Descent- DM Dank Tuesday January 5th, 2021 6:03:42 PM
Haldrick shakes his head to Toston, "No, I don't. The way was secured as of 2 days ago." Haldrick takes a bronze horn from one of the dwarf that came with and they all fall back a few steps. Haldrick steps onto the lift and you follow.
The lift descends into a tight fitting shaft and is only lit by a yellow phosphorescent glow about the rail. You descend past 4 stops to finally come to rest at what must be the bottom. Haldrick turns, "Welcome to 7,500 feet, nearly 4 miles between you and the sky now" Haldrick exits the lift a and heads past several small rooms of mining equipment.
Ahead you hear the ring of steel and stone and around the corner you come to a makeshift gate that is still being worked on that seals off the passage. Mostly made of wood, nearby, 2 dwarf smiths are forging iron and steel sections to replace it. The gate is hinged to swing inward and there are several thick bars and a floor pin to hold it shut. Haldrick points "Watch your step", as he purposefully steps a bit higher and over the semi circle of salt about the entrance just past where the gate would swing open. Haldrick stoops to pull the pin and then lifts the bar. The gate swings open and you are greeted by 4 armored dwarf, who stand at the ready, nodding as Haldrick comes up.
The gate closes behind you and you can hear the bar and pin drop back into place. The hall is well made, smooth and carved with beautiful design, We are in the old smith passage. The gate we just passed through was the best location to erect our final stand. Much of what we will be going through was actually crafted long ago. The new section is a walk ahead.
Haldrick leads the group through a group of rooms and about 10 minutes later you arrive to a small side chamber with 3 dwarfs. 2 wounded and 1 caring from them. They are hurt bad, but conscious. 1 is sitting up slightly talking quietly to the other who is on his back looking to him. The tending dwarf stands as Haldrick enters and greets him.
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 113/113 AC:25(T:21/FF:17) CMD:29 WS 5/5 SB 7/7 LL 12/12) Tuesday January 5th, 2021 6:05:02 PM
Gaffer follows along, hoping to himself that it isn't 30 minutes straight down.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 153/153 AC:30 T:16 FF:25 CMD:33) Tuesday January 5th, 2021 7:01:54 PM
Hmerrin emits a soft groan when Haldrick informs them there is 4 miles of rock over their heads. "I think I could have gone for some time without that particular tidbit," he sighs.
The sight of the gate is sobering, and he makes sure to stay well clear of the salt circle.
The young man trails a step behind Haldrick as they proceed through the rooms, until they get to the wounded dwarfs.
He waits to see what Haldick and the other dwarf discuss.
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 144/144; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 26] DR:3/- d20+14=20 ; Tuesday January 5th, 2021 7:32:02 PM
Desdicado does watch his steps carefully over the semi-circle. When they arrive in the chamber and see the wounded dwarves, he offers to provide any aid he can, through Lay on Hands or more mundane healing.
(Heal: 20)
Sarge [AC 21; HP 70/70] (Kathy) d20+17=21 ; Tuesday January 5th, 2021 11:48:05 PM
Sarge suppresses a satisfied "good" when Haldrick says how much rock is overhead. Nothing like good, solid rock between you and the unpredictable outside!
Then the wounded dwarves capture her attention. "Whadda we got here?" she asks with a kind of cheerful bluster. "Laying down on the job? Hah!" she adds, looking at one of the wounds. "That ain't nothing. You'll be back to rasslin' giants in no time."
As she talks, though, she is looking them over with a practiced eye [Heal 21] to see whether magical healing will help, and if so, how much.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 134/134; AC:35/24/28 - CMD 34 Wednesday January 6th, 2021 1:12:52 AM
Toston says to the wounded, "I don't suppose you folks can give us any further information about what is waiting for us out there. Considering we are on our way to the other side. Anything you can tell us could help."
Sharpe - [AC 28/18/22 - CMD 30; HP 100/100] - [Charles] Wednesday January 6th, 2021 4:21:11 AM
Sharpe tries to keep track of the the number of side passages and the potential that they could be surrounded. " I dont like having just one way to run."
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 113/113 AC:25(T:21/FF:17) CMD:29 WS 5/5 SB 7/7 LL 12/12) Wednesday January 6th, 2021 7:13:09 PM
Seeing that Sarge is tending too the wounded, Gaffer asks, "Are we at the front lines now? And how far do away is the core of the enemy force?"
Wounded- DM Dank Wednesday January 6th, 2021 9:55:02 PM
Hmerrin is not sure, but he thinks he detects a snicker from Haldrick after his own comment. Sarge feels the weight of the stone about her, it did feel good to be home. Shapre notes the side passages and tries to lays things out. He comes to the conclusion that there is but 1 route from where he stands with the wounded and the gate which is being barred and reinforced from the other side The group comes to the wounded dwarf and several move to help.
Sarge's comment gets a grunt and nod from the dwarf lying down, "Aye, and next time, I'm ducking to the right and not the left." he chuckles which turns into ta cough and wince, but soon passes. To Sarge's trained eyes and touch, the wounds are serious, but not life threatening. The dwarf sitting with him is well bandaged about the neck and shoulder. Neither are in peril, but they will be non combative for a few days at least. The tending dwarf stands and addresses Haldrick and Sarge and Des to a lesser extent as he recognizes both as fellow healers.
They are doing well and by the lords order we remain so as not to concern the others. A creature came at us yesterday. It appeared to be a ghoul, but the fight soon made it clear it was no ghoul. We drove it off, but not without injury as you see. Haldrick extends an arm and gives the dwarf a squeeze and nods.
Well done." he replies and then he leans down to his clansmen. "And to you as well." he straightens, "Bosk and Toris, This is my cousin Freyda and her friends. I invited them...personally."
The pair nod in understanding and look up at the group
Toris, the one sitting up begins, "I didn't get as good a look as Bosk, but i can tell you it was no ghoul. It was fast and came out of the dark and on us in an instant. None of saw it until it grabbed Bosk. Humanoid, about his height," he indicates Hmerrin, "Talons, teeth like needles and hard as rock to hurt."
"Encounter lasted maybe 24 seconds and it zipped back into the dark hooting. And in case we were thinking about giving chase, we heard replies and so thought better of it."
The dwarf stops talking
Haldrick takes you you and leads you out, "You might need all of the healing you have, those two aren't so dire." One more small room later, where some sleeping spots are arranged and the group comes to the line. 6 dwarf lie sleeping here as you move through.
Two defensive walls 4 high with a 2 step on the back side are here in staggered formation cutting off the passage. Each wall has 3 dwarf warriors in mithril breastplate armor. Loaded heavy cross bows are on the first line and the warriors all have a dwarf Ulgosh. Haldrik gives a few a shoulder pat, makes eye contact and lets them get back to watching the hall. He gathers the party together.
"We don't know the array of the enemy forces. We do know where the crystal is." Haldrick produces a map and hands it to Sarge. ":The mining caves and passages are not too extensive, but there are several natural caverns and complexes that were discovered. The map will keep you on target."
The map shows 5 significant chambers connected with 3.5 miles of mined passage and natural passages. 2 of the chambers will require descending 120 each. Dwarves carved inline wall stair. Very steep 4 wide. are located in each.
1st Chamber: Relatively small, no outstanding features
2nd Chamber: minor quartz deposit and malachite (black rock with some light reflective qualities that makes it seem to sparkle. Take the stair to lower section of chamber.
3rd Chamber: Very large stay on eastern ledge to skirt to northern side. Chamber floor is 120 down dont fall off the ledge.
4th Chamber: has a large lake at western end stair on East side descent into chasm 180 down. The lake overflows to the east in a waterfall.
5th Chamber: Large chamber, back ante chamber north east holds crystal
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 134/134; AC:35/24/28 - CMD 34 Thursday January 7th, 2021 1:08:10 AM
"So there are fast moving ghouls which look like they aren't ghouls and these fast moving ghouls that aren't ghouls have friends and we don't know how many we have to fight on our way to the crystal nor what to do when we get there?" He asks Haldrick
"Des, do you think your smiting will work on these fast moving not ghouls? It was certainly a game changer against the Rakshasha so if these Ghoul things are undead or outsiders wouldn't it cut them down too?" Toston asks the Paladin
Sharpe - [AC 28/18/22 - CMD 30; HP 100/100] - [Charles] Thursday January 7th, 2021 10:27:51 AM
It also sounds like it will be able to see us long before we see it.....
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 153/153 AC:30 T:16 FF:25 CMD:33) Thursday January 7th, 2021 3:46:07 PM
"Especially since we need light, and they probably don't," Hmerrin agrees with Sharpe. He turns to the rest of the group.
"Speaking of which...I got one everburning torch. What else have we got, or do we need to scrounge some lanterns?"
"And anything else anyone think they need? Ropes? Weapons? Anything?"
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 144/144; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 26] DR:3/- Thursday January 7th, 2021 4:10:45 PM
Desdichado shrugs his shoulders at Toston's question. "Dunno. Depends on what these things are - if they are demons or undead, it should work. But I'm not sure what these things are."
"Keep in mind," he continues, "Domi only grants me the ability to use his power against those kinds of things a few times per day. And even less if he allows me to grant it to all of you, too."
To Haldrick he says, "That's still a bit of a way to go then. As far as you know, everyone is out, correct? You don't expect us to encounter any of your people, right? Just asking in case these things can shapeshift or something - wouldn't want to get tricked by something saying it's someone from here."
Sarge [AC 21; HP 70/70] (Kathy) Thursday January 7th, 2021 4:24:15 PM
Sarge agrees with Haldrick's assessment. These men will recover, and her healing might be needed later.
"I got a Light orison," she tells Hmerrin. "Don't use it much, 'cause I can see in the dark. But I can keep a light going if we need one."
She glances as the map, but hands it off to Toston or whoever's running strategy.
Wounded- DM Dank Thursday January 7th, 2021 9:54:53 PM
Toston sums up what he heard on the adversaries Hmerrin goes through an equipment checklist and the fact that if the dwarf can't see them first, the group with torches and such will certainly be seen first. Des's ability to smite evil may be a factor, if the creatures are outsiders and or undead. All evidence suggests that they are at the very least, outsiders. Des asks Hladrick to confirm that no dwarf are beyond this location and he readily does so. "nothing beyond here is friendly" Sarge has Light spell and agrees to Haldrick to keep the healing powers for the task ahead.
END SCENE 2 All Pc earn 4,000 XP
"This is the last line. The dwarf at the gate are instructed to not open it to anyone without this," he hands Sarge the bronze horn, "One sharp, brief sounding Freyda. Otherwise they fight you to the last. Good luck, Domi be with you as well as the Forge. Get to that bloody crystal and destroy it."
With a final grim nod and a hand clasp with Sarge, Haldrick turns and heads back
Sarge [AC 21; HP 70/70] (Kathy) Thursday January 7th, 2021 11:03:06 PM
Sarge watches Haldrick depart. "It's Fyrda," she says with a sigh. "That side of the family never was too bright.
"And hey, speaking of not too bright, let's go see what kinda trouble we can get into."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 134/134; AC:35/24/28 - CMD 34 d20+24=30 ; Friday January 8th, 2021 12:03:25 AM
Toston says, "I have a light cantrip I can use unlimited times and a spell-like ability usage of dancing lights. It would also probably be a good idea for me to use the message cantrip so we can communicate silently among ourselves if we stay within 180 feet of each other."
Sharpe - [AC 28/18/22 - CMD 30; HP 100/100] - [Charles] Friday January 8th, 2021 11:11:51 AM
"I can..... whisper pretty well"......
Do we want to mark our way back?
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 144/144; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 26] DR:3/- Friday January 8th, 2021 11:35:30 AM
Desdichado chuckles at Sarge's remark. "Right then, off we go!"
Sharpe - [AC 28/18/22 - CMD 30; HP 100/100] - [Charles] Friday January 8th, 2021 3:51:51 PM
"I can..... whisper pretty well"......
Do we want to mark our way back?
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 113/113 AC:25(T:21/FF:17) CMD:29 WS 5/5 SB 7/7 LL 12/12) Friday January 8th, 2021 9:13:20 PM
Gaffer takes a moment to cast Pass Without a Trace on the party.
"Into the first chamber then?"
*** Active Spells *** Pass Without A Trace - 13hours - Cannot be tracked by on magical means.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 153/153 AC:31 T:17 FF:26 CMD:33) d20+11=28 ; Saturday January 9th, 2021 11:20:42 AM
Hmerrin shakes his head in answer to Sharpe. "Map says everything is one long line. If we start finding side passages, we can change the plan, but for now, its just forward and backward."
The fighter chuckles at Sarge's remark.
"Guessing we'll find it sooner than later. Right. Let's go. I'm in front. Dez and Toston with me. Sharpe take the rear. Gaffer, up to you, but I'm thinking trying to scout ahead in the dark against an unknown number of nasties with unknown powers is a bad idea.
Sarge, light 'er up."
Hmerrin moves forward. He's got his axes stowed, and his head bobs as he scans right, left, up, and down. [Perception 28]
-------- Spells in Effect Pass Without Trace - Cannot be tracked by non magical means.
Sarge [AC 21; HP 70/70] (Kathy) Saturday January 9th, 2021 9:13:56 PM
Sarge casts Light on her warhammer, and moves to the center of the group.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 134/134; AC:35/24/28 - CMD 34 d20+24=41 ; Monday January 11th, 2021 1:40:26 AM
(Perception: 41)
Toston takes position near point, senses alert for any potential not ghoul ambush.
Setting off, but first- DM Dank Monday January 11th, 2021 10:20:46 AM
The group is making final preparations, Hmerrin lays out a walking order, Gaffer casts Pass Without a Trace on everyone and Sarge casts Light Toston also can cast Message and while it is up to Gaffer on scouting ahead, Hmerrin voices his opinion that it doesn't sound like a good idea to him
The group is about to go when Eisenhorne, unusually quiet during the entire descent finally speaks up. "I'm afraid I cannot go with you friends. There has been a pulling at me for a little while now and it is stronger than I can ignore. My best hopes and wishes go with you and perhaps we will find each other some day from now." Not one for long farewells, Eisenhorne gives a short bow and hurries off to catch up with Haldrick David has to step away from the Wold and as is our tradition, I am honorably exiting him if he one day returns
Hmerrin takes point with Toston and Dez just behind. Sarge has light and Sharpe and Gaffer fall in just behind her
The passage it only well lit for Hmerrin about 10' in front of him and dimly for an additional 20' before plunging into complete black, providing a mere 30' of nearly any kind of warning. Sarge and Toston can see a good 30' beyond the light
The passage floor is well cut, even stone with the walls and ceiling being more natural. Several side passages break off and Toston and Sarge can spy mine carts on a few rails down them. The older tunnels Haldrick spoke of. 10 minutes later, the passage makes a turn, but the wall straight ahead has a opening as well. The break into the new area of caverns and passages that will eventually lead to the crystal chamber. The passage widens to 15' and is far less worked on both the floor and walls. Sarge recognizes the tunnel as a horizontal bore hole. A divination spell must have lead her clan here, which is common when seeking out new veins of ore. The clan would then mine a tunnel such as this. The bore hole is just over 15' and has been widened multiple times to its current size. Ro rails have been laid and the floor has not been completely worked, a tunnel in progress.
Moving through, the party finds itself in a natural corridor. The ceiling hangs above varying from about 12 to 20 feet. The passage runs roughly right and left, your map indicating your path lies to the left. The passage itself varies in width from 10 to 20 feet. The air is cool, even a bit more so than the more worked tunnels and water can be heard not only dripping sporadically in the distance but also moving behind, below or perhaps above the stone surrounding you.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 153/153 AC:31 T:17 FF:26 CMD:33) Monday January 11th, 2021 5:45:31 PM
"Watch your back, Sharpe," Hmerrin cautions.
The young man forces himself not to think about miles of rock or tons of water over his head, and just worry about otherwordly demons with supernatural powers.
The fighter moves to the left.
Sharpe - [AC 28/18/22 - CMD 30; HP 100/100] - [Charles] Monday January 11th, 2021 5:51:54 PM
Already somewhat nervous about how easily hostiles could get in close, sharpe continues and strains his ears for any sounds in the darkness whilst following along.
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 144/144; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 26] DR:3/- Monday January 11th, 2021 6:55:27 PM
Desdichado follows along behind Hmerrin's lead.
Sarge [AC 21; HP 70/70] (Kathy) Monday January 11th, 2021 9:29:42 PM
"Wish they'd found time for an Augury, while they were divining," Sarge grumbles. "An answer of WOE would slow down even a stubborn group of dwarves. Maybe I'll suggest it."
She continues providing light for the party.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 134/134; AC:35/24/28 - CMD 34 d20+24=35 ; Tuesday January 12th, 2021 1:19:12 AM
Toston says, "Should be worried we lost our studied arcanist and his magical intelligent sword when we are dealing with destroying some kind of magic item or do you think I can just dump enough fire on it or we can find some other way to break it when the time comes? I mean I'm a sorcerer but for the most part fire magic is kind of my thing so we won't have the kind of versatility we get with a wizard like Eisenhorne and I couldn't bring Nessa or had her make me any scrolls that might come in handy."
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 113/113 AC:25(T:21/FF:17) CMD:29 WS 5/5 SB 7/7 LL 12/12) Tuesday January 12th, 2021 4:56:07 AM
Gaffer walks nervously through he dark, feeling very aware that they are lit up for all enemies to see. He whispers back to Toston "Enough fire will destroy most things."
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 144/144; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 26] DR:3/- Tuesday January 12th, 2021 5:53:42 PM
As they continue down the path, Desdichado thinks about just how utterly dark it is beyond the light.
Attack in the tunnels Round 1- DM Dank d20+28=42 ; d20+28=43 ; d20+28=36 ; d20+28=37 ; d6+15=17 ; d6+15=21 ; d6+15=20 ; d6+15=17 ; Tuesday January 12th, 2021 5:58:21 PM
Hmerrin tries to keep his focus and leads the group following the map and to the left. Sharpe keeps much of his attention to the rear, there were now plenty of places danger can come around from Des follows tight with Hmerrin Sarge follows, providing the light and remarks aloud that she should teach the diviners that the occassional Augury might be deployed in the future Toston hopes aloud that Eisenhornes arcane prowess is not a neccessity to closing the window or destroying the crystal Gaffer answers that Fire especially magical dragon fire, like Toston wields, is very often quite enough
275 beyond later you find what appears to have been Wall of Stone. Now, it lies in ruin having been torn through. It looks as if it was done by hand, or claw rather, not any type of tool. Just beyond the remains of the wall is a small cavern perhaps 80 across with a roof of small stalactites anywhere from 35 to 70 above you.
The passage after the first large chamber is long and winding. To your let and right, seemingly countless other passages twist off into the darkness. Up, down and at all angles. Above you the roof is covered in stalactites and its height varies greatly, but often is beyond 60
Suddenly coming out of the dark are several creatures. The size of thin tall man, about 6'5" but only perhaps 100 pounds the creatures emerge at the tip of vision and close to attack lightning fast. The first comes head on and attacks Hmerrin. 2 others rush from the rear, Sharpe spots one coming around a corner indicating it came from one of the many side passages Still one other lunges from a small opening directly to the group's left
Ghoul attacks Hmerrin Hit AC 42 Dmg 17 Fort Save 26 Effect effect 1d3 Con and 1d4 Dex damage Ghoul attacks Gaffer Hit AC 43 Dmg 21 Fort Save 26 Effect effect 1d3 Con and 1d4 Dex damage Ghoul attacks Sharpe Hit AC 36 Dmg 20 Fort Save 26 Effect effect 1d3 Con and 1d4 Dex damage Ghoul attacks Sharpe Hit AC 37 Dmg 17 Fort Save 26 Effect effect 1d3 Con and 1d4 Dex damage players roll your own damage if failing the save
"Urk", Hmerrin grunts as he takes the blow. These things are seriously fast.
In a flash, the fighter's own axes are in his hands. And, he tears into the creature before him.
---------- Quick Draw to pull wpns as free action. Full attack on Ghoul Btax 1 hits ac 28 for 17 hp damage. Btax 2 hits ac 25 for 14 hp damage. Btax 3 NAT20, Crit threat hits ac 34 for 48 hp damage. Hdax 1 hits ac 38 for 17 hp damage. Hdax 2 NAT20, Crit threat hits ac 35 for 34 hp damage. Rend for 8 hp damage. ------ Spells in Effect Pass Without Trace - Cannot be tracked by non magical means.
Sarge [AC 21; HP 70/70] (Kathy) Tuesday January 12th, 2021 10:16:08 PM
Sarge worries about Sharpe, up against two of these things. She reaches out and uses her Resistant Touch ability (Protection domain power) to give Sharpe +3 on all saving throws for 1 minute.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 134/134; AC:39/24/32 - CMD 34 d20+16=23 ; Wednesday January 13th, 2021 1:40:01 AM
Toston defensively casts the shield spell (23 vs DC 17 [15 + 2 x 1] = success) He feels the familiar protective magic envelop him and draws his curve blade eager to try its new keen enchantment out (17 to 20 crit range meaning 25% chance of threatening critical)
Sharpe - [AC 28/18/22 - CMD 30; HP 100/100] - [Charles] d20+12=23 ; d20+12=25 ; 2d3=6 ; 2d4=4 ; d20+19=38 ; d20+19=28 ; d20+14=30 ; d20+9=16 ; d20+19=24 ; d8+19=26 ; d8+19=22 ; d8+19=25 ; d8+19=25 ; d8+19=25 ; 2d6=9 ; 2d6=5 ; 6d6=20 ; 2d6=10 ; d8+19=21 ; d8+19=20 ; d8+19=22 ; 2d6=11 ; 2d6=4 ; 2d6=6 ; Wednesday January 13th, 2021 6:28:19 AM
Claws rake across sharpes chest and arms, the voice in his head says, "told you". Some what slugishly he tries to move 5 ft back and swap places with a more melee orientated collegues and draws his bow back to attack.
Full attack on ghouls at the back -------------------------------------------------- 38 vs AC; 29 to Confirm Critical; Dmg 123 + 9 bleed + 35 vs evil = total 167 28 vs AC; Dmg 21; 32 vs evil 30 vs AC; Dmg 20; 24 vs evil 16 vs AC; Dmg 20; 26 vs evil
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 105/126 AC:29(T:23/FF:20) CMD:33 WS 4/5 SB 7/7 LL 12/12) d20+13=14 ; d3=2 ; d4=1 ; Wednesday January 13th, 2021 2:44:50 PM
[OOC: Just checking this isn't counted as a poison?] [Fort Save: 14; Fail]
Feeling his energy drained away by the ghouls attack, Gaffer immediately wildshapes himself in response, turning into an Earth Elemental. (Huge if possible, not sure how it works given the available space, if any allies would be hurt by Gaffer becoming huge, he will become a Large Elemental instead.)
----- Active Effects ----- 2 Con Damage - (-13 max and current hp); 1 Dex Damage; Pass Without Trace - Cannot be tracked by non magical means Wildshape - Huge Earth Elemental - +8 str, -2 dex,+4 con, +6 natural armor bonus.
Attack in the tunnels Round 1.5 - DM Dank Wednesday January 13th, 2021 5:48:37 PM
Hmerrin retaliates and attacks. He hits with his battle axe once and with his hand axes Sarge reaches out and grants Sharpe Resistane Touch protecting him from further attacks Toston casts Shield and draws his enchanted curved blade Sharpe has no where to go and can feel a hot pian run through his system, affecting muscle, sight and bone. Sharpe please track -6 con (-36 HP) and -4 Dex (-2 range attack and AC) as well as 37 Dmg Gaffer cannot transform into a Large creature as he too, does not have the room to do so.
OOC: Going to give a small pause for Des to post and for Gaffer and Sharpe to clarify their actions Sharpe you can attack with your bow, but the ghouls will get AoO Gaffer you are surrounded on all sides and cannot shape change into something larger than Medium
It's 930 and as Gaffer, Dez and Sharpe's actions are very important i am going to push my post of the ghouls until tomorrow night
Sarge [AC 21; HP 70/70] (Kathy) Wednesday January 13th, 2021 10:50:59 PM
Sarge begins to think that maybe the Resistant Touch isn't going to be enough.
Desdichado(Hugh on behalf of Ryan) [HP: 144/144; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 26] DR:3/- d20+20=23 ; d20+15=30 ; d12+9=18 ; d20+10=14 ; Thursday January 14th, 2021 3:53:22 AM
Dez makes a full attack against Ghoul 1 with his great axe
(23 vs AC; miss) (30 vs AC - 18 damge) (14 vs AC - miss)
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 134/134; AC:39/24/32 - CMD 34 Thursday January 14th, 2021 3:54:45 AM
Toston feels the familiar feeling as time slows down
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 79/100 AC:24(T:16/FF:19) CMD:28 WS 5/5 SB 7/7 LL 12/12) Thursday January 14th, 2021 2:14:42 PM
Knowing there is no room to wildshape to an effective size Gaffer would instead cast Sunbeam, preparing to do some damage next turn.
(OOC: if I need to stick to the original wildshaping then I will turn into the medium earth elemental.)
----- Active Effects ----- 2 Con Damage - (-13 max and current hp); 1 Dex Damage; Pass Without Trace - Cannot be tracked by non magical means Sunbeam - 13 rounds / 4 beams
Sharpe - [AC 28/18/22 - CMD 30; HP 39/100] - [Charles] (-6 dex; -4con) Thursday January 14th, 2021 3:19:04 PM
Hey sorry, my post got wiped and i didnt re add the damage, the minus's are still acounted for in the attacks. If sharpe cant swap places I guess he would use total defense and prepare to swap with someone.
Attack in the tunnels Round 2 - DM Dank Thursday January 14th, 2021 5:43:08 PM
Hmerrin retaliates and attacks. He hits with his battle axe once and with his hand axes Sarge reaches out and grants Sharpe Resistane Touch protecting him from further attacks Toston casts Shield and draws his enchanted curved blade Sharpe has no where to go and can feel a hot pian run through his system, affecting muscle, sight and bone. Sharpe please track -6 con (-36 HP) and -4 Dex (-2 range attack and AC) as well as 37 Dmg Sharpe goes on the defensive, waiting for ome of his companions slide so he can get off of the front line Gaffer cannot transform into a Large creature as he too, does not have the room to do so. Therefore he casts Sunbeam Dez attacks with his great axe and lands a blow
The inflicted wounds on Hmerrin Gaffer and Sharpe continue to fester and require addintional saving throws. See tracker below
Just as quickly as they came at you, the ghouls withdraw into the darkness and vanish. Their talons scraping upon the bedrock like nails on slate and some kind of clicking noises echoing from the darkness.
Hmerrin 1/2 Successful saves Still requires Fort Save 26 Effect effect 1d3 Con and 1d4 Dex damage Gaffer 0/2 Successful saves Still requires 2 Fort Save 26 Effect effect 1d3 Con and 1d4 Dex damage [b]Sharpe[/b[ 0/2 Successful saves 0/2 Successful saves Still requires 2 Fort Save 26 Effect effect 1d3 Con and 1d4 Dex damage
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 144/144; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 26] DR:3/- d20+20=39 ; d20+20=28 ; d20+15=16 ; d20+10=25 ; d12+9=14 ; 5d6=17 ; Thursday January 14th, 2021 6:34:53 PM
[ooc] Ack! Guess I should have read all the way down the post before writing out my rolls. [/ooc]
Desdichado moves to T:14. If Sharpe moves near, he'll use Lay on Hands to heal some damage (note: if the Ghoul attack is a disease effect, Dez's Level 6 mercy will heal it).
17 healing to Sharpe
------------------------------------- 15/16 Lay on Hands remaining
Hmerrin shudders as the ghoul's poison wreaks through him.
"Everyone back up!" he calls out. The fighter urges everyone back about 60' so that they are clear of this particular warren of tunnels.
Grimacing in pain, the human considers the path before them. "We might need a new plan," he concedes. "Sarge, does that map show all these side tunnels? And can we go the long way around, and a least keep the number of ways they can come at us to a minimum?"
Sarge [AC 21; HP 70/70] (Kathy) Thursday January 14th, 2021 10:29:03 PM
"Stay on alert," Sarge warns. "These things may have just been softening us up for something else."
She studies the map, trying to find a safer way through.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 134/134; AC:39/24/32 - CMD 34 d20+24=37 ; d20+16=21 ; d8+6=11 ; Thursday January 14th, 2021 11:41:09 PM
Toston has no desire to be left alone against the ghouls so he sticks with the party as they back up 60 feet. Toston notices that there are still side tunnels 60 feet back from where they started so he gets in front of Hmerrin and plants himself near U22 in case anything comes at them from the front or the side.
He readies an action to swing his curveblade should he detect anything coming at them that isn't a party member from the front or the side passageway he is near.
He can't do anything for the injured and Sarge being a Dwarf is probably best suited to the task at hand at navigating them through the tunnels. Toston with his strong senses and ability to sense even invisible assailants within 30 feet is probably best at playing "whack-a-ghoul" with whatever strikes at them next.
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 66/87 AC:24(T:16/FF:19) CMD:28 WS 5/5 SB 7/7 LL 12/12) d20+12=24 ; d3=1 ; d4=1 ; d20+11=29 ; d20+22=42 ; Friday January 15th, 2021 9:21:38 AM
[Fort Save 1 - 24 fail - 1 con and 1 Dex damage] [Fort Save 2 - 29 pass]
Gaffer falls back with the others while using his Thousand Faces feature to transform himself into a Bugbear, gaining both scent and dark vision. (A bit unclear if I still need the material component to use this, in which case of ignore it.) He scans their surroundings with his new senses to better see what is around them. (Perception: 42)
----- Active Effects ----- 3 Con Damage - (-26 max and current hp); 2 Dex Damage; Pass Without Trace - Cannot be tracked by non magical means Sunbeam - 12 rounds / 4 beams Thousand Faces - Bugbear; 60feet Darkvision, Scent, +2 Str
Addendum - DM Dank Friday January 15th, 2021 11:01:23 AM
The saving throws are against Disease from the ghouls. not Poison
Dez's Lay Hands Mercy d20+CL vs DC 26 to remove
Sharpe - [(AC 24/12/18) - CMD 26; HP 15/(100) current 55] - [Charles] (-8 dex; -8 con) d20+12=28 ; d20+12=14 ; d3=3 ; d3=2 ; Friday January 15th, 2021 3:48:05 PM
Fort save - 28 pass Fort save - 14 (-3 dex -2 con)
Sharpe weakly continues to tries and move into the middle of the group.
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 144/144; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 26] DR:3/- d20+11=22 ; Friday January 15th, 2021 4:50:26 PM
(Remove disease - 22 vs DC 26)
Dez attempts to remove the Ghoul Disease with lay on hands but is unable.
Fall Back Round 3 - DM Dank Saturday January 16th, 2021 11:35:02 AM
As the ghouls withdraw back into the darkness and around corners the group makes some quick decisions. Dez heals Sharpe with Lay on Hands cures 17 HP but the paladin is unable to cure the Ghoul Fever Hmerrin is unable to shake the disease from his system and calls for the group to fall back and is there a better way through or around Sarge falls back and consults the map. It does not go into detail on the surrounding side passages. The dwarf miners went straight for the load. Toston falls back witht he others and readies to attack should the ghouls present themselves Gaffer moves with the others and shifts into a Bugbear to take advantage of that creatures enhanced sences. He begins to win the battle over the Ghoul Fever Sharpe gets to the middle of the group and continues to struggle against the Ghoul Fever, wracking his body.
The Ghouls have vanished into the dark, the clicking of thier needle teeth and scraping of thier claws upon the rock fade. Toston picks up an ocassional tap tap tap sound, but the other than from the darkness ahead, there is little to the direction it could be. He does believe the tapping is on purpose and shortly hears a responding series [iTappity tap tappity tap[/i]
To break the Fever requires 2 consecutive saves Hmerrin 0/2 Successful saves Still requires Fort Save 26 Effect effect 1d3 Con and 1d4 Dex damage Gaffer 1/2 Successful saves Still requires 2 Fort Save 26 Effect effect 1d3 Con and 1d4 Dex damage Sharpe 0/2 Successful saves 0/2 Successful saves Still requires 2 Fort Save 26 Effect effect 1d3 Con and 1d4 Dex damage
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 123/140 AC:32 T:18 FF:26 CMD:33)(-4Con, -3 Dex) d20+14=20 ; d3=2 ; d4=2 ; Saturday January 16th, 2021 2:36:27 PM
Hmerrin shudders some more, the disease flooding through him. [Fort 20, Fail. -2 Dex, -2 Con]
"Sarge, if you can't heal us, we need to get back. They're nearly impossible to hit, can withstand a lot when they are hit, have no problem hitting us, have a disease we can't overcome, can see us, but can't be seen, and are hitting us whenever they want in tunnels they know and we don't."
He grates out a barking laugh. "Otherwise, we're great."
Hmerrin lurches back toward the relative safety of the dwarven wall.
Sarge [AC 21; HP 70/70] (Kathy) d20+19=31 ; Saturday January 16th, 2021 9:35:34 PM
Sarge takes out her healer's kit, frantically trying to help her companions overcome the disease.
[OOC: Sarge is using the Treat Disease option for the Heal skill. If she beats the save DC--which she did--she gives one person a +4 competence bonus on their save. Given that Gaffer has already succeeded at one save, Sarge would like to concentrate on him, so that he's out of danger and she can focus on the other two.]
"I can't heal it right away," Sarge explains to Hmerrin. "I got extra spell slots available, but I'll need about 15 minutes each to fill 'em with a Cure Disease. Not sure that's gonna be enough to keep anybody alive."
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 144/144; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 26] DR:3/- Sunday January 17th, 2021 3:28:26 PM
Desdichado frowns and nods at Hmerrin's words. "We seem to be out of our depth here. Haldrick said they'd be tough...but these things are nearly untouchable by our group."
He thinks for a minute and says, "I say we back off and fireball the entire cavern from orbit. It's the only way to be sure."
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 53/74 AC:23(T:15/FF:19) CMD:28 WS 5/5 SB 7/7 LL 12/12) d20+11=14 ; d3=2 ; d4=1 ; Sunday January 17th, 2021 6:44:26 PM
Gaffer feels his insides rumbling as he battles against the disease rapidly deteriating his strength. (Fort 14+4=18; Fail;-1Con, -2Dex) even with Sarges best help he fails to overcome it, blood beginning to drip from his nose. Mumbling his agreement to the others Gaffer turns back and walks straight towards the exit. "Let's go, I'll be ready for them next time."
----- Active Effects ----- 5 Con Damage - (-39 max and current hp); 3 Dex Damage; Pass Without Trace - Cannot be tracked by non magical means Sunbeam - 12 rounds / 4 beams Thousand Faces - Bugbear; 60feet Darkvision, Scent, +2 Str
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 134/134; AC:39/24/32 - CMD 34 d20+24=42 ; d20+16=22 ; d8+6=11 ; Sunday January 17th, 2021 10:53:04 PM
Toston says, "Aye, I can throw some fireballs around sure but these caves aren't that condusive to the spell. The side tunnels have all these twist and turns the fire woudn't necessary get to all the nooks and crannies. I can use my breathe weapon too but again it would be the same problem. You'd need something that can snake these tunnels."
Toston remains vigilant near the nearest side tunnel entrance.
(Perception: 42)
readied attack:
22 vs AC; 11 damage if that hits
Sharpe - [(AC 24/12/18) - CMD 26; HP 20/(100) current 48] - [Charles] (- 9dex; -12 con) d20+12=27 ; d20+12=20 ; d4=1 ; d4=4 ; Monday January 18th, 2021 6:33:32 AM
Fort Save - 23 fail
Sharpe braces himself against the wall struggling to breath.
Sarge [AC 21; HP 70/70] (Kathy) d20+11=29 ; Monday January 18th, 2021 2:22:35 PM
[Knowledge: Religion 29]
"This is some kinda super-ghoul-fever," Sarge says. "Normal ghoul fever isn't nearly as tough to shake. And you have days to shake it, rather than seconds. I wish I knew some other way to help."
But she doesn't, so she just keeps going with the heal kit.
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 144/144; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 26] DR:3/- 5d6=15 ; d20+11=15 ; Monday January 18th, 2021 5:32:58 PM
Desdichado lays hands on Sharpe again, but is still unable to overcome the disease.
Fall Back Round 4 - DM Dank Monday January 18th, 2021 6:43:12 PM
Gaffer, Sharpe and Hmerrin could be in serious trouble Sarge does what she can, working on Gaffer to overcome the disease, but it is rapid and tenacious. Des tries his Mercy and heals Sharpe again, but he too is unable to break the hold of the Ghoul Fever The group pulls back a bit and considers some options, Could they put fire everywhere and lay waste to the entire cavern section? Given the what the map shows, that is unlikely
To break the Fever requires 2 consecutive saves Hmerrin 0/2 Successful saves Still requires Fort Save 26 Effect effect 1d3 Con and 1d4 Dex damage Gaffer 1/2 Successful saves Still requires 2 Fort Save 26 Effect effect 1d3 Con and 1d4 Dex damage Sharpe 0/2 Successful saves 0/2 Successful saves Still requires 2 Fort Save 26 Effect effect 1d3 Con and 1d4 Dex damage
Toston remains vigilant, but thankfully the creatures have not returned....yet
Gaffer on your next save, you get +3 from Sarge Dez please also roll the HP restored in your attempt to Sharpe
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 144/144; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 26] DR:3/- Monday January 18th, 2021 7:24:02 PM
15 HP restored to Sharpe (from previous post).
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 134/134; AC:39/24/32 - CMD 34 d20+24=28 ; d20+16=27 ; d8+6=14 ; Monday January 18th, 2021 11:52:27 PM
Toston says, "Are we sure this is a disease and not a poison? Isn't there a way to like temporarily suspend a poison? I don't suppose you can do anything like that with a disease?"
He remains on alert seeing that is probably the best he can do for his companions given his skill set.
(Perception: 28) Readied attack: 27 vs AC; 14 damage if that hits
Sharpe - [(AC 24/12/18) - CMD 26; HP 20/(100) current 48] - [Charles] (- 9dex; -12 con) d20+6=26 ; Tuesday January 19th, 2021 5:56:24 AM
Fort Save - 26 save
Sharpe clings to life through sheers stubborness (look at the roll), pouring with sweat and barely able to keep his feet he allows himself to keep led by the team.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 84/101 AC:30 T:18 FF:26 CMD:33)(-7 Con, -4 Dex) d20+20=22 ; d3=3 ; d4=1 ; Tuesday January 19th, 2021 10:20:15 AM
[Hero point used pre-roll to get +8, and 22, fail...]
Hmerrin is doing his utmost to ward of the disease. But, like Sharpe, the fighter is losing the battle. [-3 Con, -1 Dex]
Sharpe - [(AC 24/12/18) - CMD 26; HP 35/(100) current 48] - [Charles] (- 9dex; -12 con) Tuesday January 19th, 2021 12:49:03 PM
Updated hp
Even with Sarge's aid Gaffer still continues to succumb to the disease. "I need to change form, it might help, give me space." He says to the others, walking away just enough to find a space where he can wildshape into a Huge Water Elemental (Will wait to see if there is enough space before changing stats.)
----- Active Effects ----- 7 Con Damage - (-52 max and current hp); 7 Dex Damage; Pass Without Trace - Cannot be tracked by non magical means Sunbeam - 12 rounds / 4 beams Wildshape - Huge Water Elemental
Sarge [AC 21; HP 70/70] (Kathy) d20+19=30 ; Tuesday January 19th, 2021 3:57:03 PM
Actually, Sharpe is the one who has +3, for the next couple of minutes. He's the one who got the Resistant Touch.
Last round, Gaffer got a +4 because Sarge succeeded at her Heal check. I have not rolled a Heal check for this round, but let me go ahead and do that: 30, success.
Somebody would therefore get +4 this round. Since Gaffer has already taken a +3, I guess we'll say it was Gaffer's. And the extra +1 wouldn't have helped. However, Sarge can pick somebody different each round, so it's only Sharpe who has that guaranteed +3.
And no, I can't give that +3 to anybody else without taking it away from Sharpe.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 134/134; AC:39/24/32 - CMD 34 Tuesday January 19th, 2021 4:24:05 PM
(OOC: Do we have to have people not affected use their hero points to help boost the rolls of those who were? I know they get a lower bonus but if they are going to die if they don't get the bonus should we consider this? Will it matter?)
Fall Back Round 5 - DM Dank Tuesday January 19th, 2021 10:22:42 PM
Hmerrin Gaffer and Sharpe continue to struggle and things look grim for the trio Gaffer finds some room and is capable of shifting into a Huge Water Elemental Sharpe still benefits from Sarge's earlier blessing. +3 to the save Sarge assists Sharpe with her knowledge as well, +4 additional to save
Toston and Des can do little but watch and keep an eye out for the horrid ghouls that did this
To break the Fever requires 2 consecutive saves Hmerrin 0/2 Successful saves Still requires Fort Save 26 Effect effect 1d3 Con and 1d4 Dex damage Gaffer 0/2 Successful saves Still requires 2 Fort Save 26 Effect effect 1d3 Con and 1d4 Dex damage Sharpe 1/2 Successful saves 0/2 Successful saves Still requires 2 Fort Save 26 Effect effect 1d3 Con and 1d4 Dex damage
OOC Yes people not affected can use their Hero Points to boost others. You can grant +4
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 134/134; AC:39/24/32 - CMD 34 Wednesday January 20th, 2021 12:35:04 AM
Toston uses a hero point to grant Sharpe an additional +4 to his roll.
"Come on Sharpe! Show that ghoulie disease who is boss"
He says "lets all encourage our friends. If we heroically cheer them on maybe it will be enough."
The gnome has 2 additional hero points to share with party members and will do so but he wants to make sure that doing so gives them the best chance so if he can combine his bonus w/ other bonuses that is what he does.
Sharpe - [(AC 24/12/18) - CMD 26; HP 35/(100) current 48] - [Charles] (- 9dex; -12 con) d20+13=33 ; Wednesday January 20th, 2021 10:00:41 AM
With all the help and enouragement and determination, Sharpe hauls himself to his feet (with a second 20 in a row, so thanks for the positive energy). He grabs Toston and hauls himself upright he wretches one last time, on wobbly legs he glances concerned over to his companions.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 84/101 AC:30 T:18 FF:26 CMD:33)(-7 Con, -4 Dex) d20+19=29 ; Wednesday January 20th, 2021 10:58:28 AM [Hero Point used pre-roll to get +8 bonus Good news: Saved 29 Bad news: He's out of Hero Points]
Seeing Sharpe overcome the ghoul's disease gives Hmerrin hope.
The young man sits to conserve some energy, and does some slow breathing as he concentrates on fighting the effects.
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 79/100 AC:27(T:20/FF:24) CMD:28 WS 5/5 SB 7/7 LL 12/12) d20+13=16 ; d3=2 ; d4=2 ; Wednesday January 20th, 2021 11:48:39 AM
Feeling some strength return to him, Gaffer continues to try and battle the disease racking his body.
(Fortitude: 16, not feeling good about these low rolls.)
He lets out a heavy groan, changing shape briefly alleviated the issue but the nausea rushes back seconds later.
[OOC: Waiting for a success before using my only hero point]
----- Active Effects ----- 9 Con Damage - (-65 max and current hp); 9 Dex Damage; Pass Without Trace - Cannot be tracked by non magical means Sunbeam - 12 rounds / 4 beams Wildshape - Huge Water Elemental - +8con, -2 dex
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 144/144; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 26] DR:3/- Wednesday January 20th, 2021 12:39:32 PM
Desdichado heroically helps Gaffer and Hmerrin. (Can I provide one each, or only 1 per turn. If so, Gaffer looks closest to disaster so he can take the first one.)
"It seems were are woefully unprepared for these things. And who knows how many are down here."
Sarge [AC 21; HP 70/70] (Kathy) d20+19=28 ; Wednesday January 20th, 2021 6:11:32 PM
With Sharpe out of immediate danger, Sarge uses her Resistant Touch ability on Hmerrin, giving him +3 to all saves for 1 minute. She also uses her Heal kit [28, success], giving him an additional +4 to his Fort save against the disease.
Fall Back Round 6 - DM Dank Wednesday January 20th, 2021 9:56:58 PM
The group remains where they are, Toson and Des on guard to the passage before you in case the creatures attack Both praying and hoping that their afflicted friends pull through Sarge continues to activity assist as best she can
Sharpe pulls round and is able to fight off the Fever, and looks to be out of immediate danger Gaffer as a huge water elemental buys some time, the change enhancing is health and constitution. Even still the Fever raveges him Hmerrin takes heart, it can be beaten and his body responds to his minds will
Sarges poours her expertise into Hmerrin and some divin gifts as well Hmerrin has a +7 bonus to his next save
To break the Fever requires 2 consecutive saves Hmerrin 1/2 Successful saves Still requires Fort Save 26 Effect effect 1d3 Con and 1d4 Dex damage Gaffer 0/2 Successful saves Still requires 2 Fort Save 26 Effect effect 1d3 Con and 1d4 Dex damage Sharpe 2/2 Successful saves 0/2 Successful saves Still requires 2 Fort Save 26 Effect effect 1d3 Con and 1d4 Dex damage
The clicking has died down completely, the caverns are silent and dark, save for the frantic muffled sounds of labored breathing and Sarge's assistance. The white torchlike glow of her light cantrip offering a small glimpse into the revenous dark
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 134/134; AC:39/24/32 - CMD 34 Thursday January 21st, 2021 1:08:12 AM
Toston says to Hmerrin, "If Sharpe could do it, you can too!" and uses his 2nd hero point on Hmerrin so Hmerrin is actually at +11 w/ Sarge's bonuses
(OOC: has 1 left saving it to stack w/ other bonus)
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 79/100 AC:27(T:20/FF:24) CMD:28 WS 5/5 SB 7/7 LL 12/12) d20+12=28 ; Thursday January 21st, 2021 5:53:34 AM
(Fortitude: 28) In a brief surge of strength Gaffer feels the diseases progress through his body slowed. He tries not to think about the possibility of the ghouls attacking right this moment, just hoping that they don't.
(OOC: Will use my hero point next turn, fingers crossed I can manage to roll a 6)
----- Active Effects ----- 9 Con Damage - (-65 max and current hp); 9 Dex Damage; Pass Without Trace - Cannot be tracked by non magical means Sunbeam - 7 rounds / 4 beams Wildshape - Huge Water Elemental - +8con, -2 dex
Buoyed by Sarge and Toston, Hmerrin finds the strength to overcome the disease.
Coughing heavily, he struggles to his feet, while waving toward Gaffer.
Sarge [AC 21; HP 70/70] (Kathy) d20+19=23 ; Thursday January 21st, 2021 7:44:59 PM
Sage wastes no time, immediately putting a Resistant Touch on Gaffer. She tries again with the Healer's Kit [23, success]. She adds an extra burst of heroism for good measure.
Resistant Touch+Heal check+Hero Point= +11 to Gaffer's next check.
Fall Back Round 7 - DM Dank Thursday January 21st, 2021 9:59:57 PM
Both Hmerrin and Sharpe have managed to fight off the Ghoul Fever, though both are are still feeling the effects. At least they will live. Gaffer is the last and Sarge knows the druid needs all of the assistance that can be mustered.
Resistant Touch+Heal check+Hero Point= +11 to Gaffer's next check.
Des and Toston keep an eye out. Somewhere in the darkness the pair pick up what sounds like bone scraping upon stone
Gaffer 1/2 Successful saves Still requires 2 Fort Save 26 Effect effect 1d3 Con and 1d4 Dex damage
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 134/134; AC:39/24/32 - CMD 34 d20+24=40 ; d20+16=31 ; d8+6=13 ; Friday January 22nd, 2021 2:09:07 AM
(OOC: I have one hero point left; should I save it; use it on Gaffer up front or give him a re-roll if he fails?)
Toston says, "I don't think our position is tenable. We had 3 people contract some sort of magical disease carried by these ghouls and nearly die. I think we need to fall back, get everyone fully recovered through magical means and then come up with a plan. I don't know if a hide from undead on the group would work or maybe an invisibility sphere coupled with a silence spell or something else but I don't see how we make it pasts these labyrinths if as soon as we start navigating we get attacked by ghoul guerillas with a rapidly advancing disease. Unless we have some way to make people immune to disease how do we fight that?"
(Percpetion: 40) (Readied Attack: 31 vs AC; 13 damage)
Sharpe - [(AC 24/12/18) - CMD 26; HP 35/(100) current 48] - [Charles] (- 9dex; -12 con) Friday January 22nd, 2021 4:46:00 AM
Sharpe takes Gaffer by the hand, "you got this".
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 27/48 AC:22(T:15/FF:18) CMD:23 WS 4/5 SB 7/7 LL 12/12) d20+31=42 ; Friday January 22nd, 2021 8:04:48 AM
[Spending a Hero point for the +8 just to be absolutely sure]
Feeling the support from his allies around him, Gaffer musters the strength to battle off the disease as best he can, (Foritude: 11+12+11+8=42) and lets out a heavy sigh of relief as he finally fends off the advancement of the disease.
He drops his water elemental form knowing the size makes moving around difficult, and feels the loss of energy immediately hit him as he does.
"Thank you for the help, really. I think that was scary than a room full of Rakshasa." He lets out a heavy breath again, shaking as he stands. "Once we have recoved, I could prepare a handful of spells for making stone walls, and a few others, we could close off routes around us and force enemies to come from one direction at least?"
----- Active Effects ----- 9 Con Damage - (-65 max and current hp); 9 Dex Damage; Pass Without Trace - Cannot be tracked by non magical means Sunbeam - 6 rounds / 4 beams
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 84/101 AC:30 T:18 FF:26 CMD:33)(-7 Con, -4 Dex) Friday January 22nd, 2021 11:20:31 AM
Hmerrin nods in agreement with Toston.
"Yeah. I declare this a completed scouting mission. We get back, heal up, and figure out how to do this."
The young man draws a sunrod from his efficient quiver, lights it, and wedges it is a convenient crack (or drops it on floor),
"Back that way folks. Single file. Sarge, Sharpe, Gaffer, Me, Dez, and Toston. If they follow, we should at least see them coming."
As they start to move back to the dwarven wall, Hmerrin unlimbers his bow.
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 144/144; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 26] DR:3/- Friday January 22nd, 2021 1:45:34 PM
"Maybe we should have a quick talk with the dwarf who was tending to healing. Or any clerics who were around - these things are obviously not normal ghouls."
Sarge [AC 21; HP 70/70] (Kathy) Friday January 22nd, 2021 8:38:36 PM
Sarge breathes a huge sigh of relief when the disease is defeated with no loss of life. She gladly moves back away from the deadly encounter.
If they find a safe place to rest for a bit, Sarge plans to prepare as many Lesser Restoration spells as she can, using higher-level spell slots as needed. With an hour to prepare, she can get 4 of the spells ready to cast.
Fall Back - DM Dank d100=72 ; d100=87 ; Sunday January 24th, 2021 5:47:34 PM
Gaffer pulls through with heroic assistance of his companions and the three are all out of immediate threat of death from the fever. Hmerrin tosses a Sunrod to the ground and the party falls back in single file. The glow of the rod, flickering in orange and yellows, retreating further as you back away. A consensus is quickly arrived at to fall all of the way back to the dwarf line. At nearly the edge of your vision, the sunrod now just a coin sized dot far off in the dark, the light flickers. A tell tale sign that an object just passed between the light and you.
The trip back is long, made longer by the fact that Sharpe, Hmerrin and Gaffer are terribly weak and vulnerable should something befall the party. Whatever stepped through the light, however, never makes its presence known. Luck is with the group and the eventually you arrive back at the dwarf line. Several move quickly down the corridor to assist by taking up a rear guard for the group so that you may move more quickly beyond the fortifications
The group is back with the dwarf guard. The Healer, Dolvin Silverhand, helps Sarge is setting out a few more places for Gaffer, Sharpe and Hmerrrin to sit and rest. "By Domi's beard, what did you run into?"
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 144/144; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 26] DR:3/- Sunday January 24th, 2021 9:20:47 PM
Desdichado addresses Dolvin. "Those - ghouls - are the toughest I've ever seen. Within seconds half of our group was fighting for their lives. And as Sarge pointed out, the disease they carry is a few orders of magnitude stronger than the traditional Ghoul Fever."
He continues talking as he checks on his friends. "Did the other ill here have these same symptoms? I'll be honest - I'm not sure how we can overcome something like this. Even if our spellcasters well-prepared us for a fight, one bad hit and it seems like we'd all be in a very bad position."
He considers for a moment and adds, "I think at least one of them may have followed us a little closer to here, too."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 134/134; AC:39/24/32 - CMD 34 Sunday January 24th, 2021 9:51:49 PM
Toston says, "We need a strategy to get past those tunnels. We either need to be able to repell those ghouls, navigate the tunnels without them sensing us or do something to change the terrain. They can ambush us fairly easily with the way things are now. We can potentially close off some of the side tunnels but that still leaves the disease. Now I'm fairly hard to hit and Des is a paladin so I think he can't contract the disease so if we did go with the alter terrain strategy I think Des and I would have to be the ones we'd be trying to heard the ghouls into attacking, I just don't know if that is a viable strategy, so maybe a more non confrontational one would be better. There is a fairly low level spell that would let folks be able to hide from undead and higher level ones that would render us invisible to all sorts of things though if the ghouls have some other sensing abilities being invisible might not help us. Is there any other way to reach our destination besides those tunnels with the side passages useful for making ambushes?"
Sharpe - [(AC 24/12/18) - CMD 26; HP 35/(100) current 48] - [Charles] (- 9dex; -12 con) Monday January 25th, 2021 5:51:18 AM
"Is there anything we can do to recover? The desease maybe be gone but I can still feel that its left a mark." He winces as he finishes.
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 27/48 AC:22(T:15/FF:18) CMD:23 WS 4/5 SB 7/7 LL 12/12) Monday January 25th, 2021 1:29:43 PM
Gaffer slumps down as soon as they are safe, breathing hard and takes a few minutes before he is ready to speak properly. "I'll have a good number of the remove disease spell prepared next time, it's not gauranteed to work though. And light, we can use brighter lights next time."
He takes a few deep breaths before continuing
"I would happily pass by them without being noticed, otherwise I suggest we wall off some side passages and wait for them to come at us from the front, It'll be dangerous, but if we are only fighting a couple at a time, we won't be as badly off as we were today. I can prepare 5 walls of stone, which isn't much, but would get us through if we have time."
He mentally goes through the magic he has available to him while they rest, throwing out ideas as they come to him. "I could turn as much of the floor as possible into spikes and then help us walk in the air above it. Or use it only on side tunnels making it much more difficult for them to get to us."
His last and least favourite idea, "With the Wind Walk spell we could potentially fly past them completely, assuming a group of undead are unlikely to swipe at passing mist or clouds, but we would be pretty vulnerable if they did."
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 84/101 AC:30 T:18 FF:26 CMD:33)(-7 Con, -4 Dex) Monday January 25th, 2021 3:38:19 PM
Hmerrin whispers a "Thanks" to Dolvin, and takes a seat.
Listening to the conversation, he offers his thoughts.
"First, we're gonna have to go back to our quarters here and get completely healed. We're not doing anyone any good in this shape.
Second, a strategy. As noted, we can't see 'em coming in the dark, they can hit us from multiple directions, and this disease of theirs is nearly unstoppable.
So, Step 1 - More light. We bring a mess of torches or such, and throw em in front of us to light things up. Step 2 - Fewer tunnels. I'm thinking like Toston that we try and bring down the side passages. See if Haldrick and company can come with us, and turn the maze into a straight path. That way the beast gotta come straight at us. Step 3 - Disease. The folks getting hit need to be pretty much immune. There's a Periapt of Health that does it. So, I'm gonna get one. Toston, you got the stuff from the giants right? Let's make a Catacombs run. If there isn't a gate here, Gaffer should be able to do his Tree Walk thing and get to one, and do some shopping for us. Also, Dez, are you immune to disease?
So, that's my idea. Lots of light, a lot less places from them to attack from, and the folks up front magicked to take it."
Fall Back - DM Dank Monday January 25th, 2021 10:21:59 PM
Dolvin looks gravely at Hmerrin, Gaffer and Sharpe. Nodding his agreement with Sarge. "The ones that came at us a couple days ago, had Ghoul Fever, but nothing like this." he answers to Des Coming back to Sharpe, "I can Heal 1 of you now and another tomorrow, As I'm sure Fydra can as well if not more by stories." Gaffer follows that he can have spells prepared to Cure Disease, not a sure thing, but better than nothing. More Powerful Light could also aid the group Toston brings up the discussion of moving through unseen or using some big magic to alter the terrain. Create walls to seal off side passages and such. As a paladin Des should be immune and Toston physical defences can become quite impressively bolstered as the ghouls might not be able to hit him. Hmerrin has ideas as well. First is to head topside and after a trip to Crescent Valley, come back with the clan and go to work sealing tunnels and the like
Dolvin raises a tentative hand, Master Hmerrin, magical transport with the Scab Mountains is very, very deadly. You'd have to get back to Crescent Valley to use the Catacombs. As for Haldrick. I believe Sarge was his plan. I believe you have personally met everyone who knows anything about what is still going on down here. Haldrick has been very careful with this information. I say this as a caution on your approach is all."
If the party requests it Dolvin casts Heal on whomever they wish. Fully removing all traces of the disease and the damage it caused
The party can head back. Take refuge here.
Sarge [AC 21; HP 70/70] (Kathy) d4=3 ; d4=3 ; d4=2 ; d4=4 ; Monday January 25th, 2021 11:28:44 PM
"Dolvin, why don't you cast your Heal spell on Sharpe?" Sage says. "I'll prepare some Lesser Restoration spells for Gaffer and Hmerrin."
When her spells are ready, she starts with Gaffer. He heals 3 ability damage, then 3 more ability damage (apply each one to either Dex or Con; your choice).
She moves on to Hmerrin. He heals 2 ability damage, then 4 more ability damage.
"I can have more ready tomorrow," she says. "And Dolvin will have another Heal tomorrow, too."
"There's a spell to hide people from undead," she says. "I'm happy to prepare it, but it's not a sure thing. Smart undead can see through it and these critters seem pretty smart. But I'll try it if you like."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 134/134; AC:39/24/32 - CMD 34 Tuesday January 26th, 2021 12:12:40 AM
Toston says, "So Gaffer, Hmerrin what are your ranged options looking like? I know you are a ranged specialist Sharpe. It is a shame we can't get one of those periapts of health. I don't suppose you know if anyone among your clan has such a periapt that we could perhaps borrow for the duration" he directs at Dolvin
"I think we prepare the spells for disease removal, stone walls, light, hiding from undead and whatever else might be of use against these super ghouls. I don't suppose anyone has any way of sensing these ghouls farther out? The walls could work but we'd have to have advance knowledge of what directions the ghouls might attack from so we seal them off. Are we sure that these ghouls are sensitive to light? If they are then if we have decent enough light they might just back off. Failing that maybe we could sneak past them with the hide from undead spell and then use the walls as plan C? Can we make all the countermeasures work?
Sharpe - [(AC 24/12/18) - CMD 26; HP 35/(100) current 48] - [Charles] (- 9dex; -12 con) Tuesday January 26th, 2021 11:03:24 AM
Its risk but maybe we take it slow. Move to an intersection, get the sneaky ones to go ahead, with any luck they will all be running at us from one driection with some warning if we get seen at all?
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 84/101 AC:30 T:18 FF:26 CMD:33)(-3 Con, -2 Dex) Tuesday January 26th, 2021 11:36:15 AM
Hmerrin is grateful for more healing, but Dolvin's response sours his disposition a bit.
"Terrific," he mutters. "Well, I still want to talk with Haldrick. We're willing to go back in there, but any support he can supply will help a lot."
The human looks at Sarge. "Will that Hide From Undead spell be effective if we're carrying light through the dark?"
To Toston. "I'm not in Sharpe's class, but I'm a decent shot. Not much stopping power in the arrows, though."
Relatively healed, Hmerrin rises and leads the party back to the main dwarf hold.
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 144/144; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 26] DR:3/- Tuesday January 26th, 2021 12:28:25 PM
Responding to Hmerrin, Desdichado answers, "Well, Domi has granted me immunity to disease, normal and otherwise. So, theoretically this wouldn't affect me. But there seems to be something very strange about this one, so I'm just not sure."
"I've been thinking," he continues, "If I am immune, maybe we could find a narrow part of the passages - someplace a single person could block entry - and I could stand in front of the group with Sharpe, Hmerrin, and everyone else providing ranged support. That way, I'd be taking the damage but no one else would need to worry about the disease."
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 27/87 AC:22(T:15/FF:18) CMD:23 WS 4/5 SB 7/7 LL 12/12) Tuesday January 26th, 2021 7:39:05 PM
Gaffer smiles gratefully as Sarge's magic rushes through him and much of his vigor is restored. Sitting up a little straighter he joins in the conversation as their plans get to the finer details.
Answering Toston, "I haven't used a ranged weapon in some time but I am not without my magical options. I would need to measure what I prepare for protection and what for attacking. I have a few beast and elemental forms that would give me a much better chance against the Ghouls if taken from the start."
Listening to Des' suggestion Gaffer nods his head. "While I don't want to encourage you into such a tough position. I think the idea of fighting them on our terms before we look to advance is the best way to go."
----- Active Effects ----- 3 Con Damage - (-26 max and current hp); 9 Dex Damage; Pass Without Trace - Cannot be tracked by non magical means Sunbeam - 6 rounds / 4 beams
Fall Back - DM Dank Tuesday January 26th, 2021 10:21:25 PM
At the request of Sarge, Dolvin casts Heal on Sharpe. All damage and signs of the disease is removed. Sarge then casts several Lesser Restorations on Hmerrin and Gaffer, removing some of the effects of the disease. She lets the party know she can do more tomorrow as well cast a spell that could Hide them from undead Toston asks about a Periapt and Dolvin shakes his head, "I don't" and Toston then proceeds to continue with plans Hmerrin and Des discuss the paladin's blessing and Des is confident that Domi's blessing would indeed protect him
Hmerrin still wants to speak with Haldrick again and with the consent of the others that is the first order of business.
The gate is opened upon hearing the horn blast and the group finds 6 dwarf hoping for the best but prepared for the worst. "We will send word of your request at once." One of the dwarf head over to the lift enters. He then ascends. The dwarf at the bottom turn back. "It should not take more than a few hours
Gaffer- heals 3 ability damage, then 3 more ability damage (apply each one to either Dex or Con; your choice) Hmerrin - heals 2 ability damage, then 4 more ability damage.
Sarge [AC 21; HP 70/70] (Kathy) Tuesday January 26th, 2021 11:38:30 PM
"I don't think light affects the Hide from Undead spell," Sarge says. "The undead just aren't able to perceive us. Hey, it's magic; it doesn't have to make sense. But I guess I don't know for sure; I've never cast it before."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 134/134; AC:39/24/32 - CMD 34 Wednesday January 27th, 2021 12:50:33 AM
Toston says, "Gaffer, I have some questions for you. Can you turn into an earth elemental? Would turning into an earth elemental allow you to earthglide through either the ground beneath the tunnels or the tunnel walls themselves? When in the form of an earth elemental do you have tremor sense?"
He takes a beat and says, "If Gaffer has earthgliding / tremor sensing capibilities then I think we might be able to use him as a sort of stealth figure to try to pin point the locations of the ghouls. The problem is if he can do this he is also the one who could errect stone barriers meant to block their path so somehow he would have to be earthgliding / tremor sensing but then able to errect the barriers where we needed them while doing so"
He then says, "Now back to our original thoughts. We prepare the strongest light spells we have as well as remove disease, spells to create barriers and hide from undead. We hide everyone from the undead and turn up our light spells as high as we can go. We navigate the tunnels trying to take a path that minimizes the branching tunnels and try to errect barriers where we can't avoid the side tunnels. Where we can we try to only leave one avenue from which to attack us and we try to maneuver ourselves into a situation where we can direct the ghouls to only be able to attack Des who is likely immune to their disease while the rest of use provide ranged / spell support. Any other thoughts?"
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 84/101 AC:30 T:18 FF:26 CMD:33)(-3 Con, -2 Dex) Wednesday January 27th, 2021 10:37:42 AM
Hmerrin nods along with Toston.
"I like where you're going Toston. I've nothing much to add to that. Hopefully Haldrick can give us some help - a more complete map, some torches, couple dozen wizards able to cast Wall of Stone at will - whatever."
Sharpe - [(AC 27/18/22) - CMD 26; HP 100/100] - [Charles] Wednesday January 27th, 2021 12:03:34 PM
Stretching and thanking his healer "Ok, well lets hope this trip is better"
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 144/144; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 26] DR:3/- Wednesday January 27th, 2021 9:06:19 PM
"Sounds like a plan," agrees Desdichado.
Haldrick arrives - DM Dank Wednesday January 27th, 2021 9:54:42 PM
The group sits tight and spit balls ideas and what to do and how to do it. Major light spells, many magical walls of stone, Invisibility, Gaffer gliding through the earth and more. It takes several hours for Haldrick to come down the lift.
The dwarf takes you back through the gate before talking, "The guard and forge dwarf of the last gate don't need to know more than they know" he explains. He leads you back to Dolvin and invites the party to explain why a messenger was sent. A more detailed map beyond the first wall that leads into the cavern complex he does not have. "At the time, we felt little need to map the passages. We moved through them of course, but no cartography was done. I can tell you they are rather elaborate, but all eventually come back to the main passage of the map. I can supply torches if you need and what you might think of as mining equipment. Beyond that, I do not have much else. I will make a supply drop by the morning." He pauses and looks across each of the group
He then addresses Sarge, "Cousin, will you and your friends be able to do this?"
Sarge [AC 21; HP 70/70] (Kathy) Wednesday January 27th, 2021 11:05:18 PM
Sage snorts. "What, you wanna get the Iron Dragons down here? Yeah, we can do it. It may take us a couple tries to get going, but we can do it."
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 134/134; AC:39/24/32 - CMD 34 Thursday January 28th, 2021 12:14:56 AM
Toston chimes in, "Yeah we are on the case we just weren't loaded for the specific threat we faced. We will be better prepared tomorrow. You should have seen some of our early battles involving Rakshasha before we figured out they didn't like holy piercing weapons but we sorted them out."
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 27/87 AC:22(T:15/FF:18) CMD:23 WS 4/5 SB 7/7 LL 12/12) Thursday January 28th, 2021 8:07:56 AM
Gaffer does get round to responding to Toston, "I can earthglide but sadly tremorsense is beyond me, so probably a no go on the scouting option."
As for the rest, "Sounds like a solid plan. I'll need a proper rest first though. Some of my best damaging spells compete with the extra wall spell slots. I won't be at my best for either the walls or for ranged damage, but I will bring some of both."
Sharpe - [(AC 27/18/22) - CMD 26; HP 100/100] - [Charles] Thursday January 28th, 2021 11:14:38 AM
Ever skeptical sharpe remarks, "We should be able to do it. It probably depends on how many there are and how stealthy we need to be."
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 144/144; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 26] DR:3/- Thursday January 28th, 2021 2:12:27 PM
"We're a pretty stubborn bunch, so we'll keep at them, don't you worry," says Desdichado.
"Well, I guess we'll take as many torches as you can spare, and we'll just have to make do."
At this point, its pretty much wait until the casters can get the spells they need, as well as heal everyone up.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 134/134; AC:39/24/32 - CMD 34 d20+6=22 ; Friday January 29th, 2021 12:31:23 AM
Toston wonders if there is anything else that might work against the ghouls they haven't thought about (know[religion]:22)
Morning supplies - DM Dank Friday January 29th, 2021 10:32:59 AM
Sarge, Toston, Sharpe, Dez all reassure Haldrick and he nods sternly back. "I'll have a supply drop come down then.
Toston goes through the battle and what he remembers, ghouls are undead, and all indications pointed to powerful creatures, but still ghouls. Which makes them susceptible to positive energy.
The rest of the day, evening and night pass after Haldrick leaves. Good as his word, a pair of large crates are at the bottom of the lift when you go back in the morning. Each contains 150 torches, 50 flasks of oil, 500' of rope and 100 pitons There is also a small book with some additional accounts of the fighting as the dwarf group fell back
An account: A huge creature upon 3 great legs, a sphere body of a hard shell that tried to impale them as they fled with its legs An account: A semi transparent ooze that blinked about the cavern An account: A creature coming through the window. It was had a wet sheen look to its scaly armor-like flesh. A massive maw of razor-like teeth and reptilian eyes. planar Know DC 26 Highlight to display spoiler: { A Hezrou demon} An account: Never saw it, but as the group retreated, there was something, or several somethings in the cavern lake An account: several writhing masses of eyes, mouths, and formless flesh stares in all directions, its countless maws yammering ceaselessly. Know Dungeoneering DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { Gibbering Mouther}
Sarge [AC 21; HP 70/70] (Kathy) Friday January 29th, 2021 3:52:20 PM
Before they rest for the night, Sarge makes sure that everyone's damage is healed up. The next day, she can be ready with more Lesser Restorations.
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 144/144; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 26] DR:3/- Friday January 29th, 2021 4:30:35 PM
Desdichado slowly looks up towards the others. "What in the Estates of Unrest have we gotten ourselves into?" he wonders aloud. "Those sound like some pretty...uh...weird creatures."
He thanks Haldrick for the supplies and when everyone is ready he'll head back for Try Number Two.
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 134/134; AC:35/24/28 - CMD 34 d20+20=39 ; d20+8=18 ; d20+6=15 ; d20+8=11 ; Saturday January 30th, 2021 2:14:40 AM
Toston thinks if any of those discriptions might give him clues as to what might lie in store for them.
This time the gnome will use light, message and mage armor at the onset of them heading out. Light will be cast on his curveblade which he will have drawn and message will still be used for the party to communicate while mage armor will give him added protection for 8 hours.
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 113/113 AC:22(T:15/FF:18) CMD:23 WS 4/5 SB 7/7 LL 12/12) d4=2 ; Saturday January 30th, 2021 12:58:48 PM
Gaffer thanks Sarge for the healing tries to recover as best he can during their rest.
He also prepares Lesser Restorations himself and uses one in the morning which, along with the night's rest, restores his constitution to normal.
Gaffer will shift himself into the form of a Bugbear from the beginning, improving his sight in the darkness.
Even so he will cast daylight on his staff, expanding the lit area. "It isn't sunlight but it's something." He will also cast Pass Without a Tract again as they prepare to enter.
----- Active Effects ----- 8 Dex Damage; Pass Without Trace - Cannot be tracked by non magical means Daylight - 60 feet bright light, 60 feet raised light level - 130 min
DM: I have Gaffer at -5 Dex. Sarge healed 2 different abilities 3 each and then 1 day rest. Took Gaffer from -9 Dex to -5 Con completely healed
"A Gibbering Mouther," Hmerrin sighs at the description of the last creature. "Wardd's Teeth". The fighter fills in the group on the creature. Feel free to peruse the Bestiary
"We might wanna claim this little area," he remarks dryly. "We may be back to heal a couple more times before this is over."
Hmerrin deposits 100' of rope, a dozen pitons, and ten flasks of oil into his Haversack. Then, he puts 30 torches into his Quiver.
"Suggest we do this single file, with 5' space between us," he says. "Give us room to get big or move around as needed. They're gonna get in behind us, but with a little warning, maybe we can adjust. Dez first, then Gaffer, Sharpe, Sarge, Me, and Toston. Dez, at any intersection, stop. I'll move up and chuck lit torches down each way.
And everyone be ready to blast any tall, dark and creepies."
He looks around.
"We ready?"
Sharpe - [(AC 27/18/22) - CMD 26; HP 100/100] - [Charles] Monday February 1st, 2021 10:29:32 AM
Sharpe nods vigorously at Hmerrin's suggestion, looking at little guilty and sheepish.
Take 2 - DM Dank d20+20=29 ; d20+20=23 ; d20+20=35 ; d20+20=37 ; d20+20=33 ; d20+20=33 ; Monday February 1st, 2021 7:34:43 PM
The group finalizes a plan with Toston and Gaffer casting several spells in the morning and Hmerrin laying out the approach in general This time, a single column with a bit more spacing to allow for easier movement if needed. Hmerrin provides detail on one of the creatures he believes could be a Gibber mouther. A truly horrid abberation, but with one thing that gnaws at him. The cause of the dangers here seem to be extra dimensional in origin and Gibbering Mouthers are not. There may be capabilities that have not been documented. The vagueness of the accounts does not provide Toston enough information to formulate any good guesses Sarge makes sure everyone is fully healed before the group beds down and Gaffer is now th only person suffering effects from the Ghoul attack
Light and daylight spell are cast adn Gaffer takes the form of a Bugbear.
The group moves through the first of the halls and steps past the destroyed Wall of Stone spell and into the natural caverns,
You have only moved though some 80' or so when you hear several clicks and scraping sounds come from the dark, likely the side passage
Map provided, we are not strictly in combat rounds, but please use it for reference The party map only shows col M to Z
Sarge [AC 21; HP 70/70] (Kathy) d4=3 ; d4=2 ; Monday February 1st, 2021 10:01:49 PM
Before they set out for the day, Sarge casts enough Lesser Restorations to bring Gaffer all the way back to health.
[3 ability damage and 2 ability damage. Let me know if I need to cast more.]
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 134/134; AC:35/24/28 - CMD 34 d20+24=28 ; d20+14=23 ; d20+14=25 ; 4d6+4=16 ; 4d6+4=17 ; Tuesday February 2nd, 2021 1:10:14 AM
Toston whispers to Sarge, "Did you cast that Hide From Undead Spell?"
Toston then whispers to the group using his spell, "You guys hear that? Do we compress our line into a clump with Des facing the side the noise came from?"
If the others are amiable to this suggestion Toston gets in position where he could hit whatever is making the noise with a scorching ray should it make its appearance known. (Perception: 28)
Readied Action: Two scorching rays (1 at 23 vs touch - 16 fire damage; 1 at 25 vs touch - 17 fire damage; 33 fire damage total if both hit)
Active Effects: Mage Armor - 8 hours : +4 AC Message - 80 min : whispered conversations as group Light - 80 min : curveblade shines like a torch
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 144/144; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 26] DR:3/- d20+18=21 ; Tuesday February 2nd, 2021 12:32:51 PM
Axe ready, Desdichado takes a few steps forward, stopping at T:15 for a bit and listening to hear if he can better tell where the noises come from. (Perception: 21).
With Dez stopping at T15, the fighter encourages the rest of the group to close the gap, but remain in single file (which would put Toston at S10, and Hmerrin at S11).
On the way, Hmerrin pulls torches and oil from his Haversack, and tossing said lit torches 20' down the side passages. (torches at W7, O8, W10).
As Dez stops, Hmerrin does as well, bow at the ready.
--- Ready Action - Shoot creepy undead. Hit ac 28 for 8 hp damage
Take 2 - DM Dank d20+15=17 ; d10=4 ; d20+15=25 ; d20+15=26 ; d20+15=20 ; Tuesday February 2nd, 2021 7:58:19 PM
Sarge casts Hide From Undead, as well as 2 Lesser REstoration spells to remove all of the affects from Gaffer what is the DC of the Hide spell please Now in the danger zone, Toston Readies a Scorching Ray spell and tries to identify where the sounds are coming from. Dez tightens the grip on his axe and continues forward Hmerrin tosses a few torches down some side passages and takes his bow out Readied to fire
The echoing of the caverns makes direction hard to say. Somewhere ahead of the party, but to the right or left is impossible to say The scraping gets a bit louder, very noticable now towards the front.
Sarge [AC 21; HP 70/70] (Kathy) Tuesday February 2nd, 2021 11:21:05 PM
Sarge obligingly casts Hide from Undead.
"We got about an hour and a half," she tells the group. "Plenty of time if we don't dawdle or fuss."
[Will save DC 17]
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 134/134; AC:35/24/28 - CMD 34 Wednesday February 3rd, 2021 2:18:02 AM
Toston being in the back whispers to Hmerrin "Should we change our formation? It sounds like whatever that scrapping sound is it is coming from our front. It looks like we have passages opening up to our left and right as we navigate this hallway. Right now we have passed one passage on the left and one on the right and it looks like we still have six passages on the right and eight on the left to contend with. If we move a little further where we only have 5 passageways ahead of us on one side we could have Gaffer start sealing passageways off with his walls of stone. That would just leave whatever we have left on the other side and we could put Des on point at those junctions so that he would intercept whatever ghoul attack would come from there. Just my thoughts on how to strategically navigate this place."
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 113/113 AC:24(T:15/FF:18) CMD:23 WS 4/5 SB 7/7 LL 12/12) Wednesday February 3rd, 2021 7:51:41 AM
Topped up by Sarge, Gaffer is as good as new, and makes sure to say thanks. [OOC: Also thank you DM for the clarification.]
He shuffles round within the the corridor to keep Des between himself and the noises ahead, cautiously waiting to see if their hiding spell is effective.
He listens to Toston's suggestion and is happy to put walls as suggested, but waits for the others to give their opinions before casting anything.
----- Active Effects ----- Pass Without Trace - Cannot be tracked by non magical means Daylight - 60 feet bright light, 60 feet raised light level - 130 min
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 144/144; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 26] DR:3/- d20+20=39 ; d20+20=29 ; d12+9=13 ; d12+9=16 ; d12+9=12 ; d20+18=25 ; Wednesday February 3rd, 2021 1:22:24 PM
Desdichado cautiously moves forward again to S:19. Since the noises were coming from this direction, he readies his weapon for an attack, and listens to determine if he hears anything else.
(Readied attack, crit vs 29AC); 13 damage if non-crit, 41 damage if crit. (Perception: 25)
Sharpe - [(AC 27/18/22) - CMD 26; HP 100/100] - [Charles] Wednesday February 3rd, 2021 1:34:01 PM
Sharpe stays in formation, sighting down his bow and breathing heavily. To Toston "As long as somone keep eyes on our rear, I dont want a repeat of last time"
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 153/153 AC:31 T:17 FF:26 CMD:33) d20+20=38 ; d8+4=8 ; Wednesday February 3rd, 2021 5:50:45 PM
"No worries, Sharpe. I'm staying back here," Hmerrin replies. "Toston, you can move up if you want, but I say we keep single file so we can change on the fly."
As Dez moves up, Hmerrin encourages the group to do the same, stopping to toss a lighted torch to V15 as he arrives at that intersection. Hmerrin ends up at S15
He once again pulls out his bow.
"Toston's plan makes sense to me. Once we clear this tunnel on Dez's right (row 19), Gaffer should have enough walls to take out the rest of the right side."
"Nice and easy, Dez. Let's keep going."
-- Ready Action - Shoot creepy undead. Hit ac 38 for 8 hp damage
Ghoul sighting Combat Round 1 - DM Dank Wednesday February 3rd, 2021 10:08:26 PM
Sarge lets the group know her spell will last for about 90 minutes, the group should not tarry long Toston points out the ghouls seem to be ahead and suggests changing formation to accomodate the possible threat as well as the passages ahead on the sides Gaffer moves up with the party, his Daylight spell throwing light far down the corridor Des moves forward and Readies an attack with his blade Sharpe moves ahead as well, and cautions back down the line to watch the rear. Hmerrin keeps his back spot and tells Toston to feel free to move up, but keep single file to allow movement. Readied for a rear attack
The sounds ahead grow a bit louder and in the dim light almost 90' away a ghoul appears. It steps slowly and then quickly, trailing a disease filled talon hand across the wall. It stops just in the dim light provided by the Daylight spell, shifting from foot to foot. Coming out of the dark is a second which comes to a stop and drops to its haunches. A talon hand reaches up the wall and taps several times, pauses and taps again. They then quickly retreat into the black, more clicks and scraping sounds are heard
Toston Lotor(Hugh Crosmun) [HP: 134/134; AC:35/24/28 - CMD 34 d20+24=30 ; d20+14=27 ; d20+14=20 ; 4d6+4=19 ; 4d6+4=23 ; Thursday February 4th, 2021 12:47:52 AM
Toston whispers, "I count 6 passageways on one side now and 6 on the other not including the passageway Hmerrin and I are by. I would hazard based on that scout that the other ghouls are positioning themselves based on whatever communication that ghoul just did with the claw tapping. The way I see it we either move quickly down the passageway to get to the point where we can use our wall of stone tactic or we prepare for a pitched battle here. There are obviously plenty of them moving around."
Toston tries to pinpoint where the ghouls are in relation to himself. (Perception: 30; has passive blindsense of 30 feet)
Toston readies an action to fire off a scorching ray at any ghoul that attempts to attack (27 vs Touch; 20 vs Touch; 19 fire damage; 23 fire damage; 42 fire damage total if both rays hit)
Active Effects: Mage Armor - 8 hours : +4 AC Message - 80 min : whispered conversations as group Light - 80 min : curveblade shines like a torch
Gaffer (Courtney HP: 113/113 AC:24(T:15/FF:18) CMD:23 WS 4/5 SB 7/7 LL 12/12) Thursday February 4th, 2021 7:09:41 AM
Gaffer whispers his response "They could simply be alert to the torch light outside of Sarge's spell.i think we should keep moving forward, but bear in my in will take some time for me to get all the walls up."
----- Active Effects ----- Pass Without Trace - Cannot be tracked by non magical means Daylight - 60 feet bright light, 60 feet raised light level - 130 min
Desdichado(Ryan) [HP: 144/144; AC:26/12/26 - CMD 26] DR:3/- d20+18=28 ; d20+18=24 ; d20+20=35 ; d12+9=21 ; Thursday February 4th, 2021 1:04:29 PM
Desdichado moves to T:22 with his axe ready and listens. (Perception:28). If there's no immediate threat from the passageway at V:22, he'll continue to T:25, listening again with his greataxe ready. (Perception:24)
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