering down on the anvil, he hammers the villan with his sword. With all his might. {power attack} Striking solidly, Donovan smiles widely, knowing the battle is soon to be over and yet again his friends have overcome the odds, and in the process helped to protect the innocent. Which makes the victory so much sweeter.
{hit ac23 for 24 damage}
Zeph AC24 HP 37/37 (Shield, Combat Expertise) HeroesLoot4 d20+7=20 ; d6+2=3 ; d6=1 ; d6=5 ; d20+11=16 ; Friday October 9th, 2009 8:01:44 PM
This time Zeph's rapier slides through the man's #3 armor and well into his rib cage. (Hit flat-footed AC 20. Damage = 9)
"You know, you should probably pay closer attention to which way your opponent's blade is going" Zeph says to the poor flanked man as he follows up with a buckler-slap to the man's head (creative feint =16).
"Shields too." Zeph says with a smile at his little feint tricks.
If the man falls after Garret's attack, then Zeph will charge and flank one of Donovan's opponents with him and make a similar stab.
DM Kathy Monday October 12th, 2009 12:06:03 AM Zeph and Garrett finish off #3. Hmark and Cambar finish off #6.
#2 continues to flee, and disappears into an overgrown gully.
The farm families have fled, and are nowhere to be seen.
The battle is over.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:14/25 NLD: 4] Monday October 12th, 2009 6:42:31 AM
Garret calls out to the others, "The leader is just knocked out! Someone want to come over here and give me a hand? If we tie him up and wake him, he might be able to answer some questions for us."
Cambar (HP20 of 27, AC23) d20+2=8 ; Monday October 12th, 2009 8:51:34 AM
Cambar has no particular talent for restraint (for every meaning of the word), but hey, anyone can tie a knot. She helps as best she can. Untrained aid another Use Rope: 8. Not really much use after all!
She helps strip the other defeated enemies of loot and gear.
Zeph AC24 HP 37/37 (Shield, Combat Expertise) HeroesLoot4 d20+6=21 ; Monday October 12th, 2009 4:33:33 PM
Zeph ties a good knot. (Use rope =21)
"Any questions in particular? I want to ask who is Mr. C." Zeph says as he pulls out the note that was given to the last group of baddies that were subdued.
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:38/52} Monday October 12th, 2009 7:45:41 PM
Goes over and stands guard over the leader.
DM Kathy Tuesday October 13th, 2009 1:18:08 AM
You strip the black-clad men of their gear. Each of the four downed foes has a masterwork longsword and masterwork full plate. The leader has a +1 longsword and masterwork full plate.
The leader has sustained subdual damage and is therefore in no danger of bleeding to death. You tie him up. He will need to be healed a bit before he is conscious.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:14/25 NLD: 4] Tuesday October 13th, 2009 8:00:01 AM
Garret steps back from the tied up leader and wipes some blood off his neck. He looks up and down the road, watching for any sign of anyone else. He also looks to the sky, half-expecting another wyvern to show up and attack.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:14/25 NLD: 4] d20+5=9 ; Tuesday October 13th, 2009 8:00:32 AM
------ Spot: 9
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:38/52} Tuesday October 13th, 2009 10:53:11 AM
After realizing the guy is out, Donovan takes off his helm, and gauntlets. Wipes off his greatsword and sheathes it, dropping it next to his helm and gloves. Retrieves his pack and plops it there as well. Then, turning to the bystanders he says: Are any of you hurt? And then he walks over to them to help calm them down should any of them need a reassuring word.
Zeph AC24 HP 37/37 (Shield, Combat Expertise) HeroesLoot4 Tuesday October 13th, 2009 11:17:42 PM
Zeph, having no way of giving the man positive hit points, simply slaps his cheeks and says "Wake up you dunce." Zeph will also pour water on his face.
"I've got some questions." Zeph will say once he's up. "Who is Mr. C?"
DM Kathy Wednesday October 14th, 2009 1:16:04 AM Garret looks around, but the afternoon is quiet. No sign of a wyvern.
Donovan looks around for the bystanders, but they have fled. There are no farm folk in sight (see Monday's DM post).
Zeph slaps the leader around a bit. Oddly, more subdual damage doesn't seem to awaken the man, although he stirs and mumbles a little. Water to the face is marginally more successful; your prisoner says: "Mmm. Myaungh. Wazzat?" before subsiding again into unconsciousness.
As a reminder, you are fairly close to Jarlwolf, and Dulcet is a witch. If none of you can heal your prisoner, perhaps she can?
Cambar (HP20 of 27, AC23) Wednesday October 14th, 2009 7:52:43 AM
"We STILL have a mission! Let's sling this guy over a horse -- mine will do -- and deliver our wyvern tail! Come on!"
Cambar would lead the way, but she has no idea where we are going.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:14/25 NLD: 4] Wednesday October 14th, 2009 8:18:14 AM
"Agreed! Let's be off and away from here."
Zeph AC24 HP 37/37 (Shield, Combat Expertise) HeroesLoot4 Wednesday October 14th, 2009 9:03:47 PM
Zeph picks the man up and slumps his limp, bound, body over the horse and likewise returns to his own steed. "This way" Zeph says, knowing the path very well, being as he grew up in these parts.
DM Kathy Thursday October 15th, 2009 1:10:52 AM
Seeing you won't be able to revive him on your own, you bundle the man over Zeph's horse and head for Jarlwolf.
You arrive right at sunset. Little has changed in the town. Although it is late for farming folk to be out and about, many people are still abroad, strolling through the cool evening--and probably giving their hot houses a chance to air out before trying to sleep. Your group gets a few raised eyebrows, but most people recognize Zeph and Garret and Selemar, and give them friendly (albeit cautious) greetings.
The windows of Dulcet's manor house are all opened wide to catch the breeze. Out back, you can just catch a glimpse of the little shrine to the Fey King that Rollo built.
"Bring him inside," says Dulcet briskly when you explain the problem. "Zeph, can you show your friends where the stables are?"
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:14/25 NLD: 4] Thursday October 15th, 2009 9:34:59 AM
Garret wanders over to the shrine quickly, to check that its been taken care of while the others see to the horses and the stables. After checking it, he slips inside quietly to check to be sure the leader of the gang that attacked them is being watched and guarded carefully.
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:38/52} Thursday October 15th, 2009 10:53:28 AM
While everyone departs for the stables and the shrine, Donovan stays at the front and starts stripping off his heavy armor. Standing naked there for a brief minute, catching some of the cooling breeze, he then dons on a pair of clean breeches, opting to not put on stockings, boots or a shirt. Then proceeds to clean, then oil his armor and weapon off to the side of the house. After that, he cleans and bandages his wounds from the last fight.
Hmark(25/35 hp) Thursday October 15th, 2009 10:53:34 AM
On the way into Jarlwolf, Hmark eases Stardancer in beside Selemar. The archer has wrapped a shirt around his leg, and the cloth is seeped with blood.
"You don't happen to have any of them healing spells left?" he asks the druid hopefully.
As the archer knows where the stables are, he volunteers to take the horses there while Zeph and whoever wants to deals with Dulcet. The lad lingers in the stables, using every excuse he can think of to delay entry to Dulcet's halls. Finally, he runs out of reasons, and reluctantly joins his companions - although he spends most of the time hanging out in the back of the group.
Cambar (HP20 of 27, AC23) Thursday October 15th, 2009 11:06:01 AM
Cambar parks her horse, and helps carry the unconscious enemy leader to see this town leader.
DM Kathy Friday October 16th, 2009 1:26:35 AM Garret finds the shrine to be well-looked-after and in very good shape, although the caretaker does not seem to be there at the moment.
Hmark takes care of the horses, lingering in the barn as long as he can.
Donovan strips down and cools off, while Cambar carries the unconscious leader into the manor.
"In here, I think," Dulcet says, leading the way to a small storage room, currently unused.
Between them, Dulcet and Selemar manage to heal the group of their wounds. Everyone is back to full hit points.
Dulcet kneels next to the captured leader, casts a spell, and touches him on the shoulder. Some of his wounds close. He groans, and his eyelids flutter before opening. "Wha--? What do you want?" he asks.
Zeph AC24 HP 37/37 (Shield, Combat Expertise) HeroesLoot4 d20+11=15 ; d20+3=5 ; Friday October 16th, 2009 4:08:59 AM
(sorry about the missed post... midterms kicking my arse...)
Zeph also goes with Cambar to Dulcet's storage room. When the man awakens, Zeph says, "I think your tongue better start wagging... if you want to keep it in your mouth." Zeph says as he draws out his dagger and glares menacingly at the man. (Bluff = 15, Intimidate = 5. blah)
Then Zeph pulls out the note and hands it to Dulcet. "A man who's initial is C has been employing these black-clad buffoons to kill our party. We need to find where he resides so we can put an end to this once and for all." Zeph says.
"Which is exactly what we need from you, mister." Zeph says to the bound man.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Friday October 16th, 2009 8:05:22 AM
Garret tries to stifle a laugh as Zeph's intimidate looks more like a muskrat trying to scare a roc.
Cambar (HP20 of 27, AC23) Friday October 16th, 2009 3:24:05 PM
Cambar watches this Dulcet lady really closely. It's her place, right? Who is she, exactly.
When there is a logical break, Cambar offers her hand, introducing herself to the lady.
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:38/52} d20=6 ; Saturday October 17th, 2009 9:36:33 AM
Walks into the manor after the others, watching outside to make sure there isn't any extra set of eyes. {spot: 6}
Donovan prefers to stay back, out of the way, letting the interrogating professionals to do their work. After his cousin introduces herself to the lady of the manor, he in turn does the same.
DM Kathy Monday October 19th, 2009 1:28:30 AM
"Cambar, Donovan, it is good to meet you," the white-haired woman replies. "I am called Dulcet, and this is my home. This group of adventurers is assisting the Valley with a quest of some importance, and I am doing my part as well. If you have decided to help them, you are welcome here."
Meanwhile, the man blinks muzzily at Zeph. "A man employing us? I dunno who's paying. We grunts almost never know. Sarge might know, but I doubt it."
As you read the letter again (copied below), it does seem as if the "C" man is part of the army, not hiring it.
Our new contract begins immediately. His Majesty is most anxious to stop a group of adventurers from retreiving the sting of a wyvern. The creature is said to live to the east of here, in the hills. His Majesty's advisors have formed an alliance with a group of orcs; however, he is not confident in their ability to stop or slow the adventurers. Let us show him what the Sons of Shadow can do!
If you cannot intercept the adventuers in time to prevent them from getting the wyvern sting, you must by all means stop them from obtaining the Opal Sword. We will, of course, be setting up additional defenses, but your squad is our first line of attack. I know you will not fail in your task.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Monday October 19th, 2009 8:19:34 AM
Garret peeks over and reads the letter again, then steps back. "Well, I guess I'll ask the obvious question -- Hey, Dulcet, what do you know about an Opal sword?"
Cambar (HP20 of 27, AC23) Monday October 19th, 2009 10:42:12 AM
Cambar shows Dulcet the letter. "Looks like the King of Somewhere thinks he can send soldiers and mercs into the Cinnamon Valley whenever he wants. And what with 'orcs' and 'Sons of Shadow,' well, I'd say the King of Somewhere is maybe the King of the Dread."
Zeph AC24 HP 37/37 (Shield, Combat Expertise) HeroesLoot4 Tuesday October 20th, 2009 12:46:17 AM "Ok then. What additional defenses could there be waiting for us?" Zeph asks
DM Kathy Tuesday October 20th, 2009 1:30:55 AM
"Opal Sword..."Dulcet murmurs. "Wasn't that Sgreth Tazkar's weapon? Yes, yes, I'm sure it was." She muses for a moment. "Well. Isn't that interesting. Yes." Turning to you, she says, "It is possible that the Opal Sword is the final item we need to destroy the Codex. But...how did you learn of it?"
"Sons of Shadow," the prisoner says. "That's us. That's our army. Finest mercenaries this side of Plateau City." He speaks with more confidence now. "Our other defenses...well, that'll be more troops, won't it? Probably more than you can handle," he adds, with a nod a Zeph.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Tuesday October 20th, 2009 8:30:26 AM
Continuing his conversation with Dulcet, Garret says, "What? Why would we need something else to destroy this darn thing? And a sword? What are we supposed to do, cut the darn thing in half? Seems a bit odd, if you ask me."
"But this Tazkar, who is he? Or who was he? And do I really want to know?"
Hmark Tuesday October 20th, 2009 1:18:34 PM
"Um, maybe we oughtta have the "where's the sword" conversation after Skippy here [nods at the prisoner] is taken to another house", Hmark opines.
If asked, the archer will happily volunteer to escort the fellow to the local jail.
Cambar (HP20 of 27, AC23) Tuesday October 20th, 2009 4:49:24 PM
Friends, my parents were in a car crash yesterday afternoon. Fortunately, there are no life-threatening injuries, but both my folks have broken bones. My mom is in the ICU. My dad is home with a broken heel bone, and he needs a LOT of help getting around and doing things. I'm taking care of him today and tomorrow. Posting here will be sporadic at best. Sorry.
That said, Cambar agrees with Hmark and looks forward to a more private chat with Lady Dulcet. Like, what is the codex, where is this sword, and who is she, anyway, no disrespect intended.
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} Tuesday October 20th, 2009 5:33:50 PM
sits there still. kicks the prisoner in his side when he pipes up.
Ok man, understood. give your folks our love.
DM Kathy Wednesday October 21st, 2009 1:18:21 AM
[OOC: My best thoughts and good wishes for your folks, Cayzle.]
The prisoner gives a weak "hey!" of protest when Donovan kicks him.
Locking the prisoner in the storage room, you move out into Dulcet's parlor for a more detailed discussion.
"Sgreth Tazkar was a hero of the old days," Dulcet explains. "Not well known today...in part because records of his deeds are sparse, and in part because....well, the records that we have are quite graphic and violent. Tazkar was not kind to those who opposed him. The legends to speak of his Opal Sword, which is rumored to be somewhere in the Windbourne Hills."
"By itself, the sword will not destroy the Codex," Dulcet explains to Garret. "But, combined with the herbs I have gathered, and the rituals I have researched, and the other items you have found...did you find the wyvern sting?"
Zeph AC24 HP 37/37 (Shield, Combat Expertise) HeroesLoot4 Wednesday October 21st, 2009 1:25:50 PM
(OOC: yeah. I had my Teach For America interview yesterday... posting here was the last thing on my mind. Though I think I will be accepted; I find out on Nov 10th. Wish me luck. Oh, Cayzle, sorry about your parents, take care of them my friend.)
Zeph smiles when Dulcet asks for the Wyvern Sting. "Yep. I believe Hmark or Garret have it" Zeph says.
then Zeph remembers his job as the party funds distributor. "I'm venturing over to the weapons and armor shops to sell our goods" Zeph says. And with that he takes off with the mounts backs full of armor and weapons that have been collected.
(OOC: I will update the loot list Thursday. Studying for my Biochem Midterm till then. I will inform everyone how much money to add to their coffers so we can all upgrade some equipment)
Cambar (HP20 of 27, AC23) Wednesday October 21st, 2009 3:32:34 PM
Cambar grins, and those who know her will recognize the expression. "I thought Donovan had it."
She also grins at Lady Dulcet, who has still not answered Cambar's question about who the heck she is. "The Windbourne Hills are pretty darn wide. Can you narrow it down some? Like, which to which one of the hills?"
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] d20+1=19 ; d20+1=2 ; Wednesday October 21st, 2009 3:51:38 PM
Garret smiles when Dulcet mentions the hills. "Oh, I've been through those hills a lot. I used to carry messages through those hills to various different places. Never did see a sword lying around, sorry. I'm trying to think if I heard any stories about it, though..."
----- Knowledge, Local: 19 Knowledge, History: 2
Wow, lots going in IRL! Sorry to hear about the parents, but at least they're not more seriously hurt. Good luck, Zeph, with the position!
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} Wednesday October 21st, 2009 4:32:35 PM
{yo, cambar. you're hp is full so said the dm. might wanna change that in your header}
Yeah, I had it. And then I gave it to Cambar for safe keeping. Might check her pants tho, it's like a bag of holding in the right spot, says Donovan with a wicked smile.
Donovan, after cracking his smart remark goes to stand guard over the prisoner. In the same room with him. Not trusting that he won't find a way to escape. Donovan has seen too many "safe secures to go awry" and doesn't plan on letting this prisoner escape.
Cambar (HP27 of 27, AC23) Wednesday October 21st, 2009 4:52:57 PM
Thanks! LOL. I fixed my HP.
DM Kathy Thursday October 22nd, 2009 1:17:09 AM
"I shall have to do further research," says Dulcet, "to try to narrow down where the Sword could be."
Garrett gives the matter some thought. He believes the Sword is most likely in the northern Windbourne Hills, somewhere near the kingdom of Fol Branth, or in Fol Branth itself.
Fol Branth, he knows, was once the power in the region, but ten years of civil war have greatly weakened it.
To Cambar and Donovan Dulcet says, "And you are both welcome here, though I'm not sure whether you have joined the quest. My name, as I said, is Dulcet. This valley is guided by the decisions of a group known as the Pitchfork Council, and I am one of the local representatives. I also have some knowledge of magic, which is why I was called upon to assist with this little problem."
"As for the nature of the problem...well, there was some concern about spies and security. I will leave it to the others to decide how much to tell you. I am pleased to say, however, that I believe our goal is in sight."
Donovan finds the prisoner nursing his injuries and looking thoughfully about the room. Perhaps a guard is not a bad idea.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Thursday October 22nd, 2009 9:01:56 AM
"Seems like I have heard a tale or two about that fellow. Far up in the hills somewhere, near Fol Branth. 'Course that was a long time ago. No telling what's happened since then. I think this one is going to be a bit tougher than searching out a wyvern, though. So, who's up for some rest? I say we sleep on it and see what Dulcet can come up with before the morrow. Then in another day, we head out into the hills -- we're going to need our rest, some of those areas have been fighting one another for years, and they're not going to care which side we're on."
Hmark Thursday October 22nd, 2009 9:53:17 AM
Hmark just hangs in the back, reluctant to speak up. Frankly, he's been concentrating so much on each of the group's missions that he's nearly forgotten the "nature of the problem" himself. And, having never heard of Fol Branth, the archer can't add anything.
Mostly he waits for Zeph to get back with some coin. The man's arrow supply is woefully low.
Cambar (HP27 of 27, AC23) Thursday October 22nd, 2009 11:45:51 AM
Cambar nods at the idea of resting for a night and then racing to get the Opal Sword first. But she has a couple questions first.
"Okay, so there's this King of Somewhere who hired the so-called Sons of Shadow to stop us from getting the Opal Sword. Let's call him King Jerk for short. How come King Jerk wants to stop us from getting the sword, when if he had just kept his big mouth shut, we would never even have thought of it. I mean, looks like it wasn't top of mind for Lady Dulcet here. So what's King Jerk's angle? Why does he think we're looking for the Opal Sword? What does he think we would do with it? What would he do with it, anyway?"
"We may not know the answers to that, but we gotta start to get answers, or we're stumbling in the dark. Like to begin with, who the heck IS King Jerk?"
"Our only lead is this mercenary company. Has anyone ever heard of these Sons of Shadow? Where in the Wold is our prisoner from, even? Where are his barracks? Where are the Sons based? How far did they march to get here? What is the name of the leader of the company? How do you hire the Sons of Shadow to do your dirty work, anyway?"
"We should be able to get those answers from the prisoner. And maybe we can get a friendly mage to cast a charm spell or two. That would make him our friend, and we would get better answers than from scaring him."
"Lady Dulcet, what can you do to help us get true answers from the prisoner? Do you have any other way for us to figure out who King Jerk is?"
"If we can figure out some stuff about King Jerk, we can figure out what he wants from the Sword."
She turns to Dulcet. "Lady, you weren't even thinking about the Opal Sword, or were you? How were you going to get rid of this Codex thingie before we mentioned the Opal Sword? Do you really need it? If so, how come you didn't send us to get it before, when we coulda got a jump on these bums? I mean, there's lots of wyverns in the Wold, and lots of stings, but only one Opal Sword, I betcha."
She smiles to show that she is not trying to put Dulcet on the spot, but just brainstorming and speaking her mind as the thoughts occur to her.
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} d20+2=15 ; Thursday October 22nd, 2009 3:33:40 PM
So, what is the requirements to join this little group of yours? asks Donovan to the prisoner. Having beat up children and tortured puppies? Oh, I know, you had to steal from your parents, then kill the family dog in front of your siblings...... Donovan kicks the prisoner out of spite. Then reconnoiters the room, securing all means of entrance/exit, and making sure his binding is set. {use rope: 15} After being satisfied, Donovan takes up a sentry position next to the door.
{he takes his guard detail very serious}
Zeph AC24 HP 37/37 (Shield, Combat Expertise) HeroesLoot4 Thursday October 22nd, 2009 4:43:29 PM
Zeph returns with six bags of coins, each with a name tag written on it. He hands them to his companions, then he says, "Going to the catacombs. Be right back." and is off, but will return shortly to hear the full story.
Hmark, Garret, Selemar, and Zeph get 7011.225gold for the Ettin, Orc, Wyvern, and Farm fights. Cambar gets 4352.85 from the Wyvern and the Farm fights. Donovan gets 1773.75 from the Farm Fight
Update your sheets. Good luck shopping. Did I miss anything? The link is right up there on my signature. Everything was sold at 90% and distributed to everyone who took part in that fight. The gold was just distributed evenly.
DM Kathy Friday October 23rd, 2009 5:39:45 PM
[Sorry about the lack of DM post. My ISP went offline last night, and now I'm at work. Will try to post later today.]
DM Kathy Friday October 23rd, 2009 11:19:34 PM Zeph returns with the party treasure, a welcome sight for Hmark, at least.
Cambar has a number of questions for her companions, Dulcet, the prisoner, and the as-yet-unidentified King Jerk. Dulcet does her best.
"I knew we would need some kind of weapon or cutting implement for the final stage of the Unmaking," she explains. "I did not think of the Opal Sword in particular, though I'm sure I would have in time." She smiles a little at the rest of Cambar's speech. "There is also but one Mercy of the Gods," she says, "so we made sure to secure that before the wyvern sting. That was before you joined with the group."
"As for spells," she continues, "I can cast the Charm spell if you and your companions wish it."
Meanwhile, Donovan is with the prisoner, ensuring that he gets a circumstance bonus to his Will save to resist becoming your friends. ;)
Garret suggests a good night's sleep, followed by a council in the morning. It would appear, however, that trips to the Catacombs may be of more pressing interest to some in the party.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Sunday October 25th, 2009 12:53:07 PM
"Very good, then, let's have someone question that fellow -- I'm not so good at such things."
When Zeph mentions the catacombs, Garret says, "Oh yes, great idea. I think I'll go with you."
Zeph AC24 HP 37/37 (Shield, Combat Expertise) HeroesLoot4 Monday October 26th, 2009 3:49:43 AM
Zeph leans over to Garret on the way to the catacombs.
"I have to run an errand. Shouldn't take more than a day I would suppose. I have to meet some people. Remember that stranger we met... yeah. Business I must handle. Tell the others."
And after Zeph leaves the Catacombs, he ventures off to where the hooded traveller told him to go all those weeks ago, with the spider emblem in his hand.
(Have to pass a test to get my Prestige Class. Rolling for it in the LnB)
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) Monday October 26th, 2009 11:25:02 AM
Cambar thanks Dulcet. "Maybe we can come back in a day or two or three, after you have charmed the prisoner and asked our questions. We would be very grateful. In the meantime, we all have some training and shopping to do."
Cambar needs to train at the local WLA post, and visit the CC as well.
DM Kathy Tuesday October 27th, 2009 12:44:20 AM
Your prisoner needs interrogating, but many of you have pressing needs as well. There is gear to be bought, and training to be done, and contacts to be...well...contacted. You leave the prisoner with Dulcet, and go off on your various errands.
At least, you start. But as you are leaving Dulcet's house, you see someone approaching it. A woman is striding purposfully up the front walk.
[Everybody say hello to Tanner, our new player. He can give a better description of his character, I'm sure. Be sure to describe your characters, too, so you can all "see" each other.]
Yelena Shukhov Tuesday October 27th, 2009 7:33:27 AM
You see a young but sturdy-looking woman approach. She is of average height and weight, with black hair and striking yellow eyes that appear almost golden. Her face looks poised but determined. She wears scholars' robes, simple but well-made, embroidered with the symbol of Domi over the heart.
She raises both hands high in the air, fingers outstretched with the middle and ring fingers together. "I salute you in the name of the Domi, in token of the everlasting bond, in which bond I receive you to fellowship, in a determination that is fixed, immovable, and unchangeable, to be your friend and brother through the grace of Domi in the bonds of love, to walk in all the commandments of Domi blameless, in thanksgiving, forever and ever. Amen." She lowers her hands and a smile crosses her face, "I am here to fulfill the responsibilities left errant by my brother-in-arms, Owain. I have been sent with official missive," to which she removes a bundled scroll from inside her robes and holds them aloft, "to aid in the destruction of an item of significant malevolence." She looks around at the party members, "Are you the group I seek?"
Yelena Shukhov Tuesday October 27th, 2009 7:33:56 AM
DM: What are some bb codes usable on this board?
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Tuesday October 27th, 2009 8:27:32 AM
Garret stands to the side of the entranceway, almost melding into the shadows as this new person approaches. He is a halfling and stands no more than three feet tall. He wears no shirt and his pants look worn and dirty. They are held up by a belt and he has a very small pack on his shoulders. He has brown hair tied up in a top knot and the sides of his head are shaved. Appearing across the sides of his head and now down to his shoulders and partially across his back, he has numerous tattoos, clearly created at different times and by different artists. His hands are empty, but he watches carefully, appearing to be dangerous and light-hearted at the same time.
Zeph AC24 HP 37/37 (Shield, Combat Expertise) HeroesLoot4 Tuesday October 27th, 2009 9:55:50 AM
Zeph looks up at the woman in a bit of astonishment at her prayer/speech/hello. "Well, hello to you to. I suppose we are a group that is looking to destroy a malevolent item... how much do you know about such things?" Zeph asks, with a look behind him, trying to find Dulcet.
Zeph is a young man of 20 years old. He is recently shaven clean and has shoulder-length black hair that is wavy all the way down. He is of average height and has green eyes. He also wears dark clothing over a Mithril Chain Shirt and a t-shirt that says 'Jesus saves. Everyone else takes 5d6 damage'. Several weapons adorn his well-crafted leather belt.
It sometimes surprises me how open some people are about their faith Zeph thinks to himself.
"I would like to exchange pleasantries a bit more, but I have a very important errand to run at the moment... I haven't seen my father in some time." And with that, Zeph will run off to meet some people in secret. (DMKathy, did you want to describe the Jancassis events? I guess it should take a day or so right?)
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) Tuesday October 27th, 2009 10:38:21 AM
A dark-haired, fair-skinned maid wearing spiked full plate armor walks up to the newcomer and offers a hand. "Sounds like we might be the group you seek. This 'item of significant malevolence' ... what's it look like?"
"Anyway, I'm Cambar. Pleased to meetcha. What can we call you, Owain's sister and Domi's servant?" She grins. "So, are you a mage or a priest? I'm a lance-girl, myself, when I'm on horseback, which is whenever I can be. Plus I know a little about a lot of things, and I use my sword and shield when I'm grounded."
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} Tuesday October 27th, 2009 1:52:00 PM
{look up character description on Woldipedia page, under our game name, and then mine}
Looking towards his cousin, Donovan pipes up: Oh great, one of Those people. Gonna try saving our souls at every turn I bet. You have any of that anti-preaching stuff on you? {ie, cottonballs to stuff into his ears}
Pointing to a pile of armor by the door, and a greatsword on top of it. Guess what I do for a living, says Donovan with a wide mischievous grin.
Donovan lets the others, more experienced with diplomatic ramblings, deal with the newcomer. He walks off, to spend his gotten booty.
Yelena Shukhov Tuesday October 27th, 2009 4:07:18 PM
Yelena smiles, "The item in question is one Vaaphyn Codex, a tome of summoning and binding. We have historical records of its nature but its whereabouts have been unknown for quite some time. The Church was aware of Owain's activities and decided that involvement would be in the best interests of both Domi and the community at large." She nods her head towards the departed Zeph and Donovan, "I am not here to preach. It is not within my assigned duties," she waves with the missive scroll, "and is not one of my talents. I am more.... reactive, than proactive, to combating evil." She nods to Cambar, "I am not related to Owain. He was a brother in the faith, but we were not even acquaintances. As far as my capabilities, my training is as a paladin of Domi. Lately I have focused on mystical arts, but I use these skills within the context of paladinhood. You may call me Sister Shukhov if you would like to be polite. Now, what is your progress in destroying the tome and what are your plans for the next step?"
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) Tuesday October 27th, 2009 4:21:16 PM
Cambar grins when she realizes that the newcomer was talking about a religious brother, not a sibling. She nods at the description of the item. "Yuppers, that's it, Sister Shukhov! The Lady Dulcet, of the Pitchfork Council, is keeping it safe. So far we got a couple ingredients needed to destroy it, like a wyvern's sting and some herbs and stuff like that."
"Now we're looking for a particular magic sword that will be needed to finish the deed."
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Tuesday October 27th, 2009 6:45:28 PM
"Ah, sister Shukhov, it is good to meet you." Garret steps forward from the shadows and offers his hand. "I have known some of your brothers and sisters of your church over the years of my travels. I am quite honored to meet you. I am Garret Goodbarrel, from a small monastery in the Windbourne Hills."
"As the others have mentioned, we are soon to set out on a search for one Opal Sword. I don't suppose you've heard of it? We've only just returned, so we're catching up, selling some loot, and recovering from a few nasty battles. I have to warn you, in case you don't know, that there are other who have already been sent after us to stop us. By joining with us, you are sure to become a target of theirs as well."
Yelena Shukhov Tuesday October 27th, 2009 8:32:00 PM
Yelena shakes his hand, "It is good to meet you as well, Brother Goodbarrel. I didn't expect to meet anyone with monastic training on this assignment. I look forward to many productive travels. As for becoming a target, I believe that a trap you know is coming is no trap at all." She laughs and brushes dirt from her robes, "I am ready as ever to do my duty. May I ask you some questions about your party and it's combat capabilities and tactics? I'm afraid I will not be an effective team member without preparation and study. Is this all of your members? I have met Cambar, Garret, Xeph, and Donovan."
DM Kathy Wednesday October 28th, 2009 12:51:29 AM
You meet the newcomer, who apparantly belonged to the same order as Owain. (Not that many of you met Owain).
Yelena, for her part, meets Garret the monk, Cambar and Donovan, warriors both, and Zeph, who seems...well, nimble. And possibly sneaky. :)
You also eventually meet Hmark, the quiet human archer who has been quieter than usual of late (MikeK said he was incredibly busy, so we hope he'll rejoin us shortly). You may also meet Selemar, the wry ranger, and his bear companion Shun (although Bill hasn't posted in a while). Hopefully, at some point, you will encounter Rollo, but we'll save that for if it happens (Adam had a computer meltdown, but I'd hoped he'd be back by now).
Soon, you will depart to find the Opal Sword, but at the moment there are a great many preparations to be made.
[Everybody let me know when you're more or less ready to proceed; keep up the role-playing in the meantime. :) ]
Zeph AC24 HP 37/37 (Shield, Combat Expertise) HeroesLoot4 Wednesday October 28th, 2009 1:57:59 AM
(OOC: OK guys, Zeph has to go pass a rather gruesome test to get his Prestige Class as an Avenger of Jancassis. He's going off to do that at the moment while his Catecombs orders are coming in. I'm going to give a brief description of the happenings so you guys can read it for your own enjoyment. I will also include a bit of Zeph's past for backstory sake. Read if you want, or skip over it, its all about fun.)
Zeph takes his horse, Shadow, and rides to the spot that the hooded mysterious traveller told him to many weeks ago (before we met Donovan and Cambar I believe). He holds the black and red spider symbol of Jancassis firmly in his grasp.
Zeph thinks to himself, This church... cult... whatever it is... offers power. I need power to complete my mission and kill those who took the ones I loved from me. But... I am afraid. I can use people as a means to an end. But a god? Would Jancassis see through me? Can a god see into the soul of a man? Can you even lie to a god? I don't know, but I will devote myself to the cult if it means I can get my revenge. I will sacrifice anything...
Zeph's conflict is deep and his face is a scary sight when he arrives at the cult's location.
He enters the dilapidated wooden structure hidden in the forests outside Cinnamon Valley... and goes down, deep into a stone carved dungeon. He keeps his right hand constantly flicking towards his weapons as he takes each step, constantly looking around for signs of danger or ambush. His tiny viper, Sliver, pokes his head out and licks the air.
Then Zeph reaches a large iron door with no signs of locks or traps (and he searches high and low). After several minutes a small peep slot slides open and the eyes of a person are visable. Nothing is said.
Zeph puts the small spider emblem of Jancassis in his palm and lifts it toward the peep slot. The eyes of the person on the other side squint to a sliver... almost as if to doubt. Then, suddenly, Sliver, Zeph's tiny viper familiar dashes from Zeph's sleeve and onto the outsretched palm next to the spider emblem. The red double helix on the black viper's back is clearly visible to the person on the other side. His eyes widen suddenly and one word is spoken. "Sign".
The peep slot slams shut and several gears turn and dust falls from the door as it slides open just enough for Zeph to slip through.
It seems everything is prepared already. Here is the link from the woldopedia about the ritual: http://www.woldiangames.com/Woldipedia/index.php/Avenger
The room is dimly lit by just a few torches. Three dark hooded figures stand in the room around a large stone sarcophagus. Zeph is instructed to remove his clothes and step inside the tomb. He does so, leaving Sliver with his clothing. Alone he steps into and lays in the stone structure. The hooded figures slide the heavy top over the sarcophagus and it is pitch black. Suddenly, a slot opens up over Zeph's torso and one of the hooded figures pours a box of some creepy crawly insects (Spiders) in with Zeph. At first the wants to scream, but knowing that will get him nowhere, Zeph decides to fight the besties as best he can. He squishes several of the invisible creepy crawlies against the sides of the cramped tomb. He begins to get bit and poisons are injected into his body. He feels his strength leave him and his limbs go numb, but he persist, determined to kill them all before they eat him. Then, suddenly, another box of creatures are emptied into the sarcophagus (scorpions). Immediately, stings that feel like pins and needles pierce his skin and the warmth of impeding death trickles through is veins and to his fingertips. He coughs out blood and finds a hairy insect inside it before he could close it all the way, biting at his tongue. He bites the bug and spits it out. Fire is passing through his veins as he struggles... but he does not scream. Finally, the door slot opens one more time and another box of creatures (snakes) are dropped in. Now, the sarcophagus is completely full, there is little room to move to fight anymore. Then the fangs reach him. Every blood vessel is full of poison and he can feel consciousness losen. He can vaguely feel a snake's mouth stretching over his foot as it attempts to devour him. He can no longer move. All is going black.
Then, the lid of the sarcophagus is lifted and a blast of negative energy knocks every spider, scorpion, and snake off of Zeph and spittering onto the floor. (Zeph passed the fortitude save on the loot and booty inn. DC is 20. He got a natural 20 resulting in 25)
Zeph's eyes pop open to see the holy symbol of Jancassis dangling before him... then he loses consciousness.
More to come... stay tuned!
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Wednesday October 28th, 2009 1:12:29 PM
Garret returns from the Catacombs with a fresh, shiny tattoo on his shoulder. It appears to be of some sort of fancy tree-shaped thing. It doesn't really match with the other tattoos, but it seems to shimmer a bit more than the others.
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) Wednesday October 28th, 2009 3:37:06 PM
Cambar spends a few days shopping and training. Evenings, she returns to Dulcet's place to see if the prisoner has yielded any more info under the influence of a charm. She also asks Dulcet for any leads on the whereabouts of the Opal Sword.
So far as combat tactics go, Cambar tells the new Sister that she loves loves loves buffs and cures, and the party has really needed a cleric, so she is grateful. In combat, Cambar loves to flank, almost as much as she loves to charge things with her lance. The best is the charging flank!
Yelena Shukhov Wednesday October 28th, 2009 4:03:04 PM
Yelena is prepared and ready. She spends her time wandering about town, making small-talk with the natives. She periodically checks in to see about progress in pinpointing the Opal Sword.
Hmark Wednesday October 28th, 2009 4:34:43 PM
Hmark remains near the back of the room as Sister Shukov introduces herself. The lad's face scrunches as he works to understand the paladin's words. It sounds like Common, but I ain't followin' he decides.
The archer (the big honkin' red bow gives it away) stops scratching his goatee long enough to give a short wave. "I'm Hmark," he comments.
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Wednesday October 28th, 2009 5:23:10 PM
Zeph awakens on a cold stone floor. He is naked, cold and his vision is still blurry. He stands and looks around him. There are at least 50 hooded figures in a large circle around him. In the distance he can see a large altar of Jancassis that he saw when he first found the religion back in New Ellenna. Some how, Zeph knew that this altar was his destination, he feels compelled to get there.
Here's my chance. Power is awaiting me.
Zeph takes his first step across the cold stone floor and suddenly a whip cracks across his back and the crowd of onlookers jeer and scream in ecstacy. Zeph falls to his knees for a moment, but pulls back to his feet and takes another step. The onlookers begin to spit and curse Zeph, shouting things like "You are Unworthy. Useless excuse for a human. We have no use for such a wretch." Zeph takes a few more steps towards the altar and a tall, thin figure steps from the crowd and slaps Zeph hard across the face and spits on him... standing in Zeph's path. The figure cross his arms, waiting for a response.
I have one goal. One. Everything else is just a distraction. Zeph thinks. Zeph does not look at the man, does not touch the man. He just walks around him, ignoring him, keeping his eyes on the altar.
The jeers start up again. "Pathetic, weak, disgusting" are just a few of the words that are shouted. Then, it happens, a large spiked chain is whipped from the crowd and wraps around Zeph's neck. Zeph is pulled to the ground, gasping for air as his own blood begins to trickle down his body. For the first time, Zeph notices that his wounds from the previous test were not healed or treated- he is still a bit numb.
For a moment, Zeph thinks to grab the chain and pull it to get whoever is wielding it closer to him so that he can make a counter attack... but that would be failure.
So Zeph stands back up and begins to walk, with the chain still wrapped around his neck. The needles on the chain dig into his neck at first, but then loosen and falls to the ground.
Finally, Zeph is but a few paces from the altar, his goal is almost within his grasp.
Then, another figure stands before him, between him and the altar. It is a woman's voice, "Your mother and father died because you were weak. You could not save them then and you can not save them now."
For the first time, Zeph was actually affected by something that was said. His fists shake and his eyes tear up a bit. He does not look at the figure, knowing that acknowledging the distraction would be failure.
Maybe so. But I can still kill those who took them from me. Zeph thinks in response to the woman's comment.
Zeph cannot see it, but the woman smiles and gives a little nod as soon as Zeph thinks this. Then she steps aside.
Zeph steps up to the altar, which is decorated with signs of Jancassis such as the double helix, spiders, scorpions, snakes, everything red and black. Then, on the altar, next to his viper Sliver, Zeph sees the Obsidian Black Short Sword that his father gave him on the night him and his mother were murdered.
Zeph grabs the short sword and the jeering and taunting shouts stop. Zeph turns around to face the crowd, bloodied, demoralized, humiliated, poisoned... but holding the sword in his hand.
He is victorious.
(Rolled a 23 for the Will Save on the Loot N Booty Inn... one more little bit of story to come later.)
DM Kathy Thursday October 29th, 2009 12:44:26 AM
As you begin to gather back at Dulcet's after your errands, she has some more information for you.
"I believe the Opal Sword is probably in Tyrrh Valley," she tells you. "There are other possibilities, but Tyrrh Valley is the most likely. It is a small, isolated kingdom, whose defenders must constantly battle goblins, gnolls, and other savage races. The current ruler is Queen Amurla, widow of the late king. She has a reputation as a shrewd diplomat."
Dulcet shows you a map of the region, pointing out Tyrrh Valley and the neighboring kingdoms of Fol Branth and Bellardy.
She also reports on her conversation with the prisoner. "I didn't learn much else," she said. "He is part of a mercenary army calling itself the Sons of Shadow. The leader is General Calleron; he is the one who signed the letter you found. They were originally formed in Plateau City, but haven't been there for years. They move about a great deal, choosing a base of operations near their current assignment."
"They were hired by one of the kings of the Windbourne Hills, but our prisoner does not know which one. He has a vague idea that this king wants something, and that we stand in his way. He doesn't know what this thing is, and of course I didn't tell him."
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Thursday October 29th, 2009 8:16:18 AM
"The queen is a diplomat, eh? I wonder what sort of things she might need that she might want to trade for the sword..."
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Thursday October 29th, 2009 11:40:02 AM
Zeph arrives a bit late to the conversation, but gets the jist of it. He walks in to hear Garret ask about trading for the sword.
"Yeah. What could someone like that find valuable enough to trade for the sword? I would hate to have to swipe it from under her nose. It's bad enough having a 'king' trying to kill you much less both a king and queen." he says.
Hmark Thursday October 29th, 2009 2:01:02 PM
Hmark looks incredulously at Zeph and Garret. "You're kidding, right?"
The archer rolls his eyes, "lessee, I'm queen of a kingdom fighting off goblins and gnolls all the time, and here come a bunch of expendable adventurers who want my sword." Hmark turns to an imaginary companion and pitches his voice to a falsetto.
"Oh, To-om, can you bring me my list of suicide missions, please? Yes, the really nasty ones. Thanks so much. You're such a dear. Couldn't run the place without you."
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) Thursday October 29th, 2009 2:20:22 PM
"Why don't we bring Dulcet and the book and stuff to the Queen and just ask to borrow her sword for a minute?"
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Thursday October 29th, 2009 3:13:38 PM "Well. That's a good idea Cambar. I would hope she would listen to some reason... or perhaps we could solve some major goblin problem for her in exchange for the sword..." Zeph says squinting at Hmark.
"It wouldnt be the first time someone traded goods for services."
Yelena Shukhov Thursday October 29th, 2009 6:46:48 PM
"Then again, they might not even know what they have on their hands. This is assuming that Queen Amurla is even in possession of the Opal Sword. Dulcet just said that it is in Tyrrh Valley. It might be completely unknown to their citizenry."
Yelena turns to Dulcet, "Is there anyone in Tyrrh Valley trusted by the Pitchfork Council? I would hate to contact the Queen and enter parlay only to find out that they do not even have possession of it."
DM Kathy Friday October 30th, 2009 1:02:54 AM
"The sword is probably in Tyrrh Valley," Dulcet clarifies. "But if it is there, I think it's reasonable to assume that the Queen either knows where it is, or knows who would know. It is a fairly remote kingdom," she explains to Yelena, "so we do not have contacts there. I'm afraid you would be on your own."
To Cambar, she says, "I would advise against trying to perform the ceremony in Tyrrh Valley. My magic relies heavily on the presence of ley lines, and I do not know whether the valley is rich in magic, or poor. Better to perform it here, where I know where the ley lines are."
She winces a little at Hmark's performance. "Well. Try to avoid taking on any actual suicide missions," she says.
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) Friday October 30th, 2009 6:46:21 AM
Cambar nudges Hmark in the ribs. "Yeah, and keep your impression of the queen on the down-low after we get to her kingdom, okay?" She grins.
"As soon as my order is in from the Catacombs, I'll be ready to go!"
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Friday October 30th, 2009 8:42:06 AM
Garret grins at Hmark's performance and says, "Well, I was hoping there might be something a bit easier we could bring her, like a wagon load of grain or something..."
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} Friday October 30th, 2009 10:11:56 AM
Donovan returns about this time, with an armload of candies and other sugary treats.
Did you guys know they are handing out this stuff in town? Donovan drops his load onto a table and motioning to the booty he says: help yourselves, if I was to eat all that Cambar would be feeding me castor oil for a month to purge it out of my system, much less me not feeling like doing much of anything for that same time.
Hmmm, Hmark...as Donovan laughs aloud, that is probably the most probable course of action that would happen. But I fear that more than likely it is what we are going to be forced to do to gather this information of said sword. I, on the other hand think we should just kill as many orcs, goblins and such in her kingdowm, load their heads into a wagon and present them as a gift to her highness and hope for the best.
{Kathy, all I am going to buy with my gold is a riding horse and a pack horse. One, of course is to ride and the other to carry my armor and other needed supplies.}
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Friday October 30th, 2009 1:01:49 PM
"Whoa, candy!" Garret attacks the table and starts shoving candy into his mouth.
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Friday October 30th, 2009 1:06:39 PM
Zeph looks at the candy... Butterscotch... where is the butterscotch....
"AHA" Zeph exclaims when he sees one. He quickly grabs it and pops it in his mouth.
And snozberries taste like snozberries
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) Friday October 30th, 2009 1:08:11 PM
Cambar grins and digs into the candy. "You're mistaking me for my brother again, cuz. He's the one with the castor oil."
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Friday October 30th, 2009 1:46:14 PM "Speaking of Camlan... where did he go?" Zeph asks casually.
Yelena Shukhov Friday October 30th, 2009 2:01:58 PM
Yelena snags a few hard candies and puts them in her belt pouch for later. "Hmm... perhaps we should still look for allies before shooting in the dark with the Queen. While my church did send me simply as as a participating observer on this quest, I'm sure my missive will carry some weight with clergy in Tyrrh Valley. Perhaps we should try to gain an audience from one of the priests in Queen Amurla's court. I'm sure a plea on our behalf from them would carry more weight than the word of strangers. What do you think?"
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Friday October 30th, 2009 2:53:58 PM
Zeph thinks about Yelena's idea to talk to a religious authority in Queen Amurla's city.
"Yeah. That's a good idea. We should definitely appeal to her from every angle we can. But we won't know if we can talk to them until we get there will we? We should take off asap." Zeph suggests, popping a caramel in his mouth.
Then Zeph turns to Yelena in particular: "Did you ask about combat tactics? Well, I have a good reach with my spiked chain, so I am planning to try to keep the enemies away from Hmark and other more vulnerable people while flanking them with Garret, Donovan, or whoever else is around. I also usually cast Grease to trip enemies and shield to protect myself... I've been thinking of using Enlarge Person to increase my reach another 5feet (and improve tripping ability). What spells can you use? Perhaps we can help each other out since I can only cast 3 per day." Zeph says
[link=http://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0ASpMjFvPkEd9ZGZmandtenhfMjltOWt2MzVk&hl=en]Yelena[/link] Friday October 30th, 2009 3:00:39 PM
To Zeph, "I have developed an assortment of magics to aid allies (buffs), hinder our foes (debuffs), or outright assault (attack). I currently have enlarge, ray of enfeeblement, and magic missile in my repertoire."
"Perhaps you should prepare another spell besides enlarge to increase our versatility."
Yelena Friday October 30th, 2009 3:02:38 PM
Just trying to get the link to my character sheet working. Please ignore :)
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Sunday November 1st, 2009 5:23:43 PM "Yeah, that's what I was thinking too Yelena. Hmmm. I have a large assortment of first level spells to chose from: True Strike, Feather fall, Cause Fear, Charm Person, Grease, Expedious Retreat, Shocking Grasp, Tenser's Floating Disk, Obscuring mist... so hard to chose... "
(OOC: Hey DMKathy. Can you sneak attack with spells such as Shocking Grasp or Scorching Ray???)
DM Kathy Monday November 2nd, 2009 1:06:12 AM
When the wagon of candy is delivered, Dulcet's eyebrows raise. Then, with the air of somebody who can't quite help herself, she picks out a piece of taffy, unwraps it, and chews with evident pleasure.
"A wagonload of grain wouldn't hurt," says Dulcet. "If nothing else, you could sell it when you get there to cover your expenses."
To Yelena, Dulcet says, "That is a very good notion. Perhaps you could persuade someone from your order here to write a letter of introduction."
You discuss tactics, and wait for your Catacombs orders.
[Let me know once you're ready to start. Catacombs messengers will be able to find you on the trail. :) ]
[OOC: My understanding is, you can sneak attack with anything that does damage. Your opponent must be flat-footed, though, and ranged attacks must be within 30 feet.]
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Monday November 2nd, 2009 7:59:00 AM
"Dulcet, might you be able to obtain for us a wagon full of grain with horse for our journey? Once we have that, I believe I am ready to depart."
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Monday November 2nd, 2009 1:02:21 PM "Dragging a wagon full of grain all the way across the hills may be a little more trouble than its worth in my opinion. Besides, we don't even know what she wants for the sword... maybe they have tons of grain already... no use shooting in the dark until we talk to her." Zeph says in contest to Gerret's idea.
Yelena Monday November 2nd, 2009 1:49:11 PM
"Forgive me, I must have missed that point in the conversation. Brother Goodbarrel, what exactly would we do with a wagon of grain? I believe there may be more portable forms of wealth, let alone the additional time it would require."
She turns to Dulcet, "Thank you, I believe the missive I was sent with will suffice. It identifies me as an agent on official Church business. It is signed and sealed and will sure to be recognized by any clergy of sympathetic faith. And speaking of travel, are there steeds available for this trip? Or shall I need to purchase one?"
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) Monday November 2nd, 2009 7:15:47 PM
Cambar agrees with Yelena. "Yeah, a wagon of grain seems kind of out of left field. Why that, rather than, say, some gems or magic items or more portable wealth?"
"Or, given what we know of the dangers they face there, maybe a handful of goblin bane arrows. 20 should cost not more than 3,200 gold."
DM Kathy Tuesday November 3rd, 2009 12:58:25 AM
You debate the idea of the wagonload of grain, but it seems there may be other, more portable gifts you can opt for.
Yelena asks about borrowing a horse. "I'm afraid all the horses I can spare are already lent to some of the group," Dulcet replies. "So you would either have to purchase one, or persuade one of the others to do so."
As you are making your preparations, a messenger from the Catacombs approaches you, the same brash young girl you have seen before. "Package here for Ha-Mark," she says, reading the name on the tag. "And one for Zeph," she adds, pulling out a second bundle. With a friendly nod, she departs.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Tuesday November 3rd, 2009 7:43:00 AM
"I see your points. I guess we should just head on out and see what the good queen will want for this sword, eh?"
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) Tuesday November 3rd, 2009 8:00:29 AM
So, do we want to bring a gift? I have to tell you, I have no gold to buy anything nice. Can we not just pledge our swords and lances for a service, instead?"
Soon it is time to go. Cambar's knowledge of geography is nil, and her woodcraft is even niller. "Who is at home with a map and a chart among us?" she asks. "Who among us can lead us to this valley?"
"I wish my brother Camlan were here."
She is ready to go, but is a little more than somewhat fearful of getting lost.
[OOC to DM: Cambar is still waiting to be served in the CC. Hopefully that will go forward soon. Thanks!]
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} Tuesday November 3rd, 2009 1:28:14 PM
If this place is at war with the dark forces of Orcs, Goblins and such, food would eveidently been in short supply. Like stuff needed for brewing beer, and making bread so us taking a couple, {in my opinion} wagons loaded down with grain would probably be more welcomed to this queen than lets say, gems.
What she is suggesting here is not something to give to the queen wealth wise, but something that, in the eyes of her people would be far more greater than some gems. Remember, in times of war, you can't eat gems or gold.
{since a riding horse and a pack horse, plus tack, is a normal item, I am just going to spend the gold and add them to my sheet if that's ok. I wouldn't go to the catacombs to purchase those items anyways. A ferrier / horsesmith would be my store of choice.}
Yelena Tuesday November 3rd, 2009 1:31:13 PM
"Let me purchase a horse and tack and I will be ready to depart."
OOC: Purchasing one light horse and one riding saddle.
Yelena Tuesday November 3rd, 2009 1:31:45 PM
"Oh, and Dulcet, could we get a letter of introduction from the Pitchfork Council?"
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Tuesday November 3rd, 2009 8:56:10 PM
Zeph opens up the package from the Catecombs like a child opening a christmas parcel.
He pulls out a long, thin chain with little razor blades all along the non-handle part of the chain. He gives it a quick spin and smiles. He also puts on a ring that causes a faint blue shimmer to go about him. There are also some fine leather gloves that Zeph puts on his hands, which move a bit more nimbly afterwards. Lastly, there are a pair of what look to be hippie glasses from the 70s. When he puts them on he begins to search about and little pop-ups of information show up about whatever he focuses on.
"Yep. Lets take off as soon as possible." Zeph says with a smirk.
DM Kathy Wednesday November 4th, 2009 12:26:12 AM
[OOC: You do not have to go to the Catacombs to purchase non-magical items.]
With a flurry of last-minute preparations, you are ready to depart. Donovan and Yelena acquire mounts.
[OOC: I prefer if you give your horse a name; that makes it more likely you'll remember you have it. :) ]
Dulcet writes a letter of introduction just from herself, signing it as a member of the Pitchfork Council. "The Council is a wonderful institution," she tells Yelena, "but before we got a letter of introduction from the entire Council, we'd need at least a week's worth of debate and revision. Perhaps it's best to make do with this."
Dulcet makes a copy of a map of the region for Cambar, with probable routes sketched in. "I don't know exactly which roads lead where," she says. "You'll need to ask, once you get closer."
Your last preparations are made, your gear packed, and you are ready to depart. Predictably, after a week of beautiful, hot, sunny weather during your week of preparing, you set out into the teeth of a summer storm. The wind and rain pass by noon, however, and you spend a pleasant afternoon riding up the now-muddy road leading out of Cinnamon Valley.
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) Wednesday November 4th, 2009 7:43:11 AM
"Yay!" shouts Cambar, as the group depart. "On the road again!" She pats her horse and leans forward to whisper in its ear.
Then she sits up and races forward.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Wednesday November 4th, 2009 8:23:00 AM
"Another exciting trip, I am willing to bet!"
Yelena Wednesday November 4th, 2009 12:51:31 PM
Yelena sits comfortably atop her mount, keeping watch up the road for fellow travelers. "Yes, I always feel invigorated to be out traveling. Right, Wildfire?" she asks, patting her mount's neck.
OOC: Is our traveling order important right now? Yelena would like to stay in the middle of the group.
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 d20+9=20 ; d20+9=17 ; Wednesday November 4th, 2009 1:44:35 PM
Zeph will volunteer to ride at the front of the group on his steed, Shadow. Perhaps Garret and his good perceptions could join? (Spot =20. Listen = 17)
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Wednesday November 4th, 2009 2:55:03 PM
"Oh, yes, I'd be happy traveling in the front. I've done quite a bit of traveling over the years, I must say."
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} Wednesday November 4th, 2009 4:17:22 PM
Putting his armor and weapon, plus extra supplies on the pack horse, Donovan saddles, then mounts his riding horse. Watching everyone getting happy to be on the road again, he leans forward and says to his horse: I know, the road is dirty and everywhere it leads us, violence shows up. I too would rather be laying on a beach, naked, with some funny tasting alcoholic drinks served in coconut shells with funny looking flowers sticking out of them. But alas, these yahoos wouldn't last 5 minutes without us. So, lets cinch our belts and mosey on. Whatcha say, Horse?
Looking up, he spies a few of the others looking at him and he smiles.
Finding Tyrrh Valley
DM Kathy Thursday November 5th, 2009 12:31:22 AM
You travel for several days, following, for the most part, the path you first took to pursue the wyvern. You fall into a fairly standard riding order, with keen-eyed Zeph and Garret in the front, and Cambar close behind them, ever ready for the charge. Yelena and Donovan keep to the middle of the pack, and archer Hmark is quite content to bring up the rear.
[OOC: let me know if you need adjustments.]
You camp out some nights, and stay at inns on other nights. Summer in the hills is warm, but rarely too warm thanks to the constant breezes.
The farther you get from Cinnamon Valley, the less certain you are of your way. You know your final destination, but roads tend to wend about from market-town to market-town, rather than bearing straight in any direction. You inquire of locals, but most don't know much more geography than the name of the next village. You're pretty sure you're headed in the right direction; you don't know if you're going by the most direct route.
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 d20+5=21 ; d20+5=18 ; d20+5=22 ; Thursday November 5th, 2009 2:37:26 AM
(OOC: Just so you know, Zeph took a single rank in Knowledge Arcana, Knowledge Dungeoneering, and Knowledge Local. I'm rolling this for fun to see what I can learn about the area pertaining to each one: Arcana=21, Dungeoneering =18, Local=22... maybe local can help us? SPecifically I would want to know if were going the right way to get to the Queen's place)
"Has anyone ever fought Hobgoblins before?" Zeph asks the group as he spins his spiked chain around while on his horse. He swoops the spiked chain to pick up flowers every now and then and tries to see how far he can fling them.
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 d20+1=6 ; d20+1=18 ; Thursday November 5th, 2009 2:48:09 AM
Zeph also uses his Knowledge Local check of 22 to try and uncover any information about the following things:
1) Queen Amurla
2) Tyrrh Valley and the neighboring kingdoms of Fol Branth and Bellardy.
3) Sons of Shadow. The leader is General Calleron.
Zeph will search in any bookstores he finds, looking for books about the Whinborne Hills and the kingdoms. He wants to do all the research he can. He also wants to find out about the Gnolls and goblinoids that have been plaguing the kingdoms.
(two separate Gather Information checks: 6. and 18)
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} Thursday November 5th, 2009 10:11:30 AM
Only thing extra Donovan does in the towns/hamlets the group stops in is if they have heard of anything about the war in Tyrrh Valley. Looking for rumors of anything important. Especially information the local military commanders might find useful upon arrival. {ie, getting in good with the local constabulary/militia would not hurt our cause}
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Thursday November 5th, 2009 10:40:30 AM
Garret travels along apparently quite happy. He talks to all the people he sees and asks them about local happenings and how the crops are going this year. He waves to everyone he sees and runs around with the smaller children when they appear.
Hmark Thursday November 5th, 2009 12:12:39 PM
As usual, Hmark watches the back. He doesn't talk all that much through the ride, although we does pull aside occasionally to strike up a conversation with a local farmer. The lad keeps his questions at the local level - what's your crop, how's the harvest looking, etc. - knowing full well that whatever is causing trouble to the harvest is likely to come up.
The archer hasn't fought hobgoblins, and so remains silent at Zeph's question.
Yelena Thursday November 5th, 2009 7:24:03 PM
"I have fought hobgoblins before. Nasty, brutish things, but cunning enough to trick the unwary." Yelena replies.
Yelena keeps back from most interactions with locals. If asked, she replies, "Well, first, though I am a servant of Domi, I lack the healing skills most would seek if they were to learn of my nature. Second, I am not trained in the diplomatic arts. I am a knight-errant, not an ambassador. Let us find what we need and be on our way."
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Thursday November 5th, 2009 8:17:47 PM
In response to Yelena "Hmmm. Seems goblinoids could be more of a challenge than I originally gave them credit for. Gnolls too... dog-people? Also, I know you are no ambassador... but you seem to have a way with words and authority that's better than anyone else here. Could you give being the party's "face" a try when the time comes?" Zeph suggests to the sorceress with a smile (who has 20charisma) =)
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) d20+5=6 ; Thursday November 5th, 2009 9:29:12 PM
[OOC: Tanner, your PC art is fantastic. I love it. I think, though, that you have short-changed your skill ranks. As a human, you should have gotten 12 ranks at level 1, and 3 more each level after that, to total 24 at level 5. I count 10 total on your sheet.]
[OOC: As for party face, Yelena's natural +5 on Diplomacy checks due to raw charisma is still no match for Cambar's +12 with ranks and other bonuses.]
Cambar talks with anyone who will listen about wyverns, and still wants to find an egg or hatchling to train as a mount. She asks people along the way about wyverns. Gather Info 6.
DM Kathy Friday November 6th, 2009 12:51:55 AM Zeph reflects on what he knows of the surrounding area. You don't know much more about Queen Amurla than what you've already learned.
You recall that the kingdom of Bellardy consists of two adjoining valleys that ought to be fairly prosperous. They are led, however, by a headstrong and foolish king who is always starting wars he cannot finish, so their treasury is in dreadful shape.
You also know that Fol Branth was once the power in this region, but for the last 10 years there has been a civil war over succession to the throne. Fol Branth is now but a shadow of its former self.
Garrett makes friends with the local population. The adults tend to stare and hold back, but the children are happy to have such an interesting playmate.
Donovan seeks rumors of war in Tyrrh Valley, but the information he gets is pretty vague. Someone speaking of the "Goblin Campaign" could be talking about something that happened this spring or 20 years ago.
Hmark is able to talk to the farmers in their own language, so to speak. He hears it has been a good summer for rye and barley, and there are many smiling predictions of how good the ale will be this year.
Yelena doesn't invite conversations with the locals, and for their part, they are content merely to stare at the woman in shining armor.
Cambar asks about wyverns. She hears a rumor that a group of adventurers recently fought a whole flock of wyverns in the hills east of here. And demons. And a dragon or two, or so 'tis said. But she hears nothing of any hatchlings or eggs.
You continue wending your way from town to town. After a few days' travel, you at last reach a town where they seem to know what Tyrrh Valley is and where it lies. They point you down the right road, and provide the addtional useful information that the principal city is called Cherdhia. It is there you will most likely find Queen Amurla. You should be there in two or three days.
Yelena Friday November 6th, 2009 1:19:01 AM
OOC: You are completely right. I've been playing Pathfinder RPG where the skill rules have been altered. I will fix it. Thanks for the tip!
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} Friday November 6th, 2009 10:41:24 AM
Rides along.....
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Friday November 6th, 2009 1:19:28 PM
"Oh, Cherdhia. That sounds like quite a pleasant place. I cannot wait until we arrive!"
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) Friday November 6th, 2009 7:12:39 PM
Cambar has an idea. "Friends, rather than just ride up to the castle and ask to see the queen, maybe we should play adventurer, visit the inns and speakeasies, and just suss out the lay of the land a bit. Discreetly see if we hear anything about the sword or the queen."
"Discreet, by the way, means listening with your ears open and not actually mentioning the sword or the queen to anybody!"
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Saturday November 7th, 2009 12:01:23 AM
Zeph tells the group what he knows about Fol Branth and Bellardy kingdoms and Tyrrh Valley. He still wonders about the Sons of Shadow though.
Then Zeph thinks about Cambar's idea. "Sure, let's keep our ears open for any information. Bar hopping as soon as we get into the city then?" Zeph asks.
(OOC: by the way. Did we leave the Evil Book in question with Dulcet or do we have it with us still??)
Yelena Saturday November 7th, 2009 1:05:57 AM "I'm sure they are more your crowd, Zeph. I will go to the local church of Domi and gather some information." Yelena asks a few locals for the direction of the nearest chapel. She will try to find out the local church hierarchy.
(OOC: Thanks to Cambar's keen eyes, Yelena is now trained in some social skills.)
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 d20+9=15 ; d20+9=16 ; Saturday November 7th, 2009 2:15:11 AM
Zeph looks at Yelena out the corner of his eye. Was that an insult? Zeph thinks, but shrugs it off and sets his mind to find a tavern to eavesdrop on people as soon as Cherdhia is reached. He will mostly listen for any insight as to where Queen Amurla would be and how to contact her.
He will also listen for any information about the Opal Sword and the other surrounding kingdoms of Fol Branth and Bellardy. Particularly what their relations with Queen Amurla's kingdom is.
He will also keep an ear and EYE out for the Sons of Shadow... black-clad men all together.
Not knowing whether word of what Zeph or the group would look like has spread, he will try his best to keep very... incognito.
(spot=15 listen=16)
DM Kathy Monday November 9th, 2009 1:26:16 AM
Now that you can state clearly where you're going, it is much easier to find the way. Another few days finds you riding up to the gates of Cherdhia. As capital cities go, it isn't very impressive. True, your own Jarlwolf is but a town; but then, Cinnamon Valley doesn't claim to be a kingdom.
Cherdhia has a wooden palisade, but it only surrounds the town on three sides, and even on the sides it protects, houses have been built along the muddy lanes outside the wall. The houses, though obviously well-cared-for, are generally small, will little ornamentation.
The palisade gates stand open, with no guards beyond the curious townsfolk, who stare at you as they go about their business.
Those of you seeking an inn soon find yourselves at the Gnoll's Head, whose wooden sign depicts a gruesome doglike head on a pike. Inside, you find simple fare and outstanding ale, and folks curious about what adventurers are doing in their town.
The church of Domi is right near the center of town. It stands out in that it is built of stone, rather than wood as most of the other buildings, and is two stories tall. Domi's symbol is prominent at the front gate, and a squad of youngsters are undergoing some kind of military training in the forecourt.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Monday November 9th, 2009 8:04:49 AM
Garret follows Zeph to a local watering hole. Once inside, he eagerly engages the populace in conversation about the local customs and regales them with stories of fighting bears and bandits on the roads.
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) d20+5=22 ; Monday November 9th, 2009 9:52:19 AM
Cambar adopts the pose of an adventure wandering, and just keeps her ears open for any rumors or news.
Gather Info: 22
Yelena d20+13=29 ; Monday November 9th, 2009 10:33:41 AM
Yelena only stops at the Gnoll's Head inn long enough to secure lodging, stable her horse, and drop off her equipment. She approaches the church of Domi and strides past the training neophytes in the courtyard into the foyer of the chapel. She requests to see the presiding cleric and follows a lowly deacon to the office at the back of the building.
Once alone with the cleric, she removes the missive from her robes, bows on one knee, and holds it in front of her unrolled to show the seal of her order. Her eyes glaze and she stares into the distance as she intones,
Yelena's eyes focus again, she stands and begins to roll up the scroll, "I am Igumena Shukhov of the Order of the Hammer. I have been charged by Archimandrite Rosikhina to assist in the destruction of a threat to the faithful. My companions and I have come seeking knowledge and tools to aid such. We have reason to believe Queen Amurla is capable of supplying these things, but we wish to pursue more humble approaches. Do you have knowledge of the Opal Sword, and if not, is there one in the service of Domi and his allies who would?"
Diplomacy: 29
Yelena Monday November 9th, 2009 10:38:35 AM OOC: Well that's just great. I went through all the time and energy to write something in another language and the board doesn't support the script. Please pretend that those reference markers actually say something.
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 d20+9=20 ; d20+9=19 ; d20+13=14 ; Monday November 9th, 2009 1:56:36 PM
Zeph whispers to his companions in the bar with him, Cambar, Hmark, Garret, Donovan: "You guys handle the farmers and honest people. I will try to find some of the low-lives of the town and see what they know. Sometimes thieves hold valuable information." Zeph whispers
Zeph will then look around for anyone who may "look" or "act" like dishonest individuals. Zeph has been a rogue for some time, so he knows what to look for :Shifty eyes, darker clothing, hidden weapons, etc. He also knows thieve's cant, the language spoken in lies, so he will keep an ear out for that as well. (Spot for this = 20. Listen for thief-like words =19).
If Zeph finds such a crowd, he will approach them and say, in Thieves Cant, "The wind blows to far destinations about a big fish. Where would I find a good snack?" Which means in common: I've heard information from far away about some interesting item held by a powerful person. Where would I find this big haul?
Zeph hopes that there are some thieves in the area who also wish to steal the Opal Sword... which is what he's hinting at. Hopefully his dark clothing and scruffy demeanor can pass him off as an evil scoundrel.
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} Monday November 9th, 2009 2:07:55 PM
Donovan aquires lodging for himself, and his 2 animals. After securing said lodgings he stores his stuff in his room, choosing to keep his weapon near him at all times, being this place is supposedly fighting alot and noticing that the town isn't exactly a stronghold, chooses to be safer than sorrier. He then goes to the tavern, orders a good meal and a couple tankards of ale, and chooses to partake in silence. Afterwards Donovan takes a walk of the town, determining the strong and weak spots, fantasizing what he would do to strengthen said weak parts, keeping a mental note, until he finds himself near the stone temple. He sits back, watching the youngsters being put through their basic soldiering skills, realizing that since it looks like that all the able bodied men, young and old as well, are off fighting wherever, that the town is having to rely on what they have left for defense. When they are given a break Donovan walks up to one of the instructors and asks bluntly, where are all the men and why do you teach children the arts of war?
DM Kathy Tuesday November 10th, 2009 12:56:15 AM Garret finds a ready ear for his tales, and gets a few in return about fighting goblins. Cambar can overhear these, and also overhears typical town talk: who has a new wagon, who is getting married, taxes are too high, and how long will the nice weather hold?
It takes some looking, but Zeph finally locates a disreputable-looking pair off on one side of the common room. The younger man has a withered hand and a shifty look; the older man sports grizzly grey stubble and hard lines on his face. They listen to Zeph's question. The young man is clearly puzzled, but grey-stubble listens intently, his expression unreadable. After a pause, he replies, "You're mistaken, young fellow. Fishing hereabouts is poor indeed." He adds, "Most fisherman nowadays go walking with friends, instead." By which Zeph understands that most of the local rogues have joined the army.
Donovan goes to the temple, and asks about the training he is seeing. The instructor looks at him as if he feels Donovan is a bit daft. "I'd hardly call them children," he says. [The youngsters are probably between 14 and 16 years old.] "Their parents wanted 'em to have a bit of drill. Good for 'em. Teaches discipline." A pause, and a frown. "You don't think we're going to send them out to fight, for Domi's sake?"
Yelena is taken to see a senior cleric, a short woman with iron-gray hair and kind hazel eyes. "I am Tsirka. What can the Temple do for one of our servants today?" She listens to Yelena's query. "Ah, the Opal Sword. It is housed in the royal treasury, and brought out from time to time for state occasions. I have seen it myself."
Yelena Tuesday November 10th, 2009 10:49:15 AM
Yelena is delighted by the news, "That is wonderful news Abbotess Tsirka. Is the sword housed in the royal treasury simply as a valuable curio, or does it have some historic or symbolic significance to Tyrrh Valley and the royal house? After all, it is one thing to request a trinket, and quite another to request a national treasure!"
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} Tuesday November 10th, 2009 11:58:37 AM
Ah, discipline, good for the soul. Smart of their parents if you ask me. So, how fares the conflict with the dark forces? asks Donovan. Any news from the other towns?
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 d20+9=10 ; d20+9=28 ; Tuesday November 10th, 2009 2:18:17 PM
Zeph is slightly annoyed by the response that there is slim picking for thievery in this town. Perhaps noone thought to steal the Opal Sword?
Perhaps they did not realize Zeph was particularly referring to the Opal Sword. Zeph ponders for a moment if it would be beneficial to persist or if it would just hurt the group by revealing more information to some scrupulous individuals than initially intended. So, Zeph thinks it best to cut his losses, he nods to the two and says simply, "Thanks". Then he walks back to Garret, Cambar, and Hmark.
"Well, that was a bust." Zeph says, returning in defeat.
He still keeps an eye and ear out for anything suspicious... especially any black-clad men walking about. (listen = 10, spot =28)
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) Tuesday November 10th, 2009 4:15:25 PM
In response to Zeph, Cambar says, "Yeah, I got bupkiss too. How about you, Hmark?"
She wonders where Sister Yelana and Donovan went. "Somehow I do not imagine they are together," she adds, grinning.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Tuesday November 10th, 2009 4:40:44 PM
"Heh, I can tell you lots about the local heros, but nothing about any swords."
Hmark d20=2 ; Tuesday November 10th, 2009 8:19:20 PM
[Gather info - um, 2]
Hmark, who had basically walked up and down the local marketplace waiting for someone to confide the kingdpm's secrets to him, shrugs in reply to Cambar.
"Nuttin'" he replies.
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Tuesday November 10th, 2009 8:23:05 PM
(ooc: does anyone ever put points into gather information? That is one thing I actually liked from 4.0... they consolidated skills. Appraise is useless, move silently and hide should be the same. Listen and spot should be the same. If you guys ever get a chance, look up the rules for the new Star Wars roleplaying game. Its like DnD 3.75.)
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) Tuesday November 10th, 2009 9:05:02 PM
OOC: I got four ranks in Gather Info! And I rolled a 22! But you can't get info if you're not asking the right questions, or not in the right place, or both!
DM Kathy Wednesday November 11th, 2009 12:38:51 AM Zeph, Cambar, Garret, and Hmark compare notes, but have very little in the way of concrete information. They sit at the inn, with nothing but very excellent ale for compensation.
[OOC: I had understood that Cambar was just listening to conversations, not asking questions. People's daily conversations tend to be about their daily concerns, rather than, say, a sword in the Royal Treasury that is brought out maybe twice a year.]
"New in town?" the drill instructor asks Donovan. He shrugs. "Goblins are a constant menace. They breed like rabbits, and'll steal anything not nailed down. But the Gnolls are the real danger. We don't hear boo from 'em for years, and then all of a sudden a whole army of 'em are descending on us. Smart, and ruthless. But they've yet to overcome us, and they won't in my lifetime."
"A bit more than a valuable curiosity, and a bit less than a national treasure, I'd say," Tsirka tells Yelena. "I think people are a little superstitious about it, and believe that so long as we possess it, we will be able to defeat the savage tribes. It has a heroic--if bloody--history, you know." She hesitates. "If you wish to see it, I'm sure a viewing could be arranged. How long are you in town?"
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) d20+5=16 ; d20+4=19 ; d20+8=10 ; d20+8=23 ; d20+10=25 ; Wednesday November 11th, 2009 5:48:28 AM
[OOC to DM: Yup, that's right! LOL!]
Cambar figures that if the Queen is going to let them take or borrow the sword, they'll have to offer something in return. So she thinks about what she has seen and then goes a looking around. Is this kingdom poor? How well defended is it? When they came in, were there lots of guards or watchtowers? Were they challenged? Are there town guards on the street much? What do most people do? Farm?
She drinks this ale that is so good, and strikes up a conversation with a server or bartender at the establishment. "Hey, this stuff is tasty!" More subtly, she tries to find out, does it travel well? Is there a brewmaster who is the one who makes it so good, or is there a tradition of others who make it? Do the folks here trade much? Does Cambar think people in other places would pay a premium for it?
OOC: I'm just brainstorming and looking for more info -- anything that might be a hook when we talk with the queen.
Some rolls in case they might help: Gather Info -- maybe I can use that 22 from the day before yesterday, and a new roll of 16. Know Local: 19. Listen: 10, Sense Motive: 23, Spot: 25.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Wednesday November 11th, 2009 9:21:46 AM
Garret enjoys the ale and continues to talk to the locals about their troubles. He's specifically trying to find out more about any fighting, organizations, or attacks from monster-like things or thugs that people are worried about.
Yelena Wednesday November 11th, 2009 9:41:07 AM
"I would greatly appreciate such a viewing, Abbotess Tsirka. It will greatly aid our quest and will surely advance the work of Domi in the world. My companions and I have no other pressing business, so I am available whenever is most convenient. Thank you again for your time and your assistance in this matter. I will await word from you." Yelena bows from the waist and touches her forehead, "Walk in the faith, Sister."
Yelena leaves information regarding her lodgings with an underscribe and makes her way back to the Gnoll's Head Inn. She gathers the party in one of their rooms and relates all of the information she has learned. (OOC: I'm sure you guys have been reading the posts.) "So while we have a viewing being arranged on our behalf, it appears that the Opal Sword is both valuable and publicly well-regarded." Yelena looks thoughtful for a moment, then asks, "Speaking of which, and please pardon my ignorance, what exactly do we need to do with the sword?"
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Wednesday November 11th, 2009 12:35:18 PM
(OOC: Ok, so I was thinking about a combat scenario in which I would be hiding and I would want to open my attacks with a Shocking Grasp. Then I thought about the mechanics of casting and delivering a touch spell in the same round. So, I looked into the SRD to confirm what I originally thought:
From the SRD:
In most cases, if you don't discharge a touch spell on the round you cast it, you can hold the charge (postpone the discharge of the spell) indefinitely. You can make touch attacks round after round. If you cast another spell, the touch spell dissipates.
Some touch spells allow you to touch multiple targets as part of the spell. You can't hold the charge of such a spell; you must touch all targets of the spell in the same round that you finish casting the spell.
So. If I were hidden and within 1move action of the enemy, I could cast the spell, move to the enemy's adjacent square, and deliver my Shocking Grasp in the same turn? This would mean that his AC would be 10, correct? Because he would be denied his Dex bonus from not noticing me, and he would be denied armor bonus from touch attack, and sneak attack would apply. I'm thinking it would look something like Kakashi spearing someone with a Rakiri. Alternatively, I could cast Shocking Grasp at the beginning of the day and keep it on my hand until I chose to use it or until I cast another spell?. Ok, end OOC.)
Zeph listens to Yelena, "Well, at least one of us had some luck! If the commoners and the thieves don't provide information, then religions are the ones to hit up. It seems acquiring the sword could be harder than originally anticipated... as far as I can tell, Dulcet just wants us to bring the sword back to her so she can use it in the destruction of the unholy book. What do you guys say we just go ahead and request an audience with her lordship?" Zeph says when everyone is secluded and away from prying ears and eyes.
Yelena Wednesday November 11th, 2009 1:10:28 PM
"I know that Dulcet needs the sword to complete the ceremony, but what does the ceremony entail? Will the sword be destroyed? Will we be able to return the sword to Queen Amurla? I think we should still attend a viewing to confirm that it truly is the Opal Sword, but I think that requesting to borrow the sword and requesting to destroy the sword are two very different things. It could make or break our success."
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Wednesday November 11th, 2009 1:58:58 PM
"Well, I wouldn't THINK that the sword would be destroyed. So I think we're appropriate in asking to borrow the sword. After all, I don't know about everyone else, but I fully intend to return the sword when we're done with it. Of course, if the process does destroy the sword, then the previous owner of the sword (the queen) should be quite honored to have been part of the ceremony that helped rid the world of this great evil, right?"
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Wednesday November 11th, 2009 2:07:29 PM "I think regardless of whether the sword would be destroyed or not... we should tell her that is will not be destroyed and can be returned to her." Zeph says with a wink, knowing that the facts are less important than what the Queen Thinks the facts are.
Yelena Wednesday November 11th, 2009 4:52:18 PM
"Hmmm... that's one approach we could take." Yelena says with a smile. "Of course, access to the Opal Sword has been secured through my status as an agent of the church. I would be held responsible for our conduct with the Queen. We could lie to a sitting monarch, violate my vows, ruin my career, offend Domi, and darken the reputation of the Pitchfork Council... but I think there may be other ways." Yelena winks at Zeph.
"We have a viewing of the Opal Sword. A viewing, mind you, that doesn't require going through the Queen first. We can use this opportunity to ascertain if it is the real sword we are looking for, the ease of accessing the sword, and level of security. This will also put us inside the palace. We can speak to the Chamberlain who will be able to arrange a royal audience more effectively than just marching up to the front door."
Yelena looks around at the party, "How does this sound?"
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Wednesday November 11th, 2009 5:01:00 PM
Zeph shrugs, "Well, if you insist on being honest. That's fine by me." he says with a roll of his eyes.
"So it seems we forgot to ask two things before we left Dulcet: how to tell if its real, and if it will be destroyed in the process... anything else we missed?" Zeph asks
I just want to keep thievery and lying as a back-up plan just in case... Zeph thinks to himself
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Wednesday November 11th, 2009 5:44:56 PM
"Oh, yes, let's see if we can gain audience. Then again, since this is some artifact, it may not actually be under control of the queen. There may be some keeper or the like who controls it."
"As for lying, I'm not saying we need to lie. We just don't know that the sword will be destroyed. In fact, until you mentioned it, I never considered that the sword might be destroyed at all. Telling her we plan to return it is not a lie, as I certainly plan on returning it, should she let us borrow it."
Yelena Wednesday November 11th, 2009 6:15:28 PM
"Sounds fine. While we wait, we should contact Dulcet and find out the answers to our questions. I suggest we relax and prepare ourselves for our viewing."
Yelena turns to Selemar, "Selemar, can you cast animal messenger for us? A raven or hawk could carry a message from us to Dulcet very quickly."
(OOC: I know Selemar hasn't been active in posting lately, but could we still utilize his spellcasting abilities for communicating with Dulcet?)
Hmark Wednesday November 11th, 2009 8:59:19 PM
Hmark raises both hands as if to ward off an attack. "Well, I ain't saying 'boo' if I can get away with it. People who rule entire kingdoms make me nervous. If its ok with you, I'll just trail along and look stylish."
DM Kathy Thursday November 12th, 2009 1:36:36 AM Cambar looks around, and probes for more information. She finds that the kingdom is relatively poor, that most common folk are farmers or herders. [Please see the DM post of November 9 for descripions on the town's defenses.] You also learn that Tyrrh Valley has a tradition of militia service, and that most adults have served for a year or two. The ale, you are told, is the product of a particularly talented local brewmaster. It is sold in inns throughout Tyrrh Valley, and small quantities are exported to neighboring kingdoms.
You discuss plans to obtain the Sword, and how much should be told to the queen. Will the Sword be destroyed in the ritual? You aren't sure.
The next day, Yelena receives a short note from Tsirka, informing her that a representative will come to the inn that afternoon, to conduct you all to see the sword.
That afternoon, a boy of about 12, dressed in livery, comes to the inn and asks for you. When you have gathered, he leads you to the royal castle.
It's not much of a castle. It is a square tower, plunked more or less in the center of town, with a sparse bit of garden separating it from the busy, noisy streets around it. There is a drawbridge, and a grassy ditch you gather was once a moat. The page leads you across the drawbridge and to a small postern-gate, which he unlocks with an iron key from his pocket. Inside the gate are two liveried guards, and a young man in civilian clothes. "Good afternoon," he says. "I am Ztanis Moke, a clerk of the Exchequer. And you, I think, are Dame Yelena?"
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) Thursday November 12th, 2009 7:12:28 AM
Cambar spiffies up as best she can for the visit to the keep.
She introduces herself to the clerk, and goes with the group to see the sword.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Thursday November 12th, 2009 7:53:36 AM
Garret steps back and lets Dame Yelena speak.
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Thursday November 12th, 2009 10:10:47 AM
Zeph chuckles when the clerk says "Dame Yelena"
He keeps an eye out for any backdoors, vent systems, hidden doors, ect that Zeph could use to break into the place to steal the Opal Sword.... JUST IN CASE... =)
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 d20+5=11 ; Thursday November 12th, 2009 3:59:50 PM
Knowledge arcana check to see if Zeph knows if the ritual will destroy the sword = 11
Meh. Worth a try right?
Yelena Thursday November 12th, 2009 4:49:42 PM
Yelena touches her hand to her forehead, "You would think correctly, Goodman Moke. We would be delighted to follow you to the viewing area. Please proceed."
DM Kathy Friday November 13th, 2009 1:13:36 AM
Ztanis Moke greets everyone cordially, and gesutres you toward a door on the other side of the chamber.
"The guards will accompany us," he explains. "It is protocol when we open part of the Treasury."
He leads the way down a hall to a set of stairs, leading down. Down, down you go, as the air becomes damp and chill. Torches flicker in wall sconces, throwing shadows all around you. At the bottom of the stars is a barred door, with a guard standing on either side of it. It looks unconfortably like the entrance to a dungeon. It occurs to you that with two guards ahead of you, two behind, and Ztanis Moke in your midst, this would be an ideal place for an ambush and betrayal.
Nothing so exciting happens, however. Ztanis nods a greeting to the guards, and unlocks the door with one of the ring of keys he carries. Pehaps seeing something in your expression, he explains, "This used to be a dungeon, but we don't house prisoners down here anymore. It's a good place for valuables, though, with all the bars and locks."
There are torches down here, too, illuminating a row of cells. Ztanis leads you to one of them, unlocks it, and steps in. A moment later, he steps back into the hallway with a wrapped bundle, which he unwraps to reveal a sheathed sword. Obligingly, he takes a torch from the wall and brings it closer, so that you can see the sword clearly.
It is a short sword in an intricately worked leather scabbard. Three large opals are set into the pommel, which is otherwise rather plain. When you draw it, you find that the blade is bright and untarnished, and appears to be sharp still. Tiny runes are etched into the surface of the metal.
"This is the Opal Sword," Ztanis says.
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 d20+4=21 ; d20+5=13 ; d20+5=20 ; d100=43 ; Friday November 13th, 2009 1:17:42 AM
(Appraise =21. Knowledge Arcana =13)
Zeph looks at the sword intently, studying it, wanting to know what the magical properties are. "Two questions: what is the sword used for in this city. and can we get an audience with the queen on some rather urgent matters?" Zeph asks.
Then Zeph casts Detect Magic and looks at the sword thoroughly again, studying the auras it produces. (2nd knowledge arcana=20)
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] d20=2 ; Friday November 13th, 2009 7:28:26 AM
As they wind down the stairs, Garret looks at Zeph, raises his eyebrows and shrugs, thinking of his plan to "borrow" the sword.
When he sees Zeph start to cast a spell, Garret will step to the side and point towards another cell and say, "Hey, what other things do you keep down here?" in an attempt to distract Ztanis from the spell casting. Sadly, he stares right at Zeph when he makes the attempt, so he looks rather silly.
-----
Bluff: 2
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) Friday November 13th, 2009 8:08:59 AM
Cambar takes a good look. "Huh. What do those letters say?"
"And what can this sword do? Does it burst into flame, or lop off heads, or what?"
Yelena d20+13=21 ; Friday November 13th, 2009 10:21:26 AM
Yelena clears her throat and gives sidelong glances to her companions, "Please forgive our exuberance. We realize the deference being shown in allowing us to view a royal treasure of Tyrrh Valley. What my companions mean, Goodman Moke, is that this particular sword, the Opal Sword, is of great interest to us. We would appreciate the chance to examine the sword with magics. If it is what we think it is, we would like to request temporary custody of the sword as agents of the Pitchfork Council and the church of Domi. Who would it be necessary to speak with to gain such custody?"
Diplomacy check 21
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} Friday November 13th, 2009 10:49:54 AM
Feeling naked. {not in armor or carrying a weapon} Donovan stands uneasily in the dungeon type setting. Waiting to see the real reason as to why a group of strangers are being allowed to see a national treasure, insoasmuch as being able to hold it and to unsheath it so as to see its intricate works on the blade.
When Yelena makes the comment {the Opal Sword, is of great interest to us} and asks permission to {cast magics upon it}, Donovan cringes, knowing full well what is going to transpire very very soon.
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Friday November 13th, 2009 2:01:15 PM "Detect Magic and Read Magic are spells I cast on myself, not on the sword. Why would he be offended by me casting a spell on myself and looking at it? We have already been granted permission to view it and take it out of the shieth, you guys worry too much." Zeph says, not caring if Ztanis is at all alarmed by him casting the spell.
"And as for the runes: they say..." Zeph casts Read Magic on himself and will attempt to read the runes to make sure it is the real thing.
"But yeah. My original question: what is the sword used for here? And why are we asking Ztanis about borrowing the sword? SHouldn't we ask the Queen herself?" Zeph says
Yelena Friday November 13th, 2009 3:26:24 PM
Yelena laughs, "Oh, we wouldn't want to bother Her Majesty over such a request! I am certain she has more pressing issues on her mind. We simply wish to cause as little disturbance as possible with our business."
Yelena turns to Zeph and silently mouths, "Why talk to the Queen if we don't have to?"
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 d20+9=15 ; d20+9=11 ; Friday November 13th, 2009 5:37:26 PM
Zeph shrugs. "Ok then. You may be right." he says, conceding to Yelena's idea.
Then the idea of a possible trap springs in his mind. He looks about quickly and cautiously... with Detect Magic still on his eyes, so he can pick up any other auras in the room. (spot=15, listen=11)
DM Kathy Monday November 16th, 2009 1:24:05 AM Zeph estimates that, absent it magical properties, the sword would be worth about 500 gp. He asks what the sword is used for, and Ztanis answers readily enough. "We use it whenever anyone is knighted, and it is carried through the streets in certain processionals."
Zeph asks about an audience with the queen, and Ztanis appears startled. "I beg your pardon," he says. "I understood from Elder Tsirka that you wanted to see the sword. She didn't say anything about an audience with Her Majesty."
"I do not know what the writing says," Ztanis answers Cambar. "I am told they are runes of power, but beyond that I am not sure. As for what the sword does...well, nothing anymore. Its uses here are ceremonial. It has a storied past, but I don't know how much of the old magic still clings to it."
"You may cast any spell that does not harm the sword," he tells Yelena. "But I don't think you could be given custody. Elder Tsirka didn't say anything about that."
Zeph can tell that the sword is magical. There is a strong aura of evocation and abjuration. The runes prove to be a lot of tough-sounding stuff about spilling the entrails of one's enemies. Whether they are part of the spell, or simple decoration, is difficult to say.
When your castings are complete, Ztanis returns the sword to its cell and locks the door.
"I suppose I could get you an audience with the Lord Chamberlain," he says on the way back to the stairs. "I don't know when it would be--I would have to send word to your inn. Would you like me to arrange that?"
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} Monday November 16th, 2009 10:05:07 AM
Is surprised that the group didn't get a beat down.
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) Monday November 16th, 2009 12:05:20 PM
Cambar thinks a meeting with the Chamberlain would be fine. She checks that we do have a letter from Dulcet to open doors, right?
Yelena Monday November 16th, 2009 1:22:56 PM
Yelena begins to follow Ztanis, "Thank you, Goodman Moke. An audience with the Lord Chamberlain would be most appreciated. In truth, our intention during this visit was only to view the sword. We desire short-term custody as agents of the Pitchfork Council and the church of Domi, but only if permission is granted from proper authorities." Yelena begins to laugh, "We would never dream of presuming we could just march up to the door and demand an audience with the Queen!"
"We're lucky they haven't kicked us out!" Yelena thinks to herself as she follows up the stairs.
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Monday November 16th, 2009 1:55:42 PM
Zeph does not quite understand why anyone is worried about getting disciplined by the NPCs that are around. Did we do anything wrong? We didn't break any rules. Whats wrong with asking a question? Zeph thinks.
"Also, I would like to offer my services to identify magical properties of the sword for your city. I can cast the Identify spell and I can write down everything the sword can do... magically. I would just need a day to prepare the spell, since I usually don't keep it in my memory, and then an hour to cast it with the sword present. It would cost 100gp of materials to do so, and I will pay it if you guys don't want to. It would both help with our research and I'm sure it would benefit you as well to know the specifics of the sword. It is quite magical from what I can determine from the Detect Magic and Read Magic spells." Zeph says, trying to gather information by offering help.
Yelena Monday November 16th, 2009 3:31:23 PM
"That is an excellent idea, Zeph. Goodman Moke, may my associate, Zeph, be allowed to view the sword again tomorrow? Our whole part need not attend and I am sure that securing an audience with the Lord Chamberlain will take at least that long."
OOC: I will chip in. How much would that come to?
DM Kathy Tuesday November 17th, 2009 1:17:59 AM
Ztanis Moke has been unfailingly courteous so far, but your offer to assist in identifying the sword brings a little frost to his voice. "I know we're a bit of a backwater," he says, "But we do have wizards here at the court. If Her Majesty needs a report on the Sword's powers, there are those here who are perfectly capable of providing it."
He escorts you to the door you entered through, and summons a page to conduct you back to the inn. "It may take a few days to arrange a meeting with the Lord Chamberlain," he tells you. "I will send word to the inn once the arrangements have been made."
Two days later, you receive word that your meeting with the Lord Chamberlain will be in three more days.
[Let me know what preparations/activities you do while you're waiting, if any.]
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Tuesday November 17th, 2009 9:15:45 AM
Garret hangs around the inn, trying to make friends with some of the regulars and listening/probing for information/rumors about the royalty in town, their attitudes, their likes/dislikes; and about any recent or ongoing raids or attacks in the area.
Yelena Tuesday November 17th, 2009 9:35:03 AM
Yelena spends her time volunteering at the church of Domi. In the morning she helps drill the young warriors in the courtyard, offering advice and demonstrating various stances and maneuvers. In the afternoon she assists the local clergy with caring for the sick and the poor. She uses her lay on hands ability to heal any who do not have the money to pay for spell healing. Evenings are spent visiting local members of Domi with the novice priests to share short messages and see who is in need of aid.
OOC: Nothing paves the way for negotiation like good will :)
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 d20+7=26 ; d20+7=24 ; d20+7=18 ; d20+9=17 ; d20+9=12 ; d20+9=16 ; d20+16=18 ; d20+16=20 ; d20+12=16 ; d20+12=20 ; Tuesday November 17th, 2009 10:39:57 AM
Zeph is a bit chocked at Ztantis's little tirade. "Geez, I was just trying to help. Could I get a definitive list of the swords powers then if you guys already know?" Zeph asks.
Zeph spends his days drawing a portrait of the sword from his memory, with the three opals included and all.
He also scribes three more spells into his spellbook that he failed to scribe last level: Summon Monster I, Hold Portal, and Disguise Self.
Besides those few hours he spends scribing, Zeph will walk around the 'castle' where the Opal Sword is housed and will peek around, looking for ways to break into the place: unguarded windows, a ledge easy to climb up... he spends a few days doing it, so he draws a map of the place and creates a possible break in and escape route. He also asks to see the dungeon again and looks around for any traps.
The last thing Zeph does is that he spends at least a day scouting the area around the City, making notes and maps on his way. He looks about cautiously at all times, trying to spot any hidden goblin or gnoll types. He will stop and look at the ground for some time, looking for signs of Gnolls - scents, scat, tracks etc.
Zeph will climb the tallest tree he can find and will get a large survey of the area.
At the end of the days, Zeph says, "If we want to earn these people's trust, I vote we bring them some Gnoll heads."
(Spellcraft checks to scribe = 26,24,18, successx3 Spot to see any hidden mobs or weak spots in the 'castle's' defense = 17, 12, Listen for any hidden mobs 16 Search to find any Gnoll signs and to find any traps protecting the Opal Sword = 18, 20 Hide and move silent = 16, 20.... just incase I am doing anything wrong, I will stay hidden as possible)
Hmark Tuesday November 17th, 2009 9:03:54 PM
Hmark is typically silent throughout most of the business. Zeph's last suggestion gets a grin of approval. "Anything that gets me out of this town," he says. "I'm getting antsy."
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) d20+12=22 ; Tuesday November 17th, 2009 11:04:37 PM
Cambar tries to make friends with the page. Name? Background? Cambar is honestly trying to be friendly, but some good info might work its way into her hands.
Diplomacy: 22
DM Kathy Wednesday November 18th, 2009 1:06:32 AM Garret watches and listens for information. He hears that the summer campaign against the goblins in the west has been fairly successful. He gets the impression that Queen Amurla is generally well-liked, although some wonder why she has not turned over the crown to her son. The kingdom has never been ruled by a queen before, and some are impatient to see a king on the throne again.
Yelena spends a great deal of time at the temple of Domi. She finds that Ztanis Moke is a frequent and devout worshipper, which is probably why Tsirka was able to prevail on him for a look at the Sword. She also finds that when people are sick, they generall seek healing at the temple of Alemi. Domi's temple tends to attract young men eager to fight goblins, and others seeking courage for various endeavors. The healing Yelena is able to provide is appreciated, but not always needed.
Zeph cases the castle. He readily sees that the initial problem with breaking into the place is that it would have to be a pretty public break-in. Busy roads surround the tower; only narrow strips of gardens separate the building from the roads. None of the trees are especially tall, so anyone breaking in would have an audience. The situation is somewhat better at night, but there are watch patrols. Zeph is not able to get back down into the dungeon. He learns that most of the goblin fighting happens in the west; there hasn't been a goblin incursion into the capital in generations. Likewise, it has been at least a hundred years since the gnolls got this far east, although they are a periodic threat to the other end of the valley.
Cambar speaks with the page. He gives his name as Mok, and says he grew up here in Cherdhia. He got his job because he is quick and really knows his way around the city. He has a mother, a younger brother, and an older sister. You get the impression that the family is very poor, though Mok doesn't say so directly.
At last the day of your audience arrives, and you are conducted back to the castle. This time, you enter through the front gates, and are met by a bowing footman, who escorts you down echoing halls to a small chamber on the ground floor. He tells you that His Lordship will be with you shortly, and departs.
The room could easily have been dark, dreary, and chill. Walls, floor, and ceiling are made of stone. There is but one window, a tiny slit set high in the wall that lets in only a little light. Clearly, this structure was originally built for defense, not comfort. However, there are rugs on the floor to cut the chill, and hangings on the wall to eliminate drafts. Lamps glow here and there in the room, and a small brazier burns, even now in the summer, to offset the chill effect of thick stone walls. There are couches here, and armchairs and straight chairs.
You have been in the room for about ten minutes when the door opens again and a middle-aged man comes in. He is stoop-shouldered, with thinning brown hair and a plain face, and looks altogether like somebody you would pass in a crowd and never remember. But his somber robes are stylish and well-made, and he bears the golden key of his office on a thick gold chain around his neck.
"I am Lord Havers, the Lord Chamberlain for Her Majesty Queen Amurla. I understand you wanted to meet with me?"
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) d20+12=25 ; Wednesday November 18th, 2009 6:49:36 AM
Cambar steps forward. "Yes, Lord Havers. I am Cambar, and these are my companions, Zeph, Garret, Yolana, Hmark, and Donovan. We have come from the Cinnamon Valley on a diplomatic mission, although the pleasure of visiting your land has not escaped us. We hope that you will consider helping us in a mission to rid the Wold of a great evil."
Diplomacy 25.
Yelena d20+13=25 ; Wednesday November 18th, 2009 7:12:37 AM
Yelena stands at attention beside Cambar, her holy symbol of Domi prominent on her chest. She bows respectfully to Lord Havers when Cambar finishes her introduction and generally tries to look as respectable as possible.
Aid Another on Cambar's Diplomacy check Diplomacy 25
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Wednesday November 18th, 2009 9:29:50 AM
Garret stands back and smiles when he is introduced.
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} Wednesday November 18th, 2009 10:04:04 AM
Decides the best diplomatic procedure he can offer is to keep his mouth shut, so he does so, in the back of the room.
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Wednesday November 18th, 2009 1:38:56 PM
Zeph almost opens his mouth, but stops short when Cambar begins speaking.
Why are these kids always beating around the bush? What's wrong with being direct and just saying 'Hey, we need the opal sword to destroy a really evil book. Either give it to us or we will take it.' Zeph thinks to himself.
But Zeph stands there and looks about the room.
DM Kathy Thursday November 19th, 2009 12:36:39 AM
"Well. I am all in favor of ridding the world of evil," Lord Havers says noncommittally. "Please, won't you sit down?" He waves generally at the furniture in the room, and chooses for himself a straight-backed armchair. "What is the nature of your mission, and what contribution are you requesting of us?"
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) Thursday November 19th, 2009 5:42:22 PM
Cambar takes a seat. "No problem, and thanks for hearing us out."
"There is an evil artifact, a dire tome, that is now in the possession of the good witch Dulcet of the Cinnamon Valley. To destroy the book, we need a special weapon, and your Opal Sword seems like it would be perfect. We have a letter from Goodwitch Dulcet on behalf of the Pitchfork Council that will explain the matter."
She motions to whoever has the letter.
"We are here to request the temporary loan of the Opal Sword." She lays it on the line.
She looks to see if anyone wants to add some details.
Yelena d20+13=24 ; Thursday November 19th, 2009 9:10:28 PM
Yelena takes a seat, nods, and speaks, "I am Igumena Shukhov, Lord Havers. I represent the church of Domi." She removes the missive from her robes and gestures with it toward him. "The church believes the Opal Sword necessary in the destruction of this evil artifact and requests the Lord Chamberlain to earnestly consider this request. The church of Domi supports the Pitchfork Council in this matter." Yelena bows again from the waist while sitting.
Diplomacy 24
DM Kathy Friday November 20th, 2009 12:37:32 AM
"I see," Lord Havers says thoughfully. Then, "May I?" as he reaches for your letter.
He scans it, then picks up a small bell on a table next to him and rings it. It doesn't seem loud enough to carry outside the room, but almost immediately there is a deferential rap on the door and a footman appears. "We will need a scribe," Lord Havers tells him, and goes back to perusing the letter. He looks over the top of it at Yelena. "I trust you do not mind if I scribe a copy of this for Her Majesty?" he asks.
He turns to Cambar, "You said a temporary loan," he says. "For how long would you want to borrow the Sword? And what do propose to do with it? For I don't mind telling you, we would be very loath to let it go."
Yelena Friday November 20th, 2009 12:57:20 AM
Yelena nods, "My pleasure, Lord Havers."
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Friday November 20th, 2009 1:26:13 AM
Zeph thought it better to let Cambar and Yelena handle that for the most part, but pipes up for the follow-up questions.
"Well, It would take us a week or two to march back to Jarlaxle with the Opal Sword, then we have to do the ritual to destroy the Evil Book. Unfortunately we don't know how long that will take; it's all very complicated Witch Magic that Dulcet has perfected. Has to do with fey ley lines in the Woldsblood or something." Zeph says, trying to give his best description from the little information the group was given.
"But we do promise to bring it right back after we are done, you can even send one or two of your men along with us to ensure that." Zeph says at the end.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Friday November 20th, 2009 6:04:31 AM
Garret watches Zeph respond, slowly turns back to Lord Havers, then shrugs and smiles.
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) d20+12=25 ; Friday November 20th, 2009 7:21:00 AM
When Zeph mentions the possibility of sending along an one or two men, Cambar nods, and adds, "We would welcome an escort of any size, of course. And we would be glad to leave behind any reasonable token of surety you might require. Moreover, we are not so naive as to assume that your contribution to this endeavor, even in the cause of good, would be thankless. We are now and will remain at your service."
Cambar looks at her friends and sighs.
"And in the interest of full and honest disclosure, we must surely mention that there are forces and agents actively opposed to us in our noble effort. We know that a king of some unknown petty realm has hired mercenaries to stop us, and that this force of evil is aware of the potency of the Opal Sword and its utility in the purpose for which we seek it."
Diplomacy 25.
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} Friday November 20th, 2009 10:04:33 AM
Donovan injects: How about you use me as collateral. They take the sword, and upon their return they give you back the sword and I am free to leave. In the mean time while here I can help train in the arts of war, and/or go to the battle lines and fight for your queen.
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Friday November 20th, 2009 1:48:35 PM
Zeph whispers to Donovan "I think your skill with the sword would be more valuable protecting the group and the Opal Sword from any ambushes we might get along the way. Making sure the Sword gets home is top priority."
DM Kathy Monday November 23rd, 2009 12:35:44 AM
At about this moment, there is a tentative rap on the door and a pale young man enters. His fingers are ink-stained, and he carries a lap-desk and a quantity of paper--obviously, the scribe. He bows to Lord Havers, and, after a moment's hesitation, decides to err on the safe side and bow to you as well.
Lord Havers hands over the letter and murmurs some instructions, and the scribe sets about his work.
"An unknown king?" Lord Havers asks Cambar. "Do you have more information on this person? If he is also seeking the Opal Sword, I would prefer to know about it."
He smiles a little at Donovan's offer. "Yes. Well. Much as I'm sure we would love having our very own adventurer, perhaps a different surety is a better idea. As your friend says, your skills will be needed."
When the scribe completes his work, Lord Havers claims the copy of the letter, handing the original back to Yelena. "Can you wait here for time?" he asks you, rising. "I shall have refreshments sent in for you while you wait."
With that, he and the scribe leave the room. A few minutes later, the door opens again and two maids enter, one bearing a carafe of wine and several glasses, the other with a tray of fruit, cheese, and shortbreads.
Yelena Monday November 23rd, 2009 6:48:13 AM
Yelena waits for the maids to set down the food then leave again. "I'm having a funny feeling about this situation. Why don't you let me try the food before we all dig in?" Yelena takes out her holy symbol and chants quietly to herself, she then takes a small bite of each kind of food and sampling the wine.
OOC: In case we are being drugged or poisoned, I think I have the highest Fortitude save. Also, I cast detect evil.
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} Monday November 23rd, 2009 8:51:33 AM
Chooses not to partake in the food or drink. Chooses to take a seat and wait.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Monday November 23rd, 2009 9:44:38 AM
Garret makes a move towards the food, but stops when Yelena mentions checking the food. He looks around at the others and says, "Really? Do you think we're facing that much danger from a place and a person such as this?"
He pulls his hand back and sits and watches Yelena sample the food.
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Monday November 23rd, 2009 1:28:42 PM
Zeph says, "We don't have much more information about the king..."
Zeph will wait for Yelena to eat the food. If she seems ok, then he will also partake.
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) Monday November 23rd, 2009 8:10:48 PM
Cambar relates the little she knows about the enemy king and the mercenary outfit he evidently hired to fight them. She is honest and complete.
She waits for Yelena to say that the food is okay to enjoy.
DM Kathy Tuesday November 24th, 2009 1:07:42 AM
Lord Havers listens to your information about the unknown king. "That is little enough to go on," he agrees. "I can think of a half-dozen petty monarchs who would fit. I shall make inquiries, however, about this mercenary company," he adds as he departs.
Yelena detects no evil in the food, the room, the furnishings, or the maids. She samples the food and finds it very good, though the wine is rather sweet.
Likewise, anybody else who samples the food finds they suffer no ill-effects from it.
You have rather a longer wait than you were anticipating, and you are begining to wonder whether you should just wander out in search of somebody, when there is a knock at the door and a page enters (a different page from the one you spoke to earlier). "Lord Havers' compliments, and will you please come this way?" he says.
He leads you through several drafty stone corridors, past assorted courtiers, pages, and scribes, all looking variously busy, but a few sparing a curious glance in your direction. At last the page shows you into another small chamber. It is similar to the one you just left, except there is but one chair and a couple of small stools. You are pondering the implications of this when the door opens and Lord Havers enters.
"Her Majesty, Queen Amurla," he announces, as behind him, a stately woman sweeps into the room.
The announcement was almost unnecessary. The Queen is strikingly tall, with a proud, regal bearing. Her gown is deceptively simple, made of ice-blue silk the flows like water. Her blonde hair is arranged in an elaborate array of puffs and knots, topped with a gold circlet studded with pearls. You know from your information about her that she must be well past forty, but she does not show her age. She crosses to the single chair, seats herself with a sweep of her train, and looks at you expectantly.
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Tuesday November 24th, 2009 2:14:29 AM
For the first time, Zeph realizes he knows very little about a subject: manners around royalty.
Do I sit? Stand? Bow? Kneel? Wave hi? Shake Hands? he thinks. Zeph's face shows his frustration at not knowing what to do...
I've spent so much time on the road, fighting things, I never learned any manners. Well, when all else fails, be direct. I'll just ask for the sword... Zeph thinks as he gathers up the courage to speak, but then he pauses with his mouth open and decides to let Yelena and Cambar handle it.
Zeph nudges Yelena and Cambar, "You're up." he mutters.
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) d20+12=22 ; Tuesday November 24th, 2009 7:24:00 AM
Cambar looks at her friends, then back to the queen, a little more than somewhat nonplussed. But she manages to bow low and say, "Your majesty, thank you! We appreciate your attention. Would you like to hear our tale entire? Or just a summary?"
She will respond howsoever the queen indicates, with the whole story again, or whatever parts she wishes to hear.
Diplomacy 22
Yelena Tuesday November 24th, 2009 7:25:48 AM
Yelena approaches to three paces from the face of the Queen. She kneels on one knee, bows forward slightly, and covers her eyes with her hands. Her fingers are as before when she greeted the party, splayed with the middle and ring fingers touching. She solemnly intones,
She then rises and circles back to the rest of the party and whispers, "Walk over slowly to a spot three paces in front of the Queen. Bow deeply and say, "Your Majesty." Then sit on a stool as quietly as possible." Yelena walks back over and takes her place on a nearby stool, bowing again from the waist to the Queen. She looks expectantly at the party.
Yelena Tuesday November 24th, 2009 7:27:35 AM
OOC: Yelena is speaking in Celestial for these official greetings and diplomatic proceedings. Last time I tried writing this in Greek and the scripts were not supported. :(
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Tuesday November 24th, 2009 9:15:52 AM
Garret walks over and makes a deep bow to the queen as he says, "Your Majesty."
Seeing there are only a few stools, he steps back and allows Yelena and Cambar to handle the diplomacy.
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} Tuesday November 24th, 2009 9:32:23 AM
Upon entering, and the Queen is announced, Donovan bows deeply.
Then moves to the back of the line, again, letting the more experienced folks do the yammering.
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Tuesday November 24th, 2009 5:09:52 PM
Zeph bows to the queen and says, "Your majesty" as he is instructed. Then he takes a spot on a stool next to Cambar and Yelena.
He will talk if necessary, being as he is the ONLY person who has been on the quest from the very beginning.
DM Kathy Wednesday November 25th, 2009 1:11:15 AM
Queen Amurla watches you cooly as you bow or kneel, and nods her head in acknowledgement of your bows.
"Lord Havers has told me something of your mission here, and I have read your letter of introduction. However, you must understand that the Opal Sword is an heirloom of Tyrrh Valley, and I am loath to part with it. Tell me about this...Cinnamon Valley. How could troubles there affect our people and our kingdom?"
Yelena Wednesday November 25th, 2009 6:50:45 AM
Yelena turns expectantly to Cambar and Zeph. The look on her face says, "Go ahead, you know better than I do, and please remember manners."
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) d20+12=20 ; Wednesday November 25th, 2009 7:57:16 AM
Cambar nods. "Your majesty, the Cinnamon Valley is a largish realm, with four towns and a wide area. It borders the lich-realm of the Dread, of which you may have heard. Many folk of the valley have given their lives containing the Dread. Were the Cinnamon Valley overthrown, or even just plagued by some other menace, the Dread would be free to ravish far and wide. That should concern all the kingdoms of the Windbourne Hills, including your own."
"We understand that a monarch such as yourself, however, must be guided by pragmatic concerns. If there is anything we can do to help increase the security of your realm, or to be of any service, we would be proud to offer ourselves."
"And perhaps we can appeal to your kindly heart, for I hope you will be proud to know that through the agency of your heirloom, great evil has come to an end."
"One last thought: We intend this as a loan only, and will give our lives to the safe return of this precious item."
Diplomacy 20. (Not bad, but worst roll yet.)
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Wednesday November 25th, 2009 5:49:21 PM
Zeph thinks about what Cambar says, and then reflects on a bit of his own past living in the Valley: "Also, the Culverwood is adjacent to Cinnamon Valley. The woods itself has quite an important geographic location and the creatures who live there are constantly at odds with the people of more civilized areas. It is likely that if this evil artifact is allowed to exist, or if it gets into the wrong hands, then many creatures in the valley and in the woods may be aversely effected." Zeph says, trying to add something.
"Besides, we are all members of the people of the Whinbourne Hills, if one of us is affected negatively, then our strength as a people is diminished. I some evil that threatens one of us is destroyed, we all benefit." Zeph says, hoping he's not stating the obvious.
DM Kathy Thursday November 26th, 2009 2:39:50 AM
"Well-reasoned," Amurla says, when you finish speaking. It isn't clear which of you she is speaking to, or if she is speaking to herself.
"And I believe I will take you up on your offer," she says to Cambar. "A service to Tyrrh Valley, to demonstrate that you are truly worthy heroes. I have just the thing."
She nods to Lord Havers, who hands you a map. "I have had a request from the village of Deepvale," Queen Amurla says. "The priest reports problems with undead, and begs me to spare some soldiers to help deal with the problem. Unfortunately, I must have every available unit for the ongoing goblin fights. However, a team of brave adventurers may be just what they need. Will you go to Deepvale and deal with this problem for our people?" She smiles. "If you succeed at this task, we will gladly lend you the Opal Sword for as long as you need it."
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Thursday November 26th, 2009 9:10:06 AM
Garret frowns when the queen mentions undead and he mumbles, "Undead? That's just wrong and unnatural. Can't stand 'em."
Yelena Friday November 27th, 2009 2:26:45 AM
Yelena bows from the waist, "Your Majesty, your offer is generous and wise. We will leave at once, if it is permissible, and will attend to the concerns in Deepvale." She rises from her chair, bows again, and follows the party out of the room.
"Well, that was to be expected. Taking care of some undead should not be too troublesome. Let's be off to Deepvale as soon as possible."
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) Friday November 27th, 2009 8:14:23 AM
Cambar says, "We would be honored to serve."
She pauses, perhaps pondering the wisdom of sending a party with no cleric to fight undead.
"If it would not be too much to ask, maybe we could trade here for some holy water, and some warhammers to fight skeletons?"
"Is there anything else you can tell us about our mission?" Cambar looks at the map.
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} Friday November 27th, 2009 10:12:15 AM
Finally, something to do. Sitting on our rears is all and good, but adventure is the fruit of life, Donovan thinks.
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Friday November 27th, 2009 3:39:43 PM
Zeph kind of gives a half-sigh at the idea of fighting undead.
So much for sneak attack he thinks to himself.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Friday November 27th, 2009 8:33:54 PM
"Aye, let's be on our way."
Deepvale
DM Kathy Monday November 30th, 2009 12:12:20 AM
The party rogue has a few pangs at the thought of opponents who cannot be sneak-attacked, but you agree to the mission readily.
In response to Cambar, the queen says, "You now know everything I know about the undead situation in Deepvale. Felker Craghome, the priest, did not give many details. We can spare a few vials of holy water, but we do not have spare weapons. If you need some, however, I'm sure you can find what you are looking for in the marketplace."
She rises. "I shall await your return," she says, and sweeps out as grandly as she entered. Lord Havers bows low as she leaves.
Before you leave the castle, a page brings you a leather case containing five vials of holy water.
Yelena Monday November 30th, 2009 4:40:13 PM
"If there is nothing to keep us, I suggest we head out."
Yelena prepared her belongings and readies them on Wildfire.
OOC: DM Kathy, did you get my email?
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Monday November 30th, 2009 6:05:58 PM "Well, Just so you guys know, I will attack any living enemies we face while you guys can get the undead ones. They have no organs! I really must find a way to sneak attack them..." Zeph says as the group heads out.
DM Kathy Tuesday December 1st, 2009 12:49:47 AM
You make your preparations and leave the city. Your traveling weather is still pleasant, though you see few other travelers taking advantage of it. Every once in a while, you do pass a group of weary-looking Tyrrh Valley soldiers, going to or from the goblin fightings in the west.
Your road soon diverges from theirs, however, leading up a narrow defile to a picturesque mountain town. You cross a wooden bridge over a burbling brook to find yourself in a pretty, cobbled town square. Flower-boxes adorn the simple homes and few businesses facing the square. In the distance, you can see the spire of the local temple of Alemi.
The locals, going about their business, eye you curiously.
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) Tuesday December 1st, 2009 8:26:39 AM
Cambar thanks the Queen for the holy water. "You are most kind, majesty," she says.
Before leaving the city, Cambar buys a warhammer if possible. (8 gp)
========
At the town, Cambar stops to ask someone if this is Deepvale, and if so, could they direct us to Father Felker Craghome.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Tuesday December 1st, 2009 9:13:51 AM
Garret smiles and waves to the locals.
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} Tuesday December 1st, 2009 10:13:09 AM
{Like Cambar, Donovan chooses to buy another weapon before leaving the city. A Heavy Flail, 15gp}
Upon arriving in the serene looking hamlet, Donovan dismounts, then stretches wide. Doing a few knee bends followed up with a couple arm stretching exercises. {to get the blood flowing from the long ride, plus a little showing off to the younger damsels}
With reigns of his mount in his hand along with the lead line to the pack animal, Donovan follows the others.
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Tuesday December 1st, 2009 3:15:46 PM
Luckily, Zeph already owns a Warhammer for the potential skeleton problem. Now watch. With all this Skeleton preparation, were going to fight zombies. Daggers can slash... but not well. I wonder if I could use the chain to slash? Zeph thinks to himself amusingly.
When the group reaches the mountain town, Zeph breathes in deep and exhales slowly. "I love mountain air!... too bad I think we will be smelling corpses soon." Zeph says out loud...
and if that caught anyone's attention by accident, Zeph will say, "I mean, undead corpses in which we will smite..." with a nervous chuckle...
DM Kathy Wednesday December 2nd, 2009 12:21:19 AM
When Garret waves to the townsfolk, he gets a few timid waves back.
Donovan goes through his stretches, and does hear a few promising-sounding feminine giggles. When he turns to look, though, the young ladies flee.
Cambar finds somebody to ask about the local priest. "He's staying at the inn," the woman tells you. "He doesn't like spending the night at the temple, you see, what with all the...um...noise."
Accordingly, you make your way across the square to the Weary Pilgrim Inn. You open the door to find a very small common room with a bar. Only a couple of tables are occupied. The priest of Alemi immediatly stands out; his holy symbol is quite prominent on his narrow chest. He is a thin, stoop-shouldered fellow, with pale skin and spectacles. He is poring over a leather-bound book, a plate of meat and vegetables all but untouched at his elbow.
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Wednesday December 2nd, 2009 5:45:36 AM
Zeph will sit down next to the father and speaks quietly, "Hello there. We were sent by Lady Amurla to help with the undead problem... why is there so much noise in the temple?" Zeph asks
Yelena Wednesday December 2nd, 2009 7:14:45 AM
Yelena sits down across from the priest of Alemi, making sure her own holy symbol shows between the folds of her robe, "Don't worry, my comrade will not bite. Please tell us about the problems you have been experiencing."
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Wednesday December 2nd, 2009 8:55:51 AM
Garret follows the others into the inn. When Zeph speaks their point so clearly, Garret shrugs and looks around the inn to see what else might be going on.
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} Wednesday December 2nd, 2009 10:04:19 AM
While the others embark on the round of questions for the priest, Donovan orders a tankard of their best stout and a plate of food. While waiting for the grub, and sipping his drink, he will listen to the conversation not only with the priest, but with the others in the inn. Watching closely for someone taking too much of an interest in our business.
And he gives smiles to any of the young ladies who gives him attention.
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) Wednesday December 2nd, 2009 4:39:50 PM
Cambar grins and takes it all in. She listens eagerly to what the priest has to say.
DM Kathy Thursday December 3rd, 2009 1:35:48 AM
"Hmm?" the pale man looks up from his book, and starts a little to see well-armed adventurers looking back at him.
"From--from Her Majesty?" he replies to Zeph. Then, "Noisy? Ah. Well. It's not so much the temple, you see, as the churchyard outside. The graveyard. The...the dead walk."
He blinks owlishly at you. "The ground was consecrated at one time, to prevent such things from happening. But the magicks fade over time, and are supposed to be renewed. I---the records in the temple were not as complete as one might like, and I confess it didn't occur to me to do a lot of research on the topic." He shudders. "And then...they started rising. Well. People are very upset, and I can't blame them." He shuts his book and waves it for emphasis. "But I've researched and found the perfect spell to re-consecrate the ground. It will be a much more powerful binding, yet it is well within my ability to cast."
"The only thing is...the dead still walk. I can't cast the spell until they are dealt with."
Meanwhile, Garret and Donovan are looking about to see what else is going on in the common room. You quickly realize that by far the most exciting and interesting thing happening in the common room is that some strange adventurers have shown up and are talking to the village priest. There are not many people in the place, and they are all staring at you.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Thursday December 3rd, 2009 9:23:18 AM
Garret walks over to the nearest villager and says, "Hi, I'm Garret." He reaches out his hand in greeting.
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} Thursday December 3rd, 2009 3:26:34 PM
Pulling out the greatsword from his scabbard, Donovan takes a couple stones out of his pack and starts sharpening, and knocking off burs from the weapon, then with some oiled cloths, wipes it down, then resheathes it. Then he pulls out the new morningstar, rubbing the stones over the pointed ends of said weapon and then rubs it down with the oiled cloth again, and while doing so he asks the priest: So, good priest, these undead you speak of, which kind(s) are there. We need to know so we know what tactics to take, as you well know.
Then putting the Morningstar down next to his pick he goes outside, retrieving his armor and going back into the inn, he sits back down and with some wool he knocks off some dings and wear off the plate armor, then oils it to keep it from rusting. Looking up at the barkeep he waves his hand to get his attention, then pointing to his empty tankard he motions for 2 more, then resumes his armor cleaning.
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) Thursday December 3rd, 2009 5:52:52 PM
Cambar gets right to the point. "Good father, would you be so kind as to lead us to the place. Our job is to rid you of the foul undead, so that you can cast your spell."
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Thursday December 3rd, 2009 6:23:15 PM "Yes. Any information regarding the foul minions would be helpful. Also, is there any chance of there being a mortal behind these attacks? Foul play and such?" Zeph asks
Yelena Thursday December 3rd, 2009 7:09:04 PM
"Yes. Please tell us what kind of undead, their numbers, and their location. Also (removes pen and paper from pack) please draw us a map of the chapel and the surrounding grounds, including sites of previous contact with them. If you do not know exactly what kind they are, then please describe them to the best of your ability."
DM Kathy Monday December 7th, 2009 12:57:42 AM
The priest, at last, seems to realize that help has truly arrived. "Certainly," he says. He stands so hastily that he knocks over his forgotten plate. Then when he tries to retrive it, he knocks his book on the floor. "Certainly," he says again, scrambling to pick things up. "I'll be happy to show you around. They--they generally don't come out during the day."
He blinks at Zeph. "A person? Goodness, I hope not. No," more thoughtful. "No, I don't think so. This is a small town, you know, and everybody knows everybody's business. I don't think a powerful necromancer could hide among us."
"I will draw you a map if you wish," he tells Yelena. "But hadn't you rather see it for yourselves? As to the type of walking dead...well, there are insubstantial ones, which I believe are Wraiths. And there are Skeletons, too."
The others in the common room watch Donovan's antics with visible unease. When Garret introduces himself, the startled farmer puts out his own hand in respons. "Hakon," he says. Then, "Your friend, there. Is he...is he all right? To be around people, I mean? He looks dangerous."
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} Monday December 7th, 2009 8:32:16 AM
Takes his armor, and weapons, and carries them outside, and stores them back on to the pack horse. Looping his pack onto the wooden crosspieces. Then, when the priest finally exits the building to lead them to the temple for a tour, he leads the pack horse, leaving his riding horse still tied to the railing, to said temple. Not saying a word. But waiting, listening, watching, like a good little warrior does.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Monday December 7th, 2009 8:34:12 AM
Garret looks over at Donovan, then smiles to Hakon, "Oh yes, he is quite alright. Dangerous? Well, I'd have to say that he is. But no, he's not dangerous around you good people, that's for sure. He is an adventurer, and can be quite dangerous to evil and monstrous things, I assure you. He's just, well, he's not been around people for awhile and he tends to forget himself sometimes. Just pay him no mind."
"So, good Hakon, what's the story about these undead that the priest needs help with? Do you know anything about them?"
Yelena d20+10=19 ; Monday December 7th, 2009 5:05:57 PM
"Thank you, Priest. We would be glad to see your chapel." She turns to the rest of the group, "Wraiths are incorporeal spectres." She looks at Donovan and smiles, "That means they don't have bodies. Evil wisps of nothingness that can drain the health and vigor of a victim with a touch. They are silent, but are powerless during the day and easily disturb animals in their vicinity."
She walks a few more steps then, "Skeletons... well, I assume you know about skeletons. Use blunt weapons and don't bother with any cold spells. As for a plan, since the wraiths can hide in the earth and will be loathe to come out during the day, we can attack the skeletons while the sun is out then return at dusk to eliminate the wraiths. Divide and conquer and all that. How does that sound?"
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) Monday December 7th, 2009 6:18:30 PM
Cambar is excited to get a look at the formerly holy place.
"Thanks, let's go," she says.
"And cuz, put away the hardware," she tell Donovan. "You're scaring the natives."
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Monday December 7th, 2009 7:28:52 PM "Do you require a magical weapon to attack wraiths?" Zeph asks Yelena
DM Kathy Tuesday December 8th, 2009 12:37:24 AM
Hakon shudders a little when Garret asks him about undead. "Not me," he says. "All I know is to get inside before dark and stay there. Good thick walls and Alemi's blessed symbol over the door." He nods emphatically.
Yelena shares some information about the creatures you likely face.
The priest, Felker Craghome, leads you out of the square down a narrow lane. You pass several simple houses, their window-boxes overflowing with bright summer flowers.
The temple to Alemi stands at the end of the lane. It, too, is a fairly simple structure, built of stone from the nearby mountains. Behind it stands a small churchyard. Father Craghome leads you back there.
It was probably a peaceful and well-tended place at one time. Now, however, many headstones stand awry, and the ground is pitted and torn. Clearly, several creatures have pulled themselves from the graves at some point. The churchyard also contains several crypts, which seem more or less intact.
You see no sign of undead. Then again, the sun is still high in the afternoon sky.
Yelena Tuesday December 8th, 2009 6:55:44 AM
"Not necessarily. Nearly all weapons used against a wraith will miss and simply pass through their form around half the time. Some magical effects, such as holy energy or pure magical force affect them normally." She turns to Father Craghome, "Are the undead in the chapel itself? Or in one of these crypts?"
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Tuesday December 8th, 2009 9:25:05 AM
Garret pokes with his toes at one of the openings in the ground where a body had once laid. "Can we get to these things in the daylight and make them come out?"
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} Tuesday December 8th, 2009 10:11:30 AM
While the others check out the cemetery, and start poking around the graves and such, Donovan drops the lead rope to the pack horse and then proceeds to pull the armor and weapons off it. When all are off including the pack, he leads the animal over to one of the cottages and ties it outside. Then, going back to his arsenal, he begins donning his armor.
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Tuesday December 8th, 2009 10:32:29 AM "Hmmm. Can't wraiths drain life energy? That sounds unpleasant." Zeph asks
On to battle plans: "Should we stay in the chapel and wait for nighfall and ambush these suckers?"
Yelena Tuesday December 8th, 2009 3:55:28 PM
"I was hoping we could take the skeletons during the daytime while the wraiths would be powerless. We could then rest and assault the wraiths at full capacity." Yelena looks over to the chapel, "Who is trained most in stealth-craft? We should take a peek inside a window to survey the interior."
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Tuesday December 8th, 2009 4:18:13 PM
"I've been known to sneak past a few guards here and there. I imagine the priest would let us in, though, wouldn't you?"
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) d20+8=15 ; d20+10=21 ; d20=13 ; Tuesday December 8th, 2009 4:28:03 PM
"What a good idea, Yelena!" Maybe we can get rid of the skeletons now, and the wraiths later."
"After all, the skeletons can't disappear into thin air. We just have to look for them. Maybe they buried themselves under loose soil. Let's look."
Cambar, new blunt weapon in hand, looks around. So far she remains mounted, for so long as that is practical. Listen 15, Spot 21, Untrained Search 13.
DM Kathy Wednesday December 9th, 2009 12:21:18 AM
"Thus far, the creatures have been unable to get into the chapel," the priest replies to Yelena. "I confess I have not looked in the crypts. I'm a little afraid of what I might find there."
Donovan gears up for battle as the rest of you discuss strategy. Divide and conquor would work well--if you could find some of the walking dead by day.
Asked if he will allow you access to the chapel, the priest replies. "Yes, certainly. The doors should be unlocked; feel free to enter and leave at will."
Cambar has a look around, but turns up no walking skeletons. She suggests that they might have re-buried themselves, which is certainly a possibility...but who brought a shovel?
Father Craghome hangs back a little. He is clearly willing to answer any questions you may have, but is also quite reluctant to engage the walking dead on his own.
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 d20+16=27 ; d20+16=22 ; Wednesday December 9th, 2009 4:01:42 AM
Zeph looks around with his pink shaded hippie glasses (Goggles of Minute seeing) and searches around where the claw marks are around the tombstones to find if any of the skeletons are resting beneath the soil.
Then Zeph walks up to one of the crypts and examines the door and tries to peek through any windows. "Well, lets just have a look see" he says with his warhammer in his hand and his new spiked chain on his belt at the ready.
Zeph examines the door and if he finds nothing amiss, he will try to pry it open in the broad daylight. "Donovan, give me a hand?" he asks the strong warrior.
(Search the doors of crypts and around the tombs for signs of where a skeleton may be underneath the ground = 27, 22)
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] d20+1=4 ; d20+5=12 ; d20+13=28 ; Wednesday December 9th, 2009 10:21:12 AM
Garret joins Zeph in examining the crypt and he walks around the outside, checking for any other marks or signs of entry or exit.
Search: 4 Spot: 12 Listen? 28
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} Wednesday December 9th, 2009 10:46:04 AM
Will assist Zeph in opening the crypt door.
Greatsword is strapped slantways across his back and in his hands he carries the morningstar. Choosing to leave his pack in the chapel, minus a few necessary items.
Once the door is opened, he stands at the ready, ready to attack.
Yelena Wednesday December 9th, 2009 11:13:08 AM
"Forgive me, Father Craghome, I'm a little confused. You have seen these undead, correct? Or did you just hear them? Wraiths are cunning at hiding but skeletons tend to loiter about and attack warm-bodied souls. They are about as subtle as a troll. Where exactly are they?"
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) Wednesday December 9th, 2009 3:53:49 PM
Cambar says, "Hold up, fellows! Don't go opening any doors until we are all ready. Sister Yelena there is still talking with the padre."
She dismounts and gets out her tower shield and her new warhammer.
DM Kathy Thursday December 10th, 2009 12:45:01 AM
"Oh, I have most definitely seen them," says the priest with a shudder. "Two nights in a row, before I decided I was better off at the inn. Not as much during the daylight hours, though."
Zeph, meanwhile is taking a thorough look around the churchyard. He finds several areas where clawed, skeletal hands dug their way out--and then, apparantly, back undergroun. He finds no indication that any of the crypts have been disturbed.
Garret's keen ears detect no sounds that should not be part of a late-summer afternoon in a farm village.
If you do decide to open up a crypt, you find the contents undisturbed.
Yelena Thursday December 10th, 2009 11:28:09 PM
Yelena looks around, slightly confused, "Then, Father Craghome, do you see where they go? Do they bury themselves again?"
DM Kathy Friday December 11th, 2009 1:00:13 AM
"I don't know where they went. I didn't hang about here watching them," the priest looks equally confused. Then he smiles. "Being adventurers, I suppose you are used to striding boldly toward danger. But I am no adventurer, and neither are the townsfolk. Faced with the walking dead, we flee and hope they do not catch us. I did not watch to see where they went; I was, quite frankly, hiding."
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Friday December 11th, 2009 2:21:34 AM "I suppose there is nothing left for us to do but wait for nightfall and see what happens eh? Wanna set up some sleeping bags in the chapel and wait for a bit?" Zeph suggests
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) Friday December 11th, 2009 8:56:04 AM
OOC: Did Zeph report that he saw signs that the undead clawed their way back underground? If he tells Cambar that, then she suggests getting some shovels (there must me some in a graveyard) and digging the enemy out.
If Zeph does not reveal that crucial bit of info, then she agrees that the party has no other choice than to wait until night.
Getting ready for night ... Cambar makes sure that there are torches or lanterns all around for light. If need be, she'll borrow some from the padre or go to town to buy some. She asks the padre if he has any extra holy water.
"Maybe we should look around and decide where to make a stand?"
OOC to DM: is there a map? Should we be worried about the lay of the land?
She asks the priest: Can the undead actually enter the church? If so, do they have a penalty to do so? Can we use that as a sanctuary, in case we have to retreat?
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Friday December 11th, 2009 9:16:55 PM
(OOC: I give you all permission to assume that Zeph tells the group everything he finds through any search checks, unless specifially stated he does not share info. Basically, what the DM tells me, unless its private, is general knowledge =)
"Oh yeah, there are some claw marks under and around the tombstone. It may be possible to dig some skeletons up." Zeph suggests
Yelena Friday December 11th, 2009 10:15:00 PM
OOC: What time of day is it?
I have an idea but it is dependent on the time of day.
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} Saturday December 12th, 2009 9:07:06 AM
Taking his helm off, and his gauntlets, Donovan retires to the side of the church, sitting on a bench, weapons within reach and waits. Taking pulls off his waterskin from time to time, even eating some of his rations too. Waiting for K hour.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Sunday December 13th, 2009 4:44:10 PM
"I've not dealt with this sort of creature before. I think it should at least be worth trying to do a little digging here in the daylight."
DM Kathy Monday December 14th, 2009 12:27:58 AM
[In the interest of moving things along....I will move things along. :) ]
The priest tells you that he's fairly certain the undead cannot enter the temple itself. "I was able to strengthen the wards and blessings that were in place there," he explains. "But I cannot do the same for the churchyard until the active undead are destroyed."
Based on Zeph's observations, you are able to dig up and destroy a couple of skeletons while it is still daylight. It is slow going, however, moving all that dirt, and even long summer afternoons must eventually come to an end. As the sun begins to sink toward the horizon, you can begin making your final preparations.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Monday December 14th, 2009 8:52:25 AM
Garret stands back towards the entrance and points as he counts out loud, "five, six, seven. That's seven crypts, and I wonder if we'll be seeing seven rather powerful undead types."
He looks over at the sun and asks the priest before he leaves, "Have any of the undead left the cemetery yet? Perhaps they are restricted to this area for some reason and we may be able to use that to our advantage."
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} Monday December 14th, 2009 1:14:50 PM
Gets ready for the evenings' festivities. Hey preacher man, how's about getting us a couple barrels of water and blessing the liquid inside.
Will go around the cemetary, at each corner and next to each of the crypts and builds a small bonfire.
(Does this while folks are puttering around during the day.)
At night fall Donovan goes around, dumps a little bit of oil on the bons and fires em up.
Then goes over by the others and gets ready to rumble.
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC25) Monday December 14th, 2009 2:21:57 PM
Cambar tells Donovan that she already has holy water, and shows him the vials she has. She adds that the bonfires are a great idea, and she helps set them up.
At twilight, she'll wait mounted between two bonfires, magic lance ready.
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 d20+12=17 d20+12=21 d20+9=14 d20+9=16 Monday December 14th, 2009 2:27:38 PM
Zeph observes Donovan's building of the fire. "I guess we could throw undeads into the fire and see what happens. Was that the plan? Or is the fire just to provide illumination for us to see?" Zeph asks, for both of which the bonfire was a good idea.
"So Garret, you were thinking that maybe we could stay on the outskirts of the cemetery where the creatures cannot travel and just peg them with ranged attacks? B/c that's also a good idea" Zeph asks, wondering why Garret asked if the creatures are restricted to the cemetery.
"Wraiths are powerful creatures. I would suggest we target and destroy them first before anything else. I don't want anyone to get their life drained, and I think they can reach through armor. Especially since we don't have a clerical type... speaking of which, sir priest, mind repairing any wounds or damages we may suffer to our bodies after this is all over?" Zeph asks.
Zeph can think of no traps or preparations that could hurt undead, so he simple claims one of the bottles of holy water and waits... maybe even takes a nap after studying his spellbook. When night comes, Zeph will try to find some bushery or fence to hide behind and wait.
He keeps an eye and ear out for movement and disturbances. (Move Silent=17, Hide=21, Listen=14, Spot=16)
I hate hate hate HATE undead... Zeph thinks, the disdain showing on his face... but he prepares nonetheless
Spells prepared before entering the town: 1st: Protection from Evil, Shield, Mage Armor, (force effects can block touch attacks vs incorporeal undead) 0: Disrupt Undead x4
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:22 HP:25/25] Monday December 14th, 2009 4:13:25 PM
"Well, I was more wondering why they weren't running around doing more terrorizing of the townspeople. I mean, I wouldn't think the undead would be just hanging around here making noise, when they could be off scaring people, unless they were somehow trapped here.
"Then again, I don't know much about undead, myself."
DM Kathy d20+7=9 ; d20+7=15 ; d4=4 ; d6=6 ; d20+7=8 ; Tuesday December 15th, 2009 12:40:57 AM
The priest informs you that the undead do sometimes move into the town to terrorize the townsfolk, but they seem to return here. He further promises to heal your hurts after the battle is over. And, seeing as you are here, he barricades himself into the temple, rather than retreating to the safety of the inn.
You make your preparations and take up positions, awaiting the undead. They do not disappoint.
As the smaller moon begins to rise, you hear a sudden rumbling in the earth within the churchyard. One by one, a half-dozen skeletons claw their way out of the ground.
You scarcely have time to react to that threat, before the greater danger presents itself. As one, three ghostly forms pop out of the ground. They obviously knew where you were, because each appears next to one of you.
The first attacks Cambar's horse, but luckily misses.
The second attacks Donovan, reaching out with ghostly hands to drain the very life from him. [If a 15 hits your touch AC--and I assume it does--take 4 points of damage and make a Fortitude save, DC 14. If you fail, take 6 points of Constitution drain.]
The third attacks Yelena, but misses. [Yes, you can use New and Improved Yelena for this encounter.]
I've had to guess for placement of the party, so please let me know if you would be elsewhere. Those of you who have wraiths, however, will have them regardless. :)
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:24 (Touch AC 23) HP:25/25] Tuesday December 15th, 2009 8:14:30 AM
Reacting quickly, Garret reaches up to touch his new tattoo and it glows briefly for a moment before his skin turns dark and rough-looking.
-----
Casting barkskin: AC +2, 30 min.
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} d20+6=13 ; d20+6=17 ; d20+9=29 ; 2d6+11=16 ; Tuesday December 15th, 2009 10:12:56 AM
{used 1 hero point to reroll my con save}
With greatsword out and ready, and shaking off the almost numbing effects of the creatures attempt to inflict injury upon him, Donovan takes his magical weapon and makes an attempt to strike true, and powerfully upon the creature.
{too bad these are undead creatures because my first attack was a nat. 20} Hit ac 29 Damage = 16
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 d20+13=24 ; d8+13=20 ; d20+8=16 ; 2d4+4=8 ; d100=12 ; Tuesday December 15th, 2009 3:31:43 PM
(OOCH: DMKathy. I forgot to ready an action of casting Shield on myself as soon as monsters appeared. Oh well, guess its already started, its your call if I squeezed off the spell before or not.)
Seeing the creatures appear, Zeph tumbles into a flanking position on wraith3 with Donovan. (Tumble =24, success) If L-14 is considered flanking, then Zeph will roll there (spiked chain has reach), if it is not, then Zeph will roll to L-13. Then he takes a swipe at the creature with his spiked chain.
Hit AC 18 (flanking +2), damage =8.
Yelena Tuesday December 15th, 2009 9:41:52 PM
OOC: Hey guys. Recently I had a chat with Kathy about my character Yelena. When I originally designed her, I thought that you guys had a dedicated divine spellcaster. I actually love to play clerics and had wanted to in the first place. Kathy has kindly allowed me to alter Yelena. Check out her character sheet for more details. Sorry about missing the chance to buff everyone beforehand.
Yelena cries out in indignation at the presence of the undead, crying out an oath to Pantheon in Celestial. She moves one square west to I12 and casts magic circle against evil. Everyone receives a +2 deflection bonus to AC and a +2 resistance bonus on saves for 50 minutes.
http://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0ASpMjFvPkEd9ZGZmandtenhfNDcyeDkyNGhx&hl=en Tuesday December 15th, 2009 9:42:33 PM
Sorry, THIS is her new sheet. :)
Yelena Tuesday December 15th, 2009 9:43:08 PM
How do I do a link again?
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 HeroesLoot4 Wednesday December 16th, 2009 12:26:24 AM
Yelena: I thought we were only allowed to use the Players Handbook, Dungeon Master's Guide, and Monster Manual when making characters. The rest, except for Woldian content was off limits. Is the Church Inquisitor a woldian prestige class or in the Dungeon Master's Guide?
DM Kathy d100=72 ; Wednesday December 16th, 2009 1:09:24 AM Garret casts a spell to protect himself, and Yelena casts one to add further protection to the party.
Donovan manages to shake off the worst effects of the wraith's touch, and strikes it with his sword. Because the wraith is insubstantial, hitting it is tricky. He connects, however, and deals damage.
Note: EVERYBODY READ THIS The wraiths are incorporeal, so you have a 50% miss chance when attacking them physically with a magic weapon. This does not apply to spells, but does apply to magic ranged and melee weapons. (Nonmagical weapons automatically miss) You may roll your 50% miss chance yourself if you like. If you do not roll it, I will roll it for you in the interest of keeping things moving.
Zeph, you cannot ready out of combat. If you want to say you cast the spell as soon as it got dark, that's fine. It's been about 30 seconds since then. Also, that black line on the map is a wall around the churchyard. You cannot attack when standing on the other side of it.
Since Zeph needs to re-state his action, and Cambar hasn't posted at all, I will postpone the undead's next turn until tomorrow. Yelena, Garret, and Donovan, you can post suggestions or advice, or general role-playing, but you cannot take another action until after the undead go.
Zeph AC26 Touch AC: 21 Flat-Footed=22 HP 42/42 (Shield, Protection From Evil) HeroesLoot4 d100=83 ; Wednesday December 16th, 2009 1:37:30 AM
Ok then, that's a good settlement with the spell. Lets say I casted Shield as soon as the sun set completely. So I still have 1minute and 30 seconds left of the spell, which is about 15 turns right? Each turn is 6 seconds?
Also sorry about the wall thing. I thought maybe it was a chest-high creepy black fence that are usually seen in cemeteries in the scary movies.
For his first round after the undead ambush, Zeph moves to square I-9 and takes a swipe at Wraith 3 with his Spiked chain (%miss chance =83, the previous % was spell failure for Shield. HIT AC 16 from last roll, damage =8 from last roll)
For a free action, Zeph decides to scream at the skeletons, "Hey, come and get me you clickity-clackity skeling-tons!", hoping will attack him since he knows he has more protection spells than most
Then Zeph says to Donovan "Stay there my friend, I will tumble and flank the sucker with you next! Everyone should concentrate firepower on the injured one until it goes down of you can reach it."
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} Wednesday December 16th, 2009 10:15:46 AM
{Does like a cartoon I once saw. Sits down on the ground with the badguy and waits for the DM to approve the next round and plays checkers with it}
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC20 sans shield*) d100=86 ; Wednesday December 16th, 2009 10:33:26 AM
OOC: Ugh! I can't believe I missed a combat post. Sorry!
Cambar, still mounted, takes a five foot step to H10-I11. Disdaining her shield (since it is useless against the wraiths), she tries a two-handed poke at the wraith Donovan just hit. She is adding a +1 for attacking from higher ground -- mounted, that is.
Her attack misses on a 51-00 ... 86 is a miss no matter what.
"Good job, Don," she calls out. "And thanks, Yelena!"
With the move action remaining to her, she puts away her lance.
*Cambar's Touch AC counts only dex and magic circle: AC13.
Zeph AC26 Touch AC: 21 Flat-Footed=22 HP 42/42 (Shield, Protection From Evil) HeroesLoot4 Wednesday December 16th, 2009 2:01:37 PM
(Cambar: I think DMKathy Rolled for Donovan's miss chance and she rolled 72 and he hit. I think therefore that she is taking the Highs to be hits and the Lows to be misses)
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC20 sans shield*) Wednesday December 16th, 2009 2:25:59 PM
OOC: Yeah, well, I declared it before I rolled it, so that seems pretty clear cut. DM Kathy, you have a preference?
Yelena Wednesday December 16th, 2009 7:21:36 PM
OOC: Had another chat with Kathy. Sorry about the mixup. Yelena is now just a straight Cleric 5.
DM Kathy d20+1=4 ; d20+1=3 ; d20+1=14 ; d20+3=14 ; d20+3=16 ; d20+1=15 ; d20+5=15 ; d4=3 ; d6=1 ; d20+5=22 ; d4=1 ; d6=6 ; d20+5=15 ; d4=1 ; d6=6 ; Thursday December 17th, 2009 12:56:11 AM Zeph moves into the churchyard and attacks one of the wraiths, doing a little damage.
Cambar shifts her horse and attacks, but her lance passes right through the ghostly form.
(OOC: The default is "high is good." If you want to call otherwise before you roll, you can. If you do not specify, we'll go with "high is good.")
Meanwhile, Donovan channels Warner Brothers cartoons, and Yelena's aura shifts slightly. Nothing to worry about. :)
The skeletons advance. One attacks Cambar, but misses badly.
Four go after Zeph, but fare no better.
The one remaining one goes after Donovan, but misses.
Wraith 1 attacks Cambar's horse again, and will hit unless it is negated with a Mounted Combat ride check [Touch AC 15]. If it hits, it does 3 damage, and the horse needs to make a DC 14 Fortitude save or take 1 point of Con drain.
In addition, Wraiths have an Unnatural Aura that is making Cambar's horse extremely skittish. Cambar will have to make a Handle Animal check each round if she wants to remain mounted.
Wraith 2 attacks Donovan again, hitting for 1 damage plus 6 points of Con drain (DC 14 Fortitude save to avoid the drain).
Wraith 3 attacks Yelena. If a 15 hits your Touch AC, you take 1 point of damage and 6 points of Con drain (DC 14 Fortitude save to avoid the drain).
It would be very helpful if everybody would include your current Touch AC in your header. :) Thanks.
Zeph AC28 Touch AC: 23 Flat-Footed=24 HP 42/42 (Shield, Protection From Evil, Combat Expertise +2) Loot d20+13=31 ; d20+8=27 ; d100=69 ; 2d4+4=8 ; Thursday December 17th, 2009 2:29:05 AM
Zeph tumbles through the skeleton's legs to square L-9, flanking the Wraith 2 with Donovan. (Tumble =31, success vs DC of 25)
Then Zeph swings his Spiked Chain at Wraith 2 yet again, hitting AC 27 (-2 from combat expertise, +2 from flanking), succeeding on his % roll and doing 8 damage to the critter yet again.
"Hey, attack me you undead fool!" Zeph screams at the wraith
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:26 (Touch AC 25) HP:25/25] d20+8=9 ; d20+8=23 ; d100=8 ; Thursday December 17th, 2009 9:49:02 AM
Garret takes a short step forward and slightly to the left, avoiding the rear end of the now-excited horse, to reach out towards the wraith. He leads with a kick that goes wide, slipping in the horse's excitement. He attempts to turn and punch the creature, but his fist goes right through the smoky being.
-----
5' step to H12, hopefully leaving room for the horse to bolt out the exit Flurry of blows on W1 (yes, they're magic weapons), hit AC: 9, 23 Overcome incorporeal: 8 nope
Cambar (HP38 of 38, AC20 sans shield*) d20+12=24 ; d20+12=31 ; d20+9=18 ; d20+6=16 ; d100=8 ; Thursday December 17th, 2009 10:06:59 AM
OOC: Zeph, I think you hit the character limit in the header, but I fixed it.
Mounted Combat Horse AC check last round: AC24 = a miss, right? Mounted Combat Horse AC check for THIS round, just in case: AC31 Handle Animal check for this round: 18 ... hope that's good enough?
[If it makes a difference, keep in mind that the horse is in the magic circle, right?]
Actions!
Cambar takes out a vial of holy water (move action), wanting to splash a wraith.
The rules: According to the SRD, she can only attempt to splash an incorporeal undead who is next to her, so that means W1 is her target. There is still only a 50-50 chance of success, so Cambar will be trying to roll a 51-100. If that works, it will be a ranged touch attack. Hit or miss, all other undead within five feet take a point of splash damage -- but there are none next to W1, so that's moot this round.
Cambar makes her ranged touch attack, hitting AC 16. Oh wait, the 50-50 roll. Looking for high ... an 8! No damage is inflicted, as the holy water passes through the wraith!
"Darn it!" says Cambar.
Yelena d20+8=27 ; d20+4=9 ; d20+3=12 ; 2d6+8=16 ; Thursday December 17th, 2009 5:33:05 PM
Yelena laughs derisively at the wraith as the power of her faith shimmers about her body and repels its negative energy. "By the Lawgiver, I judge you!" She holds her holy symbol of Pantheon above her head as a bright flash of light emits from the icon.
Turn Undead, 5 HD highest affected, 16 total HD affected, 60' limit.
OOC: Please ignore second roll, used incorrect modifier.
DM Kathy d20+1=5 ; d3=3 ; d20+1=16 ; d20+5=21 ; d4=4 ; d6=5 ; d20+5=24 ; d20+5=14 ; d20+5=8 ; Friday December 18th, 2009 1:18:47 AM Zeph tumbles through the skeletons and attacks the wraith, striking it again. The creature is beginning to look hurt.
Garret moves up and attempts to engage another of the creatures, but his fist smashes though empty space.
Cambar throws a vial of holy water, which unfortunately does not splash as it should. Her ranged attack provokes Attacks of Opportunity from the wraith and two skeletons. The Wraith hits [touch AC 21] for 4 damage and 5 constitution drain [DC 14 Fortitude save negates the drain].
Yelena calls upon her god to banish these foul creatures. It does not seem to affect the Wraiths, but all the skeletons crumble to dust as their little heads explode.
Wraith 1 attacks Cambar's horse again, but a canny Ride check keeps the attack from succeeding.
Wraith 2 shifts out of flank and takes Zeph up on his offer. Its attack misses, though.
Wraith 3, understandably peeved at Yelena, swipes at her again, missing badly.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:26 (Touch AC 25) HP:25/25] d20+8=14 ; d20+8=21 ; d100=41 ; Friday December 18th, 2009 8:17:15 AM
Garret smiles as he hears the cracks of bones when the skeletons are destroyed. He punches twice into blank space, hitting nothing but air.
-----
Flurry of blows, hit AC 14, 21 Overcome incorporeal: 41 nope again
Yelena d20+5=23 ; 2d6+8=14 ; Friday December 18th, 2009 9:45:03 AM
Yelena exults as the skeletons are flashed into oblivion, "Where are your minions now, fell spawn?" She raises her holy symbol above her head, "Let us try again. Mordero daghain pas duente cuebiyari!"
Turn Undead, 9 HD highest affected, 14 HD total affected
OOC: Last time I forgot to add my Knowledge (Religion) synergy bonus to the turn check. Included in this post dice rolls.
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} d20+6=24 ; d20+9=17 ; d100=27 ; d100=48 ; Friday December 18th, 2009 10:09:06 AM
24 on con roll, succeeded
{W2 moved out of combat with me into combat with Zeph, does that mean he provokes and AOO from me? If so, here is the attack: Doesn't matter if I did hit, the 50% was a bust}
Seeing the Clergywoman under seige from W3, Donovan attempts to give it a whatsfor. And misses as well, rolled 48%.
Cambar (HP34 of 38, AC20 sans shield*) d20+8=16 ; d100=14 ; Friday December 18th, 2009 1:04:39 PM
Fort save, at +2 for magic circle ... a 16 saves!
Cambar takes a five foot step to 9H-I10. She draws her lance -- now she is flanking W2 ... no sneak attack, but still a +2 to hit.
She strikes at W2, hoping to roll high: a 14. She misses again.
Zeph AC28 Touch AC: 23 Flat-Footed=24 HP 42/42 (Shield, Protection From Evil, Combat Expertise +2) Loot d100=10 ; d20+8=23 ; d20+13=26 ; Friday December 18th, 2009 4:35:21 PM
When the skeletons explode, Zeph's eyes widen in astonishment. "Nice shot!" he shouts.
Zeph laughs when Wraith 2's claws stop short on his Shield spell - like hitting a solid wall. They can't touch me with all the protection I got, but they can still hurt my companions quite easily. I need to get the other one's attention. Zeph thinks
Zeph tumbles over to square L-12, flanking Wraith 3 with Yelena and shouts "I'm your true threat, you undead abomination! Attack me!"
Zeph swings his spiked chain again at Wraith3, but the weapon travels cleanly through the spectral, hitting the ground with a thud and the kicking up of some dirt. "Crap"
(OOC: Donovan. 5-foot hops never provoke attacks of opportunity if there is no other movement done in that round. Also, DMKathy, please remember that my spiked chain has reach and I threaten squares out to 10feet for AOO stuff... should we roll possible AOO before you move the monsters?)
DM Kathy d2=2 ; d20+5=25 ; d20+5=13 ; d4=1 ; d6=5 ; Sunday December 20th, 2009 11:22:16 PM Garret is once again thwarted by the wraith's insubstantial nature.
Donovan likewise swings right through his opponent.
Cambar shifts to flank one of the creatures, but it does not help her much as her blow, too, passes right through the wraith.
Zeph tumbles and attacks, but misses. [You need another Tumble check to reach that square without provoking. You roll once for each opponent, and Wraith 2 and Wraith 3 could both have attacks of opportunity on you. The DC for the second opponent is 17.]
Yelena once again presents her holy symbol and commands the undead to leave. The results aren't as spectacular this time, but she does get some.
Wraiths 2 and 3 dart back underground, where they presumably continue fleeing.
[To forestall at least some of the hundred questions coming my way, by my reading of the rules, this motion does not provoke attacks of opportunity. Or, to be more precise, at the exact moment they provoke attacks of opportunity, they also gain 100% cover from the ground.]
Wraith 1 is unaffected, and attacks Garret. It hits him (but fortunately does not crit him) for 1 point of damage and 5 points of Constitution drain (DC 14 Fortitude save to avoid the drain.)
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:26 (Touch AC 25) HP:24/25] d20+5=20 ; d20+8=10 ; d20+8=10 ; Monday December 21st, 2009 8:14:12 AM
Garret feels the cold touch go through his body, but he quickly shakes it off. Hearing the others moving around, Garret steps to the side to give an opening for the others to join him. He stumbles over a tuft of grass as he moves, so his attacks just flail about recklessly below and around the creature.
-----
Fort Save: 20 :) 5' step to G11 Attacks hit AC: 10, 10 Sheesh.
Cambar (HP34 of 38, Touch AC12) d100=73 ; d20+7=13 ; d8+6=12 ; d20+12=20 ; Monday December 21st, 2009 8:57:49 AM
Cambar spurs her horse, wanting to attack the undead while still making room for others to do so as well. She moves to D9-E10 and then pokes at the thing with her lance. Miss chance, hoping to roll high ... a 73! And a chance to hit!
Cambar is using her lance two-handed. Her attack base is +6, then +1 for her weapon's enhancement bonus and +1 for attacking from higher ground (mounted). That's a +8. She'll take a -1 penalty on the attack in order to gain a +2 damage (Power Attack). Her roll is a 13. If that hits, she inflicts 12 damage.
Oh, and in moving, she is now out of the magic circle. Her touch AC is 12. If her horse is attacked, the mounts AC with Mounted Combat is 20.
She calls out to Yelena: "Don't chase this one away! We have to kill them!"
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} d100=59 ; d20+6=26 ; 2d6+17=25 ; Monday December 21st, 2009 10:10:06 AM
Miss chance: 59%. Go team.
Moving to the wraith on Garret, Donovan silently strikes at the beast with weapon in hand, hoping to score a rather spectacular hit. {using power attack to its maximum effect, and being its undead, the natural 20 roll is a waste}
Damage: 25
Zeph AC28 Touch AC: 23 Flat-Footed=24 HP 42/42 (Shield, Protection From Evil, Combat Expertise +2) Loot d20+13=23 ; d100=39 ; d20+8=13 ; d6=4 ; Monday December 21st, 2009 12:37:44 PM
(there is my previous tumble roll = 23)
Zeph decides instead of swinging weapons at it, that he will cast the simple cantrip Disrupt Undead, (ranged touch attack hit AC 13.. bleh). If it hits, damage is 4. Chances are, his little ray of positive energy hits Donovan in the back of the head... but I don't think positive energy would hurt anyone at this point.
"Since those other two just ran away, will they return the next day?" Zeph asks.
Yelena d20+3=23 ; d20+3=9 ; 5d8=13 ; 5d6=16 ; Monday December 21st, 2009 6:07:41 PM
Yelena moves to the northwest (I11) to get a clear line of sight to the wraith. "Glory of the light of truth!" She projects a blast of light from her open palm.
OOC: Cast searing light. Natural 20, but no confirmed critical hit. Curses! If a wraith is "an undead creature particularly vulnerable to bright light," then it takes 13 points of damage. If it is not, then it takes 16 points of damage.
DM Kathy Tuesday December 22nd, 2009 1:13:16 AM Garret shifts to make room for his companions, but his own attacks do not land.
Cambar, likewise, has trouble hitting her target.
Zeph casts a spell, but the ray of green energy is deflected somehow from the insubstantial being.
Cambar, however, is able to land a solid blow! The creature reels, badly hurt, but still in the fight.
Then Yelena's firey ray lights up the wraith! It screams in agony as it disappears in a flare of holy fire.
You are left with no immediate foes, but at least two creatures underground that you cannot reach just now. You will need a plan.
Cambar (HP34 of 38, Touch AC12) Tuesday December 22nd, 2009 7:37:48 AM
[OOC: Kathy, I think you mean Donovan for the second reference to me!]
After the enemy is destroyed, Cambar whispers -- in case the other two are listening -- "If I were those two nasties, I would stay hidden whenever we were around, and come back in a month or two. I mean really, they are immortal, and don't need to eat or drink, right? While we mortals want to go on to the next adventure."
"The question is whether the good padre can cast his holy spells while we hold the enemy at bay. Hold on, I'll go ask him." She does so.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:26 (Touch AC 25) HP:24/25] Tuesday December 22nd, 2009 8:12:38 AM
Garrett looks down as his ineffective fists and says, "Nice job, the rest of you. Those things are just not there. I'm glad a couple of them left, but who knows when they'll be back. If the priest can't cast his spells, I guess we need to start looking through these crypts to see if we can find their home. I hope the priest won't mind."
Yelena Tuesday December 22nd, 2009 12:04:50 PM
"My turning will last an hour or so, then they will return. We must prepare ourselves. Though Father Craghome can permanently consecrate these grounds with his ritual, I can consecrate them to Pantheon for a short amount of time. Enough to give us an advantage when they return." She turns to Garret, "Please go ask the Father for a vial of holy water and some powdered silver. Any priest worth his salt will have some on hand." She calls out to the others, "Go around the cemetery and help me find loose stones. We need to build a shrine in the center and we need it quickly! Once I consecrate the ground, it will give us a significant edge when they return. I will also have time to prepare you all with spells rather than be surprised."
Zeph AC28 Touch AC: 23 Flat-Footed=24 HP 42/42 (Shield, Protection From Evil, Combat Expertise +2) Loot Tuesday December 22nd, 2009 12:41:10 PM
Zeph, knowing little about religious practices, smiles at the brilliant idea of consecrating the graveyard while the Wraiths are hidden. "Yeah, I'm sure a good dose of consecration will either get them to surface or make them miserable in their holes."
Then Zeph immediately goes collecting stones and supplies for the process.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:26 (Touch AC 25) HP:24/25] Tuesday December 22nd, 2009 4:03:22 PM
Garret runs after Cambar to the priest to request some holy water and powdered silver.
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} Tuesday December 22nd, 2009 4:10:25 PM
Does as the young priestess requests and starts gathering stone for the altar.
Yelena Tuesday December 22nd, 2009 5:38:26 PM
Yelena begins building the altar in roughly the center of the cemetery (H9). Using a piece of chalk from her belt pouch, she traces the holy symbol of Pantheon on each stone, uttering whispered prayers as she aligns and stacks the stones. Once a pillar roughly three feet in height has been built, she draws a larger holy symbol across the flat top. "Now all we need is that holy water and powdered silver from Garret. Was anyone diminished by their fell touch (Con damage)?"
DM Kathy Wednesday December 23rd, 2009 1:37:47 AM
[OOC: The effects of a Turn Undead last for one minute, not one hour. I'll assume Yelena knows this. :)]
Felker Craghome tells you that he cannot cast his ritual until all of the walking dead have been dealth with.
Because the wraiths will have to return the entire distance that they fled, you do have longer than a minute to make preparations. You can heal, buff, and position yourselves.
You do have time to cast a Consecrate, if that's what you want to do, but you probably don't have time to build a shrine.
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:51/52} Wednesday December 23rd, 2009 10:06:45 AM
I was hurt slightly, but not enough to worry yourself over.
And instead of gathering stones for the altar that we don't have time to build, Donovan goes around tossing some wood onto the pyres around the cemetary. While doing so he pipes up: Lets break into teams. So when those 2 return not 1 person is caught alone.
And then Donovan goes over to his cousin and her horse, and gets ready for the next round of hostilities.
Zeph AC26 Touch AC: 23 Flat-Footed=24 HP 42/42 (Shield, Protection From Evil) Loot d100=58 ; Wednesday December 23rd, 2009 11:02:49 AM
Zeph does as he is told and also casts Mage Armor on Yelena. "Chances are good that they will try to attack you since you seem to be the biggest threat to undead. This spell will help protect you from their touch attacks. Plate armor does little as we just seen." Zeph says to the cleric.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:26 (Touch AC 25) HP:24/25] Wednesday December 23rd, 2009 11:12:39 AM
"They'll come back that fast?" Garret quickly looks around nervously. "I couldn't hit those thing for anything, my hands just kept going right through them. I'm starting to see why you hate them so much, Zeph." Garret tries to position himself near the horse, but in a position so that the horse can escape out of the graveyard without going over Garret.
Cambar (HP34 of 38, Touch AC12) Wednesday December 23rd, 2009 8:36:19 PM
Cambar stays close to Donovan, gathers wood, and tries to make ready for another attack.
DM Kathy Thursday December 24th, 2009 1:42:18 AM
You make your preparations and set up. You don't have long to wait, for soon the wraiths come howling back!
[However, we are entering the holiday time, which Jerry has set aside as "posting amnesty." Players are not required to post to games every day until after the New Year. So, this is going to be a pretty leisurely battle for a few days. Post when you can. :) ]
[Everyone can have a readied action as the wraiths re-appear. If this action is an attack (and I assume it is), go ahead and roll "to hit," 50% miss chance, and damage. Because this is a readied action, it will be a single attack (or spell) only; no flurry or two-weapon attack or multishot or anything like that. Once everyone has posted an action I will make a DM post. Probably. Posting amnesty applies to me, too. :) ]
Yelena Thursday December 24th, 2009 1:55:50 AM
OOC: Sorry guys, I must have read a spell's duration and confused it with turning.
Yelena casts the following spells on the following people:
Zeph - protection from evil Garret - shield of faith, bless Cambar - shield of faith Donovan - bless
Yelena then casts consecrate centered on herself in space H9. As a bright flare of light erupts from the ground at her feet, she calls out, "I suggest you position yourselves within 20 feet of me. It will help protect you."
Zeph AC26 Touch AC: 23 Flat-Footed=24 HP 42/42 (Shield, Protection From Evil) Loot d20+8=28 ; d100=19 ; 2d4+4=8 ; Thursday December 24th, 2009 3:46:42 AM
(DMKathy: I love the fact that Jerry set this time aside for leisurely posting. Why? B/c this is a time to get drunkish with family and have good times. I love everyone on this forum like a family of my own. I only wish I could meet you all in person. Yes'm)
Zeph readies an action to attack the first Wraith that appears. Hit ac 28, nat 20.... but alas, 19 on %hit roll.
Zeph curses at his bad luck... Why didn't I just cast a Disrupt Undead spell? We need an arcane caster in this group. Zeph thinks as his swing sails through the wraith and hits the ground with a thud.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:26 (Touch AC 25) HP:24/25] d20+10=16 ; d100=100 ; d8+1=2 ; d6=6 ; Thursday December 24th, 2009 12:52:33 PM
Garret steps back so he is close to Yelena and waits for the return of the wraiths. As soon as one pops up from the ground near him, he pulls his fist in tight, then jabs out towards the shadowy creature. His fist briefly lights up with flame as he feels contact with the monster.
----
Readied attack on wraith hits AC: 16; 50% miss: 100 no miss! Damage: 2 + 6 fire Spells in effect: shield of faith (+2 AC), bless (+1 tohit), magic circle against evil (+2 to saves), barkskin (+2 AC).
Cambar (HP34 of 38, Touch AC12) d100=31 ; Thursday December 24th, 2009 1:49:13 PM
Cambar thanks Yelena for the spell. "I'm glad you are here with us, all right!"
She mounts up and readies her lance. She may not be able to use a readied action to strike with it if the enemy appears within 5 ft of her, seeing as lance is a reach weapon (the only one-handed reach weapon in the game) and cannot strike adjacent enemies. But if she can, she will attack ... high is good ... a 31 is a miss in any event.
Yelena Friday December 25th, 2009 10:43:08 AM
Yelena takes her shield from her pack, emblazoned with the symbol of Pantheon on its front. In her other hand she holds an elegant yet nasty looking morningstar. "When they come I will attempt another turning after you strike them. Hopefully I will only drive away one of them so that none of us are flanked."
OOC: The whip is also a one-handed reach weapon :)
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:51/52} d100=33 ; Monday December 28th, 2009 10:09:16 AM
Failed % roll. Sword swipe is a miss.
DM Kathy d20+6=16 ; d20+6=9 ; Monday December 28th, 2009 11:00:06 PM
When the wraiths appear, they pop up next to Garret and Yelena. (And the one next to Garret is the injured one.)
Cambar's lance can reach, but swishes through the wraith's spectral form. Zeph and Donovan are not close enough to attack. Only Garret get off a solid hit, and injures the wraith a little morel.
The wraiths reach out with ghostly hands to touch Garret and Yelena, but both miss.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:26 (Touch AC 25) HP:24/25] d20+9=23 ; d20+9=17 ; d100=61 ; d100=43 ; d8+1=8 ; d6=1 ; Tuesday December 29th, 2009 9:06:06 AM
Garret steps up to the wraith, hoping to get some good attacks on the unholy creature. As he moves, his fist flies through the smoky creature and makes contact with something solid. He follows with an elbow that meets no resistance.
-----
5' step to F8 Flurry of blows: Hit AC 23, 17; Miss chance: 61, 43; Damage: 8 + 1 fire
Zeph AC26 Touch AC: 23 Flat-Footed=24 HP 42/42 (Shield, Protection From Evil) Loot d20+8=11 ; d20+13=29 ; Tuesday December 29th, 2009 4:02:16 PM
(OOC: Actually Kathy, I think I am close enough to reach. Spiked Chains have 10foot reach.. but I missed anyway)
Zeph tumbles to square F-7 (Tumble check= 29) to attempt to get a flanking position next round.
Again Zeph tries to hit the Wraith with his spiked chain... but misses horribly. (Hit AC 11. bah)
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:51/52} d100=57 ; d20+9=10 ; Tuesday December 29th, 2009 4:08:37 PM
{Moves to J9}
Moving up besides Yelena, Donovan does an overthehead move with his greatsword, and even though the attack is a success, he manages to hit the only spot on the wraith that causes the blade to glance off, and misses. {% was a success, to hit was a nat.1, rats my luck}
Yelena d20+4=16 ; d100=70 ; d8=8 ; Wednesday December 30th, 2009 12:41:41 AM
Yelena brings her morningstar on what she approximates to be the wraith's head. Or thereabouts.
I think it's a hit! A very palpable hit! Hit AC 16, damage 8, percentile roll 70.
Cambar (HP34 of 38, Touch AC12) d100=81 ; d20+8=24 ; d8+4=7 ; Thursday December 31st, 2009 9:41:35 AM
OOC: On Dec 24 Yelena posted that she cast Bless on Garret and Donovan. But Bless affects all friends within an area, right? So she only has to cast it once, and it benefits us all, right?
Cambar tries again to hit the undead thing with her lance. It is just a normal blow, not a charge -- no room to maneuver for one anyway. Does her attack have even a ghost of a chance vs W2? an 81 -- yes! Her attack roll (including +1 from the Bless) hits AC24 for 7 damage.
OOC: Yelena, LOL! You are right about the whip!
DM Kathy d20+5=9 ; d20+5=11 ; Monday January 4th, 2010 1:36:49 AM Garret strikes another blow to the injured wraith. Zeph attacks it, but his chain swings wide of its target. Cambar strikes another blow, and now the creature is badly injured.
Donovan moves up an tries to hit the other wraith, but he rushes his attack and mis-times the blow. Yelena fares better, and now this wraith is injured as well.
Wraith 2 reaches out to touch Garret, but misses. It backs up a step, possibly seeing the impending flank. Wraith 3 reaches out for Yelena, but misses as well.
Cambar (HP34 of 38, Touch AC12) d100=59 ; d20+10=16 ; d8+4=5 ; Monday January 4th, 2010 6:33:54 AM
Cambar spurs her mount: she moves from D-E-9-10 to D-E-4-5, takes a hard right, and then moves to H-I-4-5. That's 45 feet of movement (of an allowed 50), a move action for her horse.
Cambar adjusts her two-handed grip on her lance, and she shouts, "Zeph! Garret! Flank this thing!" Then she Readies an attack, to be made as soon as she is flanking wraith W2, that is, as soon as Zeph or Garret get into flanking position.
READIED ACTION:
When that happens, Cambar makes her attack: Rolling her miss chance, high is good: 59 is a potential hit! Her attack, at +1 for the bless and +2 for the flank, hits AC16 for 5 hp damage.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:26 (Touch AC 25) HP:24/25] d20+9=21 ; d20+9=20 ; d100=49 ; d100=5 ; Monday January 4th, 2010 8:23:42 AM
Garret pauses as the wraith backs away from him slightly. "Could this thing be that intelligent?"
As he thinks, Cambar moves his horse around behind the creature. Garret steps up quickly towards the creature to complete the flanking move as his fists fly towards the undead beast. His fists arc through the air and Garret braces for the impact, but none comes as his punches fly through nothingness.
-----
5' step to H8 Flurry of blows: hit AC 21, 20; miss chance: 49, 5; arghh!
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:51/52} d100=73 ; d20+9=18 ; 2d6+11=15 ; Monday January 4th, 2010 10:06:29 AM
Cursing to himself for the bad swipe, Donovan takes a 5 foot step straight ahead. (j8)
Even more determined now not to let the clergyman down, and his new fighting partner, Donovan lets out his war cry, hoping to gain the attention of the foul beast, and takes his best shot, slicing from a lower left to an upper right arc.
hit ac 19 (18+1 for bless) damage 15 % roll 73
Yelena d20+4=10 ; d100=38 ; Monday January 4th, 2010 12:54:05 PM
Yelena swings at the wraith again. Her morningstar whistles through the wraith's form, failing to make contact.
Zeph AC26 Touch AC: 23 Flat-Footed=24 HP 42/42 (Shield, Protection From Evil) Loot d20+8=20 ; d100=50 ; d6=6 ; Monday January 4th, 2010 3:38:14 PM
Since Garret has the flanking done, Zeph will shoot his last Disrupt undead spell at Wraith 3. A ray of green positive energy/entergy flies from his finger as he stands in a "Charlie's Angel" pose.
6 damage to Wraith 3!!!! SUCESS
DM Kathy d20+5=6 ; Tuesday January 5th, 2010 12:08:20 AM Cambar moves and waits for one of her opponents to provide a flank. When Garret steps up, her lance stabs at the creature, dispersing the last of the unnatural force that kept it animated. Garret's blows do not land, but the creature is no more.
Donovan lands a massive blow on the other creature. Although Yelena cannot make contact, Zeph's spell strikes true.
Badly injured now, the creature makes one last desperate attempt to drain someone's life away. Its ghostly hands reach out for Donovan, but it cannot connect (nat 1!).
[I'm not going to bother updating the map. Who can finish it off? :) ]
Cambar (HP34 of 38, Touch AC12) d100=16 ; Tuesday January 5th, 2010 7:53:31 AM
Cambar takes a poke -- that passes through the monster! Rolled a 16 to miss.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:26 (Touch AC 25) HP:24/25] d20+11=25 ; d20+11=23 ; d100=48 ; d100=86 ; d8+1=5 ; d6=1 ; Tuesday January 5th, 2010 11:08:38 AM
Garret turns to the last creature and spins a kick that flies through the creature's misty figure. He follows up the roundhouse with a direct punch to the middle of the monster and he feels his blow strike true. His fist flashes briefly with flames as he makes contact with the undead.
-----
Attacks hit AC 25, 23; miss chance: 48, 86; damage: 5 + 1 fire
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:51/52} d100=80 ; d20+9=21 ; 2d6+11=18 ; Tuesday January 5th, 2010 11:13:42 AM
% roll: 80
Takes another swipe, knowing it is not long for the world of the living, or undead. hit ac: 21 damage: 18
Donovan then yells out for the holyman: Hey Cleric Man, it's safe to come out now and perform your little mystical chant over the area. The bad goons are gone.
Zeph AC26 Touch AC: 23 Flat-Footed=24 HP 42/42 (Shield, Protection From Evil) Loot d20+8=12 ; d100=71 ; 2d4+4=9 ; Tuesday January 5th, 2010 2:37:40 PM
.... not Zeph... hit AC 12.. or 14 with flanking. Doesn't matter.
After the creatures dissipate, Zeph will search around the Graveyard for any more of the creatures... only giving a thumbs-up when he cannot find any more.
Yelena Tuesday January 5th, 2010 3:10:01 PM
"Maker's Breath! That was arduous. Now we can begin the process of consecrating these grounds and getting back to Queen Amurla." Yelena pokes about the other party members to see if anyone needs healing.
DM Kathy Wednesday January 6th, 2010 1:06:02 AM
Between them, Donovan and Garret finish off the last of the wraiths.
After some searching, you find Felker Craghome, huddled in a closet inside the temple. "Are-are they gone?" he asks timidly.
On being told that yes, the undead have been destroyed, he wastes no time and begins gathering materials for the consecration.
He also heals anyone who has taken damage.
He nods approval at the fires you have lit in the corners of the churchyard. "Just build those up a bit, can you?" he says. "We want to make sure they stay burning." He looks at you all hesitantly. "Do you---that is, will you help with the ceremony?"
Zeph AC26 Touch AC: 23 Flat-Footed=24 HP 42/42 (Shield, Protection From Evil) Loot d20+16=33 ; Wednesday January 6th, 2010 2:03:01 AM
When Felker Craghome asks if the group will help with the consecration ceremony, Zeph simply shrugs and says, "Sure thing. Anything to help." with a smile.
He searches around for any clues as to why the undead may have invaded... search check = 33
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:26 (Touch AC 25) HP:25/25] Wednesday January 6th, 2010 9:21:07 AM
Garret stands there, breathing slightly heavy, "Those were some strange beasts. I never had to fight something like that where sometimes its there and sometimes its not. And that attack was so cold."
When the priest asks, Garret replies with Zeph, "Sure, I suppose. What else do we need to do? And do you think it might draw more of those things?"
Cambar (HP34 of 38, Touch AC12) Wednesday January 6th, 2010 9:45:22 AM
Cambar helps fuel the fires and mounts up, ready to fight any more undead that appear.
Yelena d20+10=26 ; Wednesday January 6th, 2010 9:50:23 AM
"Certainly, Father Craghome. I know I would be glad to assist."
Using a Knowledge (Religion) check (26) to Aid Another for the ceremony.
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:51/52} d20=9 ; d20=8 ; Wednesday January 6th, 2010 1:17:21 PM
Lets each take a pyre, keeping it well tended to. And prepared for anything else that might want to show up and interrupt our cow...goodly clergyman there during his ritual.
Spot: 9 Search: 8
DM Kathy Thursday January 7th, 2010 1:36:23 AM Zeph looks around, but is unable to turn up any reason for the undead beyond what the priest has already told you: the consecrations had grown weak over time.
For about the next hour, you assist Brother Craghome with his ritual. You build up the fires, and toss in various herbs that make fragrant smoke. You pour oil one the churchyard ground and light candles at a makeshift altar. You recite sacred texts while walking and standing among the graves.
At last, the ceremony is complete. "Thank you for all that you have done," Brother Craghome tells you. "I have something for you," he adds, holding out a slender wand of silver. "It is a wand of healing. Please accept it with my thanks for all you have done. And now, perhaps we should seek our beds. Dawn comes early in the summer."
You retire to the inn for what remains of the night. It is indeed a short time before the sun comes up. Those of you who awaken in the morning are served a hearty breakfast of ham, eggs, porridge, and fruit. Even those who oversleep can break their fast on bread and cheese. It looks like it's going to be another lovely summer day.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:26 (Touch AC 25) HP:25/25] Thursday January 7th, 2010 9:21:43 AM
Garret rises quite early and has extra-large helpings of ham and eggs. Between mouthfuls, he says, "Fighting undead is hungry work, isn't it?"
Cambar (HP34 of 38, Touch AC12) Thursday January 7th, 2010 9:32:42 AM
Cambar is just glad that no one had the life sucked out of them by the undead shadow things. She thanks Yelena and Brother Craghome for their good works. And for the wand, a very handy thing for adventurers to have.
"Now the queen will be glad to lend us the sword," she says around a mouthful of ham.
After breakfast, she encourages the group to head back to the capital.
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:51/52} Thursday January 7th, 2010 10:27:28 AM
Eats, gathers his gear, loads up the pack horse, saddles and gears up his riding horse, and then follows the others in contemplative silence.
{not feeling well, sorry for the short post}
Yelena Thursday January 7th, 2010 12:38:36 PM
Yelena smiles at Garret, "Be careful, there. I don't have a spell for choking on breakfast. We should definitely start out at the earliest." After finishing breakfast, she packs her belongings, saddles her horse, and waits in the town square to head out with the others.
Zeph AC26 Touch AC: 23 Flat-Footed=24 HP 42/42 (Shield, Protection From Evil) Loot d20+7=11 ; d20+5=14 ; Thursday January 7th, 2010 12:55:34 PM
Zeph asks to examine the wand for fun. On the way home, Zeph will cast Detect Magic on himself and spend some time focusing on the wand, to see if he can determine how many charges (or unlimited?) the wand has and exactly what level spell it casts. Though Divine magic is not really his thing, he gives it a shot. (SPellcraft = 11. Knowledge Arcana =14.... BAH)
"Its probably more your thing Yelena", and he hands the wand over to the Cleric after his Detect Magic attempt.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:26 (Touch AC 25) HP:25/25] Thursday January 7th, 2010 4:51:56 PM
Garret smiles at Yelena as he shoves a piece of ham in his pocket for later. "Oh, yes, I'm ready to go, let's head on back to the capital right away." He slips another piece of ham in his pocket as he leaves the table.
DM Kathy Friday January 8th, 2010 1:02:56 AM
By mid-morning, you are ready to depart, and you leave Deepvale as suddenly and mysteriously as you entered it. The village will doubtless be a-buzz for weeks with talk of the strange adventurers. To add to your legend, for some reason every dog in the village follows Garret for a mile or more.
Your return to the capital is uneventful, and you are once again able to secure accommodations at the Gnoll's Head. The ale there is as good as ever.
Yelena Friday January 8th, 2010 10:02:47 AM
OOC: Before leaving, Yelena would have liked to secure a letter from Brother Craghome detailing the defeat of the undead and their involvement.
After resting in the Gnool's Head Inn, Yelena prepares a note for the Lord Chamberlain stating that they have arrived back from completing their mission from Queen Amurla. They are ready to present their report and discuss the Opal Sword. She gives the note to a guard at the gate to the palace.
Zeph AC26 Touch AC: 23 Flat-Footed=24 HP 42/42 (Shield, Protection From Evil) Loot Friday January 8th, 2010 3:32:31 PM
Zeph starts to write a book entitled: "One Hundred Reasons why the Party Rogue Hates Fighting Undead"
"Chapter 1: No Sneaks, No Crits!? FML"
Zeph chuckles as he sips on the good ale and writes.
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:51/52} Saturday January 9th, 2010 9:04:45 AM
Eats. Drinks. Drinks some more. Remembers to put up his animals and store his equipment. Does so. Goes back to drinking. Flirts with some girls. Drinks some more. Stumbles up to his room. Passes out.
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 Loot Saturday January 9th, 2010 5:29:43 PM
"Chapter 2: Does Feint work on Undead? Reasons why not..."
Zeph chuckles as he drinks more ale and contemplates the spells he should prepare for the next day.
Spells: 1st: Shield, Shocking Grasp, Grease 0: Read Magic, Detect Magic, Acid Splash, Some other level 0 spell...
DM Kathy Monday January 11th, 2010 12:10:32 AM Yelena is able to get an absolutely glowing letter from Brother Craghome.
You relax at the Gnoll's Head. Donovan is able to find some very pleasant young ladies to flirt with, all of whom are a little disappointed when he passes out drunk.
You receive a prompt reply from the Lord Chamberlain, informing you of the time for your audience with the Queen, and warning you that this time, you will be appearing before the entire assembled court. He includes some discreet advice as to wardrobe.
You have a couple of days before your audience, so you have time to prepare. When the hour arrives, you are escorted to the palace by a page, who hands you off to a footman, who escorts you through several passages before handing you off to Lord Havers. He runs a discerning eye over your group.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:26 (Touch AC 25) HP:25/25] Monday January 11th, 2010 8:49:37 AM
"The entire court?" Garret looks down at himself and continues, "I'm not sure I have the required clothes for such a meeting. Then again," he looks at the others in the group, "I suppose I fit in as well as can be expected, eh?"
Cambar (HP34 of 38, Touch AC12) Monday January 11th, 2010 9:01:31 AM
Cambar does her best to follow the noble's advice and dress up for the occasion, going shopping for something suitable. But she still wears her armor, after paying to get it burnished up to a high gleam.
Privately, she asks her friends, "Is there any danger here? Any chance we are not going to be handed the sword on a platter?"
Yelena Monday January 11th, 2010 9:47:22 AM
"Perhaps. Nobility can be fickle, and royalty especially. There may be all sorts of strings attached to our receiving the Opal Sword. I certainly hope Queen Amurla will honor our arrangement, but we should be ready to exercise more diplomacy."
Yelena follows along with the various pages to Lord Havers' chamber. "Greetings, Lord Havers. We have returned and are ready to report."
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:51/52} Monday January 11th, 2010 10:11:25 AM
Does as he is directed by those who know how court works.
Dresses in what he is told to wear. And chooses to remain silent. Letting those who are accustomed to these type of proceedings to intervene for him.
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 Loot Monday January 11th, 2010 3:51:23 PM
Zeph decides to don his usual Mithril Chain shirt underneath a black tunic that says "Jesus saves. Everyone else takes 5d6 damage."
He has his dark cloak over that and his dark leather trousers and boots. He does cast Prestidigitation to clean all his clothes quite nicely though. He also shaves himself clean and combs his now shoulder-length hair into a nice emo-looking half-eye showing swoop.
Zeph seems to have matured quite a bit since the beginning of the journey nearly a year and a half ago.
Then Zeph says to Yelena and Cambar. "Yeah, I fully expect some noble to stand up and say, 'we can't lose the power of the Opal Sword for that long! Despite any previous agreement, my clan does not support this!'... or something along those lines... which is why I planned ahead just in case..." Zeph says with a wink, not saying anything more on the subject
DM Kathy Tuesday January 12th, 2010 12:33:52 AM
Lord Havers runs a discerning eye over you each. He nods approval at most of you, but frowns in puzzlement at the legend on Zeph's tunic. He reaches out and twitches the black cloak so that the tunic is mostly hidden.
"Her Majesty is expecting you," he says, and with those ominous words, he nods at a couple of pages. They swing open a set of double doors, and you enter the full court.
The sight isn't nearly as intimidating as you had probably feared. It is a handsome room, to be sure, containing nobles dressed in their court finery. It is not as large as you had feared, however, and there are probably only about two dozen nobles in the room altogether (though that is more than enough given that they are all staring at you).
You approach the throne and, at a whispered cue from Lord Havers, bow to Her Majesty. Queen Amurla looks much as you remember her, though today her gown is claret-colored silk.
"Brave adventurers," she says, "we are informed that you have done us a great service in the village of Deepvale. You have our thanks. In addition, we are pleased to present this sword..."
...a page brings the sword forward on a blue velvet cushion and presents it to you with a bow.....
"....as a loan from the people of Tyrrh Valley to the people of Cinnamon Valley. May it serve you honorably and vanquish the evil we all fear."
There are murmurs from the court when the sword is presented, some disapproving. Nobody really seems surprised, however. Either Queen Amurla made her wishes known ahead of time, or the court grapevine is astonishingly accurate.
Yelena Tuesday January 12th, 2010 9:08:11 AM
Yelena touches her hand to her forehead, then to her heart, "By Pantheon and the Light, we thank you for your beneficence. Your generosity will not escape the notice of the gods. May they bless you and your people as we strive against the darkness." Yelena lifts the sword off of the cushion delicately, and bows again to Queen Amurla.
After the ceremony... "Alright, we need to leave as soon as possible. If all of those nobles know we have the Opal Sword, then we can assume that those who would try to thwart us know as well. Nobles being the sieves of information that they are." Yelena will then discreetly ask Lord Havers if there is sword case available for transporting.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:26 (Touch AC 25) HP:25/25] Tuesday January 12th, 2010 9:13:25 AM
Garret walks into the throne room and nods at a few of the nobles who are starting at him. He wipes some extra dirt off his chest, then winks at another noble. When directed, he bows and says nothing, watching the sword as it is brought to them. Garret looks at Yelena as she accepts the sword on their behalf, nods, and heads on out.
When they are outside, Garret agrees with Yelena, "Indeed, I heard the murmurs as we got the sword, so who knows who else might want that thing more than we do. Let's go!"
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:51/52} Tuesday January 12th, 2010 10:03:46 AM
Outside.
My animals are packed and so am I. Lets leave now before they change their mind, or one of the nobles decide we can't keep the sword.
DM Kathy Wednesday January 13th, 2010 12:51:20 AM
You accept the Opal Sword and make as hasty a retreat as protocol allows. Luckily, Queen Amurla has already turned her attention to another matter by the time you reach the double doors.
You lose no time in returning to the inn and making ready to depart.
However, your audience was in the afternoon. Even given the longer summer days, you would only have a few hours of daylight in which to travel, if you left now. Do you want to depart this very afternoon, or stay one more night at the Gnoll's Head?
Cambar (HP34 of 38, Touch AC12) Wednesday January 13th, 2010 8:25:56 AM
Cambar worries a little that beating too hasty a retreat will attract more attention than they want. "What, we should look like we're running away?" she asks. She is in favor of staying the night. With watches. Fully armored.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:26 (Touch AC 25) HP:25/25] Wednesday January 13th, 2010 8:30:34 AM
"Running away? Heck, we're the undead conquerors here. I say we just go. I don't like the way those nobles were looking at the sword as is was handed to us."
Yelena Wednesday January 13th, 2010 9:46:27 AM
"It is best to assume that persons opposed to our success in this venture are actively seeking information as to our whereabouts and activities. Gaining the Opal Sword has been broadcast to the gentry, and a disturbingly large number of people now know that," Yelena puts up one finger, "we have secured a component of the ritual and," another finger, "we are carrying around a valued national treasure. I do think, however, that staying one more night would be better than a night in the wilderness. Which is why I think we should stay. But not at the inn. I can easily secure us lodging at the local temple. It will be sudden enough that no one will anticipate our relocation and we will sleep surrounded by templars dedicated to our success. What does everyone think of that?"
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:51/52} Wednesday January 13th, 2010 12:40:09 PM
Ok.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:26 (Touch AC 25) HP:25/25] Wednesday January 13th, 2010 12:58:26 PM
Garret shrugs and replies, "I suppose that would be okay, but I don't understand what it is about the outdoors that you folk just don't like. I like it out there. Its nice. Silly people and their fancy beds."
Cambar (HP34 of 38, Touch AC12) Wednesday January 13th, 2010 3:03:39 PM
Okay by me.
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 Loot d20+9=27 ; d20+9=19 ; Wednesday January 13th, 2010 5:26:17 PM
(OOC: Sorry for not posting yesterday. Had to go book hunting for class... semester begins soon)
At the court, Zeph keeps his ears pierced for any noble that may say something like 'I'm gonna get that sword off their corpses.' OR ANYTHING like that.
When the group reaches the Gnoll's head, Zeph says to Yelena, "Hey. I have an idea. Give me the sword." then Zeph takes the sword wraps it up in some cloth and shoves it into his backpack. Then he takes out a mundane shortsword and puts it into the Opal Sword's fancy Sheith that Yelena holds. "Get it? If someone tries to rob us, they will take the fancy shieth that is out in plain sight. While the real sword is tucked away in my backpack in some dirty cloth." Zeph says with a wink.
Zeph will keep a constant ear and eye out for danger or ambush.
(Listen =27 Spot = 19)
Yelena Wednesday January 13th, 2010 9:12:17 PM
"Nice thinking, Zeph. Now let's head over to the temple. Hopefully we can secure lodgings for the night with little fuss then depart at dawn."
DM Kathy Thursday January 14th, 2010 12:48:56 AM Yelena suggests that you seek shelter for the night at the local temple of Domi. At Zeph's suggestion, you create a decoy and hide the real Opal Sword from view.
The temple is proud to host you for the night, and if they are puzzled by the request, they do not let it show. Your evening repast is simple but filling, and you retire to pallets in your respective dormotories (male and female).
The night is uneventful. The next morning is sunny, but gathering clouds and a brisk wind hint that summer will not last forever. You pack your belongings, gather your animals, and leave the city without incident.
The next few days are equally uneventful, as you wend your way back along the same roads you took to get here. Once again, the roads do not move you in straight lines, but rather wind you from market-town to market-town.
You are rained on once or twice, and the days are growing noticably shorter. In the fields, some of the farmers are beginning their harvest. Autumn is not far away.
You are traveling an especially wild and deserted stretch of road when you see a depressingly familiar sight ahead of you. A band of black-clad soldiers is deployed across the road....apparantly waiting for you.
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 Loot d20+12=32 ; d20+12=17 ; d20+9=16 ; d20+9=28 ; Thursday January 14th, 2010 2:05:25 AM
Hopefully before the men notice Zeph, he decides to slip off the back of his horse and let the horse trot ahead riderless behind Cambar's Horse. He whispers to Yelena "I'll strike from the shadows. Keep them focused on the main part of the group."
Then Zeph hops off the main road, using the horses as a front, and jumps into some bushes and begins to make his way to the black-clad men, hidden and quiet. Hoping that no one noticed him slip away from the main group.
Zeph also keeps his eyes and ears out for any hidden black-clad individuals.
(Hide = 32 Move Silent =17 Listen =16 Spot = 28)
(OOC: Sorry to be a predictable rogue. Hopefully I can work my way within 30 feet of one of them before the battle starts.)
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:26 (Touch AC 25) HP:25/25] d20+17=22 ; d20+15=26 ; d20+13=29 ; d20+5=22 ; Thursday January 14th, 2010 10:30:19 AM
Garret travels along, wandering on and off the road, talking with anyone who will speak with him.
When they reach the black-clad men, Garret will also slip off the side of the road, on the opposite side of Zeph. He will try and remain hidden and keep pace with the rest of the group, ready to strike when the fight breaks out.
-----
Hide: 22 Move Silently: 26 Listen: 29 Spot: 22
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} d20+9=16 ; 2d6+11=22 ; d20=11 ; d20=2 ; d20=14 ; Thursday January 14th, 2010 11:24:59 AM
Stopping the horses a good distance from the people in black, Donovan begins dressing himself in his armor. Getting some assistance from someone who doesnt need help putting on full plate armor. Once that is done he removes his greatsword from its holder on the packhorse, hefts it over his right shoulder, keeping hold of the hilt with his right hand, and with his visor up begins moving towards them.
With his left hand he barks out, keep an eye on the flanks. Motioning to the left and right of the group.
When Donovan gets within 50 feet of them, he reaches up and lowers his visor on the helm with a loud THUNK, readies his sword, and then begins moving cautiously towards whoever presents himself as the leader of the band.
{readied action: strikes out at anyone getting within reach, otherwise, moves to the leader of the band and attacks} {should a readied attack action be needed, here it is now. If not, disregard and I will roll when the appropriate time comes. hit ac16 for 22 damage}
Also, during the walk up and right before combat begins, Donovan keeps an eye out for sneakie pete's. Listen: 11 Search: 2 Spot: 14
Yelena Thursday January 14th, 2010 3:03:36 PM
BEFORE ANYONE SNEAKS ANYWHERE...
As soon as they spot the black-clad men, Yelena begins buffing everyone. Yelena casts bless on Garret, Cambar, and Donovan. Protection from evil on Zeph, and Garret. Bull's strength on Donovan and Garret. "I think the four of you should hide in the underbrush on the side of the road. I will draw them with my crossbow from horseback then flee. If two of you are on each side, we can flank them by surprise while I circle back around and provide healing as needed. Sound like a plan?"
Yelena Thursday January 14th, 2010 3:06:50 PM
Sorry, meant to summarize spell effects:
Garret: +1 attack, +4 Strength, +2 deflection AC Cambar: +1 attack Zeph: +2 deflection AC Donovan: +1 attack, +4 Strength
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:26 (Touch AC 25) HP:25/25] Thursday January 14th, 2010 3:09:39 PM
Garret nods to Yelena as she makes suggestions and casts spells. "I'll be in the brush until they attack."
Zeph AC26 HP 42/42 (Shield, Prot from Evil) Loot d20+9=12 ; d100=90 ; Thursday January 14th, 2010 3:32:54 PM
(OOC: Yelena. Bless hits all allies within 50foot radius. So you only have to cast it once and it works on everyone.)
"Sure. I will be off the road in the shadows. Haven't decided whether I want to shoot them with my bow first or charge with shocking grasp. Either way, I will flank with someone eventually." Zeph says as he casts Shield on himself while still quite a distance away from the black-clad men.
(OOC: Whats the range on the crossbow? B/c that is how far they will be from us when they start charging. Also, what heppened to Hmark???)
Cambat thanks Yelena and then rides forward to buy some time while she buffs the others.
Cambar puts her lance away and holds up her hands. She rides forward, to a distance of about 60 to 100 feet away or so. She shouts, "Hey, at least can we talk? Maybe we can reach some kind of agreement." She rides forward, until she is within charging distance of the closest of these fellows. She continues to call for negotiations.
Her attempt at parley is just a ruse, however. She intends to charge and attack at the earliest possible moment. When she makes her charge, she will draw her lance and grip it with her usual two-hand hold. Her attack, when she can make it, gains a +2 charging bonus to attack. She rolls a 14 to hit. She'll use a hero point to reroll that -- now it is a 27! Sweet!
If she is lucky enough to be the first to attack, maybe her foes will be flat-footed, denying the enemy their Dex bonus to AC and allowing her to add 2d6 sneak attack damage. Her charging damage is 5+7+12=24 plus a potential 7 more sneak attacking.
Of course, her ride by attack ability lets her pass on beyond the enemy.
So in summary, this post covers several rounds of delaying, talking, and approaching, followed by a charge.
Cambar (HP38, AC18 charging) d20+12=29 ; d20+6=19 ; Thursday January 14th, 2010 4:41:50 PM
Extra rolls for Diplomacy and Bluff to distract on approach: Diplomacy 29, Bluff 19.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:26 HP:25/25] Thursday January 14th, 2010 5:11:56 PM
Garret will also cast his barkskin as he steps into the brush on the side of the road.
-----
Spells in effect: Protect/evil: +1 atk Bless: +2 AC (deflection) Barkskin: +2 AC (natural) Bull's Str: +4 str
Yelena d20+3=17 ; d10=5 ; Thursday January 14th, 2010 8:28:36 PM
OOC: Bleh. I meant shield of faith for those superfluous blessings. Anywho, you're all buffed up enough :) Range on the heavy crossbow is 120'. Yelena casts shield of faith on Cambar and herself prior to her charge. She then casts magic circle against evil centered on herself and prepares to fire her crossbow at the first sign of danger.
Bringing the stock to her shoulder, Yelena whispers a prayer as she preps her crossbow for battle. Crank the tension gear, "Lawgiver and Magistrate, judge of my life and my devotion," Notch the drawstring, "Oathkeeper and Noble One, bringer of peace to the wilds," load the bolt in the channel, "guide my weapon as my faith guides me," stock to the shoulder, "justice to the unjust, and vengeance to the vengeful," aim small, hold your breath, "and vindicate your dedicated as they honor you."
Squeeze.
Attack 17, Damage 5 to bandit closest to Cambar after she strikes.
DM Kathy Friday January 15th, 2010 12:42:10 AM
Well. Everybody has posted actions that will take anywhere from 3 rounds to 4 minutes. I have to say, I admire your ambition. :)
Sadly, you don't have time to do all that stuff. I'll give you 2 rounds' worth of actions. Keep in mind, the bad guys have seen you, and they get 2 rounds, too.
Donovan, full plate takes 4 minutes to put on, and you must have someone assisting you. Otherwise, all you can do is "don hastily." If you take time to put on your armor, combat will be over by the time you are finished. Most PCs who wear full plate keep it on while they travel, and I suggest you do the same.
Please post 2 rounds' worth of actions. If you post more than 2 rounds' worth, I get to decide which ones happen. :)
Yelena Friday January 15th, 2010 7:56:13 AM
With everyone still gathered around her from traveling, Yelena casts prayer. She takes no other action the first round. The second round she casts magic circle against evil, centered on Donovan for everyone who is going into melee combat. She spends her move action that round preparing her crossbow.
+1 luck bonus on attack rolls, weapon damage rolls, saves, and skill checks for everyone +2 deflection bonus to AC and a +2 resistance bonus on saves and no nongood summoned creatures can enter the area within 10 feet of Donovan
Bringing the stock to her shoulder, Yelena whispers a prayer as she preps her crossbow for battle. Crank the tension gear, "Lawgiver and Magistrate, judge of my life and my devotion," Notch the drawstring, "Oathkeeper and Noble One, bringer of peace to the wilds," load the bolt in the channel, "guide my weapon as my faith guides me," stock to the shoulder, "justice to the unjust, and vengeance to the vengeful," aim small, hold your breath, "and vindicate your dedicated as they honor you."
Squeeze.
Attack 17, Damage 5 to bandit closest to Cambar on round 3.
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} Friday January 15th, 2010 10:34:11 AM
Make up your mind. Either I am winded from wearing my plate armor all day, or I am not. You said that a month or 2 ago to me. Had you changed your mind and informed me then I would of been wearing my armor and not of had to purchase a pack horse.
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} Friday January 15th, 2010 10:34:51 AM
So I guess im fighting naked.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:26 HP:25/25] d20+10=26 ; d8+1=4 ; d6=1 ; Friday January 15th, 2010 10:46:17 AM
Garret freezes when he spots the dark-clad men. He says, "What is it with these guys and their black uniforms? Guess they didn't learn last time we had to deal with them." He reaches up and touches the bright blue tattoo on his neck and shoulder and it glows for a moment as Yelena says her words of magic.
He steps a little to the side and forward, looking to make sure he has room to fight without being crowded and looks back at the men in black, preparing for battle. His fists flicker briefly with flame.
-----
(Sorry about that, I was hoping they hadn't seen us yet). Casting barkskin.
Prepared action: attack any black-clad man that steps into range: Hit AC: 26 Dam: 4 + 1 fire
Spells in effect: Magic Circle: +1 atk Prayer: +2 AC (deflection) Barkskin: +2 AC (natural)
Cambar (HP38, AC18 charging) Friday January 15th, 2010 11:32:44 AM
First round: Moves closer, calling loudly for diplomacy and negotiation.
Second round: Attacks with the charge above, using a hero point, spirited charge, and ride by attack.
DM Kathy Friday January 15th, 2010 2:21:11 PM Donovan, I apologize for the confusion.
In your last return to Cinnamon Valley, you were traveling on a very hot day. It got so hot out that I had everybody make Fortitude saves. Those in heavy armor had a penalty to the saves, because the extreme heat affects people in heavy armor more severely.
However, the heat of that particular day was unusual; not something you would expect to come across on a daily basis. Normally, wearing heavy armor while traveling does not incur penalties. :)
Zeph AC26 HP 42/42 (Shield, Prot from Evil, Bless, Prayer) Loot d20+9=27 ; d8+3=7 ; d100=29 ; Friday January 15th, 2010 5:42:27 PM
(OOC: yeah. I thought that they had only barely seen us too, so I thought I could slip away unnoticed... how far away are we from them? Also, do we now have, Bless and Prayer adding 2 diff bonuses to our hit chance???)
"Thanks for the protective Magic, Yelena." Zeph says as he dismounts his horse and tells it to get away. Then he casts his own Shield on himself for round one.
Round two, Zeph will cast Shocking Grasp and hold the charge in his hand. (OOC: Thats how spells like that work right? You can cast it and hold the charge in your hand if you dont deliver it on the round it is cast, but it is dispelled when you cast another spell right?)
For his move action, he readies an attack with his bow: the first man to move within 30feet of Zeph will get an arrow in the gut. Hit AC 27 (well, 28 really with bless and prayer) and damage is 7. After the attack, Zeph will pull out his spiked chain and begin swinging it around his head. He will also stand near Donovan and Garret.
Yelena Friday January 15th, 2010 7:08:32 PM
OOC: 1. The bless, bull's strength, and shield spells from before never happened. Yelena only casted prayer and magic circle against evil. 2. Yes, according to d20srd.org:
Touch Spells in Combat "Many spells have a range of touch. To use these spells, you cast the spell and then touch the subject, either in the same round or any time later."
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} Saturday January 16th, 2010 9:15:07 AM
So, I can then be wearing my armor?
DM Kathy d20+9=28 ; d20+9=10 ; 2d8+4=15 ; d20+7=21 ; d20+7=24 ; d20+7=22 ; d8+3=5 ; d20+9=25 ; d8+8=16 ; d8+8=13 ; d8+8=15 ; Monday January 18th, 2010 1:23:47 AM Yelena casts Prayer on the group. followed by Magic Circle Against Evil on Donovan. She also brings out and loads her crossbow. She does not have time to fire it yet.
Garret protects himself with a spell, steps to the side, and prepares to attack.
Zeph also casts a spell, but his is offensive rather than defensive. He pulls out his bow and readies an attack of his own.
Donovan, in armor, also prepares for the onslaught. (If you want to make preparations, let me know what they are and I'll do my best to accomodate them.)
Cambar begins calling for negotiations, but it is clear that the black-clad men are not in a talking mood. Seeing this, she charges. She rides past one of the enemy horsemen, knocking him from the saddle. He lies, unmoving, in the road.
The mercenary horsemen, however, seem every bit as well-trained as Cambar. The two remaining riders also charge, also riding by their targets without giving them a chance to attack. One aims for Yelena, connecting for 15 damage. Zeph's arrow twangs as he rides past, and the horseman takes some damage.
The other rides for Donovan, but doesn't get his lance up in time. He misses badly.
Meanwhile, the foot soldiers advance. One moves in front of Garret, and takes a little damage from the monk's blow. Two of them attack Garret, but neither connect. The other attacks Donovan, connecting for 5 damage.
The final member of the band, who seems to be the leader, advances on Yelena. His sword connects for 13 damage.
Note that Cambar is off the map to the south, and one of the enemy horsemen is off the map to the north.
Yelena Monday January 18th, 2010 10:52:15 AM
OOC: And just like that I'm almost dead :)
Yelena reels from the sharp blows, a trickle of blood escaping her mouth and running down her chin. She fixes a menacing glare at the bandit leader and realizes that she is in a very precarious position. She quickly breaks from confronting him and goes to support her comrades.
Withdraw as a full-round action to avoid attack of opportunity. Move to square O4.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:26 HP:25/25] d20+9=13 ; d20+9=17 ; d8+1=6 ; d6=5 ; Monday January 18th, 2010 11:06:23 AM
Garret smiles and presses his attack on the man he already attacked. He punches towards the man's face twice quickly in succession.
----- Using flurry of blows for 2 attacks. First attack will include stunning blow attempt, second will include flaming attack: Attack 1: Hit AC 13. Bleh. Attack 2: Hit AC 17. If that's enough, Damage: 6 + 5 Fire.
Spells in effect: Magic Circle: +1 atk Prayer: +2 AC (deflection) Barkskin: +2 AC (natural)
Cambar (HP38, AC18 charging) d20+12=23 ; d8+5=12 ; d8+5=8 ; d8+5=12 ; d6=1 ; d6=4 ; Monday January 18th, 2010 2:16:12 PM
Cambar charges to 7-8-P-Q. Then, flanking F2 and attacking the villain, she scores a lance hit against AC23, adding a +2 flanking bonus and +1 Prayer spell bonus to her usual +2 when charging. If that hits, she does triple 1d8+5 (including the +1 Prayer bonus) and an extra +2d6 sneak attack: 32 plus 5 sneak attack = 37 total.
Zeph AC28 HP 42/42 (Shield, Prot from Evil, Prayer, Combat Exp +2) Loot d20+9=27 ; 2d6=5; 2d6=5 ; 2d4+5=12 ; d6=4 ; Monday January 18th, 2010 4:30:26 PM
Zeph moves to square R7 (taking an Attack of Opportunity from Fighter3, but that's ok, good luck hitting meh).
Zeph pulls out his spiked chain as he moves and delivers a whelping smack to the poor flanked man. (Flanking with Garret)
Hit AC 27 (-2 from Combat Expertise +2 from flanking, +1 from Prayer), Total damage =21 (+1 from prayer). Sneak attack included. How do you sneak attack with a spiked chain anyway? I'm going to say that it wraps around the poor man's neck and Zeph gives it a nice tug.
(SOrry I pressed 2d6 twice on accident for the sneak attack. Then I realized that I actually do 3d6 sneak attack damage since I leveled up, so I rolled another 1d6.)
DM Kathy d20+7=16 ; d20+9=28 ; 3d8+6=20 ; d20+9=22 ; d20+7=23 ; d20+7=11 ; d20+7=9 ; Tuesday January 19th, 2010 1:27:06 AM
Badly wounded, Yelena retreats to the safety of her companions.
Garret engages his foe, but both blows miss their mark.
Cambar charges back into the fray and downs another opponent.
Zeph makes a daring move to get into position. His opponent attempts to retaliate, but cannot touch the nimble rogue. Zeph's spiked chain flicks with savage intent, and the man is badly wounded.
The enemy horsemen charge. One aims a lance at Donovan, hitting for 20 damage. The other tilts at Yelena, but misses.
The badly wounded footman shifts, and aims a desperate blow at Zeph. It's a better attack than his last, but still doesn't land.
The other footman shifts to attack Donovan, but misses badly. The leader steps up and also attacks Donovan, but his attack is even worse, if that is possible.
There is one enemy horseman off the map to the east.
Yelena 3d8+5=23 ; Tuesday January 19th, 2010 8:37:30 AM
OOC: In Woldian Games, if a player does not promptly post during combat, does their PC do nothing that round, or can the DM have their character take appropriate and prudent actions? Just curious, since I wouldn't want to use our healing resources on non-combatants.
"Lawgiver sustain you." Yelena lays a quick hand on Donovan's shoulder to heal him.
Cure Serious Wounds heals 23 damage on Donovan.
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:52/52} d20+6=16 ; d20+7=20 ; 2d6+19=28 ; Tuesday January 19th, 2010 10:38:34 AM
Hero point reroll. {added +2 to hit due to +4 strength increase) Power Attack @ maximum.
Cringing at the damage done, then feeling a wave of energy surge through him, Donovan looks up at the leader of the troop. With a wicked smile upon his face Donovan hefts his greatsword, and bring it mightily upon his person. With a Oomph, the sword comes down, striking him (hopefully, hit ac22). Doing substantial damage to the leader (again, hopefully) for 28 damage.
Yelena Tuesday January 19th, 2010 10:55:11 AM
OOC: There's Donovan! :) I'm still interested in knowing protocol for missed posters.
Zeph AC28 HP 42/42 (Shield, Prot from Evil, Prayer, Combat Exp +2) Loot d20+10=15 ; 5d6=15 ; Tuesday January 19th, 2010 3:24:03 PM
Zeph moves to Square N-7 (you can move through squares occupied by friends), incurring an Attack of Opportunity from both Fighter 3 and Fighter 1, but gaining the flanking of Fighter 1 with Donovan.
Zeph decides its time to use his Shocking Grasp he had saved up in his hand, he thrusts his hand at Fighter 1's abdomen, hitting Touch AC of 16 (I forgot to add +1 for Yelena's Prayer spell) and dealing 15 damage total (since we decided that we can sneak attack with touch spells a while back)
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:26 HP:25/25] d20+7=24 ; d20+12=30 ; d8+1=4 ; d6=3 ; Tuesday January 19th, 2010 4:25:04 PM
Garret, seeing the one foe drop and the large horse of Cambar nearly roll over him, quickly tumbles to the side and rolls to face another of the attackers. As he rises from his rolling, he swings a foot up and hits the man in the chin as his foot briefly flashes with flames.
----- Tumble through Q5 to get to R5 Tumble to avoid AAO (DC 15): 24 Success! Attack F3: Hit AC 30, Damage: 4+3 Fire
Spells in effect: Magic Circle: +1 atk Prayer: +2 AC (deflection) Barkskin: +2 AC (natural)
Cambar (HP38, AC18 charging) Tuesday January 19th, 2010 4:35:33 PM
OOC to Yelena: Varies from DM to DM. Most, however, either let you retroactively make up the round of actions, or rule that the actions are lost. If more than one poster is missing, or one crucial poster, some DMs delay.
Cambar (HP38, AC25) Tuesday January 19th, 2010 5:28:48 PM
Cambar pulls out her tower shield and uses it, with her lance in one hand. She uses her shield for total cover. At the same time, she spurs her mount to 13-14-M-N. Her plan is to prevent H1 from charging, since there will be no straight line to one of her comrades. She herself, with her total cover, will be immune to charges from both H1 and the enemy off the map. Cambar's AC is now 25, but with total cover, that really makes no nevermind.
DM Kathy d20+7=14 ; d20+7=24 ; d20+7=26 ; d20+9=12 ; d20+9=22 ; 3d8+6=20 ; d20+7=8 ; d20+9=25 ; d8+10=17 ; Wednesday January 20th, 2010 1:06:02 AM Yelena heals Donovan to keep him in the fight. Unfortunately, in casting the spell right next to an opponent, she provokes an Attack of Opportunity. The leader aims a blow at her, but misses. [OOC: if I don't see a Concentration check, I assume you are not casting defensively.]
Donovan, feeling better, aims a powerful blow at the leader. It connects, and draws blood.
Zeph, heedless of the swords of his foes, moves into a flanking position. Their attacks are good, but not good enough. He touches one of the armored foot soldiers, sending a jolting wave of electricity into the man.
Garret tumbles over to deal with the badly wounded foot soldier, and finishes him with a well-placed blow to the head.
Cambar positions herself to protect her friends from another charge from one of the horsemen.
That horseman, ignoring the well-shielded Cambar, moves up instead to flank Zeph. His lance misses, however.
The second horseman, unchallenged, tilts at Yelena again. He possibly hits for 20 damage. [OOC: you have two ACs listed on your character sheet, so I don't know whether a 22 hits or not. Please include your AC in your header.]
The remaining foot soldier, wounded and flanked, attacks Donovan again, missing badly, before stepping out of the flank. The leader also re-positions himself, and attacks Donovan, hitting for 17 damage.
Zeph AC28 HP 42/42 (Shield, Prot from Evil, Prayer, Combat Exp +2) Loot d20+9=20 ; d20+13=23 ; 2d4+5=13 ; 3d6=13 ; Wednesday January 20th, 2010 2:21:41 AM
(OOC: Kathy, please note my reach of 10foot when moving enemies. I don't want to be denied any possible AOO. ;p )
"Cambar, Flank this horseman with me!" Zeph shouts.
Option A: Then, if Cambar decides to heed his call, Zeph uses a move-equivalent action to Feint the Mounted man (DC is 23) and then delivers an attack (Hit flat-footed AC of 20, Damage = 26)
Option B: Now, if Cambar decides NOT flank with Zeph, then he will instead 5-foot hop to square O-7, flanking the leader with Yelena (if she is still alive and well, if not, then I will try to flank with Donovan or maybe Garret if he moves to a good spot) and try the same trick Feint DC is 23, hit flat-footed AC 20, damage 26.
(OOC: Guys, I want you all to know that I spent about an hour trying to decide what to do, taking into account all attack modifiers, possible flanking, bonuses etc. I even thought of using a TRIP attempt to pull the mounted man off the horse, but decided that the Large size of the horse and the 4-leggedness of the horse gives it a +8 bonus to avoid trippage, right? But I wouldn't be trying to trip the horse, just the MAN on the horse, so that wouldn't apply? I'm not sure.
Then I thought of trying to disarm the Leader from a distance, but I thought of the consequences of him rolling higher than me... bad. THEN I thought of readying and action to caste GREASE in the path of the Horseman 2 next time he charged, but I thought that would cause him to perhaps bowling ball into the entire battle, causing all kind of confusion and knocking us over like bowling pins. Finally, I settled on the good old faithful one-two punch of Flank, Feint, Sneak attack, pending Cambar's action and then pending Yelena's AC.)
Donovan {AC:20 ~ HP:35/52, Bless, Bull Strength} d20+6=16 ; d20+9=21 ; 2d6+13=18 ; Wednesday January 20th, 2010 10:12:19 AM
Disregard the first roll. I wasn't going to use Power Attack this round.
{with the bull strength, my to hit is a 23}
Feeling honored in being the adversaries main target, ie the leader choosing me as the main threat, knowing his mistake is going to get him killed, ie my compatriates closing in, Donovan takes the beating in stride. Looking at him, with my blood on his sword, and his blood coating mine, Donovan gives a smile that only a long dead skeleton could appreciate.
With a quick uppercut of his weapon, Donovan gives the leader a permanent scar across his face, hoping the wound is bad enough to decapitate him, but not giving into that idea yet. {hit ac 23 for 18 points}
Yelena Wednesday January 20th, 2010 10:36:58 AM
OOC: Sorry about that. I list temporary scores, such as buffed AC, in parentheses. Used spells have an 'x' on either side of the spell name. Luckily, my AC is 24 standing next to Donovan!
The bandit leader's sword swings for a lethal cut across Yelena's face, but is deflected away with an audible hum by her magic circle. "Now, filth, it is your turn." Yelena takes a 5-foot step to square O3 to avoid an attack of opportunity and casts hold person on the bandit leader.
Will save DC 17 to resist
Yelena Wednesday January 20th, 2010 10:37:58 AM
OOC: Having some trouble. I typed my AC and HP info into the 'Post Name' bar but it did not show when I posted.
Cambar (HP38, AC25) d20+5=11 ; d20+8=21 d6+4=5 Wednesday January 20th, 2010 11:38:26 AM
Cambar is happy to move ten feet forward and flank H1 with Zeph. She holds her tower shield in one hand and -- dropping her lance -- draws and swings her bastard sword with the other. Her attack, at +2 with the flank, is at +5, and hits AC11. A miss.
She also commands her horse to attack too. Her Ride check to do so, at +12, is automatic. Her horse attacks with the +2 flank bonus, hitting AC21 for 5 damage.
Now wait! There's a Prayer Spell, too, right? So the horse hits AC22 for 6, then, I think.
Zeph AC28 HP 42/42 (Shield, Prot from Evil, Prayer, Combat Exp +2) Loot Wednesday January 20th, 2010 12:51:15 PM
Just for the record, Zeph didn't do his actions until Cambar moved into place. Coordinating attacks and such. ;)
Also. Are the Horseman doing ride checks to keep their mounts in the battle? They can lose turns trying to control their mount if they fail ride checks. I'm just saying. Mounted combat is complicated, but a fun change! Good job Kathy.
... too bad Cambar's horse isnt a rogue
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:26 HP:25/25] d20+12=30 ; d8+1=5 ; d6=6 ; d20+10=20 ; d8+1=9 ; d6=4 ; Wednesday January 20th, 2010 6:03:05 PM
Garret frowns as the man drops from his kick to the face, but he turns back the battle and his friends.
Option A: If the leader still stands: Garret rushes towards the leader, still facing Donovan, and attempts a flying kick to his back. His bare foot, flashing again briefly with flames, lands square in the man's spine and the smell of burning clothes and flesh spreads through the air.
Option B: If Donovan has killed the leader: Garret turns and watches as the leader falls to the ground. Spotting the other mounted man, he quickly draws his sling from his waist and lets a stone fly at the man.
----- Option A is a charge to P5, and AC is reduced to 24 until the next round. Hit AC 32 (forgot to add the +2 flanking on the roll), Damage: 5 + 6 fire
Option B firing at H2: Hit AC 20, Damage: 9 (ignore the last roll, please, I got carried away)
Spells in effect: Magic Circle: +1 atk Prayer: +2 AC (deflection) Barkskin: +2 AC (natural)
Donovan {AC:22 ~ HP:35/52, Bless, Bull Strength, Prayer} Thursday January 21st, 2010 1:45:10 PM
{didn't add the ac bonus for prayer, my header has been corrected}
DM Kathy d20+3=4 ; Friday January 22nd, 2010 12:38:41 AM Zeph and Cambar flank the first horseman, and between the two of them, they dispatch him.
Donovan takes another swing at the leader, striking another solid blow that puts the man down.
Garret, seeing the leader fall, slings a stone at the one remaining foot soldier. He hits, drawing a curse and a little blood.
Yelena casts Hold Person on the same foot soldier (I assume you would switch targets when the leader fell). He freezes in his tracks.
Seeing imminent defeat, the one remaining horseman wheels around and gallops off.
You have won the day!
Zeph AC28 HP 42/42 (Shield, Prot from Evil, Prayer, Combat Exp +2) Loot d100=23 ; Friday January 22nd, 2010 3:53:37 AM "Crap" Zeph says out loud as he runs in the last horseman's direction. If Zeph can, he will try to cast Grease right on the feet of the horse and right in front of him a bit. DC 15 to avoid falling down.
If the horse falls, Zeph will run up to the man and try to pull him off the horse and wrestle him to the ground. "Can't let him go" Zeph says to the rest of the group of heroes.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:26 HP:25/25] d20+10=29 ; d4=2 ; Friday January 22nd, 2010 8:38:06 AM
If possible, Garret will attempt to assist in taking down the last horseman with another sling stone.
-----
Hit AC 29, Damage: 2
Donovan {AC:22 ~ HP:35/52, Bless, Bull Strength, Prayer} Friday January 22nd, 2010 10:06:51 AM
Assists Yelena in apprehending her held opponent.
Yelena Friday January 22nd, 2010 6:20:06 PM
OOC: Yes, thank you for reassigning the target of my spell! :)
Yelena grimly regards the frozen opponent before her, "Donovan, please find some rope, quickly. I need you to tie a noose around this man's neck and secure the end to the pommel of Cambar's saddle." She looks into the eyes of the bandit, "If you try to run, I will have my friend here drag you to death. Not until you are unconscious, until you are dead. Understand?" Yelena then begins to disarm the frozen bandit while Donovan retrieves the rope.
DM Kathy d20+4=12 ; d20+4=16 ; d20+10=16 ; d20+4=5 ; d20+4=13 ; Monday January 25th, 2010 12:46:23 AM Donovan and Yelena make quick work of tying up the Held foot soldier. He is not going anywhere, even after the spell wears off.
Zeph casts Grease in front of the fleeing horse. It goes down in a heap, but fortunately avoids serious injury. The horseman manages a soft fall, avoiding injury to himself. He takes a sling stone from Garret but continues fleeing on foot as the horse struggles to try to rise. It fails, and is still on the ground, neighing in panic.
Yelena Monday January 25th, 2010 8:53:32 AM
"We have captured one of them, don't bother pulling your punches!" Yelena shouts to Zeph and Garret. "Donovan, since we have this one secured, would you please begin field-stripping for valuables? We are mounted, so take their armor as well. I will keep watch on our friend here."
Donovan {AC:22 ~ HP:35/52, Bless, Bull Strength, Prayer} Monday January 25th, 2010 10:10:50 AM
Does as Yelena requests.
Cambar (HP38, AC25) d20+9=14 ; d10+3=12 ; Monday January 25th, 2010 1:44:34 PM
Cambar charges after the fleeing enemy, hoping to strike him down. A charge attack with her bastard sword (she dropped her lance earlier in the battle), no shield, two handed. Hits AC14 for 12.
As she races, she laughs and shouts to Donovan, "Cuz, get a horse!"
DM Kathy d20+4=13 ; d20+4=6 ; Tuesday January 26th, 2010 12:19:16 AM
At Yelena's direction, Donovan begins gathering valuables from the fallen. He finds that all of the attackers had quality weapons and armor, masterwork at least. He begins gathering them together.
Meanwhile, Cambar attempts to run down the fleeing horseman, now on foot. (Because apparantly, Cayzle wants me to miss the end-of-adventure deadline we both agreed on. :) ) Her longsword swings wide of its target, however.
Seeing his pursuit, the remaining soldier changes direction, turning off the road and fleeing through broken and uneven ground. Cambar is unable to charge because of the terrain.
The man's horse is still thrashing madly in the grease, whinnying in terror.
Zeph AC28 HP 42/42 (Shield, Prot from Evil, Prayer, Combat Exp +2) Loot d20+13=33 ; Tuesday January 26th, 2010 12:50:47 AM
Zeph feels bad for the horse.
But decides he should pursue the man, he screams "We will catch you and kill you unless you come here NOW. I have a message for your master! I promise no harm will come to you if you give yourself up and deliver our message!" Zeph shouts as he runs after the man
(Bluff check = 33. Natural 20... evil smile..)
Cambar (HP38, AC25) d20+9=20 ; Tuesday January 26th, 2010 7:28:30 AM
OOC to Kathy: LOL! Sorry! I'm dense! As dense as the underbrush this fellow is disappearing into!
Cambar gives up the chase. "Let him go! He can tell those idiots in black not to bug us any more."
She heads back to help with the loot, including the horses. She helps pull the thrashing horse out of the Grease, calming it. Handle Animal 20.
Yelena Tuesday January 26th, 2010 8:55:44 AM
"Let him go, we have this fellow right here who I am sure is eager to please his new friends." She lightly thumps him on the chest with her morningstar, "Aren'tcha?"
Yelena calls to Cambar as she comes back, "So you seem to have encountered these sort of brigands before, what do you usually do with them? Interrogation? Humiliation? Execution? A little bit of everything? Maim them and send them back to their master? Or haul them to town to be interrogated, humiliated, and executed by local constabulary?"
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:26 HP:25/25] Tuesday January 26th, 2010 8:57:48 AM
Garret starts after the fleeing man, but when he disappears into the heavy brush, Garret turns back to the others. Seeing Cambar help the horse, Garret turns his attention to the tied up man. "You know, I don't know we'll get much out of this guy. 1 gold says he tells us that he was hired by some guy to kill us and that's all he knows."
Donovan {AC:22 ~ HP:35/52, Bless, Bull Strength, Prayer} Tuesday January 26th, 2010 2:56:09 PM
Now that I am done collecting their stuff, how's about one of you wiggly folks lay me some healing. Would preeshiate it.
Yelena 2d8+5=15 ; d20+11=18 ; Tuesday January 26th, 2010 3:32:08 PM
"The Lawgiver's blessing upon you." Yelena touches Donovan's shoulder and imparts holy energy to him, binding his wounds. She smiles, "You have to be more careful when playing with children who are rough, Donovan."
Cure Moderate Wounds on Donovan for 15 HP.
Her smile fades as she looks back upon the bandit. She walks over slowly and rests the head of her morningstar against his shoulder. She leans in close and whispers into his ear. Her voice is flat and her words come out slowly, "We will become close, you and I, after tonight. You are a strong man, a man used to violence, but you are not ready for what I will do to you. There will be no bargaining, no quarter, no debate. No silly cat and mouse as you try to deceive me. Because I will not ask you questions. I will hurt you, that is all. I will hurt you tenfold what you tried to do this day. And after I have broken you and you beg to be killed, to be spared, then is when you will tell me everything. We will be as close as brother and sister, and it will make finally killing you all the more painful, because I will know you as well as you know yourself." Yelena leans back, looking him in the eye, "Do you want to me know you?" A small, slow smile crosses her face and she stops whispering, "Tell you what, Garret, I will give you a gold piece for each bone I have to break. It will help me to avoid going too fast in becoming close to my new brother."
Intimidate check 18, plus whatever circumstance modifiers you feel appropriate.
Zeph AC28 HP 42/42 (Shield, Prot from Evil, Prayer, Combat Exp +2) Loot Wednesday January 27th, 2010 12:33:09 AM
Zeph does not heed his friend's calls to leave the fleeing man alone and keeps up the ruse of his bluff.
DM Kathy Wednesday January 27th, 2010 12:33:25 AM Zeph hurls threats, but the fleeing horseman chooses to ignore them. Soon he is out of sight.
Cambar turns her attentions to the horse. She is able to calm the beast and help it to its feet. It stands, trembling, clearly uncertain about what is happening.
Yelena offers some healing to Donovan (and presumably to anybody else who needs it).
You begin questioning the man you captured. You learn nothing new from him. These soldiers were more mercenaries from the group known as the "Sons of Shadow." They have been hired by some king (your prisoner does not know his name) to stop some adventurers so the king can get some book he's keen on. General Calleron's the one who knows the details, but the General wasn't with this group. Basically, these are more of the same guys you fought in the wyvern's lair and on the road to Cinnamon Valley.
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 Loot Wednesday January 27th, 2010 4:03:34 AM
Zeph shrugs at the man's resistance to a nat 20 bluff check.
He walks over to Yelena as his spells begin to dissipate around him and he relaxes.
"Well... I'm sure he got the picture of the message I was going to give him." Zeph says as he wraps his spiked chain around his shoulder like a length of garden hose.
"Yeah... I was actually going to give him a message, wasn't even going to touch him. Was even going to give him a pat on the back... I'm serious guys." ..... if anyone looks at him funny.
"So, the ever pressing question of what to do with captive people? I vote we drop him off at the next town and let the constabulary prosecute him. They know what's best."
(OOC: Hey, DMKathy, can I change my alignment from Neutral Good to Lawful Good? I think its a good stich)
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:26 HP:25/25] Wednesday January 27th, 2010 7:02:22 AM
"Yes, let's be on our way quickly, before they can dispatch more men for us. And perhaps we should be a bit more on guard, as the next group might not be so open about their intentions."
Yelena Wednesday January 27th, 2010 9:33:15 AM
"Last time I checked, banditry was wide open to vigilante justice, but taking him to the local guard is good enough for me." Yelena strips the prisoner down to a loincloth, then ties his hands together with rawhide and secures the line to her saddle. "Let's be off!"
Donovan {AC:22 ~ HP:52/52} Wednesday January 27th, 2010 10:51:49 AM
Loads the packhorse with the stuff gained from the mercs, then, after securing the lead line, mounts his steed and begins moving off with the others. On edge due in part to the previous conflict. Expecting more.
DM Kathy Thursday January 28th, 2010 1:32:41 AM
You tie up your prisoner, and lead him to the next town without further incident. The townsfolk view the spectacle with open astonishment: adventurers riding into town, leading a battered, dispirited man by his bound hands.
The town is too small to have an official constabulary, but the elders consent to take your prisoner off your hands and arrange for his trial.
Doubtless the legend of this strange day will be handed down for generations to come.
You continue on your journey. Mornings are often foggy now, and sunset comes earlier at night. You still have plenty of daylight for travel, though, and temperatures remain pleasant. As you ride past fields and towns, you can see that more and more farmers are beginning their harvest. The season has turned.
You reach Cinnamon Valley without further incident.
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 Loot Thursday January 28th, 2010 3:21:13 AM
Zeph is happy that the group decided to give the man over to the authorities.
When Cinnamon Valley is reached, Zeph says, "So. You guys ever met an accomplished witch?" talking to Donovan and Cambar, the newish companions.
When the group gets to the door, Zeph will knock proudly, ready to give the Opal Sword hidden in his backpack over to the wonderful lady.
He will also shave finally.
Zeph will whisper to Donovan Highlight to display spoiler: {, "Is your cousin available? I'm very impressed by her combat abilities."}
Donovan {AC:22 ~ HP:52/52} Thursday January 28th, 2010 10:10:46 AM
Bellows out a roaring laughter after Zeph whispers to him. I doubt its just her combat abilities that inspired that question. Giving his cousin a sly wink.
Donovan walks off, laughing still, leading the animals to the stables. After tending to them he puts his gear up in the room at the inn that I am sure the group has aquired for their frequent stays, freshens up, eats a little, then goes back to the Lady's house for their debriefing.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:26 HP:25/25] d20+5=25 ; d20+13=31 ; Thursday January 28th, 2010 11:05:48 AM
Garret follows along, enjoying the walk through the countryside. When they arrive near the door, he wonders out loud, "You know, we keep getting intercepted on our way back here. I wonder how long it will be before the bad guys figure out that this is our base on meet us here."
He looks around, suspiciously, as they approach the door.
Spot:25; Listen: 31
Yelena Thursday January 28th, 2010 12:28:38 PM
Yelena takes the chance to freshen herself as well, washing dust and dirt from her clothes and putting on her best tabard for meeting the Lady. She stows her gear at the inn and makes her way over.
Cambar (HP38, AC25) Thursday January 28th, 2010 2:44:10 PM
Cambar scowls at the joking, then grins. "Boys, boys!" she says.
She goes with the group to deliver the sword ... but she is alert for trouble!
DM Kathy Friday January 29th, 2010 1:24:03 AM
You make your way safely to Dulcet's manor in the purple twilight. Madam Dulcet has the door open before you can knock. "Welcome back!" she says. "Did you find it?" When she sees the sword, she smiles. "Good. Are you fit to travel further this evening? I want to finish this as quickly as possible. The sooner that tome is destroyed, the better."
As she speaks, Dulcet bustles about, gathering various items she needs, putting on a long velvet cloak.
"I want to go to Witchspawn," she says. "The strongest ley lines in the area run through there, and my magic will be at its most potent. We can be there in a few hours if we do not dawdle."
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:26 HP:25/25] Friday January 29th, 2010 8:01:11 AM
"I agree, let this be done before another group of bad guys attacks us -- this time with a larger crowd!"
Donovan {AC:22 ~ HP:52/52} Friday January 29th, 2010 10:05:02 AM
With a sigh Donovan goes back to the inn, retrieves his gear, then to the stables retrieving the horses, then returns to the manor. {puts on his armor}
Cambar (HP38, AC25) Friday January 29th, 2010 5:08:44 PM
Cambar is ready and excited about delivering the sword and getting this infamous book destroyed. She rides along, alert and ready for trouble.
Zeph AC20 HP 42/42 Loot Friday January 29th, 2010 5:58:54 PM "Um, sure, we can go. It would be nice to prepare some spells on the first night of rest though. Also, I would like to stop and talk to my former foster father for a few minutes" Zeph requests of Dulcet
If granted, Zeph will stop by Marko Clemso's tannery and talk with him about his adventures, his hawkmen tatoos and piercings, and reasons why he hates undead.
Yelena Friday January 29th, 2010 7:13:22 PM
OOC: Could we assume that a few days passed between the bandit attack and arriving in Cinnamon Valley? That way we could prepare new spells.
Yelena touches her two first fingers to her forehead and nods slightly, "I am ready and waiting, Lady. Let us purge this evil from the Wold."
DM Kathy Saturday January 30th, 2010 4:05:57 AM
[Yes. I meant to convey that several days had passed. You are all healed, and have new spells prepped.]
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