The Rise of Duvik's Pass

[SirDalyus]

Duvik's Pass time has come. Months of intensive mining have finally uncovered silver deposites which have been a great source of revenue to the townspeople. The monastery of the Raven Queen took this to be an omen of prosperity, for what metal best represents the balance that that which can hurt all creatures? The dwarfs took the purest silver and made fine ornate decorations. A feastday was declared, and many casks of mead were quaffed. By all accounts things were looking up for this borderland town. But then the burning plague happened. People are dying. Priests are dying. The milita is missing.

And so we come to the Warden's office. It's a spartan room, grey walls, grey floor, no adornishments. A big table sits square in the middle of the room drawers overfilling with papers and charts. Attached to the side of his chair is a large foehammer, of an unusual design.

The Warden stands up, sighs, and runs his fingers through his hair. He was once a large man, though the years have stooped his frame and deepend the laughter lines that run across his face. Squire! Squire! A moment of time please! The warden's voice is not loud, but is deep enough to carry through the deserted garrison. Moments later sharp ears would pick up the sound of approaching feet. A lithe man bursts through the door. He is tanned golden, and sparsely built, though his running in scalemail indicates he is a strong man. Warden! How can be of assistance?. His accent still bears traces of forgein soils. The warden points to letters on his desk. The halfing boy, is he still here? Tell him to deliever these papers to the people on it. Tell him it's his pagely duty, that should cheer him up.

The man adressed as Squire nods and takes the papers. He leaves the Warden's office and finds the halfling boy soon enough. "Oi Tohmo, you luck sod, the Warden has a job for you. Says he can only trust his most loyal man. Can you deliver these papers for him? At the mention of the warder the boy's eyes light up. With shaking hands he grabs the letters and runs off into the village looking for the people adressed by the letters.

"Tor the monk. Fair Lady Fallenleaves. The lady dwarf. Locke. Such a diverse group of people. I wonder what the Warden wants with them. I wonder what the letters say. I bet it's all formal and fancylike.

The letters while ornate on the outside, have a simple message. Come find me. The Warden

[greenstave]

The young halfling finds Locke in the monastery. He is in a pew, with a large hammer resting across his legs. He is using what looks like a pick to clean dirt from an unfamiliar rune on one side of the hammer. He looks up at the sound of approaching footfalls. For the slightest moment, the rune Locke is picking at softly glows. When Locke turns to see the halfling, the glow fades away.

The halfling puts on his best, formal speech

"Brother Locke, I have been..um...tasked with giving this to you." He hands over the letter to the priest. Locke takes it and reads it. He hands 5 coppers to the boy.

"For your time, Tohmo. The Queen will happily accept a small donation on your way out, should you feel the need."

With that, he puts away the pick, hoists his hammer, and heads out. As he passes the entrance to the monastery, he throws a small handful of coppers in the donation bin. He finds it somewhat ironic that he is donating to the monastery, and then uses those very funds for his priestly activities with the dead, but to him, it is in the service of his Queen.

He heads to the Garrison to find the Warden.

[Lilithgow]

Eldithe had been standing guard for some four hours outside of the Goldforge Manor when the squire came charging up the path to her.

"Erm...Lady...Dwarf?" he stumbles in front of the dwarf. It was a rare occurrence that Eldithe was taller than anyone so she was certainly going to take advantage of it.

"Correct. Lady."

"I've got a message here for you from the warden! It says for the lady dwarf."

"Lady Dwarf...is that what they're calling me now?" She scans the paper held out expectantly. "Well, that's not the most precise orders I've ever had,but it beats guarding this particular..." There is a significant pause, as Eldithe searches for some semblance of tact. "...establishment"

She grabs her hammer, and heads off towards the Garrison. "Thanks for the message, kid."

The halfling perks up some courage. "Say, aren't you Lady Ironfa..."
He stops, the dwarf's hammer some two inches from his face.
"No, I'm not. My name is ELDITHE. I am a guard. I have a name, I suggest you use it."

Tohmo seems terrified by the sudden turn in the mood of the 'Lady Dwarf'.

The hammer is lowered. "Sss...sorry. Sorry. You don't know any better, and your instructions didn't exactly have my name plastered on them. Eldithe. Please call me that. You got a name?"

The small talk continues as Eldithe heads off in the direction of the garrison before the halfling politely excuses himself as he still has notes to deliver.

"So...Warden's orders, huh? Could be a good day yet..."

[shadowgab]

The squire arrived in the backyard of the monastery when he finally found her. She was sitting near a tree, meditating and praying to the Raven Queen. The squire then advance toward her and begins to talk:

"Hum... Lady Fallenleaves ? I... I have a letter for you."

Hearing the little man talking to her, she turn her head around. She then saw the letter the Squire was holding in his hand. She stand up and took her Fullblade that was leaning to the tree. She shed the weapon and looked at the man.

"No need to be shy, is the letter for me ?"

"Yes my Lady. It's from the Warden."

He handed the letter to her. She took the letter and open it right away and begun to read it. Reading the message was short and very precise, the warden wanted to see her. Hoping it was about the plague she take a step and looked at the Squire.

"Take these."

She handed 2 copper piece to the courier. She then head toward the warden' office, full of hope that this meeting will become a lead to curing the plague.

[Meltheim]

"Hum... Lady Fallenleaves ? I... I have a letter for you."

Tor's meditation was jarred by a voice across the courtyard. He opened his eyes, exhaled, and slowly pulled himself to his feet. Seems Fallenleaves has a visitor. Interesting. Not altogether unusual, of course. Ever since the outbreak the temple had been almost overrun with those wishing for a blessing or a cure for their loved ones. But Fallenleaves is not in the 'blessing or cure' business ...

The halfling handed a letter over to Fallenleaves, bowing slightly and stumbling over his words. From his body language, Tor could observe that the boy appeared nervous and out of breath. Fallenleaves appeared to soothe his nerves a little bit as she took the letter and began to read. In a blink, Tor saw her hand some coins to the halfling, grab her sword and head straight for the door.

The halfling looked down at the remaining letter in his hand, scratched his head, looked around for a bit and then settled his gaze on Tor. "Mr. Tor? The monk? I was told to give you ..."

In a flash, Tor appeared at the squire's side, nodding as he took the letter from his outstretched hand. Tor crisply slid his fingernail under the seal and scanned the words. Murmuring a word of thanks, Tor slid the letter into a pocket in his shirt, thanked the boy and began heading toward the door.

After a few steps, Tor noted that the boy hadn't moved. Whether from shock of seeing Tor move so quickly, or from expecting a little compensation, the squire's hand remained outstretched. Tor raised an eyebrow, looking to the boy. "Squire Tohmo, is it?" The halfling nodded. "Squire, I have no coin to offer you, but perhaps there might be something I can do for you. Stand here."

Tohmo moved to stand straight in front of Tor, looking slightly nervous. "You are training to be a knight, are you not? Ahh yes. See, when you are large and strong, or when you fight in armor, you can let the metal or leather take the blows. When you are small, or if you fight in cloth ... " Tor trailed off. "Uhh ... you take the blows?" Tohmo offered. Striking like a cobra, Tor's hand snapped across the boy's shoulder, knocking the squire off balance and to the ground. Shaking his head and making a tsk tsk noise, Tor beckons the boy to stand back up.

Tor settled his hands on the boys shoulders, dropping the left shoulder down a little, then reached down to slide his leg slightly back and out, extending the squire's center of gravity, yet giving him the flexibility of movement. "No, you dodge the blows." Taking advantage of Tohmo's puzzled look, Tor struck again. This time the halfling slid barely out of reach. Flashing a large grin and nodding generously, Tor spoke, as if reciting from a book, "'In life, it is important to know when to dodge, and when to face a challenge head on.' Remember that as you continue your training, young squire. Hopefully it will serve you well." With a big grin, Tohmo nodded. "I see Mr. Tor! Thank you." Tor bowed slightly to the halfling, then turned crisply and began making his way to the Warden's office.

[SirDalyus]

When you enter the warden's office he has his foehammer on the desk, and is traceing his hands over the runes. So glad you could finally join me. I need your help. This... Illness that has consumed the village, I suspect I know the origin of it. What few guards I have are defending the pass from that damned orc cult up the pass, The warden sighs, and sits down in his chair.I want you to return to the mines. No one has been down in days, since
the plague killed off most of the miners, and left the rest fighting for their lives. I might just be getting old, but it seems odd to me that it has suffered such a high toll. The warden shouts, "Squire!" You hear footsteps approach.

When the squire enters the warden stands up and gives the squire his hammer. You will escort them to the mines. take 50gp from the garrison fund, and use it purchase any supplies that you may need. I'd recomend a lantern, and candles.
Anything flammable you can craft would be advisable, it's been day's since the torches were last lit.

[Meltheim]

Tor presses his fist to his chest, bowing low.

"Warden, I am at your disposal. We of the Raven Queen cannot abide this unnatural death. It is the desire of our Order," Tor gestures to himself and Fallenleaves, "that we seek and destroy the source of this illness."

Turning to the others of the group, "I have no need of coin for weapons or armor. My body is a weapon and my faith is armor enough. The Raven Queen has seen fit to give me excellent eyesight as well, though a few lanterns or candles would definitely be helpful."

[greenstave]

The rune priest gives a bow and a nod of his head.

Death is death, and the Queen guides all, natural or unnatural, to their finality. If the time for this town has come to pass, then so be it. However...this should be investigated. I will assist in whatever way I can.

[Lilithgow]

Eldithe grips her hammer firmly, excited by the level of responsibility.

"Well, I can't claim divine calling, but if there's someone behind this, I'll see they get what's coming to them. Thanks for this chance, Warden."

"As for you, Tor, sure. I'm not sure how good your eyesight is, mines can be awful treacherous...but if you're sure..."

[Meltheim]

Chuckling at Eldithe's comment, Tor flashes her a wide smile, his green eyes sparkling.

Then, flexing his hands, Tor fidgets with the wrappings on his wrist. "So, when do we head out?" You get the feeling that he is full of energy that is just barely being restrained.

[shadowgab]

As my companion said:
"We bring down whoever is causing imbalance in the cycle that the Raven Queen as made. We will found and bring down the person or whatever is causing the plague. But if it reveal itself to be of a natural order, I cannot promise to help because it will go against the cycle of life and death. I'm sure you can understand that warden."

Looking at the other people in the room:
We'll be able to talk about all we need to investigate when we'll see what we can buy and transport. I think it's time we prepare to head out to the mines.

[Lilithgow]

"I reckon sooner rather than later. It's still early, and we should make the most of the light. I'm going off to see Priest and then over to Gareths. Anyone want to come with?"

[Meltheim]

Tor nods to the dwarf. "I will come with you to see the priest. Maybe some new gloves are in order. I suppose a lantern couldn't hurt as well."

[greenstave]

Shall we off to Priest's then? I could use some equipment myself. I must then stop at the chapel and make my prayers before setting off.

[shadowgab]

Then we shall go right away.

Arianna then walked toward the exit.

[greenstave]

Locke heads to Priest, and clasps hands with him

Good to see you again friend, it has been too long. The last time when before I was ordained, as I watched my mentor perform the death rites for your uncle. That was a sad day, he was a good man. I hope that the plague has stayed clear of your family since.

I am in need of some goods. That set of scale you have over there? The quality is per your usual meticulous self, I presume? If so, I will take it. And that ratty pair of gauntlets in the corner; I am in need, to protect from a slash as I swing my hammer.

Locke takes the scale and the gauntlets and tries them on right there in the shop to make sure all fits.

He then offers Priest a small prayer to keep him safe, and waits for his companions.


Roll on the gauntlets
[roll0]

[shadowgab]

As she arrived, she greet the priest with a head movement.

"May the Raven Queen bless you."

As she knows that nothing was needed here, she go to the altar and kneel down to pray to her god, the Raven Queen.


Just to be sure that something post before me on Gareth, I will buy the hooded lantern and the whetstone in the junk section.
Here's the roll on the item:
[roll0] whetstone
[roll1] hooded lantern

[Meltheim]

Tor seems quiet and reserved as he bows before the priest. Speaking solemnly, Tor states "Priest, we are on a mission from the Warden to investigate the chaos in the mines. We are in need of equipment." It lasts for a few seconds before they both burst into laughter, clasping arms like old friends. "Almost got you that time! We've been through much together these many years, haven't we old man?" Tor says easily. "Seriously though, we do need some equipment for this trip into the mines. Do you mind if I take a look around? You know I don't need much in the way of weapons, but I always keep my eyes open."

Tor looks around, picking up different blades and bits of metal, examining them for a second or two before putting them down. He appears to seriously consider some spiked gloves, but ultimately decides against them and puts them back down on the table. "Have you seen Garteck around? I need to see him about a book ..." The priest nods, and mentions something about him being in 'the usual place.'

Tor inclines his head to the priest yet again and goes to kneel next to Fallenleaves. "Yet again, it appears that the Raven Queen has sought fit to provide us what weapons and armor. Oh well, no need to let the good Warden's coin go to waste." Tor stands back up and deposits several large coins into the offering plate next to the altar.

I will buy a regular hooded lantern at Gareth's, but I will be using my normal unarmed strike for the time being.

[catchthesun]

Wandering the streets of this empty town, there is a girl. Clad in simple scale armour and with a spear and shield strapped to her back, she makes a rather imposing figure.

But all she is doing is just quietly patrolling the town and ripping off little bits of bread to feed the small puppy behind her.

"Yip! Yip! Yip!", the puppy barks happily at being fed and jumps up and down. She smiles at its antics. "G'boy."

Suddenly, she stops and stares at the sky.

Judging by the position of the sun and the time it took to get that far, there really was just one conclusion.

"Harvestin' season, huh? Shoul' be helping Ma wit' the harvest.", She stops to glance around her, taking note of how, with the sole exceptions of herself and the puppy beside her, there wasn't a single living thing left to be seen. Just empty streets and doorsteps stained with the red mark that signified that the plague had been in that house.

She sighs. "The harvest, huh?" Perhaps, it does not need to be said that outside the town, things were just as bad. No matter whether it was plant or animal, everything was dying. "Looks like a bad one, this yea'..." No matter which way you looked at it, this was an understatement. If things continued as they were, there won't be a harvest.

And yet the militia was nowhere to be seen. The ones who were meant to protect this town. Even from this unknown enemy.

Perhaps that was the reason why she was called back to the town. Away from her post of helping to protect the outskirts and the farms.

"Ayipyipyip.", cries the puppy behind her, as if trying to distract the girl from her thoughts.

She smiles and feeds it a bit more bread. Do puppies normally eat bread? She wonders for an instant. Maybe if they're hungry enough, she supposes.

Suddenly, she notices some figures approaching.

Quickly, she stops and, grabbing the puppy into her arms, ducks into nearest lane. From there, she peeks out at the figures.

El'?...and some people from some temple?...They seem to be going somewhere...I wonder where...

There was a brief moment where she wondered whether to report back to the garrison or to just follow them before curiosity won out and Valerie decided to follow this strange group.

[Lilithgow]

"I want those shoes. I've been saving up, and I want them."

Eldithe looks around.

"What. I can like shoes. They're nice, they've got bells on them. It's my money anyway, not the Warden's."

As the group headed out from their shopping, Eldithe suddenly stopped.

"Tor, can you hear something 'yipping'? I can hear a 'yipping'."

Turning, she saw the familiar figure of Valerie, and a less familiar dog in the woman's arms.

"Oh! Val!" She runs over to the huge guard, and solidly hugs her waist. "I've been sent to investigate the plague! Years of stupid guard duty, and the Warden has finally trusted me with something important! You should come with!"

Eldithe thrusts her hand into her pockets, and produces a single gold coin which she hands to the newcomer. "Now I've hired you. Warden said we could get supplies for the mission!"

Pleased with her plan to bring her friend along, Eldithe starts to run back to the group, ready to make introductions, before turning around.

"Wait, when did you get a dog?"

[Meltheim]

Tor looks sideways at the small dog approaching from across the courtyard, cocking his head in a way that seems familiar, but not on a human. The dog bristles slightly, then continues to yipyipyip away at the woman's heels.

Paying the dog no mind, Tor stuffs a dented, junky lantern into his backpack, his eyes admiring the floating lantern orbiting Fallenleaves. Shaking his head, he turns to the dwarf woman. "Eldithe, was it? Could you possibly direct me toward Caverns? I need to speak to a 'Gartek' there, and ... " As he says this, Tor suddenly turns, looking behind him, as if he heard something. "Please excuse me. I shall return in the span of one breath." Tor goes loping off to a building across the square, his coin purse adding a merry sound that belies his deadly grace. He darts inside for the briefest of minutes and emerges soon thereafter, thumbing a small black book thoughtfully. You notice that he no longer jingles with the sound of coin.

"Alright, I've got what I need." he says, tucking the book into a small pouch at his waist. "Who's this?"

[greenstave]

Locke exits the shop in his new scale armour and gauntlets, looking both humble as a priest, and proud as a man in a new suit. He sees the gathering of others. The dwarven lady, those he recognized from the chapel, and then he sees another girl, and a yapping dog.

Not one to wastes words, he gets to the point. He puts out his hand to shake that of the newcomer, and gives a small bow as he does.

Lady, I am Locke, humble priest of the Queen of Winter. I see by your armour that you are a warrior, or adventurer at the least. Did you receive the summons? Will you be joining us in the mines?

[shadowgab]

As she get out of the temple, she saw the young woman talking to her comrades, she walked to them and say to the new girl :

"Welcome to you young lady, I am Lady Arianna Fallenleaves, Avenger of the Raven Queen, your coming with us will be most pleased. What is your name by the way ?"

[catchthesun]

"El', 'ow's it been?" Valerie exclaims, greeting her friend.


"Wait, when did you get a dog?"

"Ah, The Ol' Gal had a few puppies. Aye kinda took a likin' to this one. So, Aye decided ta take 'im wit' me." Valerie explains, looking at the puppy affectionately.


"I've been sent to investigate the plague! Years of stupid guard duty, and the Warden has finally trusted me with something important! You should come with!"

She then stopped and did a double take, her eyes wide, as she processed what her friend just said. "Wai'. Wai'. Did ya jus' say what Aye think ya said? Investigatin' the plague? In the pits? Soun's dangerous." She smiled at her, quickly calm. "But, knowin' ya, ya won't say no. Guess Aye gotta come wit' then. Somebod' has ta kee' ya outta trouble."

Looking around, she continues. "It ain't good if he", referring to the puppy, "got lost down some 'shaft or somethin'. Know somebod' that can look after 'im fer a bit?"

She then managed an introduction to the three from the temple, albeit stammering, clearly uncomfortable with their formality."Uh, um, V-Val'. Name's Valerie Aislin'. A-Aye ain't no lady. J-Just a farmgal fro' 'round these parts. P-P-Pleased ta meet ya."

[Meltheim]

Tor kneels down, his green eyes flashing brightly as he sticks his hand out toward the dog. Absentmindedly, Tor says, "He would be most welcome at the Temple. Temple dogs can be great allies and their company is quite soothing. So long as he can learn to keep the yipping to a minimum during meditation hours . . . In fact, it is believed by some that our Lady takes the form of a white wolf when she walks among mortals. Maybe you'll grow up to have the heart of a wolf?" He scratches the dog behind the ear before looking up.

"I am Tor, also of the Raven Queen." He bows slightly, then continues, "Just as Fallenleaves represents the passion of our Lady, I represent her patience." Then, flashing a grin full of bright, white teeth, "We are both pretty good at representing the certainty of death that she brings to all creatures. It is an honor to have you investigate the mines alongside us. I have been too long secluded in the temple and it would be helpful to work with another with local knowledge."

[SirDalyus]

Squire waits in the towns market. When he feels that everyone is ready to move on, he sends the halfling boy to pick everyone up.

It is time to enter the mines. Have you all got supplies? Good, because we don't have much time. An Orcish warband has been scouted heading towards town, screaming about a "Gortex". If you can't find the source of this plauge, we will die in our beds with our throats slit. I see you have found an extra hand, bring her up to speed on the way to the mines.

You pass through the town, and take the winding pass up into the higher pass. There is nothing but a sheepards tent here. You hear someone moaning inside. It's a kobold, wearing brass chainmail and weilding a pick. He wears a bronzed wolfskull, and does not seem alarmed by your entering the hut.

I appologize for my intrusion warriors. If you do not wish to hear my story, make my end swift.

[shadowgab]

I appologize for my intrusion warriors. If you do not wish to hear my story, make my end swift.

Looking at the creature, Arianna glance at him and finally say:
"If you have something to say, we might be open to hear it out. But I warn you: Make this a total waste of time and you will have the privilege of saying your last word to the Raven Queen"

Anyone who look at her can easily see that she resent the little creature.

[Meltheim]

"Now now friend Fallenleaves. Clearly the creature is harmless." Tor rests his hand gently on Arianna's shoulder in an overly soothing manner, winking to her slightly.

"You may speak, Kobold. We will not harm you if your intentions are good."
I'll toss a diplomacy check out there to try and make this game of good cop/bad cop that much more interesting.

[roll0]

[greenstave]

Locke does not add anything to this conversation, however he ensures he has easy access to his hammer, and if prepared to draw it.

[SirDalyus]

I am Goretex, the only sage my race has produced in the last age. For too long my people have been no beeter than slaves and murderers, and I sought to change that. I took with myself many miners, armourers, blacksmiths and labourers from the orcish colony, and I was going to ask for safe harbour when the plague hit your village.

Tor:You sense the kobold knows more about the plague than he is letting on, but your words will be unable to reveal them.

I am no fool. I knew that my people would be cast as the propigators of this curse, and would be cut down like wheat. So I had armour forged for me, and I came here to destroy the source of this unholy blight. But before I made it back to the mines I was sighted by one of your watchmen, who caught me in the side with an arrow. It's not going to kill me, but it will prevent me from fighting.

The kobold sighs, and pulls out a pendant. The pendant is of a black sundisk, which has a golden line bisecting it.

Here is what my people would ask of you. We want a safe haven, somewhere we can prove to the world that we are better than what people have come to expect from our race. In return, we will help you with your mines and help rebuild your city. We have many young scales who have ideas that would make your city prosper if we just had one chance. But I suppose it is ultimately your desision.

[greenstave]

Locke, as a priest, has no particular hatred for any race specifically. He looks at the wound on the kobold.

Whether you speak true of your people or not will come to light in the future. For now, I have a responsibility to assist you. Should my Queen wish you into her fold, that is her will, and nothing I do will help you. Should you be lying or tricking us, I will expedite your return to the Queen. Lock frowns as he says the last part.

He then kneels at the kobolds side and attempts to do what he can.


heal check:
[roll0]


He then stands back up, and takes his place with the group.

[Lilithgow]

"Got to say, never seen a Kobold outside of books before. Smaller than I thought you would be. Heard a lot about how tricky you are though.

That said, there's no sense in judging folk by their scales. You're telling the truth in all this, we'll see what we can do about getting your people a place."

Eldithe looks around the tent, looking for any sight of anything out of the ordinary.

[roll0]

[shadowgab]

Arianna looked at the pendant the kobold is holding

"And what is the pendant you are holding there little one ? Where are the other kobold that you speak of ?"
After looking at the companions.

"And if you what to help, what do want to do in the mines, do you had any ideas already to stop it ?"

Insight to see if he's lying
[roll0]

[SirDalyus]

Locke takes a handful of stickweed and places against the wound. The wound stops bleeding and the kobold's breathing becomes more regular. Though he has not had a great deal of hands on experience, Locke realises that he has done as much as anyone could do for Goretex.

Eldithe looks around the hut. It's not large, and having so many people crammed into the room is reducing the size more. A pot bubbles on the far side of the room, bellowing thick oily smoke. There is a stave, illuminated by a single beam of light that shines through a large crack in the wall. There is a large heap of straw, and your sharp eyes see small bloodstains, and a twinkle of steel, in the heap.

Though you read people like a book, you cannot read this kobold at all. His demenor is of someone who freely gives but from who nothing can be taken.
Your gut tells you he is being truthful in what little he has told you.
This pendant is the Promise of Pelor, perhaps you have heard the story? If you have not I would gladly tell it to you.

The kobold coughs, blood and spittle splattering the floor in front of him. He takes a deep breath before continuing.

Perhaps at a later time. Let it be said that I am a follow of Pelor, and I wear one of his older standards. My people are camped at the foot of the mount, in one of the many caves that honeycomb this place. I told them to wait formy return, for Pelor has told me how I can cast out the plague. Just as the Promise of Pelor when placed in water grants resiliance to all that drink of it, so the Oath of Orcus delivers unnatural blight. The shaman of this orcish horde found this artifact, and is using it to blight your waters. If you can find him, place the Oath in a pool with silver, and let a drop of blood flow from your hand into the pool. That would be enough to destroy the blight, but would also destroy my Promise. Alternatively, you could hide the Oath and place my armulet in your springs, granting health to your town.

[shadowgab]

Interested by his story, Arianna listen patiently for him to finish the story, then:

"What promise are you talking about ? and what about the Oath or the pendant, they are responsable for the plague? "

[Meltheim]

Tor squats down on his haunches, eye level with the Kobold. "I am intrigued by this proposal. The Lady we serve," Tor indicates himself, Arianna and Locke, "opposes Orcus on principal. She has no great favor for Pelor, but does not wish him or his kind any ill will either. If what you are saying is true, then it is clear we need to rid our springwater of this foul artifact."

Tor stands up, looking to the others in the room, "Just as a single, centered breath requires one to inhale and exhale, so do life and death have their balanced roles in the cycle of the world. Orcus and those who follow him seek to disrupt that cycle and make it their own. I do not know how the Warden would react to having this warrior and his kind take up residence in this town, but I do know that we were charged with ridding the town of the plague."

Squatting back down, Tor addresses Goretex, meeting his eyes straight on. "I do not doubt the power of your artifact, but I do not trust blood magic either. I would ask for some proof of the ability of your Promise of Pelor to provide strength to those who drink of its waters. I think that the Warden would not be willing to act on faith, but that he might be willing to act on proof. What say you to this?" Tor produces a small waterskin and pours the water into a small bowl sitting in a corner of the hut. He places the bowl in front of him and looks to Goretex to make the next move.

[SirDalyus]

The kobold takes off the pendant, and places it in the waterskin Tor offers.

"The Promise of Pelor was said to be spoken by my lord when he looked across his lands and saw nothing but suffering.

The wineskin starts to glow in the kobolds hand, and you see a barren wasteland, filled with murderers and criminals of the worst sort.

For you see, my lord was young in those days, and had not the divine rank he has now. He took the form of an avatar, to walk the realm in flesh. He adventured far. He slew the murderers, the bandits, the waste landers.

You can see Pelor's choosen form. A massive half-orc, weilding a huge two handed greatsword which brims with light. You can see him travelling the lands, delivering justice to those who need it.

But Orcus was not sitting idly by whilst his congregation whittled down. He spoke to one of his priests, and made him a bargain. That priest became the infamous Hanged Man. He would visit a town or
village and kill someone off with an unnatural illness. That person would then be found dangling from the highest part of town. The rest of the town would then succomb to the illness and arise in their second life, whilst The Hanged Man was free to continue on with his unholiest of adventures.

You see a tall, pale, handsome man. You see him kissing the hand of a lady, and grinning. The night falls and you see her cut her own hand off, as corruption races upwards. You see her look out of her window to see a once vibrant city turned to a necropolis and a channel-house.

When the tales of this reached the ears of my leige he sought out a way to destroy this unnatural stain on the realm. On the last day of the year, whilst the most potent of the prince of undeaths rituals was being observed, Pelor's avatar forged a mighty artifact. A black sundisk, with a ray of golden hope. It stands for the Promise of Pelor, that light will always cut through darkness and that everyone can shine in that light.

The light from the waterskin fades, and the kobold removes the pendant from it to return the skin.

Eventually my lord slew that unholy priest, and it enraged Orcus. For days he stormed in his lair of undeath, plotting revenge for the loss of his beloved priest. Eventually, he came up with a cunning plan. He made his own amulet, and swore an oath to let the Hanged Man walk the earth for as long as the Promise of Pelor stood. The avatar of my lord however, sealed himself inside the pendant, knowing that by doing so he would stop the Hanged Man from ever walking the material plane again. That is why these artifacts are linked. My pendant provides life, the shamans amulet perverts it.

When the kobold finishes, you feel like you are seeing him for the first time. His armour seems to be made of the light of sunrise and he is bathed in sublime rays which cover him like a cloak made from sunbeams.

This is the Promise of Pelor. Everyone can fit in the light, no matter who they serve. The light does not shine from Pelor, he just chooses to embrace it.

[Meltheim]

"That," Tor says, breaking the stillness of the room, "is an excellent story. You speak well for a scaled one. Not many weave the common tongue as well as you have this day. I understand why they call you a sage."

Tor looks to the others in the hut, "I believe that there is truth in what Goretex says. I believe that accommodations can be made for him and his people. The elves have a settlement just outside of town, and they are free to trade and work with the people of Duvik's Pass. I see no reason why his people could not have their own settlement as well, provided that they are willing to work and live in harmony with those already established here."

Tor takes a sip from his waterskin before putting it back in his backpack. "So, you were saying that we could remove the Oath of Orcus and use the Promise of Pelor as a boon to the townsfolk? What would we have to do to make this possible? How can we help you?"

[SirDalyus]

The Oath of Orcus will be apon an altar at the source of your spring. Either place this pendant in it's place, or destroy the Oath. I leave the choice in your hands. Perhaps you should let your skeptical friend drink of your waterskin.

[shadowgab]

Astonish by the tale and the reaction that ensue, Arianna look at the kobold, kneel down and say:

"I hope you will someday find a way to pardon my rudeness and my misbelief toward you. I know I fall to prejudice and I don't find an excuse for my behavior from earlier. You must understand that the plague as killed all of our temple except the two of us."

Pointing at her and Tor.

"I carry a burden that must be remove and the only way to achieve it is to clean the plague and kill the mastermind behing it at all cost. Even if I serve The Queen of Winter, I also recognize the other gods and godesses.

With a new determination in her eyes, she look at her companions:

"So everyone want to go and kick the geen bottom of the Shaman and clear the water ?

[Lilithgow]

"Now you're making sense, elf!" Eldithe cries, raising her hammer. "Goretex, I apologize for your wounds...people often fall to misconceptions about others."

Even as she says it, Eldithe makes her way to the glimmering metal, trying to cover her movement with further speech.

"As for the promise, I would say that Locke should carry it - you seem to have the most experience in such matters, no disrespect to Tor and you, elf."

Eldithe quickly stoops and moves hay aside around the shining...

"Oh, please let me be wrong..." prays Eldithe...

[SirDalyus]

Eldithe discovers a knife, dripping with blood in the haystack. Futher proping discovers an arrowhead.

I have not slain anyone, dear lady. Those are merely the tools I had to remove the bolt that struck me in the side.

It is clear from his tone that he disaproves of Eldithes actions.

How ever, It is best to always be vigilant against evil, so I cannot fault you for it. Perhaps your time would be better spent removing the shaman that plagues your village?

[Lilithgow]

Catching the glance, Eldithe looks at the ground, disheartened.

"I...I apologize. My upbringing was harsh on such matters, but my distrust was unacceptable."

Slowly, Eldithe turns and leaves the tent, stopping some distance away from it, cursing her actions under her breath.

[Meltheim]

Tor looks to Valerie. "Can you go comfort her? You know her best."

Turning back to Goretex, "Ok, you appear to have won us to your cause. What is the next step? Can you lead us to the shaman? Can we escort you to your people? If this plague truly is an intentional curse brought upon our people, then we need not waste any more time."

Resting his hand on Locke's shoulder, Tor says to all in the room, "For what it is worth, I agree that Locke is probably the best person to carry the Promise of Pelor. Of course, that is only if you agree to such terms, kobold friend."

[SirDalyus]

The kobold shrugs.

I was prepared for a fight, but I have no idea what lies ahead. All I know is he will likely be at the deepest part of the mine. If my pendants what you wish, you may have it.

The kobold removes it, and places it around Locke's neck.

I will pray to your mistress to forgive you your heresy.

Goretex chuckles a dry rasping laugh.

I am afraid I must rest. I will avenge you if you fail. Or die trying.

[shadowgab]

Looking at the kobold:

"Thanks you, Kobold Sage."

She head out of the tent to look at the lady dwarf that exit the tent a little earlier.

[greenstave]

Locke says a small prayer to the Raven Queen under his breath. The others can just hear mumbles.

...holy.....and if I am to fall....unatural.....in..name...

He then bows his head and allows the kobold to put the locket around his neck.

I shall guard this pendant with my life. And it will be returned to your people when our task is complete.

When Locke gets outside, he takes the pendant off from around his neck and looks closely at it.


History check: Does the pendant have the history as the kobold gave it, if Lock knows it:
[roll0]
Religion check: Is it a pendant of Palor, does it have any other divine properties for the bearer:
[roll1]


He then puts the pendant back around his neck, under his scale armour and out of site.

Outside the tent he catches Tor.

If this is an act of Orcus, it is on us, as champions of the monastery of the Queen of Winter, to destroy it and all who support it. We must do this for our patron Queen. I will be right beside you in this battle.

[Meltheim]

Tor and Locke share a brief moment of unified strength. Tor reaches into his belt pouch and pulls out the small black book, flipping through a few pages. Satisfied, he puts the book back in his belt pouch.

"Alright, we should probably head down toward the mines. I am sure it will be night soon and I would rather not try to find the entrance in the dark if we can avoid it."

[catchthesun]

Valerie stares blankly at the kobold for a brief moment before realizing that the entire conversation was completely incomprehensible. Something about people hanging themselves. It's kinda hard to tell how that was any bit relevant to everything going on. Unless the first person to die hanged themselves from a...really high place in town. Or something. But that can't be. Someone would have noticed. And the news would have been everywhere.

Just as she was about to tune him out completely, she noticed Eldithe exiting the tent in a rather depressed mood. "El'? Somethin' wrong?"

Exiting the tent after her, she leans down towards Eldithe and starts to slowly stroke her back. "It's alright. Everyone makes mistakes sometime. No need ta be so hard on yaself, 'kay? 'Sides, Aye was kinda gettin' ready ta fight 'im meself." She stops, frowning. "Sorree. All this is kinda new fer me too."

[Lilithgow]

"Its not just that Val! Its...I did exactly what I was taught to. I tried so hard, you know? And then I did it without thinking."

She sniffs deeply.

"Well, no point in letting it get to me. I'll try harder, and I certainly don't want everyone thinking I'm useless. Thanks, Val."

Steeling herself, she heads back and to the group.

"Right, let's get going, eh? I'm in the mood to hit some folk."

[SirDalyus]

With bated breath you look down the passageway that leads into the silver mines. From the lights of your lanterns you can see unlit lanterns hugging the walls. Underneath the lanterns lies a shallow channel which slopes downwards.
Looking at the map that the warden supplied, you reckon the entrance to the lower floor will in one of the three main chambers that lie farther in the cavern.

http://img13.imageshack.us/img13/5673/4e497f244faa4b7e.jpg

OOC : Rooms 13, 6 or 2 are your best bet for finding the lower floor.

[Meltheim]

Tor looks to the others, his bright eyes shining, "So, one of these three is our best chance? I have very little knowledge of these things. Well, my master said that what is simple approach is usually the best approach. Unless anyone has a suggestion or experience with the mines, my suggestion is this one." he says, pointing to the leftmost chamber.



OOC:
I suggest we try room 13 unless anyone else has any strong preferences.

Dungeoneering check to see if somehow I have any knowledge of the best place for a passage down to the 2nd level would be.

[roll0]

[greenstave]

Locke takes a look around the entrance to the mines.

In all my years coming here, I have never been into the mines. I often ran axes and tools up here my father had repaired, but I never made it this far in. All that to say, Tor, your idea is as good as any I can come up with.

[Lilithgow]

Despite never having set foot in one, Eldithe is unsurprised to find that a mine is as close to a home for any dwarf as any building could be.

"A mine is a dangerous place if you're not careful, and I don't want to add 'lost' to those dangers. I agree with Tor - we stick to the left, that way we can always find our way back."

Also going for room 13. Proceeding with lantern in one hand, hammer in the other.

[SirDalyus]

When you enter you see several goblins. Two of them tower over their smaller greenskin, and they are all armed with wicked looking knives.


{table=head]|A|B|C|D|E|F|G|H|I|J|K|L|M|N|O|P
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25|||||||||||[/table]

OOC:Everyone roll me init and pick a starting place.

[greenstave]

Locke points to the goblins and reaches for his hammer.

Goblins! Foul creatures. The Queen becons to them.


Init: [roll0]
Assuming we start from off the map, and moving onto row 25 costs 1, Locke takes his hammer and makes for 21L. Assuming we start on row 25, Locke heads for 20L.

[shadowgab]

"Rejoice goblins has I will send you to met the Raven Queen. She awaits you all !"


Initiative: [roll0]
Starting place : F20

[Meltheim]

Tor strolls into the room casually while thumbing through a small black book. He smiles at a page, tucks it back in his belt pouch, and charges forth, an animalistic howl erupting from his lips. "Let us open the gates of battle!"

OOC
Start on I-20 or as close to it as I can.

[roll0]

[SirDalyus]

The goblin's scream in defiance at you.

OOC:

Goblin 1: [roll0]
Goblin 2: [roll1]
Goblin 3: [roll2]
Goblin 4: [roll3]
Goblin 5: [roll4]
Goblin 6: [roll5]
Big Gobbo' 1:[roll6]
Big Gobbo' 2:[roll7]

[Lilithgow]

Eldithe storms into the room, raising her hammer, ready for the howling foes.

"And here I thought your Queen was all about reservation! Can't fault you for your zeal though. Let's crack some Goblins!"

[roll0] - as for placement, I'd like 19J if I can!

[SirDalyus]

The goblins all run at you.

OOC:The goblins move 10 squares towards you.

[SirDalyus]

Three goblins make the first strike. Two of them strike at the monk whilst one attempts to sink their blade into Eldithe.

OOC:
Goblins Attack Rolls:
G4 = [roll0]
G5 = [roll1]
G6 = [roll2]

[Meltheim]

Tor is briefly caught off guard by the goblins' attack and takes two hits. Then, moving with a speed and grace you had not seen in any human, Tor deftly slips in to the middle of the three goblins and strikes out, punches and kicks flying in every direction.

OOC
Move: Shift to 19-I
Standard: Five Storms (close burst 1) on G4, G5, G6.
[roll0] vs Reflex
[roll1] vs Reflex
[roll2] vs Reflex

[roll3] to each target that was hit
Minor: None
Free: Centered Flurry of Blows (if I hit any targets) = 6 damage to G5

[SirDalyus]

Spinning into the midsts of the goblin cutters, Tor utterly brutalises the three greenskins who dared raise blades against him. He kicks the first goblin in the stomach, then breaks its' neck with one swift twist. When the second goblin tries to stike him, the pulls the strike so that it impales the goblin behind him. The second goblin looks horrified, before Tor snaps its ribs with a powerful kick, puncturing the fiends heart. Tor takes a deep breath and then faces the other foes.

OOC:You take out the first three minions. You've taken 9 damage, how much hp do you have?

[SirDalyus]

The goblins stand in a line, and prepare for the rest of the party to try to attack them.

OOC:They form a line from [F]to[J]16

DM Only:They prepare a basic melee attack against a basic melee attack.

[Meltheim]

Tor stands among the wrecked bodies of the goblins, taking a half second to steady his breathing. He moves over to the left, looks up at the line forming in front of him, and crouches into a deadly stance. His bright green eyes flash briefly as a small trickle of blood slowly makes its way down his leg.

OOC
Tor has 24 HP max, so with the 9 damage I'm down to 15 HP.

My Ki Focus lets me shift 1 after I reduce an enemy to 0 HP, so I will just shift over to 19-H.

[shadowgab]

Seeing his friend take down some goblins, Arianna run towards the left goblins and attack her with her fullblade.

OOC:

Minor: Oath of Emnity on Goblin on F16
Move: move to E17
Standard: Bond of pursuit on my Oath

Attack roll 1: [roll0]
Attack roll 2: [roll1]

Damage roll: [roll2]
If he doesn't end his next turn adjacent to me I can shift a number of square equal to 5.

[greenstave]

Locke runs at them, "Crash" in hand. He has a fierce look on his face. The runes on his hammer begin to glow a dull grey light. As he swings the hammer, the rune in the shape of a "C" with a stick shaped person inside, Locke's rune for Protection, begins to shine fiercely, while the other rune remains a dull glow.


Move to I18.
Attack B1 with Word of Binding.
Str vs. AC
If hit, target takes 4 dmg (str mod) and is immobilized until the end of my next turn, or until I move away.
Activate Rune of Protection on Tor. Tor gains +2 to AC until the end of Locke's next turn

[SirDalyus]

Arianna marks him, but the goblin manages to skid just out of the way of the attacks. Locke's rune glows, before fine gold chains shackle the goblin to the floor.

OOC:Locke deals 4 damage. Arianna missed

DM:B1 down 4

[Meltheim]

Tor feels bolstered by Locke's runic arts, and grins savagly as he darts forward 10 feet and unleashes another barrage of martial fury at the three goblins in front of him.

OOC


This will be fun :smallbiggrin:

Move: Shift 2 squares (part of my attack) to H-17
Standard: Five Storms (Close burst 1) to G1, G2, G3
[roll0] vs Reflex
[roll1] vs Reflex
[roll2] vs Reflex

[roll3] to any I hit
Minor: None
Free: Centered Flurry of Blows (6 damage) to G3

Ki Focus - lets me shift 1 square if I drop an opponent to 0 hp. I shift to G16

[Meltheim]

Seeing his foes crumpling before him, Tor surges with energy and attacks the large goblin to his left.

OOC:

Action Point


Encounter Power: Open the Gates of Battle (melee touch) vs B1

[roll0] vs Reflex
[roll1]

[Lilithgow]

The wound in her side seems like stirs the fire of combat within Eldithe, hot blood making for hot spirit. She charges the larger greenskin, placing herself between him and his lacky, before bringing her hammer down with all the weight of her charge and the fury of the fresh wound.


Move: Run up to J17
Standard: Brash Strike on B2.
vs AC.
[Roll]1d10+3+4+1 on Damage.
If I do hit him, marking B2, bestowing a -2 to all attacks that don't target Eldithe. Get a free AoO on any shifting from his part.
Grants Combat Advantage to B2 till start of Eldithe's Turn.

[SirDalyus]

The brute on the right goes down to the hardy dwarfess. As she goes for the killing blow it just brings up it's shield in time to save it's head. It looks pissed
Tor is a maelstorm of vengance. He delievers crippeling blows to goblinkind, slaying one goblin with a straight punch, and putting his foot straight through the chest of the second. As Tor kicks the last goblin it jumps onto his leg, rubs it's foot in Tor's face and backflips back a few feet. It smirks at the monks attempts to injure it.

[SirDalyus]

The brute on the left and the goblin mook both swing for Tor. The brute that the dwarf attacks however, throws its knife away and pulls out a battle axe of a fine dwarven make. It puts all it's effort behind the blow, trying to shatter the puny dwarf.

OOC:G2 used goblin tactics to tumble around tor and makes a basic melee attack.
B1 makes a basic melee attack.
B2 uses daily power Skullsplitter. 2d10+8,( +3 vs AC ) B2 cannot act next turn.

Rolls:
B1 Attack = [roll0]
Damage = [roll1]

G2 Attack = [roll2]
Damage = [roll3]

B2 Attack = [roll4]
Damage = [roll5]

[shadowgab]

As she missed the goblin, Arianna let out a swear. Then look at the creature: "Damn you green pest ! I'll get you for that!"

Move: she move to H16 by passing in : E18-F18-G18-H18-I17-H16
Standard:Bond of pursuit on my Oath (B1)

Here's the roll: Attack and damage roll (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=11673774&postcount=110)
If he doesn't end his next turn adjacent to me I can shift a number of square equal to 5.

Minor:None

[SirDalyus]

The first brute is brought low by Arianna. She swept it's legs from underneath it, and it fell to the floor with a deafning crunch. She cleaved through it's shield with her first blow, and then she jumped into the air with her fullblade in both hands. Landing point first, the blade went through goblin armour, goblin chest and finally the goblin's life without it ever offering resistance. Arianna wrenches the blade from it's spend body and flicks it to clear the blood from it. She looks ready to take on anything.

[greenstave]

Locke moves towards the second brute, his hammer swinging in his hands. He gently moves close and swings the hammer at the brute. Despite the fact that such as action would normally elicit a ferocious yell, Locke softly says a prayer to the Raven Queen under his breath. As the hammer crashed into the brute, the runes change. Now, the opposite rune is shining brightly, and the previous is just a dull glow.


Move and shift into J17
Use Anvil of Battle encounter power on B2
Strength:[roll0] vs. Fort
Damage: [roll1]

Locke has resistance to all damage 5 from B2 until the start of his next turn

Use Rune of Destruction: Until the end of Locke's next turn, whenever B2 shifts, Locke or an ally adjacent to him can make an opportunity attack against it with a bonus to the attack roll equal to Locke's Constitution modifier of +4.

--or possibly Locke's hammer swings by the brute and I wrote all that for nothing!

[Meltheim]

Blood is now running freely from several open wounds on Tor's body. He looks slightly crazed -- a far cry from the calm, rational person you saw just seconds ago. He relishes in the violence of Fallenleaves' attack against the brute, and his eyes glitter with a feral light.

As he eyes the goblin who taunted him earlier, he spares a quick glance for his allies on the opposite side of the room. He notes Locke and Eldith squaring up against the other brute and waits a few breaths before making his next move

OOC
From what I can tell it will be Eldith's turn to end the round. Then start of the new round goes to me, then the Brute

[Lilithgow]

Reeling from the huge blow, Eldithe tries to focus her mind, working hard to resist the shock to her system trying to overwhelm her. It is, however through the blow that she finds focus.

"Don't pass out. Don't fall down. Fight. Win. Survive. FIGHT!"

Her last thought forces her back to the room, back to the mine, back to the Goblin, its axe still wet with her blood. She pulls herself back from the blow, and channels the fury into a strike against the hulking fiend.


Move - None
Standard - Using Crushing Strike (At-Will) on B2.
[roll0] vs AC
Deals [roll1] on hit, grants Eldithe 6 Temporary Hit Points.
Minor Activating Second Wind as a minor from Dwarven Racial. Heals 8.

[SirDalyus]

Eldithe strike cleaves a great gash down the chestplate of the brute, but it suffers no damage from the blow.
The other goblin tries to poke another hole in Tor.

OOC: Brutes AC is now 14, and it's reflex is now 10
Goblin's Attack = [roll0]
Damage = [roll1]

DM:50hp left, bloodied at 20

[Meltheim]

The light in Tor's eyes appears to dim as he wobbles on his feet. What once looked like a deadly stance now appears to be his attempt to stay standing. Caught flat footed, the goblin's strike takes Tor in the chest.

Tor collapses to the ground in a puddle of blood, his chest heaving in ragged breaths.

OOC
That last hit took me to -2 HP. I'm down!

[roll0]

[SirDalyus]

The goblin that has gravely wounded Tor is in a state of blood lust driven hilarity. It rushes at Fallenleaves, and attempts to make her like her namesake.

The brute stands up on shakey legs. He takes a short breath, before cutting his hands on his battle axe. He looks weaker, but far angrier.

OOC:Lucky the Goblin menace strikes Lady Fallenleaves

Attack:[roll0]
Damage:[roll1]

Brute loses ten HP, gains +3 to attack for his next round.

DM:Brute:40 bloodied:20

[greenstave]

Locke sees Tor bloody and on the ground. He says a small chant and spreads his arms out wide as a wave of divine energy rushes out. A rune on his forhead shows the Rune for Protection.

He then moves up to put himself between the Goblin and Tor, and he strikes at the Goblin.


ooc: Do I have to do a heal check on Tor, or can I use Word of Mending to allow him to use a surge? Don't have my book here and not clear on the runes of that. If Word of mending, then use it as a minor action as follows:

Minor, Word of Mending: extra 1d6 on surge plus everyone within 5 gets +1 to all defenses

Move: to G16

Std: Word of Shielding, str. vs. AC, dmg: [roll0]
Use Rune of Protection: First time the Gobline hits OR misses anyone adjacent to me, including me (so Tor or Arianna), the target of the attack gains +4 temp HP

If I need to do the Heal Check first, here is the roll, and I will adjust my actions according to what type this uses (std. minor, etc. etc.)
Heal Check: [roll1]

[SirDalyus]

As Locke approaches Tor the amulet around his neck glows. Golden beams of light cover Tor, and his wounds knit themselves together. The pendant looks duller than it was before.

OOC:Tor can spend up to [roll0] healing surges. Locke won't be able to use the pendant for a while.

[Meltheim]

The blood on the floor appears to shimmer with a golden light, then begins slowly moving back towards Tor's body. Tor's breathing appears to regulate and his color improves slowly. The blood rolls back into his wounds and the wounds themselves begin to close, each briefly glowing with a golden light before fading to a faint scar.

OOC
I'm going to just spend all 4 healing surges and be at full health :smallcool:

[shadowgab]

Killin gthe Brute has rise the morale of Arianna, Seeing as Tor is being healed up, she decided to focus her killing instinct on the enemy.


Standard:Bond of Pursuit on G2
attack:[roll0]
Damage:[roll1]
Move: if killed the G2 move to L15 (without making Attack of Opportunity)
Minor: Oath of Enmity on B2

[SirDalyus]

The flat of your fullblade connects to the goblin's forehead, and he goes down like a stone. Just the brute remains.

[Meltheim]

Tor smoothly climbs to his feet, examing the new scars across his skin. Tor looks to Locke, smiling somewhat sheepishly, "Thank you friend. It appears that our Queen is not quite ready for me to serve at her side." Then, looking back toward the brutish, bloody goblin across the room, Tor deftly reaches into his pouch and pulls forth a black metallic object. With a quick flick of his wrist, Tor hurls the star across the room.

OOC
Move: Stand up
Minor: Retrieve shuriken from belt pouch
Standard: Ranged Basic attack vs B2
[roll0] vs Reflex
[roll1]

He cheers in triumph as the star embeds itself in the foul creature's flesh.

[Lilithgow]

Seeing the blinding light emanating from Tor, Eldithe steps back in surprise.

"Moradin's Favour, that's some powerful magics you've got there, Locke!" She turns back to the foul beast, its hand bleeding over the axe. "Way I see it, beast, you're out numbered, out matched and you just got blood on my axe."

She lifts her hammer high, and attempts to bringing it crashing down on the fiend.

Standard - Encounter Power - Bell Ringer
[roll0] vs Fortitude

Reserving other actions for how well this goes.

[greenstave]

Locke looks down at the pendant, the glow fading away.

"I wish I could take the claim for it....but it is the pendant that has healed Tor, though I suspect it won't be doing much more healing for awhile. It would seem, in this case, that Pelor is the one withthe favours

He refocuses his attention on the remaining enemy.

[Lilithgow]

Cursing at the near miss, Eldithe curses, and braces herself for the coming blow, keeping her position in front of the beast.

No further actions.

[shadowgab]

Glad the Raven Queen hasn't claim your life Tor, I'll make them pay for your wounds.

She then head towards the goblin and attack it.


Move to J15
Standard: Bond of Pursuit on G2

attack1:[roll0]
attack2:[roll1]
Damage:[roll2]

[SirDalyus]

The brute's taken a fair amount of damage, but does not look closer to being finished off. He attempts to behead Arianna.

Rolls:
Attack = [roll0]
Damage = [roll1]

DM only22Hp Bloodied at 20Hp:

[Meltheim]

Tor's lips curl back in a grimace as he dashes across the room, taking advantage of the Brute's focus on Fallenleaves. After getting into position behind the Brute, Tor focuses all of his energy into a single finger, stabbing at a pressure point on the brute's back, right between its armor. He follows up the attack with a kick to the side of the brute's head, causing it to stumble sideways.

OOC
Move: Move to K-16 by heading to G-17, then to J-17 and up to K-16, so as to avoid the Attack of Opportunity.
Minor: Fallen Needle Move Technique (shift 1 or move 3) and shift from K-16 to L-15, setting up the Flank with Arianna.
Standard: Fallen Needle Attack on B2
[roll0] vs Reflex
[roll1] damage and B2 has a -2 penalty to attack me
No Action: Centered Flurry of Blows = 6 damage to B2 and slide B2 to K-16

[SirDalyus]

"I crushes the puny hummy!" The goblin screams himself hoarse and attempts to kill Tor.

OOC:Bloodied Immediat Action: Goblin shifts between Tor and Arianna, and attempts to make Tor stop breathing. Again.

Rolls:
Pushing Arianna:[roll0] against reflex.
For: [roll1] squares.

Attacks Tor:[roll2]
For:[roll3]

[Lilithgow]

"I crushes the puny hummy!" The goblin screams himself hoarse and attempts to kill Tor.


"Hey there, Scales! You've got a dwarf to get through before you get to touch the others!"

Hot temper running through her veins, Eldithe sends the hammer round into the side of the goblin as he tries to escape her.

Rolled in OOC - 18 vs AC, 11 Damage. Stops target from moving, but target still gets its attack as already in this thread.

[SirDalyus]

Eldithe trips when making the blow and the goblin turns around, raising its' battleaxe whilst doing so. Rather than crashing into the greenskins' side, It smashes straight into the skull of the beast, pulping it's head and spraying a
Arianna with offal.

OOC:Dingalingding! You are winner.
Feel free to loot the corpses,(roll1d100), recover,(spend ONE healing surge to regain full health and test a different room.
You gain 1200XP each.

[Meltheim]

Tor stands there with his mouth wide open, bits of gore dripping down his clothes.

"Eldithe, that was an excellent attack. I see that you and I could work very well together."

Tor flexes his hands, does a few squats, cracks his knuckles, and seems quite satisfied. "That pendant has amazing properties. I am almost reluctant to say this, but I doubt the Raven Queen herself could have done better. I feel completely refreshed and much lighter on my feet."

Tor looks around at the bloody pulp and broken bodies around him. "I wonder if they have anything that would point us toward our goal," he says, as he begins to inspect one of the corpses.

OOC
Tor doesn't need to spend any more healing surges since the goblin didn't get to land that huge devastating attack on him after all.

Looting and new powers (yay level 2) are in the OOC thread.

[greenstave]

Well done Eldithe! We are lucky you were with us.

Locke looks back over at Tor The Gods work in mysterious ways! I am a priest of the Queen, but it is undeniable that the other Gods posess extreme powers, beyond our abilities to comprehend. We must be respectful of them all, save Orcus, who must be destroyed at all costs. Preachy lesson over for the day! Let's see if these creatures had anything of value for us and move on. Clearly, this room is not where we need to be!

Locke looks over at Arianna, and hands her a small towel from his adventure pack.

This may help you wipe those guts off!


See ooc threat for leveling and loot stuff

[shadowgab]

These goblins really cling to their lives. Everyone, that was a good fight but net time Tor, try not to surround you will all the enemies she said with a smile.

Accepting the towel handed to her:

Thanks you're a gentlemen.

So what these goblin have on them ?

Loot :[roll0]

[greenstave]

Locke looks around, and sees a small pebble on the ground. It is warm to his touch. He turns it over in his hand and investigates it.

Has anyone seen one of these before? It looks like a small stone, but it feels warm in my hand? Now that we are done here, might I suggest we move on to the next room to complete our task?



Religion check for divine warmth
[roll0]

[Meltheim]

Tor laughs easily at Fallenleaves' jab. "Yes yes, I know. Master Urshan used to say that as well. Maybe I do need something more than my fists and feet after all?"

As Tor says this, he notices a vibrant green wrappings on the brute. "Hmmm, this looks interesting. I wonder what this is . . ." he says as he removes the wrappings and examines it closely. "Locke, what have you got there?"

OOC
Rolling to see if I can determine what this thing is and if it has any arcane/divine properties.

[roll0]
[roll1]

[Meltheim]

"Hmm . . . " Tor begins wrapping the green cloth around his hand, pulling it tight as he makes a fist, "well, he wrapped it around his weapon so I will wrap it around mine."

"Now, let us scout this place out. Those goblins got the jump on us far too easily."

With catlike grace, Tor makes his way over to the shadows and seems to fade from sight. A voice whispers from the shadows, "Hold tight and rest up. I will have a look round and be right back."

[shadowgab]

He head to the Axe and take it and examine it. Then looking at her friends:

I don't know at all about the wrap. I think this eagle is a religious symbol but don't quite remember, someone has an idea or about this Stag ?


Religion check:[roll0] on eagle and stag
Arcana check:[roll1] on axe

[Lilithgow]

Eldithe heaves a heavy sigh of relief, and is suddenly overwhelmed by just how tired she feels. She's also got far bit of blood on her. Fortunately, it isn't all hers.

Yeah...wasn't a bad hit was it? But we all earned that victory. You're right though...held out, didn't they?

She moves over to Arianna, and looks at the axe, still in the goblins' grim grasp.

That's a dwarven axe. See? The metal's been reforged at least twice. Gives it a darker tone, but its far stronger for it. Makes it a devil to pattern though. I don't suppose you'd mind if I took that off you? I don't like that dwarven work's fallen into these hands. I might know who made the thing, I'd like to give it back. Dwarven forgings tend to be something of a family affair.

[roll0] Rolling for Loot.
[roll1] Rolling with the dwarven racial to metalcraft for the axe.

[SirDalyus]

At the enterance of the small room Tor can see that a wooden balcony has been constructed over a deep pit. There appears to be huge rats swarming about. Two goblins are sitting at the edge, with their feet dangling off the balcony. They seem precariously balanced, and their is no way back up to the balcony from the pit.

[Meltheim]

Tor makes his way around to the entrance of the room, hugging the wall and taking advantage of his lack of armor or weapons. The two goblins do not appear to notice him at all. If it wasn't for the chewing, squeaking sound of the rat swarm, the room would be without any noise whatsoever.

Tor lays down on his belly, pressing his ear to the wooden floor. He slows his breathing and opens himself up to the vibrations in the room.

OOC
[roll0] to detect anything on the other side of the floor.

[SirDalyus]

The room was obviously a slag pit. Chunks of silver ore have been chucked in, and from here they could be graded and shipped out by the miners. The pit has been retrofitted to serve as a rat pen. Some of the rats look fat and sleek, and are obviously for food. The rest are skinny and agressive. They look hungry, and will probably attack whatever gets in their way.

The floorboards look pretty rotten. You think that may be something underneath the floorboards, but you'd need to destroy them to get to it.

[Meltheim]

Tor slowly rises back to his feet and makes his way quietly back to the group.

"There are two goblins and a pit full of rats in the other room. The floor is rotted and might give away any attempt we have to sneak up on them. I might be able to bypass the floor and put the goblins into the rat pit, or we could just leave them alone. While there might be something underneath the floor worth finding, I am somewhat inclined to leave them alone and move on.

What do you all think?"

[shadowgab]

Looking happy at the idea to kill more goblins, Arianna replies:

Let throw them in the pit and we'll look at the floor afterwards. I know the way of the silent predator so we can both toss them in and then see to floor.

[Meltheim]

"Sounds like a plan, Fallenleaves. Just like in training. Let me go ahead and you can clean up whatever is left over. I've got a new trick I want to try out. " Tor grins wickedly as he and Fallenleaves slip back into the shadows and head toward the goblins.

[roll0] to get into position around 10 squares behind the goblins.

Once in position, Tor pulls a large black feather from his belt pouch. Holding it in front of him, he closes his eyes and begins to silently pray. After a few seconds, he begins to slowly float into the air as shadowy wings seem to emerge from his back. His eyes pop open with a flash, and he soars across the room toward his enemies.

Utility Power: Swift Wind - allows me to fly my speed (6) plus my wisdom modifier (4)

Instead of simply landing gracefully, Tor unleashes a devastating attack on one goblin and attempts to knock it into the pit of rats.

Standard: Bull Rush
[roll1] vs goblin's fortitude.

The second goblin watches his friend suddenly fly over the ledge into the rat swarm. As he turns to look at what caused this situation, he is met in the face by a casual backhand from Tor, and easily knocked into the pit as well.


Centered Flurry of blows: since I hit with the bull rush, it triggers my flurry of blows which is 6 damage + I get to slide enemy 1 square. I choose to slide him 1 square off the ledge and into the rat pit.

[SirDalyus]

The two goblins go flying off the ledge and fall to their death. One of them gets stuck in the lifting equipment and starts to spasm. The other hits a lever whilst he is falling, and breaks the door to the cage of skinny rats. They flood out, and begin to eat the corpse. Meanwhile the platform comes up pulping the life out of the trapped goblin. You could take the platform down and try to access the box from below.

[Meltheim]

Tor calls back to the rest of the party "We have dispatched the goblins. It appears that there is a platform over here. Bring some light and we will figure out what we can do with this."

[shadowgab]

Arianna then advance to Tor:

Here's some light. Handing a sunrod she just take from her bag.

She activate it and look at the floor and the pit.


Perception check:[roll0]

[SirDalyus]

There appears to be a small passage which you could uncomfortably walk through.

[Meltheim]

Tor is not a fan of tight spaces and does not appear that interested in leading the way into this dark hole.

"Eldithe ... I believe that this passageway is more your size. Plus, you all just saw what happens when I lead the charge ... " he says, fingering one of the many scars running across his otherwise smooth skin.

[greenstave]

I'll take the lead

With that, Locke enters the passage.

[shadowgab]

As Locke enter the passage:

I'll watch your back Locke.

Arianna enter the passage and follow him.

[Meltheim]

Tor reluctantly slips in behind Fallenleaves.

OOC
Squeezing rules in effect or just a tight fit?

[Lilithgow]

Don't worry Tor, I'll make sure no one sneaks up on us. We'll try to keep those scars your only ones, eh?

Eldithe moves in behind the group, and firmly grips her hammer in one hand, the lantern shining back into the cave.

[SirDalyus]

As you pass down the tunnel you activate the traps the goblins have put down for the rats. Bangs and flashes go off, rats stream down the tunnels and you hear a goblin patrol come down the hall in order to reset the traps. Tor and Eldithe dart left. Locke and Arianna go right.

OOC- Locke and Arianna only:
Angry Cleric Squad end up in room ten. As you burst into the hall you see two kobolds chained against a wall. Four goblins are taking turns to throw knives at them. There is a pile of dead kobolds at the side of the room. You could kill the goblins and free the prisoners. Or you could sneak past them whilst they are distracted by their sport.
OOC-Tor and Eldithe:
Team Banhammer your in room 5. Your under the floor looking up a metal grill, in a room filled with firewood. The walls are damp, and there are big copper vats filled with water from the run-off. The goblins are using the room as a mass sleeping hall. There is a large barricade running between room three and five, and there is a large wooden gate leading into room seven. It's open now, but looks like you could block it from room seven.

[Meltheim]

Just posting the map so that we can all easily see where we are.

http://img13.imageshack.us/img13/5673/4e497f244faa4b7e.jpg

[Meltheim]

(putting actions under spoiler text until the parties are reunited)

Tor takes a moment to calm his breathing and peers up through the grate.

[roll0] to see if the room is empty or if there are any creatures about.

He examines the grate and looks for any hinges or other mechanical parts before testing to see if the grate can be moved.

[roll1] to loosen any mechanical parts and make it easier to open

"Eldithe - I did not get a great look at the map, but I think that we are definitely further into the mine than we were before. It smells musty here . . . maybe we have gone down in elevation as well.

I wonder where the other two went. I hope that they are not far."

[SirDalyus]

Team Banhammer: Tor and Eldithe:Tor doesn't see any of the creatures walking around, though the hairs on the back of his neck stand on end. Judging by the lack of noise the patrol of goblins you ambushed has not been noticed to have gone missing, though it might not be long before these goblins wake to change the patrol. Tor estimates there to be between fifthteen and twenty goblins asleep. The grate itself is fairly easy to move, the hinges are oiled and they move without squealing. The tunnel you can down must have carried something away from this room. In the small room that you are in you notice things twinkle in the dark. There is a definate smell of charcoal and alcohol in the air.

[Lilithgow]

Team Banhammer -
In a hushed whisper, Eldithe replies to Tor.

The others are going to be fine. Locke's a capable fighter, and I think it would take all the Goblins in here to slow down Fallenleaves. But we should try and meet up with them again soon. What can you see? If we're trying to avoid a fight, I'm going to put out my lantern. I don't relish bumping into every goblin here on our own.

[roll0] Dungeoneering check to see if I can figure out exactly where we've got to.

[greenstave]

Angry Cleric Squad

Locke sees what is going on. He looks at Arianna with a fierce look and gives a nod. A nod that says, he isn't going to allow this to continue. Unless Arianna objects, he goes after the Goblins. He selects one, and attacks, swinging his warhammer at the creatures head.

ooc:
Anvil of Battle (encounter) on one of the goblins, since I can't see a map specifically. I assume we have combat adv. as well, so add the necessary adjustment to the rolls below, it is not included.
Str vs. fort: [roll0]
hit 1W+str: [roll1]
on hit, Locke gains resist 5 against the the target, any type of damage
Locke activates Rune of Destruction: Until the start of my next turn, if the target shifts, I or Arianne (if she is adjacent to me) can make an opp attack with bonus +4 to att.

[Meltheim]

Team Banhammer
Tor nods to Eldithe, whispering "Put your hand on my hip and I can guide us through. I can see quite well in even very dim light and that may be enough so that we do not need to use a lantern."

Peering back through the grate, Tor tries to count the slumbering creatures. "I am not opposed to killing these creatures with fire. My understanding of mines is that fire can be very bad though, and it will make it hard to breathe for all of us. Maybe there is a way we can sneak past?"

[shadowgab]

Angry Cleric Squad
Seeing as Locke charge to the goblins, Arianna follow him and attack another goblins (not adjacent to Locke)

OOC

Oath of Enmity on the goblin
Oath of pursuit on goblin
attack1:[roll0]
attack2:[roll1]
damage:[roll2]

[SirDalyus]

Team Banhammer:Tor counts seventeen. The cavern is high and resonably well ventilated. If you lit a fire the most dangerous part would be the boiling hot water and steam from the runoff vats. The door to room seven is a lot lower down the entrance to this room. If you want to do this roll 1d20+dex three times.

Angry Cleric Squad:Both goblins go down, dead. What do you do? Also, roll me a perception test.
Reflex save against.

[Meltheim]

Team Banhammer:

"14, 15, 16, and .... 17. Wow. 17 of them in here. Ok, it looks like we could probably get away with a fire in here, actually. Hold on to me and we will make our way across before burning this place down. I will signal you, since you can't see very well in this light."

Tor slowly lifts the grate, easing it on its hinges until the grate is fully open. He helps Eldithe up, then boosts himself up. They gingerly make their way across the open room, taking care to be as stealthy as possible.

Once they get to the door going toward room 7, Tor squeezes Eldithe's hand twice, letting her know it is time to light the fires.

[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]

[Lilithgow]

Banhammer

Eldithe quickly hands over the vials of miner's comfort to Tor, trying her best to keep quiet in the large cave, unable to see in the hostile dark.

[Meltheim]

Banhammer

Tor's hand closes around the vials. "Sit tight. I will be back in the span of one breath." The air flutters briefly as Tor darts around the room, pouring drops of Miner's Comfort here and there, ensuring that every bed, every goblin, every bit of cloth gets a little sprayed on it. With the last bit of the vial in his hand, Tor pours the rest into the water, knowing it will ignite if they use it to douse the flame.

"Alright. Keep those eyes closed. It is about to get very bright in here."

*Crack Crack* *Crack Crack* the flint and steel springs to life, a little shower of sparks hitting the floor. With each strike, the room is briefly illuminated. *Crack Crack* a spark lands on a bit of soaked cloth and bursts into flame. Tor grabs Eldithe's hand and guides her slowly back toward room 7.

[SirDalyus]

Team Banhammer:The liquid doesn't so much catch fire as erupt into
flames. One especially unlucky goblin managed to get to the water, but his victory was cut short when the entire vat catches alight and cremates him. The vat begins to froth, and then whistle, before it comes apart and releases burning, scalding liquid fire which creeps over the corpses and incinerates them. When you enter room seven, it's obviously an armoury. Crudely made weapons are piled onto the floor, and there are several thick leather miners suits there too. There is a mining cage at one side of the room. It obviously goes down to the deepest part of the mines. Would you like to go in it, would you prefer to loot the room first?

Angry Cleric Squad:You free the kobolds, who reveal themselves to be followers of Pelor lead by a kobold named Gortex.

"He came here to cleanse this place." They say. "When he did not return, we hoped to retrieve his armour and pendant. We know where the most likely place they would take the body is. The Nekropolis. "

The Kobold shivers and makes a disc shape on his forehead.

"Would you mind if my comrad and I strip these goblins and burn the corpses of our fellow kobolds?"


"Come with us, and let us cleanse this place."

[greenstave]

Cleric squad

Locke unties the kobolds and listens to their story. Locke will do an insight check on whether they are telling the truth. Passive is 12. Active check: [roll0]

We have met Gortex, and are completing his task for him. He is outside the mine and injured. I did what I could to stabilize him. If you want to go to him, you may be able to help me more than I could. We will complete his mission.

Locke looks around at the bodies.

I must take what I can use, as I head deeper into the mine. After I am done, you may do what you will with the remains.

Locke will search the bodies for anything useful.

There, the bodies are yours to do with as you please. If you want to come with us, you can, unless my companion has a way for you to better assist.

[Meltheim]

Banhammer

Tor is amazed at how effectively the fire worked. He turns his attention to the armoury, now silhouetted by the light of the dancing flames against the corpses of the goblins. "Eldithe, this is surely enough light for you to see by. Let us see if we can find something useful in here before heading down."

Tor looks over the armour and weapons in the room. "Let me know if you find a dagger of some sort. Goblin steel can be crude, but we have seen at least one weapon of Dwarven make down here already. Besides, I am used to sparring with Fallenleaves and others who wear cloth only. I now realize that these fists are not as effective against armoured foes." He chuckles to himself, remembering his last words to the young squire before he headed down into the mines.

[SirDalyus]

Angry Cleric Squad:Locke finds a pouch of obsidian disks. They are pretty sharp, and would make good throwing weapons. The two kobolds stip the goblins of their knives, and suit up in chainmail. One of them flicks his wrist, and fire erupts from it. He places his hand on the corpses and they incinerate. He takes a small amount of ash from each corpse, and puts it in a bag. They lead you down the tunnel, and you end up at a wire cage. Just before you go in, Arianna see's a goblin that she though she'd killed earlier. It's stumbling around haphazardly and it spots Arianna.

"Big Boss! Why you run 'way? You beat me so I'm yours but you run 'way! Why you run 'way! I Is yours Big Boss!"

The kobolds chuckle. One of them whispers something into Locke's ear.

Locke:"Didn't you know that goblins bond to whoever defeats them but leaves them unharmed? Looks like you left one alive in the scuffle we heard about earlier, and he's ticked because you forgot about him."

Whilst the other kobold is whispering to Locke, his partner speaks to Arianna.

"This is the heart of the corruption. We don't know what's down there, only that it's powerful and is trying to open the Nekropolis. Prepare youself."

You all crowd into the cage and the kobolds begin lowering you down.

[Meltheim]

Team Banhammer

Tor pulls out a modest dagger and slips it into his belt. He rummages around a bit more and finds a couple of darts, but only one of them is still sharpened to a point. He tucks that into his belt pouch.

A glint of metal in the otherwise dark room catches Tor's eye and he reaches down to pull out a pair of long knives with wicked curves. With one in each hand, Tor practices a few moves and lets out a small cry as one of the knives tumbles from his hand. "I will need to get used to the balance before I can use these, but they will definitely come in handy later." He sucks his thumb a little bit, stopping the blood. Then, looking over toward his companion, he sees that she has had some success as well.

"Eldithe, what have you got there? Oh, a shield! Quite nice." He tucks the two curved blades into his bag for now.

[SirDalyus]

Team Banhammer:Eating the consumables fortifies you you gain temporary HP equal to half your maximum health value. You both decide that going down is your best bet, and you get into the wire cage.

And what you see is magnificent. A large outline of a massive door has been chipped into the far wall. Golden chains criss-cross it, preventing it from being oppened, and a large lock in the shape of a half-orc's face prevents them from just being moved. The chains will not last long though, as set before the door lies the altar of an unholy deity. A large hooded figure stands before the gate, chanting and gesturing towards the outline intermittedly. You notice that whenever you see him point towards the door, the room chills and the face shrieks.

Team Banhammer:Torand Eldithe enter from the far righthamd side of the room. They are in a shadowy area, and can observe the proceedings without anyone noticing.

Arrianna and Locke's presence is noted by everyone. The wirecage is loaded with a large, dim-looking, goblin, Arianna, Locke, and a pair of kobolds wearing mismatched armour and armed with large knives.

The chanting stops. Completely.

"If this is the best he can manage, then frankly, he is not going to be around much longer. Mmm. Don't take this personally, you deluded fools, It's just a bit of interplanar sniping. Mmm. Looks like your time is up."

He pulls out a deck of cards, and begins to throw them at the ground. Where they hit, the ground starts swelling and skeletal minions begins to rise.

"Well now I'm impressed. You killed twenty of my meatbags and you don't looked harmed. What a pity. Mmm. Guess I could always make you into a deck chair. Mmm."

The hooded figure returns to It's chanting.

[SirDalyus]

{table=head]|A|B|C|D|E|F|G|H|I|J|K|L|M|N|O|P|Q|R|S|T|U|V|
1||||\/|\/|X
2|||>||||F||X
3|||>|||N||X|||||||||C|C|C
4|||>||||||<||||||||C|Hm|C
5|||>|||a|||<|
6|||>||||<|
7|||>||||||<|
8|||>|=|=|=|=|=|<|
9||||||||||||
10s|s|||W|X|X||||||
11s|s|s|||W|W|X|X||
12s|s|s|s|W||W|W|W|W|X|A|X|||||||||||E
13s|s|s||||||W|W|X|X|X|
14s|s|||||||X
15||||||||||||
16|||||||||X|T||
17|||||||||||X|||||||||||X
18||X|||||||||||||||||||X|X
19|||||||||L||||||||
20||||||||X||||X
21||||||X||||||
22||||o|Tim|A||
23||||o|Kr|Kf|o|
24||||o|o|o|o|
25|||||||||||[/table]

A wall of skeletons stands between you and the altar. All but one are from goblins and kobolds, the other skeleton unmistakably that of a dwarf. He is dressed in the golden chains you can see blanketing the door.

[Meltheim]

Banhammer

Tor slinks in the shadows, his breathing steady and quiet, his green eyes open wide and taking everything in. He turns to Eldithe, and in the quietest whisper possible, "It appears we may have found our companions as well as our quarry. It also seems that they have not yet seen us yet. Let us see what happens before we attack - it may be possible to surprise the foe if they assume our party is only 2 rather than 4. As one who is used to fighting mobs, surely you can appreciate the value of the flanking maneuver."

[Lilithgow]

Banhammer

Doing her best to stay in the shadows, mimicking Tor where she can, Eldithe leans close to whisper back."If you're saying not to run in and get run down by all those skeletons, I agree. Personally though, I'm worried about the hooded fellow. I think I'm going to be trying out this axe on him, I think.

[shadowgab]

Angry Cleric Squad

In a whisper to her teammates
Locke, I'm going straight to their leader and will bring him down quickly while you make chaos in their rank by attacking them with the kobolds and the goblin. okay ?

[greenstave]

Clerig Squad

Locke nods his head. "Take Tim with you. Tim, go help your master, Arianna here, with the guy at the alter. You must protect her, now that you are bonded to her. Kobolds, there will be time for me to learn your names after this is done, my apologies, you're with me. I'm heading for the big skeleton, you guys start working on the rest. If I am to complete Gortex's mission for Pelor, I need your help getting through here."


Locke gets his hammer in hand and moves up to I19. He readies himself to attack the first creature that comes in range. He activates his Rune of Destruction, and it glows brightly on his hammer.

[SirDalyus]

As Locke moves into position, a wall of shadowy fire burst's in front of the hooded man. Small black pods cover the ground in front of him.

[Meltheim]

Banhammer

Tor crouches in the shadows, nodding to Eldithe. "I agree. You should definitely try out your new toys on the big guy while I clean up the little ones. I will meet you at the alter in the span of a few breaths." Then, Tor looks across the room. "Is that a Goblin with them? And Kobolds? Do you think that they have been captured? Or are they . . . look, it appears they have allies! Ho ho! Only Fallenleaves could have done that!"

[shadowgab]

Angry Squad


Arianna Hurry to attack the hooded man


Move to E15
Double move to E8
Minor: Oath of Enmity on Hooded man
Action point : Angelic Alacrity
Before attack shift to E3
attack1:[roll0]
attack2:[roll1]
Damage:[roll2]

attack1 is critical - max damage: 29 !!

[Meltheim]

(not using spoiler post anymore because we're all together now)

For a brief moment the room is almost tranquil as the two sides size each other up. As Locke and Fallenleaves move to engage with the hooded figure, all eyes shift to follow them in their assault.

A single black feather flutters down from the shadows above, and goes generally unnoticed.

"aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaHAAAA!"

From seemingly nowhere, Tor descends from the shadows to land in the middle of the pack of skeletons. As he lands, you see him rear back and pound both fists directly into the chest of the dwarven skeleton, staggering him. Tor's arms and legs appear to blur and stretch as skeletons around him begin to disintegrate one by one, until only the dwarf and two others are left standing. Just as the dwarf appears to have recovered from his earlier assault, Tor slams a powerful kick into the skeleton's face, ratting the gold chains. The crunch of bone echoes throughout the chamber as Tor settles into a crouched stance.

OOC
Tor starts his turn on T-13, having entered the room unnoticed from the opposite side as the other team.

Move: Encounter Power: Swift Flight (fly 10) to land on J-13.

Standard: Encounter Power: Open the Gate of Battle (melee touch)
Attack: [roll0] vs Reflex
Hit: [roll1] damage (added 1d10 extra because he was previously undamaged)

ACTION POINT:
Standard: Daily Power: Masterful Spiral (burst 2)
Attack Sk1 [roll2] vs Reflex
Attack Sk1.2 [roll3] vs Reflex
Attack Sk1.3 [roll4] vs Reflex
Attack Sk1.5 [roll5] vs Reflex
Attack Sk1.7 [roll6] vs Reflex
Attack Sk1.8 [roll7] vs Reflex
Attack Sk1.9 [roll8] vs Reflex
Attack Skeletor [roll9] vs Reflex
Hit: [roll10] Force damage
Miss: 1/2 damage (7 damage) to any missed targets

Free: Centered Flurry of Blows (6 damage) to Skeletor (Sz)

Effect: Tor now attacks at Melee 2 until the end of the encounter.

[SirDalyus]

As all the skeletons crumble before Tor, he notices something strange happening. The hooded man screams as Arianna buries her sword into his chest, and the golden chains snap. You are all blasted head over heads from the black winds that scream out of the gate.

"You despicable Orcus scum! You've let the Hanged Man free. He's already been poisioning your city and you think unleashing him would make him spare you!"

The hooded man pulls the sword out his chest, and rips off his cloak.

"I am Nathinal. Pivot of the Fulcrum, Protecter of the Fulcrum, Last Knight of the Crow King. By the last breath of my god I swore to protect the balance, and I will not see it destroyed for you idiotic foolish.!"

Nathinal is clothed in shadows. A hard black carapace coveres him like the shell of some obsene beetle. Through the hole in his chest you can see his cape, it's crimson red contrasting with the utter black of his armour. He materialises a large wicked looking curved blade, and drops into a dangerous crouch.

You hear the noise of a fire burning quickly, as boiling hot water bursts through a crack in the celing. Then you notice him.

The screaming face you seen earlier is carving it's self onto the face of the dwarf's skeleton. Before you eyes the skeleton is warping and cracking into a taller, leaner form. Muscles form, blood, veins and tissue melds it's self onto the frame. Finally a golden, radient half-orc stands before you.

He is clothed in thick plate armour of a glourious golden material. It's gleams like a miniture sun even in the dim light.

"The time of my return was foretold. You cannot deny the inevitable maggots. Anyone who stands in my way will be dispatched. Anyone who does not bend kneel to Orcus's splendor will have no legs to stand on. Don't bother begging. Your death will be quick.

The orc pulls a greataxe out of the air. It sizzles. It's gold on the inside, and a radiant red on the outside. He seems to grab a handful of air and pulls. Suddenly several cultists appear beside him. They are all armed with wicked looking knives.

Nathanial shakes his head, then his blade. A massively tall shade appears behind him.

There is no point in hiding behind bones now Fanos. We will have to cut these minions down, one straw at a time.

[Meltheim]

Tor looks up at the ceiling and sees the boiling water start to pour down. He shakes his head, realizing that it may not have been the best idea to burn down the room.

Unfortunately, experience is sometimes the cruelest teacher. She gives the punishment before the lessons.

Tor looks around the rubble strewn room. He sees Eldithe, Locke and the odd group of followers that Locke has attracted. He senses Fallenleaves nearby and hopes she was able to avoid the debris as it fell from the ceiling.

With the dwarf's transformation complete, Tor now settles into a deadly crouch, ready to pounce on the cultists and the Hanged Man himself if need be.

[greenstave]

Locke hears the name of the undead king and that is enough for him. He hefts his hammar and runs in

The Raven Queen will not stand for your defiling of her domain. By Her word, you will be sent back to the depths. When you meet the Queen, know that she will be most unkind!

Locke heads straight for the dwarf and attacks.


ooc: I cannot see the map. If I can't make it to the dwarf, I will adjust my action

Attack with Daily - Endless Fire, STR vs. AC: [roll0]
Hit: 2W+str [roll1] and target is blinded until end of my next turn
Miss: Half damage
Effect:Until the end of the encounter, Locke gains a +1 bonus to damage rolls, his attacks deal fire and radiant damage instead of their normal damage types, and the number of hit points and temporary hit points granted by his powers increases by 4.

[SirDalyus]

{table=head]|A|B|C|D|E|F|G|H|I|J|K|L|M|N|O|P|Q|R|S|T|U|V|
1||||\/|\/|X
2|||>||||||X
3|||>|||||X|||||N|||F|C1||
4|||>||||||<||||||||C2||C5
5|||>|||a^Tim|||<||||||||Kr|T|Kf|
6|||>||||x||||||||||||A|
7|||>||||||<|
8|||>|=|=|=|=|=|<||||||||E
9||||||||||||||||||Hm|L
10s|s|||W|X|X|||||||||||||||||||
11s|s|s|||W|W|X|X||
12s|s|s|s|W||W|W|W|W|X||X|||||||||||
13s|s|s||||||W|W|X|X|X|
14s|s|||||||X
15||||||||||||
16|||||||||X|||
17|||||||||||X|||||||||||X
18||X|||||||||||||||||||X|X
19|||||||||||||||||
20||||||||X||||X
21||||||X||||||
22||||||
23||||||||
24||||||||
25|||||||||||[/table]



TagsSo tags are:
PC's have their first letter's capital as their tag. Locke is [L], Tor is [T] ect.
[Kf] and [Kr] are the kobold fighter and rogue respectivly. Feel free to name them.
[Tim] is Tim.
[X] stands for rubble. It requires a DC 15 acrobatics check to hurdle over, else you cannot enter that square.
[W] is boiling water. If you enter you take your [CON] mod damage, minimum of 2.
[Hm] Is the Hanged Man. He is the SEND of this encounter. [Seriously Evil Nasty Dude]
[C] are Cultists of Orcus.
[F] is Fantos.
[N] is Nathinal.
[s] are shadows.
[=] are stairs upto the platform.
[\/][>][<] are the sides of the platform.
[a] is the altar.

If you want me to describe any of them in detail, or roll any skills now is the time to do so.

Nathinal and the Hanged Man growl at each other. Nathinal's form starts to become coated in shadows, whilst the Hanged Man's blade begins to weep with colorless fluid.

[greenstave]

in that case Locke double moves to R12

[shadowgab]

Arianna use bond of pursuit on the hooded man again
Attack1[roll0]
Attack2[roll1]
Damage[roll2]

[Meltheim]

Tor feels emboldened by Locke's dedication to the Raven Queen as he tries to reconcile all that has happened in the last few moments and who these newcomers are.

[roll0] knowledge check
[roll1] knowledge check

[Lilithgow]

The ceiling crashes down, boiling water scorches rock, secrets are revealed, but one thing is abundantly clear. Eldithe is going to hit SOMEONE in the face, and this new comer really sounds like he wants it to be him.

Double Move to R10 - Axe Drawn, ready to rock.

[Meltheim]

Tor dashes to stand next to Eldithe and readies himself for whatever comes next.

Move: Move to P-10
Readied Action: Fallen Needle against the first enemy that moves within 2 squares of Tor.

[Lilithgow]

Eldithe, pleased to have the shifter by her side leans in and whispers to Tor.
Tor, I have a worrying feeling that is going to hurt. Furthermore, I apologize for what I am about to do.

She turns her attention to the gaggle of cultists and sinister figure. She takes a deep breath.
All that show, and you couldn't even muscle up a beard. But don't worry, what with all your goblins and bones around I could hardly tell you were so embarrassingly underdeveloped. And nice work on the golden armour, very fetching for a lady of your station, I'm sure you'll make a lucky goblin happy some day. Your shady friends there would be beautiful bridesmaids.

She leans over to Tor again.

Say something about his god, I've got nothing!

[Meltheim]

Tor takes his cue from Eldith.

"Eldithe, don't worry. All followers of the Raven Queen know that Orcus is not even a true god. He is merely a simpering pretender who hopes that the other gods will accept him. Sort of like a small puppy nipping at your heels, or an annoying little brother who has imaginary friends because nobody will play with him. He cares for nobody but himself. His undead followers have no choice but to worship him, since he gave them their rebirth. His living followers, however . . . there is no excuse for them. Death is too good for them, but it is all that we can offer."

[SirDalyus]

Nathinal laughs royally and his rich voice fills the air.

You hear that Orky? Your going to fufill your gods most favoured domain, and we'll bury you in that wedding dress of yours. I'll be the priest, your slaves the pallbearers and our unwelcome guests can be the grieving freinds and family of the dearly departed. If you ask nicely Fanos here might even make you a coffin and decorate you with shadowbloom.

Nathinal grabs the air in front of Fanos and pulls, and the shade condenses into a large globe. He the proceeds to bat Fanos into the cultists. Fanos crashes into one, and then uppercuts one so hard they he floats over the head of the hanged man. Whilst all eyes are on him Nathinal leaps off the altar and summons a huge globe of shadows over the cultist, which exploades and crushes him into the floor.

[SirDalyus]

"If we are to have a funeral, lets see some grieving faces. I'll start with the dwarf who's above the god's wrath,and i'll make her learn her graces."

The Hanged Man sprints over to the dwarf, and attempts to cleave her in twain.

OOC:
Attack:[roll0]
Damage:[roll1]

[SirDalyus]

The cultist that was airborn gets back onto his feet. Growling at the shade he pulls out a plain, golden dagger. He throws it at the shade.

DM only:[roll0]
[roll1]

It sinks into the shades chest. The shade looks mildly offended.

[Meltheim]

Just as the Hanged Man closes to attack Eldithe, Tor lashes out with a strike directed at the man's head, knocking him slightly off balance. Tor then slips to the side, hoping to get into a flanking position.

OOC
Fallen Needle attack against Hanged Man

Standard (readied)[roll0] vs Reflex
If I hit:
[roll1]
Minor: shift to R8 (Fallen Needle attack lets me shift 2 squares as minor action)
Free: Centered Flurry of Blows = 6 damage against Hanged Man

[greenstave]

Locke moves into position and swings his hammer at the Hanged man with mighty force.


move in to S9
Attack with Daily - Endless Fire, STR vs. AC: [roll0]
Hit: 2W+str: [roll1] and target is blinded until end of my next turn
Miss: Half damage
Effect:Until the end of the encounter, Locke gains a +1 bonus to damage rolls, his attacks deal fire and radiant damage instead of their normal damage types, and the number of hit points and temporary hit points granted by his powers increases by 4.

[SirDalyus]

The hammer crashes straight into the Hanged Man's face. It distorts his visor and leaves him unable to see. You can see the visor melding back into it's original shape as the Hanged Man shrieks.

DM only:
Cultist 1; 20/40
Fanos; 64/70
Hanged Man; 113/130

[shadowgab]

Arianna dash toward the group of cultist and slash at one of them.

Die you evil doer of dark magic !


Move: move to R5
Minor: Oath of Emnity on Cultist 4
standard: Bond of Pursuit
attack1:[roll0]
attack2:[roll1]
damage:[roll2] (as i got +12 on damage : +5 and +12)

[SirDalyus]

The cultist is gravely wounded. Arianna's fullblade carves a large chunk of flrsh from the cultists chest, and he falls prone. Unknown to Arianna he has a dagger ready, and he throws it at her.

Rolls:
Attack Vs Reflex[roll0]
Damage:[roll1]
Fortitude Attack:[roll2]

Let me know if you lose the fortitude roll.

[Lilithgow]

The huge blow from the orc almost throws Eldithe off balance, and sends every single nerve in her body into outrage at their mistreatment.

What exactly was I thinking, insulting the big guy? Well, at least he's looking at me, now. Time to give some back, I think.

With a great surge of effort, Eldithe focuses her pain into a near tangible form, and then drives it to her arms, and brings the axe round at the hanged man, trying to take advantage of his outrage at his treatment from Locke.


Move Action: I believe I'm already flanking with Tor, but if not, using 'Pass Forward' Utility to move without provoking AoO into a flanking position.
Minor: Dwarven Racial - Second Wind as Minor Action. Heals 8 Points, all saves +2 for one round.
Standard: Using At-Will - Crushing Strike.
[roll0] vs AC. Grants 4 temporary hit points.


The axe swings worryingly wide, the power of the strike throwing Eldithe completely off balance. Silently cursing, she stops the wild swing, and brings the axe back, attempting to crush the orc with force of the backswing.

Spending Action Point to gain additional standard - performing another Crushing Blow. Have rolled in OOC thread.

[SirDalyus]

BA-DOINK!

The axe crashes off the orc's breastplate, comically hitting him in the chin on the rebound. He looks winded, and his helmet is still melting back together.

DM:Hanged Man:103
Fantos:64
Cultist1:20
Cultist4:13

[SirDalyus]

Two of the cultists slash at Arianna. Meanwhile Fanos punishes the cultist that dared attack him, and Nathinal fires a bolt of darkness at Tor. The Hanged Man tears off his visor, revealing a feature-less black mask underneath. He then attempts to behead Tor.

Rolls:
Fanos: Attack:[roll0]
Damage:[roll1]

Nathinal:Attack:[roll2] Vs Reflex
Effect:[roll3]
Duration:[roll4]

Hanged Man:Attack:[roll5]
Damage[roll6]

Cultists:Attacks:[roll7]
Damage[roll8]


Tor's chest creeps with shadows. He feels a bit sturdier.
Tor gains +1 AC for seven rounds.

[Meltheim]

As the Hanged Man swings his shining axe at Tor's head, Tor slips to the side and loops his arm around the handle, twisting the half-orc's wrist to an uncomfortable angle and hoping to disarm him.

OOC
[roll0]

Tor rips the axe free and sends it flying through the air toward Eldithe's outstretched hands. "ELDITHE, NOW!" he shouts.

[Lilithgow]

As the orc's axe whirrs through the air, Eldithe reacts on instinct and brings the axe into the suddenly available back of the Hanged Man.

Attack of Opportunity provoked by attacking anyone but me. Rolls in OOC thread!

[shadowgab]

THe slashes hit Arianna and she let out a scream as the two blow where deep, she could feel the blades enter her flesh, slashing her robe as they weren't even there. Backing away, she regain her breath and readies herself to take the upcoming attack

"Come at me you mad men, I'll take all the blow you take at me and send it back a hundredfold to you!"


Shift to S6
Take her healing surge.

[Lilithgow]

With the Hanged Man disarmed, Eldithe feels the battle has started to go her way. She stows the huge golden axe, not wanting it to be anywhere near the Orc, and produces her own more plain dwarven axe.

As this happens, she sees the cultists swarming round Fallenleaves, and hears her cries of defiance.

"Tor! Go lend Fallenleaves a hand, or foot, whatever. Locke and I are more than enough for this weakling."

Realizing that if the Hanged Man has any more tricks, they're certainly going to hurt, Eldithe redoubles her efforts to get them directed at her.

"Yeah, that's right, I said it. Looks like you're getting beat down by a dainty little non-believer like me, doesn't it? You should pay more attention in a fight, princess."


Minor: Stow Axe, Draw Regular Axe (Master at Arms Feat)
Standard: Daily - Knee Breaker.
[roll0] vs AC
[roll1] on hit. Target is Slowed, save ends.
Deals half Damage on Miss. Does not Slow Target.
Marks Hanged Man, etc, etc.
Move: Pass Forward Utility.
Move Round Hanged Man, Avoiding AoO to Q8, flanking with Locke.

[Meltheim]

Tor's heart is pumping with the rhythm of battle and Eldithe's words of encouragement help fuel the fire. "Hack him off at the knees!" he shouts before turning to assist his companion from the monastery. "Fallenleaves, remember that novice exercise for dealing with multiple opponents that we used to do back when we were children at the Temple? I think it went something like this!"

OOC
Move: Move to T6
Standard: Five Storms (Burst 1)
[roll0] vs Reflex
[roll1] vs Reflex
Hit: [roll2] against each target I hit
if I hit any targets: Centered Flurry of Blows = 6 damage vs C4

[SirDalyus]

Tor pelts two of the cultists with blows and the one Arianna sliced at stumbles backwards. Tor lands a mighty blow to it's chin and it flies into the air, and lands on it's back. Unfortunately for the cultist, It's back has landed on a large, sharp rock which quickly drains the life out of the cultist.

Eldithe's taunting of the hanged man allows her to slide under his guard and leaving him a painful wound. He looks more irritated than wounded however.




Hanged Man:87
Fantos:64
Cultist1:20
Cultist4:Dead

[SirDalyus]

In a puff of black smoke the kobolds reappear. The smaller one tries to drive two daggers into the cultists back, whilst the fighter goes for a killing strike.

Rolls:Fighter[roll0]
Damage:[roll1]

Rouge:Attack:[roll2]
:[roll3]

Damage:[roll4]
:[roll5]

[greenstave]

Locke once again sends his hammer flying to the gut of the hanged man. The rune of destruction on his hammer shining like a star.


Use encounter power Anvil of Battle against hanged man.
STR vs. Fort: [roll0]
dmg: 1W+Str: [roll1]

On hit:
-Locke gains resist 5 to all against hanged mans attacks until the start of my next turn
-Until the end of my next turn, if the hanged man shifts, either Locke or Eldithe can make an opportunity attack with a bonus to attack of +5

[greenstave]

Radiant and fire, and my damage has a +2 as well from using Rune of Endless Fire

[Meltheim]

Tor feels a huge WHOOSH of flame from behind him. He spares a quick glance over his shoulder to see the Locke's hammer doing some massive damage to the Hanged Man. "Keep it up you two! We'll join you in a moment!"

[SirDalyus]

One of the cultists takes his dagger, and thrusts it through his own heart.
His blood travels out of his veins, and into the mouth of the hanged man, rejuvinating him whilst his cultist falls to the ground dead.

Meanwhile another cultist strikes at Fantos, trying to pierce the shade with a golden dagger. Nathinal spots him, and uses the shadows in order to flip over the head of the shade and try to cleave the cultist in midair whilst Fanos attempts to punch in his face.

The Hanged Man is royally pissed, and attempts to kick Locke in the chest.
He puts all his power into the blow, whilst a cultist breaks free of the group and begins to run towards the altar.

[Lilithgow]

As the Hanged Man brings his foot to bear against Locke, Eldithe swings again, bringing the her axe into the seemingly unstoppable enemy.

You're fighting me, you bastard! What's a girl got to do to get your attention anyway?

AoO against the hanged man for attacking an enemy who isnt' me. I think my AoO happens before he punts Locke that far, so I think I'm still technically flanking him. If not, just subtract 2 from my attack here.

[roll0] vs AC
[roll1] Damage on hit, no other effects.

Sorry Locke, can't stop him from kicking you though!

[shadowgab]

Arianna has finally take her stand, she ready her blade and strike at the cultist next to her.

"I'm not done yet, I'll take more than that to kill me!"


Minor: Oath of emnity on C3

Oath of Pursuit on C3
attack:[roll0]
damage:[roll1]

[Lilithgow]

Infuriated by her miss and the attack on Locke, Eldithe brings her axe down once more against the brutal foe.

You'll pay for that, princess! Come on, fight me properly, or are your skills limited to kicking the clergy?


Move: Nothing here.
Standard: At Will - Brash Strike.
[roll0] vs AC
[roll1] damage on hit.
Marks, etc, etc. Grants Combat Advantage to Hanged Man vs Eldithe till next turn.

[SirDalyus]

As the axe slices into the Hanged Man, It rends a massive hole into his chestplate. The air fills with the screams of dying men.

OOC:If you are adjacent to the Hanged Man, you take five damage per round.

[Meltheim]

Tor cheers as the Kobolds join the fight and quickly dispatch more of the cultists.

Still in his deadly stance, Tor slides in among the enemies and lashes out again.

OOC:

Move: Shift to R5
Standard: Five Storms (burst 1)
[roll0] vs Reflex
[roll1] vs Reflex
[roll2] to each target I hit
Minor: None
Free: Centered Flurry of Blows (if I hit a target): extra 6 damage to C5

[SirDalyus]

The cultists have been watching Tor warily and therefore are prepared for his attack. They both avoid the blows Tor dishes out.

[greenstave]

Locke leans back as the wave of energy cuts into him, but it has no effect and he persists and once again swings his hammar to attack the Hanged Man. This time the protective rune shines the brightest on Locke's hammer.


After last attack, Locke had 5 resist against all, so the first of the ongoing did not damage him...I think?

Attack with Word of Diminishment
[roll0] vs. AC
damage: [roll1]

Effect:
-Until the end of Locke's next turn, Hanged Man takes a penalty to all damage rolls of -4 (Locke's str. mod)
-Any adjuacent ally to me gains resist 2 vs. all damage
ooc: for these types of effects, is it the stat modifier, or the mod+1/2 level that is in effect. If the latter, than the above effect is -5

[SirDalyus]

The hammer smashes into the Hanged Man's gut.

For locke
*snip*

-Any adjuacent ally to me gains resist 2 vs. all damage
ooc: for these types of effects, is it the stat modifier, or the mod+1/2 level that is in effect. If the latter, than the above effect is -5


I'm going by it being the stat mod + 1/2 level.

[SirDalyus]

The remaining cultists all turn to stare at Tor, and raise their daggers. As one, they fall about Tor hacking and screaming as they attempt to repay him for their fallen comrade.

As one of the cultists jumps out of Fanos's reach, he responds by pouncing at him, his claws extended and going for the kill. Nathinal jumps to Fanos's aid too, firing black bolts into one of the cultists.

Roll:Cultists Attack:[roll0]
Cultists Damage:[roll1]

Fanos Attack:[roll2]
Fanos Damage:[roll3]

Nat Attack:[roll4]
Nat's Damage:[roll5]

[SirDalyus]

Tor's go.
Then the hanged man.

Cultists Attack:[roll0]
Cultists Damage:[roll1]
Fanos Attack:[roll2]
Fanos Damage:[roll3]
Nathinal's Attack:[roll4]
Nathinal's Damage:[roll5]

[Meltheim]

Tor's body twists and ducks out of the way of the Cultists' daggers. He seems to relish in the intensity of the fight, and there is almost a palpable sense of excitement in the air around him.

OOC
Standard: Five Storms (Burst 1)
[roll0] vs Reflex
[roll1] vs Reflex
[roll2] vs Reflex
Hit: [roll3] against all targets I hit (see next post for crit damage for C5)
Free Action: Centered Flurry of Blows (6 damage) against C1
Move: Shift 1 to R6

[Meltheim]

OOC:
CRIT on C5: [roll0]

[greenstave]

Locke holds steady, prepared for the Hanged Mans incoming attack.

[SirDalyus]

The three cultists are pummeled under Tor's relentless onslaught. Two of them escape with cuts and bruises. The other is not so lucky.

Tor grabs his arm as he passes, and pulls the cultist behind him. With a quick snap kick he breaks the cultists neck. Just as Tor finishes him off, Tim dives into one of the cultists and attempts to decapitate him.

Meanst-while the hanged man is angry. He punches Locke in the face, or tries to.

Roll;Hanged Man's attack;[roll0]
Damage[roll1]

Tim's Attack;[roll2]
Damage; [roll3]

[shadowgab]

As the cultist begin to die and fell at combat, Arianna Dash behind a cultist and slash him with her Fullblade.


Move to T3
Oath of Enmity on C5
Oath of Pursuit on C5
attack1:[roll0]
attack2:[roll1]
damage:[roll2]

[greenstave]

The hang man swings at Locke's head, but Locke is able to get his forehead down in time and block the punch. In reply, Locke swings his hammar at the Hanged Man's gut.


Locke takes no damage due to the -5 penalty Hanged Man takes on dmg after Locke's last attack.

Attack with Word of Diminishement
[roll0] vs. AC
Dmg: [roll1]
Rune of Protection: Until the end of Locke's next turn, the Hanged Man takes a penalty to damage rolls equal to -5.

[SirDalyus]

The hammer swings past the Hanged Mans face, and he stumbles back in order to avoid Locke.

[Lilithgow]

Eldithe is finding herself more and more the victim of her own jibes with her growing inability to distract the hanged man. His malevolence tangibly rolls over her, but she manages to push through it, and focuses her frustration into a couple of bold swings at the figure.

If you're not going to pay attention, then I'll make you!


Free Action
Attack of Opportunity (From attacking Locke while marked)
[roll0] vs AC
[roll1] Slashing Damage
Standard Action - Brash Strike At-Will
[roll2] vs AC
[roll3] Slashing Damage on Hit
No Move, no Minor.

[shadowgab]

Still fightning the cultist, Arianna know that the battle must end soon or else.
She let a scream of battle as she slash the cultist with all her might.


Oath of Enmity on C5
Oath of Pursuit on C5
attack1:[roll0]
attack2:[roll1]
damage:[roll2]

[SirDalyus]

Eldithe's get's lucky and hits the Hanged Man in the side of the head. He staggers back, one step, two steps, three steps, and falls to his knees. Dark, thick ichor oozes out from the gash in the hanged man's temple, and he falls deathly silent. As soon as the Hanged Man goes down, the remaining cultists stop fighting, and Fanos and Nathinal wipe them up.

Tim knows him to be great warrior. We should entomb him with all the honour due to him.

The orc picks up the remains of the Hanged Man, and returns to Arianna's side. The smaller kobold keeps his weapon unsheathed, and talks to Tim.

I couldn't agree more with you. Bury him in a spoilheap, it's the only tomb his honor can afford.

[Lilithgow]

In a cry of rage, Eldithe's body releases the many wounds obtained, and pain flows freely through her body once more. She quickly sheathes her axe, and spits some blood onto the floor.

"I don't care what you do with him. But we have a plague to cure here. Everyone alright?"

[Meltheim]

Tor calms down as the last body hits the floor. With a heavy sigh, his own rage appears to subside as he resumes his outwardly calm demeanor.

Tor turns to Nathinal and his companion, "I apologize for getting off on the wrong foot. I am Tor, of the Raven Queen. We came down here to find a cure to the plague that is destroying our town. We could not have succeeded without your help. Thank you."

[SirDalyus]

Nathinal sheathes his sword, and turns to face Tor.

"Trust me, I know the Raven Queen well. Unfortunatly my relationship with her is not one which I would have chosen for myself."

Nathinal notices the green wraps Tor is wearing.

"I can see you are a great warrior amoungst your people, if you are the leader of the hunt. How did you gain such an honor?"

Meanstwhile, six stubby metallic legs unfold from Locke's pebble, and four gold coloured eyes appear. It chirrups happily, and moves so it sits on Locke's head.
It is suprisingly warm and heavy.

[greenstave]

Locke watches the introductions, and is shocked by the feeling of movement in his pocket. He watches with a quiet interest as the little creature crawls out and around his body, eventually resting on the top of his head. Seeming content, and knowing that if could have hurt Locke anytime if it wanted to, Locke let's it stay. He speaks as if there isn't a warm insectoid-like pebble sitting on his head.

I am Locke, Priest and Cleric for the Raven Queen. Tor gained the honour by being one of the best fighters, and most devout, our monestary has seen. He looks around at everyone. Does anyone require my services as a healer?

He turns to look at Tim and the kobolds. He and his ilk have been sent to the side of the Queen. What happens to the body is of limited importance. A burning pyre might be fitting. He may have had honour in the fight, Tim, but he had no honour in life. His mission was one of mysery.

Locke pulls out the pendant from around his neck, so it is visible.

[Meltheim]

Tor's eyes narrow slightly when Nathinal mentions "the hunt".

"Locke speaks the truth. You, yourself, appear to be an ally on the field of battle, at least. Now, what is your purpose here? Are you going to be a help or a hinderance to our quest?" Tor slides casually into a stance that declares his intent to those versed in the art of battle.

[SirDalyus]

"I have my own quests to follow, my own path to lead. If I should help or hinder you shall remain to be seen. As for my intentions, I came to seal the Hanged Man away."

Nathinal narrows his eyes at Tor.

"Which I would have been able to do If I hadn't been stabbed through the chest. Which hurt. Has your priest noticed that he has a Aerborth on his head?"

Tor picks up the axe that the fallen champion used. He straps it to his back, and turns to face Tor.

"Tim is agreeable to burning. It will be good to represent fierce warrior's spirit."

Nathinal takes something from the Hanged Man, and then closes the corpses eyes.

"Now shall we head to the source of this misery?"

[Lilithgow]

Eldithe feels slightly out her depth in the sudden shift the room has undertaken. However, as soon as it looks like the group could move forwards, she leaps at the chance.

We got no time to be just standing around while folk are suffering. Came here to do a job, I say we get down to it.

She stands expectantly, ready to move on.

[Meltheim]

Tor nods in agreement with Eldithe.

"Yes, we have wasted enough time as it is. Let us move toward ending this plague. I wonder, do you think that this . . . thing . . . has anything that might aid us?"

Tor searches the body of the Hanged Man before any burning, just to make sure that anything that might be useful is taken before it accidentally gets destroyed.

OOC
[roll0]

[SirDalyus]

The Hanged Man doesn't possess much in the way of valubles. A silver ring, a silver chain and a handful of silver marks with house runes enscribed on them, a quill. Tor recognies some of the house runes, namely the Ironforge dwarven clan and the Lone Hunt clan of shifters.

When Tor has finished checking the Hanged Man over, Tim takes him away to clean. He returns, wearing the Hanged Man's plate and lowers the hanged man to the ground.

Tim points to the corpse. "I name the clan, Mountain's Tide. I name the foe, Relentless. In the name of the clan, 'tis done."

As soon as Tim finishes his chant, a lance of fire bursts from his finger, igniting the remains of the Hanged Man.

"I know the way forwards. It seems that my eyes have been opened by our recent encounter."

Tim leads you onwards, down twisty tunnels, across rickety bridges and down skree slopes. A few goblins try to prevent your passage, but Tim only needs to brandish his axe to be allowed passage. Finally, you end up in front of the source of the mountain streams. In front of you an altar rests, with the Oath of Orcus on top. A small trickle of water drips down it and into the rest of the water.

"Well warriors, will you destroy the pendants, or will you swap them?"

[Lilithgow]

Confronted by the Oath, Eldithe feels a malaise emanating from of the object. Combined with seeing it continuing to befoul the water.

We can't just stand here and discuss things while that thing is poisoning good people! I'm taking it down. I'm not waiting for it. We can figure it out after it isn't there!

Eldithe storms towards the object, intent to pull it down.

[greenstave]

Locke thinks for a few moments, once again ignoring the creature on his head.

It must be destroyed, even at the loss of a precious gift such as this, the curses of Orcus must all be destroyed. We shall prepare some water with this pendant to cure those who are sick, and then we will destroy it. Tim, kobolds, can you fetch some buckets to take some water. I will purify it. As much as you can.

He then looks over to Nathanial and heads towards him.

Perhaps you can enlighten me further of this...Aerborth that seems to have taken a shining to me?

[SirDalyus]

As Tim and the kobolds fill up on as much water as they can, Nathinal pulls Locke aside.

"An Aerborth is an abyssal creature. It feeds off of bad luck. They're incredibly rare, and almost indestructable. They are not twisted like the other denizens of that foul place either. Totally harmless."

Nathinal thinks for a while.

"Mostly harmless anyways. So long as your polite to it, it won't be trouble. Might play some pranks, but it won't be trouble."

[greenstave]

Well little fellow, I hope you do not feast very much with me, but I would be happy for you to accompany me on my journey's. Can you communicate?

He turns back to Tim and the kobolds to check on their progress.

[Meltheim]

Tor makes his way over to Tim and assists with gathering clean water to bless. "The Raven Queen works in mysterious ways, but surely she cannot fault us for destroying a relic of Orcus, even if it is at the expense of the health of others. Fate will win out, in the end."

Having filled what vessels they possessed, Tor looks back to Locke and the others, "Well, it appears that we have met our obligations to the Warden. Are we to go our separate ways, or is there a greater threat we need to investigate?"

[SirDalyus]

The Kobolds and Tim have finished gathering water.

"This is all the water we can carry. My only regret is I can't carry more.

The Aerborth seems to enjoy the view from atop Locke. It practically radiates contentedness.

As soon as Eldithe pulls the locket from the altar, and the sense of malovence that has been permenting the air evaporates.

Nathinal puts out his hand.

"Now let's destroy that damned locket and finish this."

[Meltheim]

Tor draws a small circle in the ground with his foot, and kneels, bowing his head in observance of the ritual.

[Lilithgow]

Eldithe hands the pendant over quickly, happy to be rid of the object, despite having only just laid her hands on it.

Ugh. The damn thing feels like death. Sickening.

[SirDalyus]

"This won't take long."

Nathinal puts the two amulets together, and begins to chant again. The two amulets glow brightly, before fading back to normal. The amulets look like they have been drained of all colour.

"Tim, smash the amulets."

Tim unsheaves his axe, and swings it back. He drives his axe into the amulet, and they explode in a burst of light. When you can see again, there are two Nathinals in front of you. One of them is the one that has been helping you. The other is dressed in burnished copper plate.

["You have been gone too long from our grace. Will you not rejoin us?"

The newcomer speaks to Nathinal, his voice flowing around the cavern and filling it with warmth. Nathinal's face turns grim.

"I cast you aside for a reason. I am my own man now, I will be owned only by myself. My debt to you has been repayed."

The newcomer turns to Tor.

"What about you priest? Is there room in your commune for one who has danced with gods?

[Meltheim]

"The Order of the Raven Queen willl always accept those who wish to pledge themselves to its cause. However, only those who are pure of heart and can devote themselves fully will ever know peace in our Unkindness.

Be wary - our Queen does not suffer fools."

OOC:
A group of ravens is apparently called an "unkindness". how cool is that?

[Lilithgow]

Eldithe takes an involuntary step backwards and moves towards Locke, before whispering as best she can to him.

Locke! What's going on? Danced with the gods?

[SirDalyus]

The bronze armoured Nathinal laughs.

"I can see you are in quite some degree of confusion, so allow me to explain. You have heard of avatars, yes? Well Nathinal here was the chosen one of Pelon. When he was sealing away the Hanged Man, rather than using his own soul to bind the amulets, he bound it with his divine essence. Which Is why you see two before us. What he did after that, I know not, though I smell the Raven Queen and shadows apon him.

The dark Nathinal pulls out an amulet. It's made of plain steel, and has been beaten into the shape of a set of scales. He leaves it lying openly on his cheast.

"I choose to seal you away when I learned how an Avatar is formed. Gods cannot create life, or souls. They mostly have to use the raw soulstuff that the Creator left for them. But if a god wants to create an avatar, that needs a focus to bind across. What your Lord Pelor chooses to do is too pick two or three of the souls in his domain, and then snuff them out of existance completly. He then used their refined souls to create us. That's why I left him, and sealed you.

Nathinal begins pacing around the room.

"And the Raven Queen, she does the same! For all of my love I could not stay with her. So I entered the shadows, and the shadows entered me. I found peace there."

Nathinal points at his bronze twin, but looks at Tor.

"One of us will need to stay here, to ensure that this place has not been corrupted, and to defend the town if it has. Which of us would you have as protector? The Man?"

The bronze armoured Nathinal laughs.

"I may as well use our name then, shall I? I am Pel'Viator and I will protect you. What use are shadows before the light?

[greenstave]

With respect to the two of you, we are not the town leaders. I am a priest and cleric, Tor a monk. We are taken into the confidence of the townsfolk. I, myself, provide rites over the dead, and healing, and advice to those in need. We are, as you can see, tasked with small and not so small missions for the townsfolk. But we do not lead them. That task is left to the mayor and town council. I suggest making your pleas to them.

He turns around to his companions.

We should head back to town. I would see the kobold who entrusted us, me, with the pendant. And then we must get this water to town as quickly as possible to heal the sick. I would not like to pass more to my Queen because of this plague.

Nathanial, your help was appreciated. If you need my services, I would happily assist. I thank you, and now I take my leave of you.

[Lilithgow]

I'm reckoning that Nathanael there don't much fancy being cooped up int his cave all on his own. If he wants to leave, then I'm not telling him to stay here.

[Meltheim]

Tor bows his head, hefts some of the water on his shoulders, and starts bounding for the exit.

[SirDalyus]

It has been five long years since Duvik's Pass was saved from the dangers of the Hanged Man. Pel'Viator vowed to protect the town, and has built a chapel at the entrance to the mines he was once sealed in. Being an avatar of Pelor has naturally led to many people travelling to become part of his congregation, and the population of Duvik's Pass has swelled considerably due to this. Goretex and his kobold minions have settled into the old mines, and have become just another part of the towns scenery.

Some of the villagers have fled Duvik's Pass for good. They have founded a small port downriver, called Stillwaters. As the dwarfs opened their doors to any that would learn their crafts, many apprentices have taken up residence in the port town, and travel upstream to Duvik's Pass to learn their craft.

The hero's of Duvik's Pass have tended to stay at the Lucky Horseshoe Inn. The clientele mainly consists of Tor, Tim, Eldithe, Priest, Locke and the occasional traveller. The rest of the village either goes to the Golden Torch, run by Gil Coalbeard, which is bigger and cheaper, or is a member of Pel'Viator's flock and abstains from drinking. The inn is unusually busy tonight, as no less than five travelers are already in.

The inn is small and cosy, with six circular tables and a well stocked bar. At one table sits Gareth and Priest whispering to each other, gesturing wildly and jumping everytime the door opens. A tall knight and his squire sit at the back. The knight wears battered, heavy iron armour with a mailed fist embossed upon it. The squire perches in the corner and observes everyone. A travelling entertainer sits at the bar, telling rude jokes to the bartender which are making the barkeep erupt with cackles. His carved walking stick is perched next to him, and has a wide brimmed hat on the top. Sitting next the door is Ridori, a young man who has travelled far from his tribe to learn the smithing skills. He looks as nervous as only a 7"2 young man can.

Eldithe and Tim enter the bar, after their shifts at the keep have ended. The knight gasps and draws his sword, laying it across the table. Tim ignores him and sits down with Eldithe.

"As I was saying I can not continue ignore these complaints. Many of the militia will not suffer my status of not following the Queen or Pelor. How can I run the keep when I can only rely on you and poor Squire? And this situation in Stillwater, with that damn bandit demanding tribute from the poor fishermen down there? They thought they escaped the plague, and just as they rebuild their lives another damn fool comes over to try and take the rest of their belongings from them. "

The knight hears Tim speaks, and falls under the table unconscious. The squire huddles into the shadows and try's to make himself as small as possible.

[Meltheim]

Tor

Tor strides into the inn, a troubled look on his face. He rubs his hand over his newly shaved head over and over, as if it were a worry-stone. His black robes are sleek and shine in the candlelight, but the careful eye will notice the green wrappings still remain on his forearms.

Paying no mind to the others in the tavern, Tor makes his way to the bar and orders a 'glass of moonberry juice, please'. He tilts his head to the side, much like a dog who has heard something interesting, and listens in to the ribald humor of the traveller. Tor leaves a few silver pennies on the counter as he takes his glass from the bartender. He listens a bit more to the jokes, then his eye catches Eldithe and Tim huddled at a table.

Tor slips between the other tables and sits down with his friends. He gives Eldithe a small side-hug, then leans across to clasp arms with Tim. It is clear that he has been harried by everything that is going on just as much as Eldithe and Tim have.

"So, any more news of the bandit? I have been getting reports from my . . . friends . . . that the attacks have increased. Tim, do you want me to . . . encourage them to pay him a visit?" Tor was still uneasy with his relationship with the others of his kind in the area. Of course, he was reluctant even to admit who or what his kind actually were.

Please note that Tor still hasn't shifted in front of anyone except Fallenleaves, who is no longer around. He will shift soon, don't worry :smallbiggrin:

[Lilithgow]

@They're still causing trouble down there? Doesn't Stillwater have any kind of guard in place yet? And I'm guessing that Pel'Viator refuses to let any of his 'flock' head down river to lend a hand. That's so typical of him."

Eldithe continues her drink, looking around the bar as she does.

"Tor, you should be careful about your 'friends'. We don't want it getting out...about..well, let's just say that your reputation has had enough damage done to it from just sitting at this table."

Her eyes come to rest on the unconscious Knight.

"He's new. Or at least, I've not seen him before. Seemed to have strong opinions about you, Tim. I don't suppose you know who he is?"

[Meltheim]

Tor

"Dear Eldithe, you know that my reputation is between me and the Raven Queen. Any young pups, my friends included, who want to challenge that will find me willing and able. It might have been a few years since I last saw real action, but they have only served to make me wiser, not weaker."

Tors fingernails visibly dig in to the table, leaving what can only be described as claw marks.

"Though I do long to get back into the action. I am in the prime of my life, and sometimes I wonder what lies beyond the town. Given the state of this lot," Tor gestures with his drink at the same, unconscious knight, "maybe we should deal with Stillwater personally . . . "

[Lilithgow]

"You won't hear me disputing that. Being told what I should be following and who I should be listening to is getting really old. I sometimes think that the only way anyone listens to us in this town is after we save them from some kind of calamity. Could help restore some faith in you as well, Tim. No pun intended."

[SirDalyus]

"No offence Tor, but if Hoerg is anything to go by, the last thing we need is your friends to jump out on them. People are scared of us as it is, just from having me and the kobolds around. Never mind what would happen to trade if a full..."

Tim thinks for a while, scratching his head whilst he does so. It was often suspected by the towns people that the magical armour Tim wore was responsible for his unnatural intelligence, but Tim
Is just as articulate without it on.

"...collection of your friends was known to be drawn to this area. Have you any idea how much flak I'm getting from Viela? She has just taken over the elvish commune, and already is trying to tell me what to do. Bah, another round for us all barkeep."

Tim eyes Priest wearily, and he scowls at the elder.

"I've got him crawling around the ruins of the walls recently. I know that the new smithies we have are making us rich, but I still feel we need to rebuild the walls too. No armour is better than a few thick feet of stone. I wonder what him and Gareth are talking about, seems important."

[greenstave]

It's at that moment that the door opens and Locke comes in. He is recognizable, but not quite himself. You haven't seen him for months, and before that it was spotty at best, since he stepped down from his duties as cleric to travel with Nathanial. He has changed much. His skin is pale. His hair has gone from the dark brown it once was to stark white. Even his eyes seem to be a colourless grey. Looking at him, from his equipment to his person, there seems to be no colour to him at all.

He no longer has his scales, but wears black leather armour, with a billowing cloak that creates a shadow that doesn't quite seem to follow his own movements. He has traded his hammer, Crush, which he crafted himself with meticulous care, for a dull looking longsword with an ivory handle set with onyx.

Even though he is coming towards you with some speed and urgency, the noises that would accompany that, he swishing of leather on leather from his limbs moving, the footfalls, the heavy breathing from his rushing over, all seem earily silent. On the other hand, he is showing much more emotion in his face, in this case worry, than you ever saw from him as a stern and adherent priest of the Raven Queen.

He does not sit down.

I need your help. Something has taken Nathanial in the Shadowfells. I was at the portal last night and it grabbed for me too. I was able to shut the portal, but I do not know how long it will stay shut. It is a dangerous place, but Nathanial has been loyal to the city, and we must go after him. Fanos can lead us, and I have..certain knowledge.. that can help us as well.

[Meltheim]

Tor

Tor leaps to his feet with such a speed and urgency that it knocks his chair back and into another table, spilling their drinks. He emits a low growl from deep within his chest, and observers would swear that his nostrils were flaring and the hair on his neck standing up.

"You smell . . . different, friend. What is this you speak of? Has our Queen decided to take Nathinal back, or is this some other thing? Either way, I am with you in this."

[Lilithgow]

Eldithe leaps from her seat, spilling the remains of her drink on the table.

"Plenty of time for questions on the way, Tor! Sorry, Tim, we're off now. We'll continue this later!"

She reaches down and grabs the monumental hammer that was resting at her side. While Locke has forsaken his hammer, Eldithe has explored her love of the blunt objects. The hammer has long blue cursive along the side, seemingly an ancient Dwarven runic chant. She raises the object in both hands, with the fearsome maul almost equalling the girl in size.

"Lead the way, Locke!"

[greenstave]

Locke is taken aback by the support, despite his being near invisible these past few months. The initial support from Tor is especially surprising, and agreeable, given Locke's slow decline in the faith Tor is so ardent about.

His face shows both his surprise and appreciation from friends he had seemingly abandoned.

Locke turns on his heels and heads out of the inn to find Fanos and head to the portal.

[SirDalyus]

Locke takes the party to the portal. The portal sits in a small clearing. It appears as a large, smooth piece of darkest jet. There are three keyholes in the door; with gold emblems embossed on each keyhole. The first emblem is of a cracked hourglass, leaking sand. The overall shape seems to be of an N. The second emblem is of a hammer and it's shadow, and they combine to form the emblem of an L. The last emblem is of a shield, with a harp embossed upon it.

Locke;"You would be able to use your umbramancy to open the first two locks. Your not so sure how you would open the last one"

You notice that Fanos is nowhere to be seen, and that the falls have gone deadly quiet.

[greenstave]

Locke looks around the portal.

Something doesn't seem right since I was last here. The falls are silent. I can open the first two locks myself, however the third....the third I am not sure of. And Fanos should be here.

[Meltheim]

Tor

Tor squats down on his haunches to examine the 3rd lock. "Unfortunately I have never spent much time reading the books at the monastery . . . "

Doing a couple of skill checks

[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]

[Lilithgow]

Somewhat out of breath from all the running in heavy armour and carrying a heavy hammer and being about two-foot shorter than the endlessly athletic Tor, Eldithe comes to a stop near the locks.

"Oh. Some sort of runes, is it? I don't suppose one of you could explain to me what they mean? I imagine the combination means something important, wouldn't it?"

Eldithe draws closer to the strange portal.

"Who made this, anyway? This where you've been these last months, Locke?"

Rolling for Stonework using Dwarven Racial!
[roll0]

[greenstave]

This is the portal to the shadowfells. The place where the two worlds are the closes to each other, and one can travel from one to the other. It has never been locked for me in quite this way.


Checks on the locks to understand their meanings.
arcana: [roll0]
history:[roll1]

Also arcana on the silence in the area, is it a spell effect:
arcana: [roll2]

[SirDalyus]

When Locke fled the Shadowfells only his emblem was upon the gate. Nathinal must have locked the gate from his side, and someone else must have gotten to the gate in that time as well.

Perhaps you should question the townsfolk.

Locke;The first emblem stands for Nathinal. It symbolises his turning from Pelor and the Raven Queen, as both gods followers often have helardry incorporating hourglasses. The second emblem stands for you, the hammer symbolising your training as a rune priest, and the shadows symbolise your training as an umbramancer. The last rune is unknown to you, though you can recognise it as not belonging to a divine order. The shield would suggest warriors or knights of somekind. The meaning of the harp is anyone's guess.

You do remember reading stories of a famous group of adventures called the Harpers. A children's story, about powerful bards that could create their own magic without being granted their powers by a god. The tale finishes with the adventures forming an order of knights that vow to protect the planes from all that would threaten it. There must be some link between the story and real life.

The unnatural silence is due to the bleeding of the shadowfells into the material plane. The colours near the gate seem bleached out as well. However, you feel there must be something that has followed you through the gate, as the normal harmless shadow creatures that live near the gate are not nearby either.


Eldithe:The gate only appears to be made out of stone. You can tell just by looking at it that this is made of the same stuff as that which bound the Hanged Man's prison. It seems to also be the same stuff the shadow things you and the militia have been driving off are made out of to.

[greenstave]

Locke passes along the information he knows.

ooc: Everyone please read the information enclosed in the previous post.

Perhaps someone in town can help us? We can question the entertainer, for perhaps the harp is not meant as a Harper, but simply a minstrel. If it is the Harpers, I do not know how one might contact them, should such an order exist outside the tales we tell children.

[Lilithgow]

"That's a whole bunch of symbolism. This is the reason I never got into the rune stuff. Nothing can ever just be a picture of a hammer...
But what is this stuff anywhere? It certainly isn't jet. Looks like them shady bastards that have been sniffing round the town."

[Meltheim]

Tor

Tor lowers his head to the ground a bit, trying to not be obvious as he sniffs the air for some indication of what creature was last here. Besides Locke's general smell of *nothing* and Eldithe's mixture of armor polish, ale, sweat and some herbs, he doesn't have much else to go by. He scans the ground for any tracks as well, before giving up and turning to the group.

"Well, I can try to track some of these prints back to town, but Locke's suggestion to question the entertainer might be very valid. Entertainers, minstrels, gleemen, bards . . . they get around and they hear things. Maybe this one knows of this 'Harpers' group."

OOC
[roll0]

[greenstave]

Let's head back then. There is not much more I know of that we can do here.

Locke heads back to town, and back to the Inn.

[SirDalyus]

As Locke tries to head back to town, a large humanoid blocks his path. Crimson trails crisscross the ground where he walks. Seven shades appear behind him. There are two crouched shadows, and five corpse thin ones.

OOC:Roll initiative please.

Locke:You recognise the shadows from your travels with Nathinal. The big shadow is a Shade. Tough and dangerous, they tend to heal other shadows in order to finish intruders off quickly. The crouched shadows are called Reavers, and are dangerous up close. They dissapitate quickly though. The last shades are called Famine. They have been turning up in large quantities recently, and Nathinal was trying to find the source of them before you were attacked.

[Meltheim]

Tor

Tor trails after Locke, eager to find the Harpers and get started on unravelling this latest mystery. Tor catches a strange scent on the winds and looks up to see some dubious figures blocking Locke's path back to town.

Always ready for a fight, Tor slides into a combat-ready stance and prepares for battle.

[roll0]

[greenstave]

Now this is interesting.....

Locke steps back, ready to make an attack.

Attack the big shade, he will heal up the rest. The little reavers are dangerous, but easily destroyed. The famines are the reason we are here....

After his months of travels with Nathanial, Locke neglets to mention which shadows are which, assuming his companions will know.


[roll0]

[Lilithgow]

OOC - I presume these are the things that Eldithe and the guard have had some run ins with.

[roll0] for initiative.

"Right, hit the big one. Got it. Right. Which one is the big one, exactly, Locke?!"

[SirDalyus]

OOC:You can start anywhere north of the River (~). The = is a wooden bridge.

{table]|[A]|[B]|[C]|[D]|[E]|[F]|[G]|[H]|[I]|[K]|[L]|[M]|[N]
[1]|~|~|||||||
[2]||~|~|||S(L)|R(L)||L
[3]|||~|~|~|=|=|~|~|~
[4]|||||||||||~
[5]||||||||||||~
[6]|||||||||||||~
[7]||||||||
[8]|||||||E
[9]|||||||T|
[10]|||||||S|
[11]||||||||
[/table]

[greenstave]

Locke quickly moves to the banks of the river and begins a spell.

The one at the front. Attack the one at the front., he yells back to Eldithe, and releases a blast. A cold, dark shadow extends from his hand towards the shade, surrounding it in a cold twilight.


Move to I2. Use Freezing Twilight on the Shade.

Con vs. Fort [roll0]
damage: [roll1]

Shade grants CA to all foes until it's next turn.