Way of the Wicked: Knot of Thorns [Archive] - Giant in the Playground Forums

rogue_alchemist

2016-09-25, 09:03 PM

In the kingdom of Talingarde, many crimes may send you to Branderscar Prison, but the sentence has but one meaning. You are wicked and irredeemable. Each of you received the same greeting when you arrived. You were held down by rough hands and branded upon the arm with a runic F. The mark signifies ‘forsaken’ and the painful scar is indelible proof that each of you has betrayed the great and eternal love of Mitra and his chosen mortal vassals.

Condemned, you face at best a life of shackles and servitude in the nearby salt mines. Others might await the “gentle” ministrations of the inquisitors so that co-conspirators may be revealed and confessions extracted. Perhaps, some of you will be spared this ordeal. Perhaps instead you have come to Branderscar to face the final judgment. In three days, the executioner arrives and the axe falls or the pyre will be lit. Through fire or steel, your crimes will be answered.

You have all been chained together in the same communal cell dressed in nothing but filthy, tattered rags. Manhandled and mistreated, any finery you once possessed is either ruined or long lost. No special treatment has been given any prisoner – male or female, commoner or noble – all of the forsaken are bound and imprisoned together. Your feet are secured by iron cuffs tethered by one long chain. Your arms are secured to the wall above by manacles. A guard is posted right outside the cell day and night. Little thought is given to long term accommodations. At Branderscar, justice comes swift and sure.

Escape seems hopeless. You have all been well searched and every attempt to conceal anything on your person has failed. And if you could somehow slip your bonds and fly out of this prison, where would you go? Who from your former life would want anything to do with the forsaken? Despised, alone and shackled – all that you can do now is await your doom.

For each of you, your old life is over. For each of you, hope is a fading memory. For each of you, justice will be fairly meted. And who can blame fair Talingarde after what each of you has done?

I will put little notes at the bottom of some posts to clarify what I need and what I expect. Any information that is not part of the flow of the game will be presented like this. As it says, you are all shackled together in one common room, bound together at your feet and individually to the wall at your wrist. Feel free to talk, as none of you know each other or what you are in for. The guards are posted down the hall, just outside the door to the south. I will interject after at least one post from everyone and it seems thematically appropriate.All of you know that in three days you will be given your punishment.

Decide on what you want your token to be. It needs to be something that will show up well as a small image (about 15x15 pixels). Maybe a face or an object, but details will be lost easily. Each token will also be a specific color, so pick a color, first come first served. Post your choices in OOC.
Here is a map of your cell. You are in 18a and can hear heavy breathing coming from 19, though the only light source is a torch by the door. The sun has just set and you all just arrived recently and in the same caravan, though this is the first time you've been allowed to talk to each other.
https://s19.postimg.org/9v5khpnyb/prison_cell.png

HappyMerecat

2016-09-26, 09:06 AM

Fane

Fane looked around the cell and up and down the line of people he was chained to. He looked down at the rags he was dressed in. At least he was was sentenced to death. There would be a chance to escape, he had to await for opportunity. He had to learn the ways of this place and the next, they were alien to him. He knew the law and society in general, but this place?

LordHavelock

2016-09-27, 03:13 AM

Korwin looked and felt an unholy wreck. The two weeks worth of growth on his face had left his usually wellkempt features a dark and unseemly mess, and worse besides, his bruises and injuries had been healing neglect of any sort of medical attention. The last scion of House Kurze had been defiant when the more righteous minded of Mithra and those loyal to house Darius had come to accuse him of High Treason, and arrest him on the spot. His family had acquitted themselves as well, though Korwin had not seen fit to bring them into the fullness of his designs to overthrow the Markadian and his ilk, but when their son had not denied the charges, and lifted his blade in opposition to his captors, they had not groveled, begged for mercy, or forsworn his actions. And so had every last vestige of their once noble house been abolished; the faithful of Mitra seeing fit to forgo more honorable tactics and simply burning the last of the family's holdings to the ground, seizing any and all of those who still claimed heritage to House Kurze and dispatching them with all due haste. Korwin did not begrudge this offense though; it only served to highlight the hypocrisy of the Shining Lord and those who paid Mitra fealty.

'Power is exercised in exclusion of all concerns.' He reflected, rolling his neck to either side with an audible crackle of joints as he shook from himself the fatigue of his injuries, 'Those who claim to derive sovreignty from the righteousness, piety, or divine favor only delude the truth of rulership; that it is might, pure and simple, which makes right. The willingness and capacity to do what your opponent cannot, what they will not, is what brings victory.'

That more than anything was Korwin's solace in the cell. He knew what he was willing to do to restore his name, his house, to escape this prison, Branderscar, to have his revenge and more; and his awareness of that readiness to kill, to destroy, when the faithful of Mitra needed deceive and justify the use of force and brutality to achieve there ends gave him the edge. Ambition was not a virtue readily recognized among the nobility of Talingarde in this new order. It had earned his household a grim reputation over the past several generations, and in Korwin that had come to a culmination. He saw no reason why his family, the only one which valued power for what it was should remain idle and neglected simply because House Darius peddled weakness in the servility masquerading as humility and piety in the face of the divine.

'Mitra . . . where is the strength in a god whose followers aspire to weakness.' He thought, before turning his eyes on his fellow prisoners, the other Forsaken brought to Branderscar.

"Treason." The word echoed from his lips around the cell with a certain amount of relish. "I sought to end the rule of House Darius and bring about a new order to the realm." He answered to the unspoken question of all those who had the runic symbol burned upon their arms, but sought more than to simply share a kernel of his past. "Are there any among you guilty of greater? Heresy against Mitra and it's church? Defaming the Shining Lord or consorting with darker powers?"

In truth, he was curious, having only a passing acquaintance with powers less exalted than Mitra, but knowing that in the annals of Talingarde, in his own family's past, there were those powers which had revered might above all, and favored those who shared that belief.

Mercurion

2016-09-27, 09:44 AM

The chains around his wrists and ankles clinked softly as Vaelus stirred. His muscles pulled and strained as he tested his bonds once more, yet again finding that they were securely affixed in the wall. The half-elf's disposition had soured considerably with each such test, and any thought of successful escape had died. He grimly accepted that he would die soon, although not without a struggle. He would not simply allow himself to be peaceably led to a pyre and burned. His mind walked through different possibilities in which he might grab for a blade and run, or strangle a guard with his chain, or viciously bite, or...

Pain roused him from his thoughts as the fresh brand still throbbed; and from beneath his disheveled hair his somber grey eyes swept over the other condemned. In these conditions, it was difficult to get a read on the others, but he noted that each of them were similarly garbed in filthy rags. 'How many dead-men-walking had these articles of clothing seen', he mused with a faint sneer. 'How many cattle led to the slaughter?'

Korwin's voice pulled his thoughts back to the cell and the situation at-hand. He pondered the question a moment, allowing his mind to probe the confession and its possible realizations - 'the end of the rule of House Darius'.

Finally, the half-elf spoke. "They intend to burn me for my blasphemy against the ever-fair and ever-forgiving Mitra." His voice was soft, but venom colored his words. "A dead merchant may have earned me the headsman's axe, but the corpses of priests earn a man his own pyre. Who's to say if my crime was greater or lesser. Each appears to have earned us the same cell.

"How did they catch you?" He cocked a curious eyebrow and turned his head towards Korwin.

HappyMerecat

2016-09-27, 10:46 AM

Fane

Fane listened to Korwin and Vaelus as they spoke of their crimes. Korwin seemed concerned that he committed the worst crime. Vaelus seemed more pragmatic of the situation. They apparently were both to be executed. Things could be worse. These men would have no chances in the future if they did not escape now unlike himself. Was there any point in talking at all. He laughed to himself. He was a barrister and a manipulator of fools, talk was all he did in many ways. These people would be far more motivated than he to try and escape now. Maybe a dialog would have some merit if there were any chance of escape.

LordHavelock

2016-09-28, 04:54 PM

Korwin listened raptly to the first reply, answered by this professed blasphemer, and found it both reassuring to be amidst those who had no love for Mitra, but irked at his confession of gross murder. Korwin had killed, many and more men, and had intended to kill all the more depending on how many fools proved loyal to House Darius when the time was right. This was a matter of course to him though, that all who stood on the way of his conquest should be dispatched with extreme prejudice.

Whatever had motivated this, by the looks of him, elven blooded murderer to his deeds seemed personal however, and while Korwin had all the more grievances soccer his capture, had yet to kill out of revenge of the like. 'Exept for that first time.' he reflected, thinking back to the first man he had ever slain, the hated Sir Terrec. Korwin had slain him in a duel, though it had been declared self defense by those witnesses who saw him be attacked at the tavern. He remembered too it was the first, and last, time he had touched the darker power which had promised a glorious destiny for himself and his house. That has been his inspiration for the attempted coup, but now, here he was with little to show for it. He had not forgotten the feeling however, The allure of power unbridled, a burning will to rule and dominate; and the mettle to make these ambitions realized.

"I was betrayed." Korwin said by way of reply. "I know not by who put how they gained such knowledge when my plans had only begun, but it is the only explanation. Perhaps one of the mercenary companies, or else Darius had spies among those houses less friendly to their cause."

"You slew priests, but did you do so in service to another? I have never known but the faith of Mitra and yet I see no reason a more worthy power should earn my devotion. One who appreciates an ambitious and ruthless soul." Korwin wondered whether that dark power he has touched indeed had a name, and whether it might provide him yet with a means to escape.

JonRG

2016-09-28, 05:51 PM

LordHavelock

2016-09-28, 07:11 PM

Jasper knew he could slip the manacles. He'd figured that out some time ago. That wasn't the hard part of this trick. No, it'd be getting past all the guards and out of the prison, and then finding somewhere to disappear. New name, new life. Same job, probably, let's be honest. First, Jasper needed a plan, and for a decent plan... he would need a little help from the audience. His eyes scan the other prisoners. The two strong men were swapping war stories, but that's wasn't the assassin's way. No, if you were about to be caught in a lie, you clearly needed to lie harder. Best case, you convinced someone. Worst case, you've confused them... which when it came to getting the drop on unsuspecting guards, was almost as good. "Not that anyone cares," he adds in a resigned tone, "but I didn't do it."

Apparently not a very good one though. :smallfrown:

Bluff: [roll0]

Before his murderous, knife-eared friend can reply, Korwin hears the other of their number speak up. And with a declaration of innocence no less.

"Did what?" Korwin replies taking his own measure of the man.

Not so much to see through the lie, just to take stock of Jasper's general person, whether he seems capable of the kind of crimes to get one sent to Branderscar. And therefore, capable of helping them escape.

1d20

HappyMerecat

2016-09-28, 07:50 PM

Fane

Fane listens until he is fed up with all the conversation. "How about we don't worry about what we did or didn't do or whose crime was greatest. If we wish to talk then lets talk about the only thing that matters. Escape.

"I imagine many of us are going to be killed soon."

rogue_alchemist

2016-09-29, 07:25 AM

Lexus watches the group closely, intently staring at people as they move. Anyone who watches closely sees that she doesn't quite react to sound as fast as normal, but she could just be lethargic. Very small in stature at the height of 2 feet, Lexus possesses mottled red skin, shockingly bright red eyes, canine ears, a canine snout, a tail twice as long as she is tall, small goat horns on her forehead and very sharp teeth. Her hair is shiny black and long. It is not too hard to guess that she isn't a normal mortal. She sits silently, bidding her time and watching her surroundings.

As the group sits discussing, the door at the far end of the hallway suddenly bursts open. In march two guards, followed by a fat man dressed in blue and then four more guards as two rows of two. The first two guards post themselves on either side of the door to the cell, while the fat man fumbles with some keys to unlock the cell. As he opens the door and walks in, you recognize him as the sergeant of the guard, Sergeant Blackerly, a rotund cruel man who laughed as he branded you with your runic F, forever marking you as one of the forsaken. After he opens the door, he stands just inside slowly looking up and down the group, wobbling slightly on his feet. He suddenly seems to come to and points at Fane.

“You there! That’s the scum! Get ‘em unshackled. If any of you makes trouble, they’ll earn a thrashing! Today’s your lucky day, scum. You’ve got a visitor. How you ever warranted such a fine lady is beyond me. Seems she wants to say good-bye. Now step lively. We wouldn’t want to keep her waiting.”

Two of the guards behind Blackerly come around and roughly grab Fane, as Blackerly steps forward and unlocks the manacles around his wrist and then his ankles. This only lets Fane loose of the chain that binds everyone's ankles, and everyone else is still bound as they were. The guards then keep hold of Fane's arms (one for each side), as they guide him down the hall and through the door. The two guards on either side of the cell remain at their post, but Blackerly and the final two guards follow the escorts out back through the door.

https://s19.postimg.org/wbfkabm2r/Sergeant_Tomas_Blackerly.png
You are not expecting anybody and have no idea what this is about. You are escorted roughly through the door and immediately make a left to head through another door. You are shoved roughly into a chair as the guards take watch on either side of the door. Blackerly follows you in and closes the door behind himself. The other two guards resume their post out in the other room.

Looking around you see that this room is plain. There is a table and a few chairs, but no windows or other adornment in this large brick (think cinder-block) room. Sitting on the other side of the table is a hauntingly beautiful woman in an elegant black dress and soft silken veil. She looks as if she is headed to a funeral. Her hair is so platinum as to almost be white and her eyes are a vibrant almost unearthly green. She clearly has been weeping.

"Oh, dearest," proclaims the unfamiliar woman. "I’m so relieved you’re alive!" She quickly turns to the sergeant. "Could we please have a moment alone, good sir? For pity’s sake?"

Blackerly goes blank for a bit and then quickly agrees. "Of course, my lady. For you,’ tis no problem."

Blackerly opens the door and signals his men to move out. They look a little askance at each other, but quickly follow orders. The guards can be heard talking amongst themselves in the next room, clearly not paying attention to what is going on in here.

As soon as the guards leave, the stranger's demeanor immediately changes. She drops all pretense of grief or concern. She is immediately all business.

"Have you forgotten me, dearest?" the unexpected visitor says with a smirk, dropping her pretense of grief.

"Call me Tiadora. We possess a mutual friend who would like to meet you and your fellow cell-mates. Unfortunately, our friend is unwilling to visit you in your present rather shabby accommodations so it seems you must escape. Don’t be so dour. Just because it’s never been done before is no reason you can’t be the first."

"If you manage that, cross the moors on the outskirts of town. On the old Moor Road you’ll see a manor house with a single lantern burning in the second story. There our mutual friend waits. That is all I know. He did want me to give you this."

She takes off her silken veil and wipes away a few fake tears with it.

"Something to remember me by, dearest."

She hands you the veil, which you quickly squirrel away in your ruined tunic to inspect later.
https://s19.postimg.org/76ojwwmmb/Tiadora.png
Alright everyone give me a sense motive check, and feel free to react to this however you see fit. If you get violent, then the guards will give you a whack, just as Blackerly warned. HappyMerecat give me a second sense motive check. You all are welcome to read the stuff for HappyMerecat, just know that it is information your character does not have, and so cannot react to. HappyMerecat will have to react to his visitor (feel free to put it in plain post or behind a spoiler button) before the game can move on much, but if everyone else wants to continue talking (with the guards there listening) or talk to the guards, feel free as well.

Mercurion

2016-09-29, 09:03 AM

His conversation interrupted for the moment, Vaelus decided not to press the topic. There would be many hours chained to the wall. He simply shook his head, giving Korwin a silent reply. The half-elf had been in service to none but himself, marching his personal crusade to completion.

At Blackerly's appearance, Vaelus' features belied curiosity and he raptly watched Fane's unshackling. As Fane, the two guards holding him and Blackerly turned to leave, Vaelus sneered. The half-elf's mouth had already earned him a beating, but he was unafraid of pain. He spoke up, loudly and derisively and said "What, your mother hasn't arrived yet? She promised me a conjugal visit. I suggest you prepare us a room, you fat piece of garbage."

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/39805396/Images/beaten_elf.2.png AC 12; HP 13/13 Sheet (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=951927)

Sense Motive:
1d20+1

Mercurion

2016-09-29, 09:16 AM

Sense Motive: [roll0]

rogue_alchemist

2016-09-29, 12:32 PM

Blackerly doesn't even hesitate for a second at the half-elf's jeer, but one of the guards at the door quickly comes and raps him across the feet with a club

"He told 'ou 'no trouble' 'e did. Serve's 'ou right, talking about 'is mum that way!"

The guard is obviously not blessed with much intelligence, but feel very proud of himself for 'putting this filth in it's place' as he thought. As soon as he was done, he retreated back outside the cell to resume his post by the cell door.

You take [roll0] non-lethal damage

HappyMerecat

2016-09-29, 07:52 PM

Fane

Fane wonders if this is opportunity knocking, but there are too many of them and then he hears of the woman he is puzzled. A visitor? Who could that be? Fane does noot resist and goes with the flow.

Fane listens to the woman whom he clearly does not know. The whole thing is very dreamlike, but h also knows a charm when he sees one. He nods his head. "Thank you my dear." He then quickly looks at the veil then hides it on himself.

Sense Motive 1 [roll0]
Sense Motive 2 [roll1]

LordHavelock

2016-09-29, 11:15 PM

Korwin fixates on Blackerly with a hateful glare, even as Vaelus' words earn him a blow from the guards. His eyes flash, with a brief flicker of infernal fire, and suddenly the nature of the odious Captain who presided over the branding of each of them is revealed in a flash of insight. Korwin is only aware of this after the fact, as the feeling fades as fast as it comes, but knows he has tasted another portion of the power what called him those short years ago.

With careful measure, he regards the exit of Blackerly, before refocusing his gaze on Vaelus, who confessed to murder, and the man who did not (Jasper), trying to recreate the effect. He finds the feeling comes easier each time and grows in reassurance as he does.

'Perhaps' he thinks, 'perhaps this is the next step in my promised destiny.' closing his eyes, Korwin thinks on the last time he truly prayed, in his youth, and what words occurred to him before he became jaded to the world.

'To whatever power may do so, I offer myself, my mettle, my soul, to the cause of the end of Mitra and those who venerate the Shining Lord. No act is beyond me in my need for vengeance, no foe beyond my effort to conquer; name me your champion and so shall Talingarde become thy domain; Our domain, by the might of my sword and the favor of whatever dark majesty does promise me destiny fulfilled: the ruin of house Darius, the triumph of Kurze.'

Detect good on Blackerly, Vaelus, and Jasper in turn.

Sense Motive: [roll0]

Mercurion

2016-09-30, 08:28 AM

Vaelus grunted, gritting his teeth through the sharp pain but otherwise remained silent. He thought about his present situation, and about Blackerly's visit to fetch Fane. The pain in his foot throbbed less and faded from thought while his mind wandered to briefly fantasize about the final visitors he may have had once, and his thoughts briefly turned to those of sadness and loss before coming back around to wrathful bitterness. This was not the first time or place where his thoughts wandered to his tragic past only to sharpen into a cold vengeance.

JonRG

2016-09-30, 10:13 AM

Jasper coughed suddenly to conceal a chuckle.

rogue_alchemist

2016-09-30, 12:17 PM

After the guard berates the unruly Vaelus, Korwin looks in turn at Blackerly, Vaelus, and Jasper, obviously trying to discern something about them, with his eyes briefly flashing red upon looking at each.

The others are cowed into silence, though Lexus is especially scared when the guard comes in with his club raised, as she is unsure what he was saying. As Vaelus takes the beating, she relaxes a little, but still keeps her thoughts to herself, not saying much, but trying to watch whoever is talking.

After a short visit, the door burst open again as two guards strong-arm Fane back into the cell. He is once again locked into his shackles and the door to the cell is relocked as the padre of 7 guards leaves, closing the final door behind them.
While you sense that the sergeant isn't quite how he was before with you, you don't know him well enough to recognize if anything is out of the ordinary.
You do not detect the least bit of good in any of the men you cast Detect Good on.
Her message delivered, she rises and the guards return. Immediately, her demeanor once more changes and she is again a perfect picture of grief. "No, I can’t bear to leave you!" She gives the Fane a kiss on the cheek. The kiss is ice-cold and feels somehow alien and inhuman.

Tomas Blackerly shakes his head. "I’m afraid it’s time, miss."

She looks deep in Tomas’ eyes and says, "Thank you for letting me say good-bye. There’s no need to search my dearest. You are such a good friend for letting me see my dearest one more time."

"Such a good friend," Tomas repeats his voice almost mechanical. Then the watch sergeant seems to snap out of it and bows politely. "A pleasure, madam," She leaves unveiled. Her eyes meet Fane's one last time and she briefly gives him a wicked smile.

"Three days," telepathically echoes in the Fane's mind. "Don’t disappoint me, dearest." The visitation concluded, Fane is taken back to his cell by a cadre of guards and shackled once more.
No one made their sense motive check. Though Fane may have his suspicions, he can't tell for sure whether the sergeant is just a really good friend of Tiadora's or actually under a spell. Now that the party is back together and no guards are around, what are you going to do?

LordHavelock

2016-09-30, 09:05 PM

Korwin feels flush with a new sensation; perceptually, he knows nothing has changed, but as each of the men, in turn comes under his gaze, he knows in a flash of insight, like a burning spark in his mind, that there is not a drop of righteousness in any of them. Nothing of the so called 'light' to which the Mitrans aspire and pay homage. It is reassuring, in its own way, and as his gaze settles back on Vaelus, he cracks a grim smile, just visible through the growth on his chin and cheeks.

"You're a glutton for punishment I see. How are you for dealing it back out?" He asks, a modicum of respect in his voice before he rolls his head over to look back at 'innocent' man.

"And you, whatever crime put you in for, I can see you're guilty of plenty besides, so don't play coy."

Once Fane, the final man is returned and shackled in, he turns the same fiery gaze on him for an instant, and the guard as he leaves.

"I've never heard of anyone receiving visitors in Branderscar. Not for any amount of connections, nor gold. That mark on your arm brands you Forsaken, like the rest of us. There shouldn't be a single honest soul in Talingarde who'd be willing to consort with you, even if they had the means." He pauses a moment, no question evident yet, but still hanging in the air, "So, I'm guessing you have some dishonest souls outside these walls acting in your favor. Of considerable means as well."

HappyMerecat

2016-10-01, 08:18 AM

Fane

Fane ignores Korwin's comments and pulls out the veil looking at it carefully.

JonRG

2016-10-01, 11:24 AM

Jasper looks at Fane, more specifically the veil in his hands. "Gift from your ladyfriend?" he mutters weakly.

Zhentarim

2016-10-01, 12:57 PM

Lexus stepped forward cautiously to examine the veil. She still wasn't sure if these other beings in the cell with her meant her weal or woe. At any rate, her tail swooshed with anticipation as she took in her surroundings. She had killed somebody in a botched and she feared the mysterious force that granted her power may have forsaken her, as the mysterious force would NEVER allow harm to befall her.

Lexus is deaf, but can read lips with a DC 5 perception check:
[roll0]

rogue_alchemist

2016-10-02, 06:06 AM

Lexus is easily able to read everyone's lips as she glances back and forth, perfectly understanding the words they say, even if some of the context and inflection are missing to relay all the subtext. As Fane pulls out a piece of cloth from inside his ragged robes, everyone can see a fine gossamer piece of cloth with intricately sewn patterns on it. From the distance it is hard to make out any details.

Fane does not detect good, but the guards emit a faint aura of definite goodness.
Fane can see the intricate patterns quite well. As he holds it in his hands, he can make out finely embroidered items that are embossed into the veil.

https://s19.postimg.org/giyycoww3/veil.png
With only a DC 5 to read lips, Lexus will automatically succeed unless under duress or distracted. If Lexus has no reason to be paying attention roll a 1d4 to see if she notices anything to include her, and then just assume she succeeds in actually reading lips. Also as you are manacled around your wrist and ankles, there isn't much standing up or walking anywhere. You can stand up, but then you are at the limit of your manacles and it is uncomfortable, they were designed to keep you sitting and submissive.
No one can make out what the details are, just that this veil is well made. Feel free to as for more details or continue to inspect it from where you are, just know that you can't make out any more details yet about it.

HappyMerecat

2016-10-02, 07:03 AM

Fane

"A gift yes, but merely delivered by her."
Fane runs his fingers across the image of the crossed tools to try and discern what the images are for.

Zhentarim

2016-10-02, 09:20 AM

Lexus wonders if this is a magic cloth. With a grunt, she tries drawing attention to herself. She extends her tail to the cloth and blurts out tersely and with a heavy deaf accent "Magic Cloth?"

rogue_alchemist

2016-10-02, 08:09 PM

As Fane runs his hands across the images, the very corner just starts to peel up on any he touches. It would seem they are detachable patches stuck to the fine gossamer veil. They are made of the same fine material and don't mar the elegance of the veil at all, like they were made to go together.

HappyMerecat

2016-10-02, 08:16 PM

Fane

Feeling the image slightly separate from the veil, Fane pulls it off carefully.

rogue_alchemist

2016-10-03, 08:16 AM

A Fane studies the intricately embroidered veil, he starts picking at one section of it. It seems he is able to pull off one of details, and suddenly he is holding a set of finely crafted lock picks. Handling the veil is difficult, as Fane has to hold it over his head and crane his neck around to study it. With his hands now full, Fane will have to figure out what to do.

You now have a set of masterwork lock picks in one hand and the veil in the other. In order to do anything you will have to drop one. You are manacled to the wall above your head, so handing tools to one of the other people in the cell will not be trivial, but just roll 1d20 and don't get a one. If you try to pick your own locks, it is at -2 because they are above your head, and +2 because the tools are masterwork, giving an overall of +0 to your Disable Device check. It is DC 20 to pick the lock.
You guys don't have to wait for Fane, you are free to discuss your own motives and plans. He is clearly ignoring most of you and investigating this cloth as best as he can. Also feel free to look around and make perception checks or think and use knowledge checks or whatever. This whole AP is well described and there are lots of things to discover that may or may not impact the story, but are cool none-the-less.

JonRG

2016-10-03, 10:59 AM

Okay, now they were cooking with fire. Jasper attempts to dislocate his left wrist, the first step in slipping any decent pair of manacles, but he fails. Utterly. His smile not slipping an inch, he asks, "Mind if I have a look at those, friend?"

Mercurion

2016-10-03, 01:35 PM

"Oh, they'll get what's coming' to them," Vaelus said in reply to Korwin. "I think I'll be able to bite off at least one nose before they subdue and burn me." He smirks, fully confident that his revenge (such as it was) would be had.

However, the half-elf takes pause as Fane is reshackled and subsequently begins to examine his 'gift'. "What've you got there?" It was as much a statement as a question, since the tool in the man's hand was evident.

rogue_alchemist

2016-10-03, 02:14 PM

Fane sees Jasper try to get out of his manacles, and then ask for the lock picks. Not being particularly adept at using them, he hands them over to Jasper, which is no small feat, but is still successful.

You now have a set of masterwork lock picks. You are manacled to the wall above your head, so handing tools to one of the other people in the cell will not be trivial, but just roll 1d20 and don't get a one(which was successful to get to you). If you try to pick your own locks, it is at -2 because they are above your head, and +2 because the tools are masterwork, giving an overall of +0 to your Disable Device check. It is DC 20 to pick the lock.

LordHavelock

2016-10-03, 05:18 PM

"Delivered by . . . ?" Korwin ponders that for a moment, while Vaelus poses a similar question. Once the veil produces a set of lockpicks seemingly out of nowhere and he hands them off to a fellow prisoner, he is quite taken aback.

"You there, what's your name anyway? Who is this mysterious patron who can secure visitations to the Forsaken and smuggle mystic devices into Talingarde's greatest prison?" He whispers hoarsely, suddenly seeing an increased need for secrecy should an escape truly be possible now, and not wanting to be heard by guards outside. His thoughts were instantly upon the shadowy power who had promised him glorious purpose; and he was suddenly suspicious that these others might have received visitations. He knew not how to broach such a subject and make himself look a madman, but was intent on making a part for himself in this escape. "Better yet, I am Korwin du Kurze; free me and you will have an able sword by your side for whatever is planned by way of escape."

Awaiting his response, Korwin reckons over what he knows of Branderscar and Talingarde's history that might facilitate their escape; even knowledge of the surroundings lands would be useful if they are to free themselves of the prison.

JonRG

2016-10-03, 05:39 PM

Jasper winces and pops his wrist back into its socket. "Didn't stretch today. Alas." He takes the tools from Fane, and carefully removes a pick and a rake, then closes his eyes. Jasper couldn't see above his own damned head anyway, so he would have to rely on touch.

Now, let's see how far I can get folk busted out in this flurry of rolls. (Note, rolls will increase by +2 once my hands are free.)

Disable Device 1: [roll0] My hands are free!
Disable Device 2: [roll1] Our legs are free!
Disable Device 3: [roll2] Fane's hands are free!
Disable Device 4: [roll3] Failure
Disable Device 5: [roll4] Failure
Disable Device 6: [roll5] Vaelus's hands are free!

HappyMerecat

2016-10-03, 06:12 PM

Fane

Fane examines the rest of the veil. "My name is Fane Vishki. I am a barrister and I have no idea whom this mysterious patron is. The woman's name is Tiadora and she claimed we have a mutual friend who wants to meet us all."

"We are to escape to meet him."

He peels the bag off o the veil, carefully.

rogue_alchemist

2016-10-03, 09:56 PM

Jasper successfully removes the locks from his hands before moving on to Fane and Vaelus's arms. She then moves to unlock the chain that holds all their legs together, but fails twice. The first time a guard yells in at the door to keep the noise down,and the second time he bangs his club on the door and says the next peep he hears he is coming to give another beating. This means Fane, Vaelus, and Jasper are completely free from any kind of shackle. This leaves Lexus and Korwin still chained by their hands, though their legs are no longer bound.

Korwin racks his brain trying to remember anything he had heard about Branderscar and the surrounding area.

Fane peels off another patch after his hands are free and it turns out this one is a decent sized sack, obviously full of various items as it was quite heavy. As he lays down the sack on the ground and rifles through its contents.

There was only one lock connecting the chain around your legs to the wall, you could slide along it once your hands were free to free the other people and then reach the spot on the wall where it was attached and free everyone. You realize as you are picking these locks that they all have the same key, and so you are getting better at picking them. This gives a +2 bonus to picking the last two manacles. This means a total of +4 for both masterwork tools and familiarity.

Also I don't mind you making several rolls when you are trying to succeed at something again and again, just know that when you fail there might be consequences, so if you fail before you succeed, you might have to deal with the consequences before you can enjoy your success. This time the guards have only yelled at you, but they seem pretty serious about keeping quiet now.
As you rifle through the newly found bag, you see a bunch of clothes in different sizes. They are only common materials, but they beat the rags you are wearing right now. At the bottom are also smaller pouches of various materials that you recognize as spell components (enough to make 2 spell component pouches).
You know that only the worst criminals are ever sent to Branderscar and that no one has ever escaped here before. Though recently there has been a change in who is running the place. You can't remember who or if this has any significance, just that it has happened. Also looking around the cell, you can see that there is a large blob in the cell next to your cell, furthest from the door. It is too dark to make out any details, just that the cell might not be empty.
Remember that while you all evil(except Lexus), you are all lawful (except Lexus). Even Lexus needs to cooperate, as she is deaf and small, so she needs a group to help her. She might not be overtly evil, but usually true neutral seek balance and Talingrade is far to Lawful Good for balance. This means that you all will hold to whatever promises you make and consider your word to be your reputation and your reputation your life. You will not lightly promise to do something. And being evil means you seek to do evil acts, not necessarily betray everyone. Evil doesn't want to benefit all of society, but they can have friends or begrudging allies. So you might not just trust each other, but if you can get each other to promise assistance, then there is no reason not to work together towards some end (such as escape). This is not to say any of you have been playing wrong, just to give my view on how I think you guys should act.

HappyMerecat

2016-10-04, 05:36 AM

Fane

Fane presses his right index finger to his lips as an indication to be silent. He then looks at Jasper and gestures towards the door to the cell. Then he takes one of the spell component bags and holds up the other, showing a few of the common items in it, so any caster would recognize it and looks for recognition and any sign they need it.

Zhentarim

2016-10-04, 09:20 AM

Lexus presented her shackles to be released and soon follows the others. She wrapped her tail about herself and moved as silently as she could.

Mercurion

2016-10-04, 10:21 AM

Rubbing his now-freed wrists, the half-elf almost let out a whoop of excitement before catching and silencing himself. He was ecstatic with the prospect of escape, but contained his enthusiasm - taking stock of the cells and keeping an eye on the place from which the increasingly-annoyed guards were issuing their warnings.

Vaelus moved to the bag Fane had created and raptly watched as the man rooted around a moment before giving his own whispered introduction to his fellow Forsaken. "Vaelus Wraithkin, at your service," he hissed, all the while considering what sort of mysterious patron both knew of this condemned group and had the resources to issue such a summons.

JonRG

2016-10-04, 11:46 AM

"That's not right," Jasper mutters to himself. Not only were the locks worse than ones he'd trained on as a child, but they were all the same. Raising a finger at Korwin and Lexus to indicate they should wait, Jasper ghosts over to the cell door and works his magic. If this failed, their quiet breakout would become very loud.

All right. Everyone raise your arms and give Jasper your power. :smalleek:

Stealth: (to mitigate the noise of any possible failure) [roll0]

Disable Device: [roll1] (Not sure if this lock is also the same, so I omitted the bonus +2 for familiarity. Feel free to add it back in if it applies.)

LordHavelock

2016-10-04, 11:54 AM

Korwin's frown intensifies as the gaurd makes it clear they need to be silent in order to make good their escape, and with him and . . . The creature beside him the only ones still not free. Vaelus and the 'innocent' seem capable enough, but he's not sure yet what to make of a barrister except that through this Fane Vishki that his shadowy patron had seen for to reach out to him; and deliver comrades to his charge as well. 'If only we can make good our escape.' he reflected with an earnestness that he had to bite his cheek not to rattle his own shackles to get them unlocked.

The need for stealth was paramount though; or second only to one other concern on his mind. "Does the lady's token of affection have any weapons on it?" He whispers. "If the guards enters before we're all released he will need to be dealt with."

rogue_alchemist

2016-10-04, 01:52 PM

Fane indicates to the others to be quiet as Jasper frees them. Out of the bag that had suddenly appeared, he holds up a second spell component pouch, revealing what it is to those who knew. He had taken the first.

Lexus is trying to quietly ask for assistance in escaping.

Vaelus introduces himself, mostly to Fane, but the others can hear him well enough in the relatively quiet cell.

Meanwhile Jasper ignores her fellow captives and silently moves over to the door. With deft movements, she picks the lock to the door, swinging it open very quietly.

Korwin is growing impatient and looks at Jasper and Fane with an intensity that suggest he would love nothing more than to dominate them into doing his bidding. He asks Fane about the veil, trying to discern what other useful secrets it holds.

The lock on the door was not the same, but has the same overall DC. With a natural 20, I hate that I can't make the picking of the lock more epic. You definitely opened the door with no sound and no issues.
DC 30 Escape Artist check or DC 24 Strength check can also get you out of the manacles, if you get tired of waiting. You character won't know exactly how hard it is, but based on the DCs, you can assume that your character knows it would take near a miracle for it to work. You are also free to use any spells you think could help you, just keep in mind that if they have a somatic component, the chains around your hands will hamper you and the guards will likely hear you (there is a chance they don't) and if it has a verbal component, then there is a chance the guards hear you as well. Any components would have to be handed to you, until you can take the spell component pouch to use it properly as well. Be as creative as you like.

Mercurion

2016-10-04, 01:58 PM

Vaelus nodded at Korwin, indicating his agreement with the sentiment. Without blades, this escape attempt would undoubtedly be short-lived.

JonRG

2016-10-04, 06:10 PM

Jasper breathes a sigh of relief. Now, at least, they had an avenue of escape if the worst should happen. He breezes over to the tiefling and sets to work freeing her hands. "See? If you don't accuse me of being a criminal, you get let out faster," Jasper mutters in Korwin's direction.

I can't help it. Ninety-nine percent of Jasper's jam is playing innocent, and up until the knives come out, he's very good at it. :smallbiggrin:

Disable Device: (for the lovely lady Lexus) [roll0]
Stealth: [roll1]
Bluff: [roll2] (didn't actually lie, so probably shouldn't have rolled this)

HappyMerecat

2016-10-04, 07:13 PM

Fane

Fane peels off the two daggers and holds them out. His whispers, "These seem to be the only weapons unless someone can make use of a rope."

LordHavelock

2016-10-04, 07:35 PM

Were Korwin's hair not a matted mess, it might have been possible to pick out the vein on his temple beginning to throb as the sneak-thief goes about freeing the rather inhuman looking being next to him. His opposite hand was already reaching for one of the daggers, straining against the manacles, eager to feel the reassuringly lethal weight of steel in his hand once more. If only he wasn't so dependent on the fickle whims of others . . .

[roll0]

rogue_alchemist

2016-10-04, 08:40 PM

Jasper quietly tiptoes back to Lexus and starts trying to undo the manacles. He can feel the lock just start to give,when suddenly the tool slips in his hands and drops to the floor. Having teased Korwin, just as the tool would have hit the floor, Korwin pulls hard at his chains. This causes the manacles to clank loudly, which covers the sound of the tool dropping, but is no less conspicuous. A soft chuckle can be heard from the cell next to the group, furthest from the door, but the guards don't come to investigate. It's hard to know what is going on on the other side of the door.

Even pulling hard at his manacles, Korwin is unable to break them. They pull taught, but ultimately don't budge an inch.

The guard's failed their perception check to notice the noise :(. Lucky enough for you though. Don't forget to think creatively about what could be used as weapons, and none of you have any kind of armor. This first fight should be interesting

JonRG

2016-10-04, 08:57 PM

Jasper bites down on a curse, then casually retrieves the pick from the floor. "Quiet would be appreciated," he murmurs before setting back to work. It's a few quick clicks before Lexus is freed from her shackles. Next comes poor, angry Korwin. Not able to help himself, Jasper plucks the dagger from Fane's hand and slips it into one of his sleeves. He flashes Korwin a sly smile before reaching behind his ear and reproducing the weapon, which Jasper places in the big man's hand. "For being such a good sport," he whispers, patting Korwin on the cheek. The shackles click open, and Jasper takes a few steps back towards Fane to examine the veil's other wares.

He didn't need a knife. Not yet.

Dice be my shield! Be very quiet.

Stealth: [roll0]

Hoisted! DD rolls in OOC!

LordHavelock

2016-10-04, 09:49 PM

Korwin watches Jasper's tools fall to the ground with a dismissive grunt, even as his straining against the manacles results only in the tensing in his muscles. Having been cooped up and cramped for so long, he considers the effort well worth it if only to warm himself up; already his ire is rising at the prospect of blood to spill from their captors' veins and the familiar anticipation before battle has him in better spirits than any time in the weeks prior. The dagger being purloined before his eyes almost immediately elicits his reproach, but a second later, his manacles are off and the is back in his hand. Looking down, he opens his mouth to retort, closes it again and grinds his teeth.

"You have my thanks." He grumbles, though the sentiment is sincere, as he draws himself up to his full height, rolls his shoulders and rubs his wrists before testing the weight and balance of the dagger.

"But where sport is concerned," He says, joining the small crowd growing around the cloth, "I say we make a little noise to lure those guards in here and slit their throats before they get a chance to raise the alarm." He whispers, looking to each in turn for agreement. "Unless there's anything on that sheet which presents a better option?"

He then looks at Lexus, still trying to puzzle out what exactly to make of . . . her (it?). There was no question as to why she was in Branderscar, any denizen of Talingarde with even an inkling of faith in Mitra and an ounce of superstition would recognize in her appearance a demonic taint. She looked like nothing less than a hell-hound on two legs, though a rather smallish breed thereof. "You . . ." he said, gesturing towards her with his free hand, "You have a name? Do you know this mysterious patron of ours?"

rogue_alchemist

2016-10-05, 06:30 AM

Zhentarim

2016-10-05, 11:45 AM

Everybody is now free of their shackles and able to move about as they please. Most gather around the veil, able to see it more clearly, as Fane inspects it looking for more useful items.

https://s19.postimg.org/giyycoww3/veil.png
The bag, two daggers, and lock picks have already been removed.

https://s19.postimg.org/9v5khpnyb/prison_cell.png
Sorry this is so short, but just wanted to remind everyone what the veil looked like and what their surroundings looked like, so that they could make a plan. Assume all the other cells are closed and locked. The main light source is a pair of torches at the door, which the guards have grabbed one of every time they have made their rounds so far.

Lexus flicks her tail to and fro, then looks around at the other prisoners in other cells. The more help this ragtag group could get the better. Lexus motions to the toolset, and she hoarsely said in a deaf accent, "Set others free?"

Lexus calmly examines the room trying to see who is in all the other cells as well as see anything else useful that may be on the walls or lying on the floor.
Lexus gets +3 on perception, so her result is 13

rogue_alchemist

2016-10-05, 12:22 PM

You look around the cell and see that every other cell is empty, except the one farthest from the door (to the left of the image). In the lone occupied cell, you see a large creature sitting up, but it is poorly lit and you can only make out its large outline. It is not moving around too much, but you can see its head turn every now and then to follow what is going on in your cell.

Zhentarim

2016-10-05, 12:28 PM

Lexus nudged Fane and grunted, pointing at the figure in the cell furthest from the door. "He can help."

LordHavelock

2016-10-05, 02:27 PM

Without much of an introduction, Korwin merely shrugs and returns his gaze to the cloth. Their comrade, Fane, appears to have been correct as the lack of weapons upon its face, and the lantern, rope, and vial are of no more interest to him. He puzzles a moment at the window, but decides to leave such curiosities to the more mystically inclined in their party and is about to turn away before reflecting a moment longer on the inverted star in the center. At first he had believed it to be merely decorative, some eldritch rune or the mark of the enchanter who had created this garment; upon reflection however, it made little sense that any space on such a wondrous object should be wasted so. Reaching out, he plucked at the star to see if it would come off like the other pieces, trying to recall whether such a symbol was recognizable to him as well.

Following this attempt, he turned his attention to the length of chain on the floor, and began to gather it up, as quietly as possible.

[roll0]

Zhentarim

2016-10-05, 02:36 PM

Grabbing the lock picks, Lexus smiled at Korwin before moving over to the mysterious large figure in the other cell. She began to work on the lock, knowing the creature would be grateful for help.

rogue_alchemist

2016-10-05, 03:18 PM

As Korwin picks at the cloth, the star symbol detaches, becoming a silver star with all the intricacies seen in the original depiction. It even has a fine silver chain attached at the top to wield it by/wear it. He turns his attention to the length of chain on the floor, and began to gather it up, as quietly as possible.

Lexus tries to grab the lock picks from Jasper's hands.

https://s19.postimg.org/uw2i58tj7/Asmodeus_symbol.png
You recognize the holy symbol as belonging to Asmodeus.
You can't grab the lock picks unless Jasper hands them to you, as you are not trained in Sleight of Hand to remove them. Also if you are going to use them to open another door, then you need to give me a DC 20 Disable Device check.

Mercurion

2016-10-05, 03:43 PM

Vaelus took the remaining dagger from Fane with a sinister grin. He spent a moment digging through the bag for something other than prison rags to dress himself in and subsequently secured the dagger. He watched the others go about their doings, taking particular interest in Lexus and what sort of man warranted his own cell within Brandescar.

LordHavelock

2016-10-05, 03:46 PM

Korwin regards the silver symbol on its chain with a sense of cautious awe. It is clearly a symbol of power, belonging to a deity once worshiped here in Talingarde, but long since banished by the Mitran faith. It is impossible for him to tell whether the holy artifact is of that time past, or forged anew, but he feels with it an instant connection. Wrapping the silver chain around his hand so that the symbol hangs at his wrist, he begins to gather up the longer, darker iron chain from the floor and wrap that around his forearm, leading the ends forward so that he can grasp both the chain, and the symbol in his left hand while holding the dagger in his right.

"Do any of you claim to serve Asmodeus?" He asks of the group assembled, while thinking on what he knows of this god.

Zhentarim

2016-10-05, 03:52 PM

JonRG

2016-10-05, 04:29 PM

He shakes his head and says no more. Part of service to the Reaper was not telling everyone about it. Jasper raises the lockpicks out of Lexus's reach with fluid grace. "Patience, small one," he mouths, trying and failing to keep the grin off his face. In his own time, Jasper makes his way towards the adjoining wall of their cells to get a better look at its occupant. His eyes worked strangely well in the dark. Never quite understood why.

Taking a look with 11 (from taking 10), and Jasper does have Darkvision 60', so the piss-poor lighting shouldn't affect him as much.

Want to make sure I have a clear path to release said prisoner, and also have an idea of what he is before I let him loose.

HappyMerecat

2016-10-05, 07:36 PM

Fane

Fane whispers, "Take it easy and slow. Those with martial skills and whom can move quietly should position themselves by the door for when the guard enters. If possible we should try to take a guard alive, but not at the risk of them raising the alarm. We only get one shot at this."
"Does anyone want this other magic component pouch?"

rogue_alchemist

2016-10-05, 09:27 PM

Jasper peers into the cell and sees a large creature of roughly humanoid shape grinning back at him. It was sitting on the bench, slouching but alert. Obviously whatever this group was doing didn't cause it too much concern. It also has not made a move or any noise to give away their escape attempt.
anyone with dark vision who looks can see what Nyarai sees. Give me a knowledge nature or local to identify what kind of creature he is

rogue_alchemist

2016-10-06, 10:52 AM

LordHavelock

2016-10-06, 02:51 PM

Korwin spies the clothing Vaelus has discovered and immediately moves over to check in the bag as well. "Clothes? It seems our patron thought of everything." he mutters while he holds the unholy silver symbol a bit more tightly.

rogue_alchemist

2016-10-06, 03:41 PM

Everyone who looks finds a simple cotton top and bottoms in the bag that are their favorite color and fit them perfectly. They offer no protection, except for from the cold. They are better than the rags the group was wearing, but armor would be better still.

Mercurion

2016-10-07, 10:36 AM

Vaelus quickly changed out of his prison rags and into the provided clothing. It fleetingly occurred to him how it was funny that the prison's treatment made something as simple as fresh clothing seem a welcome relief.

At Korwin's question about Asmodeus, the half-elf shrugged, though he agreed on the point of clothing. "These breeches fit me perfectly too... I'm ever-more curious about our patron."

To Fane, Vaelus nodded in agreement, but did not yet move. "I'm not really the quiet type, but I'm handy enough in a fight. I'll keep an eye on the door, but let's let these two finish their business over at the cage before flanking the door." He gestured to Jasper and Lexus as he spoke in a low tone, then looked at Korwin. "You look like you can hold your own," he continues. "When it comes time, you take one side of the door and I'll take the other. We'll get one of these other guys to create a distraction. When the guards come in, we jump the second one from behind. If we can subdue him quickly, we can force the other to disarm. Then we'll be in a much better position. We can dress them in our rags or take their armor and don a guard outfit to allow us to better move about unchecked."

Is there any common knowledge about Asmodeus? Otherwise, here's a roll for know: religion [roll0] so I can better answer Korwin.

rogue_alchemist

2016-10-07, 11:46 AM

Asmodeus is the lawful evil god of Hell and the antithesis of Mitra. He believes that the strong should rightfully govern the weak, who in turn owe their masters unwavering obedience. He loves negotiations and contracts, especially those that give one of the parties a distinct, hidden advantage over the other. He expects and appreciates flattery, but its never fooled by it, seeing it as a negotiation tactic, as well as a duty those in inferior positions owe their betters. His other names include: The Archfiend, Dark Prince, King of Hell, Lord of Darkness, Lord of the Pit, Master of Witches, Prince of Darkness. His domains are: Evil, Fire, Law, Magic, and Trickery. His favored weapon is the mace and his sacred animal is the serpent. Traditional colors associated with him are red and black.
He is the archenemy of Mitra. He is lawful evil and delights in taking advantage of the weak, especially through unbreakable contracts. Never trust Asmodeus or any of his followers. You can recognize them by favoring red and black colors as well as using red pentagram, The Archstar. All such people should be immediately reported to authorities to be arrested and reformed. (though obviously this is colored through the view of Mitran followers who are ruling currently)

LordHavelock

2016-10-07, 03:19 PM

Korwin waves off Fane's offer of the second spell component pouch with a curt nod, "I have no need of it, I am not versed in the arcane arts." He then proceeds to take up a pair of charcoal gray breeches from the bag, and dons them along with a linen shirt in the dark, reddish hue which almost matched the burgundy and silver color scheme of House Kurze; they were the only clothes fitted to a man of his stature anyways.

He then acknowledges Vaelus, "As good a plan as any, we should take post there now. Master Fane, whatever preparations you need make here with our comrades in arms, do so and we will await your signal of readiness. Whatever you deem suitable to draw the guards inside, Vaelus and I will be ready."

Then, glancing in the direction of the cell from which they heard the odd grumble earlier, he squints through the darkness suspiciously as their other two cell-mates gather around it. "Was any mention made of the other cells by this Tiadora?" He was cautious towards his fellow prisoners, whatever the machinations of their patron seemed to be in bringing them together, but for the moment was confident enough in his own abilities should any of them prove a liability. Whatever was in the other cell though was a complete unknown, and he preferred expeditious action in the moment, while his blood was still pumping at the thought of freedom and vengeance.

JonRG

2016-10-07, 04:56 PM

Jasper purses his lips. If they were to draw in the guards with some kind of ruse, then freeing the creature - whatever it was - in the next cell would only be another opportunity for the guards to notice something awry. He extends a finger to request patience from their large friend, then wanders over to the satchel of clothing. Inside was an outfit in his favorite shade of dark blue, perfect for sneaking around at night. Though come to think, he had absolutely no idea what time it was anyway. Suddenly, Jasper's eyes alight upon a length of cord. "This will do nicely," he murmurs, picking it up. Jasper wraps the cord tightly around his fist. His companions could learn his true intentions for it in time.

Zhentarim

2016-10-08, 04:14 PM

Lexus put on her garish blue and green clothes, that seemed tailor made for her. There was even a hole for her tail. She flicked her tail in excitement, and prepared for whatever the others planned to do. She looked to Jasper and blurted out "I scream?"

Mercurion

2016-10-10, 02:15 PM

Vaelus nodded to Korwin, but hesitated a moment more - taking a final glance towards the large cell containing whomever Lexus and Jasper had been attending. Despite his keen elven vision even in the dim torchilght, the heavy door obscured his view.

As quietly as he was able, the half-elf moved into position, flanking the doorway opposite Korwin. His grip on the dagger tensed and eased in a measured rhythm even as his body began to fill with adrenaline. He nodded a slight confirmation to Korwin, indicating that he was ready and mouthed the words "Second Guard", which he emphasized by thrusting the dagger in the air, pantomiming a stab.

He listened for a moment in the tense silence, then he looked to the others and gave a thumbs-up.

Actions
Stealth to approach the door: [roll0]
Perception to hear what's on the other side: [roll1]
Readied attack to attack the second guard once he's through the door with dagger: [roll2]; damage: [roll3]

Combat stats Sheet (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=951927)

Init [roll4]
HP 13/13
AC 12
CMD 18
Weapon - dagger; unarmed

rogue_alchemist

2016-10-11, 08:25 AM

Korwin, Jasper, and Valeus all change out of their rags and into new clothes. As Korwin and Vaelus move into position by the door, Jasper moves to grab the cord from the bag of clothes, and Lexus is still considering the big guy in the cell next to them. Fane stands by the bag he had just made appear, watching everyone get into position. Korwin's feet scrape slightly with each step, sounding louder than is necessary, but the guards don't make any noises and the door remains shut.
Korwin hears the guards talking about something on the other side of the door, not seeming to pay too much attention to their charges. You can hear that their conversation is like a friendly argument from their tone punctuated with occasional laughter, but can't quite make out their voices enough to hear what is being said. Moving by the door, you are standing right next to a sconce containing one of two torches lighting the cells. The hinges of the door are nearest you, so the door opens in toward you, creating a decent hiding place.
Valeus moves silently behind Koriwn to take position by the door. There isn't room to be one on each side, so Valeus stands next to Korwin. Listening, you can make out a conversation inside. You are standing just next to Korwin who is next to a sconce that contains one of the two torches that light the cells. The hinges to the door are nearest Korwin, so the door opens in and towards the pair.

"That Blackerly is a damned thief! That game was rigged last night!"

"If it’s rigged, why do you keep going back to the gatehouse then?"

"The beer’s passable."

A laugh is heard. Drinkin’ on duty! Damn, this place has gone to hell. Captain Callidan would have never tolerated that crap. That’s for sure!"

"Captain Callidan … he left, what? Two years ago?"

"Almost three and since then the place has been straight down the shi**er. That old wizard never leaves his tower. He stays up there reading his books and petting his owl!"

"Petting his owl? Is that what they call it these days?"

The guards enjoy a bit of a laugh.
You can see everyone is in position, but worry that the guards will know something is wrong pretty quickly when there are two prisoners missing from their cell. If any more people (or things) are changes/let loose, they might just sound the alarm and not come investigate
The cord can act as a garrote, detailed here (http://www.d20pfsrd.com/equipment---final/weapons/weapon-descriptions/garrote). Except that garroting is done by Fort save (DC=your grapple check), 3 failed (cummulative, not consecutive) gives unconscious and if maintained for another 3 rounds is death. The rope is thick and long enough to wrap around your hands a few times and not hurt you while you garrote someone.

https://s19.postimg.org/4kcpqymwz/prison_cell_b.png Let me know if something is wrong.
Alright, I think you are all setup. Lexus and Jasper need to make a final decision about talking to the big guy or not, and then someone needs to get the guard to come and investigate. Don't forget the each 'block' in the grid of the map is 10' instead of 5'. Let me know if I missed anything or you guys need more information.

HappyMerecat

2016-10-11, 06:35 PM

Fane

Fane whispers, "We need to be careful. Too many things are changing in here, the instant they look in here they will know something is gone awry and they will sound the alarm. I can try to put them to sleep if we surprise them."

LordHavelock

2016-10-13, 12:12 PM

After listening for a long moment, Korwin nods to Vaelus to keep position just behind the door and makes his way back around the corner. Moving to where the others still gather, he looks between the three before beginning in a hushed tone. "Vaelus and I can surely take the two guards on the other side of the door. From there we will have to see what else awaits us." He then pauses, turning to the rake and the impish looking of their number. "What are your names anyway? We'll need something to call when battle begins."

JonRG

2016-10-13, 06:01 PM

Jasper bows with a little flair. "Jasper Dunn, at your service. Magician by trade, locksmith by necessity." Introductions made, he skulks off to a darkened corner in order to hide.

Gonna go hide in 18b as discussed in the OOC thread.

Stealth: [roll0]
Initiative: [roll1]

Mercurion

2016-10-13, 09:26 PM

Vaelus nodded to Korwin, his keen vision watched as the man skulked away. He turned his attention back to the guards' conversation.

HappyMerecat

2016-10-14, 05:09 AM

Fane

"My name is Fane Vishki."

Zhentarim

2016-10-15, 07:20 PM

Lexus saw what the others we doing, and took a moment to ready herself for combat. She introduced herself once more after reading the other's lips.
"I be Lexus...Lexus Abbadonna the Thief. I good fight!"
AC 17
Inititiative [roll0]

Action: Ready spell "Shield of Denial" which will raise Lexus's AC to 19 for 6 rounds. This is a 1st level spell and will be cast when combat begins.

LordHavelock

2016-10-16, 09:40 PM

Korwin nods in acknowledgment of the offered names before moving to the bars and peering into the dimness. "And who is this? Have they said nothing?" He raises his voice above a whisper, trying to get the attention of the mysterious other occupant. "You want your freedom? You can be free if you can also be counted on to dispatch the faithful of Mitra. What say you?" More than a little used to having his commands obeyed, and now free from his shackles and clothed like a man once more, the former knight of the realm takes on an air of authority. These others were not soldiers, even those of them that had killed before, and it was natural to his mind that leadership should fall to him.

Resting his arm wrapped in chain against the bars, he let the symbol of Asmodeus be seen at his wrist as well, to see what response it might provoke.

rogue_alchemist

2016-10-17, 07:02 AM

LordHavelock

2016-10-17, 04:27 PM

With all the introductions done, it seems everyone is ready to set off on breaking out of here. Korwin takes a moment to approach the strongly reinforced cell furthest from the door. After asking the creature inside a series of questions, a gruff voice answers, definitely above a whisper, but not quite loud. You hear "Little 'uns locked Grumblejack up, give him bitter drink. Now Grumblejack weak and hurt. Grumblejack loves to fight, especially revenge on little 'uns who lock him up." The creature looks up from his seated position at Korwin, but makes no move to actually get up yet, and doesn't seem to react to the Asmodeian symbol at all.

Korwin regards the voice from the back of the cell with caution. Despite now being a criminal and member of the Forsaken himself, years of acting as a knight of the realm have instilled in him a righteous contempt for outlaws, extending well towards the other humanoid races that inhabit Talingarde. His eyes flash as he lowers the pentacle, seeking insight into the soul of this being.

"Vengeance can be yours, if my comrade adept at breaking locks is equally convinced. Fight with me or mine however and you will find yourself worse than locked up and impaired." He turns to jasper giving a nod by way of his approval for the creature's release.

Activate Detect Good
Sense Motive: [roll0]
Do I need to roll perception/monster lore to get a better picture of who/what I'm talking to?

Mercurion

2016-10-17, 09:08 PM

Vaelus continued listening beyond the cell block door, but kept a cursory eye on Korwin. He seemed to be involved in a discussion with whomever was in the large cell. The half-elf's curiosity overshadowed his lust for escape and the possibility of revenge, but he remained in position. Any call to action from the group would need a signal if they were not to be caught unawares.

rogue_alchemist

2016-10-18, 03:56 PM

Grumblejack looks up at Korwin and regards him warily, and he doesn't look particularly impressed. He mumbles "First you beat those guards and free Grumblejack, then Grumblejack will help escape this prison." He hasn't stood up yet or made any other signs of getting involved. He seems tired, though whether that is from exhaustion or starvation or something else is hard to tell.

Sorry LordHavelock, he rolled a 19. I thought you had a good chance, but the dice weren't with you. It will take a little more to impress him and prove that he should actually regard you with more than a neutral attitude. But he has laid out what that will take at least.

It looks like there is nothing left to do, but fight. Get into position and execute whatever plan you wish. If you haven't given me initiative yet, please do so in your post where you start combat. Also start posting your stats at the bottom in a spoiler.

LordHavelock

2016-10-19, 07:09 PM

Korwin can't help but snort haughtily at this 'Grumblejack's' impertinence to name it's own terms. However, seeing as how they're planning on killing the guards anyway, and that the brute has just talked himself out of being free so much the sooner, he's inclined to simply step away, offering no particular sign of his assent other than his silence.

"All right then, Jasper, Lexus, Master Fane, you three stay around the corner while Vaelus and I draw them in."

Korwin then proceeds more quietly over to where Vaelus still lies in wait, and indicating he should remain hidden behind the door when it opens, prepares to wrap on the interior of the door with his fist before making his way back towards the other cells.

Init [roll0], HP 14/14, Speed 30ft
AC 9, Touch 9, Flat-footed 9, CMD 15, Fort 5, Ref -1, Will 2, CMB +6, Base Attack Bonus 1
(-1 Dex)

HappyMerecat

2016-10-19, 07:44 PM

Fane

Fane frowns at Korwin's rashness. He knew however that there was no reasonable way to change the plan for now silence and trickery were key, but this Grumblejack could yet be an asset.

Fane Vishki (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=444713)
Male LE Human Witch, Level 1, Init 2, HP 7/7, Speed 30
AC 12, Touch 12, Flat-footed 10, CMD 11, Fort 0, Ref 2, Will 4, CMB -1, Base Attack Bonus 0
(+2 Dex)
Abilities Str 8, Dex 14, Con 11, Int 20, Wis 14, Cha 16
Condition None

Zhentarim

2016-10-19, 10:51 PM

Lexus readied her spell and did as the others did.Lexus "Thief" (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=950988)
Female TN Pitborn Tiefling, Daughter of Halfling Dual-Cursed Oracle 1, Level 1, Init 4, HP 11/8, DR cold 5, electricity 5, fire 5 , Speed 30 ft
AC 17, Touch 15, Flat-footed 13, CMD 14, Fort 0, Ref 4, Will 3, CMB 0, Base Attack Bonus 0
Primary Bite (Wolfscarred Curse) +2 to hit, +1 damage (1d3, x2)
Primary 2 Claws (Claws Racial Trait) +2 to hit, +1 damage (1d3 each, x2)
Primary Gore, 7/day (Gift of Claw and Horn Revelation) +2 to hit, +1 damage (1d4, x2)
(+4 Dex, +1 Size, +2 Deflect)
Abilities Str 13, Dex 18, Con 11, Int 6, Wis 13, Cha 18
Condition None

Mercurion

2016-10-20, 10:42 AM

Vaelus continued to wait...

Actions
Still readied attack to attack the second guard once he's through the door with dagger: [17]; damage: [6] (both previously rolled above)

Combat stats Sheet (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=951927)

Init 16 (previously rolled above)
HP 13/13
AC 12
CMD 18
Weapon - dagger; unarmed

JonRG

2016-10-20, 11:41 AM

Jasper continues to wait...

Gonna go hide in 18b as discussed in the OOC thread.

Stealth: [roll0]
Initiative: [roll1]

rogue_alchemist

2016-10-20, 05:01 PM

There is almost a collective gasp as Korwin prepares to knock on the door. Several realized that it may not be the best way to lure the guards into the cells, but it is too late to do anything about it. Korwin knocks two short sharp tap-tap, and then ducks over by the cells where he had planned to hide. Immediately the guards can be heard cursing, and scrambling to stand. They question each other "Did you hear that? Did they get out of their cell?" The other answers "How would I know, go check it out." Footsteps can be heard approaching the door. Suddenly the door burst open as the first guard comes in already speaking "What are you up to in here? How did you get out of your cages?" He takes a step in and starts looking around for who knocked on the door, with his club raised, ready to beat whoever it was mercilessly. He sees the two behind the door, but isn't quick enough to attack first.

https://s19.postimg.org/wdgp5w48z/prison_cell_c.png
The guards averaged a 13 for Init. While you guys seem to have averaged a 14, but I am not sure that Qwanch or HappyMerecat actually rolled, they just posted their modifier, so I rolled for them. In any case, I am letting you guys get in the first attack. The first guard is aware of the two behind the door, and the second guard isn't in yet, just standing in the doorway to observe this first round. Those not behind the door see that the second guard has a signal bugle in his hands, ready to raise it and blow an alarm. Don't forget each 'square' is 10'x10'.

HappyMerecat

2016-10-20, 09:25 PM

Fane

Fane chants some words in infernal and gestures at the guards.

Casts Sleep on the guards DC: 17. Will save.

Zhentarim

2016-10-20, 11:10 PM

Lexus says a silent prayer to the star man, and a dusky grey orb formed around her, protecting her. She then moved a little closer to the guards.

Cast Shield of Denial (Shield of Faith) as a standard action, then move as a move action.

LordHavelock

2016-10-21, 02:00 PM

Once the first guard steps into view from the door and rounds to within Korwin's line of sight, he rushes forward, swinging his chain covered arm towards the man's club preemptively, but his real target is running the dagger he holds through the Mitran soldier. The rush of combat is almost too heady after weeks of confinement and inaction, and Korwin can't wait to feel blood spilled again.

Attack, the nearest guard: [roll0]; damage: [roll1]

Init 11, HP 14/14, Speed 30ft
AC 9, Touch 9, Flat-footed 9, CMD 15, Fort 5, Ref -1, Will 2, CMB +6, Base Attack Bonus 1
(-1 Dex)

LordHavelock

2016-10-21, 02:01 PM

Oh hell yes! Critical threat!

Rolling to confirm here in the OOC thread: [roll0]; additional damage [roll1]

rogue_alchemist

2016-10-21, 08:48 PM

Korwin lunges out at the first guard with his dagger. He manages to knock his shield away and find a worn place where the chain armor hadn't been cared for. The dagger sinks deep causing massive internal damage. Korwin can feel the life drain from the guard, even before he falls to the ground. Fane is chanting in a language that sounds like he is just chanting the same word with slightly different inflections over and over again. Suddenly Korwin feels a wave of exhaustion come over him, and he must fight to stay awake. The guard by the door is raising the horn to his mouth and was just about ready to blow, when he suddenly slumps over, dropping his horn and falling flat on his face, snoring. Everyone else is poised to strike, but amazed how quickly it was all over with.

https://s19.postimg.org/833i6eetf/prison_cell_d.png
I need a DC 16 Will save from LordHavelock, or else he also falls asleep. One guard is dead and the other is helpless on the floor. If Mercurion wants to coup-de-gras him with the readied action he had, he can (you can keep the 6 damage and roll the critical damage or you can reroll both). Otherwise, everyone feel free to act as you like. The guard will sleep for 1 minute (10 rounds) and only someone purposefully waking him or attacking him will cause him to wake up.

LordHavelock

2016-10-22, 11:27 AM

Korwin feels the life drain from the guard as his dagger strikes true, an outpouring of blood secondary to the signs this man has breathed his last. The rush, the first taste of vengeance is intoxicating, but suddenly that feeling swims into a murkiness that threatens to consume his senses . . .

The former knight of the realm slumps to the floor with a bemused smile on his face. Pleasant dreams.

[roll0]

Zhentarim

2016-10-22, 12:08 PM

Lauren just stands there. He forcefield wasn't going to last much longer, and she felt bad for wasting it. "Set big guy free?"

HappyMerecat

2016-10-22, 02:29 PM

Fane

"Gag and tie up the sleeping guard after taking his horn. Grab their weapons and such... and wake up Korwin."
Fane begins to walk over to the bodies. "Search them for keys and such."

Mercurion

2016-10-24, 08:56 AM

With the battle over before it had truly begun, Vaelus stood stunned for a moment, trying to process what had transpired. Fane's voice broke his reverie however; the half-elf closed the door, slipped the dagger into his belt, and set to work.

First he spent a moment firmly slapping Korwin awake, "arise." Following this he retrieving the rope from the veil; it seemed simple enough, to simply peel the embroidery away from the delicate cloth and fabricate the object and he quickly found himself with the rope in his hands.

Returning to the sleeping guard, Vaelus kicked the bugle and any weapons out of the way, then quickly tied the man up with the rope and used the dirty prison rags to gag him. Feeling slightly better about their situation, Vaelus began methodically searching the guards for keys or valuables. He also pulled off their boots and tried the boots on, testing their fit.

Taking a 20 on the search of the guards: 27

JonRG

2016-10-24, 04:54 PM

Jasper glides out of his shadowy corner and, while Vaelus is waking Korwin, takes the opportunity to claim the dagger for his own. Then he wanders over to the massive creature's cell and kneels down to unlock it.

Sleight of Hand (to snake the dagger unnoticed):[roll0]

Disable Device: [roll1] (not sure if I get +2 familiarity bonus)

Embarassing DD roll. Heck.

LordHavelock

2016-10-24, 06:40 PM

Vaelus' less than gentle treatment quickly rouses Korwin, who comes to smiling, and immediately clutches the chain on his left arm and accompanying unholy symbol. The coppery smell of blood is still fresh in the air, and he awakens still bearing the smile from the dark dreams to seize his mind. His surroundings are not nearly so pleasant upon awaking, still trapped in the dark and dreary dungeon of Branderscar, but the recent action and what amounted to the best (if short) sleep he's had in weeks has him roused and ready to go. Rising, he claps Vaelus on the back and immediately takes up the guard's club for himself, favoring the slightly heavier weapon.

"See if that beast will comply with our designs now." He says aloud, glancing in the direction of Jasper's departure (quite unaware he has taken the dagger Korwin bloodied but a moment before). "Master Fane, that was your spell? Well timed to prevent the alarm from being sounded so early. Of what else are you capable in the arcane arts?"

HappyMerecat

2016-10-24, 08:01 PM

LordHavelock

2016-10-24, 08:59 PM

Fane

Fane nods. "It was my spell. I aimed to stop them and keep one alive to glean what we could from."

"My spells focus on manipulating people, but at the moment I can try to make one a friend and command one. Beyond that I can weaken enemies. That I can do over and over."

Korwin nods, though his understanding of the arcane is limited. He understands that magic often equally limited however, not at all akin to the limits of his own sinews or endurance, which can be stretched and pushed past.

"Use your discretion, we are unlikely to have another chance for respite once we exit the cell block." Korwin then turns to Vaelus and the downed guard. "We should gather up their armor as well, it will but take a few minutes to don."

rogue_alchemist

2016-10-25, 06:02 AM

The group takes the guards down very quickly. Vaelus manages to wake Korwin up and start tying the guard. With the main door to the cells closed, the group tries to take stock. As Vaelus stuffs a dirty prison rag into the guard's mouth to gag him, the guard wakes up. Vaelus is able to spot and recover the keys to the cells, before the guard is aware enough to start struggling with his bonds, making further searching difficult. While Vaelus is working on tying up the guard, Jasper returns to the large iron cell. He struggles with the door for a few seconds, but then manages to get it open without even a click being audible. As he slides open the door, Grumblejack stands in a ready position. He doesn't have any weapons, but he looks strong enough to be formidable with just his bare hands.

I need a use rope check for the guard to oppose to see if he can break free. Or an intimidation check to get him to settle down and stop struggling. it took the limit of the sleep spell to get the guard tied securely. Grumblejack is almost ignoring Jasper and is staring in Fane's direction. Since there are no windows and only the two torches, it is completely dark in this cell and difficult to make anything out.

Zhentarim

2016-10-25, 12:26 PM

Lexus moves in an bares her teeth at the guard in a menacing way.

[roll0]

rogue_alchemist

2016-10-26, 02:43 PM

The guard struggles for a few seconds, before giving up. He has a defeated look on his face. He is trying to scream through his gag, but it is so muffled that there is no worry of anyone else hearing.

Feel free to interogate him. I need intimidation/diplomacy and then sense motive.

Mercurion

2016-10-27, 08:46 AM

Vaelus gave a cursory look at the guard for a moment before flashing the captive man a wicked grin. He looked to Fane and said "he's all yours, barrister."

Replying to Korwin, Vaelus nodded. "Agreed. It should aid our escape. Likewise, the guards spoke of gambling in the gatehouse. Apparently Sgt Blackerly has run the prison into the ground - security sounds... lax. So long as we skulk about and avoid the wizard in the tower, I anticipate little resistance." With this said, Vaelus began to strip the dead guard of his armor.

HappyMerecat

2016-10-27, 10:34 AM

Fane

Fane squats down beside the guard, looking directly at him. "We need to know how to get out of here. Do you have a map of this place? "
Fane gestures to his fellow escapees. "Go check the room they were in."

He looks back at the guard. "If you help us then we will be on our way. If you don't help us then ... well that big guy down at the end seemed to want to eat you alive."

Bluff [roll0]

rogue_alchemist

2016-10-27, 11:01 AM

The guard tries to act like you don't scare him, though fear is clearly written on his face. Though the gag, you all hear him start saying something that sounds angry and he looks very animated, but as to what specifically he is saying, it is impossible to guess. He does not look like he is trying to give friendly advice.

LordHavelock

2016-10-27, 02:53 PM

Korwin nods in assent to Vaelus' appraisal. "It's not as though we can exit through the front gate though, at least, it's not likely we could without pursuit. The longer we stay, the longer we risk being discovered. We have some rope at our disposal, we should see about descending one of the lower walls. We may not be able to wait until cover of night."

Korwin makes his assistance available to Vaelus in donning the armor of the dead guard, while he eyes the interrogation and how best to retrieve the still living guard's armor for himself. Once he is finished, he moves to the rear cell, to inform the brute of their success and see what use this Grumblejack might be.

HappyMerecat

2016-10-27, 03:03 PM

Fane

"Does anyone know about the layout of the place and the outlaying lands?"

"I think we should let the big out and have his way with the guard, as he seems to have no desire to hep us."

Intimidate [roll0]

Zhentarim

2016-10-27, 10:57 PM

Lexus sat dumbly, and looked at Fane with dopey eyes, "What me do?"

JonRG

2016-10-31, 04:12 AM

Having released Grumblejack, Jasper makes his way back to the others. "Climbing down a wall sounds like a good way to get shot." He waits a beat. "Not that I'm much of an expert in such matters."

rogue_alchemist

2016-10-31, 09:54 AM

As Jasper moves away from the door to the cell, Korwin approaches to inform Grumblejack about their success and ask for his assistance. Grumblejack finally starts to move toward the the door as he says "Grumblejack good in fight. As long as you help Grumblejack get to freedom, Grumblejack will fight with you. But Grumblejack is weak and hurt by bad food that nasty guards give. Grumblejack fight better if you can help him? He says this last bit a hopeful look over to Fane. As Korwin is standing near the entrance to the cell, Grumblejack hasn't exited yet, but he is standing just in the doorway waiting for either help or further directions. You can all now see him a little more clearly. He is some kind of ogre, standing over nine feet tall, with his head up near the ceiling, but clearly he doesn't have to bend to stand in the ~10 foot room. He is still standing the dim light from the torches.

https://s19.postimg.org/mzm92gfib/Grumblejack.png
Those with low-light vision can see his features clearly, while those with regular vision can just make out his outline more clearly. But either way he strikes an imposing profile. He walks with a bit of dragging his feet and his shoulders stoop like he just doesn't have much energy.

HappyMerecat

2016-10-31, 05:37 PM

Fane

Fane dramatically bows before Grumblejack. "I would be happy to have you as an ally."

He looks around at the group. "Can anyone help our friend with his condition? I have no doubt he will be of great help is escaping."

Bluff to convince Grumblejack that he is truly interested in his well being [roll0]

rogue_alchemist

2016-11-01, 06:18 AM

As Fane makes the arm flailing motions that come with a dramatic bow, Grumblejack raises his hands in fear. He takes a half-step back, before realizing that Fane is just bowing and welcoming him. Grumblejack grumbles under his breath "Silly little 'uns with their silly greetings."

LordHavelock

2016-11-01, 08:17 PM

As the goblinoid brute emerges from the cell, Korwin can't exactly hide the look on his face. Years of contempt for the more savage and tribal species which plagued Talingarde were not wiped away with a few nights in a prison cell; he'd slain more than a few of creatures like these while patrolling for their marauding and pillaging hosts. Still, this Grumblejack had so far displayed more sapience than he had before attributed to the goblin races, and they were nothing if not brutal fighters. 'This Grumblejack might prove useful muscle in our escape attempt . . .' He mused, until it was revealed they brute had been poisoned as some sort of measure to ensure his docility, 'Or perhaps he will soak up a few arrows as a larger target. Either way, he'll need to be handled with a short leash.'

Stepping towards the guard now, who has thus far been uncooperative, Korwin mulls over the best approach to getting the information needed. "And what do you eat, Grumblejack? I'm afraid we don't have time to build a fire, so if you're going to start with the guard here, you'll have to eat him raw." The former knight moves over to the guard now, and delivers a swift kick to his ribs with his new boot, before cracking him across the legs with the club, just as he had done to them whilst they were imprisoned and manacled. "I can promise it will be tenderized however."

Not content to leave the threat idle, Korwin smashes the club into the man's hand and reaches down, roughly pulling him up by the collar and tearing away his gag. "Now, can you give me good reason not to feed you to our hungry friend here, or our demonic companion?" Korwin gestures towards Lex "I want the names of the guards coming to relieve you and when they're expected. I want to know the fastest way from here to the armory and how many men we can expect along the way. And if I don't like the answers I get, the remainder of your pitiful life will be spent in pain and torment to the point where your remains won't be fit for anything resembling a proper burial."

rogue_alchemist

2016-11-02, 07:04 AM

As Korwin approaches the guard, the guards eyes fill with fear. He starts mumbling vehemently behind his gag, trying to move away from the Ogre that has been released, but unable to move due to the ropes binding him. The guard goes silent as Korwin kicks him in the ribs and knocks the air out of him. Grumblejack's face seems to light up a bit as he is asked what he likes to eat. He responds "Ohhh, Grumblejack like bone soup and brain jam and fresh pölsa" He keeps listing things that must be in giant, because you don't recognize what they are any more. After he looks around like he expects someone to offer him something he listed to eat. "You have food for Grumblejack? Then Korwin continues about the guard being a meal and Grumblejack looks a little let down, but gets what can only be a thoughtful look on his face as he considers how best to prepare fresh human without a fire.

Korwin then pulls the man up by his collar roughly and with the other hand rips out the gag in the mans mouth. The man's eyes are filled with terror as he is breathing hard to recover his breath and too scared to even scream anymore. As Korwin finishes asking his tirade of questions, the man starts sobbing and says "I'll tell you....whatever you want....just don't feed me... to that beast." Here he nods his head toward the ogre. The man is no longer struggling at all and looks thoroughly cowed to the point that he would do anything to avoid more torture. He tells you that the next guards aren't due for a few hours, most likely John and William are resting down in the barracks. He then tells you that the armory is downstairs, last door on the left as you leave through the main hall. There are usually two guards on duty in the hall.

Way to go LordHavelock, you beat the DC handedly, and though your character doesn't know this the guard will be 'friendly' for the purposes of this interrogation for the next 30 minutes. Now that you have mentioned food to Grumblejack though, you best be prepared to feed him soon or find something else to occupy him with. :D

Zhentarim

2016-11-02, 11:05 AM

Lex, who was watching all of this, said "You eat him if he causes trouble. We be back to get you soon. Get you weapon. Make you feel better." Then leaping up and down like a demonic kangaroo, she turns to Korwin. "We go now?"

LordHavelock

2016-11-05, 12:49 AM

Korwin spends another few minutes questioning the guard, following up with the route from the armory to the gate, and how many men guard that entrance to Branderscar.

"Anyone else have any questions for him?" He asks the group.

"Once they're answered, we can make good our escape. Unless anyone else would care to lead, I'm happy to head up our column." He thumps the bludgeon against his chain wrapped hand for emphasis.

rogue_alchemist

2016-11-05, 06:33 AM

The guard tells Korwin that the route to the gate is relatively easy. Just go out the main doors, which are right next to the armory, then cross the courtyard, enter the secondary gate house, exit on the other side, then cross the shorebridge to the main gatehouse. There are two guards and a guard dog usually stationed there. If you aren't wearing prison rags, they will wait to accost you until you are to the gate. On the way, there might be various patrols, as they tend to walk the grounds looking for trouble makers. There's also the guard dog pin in the courtyard. No one has ever escaped Branderscar before. It is too well guarded.

Zhentarim

2016-11-05, 02:07 PM

Lexus quietly followed the others, waiting to be useful.

HappyMerecat

2016-11-06, 06:32 PM

Fane

"Lets go. Lead on Korwin. The quicker we get moving the less chance we will be encountered before we get moving."

rogue_alchemist

2016-11-07, 09:11 AM

@HappyMerecat, you won't be able to remove his chain shirt without untying his hands. While he is 'friendly' to Korwin, he won't be to anyone else, and will resist being stripped.

Just to let everyone know both guards obviously have a chain shirt, heavy steel shield, longsword, and leather club. You'll have to search 'em if you want to find anything not obvious.

LordHavelock

2016-11-10, 02:48 PM

With the guard's usefulness spent, Korwin uses the club to knock him unconscious before retrieving for himself a sword. He then assists in stripping the man of his armor, and binding him again, making sure to gag him before tossing him into the far cell where Grumblejack was kept, along with the corpse of his fallen comrade.

"To the armory then, once we're into the chamber beyond he said there would be another two guards. We might take them by surprise if two of us were armed and armored like them."

Korwin keeps pace at the head of the column as they exit the cells towards the hallway indicated by their most cooperative prisoner, keeping a sharp ear out for the next set of guards set to be in the hallway.

JonRG

2016-11-11, 06:15 PM

Jasper merely stood and watched the conversation unfold. There was no need to tip his hand so early... The guard started to trace out their escape route. Either it was a trap, in which case they should ignore his advice, or it was sound, and- "Oh dear," he muttered. Perhaps, Jasper would have to tip his hand after all.

Zhentarim

2016-11-12, 10:52 PM

Lexus sat quietly as her shield powered down. "What we waiting for. We go!"

HappyMerecat

2016-11-13, 07:50 AM

Fane

Fane looked into the next room. "Lets move."

rogue_alchemist

2016-11-14, 07:56 AM

Vaelus and Korwin go into the next room, with their weapons ready, while the others stay just a pace back to play a more support role. Grumblejack goes just ahead of Fane, clearly in a defensive posture. The next room, however, is empty. There is a door to the left and stairs going down to the right, with a fireplace straight ahead. There is a chair by the door you entered from, and a low heat coming from the fire place without a visible fire, but otherwise the room is pretty empty. You can smell the slightly acrid odor of smoke from the fireplace, telling you it is not likely magic heat. Fane tells Korwin that the door to the left is where he met their mysterious benefactor, but that there was nothing of note in there. Korwin opens the door and sees that there is only a large table a few chairs.

https://s19.postimg.org/n42607iir/Top_Floor.png
If you want to analyze this situation give me a Wisdom check. If you want to explore the room some more for anything hidden give me a perception check. Otherwise, let me know what you want to do, and I'll try to accommodate you. Sorry for the slightly anti-climatic post, but you gotta decide where to go and when. I don't want to force your hand with any decisions.

HappyMerecat

2016-11-14, 03:20 PM

Fane

Fane looks around the room looking for any clues to, well, anything. The way out, layout, guard rotation, equipment or whatever, but it does seem the stairs are the way to go.
"I would suggest a couple of you dress as guards to move ahead of the group. The uniforms might buy us some advantage."

Wis check [roll0]
Perception [roll1]

rogue_alchemist

2016-11-15, 11:06 AM

Fane can't really think of anything particularly clever to do besides go down the stairs and explore; however, in his search around the room, he sees many interesting things. In the room to the left are tell-tale signs of dried blood and deep gouges in the wall, harkening to its use as a torture chamber sometimes. In the main room, there isn't much of interest, but the fireplace does have a chimney going both up and down and the smells are aromatic enough to make Fane's stomach growl appreciatively. There much be some food simmering over whatever fire is producing the light smoke in the chimney. Otherwise Fane is fairly certain that there are no hidden doors or compartments to this set of rooms.
@happymerecat nice nat 20. You are welcome to share this information with the others, but they won't know unless they do their own searching (and are equally good at it) or you tell them.@Everyone, what's the plan from here?

Zhentarim

2016-11-15, 02:55 PM

Lexus sits and watches Fane, who was the de facto group leader at the moment. She wondered what he saw.

JonRG

2016-11-15, 06:06 PM

Jasper will engage in the action discussed in the OOC thread. Cut his throat and clean up afterwards.

Jasper wanders in just a few steps behind everyone else. "Ooh, costumes. I love it. It'll be just like my show." He looks around at his companions. "Well, sort of."

LordHavelock

2016-11-18, 04:37 PM

Korwin nods at Fane's suggestion, "We know the next two should be in the hall. We do it just like before, with you ready to put to slumber any who might have one of those alarm horns."

To Jasper, he offers a grimace of a smile, "Costume shows? What sort of farce are you still putting on anyway . . ."

Then, he moves to the door and motions for Vaelus to take position beside him, just as they did before.

He then knocks, and speaks aloud at the door, "Hey out there, where are John and William anyway? They're overdue by an hour."

Zhentarim

2016-11-18, 07:32 PM

Lexus sits a moment. Waiting a while.

HappyMerecat

2016-11-18, 09:46 PM

Fane

"No sleep spell left. I can likely daze them, but that is short lived and can be done many times. I can charm or command as well as weaken in a conflict. I will be ready though."

rogue_alchemist

2016-11-19, 01:09 PM

Korwin walks down the stairs into a nondescript room with only one door. Walking up to the door, Korwin knocks and asks where John and William are. There is a brief scramble on the other side of the door, and as steps approach, a male voice calls out, "The clocks here haven't chimed yet. They are in their quarters resting still..." As hes talking, the door handle starts to jiggle.

You have enough time for 1/2 round of action, so either move or standard action. Everyone saw him leave, and is free to say they followed him down the stairs. There isn't any time to discuss a plan, so each person has to prepare to act as they know how. You are also welcome to try to act like you are the guards, but I'll need a disguise check to imitate them and bluff or diplomacy check to cover for your question about the replacement guards.

LordHavelock

2016-11-21, 07:05 PM

"Then the chimes are slow. I'm not waiting to see how slow." Korwin replies, as he prepares to disarm the guard of whatever he might have on hand as soon as the door is opened.

Disguise: [roll0]
Bluff: [roll1]
Disarm: [roll2]

HappyMerecat

2016-11-21, 07:28 PM

Fane

Fane moves closer in case he needs to cast a spell.

rogue_alchemist

2016-11-22, 07:33 AM

The guard opens the door and looks surprised to see Korwin standing there. He eyes him up and down slowly, his previous thought trailing off and forgotten. He starts again "You must be new here. I don't think we've met. You anxious to get to the card game tonight? He gives a half-smile to Korwin, teasing him for being 'new'. The man has no weapon drawn, though a sword hangs at his side in its sheath. He doesn't seem threatening, and you can see there movement behind him as the other guard keeps patrolling back down the hall.

Sorry to keep drawing this out, but I do want to give you the opportunity to react appropriately. Since he doesn't have any weapon to disarm him of, what would you like to do? He hasn't fully realized that you have your weapon drawn, as I am assuming you have it down. For everyone that wishes to enter 'combat' (though it may only be combat maneuvers and casting a quick spell), give me an initiative check too.

Zhentarim

2016-11-22, 11:35 AM

I will be posting less often.

Lexus stays hidden.

[roll0]

JonRG

2016-11-22, 10:10 PM

Jasper ducked into the nearest shadow. Korwin could hear about the value of a good quick-change act later.

Stealth: [roll0]

rogue_alchemist

2016-11-23, 08:43 AM

As the others hide upstairs, Korwin deftly reaches over and plucks the sword from the guard's sheath attached to his belt. The guard is utterly bewildered and tries to swipe at Korwin with his fist, but isn't quick enough. As the guard's first throws him off balance, Korwin raises the pilfered long sword and points it at the guard. Korwin can see that the man has a signal horn hanging around his hip from a cross shoulder lanyard. Korwin can't check the other guard very well without taking his eyes off the guard in front of him, as the guard in front of him fills the doorway almost completely.

Alright, now that that has been cleared up; what are you going to do? You do remember that there was only one signal horn between the two guards upstairs, so it is possible that this guy has the only signal horn between the two here. However the other guy can run and scream, while the guy in front of you holds you to the doorway. You only have a few seconds before the other guard reaches the end of the hallway and turns around to see, though he may not see well. The guard in the doorway is utterly bewildered about why a fellow guard stripped him of his sword, and hasn't reacted yet.

LordHavelock

2016-11-23, 04:44 PM

Seizing the opportunity, Korwin deftly sidesteps the guard's confused attempt to knock him back, and gripping the hilt of the newly retrieved sword with both hands, stabs forward towards his opponent with his full weight behind the strike.

"Get in here, quick!" He calls out down the hall, trying to stay out of view of the other guard even as he attacks his comrade.

Two-Handed Power Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

Zhentarim

2016-11-23, 04:54 PM

Lexus raises her shield again, and moves forward towards the fray.

move towards fight, shield of denial as standard.

HappyMerecat

2016-11-23, 07:08 PM

Fane

Fane moves quickly into the next room.

If there is another that he sees trying to run or raise the alarm he will cast daze on them. DC 16.

rogue_alchemist

2016-11-28, 08:23 AM

Korwin quickly lunges with his sword and stabs him in the gut. The man is clearly hurt, but can't believe a fellow guard is attacking him. Without any weapons, the man withdraws to the corner to grab his club. The man at the other end of the hallway hears the squelch of a sword eviscerating someone, and turns to see what is going on. The guard closest to Korwin is the only one with a signal horn, though he doesn't seem to remember that at the moment, so the furthest guard gets ready to bolt and raise the alarm. Before he can react though, Fane steps up and casts daze from in the doorway, stupefying the guard furthest from the group. Lexus is just behind Fane, ready to fight whoever she sees.

https://s19.postimg.org/il6yz2rur/downstairs.png
If Nyari or Mercurion want to react, now is the time. Otherwise it will come back around to the guards and then the group again. If your actions won't depend on what others do at all, then feel free to post your next actions. Otherwise we'll wait 24 hours to see if anyone else wants to post.

LordHavelock

2016-12-01, 09:12 PM

Korwin ignores the injured guard, awaiting one of his new allies to finish him off as he rushes towards the next guard attempting to make an escape. Sword drawn, he charges the man headlong, putting his full force behind a lunging just as if he were still on horseback, with a couched lance.

Charge the next guard down the hall, Power Attack: [roll0]; damage: [roll1]

Zhentarim

2016-12-02, 12:51 AM

Lexus gets ready to attack

JonRG

2016-12-04, 09:10 PM

Jasper sneaks up as close as he can to the action, the leather cord wrapped around his left hand and the dagger in his right.

Stealth: [roll0]

HappyMerecat

2016-12-04, 09:31 PM

Fane

Fane follows Korwin. As he passed the unconscious guard he points to the guard and says to no one in particular, "Kill him."

rogue_alchemist

2016-12-05, 07:42 AM

Korwin charges the distant guard attacking him with a vicious sword blow, but the guard manages to stay on his feet and swings back with his sword for 7 damage. Fane follows, but can't quite get around Korwin to attack. Jasper sneaks into the edge of the room, about 10 feet from the near guard, who appears wounded, but is grabbing his club to start attacking. The guard had turned to chase Korwin, but then saw Jasper coming in the room and walloped him with the club. If Jasper hadn't been so fast, it would have hurt a lot worse, but Jasper suffers 3 lethal and 3 non-lethal damage. Lexus is just behind Jasper, able to attack the guard if she wishes.

[roll]1d8+2

https://s19.postimg.org/f6m1ap2tf/downstairs_b.png
Sorry for the messed up rolls for the guards, I forgot you can't edit in rolls after the post is made. I did the rolls myself with my die, but I will try to do future rolls on here. The guard threatened a critical hit against Jasper, but just barely missed. I still haven't heard from Vaelus (Mercurion). Right now he is sitting combat out, but if this finishes you start another combat, he may become a victim of the guards. Let me know if anything looks wrong, and don't forget that each "square" on these maps is 10' instead of 5' (so both Fane and Korwin moved 2x their normal move action).

LordHavelock

2016-12-11, 04:53 AM

Korwin is unable to block the guard's retaliatory swing and receives a gouge along his forearm for his recklessness, but strikes back with equal vigor, seeking to end the exchange with two-handed blow from the pommel of his captured sword, followed by a vertical slash along the guard's torso.

[roll0]; damage: [roll1]

rogue_alchemist

2016-12-12, 09:07 AM

Korwin cuts the guard in front of him nearly in twain with his vicious blow. The guard falls to the ground, bleeding out and dies quickly. Finally having a moment to look, Korwin sees this guard did indeed have the signal horn.

@Nyarai, you got seen because there is nothing to hide behind. You can't hide in plain sight. You were quiet as a mouse and no one would have heard you, but a guard standing the in the corner, can see you walking through a door (to get as close to the action as he can) and into a lit hallway.

I assume the game is slow because of the holidays, but for those who are here, feel free to post. I'll update as I can. Anyone not here can be NPC'd to participate in minimal normal ways or just ignored. If you check this, but don't have time for a full post, just let me know your preferences on how to handle your character (either wait for you or NPC them).

Zhentarim

2016-12-12, 02:13 PM

After calling upon her patron to grow her horns, Lexus enters a full attack on the nearest gaurd.

AC=19
Grow horns as swift action (1/7 uses for the day)
I forget if full attack is a standard action or a full round action. If it is full round, just consider this as something that will resolve on her next turn and Lexus takes no other actions but the swift action this turn.

Bite
[roll0]
[roll1]

Claw 1

[roll2]
[roll3]

Claw 2

[roll4]
[roll5]

Gore

[roll6]
[roll7]

rogue_alchemist

2016-12-12, 03:33 PM

OODM: Full attacks are full round actions, so I will have Lexus grow the horns and prepare to attack the next round. Do you want to take a move action this round?

Zhentarim

2016-12-12, 03:42 PM

OODM: Full attacks are full round actions, so I will have Lexus grow the horns and prepare to attack the next round. Do you want to take a move action this round?

OOC: Yes, I will move to get close to the guard if necessary, and if it is a standard action, I'll throw in just a bite attack this round, as well.

[roll0]
[roll1]

LordHavelock

2016-12-14, 09:09 PM

The guard before him well and fully dispatched, Korwin gives a snort of derision before rounding his stance, setting his heels and charging straight back the other way for the remaining guard with the club. His blood is racing though a bit of soreness has crept into his limbs during the interim between their last engagement with the guards. Between that and the creeping coldness where his blood still flows, he resolves to staunch the flow at the soonest opportunity, and resume his regimen of drill and exercise once free of this place. For now though, there is a foe before him and a blade in hand, which is all the former knight need focus on as with a snarl, he rushes headlong to impale the guard upon his swordpoint.

Charge and power attack against remaining guard: [roll0]; Damage: [roll1]

rogue_alchemist

2016-12-15, 07:07 AM

Lexus steps up to the remaining guard and tries to bite him, but the guard is able to dodge back, just in time. Korwin then power charges up to the duo and skewers the guard, while he is distracted with Lexus' bite. Before the guard knows what is going on, he is eviscerated and gurgling on the floor in his death throes. The group looks around and sees that there are 5 doors, two on the left, one on the right, the one they came through, and a big one at the end of the hallway, that matches the description the original guard gave on how to get out of here.

https://s19.postimg.org/nnisdddvn/downstairs_c.png
Did I miss anybody's actions? I'm sorry if I did. The combat is over, feel free to search, loot, pillage, or move on. :D

LordHavelock

2016-12-19, 10:54 PM

Korwin wipes his blade, and checks the guard's body for any useful supplies, making sure to disarm them of their weapons and distribute the superior arms to the rest of his Forsaken companions. "Who else requires armor. We should move these bodies into the hall beyond, on the way to armory. Check these doors as well, for anything else useful. Make sure the doors are closed coming back." He quickly organizes a search of the doors, taking a moment to listen at each door for himself before he opens the last door on the left, following the instructions from the guard they had interrogated.

"I'd be keen to acquire anything else which can assist us on our journey cross the moorlands, so long as we avoid the barracks."

rogue_alchemist

2016-12-20, 07:52 AM

Korwin listens at the last door on the left, but doesn't hear anything. He tries the handle, but it is locked. There must be something worth locking away on the other side, and Korwin is sure that this is the door that the guard upstairs had told him about.

JonRG

2016-12-20, 09:36 AM

Jasper wipes blood from his lip but brightens at the sight of Korwin struggling with the door. "At last, something within my wheelhouse," he chirps. Gently pushing Korwin to one side, Jasper kneels before the doorknob and, after a brief examination of the mechanism, inserts the picks into the lock.

Perception: [roll0]
Disable Device: [roll1] (Or is it 13? I'm not sure.)

HappyMerecat

2016-12-20, 09:37 AM

Fane

Fane sticks close to Korwin. "If it comes to convincing someone of something, I have a knack for that. True or not." He looks around. "Do the guards have keys?" He begins to search the closest guard and removes his clothing sans armor in an attempt to look like a guard.

"The longer we take, the greater the risk we will be found out and lose the element of surprise."

JonRG

2016-12-20, 10:05 AM

"I got this," Jasper mutters as he retrieves his picks from the stone floor. Huffing bangs from his eyes, he attempts to open the lock again.

Can I take 10, actually? I think I can open this on ten, come to think. That's 21, or 23 if there's a familiarity bonus.

rogue_alchemist

2016-12-20, 10:22 AM

Jasper tries to use his skills on the door, but he drops the picks after a particularly forceful twist wrenches it out of his hand. Fane gathers around behind Korwin and talks to him, while they watch Jasper try again. This time Jasper is more careful and takes his time, but still the lock proves more difficult than he is capable of.

You know it is not just a simple lock like the ones before, but can't quite asses how much more difficult it is.
Take 10 wasn't enough either. You are welcome to take 20 on it, if you want, but it'll take 2 minutes.

HappyMerecat

2016-12-20, 12:01 PM

Fane

Fane watches Jasper try the lock and fail. "Now I am more interested in what is behind that door, but unless it is our exit, I am unsure we should take the time."

Zhentarim

2016-12-20, 12:38 PM

Lexus stares on, seeming strangely alien to onlookers. Her tail sways to and fro as she watches the others try the lock.

JonRG

2016-12-20, 01:42 PM

Jasper grins wickedly, eyes alight with excitement. "One good lock in the whole damn prison, and it's on this door. I need to see what's in there."

Jasper will take... call it two, more shots at this, and then... well, I kind of want to take twenty, but I hope people don't drag me away first. Anyone trained who can assist would be appreciated. :smalltongue:

[roll0]
[roll1]

rogue_alchemist

2016-12-20, 02:25 PM

Lexus stares, transfixed by what is going on by the far door. Jasper tries twice more. The first time he gets several of the tumblers lined up before losing one and having to start over again. The second time his sweaty palms make him loose his grip and drop his torsion wrench with a loud tingling of metal on stone.

you said you want to, but will you actually take 20? Will anyone stop him?

LordHavelock

2016-12-20, 09:49 PM

Korwin huffs with impatience, but makes no comment on Jasper's efforts to unlock the door. "The guard we interrogated indicated the armory is this way. If we are to make a direct exit otherwise, we will need greater weapons, and supplies beside." He says, before glancing over an furrowing his brow at Lexus' rather alien stare before he indicated a next course of action. "We'll keep watch at the other doors, myself, Vaelus, Grumblejack, Lexus, and myself. Brace them against entry from the other side. Master Fane? You indicated you had a spell which would ensorcell the mind to convince them of your good will? We may use that to prevent the alarm from being sounded, and kill any others necessary."

"Jasper, keep at it." His voice conveying no lack of faith in the man's abilities. "You don't seem the type to let a locked door stand between you and anything. Not for long."

He then moves to the door directly across from Jasper and puts his shoulder to his door, leaving his weight against it and putting his ear to the boards to listen for any oncomers.

Active listening, but there's not much call for me to roll unless there's someone approaching, so feel free to make it secretly there Mr. GM. Korwin's perception bonus is +2.

JonRG

2016-12-20, 10:02 PM

Jasper nods and, picks back in hand, continues to ply his trade.

1 [roll0]
2 [roll1]
3 [roll2]

HappyMerecat

2016-12-20, 10:55 PM

Fane

"I have such a spell, but it can be resisted and it would not control them, merely make them ... my friend. If possible I would prefer to simply use my words if that opportunity presents itself. Beyond that I have a few things up my sleeve."

Zhentarim

2016-12-21, 01:07 AM

Reading the lips of Korwin, Lexus nods dumbly and shambles over to her chosen door.

rogue_alchemist

2016-12-21, 09:24 AM

Just as the Korwin spurs the group into action, having each of them (OOC: and himself twice, apparently :P) take up a door, Jasper stands with a flourish and opens the door. Korwin has time to put his ear to his chosen door, but doesn't hear anything happening on the other side at that moment.

I feel bad that so much thought and action was put into choosing doors, and Jasper succeeds on his next attempt. There isn't much more for me to describe, until you decide who is going into the room. Is there a particular weapon anybody is good at using, or something (weapon wise) your character would have been caught with when they were arrested that was particularly theirs?

LordHavelock

2016-12-29, 02:35 AM

The instant the door is unlocked, Korwin springs into action. After a last listen at his door, he moves to the center of the room and grabs the nearest guard's body. "Grumblejack, grab the second one. Everyone into the room and Jasper, lock the door behind us. We'll regroup and take stock inside."

Hefting the weight of the guard over his shoulder, Korwin grits his teeth and moves with a singular purpose, keeping his gait steady past the triumphant sneak-thief with his tools. He takes only a moment to assure that the room beyond is what they seek before lets the guard's corpse down as silently as possible.

JonRG

2017-01-01, 03:57 PM

Jasper rises to step out of Korwin's way, then follows behind.

Gonna wait until we know what's in here before I lock us in.

HappyMerecat

2017-01-01, 04:21 PM

Fane

Fane moves into the room and looks around.

Perception [roll0]

rogue_alchemist

2017-01-05, 10:14 AM

Korwin lugs the guard into the room and sees that it is large room, about 40 ft x 20 ft. It has many racks of weapons with all sorts of pikes, bows and arrows, swords, and clubs arranged around the room. In one corner is a pile of discarded weapons. Korwin drops the guard softly as Grumblejack comes into the room and throws the other guard on top of the one that Korwin just placed down. Jasper and Fane also see that this is indeed the armory.

https://s19.postimg.org/601hm2xdv/downstairs_d.png
I don't mind assuming that everyone comes into the room, but it would be good to get confirmation from Quanch and Mercurian if you guys are still around. I have left your characters where I last had them.

HappyMerecat

2017-01-05, 12:04 PM

Fane

Fane scans the room wishing he had memorized detect magic. He focuses on the discarded weapon to try to understand why they are discarded. Where they the weapons of prisoners? if so were any of better quality. He looks around for any crossbows or if not a long spear.

rogue_alchemist

2017-01-09, 10:26 AM

Fane scans the room and sees that there are plenty of crossbows and bolts along one of the racks of weapons. All the crossbows bear the symbol of Branderscar Prison burned into the wood, though the arrows are plain shafts of wood with a tip and feather tail. The pile of discarded weapons appears to be in a slight state of disuse, but none of the weapons appear to be in particularly bad shape.

Zhentarim

2017-01-09, 06:12 PM

(ooc: I got robbed, and I may not post as regularly, if at all.)

redfeline

2017-01-13, 11:19 AM

Grumblejack grabs the second guards body, or the right half at least. He lifts it up off the ground easily and looks at the boot for a moment. He then grabs the left half of the body and walks into the room. Dropping the first half onto the floor, he then removes the boot on the foot of the right half of the guard before neatly stacking the left side onto the right.

He takes the boot, puts the edge in his mouth and takes a bite out of it. The leather must be chewy because he gnaws on it for a while before swallowing the leather.

Zhentarim

2017-01-13, 10:42 PM

Lexus shifys her tail side to side.
"I help?"

HappyMerecat

2017-01-13, 11:02 PM

Fane

Fane picks up a dagger, light crossbow and a quiver of bolts.
"We need to keep moving. Grab weapons if you need them."

redfeline

2017-01-14, 07:22 PM

Grumblejack looks at the pile of weapons and grabs one.

Not sure what is there. But he will grab a large weapon: longsword, great axe, etc. Something that he can use with out a size penalty.

LordHavelock

2017-01-17, 03:32 AM

Korwin regards the arming of his compatriots, of particular interest with what the ogre and the more conscious Fane choose for their weapons of choice. For himself, there is less a matter of what he might need than what any warrior in his position could make use of. To that end, Korwin picks for himself the largest, heaviest blade he can lift with both hands, hefting and making practice swings with whatever is available to test their lethality, and reassure himself of his ability to make use of them. Once satisfied, he discards the small-blades garnered from the guards, and selects a proper arming sword or war-axe, whichever has the longer cutting blade, and slings a shield across his back. For a final touch, he obtains any effective throwing weapon, keeping it in hand, without much more regard than using it as soon as is necessary before switching to the heavier of his weapons.

"This will greatly facilitate our escape. Clearly the guards are not in a position to be using the best of weapons available, or else they think it unnecessary. Either way, we will now have the advantage."

Zhentarim

2017-01-17, 11:50 AM

Reading Korwin's Lips, Lexus approached and said, "I have 1 spell left. I can help fight."

rogue_alchemist

2017-01-18, 03:34 PM

You start to pick through the discarded weapons pile and notice that some are larger and some are worn and in a state of bad disuse. Korwin notices a familiar pommel and reaches in to grab it, hefting his family heirloom great sword. Grumblejack shift though the pile a bit haphazardly before finding a battle axe and a heavy mace. He weighs each trying to decide which fits him better. The mace is heavier, but the battle axe is larger overall. Fane ignores the pile and goes for a crossbow, a quiver of bolts, and a dagger from the stores on the racks. Korwin watches Fane and decides a dagger isn't a bad idea to throw at their next foe.

I am surprised no one is going to search the room (though there are time constraints). There are also sets of chain shirts and heavy steel shields. After arming yourselves, where do you want to go, how do you want to get there?

HappyMerecat

2017-01-24, 07:39 PM

Fane

"We need to keep moving or this is not going to end well."

Zhentarim

2017-01-24, 09:02 PM

Lexus waddled over towards Fane

JonRG

2017-01-25, 02:28 AM

Jasper finishes donning some leather armor, then as an afterthought, grabs a crossbow and lashes it to his belt. He grabs whatever ammo he can find for the weapon, then looks at Fane expectantly.

Okay, grabbing a few extra daggers while nobody's looking along with the above mentioned stuff. Hand crossbow would be ideal, but I'll take a light if nothing else makes itself available.

rogue_alchemist

2017-01-26, 12:03 PM

Fane makes his plea for the group to keep moving. Lexus seems ready, though she is hard to read. Jasper grabs crossbow and some bolts.

There is no leather armor, only the chain shirts that the guards have been wearing. Do you want to don that? Daggers is fine and plentiful. There are only light crossbows. Let me know if you want the chain shirt or not

I am not sure what is the hold up for the others. I am trying to keep this game going, but everybody only seems to post in fits and spurts. Hopefully we can get this moving again.

Zhentarim

2017-01-26, 02:05 PM

"I be ready"

HappyMerecat

2017-01-26, 07:06 PM

Fane

Fane heads out of the room and looks back and forth at the unexplored doors. "I expect the big doors might head to the main doors, but with many guards. I suggest we try one of the other two."
He looks back at the group. Who looks most like a guard?

rogue_alchemist

2017-01-27, 08:35 AM

I think Vaelus (who is no longer posting) and Korwin have the guard's uniforms on from the first two guards. Jasper might don the guard's armor as well. There are still several suits of chain shirts with the guard's colors and marking hanging up if anyone else wants to dress up like a guard (or if the whole party wants to). Though Lexus has a tail, so I think she is pretty obviously out; and Grumblejack is out too.

redfeline

2017-01-27, 11:31 AM

Grumblejack stays at the back of the group with his new mourning star. He smiles at the thought of using it.

Zhentarim

2017-01-28, 11:35 AM

Feeling the need to urgently leave, Lexus goes over to the 2 large main doors and tries to open them.

LordHavelock

2017-01-28, 03:31 PM

Korwin gives his family sword a heft and a few experimental swings, before wrapping up the pommel in a cloth to disguise it's distinctive appearance. With the guards armor on, he does a quick check of himself for any bloodstains before selecting a shortsword from the racks and strapping it to his belt, and slinging a heavy steel shield across his shoulder within easy reach, looks quite the man-at-arms. He only hopes that his otherwise gruff appearance keeps him from being recognized as more capable a warrior than any of those they've yet encountered.

Gathering up what rope they have left, and the chain he'd taken from before, he gestures to Grumblejack. "Wrap this around your wrists, with a little luck we'll be able to fool anyone we pass long enough to get the jump on them. I'll carry the morningstar for you." His tone leaves little room for argument as he stares down the lumbering ogre. He then looks around warily, "Where did the other one go? The imp?"

Zhentarim

2017-01-28, 03:41 PM

Completely deaf, Lexus continues to open the door. She is ready to be free again!

rogue_alchemist

2017-01-30, 07:49 AM

Fane leaves the armory, with the door open and stands in the hall assessing their next move. Lexus slinks away from the group as they are getting ready to leave. She then goes to the main doors and gives them a shove. Fane notices that the large doors are opening. No one still in the room notices the front doors, but can see Lexus leaving, as she didn't try to hide it.

Korwin finds a short sword in the pile of discarded weapons. Its blade looks a little pitted, but it is still sharp and will do its job. He also finds a heavy steel sheild with the mark of Branderscar Prison on its face. He asks Grumblejack to still look a prisoner. Grumblejack isn't sure he wants to trust Korwin, but with a nod from Fane, Grumblejack will relinquish his newly acquired weapon and lets chains be wound around his wrist.

To be so big, they open surprisingly easy. She continues to open them, seeing they lead into a big courtyard. There is a cobblestone path that leads straight from the door to the gate, around a fountain. The fountain has a statue of a man holding a sword that is pointing back at the great hall. There is a wooden pin to the right side of the cobblestone path that has two tiny houses, you recognize as dog houses. It is a full moon, and the moon is shining down into the courtyard.
https://s19.postimg.org/shtsdvf9f/downstairs_f.png

https://s19.postimg.org/4ct2w5uyr/downstairs_e.png

Does anyone react to Lexus? Fane has made a suggestion. Anyone else want to throw in their two cents?

HappyMerecat

2017-01-30, 10:00 AM

Fane

Fane watches Lexus head to the double doors realizing it is too late to stop her without shouting.

redfeline

2017-02-02, 11:25 AM

Grumblejack smiles in his chains You not betray Grumblejack now. He not at full streangth and can not tear off arms quickly. Grumblejack not want to see new friend suffer slow arm tearing. He then wraps the chains around his arms keeping them tight.

Zhentarim

2017-02-02, 06:04 PM

Fane

Fane watches Lexus head to the double doors realizing it is too late to stop her without shouting.

Lexus returned to the group.
"Outside that way..."

rogue_alchemist

2017-02-17, 02:08 PM

Starting out there were five prisoners in one cell and three in another. One of the five prisoners was summoned for a meeting and after he came back, the group quickly escaped. On their way out the three other prisoners and the ogre were freed as well. The six, including the ogre, tried to subdue the prison guards, but one was killed in subduing the first set of guards. As the group snuck forward cautiously, they attacked a second set of guards in the main hallway. Another of the six was killed here. Both of the men killed appear to be sturdy fighters, and their skills would be sorely missed, but now the three prisoners from the other cell have made their way into the armory that someone with lockpicks had opened. As this character was checking out weapons around the room though, one of the blades he grabbed made a strange 'fwit' sound and the rogue dropped it, then collapsed on the floor. Close inspection showed he had activated some hidden mechanism in the guard and been pricked with a needle, that must have had some kind of poison. It was all over before anyone could react. That leaves only the strange looking small creature that was apparently deaf and another magic user that had been handy in putting some of the guards to sleep, but with their fellow escapees having been killed, the two seemed in too great a state of shock to contribute much more. Grumblejack, the ogre, of course had proved invaluable, even in his weakened state. It was time for the three prisoners from the other cell to step up and take charge of this escape attempt.

https://s19.postimg.org/ix1h6f4lf/downstairs_g.png
Kilral is the token in the upper left with a red beard, Nero is token just below that (with yellowish background too), and Nero is the token in the bottom right of that room near Grumblejack.

Feel free to add your own summary of what your character has done, but I am operating under the assumption that the original 5 tried to escape and just let the other three of you out. You were slower to leave and followed in their path, catching up to them in the armory where it is now you three and maybe 2 more. If I don't hear from HappyMerecat or Qwanch soon, they may be killed off as well. So long as you don't mistreat Grumblejack, he will go along with any plan that gets him out of here. How do you want to proceed? Don't forget to grab any weapons or armor you want from the armory before leaving. There are guard's uniforms (chain shirt effectively) and guard's sword/clubs/crossbows here. There are also some special weapons here if you want to request those.

If Qwanch or HappyMerecat want to continue, feel free to post as well. The story has been retconned to canonize the details posted above.

lostsole31

2017-02-17, 02:22 PM

"Nobody bother dressing like a guard to try and pass as one," says the wolfish-looking man. "It's too small a place. They know everyone here, believe me. But feel free to take somebody's breeches and jerkin for the road afterwards. These rags we wear are far more identifiable. That silliness playing prisoner transport won't work. Grumblejack, don't waste time faking chains. You grab yourself the best hunk of something deadly and use it as good as you will."

He pulls over a chain shirt for himself, and if anyone wants to help him with that so it only takes 30 seconds, that would be great. If they don't know from armor he'll talk them through it. Longsword, definitely. Do they have a kukri? I doubt it, but he does a quick scan. Otherwise, a dagger and a crossbow with only a case of quarrels. He'll pre-load the crossbow but otherwise belt it. He'll be sure to grab a guard's clothes.

What does Nero know about the area around Branderscar? Mountains? Island/ peninsula? Cliff overlooking a dark tarn? Whatever the case ...

"You can expect a climb or a swim of some sort if we ever manage to clear the prison proper ... I doubt the most fearsome prison in the land is on an open farmstead. If you see rope? Pick it up. Otherwise, don't stuff your pockets with weapon-candy. You won't want the weight later."

PSinger

2017-02-17, 07:20 PM

Can Al get the following here ... leather armor, wooden shield? He'll take a spear and a club.

DrK

2017-02-19, 02:16 AM

There is a ranger of brimstone in the air as whilst the others discuss the guards a tall thin, pale and dark haired man steps into the room. "God day sirs I'm sure you didn't mean to leave me in that cell. Not when I have as littke reason to stay as you. Come Malkieth, let them see you're use".

As he grabs breeches a vest and a thick coat he also dons a chainshirt, shoves a dagger into his boot and grabs a club and a crossbow. As he loots the room a towering shadow fills the doorway as a slightly larger than man sized humaoudshape fills the door, long arms, black scales and curved claws complete the demonic appearance. "Master Sardec, tarry not long. Your window of escape is narrow ". Sardec nods. " Yes, yes, I just need a few bits and bobs for my magics."

He looks a the others, "I take it there will be no objection to myself and Malkieth coming along. He looks the material and I don't like being burned alive so we'd rather leave this place."

lostsole31

2017-02-19, 07:34 AM

The lean, hungry-looking man smirks and nods a few times approvingly at the monster and the man that brought him forth. "As long as you don't try to tuck us up as well. We all ready? Great. Lets' go."

rogue_alchemist

2017-02-21, 02:55 PM

Nero took up the leadership mantle as he looked around the small armory. He orders Grumblejack to forget the chains and take up his weapon. Grumblejack smiles and grunts his approval of such a brash plan. Nero grabs a chain shirt, longsword, dagger, and a crossbow with a quiver of bolts. He advises the others about what to expect once they make their earnest escape attempt.

Al grabs a wooden shield, spear, and club.

Sardec addresses the group in the armory as well, then grabs himself some breeches and a shirt from one of the guard's body, but there is no thick coat. He also grabs a chainshirt, dagger, club and crossbow with a quiver of bolts. Then a humanoid shape fills the door with demonic features, speaking to Sardec as his master.

Nero then approves of Sardec's plan and makes ready to leave.

@lostsole31, sorry no kukri, but don't worry one will be available soonish.

@PSinger, there is no leather armor, only chain shirts, but there is a wooden shield. The spear is tipped with a sharp metal point, is that a problem?

@everyone, where to? I know HMC is around and going to make a post soon, but that doesn't mean you can't either finish discussing your escape attempt or start making your way somewhere.

rogue_alchemist

2017-02-22, 07:50 AM

I can tell for right now that you are talking OOC, PSinger, but in the future, but OOC: or something at the beginning of post that are OOC (or just put them in the OOC thread) or hide them in a spoiler like this. It can be a light wooden shield, the point of the armory is that there is a pile of weapons so that you can take a good bit of what you need, but there are some limits. Since you can't wear anything metal, I figured a shield would be a good compromise. Now, down to business!

lostsole31

2017-02-22, 04:44 PM

Honestly, I wouldn't expect a kukri. Kind of a specialist tool/weapon, anyway.
Nero moves out into the long hallway and to the double doors. He opens the doors enough to look out ...

HappyMerecat

2017-02-22, 11:02 PM

Fane

Fane looks at the group. "We need to decide our direction. The double doors lead to the outside and while that likely leads to a quick escape, it may put us right in the open. Other doors may give us some cover and the element of surprise, but the longer we are here, the greater risk we will be spotted. If no one has any idea of the layout ..."
He thinks. "I still suggest we take one of the smaller side doors and just make sure we don't let anyone raise the alarm. Any of you new guys any good at sneaking?"

rogue_alchemist

2017-02-23, 07:32 AM

Nero eases back through the armory door and opens the big front door gently, taking a peek outside. Fane addresses the new group trying to figure out the best plan of escape.

Nero peeks out the door and sees a path that leads to a big fountain. In the middle of the fountain is a statue of a man. In his outstretched hand is a large stone sword that points to back at the building you are in. The stone path leads around the statue to the far wall. The walls that you see behind the statue are 30' tall. It is a full moon night, with plenty of light to see (or be seen) by. You hear ocean waves crashing, but they sound distant and faint. Just behind the statue is a large stone building built into the wall, which must be the gatehouse, but you can't quite make out any details from here. Just to the right of the fountain against the wall is a low wooden fence with dirt floors inside it. The rest of the courtyard is unmanicured grass growing where it will. The grass leading to the fenced area and some of the grass to the left of the fountain are well trod, like many people walk that way day after day.

https://s19.postimg.org/x3wfgjawz/downstairs_f.png

lostsole31

2017-02-23, 07:35 AM

What time of day/ night is it? I am guessing it is a dim light (dusk/ dawn) if I can see these things but can't make out details of the gatehouse.

DrK

2017-02-23, 08:33 AM

Sardec, clutching the loaded crossbow joins the others in the corridor. Looking outside he gestures at the hulking clawed demon "Malkeith can have a look if you wish. His kind have eyes that do not need light to see. One of their many uses. He is relatively stealthy - despite his appearance." He pauses slightly as the horned red regards with him glowing eyes and moves slowly to the door whispering quietly himself. "One day little master I shall see how frail your body is. then we shall see who has the last laugh. and then more loudly If you move aside I can creep to that water feature and survey the area?"

if the group agree
Stealth [roll0]
Perception [roll1] w/ darkvision

Sardec looks as the others talk. "If we can reach the tops of the walls and we have some rope we can make an easier escape over the walls. The sea may be an issue but there must be a bridge or a harbour to allow access to the mainland. Sadly I was shackled, chained and hooded when brought here so I missed the formal tour. Sir Balin - devil's eat his heart - was less than pleased with me at the time."

PSinger

2017-02-23, 08:49 AM

"I can bring forth a very limited-area fog to help cover, but it's best used if it is dark out or the sudden appearance is suspect," says Al. "Quick ... banners and lighter tapestries ... anything we can use as a rope, pull it down and bring it with."

Is there anything here - assuming we don't see actual rope - that will fit the bill for us to carry as makeshift rope?
Al adopts the nature of the Owl, his vision returning to normal but his footfalls softening. +4 competence bonus to Stealth. Sheet updated.

rogue_alchemist

2017-02-23, 09:49 AM

I am changing my Out of DM to Out of Story (OOS), so it is more accurate. Anyways, it is currently night, with the moon high in the sky giving low light to see by. Remember each square on the map is 10', so you can only see so far in low light. As far as things to make rope with, the rooms you have passed through are pretty bare. The armory only really has chain shirts, which can't be tied together easily. This prison isn't decorated to be fancy, it is minimally efficient; mostly just having sconces with torches for light and nothing else of note. If you want to search around, you might find some more options, but you might run into more guards too. I am no ignoring the post of the others' actions, just waiting for lostsole31's response of action before posting.

HappyMerecat

2017-02-23, 10:31 AM

lostsole31

2017-02-23, 10:48 AM

Nero, unsure of the slip of gossamer cloth Fane just pulled out, simply whispers, "Bring it with..."

At the same time as Malketh is doing his reconnoiter, Nero will use the cover of darkness to make his way to the gatehouse.

PSinger

2017-02-23, 11:02 AM

Al will follow out after Nero towards the gatehouse.

DrK

2017-02-23, 11:04 AM

Fane

Fane pulls out the veil given to him by Tiadora and peels the rope off and holds it out. "We also have ... a window? Possibly the ability to make a hole in a wall? There is something that looks like a pile of bricks, I don't know what that would do."

Sardec looks impressed at the veil as his eidolon sneaks off looking around the dark garden. "Impressive master Fane. A magical window through the wall would indeed be a useful thing and save having to climb a wall. You don't happen to have a boat on your veil there as well?". He waits beside the door for a report back from Malkeith or the others before risking himself in the open.

rogue_alchemist

2017-02-23, 12:31 PM

Kilral and Nero sneak outside after the Eidolon. The Eidolon stops near the fountain and looks around, using the fountain to stay hidden. The others try not to make too much noise, but aren't hiding or sneaking. They approach a pair of double doors that are equally big to the doors they just left from the great hall. They can see the entire front of the great hall building that they had been imprisoned in. There is a courtyard surrounding the building, with a wooden pin next to them. In the pin are two small houses with a roof and portal in the front. Lying in each portal is a dog, sleeping for the moment.

There is a gravel path from the great hall around the fountain to the guardhouse, that Kilral and Nero are standing next to, as well as a path around the perimeter of the great hall itself. There is a worn patch of grass just to the left of the path that leads to a smaller side door in the guardhouse. Some vegetation in laid out rows can be seen just to the right of the great hall. There appear to be guard towers wherever the walls make a turn. Walking along the top of the wall can be seen a man with a bulls eye lantern. He stops periodically to cast his light out over the courtyard, but hasn't made any indication of seeing you yet and it appears the light cannot reach you from your current distance. He turns away for about 1 minute at a time, moves 10' and then sweeps the area again.

https://s19.postimg.org/ejcsn7ev7/downstairs_h.pngIf you aren't outside you can't see all this, but rather than make two maps, I just made one. Don't cheat!

The bright yellow is bright light and the lighter yellow is normal light. Everything else is dim light.

@DrK, you can assume that malkeith (who is the token near the fountain in that map) comes back and makes a report to you.

Everyone else, if you want to stay hidden, don't forget your stealth checks (or at least tell me what taking 10 looks like for you). I assumed everyone took 10 this time, but make it more explicit in the future. Also a spoiler at the bottom of your post with current HP, AC, any spell effects, and the result of any skill checks (or making skill rolls) would be appreciated.

lostsole31

2017-02-23, 01:07 PM

Nero very carefully tries to open one of the double doors, at least enough to see inside.
I cannot conscientiously Take 10 on this Stealth check since results of failure are dire.

Nero's Stealth check (modified by DM for distance and lighting) [roll0]

Nero's Basics
AC 18, touch 14, flat-footed 14 (4 armor, 4 Dex)
hp 12:12
No active spell effects or anything else.

rogue_alchemist

2017-02-23, 01:41 PM

Nero opens the big double doors, extremely quietly, not even making a peep. Once open, he looks into the room, and sees a wide entry that has two stout double doors with swing bars and braces that can be put into place with some effort. There is a hole above and three arrow slits adorn both the west and east wall. There are faint sounds coming from the east wall, filtered through the arrow slits. Nero can make out light in them, but will have to make closer inspection if he wants to know more.
https://s19.postimg.org/3xsxb78jn/courtyard_a.png

Follow lostsole's lead, and if you want to see things, don't forget to make a search or perception check (depending on how you are looking for something: search to actively search the area, and perception to only search with your eyes from one spot).

lostsole31

2017-02-23, 01:56 PM

Nero whispers what he sees to Al. Without a safe means of signaling the others, it is up to them to come his way or not.

Nero then travels east along the east wall, going slowly and stealthily. He will then go north along the east wall, staying in a low crouch so as to be out of the vantage point of anyone peering through them.
Closer is better. Along the west wall, anyone looking through eastern arrow slits can cover and see everything. With his current position, he is too close and can use his position to stay entirely out of the sight-line of the arrow slits.

Your search-vs.-perception is confusing. I don't care which you call it, it's the same roll. Nero is going to keep his head on a swivel as he goes. He is NOT going to give in to curious temptation and look through the eastern wall slits. That's asking to have someone looking through at the same time.

Perception (or what you call it) [roll0]
Stealth [roll1]

Nero's AC 18, hp 12, previous Stealth result was a 26.

PSinger

2017-02-23, 02:03 PM

Al needs the extra stealth so stows his shield. Approving of Nero's idea, he follows suit along the southern wall to the eastern wall, and then avoiding arrow slits while heading north.
Search for danger as we go [roll0], but also not staring through arrow slits.
Stealth [roll1]

Al's Junk: AC 12, hp 17/17

rogue_alchemist

2017-02-23, 02:24 PM

Malkeith waits behind the fountain until the guard on the wall turns to walk further and then sneaks back to the grand hall, reporting to Sardec.

Malkeith reports about the guard's habit of looking over the courtyard every minute, and just as Malkeith got the door closed a bright light shined on it too. There is no alarm sounded, so whoever it was must not have found anything suspicious, but it does indicate that there is another guard searching somewhere closer. Malkeith also reports that the human and dwarf who followed him out were proceeding through the guardhouse.Decide what of this you want to report to Fane and if this is in common or infernal
You both make your way along the wall and duck against the east wall. You hear no sound of alarm and see no reason to be scared. The main light in the room is filtering in through the arrow slits and the hole overhead, providing only dim light for the main entryway. As you squat beneath the arrow slits, making your way north, you can hear the sounds of several people talking. You recognize one of the voices as Tomas Blackerly and can make out at least two other voices. There is the sound of wood clinking on wood and paper being fanned. There is also the sound of coins clinking. You recognize that they must be playing cards and gambling. You don't see any shadows moving in the light coming from the arrow slits. It seems no one is patrolling around in that room. You reach the northern wall with no issues.
https://s19.postimg.org/mtylv1af7/guardhouse.pngSorry for the confusion about Search versus perception. The point was that making a search check implies you are using your hands and moving around to actively search a location, while a perception check is just using your eyes to search a location while you stand still. Thus a perception check is more stealthy. You did the correct thing
Sorry HappyMerecat, you will have to wait for DrK to decide what he shares. I guess you did successfully pull a rope out of the veil, but otherwise you are just standing there waiting. If you want to act, feel free. I know I have kind of let several 'rounds' of action pass without you posting. If you want to follow Nero and Kilral or anything, feel free to say you did.

HappyMerecat

2017-02-23, 03:21 PM

Fane

"Sadly no boat." He sees a few heading through the double doors. "It seems the double doors it is. Lets be ready to head out."
With that he heads to the double doors and peaks out.

rogue_alchemist

2017-02-24, 07:59 AM

I just want to be clear, are you following the dwarf (PSinger) and Nero (lostsole31), or are you peeking out after Sardec's (DrK) eidolon has come back? If you are following the first group, then you can just see the same things they can, and catch yourself up, if you are peeking after Sardec's eidolon comes back, then I will let you know what you see.

HappyMerecat

2017-02-24, 08:50 AM

Fane is just peeking through the double doors from room 8.

rogue_alchemist

2017-02-24, 09:06 AM

Fane peeks outside and sees a light shining off to his right as a guard at the top of the 30' guardhouse across the courtyard from the grand hall is checking to make sure everything is okay. The guard continues sweeping his light over the walls and away from the grand hall. The light disappears, though Fane can't see the guard or anything else. There is a fountain in the middle of the path that leads through the courtyard to the guardhouse opposite the door that Fane is peeking through. Off to the left at the base of the guardhouse is a fenced area. In the guardhouse is another set of large double doors mirroring the ones that Fane is peeking through. In the middle of the fountain is a tall statue of a man with his outstretched hand grasping a sword pointing back at the grand hall.
https://s19.postimg.org/n3wxmwa9v/downstairs_i.png

DrK

2017-02-24, 06:01 PM

Sardec

Watching the lantern and with crossbow in hand Sardec joined Fane by the door. "the others through the door safely? Best join them and then put that window to good use!" Putting words to action he sneaks to he fountain motioning to makieth to follow as he passesth founain

HappyMerecat

2017-02-27, 11:34 AM

Fane

Fane follows Sardec.

rogue_alchemist

2017-02-27, 12:17 PM

Sardec makes it to the fountain, and signals Malkeith and Fane to follow him. Malkeith and Fane both make it to the fountain. Suddenly heavy footsteps can be heard, as both doors are pushed fairly wide open and Grumblejack sticks his head out. "Grumblejack follow too?" The ogre asks in a harsh whisper. Malkeith says something to Sardec.

Malkeith warns Sardec, in infernal, that the guard along the far wall is about to turn again and make another inspection of the courtyard.

How do you want to react to Grumblejack? He has displayed fairly average intelligence and wisdom in handling situations so far. You are likely to think he knows enough to keep himself out of trouble, but you only have a few seconds (1 round) to communicate.You also can see well enough to know that the ogre's hulking form would be hard to miss if anyone looked out into the courtyard.

HappyMerecat

2017-02-27, 12:28 PM

Fane

Fane nods at Grumblejack and waves for him to follow. "Come. Stay as out of sight as you can. I am sure we will be spotted sooner or later, but for now lets stay low."

DrK

2017-02-27, 09:58 PM

Sardec

At Malkeith's words Sardec throws himself behind the low fountain wall using that to shield himself from the guard. Nodding thanks to the demon. A whispered - "Get down you fools, hide! " to Fane and Grumblejack.

Looking about for the others he eyes Fane and that strange veil that has a portal on it for when they reach the walls. Cursing inwardly he doesn't know what lies beyond the wall around this courtyard.

rogue_alchemist

2017-02-28, 01:11 PM

Fane invites Grumblejack to join the party, and he tries to sneak along and stay low, but he is not very good at it. At Sardec's command to get down, Grumblejack throws himself to the ground behind the fountain and makes more noise than is strictly necessary. The light from the guard along the wall still doesn't reach the fountain, and his lamp shines over the courtyard for a few seconds waving side to side. Everyone tenses up ready for an alarm to be rung, but nothing happens; the guard turns again and starts walking forward.

As you are recovering from the scare you hear a sound like something sniffing, and then a low grumble. From the pin on the east side of the door in the gatehouse stands a large dog facing the group by the fountain and starting to growl.

https://s19.postimg.org/7gafo2woz/downstairs_k.png

What are you going to do with the dog? He hasn't barked yet, but you have a feeling that if he starts barking, someone will come to investigate.

lostsole31

2017-03-01, 12:05 PM

Nero, having no idea about the waking dog in the courtyard, carefully opens the double-doors leading out of the gatehouse. Just enough to see what's beyond.

DrK

2017-03-01, 12:26 PM

Sardec

With the light gone Sardec shrugs resigning himself to things going to the nine hells and points the crossbow at the dog, motioning to Malkieth, My friend, kindly eat that stupid beast before it alerts everyone! Grumblejack, you too! Quickly eat it! "

Then in a whisper to Fane, " Bring that window. We may need it sooner than we thought "

Shoot the dog [roll0] dam [roll1]
Malkieth walk and claw [roll2] dam [roll3]

rogue_alchemist

2017-03-01, 04:05 PM

Nero peeks out the front door of the gatehouse, trying to get a lay of the land. You can see a wide (~30 feet across) gravel path leading down from the guardhouse to what appears to be a bridge in the distance. The noise of the ocean waves is very loud here, and you know you must be close to the water. You can just make out in the distance a lamp that is illuminating a portcullis at the end of the bridge. It is currently closed and there appears to be a stone structure next to it that must be a small guardhouse. You don't see any guards, but suspect they must be inside the building.

https://s19.postimg.org/mt7ync003/gatehouse_a.png

Your map is purposefully too dark for you to read clearly beyond 120', but you can make out vague details if you squint really hard :P

Sardec whispers to his demon to attack and encourages Grumblejack as well. He then aims his crossbow and tries to fire at the dog, but his quick aim and nerves at being caught cause him to shoot wide and the bolt sticks in the side of the doghouse having come nowhere close to hitting the dog. Malkeith quickly moves to the outside of the pin next to the dog and swipes at it and seems to cause it tremendous pain as it whimpers loudly and tries to run off before Grumblejack catches it with his morningstar, silencing the beast. Grumblejack smiles at helping with the escape and looks around for something else he can hit. You can hear the guard on the top of the gatehouse call down "Shut up you mangy animal, serves you right for always barking at those bleedin' birds. Hope it got you in the snout, I do!" It seems no one is alarmed at the noise.

https://s19.postimg.org/km3pzeupv/downstairs_l.png

lostsole31

2017-03-01, 04:11 PM

Nero whispers to the dwarf ... (I thought he was next to me, not still in the courtyard?) ... and lets him know what he sees.

PSinger

2017-03-01, 09:53 PM

Al nods and whispers, "We can expect a swim, and possibly a dive or climb as well. Get ready to bolt. I am about to call on ancient magic."

Al steps outside of the double doors and calls upon the ancient spirits of the nearby sea and wind. A thick mist - more of a fog, really - appears right where Al is standing. While it seems to be a nuisance at first, the 20' radius and 20' high (read: 40' diameter) fog blocks sightline of anyone of the upper gatehouse looking down at the front doors.
FA: Not sure if 5' free move or move action, but it doesn't matter. Al steps just outside the double doors to be outside the gatehouse.
SA: He casts obscuring mist (http://www.d20pfsrd.com/magic/all-spells/o/obscuring-mist/).
MA: Move 20' north along the track of that path.

DM NOTE: It's on now. Casting spells is NOT stealthy (believe me, lostsole31 went on a rant recently in his own game). Verbal components require a clear, strong voice ... and I am sure his voice echoes nicely in that boxed in area right outside the gatehouse.

HappyMerecat

2017-03-01, 10:40 PM

Fane

Fane pulls out the veil in preparation to use the window if needed.

rogue_alchemist

2017-03-02, 09:27 AM

You are correct lostsole31, I have corrected my previous post. I had PSinger with you on the map, but in trying to label the spoilerbuttons, got mixed up. Sorry about that. I am going to wait for DrK to post before posting another DM round.

DrK

2017-03-03, 01:39 AM

Sardec

Sardec looks happily at Grumblejack and Malkeith each clutching bits of dog. The willingness of this new dumb brute had of following orders reminding the young noble what it has been like to have minions, a rush of power that was better than many drugs!

The happiness is interrupted by the sound of casting, and, running to the double doors he peers into the small courtyard. "Come Malkeith, things are about to erupt into violence. Grumblejack we will need your help. You like to hit people yes?" As the mist spreads he runs towards Al and Fane keen to not be left behind!

rogue_alchemist

2017-03-03, 09:14 AM

Kilral steps just outside the gatehouse and casts obscuring mist in a clear precise voice. The guard up top had just yelled at the dog, but now he rushes to the ocean side of the wall and peers over to see what is going on. He shines his light down as best he can to get a good look, but a thick fog has filled the area, and he can't see anything. Kilral then moves through the fog to the edge, peering out along the path. Inside Nero can hear the guards in the room to the east throw their chairs back and start rushing around speaking to each other. No alarm has been raised yet.

Sardec congratulates Grumblejack and then heads to the courtyard side door of the gatehouse, looking through at Nero. Inside is not well lit, with light only coming through the hole in the ceiling (labeled C) and the arrow slits in the wall to the east. Chairs scraping and voices can be heard coming from the room to the east behind the arrow slits. Malkeith moves to follow Sardec and Grumblejack confirms "Grumblejack is ready to smash every bad little 'un here!" Fane pulls the veil out prepared to use the window emblem if needed.

https://s19.postimg.org/tqbbrcb2b/map.pngI decided to just combine what everyone sees, but remember your character doesn't know anything that isn't stated above or can be reasonably assumed from the map (e.g. Fane and Sardec can't see that there is a path on the other side of the gatehouse).

I am fine if Fane wants to have moved to keep up with Sardec as soon as he started moving and then you can follow each other (so Fane basically gets a 'double' move action next round to follow Sardec). The guards haven't raised the alarm yet, though you assume it will happen any second now.

PSinger

2017-03-03, 10:33 AM

Al adopts the essence of the stag. "Let's go!" he shouts even as he moves along the path towards the north.
SwA: Lose Stealth bonus from Owl, gain +5' speed with Stag.
2xMA: Move 50' north.

DrK

2017-03-03, 02:32 PM

Sardec

Sardec hears the shouts and patter of feet and with the fog puts two and two together. Taking the lead he plunges into the fog running full pelt with Malkeith lurching beside him as they run after Al.

lostsole31

2017-03-03, 03:10 PM

Nero ... 60' of travel.

HappyMerecat

2017-03-05, 08:39 AM

Fane

Fane follows along feeling out of his element. He is a manipulator of people and a barrister not used to this. He stays close to the others.

rogue_alchemist

2017-03-06, 09:47 AM

Kilral changes his essence and charges forward, disregarding all subtlety. Nero follows along behind him. Seeing through the gateroom that fog was on the other side and having heard some spell being cast, Sardec charges forward running as hard as he can, catching up to the dwarf and the other human, with Malkeith hot on his heels. Fane sees the human bolting and runs to keep up with him, only 30' behind. Grumblejack sees the little 'uns running for the door and barrels his way through too. As Sardec and Malkeith pass through the gateroom, several voices yell for them to stop. Fane makes it through with no problems as well. As Grumblejack comes barrelling through, loud thumps can be heard by everyone in the group, and he is missed by two arrows that go soaring through the room. On top of the gatehouse, a guard starts yelling "Who goes there? Stop! Stop, I say, or I'll shoot!" Indistinct sounds can them be heard, then suddenly "I said wake up! You slouch, prisoners are escaping! Sound the alarm!"

https://s19.postimg.org/koo25mfb7/map_a.png
Sorry, it is a little hard to see. Kilral is in the upper left, Sardec is next to him (on the right), with Malkeith just below. Nero is just below Kilral. Fane is the lone figure in the light. Grumblejack is in the doorway.

The guards are in complete confusion (and some have rolled poorly). I had everyone move their maximum straight line distance north, assuming running (4x speed) for those that needed it. Grumblejack couldn't run because he had to take a diagonal 10' step first, so he only made it 80' of total movement (double move action). Fane started about 30' behind Sardec and ended the same. You can now see that the bridge at the end of the path is ~250' away (~80 meters). There isn't much time for looking around, so I didn't bother describing everything in detail, but if you need more information you can ask. I would say if you want to take stock of anything and evaluate, you need to make an acrobatics, swim, or related skill check (so one of your actions) and then you can use your other action to run, defend, shoot back, or whatever else you want to do. Looking around is a free action, but I restrict it when you run full out. This path is now too curvy for you to run full out, so if you want very general information about what is around, you can say you are looking around, but if you want specifics (like if you can safely jump or something), then you need to make the skill check.