Something strange is afoot - DMBZ Tuesday April 18th, 2023 8:21:19 AM
The group eventually arrives at the Hollow Pit to find the front door wide open and the lights off.
Paige calls out to the headmaster and the butler, but receives no answer. She does not see anyone inside through the open doorway.
Rhys circles the outside of the building, all the windows he can see are dark. He can hear some sound from within, but can't make out what it is through the walls.
Kwarsk is ready for danger, with his shield out in front of him. Looking inside, he does not see anyone.
Fingers circles around the other side of the building. He does not find any traps, but there are some odd scratches outside one of the second story windows.
Malhynn explains his dislike of necromancy. Then he casts a spell(DM locates the target inside the entranceway). The room lights up, revealing an overturned desk and a stain on the floor.
Rhys returns to the entrance and waits.
Paige casts a spell, perhaps expecting danger.
There is noise from the second floor, a crash followed by some cursing. Then a loud thud.....
Rhys (Bob W) AC 19/23 vs AoO; CMD 18/20 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 26/26 d20+5=11 ; Tuesday April 18th, 2023 11:46:08 AM ”I thought I heard something from inside…” Rhys is interrupted mid sentence by the thud of someone or something falling from height. As if by instinct his long curved elven blade appears in his hand and with a knowing look he slips into the building to investigate. (Perception 11)
Active effects - Bless
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 24/T 13/FF 21, HP 30/30, CMD 16/20 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+11=30 ; Tuesday April 18th, 2023 6:14:45 PM
Kwarsk reacts as quickly as Rhys, but his short dwarven legs don't carry him as fast.
As he goes, he says to the others behind him, "Follow, but watch out for ambushes and traps!"
Kwarsk moves as far as he can indoors at normal speed (40') and as he goes he looks for a stairwell in order to head towards the source of the disturbance above, tower shield first!
(OOC - should the DM ask for a Perception roll, the result is 30. Kwarsk is not spending a move action to perceive, so is depending upon the DM's generosity of requesting a perception roll...)
Malhynn (Steve) AC:14 / T:13 / F:11; HPs: 25; Reflex:+5 / Fort: +4 / Will: +5 ; Wand: (44) d20+6=24 ; Tuesday April 18th, 2023 9:32:00 PM
Drawing his darkwood wand from it's sheath, Malhynn follows the dwarf, guiding his dancing lights about the room, hopefully allowing the best visibilty for the others. "These lights only last a minute or so, but I can keep casting them as needed...or drop them altogether. Let me know what's most helpful..."
The elven mage trails off, surveying the scene and stepping over to the stain on the floor to see if he can find it's source of origin or simply what the substance is.
(Perception: Stain = 24)
"Everyone, be careful..."
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 28 | CMB:6 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:1 d20+12=14 ; Tuesday April 18th, 2023 10:32:23 PM I think they're in the ___th room on the side. Fingers tries to get behind or next to Kwarsk; their standard marching order lets him look for traps. (Perception: 14, or 15 if there's a trap. Just like last time.)
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 32/32 d3=2 ; d20+6=23 ; Tuesday April 18th, 2023 10:41:14 PM
Following closely on the heels of the dwarf, Paige moves into the school. She tries to spot anything that might provide a clue as to what has happened to the students and staff of the Hallow Pit. (Ignore the d3 roll, Perception = 24).
* Bless - all party member - +1 on attack rolls, and +1 on saves vs fear 2 minutes
Something strange is afoot - DMBZ Wednesday April 19th, 2023 8:24:22 AM
The team moves into entryway and lobby for the school. There are signs of a struggle, and the mysterious stain on the floor appears to be blood.
Rhys, with weapon in hand looks around, but sees no immediate opponent.
Kwarsk, having been here before, knows where the stairs are and moves towards them. There is definitely a commotion on the next floor, and he can hear a repeating thud sound as if something is trying to smash through a door.
Malhynn keeps the place lit as long as asked, and checks out the stain. a DC 10 heal check revealsHighlight to display spoiler: {it is blood}
Fingers looks around for possible traps, but if there were any, they were likely set off in whatever struggle happened here.
Paige looks around the room, she finds Mavros, half under the overturned desk. He is breathing but is injured.........
Rhys (Bob W) AC 19/23 vs AoO; CMD 18/20 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 26/26 Wednesday April 19th, 2023 11:54:23 AM
Rhys quickly evaluates the situation and opts for the stairs, taking them two-at-a-time until he reaches the top. ”No time for stealth” he thinks. The elf’s ascent of the stairs looks effortless to those watching from below. (OOC Rhys can move up to 60 ft in a double move if that is required to reach the next floor)
Malhynn (Steve) AC:14 (18) / T:13 (17) / F:11 (15) *Mage Armor; HPs: 25; Reflex:+5 / Fort: +4 / Will: +5 ; Wand: (44) Wednesday April 19th, 2023 2:50:00 PM
Kneeling down on one knee next to the stain, Mal mutters aloud, "Definitely blood, folks."
He glances over at where Paige is examining the desk nearby, and then spots the injured person. Blinking, he says, "Whoa. Are they alrigh..?" Malhynn's question is cut off by more commotion from above and the elf stands.
Reaching into his component pouch, Mal takes a small piece of cured leather between his thumb and forefinger, rubs it, and speaks the arcane words, "“Magus Praesidium”.
There's a momentary shimmer in the air around the elven wizard's entire form that quickly fades from sight, signaling that he is now protected by his Mage Armor.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 32/32 d8+2=6 ; Wednesday April 19th, 2023 4:25:09 PM
Paige takes a knee next to the form of Mavros, and taps him once with the wand she draws from the belt ‘round her waist (CLW2 = 6 HP). ”Quickly man! What has happened here?” she demands, addressing the gnome in terse accents.
Bless cast on party - + 1 on attacks and +1 on saves vs fear - 2 min or 1/20 rounds
Wand of CLW2 - 34 charges remaining
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 24/T 13/FF 21, HP 30/30, CMD 16/20 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+11=24 ; Wednesday April 19th, 2023 10:00:10 PM
Kwarsk continues moving towards and up the stairs, tower shield still out, muttering under his breath (DC 10 Perception Highlight to display spoiler: {"Darn impatient elves!"}) as he chases Rhys and his elven pace up the stairs! Kwarsk thinks to himself, whoever's being murdered, I'm going to put a stop to it!, as he scans ahead for danger.
(OOC Perception = 24)
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 28 | CMB:6 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:1 d20+12=22 ; Wednesday April 19th, 2023 11:50:45 PM
Fingers runs up the stairs after Kwarsk, while grasping his belt pouch in case he needs one of the contents. He tries to mentally keep track of the location of the window he'd noticed from outside.
(Perception to hear Kwarsk's muttering: 22. Fingers disagrees with the sentiment.)
Something strange is afoot - DMBZ Thursday April 20th, 2023 8:28:22 AM
Mavros recovers a bit from his injuries with Paige's help. The gnome is obviously relieved that some help has arrived. We were attacked by some sort of cult. They came here expecting us to join them. When they realized that we wouldn't they started attacking everyone. We were trying to retreat to the main lab when I was knocked out. Maybe they thought I was dead. Hearing the sounds of combat from the second floor, he asks for your help. My students are encouraged not to memorize harmful necromancy spells. We are no match for them.
Rhys is up the stairs, and Kwarsk and Fingers are not far behind. At the end of the hall you can see two figures, holding some sort of statue and using it to try and bash down the door. There is a body on the floor, dressed in the attire of the school. It is unclear if the human is still alive.
The heroes have the initiative.....
notes: -we are in combat rounds -the bless spell has a 50ft range -the hall is 50 feet long, and can fit two people(or one minotaur size) walking side by side. The ceiling is 10ft high. The two cultists are at the far end.(50' range), they are not aware of you this round. -map will be sent later today.
Malhynn (Steve) AC:14 (18) / T:13 (17) / F:11 (15) *Mage Armor; HPs: 25; Reflex:+5 / Fort: +4 / Will: +5 ; Wand: (44) Thursday April 20th, 2023 12:41:08 PM "Then we'll just have to see what we can do to be of some help." Malhynn gives the gnome a quick nod, glances at Paige, and then bolts for the stairs, himself.
As he takes the steps two at a time, Mal has some sympathy for the arcane students, and ponders the irony of essentially disarming them of their offensive spells. Not that it'd really be safe to do otherwise...we'd likely have skeletons and zombies stumbling about the streets as practical jokes without the restrictions...but still, they're rather defenseless this way...
Rhys (Bob W) AC 19/23 vs AoO; CMD 18/20 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 26/26 d20+10=23 ; d10+4=9 ; Thursday April 20th, 2023 6:03:04 PM
Rhys quickly evaluates the situation and determines that lethal force is already at play. He charges straight down the hallway and brings his sword diagonally down and across the shoulder and torso of one of the two cultists trying to break down the door (Hit AC 24 for 9HP; +2 Atk and -2AC for charge, forgot +1atk from Bless). ”Drop your weapons and lie face down on the floor if you want to live!” the elf shouts so that his compatriots can easily locate him in the dim light.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 32/32 Thursday April 20th, 2023 8:50:34 PM
Paige gives Mavros a reassuring squeeze, advising him to sit tight - then pelts off up the stairs after her companions (double move - 40 ft.)
Bless on party members - +1 to attacks, +1 to saves vs fear.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 24/T 13/FF 21, HP 30/30, CMD 16/20 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Thursday April 20th, 2023 10:23:58 PM
Kwarsk, having no trouble seeing in dim or no light, finishes moving up the stairs and towards Rhys and the cultists.
(OOC double-move, but since Kwarsk was not at the top of the stairs like Rhys, call it 30' total moved instead of his normal 40', putting him 20' from the top of the stairs and 30' from the battle.)
Kwarsk draws his waraxe on the move and prepares for his meteoric impact in the next few seconds!
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 28 | CMB:6 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:1 Friday April 21st, 2023 1:32:52 AM
Fingers moves (or double-moves) as far as he can and still be behind Kwarsk. (The minotaur knows he'll likely block the hallway, so he makes sure Kwarsk will stay in front of him)
Something strange is afoot - DMBZ d20+2=22 ; d20+2=19 ; d6+2=8 ; d6+2=2 ; d20+4=15 ; Friday April 21st, 2023 8:41:51 AM
Rhys charges into action and hits one of the cultists solidly. The man grunts and turns toward the group with hate in his eyes.
The rest of the team moves up, ready to support. (please let me know if starting map position is close to expected)
The first cultist launches a flurry of attacks at Rhys. Rhys takes 10 damage from the hits, and needs to try a DC 13 fort save or:: A defender who fails this saving throw is stunned for 1 round (until just before your next turn). A stunned character drops everything held, can’t take actions, loses any Dexterity bonus to AC, and takes a –2 penalty to AC)
The second cultist draws a shortspear and throws it down the hall at Paige(miss)
Cultist 1 - 9 damage taken Cultist 2 - not injured
OOC- editing is open on the map, you may move your position with your turn.
Rhys (Bob W) AC 19/23 vs AoO; CMD 18/20 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 16/26 d20+7=12 ; d20+7=16 ; d20+9=15 ; d10+4=7 ; Friday April 21st, 2023 11:49:19 AM
Rhys staggers under the ferocity of the cultist’s attack but manages to recover (Fort save 12 and 16; burned a hero point). With help on the way, the elf renews his attack on the injured cultist and once again brings his sword to bear (Hit AC 15 for 7hp if successful). ”They haven’t surrendered yet!” he calls back over his shoulder.
Malhynn (Steve) AC:14 (18) / T:13 (17) / F:11 (15) *Mage Armor; HPs: 25; Reflex:+5 / Fort: +4 / Will: +5 ; Wand: (43) d4+1=3 ; Friday April 21st, 2023 6:02:20 PM
The elven wizard pauses halfway down the hallway, doing his best to stay out of the way of the hand to hand combatants. He mentally cycles through his available spells, gauging the amount of room and placement of Rhys in that equation, fretting about accidentally catching the elf in the area of an arcane effect. He makes a face and decides on the direct route, instead.
"Not surrendering? Well, that's quite rude of them...you'd think cultists would be taught better manners. You know, with all their training in religious studies., albiet dark religions..and then there's all the kidnapping, brainwashing, and sacrificing of innocents they learn..." Mal pauses and arches an eyebrow. "You know what? On second thought..."
Malhynn fires off a magic missile from his blackwood wand at the wounded cultist (#1 : 3 pts damage.)
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 32/32 d20+6=12 ; d6+2=6 ; Friday April 21st, 2023 10:24:13 PM
Paige moves to confront a cultist and stands shoulder to shoulder with her friend Rhys she swings her new Cold Iron (light] mace (Hit AC 12, 6 dmg) she looks to see if her hit was effective, and prepares to move out of the and behind the fighter at the next opportunity.
Attack was on T2
Bless on all party members - +1 to attack, +1 on f saves vs fear - 2 min - 4/20 rounds
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 28 | CMB:6 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:1 d20+4=10 ; d8+2=3 ; Saturday April 22nd, 2023 12:03:42 AM
Fingers pushes forward, and using his reach, hits T1 with his blackjack.
Att: 10 (but because of friendly characters interposing, use the rules for determining cover from ranged attacks.).
Damage: 3 non-lethal
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 24/T 13/FF 21, HP 30/30, CMD 16/20 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Saturday April 22nd, 2023 2:43:05 PM
Kwarsk was bewildered by the statue-as-battering-ram enough that the other Patchers all raced past him and clogged up his way to the cultists. He notices Paige looking for a covered withdrawal, so he walks closer (J8 to I6) and Readies to move into Paige's spot when she turns to withdraw, waraxe and tower shield in hands.
Something strange is afoot - DMBZ d20+2=11 ; d20+2=5 ; d20+2=6 ; d20+2=10 ; d20+3=21 ; d6+2=4 ; Sunday April 23rd, 2023 7:35:34 PM
Rhys hits the cultist again, scoring a solid hit on his leg.
Malhynn then hits him with some magic. The cultist staggers after the hit but is still standing.
Paige moves in to support Rhys, and swings with her mace but the attack does not penetrate the armor.
Fingers tries to knock out the cultist, but misses.
The cultists continue to attack T1 attacks Rhys, but his injuries seem to have thrown off his aim T2 attacks Paige, but is unable to get past her armor.
Behind you, down the hall, the door where the body is lying opens. Another cultist, lying in waits jumps from the doorway to attack. T3 attacks Malhynn and hits a nerve cluster. Malhynn takes 4 damage, and DC13 fort save to avoid being stunned for 1 round.
Cultist 1 - 19 damage taken(looks to be in bad shape) Cultist 2 - not injured Cultist 3 - not injured
Rhys (Bob W) AC 19/23 vs AoO; CMD 18/20 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 16/26 d20+9=11 ; Sunday April 23rd, 2023 9:52:46 PM
Rhys lashes out again with his sword but simply succeeds at parrying the attack from the cultist but draws no blood himself (Hit AC 11). He does however see the third cultist join the fray. ”Kwarsk! Stay with our new friend Malhynn and make sure these pox-ridden cultist do him no harm!” the elf calls back to his dwarven ally.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 24/T 13/FF 21, HP 30/30, CMD 16/20 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+8=16 ; d10+4=11 ; Sunday April 23rd, 2023 10:35:40 PM
Kwarsk sees that he cannot block T3 from further attacking Malhynn, so Kwarsk, with full intention, walks around T3 to the other side. (I6 to I8)
(OOC - Fingers has Reach, Threatening T3, and therefore now forms a flank with Kwarsk!)
Kwarsk, taking advantage of the flank and Paige's Bless spell, Powerfully swings his waraxe from T3's upper left shoulder and diagonal down towards T3's right hip, perhaps with Pantheon smiling down the cut will be deep!
[i](OOC - base +6 to hit, +2 from flank, +1 from Bless, -1 from Power Attack, hit AC 16 for 11 damage.)
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 28 | CMB:6 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:1 d20+6=14 ; d8=8 ; 2d6=3 ; Sunday April 23rd, 2023 11:33:34 PM
Fingers also takes advantage of the flank and saps T3
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 32/32 d20+6=19 ; d6+2=8 ; d20+1=4 ; Monday April 24th, 2023 1:10:48 PM
Paige changes her mind when another cultist distracts the rear-guard. Keeping her ground, she swings the light mace with vigour clobbering the wounded cultist in front of her elven friend (T1) (Hit AC 19 for 8 pts dmg.)
Addressing the cultist directly in front of her (T2) she grunts ”it’s over! Drop your weapon and live! (Intimidate=4)
Malhynn (Steve) AC:14 (18) / T:13 (17) / F:11 (15) *Mage Armor; HPs: 21 / 25; Reflex:+5 / Fort: +4 / Will: +5 ; Wand: (43) d20+4=6 ; Monday April 24th, 2023 7:07:08 PM "Gurgh..." Stunned by the cultist's attack, Malhynn staggers to his right, his shoulder colliding with the wall. In doing so, his fingers go numb and his wand drops to the floor.
It is everything the caster can do to stay on his feet, with his head swimming from the blow.
(OOC: Fort Save: 6, failure. Mal is stunned for a round and an easy target.)
DM Melvin: Cult Above the Rest d20+3=8 ; Monday April 24th, 2023 9:20:02 PM
Rhys takes a swing at the cultist but misses.
Kwarsk smartly circles the enemy (avoids the AOO) and strikes true. Fingers swings himself and the cleric goes down.
Paige finishes off the first cultist and warns cultist 2 to stand down.
Malhynn falls to the stun attack and finds himself open to attacks (but no enemies are nearby).
Cultist 2 keeps a close eye on the odds, before throwing a stunning fist at Paige. But Paige dodges him deftly and the cultist eyes the area trapped.
With his back against the locked doors, the Cultist drags out an alchemists fire (Paige and Rhys both get AoOs). "Stay back," the cultist yells. "Just let me through."
Cultist 1 - dead Cultist 2 - not (yet) injured Cultist 3 - unconscious
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 24/T 13/FF 21, HP 30/30, CMD 16/20 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+7=12 ; d10+2=4 ; Monday April 24th, 2023 9:42:07 PM
Kwarsk grimaces that all of his friends are still in the way of him getting to the final cultist. Noticing his own position near two doors, one of which T3 came out of, Kwarsk silently and sternly stands his ground and Readies to Attack the next cultist who comes within reach.
(OOC - if needed, the Readied Attack (not power) is +6 +1 (Bless) = +7, hitting AC 12 for 4 damage. Reminder - Kwarsk also has Combat Reflexes, so if several thugs rush past him, Kwarsk has three AoOs available.)
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 28 | CMB:6 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:1 d20+7=8 ; Tuesday April 25th, 2023 1:59:22 AM
(OOC Since Fingers has reach, he should also get the AoO, right?)
[b]Put that down![/] Fingers swings his blackjack at the cultist's wrist.
Disarm (the Alchemist's Fire): d20 + CMB 6 + Bless +1 = 8 (Must have rolled a natural 1)
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 32/32 d20+5=14 ; d20+6=14 ; d6+2=3 ; Tuesday April 25th, 2023 11:52:11 AM
Paige aims for that spot on the cultists elbow where a nerve passes close to the bone. If she is accurate, it should result in pain and numbness down through the wrist and hand, and he should drop the vial he is holding! (Disarm (the Alchemist’s Fire): d20 + CMB 4 + 1 Bless = 14) AoO
Her next move is to bring the light mace down on the cultists knee (Hit AC 14, for 3 damage)
Rhys (Bob W) AC 19/23 vs AoO; CMD 18/20 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 16/26 d20+5=22 ; d20+5=21 ; d20+9=14 ; d10+4=13 ; Tuesday April 25th, 2023 12:02:14 PM
Atk of opportunity - Rhys swings his sword at the cultists wrist in an effort to disarm him of the vial of alchemist fire (CMB +bless =22).
Regular Atk - Should the disarm attempt be successful, the elf will dive forward to intercept the vial before it hits the ground (Acrobatics check to catch vial = 20 - meant to roll d20+4), otherwise Rhys will bring the sword back in an arc across the cultists head and neck area (Hit AC 14 for 13 HP).
Malhynn (Steve) AC:14 (18) / T:13 (17) / F:11 (15) *Mage Armor; HPs: 21 / 25; Reflex:+5 / Fort: +4 / Will: +5 ; Wand: (43) Tuesday April 25th, 2023 4:40:53 PM
Blinking and shaking his head, Mal recovers his wand and stands, raising it just in time to see his companions facing off with the last conscious cultist. (OOC: Say THAT five times fast!)
"I would do what they say, Siffi. They don't like having to repeat themselves." he says to the cultist, using the elven word for 'fool'.
Kwarsk keeps an eye out for any more cultists... and manages to strike one more that came upstairs unawares.
Fingers tries to disarm the alchemists fire but has difficulty with everyone up front. (He is right that an AoO is triggered against the cultist so go ahead and roll that next turn.)(There is no AoO against him from the cultist because the cultist lacks reach.)
Paige tries to use a disarm for her attack of opportunity (triggering an AoO against her). Her disarm is actually pretty decent but it's not quite enough against the cultist's reflexes. She follows up with an attack that also barely misses.
Rhys does not mess around and HIS disarm works out greatly (though triggers an AoO against him). (By RAW, he doesn't have to catch the vial. It doesn't activate upon being dropped.) However, his blow also barely misses.
Malhynn warns cultist 2 to surrender, but the arrival of the new cultist gives the cultist some heart.
Cultist 2 takes his own AoO against Paige and Rhys respectively, but misses on both. Sighing, he tries a flurry of blows against Paige but misses on both.
Cultist 4 casts burning hands defensively and Kwarsk, Malhynn AND the third cultist all take 9 burning damage (Reflex DC 12 for half damage).
Cultist 1 - dead Cultist 2 - AC 15, not yet injured Cultist 3 - unconscious Cultist 4 - AC 12, 4 damage
Map
OOC- link is open to edit position as needed.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 24/T 13/FF 21, HP 30/30, CMD 16/20 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+6=25 ; d20+6=24 ; d10+4=11 ; Tuesday April 25th, 2023 10:04:16 PM
Kwarsk angles his tower shield just right and the flames roll over and past him without harming him!
(OOC - Kwarsk has Evasion, and his Reflex Save = 25. I hope you don't mind the "special effects" liberty I'm taking with how Kwarsk "evades"... If you do mind, then he simply acrobatically dodged out of the way.)
He then shifts around cultist 4 much the same way he did cultist 3.
(OOC - I8 to J10, and IF Mr. Burning Hands wields any weapon or has improved unarmed strike, then he's entitled to an AoO against Kwarsk.)
Kwarsk, now "blocking" the way to the stairs with his tower shield, dwarven bulk, and whirling waraxe, finishes his move with a sideways Powerful slice at cultist 4, cutting deeper than expected and wounding the cultist severely. "Last chance to surrender before my backswing sends you to meet your deity in the Underwold!"
(OOC +6 base +1 Bless -1 Power Attack = net +6. Kwarsk hits AC 24, 11 damage)
Rhys (Bob W) AC 19/23 vs AoO; CMD 18/20 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 16/26 d20+9=23 ; d10+4=7 ; Tuesday April 25th, 2023 10:46:43 PM
Rhys barely notices the arrival of a fourth cultist, his attention solely occupied by the now empty-handed cultist he had so recently disarmed. With a slight shift of his weight back to his right foot and and a turn of his hips, the curved blade reverses its course and travels up and across the the mid section of his foe (Hit AC 23 for 7HP). ”You were warned…” he growls in a low menacing voice.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 28 | CMB:6 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:1 d20+3=5 ; d20+3=19 ; d8+2=7 ; Wednesday April 26th, 2023 12:39:12 AM
AOO: Att: d20+3 = AC 5
Hey, you! says the minotaur to the second cultist. Quit dodging around! You're making me look bad!
Malhynn (Steve) AC:14 (18) / T:13 (17) / F:11 (15) *Mage Armor; HPs: 16 / 25; Reflex:+5 / Fort: +4 / Will: +5 ; Wand: (43) d20+5=25 ; Wednesday April 26th, 2023 8:58:31 AM
Hearing the words of the cultist's spell before he actually realized it, Malhynn instinctively raises his cloak of resistance to cover his face, and sidesteps, avoiding the worst of the flaming spell. (Ooc: Dramatic effect description...I know the cloak doesn't work that way. ;) Mal takes 1/2 damage (5 pts))
"I've had just about enough of this..." the elven mage mutters, and begins to go through the motions and incantation to cast Summon Monster. ( Conjuring a Fire Beetle, which takes a full round, and using a @ sign to show where the creature will show up next round.) Fire Beetle
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 32/32 d20+6=25 ; d6+2=7 ; Wednesday April 26th, 2023 11:33:39 AM
Paige wields her light mace once again. ”Enough of this!” she grunts swinging mightily (hit AC 25 for 7 pts dmg)
Bless - +1 to attacks, +1 to saves vs fear, 2 minutes (7/20 rounds)
DM Melvin: Cult Above the Rest d20+1=6 ; Wednesday April 26th, 2023 8:49:07 PM
Kwarsk uses his shield to evade (OOC: Love that you're putting some flavor into it) and moves to strike cultist 4 hard. The cultist tries to respond with her spear (AoO) but she's just fanning you.
Rhys strikes cultist 2, reminding him that they were warned.
Fingers manages to land a blow on cultist 2 as well.
Malhynn uses his cloak to block some of the damage and begins conjuring a creature (but I'll give you a chance to reverse and save your spell).
Paige finishes cultist 2.
Cultist 4, the last remaining, raises her arms for another spell... and then proceeds to raise them in the air. Blood trickles down her cheek and below her wide eyes.
"No, stop, I surrender. Please, I'll tell you whatever you want."
Cultist 1 - dead Cultist 2 - dead Cultist 3 - unconscious Cultist 4 - AC 12, 15 damage
Map
OOC- link is open to edit position as needed.
Malhynn (Steve) AC:14 (18) / T:13 (17) / F:11 (15) *Mage Armor; HPs: 16 / 25; Reflex:+5 / Fort: +4 / Will: +5 ; Wand: (43) Thursday April 27th, 2023 8:12:07 AM
Seeing the moment of necessity fade, Malhynn pauses his incantation, and then quietly disapates the arcane energies he'd been harnessing for his spell. Another moment or two and the spell would have reached a point of no return...
Mal raises his darkwood wand and aims it directly at the remaining cultist. For effect, he arches an eyebrow and says, "Speak then. Explain all this. Give us a reason to spare your life..."
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 28 | CMB:6 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:1 Thursday April 27th, 2023 12:36:52 PM
Fingers binds Cultist 3 with the guy's own belt or sleeves or something before he awakens.
Rhys (Bob W) AC 19/23 vs AoO; CMD 18/20 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 16/26 Thursday April 27th, 2023 12:49:35 PM
Rhys takes the opportunity to search the two cultists at his feet and separate them from anything valuable or potentially dangerous, including the the vial of alchemist fire. ”We’d better find out if there are any more of these vermin about to come out of the woodwork.” The elf voices his concern while eyeing the most recent cultist to join the fray.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 32/32 d8+2=3 ; d8+2=3 ; d8+2=3 ; Thursday April 27th, 2023 12:56:43 PM
Paige ministers to the fighter’s wounds, healing Rhys (9 hit points if we are out of combat rounds - 3 if not.) She then moves towards the party’s magicker in order to assess Malhynn. She does a visual assessment and doesn’t interfere with his interrogation of the cultist.
Bless - +1 to attacks, +1 to saves vs fear - 2 minutes (8/20 rounds)
Wand CLW2 - 34 charges - 1 or 3 for 33 or 31 remaining
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 24/T 13/FF 21, HP 30/30, CMD 16/20 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+7=25 ; Thursday April 27th, 2023 2:14:50 PM
Kwarsk nods at Malhynn, then looks back at cultist 4 with a face stern as granite, "What he said."
Kwarsk Readies his right fist, still holding his waraxe, to put her down (non-lethal damage) if he even suspects she's about to pull a fast one.
(OOC: Sense Motive = 25)
DM Melvin: Cult Above the Rest Thursday April 27th, 2023 9:02:10 PM
Malhynn pulls back on his spell, and demands an explanation from the remaining caster cultist.
Fingers ties up the remaining fighter cultist.
Rhys searches for dangerous stuff and secures the alchemist fire. He notes that there might be more out there, though the floor seems quiet for now. The caster cultist assures you that the battle is over.
Paige heals up Rhys and Malhynn (you are out of combat rounds).
Kwarsk keeps an eye on the female cultist, but detects no lies.
"Okay, okay, but before I do, can I give you a ten minute explanation as to why you should actually be joining us on our quest to improve the human condition?"
She eyes Kwarsk and Malhynn carefully. "Okay, fine. Hmmph, be nice if we ever met a 'hero' with an open mind."
She sighed. "You are too late, anyway. The ceremony has already begun. Once the moon is in the proper position tonight, we will begin the blood sacrifice. And then, a greater demon will live among the world bound to us. And a lesser cult would simply begin attacking.
"But, you see, we have greater plans in store. He will be studied, and he will slowly help us understand why the grafting continued to fail. And then, only then, can we truly reverse the great wrong that occurred when us humans came to plateau city."
In the meantime, Rhys managed to find the following gear between the three other cultists:
oil of magic fang +1 (x3), potion of cure light wounds (x3), alchemist’s fire (x4), masterwork light crossbow with 10 bolts (x2), masterwork shortspear (x2), 10 gp
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 24/T 13/FF 21, HP 30/30, CMD 16/20 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+5=22 Thursday April 27th, 2023 9:37:05 PM
Kwarsk says, "Malhynn, please keep that wand aimed at her. Rhys, Fingers, please tie up this fingernail of evil. Paige, any idea what she's talking about?"
Kwarsk remains on guard against a sudden casting or other hostile action by cultist 4, and while doing so he considers her words in light of what the Monks of Pantheon taught him.
(OOC: Knowledge: Religion = 22)
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 28 | CMB:6 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:1 Friday April 28th, 2023 1:54:31 AM All right, missy, says Fingers as he binds the cultist. [b]Indulge me. How many people have to die for this greater demon to arrive? And why do you think you can keep it bound for long?
Rhys (Bob W) AC 19/23 vs AoO; CMD 18/20 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 16/26 Friday April 28th, 2023 11:55:24 AM ”More importantly, where is this ceremony to take place?” Rhys walks over to what he believes might be the body the body of a student or a teacher that lies unattended on the floor. ”and what is entailed in this ceremony?”. The elf checks the body for any signs of life and will call Paige over if there are any.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 32/32 2d8+2=6 ; 2d8+2=17 ; Friday April 28th, 2023 3:50:51 PM
Paige feels pulled in many directions, but looking after her companions and any injured students or staff of the school is her first concern. She realizes the wand in her hand is the one she had been holding onto for Zarsellet (CLW) so she switches it out for her usual (CLW2) and attends to Malhynn. After the first application, she gives the stick a resounding *thwack* against her thigh, before providing a second application of healing magics.
”Fingers, can you check behind the door the cultists we’re trying to get through? Make sure any students or staff of the school are unharmed?”. Her thoughts turn to what she knows of the cult of Marteaus and the female’s jumbled rambling. ”I don’t know anything about ‘demons’ or ‘lesser cults’, but I wonder if the reference to ‘grafting that failed’ has something to do with Carmine?”
(OOC: rolled 1d8’s in last post, so will tale charges off the ‘lesser’ wand:
Wand CLW - 47 charges remain Rhys gets 9 HP Wand CLW2 - 32 charges remain Malhynn gets everything back!)[/b]
DM Melvin: Karma Farming Friday April 28th, 2023 9:14:26 PM
Kwarsk reminds the group that she might still be dangerous, and thinks about what he knows about Marteus.
For Kwarsk Highlight to display spoiler: {Marteus is the god of suffering through disease but he's also about power and about gaining perfection through testing, since he finds normal races to be inferior.}
The cultist objects as Fingers binds her, but she doesn't struggle.
Fingers asks about how many people have to die for this demon to arrive. "Nobody had to die before," the cultist pointed out. "But for your struggles and the headmaster's stubborn nature, that forced us to defend ourselves, everyone would still be alive. The question is how many more people have to die at the desires of the men you work for."
The cultist sighed. "At any event, I don't really know what happens after the demon arrives. My understanding is that he will still have his freedom, and will keep down the destruction. Unless, of course, you continue to interfere."
Paige begins healing and asks Fingers to check on the door holding the students and staff. She asks about Carmine, and gets a blank look from the cultist.
Rhys asks where the ceremony will take place and what is involved.
The cultist falls silent but her eyes travel to a pouch on a belt. "Inside is a map to a farmhouse, and a key," she finally mutters. "But I warn you. The price of failure will be..."
The cultist stopped, interrupted by a beam of light from the nearby window. For a brief moment, you all need to shield your eyes, the cultist's scream being the only sound.
As the light left the room, the cultist fell silent, shaking profusely.
She dropped to the floor, the light leaving her eyes.
Behind you, the doors open to show a number of students and teachers. They look concerned at what happened out here.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 28 | CMB:6 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:1 d20+11=28 ; Saturday April 29th, 2023 2:16:07 AM
Fingers rushes to the window, trying to see who cast that spell, and wondering (KS: Arcana: 28) what spell that was.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 24/T 13/FF 21, HP 30/30, CMD 16/20 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Saturday April 29th, 2023 2:18:05 PM
Kwarsk's eyes go wide - he considers moving his Tower Shield to the window, but Fingers is already there.
Already being next to the slain cultist 4, he quickly retrieves the pouch she looked at and tucks it away before any of the staff or students get any bright ideas.
(OOC - he's not hiding his action from the Patchers, but only from the staff and students just entering the hallway, to the extent possible)
Then Kwarsk speaks towards the staff and students, "Nothing to see here. Your headmaster is... pleased we got here in time to stop these... bandits... from invading your home and stealing your stuff."
With that, Kwarsk gives furtive winks to the Patchers, hoping they'll get the idea that he wants them to go along with what he just said.
Malhynn (Steve) AC:14 (18) / T:13 (17) / F:11 (15) *Mage Armor; HPs: 16 / 25; Reflex:+5 / Fort: +4 / Will: +5 ; Wand: (43) d20+6=13 ; d20+9=19 ; Saturday April 29th, 2023 3:18:47 PM
Startled by the attack on the cultist, Malhynn also bolts for the window, ducking slightly around the large Minotaur to be able to see where the spell came from as well.
(OOC: Perception: 13, Knowledge Arcana: 19)
Oblivious to the staff entering behind him, the mage says to Fingers, cursing first in Elvish, "[i]Thar arsurinya! Did you see where that ray came from...Not sure exactly what it was. Might have been...hmm..."[/b]
(OOC: Thar arsurinya = Good God. Using a "translator" from this site whenever he uses Elvish: https://lingojam.com/CommontoElvish%28D%26D%29 )
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 32/32 Saturday April 29th, 2023 7:47:51 PM ”…heartache?” says the cleric, finishing the cultist’s phrase, when bright light suffuses the room, causing Paige to raise a hand to shade her eyes.
Rhys (Bob W) AC 19/23 vs AoO; CMD 18/20 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 25/26 Saturday April 29th, 2023 8:09:04 PM
Rhys observes Kwarsk recovering the cultists pouch and turns his immediate attention to finding out what exactly the cultists were looking for at the school. The elf heads back down the stairs to find Mavros and asks him just that. ”Did the cultists say why they came here, or what they were looking for?” he asks the head master of the school.
Rhys (Bob W) AC 19/23 vs AoO; CMD 18/20 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 25/26 Saturday April 29th, 2023 9:00:17 PM
Rhys observes Kwarsk recovering the cultists pouch and turns his immediate attention to finding out what exactly the cultists were looking for at the school. The elf heads back down the stairs to find Mavros and asks him just that. ”Did the cultists say why they came here, or what they were looking for?” he asks the head master of the school.
DM Melvin: Karma Farming Monday May 1st, 2023 9:18:55 PM
Fingers rushes to the window in an attempt to see what happened and what got fired.
Fingers Highlight to display spoiler: {Outside, the sunset makes it hard to see the fleeing figure in dark robes, escaping in mist. But in the moment, Fingers knows what hit the girl was searing light. A cleric's spell.}
Kwarsk slips the pouch, trying to keep the staff and students occupied (he'll still need to roll a sleight of hand check for that, and a bluff check for trying to lie that this was robbers).
Kwarsk Highlight to display spoiler: {He finds the following treasure on her: scrolls of burning hands (2, CL 3rd), scrolls of cure light wounds (2), scroll of obscuring mist (CL 3rd), scroll of sleep (CL 3rd), acid (2); Other Gear leather armor, darts (6), masterwork cold iron dagger, spear, belt pouch, masterwork manacles, scroll case, silver holy symbol (cracked moon), spell component pouch, 9 gp. And, as promised, a map to a particular farmhouse and a key.}
Malhynn tries to see what is going on but by the time he gets past Fingers, it's too late. Angry, he blurts out where the ray came from.
Paige begins to wonder if the price of failure is heartache. It's unclear whether the dead cultist catches the surely unintended double meaning.
Rhys asks Mavros what the cultists were looking for. "I told you, they were looking for members," he gasped. "Don't know if they wanted anything else, but they definitely wanted members. This game used to be civilized. Necromancy and Dark Lord worship had rules, it was respectable. Now look at this place."
He grew silent, watching the sunset. "They did manage to get a few people to go with them, all they needed for tonight. I don't know where they were going to find a young child to sacrifice, though. Unless you brought one with you."
Rhys (Bob W) AC 19/23 vs AoO; CMD 18/20 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 25/26 Monday May 1st, 2023 10:26:45 PM ”I am sorry for your losses tonight Mavros. These are dark times.” Rhys genuinely feels sorry for the man’s troubles, but larger issues occupy his thoughts. ”So…they have killed at least one student, felt no compunction about killing one of their own, and now intend to sacrifice a child! They seem to mean business …as should we!”
The elf spreads out the scrolls and potions he has recovered and invites the magically inclined to have a look .
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 28 | CMB:6 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:1 d100=67 ; Tuesday May 2nd, 2023 12:36:46 AM Searing Light,, says Fingers, in answer to Malhynn's question. The cleric spell. Someone in dark robes ran off that way.
(If that figure was dressed as the cultists here, Fingers mentions that too.)
(OOC: Re: the email "Current Loot from Nightmare Quarter". For the new folks: the last time we had loot to pick from, we each rolled d100 for picking order. Each person, from highest to lowest, picks an item, and we repeat as needed. My roll this time is 67.)
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 32/32 Tuesday May 2nd, 2023 12:16:53 PM ”You’ve got to be kidding!” exclaims the cleric of Domi, when Mavros suggests the party provide the child the cultists want for their ritual.
Addressing her companions Paige suggests they head to the Patch and pick up their kit before striking out to the ‘farm’. ”Seems we have a ritual to interrupt!” she announces.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 24/T 13/FF 21, HP 30/30, CMD 16/20 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+2=10 ; d20=19 ; Tuesday May 2nd, 2023 8:29:31 PM
Kwarsk puts the pouch on his belt, and gets Rhys' and Fingers' help in gathering the other items on the fallen cultist. "Evidence." (OOC everything easy to carry in the Spoiler tags - scrolls, potions, acids, money pouch. It would feel gauche to strip the cultist of her leather armor, but the weapons need to come along to the Patch as well.)
(OOC Sleight of Hand = 10. Bluff = 19.
Situational modifiers -
1) For hiding the pouch, Kwarsk was relying on his dwarven stoutness and his back being to most or all of the students/staff/etc.
2) For calling the cultists 'bandits,' when the Patchers arrived on the second floor, the cultists were trying to bash down a door - the lawyers of Pantheon would call that Breaking & Entering, along with And Intent to Commit a Felony therein (Burglary) at the minimum. Kwarsk believes he was telling the truth, from the point of view of Patchers coming in to rescue/interrupt whatever crimes were being committed here by the cult, since burglary is much more common a motive than murder or ritual sacrifice or cult recruitment...)
Kwarsk says to Paige, just loud enough for only Patchers and not students/staff to hear, he hopes, "We have the directions. Ready to say our farewells to Mavros and then follow your plan?"
Kwarsk stands at attention, then gestures to the rest of the Patchers to follow, and says to Mavros as he heads for the stairs down, "[b[What Rhys said. We'll mourn with you later. Now it's time to make certain no one else has to mourn![/b]"
DM Melvin: Karma Farming Tuesday May 2nd, 2023 9:05:26 PM
Rhys notes that these guys are without mercy, and looks over the gear.
Fingers notes what he saw of cultist 4's killer.
Paige notes that they wouldn't be dragging along a child for cult rituals, and wants to hit the Patch (to pick up their kit) followed by the farm.
Kwarsk takes everything but the armor, as "evidence." If Marvos or any of the students disbelieve or notice anything, they don't show it.
With that done, Kwarsk seconds Paige's plan, and he and Rhys stress that the damage ends now.
Malhynn remains silent for now.
(There are two votes to hit the patch first, followed by the farm. I'll give time for the other players to object, otherwise I will assume that you head out in this manner.)
Rhys (Bob W) AC 19/23 vs AoO; CMD 18/20 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 25/26 Tuesday May 2nd, 2023 10:13:49 PM
Rhys gathers up the gear with Kwarsk. ”Lets get this stuff back to the Patch and have a look at that map. We need a plan of attack if we don’t want to end up like that poor lass who got herself fried”. The elf is anxious to get going as there is precious little time to waste.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 28 | CMB:6 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:1 Wednesday May 3rd, 2023 2:23:26 AM Right, Patch first. Let's go.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 32/32 Wednesday May 3rd, 2023 10:02:48 AM
Paige claps a hand on Malhynn’s shoulder, asking: ”you’re coming too?” before exiting the school of necromancy and making for the Patch at a quick march.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 24/T 13/FF 21, HP 30/30, CMD 16/20 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Wednesday May 3rd, 2023 6:57:59 PM
Kwarsk sees the Patchers falling in marching order, and leads them down the stairs and out of the Hollow Pit. While heading back to the patch, Kwarsk thinks as he walks, pondering what strange perils these surface dwellers get into, compared to the more familiar perils in the UnderWold...
DM Melvin: Karma Farming Wednesday May 3rd, 2023 9:16:19 PM
Everyone agrees to head out to the patch before heading out to the farm. Walden does warn, though, that you don't have a lot of time. (You do have a few minutes to separate out the new gear and retrieve something, though. No time to rest or purchase new items.)
Things are more or less as you left them, except that there is a quick message from Berem: I put out some feelers for new hires and might have reinforcements soon. Stand by.
Is there anything the group wants to do before heading to the farmhouse?
Rhys (Bob W) AC 19/23 vs AoO; CMD 18/20 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 25/26 Thursday May 4th, 2023 9:08:32 AM
Rhys heads back to the Patch by the quickest route possible with as much of the loot as he can carry. Once there, he lays out the loot on the large table in the planning room. “Paige and Malhynn should have a look through these scrolls and vials to see if there is anything useful for our visit to the farm.”
It is only then, that Rhys notices the oddly shaped package wrapped in sack cloth and addressed to him. He unties the twine holding the package together and carefully withdraws a small vial and a a beautifully crafted compound bow. He tests the pull of the bow and grins with satisfaction. ”It’s nice to know that the catacombs delivers on what it promises. This is a fine piece! Now, about that map! Just where is this farm and how do we deal with this ceremony?”
(OOC Compound Bow and vial of Cats Grace are already on my character sheet but are now available for use)
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 32/32 Thursday May 4th, 2023 6:35:04 PM
Paige looks briefly at the individual called Walden and blurts out: ”we know that! So what are you planning on doing?”. The cleric brushes by, not waiting to hear the response.
Once Kwarsk shares the details of the map, the red-head grabs his pack and healer’s kit and heads out the door.
DM Melvin: Karma Farming Thursday May 4th, 2023 8:47:28 PM
Rhys lays out the loot, and picks up a delivery from the catacombs.
Paige shames the headmaster before hitting the pumpkin patch. Once there, she grabs her healers kit.
The rest of the group hang around to look at the map. The map itself is crude but there's enough clues that the group can find its location easily enough. The only thing is... it looks on paper like a simple farmhouse. Small, somewhat isolated, not much in security. Certainly not what was described as needed for a ceremony of this type.
Still, it's your one lead. So when the group is ready, you head out to it.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 24/T 13/FF 21, HP 30/30, CMD 16/20 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Thursday May 4th, 2023 9:05:24 PM
(OOC re: Wednesday night's post)
Kwarsk was unbundling the items he'd taken from the cultist when Rhys pours out other items from other cultists on half the table.
Kwarsk then finishes unbundling the items on the other half of the table, saying, "Paige and Malhynn, you both might use that minor spell that lets you identify the scrolls quickly. Good luck figuring out the vials of liquid, but I hear spellcasters are trained to identify such things."
(OOC - now that the Patchers can see all of the items, Kwarsk reveals:
scrolls of burning hands (2, CL 3rd), scrolls of cure light wounds (2), scroll of obscuring mist (CL 3rd), scroll of sleep (CL 3rd), acid (2);
darts (6), masterwork cold iron dagger, spear, belt pouch, masterwork manacles, scroll case, silver holy symbol (cracked moon), spell component pouch, 9 gp.
A map to a particular farmhouse and a key.
Now onto Kwarsk's actions regarding tonight's post.)
Kwarsk looks at Fingers, "Fingers, maybe you want these manacles? You know locks, and we might need to take a prisoner back to Plateau City for justice other than the blade of my axe and Rhys's sword!
Paige, Malhynn, please take all the scrolls and decode them on the walk with your scroll-reading spell.
Oh, and Paige, maybe you take the cultist's 'cracked-moon' holy symbol and pretend to be one of them, sneak us in to the ritual?"
With that, Kwarsk is at the door, and as the Patchers begin to head out he takes the lead, checking with Paige, the mapper, on landmarks to watch for.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 28 | CMB:6 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:1 Friday May 5th, 2023 2:27:14 AM Sure, I'll take those says Fingers, throwing the manacles over his shoulder and grabbing his crossbow and gear.
(OOC: Would taking the mule cart be faster than all of us traveling at a fast walk?)
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 28 | CMB:6 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:1 Friday May 5th, 2023 2:27:24 AM Right, Patch first. Let's go.
Veldrin (Ben) | AC16 HP22 Friday May 5th, 2023 9:56:10 AM
Veldrin walks from the Black Cathedral to the building residents have taken to calling, "The Patch." He sees a handful of adventurers leaving, going who knows where. "Excuse me," he says. "My name is Veldrin Nirinath. Berem sent me. He told me to seek you out, that you might be in need of my services." Veldrin is a tall and slender Surface Drow, blonde-haired and green-eyed. He dons a simple explorer’s outfit wreathed in a hooded cloak. Twin swords rest upon his hips. A bow—compact and curved—sits ever-ready on his back. Veldrin holds out a hand to any adventurer that will take it and tries his best to look friendly, though the latter is usually hard for his race. He smiles. (OOC: Hi everyone! I'm Ben, and I'll be playing Veldrin Nirinath, a Surface Drow Twilight Ranger. I look forward to adventuring with you.)
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 32/32 Friday May 5th, 2023 12:53:35 PM
Paige hears ”Excuse me” and turning in the direction of the voice, sees a tall figure. ”Veldrin, eh? Sent by Berem? the red-headed half-elf says, giving the fellow the once over. Taking in the swords at his hips, and the curved bow, she adds ”You’ll do, then grins, taking the offered hand in her own and giving a solid squeeze. ”Name’s Paige. Paige Potter - Cleric of Domi. Berem briefed you on the mission? We’ll catch you up as we walk, since we don’t have a lot of time…”
*Before leaving The Patch Paige will acknowledge Kadaz’s suggestion, and collect the scrolls and their case. If provided an opportunity of 10 minutes of relative quiet, she will attempt to decode them. This may end up happening later, on the way to the ‘farm’.
DM Sanity info:
Orisons: 0/4 used - light, purify food and drink, detect magic, read magic Level 1 spells: 1/3 used - bane, bless, magic weapon Level 2 spells: 0/2 used - silence, hold person Domain spells: 0/2 used - bull’s strength, shield other
Channel energy: 0/6 used
Rhys (Bob W) AC 19/23 vs AoO; CMD 18/20 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 25/26 Friday May 5th, 2023 3:06:15 PM
Rhys follows the group out of the pAtch just in time to hear Veldrin’s introduction. The elf stops in his tracks, turns, and offers his hand to the newcomer. ”If you’re good enough for Paige you’re good enough for me! I’m Rhys Saelion. I hope Berem has filled you in, but just to be sure you know what you are signing up for, a cult of Marteus is going to attempt to summon some kind of devil tonight and we are going to stop them.”
Rhys is dressed in a dark green cloak over a green tunic with an embroidered collar. A glimpse of his mithral chain shirt might be seen near his neck. A long curved elven blade is sheathed and slung across his back and a beautifully crafted bow hangs off one shoulder.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 24/T 13/FF 21, HP 30/30, CMD 16/20 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Saturday May 6th, 2023 11:34:06 PM
Kwarsk turns to look at this Veldrin. Hmm... from Berem? Are we sure? Well, who'd lie about that I suppose? Another surface drow... seems a combatant unlike Myre our former sorceress... hope he's good in a fight because cults usually come in large numbers... Kwarsk listens as Paige and Rhys reply to Veldrin and welcome him into the Patchers.
DM Melvin: Karma Farming Monday May 8th, 2023 1:46:36 PM
OOC: When I wrote Walden, I meant Mavros. I apologize for the error.
Also, I'm posting a little early so that introductions may be made. I will try to post about this time going forward.
Kwarsk begins separating out some of the loot, and preparing for someone to search for.
Fingers grabs some of the gear and asks if a mule cart might be faster.
Veldrin takes a moment to introduce himself as the newest recruit.
Paige and Rhys take the time to introduce themselves and stock up.
Kwarsk waives his suspicions by noting that nobody would fake being from Berem, even for a ruse.
Malhynn continues to hang around silently.
Also hanging around silently is another person sent by Berem, ready to introduce himself.
(Next post will be right outside the farmhouse. This is the chance to get ready and catch up the new players.)
Veldrin (Ben) | AC16 HP22 Monday May 8th, 2023 7:58:24 PM
Veldrin does his best to assure his new companions that Berem sent him. He even produces a letter indicating as much. He then questions Rhys about the cult of Marteaus. [b]“He is a god of disease is he not? I do not relish meeting any of his followers, let alone his priests, those carriers of disease. Do we have any protection against pestilence? Or is that something we need not worry about in this instance? And a devil, you say. I do not look forward to that encounter. I am no coward, but I am also no welcomer of such evil.”[b]
Malhynn (Steve) AC:14 (18) / T:13 (17) / F:11 (15) *Mage Armor; HPs: 16 / 25; Reflex:+5 / Fort: +4 / Will: +5 ; Wand: (43) Monday May 8th, 2023 8:41:16 PM
More than a little shaken by the revelation that he and his compnaions were literally about to head out to disrupt the doings of a dark cult intent on summoning a demonic entity of some power, Malhynn is quiet at the group progresses back to the Patch.
Mal does his part and looks over the scrolls alongside Paige, both at the group's hideout and as they travel to the farm, eventually shrugging, "I'm pretty sure they're all divine scrolls. Not really my cup of tea, my dear."
In elvish, Malhynn says to Veldrin, "Can't say I know Berem all that well myself, but if the rest of these people are fine with him vouching for you, then that's good enough for me."
And then, in common he offers his hand to the ranger and says, "I'm Malhynn Saendithas. Conjurer. Nice to meet you."
[ooc: Not sure if elvish and drow are completely different languages or not...and Mal doesn't know either, so why not experiment like this and find out, eh? Oh, and for the record, I'm BACK for good. My hugest apologies and appreciation for your patience.)
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 32/32 Monday May 8th, 2023 8:46:39 PM
A quick check of the map reveals a straightforward route. ”You’ll lead the way, Kadaz?”
The cleric takes up a position in the middle of the pack, leaving the front and rear-guard to others. Overhearing the newcomers concerns, she volunteers: ”we’ve dealt with poison and poisoners, and have some potions and magics that provide some degree of protection. I can mend most wounds as well.” the half-elf pats a bag* hanging cross-body style on her person. Digging around in another pouch, she pulls out a vial of liquid and hands it to Veldrin. ”Take this and keep it neat at hand. Should you incur grievous harm, this cordial** well mend some of your hurts, until I can tend your wounds.”
”How about the rest of you? I have 3 more vials….”
* Healer’s Kit ** Potion of Cure Light Wounds - Veldrin please add to your character sheet, and I will subtract from mine!
Linden Haran (Jason) -- AC 22/14/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 32/32 Monday May 8th, 2023 10:26:36 PM
Waiting for Malhynn and Valdrin to finish their introductions, Linden steps forward and makes a small bow. A human of average build, plain of features and having a scar along the side of his neck that extends beneath his clothes and armor, Linden doesn't make a large physical impression. Dressed in decent clothes under his breastplate with bow/arrow over the shoulder and a pair of well-made weapons at his belt, Linden seems like a typical merchant’s guard, with perhaps a bit better equipment.
"Greetings companions, I'm Linden Haran and I've also been sent to lend assistance in your current endeavor." Shifting slightly, he gives a sheepish grin, "Cultists huh, yeah they certainly didn't mention that but I guess it is the Nightmare Quarter after all and I should have seen that comin." Picking up his pack, Linden looks to the others "Ready when you are!"
Rhys (Bob W) AC 19/23 vs AoO; CMD 18/20 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 25/26 Monday May 8th, 2023 10:58:23 PM ”Welcome Linden. I am Rhys Saelion. I would give you a tour of the Patch, but time is of the essence. We must be on our way if we are to stop these cultists in time. We can fill you in on the details as we travel.”.
The elf is of medium height for an elf and he moves with an easy grace. He is dressed in a green shirt and cloak so dark as to be almost black with elvish embroidery around the collar and cuffs. His cloak is held closed about his throat by a badge of the Woldian League of Adventurers and a a glimpse of mithral chain can be seen beneath. Brown leather breeches and tall leather boots complete the outfit. A long curved elven blade is sheathed across his back and a finely crafted bow hangs from his shoulder.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 24/T 13/FF 21, HP 30/30, CMD 16/20 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Monday May 8th, 2023 11:32:06 PM
(OOC - Intro description:
Kwarsk is a dwarven male in his fifties. Stocky and muscular, his body just fits behind his everpresent Tower Shield. He moves at an inexorable dwarven pace, deep blue eyes flicking here and there with the practiced perception of a professional bodyguard. His helmet covers most of his flaming orange hair but for his trimmed medium-length beard and sideburns-become-muttonchops. He seems to be ever-wearing a contemplative look, considering the wisdom of each of many possible responses to this situation, his closed mouth set in a straight line under a substantial nose.
He wears a chain shirt behind that Tower Shield, has a thin quiver of three javelins to one side of his back, a masterfully crafted dwarven waraxe strapped across his back in a kind of back-holster, and a masterfully crafted warhammer at his right hip. Kwarsk walks powerfully yet professionally.
Kwarsk is a Fighter/Monk with some history of guard duty, and bodyguard duty. His style is to interpose between foes and his ward, especially at choke points so as to maximize the chance of an Attack of Opportunity at any who would try to bypass him to reach his ward. He is adequate at attacking, but far more prepared to defend. He practices the martial arts of Pantheon, has evasive reflexes and wields the Stunning Fist!)
Kwarsk mutters, "Berem seems to be of more value than I expected, no mere patron, he sends us allies, more than one!
Welcome Veldrin and Linden. I am Kwarsk. I do my best to keep my friends alive and my enemies... not necessarily so much..." he finishes with a wry grin.
Kwarsk continues leading the Patchers on their way to the cult's farmhouse.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 28 | CMB:6 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:1 Tuesday May 9th, 2023 11:05:38 AM
The new members are likely startled to see a eight-foot minotaur (8'2", if you include the horns) rushing out of the Patch. He wears leather armor and, instead of the traditional greataxe, carries a crossbow. He also has a set of manacles looped across his neck for some reason.
So you're no "welcomer of evil", new guy? Don't worry -- we're about to show it how unwelcome it is!
My name's Muuru but they call me -- "Fingers". He cocks the crossbow. Locksmith.
Malhynn (Steve) AC:14 / T:13 / F:11 ; HPs: 25 / 25; Reflex:+5 / Fort: +4 / Will: +5 ; Wand: (43) Tuesday May 9th, 2023 1:36:59 PM
Malhynn raises an eyebrow as the group welcomes a second newcomer, noting with some interest that he is the only human in the group's little assembly. Well, there's a twist...
Outwardly, the mage smiles and nods, "Well met, Linden. You and Veldrin have shown up at exactly the right time. More muscle is always appreciated."
While speaking, Mal secures his equipment and gives the items in his spellpouch a quick inventory to make sure he has what's needed for the upcoming activities.
(OOC: Assuming his Mage Armor has worn off at this point, yes?)
DM Melvin: Karma Farming Tuesday May 9th, 2023 3:38:22 PM
Veldrin shows his credentials and asks some questions.
Malhynn looks over the mostly divine scrolls and introduces himself.
Paige gets ready to go and prepares for some hard healing. She also fills Veldrin on some details.
Linden makes his own introduction and notes that cultists sounds about right.
Rhys notes that time is of the essence and fills them in on details as they move forward.
Kwarsk is pleasantly surprised the Berem actually did his job.
Fingers takes some time to show off for the new guys and to remind them that they take evil quite seriously.
Malhynn notes that more muscle is always appreciated.
And with business concluded, they make their way towards the farmhouse.
------------------
It is almost dark when you get there, a small building in the middle of a field.
It looks like nobody has been here in years. The building is boarded up and dark. Cobwebs and dust cover the front wall of the building. It is small. It is the only building, save for a couple of caved in barns nearby. Cobblestones shift as you move towards the steps to the front door.
Nobody seems to be in or around the building.
In front of you is the front door that the key goes to. Perception 12 Highlight to display spoiler: {A closer look indicates that the door isn't actually boarded up and the cobwebs and dust have been moved. Someone did come in through this door earlier.}
And there the farmhouse sits, waiting.
Veldrin (Ben) | AC16 HP22 d20+9=25 ; Tuesday May 9th, 2023 4:44:13 PM
Veldrin thanks Paige for her potion and stows it in his backpack. At the farmhouse, Veldrin walks toward the door as quietly as possible. He notices (Perception 25) that the door appears recently used and then carefully examines it for traps. "Someone has been this way," he whispers, "and recently. Be wary." He then unsheaths both of his shortswords and prepares to enter the farmhouse. (OOC: I'm still trying to figure out what needs to be rolled for and how much leeway characters have in moving the story forward. Should I have rolled Stealth? Should I have rolled a second Perception when checking for traps? Things like that. Let me know if I'm doing anything wrong or if you have any suggestions for posting in The Wold.)
Veldrin (Ben) | AC16 HP22 Tuesday May 9th, 2023 4:48:49 PM
(OOC: Sorry. Just making sure my character sheet is properly linked. If this doesn't work, I'll try again tomorrow.)
Linden Haran (Jason) -- AC 22/14/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 32/32 d20+2=20 ; Tuesday May 9th, 2023 6:08:55 PM
Noticing Veldrin's care at the door, Linden sets himself with his shortsword and shield and studies the opening as well. "I think we'll be seeing some other travellers soon. Lead on, I'm ready to follow you in."
Perception 20
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 24/T 13/FF 21, HP 30/30, CMD 16/20 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+11=16 ; Tuesday May 9th, 2023 7:02:52 PM
Kwarsk trudges on, unimpeded by the darkening sky and likewise notices something, and says, "Yes, someone's gone through that door, recently, I agree. I suggest allowing me and my Tower Shield to take the lead." and with that Kwarsk walks up to the door, waiting until Veldrin is done looking it over and if he says it's clear, then Kwarsk will proceed forward, opening/shoving the door and taking the lead inside. (Kwarsk carries no lightsource)
(OOC - Perception = 16)
Malhynn (Steve) AC:14 / T:13 / F:11 ; HPs: 25 / 25; Reflex:+5 / Fort: +4 / Will: +5 ; Wand: (43) Tuesday May 9th, 2023 8:00:41 PM
Malhynn matches everyone else's caution and proceeds with care . To Rhys he quietly says, "Do you want dancing lights or not yet?"
Malhynn (Steve) AC:14 / T:13 / F:11 ; HPs: 25 / 25; Reflex:+5 / Fort: +4 / Will: +5 ; Wand: (43) Tuesday May 9th, 2023 8:02:17 PM
(OOC: Just realized I never gave a full description of Mal for the newcomers.: Malhynn has an athletic, slender build, with silvery-blonde hair and piercing blue eyes. For all his elven comeliness, however, there is an obvious arrogance in his demeanor that is at times off-putting to those who don’t know him. When adventuring, Malhynn generally wears a high-quality cloak with well-made travel clothes rather than his robes, which he keeps stored away for proper occasions. The mage also carries a staff and wears a masterwork dagger on one hip, and a sheathed wand upon the other.)
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 32/32 Tuesday May 9th, 2023 11:05:56 PM
Paige thanks Malhynn and accepts responsibility for the scrolls, placing them in the scroll case taken from the cleric of Marteus. She makes a face when Kwarsk suggests she take the cracked moon holy symbol, but she accepts it from the dwarf. With a prayer to her god asking for forgiveness, she tucks the symbol of Domi worn on a cord about her neck inside her tunic - close to her heart - and affixes the offending symbol to her cloak.
”We could attempt subterfuge” she volunteers, adding: ”but I do not wish to sport this abomination overlong.”
Once arrived at the farmhouse, and before going through the door, Paige presses her TRUE holy symbol, and casts Bull’s Strength upon herself.
DM Sanity info:
Bull’s Strength - +4 enhancement bonus to strength - 3 min
Orisons: 0/4 used - light, purify food and drink, detect magic, read magic Level 1 spells: 1/3 used - bane, bless, magic weapon Level 2 spells: 0/2 used - silence, hold person Domain spells: 1/2 used - bull’s strength, shield other
Channel energy: 0/6 used
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 28 | CMB:6 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:1 Wednesday May 10th, 2023 3:26:51 AM
Perception:
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 28 | CMB:6 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:1 d20+12=19 ; Wednesday May 10th, 2023 3:31:53 AM
Perception: 19 We haven't officially included the new members into our marching order yet, but Fingers will stand back until Veldrin (at least) has followed Kwarsk. Meanwhile he'll position himself 10 feet from the door and ready his crossbow to fire inside.
Rhys (Bob W) AC 19/23 vs AoO; CMD 18/20 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 25/26 d20+6=20 ; Wednesday May 10th, 2023 7:15:19 AM
Rhys scans the perimeter of the small house for other points of entry or signs of the passage of others. (Survival 20). “Surely they must know we are coming” he whispers to no one in particular.
DM Melvin: Karma Farming Wednesday May 10th, 2023 3:59:36 PM
Veldrin checks carefully and stealthily at the door. He doesn't see any traps, though the door is locked.
Linden watches carefully and prepares to follow.
Kwarsk moves to the front of the pack (I assume he still has the key) and considers breaking the door down. He has no lightsource, but can see well enough in the dim light. He offers to take the lead.
Malhynn asks if people would like a light source.
Paige considers subterfuge, and casts bull's strength on herself.
Fingers stands back, ready to fire into the doorway.
Rhys keeps an eye out, sure that the cultists know they are coming. He checks the footprints and sees that the front door is fairly often used (there is a side door, but it is boarded up and will have to be broken down).
As far as the group can tell (and there are some high rolls), nobody is keeping watch at the farmhouse or making rounds. As said, the door can be unlocked or broken down (it's a strength DC 13 check).
Linden Haran (Jason) -- AC 22/14/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 32/32 d20+3=20 ; Wednesday May 10th, 2023 9:11:00 PM
Pausing for only a second, Linden nods to Kwarsk "I'll break it for your entry."
Stepping into the door with force, Linden easily knocks it open and then steps to the side for Kwarsk and the others to clear through. "Wait, is that a key in your hand?"
Str Check +3
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 32/32 Wednesday May 10th, 2023 9:20:59 PM ”Everyone’s good then? Paige asks sotto voce. The cleric selects her light mace of cold iron, and with her off hand ensures the wand of CLW2 is held safely tucked against her body by her belt - and waits for those ahead of her to pass through the farmhouse door.
She positions herself to one side, so that she would not be immediately visible to anyone looking directly out through the door.
(OOC: we left the city around sunset. What time is it now, and what are the light conditions? FWIW, Paige has low light vision.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 24/T 13/FF 21, HP 30/30, CMD 16/20 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+11=20 ; Wednesday May 10th, 2023 9:52:54 PM (If Linden's attempt to bash down the door fails) - Kwarsk says, "Hmm... perhaps this is the specific door that key we found is for..." and then Kwarsk will pull out the key, open the door, and walk inside, Tower Shield first, looking for danger.
(If Linden's attempt to bash down the door succeeds) - Kwarsk says, "Hmm... I wonder if that was the door for this key in my pocket..." and then Kwarsk will say, "Thanks friend!" and walk inside, Tower Shield first, looking for danger.
(OOC - in either option above, Perception = 20)
Veldrin (Ben) | AC16 HP22 Wednesday May 10th, 2023 9:59:43 PM
Veldrin walks through the door behind Kwarsk, swords at the ready. He scans the room, looking for anything that might indicate where he and his companions should go next.
Rhys (Bob W) AC 19/23 vs AoO; CMD 18/20 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 25/26 Thursday May 11th, 2023 10:30:43 AM
Rhys involuntarily winces at the sounds of the doorframe breaking under force. ”I guess stealth will not be an option then…” the elf thinks to himself as he readies himself to enter once the doorway is clear. Like Paige, he steps to one side so as to not be immediately in the line of fire should their entry be anticipated.
Malhynn (Steve) AC:14 / T:13 / F:11 ; HPs: 25 / 25; Reflex:+5 / Fort: +4 / Will: +5 ; Wand: (43) Thursday May 11th, 2023 2:10:09 PM
Malhynn jolts and blinks when Linden crashes into the door, opening the portal with style, at least. Drawing his darkwood wand, the elven mage mutters, "Well, if subtelty is out the window anyway, we might as well be able to see."
With that, Mal draws mana from around himself, and states the incantation: “Chorus Luminum”. Three candle-sized globes of light shift into existence, and move through the marching order, One in the front, middle, and back of the group respectively. "I'll just keep them hovering along with us, unless you folks tell me different..."
Malhynn (Steve) AC:14 / T:13 / F:11 ; HPs: 25 / 25; Reflex:+5 / Fort: +4 / Will: +5 ; Wand: (43) Thursday May 11th, 2023 2:11:24 PM
(ooc: Annnd forgot to state that it's his Dancing Lights spell.)
DM Melvin: Karma Farming Thursday May 11th, 2023 3:28:12 PM
Linden breaks down the door before asking if anyone has a key.
Paige waits for others to enter first.
Kwarsk notes that he has the key but isn't terribly upset. He walks in and keeps an eye out for danger.
Veldrin also enters, keeping an eye out.
Rhys grits his teeth at whether stealth is possible, and watches for incoming fire.
Malhynn casts dancing lights so people can see.
--------------
Aside from the door breaking and the floorboards creaking as you enter, there are no sounds, and nobody besides you.
Aside from the dim moon light through the windows and your dancing lights, the area remains unlit. (Treat it as low light vision unless you have the dancing lights near you.) Dust covers every surface. Objects remain unattended.
As the group carefully walks in, the house looks unordinary and it occurs to you that the cleric might be lying. There is a nearby hall closet, and you can see the kitchen and sitting room nearby. Along a hallway proceeds into darkness, presumably to the bedrooms.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 24/T 13/FF 21, HP 30/30, CMD 16/20 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+11=14 ; Thursday May 11th, 2023 4:20:41 PM
Kwarsk says, "Follow me - if there's trouble, best to face it head on." Kwarsk proceeds down the dark hallway, looking out for danger.
(OOC - Darkvision, Perception = 14)
Veldrin (Ben) | AC16 HP22 d20+9=18 ; Thursday May 11th, 2023 4:55:43 PM
Veldrin looks at the others, shrugs, and then follows Kwarsk down the hallway. Veldrin peers over Kwarsk's shoulder and down the hallway, hoping to catch sight of anything Kwarsk might miss. Veldrin steps lightly, his swords at the ready. (OOC: Darkvision, Perception 18)
Rhys (Bob W) AC 19/23 vs AoO; CMD 18/20 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 25/26 d20+6=7 ; Thursday May 11th, 2023 5:41:53 PM
Before the entire herd of adventurers tramps across every surface, Rhys looks for any tracks or signs in the dust that others have preceded them. Alas it may be too late (Survival =7)
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 32/32 Thursday May 11th, 2023 5:53:14 PM
DM Sanity info: ”Do you think we could have knocked out some key players, when we interrupted the shenanigans at the school?” Paige wonders aloud, but not too loudly.
She approaches the closet, adding ”I once read a book about a whole different world that could be accessed through a wardrobe, before flinging the door open!
Bull’s Strength - +4 enhancement bonus to strength - 3 min
Orisons: 0/4 used - light, purify food and drink, detect magic, read magic Level 1 spells: 1/3 used - bane, bless, magic weapon Level 2 spells: 0/2 used - silence, hold person Domain spells: 1/2 used - bull’s strength, shield other
Channel energy: 0/6 used
Malhynn (Steve) AC:14 / T:13 / F:11 ; HPs: 25 / 25; Reflex:+5 / Fort: +4 / Will: +5 ; Wand: (43) Thursday May 11th, 2023 6:18:54 PM "Unlikely it would disrupt everything...more likely we've been misled...OR, this is a front, and there's more to this place than meets the eye." Malhynn says, his elven accent coming through. With his wand at the ready, he stands near Paige when she opens the door. "Can't say I've ever read that one. I was always fond of the one with the troll under the bridge and the three billy goats..."
Linden Haran (Jason) -- AC 22/14/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 32/32 d20+2=9 ; Thursday May 11th, 2023 8:54:35 PM
Linden follows his companions into the room, staying close to the dancing lights to avoid running into anything or anyone. "Well it certainly fits the dark and creepy motif." Watching a portion break off into the hallway, Linden stays closer to Paige and Malhynn and peers into the kitchen.
Perception +2
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 28 | CMB:6 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:1 d20+12=14 ; d20+12=18 ; Friday May 12th, 2023 12:33:16 AM
Obviously, whoever left the footprints at the front door must have gone somewhere. Fingers looks around for possible trap doors - or anything that could conceal one, like a rug. When Paige opens the closet he'll look in there too. (Perception: 14, +1 if there's a trap).
If he has any actions left, he'll draw his Cloak of Elvenkind around him and stealthfully (18) walk down the hall towards the bedrooms.
DM Melvin: Karma Farming Friday May 12th, 2023 3:13:24 PM
Kwarsk heads down the hallway, using his darkvision.
Veldrin, also with darkvision, continues down the hallway.
Rhys tries to look for traps, but between the light and the movement finds it too difficult.
Paige wonders if they knocked out some key players. Remembering the closet, Paige flings it open.
Malhynn wonders if they've been mislead... one way or another. He notes that he prefers a different form of tome.
Linden moves the lights towards Paige and Malhynn, and notes the dark and creepy motif.
Fingers checks the closet and living room.
----------------
Inside, the closet is empty and short on pathways. Empty, that is, except for a number of robes similar to the ones the cultists wore. The one difference is there seem to be a single line on the shoulder, as opposed to the double lines on the others.
Fingers checks the living room, with broken furniture and suspicious rugs, but does not find any secret passages or traps.
Through the open doorawy, you can hear people in conversation down the hill you came. The voices seem to be getting louder.
-----------------
Down the hallway, you can see a small number of rooms, particularly a master and child bedroom and bathing area. There is nothing left in the house.
Kwarsk and Veldrin Highlight to display spoiler: {The master bedroom catches your eye easily for being windowless. An oil lamp stands nearby a huge painting of gods at war with demons. A giant bed and desk lines another wall. Another wardrobe is placed on the side of the doorframe.}
Veldrin Highlight to display spoiler: {Unlike the other rooms, this bedroom looks cleaned recently, the bed made, the room free of dirt and dust.}
This area remains quiet, with no sign of traps or anybody living here.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 24/T 13/FF 21, HP 30/30, CMD 16/20 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Friday May 12th, 2023 4:51:52 PM
Kwarsk heads for the desk, using his thumb to point behind him at the wardrobe while in Veldrin's line of sight. At the desk, Kwarsk begins going through any drawers, not fast and noisy, but not slow and stealthy either, looking for some clue about the cultists' location or plans.
Veldrin (Ben) | AC16 HP22 d20+7=8 ; Friday May 12th, 2023 7:22:34 PM
Veldrin considers the picture on the wall of the master bedroom. Does he recognize the image? Who are the gods? Who are the demons? And why are they warring? (Knowledge (Local) = 8) He then turns to the wardrobe Kwarsk indicated and begins meticulously examining it and its contents. As he does so, he says over his shoulder: "Everything is so clean in here. Not like the rest of the house. I think whoever lives here sleeps in this room."
Linden Haran (Jason) -- AC 22/14/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 32/32 d20+2=16 ; Friday May 12th, 2023 9:37:18 PM
Stowing his sword, Linden pulls his bow and steps back to the open doorway, staying to the side and peers out toward the voices. ”We may soon have company”
Perception +2
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 32/32 d20+5=10 ; Saturday May 13th, 2023 10:12:20 AM
Paige studies the cloaks and their markings in an attempt to learn something of the cult. (Knowledge Religion = 10) ”I don’t think we need to don these robes, since there is nothing in our standard adventuring garb that distinguishes us apart from any individuals the cultists may have recruited. We could always say we were recruited in town, and sent here in advance of the others. The map and key could be the ‘proof’ that we are trusted.”
Hearing the approach of newcomers, the cleric volunteers: ”we don’t know if these folks are friend or foe. Could be another group intent on disrupting the summoning…or could be cultists! On your guard!”.
The half-elf takes up a position in a shadowy corner.
Rhys (Bob W) AC 19/23 vs AoO; CMD 18/20 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 25/26 d20+4=13 ; Saturday May 13th, 2023 11:22:42 AM
Rhys looks for a spot to conceal himself where he can quickly secure the door once these new ‘visitors’ have entered. (Stealth 13)
Malhynn (Steve) AC:14 / T:13 / F:11 ; HPs: 25 / 25; Reflex:+5 / Fort: +4 / Will: +5 ; Wand: (43) Saturday May 13th, 2023 3:52:27 PM "Hmmm." Malhynn looks through the robes and with a shrug takes one out and folds it up enough to shove it into his pack. "You never know....it might end up being useful."
Glancing up at the sounds of those approaching, Malhynn sighs, in sudden realization. "They're gonna notice the open door..."
DM Melvin: Karma Farming Monday May 15th, 2023 4:24:52 PM
Kwarsk checks the desk but sees nothing of note.
Veldrin considers the picture on the wall, but the scene isn't recognized. Checking the wardrobe reveals more robes.
Fingers doesn't move, but the bed is the only thing left.
Perception 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {You find a bracelet behind the bed. It is handmade and small. The feathers have been crushed and stripped.}
Perception 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {You find hidden tracks at the bottom of the bed, perhaps a secret doorway.}
-------------
Linden steps towards the open doorway, preparing to fire. He warns that they might have company.
Paige studies the cloaks to figure out something.
Paige Highlight to display spoiler: {You can figure out that they are initiate robes, probably given after they passed some sort of test.}
Paige figures that they could make a bluff even without the robes, but the point is moot as she takes up position in a corner (give me a stealth check).
Rhys likewise conceals himself for battle.
Malhynn takes a robe and likewise hides, when he realizes something: they will notice the bashed down door.
"Hey," a voice calls out from in the dark. "That you, Zadendi?" After a while, "Whoever you are are going to pay! That was a brand new door! And then we'll beat you up once the door is replaced! So... so, there!"
Veldrin (Ben) | AC16 HP22 d20+9=28 ; Monday May 15th, 2023 5:03:17 PM
Veldrin looks around the bed (Perception = 28). He finds and pockets a small bracelet and then notices hidden tracks at the bottom of the bed. He examines the tracks and the bed, hoping to discover a secret doorway. "Hey Kwarsk, Fingers, look at this. The bed might be hiding something. Help me look."
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 32/32 d20-3=12 ; Monday May 15th, 2023 7:00:26 PM
The half-elf smothers a guffaw (Stealth = 12) when she hears someone threatening to ’beat up’ whoever broke down the door to the farmhouse. Paige doesn’t respond, and quietly awaits the arrival of ‘Zadendi’s’ compatriots.
Since the outsiders can’t all come through the door at the same time, the cleric plans to await their arrival one-by-one as they come through the door. In a whisper, she asks her companions: ”shall we play along? Buy some time for those down the hall? We can say we were recruited in town. The key didn’t work, and we didn’t want to be seen standing around outside….”. Paige let’s her voice drop off, pulls the hood of her cloak up over her head, ensures the cracked moon symbol is visible…and waits.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 28 | CMB:6 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:1 d20+12=30 ; Monday May 15th, 2023 9:04:47 PM
Perception: 30. Fingers is so perceptive today that he's certainly heard Paige's ruse. He enters the bedroom and says in a low voice:
They're buying us some time. Vel, find the trapdoor and try to open it quietly.
Meanwhile, Fingers examines the bed more closely.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 24/T 13/FF 21, HP 30/30, CMD 16/20 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+11=22 ; Monday May 15th, 2023 9:35:23 PM
Kwarsk smiles and silently takes the few steps to the bed and gives it and the floor underneath it (lifting a bedsheet/cover if needed) a quality look.
(Darkvision Perception = 22)
Linden Haran (Jason) -- AC 22/14/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 32/32 Monday May 15th, 2023 10:00:10 PM
Linden doesn't recognize the name and just assumes his companions "know" them. Stepping back from the doorway, he provides space to allow for Paige to greet the new arrivals. "I'll follow your lead here, just point out who I should protect and who I should discourage."
Rhys (Bob W) AC 19/23 vs AoO; CMD 18/20 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 25/26 Tuesday May 16th, 2023 7:33:18 AM
Rhys nods his approval to Paige’s plan and stays in place to secure the doorway once everyone has enters.
Malhynn (Steve) AC:14 / T:13 / F:11 ; HPs: 25 / 25; Reflex:+5 / Fort: +4 / Will: +5 ; Wand: (43) Tuesday May 16th, 2023 7:34:09 AM
Mal nods at Paige's idea, frankly having little idea what else they can do. Then he smirks and whispers, "To hell with it. I'm putting this on." and proceeds to quickly and hopefully quietly, pull on the initiate robe that he'd taken.
DM Melvin: Karma Farming Tuesday May 16th, 2023 4:07:08 PM
Veldrin notes the bed and the bracelet and looks around.
Fingers hears some muffling in the front of the house but can't make it out. He and Kwarsk focus on the bed, and together it begins to slide to reveal a staircase leading underneath the "one floor" house.
Torches begin to glow when the stairs are revealed, but the bottom of the stairs remains shrouded.
(OOC: I know it's not entirely real life but you can't really use perception to hear when the groups are split like this. Anyway, I decided that it swings both ways: the cultists can't really use perception to hear Paige either.)
-----------
Paige is fairly confident that they can take these companions, even with a split team. She considers attacking them one at a time, but also "playing along."
Linden gets ready to prepare, asking who to attack and who to protect.
Rhys plans to secure the doorway once everyone enters.
Mal decides to play along, adding his own robes.
Slowly, two robed figures enter into the foyer, both with cracked moons.
"You must be the new recruits," one of the figures says.
"Yeah?" says the other. "Where's the recruiters?"
Paige and Mal need to make bluff checks. Rhys and Linden need to make stealth checks.
Rhys (Bob W) AC 19/23 vs AoO; CMD 18/20 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 25/26 d20+4=22 ; Tuesday May 16th, 2023 5:32:18 PM
Rhys shrinks back into the shadows and stills his breathing. (Stealth = 22). Despite the outward appearance of calm, the elf fully anticipates the possibility of sudden and violent action.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 32/32 d20+1=13 ; Tuesday May 16th, 2023 5:53:56 PM
Paige steps out of the shadowy corner, and through the dim light, faces the robed figures in the the foyer. Yeah! I’m pretty sure it was ‘Z’ that recruited us she volunteers in a light, kind of breathy voice, throwing back her hood, and tilting her head to one side. ”We met up after she and her troupe experienced a dust-up at the school for necromancy. The teachers and students were stubborn, and fought back killing some, and wounding others - including ‘Z’.” Paige heaves a heavy sigh, and continues: ”’Z’ succumbed to her wounds, but not before providing a map to this place, and a key. I’m pretty sure this is the right place… but the key didn’t work, so the door had to be forced. Didn’t want to be seen just standing around you know?!” (Bluff = 13).
Paige stands in front of the cultists, blocking their way beyond the foyer/first room, and concludes with: ”So, did you bring the blood sacrifice?
Veldrin (Ben) | AC16 HP22 d20+8=21 ; Tuesday May 16th, 2023 6:37:41 PM
Veldrin holds a finger to his mouth, indicating silence. He then unsheathes his swords and starts to creep down the stairwell, hoping to get the jump on whoever is down there (Stealth 21).
Linden Haran (Jason) -- AC 22/14/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 32/32 d20+1=5 ; Tuesday May 16th, 2023 9:25:29 PM
Linden tries to use the dimly lit corner to hide away as much as his frame will allow but keeps encountering pockets of light and the occasional stone under his foot. Attempting to calm himself, he stops moving and hopes Paige and Rhys can carry the moment.
Stealth +1
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 24/T 13/FF 21, HP 30/30, CMD 16/20 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+11=23 ; Tuesday May 16th, 2023 10:13:19 PM
Kwarsk, recognizing that any significant moving he does might ruin Veldrin's chance at surprising any foes down there, chooses to remain silent and still, watching down the stairwell and listening.
(OOC
Darkvision Perception = 23
Stealth = 1 (Take 10, DEX +2, -11 for armor and shield, = 1)
Kwarsk is relying on the significant distance, walls, and other barriers between himself and any potential foe so that the foe doesn't hear chain links move whenever he shifts his weight. (Core Rulebook p.102 has listener DC modifiers for distance, wall thickness, etc.))
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 28 | CMB:6 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:1 d20+12=23 ; d20+12=19 ; Wednesday May 17th, 2023 11:05:52 AM
Although Fingers can be surprisingly lightfooted, he knows sneaking down a human-sized staircase would be challenging. While waiting for an all-clear signal from Veldrin, he tries peering out of the bedroom door (Perception: 23) to determine what's going on in with the others, without being noticeable himself (Stealth: 19)
Malhynn (Steve) AC:14 / T:13 / F:11 ; HPs: 25 / 25; Reflex:+5 / Fort: +4 / Will: +5 ; Wand: (43) d20=2 ; Wednesday May 17th, 2023 2:17:17 PM
Mal steps forward to speak just as Paige does, and stifles himself. Instead of speaking, the slender elf takes an uncharacteristically threatening posture, crossing his arms across his chest and doing his best to look tough...and hopefully block any view of their hidden companions.
As the cleric speaks, Malhynn glares at the cultists, thinking of what he can add to complete the distraction...and then draws a blank. When the half-elf finishes with her comment about the blood sacrifice, Mal oh-so-cleverly says, "Um...yeah!"
(OOC: Bluff roll: 2)
DM Melvin: Karma Farming Wednesday May 17th, 2023 3:00:33 PM
Rhys holds position, hoping not to be seen.
Paige starts bluffing away, but she can see the frowns deepen on the cultists face.
Veldrin makes his way down, while Fingers remains in the doorway. They can see Paige and Malhynn (in robes) talking to two cultists.
Linden tries hard to hold position, but can't remain comfortably out of position.
Kwarsk remains near the found secret entrance, and is quite stealthy for one of armor.
Malhynn can only kind of stammer.
The cultists chuckle at this display. "Yeah, the blood sacrifice we already got," one of the cultists reply. "But there's no such thing as too much blood sacrifice, is there?"
C1 fires a hold person at Malhynn (Will DC 14) while C2 fires a doom at Linden (Will DC 13).
Veldrin (Ben) | AC16 HP22 Wednesday May 17th, 2023 4:45:45 PM
Veldrin continues to walk down the stairs as quietly as possible. He's looking for any cultists that might make for easy targets. He's also looking for any innocents that might have been trapped down here.
Malhynn (Steve) AC:14 / T:13 / F:11 ; HPs: 25 / 25; Reflex:+5 / Fort: +4 / Will: +5 ; Wand: (43) d20+7=26 ; 3d4=7 ; Wednesday May 17th, 2023 6:17:25 PM
(OOC: Save vs Hold Person = 26)
For a terrifying moment Malhynn feels a wave of compulsion flow over his body as the cultist's spell instructs his body to seize up and pause in place. But the wizard's arcane training in the elvish tradition instictively kicks in, and Mal is able to shrug the Hold Person spell off.
And in that moment, Malhynn finds himself almost irrationally pissed off.
"You dare?! I am Malhynn Saendithas and I will NOT be bewitched by the likes of You!" the elven wizard steps slightly closer to Paige, positioning himself to properly target both of the cultists without hitting Rhys and Linden(hopefully).
Mal raises both hands, calling out "“Manus Ardens!" Flames erupt from the elf's fingertips and arc in a wide swath towards his opponents.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 28 | CMB:6 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:1 Wednesday May 17th, 2023 8:23:48 PM
Fingers would love to be able to shoot while hidden in the darkness, but his crossbow is still on his back.
Kwarsk, he says, see how long you can stay hidden. I want to see their faces when you finally do....this.
Fingers bellows and runs forward (double-move) while drawing his crossbow. He ducks into the south-west room, hoping to use the doorway as cover.
Linden Haran (Jason) -- AC 22/14/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 32/32 d20+1=17 ; d20+7=22 ; d6=6 ; Wednesday May 17th, 2023 9:20:42 PM ”Clumsy Oaf!” Linden curses himself as he starts to see the cultist gesture in his direction. Gripped by a sudden fear, Linden pauses momentarily, fighting through the false apprehension and dread. While chilled, Linden remembers similar curses and sighs a relief that this is only a light touch. He steps to the side and raising his short bow, looses a well aimed shot at the Cultist that attempted to curse him. Shouting over to Paige ”I assume I can now discourage these two!”.
Will Save +1=17, 5’ step to map right, , Ranged Bow Attack +7, Dmg 1d6
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 24/T 13/FF 21, HP 30/30, CMD 16/20 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+11=21 ; Wednesday May 17th, 2023 10:16:01 PM
Kwarsk may or may not hear the noises of battle so far away... (Hearing Perception = 21) but Veldrin is still exploring and may need backup, so Kwarsk stays put, Ready to move and assist Veldrin if needed. Still not leaving his position, he also listens for any trouble down the stairs Veldrin traveled.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 32/32 d20+7=10 ; d6+4=9 ; Thursday May 18th, 2023 4:38:23 AM (OOC - doing this without a map. If someone could take a screen shot and send it via e-mail, that would be helpful!)
Paige moves to confront the closest cultist planning to use the light mace gripped in her right hand and hidden under her cloak, however the weapon becomes entangled in the cloak….(Hit AC 10, in the unlikely event that hit, 9 dmg.)
Bull’s Strength - +4 enhancement bonus to strength - 3 min
Orisons: 0/4 used - light, purify food and drink, detect magic, read magic Level 1 spells: 1/3 used - bane, bless, magic weapon Level 2 spells: 0/2 used - silence, hold person Domain spells: 1/2 used - bull’s strength, shield other
Channel energy: 0/6 used
Rhys (Bob W) AC 19/23 vs AoO; CMD 18/20 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 25/26 d20+8=16 ; d10=2 ; Thursday May 18th, 2023 12:01:37 PM
Rhys slips out of his concealment and moves into a flanking position if possible (OOC having trouble assign the map from overseas). With one smooth movement he draws and slashes downwards with his sword (Hit AC 16, 18 if flanking for 6hp (d10+4).
Malhynn resists the cultists spell and fires his own, just missing his compatriats.
Fingers, crossbow still on his back, makes his way back to the living room. His search for cover ends when he spots the other figure that came in the room through the open window. A figure covered in cleric robes, knives along her belt, scarves covering her mouth but there is no disguising the eyes.
Fingers Highlight to display spoiler: {She is the figure you saw fleeing the school, the one that killed the last cultist.}
Linden resists his spell, and fires an arrow at cultist 2, hitting square.
Kwarsk continues to stay put, waiting until Veldrin calls for backup (you will need one round to run and reach him.) It's there that he begins to hear spell firing from down the stairs.
Paige takes a swing at C1 but misses.
Rhys moves to flank C1 and manages to hit.
Cultist 1 swings his sickle at Rhys, but misses wide.
Cultist 2 casts Bane on the entire front of the house. Everyone except Kwarsk and Veldrin: Will DC 13 or -1 to attack rolls and fear.
The figure swallows at seeing this turn of events before winding up and throwing... a single stone. It rolls, it bounces, it rattles past Fingers, through the open door... near Paige and Malhynn. And it eventually stops making noise, long before it stops.
Everyone except Kwarsk and Veldrin are silenced. (No will save since it was cast on an object.)
C1: 13 damage, AC 18 C2: 13 damage, AC 18 Z:
-----------
Veldrin continues to walk down the stairs looking for cultists and victims.
It is not long before he finds both.
Before him, in a narrow hallway, holds six cultists, two wolves, and rust monster. Occupying two of the cultists is a young elf girl, no older than 20. She is slight of frame, covered in rags, fighting with all her might to just get the gag off.
For a long moment, nobody except the girl moves.
"Oi, you gotta help me," the girl finally gasped, her gag slipped. "Get my lawyer. With all the years he's been in prison, he's clearly an expert."
"Get her out of here," one of the cultist shouts. "Start the process. Protect the blood sacrifice."
"Hey, hey," the girl begins to shout.
As the rest move on, the two cultists and the rust monster turn to their new visitor.
"Quite a conundrum," the cultist mutters. "Do I kill you slowly... or make you watch."
Both of the cultists cast hold person on Veldrin. (Will DC 14 twice or paralyzed.)
The rust monster runs toward Veldrin, sniffing. Finally, it reaches out with an attenna, snacking on a short sword.
Veldrin (Ben) | AC16 HP22 d20+3=17 ; d20+3=6 ; Thursday May 18th, 2023 5:48:04 PM
Veldrin watches the scene play out and then tries to dash after the girl but to no avail. He's held in place by one of the cultists' spells (Will DC 14: 17 and 6). He can only watch as the sniffing monster prods his sword with an antenna.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 32/32 d20=7 ; d20=6 ; Thursday May 18th, 2023 6:53:34 PM
Paige is able to resist the spell cast by the follower of Marteus (Will save 7+9=16). Once again she swings her weapon at C1 (6+7 = 13 to attack) and once again she misses.
Bull’s Strength - +4 enhancement bonus to strength - 3 min
Orisons: 0/4 used - light, purify food and drink, detect magic, read magic Level 1 spells: 1/3 used - bane, bless, magic weapon Level 2 spells: 0/2 used - silence, hold person Domain spells: 1/2 used - bull’s strength, shield other
Channel energy: 0/6
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 28 | CMB:6 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:1 d20+1=14 ; Friday May 19th, 2023 3:18:47 AM
Will save: 14. A silence spell thinks Fingers. I can't make any witty repartee! They'll pay for this!
He makes a 5-foot step and gores Z. Attack: d20+3 =
(He drew his crossbow during his previous double-move, and loads it as his move action during this round.)
Rhys (Bob W) AC 19/23 vs AoO; CMD 18/20 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 25/26 d20+4=18 ; d20+10=13 ; Friday May 19th, 2023 3:33:14 AM
Rhys shrugs off the effect of the spell with ease and repositions behind C1 to maintain a flanking position with Paige. However, his attack is poorly timed and misses the cultist before him. (Will =18, Atk =13).
Linden Haran (Jason) -- AC 22/14/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 32/32 d20+1=14 ; d20+7=23 ; d6=2 ; Friday May 19th, 2023 7:13:24 AM
Stepping again to avoid another spell, Linden wonders how much longer his luck and willpower will hold out. Taking careful aim, he sends another arrow point blank into the Cultist ahead of him.
In absolute silence, Malhynn momentarily feels an overwhelming sense of depression and panic flow over him, but fortunately shrugs it off. The elven mage then darts forward, grabs the small, enchanted stone from the floor, and thows it as hard as he can out the open front door!
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 24/T 13/FF 21, HP 30/30, CMD 16/20 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Friday May 19th, 2023 12:56:28 PM
Kwarsk hears the sounds of spellcasting downstairs, perhaps a yelled command or two (?) and immediately heads downstairs, tower shield first, trusting the other five Patchers to handle any problems at the front door. He draws his dwarven waraxe on the way.
(OOC - DM Melvin - I'm not clear where the stairs end up in the area Veldrin is in - Kwarsk can double-move 40' total, and if he's able to interpose between the paralyzed Veldrin and any attackers, he'll do so.
Kwarsk has 3 AoOs from Combat Reflexes if the foes try to rush around him to create a flank, etc.)
Paige manages to resist the Bane spell. Silenced, she swings her weapon and misses.
Fingers resists Bane and fires at this new woman, and misses. She does look pretty perturbed herself, though.
Rhys resists Bane, continues to flank, and misses.
Linden manages to resist yet again, and manages to hit.
Malhynn has the presence of mind to throw away the stone, freeing everyone from being silenced. Fingers can see the woman look absolutely shocked at this.
C1 tries swinging at Paige this time. He isn't even close.
C2 turns to swing at Linden. He misses as well.
Z looks around, and it's clear that her initial plan was thwarted. Finally she settles on blasting at the minotaur before her with her searing light, hitting him for 7 damage.
C1: 13 damage, AC 18 C2: 15 damage, AC 18 Z: AC above 18
------------
Veldrin freezes in place. (Remember that you get a will save DC 14 to end it every round, but it's a full round action. This is round 1.)
Kwarsk rushes in, making it to about where Veldrin is. Not quite able to interpose himself between him and Veldrin, he can still attract the rust monter's attention.
The clerics stare at each other, before both firing darts at Kwarsk. Kwarsk stares in horror as the darts both sail well above his head, one of them going so far as to knock down a couple of boxes and scare a precariously placed cat.
The rust monster looks over this new member, and proceeds to reach out, hitting Kwarsk's weapon with his attenna. C3: C4: R:
Rhys (Bob W) AC 19/23 vs AoO; CMD 18/20 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 25/26 d20+10=11 ; Monday May 22nd, 2023 4:51:18 PM
Rhys continues his attack, but this cultist continues to vex him by simply sidestepping his blows. The elf grows more irritated with each swing! (Hit AC 11…Nat 1 ugh!!!)
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 32/32 d20=8 ; Monday May 22nd, 2023 5:06:30 PM
Paige sticks her ground, flanking cultist C1 with Rhys on the other side, she swings her light mace (8+7+2 = 17) and almost connects. [/b]”Aaaaargh!”[/b] she cries out in frustration, as she misses.
DM Sanity Info:
Bull’s Strength - +4 enhancement bonus to strength - 3 min
Orisons: 0/4 used - light, purify food and drink, detect magic, read magic Level 1 spells: 1/3 used - bane, bless, magic weapon Level 2 spells: 0/2 used - silence, hold person Domain spells: 1/2 used - bull’s strength, shield other
Channel energy: 0/6 used
(OOC - LOL! Thay was brilliant Steve/Malhynn!)
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 28 | CMB:6 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:1 d20+4=8 ; Monday May 22nd, 2023 5:15:18 PM Ow! says Fingers, wincing at the burning ray. I was right -- that was you outside the Patch!
Fingers swings his crossbow towards her, threateningly. (But he doesn't actually fire. He's performing a Feint (p. 201))
Bluff: 8. (She's not fooled).
Linden Haran (Jason) -- AC 22/14/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 32/32 d20+9=25 ; d6+3=6 ; Monday May 22nd, 2023 5:20:12 PM
Swung at by the Cultist, Linden changes tactics and drops his bow. Stepping to the right, he combines the movement with drawing his shortsword and stabs into their shoulder (25 to hit) and twists the blade loose again (dmg 6). Trying to buy some space, Linden stares intently at the Cultist "You can leave any time friend, you don't have to stay and let us carve you up. We have better things to do tonight then simply stain the floor with you."
Drop Box (Free Action), Step and Draw, Attack 1d20+9=25, Dmg 1d6+3=6
Veldrin (Ben) | AC16 HP22 d20+5=24 ; Monday May 22nd, 2023 7:00:32 PM
Veldrin, his mind racing, watches helplessly as Kwarsk tries to help him. He feels a trickle of sweat roll down his forehead. “Stupid,” he thinks. “So stupid. What was I trying to do? Show off?” He takes a deep breath, focuses his mind, and bends all his effort towards breaking the enchantment. He feels a slackening in his mind. “It’s working!” (Will Save: 25)
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 24/T 13/FF 21, HP 30/30, CMD 16/20 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+8=27 ; d20+5=19 ; d20+4=20 ; d6+2=5 ; Monday May 22nd, 2023 9:13:49 PM
(OOC DM Melvin left out what I should roll re: the rust monster touch. Pertinent parts:
The object touched takes half its maximum hp in damage and gains the broken condition—a second hit destroys the item.
An attended object, any magic object, or a metal creature can attempt a DC 15 Reflex save to negate this effect. The save DC is Constitution-based.
Kwarsk's waraxe is attended, and so he gets a DC 15 Reflex Save (held items use the save of the holding being) to negate the rust effect.
Kwarsk, including his Legacy Dwarven Stone Tower Shield (brief vignette post on this coming soon) and using CON bonus instead of DEX, nets a 27 on the Reflex Save and thus his waraxe is not affected.)
Kwarsk realizes this creature seems familiar.
(OOC Knowledge: Dungeoneering = 19)
Instinctually recognizing the foe from his decades growing up underground in Dwarven culture, Kwarsk quickly puts away his waraxe in his back sheath (move action), adopts a martial stance with his feet while stepping 5' (to BA10), raises his stone tower shield for protection, and then lands a Stunning (Fist) right hook to the rust monster's snout (hit AC 20 for 5 damage + DC 14 Fortitude Save or be Stunned for 1 full round.).
(OOC - Stunning Fist forces a foe damaged by your unarmed attack to make a Fortitude saving throw (DC 10 + 1/2 your character level + your Wis modifier), in addition to dealing damage normally. A defender who fails this saving throw is stunned for 1 round (until just before your next turn). A stunned character drops everything held, can't take actions, loses any Dexterity bonus to AC, and takes a –2 penalty to AC.
Kwarsk is level 3 (+1) and WIS 16 (+3) hence DC 14)
Kwarsk says, in normal voice, just loud enough for Veldrin to hear, "Veldrin, flank it and maybe we can kill it before the cultists can do more!"
It isn't even cultist 2's day, as Linden slices him open. He reminds the other cultist that they can leave any time.
Malhynn shifts to total defense.
Cultist 1 laughs at Linden as he steps towards his fallen comrade. "Yeah, here's the thing about cultists. We tend to be in it for the long haul."
Reaching down (Paige gets an AoO), the cultist begins to cast death knell on his former comrade. His eyes red and pulsing, blood dripping from his fingers, the cultist stares right into Linden's eyes.
"Beyond death do us part."
Zadendi remains quiet for a long, long time. Finally, she swings her dagger at Fingers, but misses.
C1: 13 damage, AC 18, +4 hp, +2 strength, +1 caster level C2: dead Z: AC above 18
------------
Veldrin frees himself from the hold person.
Kwarsk manages to avoid losing a weapon, and practices the ancient art of punching the rust monster in the nose, though the creature manages to avoid it.
Angrily, the rust monster tries to eat Kwarsk's chain shirt (another DC 15 roll for Kwarsk).
Each of the cultists cast Bane on each of you before moving forward menacingly (though the narrow hallway keeps them from flanking you.)
Veldrin and Kwarsk (Will DC 13 or -1 to attack rolls, damage rolls and saving throws).
"I'll tell you what," one of the cultist speaks up. "You go back upstairs, and maybe we forget we even saw you. This is a one time chance to turn tail and retreat."
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 24/T 13/FF 21, HP 30/30, CMD 16/20 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+8=17 ; d20+9=29 ; Tuesday May 23rd, 2023 4:22:44 PM
Kwarsk zigs, avoiding the Rust Monster's zag at his magical chain shirt (17) and his Dwarven training enables him to trivially shrug off the cultist's attempt at bewitching him (29; natural 20)
Kwarsk hears the cultist's words, and considers the length of time Veldrin and he can avoid almost all of their toys becoming rust monster snacks while outnumbered 3 to 2.
Kwarsk looks at Veldrin questioningly, and says, "There might be more profitable things to do aboveground than feed our gear to this rust monster, yes?"
(OOC - Kwarsk is prepared to withdraw if Veldrin withdraws, but if Veldrin stays in battle then Kwarsk won't abandon him.
IF Veldrin's next post has him swinging away at one of the foes here, then I'll post a second time with Kwarsk's attack results,
ELSE we're both back upstairs.)
Veldrin (Ben) | AC16 HP22 d20+5=13 ; Tuesday May 23rd, 2023 4:49:33 PM
"I think you might be right," Veldrin says while making a hasty withdrawal. "If nothing else, we'll have the tactical advantage should they follow us up the stairs." Veldrin runs up the stairs two at a time. "But we must return with the others, for their victim is being prepped and will soon face her death." (Will Save: 13) (OOC: I'm unsure where to move on the map, as I don't see where the stairs are. I see where they come out on the main floor, but not where they end in the basement. But I intend to put as much distance between myself and the rust monster while moving toward my companions on the main floor.)
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 28 | CMB:6 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:1 Tuesday May 23rd, 2023 5:43:36 PM
Fingers bring his horns down on the cultist again. Attack:
(OOC: Sometimes when I click "Roll", it acts like "Submit" instead, so I get partial posts like the last one.)
Rhys (Bob W) AC 19/23 vs AoO; CMD 18/20 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 25/26 d20+10=15 ; Tuesday May 23rd, 2023 8:56:34 PM
Rhys ponders his future as a swordsman let alone a ‘sword master’ for a great elven house after once again making a poorly timed and clumsy attack (Hit AC 15. Miss).
Linden Haran (Jason) -- AC 22/14/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 32/32 d20+9=14 ; Tuesday May 23rd, 2023 10:12:27 PM "Disturbing you are. So be it." Stepping past the fallen cultist, Linden repositions and makes a poor stab at the first cultist.
5' Step, Stab with Mwk Shortsword. Don't think I'll hit with flat footed AC from flanking
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 32/32 d20=8 ; d20=9 ; d6=2 ; Wednesday May 24th, 2023 7:58:20 AM
Paige takes a swipe at the cultist as he moves, but misses the attack of opportunity (8+7+2=17). The cleric doesn’t give up easily, and takes another swing - finally connecting with the cold iron weapon (9+7+2=18, for 2+4 dmg)
DM Sanity Info:
Bull’s Strength - +4 enhancement bonus to strength - 3 min
Orisons: 0/4 used - light, purify food and drink, detect magic, read magic Level 1 spells: 1/3 used - bane, bless, magic weapon Level 2 spells: 0/2 used - silence, hold person Domain spells: 1/2 used - bull’s strength, shield other
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 21/28 | CMB:6 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:1 d20+1=17 ; d20+3=21 ; d8+3=8 ; d20+4=11 ; Thursday May 25th, 2023 4:56:51 AM
Will save: 17. Hah! So there!
If Z's casting that spell provokes an AOO, Fingers gores: Attack 21, Damage 8.
If it did NOT provoke, he Feints again: Bluff 11
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 32/32 d20=11 ; d6=3 ; Thursday May 25th, 2023 9:44:07 AM
Oblivious to what is going on around her, Paige continues the attack on C1, smashing down with her weapon (Hit 11+7+2=20, for dmg 3+2=5).
Veldrin (Ben) | AC16 HP22 Thursday May 25th, 2023 11:14:07 AM
Veldrin runs from the room and toward his companions. As he does so, he sheaths his swords and makes ready his bow. "Late to the party," he thinks.
Rhys (Bob W) AC 19/23 vs AoO; CMD 18/20 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 25/26 d3=1 ; d20+10=16 ; Thursday May 25th, 2023 12:58:53 PM
Rhys swings once again and misses (Hit AC16…please ignore d3 roll). He can only curse inwardly at his own incompetence…unless the sword has been cursed…perhaps Paige can tell if one of these cultists has corrupted his blade…surely that is it!
Linden Haran (Jason) -- AC 22/14/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 32/32 d20+9=16 ; d6+3=9 ; Thursday May 25th, 2023 5:35:19 PM
Linden continues his attack on Cultist 2, attempting to corner him with Paige and Rhys on the other flanks, but comes up short again.
Fingers lands an AOO on his attackers and attempts a bluff without success.
Paige finishes cultist 1 off.
Veldrin draws his bow and heads out of the bedroom.
Rhys and Linden take practice swings but remains a little off. But they'll keep working on it, and upgrading equipment I'm sure.
Malhynn and Kwarsk remain where they are, and Malhynn particularly seems to have zoned out by now.
Zadendi looks over at her fallen comrades, and seems to calculate for a bit. She continues to not speak but Fingers clearly hears her think "destructive smite."
Swinging her suddenly glowing dagger, she swipes at the minotaur, and strikes true (crit confirmed) for 18 damage.
"Call it a draw?" she finally smirks and begins to run off to an open window. (Fingers gets an AOO).
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 24/T 13/FF 21, HP 30/30, CMD 16/20 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Thursday May 25th, 2023 9:48:49 PM
Kwarsk's heart stops pounding so much now that he's farther away from the rust monster!
Recovered, he moves at all dwarven speed, arriving in (AB12), waraxe back in hand!
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 3/28 | CMB:6 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:1 d20+3=15 ; d20+4=10 ; Thursday May 25th, 2023 11:47:57 PM
Injured too badly for a clever rejoinder, Muuru gores at the fleeing cultist again: Att: 15 misses.
As she reaches the window, Fingers fires his crossbow: Att: 10 misses.
Paige? Can I...grunt...see you for a moment?
Rhys (Bob W) AC 19/23 vs AoO; CMD 18/20 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 25/26 Friday May 26th, 2023 7:51:43 AM
When Paige drops the remaining cultist, Rhys runs to assist Fingers. He can just make it to the window before another cultist (Z) can climb out the window (double move 60’ puts Rhys adjacent to Z with weapon in hand). ”Don’t fail me now cursed blade” he grumbles.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 32/32 Friday May 26th, 2023 8:30:02 AM ”Oh no you don’t!” calls Paige. Concerned that the fleeing cultist might alert others and bring reinforcements, the cleric of Domi moves to get a fix on the fleeing Z. Channeling through the holy symbol of Domi, she casts [/i]Hold Person[/i] on the cultist at the window (Will save vs 16, or become paralyzed and freeze in place, unable to take any actions. )
DM Sanity Info:
Bull’s Strength - +4 enhancement bonus to strength - 3 min
Orisons: 0/4 used - light, purify food and drink, detect magic, read magic Level 1 spells: 1/3 used - bane, bless, magic weapon Level 2 spells: 1/2 used - silence, hold person Domain spells: 1/2 used - bull’s strength, shield other
Channel energy: 0/6 used
Veldrin (Ben) | AC16 HP22 Friday May 26th, 2023 5:31:49 PM
Veldrin runs down the hallway and toward the commotion in the southwest bedroom. He doesn't quite make it and stops near the house's entrance. He sees Linden and Mahlynn standing near the two dead cultists. "There's a basement," he shouts, "hidden in the bedroom. The cult's blood sacrifice is down there. We must hurry!"
Linden Haran (Jason) -- AC 22/14/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 32/32 Friday May 26th, 2023 6:38:48 PM
Grabbing his bow from the floor, Linden hurries after Veldrin. ”Lead the way, I think Paige and Rhys can handle the fleeing cultist.”. Shortsword out, Linden ensures he’s not stacking up on the stairs.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 24/T 13/FF 21, HP 30/30, CMD 16/20 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Friday May 26th, 2023 7:01:00 PM
Kwarsk continues hustling (to AC19), just now getting within sight of the battle, or what remains of it.
Fingers tries to stop her but fails. He asks Paige for a healing.
Rhys rushes out, making it next to the fleeing woman. He hopes his next strike will be true.
Paige tries to cast hold person on Zadendi, but the cultist resists.
Malhynn continues to pursue himself.
Linden heads back towards Veldrin and to what they might have found.
Back to remaining silent, Zadendi waves goodbye to everyone before casting obscuring mist around herself. While hard to see, you can hear the sounds of glass breaking as she jumps through to the outside and takes off.
"I'll keep pace with her," Malhynn volunteers. "The rest of you keep moving. Stop that ceremony."
You are out of combat rounds.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 24/T 13/FF 21, HP 30/30, CMD 16/20 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Friday May 26th, 2023 9:56:24 PM
Kwarsk says, "Veldrin and I found the underside of the house and more cultists. Some of them ran away with the young woman who's to be the blood sacrifice, and we briefly fought two spellcasters... and their rust monster! Heal up. We need to swiftly head back down, ready to face them. I don't need to use metal weapons... I am a weapon! Ready to go?"
With that Kwarsk sheathes his waraxe on his back and then one-handed cracks the knuckles of his right hand and adopts a Monk (martial arts) stance, with a quirky kind of half-smile, looking to see who's going to follow him back down the stairs after healing.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 32/32 d8+2=3 ; d8+2=4 ; d8+2=6 ; d8+2=8 ; d8+2=6 ; Friday May 26th, 2023 11:24:50 PM
Paige taps Fingers five times with her wand of healing (CLW2 3+4+6+8+6=27) restoring the minotaur’s health. ”These cultists aren’t fooling around, so neither should we!” she admonishes the rogue. ”Next time make your hits count!”
”Rhys? You okay? How about the rest of you?” the cleric asks, ready to minister to any who are bothered by their wounds.
DM Sanity Info:
Wand CLW2 = 30 charges remaining
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 28 | CMB:6 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:1 Friday May 26th, 2023 11:55:47 PM "Make hits count", says Fingers. Right. Shoulda thought of that.
Everybody downstairs!.
He starts to run.
Linden Haran (Jason) -- AC 22/14/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 32/32 d20+2=20 ; Saturday May 27th, 2023 11:59:55 AM
Running after Fingers, Linden tries to scan the stairs and room below for signs of cultists or the rust monster. ”What are they trying accomplish? Do we know the goal behind this ritual?”
Perception 1d20+2=20
Rhys (Bob W) AC 19/23 vs AoO; CMD 18/20 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 25/26 d20+8=21 ; d10+4=7 ; Saturday May 27th, 2023 8:58:37 PM
If Rhys gets an attack of opportunity when Z casts a spell from a threatened space and leaves a threatened space he swings with his sword(Hit AC 21 for 7 dmg)
Should the cultist Z escape through the window he will instead remove a potions on Cat’s Grace from his belt pouch and consume it before following the rest towards the bedroom.
Active effects Cat’s Grace 30 rounds
Calm before the storm- DM BrianZ Monday May 29th, 2023 7:33:22 AM
You take a moment to catch your breath. One fight is ended, but another looms close at hand.
Malhynn chases the fleeing cultist, and you have no worries for the competent mage, he can take of himself.
As if from a distance, you can hear chanting and some other....noise. It grows louder, slowly but surely, increasing in volume and tempo. The heroes have the initiative....
OOC- you have one round of actions, and then I will place you at the bottom of the stairs. You can take more time if you want to, but it is a choice :)
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 32/32 Monday May 29th, 2023 8:45:09 AM
While the group is together, Paige casts Bless on her companions.
DM Sanity info:
Bless on all party members +1 to attacks, and +1 to saves vs Fear affects - 3 minutes or 30 rounds
Bull’s Strength - +4 enhancement bonus to strength - 3 minutes or 30 rounds DM, please let me know if you consider this expired noting we were briefly out of combat rounds
Orisons: 0/4 used - light, purify food and drink, detect magic, read magic Level 1 spells: 2/3 used - bane, bless, magic weapon Level 2 spells: 1/2 used - silence, hold person Domain spells: 1/2 used - bull’s strength, shield other
Channel energy: 0/6 used
Veldrin (Ben) | AC16 HP22 Monday May 29th, 2023 9:57:00 AM
Veldrin puts his bow away and pulls out his swords, knowing that his blades will provide a tactical advantage in the confined spaces of the basement. "Be wary. The cultists have some sort of enchantment that will freeze you in place. They also have a nasty little pet that can destroy your armor and weapons alike."
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 26/T 15/FF 23(Potion), HP 30/30, CMD 16/20 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Monday May 29th, 2023 11:37:41 AM
Kwarsk says, "If we hurry, we may yet catch them! I'll lead the way!"
Kwarsk removes a potion from his belt and drinks it, then taking a step towards the stairs.
DM Sanity Info - drank a Potion of Shield of Faith, 10 rounds.
Potion round count: 1/10
Linden Haran (Jason) -- AC 22/14/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 32/32 Monday May 29th, 2023 5:04:03 PM
Listening to Veldrin, Linden pales a bit and sheaths his shortsword. Pulling a warhammer from his other belt loop, he tests swings it a few times. "I like this one less and can always club them if the head rusts off. Thanks for the warning."
Pausing with the others, Linden moves towards the stairs once it's time.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:14 T:11 FF:12 | HP 28 | CMB:6 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:1 Monday May 29th, 2023 5:44:01 PM
Finger's hears Veldrin's description of the "pet". Knowledge (Arcana) applies to magical beasts. Take 10: result 21.
A rust monster? Pfft. Leave it to me.
Linden, they're conjuring up some kind of demon. They've assured us that its for the most noble of reasons, but I doubt that the child they're sacrificing is convinced.
Rhys (Bob W) AC 19/23 vs AoO; CMD 18/20 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 25/26 Monday May 29th, 2023 9:47:07 PM
Rhys sheaths his sword and awaits instructions.
Active effects: Catskills Grace 29 rnds, Bless 30 Rnds
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