DM:Nick_K: Sensory Overload d20=3 ; Monday October 2nd, 2023 5:26:19 AM
Paige: Directs the mystical hammer to block the route that Andreth and his henchmen appear to be taking. Zarsellet: Attempts to fascinate the departing men Burton: Takes the adulation of the crowd. Rhys: Scrambles up the wall and keeps a keen eye on the movement of the three men. Kwarsk: Directs Rhys to action and leads the Patchers in a bow to the adoring crowd. Fingers: Checks the dead otyugh and finds it to be assuredly dead.
The place is a cacophony of noise, smells and sights. The two dead creatures stink. They smell so badly that they even overcome the smell of pipe smoke, spilled beer and sweat. The noise: it’s a heady mix of riotous laughter, cheers and bitter complaints (Not everyone bet on the Patchers) Of the sights, there were many to hold the attention: from the colourful crowd, to Rhys’ amazing agility in scaling he wall with such facility, to Paige’s captivating, glowing hammer that floated purposefully through the air to interpose itself between a certain three men and the exit. Yet even all this was not fully able to distract from Zersellet’s commanding call for attention.
Zolbur was headed towards the Patchers. Andreth and cronies were headed to the exit and Zolbur. The hammer leapt forth and interposed itself between the two. This fully occupied the attention of Zolbur, Andreth and the man pushing to clear a path for Andreth. The third man covered Andreth’s back. He looked behind him to ensure that none were following or perhaps to determine if any weapons were aimed at his back. Whatever the reason – he looked and was instantly stricken by Zersellet’s heroic stance and bold challenge. He stopped.
The other two did not. The lead man ducked beneath the intimidating, but unmoving hammer. He pushed past a surprised Zolbur and then swiftly towards the exit. Andreth followed but grabbing Zolbur by the shoulder wheeled him around to place him between himself and the hammer. More importantly Zolbur was now screening Andreth’s departure from the Patchers, much to his consternation. Zolbur had the wits to quickly move aside, but the crowd was such that Andreth used it to provide effective cover. He and the other man race back up the stairs.
Rhys (Bob W) AC 22/26 vs AoO; CMD 23/25 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 39/39 Monday October 2nd, 2023 10:26:20 AM
Rhys clambers into the crowd and races up after Ardreth, but as the crowd closes and secures his foes retreat, he settles for blocking the path of the last remaining henchman who remains fascinated by Zarsallet’s flowery speech.
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Monday October 2nd, 2023 12:35:55 PM
"You can run away my friend but there are many dark alley's in the town, many many." Says Burton quietly to himself as he heads for the exit banging on the door. "Open up".
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 Monday October 2nd, 2023 3:35:51 PM
Zarsellet continues his bows to the adoring crowd but adds a request for the ordered departure of the masses. He maintains his Bardic Performance magic on the Fascination of the one man it caught. "Thank you, Thank you! I suggest that we all take a short break, maybe go back upstairs for a drink and a little more time on the games. The crew here will need to dispose of these carcasses before they stink up the place. Then they can ready the arena for the next challenge! Enjoy people!"
[ooc]Maintaining Fascinate on the one henchman. He will get another save if threatened, Will Save DC15. Bardic Performance round 4 of 13.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 38/38 CMD 13 d20+2=21 ; Monday October 2nd, 2023 3:44:26 PM
Paige pelts full speed in the most direct route towards the exit, leaping any barriers and manoeuvring through the crowd. Ardreth was their only lead to Pyramid Industries!
The cleric is grateful she managed to scrape together enough coin to trade in her previous armour for mithral! Her movements are much less encumbered than before. (Base speed 30ft, full run 4 x speed, Acrobatics = 21 to leap barriers if required and move through crowd.)
*****
DM sanity info:
Spiritual weapon 4/4 (winks out after this round)
Bears Endurance - Rhys gets +4 enhancement bonus on Constitution, which adds the usual benefits to HP, Fort Saves, Con checks, etc. - 4 minutes or 40 rounds
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 44/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Monday October 2nd, 2023 10:26:48 PM
Kwarsk assigns low odds to any chances of catching Ardreth since the crowd was not as effective an obstacle as he'd hoped. Rising from his bow, Kwarsk also makes haste for the exit, Running to keep up with the long-legs! If the Patchers were fortunate, an arena worker would soon open the door at Burton's knock...
DM: NIck_K: So Much Happens Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 5:11:42 AM
Paige: Is fast. There’s no denying the fact. The redhead bolts for the exit and barges through hot on the heels of the two fleeing men. Even so she sees that they are equally fast. More! Ardreth overtakes the other henchman and starts to put ground between himself and any pursuit. Zarsellet: His commanding presence doesn’t influence everyone, but does convince the majority that it would be an excellent idea to head back upstairs. That so many elect to do so convinces the rest. Even the befuddled henchman seeks to depart but is prevented from doing so by Rhys. Burton: Muttering, Burton follows after the 2 departing figures. Rhys: Gets a good look at Ardreth and his man swiftly departing. He also interposes himself between the exit and the fascinated henchman. Kwarsk: Is impressed with the speed of the long legs. Certainly Ardreth himself is no slouch! Fingers: Confirms that the creatures are dead.
So much happens.
What follows after the fight seems more chaotic than the battle itself. Zolbur is almost pushed to the floor, but manages to right himself, cursing under his breath as he does. Rhys gets the enchanted henchman to focus of Rhys. The patrons file past noisily and excitedly, slapping Rhys on the shoulder many times as they do.
Kwarsk barrels through to see Paige in hot pursuit of the fleeing men. Despite his best efforts he cannot keep up with the fleet Paige or the other “long legs”.
Burton aids Rhys in ensuring the captivated henchman remains.
But what to do now? Zarsellet may continue to captivate or perhaps use his undoubted skills to question the man. Paige is racing off – alone. Burton is now guarding the rear, so to speak. Zolbur is muttering and cursing. Kwarsk finds himself in no-man’s-land; between Paige and the others.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 38/38 CMD 13 Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 9:56:48 AM If Paige is within range (25 ft.) she will channel magic through her holy symbol and Command the fleeing Ardreth to Halt. (Will save vs 15) The cleric will then approach the elf and his henchman, prepared to engage if attacked.
However, if she is not within range, she will abandon the pursuit and return to her companions, and see if she can provide some assistance to Zolbar, since the gnome appears to be having some problems navigating the crowd.
*****
DM sanity info:
Bears Endurance - Rhys gets +4 enhancement bonus on Constitution, which adds the usual benefits to HP, Fort Saves, Con checks, etc. - 4 minutes or 40 rounds
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 4:41:17 PM
Burton will wait with the henchman until the others return. He will point out what happened to the creatures in the arena and suggest if the henchman tries anything he (Burton) would be more than happy to incinerate him as he has friends who are very good at talking to corpses.
As / if the others return Burton will suggest they collect their winnings and head back to the Patch or head over to the other building with links to Pyramid Industries but as it's late he doesn't think they will find out much until the morning.
Rhys (Bob W) AC 22/26 vs AoO; CMD 23/25 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 39/39 Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 4:59:15 PM
With Burton’s arrival to secure the lone henchman, Rhys turns and dashes off in support of Paige.
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 d20+9=19 ; Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 5:48:20 PM
Seeing Burton and Rhys in control of the henchman Zarsellet lets his magic lapse while he makes his way out of the arena and up to the crowd area. "Just hold him until the crowd is back upstairs. No need to hurt him though, we want him to be friendly."
He focuses on the henchman and adds, "We don't want any trouble, but we've got some questions for you. Once we're done we'll be glad to let you go and catch up with your friends. Some of our people are trying to stop them so you can rejoin them. Just relax here for a little bit with us. OK?"
OOC: Trying some Diplomacy: 19?
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 44/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 9:19:01 PM
Kwarsk sees that even with Running he's not going to catch up, but Rhys tags him out so Kwarsk reverses and heads over to Burton and the henchman.
One false move from the henchman and Kwarsk will KO him.
(OOC - Stunning Fist (2/day). Kwarsk also has Combat Reflexes (3 AoOs/round).)
Kwarsk glowers menacingly at the henchman while Burton does the talky thing.
DM: NIck_K: So Much Happens....again d20=8 ; Wednesday October 4th, 2023 2:21:23 AM
Paige: The henchman now overtaken by Ardreth turns and tips over a number of chairs to impede Paige’s path. It would demand a wonderful running jump to overcome all the obstacles. However, he reckoned not for Paige’s mafic and in turning renders himself within its range. Zarsellet: Diplomatically encourages the henchman to cooperate. Burton: Reminds the henchman of the perils of non-cooperation whilst speculating with others that they may need to return to the Patch. Rhys: Dashes to support Paige. Kwarsk:’Supervises’ the henchmen intently. Fingers: Is pretty sure that the Otyughs are still dead.
Paige’s magic strikes home and the second henchman succumbs to it, halting bemusedly in his tracks. Ardreth however, escapes. Rhys catches up and is well placed, along with Paige to apprehend the man.
Below, the first man nods meekly. ”I don’t want no trouble. It’s just a job, see. And Ardreth, he don’t give you no options. Look, if you let me go, I’ll tell you where he’s gone! We can make a deal, can’t we?” He seems desperate. His eyes flash from one to the other of the Patchers, fear writ large across his face.
Zolbur watches as the crowd file back upstairs intent on drinking it seems. He then turns to see what the Patchers will do with the man.
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Wednesday October 4th, 2023 2:17:30 PM
As the Patchers re-join him Burton softens his tone with the henchman; "Take a seat, why don't you tell us what you know about Ardreth and any of his associates, where he might be going and anything about his plans. Do you work for Ardreth or an organization called Pyramid Industries, have you heard of the organization at all?
While your at it what did you throw at the Otyughs to enrage them? And was this a pre-planned attack on the patchers or just some random malic from Ardreth?"
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 Wednesday October 4th, 2023 5:23:07 PM
Zarsellet listens intently. If the Patchers don't catch Ardreth this might help. Otherwise? Well, the man might know something useful.
"Of course. I understand completely. And we don't want any trouble either. Just wait here for our other people and we can all be helpful. That's the deal and it's good for both of us. Just a minute please.... Look over here please." He waves his hand and sings some 'nonsense' words and smiles at the man.
OOC: Casting Hypnotism. Will Save DC16 or he is Fascinated and will comply with a request as if he were two steps more friendly than before. After the spell wears off he maintains that level of friendly for that request.
"Now let's just wait here calmly until my friends get back. We all just want to be friendly, right?"
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 38/38 CMD 13 d20+2=19 ; d20+1=6 ; d20+1=8 ; Wednesday October 4th, 2023 8:07:04 PM
Paige works her way through the tumbled chairs (Acrobatics = 19) and gets around the second henchman, cutting him off from following Ardreth, and hopefully flanking him with a Patcher. The cleric carefully places her mace under his chin and gives it a slight push up (Intimidate= 6, burned a Hero point for re-roll =8, ugh…]. ”Back to the arena, and your compatriot.” she says, hoping the fellow will comply with her request.
Rhys (Bob W) AC 22/26 vs AoO; CMD 23/25 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 39/39 d20+11=16 ; Wednesday October 4th, 2023 8:12:16 PM
Rhys runs after the second henchman and tries to leap over the chairs strewn in his path (Acrobatics 16). If he is able, Rhys will use the remainder of his action to get to his feet and provide support to Paige.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 44/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Wednesday October 4th, 2023 9:39:11 PM
Kwarsk adopts a neutral face, his body still tensed for action, waiting to see if the henchman begins spilling all he knows.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 38/38 CMD 13 d20+2=19 ; d20+1=6 ; d20+1=8 ; Wednesday October 4th, 2023 9:52:28 PM
Paige works her way through the tumbled chairs (Acrobatics = 19) and gets around the second henchman, cutting him off from following Ardreth, and hopefully flanking him with a Patcher. The cleric carefully places her mace under his chin and gives it a slight push up (Intimidate= 6, burned a Hero point for re-roll =8, ugh…]. ”Back to the arena, and your compatriot.” she says, hoping the fellow will comply with her request.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 Thursday October 5th, 2023 12:11:28 AM
To the casual observer it might have appeared that Fingers was examining the dead beasts, but in fact he was searching for the vials that the henchmen had tossed. There might be information to be learned by examine the remains of the potions, and even if we capture the henchmen, they aren't likely to know much about the stuff.
After a thorough search (Perception Take 20 = 32), the minotaur looks up and sees that the Patchers have indeed restrained one of the henchmen. He doesn't see Ardreth or the other man, though.
DM: NIck_K: So Much Continues To Happen d20=11 ; Thursday October 5th, 2023 5:52:31 AM
Paige: Astounds the staring patrons as she leaps, gazelle-like over three toppled chairs to accost the other fleeing henchman. Zarsellet: Weaves his subtle magic to inspire compliance whilst listening intently Burton: Asks the apprehended henchmen a number of questions in a more reasonable tone. Rhys: Also manages to leap the toppled chairs – just! Whilst not as graceful as Paige, he nonetheless arrives in time to support her. Kwarsk: Watches, poised for action. Fingers: Finds the remnants of two shattered vials. Even a cursory examination tells him that the foul emanations and secretions of the Otyughs would render identification of the original substance a very challenging, lengthy and most likely expensive task.
Below.
Burton: “Take a seat, why don't you tell us what you know about Ardreth and any of his associates, where he might be going and anything about his plans. Do you work for Ardreth or an organization called Pyramid Industries, have you heard of the organization at all?
While your at it what did you throw at the Otyughs to enrage them? And was this a pre-planned attack on the patchers or just some random malic from Ardreth?"
Sitting on the ground and looking dejected, the man doesn’t even look up as he answers the many questions.
”Ardreth, I work for Ardreth. It’s only been for a week. It’s not that I wanted to – not really. It’s just….I owe money. Bad gambling habit, see. Uh...the others? No, I don’t know ‘em, not really. They haven’t really said much to me. Maybe it’s because I’m the new guy. I dunno. Never heard of that other thing, but then, like I said, the others, they ain’t said much – mainly just given me $^1£. Like I said – new guy.” He pauses and wipes his nose on his sleeve before continuing. ”That stuff? No idea. Honestly. Lannits just dumped it in my hand and said Throw it. That was it. What’s a Patcher? And, they aren’t my friends – not really.” he then looks up at Zarsellet. ”Are you my friend? You seem kind of familiar and friendly, so….can you lend me 10 gold? I’ll get it back to you by the end of the week. Honest!”
Fingers looked up from his careful examinations. Was that shouting he’d heard from above?
Above
Paige’s attempt to intimidate didn’t quite come across as well as she intended. The henchman glares angrily at her and even with Rhys’ arrival remains completely unbowed. ”Get that out of my face, £!%&$!” He snarled as he stepped forward uncaring of the weapon at his throat. ”You’ve no £%$& idea what you’re dealing with. Best cut your losses and get back to the &%$£ kitchen – before you gets hurt.” This man was taller than Paige and able to look down at her despite the presence of the mace. He carried a number of scars and far more unpleasant looking tattoos. Long, greasy hair hung down his back. His beard was forked and held two small bone beads on each thin strand. At his hip was a fine looking, well maintained, but hardly new, long sword. His hand was itching towards it.
(OOC: Rhys can act prior to Paige and Lannits having just arrived as this all happens.)
DM,Nick_K Post adjusted to ensure adherence to Woldian policy.
Rhys (Bob W) AC 22/26 vs AoO; CMD 23/25 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 39/39 d20+5=24 ; Thursday October 5th, 2023 1:53:41 PM
Rhys slides the long curved blade of his elven sword from its scabbard. It makes an evil hiss as it escapes its confines. ”No way to talk to a lady…especially not one who’s my friend.”. The words are spoken in a low, soft tone, almost languid, but dripping with malice (Intimidate 24). ”Now suppose you move your hand away from that sword before someone gets hurt.”. Rhys will remove the man’s sword from behind if the man does not resist.
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 Thursday October 5th, 2023 2:38:21 PM
Zarsellet considers his new 'friend'.... He seemed pretty simple and not really evil, just a dupe that Ardreth had used and abandoned. "Sounds like Ardreth was just using you. Possibly the same for Lannits? Is Lannits the other helper, over there with my other friends? And what's your name? I can't have a friend that I don't know his name! I'm Zarsellet. Don't know if I mentioned that yet. And the Patchers is a nick-name for my friends that killed the ugly, smelly beasts! Speaking of that, the stink is spreading. Let's move over by my friends and see how they are doing." He motions for Burton to stay opposite of him while they move.
Once they get closer to the other henchman he continues, "Now you mention that you have a gambling habit and that is how Ardreth was able to use you. Bad habit that gambling. Who are you owing coin to? Ardreth himself? Or someone above him? Ten gold? I think we might be able to help you, but we'll need more information. You said you know where we can find Ardreth? Looks like the sneak was able to use you and the other guy to make his escape. The information on where we can find him could be helpful, so maybe you can help us to help you?"
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Thursday October 5th, 2023 4:45:45 PM
Burton carefully makes notes as everything the be-spelled henchman says ensuring he doesn't miss anything so he can relay the information to the others. He will go with the henchman and Zarsellet to re-join the others.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 38/38 CMD 13 d20+6=20 ; d8+3=8 ; Thursday October 5th, 2023 6:06:43 PM ”You kiss your mother with that mouth?” Paige asks the nasty piece of work, before clobbering the cretin with her Morningstar (Hit 22 or 24, d20+6+2for Heroism, possibly +2 if flanking with Rhys! for 8 pts dmg).
DM Sanity info:
Bears Endurance - Rhys gets +4 enhancement bonus on Constitution, which adds the usual benefits to HP, Fort Saves, Con checks, etc. - 4 minutes or 40 rounds
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 44/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Thursday October 5th, 2023 9:03:45 PM
Kwarsk continues to keep an eye on Zarsellet's new "friend." He flexes his biceps from time to time whenever the "friend" looks his way, sometimes making an exaggerated cracking of both hands' knuckles.
DM: NIck_K: I wish I could help, but.... Friday October 6th, 2023 6:08:15 AM
Paige: Does not take kindly to the insult and clobbers the henchman. Zarsellet: Asks his new ‘friend’ a number of questions whilst guiding him up stairs towards the others. Burton: Follows on, noting what is said. Rhys: Admonishes Lannits with menace. Kwarsk: Quietly intimidates Zarsellet’s new friend. Fingers: Quietly watches on.
Paige’s weapon swings with power to slam into the man’s chest. The blow is such that it knocks him flat. The man groans in pain and clutches his chest before scowling at Paige. He then barks out a shout, loud enough for the entire room to hear.
”THERE! SEE! I DIDN’T DO NUFFINK! I WAS ATTACKED! SHE HIT ME FIRST! GET THE GUARD!”
In response to this urgent cry, there is the movement of chairs, some shuffling of feet and a continued hubbub of conversation. No one makes anything remotely like an effort to summon the watch. It would seem that this man has few, if any friends. He reaches for his sword, but it’s no longer there. Instead, it is sitting in Rhy’s hand. Seeing this, the man hissed something short and unpleasant.
Zarsellet and ‘friend follow on with others in tow.
”Ambrill, my name’s Ambril and yeah well, I sort of owe Ardreth….and Kelling….and Merchant Vine...and Connie Squires. I was going to pay ‘em back, honest! It’s just...I had a right load of bad luck, I did. That was all. Lannits? Oh, yeah well, I’d rather not get too close, thanks and all. H’e a bully, is that one. So, I...uh...can’t really say much if he’s, you know...close. Shh! Keep your voice down Zarsy! He’ll hear you, then I can’t tell you about the warehouse on Dogleg Street – the one with the green door. It’s got a door within a door. You can’t miss it. Nope, I wouldn’t be able to tell you anything about that, at all!”
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Friday October 6th, 2023 2:44:17 PM
Burton looks up as Ambrill; "What do you mean a door within a door? Is that a large door for carts and such with a smaller door within it to let people in? Or something else?"
Rhys (Bob W) AC 22/26 vs AoO; CMD 23/25 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 39/39 Friday October 6th, 2023 9:49:57 PM ”Let’s ask if Zolbur had a nice quiet room, somewhere we can question his ‘unpleasantness’ here.” Rhys nudges the henchman before him. ”Paige, do you still have that ‘speak with dead’ spell? We may need it.”. The elf hopes Lannits takes his meaning.
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 Friday October 6th, 2023 10:57:35 PM
Zarsellet hears the other man yell, obviously trying to intimidate someone. He almost chuckles aloud at that. He should have quietly surrendered. And if he kept at it he would likely be carried out of here! He motions for a stop several feet away and directs Ambrill to turn around so Lannits wouldn't see him. "Have a seat. This sounds like it may take a little time, and we don't want him noticing."
Once Ambrill is seated Zarsellet moves between him and the crowd. "Hmm.... I don't remember seeing a green door on Dogleg street, but I can't say I ever went looking for one. But yah, what do you mean by door within a door? This is Burton and he's right. Please explain that. And we'll stay quiet until they take 'him' away. Looks like our friends will drag him away for some questions, whether he wants to talk or not. I really hope he decides that he wants to. I know Kwarsk here looks dangerous, and he is. But trust me, you never want to be on the wrong side of an elf. They'll remember and out live your grandchildren, if they let you have any!"
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 Friday October 6th, 2023 11:28:55 PM
Fingers pays attention to the two groups of Patchers. As best he can, he tries to make note of what Ambrill says, while watching the confrontation with Lannits in case he needs to intervene.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 38/38 CMD 13 Saturday October 7th, 2023 10:27:55 PM ”You mean kill first, ask questions later?” Paige says striking a pose with her Morningstar over one shoulder, and her other hand on her hip.
Looking at the henchman on the ground, she adds: ”get up, and no funny business. We’ll get a guard for you soon enough..
The cleric figures the fellow probably has other weapons on his person besides the sword Rhys collected. If the rude dude tries anything, Paige won’t hesitate to clock him one with her Morningstar.
(OOC: nominating Zarsellet/Randy for a Hero point! “… trust me, you never want to be on the wrong side of an elf. They'll remember and out live your grandchildren, if they let you have any!")
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 44/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Saturday October 7th, 2023 11:03:57 PM
Kwarsk smiles in the tiniest of ways as Ambrill spills some beans... Well, hopefully this clue will turn out to be true. I wonder what happened with the other... Lannits... hopefully he didn't give Rhys and Paige too much trouble... though I heard her morningstar hit from here! Was he foolish enough to attack, 1 on 2?... Kwarsk's tiny smile is gone as fast as it formed, and he continues his menacing stance.
DM: NIck_K: Helping with enquiries Monday October 9th, 2023 5:38:33 AM
Paige: Instructs Lannits to stand and remains ready to strike at the slightest provocation. Zarsellet: Seats Ambril away from Lannits in readiness for more questions. Burton: Questions Ambril about the door. Rhys: Aspires for some privacy and intimidates Lannits. Kwarsk: Maintains a menacing stance. Fingers: Observes the two groups, listening and watching carefully.
Ambril “The door? Uh, yeah, it’s green.” Ambril offered ‘helpfully’. Noting the unimpressed expressions and particularly the menacing presence of Kwarsk, he quickly blurted more. ”So, yeah it’s green, but a kind of grey-green, so it can be easily missed and – uh – it’s a double door, big enough to get a wagon in, if they need to, not that I ever seen ‘em do that. No, they use the small door. It sits in the left hand large door. It’s very secure. Well, that’s what they told me and I always had to knock and announce who I am before they’d slide back this real small spy hole thing and check. Hey, there’s a couple of windows though, Zarsy! Maybe you could – I dunno – sneak through them? They’re pretty high up though; about my height off the floor. They might even be barred – on the inside – but I bet you could get around that.”
Zolbur then staggered up next to the group ‘holding’ Ambril. ”All this running….(huff-puff)...not good for me. That place though – yeah, I know it: not far – maybe five, ten minutes away. Not for me to tell you what to do, but I’d get after Ardreth before he can set up more traps or defences. That’s just the sort of thing a scoundrel like that would do.”
Lannits Lannits eased back. He slowly stood, constantly scowling the whole time. There were no other weapons immediately visible, but that wasn’t to say he didn’t have any. His eyes darted from Rhys to Paige and back again. The expression was one of unadulterated hatred. Lannits did not seem to be particularly cowed.
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 Monday October 9th, 2023 6:16:46 PM
Zarsellet smiles as Zolbur works to get his breath back. "Very likely right. But Ambril here shouldn't be seen by Lannits. For that matter, Lannits should probably be restrained or he'll run and warn Ardreth that we're coming. Regardless we'll need to scout the place and not just barge in blindly."
"Thanks for the advice though."
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 38/38 CMD 13 d20+6=20 ; Monday October 9th, 2023 8:30:41 PM
Paige looks about for someone who looks like administrative staff or security - maybe that fellow who sought out the party and brought them to Zolbur? or even one of the ogres in tuxedos? (Perception=20). If she is successful in getting someone to come over to where she is, the cleric will explain that the greasy looking fellow she and Rhys have apprehended had been caught messing with an arena fight in what could be considered a criminal way. Did the crypt have a place to temporarily ‘store’ miscreants until they could be turned in to the authorities?
”You can ask Zolbur. He’s just down the stairs. He’ll vouch for us.” she says, all the while keeping Lannits in between herself and her good friend, Rhys.
Rhys (Bob W) AC 22/26 vs AoO; CMD 23/25 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 39/39 Monday October 9th, 2023 8:55:32 PM
Rhys continues to hold his sword at the ready, lightly pressing between the shoulder blades of the foul-mouthed lackey that Paige had bested. ”Zolbur. Do you have a place to hold on to this piece of filth? Nothing too comfortable. We will want to question him more thoroughly before handing him over to the guard.”. The elf makes sure the thug is well secured, perhaps using Finger’s manacles before handing him over to the proprietor of the Crypt. ”Also, please ensure our winnings are looked after until we return. 2000 gp if I am not mistaken.”
Rhys waits until Lannits has been removed before encouraging further discussion about next steps.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 44/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Monday October 9th, 2023 9:44:54 PM
Kwarsk listens, and realizing that he and his tower shield are doing a good job of hiding Amblin from Lannits, continues to maintain his position and stance, and with Rhys' call out to Zolbur things seem in hand...
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 Monday October 9th, 2023 10:35:56 PM ...we'll need to scout the place and not just barge in blindly.
I'm on it, Zar. Zolbur, I need directions, quick.
As soon as he get the information, Fingers moves quickly out to the street, drawing his Cloak of Elvenkind around him. This makes him surprisingly inconspicuous for someone his size.
DM: NIck_K: Helping with further enquiries Tuesday October 10th, 2023 5:05:19 AM
Burton: Remains at Ambril’s shoulder. Fingers: Moves quickly to scout ahead. Kwarsk: Shields Ambril from Lannits’ view and notes that matters appear to be resolving. Paige: Seeks to hand over Lannits to ‘Security’. Rhys: Helps in controlling Lannits until he’s handed over to the ‘authorities’. Zarsellet: Thanks Zolbur for the advice.
Paige succeeds in getting a lumbering ogre to take custody of Lannits
”Mostly I just bash heads and throw ‘em out.” The solid, heavily tattooed behemoth rumbled. ”Course, I could just SIT on him. Won’t be going nowhere then.” He rubbed his chin in thought. That was clearly not a swift process. ”Best not though. Last one I sat on lost an arm. Got gangrene it did.” For an ogre, the brute was remarkably chatty. He continued his ruminations, now mostly for Lannits’ benefit as everyone else was focused on other matters. The ogre plucked Lannits off his feet with one hand and walked back to the fight pit, carrying with appalling ease.
“So, what will you do now?” Asked Zolbur having recovered from his exertions. ”I don’t trust Ardreth. Who knows what he’s up to now? Maybe bribing a guard to claim it was YOU that caused all this.” He shakes his head, clearly worried and depressed at this turn of events. He then noticed that Fingers had already gone. ”Oh.” Was all he said, but that fact appeared to lift his spirits.
(OOC: Zarsellet does indeed earn a Hero Point!)
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Tuesday October 10th, 2023 2:27:01 PM
Burton watches event unfold as the others finish up.
While he does he counts out 25 gold coins and places them in a small purse which he hands to Ambril. "When we say you can leave you leave, we NEVER see you again understand. If we do or we hear about you even mentioning us again and we have ears all over the city then twice that amount is going on your head and believe me it's only your head I will want delivered."
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 Tuesday October 10th, 2023 6:18:29 PM
Surprised but not disappointed at the gold paid to Ambril, Zarsellet turns to go. "Well, I don't move as fast as our minotaur friend, so I guess we should stroll along after him."
OOC: Doing as stated. Assuming we are all heading there now?
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 d20+12=20 ; Tuesday October 10th, 2023 9:28:59 PM
On the street, Fingers follows Zolbur's directions to the green door on Dogleg Street.
En route, he refreshes his Mage Armor. Should he catch sight of Ardreth, he'll try to stay out of his sight (Stealth: 20) and follow Ardreth, even if he's not going to the Green Door.
When Fingers gets to the area, he has two goals: 1) Stay in the shadows so as not to be noticed. Because his Stealth skill is high, and he has every right to be out on the street, he'll Take 10 -> 22. 2) Examine the Green Door building as best he can while being stealthy. He'll take plenty of time (Perception: Take 20 ->32 (+2 for traps).
Spells active: Grease: 1st round of 10 Mage Armor: 1 hour left
Spells prepared: 0 - Prestidigitation, Ray of Frost, Detect Magic 1 - Sleep SLA - Mage Hand 3x SLA - Hand of the Apprentice (Throw weapon) 5x Amulet - Any of his spellbook spells 1x Mage Armor (44 charges remaining on wand)
100 gp left.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 44/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Tuesday October 10th, 2023 9:56:35 PM
Kwarsk nods at Zarsellet's suggestion. "Zarsellet is right. Zolbur, we're on our way. We'll catch you up later." Kwarsk walks towards the exit and turns, "Well? We'd better get there before we have to rescue Fingers," he finishes with his trademark half-smile.
Kwarsk will head out once all of the Patchers are coming towards the exit. He may have to jog/run to keep up with Rhys and the rest, but dwarves can do that for a long time...
Rhys (Bob W) AC 22/26 vs AoO; CMD 23/25 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 39/39 d20+7=26 d20-1=0 Tuesday October 10th, 2023 10:45:06 PM
Rhys replaces his sword in the scabbard slung across his back and heads out towards Dogleg Street. ”Ardreth is most familiar with me, so there is no way I can sneak up unnoticed. I’ll hang back a bit and look for somewhere to conceal myself once we get close.” The elf pulls up the cowl of his cloak to make himself less recognizable. (Stealth 26, Disguise 0)
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 38/38 CMD 13 Tuesday October 10th, 2023 11:57:43 PM
With the greasy henchman taken care of, Paige makes to return back to the arena - only to meet her friends coming up the stairs.
Tucking her weapon away, she follows in the wake of the group as they depart the gambling establishment. “So what are we doing now?”
DM: NIck_K: To Dogleg Street and Beyond! Wednesday October 11th, 2023 5:07:09 AM
Burton: Hands Ambril a bag of coins and issues a warning. Fingers: Follows on as stealthily as he can. Of Ardreth he sees nothing, but does find his way to Dogleg Street and there sees a double door to a warehouse. It’s a dirty, grey-green in colour. Just as described, here are two small windows; one either side of the door. Both are roughly 5 feet up and appear to be barred on the inside. At his current distance it’s difficult to ascertain whether those bars are fixed to the building’s wall or just the window frame. The latter would make access much easier. As to traps, he instinctively feels that the place could be trapped, but at his present shadowed distance, he cannot be certain. Kwarsk: Agrees that following Fingers would be the best course of action. Paige: Follows the others whilst enquiring about their next actions. Rhys: Hood up, follows on, headed to Dogleg Street Zarsellet: Suggests following on after fingers.
Ambril took the bag and nodded in confusion. After a momentray pause, he handed the bag back to Burton. ”I...I can’t. You’re real kind, but I owe more and if I pay off two or three, the rest will want their payment. If I then leave, like you said, they’ll send men after me or those I hold dear. I got myself into this, I got to get myself out.” He hung his head in shame for a moment before straightening. ”I appreciate the gesture though. I do.”
Fingers quickly finds his way to Dogleg Street. At this hour it’s quiet. Only a single, scrawny dog ambles down past those double doors. It sniffs tentatively before moving on into the darkness, likely in search of rats. Whilst waiting for the others to catch up, Fingers listens intently. He hears nothing untoward, just the muted hubbub of this notorious part of town. If there are traps, he realises that he’ll need to forsake his shadows and get a lot closer – right up against the wall.
The others make their way through the streets with varying degrees of subtlety and speed, but finally Kwarsk arrives at the scene. No one was rushing up or congregating openly. The Patchers were loosely grouped at one end of the street, not far from one of it’s many bends and corners. From Kwarsk, the doors, firmly closed, were but 50 yards away – if that.
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Wednesday October 11th, 2023 1:12:16 PM
Burton gives the purse back to Ambril; "Choose better friends." He then turns and leaves with the others. While walking he goes through his notes and gets Paige up to speed on what they had found out from Ambril.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 Wednesday October 11th, 2023 3:09:23 PM
When the other Patchers arrive, Fingers gives them his familiar hand-motions: Stay back and stand by. He then goes to the doorway and examines it slowly (Perception: Take 20 ->32 (+2 for traps)).
Spells active: Mage Armor: less than 1 hour left
Spells prepared: 0 - Prestidigitation, Ray of Frost, Detect Magic 1 - Sleep SLA - Mage Hand 3x SLA - Hand of the Apprentice (Throw weapon) 5x Amulet - Any of his spellbook spells 1x Mage Armor (44 charges remaining on wand)
100 gp left.
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 Wednesday October 11th, 2023 5:22:06 PM
Seeing Finger's signal Zarsellet leans against the wall and watches.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 44/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+12=32 ; Wednesday October 11th, 2023 10:03:36 PM
Kwarsk knows he'd be the loudest, and maybe most visible, what with his Tower Shield, so he'll change to a casual stroll (20 feet per six seconds, 200 feet per minute) with the aim of stopping approximately seventy-five feet from the door and then look around.
(OOC - whenever DM Nick decides all of the above has had time to happen... then Perception = 32)
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 38/38 CMD 13 d20+6=16 ; Thursday October 12th, 2023 1:20:11 AM
Paige listens intently to what Burton says, as she follows the group through the crooked streets of the quarter. When he is finished, she nods her head in acknowledgement. Then with a side-ways tilt of her head, and a big grin, she says: ”those were some pretty fine moves back there at the arena, friend! IWere those monsters the scariest things you’ve ever fought?”.
Once the group is on Dogleg St. and in proximity to the building with the green doors, Paige will look for signage indicative of Pyramid Industries.
DM Sanity info: (Let me know how much time has passed since arena fight, so I know what spells are no longer in effect…)
Bears Endurance - Rhys gets +4 enhancement bonus on Constitution, which adds the usual benefits to HP, Fort Saves, Con checks, etc. - 4 minutes or 40 rounds
DM: NIck_K: At the Gates Thursday October 12th, 2023 6:17:54 AM
Burton: Gives the purse to Ambril and then updates Paige on what has been learnt. Fingers: Signals for the others to stand by and be ready before heading across the street to examine the large doors. Kwarsk: Trundles up a little after the others, perhaps trying to be vaguely innocuous. There’s nothing innocuous about his scrutiny of the scene however. Paige: Congratulates Burton on his prowess in the ring and looks for signage. She sees none. (It takes roughly five minutes to get to the warehouse, but another is spent waiting on all to congregate and for careful inspection of the premises.) Rhys: Hangs back a little, not wishing to be recognised by Ardreth should he make a sudden appearance. Zarsellet: Sees the signal and nonchalantly waits.
Burton apprised the others of the knowledge gleaned form Ambtil: the doors were most likely trapped, as were the windows. What was something of a surprise however, was the height of those windows. Ambril had indicated that there were five feet ‘or so’ up. That ‘or so’ transpired to be another three feet! The wall would have to be scaled to gain access to them.
(Climb check required)
Fingers’ carefully scrutiny informed him of the same. It seemed to him that unless he was gravely mistaken, he’d actually find mire than one trap in place. Furthermore, even approaching the doors was a delicate matter. Those ever-so slightly upraised cobbles in front of the door might be indicative of a proximity alarm. He’d need to tread carefully just to get to the doors, if he wanted to keep their presence undetected. Fortunately, his senses hadn’t betrayed him. Slowly and quietly he bent to examine those cobbles. If he was correct in his assumption, this would take both care and skill to negate. Fingers only: Highlight to display spoiler: { Disable Device roll required.}
The others watched silently as Fingers abruptly stopped and crouched before getting to the doors.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 38/38 CMD 13 d20+6=9 ; Thursday October 12th, 2023 10:37:36 AM
Paige continues to look about while the minotaur does his rogue thing. She does a quick survey of the buildings in the area to see if they are mostly warehouses and commercial establishments or if there are homes as well, and whether or not they are in good repair or poorly maintained. (Perception = 9)
Rhys (Bob W) AC 22/26 vs AoO; CMD 23/25 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 39/39 d20+6=13 ; Thursday October 12th, 2023 3:35:08 PM
Rhys finds a darkened alcove to conceal himself within and surveys the building and its neighbours from a distance. He looks for adjoining rooftops or other features that might provide for alternate access to Ardreth’s lair other than the full frontal approach being surveyed by the Minotaur. (Perception 13)
DM: NIck_K: At the Gates_Addendum Thursday October 12th, 2023 4:34:53 PM
There is some light evident within the warehouse. The two windows whilst boarded, still permit some light to escape as they are not well fitted/old and neglected.
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Thursday October 12th, 2023 5:43:29 PM
Burton smiles at Paige's question, "No but this is not the time or place to tell that story. So what are we going to do here? Are we hunting Ardreth or investigating Pyramid Industries? and if we find either what are we intending to do? It could be a legitimate business or not, and Ardreth might just be an arrogant git but he certainly is an arrogant git with powerful contacts but until we know we should tread carefully."
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 Thursday October 12th, 2023 6:56:24 PM
Zarsellet considers Burton's comments. "You're right, and breaking in here could definitely be seen as breaking the law. However, there are other facts to be considered. Ardreth released dangerous monsters into the arena and arranged for them to become enraged and out of control. When we easily defeated those creatures he bolted from the establishment to avoid being captured." He glances down the street and notices Fingers searching the area before the door. "And now it seems that he's placed possibly dangerous traps in public places. He doesn't seem to have a care at all about the people of this city. We may be doing a public service here!"
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 Thursday October 12th, 2023 8:47:48 PM
With one hoof, Fingers scuffs the ground in a line a few inches before the offending cobbles, then returns to the party.
[b]The street is trapped there. I'd need to disable it before I could examine the doors and windows, but I'm sure there's one or two more traps. And that doesn't count the doorman who'll shoot anyone he doesn't recognize through the spyhole.
As for *should* we...well, we agreed to let Ardreth sic monsters on us. But at the very least, he cheated by dosing them with those vials. I think that warrants us to make a citizen's arrest.
So my suggestion: make the traps safe, knock on the door, tell them we're here to arrest Ardreth. If they don't let us in, we let ourselves in. Either way, we avoid lethal force except in self-defense, and leave once we've grabbed Ardreth. And no looting.
Of course, if we run across another human sacrifice or something...well, y'know, citizen's arrest.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 44/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+12=21 ; Thursday October 12th, 2023 10:56:27 PM
Kwarsk closes to fifty feet from the door, and watches over Fingers and the surrounding area, looking for any hidden attackers.
(OOC if it's time for a second Perception roll, that roll = 21)
DM: NIck_K: What's the plan? Friday October 13th, 2023 5:13:47 AM
Burton: Advises treading carefully. Fingers: Returns to explain what he’s found and propose a course of action. Kwarsk: Sees nothing untoward. He here’s the shouts of a couple of drunks from a street further over. Paige: Looks around. It appears that the bulk of the properties here are either storage units, or workshops with residences above. None look new. The condition of each varies from indifferent to shoddy to in a few cases, ramshackle. The green doored warehouse seems merely tired. Rhys: Accessing the roofs looks difficult. There’s no readily identifiable means short of scaling the walls and dependent upon where one was to climb, it’s far from certain that some of the roofs would hold a large man’s weight. Zarsellet: Offers a different perspective of the situation.
The cool night air stills further as waiting to see what will happen next. The faint light can still be seen from between ill-fitting shutters within the warehouse. From within no sound is heard. Off in the middle distance a cat yowls. From the base of the wall where most of the group is gathered emanates the faint smell of dog urine.
Then, from within the warehouse a dull, muffled noise.
Perception DC: 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { You hear a gruff male voice curse.} Perception DC: 18 Highlight to display spoiler: { You also hear something breaking – possibly wood.} Perception DC: 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { You hear anger – whoever is shouting isn’t happy} Perception DC: 25+ Highlight to display spoiler: { You recognise Ardreth’s voice.}
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 38/38 CMD 13 d20+6=11 ; Friday October 13th, 2023 9:23:54 AM
Paige looks at the minotaur. ”Well, what are you waiting for?” The cleric casts Guidence* on Fingers.
The half elf doesn’t notice/hear anything (Perception = 11)
* Guidace - imbues the subject with a touch of divine guidance. The creature gets a +1 competence bonus on a single attack roll, saving throw, or skill check. It must choose to use the bonus before making the roll to which it applies.
IC: Burton brings Web to mind and prepares to follow if the others head into the warehouse.
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 d20+8=18 ; Friday October 13th, 2023 6:07:38 PM
Hearing a man's voice and the sound of something breaking Zarsellet readies his bow hoping they see Ardreth once the door opens. "Be careful with the traps. I don't think hurrying will help if Ardreth knows that we're here."
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 44/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+12=14 ; Friday October 13th, 2023 10:44:00 PM
(OOC Perception = 14)
Kwarsk was reminiscing on his studies at the Temple of Pantheon with the Monks for a moment, and then became aware that there was a dull, muffled noise ahead from the warehouse, but wasn't able to discern any more than that, having started paying attention too late. Then he noticed the Patchers springing into action - the other shoe must have dropped, and I missed it!
Kwarsk moves up to ten feet behind Fingers and stands guard, tower shield in one hand and the other hand empty, as if considering which weapon might be best for the break-in.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 d20+12=14 ; Friday October 13th, 2023 11:15:21 PM
Perception: 14. Fingers was so busy orating that he noticed nothing other than a dull, muffled noise.
Taking Paige's comment as group assent, he goes to disable the cobblestone trap. Unless it appears to be especially tricky, he'll Take 10 on his Disable Device roll, result 20. (Note that the attempt takes 2d4 rounds.)
Spells in Effect: - Guidance (+1 to any roll) - Mage Armor - 1 hour from when he arrived at the green door
Spells prepared: 0 - Prestidigitation, Ray of Frost, Detect Magic 1 - Sleep SLA - Mage Hand 3x SLA - Hand of the Apprentice (Throw weapon) 5x Amulet - Any of his spellbook spells 1x Mage Armor (44 charges remaining on wand)
100 gp left.
Rhys (Bob W) AC 22/26 vs AoO; CMD 23/25 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 39/39 d20+7=18 ; d20+6=14 ; Saturday October 14th, 2023 7:50:32 PM
Rhys sticks to the shadows and moves up in support of his friends (Stealth 18). He keeps an eye open for any movement from within the building; a window opening, an arrow extruding from above, anything at all (Perception 14).
DM: NIck_K: oops Monday October 16th, 2023 4:38:54 AM
Burton: Anticipates trouble and prepares a spell – just in case. Fingers: Fingers takes his time to tackle the trap. Kwarsk: Moves up to support Fingers. Paige: Exhorts Fingers to action. Rhys: Keeps a wary eye open for any sign of trouble whilst stealthily moving up in support of his friends. Zarsellet: Readies his bow and cautions against undue haste. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Fingers carefully lifts a cobblestone to discover a thin wire beneath it. It runs beneath the stones either side of it. He pauses to carefully consider the many options that are possibilities in tackling such a well-laid device. He had the time. The others were quiet. It would serve him best to gain a better understanding of what he was dealing with. As carefully as before, Fingers extracted two more cobbles. Alas, despite his great care, the third stone caught on the wire.
Perception DC: 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { You hear the faint tinkling of a bell within the warehouse.} Perception DC: 18 Highlight to display spoiler: { You also hear hear a barked instruction of some kind.} Perception DC: 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { You hear footsteps within. } Perception DC: 25 Highlight to display spoiler: { Those steps aren’t near the door, nor are there many.}
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 Monday October 16th, 2023 11:31:37 AM
Perception: Take 10 =>22.
Fingers suddenly looks up at the door and the windows. Get ready, folks. We're about to have company.
Spells in Effect: - Guidance (+1 to any roll) - Mage Armor - 1 hour from when he arrived at the green door
Spells prepared: 0 - Prestidigitation, Ray of Frost, Detect Magic 1 - Sleep SLA - Mage Hand 3x SLA - Hand of the Apprentice (Throw weapon) 5x Amulet - Any of his spellbook spells 1x Mage Armor (44 charges remaining on wand)
100 gp left.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 38/38 CMD 13 d20+6=23 Monday October 16th, 2023 7:30:54 PM ”Huddle up folks, while I say a quick prayer to Domi!” Channeling through her holy symbol, Paige asks Domi to Bless her mates with courage for what is to come! (Perception = 23)
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 d20+8=18 ; Monday October 16th, 2023 8:23:38 PM
Zarsellet hears what he assumes is an alarm set off, and an order given. He shrugs figuring that whoever was inside probably knew that they were coming. Now they knew we have arrived....
Hearing Finger's warning and Paige's direction he huddles up close to the cleric for the blessing. "I'll wait until we see the enemy before I start my bardic inspiration."
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 44/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+12=15 ; Monday October 16th, 2023 8:56:04 PM
(OOC Perception = 15)
Kwarsk nods at the words of his allies.
He moves to be between Paige and the Warehouse.
He gestures behind him and says to Burton in a low voice, "Feel free to fall in behind me if you want some bit of cover from any archery coming our way."
Rhys (Bob W) AC 22/26 vs AoO; CMD 23/25 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 39/39 d20+7=11 ; d20+6=15 ; Monday October 16th, 2023 9:43:40 PM
Rhys accepts Paige’s blessing and then retreats to the shadows and tries to make his way around the side of the warehouse in case their quarry is trying to sneak away unnoticed. (stealth 11; perception 15)
IC: Burton thanks Kwarsk for his offer of protection and huddles up with the others.
DM: NIck_K: Hurry up and wait! Tuesday October 17th, 2023 5:01:41 AM
Burton: Huddles up, wondering what all the sudden fuss is about. Fingers: Issues a timely warning. Kwarsk: Takes up a defensive position to the fore. Paige: Invokes Domi’s blessings. Rhys: Pulls back to the shadows. He is aware that the warehouse sits in the middle of a row of such buildings, mixed in with houses. If someone is sneaking around to flank them, they’ll have a long journey unless they can somehow cut through an adjacent building. Who knows? Zarsellet: Holds off on commencing his inspiring oration, but gladly takes Domi’s blessing.
The group huddle and receive Domi’s blessing. Kwarsk takes up a defensive position whilst Rhys falls back into the thicker shadows. The group is braced, anticipating assault and missile fire.
They wait.
Time passes.
Still they wait.
In the distance, maybe a street over some drunken singing is carried to them of the light night wind. That same wind brings the smell of fish and not fresh at that, but all recognise these things as being just part of life in he Quarter. From the warehouse before them there is only silence.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 38/38 CMD 13 d20+7=9 ; d8+1=4 ; d20=16 ; d8=8 ; d20=18 ; d8=5 ; d20=19 ; d8=7 ; Tuesday October 17th, 2023 11:07:35 AM
Patience isn’t one of the cleric’s virtues, and it’s been a l-o-n-g day. Paige uses divine magicks to creat a spiritual hammer, positioning it in front of the door to the warehouse, and ‘knocks’ on the green door. (Hit AC 9, for 4 dmg). If no one answers the summons, she’ll keep ‘knocking’ until someone opens the door, or the Spiritual Weapon breaks through (total of 4 rounds.)
Hit AC 16+7=23, for 8+1=9 dmg Hit AC 18+7=25, for 5+1=6 dmg Hit AC 19+7=26, for 7+1=8 dmg
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 Tuesday October 17th, 2023 3:08:01 PM
Zarsellet stays back watching. He'd never seen anyone use a spell like what Paige was using to break a door open.... "That's a useful spell. Maybe I should learn it!"
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Tuesday October 17th, 2023 5:15:47 PM
"Urm has anyone tried the door to see if it's locked?" asks Burton
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 44/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Tuesday October 17th, 2023 9:12:53 PM
Kwarsk says, "Fingers, I think that's your cue. I'll follow you and stand guard while you check the door for more traps and then unlock it."
Kwarsk will begin doing as he said as soon as Fingers heads towards the door.
Rhys (Bob W) AC 22/26 vs AoO; CMD 23/25 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 39/39 Tuesday October 17th, 2023 9:24:52 PM
Rhys readies himself for action, hopeful that their quarry has not slipped out a back door.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 Tuesday October 17th, 2023 10:36:30 PM
Fingers feels a little silly. All that commotion inside, but no action? Can't they see us out here? Could they have all gone out the back?
Maybe the bell was just to warn them, and they're waiting in the lobby with crossbows.
Whatever. Fingers checks for traps on the door and windows. He doesn't want to spend a lot of time so he'll Take 10+12 =>22, +2 for traps, +1 "Guidance" = 25
Spells in Effect: - [used] Guidance (+1 to any roll, choose in advance) - used on Perception at the green door. - Bless (+1 Att, Saves vs. Fear) - Mage Armor - 1 hour from when he arrived at the green door
Spells prepared: 0 - Prestidigitation, Ray of Frost, Detect Magic 1 - Sleep SLA - Mage Hand 3x SLA - Hand of the Apprentice (Throw weapon) 5x Amulet - Any of his spellbook spells 1x Mage Armor (44 charges remaining on wand)
100 gp left.
DM: NIck_K: I hear you knocking..... d20=6 ; Wednesday October 18th, 2023 5:05:41 AM
Burton: Queries whether the door is actually locked. Fingers: Checks for traps. Kwarsk: Encourages Fingers to check for traps. Paige: Calls upon divine aid to summon a Spiritual Hammer to do some ‘knocking for her. Rhys: Stands ready, but worries that their quarry has slipped away. Zarsellet: Watches, impressed by Paige’s magic.
At the first knock of the hammer a single black barb leaps from the small lock of the inner door. The wicked looking bolt, its head a sickly green flies past Kwarsk’s head to clatter across the cobbles on the opposite side of the street.
Fingers had just spotted that the door and windows were trapped, but the bolt was released even before he could speak.
BANG! BANG! BANG!
The mystical hammer smote the door mightily. It shook and rattled with each heavy blow. The sound echoed up and down the street. Yet the door remained. It would seem that the door was barred and was in better condition than had initially appeared to be the case. It was clear to all though that the hammer was damaging the door. It would eventually destroy it, but when? And how could anyone not know of their presence?
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 38/38 CMD 13 Wednesday October 18th, 2023 11:04:36 AM
Paige picks up the dart with the sickly green head. Handling it carefully, she tucks it between the folds of the blanket in her pack. ”With enough coin anyone can get their hands on poison, but I wonder if Pyramid Group has anything to do with the poisoners guild we encountered at the start of our adventuring career?”
The Magic Weapon winks out and the door to the warehouse remains closed. Muuru doesn’t seem to be having any luck. It’s been an eventful night. A fight with undead and skeletons at Sampson’s, shenanigans at the Crypt culminating in an arena fight with some monsters, and then a chase after that bad character, Ardreth. What time is it? It must be past midnight!
”If nobody’s got any other ideas, I suggest we collect our winnings from The Crypt and head home to The Patch. We can investigate Ardreth and make enquires about Pyramid Group tomorrow.”
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 Wednesday October 18th, 2023 4:07:35 PM
Zarsellet considers Paige's comment. He doesn't remember hearing any of them mentioning trouble with a poisoners guild. "Should we report Ardreth's use of poison to the guard? I mean, we followed him after his actions at the arena. We saw him enter here and knocked at the door, and were attacked by poisoned bolts. ?? I don't think the guard would be very happy with that, and it might give Zolbur a little leverage against the Pyramid Group?"
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Wednesday October 18th, 2023 5:39:15 PM
"How do you get to the back door" asks Burton "Maybe it's not a stubborn as the front door"
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 38/38 CMD 13 Wednesday October 18th, 2023 8:21:01 PM
Paige looks at Zarsellet, and does a forehead slap! ”Right! That was before you joined up. We had a little altercation with some nasty folks in town who were brewing up a drow sleep potion. It was powerful enough to make even an elf succumb to sleep! We cleared out their lair, and it was ‘gifted’ to us. It used to be known as the Pumpkin Patch when the poisoners were in residence, but now it’s just called ‘the Patch’ - and we’ve become known as ‘the Patchers’ - because we find solutions…patch things up, as it were.”
Paige shrugs her shoulders, before continuing: ”maybe I’m seeing connections that don’t exist, but the first ‘victims’ of the poison were patrons at the Crypt*. They were somehow slipped some potion. Once asleep, they were robbed of their valuables. Some group called the Sharas Tel was implicated,.but we never got to the bottom of that mystery.”
*DM post May 13 and 26, 2022
Rhys (Bob W) AC 22/26 vs AoO; CMD 23/25 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 39/39 Wednesday October 18th, 2023 8:28:38 PM “Paige, can you enlarge Fingers here and then he might be able to simply batter the damn door down?”. The elf looks at Muuru hopefully and then casts his eyes about for anything else that might be used as a battering ram. ”Where guile and finesse does not work, surely brute force must be the answer!”
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 44/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Wednesday October 18th, 2023 10:04:59 PM
Kwarsk gathers the Patchers and in a low voice says, "I like Burton's idea about checking for a back or side door, or we might even try getting in through a window... I wonder if the city guard would mistake us for burglars or other criminals? Still, we're in timely pursuit of Ardreth regarding his possible crimes at the arena...
What say we circle the warehouse together looking for that side or back door... you know, in case of ambush while we're looking. Ardreth's friends might be watching us from windows right now in the warehouse, or in any of the nearby buildings."
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 Wednesday October 18th, 2023 11:57:24 PM Paige, put that hammer thing away! We can't tell the city guard we're trying to make a simple citizen's arrest if we try to batter the door in before even knocking like normal citizens!
He sighs. I admit, it's an...efficient way of triggering the trap. Remember it for next time. But I think we should just announce our intentions to the occupants. But we also need to look for other exits.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 Wednesday October 18th, 2023 11:57:30 PM
Fingers feels a little silly. All that commotion inside, but no action? Can't they see us out here? Could they have all gone out the back?
Maybe the bell was just to warn them, and they're waiting in the lobby with crossbows.
Whatever. Fingers checks for traps on the door and windows. He doesn't want to spend a lot of time so he'll Take 10+12 =>22, +2 for traps, +1 "Guidance" = 25
Spells in Effect: - [used] Guidance (+1 to any roll, choose in advance) - used on Perception at the green door. - Bless (+1 Att, Saves vs. Fear) - Mage Armor - 1 hour from when he arrived at the green door
Spells prepared: 0 - Prestidigitation, Ray of Frost, Detect Magic 1 - Sleep SLA - Mage Hand 3x SLA - Hand of the Apprentice (Throw weapon) 5x Amulet - Any of his spellbook spells 1x Mage Armor (44 charges remaining on wand)
100 gp left.
DM: NIck_K: Decisions, decisions... Thursday October 19th, 2023 5:53:38 AM
Burton: Wonders if they can get in via the rear. Fingers: Fingers looks for traps – and finds them! Kwarsk: Thinks maybe a the back door might prove a better option – if one xists. Paige: Considers linkage to the Poisoners’ Guild, asks for other ideas and wonders if returning to The Crypt might be best. Rhys: Wonders if the application of further brute force might be the answer. Zarsellet: Considers reporting the use of poison to the Guard.
All falls eerily quiet. The hushed whispers of the group outside the battered and beaten grey-green doors seem almost akin to shouts. The banging seems to have quietened the whole area.
Fingers knows that there can be no more traps on the door: that hammering would have triggered them all. The windows, yes they too were trapped. He could see that without even having to climb. They weren’t subtle, relying on the grime and dirt to conceal them. To access those windows though would necessitate climbing. They were only eight foot up, so a boost would greatly ease that endeavour. He’d likely need such a thing were he minded to disable those traps.
As to the way forward, the Patchers were undecided. Was there a back way in? Had Ardreth fled with whatever cronies he still had? Were there thugs inside, weapons in had, patiently waiting for them to enter? Perhaps Ardreth had reinforcements en route and was simply waiting for them to arrive? The possibilities seemed almost endless. Yet so too were the options open to them. They could go all out on the clearly damaged front door. Surely it couldn’t take much more punishment? Or, they could try to circle around the block. Or, they could simply alert the authorities. Or, well, there were always options it seemed.
Rhys (Bob W) AC 22/26 vs AoO; CMD 23/25 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 39/39 Thursday October 19th, 2023 11:43:15 AM
Rhys grows impatient with the rogue’s dithering about with trap finding and disabling. Surely the spells cast upon his companions will soon run out. (OOC I believe each time Fingers takes 10, a minute of spell time is used up. My count is that we are up to 3 minutes and Bless will wear off very soon while Guidance only lasts 1 minute.)
”This is taking too long. I am going to look for a back door. Do what you can here.” The elf gives up all pretence of stealth and runs full out to get around the block and to the back of the building (Rhys can move 5 x normal speed)
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 38/38 CMD 13 d20+6=21 ; Thursday October 19th, 2023 1:07:34 PM ”Tact and diplomacy haven’t gotten us anywhere, Fingers” Paige answers the Minotaur, continuing: ”the guard can’t keep up with the shenanigans in the quarter. The Black Cathedral have given us the authority to act - with force if required - and are supporting us in our endeavours. That’s why folks like Zolbar are coming to us to solve their problems…” The cleric spots Rhys taking off down the block, looking for passage to a back way, and runs after him. Despite the quiet, she keeps an eye open for trouble (Perception=21)
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 Thursday October 19th, 2023 7:24:53 PM
Zarsellet watches, and stands utterly surprised as Rhys and Paige run off. "Ah.... Guys?"
"Isn't the first rule to never split the party?"
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 44/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Thursday October 19th, 2023 9:25:05 PM
Kwarsk begins moving, grabbing Zarsellet about his Gnomish-thin waist with his right hand, "Don't just stand there, everyone after Rhys and Paige! You too, Burton and Fingers!"
Kwarsk, Zarsellet in tow, rushes after Paige and Rhys.
(OOC Kwarsk also runs at 5x, but from a base of 20'.)
Tact and diplomacy haven’t gotten us anywhere? thinks Fingers as he follows the group. We haven't TRIED tact or diplomacy yet.
(OOC - Pretty sure that Take 10 takes the same time as a regular skill roll. Almost sure that searching for traps takes 1 round.)
Spells in Effect: - [used] Guidance (+1 to any roll, choose in advance) - used on Perception at the green door. - Bless (+1 Att, Saves vs. Fear) - Mage Armor - 1 hour from when he arrived at the green door
Spells prepared: 0 - Prestidigitation, Ray of Frost, Detect Magic 1 - Sleep SLA - Mage Hand 3x SLA - Hand of the Apprentice (Throw weapon) 5x Amulet - Any of his spellbook spells 1x Mage Armor (44 charges remaining on wand)
100 gp left.
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Friday October 20th, 2023 2:51:21 AM
Burton smiles at Paige's comment about tack and diplomacy before following the others around the back; "I need to look into flying spells." says Burton to himself.
DM: NIck_K: Never Split The Party! d20=16 ; d4=2 ; d6=6 ; Friday October 20th, 2023 6:19:44 AM
Burton: Follows the others. Fingers: Follows the others. Kwarsk: Grabs Zarsellet and follows the speedy elf and Paige. Paige: Elects to follow Rhys. Rhys: Races off to find a back way into the warehouse. Zarsellet: Watches in disbelief as Rhys and Paige run off.
Rhys is the first to change tack and race away. Seeing this the rest of the group decides to follow, with varying degrees of alacrity. Kwarsk snatches up Zarsellet and manages three steps before the inner door of the double gates opens and a dart is hurled at his back! With shield in one hand and gnome in the other, even Kwarsk's uncanny senses aren’t sufficient to accord him sufficient warning and the dart bits into the back of his leg. The nasty barb bites cruelly, somehow finding a weak point in his stubborn defences
(Kwarsk takes 10 points of damage.)
A gleeful bearded face gives a wicked cackling snort of a laugh before swiftly withdrawing.
The small door remains open. Light spills out onto the street. Kwarsk and Zarsellet hear movement and barked laughter from within.
BurtonHighlight to display spoiler: { Hears the barked, snorting laugh and a most unusual noise from Kwarsk – was the dwarf actually hurt???}
Perception Checks! This, to hear what has just transpired. FingersHighlight to display spoiler: { DC: 5 to hear that barked, snorting laugh.} Paige having set off slightly before the others is a little bit further up the street.Highlight to display spoiler: { DC: 8 to hear that barked, snorting laugh.} Rhys had set off at break neck speed Highlight to display spoiler: { DC: 12 to hear that barked, snorting laugh.}
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 34/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Friday October 20th, 2023 9:24:32 AM
Kwarsk grimaces and then says to Burton and Fingers as they run towards the back, "Let's go - that's a deathtrap waiting to happen.
Don't play by their rules!"
Kwarsk concentrates on the tenets of Pantheon, forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, pressing on towards the goal of ambushing them! (Kwarsk continues to carry Zarsellet)
Kwarsk races as best he can to catch up with Rhys and Paige at the back of the warehouse.
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Friday October 20th, 2023 11:19:25 AM
Burton skids to a halt as he sees Kwarsk hit by a dart.
Seeing the door open Burton will flatten himself against the warehouse wall as close as he can to the door without crossing in front of the door, staying out of the light and avoiding the area Fingers has dug up. He will try and catch a glimpse into the warehouse without exposing himself to those inside.
Anyone appearing in the doorway as he does this will get a magic missile for their troubles. if no one appears he will not caste his spell.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 38/38 CMD 13 d20+6=12 ; Friday October 20th, 2023 4:50:52 PM
Paige thinks she hears something (Perception=12) and stops, turning around to see where the laughter is coming from. The cleric spots the dwarf struggling to catch up, and ignores what is going on behind him. ”Kwarsk! Put the gnome down, and take this!”. The half elf hands Kwarsk a vial of antitoxin. ”This should help you fight off any effects of poison, if that dart was contaminated!” (Antitoxin - consume and get a +5 alchemical bonus on Fortitude saving throws against poison for 1 hour.)
(OOC: Will remove vial of antitoxin from Paige’s PC sheet.)
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 d8+4=8 ; Friday October 20th, 2023 6:32:38 PM
Zarsellet waits for Kwarsk to put him down, then casts a spell to heal him. OOC: CLW for 8 healing
"I do have legs of my own...."
"If we find a door to use we need cover. Maybe a fog cloud?"
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 d20+12=28 ; Friday October 20th, 2023 11:43:09 PM
Perception: 28. Heard it.
Fingers double-moves. The sooner we get to the back door, the less time they have to prepare.
Spells in Effect: - Bless (+1 Att, Saves vs. Fear) - Mage Armor - 1 hour from when he arrived at the green door
Spells prepared: 0 - Prestidigitation, Ray of Frost, Detect Magic 1 - Sleep SLA - Mage Hand 3x SLA - Hand of the Apprentice (Throw weapon) 5x Amulet - Any of his spellbook spells 1x Mage Armor (44 charges remaining on wand)
100 gp left.
Rhys (Bob W) AC 22/26 vs AoO; CMD 23/25 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 39/39 Sunday October 22nd, 2023 9:42:33 PM
Rhys continues his run towards the back of the warehouse in search of another door (Run 5x 30’)
DM: NIck_K: Always Split The Party! (The Sequel) Monday October 23rd, 2023 4:48:05 AM
Burton: Is not looked for and the head that appeared, disappears just as swiftly. The door, seemingly damaged from the hammering, stays open. From the restricted angle he has, he sees some shelving and the vague outline of a figure – likely a man with a sword in hand. Fingers: Makes a concerted effort to get around the block and thus find the way back way into the warehouse. Kwarsk: Rushes to catch up with Paige and Rhys. Yet must pause – 1: to place Zarsellet on the ground - 2, to take the potion – 3, to receive healing. Paige: Stops to hand Kwarsk a potion Rhys: Continues his run in an endeavour to find the back of the warehouse. Zarsellet: Casts Healing upon Kwarsk once released.
As Rhys gets to the top of the road and turns the corner, his heart sinks. Finding the back of the warehouse would take time, a lot of time, if it could even be found at all. It was apparent from the unbroken line of houses and shops that the block upon which they stood was quite substantial. Worse still, many of the buildings were back to back. Matters were further complicated by the numerous archways giving access to small yards at the rear of some of the properties. Most of these, he knew, would lead to dead ends. Some might link up and take you out elsewhere. Whether one such led to the rear of the warehouse was a mystery, one that would take a great deal of time to solve. Being cognisant of all this Rhys wonders how they might expeditiously find any route in from the other side when it might lie concealed at the back of any number of premises on the other road.
The Patchers now find themselves well and truly split.
Rhys followed by Fingers have charged on ahead. They are on Anchor Road. It offers a long line of properties and a good number of narrow alleys, but a way on is far from obvious.
Paige, Kwarsk and Zaersellet are at the top end of Dogleg Street. Spotting Burton from there isn’t easy. Spotting Rhys and Fingers, isn’t, but their forms are heading rapidly away.
Burton cleaves to the wall and the shadows, noting what lies within the warehouse as best he can. The door remains ajar and he rather suspects cannot now be easily closed.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 38/38 CMD 13 d20+2=5 ; Monday October 23rd, 2023 10:49:10 AM
When Paige stops to pass the potion to Kwarsk she realizes almost everyone has followed Rhys leaving the front door un-watched - and Burton is still back there! This is getting ridiculous! thinks the cleric.
She makes her way back towards the door - trying to be as quiet as possible. (Stealth = 5)
(OOC: are we in combat rounds? How much time has passed since the Crypt encounter? Spell durations would be affected…)
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | d20+3=8 ; Monday October 23rd, 2023 4:10:38 PM
Burton will stand quietly in the shadows just over 5' from the door out of sight to those inside. He will listen for the sound of any talking or footsteps approaching from inside the warehouse (Perception 8). He keeps a Magic Missile spell ready in his mind encase anyone appears in the doorway.
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 d20+14=29 ; Monday October 23rd, 2023 8:02:10 PM
Zarsellet follows Paige back to try and find Burton. Noticing that she is trying to be stealthy Zarsellet moves quietly. OOC: Stealth 29
He quietly mentions, "We need some cover. A fog cloud would be great but I can't cast that. I can do ghost sounds and a silent image. Maybe the hidden people inside will attack it?"
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 42/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20-8=2 ; Monday October 23rd, 2023 8:53:22 PM
Almost all of Kwarsk's wounds heal! While drinking the vial of antitoxin, he observes that Rhys' and Fingers' speed, in combination with Paige and Zarsellet turning around, likely for Burton, puts the Patchers in a bad situation. Kwarsk had not been familiar with this area of the City and its blocks... but if Rhys and Fingers have gone that far then it seems unlikely they're going to find the back of the warehouse.
Burton, Paige, and Zarsellet are now without warrior protection and could be ambushed by the thugs in the warehouse at any time so...
Kwarsk turns back towards the three and steps forward five feet, intending on accelerating to a brisk walking pace (double-move, no running) for the return, hoping that the distance will negate how noisy his tower shield makes him...
(OOC - Stealth = 2. Perception DC is +1 per 10' from the listener, so it's possible the DC to hear Kwarsk at a great distance might be a sum of 10 or 15 (including Stealth of 2).)
Rhys (Bob W) AC 22/26 vs AoO; CMD 23/25 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 39/39 d20+6=17 ; d20+6=26 ; Monday October 23rd, 2023 9:22:32 PM
Rhys is confused at first by the myriad of alleyways but on further consideration he believes he can narrow down the choices based on how far he has run in each direction (Survival 17). He will ask any he meets if they know which alley leads to the back of the warehouse with the green double door. He will then start investigating each of the most likely alleys. The elf moves swiftly and keeps an eye and an ear out for any suspicious sights and sounds (Perception 26 (nat 20)).
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 Monday October 23rd, 2023 10:10:10 PM
(OOC - a map would be appreciated at this point.)
Fingers sees Rhys scanning the area with a disconcerted expression.
Unless you have any ideas, we should probably rejoin the party or something.
DM: NIck_K: And then.... Tuesday October 24th, 2023 6:21:46 AM
Burton: Clings to the wall, his potent Magical Missile ready to be released. (Perception check required to Hear what’s going on - anything - inside) Fingers: Pauses in the chase seeing Rhys assessing his options. Kwarsk: Fearing for the safety of those without his protection lumbers back, rather noisily, but determinedly and much the better for the restorative magic. Paige: Paige stealthily makes her way back to Burton, cleaving closely to the wall. She is keenly aware of the passage of time. Rhys: presses on feeling that there must be a back way in. Zarsellet: Follows Paige. He too stays close to the wall and whispers to her about deploying magic to safely, or more safely, enter the warehouse. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ NB: It took c10 minutes to get to Dogleg Street. You’ve been carefully assessing and investigating for 2 minutes or so. This is rounded up to 3 minutes with spells, traps and charging around. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ A distorted rectangle of light falls upon the cobbles, faintly illuminating the three disturbed stones in front of the battered warehouse door. From within there seems little activity. As Burton cautiously assesses the situation both Paige and Zarsellet reach his back. The three line up against the wall below the northern window. They can all hear Kwarsk approaching, but it’s clear he’s making some effort to stifle the noise he makes. Rhys only. Highlight to display spoiler: { Perception check DC: 15 if successful reveal subsequent spoiler.} Rhys only. (Conditional) Highlight to display spoiler: { The betrays no shadows indicating a lack of movement within, but you do hear a whispered SHHH!}
Paige only. Highlight to display spoiler: { Perception check DC: 20 if successful reveal subsequent spoiler.} Paige only. (Conditional) Highlight to display spoiler: { The betrays no shadows indicating a lack of movement within, but you do hear a whispered SHHH!}
Zarsellet only. Highlight to display spoiler: { Perception check DC: 25 if successful reveal subsequent spoiler.} Rhys only. (Conditional) Highlight to display spoiler: { The betrays no shadows indicating a lack of movement within, but you do hear a whispered SHHH!}
Kwarsk sees his friends being quiet and slows his pace considerably. He’s close now and recognises that the others are striving for stealth. They aren’t in immediate peril; at least so far as he can determine.
Rhys sees a rat catcher about his business. He’s a small man in dirty black black clothes overtopped by a greasy, grey poncho. The man has a long, decidedly hooked nose and teeth that druids could dance around. To say he was ‘unpretty’ would be being most generous. The man smiled at Rhys’ approach and enquiry. That made him look positively frightful.
“Evenin’ Squire, so what is it I can be doin’ for a right upstandin’ gent like yerself then?” In response to Rhys’ urgent enquiry, he rubbed his head and then held out a hand. “You found yerself exactly the right bloke, so ya did. See, I knows me way around these here parts like all these bloomin’ rats, so I does.”(Assuming Rhys pays the man – adjust revenues accordingly)“Well, that’s right bloomin’ generous of ya, Squire. The green doored warehouse ya say? That place, well, that don’t have no back door. Well, not an ‘official’ one, if you catch my drift. There is a way in and out without going through that front door mind, but it’s not a quick, nor easy thing. See, you needs to be going in through the glassblowers on Strangle Lane. Course that’ll be all locked up at this time o’ night. Be that as it may, you then needs to be going upstairs. There’s a balcony out the back o’ one o’ them rooms up them stairs – so rumour has it. Heard there was a ladder. You stretches that across to the roof opposite and in you clambers through a skylight. Course, that were...what...maybe three years back; so..” He shrugged.”Stuff could have changed since then. You have a right good night squire and keep an eye out for any rats.”
Fingers catches up in time to hear the conversation in full.
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 d20+8=28 ; Tuesday October 24th, 2023 11:25:32 AM
Zarsellet listens for any sound that maybe shouldn't be here.... OOC: Perception, Natural 20 for 28!
He doesn't see any movement but does hear a whispered 'SHHH!' from inside. He whispers that to Paige and Kwarsk, then quietly works to cast some magic.
OOC: Casting two spells, first a cantrip, Ghost Sound to sound like someone trying very poorly to walk quietly toward the door. Duration is 4 rounds. Then add Silent Image, making an image similar to Fingers, walking up to the door to look in. (Occasionally scuffing a foot to match the sounds of the cantrip) If nothing happens I'll have 'him' turn around and walk away before the ghost sound ends.
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | d20+3=16 ; Tuesday October 24th, 2023 3:03:36 PM
Burton leans closer to the other Patchers and whispers; "Do we have a plan by any chance or are we just going to wing it?" Burton will listen for any reaction from in the warehouse (Perception 16)
OOC: Magic Missile is still ready and Burton now has a dagger held loosely in his right hand.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 42/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Tuesday October 24th, 2023 9:28:47 PM
As Kwarsk slowly approaches, he decides not to risk speaking too loudly. He will finish his walk adjacent to Burton's side if he can, and hiding behind his Tower Shield.
(OOC - Kwarsk is using the maneuver that makes his Tower Shield 100% Cover towards the front door. If Burton is in a '5-foot square adjacent to the wall' then Kwarsk is 5 feet further away from the wall, facing the door as Burton does, just fully behind his Tower Shield.)
Rhys (Bob W) AC 22/26 vs AoO; CMD 23/25 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 39/39 Tuesday October 24th, 2023 10:05:47 PM
Rhys places 2 gp into the rat catcher’s open hand. ”No back door you say. I don’t think we should be breaking into some honest artisan’s shop just so as to break into some conniving thieve’s warehouse. But we do thank you for the information. We’ll be hunting rats of a different sort, if you catch my meaning. But if we see any of the regular rats about we will let you know.”
The elf give a quick nod to the rat catcher and, turns on his heel and begins the long run back to the main entrance to the warehouse. ”Hard to believe there’s no back door, but there it is. Sorry I dragged you all this way for nothing Fingers. Let’s hope the rest of the crew have a plan for getting through the front door.”,
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 38/38 CMD 13 d20+6=20 ; Tuesday October 24th, 2023 10:17:33 PM ”I heard it too!” quietly whispers the cleric in response to Zarsellet (Perception = 20) as she presses up against the outside wall of the warehouse. Paige takes up her morningstar…
(OOC: Bless is over…)
DM Sanity info:
Heroism from Zarsellet (40 min or 400 rounds (27 min remaining)
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 Tuesday October 24th, 2023 10:54:46 PM The penalty for breaking into an 'honest artisan's' shop, without stealing or breaking anything, is probably a fine. I say we leave the amount on the glassblower's counter with an anonymous note of apology.
And by "we" I mean Zar. Less likely to break things or wake anyone. When he gets to the balcony he can lower a rope for the rest of us.
Unless...maybe we don't have to go inside; just scale the wall to the balcony?
DM: NIck_K: It's a kind of magic.. d20=16 ; d20=6 ; Wednesday October 25th, 2023 4:46:45 AM
Burton: Listens, blade and spell ready and asks if there’s an actual plan. Fingers: Postulates that going in through the glass blowers’ business might still be feasible. Kwarsk: Quietly takes up a defensive position adjacent to Burton. Paige: Readies her morningstar and confirms that she too heard a noise. Rhys: Pays and thanks the rat catcher and heads back to join the others at the front. Zarsellet: Hears a noise and prepares a distraction. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Zarsellet gestures and incants quietly. The steady tread of a booted feet approaches the door and a man sized image coalesces at the entrance. As the head of that ‘man’ enters the small door (within the larger double doors) a wicked-looking black dart spears the image to clatter across the cobbles of the street. A second dart ‘thunks’ solidly into the door.
Paige, Kwarsk, Zarsellet and Burton: Perception checks. DC: 12 Highlight to display spoiler: { A male voice curses } DC: 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { That voice utters “Magic!” is a disgusted hiss } DC: 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { You hear a second voice grumble in agreement. } DC: 25 Highlight to display spoiler: { You hear another “SHH!” }
Rhys is all for making his way back to the others and at speed. Fingers still thinks that the back is a viable means of entry. (NB: From the description provided, the balcony sought is at the rear of the glass blowers. It cannot be seen from the front and you do not know which room gives access. It may be a bedroom. Invading someone’s home at night would likely be viewed far more seriously, even if monetary compensation is left. On the other hand, it might be that the aforesaid room was a bedroom, but is now storage. Fingers recalls mention of a ladder. That would permit access to the warehouse roof, which would be lower than the balcony….in theory. IF all that the rat catcher reported is correct.) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ OOC: I will not penalise Rhys or Fingers regardless of which direction they choose to go. The decision is instantaneous. Simply advise in the next post.
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 d20+8=21 ; Wednesday October 25th, 2023 1:48:33 PM
OOC: Perception 21
Zarsellet chuckles as the group inside fires at his illusion, hitting and sadly missing it.... He changes his mind about having it retreat and just moves it to block the door, and the view of the people inside. They'll know that it's magic but won't be able to see past it unless they interact with it and are a lot smarter than he thinks they are!
OOC: Duration is concentration so it should last until I let it go. ??
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Wednesday October 25th, 2023 3:28:44 PM
Burton quickly whispers in Kwarsk's ear "When I push on your shoulder go forward to the door and give me cover so I can see into the warehouse over your shoulder." Burton then turns to the others and quietly add "Follow up behind us but stay out of sight for the door" Burton catches the eye of each of the Patcher present to confirm they understand. In a much louder voice Burton then continues;
"RIGHT ENOUGH WE ARE GOING IN, PAIGE TRY AND HOLD BACK YOUR ENTHUSIASM WAIT FOR THE FIREBALL TO GO OFF FIRST, ON THREE." Burton pushes Kwarsk's shoulder "ONE" then follows up behind Kwarsk, "TWO" as they get to the door "THREE". Burton glances in and Webs the inside of the warehouse.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 42/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+12=31 ; d20+7=23 ; d20+7=27 ; d20+7=14 ; d10+3=8 ; 2d10+6=25 ; Wednesday October 25th, 2023 8:10:03 PM
(OOC Perception = 31. Kwarsk hears it all.)
Kwarsk is well-trained in following orders (Profession: Soldier = 23) and Burton seems to be a Lieutenant-in-Training so Kwarsk flawlessly implements Burton's plan, double-moving in as he draws his Dwarven Waraxe, and will finish moving once 10 feet inside the warehouse.
(OOC - IF Kwarsk only needed 20 feet or less of movement to get to that position, then he attacks the first weapon-wielder he sees, slicing AC 27 (Natural 20!), AC 14 on the confirmation roll, for 8 damage!
IF crit confirms (hit AC 14), THEN another 25 damage for a sum of 33 damage.
Also, Barkskin potion is 13 minutes used of 30 minutes maximum; in case of AoOs, Kwarsk has AC 31 (includes mobility).)
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 Wednesday October 25th, 2023 9:34:18 PM
Fingers runs along with Rhys. Hopefully when they arrive and see the Patchers in action, the current plan will be clear to them.
Rhys (Bob W) AC 22/26 vs AoO; CMD 23/25 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 39/39 Wednesday October 25th, 2023 10:14:13 PM
Rhys considers the rogue’s line of reasoning. ”You may be right my friend, but I am not sure we can chance it. I think we should head back to the front”.. The elf heads back along the route he followed at his fastest pace. ”If Ardreth and his gang slip out some back entrance we don’t know about I am going to kick myself!”
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 38/38 CMD 13 d20+6=25 ; d20+6=9 ; Wednesday October 25th, 2023 11:44:38 PM
Paige overhears the ne’er do wells inside the warehouse and tries to estimate how many there are. She acknowledges Burton’s instructions with a nod, and siddles along the wall of the warehouse, following the others. If she gets close enough to peep in a window or door, she will take note of the group’s adversaries. (Second perception roll = 9)
DM Sanity info:
Heroism from Zarsellet (40 min or 400 rounds (27 min remaining)
DM: NIck_K: Through the door d20=19 ; Thursday October 26th, 2023 6:05:11 AM
Burton: Webs the inside of the warehouse. Fingers: Races back to join up with the others. Kwarsk: Takes the lead. He gets to the entrance, but ther his options are limited by the web. Paige: Follows on to get a view of what awaits within. Rhys: Rushes back hoping that their target doesn’t yet slip away from the back of the warehouse. Zarsellet: Maintains the illusion whilst following the others. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ OOC: I hope that the map links okay. It’s my first attempt at such. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ As Kwarsk advances the interior of the warehouse is en-webbed; rather, some of it is. It’s a large building. What’s also apparent to him is that there are no enemies within immediate striking distance. His head on a swivel, he looks left right, up and around. He sees four men, swords in hand, but they are spread out.
1. Crouches, sword ready, at the shelving to the right, some 25’ away or so. 2. Crouches near the chests and cabinet on the left equally distant, perhaps slightly more so. 3. Stands behind the stern of the rowboat adjacent to the shelving. c. 35’+ away. 4. Is slightly further back, next to the ladder on the right. C40’+ away.
Those behind Kwarsk can only see 3 and 4 at this point.
The front of the premises is roughly 50 to 60 feet wide. It’s a lot longer. Light from and upstairs office window gives you the impression that it’s 90 to 100’ long. The access around the central storage area varies between 10 and 15’ wide.
Zarsellet throws his spell where? Or does he change his mind? Seeing that Kwarsk is intent on charging, he may wish to reconsider.
Fingers and Rhys will not arrive until round 4.
OOC: I have not had Zarsellet throw the spell as it may have a significant impact on how things play out. Please specify where the web lands and the 40’ square that it covers. (20’ r)
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 d20+10=23 ; Thursday October 26th, 2023 10:50:00 AM
Zarsellet lets the illusion disappear as he steps through the door and steps to one side. (Left) Glancing around he is surprised to not see more men.
"Burton. Don't throw the fireball. There's no way to catch them all with it and not burn a bunch of inventory. There's only a few so maybe just some magic missiles, if they decide to fight."
He raises his voice to hopefully be heard by all of them, "Gentlemen! I suggest that you surrender. We don't want to have to hurt, and possibly kill any of you. We didn't even want to kill those two Otyugh that your boss threw at us. But he enraged them so there was no choice. Now he ran off. His henchmen are in a cell and we've followed him here. And as you can plainly see, none of us are more than barely scratched for the battles so far. Save yourselves and lay down your weapons."
OOC: Diplomacy 23
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Thursday October 26th, 2023 1:23:58 PM
Burton casts his web spell (wc is centre of web) blocking the left side of the warehouse. He will step aside to give Paige room to follow Kwarsk if she wants. He winks at Zarsellet; "Like I have a fireball spell to waste."
OOC: Just to be clear Burton will cast his web to block the left side of the warehouse but leave a 5' space along the large door so we can get in. His dagger remains in hand.
Rhys (Bob W) AC 22/26 vs AoO; CMD 23/25 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 39/39 Thursday October 26th, 2023 6:45:43 PM
Rhys runs back towards the front of the warehouse (5 x normal speed).
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 38/38 CMD 13 d20+6=20 Thursday October 26th, 2023 8:39:14 PM
Paige squeezes past the gnome, and takes up position just inside the warehouse - her back against the wall. She looks for signs of Ardreth, Pyramid Industries, or other indications of who is using the warehouse. (Perception = 20)
DM Sanity info:
Heroism from Zarsellet (40 min or 400 rounds (27 min remaining)
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 42/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+5=24 ; d6+2=8 ; Thursday October 26th, 2023 10:39:53 PM
(DM Nick - I can't see the map - I requested access and used the Note to indicate "Kwarsk")
Kwarsk saw the Web appear to the left, and moved 20 feet towards the foe that is 25 feet away, putting him within reach of Kwarsk's devastating kick to the foe's solar plexus, forcing the swordsman to double over in pain and drop his weapon! Kwarsk completes his Pantheon Kata with a hearty "GRUNT!"
(OOC - Monks may use any body part for unarmed attacks. Kwarsk uses Stunning Fist - DC 15. Kwarsk hits AC 24 for 8 nonlethal damage!)
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 Thursday October 26th, 2023 10:56:06 PM
Fingers runs after Rhys (4 x 30').
DM: NIck_K: Through the door d20=16 ; d20=10 ; d20=5 ; d20=4 ; Friday October 27th, 2023 5:18:09 AM
Burton: Webs the left side of the room. Fingers: Trailing Rhys slightly, he races pell-mell towards his friends. Kwarsk: Moves to the RIGHT and boots the nearest attacker. (Map Adjusted) Paige: Enters and looks for Ardreth or other clues. Rhys: Turns the corner and sprints to get back to the others. Zarsellet: Enters and calls on the men to surrender.
___________ Round 2 ~~~~~~~~~~~
The Patchers enter with an explosion of activity. Sticky webs enmesh the near left side of the warehouse, clinging to wall and floor. Caught within that magical snare is one of the thugs. He gasps in horror. He instinctively recoils and drops low behind a crate. Such is the thickness of the webbing that this man now has complete cover from all others except for Burton and Zarsellet. From them he has partial cover
Burton and Zarsellet only Highlight to display spoiler: { The thug has somehow avoided the webs and is NOT ensnared.}
Kwarsk dashes to the side and blasts the nearest thug in the guts, doubling him. It’s a solid blow, but not enough to stun him. He responds to that assault by slashing at Kwarsk with his long sword. The blade slashes in an arc, low at Kwarsk’s legs (mainly due to him being doubled). The difficult position, coupled with the pain of the blow cause that attack to fail. Kwarsk easily avoids the blade.
At Zarsellet’s shout he other two men pause. They are plainly unsure what to do against such a devastating show of force. However, a barked order of ”ATTACK! You fools!” comes form the back. Paige sees the distinctive, but dimly lit figure of Ardreth bounding up the steps at the rear of the warehouse. Everyone recognises the voice. It galvanises the two men into action.
One thug (3) rushes around to circumvent the web (double move)
The other (4) charges! Brandishing his sword above his head and screaming like a maniac ”YAAAAAAAH!!!” he rushes at Kwarsk to cleave…..
….the air. The blow falls short as Kwarsk smoothly sways out of the way.
That shout carries outside, albeit muffled. Rhys and Fingers hear it.
Rhys will arrive and become a participant on Round 4. Fingers will become a participant on Round 5.
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 Friday October 27th, 2023 11:20:35 AM
Hearing the command from the back Zarsellet raises his voice to reply. "Hello Ardreth. We were wondering if you had slithered away and left your hirelings to die trying to stop us. So instead you will order them to die on our blades while you hide? Not very noble, and counting on them to be stupid enough to follow your orders. If they do we'll be a few more seconds before we have you on the floor, adding your blood to theirs."
After he starts a battle chant to inspire his friends to end this battle quicker.
OOC: Bardic Performance, Inspire Courage: +1 morale bonus on saving throws against charm and fear effects and a +1 competence bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls.
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | d20+7=17 ; d4+2=4 ; Friday October 27th, 2023 4:31:23 PM
Burton will follow the others further into the warehouse hugging the large door to avoid the web.
OOC: Assuming Paige will head towards thug 4 Burton will make his way to the area of G26 to keep behind and to the side of the fighters.
If the thugs are still fighting and Burton can get a clear view he will caste 'Hand of the apprentice' sending his dagger flying towards thug 4 (hit AC 17 (18 with inspire courage) for 4 HP of damage. Burton's dagger returns to hand.
If there isn't a clear shot Burton will keep an eye on Ardreth's movement and not caste.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 Friday October 27th, 2023 10:31:00 PM
Fingers runs after Rhys (4 x 30').
If the party has won the fight before he gets there... well, technically, Fingers should be proud of them.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 42/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+8=25 ; d10+3=11 ; Saturday October 28th, 2023 11:18:41 PM
Kwarsk says, "Two? Twice the fun then," Kwarsk finishes with a grim half-smile.
Kwarsk swings his waraxe from right to left, scaring one and cutting towards the one he kicked earlier (4 or 1???), hitting him directly in his left side and trying hard to bisect his guts!
(OOC Included Bardsong in to-hit; forgot on damage. Hit AC 25 for 12 damage. (die, +2 STR, +1 magic weapon, +1 bardsong))
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 38/38 CMD 13 d20=12 d8=7 Sunday October 29th, 2023 8:06:01 PM
Paige moves to support Kwarsk by flanking #4, then swings her Morningstar at the miscreant (Hit AC 12+6+2 flanking +2 heroism +1 bardic inspo = 23, for 7+3+1 = 11 dmg).
DM Sanity info:
Zarsellet Bardic inspiration…
Heroism from Zarsellet (40 min or 400 rounds (27 min remaining)
Rhys (Bob W) AC 22/26 vs AoO; CMD 23/25 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 39/39 Sunday October 29th, 2023 8:19:37 PM
Rhys continues to run towards the front door.
DM: NIck_K: The Warehouse d20=9 ; d20=8 ; d20=7 ; Monday October 30th, 2023 6:16:08 AM
Burton: Hurls a dagger. It cuts into the shoulder of thug 4. (5 damage) Fingers: Follows on after Rhys, hoping to get back to the warehouse in time. Kwarsk: Unintimidated by numbers, he attacks with relish. (Kwarsk had attacked 1 previously.) He knows he’s inflicted considerable damage (22 total). Paige: Moves to flank thug 4 and wallops him mightily with her morningstar. Rhys: Covers the ground swiftly to get back to the warehouse. Zarsellet: Challenges Ardreth and commences a battle chant.
Warehouse (I made some minor adjustments: doors and windows should be a bit clearer)
~~~~~~~~~~~
The two thugs groan as they are hit, but with help arriving – the noisy footsteps of the runner confirm to all that ‘help’ is coming – retaliate. One (1) swings at Kwarsk. The desperate swing slices through the air, but Kwarsk easily sways aside. The other (4) turns to attack Paige. His longsword whips around to savagely slice into Paige’s stomach. However, her armour does its job perfectly. She suffers no harm. The man on the left again avoids the web’s embrace and slinks into a corner. Unable to move and unable to see what’s happening, he crouches down and remains quiet. (Stealth:15 AND he has partial cover from the web and almost total cover from the crate he’s behind. Therefore spotting him is far from easy. Perception: 21) Thug 3 will arrive next round, but so will Rhys. Ardreth growls from the top of the steps that lead into a small office. He has opened the door(it opens inwards). The light within illuminates his sneer all the more clearly. “Stop playing and HIT THEM!” He bellows. The men fight desperately, but are clearly less skilled with their weapons than are the Patchers. That desperation is writ large on their faces. Kwarsk and Paige feel certain that were it not for Ardreth, they would surrender. Of course, there was also the unknown of the third man, rapidly approaching.
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | d20+8=16 ; d4+2=4 ; Monday October 30th, 2023 1:58:57 PM
Burton keep an eye out for the approaching thug as they run towards the party while casting 'Hand of the Apprentice' again. His dagger flies from his hand at Thug 4. "Do we want Ardreth alive?" He asks the other Patchers.
OOC: Hand of the Apprentice hits AC 16 for 4 points of damage.
Spells in Effect: - Mage Armor - 1 hour from when he arrived at the green door
Spells prepared: 0 - Prestidigitation, Ray of Frost, Detect Magic 1 - Sleep SLA - Mage Hand 3x SLA - Hand of the Apprentice (Throw weapon) 5x Amulet - Any of his spellbook spells 1x Mage Armor (44 charges remaining on wand)
100 gp left.
Rhys (Bob W) AC 20/24 vs AoO; CMD 21/23 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 31/31 Monday October 30th, 2023 7:40:09 PM
Rhys continues his run (5x30’). Once inside the open door he will advance as far as possible towards thug #3 avoiding the worn out carpet.
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 Monday October 30th, 2023 8:39:53 PM
Zarsellet glances up and bellows back "Stop playing and HIT THEM! Yes!!! Stop playing and HIT THEM! Wait.... Better yet! Be smart! GET OUT OF OUR WAY AND LET US HIT HIM! And if he's stupid enough to not surrender like he is demanding of you, then we'll kill him TOO!"
Saying that he readies his short bow and arrow, and continues the bardic performance.
OOC: Bardic Performance, Inspire Courage: +1 morale bonus on saving throws against charm and fear effects and a +1 competence bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 38/38 CMD 13 d20=5 ; d8=7 ; Monday October 30th, 2023 8:56:36 PM
Paige swings her Morningstar at #4 (Hit AC 5+6+2 flanking +2 heroism +1 bardic inspo = 16, 7+3+1 = 11 dmg). Though it doesn’t carry the same force as her first swing.
”When we’ve knocked this fellow down, I’m going for Ardreth!” she announces to Kwarsk
DM Sanity info:
Zarsellet Bardic inspiration…
Heroism from Zarsellet (40 min or 400 rounds (27 min remaining)
Rhys (Bob W) AC 20/24 vs AoO; CMD 21/23 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 31/31 Monday October 30th, 2023 10:19:55 PM
Rhys continues his run (5x30’). Once inside the open door he will advance as far as possible towards thug #3 avoiding the worn out carpet.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 42/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+8=16 ; d10+4=14 ; Monday October 30th, 2023 10:54:57 PM
Kwarsk endeavors to finish off the one he's been attacking (#1 ?), effortlessly shifting his waraxe's momentum from its right-to-left slice to angle briefly above his foe's head and then with a mighty grunt brings it down on the thug with overwhelming force!
(OOC hit AC 16 for 14 damage.)
DM: NIck_K: The Warehouse d20=11 ; d20=8 ; d8=4 ; d6=4 ; Tuesday October 31st, 2023 5:43:30 AM
Burton: Flings another dagger. This one strikes the thug (4) true. Do they want Ardreth alive? He asks the others. Fingers: Follows after Rhys understanding that he will be an active participant in whatever trouble awaits within the warehouse imminently (next round) Kwarsk: Cleaves into Thug 1. The mighty blow staggers his opponent. Blood sprays from the wicked wound. Paige: Clobbers the Thug again and declares her intent to go after Ardreth next. Rhys: Barges into the warehouse and scrambling to keep his feet races towards Thug 3 – avoiding the old carpet. Zarsellet: Continues his bardic performance with some witty repartee. ___________ Round 4 ~~~~~~~~~~~ Interactive map Updated Map
Warehouse ~~~~~~~~~~~ A thug falls. A combination of dagger and morningstar was his undoing. Thug 4 – the man that had been fighting Paige collapsed in a heap, his longsword clanging noisily on the hard floor. The morningstar had left some nasty wounds and the man bled as he lay unmoving.
Thug 1 was almost spun around by the might of Kwarsk’s blow. He staggers and falls to one knee, a nasty cut leaking blood across his face. He drops the sword and holds his hands up. ”I yield.” He gasps.
Yet Thug 3, a younger man, seemingly keen to impress barrels forward at full tilt and chops at Paige’s back, even as she was striking his colleague. His sword strikes true (11 damage)
”That’s it! THAT’S IT! Yes, like that!” Encouraged Ardreth from his high vantage point. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Next round Rhys has a full round round action available. Fingers will enter and can have a half move.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 42/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+8=20 ; d6+3=6 ; Tuesday October 31st, 2023 2:00:02 PM
Kwarsk moves to flank #3 with Rhys (I28 to J24) and says to #3, "Tsk tsk, should have learned the lesson they (jerking head towards the other two defeated thugs) just learned."
Kwarsk swings his axe towards his back about 45 degrees, trying to fake #3 out and then gives #3 a swift kick in his kidney, hopefully causing him to drop his weapon!
(OOC - Kwarsk is AC 31 vs. Attacks of Opportunity (Mobility feat)
Base +5 to hit, +1 Bardsong, +2 flank = +8 Hit AC 20 for 6 damage (nonlethal).
Stun DC 15. Stunning Fist #2 of 2 uses for the day.)
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 Tuesday October 31st, 2023 3:16:22 PM
Zarsellet moves to where he can see Ardreth. "That’s it! THAT’S IT! Yes, like that? Heck no! Attack Ardreth! Or.... Surrender or DIE! Listen to Ardreth! He's going to surrender in a moment. Do you really want to DIE FOR THAT LOUSE!!"
OOC: Move and extend Bardic performance another round. If #3 surrenders or drops I'll make that a double-move to get closer to Ardreth. Trying to get in sight and short bow range....
OOC: Bardic Performance, Inspire Courage: +1 morale bonus on saving throws against charm and fear effects and a +1 competence bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls.
Rhys (Bob W) AC 20/24 vs AoO; CMD 21/23 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 31/31 d20+12=22 ; d10+6=16 ; d10+6=15 ; d6=3 Tuesday October 31st, 2023 4:06:32 PM ”Not a wise decision…attacking a lady when you are about to be completely surrounded. Especially when one is a tough-as-iron dwarf, and the other an elf with a nasty streak.” Rhys unsheathes his long elven blade and swings at thug 3, hitting AC 22 for 16 hp of dmg. The movement ends with his sword readied to parry any return attack.
(OOC please ignore the last two rolls…fat fingers on a tiny screen)
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | d4+1=5 ; d4+1=3 ; Tuesday October 31st, 2023 4:31:32 PM
Burton glances at thug 3 "O your in so much trouble now." Burton then glances up at Ardreth "You know there's a problem with you standing up there like that?" Burton points at Ardreth and sends two magic missiles streaking towards him.
OOC: Magic Missiles, Range 130', 8 points of force damage.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 27/38 CMD 13 Tuesday October 31st, 2023 9:10:48 PM
Paige leaves #3 to her friends. So intent is she on getting to Ardreth, she ignores the pain of the cruel cut, deeks around the young swordsman, and pelts in a straight line…to 4I.
DM Sanity info:
Zarsellet Bardic inspiration…
Heroism from Zarsellet (40 min or 400 rounds (27 min remaining)
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 Tuesday October 31st, 2023 10:34:10 PM
Fingers runs, mentally recalling the spells in his book and drawing his blackjack.
Spells in Effect: - Mage Armor - 1 hour from when he arrived at the green door
Spells prepared: 0 - Prestidigitation, Ray of Frost, Detect Magic 1 - Sleep SLA - Mage Hand 3x SLA - Hand of the Apprentice (Throw weapon) 5x Amulet - Any of his spellbook spells 1x Mage Armor (44 charges remaining on wand)
100 gp left.
DM: NIck_K: The Warehouse d20=14 ; d20=19 ; d20=5 ; d20=20 ; d20=10 ; d8=2 ; Wednesday November 1st, 2023 5:48:23 AM
Burton: Flings two magical bolts of energy at Ardreth. Fingers: Enters the warehouse ready for trouble. Kwarsk: Dodges past Thug 3, who slashes violently at him. The end of the blade narrowly misses Kwarsk. Kwarsk strikes true, but the man catches himself and does not stumble. (Saved v Stunning Fist) Paige: Darts away and races (double move) towards the far end of the warehouse. Thug 3 lashes out as she moves away from him, but misses her. Rhys: Attacks with the blade. The swift blow almost impales the thug. The man is clearly hurt, though not yet bleeding. Zarsellet: Continues his performance and moves to get a better view of Ardreth. ___________ Round 5 ~~~~~~~~~~~ Interactive map Updated Map
Warehouse ~~~~~~~~~~~ Ardreth grunts as the two missiles hit him, but stands unflinching atop the stairs.
“Is that IT?” He roars. ”Is that ALL you can do?” He spits, down to the floor below him and then disappears into the ‘office’., slamming the door behind him.
Kwarsk and Rhys deliver telling blows to Thug 3. Hurt as he is, he should surrender, but he’s young – younger than the other men and seems filled with youthful passion and fury. He continues to fight. That drive and passion overrides skil. Somehow he strikes true, hitting Rhys who had hurt him so badly (Power Attack. Natural 20. Crit’, not confirmed.) Through skill and speed, Rhys wards off the worst of that powerful blow. (11 damage)
Zarsellet and Fingers assess the situation: Thug 3 surely cannot stand for long against Rhys and Kwarsk. Thug 2 is stuck behind a web and seemingly wants no part of the fight. Ardreth has just disappeared into the room above.
Fingers: Highlight to display spoiler: {Was that the room through which they’d heard access could be gained from the buildings behind? Was Ardreth looking to escape over he roof? You don’t know. Nor do you know how accurate the rat catcher’s information is.}
Paige could now clearly see the wooden steps leading up. They had a simple banister rail, but it was metal, old and looked somewhat rusted.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 Wednesday November 1st, 2023 1:43:35 PM Hey! Everybody! I think there's a back door to that office!
Fingers does a full run (4 x 30'), skirts the merchandise, and almost reaches the base of the stairs.
(OOC - how much movement is required to get from the ground to the top of the stairs?)
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 Wednesday November 1st, 2023 2:09:48 PM
Seeing Ardreth leaving, slamming the door behind him Zarsellet yells across the room. "And THAT SOUND was the sound of your leader running away, scared. He wants you to DIE to give him a couple extra seconds. But if you surrender now, you might see sunrise tomorrow, as free men! Drop your weapons or DIE for the coward. Your choice!"
OOC: Dropping the bardic performance for now and running after Ardreth with the others.
Rhys (Bob W) AC 20/24 vs AoO; CMD 21/23 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 31/31 d20+12=32 ; d20+12=28 ; d10+6=12 ; d10=9 ; Wednesday November 1st, 2023 3:01:10 PM
Rhys winces as his opponent’s blade slips through his own defence. He can feel the warm, wet sensation of blood seeping from the wound. Whether it’s pride or just anger that compels him, he refocuses and brings his own sword slashing across. The long curved blade of his ancestors cuts deep into the thug; a spray of blood confirms its accuracy. (Hit Thug #3 Nat 20, critical confirmed vs AC 28 for 12+9=21 HP).
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 27/38 CMD 13 Wednesday November 1st, 2023 8:42:09 PM
Paige invokes the power of Domi and casts Sanctuary upon herself before heading up the stairs after Ardreth. She knows her friends have her back, but she’s not sure what she’ll find behind the door at the top of the stairs…
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 42/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Wednesday November 1st, 2023 9:32:35 PM
Kwarsk sees the young thug double over with Rhys' finishing blow and says, "Great job Rhys, now let's get after Ardreth!"
Kwarsk turns and runs (J24 to J4; has Run feat from WLA for 20' base move x 5), finishing just to the right of the stairs.
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Thursday November 2nd, 2023 3:43:42 AM
"If you think that's all I have your in for a nice surprise." mutters Burton as he runs after the others towards the stairs.
DM: NIck_K: The Warehouse Thursday November 2nd, 2023 8:36:46 AM
Burton: Responds to the fleeing Ardreth and follows the others to the base of the steps. Fingers: Yelling, Fingers races to the base of the stairs. The stairs look sound and even have metal plates protecting them from wear and tear – or perhaps those plates are covering up some woodworm. With such speed and limited time to assess the situation, it’s impossible to tell. Fingers believes that he can mount the steps quickly enough – 1 move action. Kwarsk: Commends Rhys on dispatching the thug and rapidly heads to the stairs. Paige: Invokes her god’s protection as she too makes her way to the base of the stairs. Rhys: Retaliates violently against the wound he suffered. His blade cuts deeply into the young thug, almost severing his neck! Blood fountains briefly, mercifully missing any of the Patchers as the man falls backwards, dead before he hits the floor. Zarsellet: Offers the thugs a chance to surrender, drops his Bardic Performance and races to the base of the stairs. ___________ Round 6 ~~~~~~~~~~~ Interactive map Updated Map
Warehouse ~~~~~~~~~~~ From the bottom corner of the warehouse, still trapped by a plethora of sticky webs a lone, somewhat squeaky voice pipes up.
”I yield.”
There seems little point in dealing with him, or so it seems for everyone races towards the steps. Once again The Patchers find themselves somewhat spread as Rhys spares a moment to look upon the man he’d just slain. He can easily catch up with the rest, as can Zarsellet.
Above, the door is firmly shut. It looks a stout door, even so Ardreth’s muffled voice can still be heard, but what he’s saying is impossible to determine. What can also be heard is the scrape of heavy furniture. It might be a barricade, but with such a stout door, it’s difficult to assess.
Fingers and Rhys Highlight to display spoiler: { Perhaps he’s piling furniture to get out through the roof? In theory such a thing is possible IF the ratcatcher’s information is accurate.}
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 27/38 CMD 13 Thursday November 2nd, 2023 11:42:20 AM ”I’m not sure these stairs can bear your weight, Muuru” Paige says to the half ton taur as she brushes past. The half elf takes the stairs two at a time, until she reaches the door - which she tries to open…
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 Thursday November 2nd, 2023 3:44:52 PM
Zarsellet moves up to the base of the stairs and calls to his friends. "That coward can't stop you with a closed door. Unlock it or break it open." Then he sings a different tune, adding bardic magic to enhance skills.
OOC: Inspire Competence. +2 to any skill check.
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Thursday November 2nd, 2023 3:50:55 PM
Burton will stand to one side as he waits for those who are going up stairs to do so. Once they have Burton will follow up the stairs. "See if there is any way around the office to the other door." He calls to the others.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 42/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Thursday November 2nd, 2023 5:23:39 PM
Kwarsk follows Paige up in case he needs to Shield her from any tricks of Ardreth.
(OOC Kwarsk weighs 185 + gear 112.5 = 297.5lbs)
Rhys (Bob W) AC 20/24 vs AoO; CMD 21/23 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 31/31 Thursday November 2nd, 2023 9:18:37 PM ”There may be a way out through a window in that office!” Rhys yells out to the rest of the Patchers. ”Don’t waste any time with picking a lock, break that door in before he gets away!”
Rhys races towards and up the stairs as fast as he can (Run 5x30’).
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 Thursday November 2nd, 2023 10:57:56 PM
Fingers runs up the stairs and gets to the door, pulling out his lockpicks as he goes. Although everyone is expecting him to just throw his weight against it, picking the lock is probably a surer bet.
DM: NIck_K: The Warehouse 3d6=11 ; Friday November 3rd, 2023 7:44:21 AM
Burton: Steps to one side permitting others to ascend the stairs. Fingers: Runs up the stairs, picks in hand.
Kwarsk: Is swift to follow Paige up the stairs. Paige: Bounds up the stairs 2 at a time and tries the door. Rhys: Advocates breaking the window, but it is to the side and overhangs the warehouse; so is difficult to access. Still, if someone could climb, it might yet prove easier access. Zarsellet: Gets to the base of the stairs and encourages his friends most ably. ___________ Round 7 ~~~~~~~~~~~ Interactive map Updated Map
The Patchers race to catch Ardreth. Whilst charging up the stairs, something happens: a trap is sprung and lightning arcs down from the top step. That searing bolt lances downwards, leaping off the metal railing and each metal plate on the steps to blast a crate opposite the foot of the stairs! It erupts in a cloud of splinters.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Paige, Kwarsk, Fingers and Zarsellet – Reflex save: 20 or take 11 points of electrical damage. Successful saves round down. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Burton and Rhys only: Perception 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { You hear muffled laughter and sound of something heavy scraping – possibly behind the door.}
What is the line between I1 & I2 represent? Is the office overhanging the main warehouse floor or is it built up from the ground? Does the roof of the office go to the roof of the warehouse or stop below it (i.e. does the office have a roof that can be accessed?)
IC: Burton moves away from the stair and inspects the office from the ground floor looking up at the office walls for windows or any other way out. (Ending up in the area of C5).
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 21/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 d20+8=11 ; d20+8=11 ; Friday November 3rd, 2023 5:12:30 PM
Zarsellet takes the hit full on. But it isn't enough to matter at this point. He doesn't know if Ardreth is still able to hear them but calls out anyway, "That the best you got coward? Traps and hirelings that you left to die? You're not worthy of continuing living!" He continues the bardic song to assist his friends with the task of getting the door open.
OOC: Bardic Performance: Inspire Competence +2 to all skills.
DM: NIck_K: The Warehouse Saturday November 4th, 2023 5:45:22 AM
Burton assesses the scene. The 'Office' juts out from the far wall. It overhangs the floor below, supported by stout brackets on the end wall. There's a window facing the body of the warehouse, but accessing it would be very challenging.
The roof of the warehouse is pitched. Consequently, it is possible to climb up onto the roof of the office. Obviously, how substantial that roof is, is completely unknown at this stage.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 16/38 CMD 13 d20=6 ; Saturday November 4th, 2023 6:45:10 PM
Paige is surprised by the trap and gets the shock of her life! (d20 = 6+3+ 2 heroism +2 bardic inspo = 13, fail). Pulling herself together, she pushes against the door, and if it opens, she steps back to let Kwarsk go through first.
The cleric won’t cower behind the dwarf, however, believing that her Sanctuary spell will provide some element of protection from a direct attack. She moves to follow her companion into the room and clear the way for those who follow…
Rhys (Bob W) AC 20/24 vs AoO; CMD 21/23 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 20/31 d8=2 ; d20+7=21 ; Saturday November 4th, 2023 9:31:45 PM
With no immediate path to Ardreth, Rhys turns his attention to the last thug trapped in the web. He hustles over to a point nearby. ”So, you yield. That is wise! Your master Ardreth spares no thought for you or your fate. He barricades himself in that office above. I, however do spare a thought for you. With the right answers you might go free. If you choose incorrectly you will most certainly spend time as a prisoner in some deep, dark place.”. Rhys pauses to let the information sink in.
”First, is there an escape route from that office and if so, where does it lead? Second, who does Ardreth report to? Third, what do you know of Pyramid Industries? And lastly what is stored in all of these crates?”
Rhys calmly wipes the blood from his sword as he awaits answers. (Intimidate = 21)
Active Effects (Inspire Competence from Zarsellett)
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 42/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+9=24 ; d20+7=10 ; d10+3=9 ; Saturday November 4th, 2023 11:09:13 PM
Kwarsk tucks behind his Tower Shield and deflects the lightning, emerging unharmed!
(OOC Reflex Save = 24; Kwarsk has Evasion.)
Kwarsk watches Paige try to open the door, and prepares himself to take one of two actions to ensure Ardreth is cornered.
(OOC IF Paige is successful in opening the door THEN Kwarsk moves in to attack Ardreth or whatever foe is directly ahead of Kwarsk. (Kwarsk isn't going to hack at a hostage, but if it's Ardreth or his thug, the waraxe swings freely, but too gently. (Normal strike hits AC 10, not using Power Attack, for 9 damage)
IF Paige is NOT successful in opening the door THEN Kwarsk moves to the door and executes a Powerful overhand attack on the door with his waraxe, likely hitting the broad side of a door. (Hits AC 9 including -1 for Power Attack, for 11 damage (adding 2 to the 9 rolled above due to Power Attack).)
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 21/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 Sunday November 5th, 2023 6:35:22 PM
Seeing Paige and Kwarsk at the door Zarsellet figures that there would be no more traps on the stair. He moves up a little closer to them, maintaining his Bardic performance to enhance skills. If combat starts he can switch back.
DM: NIck_K: The Warehouse Monday November 6th, 2023 5:00:14 AM
Burton: Carefully assesses the ‘office’. He sees that it overhangs the warehouse. Also, he sees that it seems little more than a glorified shed, held aloft by stout brackets. Its roof is flat. The warehouse’s roof is pitched; so accessing the ‘office’ roof is feasible. Looking up, he notes two other things: one, that the floor of the outcropping is very solid, much akin to the brackets that support it. Two, looking in through the side window, it would seem that the ‘office’ goes back further than the walls of the warehouse. Probably it sits over the building behind it, but who know where it might go? (I1 & 2 is merely a result of my inability to work with that format. It’s just a wall. I’ve had all sorts of issues with the borders.) Looking around Burton notes that none of the crates dotted around offer sufficient height to access the window safely. There is however, a ladder. (see picture for details.) Fingers: Doesn’t find any traps on the door and like Paige, steps aside that Kwarsk might swing freely. Kwarsk: Steps in and ushering Paige aside swings his axe mightily at the door. It bites deep. Splinters fly. He creates a hole through which he can see the window, but little else at this stage. He feels quite sure that one, maybe two more blows and he’ll be through. Paige: After being nastily shocked Paige grabs the handle to the door and opens it. It does open easily for about 2 inches, but it then bangs against an obstruction behind it. She can see sufficient that she can identify a hastily lodged chair stops the door from being opened further. Rhys: Rushes to question the man that has surrendered. Zarsellet: Shrugs off the damage and challenges Ardreth further whilst encouraging his friends’ endeavours. ___________ Rounds 7+ & 8 ~~~~~~~~~~~ Maps Updated Map
As the action unfolds on the stairs and Burton assesses other options, Rhys rushes to interrogate the trapped and yiedling thung. That is made more chgallenging by the distance and the obscurity provided by the web. Indeed, Rhys cannot even see him! Nontheless he raises his voice and asks his questions.
”So, you yield. That is wise! Your master Ardreth spares no thought for you or your fate. He barricades himself in that office above. I, however do spare a thought for you. With the right answers you might go free. If you choose incorrectly you will most certainly spend time as a prisoner in some deep, dark place.”. Rhys pauses to let the information sink in.
”First, is there an escape route from that office and if so, where does it lead? Second, who does Ardreth report to? Third, what do you know of Pyramid Industries? And lastly what is stored in all of these crates?”
There was a deathly pause. Perhaps the man had somehow slipped away. It was difficult vto be certain and even if answers were forthcoming, Rhys knew that assessing the veracity of any statement would be nigh impossible as he couldn’t read the man’s body language. Yet after an uncomfortable pause there came a tentative reply.
”You’ll let me go? I’ll tell you if you forget all about me. I’ll do the same – honest.” The man however, didn’t wait for a response as he quickly blurted the answers. ”The office? It does back over the building behind. Quite big. No exit that – maybe the roof. Never used it, but heard it was possible. Dunno. He never told me. Never heard of ‘em. Stuff. All sorts. Whatever he can get hold of.” Looking around, (see picture) it’s clear that there is all manner of ‘stuff’ in the warehouse. No discernible pattern or theme is apparent.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 24/38 CMD 13 d20=12 ; d6=2 ; d6=6 ; Monday November 6th, 2023 1:26:01 PM ”Of course the door is blocked” thinks Paige with resignation. ”Hey! I’ve got some alchemist’s fire here. You think we should burn this place down?” she bluffs (Bluff = 12+1=13).
In reality, the cleric channels healing energy through her holy symbol, which restores 8 HP to all her injured companions as well as herself, within 30 ft of the cleric.
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Monday November 6th, 2023 1:36:04 PM
OOC: Can't see a ladder on the Warehouse map and currently don't have access to the Updated Map.
IC: If Burton can get to the ladder he will go and try and get it and place it against the 'Office' on the wall with the windows over looking the lower warehouse floor.
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 29/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 Monday November 6th, 2023 3:23:15 PM
Since it looks like they will have to destroy the door rather than unlock it Zarsellet stops his bardic performance. He does have a limit and doesn't want to reach it when it may be needed.
He feels the healing energy as Paige channels and gives a quiet sigh of relief.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 d20+5=23 ; Monday November 6th, 2023 4:13:47 PM
Reflex d20 + 5 = 23. Fingers evades the blast and takes no damage. He answers Paige, loudly:
Burn down the place? Don't be foolish! Now that we have a gap, we only have to burn down the office. I'll light this torch...
Of course, Fingers is simply waiting for Kwarsk to take another swing at the door. If it makes a hole big enough to see the obstructing chair, he'll try to dislodge it with a Mage Hand spell.
Spells in Effect: - Mage Armor - 1 hour from when he arrived at the green door
Spells prepared: 0 - Prestidigitation, Ray of Frost, Detect Magic 1 - Sleep SLA - Mage Hand 3x SLA - Hand of the Apprentice (Throw weapon) 5x Amulet - Any of his spellbook spells 1x Mage Armor (44 charges remaining on wand)
100 gp left.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 42/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+6=16 ; d10+5=12 ; Monday November 6th, 2023 6:43:25 PM
Kwarsk says, "I'll make some kindling for you, so it'll all burn faster!"
While speaking, Kwarsk winds up and executes another Powerful overhand attack on the door with his waraxe, solidly exploding away more shards of wood!
(OOC Hit AC 16, including Power Attack, for 12 damage!
Kwarsk still has a Move Action after the strike, and if this strike made the way clear for the Patchers but for debris, then he'll spend that Move Action clearing away the debris and finish with a 5' step into the room. If no debris need be cleared then he'll advance in as far as he can, intending to end his movement adjacent to any foe.)
Rhys (Bob W) AC 20/24 vs AoO; CMD 21/23 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 20/31 d20+7=22 ; Monday November 6th, 2023 7:05:19 PM ”Right then. Once this is over, you leave this place and by this place I mean town! Fail me and I’ll be forced to…well…you get the picture.”. Rhys turns his attention back to the office and his companions. ”You had better get in there fast or Ardreth will be gone!” he shouts.
If the ladder looks long enough to reach up to the office window, the elf will help Burton position it and either hold the ladder for the wizard, or climb it himself. (Climb=22). If the ladder is clearly too short, he will once again run at full speed, back around the warehouse and towards the glass blower’s shop in hope of intercepting Ardreth should he escape. (Run speed = 5x30’)
DM: NIck_K: The Warehouse d20=5 ; d20=10 ; Tuesday November 7th, 2023 7:43:24 AM
Burton: Sees a ladder and collects it. Unfortunately it is a folding ladder (like painter and decorators use – used internally)rather than the type that ascends up its own length (like window cleaners use – used externally) He sets it up and sees that he could likely just reach the sill of the window by balancing on the top step. Then he’s have to break/open the window and somehow pull himself up and through it: a challenging task for sure. Fingers: Readies a spell, but with Kwarsk’s mighty blow it’s not needed. Kwarsk: Smashes through the door and then kicks away the remains; part of which cling to the frame. There’s also the chair and remnants to shift so that others might enter easily. Paige: Bluffs about burning the place down. She heals herself and others nearby. (Rhys is out of range) Rhys: Informs the others that Ardreth may well be seeking to escape. The ladder’s height seems borderline: certainly not tall enough to give easy access. He’s on the point of racing around to cut off any retreat when Kwarsk barrels into the office. Rhys sees that going after him will place him far closer to catching Ardreth than going all the way around the block. He’s seen that Ardreth is fleet of foot and can outrun him in a straight foot race. Zarsellet: Sighs in relief upon being healed. He suspends his Bardic Performance.
The door is smashed. Splinters again fly, but Kwarsk’s shield spares everyone from harm. He steps through and finds himself in a small ante-chamber. The remains of door and chair litter the floor, making footing somewhat tricky. Matters are compounded by a broken shelving unit strewn across the area.
(NB: If you subtract 5’ from your total movement you can pass through this area easily. Retaining full movement or charging will require a Dex/Acrobatics check/trip. DC:12)
Kwarsk sees the reception committee. There are four men in the room beyond. Excluding Ardreth, each is armed with a longsword and wicked-looking, black dart.
D: (Delgad) This man is rather portly and has an impressive handlebar moustache. He wears a leather cap that cover not just his head, but his ears. He readies his longsword to swing at the first person that enters
E: (Emmard) From the cover provided by the desk and chair piled thereon, he hurls a dart at Kwarsk. (Readied action). That dart flies wide and hits the window in the ante-chamber. It shatters and shards of glass fall to the floor below, showering the ladder beneath it. It’s difficult to ascertain much detail of the man, but he appears to have long, dreadlocked hair. Rhys and Burton see a missile fly out from the window.
F: (Farrix) Also readies his longsword. Kwarsk understands that the first person through the door will be flanked and possibly subject to further missile fire. Farrix is a lean, muscular man, but is far from tall, standing only 5’6”. Strangely he grips a clay pipe between his teeth even as he snarls in anticipation of the fight to come.
Ardreth grins confidently. He then hurls a javelin at Kwarsk. It hits the shield and bounces back to add to the clutter on the ground. Ardreth then snatches up his heavy, spiked shield that had been propped ready against the desk. The man is in leather armour and brandishes a battle axe.
[b]”Yield and I may spare your miserable lives! Better yet, turn and RUN! Flee for your lives, you curs!”
Amidst all this activity Kwarsk cannot fail to notice the chair stacked on top of the desk and above it, a stout looking trapdoor set in the ceiling. It would seem that the information gleaned by Rhys and Fingers could well be correct.
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 29/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 d20+10=14 ; Tuesday November 7th, 2023 12:58:31 PM
Zarsellet cannot see the men, but does hear Ardreth's voice. He returns the jibe, "So you have another group of fools to die for you Ardreth? More dead bodies like those that you abandoned below? You haven't even the courage to face the least of us, like me, alone, but somehow you find fools that will accept and die for your coin. Well, we will take you, or your head to the authorities. And we'll use your coin to pay for the burial of your henchmen here and below, unless any of them are smart enough to surrender rather than die? One of your men below did surrender. He's being questioned and then will be allowed to leave, a free man...." and then starts his Bardic Performance again to inspire the courage of the team ahead of him.
OOC: Terrible Diplomacy roll, 14, so I doubt I've convinced any of the lackeys....
OOC: Bardic Performance, Inspire Courage: +1 morale bonus on saving throws against charm and fear effects and a +1 competence bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls. Only 6 rounds left after this one so we need to finish these guys!
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Tuesday November 7th, 2023 1:29:54 PM
Burton muttering about the short ladder will head for the stair up to the office at a steady jog. He will stop at the back of the que of Patchers waiting to get in to the office. While he waits his dagger appear again in his hand as Burton has jogs up the stairs a silver tear shaped pendent with a star in the center has come loose from his shirt and hangs free.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 Tuesday November 7th, 2023 4:17:36 PM
Sounds like things are getting interesting.
Fingers moves to the "difficult terrain" section, takes in the scene. Ceiling trapdoor, eh? Well, I've been waiting to try this.
He places his hand on his Brooch of Shielding, thinks a moment, and calls to mind a spell that's back home in his spellbook. He points into the room, and Ardreth's desk is covered in Grease.
To his friends: All yours, gang
[OOC: Remember, party members can pass through Fingers' squares; the only penalty is the "difficult terrain".]
Spells in Effect: - Mage Armor - 1 hour from when he arrived at the green door
Spells prepared: 0 - Prestidigitation, Ray of Frost, Detect Magic 1 - Sleep SLA - Mage Hand 3x SLA - Hand of the Apprentice (Throw weapon) 5x
Mage Armor (44 charges remaining on wand)
100 gp left.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 44/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Tuesday November 7th, 2023 5:19:39 PM
Kwarsk moves into the office with a sharp turn to the right (to J21) ending with a cabinet offering some Cover from Farrix's readied blade. Kwarsk bellows, "Patchers: Attack, but be wary: foes are everywhere in this small office."
(OOC: 1) PF Corebook: "When making a melee attack against an adjacent target, your target has cover if any line from any corner of your square to the target’s square goes through a wall (including a low wall)." https://www.aonprd.com/Rules.aspx?Name=Cover&Category=Combat%20Modifiers 2) Kwarsk double-moved in a straight line, following the right-hand wall, creating space for other Patchers to come through, and if any foes try to go past, Kwarsk has three (3) waraxe AoOs waiting for them. 3) Kwarsk clearly triggers Farrix's Readied action if Farrix wants it, but Kwarsk was never adjacent to any other foe. Kwarsk's AC is 27 vs. the Readied blade.)
Rhys (Bob W) AC 20/24 vs AoO; CMD 21/23 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 20/31 Tuesday November 7th, 2023 9:36:26 PM
Rhys makes a dash back towards the stairs that lead up to the office (double move of 60’) ending in F8.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 34/38 CMD 13 d6=6 ; d6=2 ; Tuesday November 7th, 2023 11:27:55 PM ”Excuse me. Coming through.”. Paige squeezes past Fingers and stops when she reaches Kwarsk’s side. ”I’ve got your back, and when you move, I’ll move, and keep my back to yours - if I can!”
The cleric channels healing energy through her holy symbol once again, which restores another 8 HP to any of her injured companions as well as herself, within 30 ft of the cleric.
DM Sanity info:
Paige can move 30 ft. , so 25 ft. to get through debris to sq. I21
DM: NIck_K: The Warehouse d20=1 ; d20=10 ; d20=17 ; d8=1 ; d20=20 ; d20=14 ; 3d8=12 ; Wednesday November 8th, 2023 5:13:58 AM
Burton: Abandons the idea of using the ladder and makes use of the stairs that he can assist when it comes to fighting. Fingers: (Did not make a Concentration Roll; hence is not casting defensively. He does provoke an attack of opportunity. Which misses!) Casts Grease on the desk. Kwarsk: Moves into position: a fighting position and collects a blow to his shield as Farrix’s blade bounces harmlessly off it. Paige: Enters and backs Kwarsk up, channelling healing energy as she does. Rhys: Like Burton, Rhys dashes back up the stairs to the office. Zarsellet: Attempts to convince Ardreth’s lackeys to surrender. He then recommences his Bardic Performance to inspire his fellow Patchers. ___________ Round 10 ~~~~~~~~~~~ Maps Updated Map
As Fingers invoked his magic, Emmard saw his chance and flung another wicked dart his way. That had been the intention. He plucked the dart from his bandolier and drew his arm back – only to fling the dart behind him! (Natural 1) Seeking to hide his embarrassment he advanced on Kwarsk, longsword in hand.
The thugs and Ardreth close on the two intrepid heroes that have entered the back office. Farrix’s attack clanged noisily off Kwarsk’s shield. Delgad stabbed at Paige having taken a careful step forward. His blade struck her, but it was a glancing blow. (4 damage)
Ardreth then roared in delight as he stepped forward to smite Paige with his axe. The axe slipped past her defences and battered her back into Kwarsk! The vicious strike tore through her armour as if it were paper! (Confirmed critical hit: 27 damage)
“Leave, you fools! Leave now and I will spare the girl! Ardreth laughed at the pain he’d just inflicted. His euphoria, coupled with the evidence of that devastating blow gave his men heart.
Rhys (Bob W) AC 20/24 vs AoO; CMD 21/23 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 20/31 Wednesday November 8th, 2023 10:38:47 AM
Rhys darts up the stairs, squeezing by Fingers and getting as far into the office as possible.
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 Wednesday November 8th, 2023 11:07:43 AM
Out of sight of the battle Zarsellet continues his Bardic Performance. He hears Ardreth's crowing, but isn't sure what 'girl' he is talking about.... "Somebody please cut the beak off of that annoying bird-brain Ardreth! He squawks are getting annoying!"
OOC: Bardic Performance, Inspire Courage: +1 morale bonus on saving throws against charm and fear effects and a +1 competence bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls. Only 5 rounds left after this one so we need to finish these guys! Or just kill Ardreth since he was stupid enough to get in reach....
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 34/38 CMD 13 Wednesday November 8th, 2023 11:13:15 AM
Delaying post for Paige until DM responds to question regarding bad guy Will saves vs Sanctuary spell protecting the cleric.
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Wednesday November 8th, 2023 2:02:47 PM
Seeing the entrance to the 'Back' Office is crowded Burton remains by the outer door. He will stand by the edge so there is room if Zarsellet which to move past him.
OOC: While standing there he will study how the warehouse roof connects to the wall of the warehouse looking for any possible gaps.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 34/38 CMD 13 d20=7 ; d8=5 ; Wednesday November 8th, 2023 7:55:12 PM (OOC: Sanctuary on Paige requires attackers to make a Will save vs 15 to hit the cleric. I don’t see any Will save rolls amongst the DM die rolls, so I’m posting an ‘if/then’ post…HP could be as high as 34/38 or as low as 3/38…)
If Ardreth fails the will save, whether or not Delgad does, and Paige is 30 HP or better/38….
Paige blanches at the ferocity of Ardreth’s attempt on her person, and thanks Domi for his Sanctuary. She targets the elf, and swings her morningstar putting as much power into her swing as she can muster (Hit AC 7+6+2 Heroism +1 Bardic Inspiration +4 burned a Hero Point = 20, for 5+3+1Bardic Inspiration = 9 dmg). and gets ready for repercussions.
If Ardreth is successful with the will save, whether or not Delgad is, and Paige is at 7 HP or less/38…
Paige blanches at the ferocity of Ardreth’s attack, but what she must do next hurts far more than the grievous wound received from the elf’s axe. ”I’m so sorry Kwarsk” she cries, as she withdraws from the heat of melee (to K23) and makes room for another to take her place.
DM Sanity Info: Zarsellet’s Bardic Inspiration (+1 to hit, and +1 to dmg)
Hero points - 2 left (PC sheet updated accordingly)
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 44/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20=11 ; d10+3=11 ; Wednesday November 8th, 2023 9:42:27 PM
(OOC Kwarsk's actions depend on whether Paige is still there, so DM Nick please resolve whether Paige's A) or B) action takes place, and I have marked my own actions A) and B) to match.)
(A) If Paige stood her ground and attacked Ardreth then Kwarsk moves to flank Ardreth with Paige (G19), and swings his waraxe, likely cutting deep into Ardreth!
(OOC roll of 11 + 7 (normal bonus) +1 (bardsong) +2 (flank) = Hit AC 21 for 12 damage. (forgot Bardsong in roll) Kwarsk just triggered AoOs from all of the four, but Mobility works here, and Kwarsk is AC 31 vs. all of their attacks.)
(B) If Paige Withdrew then Kwarsk moves to get behind Emmard (J19), and swings his waraxe, likely cutting deep into Emmard, and calls out, "Rhys, flank this one, the dart-thrower!"
(OOC roll of 11 + 7 (normal bonus) +1 (bardsong) = Hit AC 19 for 12 damage. (forgot Bardsong in roll) Kwarsk just triggered AoOs from all of the four, but Mobility works here, and Kwarsk is AC 31 vs. all of their attacks.)
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 Wednesday November 8th, 2023 9:42:32 PM
Fingers -- curse his massive bulk! -- can't move forward without incurring multiple AOOs, can't move back without stepping on Zarsellet, and can't get a clear shot at the enemies. There's one thing he can try.
He casts Sleep at the lower-right corner of the desk. The 10-foot burst will probably catch only Emmard. (DC 13).
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 Thursday November 9th, 2023 1:50:19 AM
(OOC: Due to the IF/THEN nature of the previous posts, plus the fact that Wayne reminded me that I'm probably in no danger from AOOs, I'd like to postpone this action until the others are resolved.)
DM: NIck_K: The Warehouse d8=5 ; d20=5 ; d20=6 ; d20=15 ; d20=18 ; d8=6 ; d6=4 ; Thursday November 9th, 2023 5:18:12 AM
Burton: Waits, assessing the roof. He sees that it abuts the end wall. The office proper goes through that end wall to occupy a space over the building below. Fingers: Flings a Sleep spell at Emmard. Kwarsk: Attacks Ardreth. Paige: Gets into the thick of things. She attacks Ardreth. Rhys: Darts into the office. Zarsellet: Continues his performance inciting the others to stop Ardreth’s “squawking” ___________ Round 11 ~~~~~~~~~~~ Maps Updated Map
**I did forget the save for Ardreth. I have since rolled it. (First roll below. Well, it was: it appears to have vanished now, but I know that he failed and shall adhere to that.) He did NOT save and so could not attack Paige. Given that he was intent on attacking and could not strike her – he struck at Kwarsk. Given that I have repositioned him to do this, Kwarsk need only change facing to attack. There are no attacks of opportunity. Ardreth did roll a 20. That attack did therefore hit Kwarsk, but does not confirm a critical. As the damage was an amalgamated roll, I must perforce roll damage again. Kwarsk suffers 10 damage from the battle axe. Contingent actions based on the first premise come into effect. Again, apologies to all for the mess up.**
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
With Ardreth almost breathing in her face as he stubbornly attacks Kwarsk, Paige lashes out. Her blow comes close, but the elf’s armour saves spares him from any injury.
Emmard succumbs to Fingers Sleepy magic and slumps to the floor, dropping his sword.
Kwarsk daringly cuts through the trafic. He bounds over the fallen Emmard provoking an attack from Farrix, but the thug’s blade does not even come close to striking the dwarf. Kwarsk lashes out at Ardreth. It is only because Paige bravely forgoes her Sanctuary that he is able to hit! (Flanking made the difference). He strikes true! (12 damage inflicted)
Farrix moves to attack Kwarsk. The heavily armoured Kwark proves too difficult a target for his skills with the blade.
Delgad makes the hasty (and likely foolish) decision to go flank the troublesome dwarf. Both Rhys and Paige get an Attack of Opportunity against him. (AC:16) PROVISO Should he survive – he attacks Kwarsk. Kwarsk is hit! (AC:27 – if it is somehow higher than the number indicated in the header, ignore the damage) He takes 13 (includes sneak attack from flanking)
Rhys (Bob W) AC 20/24 vs AoO; CMD 21/23 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 20/31 d20+11=18 ; d10+7=9 ; d20+11=22 ; d10+7=13 ; Thursday November 9th, 2023 9:39:13 AM
Rhys reacts to Delgad’s move to attack Kwarsk and lashes out with his sword (Hit AC 18 for 9 hp). The elf then slips by Paige and swings again, this time at Ardreth (Hit AC 22 for 13 hp).
Rhys yells back over his shoulder, “Fingers! Get in here, we’re outnumbered and you’re blocking the way!.
DM: NIck_K: The Warehouse Thursday November 9th, 2023 10:42:12 AM
And Another Thing
Yes, I messed up again. Getting to be a habit this. Delgad did NOT hit Paige. Her sanctuary spell was efficacious.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 34/38 CMD 13 d20=15 ; d8=8 ; d20=17 ; d8=3 ; Thursday November 9th, 2023 11:54:29 AM
When the portly fellow with the handlebar moustaches and leather cap makes his hasty move, Paige takes her cue and swings at the fellow (AoO on Delgad - Hit AC 15+6+2 Heroism+1 Bard Inspo=24, for 8+3+1 Bard Insp=12 dmg)
The cleric returns her attention to her nemesis and once again swings her morningstar at Ardreth (Hit AC 17+6+2 Heroism+1 Bard Inspo+2 Flanking=28, for 3+3+1 Bard Inspo = 7 dmg.)
The red-headed half elf holds her position, and for once, holds her tongue - conserving her energy for combat.
DM Sanity Info: Zarsellet’s Bardic Inspiration (+1 to hit, and +1 to dmg)
Heroism from Zarsellet (40 min or 400 rounds (probably 25+ min remaining)
Hero points - 2 left (PC sheet updated accordingly)
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 Thursday November 9th, 2023 1:34:12 PM
Zarsellet squeezes through the huge Fingers to finally be able to see the melee. "Just smash Ardreth. His hirelings aren't stupid enough to think they'll be paid once he's dead. Should be easy now that he's surrounded!" He casts a cantrip at Ardreth and continues his bardic performance.
OOC: Daze cantrip cast at Ardreth. Will Save DC13 negates. Also only effects 4 HD or less target.
OOC: Bardic Performance, Inspire Courage: +1 morale bonus on saving throws against charm and fear effects and a +1 competence bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls. Only 4 rounds left after this one so we need to finish these guys!
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Thursday November 9th, 2023 2:16:00 PM
Burton looks into the office seeing Fingers and Zarsellet blocking his passage into whatever is happening in the back office. He will continue to wait until a gap appears and he will then move to the square behind Zarsellet.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 44/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+10=13 ; Thursday November 9th, 2023 9:22:57 PM
(OOC - Kwarsk's 34 HP reflects just Ardreth - Delgad took 21 total from the two AoOs and as he's a hired man, I am not certain Delgad is still standing... will adjust HP down to 21 if the next DM post still has Delgad conscious.)
Kwarsk shouts down the hall towards the rest of the Patchers, "Rhys, Zar, flank Ardreth on the sides!"
Kwarsk takes Ardreth's measure and swings his waraxe with some force, but Ardreth's shield is there in the nick of time! Kwarsk becomes more stern, if that is even possible!
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 d20+4=8 ; d8+2=10 ; Friday November 10th, 2023 12:36:16 AM
(OOC: Fingers may be big, but he's not "blocking" the passage. In this game you pass through (but not end your movement in) squares occupied by friendly characters -- and Fingers is generally the friendliest one here.)
Fingers moves to the southwest corner, probably exposing himself to AOO from Ardreth and maybe Farrix. He reaches and clobbers Ardreth with his blackjack.
Att: d20+3+1 (bardic) = 8. Probably misses, but Ardreth *may* be dazed, so just in case: Dam: 1d8+2 = 10
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Friday November 10th, 2023 3:26:17 AM
OOC: Burton wasn't fat shaming Fingers :) from his view there isn't a square to go into with Zar in the square he is in and Fingers 'filling' the 4 squares in the outer office.
Burton: Watched on, eyes eagerly searching for an opneing. Fingers: Repositions himself, exposing himself to attacks. He strives to club Ardreth with his sap, but the elf again sways aside to avoid the blow. Kwarsk: Kwarsk lashes out at Ardreth and exhorts his friends to surround the man. Paige: Also strikes the repositioning Delgad. Rhys: Moved to attack Delgad and Ardreth. Zarsellet: Continues to inspire his friends and direct the course of the battle. He throws a minor spell at Ardreth seeking to end the fight swiftly. ___________ Round 12 ~~~~~~~~~~~ Maps Updated Map
~~~~~~~~~~~ Rhys catches the retreating Delgad with a blow that winds him somewhat. Rhys then swings to lunge at Ardreth. His blade hits true.
Paige’s mace clouts Delgad on the back dealing him a hefty blow.
Zarsellet’s spell seems to have no effect on the still annoyingly bombastic Ardreth.
Kwarsk slashes at Ardreth, but the elf nimbly sways aside from that heavy blow.
Both Ardreth and Farrix lunge at the large figure of Fingers. (Ardreth hits AC: 17 and inflicts 12 points of damage Farrix’s lunge strikes AC:14 for 5 points of damage NB: I could not see whre the AC in brackets applied. Hence the lack of description. Please adjust health as appropriate.)
Burton’s eyes scoured the scene. As yet, no opneing presented itself to him.
Delgath appeared to have sustained a cut to the side of his head, yet fighting so close to Ardreth seemed buoyed by his presence and lashed out at Kwarsk. His blow found a gap in Kwarsk’s impressive defences and very nearly skewered him (Potential critical) Kwarsk just managed to twist his shield enough at the very last second to mitigate the worst of the blow. (Kwarsk takes 12 points of damage)
Ardreth roared his defiance. ”Come on then! All of you! I’ll take the lot of you!” He ignored Paige and spun wildly to lash out at Kwarsk. The battle axe chopped past his defences, but Kwarsk was swift to block the counter. It was clear that Ardreth was fast and no mug with that axe! Then the spiked shield slammed into Kwarsk’s shield. It held. (Kwarsk takes 10 points of damage)
Fingers then attacked. They had Kwarsk surrounded. He felt confident. Luckily for Kwarsk that confidence was very misplaced and his strike missed badly.
Meanwhile, Emmard slept, blissfully unaware of the tumult around him.
Rhys (Bob W) AC 20/24 vs AoO; CMD 21/23 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 20/31 d20+11=18 ; d4=1 ; d10+7=13 ; Friday November 10th, 2023 9:51:02 AM
Seeing that Delgad is still up, and has now flanked Kwarsk, Rhys moves into position and lets his blade go to work (Hit AC 18 for 13 HP). ”Hang in there Kwarsk, I’ll try to cut down these odds”
OOC active effects Inspire competence Please ignore d4 roll - fat fingers!
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 d20+6=24 ; d4+1=4 ; Friday November 10th, 2023 10:26:11 AM
Zarsellet wasn't surprised when his cantrip had no effect on Ardreth. It really just confirmed that the man was dangerous. He stepped forward to join the melee with his small sword, stabbing at the wicked man. He keeps his bardic performance going, knowing that they need to finish the battle soon.
OOC: 24 to hit. 4 damage.
OOC: Bardic Performance, Inspire Courage: +1 morale bonus on saving throws against charm and fear effects and a +1 competence bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls. Only 3 rounds left after this one so we need to finish these guys!
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 34/38 CMD 13 d20=6 ; Friday November 10th, 2023 12:30:08 PM
Paige swings her morningstar at Ardreth (Hit HP 6+6+2 Heroism +1 Bardic Inspo +2 Flanking = 17). It’s been a very long day, and the cleric feels her strength start to fail. ”Domi! Give me courage!”
DM Sanity Info: Zarsellet’s Bardic Inspiration (+1 to hit, and +1 to dmg)
Heroism from Zarsellet (40 min or 400 rounds (probably 25+ min remaining)
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | d20+6=13 ; d6=2 ; d6=6 ; d6=5 ; d6+2=6 ; Friday November 10th, 2023 3:30:40 PM
Burton moves to the square behind Paige (I22) he watches closely until he has an opening to cast his spell (Scorching Ray, Touch attack AC13, Burton used both Point-Blank Shot & Precise Shot with his Ray Attacks. If he hits he delivers 19 HP of Fire Damage on Ardreth.)
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP -1/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Friday November 10th, 2023 5:37:10 PM
(OOC - Delgad didn't fall, so Kwarsk was at 21HP as of Thursday's DM post. Delgad's second strike (12 damage) puts Kwarsk at 9HP. Kwarsk's Tower Shield blocks the spike on Ardreth's shield but Kwarsk was unprepared for the impact and takes a hard shove into the desk where his shield does not protect him from the desk's flanking attack.)
Kwarsk is about out of breath, mumbling "Patchers..." and then collapses, hidden under the impromptu lean-to created by Kwarsk's Stone Tower Shield and the Desk.
(OOC Kwarsk is at -1 HP, unconscious. Paige Kwarsk fell before your attack, so no flanking bonus and you hit AC 15 instead of 17.)
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 22/34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 d20+6=22 ; 3d8+2=12 ; Friday November 10th, 2023 11:26:31 PM
Fingers winces as Ardreth's attack strikes true, but Farrix's lunge bounces off of a small circle of force that hadn't been visible until then. (OOC: the higher AC is due to the Mage Armor spell.)
Fingers takes one step north; now he and Zarsellet are flanking Ardreth. He attack the elf with his blackjack: Attack: d20+3+2 (flank) + 1 (bardic) = 22 Damage: 1d8+2+2d8 (sneak) = 12 nonlethal
Spells in Effect: - Mage Armor - 1 hour from when he arrived at the green door
Spells prepared: 0 - Prestidigitation, Ray of Frost, Detect Magic SLA - Mage Hand 3x SLA - Hand of the Apprentice (Throw weapon) 5x
Mage Armor (44 charges remaining on wand)
100 gp left.
DM: NIck_K: The Warehouse Monday November 13th, 2023 5:03:40 AM
Burton: Unleashes his magic at Ardreth. Fingers: Attacks Ardreth. Kwarsk: Fighting valiantly falls behind his shield. Paige: Attacks Ardreth. Rhys: Steps in to attack Delgad. Zarsellet: Moves in to attack Ardreth. ___________ Round 13 ~~~~~~~~~~~ Maps Updated Map
~~~~~~~~~~~ With one devastating strike, Rhys cuts Delgad deeply. He staggers, falling to one knee. He drops his blade and then slumps to the ground. (Heal check: 15 to ascertain his current state of health)
Zarsellet cuts Ardreth. Then man spins and glowers at him.
Paige valiantly swings at Ardreth, but the nimble elf again somehow manages to evade her blow.
Burton’s Scorching Ray strikes true, searing the elf badly.
Kwarsk falls even as the Patchers start to take the ascendancy.
Fingers’ sap finds a gap in Ardreth’s defences – due to him being flanked. The blow catches him at the base of the skull and he falls senseless to the floor.
Emmard continues to doze obliviously on the floor. (Fingers had been most careful where he was stepping.)
Seeing that all his companions were down, Farrix hastily drops his sword. ”Quarter!” He shouts as he raises his hands in surrender. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Delgad: -34/? (Heal 15 to ascertain) Ardreth: -48+12 Non lethal/? - Insensible. Farrix: surrendered. Emmard: Sleeping
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | d20+3=19 ; Monday November 13th, 2023 6:19:01 AM
Burton takes a deep breath before moving further into the back office he looks around for anything interesting (Perception 19)
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 d8+2=6 ; Monday November 13th, 2023 8:57:41 AM
Zarsellet initially growls to himself as their enemy 'glowers' at him. While he doubts that he would survive a one-on-one fight with the man, he is an idiot to think he can beat all of them.
He hardly notices Ardreth dropping though when he sees Kwarsk fall. He ignores the combat and runs to him drawing the healing wand. Hopefully their friend isn't beyond it's power to help?
OOC: Using wand of CLW2 on Kwarsk. 6 points healed.
Rhys (Bob W) AC 20/24 vs AoO; CMD 21/23 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 20/31 Monday November 13th, 2023 4:01:19 PM
Seeing all of their opponents either down or surrendered, Rhys begins by separating enemies from their weaponry. He slides the various axes, swords, and daggers across the floor to a far corner where they are out of reach. Only then does he start to secure the hands and feet of their captives. He starts with Ardreth, then Delgath, Farrix, and finally the sleeping Emmard. He uses whatever is at hand to accomplish the task. Boot laces, belts, scarves and sashes are all employed. Paige! Have a look at this one when you have a chance, he might still be alive!” he motions at Delgad as he speaks.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 34/38 CMD 13 d20=5 ; d20=3 ; Monday November 13th, 2023 7:45:24 PM
Paige takes a knee, leaning on her weapon for additional support, and checks the fallen Delgad for signs of life (Heal check 5+11(without healer’s kit)+2 Heroism=18). The cleric will report aloud the status of the wounded miscreant.
”Use the wand as much as it’s needed on Kwarsk, Zarsellet. That’s what it’s for!
Paige gives the office a quick perusal (Perception = 3+6 =9) looking for any indications of Pyramid Corp., but is pre-occupied by the wounded.)
DM Sanity Info:
Heroism from Zarsellet (40 min or 400 rounds (probably 25+ min remaining)
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 22/34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 d20+12=19 ; Monday November 13th, 2023 9:24:04 PM Hey! Burton! says Fingers. Stop right there. We already saw one trap when we came up the stairs; nobody moves from where they are until I've checked this place over.
And with that, he examines the room. Perception: 19 (for traps: 21)
DM: NIck_K: The Warehouse Tuesday November 14th, 2023 4:23:16 AM
Burton: Seeks out anything of interest in the back office. Fingers: Fingers cautions Burton as to the possibility of more traps. Kwarsk: Lies on the ground, grievously wounded. Paige: Checks on the fallen Delgad and exhorts Zarsellet to heal Kwarsk as much as is needed. Rhys: Separates the thugs from their weapons and then sets about tying them up. Zarsellet: Rushes to Kwarsk’s aid, administering much needed healing. ___________ Round 14 ~~~~~~~~~~~ Maps Updated Map
Paige is able to quickly ascertain that Delgad was rendered insensible by his injuries. He is not dying. (He is at present, at 0 health) She’s confident that with rest alone, he will eventually recover. There’s no evidence of any connection to Pyramid Corporation. A more pressing matter is Kwarsk.
Zarsellet uses the wand, twice and that healing is enough to rouse the fallen dwarf, although he hardly looks his best at present.
Burton espies a suspicious cabinet in the corner of the room, but doesn’t investigate as Fingers shouts a warning about traps.
Ardreth is still out cold, but Emmard drowsily wakens with a “Did we win? They were..Oh!” He quickly shuts up. Both he and Farrix offer no resistance or complaint at being tied up. If anything, they seem rather relieved.
Fingers scans the room, but sees nothing amiss.
”Safe’s in there, so it is.” Says Farrix with a nod at the small cabinet in the corner. The cabinet indicated is made of stout wood and stands almost three feet in height. It’s almost two and a half feet across and front to back. It has a single door that looks as if it simply pulls open. There’s no lock evident.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
OOC: The Patchers have won a decisive battle without killing Ardreth or his guards. Each person can have 1 Hero Point.
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Tuesday November 14th, 2023 6:39:30 AM
Burton waves at Fingers "Yes, Yes I suspect everyone jumping around in combat would have triggered any traps, also the entrance makes sense to set a trap but not in the office your trying to work. Now that cabinet might be trapped and it might contain the information we need on Pyramid Industries. Fingers why don't you have a look preferable without killing us all."
Rhys (Bob W) AC 20/24 vs AoO; CMD 21/23 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 20/31 d20+6=23 ; d20+6=8 ; Tuesday November 14th, 2023 9:57:38 AM
Rhys leaves the cabinet and safe to his compatriots. Instead he spends his time searching Ardreth and Delgad for anything of value, including papers that might speak to what is going on. (Perception 23). He thinks about searching the desk, but heeds the taur’s warning about traps. ”Fingers. When you’re done with the cabinet, can you give this desk a once over? I’d like to have a look through it for any clues or information.”.
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 d20+8=24 ; Tuesday November 14th, 2023 2:00:14 PM
Zarsellet continues with the wand on Kwarsk. He knows how precious the thing is.... but lives are ever so much so more so.
Hearing Rhys he calls out, "Hold just a moment so I can help. Ardreth has proven pretty devious. Any trap there will be extra hard I'm sure! Paige? You want to take the wand for now. Kwarsk is better but not healed yet."
OOC: Can I use the bardic performance: Inspire Competence to give Fingers +2 to his skill check, and possibly Aid another: Perception? 24 rolled if it applies.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
DM: Nick. You are Aiding via Inspire Competence. You cannot also Aid Another. generally only Dodge bonuses stack.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 5/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Tuesday November 14th, 2023 5:44:58 PM
(OOC - Kwarsk was at -1 HP, but Zarsellet healed 6HP before Kwarsk had a chance to bleed, so Kwarsk is at 5 HP. DM Nick said Zarsellet used the wand "twice" but I have not seen anyone post additional healing dice rolls.)
Kwarsk slowly awakens... "Patchers... get Ardreth... you can take him..." then Kwarsk's vision focuses and he peers out around his Tower Shield while rubbing his sore back from where the desk flanked him, and seeing their foes all under control with Ardreth flat on his back, Kwarsk says, "Great work Patchers... Paige, Zarsellet, do you have more healing magic.... a lot more healing magic, please. When we get back I think I'll take my pay in white gold..."
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 22/34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 Tuesday November 14th, 2023 8:44:58 PM Will do, Rhys. Taking it slow.
Fingers carefully examines the cabinet, then the desk. In both cases: Perception: Take 20 -> 20+12 (skill)+2 (inspire competence) +2 (vs traps) + 2 (Aid Another, if applicable) = 34 or 36 or 38, depending....
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 34/38 CMD 13 d8=5 ; d8=5 ; Tuesday November 14th, 2023 10:19:00 PM
(OOC: thanks DM Nick, for the Hero Point!)
Paige notes that the bad guys in the office have been disarmed and immobilized, thanks to Rhys, and some of the other folks are checking out the office for clues. As the cleric moves towards Kwarsk, she says aloud: ”when we’re done up here, let’s get these ne’er-do-wells downstairs, and check out what’s under the tarp on the warehouse floor. Looks like there’s been some digging going on.”.
The red-head works on her dwarf friend (burned 2 level 1 spells = CLW for 5+4=9, and 5+4=9, for a total of 18 HP restored to Kwarsk. She then presses 2 vials of CLW potion into the dwarf’s hand. ”I’ve got a couple more of these, so drink up. No worries.”*
DM Sanity Info:
* 2 potions of CLW transferred to Kwarsk, Paige still has 2 vials
Heroism from Zarsellet (40 min or 400 rounds (probably 20+ min remaining)
DM: NIck_K: The Warehouse Wednesday November 15th, 2023 4:22:02 AM
Burton: Asks Fingers to check the cabinet. Fingers: Carefully examines desk and cabinet. Kwarsk: Rouses and congratulates his fellow Patchers before requesting more healing. Paige: Advocates checking out the remainder of the warehouse before administering to Kwarsk. Rhys: Searches Ardreth. Zarsellet: Hands the wand to Paige as he aids Fingers’ endeavours.
Rhys searches Ardreth. It’s far from easy given that he is, at present, a dead weight. Nonetheless, Rhys does find a bone comb that has only two teeth missing, a lucky rabbit’s foot (not so lucky for the rabbit) and two coin purses. One contains mostly copper with a few silver coins. The other holds 5 shiny gold sovereigns.
Turning his attention to the cabinet first, Fingers opens the door. Sitting within the dour, tired wood of the cabinet is a small, but solid safe. Fingers sees that it is bolted to the back wall and the floor. The lock is an impressive looking thing that in fact has twin key holes. After admiring the filigree craftsmanship covering the safe’s door, Fingers focuses on the lock. The others busy themselves with their various tasks as he, ignoring all else, studies the mechanism. A trap! Yes, there’s definitely a trap on that lock. Likely a poison dart or needles. Judging by the quality of the safe, that could well be a nasty thing indeed.
Paige tends to Kwarsk during this time. Kwarsk, having been thoroughly medicated, feels more than ready to stand and see things through.
Having said his piece, Burton watches the others at work whilst being mindful of the captives apparent compliance.
Zarsellet keeps his eye on things whilst encouraging excellence in his friends’ endeavours as only he can. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ OOC: Clarification: I misread the CLW2 as 2 uses. The dice roller stated d8+2. I didn’t check that. Hence I thought it was two charges.
Fingers is taking 20. That takes up a lot of time. I do not wish to penalise others. Consequently, I am breaking things down. So far Fingers has found a trap. He can next seek to disable it and then possibly unlock the safe. Thereafter he can repeat matters with the desk. Matters can be sped up if all others are not taking other actions that may impact on his progress. I do not wish to assume matters or penalise others in terms of time management. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Wednesday November 15th, 2023 9:02:45 AM
Burton calls over to Rhys; "Did Ardreth have a key on him?" He then turns his attention on Farrix "Was Ardreth in charge here or does he work for someone else? Think carefully before trying to lie to me."
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 Wednesday November 15th, 2023 10:51:40 AM
OOC: Not taking any actions to slow Fingers down. (or distract him)
Stepping away to not distract Fingers Zarsellet adds a comment to Burton's words. "I'd say strip him. Ardreth's a creep and might carry a key in his small cloths, if he wears any...."
OOC: Can't keep Inspire Competence going so I'm mostly an observer at this point. Or there to pull Fingers away if the thing blows.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 37/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d8+1=9 ; d8+1=5 ; d20+7=16 ; Wednesday November 15th, 2023 9:26:24 PM
(OOC - Kwarsk is not taking any long-term actions, so I'm amenable to whatever timeflow rate. Searching for traps is 1 round, Taking 20 is 20 times that, or 20 rounds, or 2 minutes - not a lot of time, really, unless we're about to be ambushed...)
Kwarsk says, "Thanks, Paige. Bottoms up," and Kwarsk drinks the two potions in succession.
(OOC Kwarsk was at 5 HP, healed 18 by Paige for a total of 23 HP. Kwarsk drinks two potions, respectively healing 9 and 5 for a total of 14 HP, plus 23 means Kwarsk is now at 37 HP, nearly full health.)
Kwarsk stands, checking his armor straps and his gloves, feeling his back where the desk flanked him and smiles that it's no longer very sore at all!
Kwarsk then adjusts his Tower Shield straps in case they shifted when he fell. He makes other checks and adjustments that may seem unusual to most.
(OOC Profession: Soldier = 16 to get everything ready to pass inspection, were a Dwarven sergeant present. This post "feels like" 2 minutes, if we're doing 2 minutes per post to match each of Fingers' Take 20 attempts. Take 20 isn't possible when there's a penalty for failure or retrying is impossible, however, such as when Disabling a Trap... succeed or fail, Fingers' post with his Disable Trap attempt will go as fast as the skill says Disabling a Trap takes...) (edit - updated HP in header to 37 to match text above from healing.)
Rhys (Bob W) AC 20/24 vs AoO; CMD 21/23 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 20/31 d20+6=20 ; d20+6=11 ; Thursday November 16th, 2023 10:46:52 AM
Rhys takes a look at the desk without touching anything. In particular he is looking for drawers or cubby holes where a key might be stored. (Perception 20) He will wait for Fingers before going any further.
”So who has a key for the safe?” Rhys directs his question to Farrix.
OOC. Second d20 roll was also for perception during the site outage…please ignore
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 34/38 CMD 13 Thursday November 16th, 2023 11:21:49 AM
Paige will pause and wait, her weapon ready should any of the miscreants try anything…
Heroism from Zarsellet (40 min or 400 rounds (probably 20+ min remaining)
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Thursday November 16th, 2023 2:33:01 PM
Burton will head down to the warehouse floor to guard the door. He will close the small door staying on the inside in a position where he is out of site from the door but he can still see it. As he leaves he will say to Paige; "You might want to check Ardreth just to make sure he doesn't die of his wounds. I would hate for him to die until he has answered any questions we might have."
OOC: Burton will stay clear of the rug as it hasn't been checked yet and he thinks someone mentioned something about digging.
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 Thursday November 16th, 2023 6:15:27 PM
Zarsellet gets the wand back from Paige then moves over to Ardreth. With Burton's comment he checks to be sure that 1: He is still alive and not bleeding. and 2: He is properly secured. Then he starts searching him for any little thing that they might have missed.... like possibly a key?
OOC: Take 20 (for 28 perception) on searching Ardreth. Pulling shoes. Checking in his ears, mouth, whatever even the extent of poking/rubbing skin for any hidden pocket in his skin?
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 37/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Thursday November 16th, 2023 7:51:37 PM
Kwarsk notes the other Patchers doing various forms of investigation. He stands guard for them, here in the office, watching out the door, windows, and any other viewing areas.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 34/38 CMD 13 d20=19 ; Thursday November 16th, 2023 8:04:41 PM
With a sigh, Paige does a heal check on Ardreth (19+11+2 for Heroism = 32) per Burton’s request.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 22/34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 Friday November 17th, 2023 2:06:26 AM
After his first Take 20 -- examining the safe -- Fingers says:
Yep, this safe is anything but.
I'm not going to try disarming it until we've searched for the keys. And since I have to check the desk anyway, I'll look there.
We may find one of the two keys, but I'm guessing that Ardreth's partner or boss has the other one.
(OOC: When everyone has caught up to these actions, he'll start a Take 20 perception on the desk. 32 for most information, 34 for any traps. )
DM: NIck_K: The Warehouse Friday November 17th, 2023 5:05:26 AM
Burton: Asks Rhys if there’s a key and then questions Farrix. Burton then heads downstairs. Fingers: Carefully assess both desk and safe for traps. Kwarsk: Feels much renewed for the magical healing and checks his equipment to ensure that everything is ‘ship shape’. Kwarsk then maintains a vigilant guard. Paige: Watches the miscreants her mace poised ready should anyone try anything. She sighs heavily before checking Ardreth’s health. Rhys: Asks Farrix who has the key. He’s careful not to touch anything. Zarsellet: Advocates stripping Ardreth whilst keeping an eye on proceedings. He then proceeds to search Ardreth assiduously.
~~~~~~~~~~~ Farrix’s eyes go wide. “What? Me? No, I ain’t got no key! Oh, him. Well, yeah, I reckon. Possibly. Sure, I bet he does, probably. Must have really.” It seemed that by giving every possible answer Farrix hoped to be spared from harm. Sadly, his panicked response was far from helpful.
Meanwhile, Burton heads downstairs, careful to avoid stepping on the old carpet. The door, he finds, is broken. It simply won’t close. Even a casual inspection reveals that it will need a skilled craftsman or some judicious magic to fix. Likely a new door is required.
Fingers checks the desk. His care is justified as the Grease Spell yet lingers in place. Nonetheless he discovers that within a large ‘drawer’ to the right is another substantial safe. The façade of a drawer is just that. The panel actually opens sideways. Fingers sucks in air through his teeth as he sees not one, but two traps in place. Like the other safe, there are two key holes.
Kwarsk watches on, carefully for any ruses or dissembling amongst the surrendered thugs. He watches his friends as they investigate.
Paige determines that Ardreth is unconscious, but his wounds are not worsening. The elf is clearly made of tough stuff. Whilst some might regret it, the man is in no danger of dying.
As all this is happening Zarsellet starts to search Ardreth diligently. He finds nothing until he starts to remove Ardreth’s boots. Unfolding the cuff of the left boot he finds two small keys on a simple ring!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
OOC: From Monday normal service is resumed as Brian again takes the reins and steers you all to ever greater fiery doom – GLORY, I meant glory. Be advised that the timing of the updates may well be different. I hope you’ve enjoyed my time in the chair.
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Friday November 17th, 2023 7:56:20 AM
Noting that he can't close the door Burton returns to the front office and stands guard with Kwarsk; "Are you feeling better? Quite a hit you took there."
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 34/38 CMD 13 d20=1 ; Friday November 17th, 2023 11:08:30 AM ”While Muuru is messing around with the safes, how about we move these guys downstairs? Maybe there’s a hole under that rug where we can hide the bodies?” (Intimidate 1+1=2 the conscious bad guys. Not likely!)
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 22/34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 Friday November 17th, 2023 12:47:38 PM Aha! says Muuru. Good job, Zar! He takes the keys.
Okey-doke. We have two safes, four locks, and two keys.
The only reasons I can think for a safe with two locks is: (1) like I said before, two people each have one key, so that neither can open it alone. Meaning: each of these keys is for a different safe, and the remaining two keys are out there somewhere.
Or (2) a safe with two locks is simply twice as hard to pick. And this safe has two traps as well. At least that would mean that we have all the keys.
I gotta think about this.
Fingers looks again at both safes, and the keys. To the best of his knowledge, he's trying to determine:
Will this pair of keys open either safe? Or both safes? Or are there more keys out there that have to be used too?
If these are the right keys, will using them bypass the traps? Or should he try to disarm the traps first?
If he stands to the side of a safe and uses ''Mage Hand'' to move his blackjack or some other object, can he trigger the traps?
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 Friday November 17th, 2023 1:03:52 PM
After giving the two keys to Fingers Zarsellet returns to Ardreth. While he'd love to start 'searching' the man with his dagger he realizes that they don't yet have a valid excuse to execute him.... He continues the search, removing the boots and checking for any other secret location where something as small as keys could be found.
"Hey guys? Ask the 'prisoners' if anybody was killed when they trapped the Otyughs for the arena fight. Those garbage eaters aren't easy to capture alive...."
Rhys (Bob W) AC 20/24 vs AoO; CMD 21/23 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 20/31 Friday November 17th, 2023 1:09:05 PM
Rhys continues his questioning of Farrix. ”Who is Ardreth’s boss? Does he ever visit this office? And while you’re at it…what is your role in all of this?”.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 37/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+12=20 ; Friday November 17th, 2023 7:50:25 PM
Kwarsk, eyes and ears ever-vigilant, replies to Burton, "It was four hits actually... five if you count the desk - I think it must be a Monk, too, as I withstood Ardreth's final blow only for the impact with the desk to put me out from the intense pain..."
(OOC - Guard duty, Perception = 20)
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Saturday November 18th, 2023 11:47:37 AM
Burton nods at Kwarsk; "I couldn't see what happened earlier as I was stuck behind Fingers, and I wasn't going to mention you getting beat up by a piece of furniture."
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