Current DM Jon Sunday January 27th, 2013 1:56:26 PM
The established heroes and the newly arrive representative of Justice ride out to the farm the boy had specified. It is one of the farms on the very edge of the influence of the orb and the family rarely comes in to town other than for supplies.
Traces of smoke on the horizon is the first thing that can be noticed as the group gets closer to the farm and as they round the last bend the farm comes into sight. The barn and silo are smoldering ruins and beyond repair while the house has had every window and door in sight smashed in. There is a well between the house and barn and a corral off to the western side of the yard. The is at least 20' feet of broken fence in the corral and and trail of horses that even a blind man could follow heading out through the break.
Perception checks please and if you're doing any searching.
Anrete [HP: 130/130, AC31/Touch18/FF31, CMD 29, DR2] d20+16=19 ; Sunday January 27th, 2013 8:56:21 PM
Dismounting easily, Anrete strides into the farm and investigates, his zweihänder sheathed but close at hand.
Keela [AC 17; HP 76/76] [Mage Armor; Telepathic Link] Sunday January 27th, 2013 10:36:54 PM
Keela dismounts more slowly, and follows Anrete at a distance. She's really not good at noticing things, but she tries to be ready.
Ezra Cyniq al'Lyz AC 16{20}/16{20}/13{17} -- CMD 13 -- HP 65/65 d20+18=23 ; d20+18=35 ; d20+18=19 ; Monday January 28th, 2013 12:02:07 AM
Having just arrived, Cyniq finds herself leaving. With gentle nudges from her knees she turns her steed about and follows the others from Bryn Baraz. IT doesn't take much to notice that staying with the group requires her to hold back on her pace.
"These raiders, they have been an ongoing problem?"
Once the party arrives at the farm, she rides around the perimeter taking a close look at the ground. Knowing that the terrain can often look different from more than one perspective, she makes several passes around, first in one direction, then in the other. Only dismounting when she finds something of interest.
Perception Checks: 23, 35, 19
Extra Info (DM Donna) Monday January 28th, 2013 1:16:59 AM
Those of you who have been living in Bryn Baraz, roll for your Local Knowledge:
DC10 Highlight to display spoiler: {Problems with rustlers and raiders have occurred off and on ever since the founding of Bryn Baraz.} DC15 Highlight to display spoiler: {In just the past few weeks, there seems to have been an increase in the farther farms and ranches suffering from some cattle rustlers.} DC20 Highlight to display spoiler: {Many of the farms and ranches that have had trouble with their stock disappearing have claimed that the rustling has been the work of a single gang.}
Anrete [HP: 130/130, AC31/Touch18/FF31, CMD 29, DR2] d20+1=11 ; Monday January 28th, 2013 1:38:33 AM
OOC: Local Knowledge is a trained skill? U can't use it untrained, but I will just assume I use an Int check instead?
--------------------------------- Int Check 11
DM OOC: Hmmm...I didn't realize that you can't use Local Knowledge unless you've trained in it. Yes, make an Int check then.
Anrete [HP: 130/130, AC31/Touch18/FF31, CMD 29, DR2] Monday January 28th, 2013 8:17:44 AM
"There is no where without a black sheep or two. That's where ye get ye mutton stew!", Anrete grunts to no one in particular.
Alexi AC 29 Tch 14 Ffted 25 HP 120/120 CMD 28 d20+1=8 ; d20+8=14 ; d20+8=9 ; d20+8=15 ; d20+8=25 ; Monday January 28th, 2013 11:23:50 AM
OOC: should we get a small bonus on this since most of us have been in Bryn Baraz for a couple of years? :)
Int check for Local Knowledge = 8
Alexi, having been away from Bryn for a few months and then cloistered in the Temple for several months more, misses to note anything unusual about the farm (I guess).
Perception +8 = 14
Alexi answers Cyniq, "Out here, far from a huge army, raiders of one sort or another are expected, if not common. Wolves are common on the prairy, as well as other animals, such rare beasts as one called an Ambush Drake. But wolves of this size are out of the norm. These beasts would require a lot of game to feed and their dens would be hard to hide. So whoever commands them must be new to the area, otherwise they'd know to stay away from Bryn's Fearless Four, now Five," Alexi grins. However his mood is downcast as the loss of anyone in Bryn is a very sad day.
Upon arriving at the farm his first impression does not reveal anything other than the obvious. "Secure the perimeter while I check the house. I don't expect survivors but you never know."
He suggests Garret check out the well as he dismount, then cautiously enters the house. Sword drawn, shield ready, he inspects the interior. He moves cautiously in the room, trying to remain to the sides to keep from disturbing any possible tracks, and looks for survivors or bodies.
Perception +8 looking for tracks = 9 Perception +8 looking for survivors/bodies in cabinets/closets/hidey-holes = 15 Perception +8 looking for hidden compartments (such as a false floor leading to a root cellar or concealed wall pannel leading to a 'safe' room) = 25
Alexi AC 29 Tch 14 Ffted 25 HP 120/120 CMD 28 Monday January 28th, 2013 11:25:52 AM
OOC: I'll wait until later this afternoon to post for Garret. I don't remember when he said he'd return.
Extra Extra Info (DM Donna) Monday January 28th, 2013 3:03:18 PM
OOC (naturally): Those of you who have been living in Bryn Baraz may add +2 circumstance bonus to your Local Knowledge/Intelligence check.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:31/29/26 HP:103/103 Ki:12/12 CMD: 30] d20+3=16 ; d20+21=28 ; Monday January 28th, 2013 4:30:27 PM
As Garret looks around the farm (perception: 28), he speaks to the newcomer and says, "There's always been raiders here, least as long as there's been farms. Sometimes has been worse than others, of course. This happens to be one of those 'worse' times, I suppose."
Garret's appearance, for the new guy ;)
An average size halfling, Garret is noticed mostly by the fact he's unnoticeable. He does not stand out in appearance at all, and in a crowd disappears more than normal due to his small size. His voice is quiet, steady, and even. His black hair is nearly always up in a topknot, sticking up about 4 inches, with the sides of his head shaved. On the sides of his head, and leading across to his eyes, there are various dark but colorful tattoos. He travels light, so is seldom seen with much gear. He is usually seen with tan leather pants that end just above his ankles and no shirt, showing his furry body. Around his waist is a rope belt with a couple small pouches hanging off of them, one heavy with small rocks. He is seldom without his sling, either in his hand or on his belt. On his back is a small backpack, clearly far from full.
OOC: Local knowledge int check: 16 Hey, I'm back! Yay!
Oh, and I think I read somewhere that when you have a BAB with multiple attacks, you add them to determine the BAB for things like feat qualifications. So Garret's at +8/+3 BAB. That's where I came up with the +11. It sounds like wherever I read that, I was wrong...
Alexi AC 29 Tch 14 Ffted 25 HP 120/120 CMD 28 Monday January 28th, 2013 9:04:27 PM
OOC: aw shucks, Garret is back. I wanna be a monk next time. :}
Keela [AC 17; HP 76/76] [Mage Armor; Telepathic Link] Monday January 28th, 2013 11:41:20 PM
"Last time we chased raiders, it turned out to be demons," Keela adds.
[No Knowledge check needed; Keela and I both remember that--VIVIDLY!]
The Search for Survivors (DM Donna) Tuesday January 29th, 2013 2:42:47 AM
The wind blows mournfully across the scorched earth of what's left of this ranch, causing the weather-beaten board that was haphazardly swinging from a single eyehook on the top brace of the battered corral gate to finally give up its struggle to remain in place and fall to the ground, with only the letters BAR ZERO RAN visible on its partially burned surface.
Between the thorough investigation of Alexi and the sharp eyes of Garret, the party discovers several things: the interior of the house has been deliberately trashed. One of the bedrooms (in particular) has been ransacked to within an inch of its life, the wardrobe and a chest broken open and gowns, petticoats and all manner of feminine unmentionables strewn about the place.
The kitchen shows signs of someone attempting first aid: bloody bandages and a bit of a blood trail lead towards the only door that is still on its hinges. From its position, it is likely to be a door that leads to a cellar.
Garret notes that there is also another blood trail that leads out the broken back door, and that the heavily-trampled ground indicates that someone was dragged out to the corral.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:31/29/26 HP:103/103 Ki:12/12 CMD: 30] d20+21=41 ; Tuesday January 29th, 2013 1:09:18 PM
Garret explains what he sees about the blood trails to the group. He says, "Looks like there may be survivors in the cellar. But it looks like someone, or something, else went that way, towards the corral. Perhaps we should check that direction out first."
He peeks out the door (perception: 41), following the blood trail towards the corral.
Alexi AC 29 Tch 14 Ffted 25 HP 120/120 CMD 28 Tuesday January 29th, 2013 4:11:43 PM
Alexi opens the cellar door and calls out "Help is here! We're from Bryn! The Company of Four! Anyone alive?"
He touches the wall into the cellar and calls upon Domi's power to bring forth some light. Cast Light upon the wall opposite the cellar door hinge.
Normal Light in a 20' radius.
Alexi AC 29 Tch 14 Ffted 25 HP 120/120 CMD 28 d20+8=20 ; Tuesday January 29th, 2013 5:07:35 PM
Alexi's Perception Check for the cellar = 20
Anrete [HP: 130/130, AC31/Touch18/FF31, CMD 29, DR2] d20+16=22 ; Tuesday January 29th, 2013 7:50:21 PM
Knowing his intimidating demeanor, Anrete decides to stand guard at the back and watches for possible traps or ambushes.
--------------------------------- Perception: 22
Keela [AC 17; HP 76/76] [Mage Armor; Telepathic Link] Tuesday January 29th, 2013 10:32:10 PM
Keela stands near the cellar door as Alexi checks to see if anybody is down there. Garret's right; they really should be headed for the corral. That's where the trouble is likely to be. But she's hoping--really, really hoping--that whoever's down there survived the attack.
Ezra Cyniq al'Lyz AC 16{20}/16{20}/13{17} -- CMD 13 -- HP 65/65 Tuesday January 29th, 2013 11:00:19 PM
Cyniq completed her rounds and rejoined the others near the house. She hadn't seen anything unexpected and decided to observe the others as they went about their own investigation.
Upon seeing Garret following some trail from the house she dismounted and whispered a soft command to her steed before following Garret towards the corrals. "What did you find inside?"
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:31/29/26 HP:103/103 Ki:12/12 CMD: 30] Wednesday January 30th, 2013 12:45:05 PM
Garret continues watching the ground and the area, looking for any signs of movement as he says to Cyniq, "Blood. Lots of blood. And a trail headed out this way. I think the others are checking the cellar for survivors."
In the Cellar (DM Donna) Wednesday January 30th, 2013 5:21:08 PM
Alexi's spell reveals a rough set of steps that descend about ten to twelve feet or so under the house.
It also reveals the body of a person--male, probably--lying face-down about five feet or so from the foot of the stairs. The person doesn't move or respond to those calling out. If the party members want to make sure this person is alive, they will need to come down and check on it up close and personal (and make a Heal check, too, please.)
Outside, Between the House and the Corral (DM Donna) Wednesday January 30th, 2013 5:27:13 PM
Garret's eyes don't have to be sharp to see that the busted corral is still quite empty.
However, a sound comes to Garret's ears: a sort of rumble, like thunder in the distance. However, at about the same time he also hears...a sneeze, perhaps..?
The only other things within sight are the barn (really little more than smoldering beams, stark and blackened, sticking up like the burnt fingers of a giant), a stone well that likely provided the water for the house...and a shed with its door banging occasionally in the erratic breeze.
Both Cyniq and Garret need to roll Perception checks again.
Alexi AC 29 Tch 14 Ffted 25 HP 120/120 CMD 28 d20+9=27 ; Wednesday January 30th, 2013 7:51:34 PM
Alexi cautiously moves down the stairs, sword now in its scabbard. OOC: if he needs to in order to see better in the cellar, he'll cast the Light spell on the wall at the bottom of the cellar stairs.)
If nothing immediately jumps at him, he then asks Domi to guide him (Casts Guidance) while he checks the man for vital signs. Heal +8 +1(Guidance) = 27.
Keela [AC 17; HP 76/76] [Mage Armor; Telepathic Link] Wednesday January 30th, 2013 10:19:19 PM
Keela waits for Alexi at the top of the stairs, ready to rush to his aid, or Garret's, as the situation warrants.
Ezra Cyniq al'Lyz AC 16{20}/16{20}/13{17} -- CMD 13 -- HP 65/65 d20+18=34 ; Thursday January 31st, 2013 12:21:28 AM "Pray a trail of blood is for a survivor and not a slow death."
Perc: 34
GM is welcome to roll for me to keep things moving
In the Cellar (DM Donna) Thursday January 31st, 2013 3:45:45 AM
Alexi goes to the unmoving form and turns it over--it's a teenaged boy sporting bandages on his chest and shoulder. The chest bandage (a very sloppy job to Alexi's healing eye) has slipped from its intended position and the boy's chest is covered with blood. Alexi reckons that the lad has clearly lost a lot of blood to judge by the pallor of his face.
However, the victim is still breathing, albeit in shallow, ever fainter breaths...
DM OOC: in game terms, the boy is no doubt at his negative hit point threshold and fading fast.
Anrete [HP: 130/130, AC31/Touch18/FF31, CMD 29, DR2] d20+16=21 ; Thursday January 31st, 2013 8:49:21 AM
Anrete realizes that what the lad needs is a healer, and not a bloodthirsty barbarian. "Ye fix him up Alexi-knight. I will go check out Garret-clown and Ezra-justice."
Anrete turns and strides towards the corral.
--------------------------------- Perception 21
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:31/29/26 HP:103/103 Ki:12/12 CMD: 30] d20+21=26 ; d20+21=29 ; Thursday January 31st, 2013 1:16:42 PM
Garret whispers to Cyniq, "Did you hear that?" He steps to the side and tries to melt into the shadows (Stealth 26) while he continues looking carefully into the corral (Perception: 29).
Outside, Between the House and the Corral (DM Donna) Thursday January 31st, 2013 4:08:18 PM
Both Cyniq and Garret can tell from the churned-up ground that the blood trail leads to a spot about ten or fifteen feet from the door to the house (where it seems a number of horses had been waiting) before it disappears. Cyniq's best guess is that someone was dragged from the house and likely taken away on horseback.
The corral is still empty, and the only shadows that Garret can melt into are the ones cast by the house, which is about a hundred feet (give or take) from the open area of the corral...which is still quite empty.
Last but not least, both Cyniq and Garret assess the following sounds: thunder (perhaps) in the distance, silence from the shed and, yes--that sneeze DID come from the well...
Ezra Cyniq al'Lyz AC 16{20}/16{20}/13{17} -- CMD 13 -- HP 65/65 d20+17=36 ; d20+18=32 ; Thursday January 31st, 2013 4:32:04 PM
Cyniq nods to Garret and points towards the well. Checking the direction of the sun and any shadows cast on the well, Cyniq will circle to the far side of the well from the sun.
Not really expecting anything hostile, Cyniq still finds it prudent to plan ahead as she carefully peaks over the edge, trying to keep from casting any shadow into the well.
stealth: 36 Perception: 32
Alexi AC 29 Tch 14 Ffted 25 HP 120/120 CMD 28 Thursday January 31st, 2013 10:00:10 PM
Seeing the lad in really bad shape, Alexi prays to Domi for life saving healing and casts Stabilize on him, then picks him up and carries him to the main room.
"Keela, he's in bad shape but Domi has spared him. I could do more for him but Domi may want me to use what power I have left when we chase after the culprints. If we could get a message to the town to get a couple of the millitia to pick him up, he should be ok.
Peeking Into the Well (DM Donna) d20+18=30 ; Friday February 1st, 2013 1:41:06 AM
Even as Garret continues to indulge his fascination with the empty corral, Cyniq very carefully approaches the well. She is rewarded with the sound of another sneeze--obviously muffled. The Justicar peers over the lip of the stone construction, and sees that the water level in the well is about fifteen feet (or so) below her...and that there is a man clinging to one side of the interior. He looks like he must have just climbed out of the water, for his simple clothing is wet and clinging to his body.
The man seems to sneeze into the crook of one arm, muffling the sound, and he turns his face up to finally see Cyniq there. She can see that he looks very surprised and rather wary as he tenses up in expectation of whatever Cyniq may do.
Anrete [HP: 130/130, AC31/Touch18/FF31, CMD 29, DR2] Friday February 1st, 2013 11:08:31 AM
Anrete enters the corral and notices the man.
A survivor?
DM OOC: If Anrete is in the corral, he sees nothing but an empty corral. However, Cyniq HAS found someone inside the well.
Ezra Cyniq al'Lyz AC 16{20}/16{20}/13{17} -- CMD 13 -- HP 65/65 Friday February 1st, 2013 11:26:43 AM "I expect it's rather cold and wet down there, why don't you come on out of there and lets chat." Cyniq isn't familiar with the styles around these parts, for all she knows, he's a raider that fell in and got left behind.
Pulling some rope from her haversack she whistles, both alerting the others and calling her mount. Tying one end to the saddle she tosses the other end into the well. "Tie that under your arms and I'll have ye out shortly."
Once he's tied the rope she walks her mount away from the well pulling the man up.
Picture This... (DM Donna) Friday February 1st, 2013 12:56:12 PM Here is a diagram of the present situation.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:31/29/26 HP:103/103 Ki:12/12 CMD: 30] d20+21=24 ; d20+21=37 ; Friday February 1st, 2013 1:55:33 PM
As Cyniq speaks to the man down the well, Garret moves around towards the shed, not completely sure that the attackers are gone. He keeps his eye towards Cyniq in case the person in the well attacks, but he is more interested in ensuring the shed is empty and safe (Stealth: 24, Perception: 37).
Keela [AC 17; HP 76/76] [Mage Armor; Telepathic Link] Saturday February 2nd, 2013 2:07:39 PM
Keela remembers the Telepathic Bond.
We've found a survivor in the cellar, but he's in pretty bad shape, she sends through the link. What have you got out there?
DM Jon - The Man in the Well Saturday February 2nd, 2013 2:36:03 PM
The man in the well peers up at Cyniq a long moment before giving a small nod and a grunted, "Alright." and the rope is secured around himself. He clings to the lip of the well as he reaches it and helps pull himself the rest of the way over before dumbly standing there looking at the wreckage of the yard around him. "By the Gods..."
He stand there, ignoring any questions the heroes may pose to him, and then frantically looks around before starting to call out, "Izzak? Maymel?! Junior!?" and he runs for the house.
I'll Tell You Mine If You Tell Me Yours (DM Donna) d20=9 ; d20=1 ; d20=15 ; d20=9 ; d20=17 ; Saturday February 2nd, 2013 2:48:51 PM INSIDE THE HOUSE: Alexi stabilizes the unconscious teenager without using spells and carries the lad up to the kitchen, where Keela and Garret wait. Even as Alexi explains his intentions to them, however, Garret notices that Cyniq has apparently found something in the well, and goes to check out the shed with the open door.
As Alexi carefully places the boy from the basement on the kitchen floor, he can hear thunder in the distance.
OUTSIDE: The man in the well climbs out with Cyniq's assistance. He surveys what's left of the ranch and then takes off for the kitchen door.
Anrete still finds the corral empty.
Garret--having stealthily made his way from the back door of the house over to the shed--notices that the door is open only because it's been busted open from the outside. Inside the shed are all kinds of farming implements, otherwise the little storage building is empty.
The monk turns around in the open doorway of the shed in time to see the wet ex-occupant of the well bolt for the back door of the house. Then Garret hears the telepathic voice of Keela in his head telling him about the survivor inside the house and asking about the situation outside.
DM OOC: Keela's communication can actually be heard by/shared with Alexi and Anrete, too.
Alexi AC 29 Tch 14 Ffted 25 HP 120/120 CMD 28 Saturday February 2nd, 2013 8:21:00 PM
The thunder catches Alexi's attention. Mainly because last time they had thunder it brought a winged death and fire on half of Bryn. He shakes his head to clear those memories then the other thing that thunder also brings comes forth.
"Thunder? Where there's thunder there's rain! Rain will destroy any tracks that the culprints made! We can't dally any longer, we must be off after them!"
Alexi places the limp body on a couch/bed/pile of rags, and looks at Keela. "I wish I could do more for him. Jet certainly could, I know. But we just don't have the time. That youth is bound to come rushing back here as soon as he has a few ales in him. We must leave..." Alexi is cut of by a shout from outside!
"That does not sound like one of us!" he says as rushing footsteps are heard nearing the back door.
Anrete [HP: 130/130, AC31/Touch18/FF31, CMD 29, DR2] Monday February 4th, 2013 8:24:47 AM
Finding nothing in the corral, Anrete heads towards the next landmark - the well, where the elven justice is presently at.
Noticing the darting figure towards the kitchen, Anrete swiftly gives chase.
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:31/29/26 HP:103/103 Ki:12/12 CMD: 30] d20+21=23 ; Monday February 4th, 2013 11:06:11 AM
Garret stops outside the shed and relaxes a little. He responds to Keela, "We found another hiding outside, it looks like the father. He's running inside now. I don't see anything else out here, but a storm is coming on quickly."
He takes one more look around, hoping to find some tracks or evidence of where any attackers may have fled (Perception; 23).
Keela [AC 17; HP 76/76] [Mage Armor; Telepathic Link] Monday February 4th, 2013 11:52:18 AM
Keela goes to meet the man running into the house. "We found somebody in the cellar," she says. "He's still alive, but he's badly hurt. Another one, a boy, made it to town. He's the one who told us to come."
[OOC: It was easy to miss in all the flurry and confusion, but everyone except Cyniq is linked via Telepathic Bond ]
Ezra Cyniq al'Lyz AC 16{20}/16{20}/13{17} -- CMD 13 -- HP 65/65 Monday February 4th, 2013 3:40:16 PM "You're welcome?..." Cyniq curls the rope up and stows it while watching the human run into the house, I forget how impetuous humans can be...
Rope stowed, she heads into the house after the man.
Alexi AC 29 Tch 14 Ffted 25 HP 120/120 CMD 28 Monday February 4th, 2013 9:11:40 PM
Alexi is relieved that it appears it is someone from the farm that is running up to the house. That means they can leave the boy in good hands and set off following the tracks before the rains come.
He waits for the person to come in so he can explain the boys condition to him or her.
Howdy, Neighbor..? (DM Donna) d20=12 ; d20=1 ; d20=3 ; d20=2 ; d20=17 ; Tuesday February 5th, 2013 12:40:01 AM DM OOC: Hmmm...I had hoped that the Man From The Well would at least speak again, but as he isn't...
Anrete is quick and reaches the man just as he gets to the open doorway. Before Anrete can do anything, however, the man looks wildly around the kitchen and sees the teenager lying where Alexi placed him.
"Izzak!!!" The man goes to the side of the unconscious lad, falling to his knees beside the boy. "By the gods...is he...is he...dead..?" The man looks around to Alexi and then Keela, tears shimmering in his eyes.
The highly emotional outburst causes Anrete to pause at the door sill, just shy of actually going inside the house. The feeling of suspicion and unease that prompted him to investigate the corral returns--only it isn't directed at the stranger now clasping the limp hand of the survivor from the basement. Anrete turns around, looking in the direction of the corral once more, as the sound of thunder seems to be a bit closer.
Then the realization hits him: there is approaching thunder...but the sky is completely cloudless...
Every PC needs to roll Perception again--and Anrete gets a +2 circumstance bonus to his roll.
DC 16 Highlight to display spoiler: { you can hear the thunder, too. (If your PC heard it before, then they can tell that the thunder IS coming closer.}
DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { you can hear thunder, you realize that it IS coming closer...and that the thunder is NOT originating from the sky.}
Roll a Natural 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { and I'll email you the result. 8D}
Anrete [HP: 130/130, AC31/Touch18/FF31, CMD 29, DR2] d20+16=19 ; Tuesday February 5th, 2013 9:58:47 AM
"B'ware! Something is coming closer!! The corral!"
Alexi AC 29 Tch 14 Ffted 25 HP 120/120 CMD 28 d20+8=12 ; Tuesday February 5th, 2013 11:14:07 AM
Alexi steps out of the way as the man rushes in. Izzak you say? He is alive, barely. Domi has insured his survival, for now at least.
The rumbling catches Alexi's attention again, but unlike that event several months ago, where there was clouds, rain, and wind, so far he saw nary a cloud, not even a whisp!
Perception +8 = 12
Unable to determine the source or cause, Alexi's aprehension grows. "Come, we must be off immediately!" Expecting the others to follow, he rushes to Lobo, mounts, and heads to the corral to pick up the tracks and follow them.
OOC: I think you said the tracks were fairly obvious.
Keela [AC 17; HP 76/76] [Mage Armor; Telepathic Link] d20+2=18 ; Tuesday February 5th, 2013 11:25:46 AM
Keela heads for the door. Whatever that thunder-y stuff is, it probably isn't good.
"The other boy made it to town," she repeats, hoping the distraught man will hear it and register it at some point.
Then she heads out the door and moves to mount Daisy.
Ezra Cyniq al'Lyz AC 16{20}/16{20}/13{17} -- CMD 13 -- HP 65/65 d20+18=21 ; Tuesday February 5th, 2013 1:20:15 PM
Alerted to the growing noise Cyniq calls her mount and climbs aboard. Better to move quickly, I think. You, in the house! Look sharp!"
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:31/29/26 HP:103/103 Ki:12/12 CMD: 30] d20+21=39 ; Tuesday February 5th, 2013 1:36:16 PM
Garret looks up again and realizes the thunder is not actually thunder (perception: 39). He calls out to the others, "That's not thunder! We better gather together outside, I don't know what this is, but its getting closer!"
DM Jon - The Man in the Well Tuesday February 5th, 2013 9:37:09 PM
"Alive... Praise Domi..." and he looks around to those present as he gently strokes the boys hair, "What about a woman? Has there been any sign of my wife Maymel? Please.."
DM OOC: ever-so-slightly edited for spelling.
There Goes the Neighborhood (DM Donna) Wednesday February 6th, 2013 5:38:07 AM
The man goes to the side of the unconscious teenager, calling him by name and very obviously upset at Izzak's condition. He also begs of Keela and Alexi to tell him news of his wife.
Many of the party members become aware that the thunder they are hearing is getting louder--it is clearly approaching the ranch.
Alexi and Keela hurry through the house to get to their horses, which had been left in the front yard. Both of them manage to mount up.
Cyniq mounts her steed and reins it around to face the north northwest.
Anrete ends up also facing north northwest--the direction of the burnt-out silo.
Garret now realizes that the "thunder" is actually the rumble of an approaching...earthquake?...as his hairy little feet register tremors in the ground...tremors that are getting stronger and originating from the area of the burnt-out silo to the north northwest.
Anrete and Garret find it hard to stay on their feet--even the steed that Cyniq sits upon begins to uncharacteristically dance nervously, staying in place only due to the Justicar's grip on the reins.
Everyone (regardless of their location) can feel the distinctive shuddering of the earth and the ever-louder rumble that accompanies it. Cyniq, Anrete and Garret have practically a front row seat to the spectacle of the ground in front of the silo swelling up and bursting like some monstrous pustule, the breach in the earth giving birth to a giant, misshapen stone humanoid some 40 feet high and weighing over 60,000 pounds!
It has bits of prairie weed and roots about its sandstone body. Malevolent light reflects from its ruby eyes, and the gaping maw looks like a grave as it booms out a nigh-deafening challenge in a voice that sounds like huge boulders grinding against each other:
If your PC can understand the Terran language, Highlight to display spoiler: {:
"Peace is gone, and I sleep no longer. My land now!"}
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:31/29/26 HP:103/103 Ki:11/12 CMD: 30] d20+50=61 ; Wednesday February 6th, 2013 11:52:39 AM
Garret says through the mental link, "Anyone know how to stop a giant pile of stone? This thing looks pretty angry."
With that he takes off running. Garret runs with incredible speed to the west. He easily leaps into the corral (acrobatics: 66), runs across the corral, through the gate, and around, behind the massive pile of stone (to about G3).
OOC: Full run movement, so I think he can move 50 x 4 =200 feet, or 40 squares. Uses 1 ki point to help Acrobatics skill.
Ezra Cyniq al'Lyz AC 16{20}/16{20}/13{17} -- CMD 13 -- HP 65/65 Wednesday February 6th, 2013 12:43:08 PM
Cyniq yells out to the others while keeping an eye on the sandy creature. "Anyone catch what it said?"
Turning to the creature, she will try in Aklo, followed by Dwarven, Giant, and Woldian Below "Hail, peace unto you."
While her mount is fast, she decides that a creature of the earth will require some height advantage, and casts fly.
OOC: Would casting fly on a phantom steed work? It is a magical creation, and thus not necessarily susceptible to the whims of a mundane horse that found itself flying. If so, then the fly is cast on the horse, else Cyniq casts it on herself.
DM OOC: as a Level 11 Phantom Steed, the mount can invoke the spell effect of Water Walk, so I will grant that Cyniq may cast Fly on the steed...however, once you're in the air, you'll need to make a Ride (Flying Mount) check at various DC levels, dependent upon what kind of maneuvers you're making with the steed.
Keela [AC 17; HP 87/76] [Mage Armor; Telepathic Link; False Life] d10+10=11 ; Wednesday February 6th, 2013 1:55:18 PM
Keela immediately gives up on the idea of riding closer. There's no way she'll be able to persuade Daisy to get closer to that---rock thing, whatever it is. She dismounts. [To X-25, if possible.]
"Stay in the house!" she calls to the man and boy. She knows perfectly well that the house won't provide much in the way of cover, but maybe if the rock thing doesn't see them, it won't try to squish them. Anyway, it's the best she can do.
She casts a spell to make herself a little more durable, because she suspects she's going to need it. [Cast False Life ]
Alexi AC 30 Tch 13 Ffted 27 HP 120/120 CMD 28 Wednesday February 6th, 2013 9:24:45 PM
OOC: oh boy, here we go flying again... sigh. Having just DMed a fight with flying mad sorcerers and such, I found that Flying is not as simple as it seems. Much less so if it is the mount! Good Luck, heh, you'll need it.
On the other hand, we all will need Good Luck, shucks! :)
IC: Alexi frowns at the giant Sand Creature that burst through the earth right in front of them and glares at his lance. Will this little stick do any good or just tickle it?
"Whatever it is babling about, it can't be wanting to be friends. Not without reaching a hand out to shake."
Alexi shouts back into the house, "SIR! Get the boy and yourself into the cellar! NOW! That's an order!"
Alexi then taps a tatoo and activates a Barkskin spell and urges Lobo to mve to I24 (Lobo moves at 35' with chain barding).
OOC: Waiting to Post (DM Donna) Wednesday February 6th, 2013 10:56:19 PM
I'm giving Anrete's player until 10am Thursday (Eastern Time) to post.
Oh, and in case you need a visual to see what you're fighting, here it is...only yours is forty feet tall and about twenty-ish feet wide--and very angry.
8)
Anrete [HP: 130/130, AC31/Touch18/FF31, CMD 29, DR2] d20+14=32 ; d20+9=24 ; d20+4=20 ; d6+5=6 ; d6+5=7 ; d6+5=8 ; 2d6=8 ; Thursday February 7th, 2013 2:11:02 AM
Anrete roars back at the stone monster before launching 3 javelins in rapid succession as he advances fearlessly.
---------------------------------------------------------- Anrete takes a 5 step move towards the monster and use quick draw and full attack throws.
Throw1: AB 32 DMG 6+8(improve vital strike) Throw2: AB 24 DMG 7 Throw3: AB 20 DMG 8
Anrete [HP: 130/130, AC31/Touch18/FF31, CMD 29, DR2] Thursday February 7th, 2013 2:15:16 AM
OOC: Sorry for the late post. Spent the whole night catching my neighborhood cat to give her a bath.
btw, I am very sad that I will be away for the entire of next week to visit my in-laws (they don't have internet or computers). Guess I gonna miss much of the combat. Can someone help me role-play?
Anrete will probably be raging when he comes into close combat, and after he gonna some buff. Cuz Anrete is has a +4 vs spell when he is raging (both good and bad spells).
Combat Round 1 (DM Donna) Thursday February 7th, 2013 4:42:04 AM
Garret immediately uses his nimble skills to position himself behind the mountain...er, ah...I mean--the monster.
Cyniq tries to hail the huge creature in several different languages, but none of them seem to have any effect on it...so she casts Fly on her steed.
Keela dismounts, shouting a warning to the people in the house. She prepares for the rather inevitable fight by casting False Life on herself as her horse--terrified by the booming voice and presence of the gigantic monster--proceeds to gallop away to the southeast as fast as its hooves can carry it.
Alexi orders the people in the house to take cover in the basement and activates his Barkskin tatoo. Unfortunately, since he didn't dismount first, Alexi finds that he must get his panicked horse under control because it is bucking and stomping in its instinctive efforts to flee the area. (Make a Ride check versus DC25 or be tossed off the horse for 6hp damage. If Alexi fails the check, he can make a Reflex save versus DC25 to halve the damage.)
Almost forgot--Keela must make a Reflex save versus DC20 to avoid getting trampled by Alexi's horse. Failure means that Keela suffers 6hp damage.
The other two horses are mindlessly trying to rip free from the hitching rail they are tied to, terrified by the monster by the barn.
Anrete lets his battle-honed instincts reign, too: he defiantly hurls three of his javelins at the humungous beastie.
The gargantuan creature's attention at first is captured by the speedy monk's movement--until the barbarian's javelins strike at its earthy skin. Anrete and Cyniq have time to register that only the first of his javelins actually sticks into the monster--the other two bounced off the more rocky parts of the thing--before the huge juggernaut charges at the tiny-in-comparison Anrete, roaring its rage as it shatters through the wooden rails of the corral, its massive fists raised high over its head in preparation of swatting Anrete like a bug...
DM OOC: Anrete is very lucky that this monster's "charge" has technically been impeded by the wooden rails of the corral--it means that the monster cannot actually hit at Anrete until the next round.
Ezra Cyniq al'Lyz AC 16{20}/16{20}/13{17} -- CMD 13 -- HP 65/65 d20+7=19 ; 5d4+5=13 ; Thursday February 7th, 2013 11:27:27 AM "So much for a diplomatic approach!" Cynig can't help but shake her head as the others attack.
"Well this is a little close for comfort, let's move someplace where we can get a better view." That said, Cyniq directs her mount to fly up and take an aerial over watch position (w-x9, 30' up, move is 60')
From her vantage point she holds out a hand and whispers an incantation, as she utters the last word, five balls of silvery energy fly from her fingers, spinning about each other and unerringly impacting into the creature. "Let's see how this works out..."
Magic Missile: damage=13
Ride: Guide with knees DC 5=19 ooc: applicable knowledge check for the creature?
DM OOC: now that Cyniq and her mount are up in the air, you will need to roll your Ride check before you do anything else in your round. I will put the DC you need to beat in my posts here on out.
Keela [AC 17; HP 87/76] [Mage Armor; Telepathic Link; False Life] d20+8=20 ; d20+9=24 ; d6+5=9 ; d20+9=29 ; d20+9=21 ; 22d6=86 ; 22d6=84 ; 5d6=17 ; d20=10 ; Thursday February 7th, 2013 11:43:11 AM
At the last moment, Keela manages to dodge away from Alexi's frantic horse [Reflex save 20 on the nose!].
Cautiously, she creeps around the corner of the house [to V-21]. Using her Lesser Rod of Quicken, she sends a Ray of Enfeeblement streaming toward the large rock thing. [Hit Touch AC 24. Critter takes a -9 penalty to Strength. Fort save DC 19 to cut that in half.]
Then Keela unleashes her main spell for the round, Disintegrate! Another ray shoots from her finger. [hit Touch AC 29, which is a natural 20. I think I can crit with this thing. Confirmed to Touch AC 21. Damage is 86 if it is not a crit, or 170 if it is a crit. DC 24 Fort save reduces the damage to 17.]
What is this thing, anyway? Keela wonders. [Knowledge check! 32 for Arcana, 31 for Planes, 28 for Dungeoneering or Nature.]
[Note: Keela does have the Precise Shot feet, so firing into melee should not be an issue.]
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:31/29/26 HP:103/103 Ki:11/12 CMD: 30] d20+50=66 ; Thursday February 7th, 2013 2:55:03 PM
Garret follows the giant creature and makes for the head of the beast. He runs up behind it and makes a tremendous leap, hoping to land on the creature and hold on.
OOC: Acrobatics for jump: 72. He's going to jump as high as he can and then attempt to hold on to the creature. Ideally, he's looking for a place to stand and kick the thing in the head...
Alexi AC 30 Tch 13 Ffted 27 HP 120/120 CMD 28 d20+15=26 ; d20+16=23 ; d20+15=29 ; 3d8+9=16 ; d20+15=30 ; Thursday February 7th, 2013 10:39:22 PM
Ride +15 check versus DC25 = 26
Alexi's horsemanship pays off as he keeps Lobo from going AWOL.
OOC: Normally, warhorses do not panick in battle, so I'm assuming there's something else? Just sheer size of the thing? Also, does Alexi still get his Barkskin spell off and also Move? My guess is that getting a mount under control would be a Move action. Activating the Tatoo a Standard Action, which leaves Alexi on the same spot but with a controlled mount.
Spells in Effect: Barkskin
OOC: By eyeballing it, it looks like, due to the size of the thing, Alexi has a Straight Line to the monster, barely, for a Charge. If not, the use case Two. IC: Case 1: Alexi, keeping his butt in the saddle sees the action of his friends and takes action himself. Lelveling his lance, he charges the monstrosity (55' to R15 by my calculations). The lance length means he doesn't have to close to R14.
Charge Att +16 = 23 Ride (Guide with Knees) DC5 = 29 DMG (Spirited Charge) = 3d8+9 = 16 Ride Check in case he uses AoO vs Lobo = 30, beat DC30 to hit Lobo, fail = miss
DM OOC: Well, it's not the battle that's spooking the horses--it's the behemoth itself. However, Alexi's horsemanship has saved the day, so no harm, no foul.
Anrete [HP: 163/163, AC31/Touch18/FF31, CMD 29+3, DR3] [Enraged] d20+20=34 ; 6d6+24=42 ; Friday February 8th, 2013 1:16:09 AM
Grinning beneath his demonic full-face helmet, Anrete gives a silent scream as he enters into a rage of cold fury. His massive blade resting easily in his hands, the mithril-armored barbarian dances back gracefully before slashing strongly at the stone behemoth.
----------------------- Rage (1/27): +6 Str +6 Con +3 Will -2 AC Guarded Stance (1/6): +2 Dodge vs Melee Superstition: +4 Saving throw vs Spells, Spell-like, Supernatural abilities (must make save even against friendly spells) Power Attack: -3 AB +9 DMG
1. Free action to enter rage 2. Move action to go into guarded stance 3. Vital Strike Power Attack 1: AB34 DMG42
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:31/29/26 HP:103/103 Ki:11/12 CMD: 30] Friday February 8th, 2013 1:03:49 PM
As his supernatural jump takes Garret high in the air, he looks left and right, seeing where the rest of the group has moved and looking around to see if there's other activity in the area.
Combat Round 2 (DM Donna) d20+17=37 ; d20+29=37 d20+16=32 2d10(1+6)+26=33 Friday February 8th, 2013 3:13:47 PM
Cyniq's phantom steed takes to the air at its master's successful urging, and the Justicar remains in the saddle about thirty feet up from the ground.
Keela's aim is true and she has very clearly done at least some damage with her Disintegrate spell--a large chunk of sandstone and desert scrub magically disappear from what would have been a human's tummy area, showering those below with loose soil and detritus.
Garret runs and makes his mighty supernatural leap--and finds himself clinging to the gigantic monster's back about 23 feet up from the ground! (This would probably be the small of the back if you compared the relative position to a human target.)
Lobo's terror comes under control as Alexi's masterful horsemanship steadies the horse, which suddenly realizes that--monster or not--this IS a battle, and Lobo IS a warhorse! He is more than ready when Alexi brings his lance to bear and urges Lobo to charge the behemoth they are currently battling!
Alexi feels his lance strike the side of the big beastie...but the lance connects with a large boulder embedded in the body of the monster and deflects sharply to the left instead of doing its intended damage.
Anrete flies into his Barbaric Rage, his oversize blade hacking furiously at whatever parts of the humungous living mountain he can reach! There is clearly more damage done to the monster--perhaps almost as much as Keela's well-aimed spell.
The towering, glowering elemental's roar of defiance booms out over the prairie, but as to whether it is reacting to pain or just getting even more angry is hard to decide.
The giant foe begins to turn towards Keela's direction--until the sight of Cyniq in the air catches its ruby eye and it angrily grinds out what might be words:
For those who understand Terran, Highlight to display spoiler: {the elemental grates: "YOU! Windflyer...mortal enemy of the earthbound--YOU DIE FIRST!!!"}
The elemental turns and lurches away from Alexi and Anrete--doing such so quickly that Anrete is smacked backwards a good ten feet or so. Fortunately, the barbarian's fortitude is sufficient to not only keep him from injury. Anrete must roll a Dexterity check versus DC20 or land on his back (thus becoming prone at the start of Round 3.)
Cyniq feels the utter hatred in the flaring ruby glare of the elemental as it clearly targets her as she hovers in the air. Both massive hands come up and then clap together, trapping the flying Justicar like an annoying winged insect between them!
The titanic sandstone monster booms malevolent laughter, rubbing its hands together to crush Cyniq into oblivion...
DM OOC: the giant elemental has dealt Cyniq 29hp of crushing damage, and it very clearly intends on killing Cyniq by mashing her into goo between its palms. Cyniq's options for movement are definitely limited.
Another OOC: Sigh. The blizzard here in the Northeast has me in a tizzy--here's the map for Round 3--my thanks to Alexi's player for reminding me to update the map.
Keela [AC 17; HP 87/76] [Mage Armor; Telepathic Link; False Life] Friday February 8th, 2013 8:58:53 PM
[OOC: Results of the Knowledge check? And did the Ray of Enfeeblement have any effect?]
DM OOC: My apologies--I forgot about your Knowledge check. Keela recognizes that the group is fighting an Earth Elemental, of course--as well as the fact that this elemental is composed of blighted earth like that which can be found in the Badlands.
However, Keela has no way of knowing how effective her Ray of Enfeeblement has been on this creature.
Not yet, anyhow...
Anrete [HP: 163/163, AC31/Touch18/FF31, CMD 29+3, DR3] [Enraged] d20+9=28 ; d20+20=22 ; Friday February 8th, 2013 11:43:05 PM
Flipping agilely like a monkey, Anrete easily regains his feet and dashes forward, his blade screaming toward the elemental.
----------------------------------------------------------- Rage (2/27): +6 Str +6 Con +3 Will -2 AC Guarded Stance (2/6): +2 Dodge vs Melee Superstition: +4 Saving throw vs Spells, Spell-like, Supernatural abilities (must make save even against friendly spells) Power Attack: -3 AB +9 DMG
Dex roll: 19+3=22 (Passed! Sorry tot is reflex roll) Vital Strike power attack: AB 22 (obviously failed :()
1. Move action towards the elemental 2. Power attack the elemental
DM OOC: don't forget to post where on the map Anrete is now--the elemental moved away from its previous position.
Ezra Cyniq al'Lyz AC 16{20}/16{20}/13{17} -- CMD 13 -- HP 36/65 Saturday February 9th, 2013 12:40:35 AM "mpph mmbb mm!" classmates had laughed that she selected such a phrase for her dimension door spell trigger. But it stood her well now as she activated the spell to move her 450' straight up.
As she starts falling, her ring automatically activates and she goes from free fall to light as feather tossed about by the whims of the clouds. "And that was my favorite steed!"
While she floats down she starts assessing her wounds and looking for a landing spot.
Hand of the Apprentice (SU) 30' ranged, +11 BAB+INT, daily 9- ()()()()()()()()()
DM OOC: don't forget to adjust Cyniq's HP in the next post...unless she has something to heal the 29hp damage she suffered..?
Anrete [HP: 163/163, AC31/Touch18/FF31, CMD 29+3, DR3] [Enraged] Saturday February 9th, 2013 2:53:28 AM
OOC:
Now at sq13 (south-east of Garret)
DM OOC: Thank you. The map coordinates go by the letters at the top (to indicate the column) and then the number on the side (to indicate the row.) Anrete is now at U13.
Keela [AC 17; HP 87/76] [Mage Armor; Telepathic Link; False Life] 10d6=32 ; Saturday February 9th, 2013 12:55:29 PM It has damage reduction, Keela sends through the link. No way to bypass it, so we just have to hit it hard.
It is, she decides, time for a Fireball. She lobs one where it won't hurt any friendlies. [I'm thinking Q-8-ish? 32 damage, DC 21 Reflex save for half.]
Alexi AC 30 Tch 13 Ffted 27 HP 120/120 CMD 28 d20+15=30 ; d20+16=21 ; Sunday February 10th, 2013 5:16:23 PM
Alexi steadies Lobo and ponders the effects of his charge. He hit it but nary a scratch. Then the behemoth moves away and Keela sends a fireball.
He times his charge just as the blast effects dissipate and charges once more. Lobo sprints forward and heads northwards, through the air warmed by the fireball and Alexi tops Lobo at R5.
Ride (Guide with Knees) +15 DC5 = 30 Ride-by-Attack (no AoO) Charge Att +16 = 21, I'm sure it's a miss, but he sure can Ride, eh?
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:31/29/26 HP:103/103 Ki:11/12 CMD: 30] d20+10=22 ; Monday February 11th, 2013 11:43:09 AM
Garret holds on as the beast moves and he scrambles up the monster as it moves, headed for the head of the beast (climb? 22).
Combat Round 3 (DM Donna) Monday February 11th, 2013 2:36:26 PM
OOC: trying to calculate out various things for the round...will post soonest...
Combat Round 3 (DM Donna) d20+6=14 ; Monday February 11th, 2013 3:45:09 PM
Anrete is still able to keep up with the lumbering pile of blighted earth, but even his mighty rage-fueled blows cannot seem to bypass the same problem that Alexi encountered before: some of the boulders that make up part of the elemental shift about enough for Anrete's blade to become ineffective.
Cyniq keeps a cool head even in the face of certain doom and manages to activate a handy Dimension Door spell. She goes from the claustrophobic confines of the monster's crushing grip to the heady freedom of the open sky in the blink of an eye. There is a moment of sheer exhilaration before the stomach-churning sensation of falling kicks in. Then her Feather Fall activates and the Justicar ends up being 390 feet in the air and floating slowly towards the ground.
The bright prairie expanse becomes brilliantly lit by the Fireball launched by Keela when the fiery magic explodes.
Alexi maneuvers Lobo to a position from which he can see the overall effects of the heroes' battle upon the monstrous elemental.
Garret seizes the opportunity to clamber up the beastie's back in an effort to reach its head.
The behemoth chuckles malevolently in anticipation of crushing a child of air in its grip, but then pauses and suddenly pulls its hands apart. Cyniq is obviously no longer where everyone had last seen her, as evidenced by the way the huge monster is inspecting its empty hands. (If this wasn't a combat situation, the picture would probably be comical due to how dumbfounded the creature appears to be as it stares into the empty palms, then turns its hands over as though expecting to find Cyniq clinging to the back of its hands, and then bends its head to look down on the ground immediately in front of it. Nope--no flying bug for it to crush...)
As the land leviathan searches for its former prey, Keela's Fireball bursts behind it. Since the elemental was clearly unaware of the attack, it hasn't a prayer to dodge any of the effects. A goodly part of its back is blasted off, and what remains resembles volcanic glass. A roar of pain booms out over the prairie, rolling across the expanse like unearthly thunder.
Even as Garret scrambles up towards the elemental's head, the huge elemental seems to sway in place...then it suddenly sinks below the surface of the ground, disappearing from view as quickly and completely as a sea monster slips beneath the surface of the sea it swims in.
The end result for Garret is that he finds himself standing in the middle of the barnyard. To add to the surreal circumstances, the ground itself looks completely undisturbed. A good analogy would be that the land is a smooth as the surface of a lake with nary a ripple to indicate that a leviathan had ever risen up from the depths...
DM OOC: Here's the map for Round 4. I will post again in 24 hours...or when all five PCs have posted again--whichever comes first.
Sesha[AC 18 | HP 160/160 | CMD 14] Monday February 11th, 2013 8:18:15 PM
In the midst of the strange silence left by the lumbering earthen behemoth a strange thing begins to occur.
At first, a small purple orb flickers into view wrapped in shadows and seeping darkness. After a time, a few seconds at most, the orb grows larger until it opens in a rift similar in proportion to that of a Dimension Door. (S-18)
She steps quickly and deliberately from the shimmering portal before it vanishes. Her skin is the color of midnight blue, her eyes, the one not covered by a large black patch, is brown and alert. Her hair gleams white and vibrant; tucked behind pointed ears. Unusual this far from It'lal, this girl is a Drow.
Her manner of dress is unusual. A plain leather skirt and boots, tribal in appearance. Simple jewelry. A leather band with multi-colored feathers is her most elaborate decoration - and even that is not too loud or gaudy.
She quickly spins around in a tiny loop to get her bearings as the more confusing effects of her Shadow Walk spell wears off. Looking in all directions but up, she makes note of another half-man, an assortment of humans, one in robes; one on an animal, and another larger than the rest. As she moves, glints of a fine silvery metal can be see beneath her skins and skirt. Hanging from a loop on her belt is a tiny black cauldron, over which she keep a protective hand at all times. Perhaps just as strange is the broomstick strapped across her back.
She frowns, her displeasure noticeable. Then, as if remembering her manners, she speaks. Her voice is thin and young, betraying her few years.
"Greetings. I am Sesha Cha'Kwaina, Inola of the Ga'alin and servant of House Braflah. I have come from It'lal to these lands for a great purpose. [she smiles] Now, a hare has been caught in the snare set to catch the boar. I seek the creature of earth and stone. It is not vanquished, for I have not heard it's spirit wailing in the lands of shadow. I hope my spell has not placed me too far from my quarry. Have you seen it?
Alexi AC 28 Tch 13 Ffted 25 HP 120/120 CMD 26 d20+15=22 ; Monday February 11th, 2013 9:43:53 PM
The boulder-beastie vanishes quicker than it appeared leaving Alexi blinking his eyes. But quickly he deduces that it may be going underground to come up right under Keela!
"Keela! Stand STILL!" He yells out. "Don't say or DO anything! I'm coming over to pick you up!"
Alexi puts Lobo in a sprint (Run = Move x3) and ends up at U21, right next to Keela. She can then grab ahold of Alexi and with his help pull her up to sit behind him. (OOC: Next round he'll ride away, maybe even off into the sunset... :} ).
Ride (guide w/knees) +15 DC5 = 22
Alexi does not notice the newcomer as he's focused on Keela and his helmet does have some limited vision.
DM OOC: I relocated your OOC answer to a private post by Sesha so that the issue doesn't clutter up the board but Sesha's player will still have access to the answer.
Alexi AC 28 Tch 13 Ffted 25 HP 120/120 CMD 26 Monday February 11th, 2013 9:53:23 PM
OOC: Posting for Anrete. If my memory is correct, he's out of touch this week starting today.
Anrete, still in his barbarian rage, howls to the sky, or more accurately, to the earth, at the spot the Rock-Monster vanished. Which, considering Garret's location, it looks like he's howling at poor Garret, mighty flashy blade hefted on high.
"AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHRRRRRRRGH"
Then he does several 360-degree swivels looking for the thing.
DM OOC: edited ever-so-slightly for clarity and spelling.
Keela [AC 17; HP 87/76] [Mage Armor; Telepathic Link; False Life] Monday February 11th, 2013 10:51:15 PM Alexi, Keela's mental "voice" holds a touch of annoyance. There's no need to shout. We're linked telepathically.
When he arrives, she hops up behind him. There's somebody here, she warns him. For a minute I thought it was Fatine, but she's a drow.
"Um..." drat, what was that other woman's name? "Um...Cyniq, is she with you?"
Ezra Cyniq al'Lyz AC 16{20}/16{20}/13{17} -- CMD 13 -- HP 36/65 Tuesday February 12th, 2013 12:36:53 AM
Cyniq was too far overhead to hear any of the conversation taking place below her, though she was glad she wasn't below when the fireball went off.
Then some newcomer shows up as the elemental disappears. One of the bandits?
For the moment, she continues to float down while she assesses her injuries. dislocated shoulder, couple cracked ribs, not good, hope someone down there is a healer...
Alexi AC 28 Tch 13 Ffted 25 HP 120/120 CMD 26 Tuesday February 12th, 2013 10:07:14 AM
So as not to shout over his shoulder, Alexi replies through the new link, "Sorry. I got a little apprehensive and forgot about this link."
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:31/29/26 HP:103/103 Ki:11/12 CMD: 30] Tuesday February 12th, 2013 1:50:53 PM
Garret rides the large beast to the ground and the stands and looks around. He is shocked by the appearance of the new girl and at Anrete yelling at him. He pauses a moment as Alexi yells and runs towards Keela. Seeing him run, Garret quickly moves to follow, hoping to get a ride back up if the creature appears again.
Sesha [AC 18 | HP 160/160 | CMD 14] Tuesday February 12th, 2013 3:57:52 PM
Sesha frowns as the humans and half-man scurry about frantically yelling warnings to one another.
Under normal circumstance, she would at least expect a curt answer or dismissal. Under less normal circumstances, she would wonder if her heritage was to blame. Were the Drow still hated this far from It'lal?
Right now however, considering the creature that she had followed to this place, she was willing to bet the reason none of them had any time for a simple hello was that she was much much closer to the raging elemental than she had originally guess.
A shadow drifting over the ground catches her attention. Looking skyward, she sees a figure floating downwards, assessing it's injuries.
"Well. It seems that we are closer to the mouth of the monster than we thought, Little Spirit."
Combat Round 4 (DM Donna) d20+16=18 ; d20+16=19 ; Tuesday February 12th, 2013 8:10:10 PM
The unusual spell-effect on the field of combat disgorges a Drow female dressed in skins. Everyone (except Cyniq because she's too far away at the moment) hears her inquire after the earth elemental that has disappeared from view.
Alexi yells to Keela and urges Lobo into a gallop in order to reach her side before anything else can happen, while the spellcaster uses the existing Telepathic Link to remind him that he doesn't need to shout.
Anrete whirls in place, finding no obvious target for his rage.
Keela also asks if anyone has seen Cyniq, as she was clearly gone from the huge elemental's hands before it sank into the ground.
Cyniq continues her gentle ascent to the ground--now she is only 330 feet above the ground. She hopes that someone else in the group has healing abilities.
Garret, spying the only one still mounted galloping south, runs after the horse.
Even as Alexi leans down with his arm extended towards Keela in order to give her a hand up onto Lobo's back, two massive arms rise up from the ground behind him. One of the arms strikes out at Lobo, while the other arm slaps its hand at Garret...
Fortunately, both the warhorse and the monk felt the tremor of the elemental's attempt at a sneak attack and both manage to sidestep their respective attacks, although the movement of Lobo clearly interrupts Alexi's attempt to get Keela on the horse.
DM OOC: I've been having extremely bad rolls with the Dice Roller lately--the attack on Lobo only totaled to 18, while the attack upon Garret totaled to only 19...both of them misses.
Everyone on the ground can feel the roar of frustration from the elemental beneath them...and the two arms start to sink beneath the ground once more...
Sesha [AC 18 | HP 160/160 | CMD 14] d20+4=11 ; d100+17=80 ; d100+19=46 ; Tuesday February 12th, 2013 9:19:11 PM
Sesha's smile is filled with mischief.
After the large earthen arms flail blindly at both the man and his beast, Sesha's hands dart forward. She strains as she grasps something unseen around her. The air around her arms ripples slightly as she grabs hold of the ley-lines through which she exerts her mastery of the arcane. Sesha smiles as her connection to the tiny rivulet of woldsblood is established with unusual ease and power. [1]
Hazy wisps of smoke and shadow take the forms of frogs, bats, and all manner of creepies and crawlies. She outstretches her hand and ever so lightly grazes the bulk of the creature. The phantasmal critters scavenge about on the Elemental and attempt to trap a piece of it's body and bring back a valuable spell component for the witch. [2]
Seshas tiny cauldron then radiates a warm energy, enveloping Sesha in a divine force which protects her from harm. [3]
- Disregard next action if the touch attack above was a miss. If she draws an AoO and is hit, the spell still functions and is discharged successfully -
Finally, the young Witch goes on the defensive. She grabs and pulls her magic from the fading ley-lines.. caressing them tenderly in her fingers before releasing the stream back into the realm of shadow. [4] As she finishes her spell, thick brown bark covers her skin and body, hardening and protecting her from harm [5] as she steps back a small distance from the creatures arms. [6]
[1] Ley Check for Eye of Newt and Toe of Frog - Result 82 (Slot not expended) [2] Immediate Action: Eye of New and Toe of Frog - Touch attack v AC 11 [3] Intelligent Item: Cauldron activates Divine Shield - +3 Deflection to AC [4] Ley Check for Barkskin 46 v DC 20. (10 Base + 10 ASF). [5] Standard Action: Cast Barkskin - +4 Nat AC [6] Move Action: 5 ft step back to R 19
Sesha [AC 25 | HP 120/120 | CMD 14] Tuesday February 12th, 2013 9:31:50 PM
( Combat Header and Spell update. Sorry DM. Not in the swing again yet. Wont happen again hopefully.)
Spells In Effect
+3 Deflection to AC (Divine Shield - 1 round / 11 minutes); +4 Natural Armor to AC (Barkskin - 1round / 11 minutes)
Alexi AC 28 Tch 13 Ffted 25 HP 120/120 CMD 26 d20+17=28 ; d8+8=15 ; d6=2 ; d20+12=13 ; Tuesday February 12th, 2013 11:09:20 PM
Alexi growls in anger as the rock creature tries to hit Lobo. His lance has been useless now twice, so he drops it (free action) and draws his flail while knudging Lobo 5' foward (Ax now at U20) and swings his flail at the arm sticking up out of the ground. Att1 +17 = 28, dmg 15 +2 shock damage Att2 +12 = 13. N1, miss
Through the link he tells Keela, "Don't move. It can sense your steps. But you already know that I guess.
Powe Attack Charge (ending at U17) Att +22 = 32, dmg = 52!
Rage (4/27): +6 Str +6 Con +3 Will -2 AC Guarded Stance (4/6): +2 Dodge vs Melee Superstition: +4 Saving throw vs Spells, Spell-like, Supernatural abilities (must make save even against friendly spells) Power Attack: -3 AB +9 DMG Vital Strike x3 base damage
Keela [AC 17; HP 87/76] [Mage Armor; Telepathic Link; False Life; Fly] Wednesday February 13th, 2013 12:46:13 AM
"Um....hello?" Keela calls to Sesha. "Who are you and where did you come from?"
She tends to agree that standing on the ground is probably not the best idea, so she casts Fly on herself, and wafts gently into the air.
Ezra Cyniq al'Lyz AC 16{20}/16{20}/13{17} -- CMD 13 -- HP 36/65 Wednesday February 13th, 2013 11:39:59 AM
Knowing she has a little time before she lands, Cyniq casts mage armor on herself. Shouting down at the others, "Which one of you is the medic?"
Now at 270 feet.
Can direction be changed while falling? If so, Cyniq will be using her move action to try and land on the cabin roof.
Hand of the Apprentice (SU) 30' ranged, +11 BAB+INT, daily 9- ()()()()()()()()()
DM OOC: the spell holding you aloft is Feather Fall, so (unless there's a wall or other solid object you can push off against) you cannot change direction. Cyniq continues to float straight down...although I will roll to see if there is any wind that might be blowing her in a particular direction...)
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:31/29/26 HP:103/103 Ki:11/12 CMD: 30] d20+15=31 ; 2d6+1=9 ; 2d6=6 ; Wednesday February 13th, 2013 1:48:03 PM
Garret turns as the massive hands appear, bends and twists as his leg flies out sideways, attempting to hit the creature before it returns to the ground.
OOC: Single attack to attempt a stun, hit AC 31 Damage: 9, Vital strike: 6, total damage: 15. His unarmed attacks are magical and lawful, so I don't know what effect that has, if any on the DR of the elemental. Just for fun, this is an attempt to stun, so its a fort save vs DC 21, or the thing is stunned 1 round.
Sesha [AC 25 | HP 120/120 | CMD 14] Wednesday February 13th, 2013 2:42:40 PM
Sesha! Someone needs your help! THAT one! You had better hurry or else she could be in trouble!
Sesha gave a startled gasp at the childlike voice echoing in her head. It was not the telepathic imprint of Pot-Pot, her spirit familiar, but the Other , the childish being to whom she had allied herself to.
As Cyniq floated closer to the ground, Sesha felt her gut sink low. As the elven features of Cyniq slowly became recognizable, her apprehension grew. Since the days of Fae Skeimer and the warring cities of the elves of the First Age, there had been no formal peace between the Drow and their surface cousins. To many, Drow were still kill-on-sight.
Fighting her instincts to pretend she did not hear Cyniq's plea, she yells aloud an answer.
"Come to me! I can help you!"
Looking back over at Keela, she answers quickly.
"I am called Sesha. I have claimed what I sought from this creature, but I shall aid you further if you can help me to the township called Bryn Baraz!"
Combat Round 5 (DM Donna) Wednesday February 13th, 2013 6:48:49 PM
Sesha succesfully casts a spell to garner the soil from an enraged Blighted Earth Elemental and then makes sure that Keela's question is answered.
DM OOC: be sure to note on Sesha's that Sesha personally harvested this component on today's date with me, DM Donna, as the game master.
Keela flies about sixty feet into the air to make sure she's out of the huge elemental's range.
Alexi doesn't have to do much urging for Lobo to move towards the big, crusty arms of the monster that tried to swat him like a horsefly. The warrior's flail connects on his first try, obviously doing damage as some of the dirt and rocks that make up the creature's body crumble away. The second blow misses completely.
Anrete--in the throes of a very, very angry Barbarian Rage--charges at the behemoth that continues to threaten his friends, and his gigantic blade carves off big ol' chunks of the thing once more.
Cyniq continues her gentle descent from on high. She is heartened by the words of the newest arrival, who assures the Justicar that she can help Cyniq with her wounds.
Last--but not least--Garret seizes the opportunity to literally kick the giant monster's butt (well...its nearest body part, anyhow...) and feels his foot meet solid earth with a rather satisfying thud.
But is it enough..?
The ground trembles as the huge earth elemental bursts completely out of the ground, howling at the top of its lungs (if earth elementals have lungs, that is) and invoking the impression of a leviathan breeching the surface of the ocean in its horrible rage. Its massive fists lift high--
--to try to smash Garret and Alexi again..?
--to try to snatch Keela out of the sky...?
Keela has the most advantageous view of the gargatuan, looking directly into its hate-twisted visage as it makes that one last effort to fight...
...and loses, the malevolent red glare of its ruby eyes brightens momentarily and then fades, the light of life flickering out of them. The huge humanoid of blighted prairie soil freezes, looking like a monument to mindless defiance...then it crumbles to the loose soil and rocks that it was composed of, raining dirt and stones all over everyone on the ground.
The battle is over. The heroes are triumphant...
...and Cyniq is NOW 270 feet from the ground.
Ezra Cyniq al'Lyz AC 16{20}/16{20}/13{17} -- CMD 13 -- HP 36/65 Thursday February 14th, 2013 10:11:51 AM
Unsure if combat is truly over, or what else the day will bring, Cyniq is loathe to use a spell to hasten her descent and continues to float down, though now she is flapping her cloak to aim for the roof of the cabin.
Keela [AC 17; HP 87/76] [Mage Armor; Telepathic Link; False Life; Fly] Thursday February 14th, 2013 12:07:48 PM
Cautiously, Keela descends to the ground again. She uses the Telepathic Bond, because the group is still pretty far apart and she doesn't want to shout. We should check on the folks in the house, she sends. And we need to find Daisy somehow. And figure out what's going on, of course....
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:31/29/26 HP:103/103 Ki:11/12 CMD: 30] Thursday February 14th, 2013 2:44:20 PM
Garret dodges to the side as the massive creature pops back up, ready to jump up and attack again when he sees it crumble to dust. He stands tall and flips his head sideways to shake the dust from his hair as he smiles and nods. He says out loud, "Nicely done. But that was a strange monster." He nods to Keela in response to her mention of the others inside the house. Then he looks over to the newcomer and says, "I am sorry, who did you say you were? I am Garret Goodbarrel of the Windbourne Hills."
Sesha [AC 25 | HP 120/120 | CMD 14] Thursday February 14th, 2013 3:16:50 PM
Surprised at the sudden outburst and demise of the blighted elemental, Sesha counts herself lucky. To obtain such a precious component only moments before the creature vanished....A voice pulls her from her musings.
"Greetings half-man Garret Goodbarrel. I am called Sesha Cha'Kwaina. I was sent by the House Braflah in It'lal to make our goodwill and aid available to the township of Bryn Baraz. I do not know exactly where to find that which I seek, and then I felt the presence of the large earth spirit as I traveled along the lands of shadow. I value rarity of things which are unusual, and he was a living treasure. I merely sought to barter, bribe, or deceive the earth spirit for some of it's essence and then flee. "
Sesha caresses the tiny ball of rock and soil for a moment, then places it away in pouches on her hip.
Taking stock of the situation, she realizes that this group she has encountered must be powerful. She is not too threatened by the leaping half-man. He seemed kind enough. She was, however, certainly was keeping a wary eye on both the flying human who questioned her and the descending surface elf.
Of immediate concern was the larger male who had hewn chunks of earth from the spirit with every swing of his weapon.
Shifting herself between the half-man and the large male, she continues without dispelling her magical defenses.
"Please. I only seek to offer the alliance of my people to the township of Bryn Baraz. I have been sent by the Matron I serve to offer myself for the 2 year period and perhaps more, aiding how I am best able. I mean no harm to any here. Perhaps I may appeal to your better natures? Or perhaps I can barter with magical healing? I have heard that one, the surface elf, request aid. This I can offer."
Alexi AC 28 Tch 13 Ffted 25 HP 120/120 CMD 26 Thursday February 14th, 2013 9:25:40 PM
As the creature surfaces again, Alexi twirls his flail above his head for another strike, but as the thing falters, Alexi pulls Lobo aside and stays out of the way of the crumbling mound of dead earth matter.
HIs attention is now on the newcomer but Keela's words also ring in his mind. He replies "Don't worry about Daisy, she won't go too far. I'll go after her so you can tend to the farmer and his son. It shouldn't take long. Then we must be after whatever raided this place."
"Sesha Chwekuweena? Glad to meet you. Sorry for the short introductions. We have a stray horse on the rampage I need to collect. Welcome to a normal day in Bryn Baraz." At that he grins under his visor and then takes off after Daisy.
Finding Daisy, Alexi uses his Necklace of Calm Animals, the Ambush Drake claws enchanted by Istaqa, Shaman of the Ahote, for rescuing the tribe's children.
(OOC: It casts Calm Animals once per day for 2d4+5 HD of creatures. Daisy is just a plowhorse and knows Lobo well so it shouldn't be a problem.)
Once Daisy is calmed down, Alexi takes the reins and brings her back.
Anrete pounds the earth mound a time or two to make sure the thing won't get back up. Then, his adrenaline seeping down to normal levels, he slumps to his knees taking deep breaths, sword limp at his side.
(OOC: Exhaustion for 4 rounds)
A More "Official" Introduction Seems to be in Order... (DM Donna) Thursday February 14th, 2013 11:38:43 PM
Cyniq's flapping of her cape as she continues to float down is rather hampered, as she has a dislocated shoulder and every time she flaps, her cracked ribs use shards of fire to remind her that they are damaged as well. While her original goal of landing on the roof to the farmhouse is not reached, she does manage to land on the ground near the group clustered by the northwest corner of the building.
Keela lands close to where Garret, Anrete and Sesha stand. To the Surface Drow's eye, she glances significantly at the farmhouse. Alexi chooses this moment to ride after Daisy (with whom he easily catches up) and uses his necklace to full advantage, successfully calming down the plow horse.
Back at the farmhouse, Anrete discharges the remnants of his rage by attacking the mound of blighted soil that once made up his group's giant foe...and, in doing so, dislodges a couple of oddly-shaped rocks that roll down the pile to stop at Garret's feet. While they are both caked with dust and crust, one of them has a bare spot that has had the layers of dirt sloughed off when it rolled down the incline, and the halfling monk sees the sun glint off a dark red surface even as he introduces himself to Sesha and asks the new arrival to state her name once more.
Everyone (except Alexi, since he's still off collecting Daisy) must make a Perception check; Garret receives a +2 circumstance bonus on his roll:
Perception check 15, Highlight to display spoiler: {those rocks are, indeed, oddly-shaped...and about the size of grapefruits.}
Perception check 20, Highlight to display spoiler: {it occurs to you that the two rocks are not only oddly-shaped and large-ish, but they look to be identical in both shape and size.}
Perception check 25 and higher, Highlight to display spoiler: {in fact, the pair of stones kind of look like they're faceted, although you will need to brush off the dust and crust to be 100% sure about that.}
Keela [AC 17; HP 87/76] [Mage Armor; Telepathic Link; False Life; Fly] d20+2=16 ; Friday February 15th, 2013 12:32:13 AM
"Um...hello, Sesha," Keela says tentatively. "We're from Bryn Baraz, and we'll be going back there. Eventually. We'd be happy to show you the way. I'm Keela, by the way. Keela La--er, Keela Youngblood."
Keela notices the oddly-shaped rocks, but they mean little to her [Perception 16]. She's more concerned with the people in the house, so she goes back inside.
"How are you doing?" she asks. "We took care of that big rock monster. Were there any other monsters? Or anything else that attacked?"
Sesha [AC 25 | HP 120/120 | CMD 14] d20+7=11 ; 4d8+11=18 ; Friday February 15th, 2013 12:54:31 AM " Welcome to.... So I have found Bryn Baraz?"
Shocked at her good fortune, Sesha is oblivious to any thing other than what is right in front of her. As far as she knew, her ability to Shadow Walk was wildly inaccurate when trying to come to a certain destination.
She meets Keelas gaze for a moment and follows it towards the smaller house. Wishing she could be more cordial to Keela, like the Matrons taught her, Sesha is far too troubled by the task looming over her to do much more than incline her head and offer her thanks.
She steps quickly across the ground, oblivious to the blighted earth left behind by the elemental. As she nears the other elf, her pace slows considerably. She closes her eyes and whispers in prayer...
"You told me that in addition to other things, I must never refuse your gifts to any who are in need. Odd, that the first time it is needed, it is for my blood-kins hated foes. The Ga'alin would be ashamed of their shaman this day. Yet I shall honor you in this, Little Spirit, and keep my word to you."
Sesha finishes casting her spell [1][2], then holds the charge for but a moment, white energy crackling around her small midnight hands. She sucks in a small breath, and reaches out towards Cyniq, speaking in Elven.
"I cannot harm you. The Little One would not be happy.."
Wincing and leaning back, as if apprehensive about touching the other elf, she attempts to make contact. If Cyniq is animated in any way that shows refusal, Sesha will recoil but continue to hold the spell.
[1] Witches do not make ley-rolls for domain spells [2] The healing domain empowers all healing spells. (18+9=27)
Spells In Effect
+3 Deflection to AC (Divine Shield - 3 rounds / 11 minutes); +4 Natural Armor to AC (Barkskin - 3 rounds / 11 minutes)
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:31/29/26 HP:103/103 Ki:11/12 CMD: 30] d20+23=37 ; d20+1=2 ; Friday February 15th, 2013 9:16:31 AM
Garret replies, "You have been sent to help Bryn Baraz? Indeed, many have been sent to help this small town. It has been quite a difficult place to live in recent times. We are near to the town now, out here to investigate some strange happenings, as you can see," he gestures to the remains of the earth monster. As he does, he notices the stones (perception: 37). "Here now, what's this?" He reaches out and picks up the large rocks, dusting them. He examines them closely and says, "They look like colorful rocks." (Appraise: 2).
He turns back to Sesha and continues, "If you mean us no harm, you are welcome to join us, but I will warn you that it can be quite dangerous to be around us. We seem to find monsters like this more often than the average person around here." He looks around the area and says, "In fact, something attacked this farm before we arrived, and this earth monster is not quite right. Can you tell anything about where it has come from or why it attacked us?"
Ezra Cyniq al'Lyz AC 16{20}/16{20}/13{17} -- CMD 13 -- HP 63/65 d20+18=23 ; d20+11=23 ; d20+21=35 ; Friday February 15th, 2013 11:02:48 AM A drow, it would have to be a drow...
Sesha is it? Any relation to Ki`tol Req'ox? I spent some time with him while I was writing my first publication, "Racial Prejudices and Market Growth" have you read it?
Cyniq nods at the out stretched hand, recognizing the nature of the spell. "Thanks, that overgrown molehill mucked with my steed, and I still had a few hours left on it too, damn the creature. I myself was only recently called to Bryn Baraz." Flexing her shoulder and taking a deep breath, Cyniq smiles, "a little soreness in the shoulder, but that should go away soon, my thanks. As I was saying, I was sent as there was apparently a need for justice, I hope that you are atypical and will not be one that I must be concerned with?" Cyniq, whom Sesha may recognize as young for an elf, stands and brushes herself off, displaying Pantheon's symbol embroidered on the left breast of her jacket.
"Those two rocks, they're odd, in that they are very nearly the same shape..." Stepping over to Garrett to take a closer peak, she brushes one off to see what lies under the dirt.
Rolls: Perc 23, Appraise 23, spellcraft: Sesha 35
@Sesha, don't drow have life spans like elves? Which would put the listed age for Sesha at preschool/elementary...
Sesha [AC 25 | HP 120/120 | CMD 14] Friday February 15th, 2013 11:57:01 AM
OOC: Addressed your point via e-mail, Ezra.
Alexi AC 28 Tch 13 Ffted 25 HP 120/120 CMD 26 Friday February 15th, 2013 9:37:44 PM
Alexi returns with Daisy in tow, the plowhorse content with Lobo's company. Alexi's trained eyes notice the horse's aging body but does not know how to approach Keela with the subject of getting a younger horse without the danger of hurting her feelings.
Once back, Alexi sees that everyone is in pretty good shape, by some miracle, and have introduced themselves to the newcomer and made her welcome.
"Sesha Chewkuweena, I am Alexi, humble Servant to Domi. More appropriate pleasantries will have to wait until we discover more about who and what raided this farm. Meanwhile, you are welcome to keep us company while we search out those answers."
Alexi verifies with Keela that the two inside are ok and then suggests they start following the tracks that left out the back door.
Alexi AC 28 Tch 13 Ffted 25 HP 120/120 CMD 26 d20+16=34 ; d20+1=8 ; Friday February 15th, 2013 9:46:22 PM
OOC: moving for Anrete:
Anrete quickly recovers and sheaths his big sword. Rather gruffly the barbarian introduces himself.
"I'm Anrete Noticing the rocks he takes a look at them. Perception +16 = 34
"These pretty stones. They worth something. My guess. Pretty anyway."
Appraise +1 = 8
Sesha [AC 25 | HP 120/120 | CMD 14] Saturday February 16th, 2013 12:27:57 AM
Sesha considers Cyniqs words for a moment. Looking at her hand where she grazed the other elfs skin, she replies..
"I do not know Ki'Tol. I also barely have an idea of what is typical of the Drow Elves. Even after 3 years with them, to me my blood-kin are still almost foreign to me, though I have learned of their history. My actions will be typical of myself and no one else. I have found that some of the more... controversial ... aspects of my training upset those who do not share my view of the wold.[i/]
Sesha saves the rest of her thoughts for another time and addresses the others.
[i]"Garret, I have not seen any other earth spirits. I don't know where this one came from either. I sensed his...rarity...and had to take a tiny piece."
She is silent a moment, then adds.
"You seem very different from the only other half-man I have met, Garret Goodbarrel. I look forward to spending time in your company.
Lastly, she turns to Alexi.
"Alexi, I only wish to be of use. I.. I have not much experience in servitude. The Matrons thought this would be a humbling experience for me, and they think humbling is something I need. I have led men to war and birthed children! I have planned hunts and raids and sold the game and slaves and those old biddies think I.. !
Her eye smoldering, she cuts off mid-sentence.
"Forgive me. I am not wise. Perhaps the Matrons were right. I would like to add however, I can be of more use than just young company Alexi. I have access to powerful, but limited healing. With time and resources, I can make potions that are stronger than any found anywhere else in the Wold and that is fact, not a boast. My magic is not that of a Sorcerer or a Wizard, but more subtle and tied to the fate of one and many."
Sucking in breath, she continues.
"I do not fight well, but thankfully my simple martial skills will not be needed here it seems."
She shudders, remembering her last melee, her first death, and the ever judging eye of Gargul.
All Over But the Shoutin'... (DM Donna) Saturday February 16th, 2013 1:10:40 AM
Keela takes scant notice of the stones, leaving them for the others to ponder. She heads down to the cellar, where she sees that father and son are still there, safe and sound. As she draws near, the spellcaster can see that the boy looks better than he did before as the man continues to cradle the still-unconscious teenager in his arms.
DM OOC: Keela must roll Perception: DC15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Hmmm...actually, the boy looks a LOT better than he did before.} DC20 Highlight to display spoiler: {Given that the boy had really been really close to dying, it's a bit of a miracle he isn't dead yet.} DC25 Highlight to display spoiler: {Say...isn't that a rolled-up piece of parchment on the ground next to the recovering boy's feet...?}
"Big rock monster...?" the farmer echoes, looking genuinely puzzled. "There...have been legends--fairytales, I always thought--about how 'earth spirits' are supposed to have bound themselves to specific areas of the prairie. If that was one of them, my best guess is that the violent way the raiders came and attacked my ranch must have woke it up." His eyes go to his son's pale face.
"No, this is the first time any 'monster' showed itself around here," he says firmly. "I'd'a NEVER let my family live here if there were monsters like that poppin' up all over the place! Bad enough them raiders attacked the ranch and burnt down m' barn!" One work-roughened hand tenderly brushes some stray hair from the boy's forehead. "An' hurt Izzak here..." The man turns an anguished face to Keela, tears shimmering in his dark eyes.
"Please--have ya found m'wife? Her name's Maymel--she's Ahote..."
Meanwhile, above ground, the Drow and the Elf overcome their native distrust of each other, and Cyniq is healed up until all that is left of her injuries are nasty bruises and painful memories.
And that had been a top-notch Phantom Steed, hadn't it? Darn!
Garret takes the opportunity to be a bit neighborly with the new arrival, but the intriguing pair of rocks at his feet prompt him to pick them up and examine them a bit more closely. When Cyniq curiously brushes off the crusty dirt from them, she exposes the shiny red interior and both adventurers simultaneously realize that Garret is holding a pair of the largest rubies either of them have ever seen! Even Anrete has to admit that the gems must be very valuable.
Cyniq recognizes that the rubies used to be the eyes for the huge blighted earth elemental, and each of them is worth a good 5000 gold pieces!
Alex and Lobo return to the ranch with the aged Daisy in tow in time to see the shiny new gems the others have uncovered. Then he heads to the basement, where Keela is speaking to the two survivors of the attack upon the ranch.
DM OOC: Now that Alexi has joined the party in the cellar, he can roll Perception versus the DCs listed above.
I will continue to post various details over the weekend, depending on how your PCs act/react. Meanwhile, everyone who helped fight the Huge Elemental--add 4000xp to your character sheets. I'll be accepting Hero Point nominations via email, too.
Keela [AC 17; HP 87/76] [Mage Armor; Telepathic Link; False Life; Fly] d20+2=10 ; Saturday February 16th, 2013 10:42:54 AM
Keela is concerned about the man and boy, but notices nothing unusual [Perception 10].
"Raiders?" she repeats. "We saw no sign of raiders, although we did see some tracks. I'm afraid we didn't see any sign of your wife, either. Perhaps--perhaps the raiders took her for some reason? We'll need to go after them."
When Alexi returns, she tells them, "I'd like the two of you to take my horse and ride to Bryn Baraz. You'll be safer there, and there'll be folks that can help your boy. If we find your wife, we'll bring her to town."
Alexi AC 28 Tch 13 Ffted 25 HP 120/120 CMD 26 Saturday February 16th, 2013 7:49:45 PM
Alexi listens to Sasha's speach to him with grim eyes. When she is done, he only says, "It is not important what you can do but your Character, who you are. Do you stand with us to fight for Good and Justice? You mentioned Slaves. I suggest you put that part of your life in a distance past and forget about it." he says with clenched teeth.
But then he loosens up and adds "By your appearance, we are familiar with your type of power. We had one such as you in our group before so we are well aware of such power. But as I said before, it is who you truely are that is most important in Byrn Baraz."
By now Alexi has opened his helmet visor and Sasha can finally see his face. It does not show hardness, nor Judgement towards her, and his last words show a little smile.
Informed that Keela was checking on the father and son in the house, he quickly dismounts, pats Lobo to stay put, and finds Keela down in the basement where he gets the story of the raid retold.
"WIth what little time we have, tells us about this raid. What happened first and what did you see. The more we know about them now the better."
From the Beginning (DM Donna) Sunday February 17th, 2013 4:24:34 AM
The man draws in a deep breath.
"Name's Raevel," he tells the heroes, "Been workin' this ranch since...Maymel an' me hitched up. We always heard about...some ranches an' farms that would...have cattle or goods 'mysteriously' disappear. Sometimes somebody'd say they was rustled by,,,a buncha wanderin' rogues. I...never had no trouble with anything like that...not before...not until this gang raided my place today." Once more the father's arms around his injured son tighten a bit.
"Didn't ya say somethin' about gettin' my boy here back to town?" Raevel asks a bit testily.
DM OOC: Any PC present when Raevel speaks must make a Perception check.
DC25 Highlight to display spoiler: {You happen to almost idly not that Raevel seems to pause rather frequently when he speaks...kind of like he has to think about what he's saying before he says it.} DC30 Highlight to display spoiler: {Now that you think about, he looks a bit nervous as he speaks.} DC35 Highlight to display spoiler: {In fact--you're 99.9% sure that Raeval is holding something back.}
Anrete [HP: 163/163, AC31/Touch18/FF31, CMD 29+3, DR3] [Enraged] d20+16=27 ; d20+13=14 ; Sunday February 17th, 2013 9:32:38 AM Anrete is a wiry human youth armored in heavy interlocking plates with a full-faced helm that resembles a demonic ape and slung across his back is a massive serrated greatsword.
~
Suspecting Raevel is hiding something or lying, Anrete growls menacingly, "What gang? Ye blade is yearning to meet them. Where'r the rest of the folks? Why ye survive?"
Raevel Speaks (DM Donna) Sunday February 17th, 2013 10:27:05 AM DM OOC: Hmmm...Anrete's Perception check revealed only the first of the three listed impressions that the PCs may get, but...
Raevel blinks at the way the barbarian is speaking to him.
"I don't know the name of the gang--" the father says with a withering stare, "--I wasn't invited to any of their tea parties! And I have no idea why they didn't just shoot me full of arrows like poor Izzak here...for some odd reason, they tossed me into the well instead! And--as far as I can tell--Junior rode to town to get you people...you know, to help us out here..? AND I have no idea where my wife is! Now, if you don't mind, I'd like to make sure my son doesn't die from his wounds!" The scowl on Raevel's face underscores the ironic tone of his voice.
DM OOC: everyone in the cellar gets to make another Perception check to beat DC30. If your PC beats it, expect an email from me...8D
Keela [AC 17; HP 87/76] [Mage Armor; Telepathic Link; False Life; Fly] Sunday February 17th, 2013 11:50:55 AM
"Yes, let's get you back to town," Keela says. "You can take my horse; I'll show you." Her next words are for her companions as much as Raevel. "If we still have questions later, we can find you in town and ask you. The rustlers left a clear trail when they left, so we can follow them. Hopefully, we'll find your wife when we do."
Unless somebody stops her, Keela leads Raevel outside and introduces him to Daisy.
[OOC: Keela doesn't even have a mathematical chance of making the Perception checks, so I didn't roll them.]
Alexi AC 28 Tch 13 Ffted 25 HP 120/120 CMD 26 d20+8=15 ; d20+9=19 ; Sunday February 17th, 2013 3:23:37 PM
Per +8 = 15 Before Keela takes the two outside... Alexi eyes Raevel with patience and says, "So a gang. But I was interested in more exact details, like human? Goblin? Gnoll? Your son had a pack of Dire Wolves chasing him. It is not common for your average rustlers to have Dire Wolves. Thus it is important you give us more detail. What were they? How many?"
Dipl +7 + (+2 Hero of Bryn Baraz bonus) = 19
Raevel Speaks Again (DM Donna) Sunday February 17th, 2013 4:28:24 PM
Raevel is somewhat mollified by Keela's repeat of her earlier offer to use her horse. He looks at Alexi with a glance that seems to be equal parts of puzzlement and annoyance.
"Don't be silly!" the rancher replies abruptly, "Everyone out in this part of the township knows that dire wolves live in the pockets of vegetation that dot the Badlands! The gang's nomadic habits no doubt flushed the creatures southwards." Raevel frowns and then pauses before continuing.
"An'...uh...I...uh...I didn't get to see no one that good," he answers the rest of Alexi's question, "I know there was...oh...say...mebbe a dozen o' them...I know that the two...who tossed me down the well...they was human." Raevel nods his head. "Yup...human..."
DM OOC: Another Perception check for everyone in the cellar. Beat DC25 and I'll be emailing you with what your PC perceives. 8D
Alexi AC 28 Tch 13 Ffted 25 HP 120/120 CMD 26 d20+8=28 ; Sunday February 17th, 2013 5:33:45 PM
Prec +8 = 28 N20!
"Understandably you wouldn't have a way to see all of them and know their race. Knowing that the two who threw you down the well were human, helps," Alexi patts the man on the shoulder.
"Did they come afoot or were they mounted?" Alexi asks another question.
Through the link, Alexi asks his friends "Dire wolves that common out here? Why didn't they tell us. We've been up and down these parts so many times and never had a problem. Yet, this man claims there out there on plains. Anyone think this man's story a little 'fishy'?"
Sesha [AC 25 | HP 120/120 | CMD 14] d20+7=15 ; d20+4=10 ; d20+6=16 ; d20+6=24 ; d20+16=30 ; Sunday February 17th, 2013 8:29:11 PM
Sesha takes Alexi's words and keeps them at hearts length, but chooses to let him judge her actions rather than profess to be a bastion of hope and justice.
The spirits had a way of bringing their own justice to those who needed it if the way of things was violated to harshly.
Following Alexi inside, she is quiet as the others question the survivor and the child, pondering his words to herself. [1] She gives Pot-Pot a mental nudge.[2]
"Pot-Pot. Do you detect anything unusual? The others are asking this man questions as if they think he may have information he is not sharing. [3]
She then turns her attentions to the child and idly wonders about the mention of dire wolves.[4] From what she's seen, can this environment sustain packs of the creatures? She checks him over to see just how wounded he actually is and if she can help him.[5]
To the father, she says.
"You could have sustained injury when thrown down the well. I will examine you as well.
Sesha will attempt to examine him for injury as well. [6]
[1] Perception: 15 [2] Telepathic contact with cauldron [3] which can detect spirits and undead for a range of 840 ft [4] Knowledge Nature: 10 [5] Heal Check on the boy to determine his injuries 16 [6] Heal check on the man to determine his injuries, if any. 24 [7] I erased a bluff check, that in retrospect, was a little metagamey. Please ignore the result of 30.
Impressions... (DM Donna) Sunday February 17th, 2013 8:48:48 PM DM OOC: I meant to email, but I'm away from my home computer, so I'll just state what Alexi perceives.
Sesha checks on the unconscious teenager--she sees that he's lost a LOT of blood and that attempting to take him on horseback at this time would likely kill him. DM OOC: in game terms, the boy is stabilized but currently at -5 hit points. Raevel has no injuries on him at all.
Pot-pot detects no spirits in the vicinity. From what Sesha recalls about above-world nature, it is possible for a pack of Dire Wolves to survive in the environment of the plains--it's an atypical home for them, but they CAN do it as long as the pack isn't too large (like staying under a dozen in number.)
Alexi--who has been listening to practically everything that Raevel has been saying--suddenly realizes that (1) there is a rolled-up piece of paper that at the boy's feet, and (2) Raevel switched from talking like a commoner to sounding rather educated and back again over the course of addressing Keela, then getting a bit peeved at Anrete and finally speaking to Alexi.
"Them wolves...they ain't nobody's pets..." Raevel says, "...most likely Junior got their attention when he went for help. Wolves will chase after anythin' they think they can catch easy..."
Alexi AC 28 Tch 13 Ffted 25 HP 120/120 CMD 26 Sunday February 17th, 2013 10:31:09 PM
Alexi ponders Raevel words and steps closer to Izaak when Sasha shows up and checks the youth out. As he does so, he steps on a piece of paper next to the boy and kneels, whispering to Sasha, "I did what I could to stop the bleeding but I'm not an expert in the healing arts. How bad off is he? Do your powers delve into the healing of bodies?"
As he whispers to Sasha, he also passes his hands over the boy's body as if clerically inspecting the wounds again.
Alexi turns to Raevel again, "So, Dire Wolves out on the prairy were flushed towards Bryn. We'll need your expertise on these packs of wolves to lead us on a hunt, he smiles but then he turns serious again. "What did they say when they threw you into the well? What did Izaak here do to cause them to nearly kill him and yet not harm you? And then take your wife? Why not take you too and put you to slavery?"
Using the link, he asks Keela and Anrete to divert the man's attention for a minute. When the man's attention is turned away, he'll try to pocket the piece of paper without Raevel's notice.
OOC: Alexi is not trained in Sleigh of Hand so do whatever you think best on this.
Sesha [AC 25 | HP 120/120 | CMD 14] d4+5=8 ; d20+16=30 ; Monday February 18th, 2013 2:12:16 AM
Sesha frowns as the seriousness of the boys situation becomes clear to her. She sets her jaw and places both hands over the boys heart and whispers back to Alexi, even as healing magic flows from the Little Spirit into her, then finally into the boy. [1]
<whisper> "The Witches of the Ga'alin are poor healers. It takes them many years to achieve what most priests learn in months. However.. ever since I have met the Little Spirit and allied myself to her cause.. healing has come more natural to me. It is .. useful. This boy however, he would not have survived without aid. You have done him great service."
She continues, using vague medical terms and innuendo, disguising the nature of her conversation with Alexi. [2]
<whisper>" I find it curious that he suffered no wounds when tossed down a well. How deep was it? I did not look. I know several enchantments that might incline him to be more truthful, if you do not object.
[1] [link href="http://www.d20pfsrd.com/classes/core-classes/cleric/domains/paizo---domains/healing-domain" Rebuke Death [/link] [2] Bluff check 30 vs DC 20 to convey secret message of complex nature. Man can attempt sense motive vs DC 30 to decipher.
Whatchoo Talkin' 'bout, Willis..? (DM Donna) Monday February 18th, 2013 2:15:29 AM
For a moment, Raevel stares at Alexi.
"I told your friend...what with that giant slicer--" he says, nodding at Anrete, "--I don't know the minds of no...raidin' bandits...I can tell ya that after I...was tossed into the well, I shut my mouth an' made sure that they couldn't see or hear me. Playin' dead is prob'ly what saved my skin." His gaze takes in the pale face of his son.
"They was mean, I think," Raevel offers his opinion, "...mean to set fire to the ranch...mean to shoot at my wife an' kids...mean to drag her off after all was said 'n' done."
Raevel puts one trembling hand to Izzak's cheek as he speaks, his face full of sorrow. Alexi--taking the opportunity to snag the item he caught sight of earlier--is now in possession of the rolled-up paper.
DM OOC: Alexi must roll a d20. Only he can do so at this time as he is the only one with the paper and able to examine it.
Anrete is hereby awarded one Hero Point. Scene Three will commence later today, with DM Jon as your master of ceremonies.
Meanwhile, Sesha's healing touch manages to make a lot of the damage suffered by the boy magically heal up. Izzak's eyes flutter open--clearly, he's better but still VERY weak.
"Pa..?" the teenager asks in a hoarse voice. "Pa...where were ya..? Them raiders...they came an' wanted someone...when Ma went out and told 'em to go away, they started shootin' arrows and crossbows at us. Ma got hit in the leg...and they dragged her onto one of their horses. Where were ya, Pa..? Ya went into the corral before them raiders got here...ya shoulda been able...able to help Ma...where were ya...?" Young Izzak falls unconscious once more, although he doesn't look as pale and frail as he had before Sesha worked her magic.
Anrete [HP: 163/163, AC31/Touch18/FF31, CMD 29+3, DR3] [Enraged] d20+16=36 ; Monday February 18th, 2013 8:08:16 AM
OOC: hehe... player knows something fishy if the dude need time to "rehearse" his speech...
Acting like a brute, Anrete shoves forcefully at Raevel, "Ye dun believe ye! What's ye doing at the corral? Where are the horses! How ye get into the well!"
Telepathy I suspect he may be a collaborator! Or even part of the gang!
------------------------ Perception: 36
Alexi AC 28 Tch 13 Ffted 25 HP 120/120 CMD 26 d20=13 ; Monday February 18th, 2013 9:26:42 AM
OOC: is this a Perception roll?
d20 = 13 +8(perception) = 21
Alexi whispers back to Sasha "Normally I don't approve of using such magic on our own citizens, but now that the youth has spoken, there seems to be some questions that need to be answered more 'honestly' and we don't have the time to pry it out of him in a more normal way. Do what you suggest."
Alexi sees this as an opportunity to get a measure of Sasha's character as well as getting to some truths from Raevel in a more efficient manner.
To Anrete, by the link, he says, "It would not seem that he is a collaborator, more so a coward, if indeed he fled to the well instead of being thrown in."
Now That You Mention It... (DM Donna) Monday February 18th, 2013 10:21:27 AM
Clearly it hasn't been easy to get a definitive picture about Raevel...and the injured Izzak's fevered questions throw the light of suspicion on the rancher. When Anrete angrily confronts him, Raevel looks outraged for a moment...but then his shoulders slump and his eyes drop to the floor.
"You're right to be mad at me," he admits with an air and posture of defeat, "I didn't help my family when they needed me most." Raevel heaves a weary sigh. "What happened was this: I was in the corral, preparing some of the cattle to drive to town so we could sell them, when the raiders first attacked the ranch. In-instead of helping my family, though, I panicked and..." Here the man swallows and looks quite ashamed of himself.
"And I jumped into the well on my own--so's I could hide from them." The rancher looks away but then turns haunted eyes towards Alexi. "Because I saved my own skin first...this is really why my ranch was half-destroyed and my family shot at. And now...now they have my wife, too. I know that I haven't done right by my family--but please...please go find them raiders and rescue her--Maymel never did anything to deserve any of this."
Keela [AC 17; HP 87/76] [Mage Armor; Telepathic Link; False Life; Fly] Monday February 18th, 2013 11:34:25 AM
Keela is not a stupid person, but the events flying past her have her quite bewildered.
"Well," she says briskly. "Even if you didn't help your family during the raid, you can help them now. We'll go after your wife. Do you want to go to town, or stay here? Because if you don't want to use my horse, I surely can."
Alexi AC 28 Tch 13 Ffted 25 HP 120/120 CMD 26 d20+9=13 ; Monday February 18th, 2013 4:32:15 PM
Through the link Alexi says to the others, "The man's act of cowardice seems to fit so we should let it go at that for now. I think he'll be safe enough here. Those Raiders won't be back, for a while at least. We should be on their trail."
"We aren't here to judge your actions, just get information on the raiders," Alexi assures the man. "On the other hand, you claim your wife never did anything to deserve this, have you? Your soon claims they came looking for someone. That would be you. Whoever they are have taken your wife as ransom. We'll get her back for you and remove their threat to you and Bryn, but a full honest revelation of your involvment with them is invaluable to our success. Perhaps you know where they are headed to? Their Hide-out?"
Diplomacy +7 + (+2 Hero of Bryn bonus) = 13 oops
Ezra Cyniq al'Lyz AC 16{20}/16{20}/13{17} -- CMD 13 -- HP 63/65 d20+18=20 ; Monday February 18th, 2013 4:38:52 PM
Cyniq trails behind Sesha and Alexi to find the others in the basement. She has always found it beneficial to let others talk, and she does so here as the rest of the group discusses the events of the attack with Raevel.
Seems to be a lot of perception checks going on, though I believe I entered after most of the events occured.
Perc=20
Sesha [AC 25 | HP 120/120 | CMD 14] d20+7=17 ; d20+5=12 ; d100=12 ; d20+16=18 ; d20+16=25 ; d20+25=45 ; Monday February 18th, 2013 5:53:19 PM
Sesha listens carefully as the man finishes his story, paying careful attention to his words and mannerisms. [1] She also tries to discern if his new story is a whole or half truth. [2]
"Keela... I do not recommend that they leave this place, for a number of reasons. If there are more wolves or bandits, they would not survive the encounter a 2nd time. After the earth spirit attacked, I find it unlikely any bandits would return here for awhile. Further, a simple tumble from the saddle would likely kill the boy at this stage, and he is barely conscious despite my healing.
Sesha looks at Raevel, but continues talking to her companions.
"Plus, if we are being deceived by any further half-truths, I would prefer this one to not have a means of quick travel at his disposal."
She stands up and stretches, then looks to Alexi, and finally Anrete. With a slight huff, she deftly slips between the hulking brute and the intimidated farmer and places a small fragile hand on Alexi's breastplate to stop him from going on further. She turns and smiles at Raevel, then runs her hand through her hair, attempting to disguise her spellcasting. [3]
[4]Sesha panics for a moment as she almost loses the ley-line she reaches for but regains her composure and thanks the Drow yet again for their training in armored spellcasting. [5]
[6]
[7]" Raevel, they are only concerned for you and your family. You can trust me now Raevel. Tell me now if there are any more half-truths, lies, or information we don't have. Do you associate with these bandits? Do you know something you haven't told us? Can we trust you alone here looking after your son? Tell ME Raevel, so I can soothe the warrior behind us. It seems like he doesn't believe you very much, and I want to show him how much he can trust us, you and I."
[1] Perception 17 [2] Sense Motive 12 [3] Bluff to hide spell casting 18 [4] Ley check 12 vs DC 10 [5] Arcane Armor Training to reduce ley requirement from 20 to 10. [6] Charm Person DC 19 (10+1+8) [7] Diplomacy 45 - Nat 20 + 25 (11 Ranks, +8 Cha, +6 Persuasive Feat with Synergy Bonus)
OOC: Please ignore the roll of 25, I had meant to convince him he swooned after I dismissed the charm spell, but charm spells cannot be dismissed and must expire I assume, since there is no (D) by the duration.
DM Jon d20+5=24 ; d20+13=19 ; Monday February 18th, 2013 7:27:03 PM OOC: I don't believe you can use bluff to disguise spellcasting... at least not in PF Core. You'd need Silent/Still spell for that. If I'm wrong, please let me know. It would be awesome.
DM Jon Monday February 18th, 2013 7:37:35 PM
Raevel glares at Sesha as she attempts to charm him and easily shrugs off the effects. "Listen, lady, I don't know where you're from but I don't take kindly to people trying to mess with my head, helpful intentions or not."
And he looks to the others, putting a hand on his son's shoulder, "I don't know where those bastards went with my Maymel, but the longer you sit here asking me pointless questions the further they're getting away. I may have done things in my past I ain't proud of and the shadow of retribution always hangs over my head, but it shouldn't be over my sweet wife's. I can't be sure of who attacked us as I... panicked and dove in the well. You find my wife and I'll tell you everything you want to know about my life before coming here... until then I don't need to be judged by you. I thank you for saving my son, but, by the gods.. go do the same for my wife!"
Sense Motive DC 15: He's honest.
Alexi AC 28 Tch 13 Ffted 25 HP 120/120 CMD 26 d20+6=14 ; Monday February 18th, 2013 9:40:08 PM
OOC: I actuall thought it was going to be something like a Zone of Truth, not Charm Person. :}
IC: Alexi nodds and tells Raevel, "Your concern for your wife is understandable, but you should understand also that a minute or two spend here with some answers can save much more time, and possibly lives, later on. But as you say you will tell us everything about what probably brought this upon you once we are back, we'll leave things as is. While we are gone, think much on how someone's history can bring harm to Bryn Baraz. This town is to give hope to its citizens, not vengeful gangs."
He leads the way out, back up the stairs to the main floor, expecting the others to follow. Once back outside he checks Daisy's saddle to make sure nothing is loose and mounts up again.
Presumably the others will follow, and Alexi heads to the back of the house. Turning to Anrete he asks the barbarian, "See what you can make of these tracks and lets follow them.
OOC: his own Survival roll +6 = 14
Once on their way, Alexi retrieves the note and reads it.
Sesha [AC 25 | HP 120/120 | CMD 14] Monday February 18th, 2013 10:04:35 PM
If it were possible for a black skinned drow to blush with embarrassment, Sesha was doing just that. Her midnight blue ears burned with shame. She had soothed all manner of man, monster, beast and spirit with her magics and silk tongue, and despite her best (possible even!) efforts she had been easily (as if by fate!) repelled by a dirty coward of a farmer! ( I want that 45 skill check back! ^_^)
Even worse, she felt the quiet amusement of Pot-Pot and the chiding laughter of Little Spirit in the back of her mind. And of course, she had to fail miserably in front of Cyniq. Why did the surface elf have to come inside just in time to see her fail!?
<muttering> "I'm going outside. He's probably telling the truth for what it's worth. And even if he's not, and he's a disguised child eating fire newt, it's beyond me to talk it out of him. Someone said something about tracks?"
Outside she takes in a deep fresh breath of air and mutters to herself. "Some first impression..."
She pokes around looking for the trail or tracks that were mentioned earlier, waiting for the others to come outside.
Keela [AC 17; HP 87/76] [Mage Armor; Telepathic Link; False Life; Fly] Monday February 18th, 2013 11:13:11 PM
Keela catches less than half of what's going on [lousy Perception!], but she senses they've gotten everything here that they can.
"Let's find those raiders," she says, and heads outside.
The Mysterious Paper (DM Donna) d20+1=12 ; d20+8=21 ; Tuesday February 19th, 2013 12:25:17 AM
Alexi unfurls the rolled-up paper and sees...
...nothing. It's blank, with nothing visible on the page.
However, he also notices that the "paper" is actually rather high-quality parchment in the shape of a rectangle that's about eight or nine inches wide by eleven or twelve inches long.
Oh...Just One More Thing... (DM Donna) Tuesday February 19th, 2013 12:27:41 AM
Keela feels the magic that powered her Telepathic Link spell fade away.
Ezra Cyniq al'Lyz AC 16{20}/16{20}/13{17} -- CMD 13 -- HP 63/65 d20+18=27 ; d20+4=22 ; Tuesday February 19th, 2013 11:24:05 AM foible of youth, she should have stood behind someone if she was trying to cast a spell on him...
Finding herself in something of a following position, a bit newer for one that so often found herself standing alone against injustice, Cyniq follows the others outside.
Where she summons a mount for herself. "Not as much fun as my last steed, but it'll do." Mounting up she takes a look at the tracks.
"One other point to consider, why the attack by the elemental, now, at this place, so soon after the bandit attack? The odds of this being a coincidence are very low."
Perc=27; Survival:Track=22
Sesha [AC 25 | HP 120/120 | CMD 14] d20+19=32 ; d100+12=79 ; Tuesday February 19th, 2013 5:55:16 PM
Seeing everyone begin to mount up, Sesha shrugs her broom off her back. Taking a deep breath, she holds the broom in one hand and searches for the strongest possible ley-line with the other.[1] Finding it, she draws from it the magic she needs to enchant mount.[2]
A moment later; she is sitting on a hovering broom, ready to follow whomever is leading the way.
[1] Bend Ley Lines - Concentration check 32 vs DC 20. Add the amount I beat the DC by to my next d100 ley roll.
OOC: DM, usually when another class has access to a cleric domain, they replace instances of Wisdom with their own spellcasting stat. If this is true, Sesha has 10/11 uses remaining.
Anrete [HP: 163/163, AC31/Touch18/FF31, CMD 29+3, DR3] [Enraged] d20+10=23 ; Tuesday February 19th, 2013 7:47:32 PM "Ye, right!", Anrete snorts as he turns his back on the cowardly man and survey the tracks.
"Copper!", the uncouth barbarian calls to his horse and mounts up.
----------------------------- Survival 23 to track
Anrete [HP: 130/130, AC31/Touch18/FF31, CMD 29, DR2] Tuesday February 19th, 2013 7:49:16 PM
OOC: Forgot to update header
4/27 rounds of Rage remaining
Alexi AC 28 Tch 13 Ffted 25 HP 120/120 CMD 26 Tuesday February 19th, 2013 8:28:25 PM
Alexi looks at the blank piece of paper and then ponders, "Magic ink? I must have Keela look at this."
Once they are following the tracks, Alexi hands the piece of paper to Keela. " I found this on the floor. At the outset, it looks like a blank piece of paper. I suspect otherwise. Can you do your magic thing and see what you find?"
DM Jon Tuesday February 19th, 2013 8:51:11 PM
"I'd rather keep my hopes of a new life in this place then dwell on troubles far away and long past... but if it turns out i'm wrong, I'll tell you what you need to know. You have my word." Raevel says to the departing heroes before settling down next to his son and giving him a concerned look.
Meanwhile outside the group mounts up either on horses or more usual methods of transportation and look towards the tracks leading out of the corral towards the Badlands... but from direction of Bryn Baraz two large shapes can be seen approaching, one on two legs and the other on four, but both with impressive sets of horns.
~~~~~~~~~
OOC: Welcome Tanner!
Edit: need to redo. Please ignore the approach of the two large figures.
Alexi AC 28 Tch 13 Ffted 25 HP 120/120 CMD 26 Wednesday February 20th, 2013 11:13:04 AM
OOC: Is Jeff back from his Renaissance Festival? I forgot to post for him the last couple of days.
Alexi AC 28 Tch 13 Ffted 25 HP 120/120 CMD 26 d20+8=10 d20+6=14 Wednesday February 20th, 2013 11:16:43 AM
Through waves of dust and heat Alexi sees an immage of horns, a pair on two feet and a massive rack on four feet. He wipes his eyes and they are gone. Just another trick the vast grassy plains plays with the eyes of the unwarry.
His attention back to the task at hand, he hands the piece of paper over to Keela and then sets Lobo forward, following the tracks.
Per +8 = 10 Survival +6 = 14
Garret Goodbarrel [AC:31/29/26 HP:103/103 Ki:11/12 CMD: 30] d20+10=18 ; d20+21=25 ; Wednesday February 20th, 2013 12:02:10 PM
When the group comes back from the cellar, they find Garret walking back and forth near the edge of the farm, checking the ground carefully (Survival: 18, Perception: 25). He waves to everyone as they come out and he says, "I think the tracks are over here! Let's be off after these kidnapping raiders!"
OOC: Made it back very late last night! Fun times. Oh, so awesomely fun times!
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