A Lich's Generosity (DM Cayzle) Thursday January 30th, 2014 10:18:40 AM
Emrys cleverly realizes that the party is a walking miasma of toxin to creatures of the underworld, so he uses his magic to remove the blue spores from his friends.
[OOC: Emrys please accept a 250 xp award for your realization that walking around covered in deadly spores would not endear you to the people with whom you are trying to deal!]
Tuck and Vaniime both seek to deliver the mushrooms as soon as can be.
Alleah agrees, and, travelling back to the Broken Pick, notes that the mood of the town is tense. Fewer people are on the streets, and those you see are moving briskly about their business.
At the lich's tavern, you find the place devoid of traffic. There are almost no customers, aside from two tables with an even dozen of those skinny gnomes at a far wall, Indicio, dressed in a red robe covered in embroidered eyes, sits as you left him on his large chair. You bring him his mushrooms as required. When he realizes that you have accomplished both of his required tasks, he claps his emaciated hands together, congratulates you, and then says: "You have more than my gratitude for completing the tasks I set you; I have information and rewards for you, for I am known to be generous with those who have rendered me a fair service."
"First, I have discovered that the person you seek, the former possessor of the king's bones you told me about, is Serenek, an agent of the Assassin's Guild. She has has been moonlighting without her superior's knowledge. She lairs in the Mordinholm, as unlikely a haven as I could have imagined."
"Second, here are two treasures that you have earned in my service. This is a portal key that you can use to return to your home. And this chest holds the bones that Serenek brought to Bthanchend. It was a small matter for me to obtain them, and I offer them to you in friendship."
He hands you the portal key -- a smooth round stone -- and a small iron chest. Indicio continues.
"If you seek the assassin who took these bones, I can tell you where to find her, if you would be willing to perform one more service for me. The reward for this final service would be well worth your efforts. Or you may leave Bthanchend and return to your home. As you will."
Tuck HP 59/59 AC 21/21/17 Thursday January 30th, 2014 5:29:37 PM
Tuck says to the others, not in Indicio's hearing, "I will be returning to the surface, whether you chase the assassin or not. I am tired and my soul is heavy from what we've done, down here. I think that I'm due for a break."
As my friend here says, it is not our job to chase the thief only to return that which was taken and as we have that I believe we will head back to the surface and our home. Indicio, nothing personal about this but know that the next time that I run into you I will do my best to rid the Wold and Underwold of you.
Emrys ac13, hp28/28. unseen servant, mage hand Thursday January 30th, 2014 11:51:48 PM
(thank you, Cayzle)
Emrys is very glad and pleasantly surprised to see the bones of the king here waiting for them. The idea of taking on a highly trained assassin was not a pleasant one and he feels much lighter now that the burden has been lifted. He is ready to go home. Like the rest of his friends, this little adventure has taken its toll. Wilma, Grell and Ariach haven't spoken a word since we returned from the island and now Tuck speaks of taking a holiday from the Vanguard. "I understand Tuck and it saddens me to see you leave. Let it be known that your place at the table will always be waiting for you."
Emrys stands proudly with Vaniime in agreement about returning to the surface. However, he cringes that she threatens the lich before our treasure was in hand.
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 49/49 Friday January 31st, 2014 5:26:25 AM "Hmmm... the lich looks to have kept his word" Alleah tries to contain her surprise. "Though I suppose there's no guarantee the portal key he gave us won't kill us when we use it" the negative voice in her head responds.
Alleah smiles and nods appreciatively to the undead abomination. "I wonder if his phylactery is around here somewhere? That thing would be worth some gold to the right buyer"
A Lich's Generosity (DM Cayzle) Friday January 31st, 2014 11:04:05 AM Vaniime speaks for the group, and tells the lich that the party will be leaving Bthanchend as soon as possible. She also adds, "Indicio, nothing personal about this but know that the next time that I run into you I will do my best to rid the Wold and Underwold of you."
To which the lich replies, "Nothing personal on my part either, but know that there are greater evils in this Wold than me, and I hope you will keep an open mind about who you can trust and who you cannot."
Emrys thinks maybe it is not wise to threaten a lich, but this one seems more amused and indulgent. Thank goodness.
Alleah is startled by the lich's fair dealing. Perhaps even evil folk can take advantage of a reputation for honesty and fair dealing?
The heroes depart, and Tuck declares that he is headed for home and rest. Still, there is the town to navigate, and then the gate, and then the bridge, and then the portal, and then the graveyard, before you are safely home in the Nightmare Quarter.
At the gate, the guards and an official refuse to let you pass until you declare what you are taking out with you, and its value. There is the matter of a tithe on all goods that leave the town, evidently. You may either submit to a search, or declare your intentions in a zone of truth. The official, one of those skinny pale dwarves, notes that you are not allowed to try to resist the magic if you choose the zone of truth, and that they can tell if you try to resist.
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 49/49 Saturday February 1st, 2014 5:11:26 AM
Alleah steps forward, volunteering to step in the zone of truth "The truth is that we can't wait to put this town behind us. The only item of value we take with us is a cigar I bought for 5 silver. We also take some old bones with us that were brought into the city illegally, a mushroom or two, and a key to allow us to return to the surface."
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 49/49 Saturday February 1st, 2014 7:35:33 PM "Actually, now that I think of it... we do take some arms and armor with us too. My apologies, they completely slipped my mind. Honest mistake"
Emrys ac13, hp28/28. unseen servant, mage hand Sunday February 2nd, 2014 9:45:12 PM
"They are quite correct. That does about sum it up. If I were to declare anything more, I'd say I purchased a very excellent broom. Do you wish to see it?" Emrys explains in their native underwoldian tongue.
A Lich's Generosity (DM Cayzle) Monday February 3rd, 2014 11:40:05 AM
Alleah makes her declarations as honestly as she can. Vaniime and Emrys also are willing to speak freely and honestly. A skinny dwarf concentrates as she casts Detect Magic. And sighs when she realizes that the party honestly does not actually realize exactly what they are bringing out of the city.
So follows a time with the skinny dwarf pointing and saying, "How about that?" "How about that?" "How about that?" Usually you answer, "No, that's mine." but once in a while you answer, "Oh yeah, got that here in the city."
The complete list turns out to be:
A set of masterwork drow plate armor (treat as mithral) A heavy steel shield with the Pelezek coat of arms. A masterwork rapier. A potion of invisibility. A scroll of dispel magic. A wand of cure serious wounds CL 5, 10 charges. Two mw drow chain shirts emblazoned with the Pelezek coat of arms. (treat as mithral) Two rapiers. Two handcrossbows. Two quivers, total of 40 bolts. Two with poisoned tips (drow). Total of six additional doses of drow poison. Vial of glowing blue magical spores A magical red mushroom with images of white hands on it A coffer with a king's bones A portal key
The dwarf assesses all this at 17,000 gp. Note that the drow full plate is assessed at 10,000 gp. Each of the drow chain shirts is worth 1,000 gp.
That's 1,700 gp you owe before you can leave.
You also got 423 gp, but you forgot to mention it, and it did not turn up on the scan.
Van says she is eager to be in the sun again. The skinny dwarf, looking at the drow coat of arms on the armor, whistles, and says, "I'm not surprised you want to get back to your, what you call, sunshine. But be careful to keep this lovely armor out of your precious sun! I hear it dissolves in the light!"
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Monday February 3rd, 2014 6:06:48 PM
Ariach is surprised and disappointed that the lich has kept his word. The young warrior had hoped that Indico would renege and give Ariach a reason to fight the undead monster. Now Ariach has no reason to fight the lich, but he swears to himself that he will not forget where he can find the evil undead. "I donīt want any of these things, nor do i want to carry them. Everything we take with us from this city is covered with the blood of innocents."
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 49/49 Tuesday February 4th, 2014 7:30:14 AM
Alleah looks at each of the things the guard points at "Yes but... Oh that yes well... yes that too... that one completely slipped my ... yes yes"
She steps outside the zone of truth to talk with the rest of the party. "I've said it before and I'll say it again - I'm not strong enough to carry all that stuff. Leaving it here does not help any innocents. I say we just pay the tax and get outta here with the stronger of the group carrying the heavy things. Oh, and best keep the drow stuff out of sunlight just in case"
Emrys ac13, hp28/28. unseen servant, mage hand Tuesday February 4th, 2014 1:10:04 PM
Emrys begins to check his coin purse to see how much he can add to the pot.
(More this evening. I was out like a light as soon as I got home from work.)
Getting out of Town (DM Cayzle) Tuesday February 4th, 2014 1:42:06 PM
Ariach is ready to wash his hands of this whole sordid town and business -- he wants no part in even the loot from an adventure that has left such a bad taste in his mouth.
Ever practical, however, Alleah is willing to pay the tax in order to pass the gate, and with help from Emrys, the fee is soon paid and the town is left behind.
The gate guard is willing to take the tax in goods if you prefer. Those two drow chain shirts would do nicely. [OOC: Recalling that goods sold are typically at half book value, that's not a bad deal.]
With the heaviest of the loot divided among you, the way back leads you to the stone block bridge, at which you were attacked by an aboleth and its minions when you arrived.
Do you prepare in any way before approaching the bridge? What's your strategy for getting across?
Vaniime AC 18/14/15, HP:33/52,protection from evil, resist fire Tuesday February 4th, 2014 2:17:56 PM
Vaniime suggess that they leave some of the goods behind as their tax and not spend cash they may need later. As soon as the tax is paid she takes a deep sigh.
"Ok all are you ready to face this bridge crossing again?"
Tuck, Emrys are you ready? Ariach, Grell weapons at the ready. Remember what we nearlyencountered on the way through here the first time."
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Tuesday February 4th, 2014 5:18:13 PM
Ariach shivers when he thinks back to the fight versus the aboleth and the complete inability to help his friends during the fight.
"I am at your service, Vaniime" is all he says to the group leader.
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 49/49 d20+25=45 ; d20+17=29 ; Tuesday February 4th, 2014 5:56:50 PM
Alleah is happy that the group made the right decision (ie: agreed with her) about keeping the hard earned loot.
Once past the guards and with loot in tow, Alleah takes the time to stretch. First her arms high above her head, then neck, before working down to waist and legs. Touching her toes and finally jumping on the spot. She finishes with an exhale and small grunt. "Alright then. Let's get these bones back in place"
The halfling crouches down and finds the nearest shadow to take point for the group. She moves quickly between the shadows and what darkness she can find, becoming nearly imperceptible to most eyes (Stealth: 45, Perception: 29)
Grell, AC20/13/18, HP72/72, Protection from Evil Tuesday February 4th, 2014 11:36:46 PM
Feeling as though he's been sleep walking for the past couple of days, Grell grunts and rolls his shoulders...what the heck was *that* all about?! He feels as if he just missed a big fight, which is NOT Grell's way. Shaking his head, a pale faced Grell looks over at Ariach. "I swear I got a batch of bad mushroom soup! I can't remember what happened the past few days at all!" Casting about, Grell looks over at Wilma who looks to be in some form of a trance. Snapping his fingers in front of her face, Grell begins to become more than a little worried. "I think we need to get back up to the surface. The faster, the better! This darkness has had some kind of bewitching effect on my sister and I!"
OOC: I'm back folks! Sorry I missed yesterday but I didn't have any time between my two jobs! Will get my CS sheet finished pronto.
Emrys ac13, hp28/28. unseen servant, mage hand Tuesday February 4th, 2014 11:41:18 PM
"I'm more than ready, Vaniime. The Underwold, though thoroughly intriguing, is feeling a bit too confining for my taste. There is something I eagerly wish to try. Not to mention a little shopping. I feel my wardrobe is in desperate need of refreshing.
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 49/49 Wednesday February 5th, 2014 7:26:22 AM
Alleah does not join in with the party discussions, instead preferring to remain concealed. She is very curious what it may be that Emrys wishes to try. A new recipe for mushroom soup perhaps?
Getting out of Town (DM Cayzle) Wednesday February 5th, 2014 4:31:47 PM
Although Ariach turns his back on the proceedings, Vaniime hands the guards the two drow chain shirts, to pay the tax, which gets the party on the way out of town.
Grell thinks back over recent events. It seems hard to believe now, but the party has visited a tavern in a town next to a sea all under the surface of the Wold. And the tavern was run by a lich! And the lich offered a deal the party (mostly) accepted: To kill an evil drow matron and collect some rare mushrooms in exchange for the king's bones, the relics for which you sought. You ended up kidnapping the matron and delivering her to the lich, putting evil into evil hands, oddly enough. And maybe those mushrooms and their spores affected some of you oddly, since it makes some people, like Tuck and Wilma and (until recently) Grell quiet and unassertive. But now you have upheld the deal, and so has the lich. You have left town and are ready to head for the surface.
But first, there is a bridge!
As you approach, Alleah fades into the shadows, which is not hard in this UnderWold, so long as she stays away from light sources (and is not carrying one herself?).
About 300 ft from the bridge, you see two figures on it. It is too hard to tell what they are from this distance. Medium size, or maybe Large?
Emrys is eager to try something ... something for the moment, now, on the bridge? Or something for the group's return to the sunlit Plateau City?
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Wednesday February 5th, 2014 5:56:33 PM
Ariach takes the lead and walks straight up to the two figures.
In his opinion there is nothing worse than a city full of evil individuals. Therefore everything he will face in front will be better than what he has left behind.
Moving forward Vaniime leads the others to the bridge and takes a closer gander at who/what is waiting there.
perception DC 15
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 49/49 d20+17=35 ; Wednesday February 5th, 2014 10:45:30 PM
Alleah does a double-take as she sees Ariach walk past her. "So much for stealth and subtlety" The rogue maintains her position in the shadows and stays perfectly still; once the lead she now finds herself near the middle of the pack. Confrontation never was her style anyway.
Perception: 35
Emrys ac13, hp28/28. unseen servant, mage hand d20+15=34 ; Wednesday February 5th, 2014 11:26:42 PM
(Perception: 34)
Just like a simple splash in the water, we shouldn't assume everythi.... ohhh, then again after their close call with the local marine fauna, discretion may very well be the better part of valor. He stays very near the center of their party taking what comfort he can, surrounded by the might and main of his friends.
Grell, AC20/13/18, HP72/72, Protection from Evil Thursday February 6th, 2014 11:51:28 AM
Crud... I wrote a post last night... but I must not have clicked go last night. I'll post when I get home.
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Thursday February 6th, 2014 7:17:55 PM
check
Fight on the Bridge (DM Cayzle) Thursday February 6th, 2014 7:43:56 PM
Led by Ariach, you draw closer, and from about 120 ft away you see that the two figures on the bridge are fighting!
One is a hefty skum, like the ones you encountered here before, but beefier. The other is a scaly human with, as Van notes, red eyes. Around them on the ground are the remains of three more skum, two of them smoking and dissolving.
Grell steps forward, ready for anything.
Perceptive Alleah and Emyrs, Please Do Highlight to display spoiler: {The fight is not going well for the scaly fellow, who seems pretty wounded.}
As a matter of fact, please do let us enter combat rounds. Players first. Post your actions, and then the enemy will take their turn in tomorrow's post. No map needed for a simple fight like this -- SO FAR!
[OOC: And please everyone welcome Tanner back to the game as our newest player! And that's not all -- I have convinced an even more illustrious and storied Woldian to come on as our eighth player, as you will discover next week! DUH DUH DUUUHHH!]
Seeing someone being attacked by some of the same skum that attacked them, and not liking skum in the first place, especially in light of their recent encounter, Van thinks to herself, that any enemy of an enemy of theirs should be helped and charges into the fray trying to distract the skum and cut it down. Her strike slices into the beast [b] Ac 26 for 14 points.
Grell, AC20/13/18, HP72/72, Protection from Evil d20+14=21 ; 2d6+24=35 ; Thursday February 6th, 2014 10:37:37 PM
Making sure the comatose Wilma is safely back toward the rear, Grell charges in to join Vaniime's attack on the skum. His big sword slashes, likely rendering scales from muscle. AC21 for 35. Even as he feel the thrill of battle, Grell continuously cast his gaze back toward his sister, desperately wanting her to spring back to life and join in the battle.
Royston Scalesworth IV AC 16/13/15 - CMD 21 - F+12/R+6/W+12 Thursday February 6th, 2014 10:55:14 PM
testing header
Fight on the Bridge (DM Cayzle) Thursday February 6th, 2014 11:09:02 PM
You guys! You're 120 feet from the enemy! For anyone who tries to melee, I'll interpret that as a full-round run action to get to the combat.
Sheesh!
:-)
Royston Scalesworth IV AC 16/13/15 - CMD 21 - F+12/R+6/W+12 d20+11=22 ; d20+11=31 ; d20+11=15 ; d20+10=12 ; d6+6=9 ; d6+6=8 ; d6+6=12 ; d8+9=13 ; Thursday February 6th, 2014 11:09:48 PM
You see a young human male with dark brown hair hanging loosely to his shoulders. His eyes are bright red, with white irises flecked with orange near the pupil. His skin on his hands and face is a striking blend of humanoid and draconic features, with sweeping horns and tiny scales growing from his skin and bones. He is dressed in a gentleman courtier's outfit, with coat, shirt, cravat, and trousers. He is tall and lanky, with a wiry frame and straight posture.
He swings desperately against the skum, several nasty cuts and scrapes dripping blood on his arms. He eyes widen as he sees you and he calls out. "You! You're not from down here! Please, help me against this beast!" He grits his teeth and his eyes flash with energy. His hands and fingers elongate and narrow into wicked, scaled claws. His teeth turn black and lengthen as well, filling his mouth with small daggers.
Emrys ac13, hp28/28. unseen servant, mage hand d100=89 ; Thursday February 6th, 2014 11:54:12 PM "That smartly dressed leper needs our help ... he is quite injured and as good as slain!" Emrys moves forward as close as he can (30-ft) and lets loose another volley of dark magiks focused at the hulking skum.
(Leyline: 89 ... woot, free cast. Casting Blindness/Deafness on the Skum. Fort DC: 18 vs. blindness.)
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 49/49 d4+1=4 ; d4+1=3 ; d20+17=27 ; Friday February 7th, 2014 6:16:45 AM
Alleah holds her hand.... for the moment. She doesn't know who to trust or which side to take in this fight. "Scales looks pretty beat-up" she observes.
It may look to the casual observer that she is doing nothing, but she is in fact preparing to defend the group. "Would it be premature to call them friends?" she wonders. She pushes the thought aside for the moment.
Ready action to cast Magic Missile on the first person/thing to attack a member of the party. Range: 130ft. 7pts damage
Perception: 27
---------------- Spells Available to Cast Today Lvl 0 : Unlimited Lvl 1 : 8 (7 if Magic Missile cast) Lvl 2 : 4 -1 = 3
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Friday February 7th, 2014 7:09:38 PM
Without the knowledge of who is aggressor and whose not Ariach holds his position. He sees no need of charging into a battle fought by two parties he doesnīt know. So he stays next to Wilma and observes the fight.
Fight on the Bridge (DM Cayzle) d20+9=29 ; d20+10=22 ; d8+8=10 ; d20+8=28 ; d20+8=23 ; 2d4+8=12 ; d20+8=26 ; d6+4=10 ; Friday February 7th, 2014 8:26:17 PM
Grell and Vaniime race toward the fight, arriving at the scene of the melee at the end of the round.
Emrys casts a disabling spell, but the skum's natural 20 saves!
Ariach and Alleah are more reserved, ready for an attack on the party.
The red-eyed fellow attacks with claws and teeth! He hits twice for 17! Maybe he can take care of the enemy himself! Or maybe not ...
The Skum started the round down 23 hp, and is down 40 by the end of it.
It attacks with its deadly trident, claw, and bite! The scaly fellow's relatively low AC16 means he continues to take massive punishment. The imposing skum's trident hits AC22 for 10. His claw criticals with a 28 and a 23 for another 12! That is enough damage to knock the scaly fellow down! Thank goodness Van and Grell have just arrived! The skum takes a bite at Grell, hitting AC 26 for 10 damage!
Not likng the Skum up close any more that she did further away Vannime really takes a dislike to it as it attacks Grell. Flying into action she cuts into the skum Ac 26 for 14 points damage but misses with her second swing. AC 14
(Used original rolls)
Royston Scalesworth IV AC 16/13/15 - CMD 21 - F+12/R+6/W+12 Friday February 7th, 2014 11:41:47 PM
The scaly, horned figure hits the ground, a wuff of air and bloody mist escaping his mouth. "Blergh..."
Emrys ac13, hp28/28. unseen servant, mage hand Saturday February 8th, 2014 12:52:59 AM
Emrys curses to himself that his spell failed to blind the brute. His failure now forces the young mystic to put himself in harms way. As he runs to the fallen, misshapen leper, he pulls a wand from his belt pouch and prepares to wield its magic. He is mindful, however, to stay outside the skum's reach if at all possible.
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 49/49 d20+11=15 ; Sunday February 9th, 2014 5:31:52 AM
As the skum bites into Grell, Alleah's magic missiles fire from her hand striking her foe with pin-point accuracy (Readied action triggers. Skum takes/took 7pts damage)
"Ok, so looks like we're trying to save Skales then" Alleah blinks with realisation
Unfortunately, "Skales" has taken a beating and drops to the group with a sickly thump.
"This guy had better be important" she thinks to herself as she takes a deep breath.
"Coming through!" Alleah grits her teeth and lowers her head as she runs at full speed, head first towards the Skum! She moves with speed not often associated with halflings, and at the last moment dives onto "Skales", doing her best to put herself between him and the towering Skum.
(Run at 4x speed to move 80ft. Use Hero Point for extra move to make another 20ft. Figure since Alleah had been leading the pack that she may have been closer than the 120ft previously advised to the front-line fighters. Acrobatics check if needed to dive onto "Skales": 15. Provokes an AoO from the Skum)
She embraces "Skales" and prepares for an imminent blow to her back. Or perhaps she's just trying to pat "Skales" down for valuables.
-------------------- Note Alleah is now prone: "Prone: The character is lying on the ground. A prone attacker has a --4 penalty on melee attack rolls and cannot use a ranged weapon (except for a crossbow). A prone defender gains a +4 bonus to Armor Class against ranged attacks, but takes a --4 penalty to AC against melee attacks."
Grell, AC20/13/18, HP62/72, Protection from Evil d20+13=31 ; 2d6+30=41 ; Sunday February 9th, 2014 9:04:43 AM
Looking down at the blood tricking from the flap of skin on his arm, Grell smiles at the skuum. It's not a pleasant "Hey, let's be friends" smile however...this is more of a "You are so dead" kind of smile. HIs blue eyes are ice hard as he stares down the scaly critter.
"Oh...so you want to play, huh?! Here...trying this on for size, big guy!!!" Letting the tension flow from his core and tighten his biceps, Grell brings down his massive oversized sword with a cruuunch as it rends bone, flesh and scales. Power Attack AC31 for 41
Looking down at Alleah who is crouched over the wounded stranger Grell calls out "You think he's gonna make it?"As he wipes the spray of Skuum blood from his face.
Fight on the Bridge (DM Cayzle) Monday February 10th, 2014 5:26:49 AM
Alleah bravely but foolishly throws herself forward, putting herself at grave risk to save a stranger who has called for aid. [OOC: Please accept a hero point for your heroic act.] She is poised to take a blow to protect the human with red eyes and a sense of scales covering his skin.
But Alleah's friends help to save her from self-sacrifice. Vaniime inflicts a hard 14 on the skum leader, and then Grell hits it even harder and puts it down forever.
Emrys follows close behind Alleah, taking out a wand.
Roy himself is unconscious.
The rest of the party advances once it is clear the danger is past.
Blood drips off the bridge into the water below. Perhaps it would not be wise to linger?
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 49/49 d2-1=0 ; d20+17=37 ; Monday February 10th, 2014 9:25:07 AM
When no blow lands Alleah opens up one eye, then the other. Wardd truly loves a gambler! "Alright then. Let's get out of here pronto. Wake up big guy!" Alleah gives "Scales" a hearty slap across the cheek to wake him up (d2-1=0 damage. Min is 1 so 1pt Non-Lethal to "Scales" I guess). Unfortunately Alleah isn't the strongest person in the Wold, so her slap barely leaves a mark.
With that approach failing to work, Alleah yields to the pro "Uh, Emrys? Are you able to wake this guy up?"
Alleah goes back to her comfort zone and examines the fallen skum corpses for "keepsakes" (Perc to search the bodies: 37 - Nat20)
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Monday February 10th, 2014 6:29:00 PM
As Ariach approaches he takes a closer look at the person who was protected by his friends. "Is he alive? Is he even human? Or is he just another servant of one the evil parties here in the city?"
Grell, AC20/13/18, HP62/72, Protection from Evil Monday February 10th, 2014 8:39:28 PM
Wiping the skuum blood from his blade Grell stores the weapon. He watches Alleah's attempts to revive the newcomer and chuckles a bit. "You know, Alleah, I can recomend a couple of techniques to help you build up your upper body strength once we get back home... If you like, you could even join me on my morning warm up. We'll have you smacking bad guys around in no time."
Grell winks and turns back to check on his sister. It's not at all like Wilma to miss an opportunity to provide divine healing. Having limited knowlege on the proper technique for restoring a person to their proper faculties, Grell falls back on some his old tricks from back at Maplehurst. Reaching into his pack, Grell pulls out a small pouch from one of the inner dividers. He gingerly removes a small pinch of powdered substance holds it out at arms length as he approaches Wilma. With a mischevious grin, Grell takes the powder and rubs it vigorously under his sister's nose, wrinkling his own as the pungent odor wafts through the air. Looking over at Ariach, Grell is practically beaming with glee. "You have *NO* idea how long I've been waiting to do this!!"
"Hey, sis, WAKE UP! You've got work to do!!" Grell bellows as he continues to rub the stinky herb into his sister's nostrils.
"Grell, we do not have tme for this, and remember she is my best friend... Not to mention that she is going to know exactly who put that disgusting stuff in her nostrils and then she is going to come after you. And when she does, don't come running to me for help. " Ok all, let's get this guy on his feet and get out of here before we attract any more attention.
Emrys ac13, hp28/28. unseen servant, mage hand d8=8 ; 2d8+5=12 ; Monday February 10th, 2014 9:27:18 PM
"I will certainly try Alleah." Emrys then activates the wand and taps the deformed man. A surge of healing energy envelops the fallen creature.
(Casting Cure Serious Wounds. Heals: 3d8+5=20 points of damage.)
Royston Scalesworth IV AC 16/13/15 - CMD 21 - F+12/R+6/W+12 Monday February 10th, 2014 10:27:43 PM
The magic of the wand flows and swirls over his body, staunching the flow of blood and knitting together wounds. With a ragged gasp for air, his eyes open wide and he flails his arms in front of him, obviously warding off blows that landed before he fell unconscious. "Ah! Ahhhhh, what?!" He looks up at the gathered party and furrows his eyebrows. "Oh, I'm... I'm not dead." He stands slowly, taking stock of the dead skum lying on the bridge nearby and looking at each of the party members. "Thank you for that. I'm afraid I would have died without your assistance. You have my thanks and gratitude."
He touches his fingers to his heart and bows. "I am Royston Scalesworth the Fourth, Paladin of Domi. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance." He smiles somewhat nervously. "If I could be a bother to you once more, I am afraid that I am... lost. Very lost, in fact. I believe I am in the Underwold, but I am not entirely certain. I was investigating the cemetary in Plateau City, when I found a tunnel. I followed it to a great chasm in the earth, when something shoved me from behind. I fell, and the next thing I know I am here in this cavern. I wandered for a time, then I was attacked by these fish-men on this bridge. Do you know the way back home?"
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 49/49 Tuesday February 11th, 2014 4:58:48 AM "I don't know, Grell. If I get some muscles you'd have two women in your life ready to slap sense into you" Alleah grins back at Grell
Fight on the Bridge (DM Cayzle) Tuesday February 11th, 2014 10:20:11 AM
Alleah tries a unique method of bringing around the unconscious by slapping them hard enough to inflict damage, but turns out that's only a thing in stories, like stories about waking sleepwalkers and snapping enchanted folks out of trances. Not so much for those on the edge of death.
Fortunately, Royston is unaware of this assault on his cheek and on his dignity.
Ariach, ever suspicious of every person and thing in this foul UnderWold, immediately wonders if this is an enemy worth saving.
Grell, amused by Alleah's antics, urges the party to heal the wounded stranger.
Vaniime agrees that the stranger needs curing.
Emrys answers the call and brings the fellow to consciousness with a burst of curing.
Turns out the stranger claims to be a paladin, and from Plateau City! He names himself Royston Scalesworth the Fourth, and he offers many thanks.
Alleah finds 300 gp in silver and gold coins of UnderWold mintage on the dead Skum leader, as well as a lucky charm or small token or protective fetish of some sort. It is the only thing of beauty on the creature, so it must be special. It is a blue stone cut with amazing delicacy, about an inch or two in diameter.
Van urges the group to leave quickly, and soon you are past the bridge. You walk the cobbled road for a quarter mile, coming to the place you met the UnderWold dwarf merchant. He is not there now. You see the crater within which is the portal to the surface.
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Tuesday February 11th, 2014 6:37:16 PM
Had he just heard it right? Could it really be that he had failed to come to the aid of a real paladin of Domi? Could it really be that he had broken the codex in such a terrible way? All color disappears from Ariachīs face while he observes Royston Scalesworth IV- paladin of Domi. Facing one of his designated heroes unsettles the young man. But finally he steps forward and copies the paladinīs bow he has seen before.
"Welcome, Sir Royston Scalesworth the Fourth. It is a pleasure and a great honor for all of us to meet you. Accept my apology for not coming to your aid by myself. First i didnīt want to leave my friends Wilma and Tuck unprotected and second (the young warrior seems obviously very uncomfortable) i wasnīt sure you arenīt a dweller of this corrupt city. May i introduce myself. I am Ariach Gatelatch - a simple worshipper of Domi."
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 49/49 Wednesday February 12th, 2014 6:22:09 AM "ooohh... pretty" Alleah nods and pockets her discoveries. Of course she plans to share them with the group. Well, probably. But now isn't the time to admire the findings.
"Good to meet you, Scales!" Alleah says genuinely happy to meet the man they've just saved. She extends a hand for him to shake (which just so happens to be the hand moments earlier she struck him with). Her brow furrows on seeing his red eyes, but she doesn't say anything "Alleah Lighttouch here"
"So, uh, are we getting out of here now or what?" Alleah is ready to step into the crater/portal first
Grell, AC20/13/18, HP62/72, Protection from Evil Wednesday February 12th, 2014 1:14:16 PM
Wiping the stinky herb in his pants, Grell extends his hand to the paldin. "Grell Illutu. Yep, you're in the Underworld, and we're on the way out, so you probably want to go with us. " Grell gives Wilma a noogy for good measure as he escorts her toward the portal.
Emrys ac13, hp28/28. unseen servant, mage hand Wednesday February 12th, 2014 1:32:22 PM
"We are glad to help, Mr. Scalesworth. How fortuitous to encounter each other in such strange circumstances. Surely I speak for everyone that you are welcome to accompany us back to Plateau City. Let us hasten this journeys end, shall we."
The Portal (DM Cayzle) Wednesday February 12th, 2014 2:09:24 PM
After some hellos, the group proceeds to the crater in which is found the portal.
Alleah is eager to be first. She digs out the portal key. But does anyone recall how to trigger the portal?
Spellcraft or Know Arcana or Int Check vs DC12: Highlight to display spoiler: {You have to cast a second level spell or higher.}
OOC: Wish we had more posters, more than 24 hours after the last DM Post. Do let's try harder? Thanks!
Royston Scalesworth IV AC 16/13/15 - CMD 21 - F+12/R+6/W+12 Wednesday February 12th, 2014 2:39:01 PM
His eyes light up at the sight of another worshipper of Domi. "It is a pleasure to meet you, Ariach. May the Protector guide your path to honor." He bows in succession to the entire party. "And please, no apologies are necessary. I know that my demeanor can be somewhat unnerving at first." He smiles, and though he still has piercing red eyes and scales and horns, his hands and teeth have returned to normal. "It sounds like you have just finished a great adventure, and the telling would be far more pleasant in a warm tavern with a dark ale. Please, let us leave and allow me to buy everyone a round."
Hmmm... "Scales." I think I like it.
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Wednesday February 12th, 2014 3:50:06 PM
"Indeed we should leave this place immeditately" is Ariachīs short but vehement answer.
Ok Alleah lets all get together. spell craft DC25 I can't do it yet but if I recall correctly we need someone to cast a spell just higher than a basic one.
Royston it is a pleasrue to meet you and glad we could be of assistance. But As you say stories and introductions would be best done back on our side of the Wold as it were and with a glass of wine or some such in hand.
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 49/49 d20+2=4 ; Wednesday February 12th, 2014 6:32:47 PM
Alleah walks to the crater and looks about, dumfounded. "How is this thing supposed to work again? Magic word? Maybe that oil the Lich gave them? Invisible door? Gotta be invisible door!" (Int check vs DC12: 4 = Fail!)
Alleah reaches around blindly as she searches for the invisible doorway, until Van puts her out of her misery. Embarrassed - mildly - Alleah gathers everyone together and prepares to cast the required spell.
----------------- OOC: Sorry, it wasn't clear from Van's post. Am I casting a 1st or 2nd level spell?
Emrys ac13, hp28/28. unseen servant, mage hand d20+14=26 ; Wednesday February 12th, 2014 6:48:05 PM
(Knowledge [Arcana]: 26)
"Yes, you are very correct, Vaniime. I should be able to activate the portal easily enough. Everyone, please make sure you're standing on the platform. Is everyone on ... ahh yes, let's begin." Emrys then casts one of his 2nd level bardic spells into the portal. "This should do it. Brace yourselves!"
(Emrys casts Invisibility to power the portal.)
The Portal (DM Cayzle) Thursday February 13th, 2014 3:07:43 PM [OOC: Assuming Janell is snowed out. I'll ask Sherriff Ken to excuse Grell.]
Alleah says she'll cast the spell. What, which spell?
And so Emrys, casting Invisibility to open the portal, beats her to the punch. That's twice today! The DM awards Emrys 50 xp for competency and suggests adding "The Competent" as an epithet. :-)
As soon as the spell is cast, there is a hum and the magic is absorbed. As before, the portal is not one that can be entered; rather, it simply moves the entire party to the destination, with a sort of sideways lurch.
You find yourself at the bottom of a rock chimney, with a steep tunnel above that. You can smell the fresh air above!
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Thursday February 13th, 2014 5:44:34 PM
It seems like he gets rid of a huge rock when Ariach finds out he isnīt in the underworld anymore. "What a good feeling to be back home."
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 49/49 Thursday February 13th, 2014 6:52:37 PM "We're not out just yet" Alleah reminds Ariach "Can someone make some light?"
Alleah is justifiably on edge. The last time they were at the bottom of this chimney they were attacked by bugs. "Bugs. Why'd it have to be bugs?"
Hearing a noise behind her Alleah whirls about, fist raised and ready to punch something. She is mildly relieved to discover it is only Grell.
Let's get back to the surface and return these bones to their descendents and pick up our paycheck. I am hungry I need a drink and I want to take a bath.
Grell, AC20/13/18, HP62/72, Protection from Evil Thursday February 13th, 2014 10:13:46 PM
Grell chuckes at Alleah's reaction. "Easy there killer... it's only me." He nods his approval of Vaniime's idea. "Yeah, and some real food would be awesome! I'm starving!!"
Royston Scalesworth IV AC 16/13/15 - CMD 21 - F+12/R+6/W+12 Thursday February 13th, 2014 11:44:22 PM "I remember this place as well. I was standing at the top of this well, looking over the edge, when something pushed me from behind. It is a wonder that I did not fall to my death and instead found myself in the Underwold. Did any of you happen to attach a rope or bring pitons?"
Emrys ac13, hp28/28. unseen servant, mage hand Friday February 14th, 2014 12:35:49 AM
"Yes," agreeing with Grell, "we can stop by Short Shanks on the way home and pick up some steaks, sausage, and maybe a goose!"
Emrys gives his hands a clap and suddenly the head of his walking stick begins to glow as bright as a torch. "Ask and you shall receive, Alleah." (Casting Light spell.) To Vaniime he replies, "Oh yes, a hot bath sounds absolutely divine."
Emrys the Competent ac13, hp28/28. light Friday February 14th, 2014 12:37:28 AM
(Whoops, I forgot to change the name. :)
The Portal (DM Cayzle) Friday February 14th, 2014 6:54:18 AM
With a light, the party can see that there are no bugs, at least not aggressive ones. And you are at the bottom of a rock chimney. Boy, it sure would be nice to have a bath and a hot meal, you say, as you look up at this sheer rock chimney. Yup, that sure would be nice.
:-)
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Friday February 14th, 2014 5:42:51 PM
Ariachīs enthusiasm wanes a little in the face of Alleahīs remark. "Your are absolutely right my little friend. I forgot the upcoming climbing tour whe have to make to finally get out of here."
Well I have about 10 spikes a hammer and 50 feet of rope. Unfortunately I lost my grappling hook.
Looking up she aks outloud. About haw far up is this chimney does anyone remember?
Grell, AC20/13/18, HP62/72, Protection from Evil d20+8=26 ; Saturday February 15th, 2014 12:50:37 AM
Grell gives a sly smile to Vaniime. "I got a grappling hook, some rope and a climbers kit... last one to the toptop is a gelatinous cube! "
Without giving her a chance to respond, Grell grabs his gear and attempts to hook the edge of the chimney. Ranged attack for hook=26.
Royston Scalesworth IV AC 16/13/15 - CMD 21 - F+12/R+6/W+12 Saturday February 15th, 2014 8:43:38 AM
'Sir Scales' waits patiently, knowing that he has little equipment of his own and barging forward would be quite rude considering their recent acquaintance.
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 49/49 Sunday February 16th, 2014 7:30:57 PM
Alleah was just about to reach in to her pack and retrieve her grappling hook, but Grell already has things in hand. She takes a step away from him as he prepares to throw it.
Honestly, she's not looking forward to this climb. Perhaps someone stronger can just pull her up?
Emrys the Competent ac13, hp28/28. light Sunday February 16th, 2014 11:18:26 PM
"We could tie enough rope together, put it in my haversack with a hook. I could simply fly to the top, anchor the rope securely and throw the rest back down," replies Emrys. "Would be no trouble at all."
The Portal (DM Cayzle) Monday February 17th, 2014 11:48:57 AM
With grappling hook, rope, and magical flight if necessary, the heroes ascend the chimney and struggle up the steep short passage. Pretty soon, maybe gasping from your exertions, you are up and up and up, then laying on the earth, with the setting sun turning the tombstones gold and red.
OOC: Friends, please do enjoy a couple days of down time before we get to the next adventure. Be open, even ambitious, about your desires, and spell out, on the board or in email, any background info I need to place your actions in context. Thanks! And do not forget those bones! What do you do with them?
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Monday February 17th, 2014 5:43:05 PM
Finally Ariachīs eyes see the sun again. The mood of the young warrior rises immediately when he feels the sunrays on his cheeks. He takes Wilmaīs hand and says. "You will feel better soon after leaving the darkness behind."
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 49/49 Monday February 17th, 2014 7:17:42 PM
Alleah takes a deep breath on finally reaching the surface.
"We should return those bones as soon as we can. Let the family conduct rites, and some such. They will know we have returned anyway"
Of course Alleah's motives are completely altruistic :)
Grell, AC20/13/18, HP62/72, Protection from Evil Monday February 17th, 2014 8:24:38 PM
Happy now that his muscles are burning and the sun is shining on him once more, Grell slaps Emrys on the back. "You know what... we need a celebratory dinner! Whataya say we head over to Short Shanks and get very us a suckling pig to roast? Ŧ
OOC: I'm in St. Thomas for two more days. I'll try to get my posts in, but if I miss, that's what's going on. ;)
Letting Emrys fly up and set the rope and hook, Van scurries up the rope like only an elf could leaving poor Grell behind about half way up. She waves as she passes him by.
When they all get back topside she suggests that they all go and return the bones and then head back home.
(ok all who has the treasure and totals...)
Royston Scalesworth IV AC 16/13/15 - CMD 21 - F+12/R+6/W+12 Monday February 17th, 2014 11:08:09 PM
Royston clears his throat. "Pardon me, I would hate to intrude upon your pressing business, but I could not help but hear you mention returning bones. Those would not happen to be a king's bones, would they? The bones of Froederick the Great that has had the ear of the city for the past several weeks?" His eyebrows raise in surprise. "My, my, you must have quite a tale to tell. For purely selfish reasons, may I satisfy my curiosity by accompanying you? One does not have the chance to see historic events in person very often."
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Tuesday February 18th, 2014 3:10:04 PM
"Of course you are welcome to escort us Sir Royston Scalesworth and i am pretty sure Emry will enjoy to tell you more than just the latest tale. Grellīs proposal of a celebratory dinner fits perfectly an will be a great ambience to talk."
The Portal (DM Cayzle) Tuesday February 18th, 2014 7:05:15 PM
DM Post coming soon, sorry for the delay!
Emrys the Competent ac13, hp28/28. light Tuesday February 18th, 2014 9:03:08 PM
"We may even get to meet the family once they hear we're in possession of the king. We'll bring new fame and honor to our families. A new age is before us ..." and Emrys then notices that his friends exhibit different degrees of dishevelment. "Zounds, let's try and sharpen our appearance." He hands Grell his comb, stopping short of combing the warrior's hair himself.
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