Through the Gates (IC) (3.5, E8)

[J-H]

Map of the Land
https://image.ibb.co/dOVrSv/Continent_map.png


Background
The planet is an ocean world filled with mini-continents around 100-200 miles on a side. The deep waters are a place where life thrives and grows quickly, and thus support a large number of predators ranging from aboleths to dire great sharks, kraken, and allegedly a few portals that might tie to some strange eldritch realm. The mermen and sahuagin hold their territories as well. Rumor has it that finding and trading with the mermen can yield great wealth... but the path is tricky, and some say the merfolk want surface slaves.

Legend has it that the world was once all water, and that the surfacer deities arrived from someplace else, drawing land up from the sea and making a home for their worshippers. This is why there are no large continents, and may partly explain the enmity of the deep-dwellers.

Communication between lands is handled through four portals at the cardinal points of each land, which each activate on a schedule that tracks with astronomical events. The planetary alignments for the last few years have meant that they activate for approximately 30 minutes a day, four days per week. These always tie to the next closest foreign portal, creating a loose mesh that ties together the whole world, with a week or so of travel between portals fairly typical. Due to the limitations of the network and travel time, most people do not travel to other lands frequently, and each land is generally self-sufficient. Wars are also difficult to pursue. There's always a bit of low-level brigandry, and the different governments maintain fighting forces, but things are generally peaceful unless one of the ocean species mounts a major raid ashore.

There are stories...occasionally, a land will drop out of the portal mesh. When that happens, often it will simply never re-appear, and people will have to adjust to new trade routes and portal-neighbors. Occasionally, the portals have re-connected, the survivors bearing tales of plagues, diseases, parasites, invasions, strange creatures, and salvation obtained by launching a counter-assault through each portal. It is believed that agents of the deep, or perhaps of the enemies of the surface gods, or both, are behind these attacks. They construct some sort of magically-empowered diverter, typically with two or three components. Often, they are stabilized around a runestone stolen from a portal ring after the diverter is first activated, and perhaps around a particularly powerful magical item. Heroes must travel through the portals to enemy lands, find the diverter components, smash them, retrieve any runestone components. and then return home before the portal re-stabilizes.

Such an event has happened to your land.

[J-H]

Day One

Some of you live and work in the capital city, Pelandra. The rest of you happen to be there, whether conducting business, training, or perhaps visiting the High Temple of the Pantheon, an imposing structure said to date back to the time when the gods drew the land out of the water.

Tobias and George are staying at the Drunken Minotaur, near the western gate. A commotion is audible late in the evening, followed by someone thundering by on a galloping horse. At sunrise, Tobias is awakened by the sound of troops marching westwards.

Braqsh is awakened well before sunrise, and spends most of the morning watching officers with tousled hair and sleepy eyes go in to see the king in the Map Room, and then leave in a hurry. The Royal Archmage, Nimh the Far-Seeing, who famously has traveled on no fewer than four ocean voyages to other islands, is with the king, and seems to call for some new mirror or bowl of water almost hourly.

By the time messengers find the rest of the group and summon you to the palace, it’s mid-morning, and the barracks are emptied. The servants you pass are hurrying to clean up the mess and catch up with events. Davin is pretty sure that if he was in an animal form, he’d be able to smell fear in the air. Braqsh is summoned by the guard captain to attend the king, right as a kalashtar and several humans walk in. Lisandra recognizes the few commanders remaining in the room, although Adrian, thanks to his youth and lack of official career, does not.

Adrian and Braqsh notice, as you enter, a second group waiting to see the king.

Keldren the Red, a mercenary wizard who favors red clothing. Rumor has it that he was once Nimh’s apprentice, but the haughty and tattooed man denies it.
A figure clad in black, barely visible in the shadows.
A child – no, a Halfling, obviously not from this Land – wearing riding gear and bearing weapons.
A scowling kalashtar man with a shaved head, a sword and shield, tattered clothing, and several psionic tattoos.
A middle-aged woman with a glowing chasuble about her neck, smelling faintly of pungent alchemical concoctions.
An armored cleric with the dark blue tabard worn by the controversial and disliked cult of Umberlee


The king accepts the group’s respectful greetings, motioning them over to the map table. He speaks in a gravelly voice. “We are under attack. The life of every man, woman, and child in our land is at stake. Instead of connecting to other lands or remaining silent, our portals now spew out enemy armies, death, and destruction. We are alone, without hope of reinforcement, until the mechanisms that have diverted our portals are shattered. We know that if we fail, we will be destroyed or the land brought beneath the waves entirely. Nimh, please tell them what you have Seen.”

The elderly man remains sitting on his stool, wearing enchanted purple robes, a metal circlet, and carrying a staff topped with a cloudy crystalline sphere. He speaks slowly, and exhaustion fills his voice. “We are assailed by foes both familiar and new.

Sahuagin attack Orbshold in apparently great numbers, attacking and retreating through the gate, perhaps to bathe themselves in the seawater again. They are a familiar foe, but seem least likely to threaten the entire land immediately. We must, however, go to them, to fight to re-establish the portal network.

Cliffheart has been taken by the fish-men, scaling the walls and wielding strange powers. They have some strange creatures with them, like flying squid – it is hard to see. Their illusion magics contend with my vision, and I cannot look long. Fort Temperance holds, and so Pelandra and our heartlands are safe.

Sandsbounty has been attacked and harried by creatures from another world. Yeth Hounds, flying imps, and evil in the shape of men and women. Our own troops fight each other down there, and discerning friend from foe is hard. If the corruption spreads, or our forces turn on us, they have a clear path to Pelandra.

Most of the civilians escaped from Bury, able to outrun the walking dead. Those who have fallen are taken through the gate, no doubt to return again as foes. Many of the survivors are ill, and the commander I was able to talk with reported that many of his injured troops are suffering from poison and an unnaturally quick-spreading disease.”

Nimh turns to a similarly dressed young man standing behind him. “Jorg, I need to rest. You are repeating that next time.”
The man nods shakily, and steps forward as Nimh stands, bows to his Majesty, and shuffles out of the room.

The king speaks again, pointing at the map. “As you can see, we can hold the east and the west for a long time; the terrain works in our favor as well, but we still must reinforce them or lose what men at arms we have. Everyone has some degree of skill in what’s needed to fight off shore raids, but we do not have enough of an army to take care of everything everywhere at once. The attacks from the north and south pose a more immediate threat, and we must end the threats of those portals first. I would send Braqsh, one of my better and stronger guards, along with the five of you, to handle whichever threat you feel best fit your skills. Another team will attempt to stymie the invasion at the other portal. There are a few other individually talented people we are trying to locate, but we are not a nation numerous enough to produce many such as yourselves.

Which portal will you attempt?”


=> Party

[Cavir]

The intimidating seven and a half foot tall minotaur steps forward when he is introduced by his king. His large greataxe is held in one hand with the butt of the weapon resting on the stone floor in line with his hoofed feet. Some of the group he had met through his duties. He eyes passed to each of the assembled group.

"Hello. Minotaur and human together freed this continent in the past. We will do so again. I am honored to be on this task. Are any of you better prepared to deal with one foe or the other? The walking dead can't avoid my blade, but the otherworlders can be taught fear."

http://rpgmke.wdfiles.com/local--files/minotaur/Minotaur.png

[Mr Adventurer]

An unremarkable-looking man might be recognised by his blonde-white hair, currently tied back to look presentable for the King. Mister Crane has already taken a measure of the room and its occupants, and nods to the minotaur.

"It's a good question, kingsman. But we can modify our approach to the target as well; sabotage is as good a tool as outright violence, when properly applied. I know some magic, most of which works best on minds, not the mindless; but that's far from my only trick and I'm not afraid to get involved in the Southern affair if necessary.

"That said, what's happening in the North is probably worth special attention. If they're the ones suborning us, then something's gone badly wrong and it needs to be cut off now.

"We'd want someone with a good eye for faces and motivations with us, in case we run into anyone that's already been turned. That's not me; my tricks break minds but I never bothered to learn how to spot a con. I'm too honest! Or I just prefer to always be on the outside of a game looking in." He shrugs, "Pick whichever you prefer."

"Oh, it's 'Mister Crane', by the way. Nice to meet you all."

https://paizo.com/image/content/PathfinderTales/PZO8518-GideonGull_360.jpeg

His gaze flicks back to the King. "You've given us a strategic assessment, Your Lordship. Is there any more tactical assessment of the two sites? More on the types and numbers of forces?

"Whichever we aim for, we'll want someone with some specialist knowledge about these creatures," he notes.

[J-H]

Jorg, Nimh’s apprentice, shakes his head and responds to Tobias, as the king consults with one of his advisors. “Scrying is a difficult task requiring the highest levels of magic known to man. Only Archmage Nimh is able to scry, and he was only able to see the gates themselves. Long-distance Messages are only slightly more common. You know what we know.”

His Highness has already consulted with High Priest Jericho, and aid is being sent to all locations. Protecting the minds of our commanders against evil influence is something that even a half-trained acolyte of Lathander can do, but curing diseases and poisons requires a much greater blessing from the gods. Both threats are one that spread, but the one carried by the undead seems to be self-propagating. Sorry, that means that it makes itself bigger and bigger over time.
Commander Everstahl argues otherwise, which is why we are dividing our efforts.”

[danielxcutter]

"Cliffheart..." Aidrian muttered under his breath. It was, after all, his home. To hear that it had fallen was distressing, especially considering the many great psions that resided there.

"Which is the most urgent? I'd prefer to start with Cliffheart - it's where I'm from - but it sounds that Bury or perhaps Sandsbounty are in greater danger."

[Centaurion]

Lisandra

If they have not been introduced earlier:

"My name is Lisandra Wyrmstrom. I am - she underlines her point by clanking one fist against her plate armor, which she currently wears without helmet and gauntlet of course, and which makes curiously less sound sounds when she moves in her chair. "- best suited for rather direct approaches. I am gifted with eyes that see under nearly all conditions, but I am as prone to illusions as most. As for the question where we should strike: I believe none of the two sites is more urgent than the other, and if I understood correctly, another strike force will be dispatched to the one we do not choose. That being said, if someone has any strong points towards or against one of the sites, this should determine our decision."

She smiles and turns to Aidrian, speaking calmly and without hesitation.

"I understand your urge, and it is easier for me to say, as the Grayfangs are not overrun by hostiles. In times like these, we must stand united, and remember that we were all born on the same soil in the endless ocean. I promise you that one day, Cliffheart will be free again, and if fate will, you shall walk its streets as one of that those brave to take it back from the conquerors." her smile is encouraging and there is not a hint of doubt or mockery in her face.

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/93/0f/28/930f28b907457319281b080fd38b38a5.jpg

[Mr Adventurer]

Crane quirks an eyebrow at Lisandra. "I'm glad you're on our team - but that was a lot of fancy words to say you've got no idea which way we should go," he winks.

"Alright, let's put this another way. Does anyone here have special knowledge about imps and fiends? Or about the undead? If we've one and not the other, that determines which way we should go.

"If we've both or neither, I vote for the imps. The people those fiends take might at least be returned to our side. We can't say the same for those the undead claim."

Does anyone have either Knowledge (the Planes) or Knowledge (religion) at decent levels to identify creatures and their powers?

[Centaurion]

Lisandra

She chuckles lowly, and returns the smirk to Crane. "I see, you were chosen for your charm then. Don't worry -- you'll get used to it. And no, my knowledge about these hostiles is around the same."

[PeacefulOak]

Davin Stormbrow

For a meeting with the king, Davin was dressed in remarkably unassuming gear. Well-worn leathers of mottled green and grey, a traveler's suit of dress, and a heavy quarterstaff held casually against one shoulder. His forehead is adorned with a leather band with a knot tied at the center, which burns with an eternal blue flame.

"My heart lies with Orbshold, for to alleviate their plight would be to free my brethren Rangers to be able to fight back against the other troubles. That said, there are many worse situations for the moment that require our attention. Abominations to the north and south, yes? Let us away to the North to fight off the abominations before turning our attention to other matters."

His blue eyes go cold as he says abominations, and he rubs one of his rings with a thumb, a clear crystal ring that seems to be filled with blue-white flame.

[Mr Adventurer]

"Heh, hey, a charmer I am not," Crane agrees, "Save for short periods until the magic wears off. I've got other skills - just like I'm sure your armour and his axe -" he nods to the minotaur in the room - "make up for a lack of book learning about fiends from beyond and the risen dead." The line is delivered straight, not sarcastically.

He looks at Davin quietly for a second. Then, "You fancy the risen dead first? What's your reasoning?" It's a bit of an abrupt question, but it's at least in good faith.

[PeacefulOak]

Davin Stormbrow

Davin raises an eyebrow, an action that casts his eye in shadow due to the flame on his brow.

"Two reasons. The first is that this invasion is already running unchecked,
whereas to the south they still fight. The second is the group that waits outside. I have a sense that they perhaps may not be best suited to combat the walking dead, with skills and talents more aptly suited to resolving conflict with the living."

[Rizban]

George

Remaining silent for awhile, George just unobtrusively listens to the others until he can come to a decision of his own.

"I have no desire to fight at all, least of all against the foes that face us now. These are dire times when man must take up arms against abomination, and despite my desire for peace, I will not shirk my duty to defend those who cannot defend themselves. The disease from the north could spread, even if the invasion is contained. I believe that is the best option for now, although I would prefer it if we had an efficient method to prevent or cure disease before embarking on this endeavor."

[Mr Adventurer]

Davin Stormbrow

Davin raises an eyebrow, an action that casts his eye in shadow due to the flame on his brow.

"Two reasons. The first is that this invasion is already running unchecked,
whereas to the south they still fight. The second is the group that waits outside. I have a sense that they perhaps may not be best suited to combat the walking dead, with skills and talents more aptly suited to resolving conflict with the living."

Crane nods, "Alright... except that's not what I heard His Lordship say. Fighting continues on all fronts - in fact the recent report is from a commander who's been in the field.

"As for those others - yeah, I saw them. I don't know them, though. What makes you say they can't handle some walking dead, in particular?"

He glances back to the King and his advisors. "Anything you already know about them, that would help us out here?"


George

Remaining silent for awhile, George just unobtrusively listens to the others until he can come to a decision of his own.

"I have no desire to fight at all, least of all against the foes that face us now. These are dire times when man must take up arms against abomination, and despite my desire for peace, I will not shirk my duty to defend those who cannot defend themselves. The disease from the north could spread, even if the invasion is contained. I believe that is the best option for now, although I would prefer it if we had an efficient method to prevent or cure disease before embarking on this endeavor."

"A man after my own heart!" Crane exclaims. "Really, fighting is for when you've exhausted all other options. No offence," he adds quickly to the beefier crew members, "It's important to be able to do it for when everything else inevitably goes pear-shaped... Usually.

"As for your assessment - I agree with your premise, but I get a different conclusion. Unless we do have a way of countering the disease, we should stay well away from it in favour of a group that does. Otherwise, we risk falling to it ourselves - or, worse, spreading it further.

"We can't ignore that to the South there's a different disease - one of the mind; maybe even of the soul. Who's to say what might happen if we let that run unchecked?"

[Cavir]

Braqsh

"Diseases of some type no matter which way. The fiends to the south will be a more cunning force and will take longer to root out. The undead to the north I feel would be a more straight forward enemy, in greater numbers but vulnerable to tactics, strategy, and sabotage. I say we deal with the undead to the north first and then we can focus on the south with combined forces."

"Perhaps His Majesty will allow us some supplies against disease from the royal armory?" The minotaur bows respectfully to King Davion.

[danielxcutter]

Adrian said nothing, but raised an eyebrow.

It sounds a bit like the vote's leaning towards the undead.

I thought you aren't that good at fighting them? asked Adrian's psicrystal, Moondrop.

I'm not. But I'm not the only one who can fight, either.

Moondrop is a Single-minded psicrystal, and has the bonuses from Adrian having ML 6 thanks to Practiced Manifester. So I think they'd be smart enough to participate in conversation with their owner.

And yes, "they" is the right pronoun for Moondrop; they identify as agender.

[PeacefulOak]

Davin Stormbrow

"Are we then agreed? To the north first, then. Let those foul undead tremble at our approach! Davin raps the end of his quarterstaff to the floor as emphasis.

[Mr Adventurer]

Mister Crane sighs, "Well, it looks like people have made up their minds, yes." He pinches the bridge of his nose and closes his eyes for a moment before opening them again, "Alright then, undead it is.

"From what we've been told it sounds like there's some kind of organising force behind these dead - and that means targets."

[J-H]

With the discussion at an end, the six bow to his Majesty and leave the room. The door is held open behind them by a young page, and those waiting outside are allowed in. Those at the tail of your group hear a bit of grumbling, but you’re not sure who it’s from in the other group.

Horses are not particularly common – and there are no horses that will carry Braqsh - so after a hurried rush to grab your possessions and any last-minute items, you head out the north gate, paired as an impromptu escort with a cart containing a senior priest and several acolytes, along with many bandages and jars of pungent herbs that, you are told, are useful in fighting diseases and poisons.

Braqsh, with his keen nose, has to be careful to stay upwind.

The road runs about 50 miles north to Bury, and by pushing yourselves a little bit and alternating who rests on the cart, you cover over half the distance. The acolytes use their spells to heal the muscle damage on the horses and anyone else, and everyone sleeps like the dead (pun intended) after 11 hours and 33 miles of travel. The next morning, you pass a number of refugees, typically panicked, exhausted, and on foot. Shortly after lunchtime the next day, the group reaches an encampment of several squads of soldiers, guarding a field hospital.

Day Two

It is obvious that some of the soldiers are shaking with sickness, and Davin is able to identify their disease as the Shakes by their clumsiness and involuntary tremors.

Straight from the SRD. Fort DC13, 1 day incubation period, spreads by contact with contaminated items. 1d8 DEX damage once per day on a failed save. 2 successful saves removes the disease.


Braqsh attracts a bit of attention, and there are a few comments about him being able to simply throw the undead back by picking them up and hurling them. From talking to one of the officers, you are able to determine the following:

Some of the skeletons wield bows with poisoned or diseased arrows.
A few minotaur skeletons and zombies have been sighted; both are difficult to kill and very dangerous due to their size and strength.
Standing and fighting has been unsuccessful, as the undead will wear down and eventually outnumber most forces.
Human skeletons have been sighted picking up the recently dead and taking them towards Bury, presumably for re-animation.
The undead forces are not pressing very hard, but hundreds or thousands of people were probably caught and killed during the attack on Bury.
The few remaining defending forces have spread out in a loose cordon, and are using trumpet signals to coordinate enemy sightings, movements, etc. Most of the forces are concentrated around the road between Bury and Pelandra.
You are about 6 miles (2 hours travel by road) from Bury, with about four hours of travel left in your day (based on a standard 8-hour adventuring day).


=> Party
What other questions do you ask?
What type of person do you seek out?
Do you do anything else in camp, or do you head towards the battle lines?

[danielxcutter]

"Hmm... it sounds like this isn't just a random outbreak." said Adrian. "Are there any clues as to who's behind this yet?"

[PeacefulOak]

Davin Stormbrow

Davin immediately recognizes the disease afflicting the soldiers. "This is the Shakes, a simple disease and well within my ability to cure. I think it might be worth my while to spend a short time here getting some key figures on their feet, if possible. It would make this a better fall-back point."

[Centaurion]

Lisandra attempts to get hold of someone who has experienced fighting the different kinds of undead, and someone who knows about the initial outbreak, to ask the following questions.

1) "Did you find that the different types of undeads have certain vulnerabilities or immunities, in particular to different types or materials of weapons?"
2) "Have you seen anyone -- alive or undead -- near the undead who might have controlled or coordinated them?"
3) "Are -- or were -- there any notable structures (houses, walls, towers, ...) inside Bury, in particular such that may have survived the attack and could now serve as cover, or, as a headquarter for the enemy?"
4) "Are there any reports where and how exactly the first undead came to bury? Did they crawl out of the water? Suddenly appear on a city plaza?"
5) "How big is -- or was -- Bury? Just general measurements from east to west, north to south, to gain a basic understanding."


Just assume the questions be asked one after another but waiting for answers in between. She is a nice person, and bombarding people with questions is not very nice. But I thought in PbP it makes more sense to just ask them in a row. She also does not speak the numbers, those are just to ease referencing.

[J-H]

Lisandra asks around, and is able to get answers from several of the sick troops. She finds that zombies and skeletons work as expected (per the SRD templates for both, assume you are aware of the difference in DR, movement for zombies, weapon use for skeles, etc.).

Bury is a town of about four thousand people, with higher walls facing the ocean, but few defenses on the landward side. The gate lies at one end of a very large market square area, which in turn lies at the end of the north road, which leads straight to Pelandra. The road is broad and flat, as befits one of the four most important roads in the land, used for trade with other far-off lands. The town is teardrop-shaped, with the north side being an arc behind the walls, and the south point following the prime real estate along the road. It's about 3,500' long and 1,500' wide at the widest point. The gate is near the seawall, which was constructed long ago to defend its vital link to other human civilizations.

The gate apparently activated in the middle of the night, when the marketplace was empty. As far as anyone can tell, the undead attacked through the darkened portal, which at last sighting was still open (far longer than is usual). The buildings are mostly intact, although one of the defenders reported starting a fire to block off some of the zombies while they evacuated the seaward defenses. As it would happen, several coastal patrol ships were docked in the (small and well-defended) harbor, and their sailors joined the defense, helping more people to escape than might have otherwise.

The undead attacked in a steady stream, following only a primitive search pattern. Wherever the living were found, they would simply converge to kill and (in the case of zombies) devour unless stopped. There were a few blasts of hostile magic, but if there are leaders of this invasion, they are relying more on the mass of undead, combined with poison and disease, to do the job.
One scout swears he saw a zombie giving orders to the undead around it while gnawing on a dead body, but nobody else can verify that report. Braqsh, despite having only the barest knowledge of such topics, recalls that there is a zombie-like creature known as “ghoul” or “ghast” that acts with malign intelligence. It’s possible that that’s what the scout saw.

A group of fourteen soldiers return, bearing three more felled and near death by poisonous arrows. They also bear the heads of two of their compatriots, taken in a grisly attempt to prevent their bodies from being re-used.

Twenty men head out to replace them, already exhausted and having only gotten a few hours of sleep.

The battle has been going on for over a day now, and the undead do not rest. A small cluster of them seem to be milling around something atop a rise in the road, about a half-mile from your position. They probably haven't seen the camp yet.

[Rizban]

George

Pointing off to the group atop the hill, George suggests action.
"We should destroy this nearby cluster of the dead promptly. If they're this far south, we need to stop them before they can spread to untainted areas. Once that is settled, we can move north in our efforts to quell this plague."

Focusing his mind, George manifests a faintly glowing aura about his body, slowly resolving into multiple phantasmal plates forming armor that hovers just millimeters above his clothing, tracking with his every movement. Within moments, the armor fades to near invisibility, flaring briefly only when something impacts against it.

Spending 5pp to manifest inertial armor, duration 5 hours, shared with Psicrystal
"George"
hp 41/41
Str 10, Dex 14, Con 16, Int 19, Wis 8, Cha 10
Senses Listen +1; Spot +1; Languages Common, Auran, Dwarven, Giant, Terran
AC 18 T 12 FF 16; Fort +5 Ref +4 Will +6
–Inertial Armor (+6)
+2 Saves vs sleep/charmPsicrystal
hp 20/20
Str 1, Dex 15, Con –, Int 6, Wis 10, Cha 10
Senses Sighted 40 ft; Listen +6; Spot +6; Languages Common, telepathic speech
AC 22 T 16 FF 20; Fort +2 Ref +4 Will +7
–Inertial Armor (+6)
Hardness 8; Construct Traits, Psicrystal Granted Abilities

[danielxcutter]

George

Pointing off to the group atop the hill, George suggests action.
"We should destroy this nearby cluster of the dead promptly. If they're this far south, we need to stop them before they can spread to untainted areas. Once that is settled, we can move north in our efforts to quell this plague."

Focusing his mind, George manifests a faintly glowing aura about his body, slowly resolving into multiple phantasmal plates forming armor that hovers just millimeters above his clothing, tracking with his every movement. Within moments, the armor fades to near invisibility, flaring briefly only when something impacts against it.

Spending 5pp to manifest inertial armor, duration 5 hours, shared with Psicrystal
"George"
hp 41/41
Str 10, Dex 14, Con 16, Int 19, Wis 8, Cha 10
Senses Listen +1; Spot +1; Languages Common, Auran, Dwarven, Giant, Terran
AC 18 T 12 FF 16; Fort +5 Ref +4 Will +6
–Inertial Armor (+6)
+2 Saves vs sleep/charmPsicrystal
hp 20/20
Str 1, Dex 15, Con –, Int 6, Wis 10, Cha 10
Senses Sighted 40 ft; Listen +6; Spot +6; Languages Common, telepathic speech
AC 22 T 16 FF 20; Fort +2 Ref +4 Will +7
–Inertial Armor (+6)
Hardness 8; Construct Traits, Psicrystal Granted Abilities

Adrian nodded and activated one of his own powers, linking himself with Moondrop. A sheen of ectoplasm formed on his body and Moondrop, and a subtle chime rung in the minds of all near.

Activating Share Pain. Lasts 6 hours thanks to Practiced Manifester. Costs 3 PP.

@Rizban, I thought duration was tied to ML, not PP used?

[Cavir]

As the party asks questions of those at the encampment, Braqsh directs the clergy that accompanied them to assist the field hospital in the mean time. The minotaur was used to being noticed. He stood tall to help with morale. An intimidating ally was good for that. He'd been to Bury before, when the king traveled there. He thought about the lay of the land and then asked the same of the locals to see if they had more information. "Is there terrain we could make use of against the enemy such as rivers, chasms, cliffs, bridges, bogs or the like? Most undead are not intelligent and could be led into traps."

"Yes, let's go deal with them quickly. We need to attack from the side to not attract their attention to the hospital here." As his hands instinctively check his gear Braqsh scans the terrain between them and the enemy looking for the best route, offering concealment but not hindering movement too much. "Our first fight together. Let's stick together before getting fancy. Anyone have any tricks in mind? Otherwise I say we get close over towards that side, draw them into the woods and kill them there so any other enemy beyond the rise won't see us."

Woods to either side of the road? He'll point to whichever side looks to be the better option.
What does Braqsh know of the terrain between here and Bury?

[J-H]

The terrain is mild hills, primarily of pasture since you’re close to the ocean. There are scattered clumps of trees, but they aren’t big. Timber is always valuable, and only the great forest on the western side of the island has been preserved in an organized fashion. This is probably a good thing, as it’d be impossible to watch a densely forested area with the number of fighting men available.

There are no major terrain features between here and Bury that are likely to be militarily significant, aside from the main road and a few smaller roads (pictured on the map), local paths, etc. There is a clump of trees partway to the undead, but you’d have to go out of your way to keep it between you and them as you approach.

[PeacefulOak]

Davin Stormbrow

With a surge of motion, Davin's form swells and changes. Thick heavy black fur sprouts all over, and his face thickens and elongates into a heavy snout. Thick fangs line a savage grin, and heavy claws dig into the earth. Curiously, the heavy black fur is disturbed by a patch of golden fur at the neck, and another near the tip of each fore-paw.

Davin shuffles and grunts, shaking up a cloud of dust that coalesces into a rough shell of armor. Thin, tough roots lace up from the ground, tiny flakes of metal catching the afternoon light, and bind the diverse parts of the armor to the druids ursine form. Another set of heavy grunts and his body shimmers briefly as Davin takes on an aspect of water.

Davin speaks, heavy bear lips and throat forming the words in a curiously clear and understandable manner. "I concur, this threat must be addressed immediately. Those resting in the camp will not withstand an attack. From there we can supplement the front line, driving the enemy back before us!"

[Mr Adventurer]

Mister Crane has followed the others, carefully noting the answers they gather. He's impressed with Lisandra's approach, nodding along to her questions. At Davin's suggestion though, he speaks up, raising a hand.

"Hold on, now. We're not going to win this by setting ourselves against an army, no matter how good we are.

"Now, it does make sense for us to... do a field test against that patrol over there. But it should be a reconnoitre - we won't serve our purpose by revealing ourselves too early.

"I like the idea of an oblique approach," he nods to Braqsh. "Let's see if we can lure them into the treeline - test how mindless they really are!"

He squints out at the copse, "If we take up ambush positions, I can cast an illusion to draw them in."

[danielxcutter]

"That sounds wise." said Adrian. "Illusions, you say? One of the most effective tools against the mindless... I second this idea."

"Still, every hour spent waiting is another hour later the threat will be contained. So please, consider that."

[Mr Adventurer]

Mister Crane looks at him, "Yes, exactly. That's why we need to make our actions efficient and effective. This is the best choice with the evidence we have available to us at the moment."

[danielxcutter]

Mister Crane looks at him, "Yes, exactly. That's why we need to make our actions efficient and effective. This is the best choice with the evidence we have available to us at the moment."

Adrian nodded.

I like this man and how he works.

[Cavir]

Braqsh is impressed with Davin turning into a bear. That'd be a different kind of opponent for sparring with when this is all over.

"Illusions? Good. It's a half-mile of travel for them to see us. Can you cover our approach as we get closer? Perhaps fog near them that we can keep between us? Right on them would alert their allies. Either way, off the road to the left side and try not to draw their attention yet. If direct combat is not your thing stay behind me."

The minotaur moves out. He is not stealthy scout, but isn't as obvious as one would assume for someone his size.

Hide is at -2, but with the distances involved and who the enemy is it should help quite a bit.

[PeacefulOak]

Davin Stormbrow

Male NG Black Bear Druid, Level 6, Init 1, HP 66/66, Speed 40
AC 19, Touch 12, Flat-footed 18, Fort 7, Ref 3, Will 9, Base Attack Bonus +4
Attack: Claw (+8, 1d4+4) Full Attack: 2 claws (+8, 1d4+4), Bite (+3, 1d6+2)
Segojan's Armor (+4 Armor, +1 Deflect, +3 Natural, +1 Dex)
Abilities Str 19, Dex 13, Con 15, Int 10, Wis 19, Cha 14

The heavy bear grunts, earth and vine armored head turning towards the bird-named man. "Tactics are valuable in their time, yes. Let us strike this forward force,
and see where we stand from there. As I am now, I am swifter than the rest so if needed I can taunt the force and turn back, though in truth I would recommend attacking them where they are and hemming them in there. We have enough that can fight effectively face to face that an assault on the hill from multiple sides may be our best option."

His piece said, Davin surges after Braqsh in a heavy lope.

[Mr Adventurer]

"Without more intelligence, we should play it cautiously at first," Crane says, keeping pace, "If they do have commanders with them, that'll be to our benefit.

"I'll cover our approach with a cloak of invisibility - that'll get us to the copse and into ambush position. If we can lure them in without showing ourselves, that would be for the best as well. I can try an illusion to do that, if nobody has a better idea.

So saying, before they leave the confines of the camp he mutters a few arcane words and makes a magical gesture, touching his belt. From the outside, the whole group vanishes into thin air - though their footfalls can still be heard.

"Stay close to me, or you'll break the spell for yourself and become visible," he advises.

The group heads for the copse.

[J-H]

After reaching the clump of trees successfully under the cloak of invisibility, you are able to determine that an overturned wagon is beside the road, with the corner closest to you propped up slightly on a rock. There are seven zombies crowded around it, apparently trying to get inside it or under it. A skeletal sahuagin and three skeletal archers armed with bows stand nearby.

The ground between the copse of trees and the road is covered by thigh-high grass (as judged by a human) and much of the grass has been trampled by the recent surge of activity.


https://image.ibb.co/hQEXZa/n_road_rd_0.jpg

If you stay together as a group, you can start basically anywhere. If you split up, staying inside the treeline by 50’ will definitely keep you from being spotted. Pick your starting location, and then initiate combat with a surprise round when ready.

=> Party

[Mr Adventurer]

"All right, let's see what we can do," Crane murmurs. To the others, he adds, "If you stay with me until the last possible moment you won't break your invisibility..."

He squints out at the group of undead and mutters, twitching his fingers.

Out there, near the horrid creatures, a band of soldiers suddenly springs up out of the long grass, yelling and waving swords and cudgels. It's clear they're threatening the undead mob.

Crane's eyes narrow. Come on, take the bait, you brain-dead...

As the undead begin to respond, the soldiers' yells turn to cries of terror, and they start to fall back...

With the area on the spell, the illusory soldiers can appear near to the enemy and then retreat along a ten-foot-wide 'corridor' of the spell area, into the woods.

If the undead somehow manage to do something that would warrant it, the Will save DC to disbelieve is 16.

[Cavir]

The minotaur warrior eyes the enemy focused on the wagon. "Archers? I don't care about the zombies. They are slow and easy to lead around. We need to deal with the archers. Let's use the invisibility to get right in their face so they never get to shoot their poison arrows. We can let the zombies go right past us as we head towards the skeletons. If the zombies want that wagon so bad there must still be someone alive in there. We'll go to the right of the zombies so we can line up on the archers better. OK?"

If the zombies come towards us and we shift right, we can get all the way to AH14 and be right in their face for the surprise round. With luck I can take out 1-3 of the archers in the surprise round between reach, iterative attack, and cleave. With others in the party the rest of the archers should be easy to finish off. Then we can turn back towards the zombies while one person rescues whoever is in the wagon.

The archers attacking the illusion may cancel the surprise round, but we can still get in their face without them knowing about us.

[danielxcutter]

"I have a power that allows me to launch a crystal shard, and another that makes a glob of ectoplasm that can entangle the target. Both only have a range of 40 feet or so, though. Should I use one of those or save my power for melee?" asked Adrian. "Both are viable options to me.

[Mr Adventurer]

"Let's wait until we see how they react," Crane advises out of the corner of his mouth, still concentrating.

[J-H]

The three skeletal archers fire arrows at the retreating illusionary soldiers. Three zombies and the skeletal sahuagin begin to chase them. The sahuagin seems to move a bit faster than the zombies (40’ speed vs 30’, and it does a double move)


https://image.ibb.co/mHAJ7v/n_road_rd_0_1.jpg

Map coordinates help me figure out where to place illusions, double move vs single vs Run, etc.


=> Party

[danielxcutter]

"Let's wait until we see how they react," Crane advises out of the corner of his mouth, still concentrating.

"I understand, Mister Crane." Adrian said quietly but clearly.

[Mr Adventurer]

"It's working," Crane says, "I just have to keep this up long enough to draw them in without leaving them behind. I should be able to draw the archers in amongst the trees, ready to be ambushed, just as you like, Braqsh.

"When you engage, I'll break for the cart and draw the remaining zombies off, too," he adds.

[PeacefulOak]

Davin Stormbrow

In a soft growl... "Those archers aren't going to move, Mister Crane. Even here we are within their range. We should flank the forward force and attack those archers. I will hold those forward creatures in place until we are ready to deal with them."

[Mr Adventurer]

"Wait for it," Crane replies quickly, "Give me a chance to get the targets into cover - see if they'll come hunting, and fall into our trap.

Without breaking his concentration, his hands twitching in time to the steps and leaps of the illusory soldiers, he adds, "This patrol looks like zero threat to a group with an intelligent bear and the King's own minotaur in it. We're not worried about that. We're worried about being watched and discovered by a necromancer powerful enough to raise this many walking dead. Right?"

[Cavir]

"I can take an arrow hit, it's the poison that concerns me. I'd rather not charge across a field being shot at. Better to walk up to the archers invisible."

[Mr Adventurer]

"Yes," Crane says, "That's why the plan is to draw them into the trees, to us."

[PeacefulOak]

Davin Stormbrow

Male NG Black Bear Druid, Level 6, Init 1, HP 66/66, Speed 40
AC 19, Touch 12, Flat-footed 18, Fort 7, Ref 3, Will 9, Base Attack Bonus +4
Attack: Claw (+8, 1d4+4) Full Attack: 2 claws (+8, 1d4+4), Bite (+3, 1d6+2)
Segojan's Armor (+4 Armor, +1 Deflect, +3 Natural, +1 Dex)
Abilities Str 19, Dex 13, Con 15, Int 10, Wis 19, Cha 14

At the mention of a Necromancer, Davin rumbles a deep heavy growl which he cuts short with an effort.

"Your point is made, illusionist. But if those archers don't take the bait, we need to start moving soon."

[Centaurion]

Lisandra moves with her best available nimbleness between the others in the group, her polearm ready to charge. But as much as she tries, and as good as her armor is, it is still full-plate armor and she is probably making more clanking noises than the others.

"If you can lure them, the better." She comments only lowly, her eyes darting around to see if they are really "alone" with this creatures or if there are other hostiles or allies around.


Stance: Iron guard's glare.
Readied Maneuvers:
Crusader's Strike
Charging Minotaur
Mountain Hammer
Foehammer
Defensive Rebuke

[danielxcutter]

"Just a bit more..." muttered Adrian. He tapped into his psionic energy, increasing his strength. A thin sheen of ectoplasm formed over his body and his muscles swelled.

Burning 3 PP on Animal Affinity. +4 to Str for 6 minutes.

[Rizban]

"George"

"If you can get them to group up, I can set off an explosion that will, at the very least, soften them up."

((Should have been just after this post. (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?529668-Through-the-Gates-(IC)-(3-5-E8)&p=22193009&viewfull=1#post22193009)))
"George"

Following along behind the minotaur, George manifests a few more defensive buffs.

He manifests animal affinity for +4 Strength (3pp, 8 minute duration). As soon as possible, he also manifests force screen (1 pp, 5 minute duration), sharing it with his psicrystal."George"
hp 41/41; pp 24/47
Str 14, Dex 14, Con 16, Int 19, Wis 8, Cha 10
Senses Listen +1; Spot +1; Languages Common, Auran, Dwarven, Giant, Terran
AC 22 T 12 FF 20; Fort +5 Ref +4 Will +6
–Inertial Armor (+6), Force Screen Shield (+4)
+2 Saves vs sleep/charmPsicrystal
hp 20/20
Str 1, Dex 15, Con –, Int 6, Wis 10, Cha 10
Senses Sighted 40 ft; Listen +6; Spot +6; Languages Common, telepathic speech
AC 26 T 16 FF 24; Fort +2 Ref +4 Will +7
–Inertial Armor (+6), Force Screen Shield (+4)
Hardness 8; Construct Traits, Psicrystal Granted Abilities

[Mr Adventurer]

"I'm sure you would obliterate them," Crane replies, "But then we wouldn't have much left to gather clues from... this is a fact-finding mission after all."

[Rizban]

"George"

"Well, if you are planning to interrogate them, I guess we can try to keep one ali... unalive for you. Never heard they were much for talking though..."

[danielxcutter]

"I'm sure you would obliterate them," Crane replies, "But then we wouldn't have much left to gather clues from... this is a fact-finding mission after all."

"I wonder how much info those undead will have... but I defer to the more experienced opinion." said Adrian.

[Mr Adventurer]

"That's not - No. I agree, they probably don't even have tongues, half of them. But talking's only one way to get information..."

[danielxcutter]

"That's not - No. I agree, they probably don't even have tongues, half of them. But talking's only one way to get information..."

"You mean search the remains for clues? Sounds legit." Adrian said. That honestly wasn't a bad idea.

[Cavir]

"Keep in mind there may be someone still alive in the wagon that needs saving. Let's not kill them ourselves."

[J-H]

Round 2, Parts 1 (party) and 2 (enemy)

The illusionary soldiers move slightly faster, keeping the skeletal sahuagin from catching up to them. It pursues, while the zombies shamble steadily after these new fleshy targets, and the archers fire more three more arrows at the group of soldiers.



https://image.ibb.co/b14gvF/n_road_rd_2.jpg

Davin Black Bear
Tobias Invisibility 10’ radius
George +4 str, Force Screen
Adrian +4 str

=> Party

[Rizban]

George

"So... we've managed to split up the nice, compact, easily fireballed group. What's next?"

[Cavir]

With the lead skeleton getting closer, Braqsh controls the volume of his voice. "Any closer and it'll hear us talking. Let's get going to the archers. We should have been almost there already." The minotaur doesn't break formation, keeping the spell effect intact, but he keeps Crane in his peripheral vision so he knows when to move out.

[Centaurion]

Lisandra

"Agreed."

She moves, also trying not to break formation.

[PeacefulOak]

Davin Stormbrow

The heavy black bear gives a *whuff* of agreement, moving only with the tricky caster to maintain their illusory cover.

[danielxcutter]

Adrian shrugged. I guess.

[Cavir]

Braqsh hadn't dealt with being forced into poor tactics in a while and it was getting to him. He turned to where he knew Crane was. Crane could feel that the large minotaur was close to him, face to face. In a quiet, deep and demanding voice the royal guard gave orders. "We are moving. NOW. Hop on my back and keep those spells going. Everyone else keep a hand on me so we stick together. We keep going until we can smash the archers. Then deal with the rest. Come on, double time."

The minotaur put his arm out so that Crane could find him and climb up easier.The extra weight on top of all his own gear slowed even him some but at least they were moving again.

NPCing Crane here, focused more on getting things going again.

Braqsh is at a medium load with Crane on his back, so 3x speed run actions for 60' per round. Lisandra is in heavy armor. Will go left around the zombies. Should be just east of the southern archers in 4 turns.

Silent Image:
1) Soldiers move back as far as they can go and ready actions to dodge out of the way of the SS's initial charge.
2) Soldiers defensively fight to avoid getting hit. Their attacks miss.
3) One of the soldiers casts a spell then suddenly all of the soldiers disappear in a puff of smoke with a lightning bolt going from there position to halfway between the SS and the approaching zombies.
4) As the SS and zombies close in, the "caster" casts the same spell again and they unit ends up back at the edge of the woods. They'll keep defensively fighting here.

The above will allow fast forwarding if everyone wants. Just before breaking into melee, stop and look around for other potential foes in the distance.

[J-H]

Rounds 3-4

Braqsh picks up Tobias and the group moves out under invisibility. The silent soldiers begin to try to dodge the skeletal sahuagin’s hits as the group gets farther away, but Tobias loses his focus on the spell as they thunder along, and the soldiers fizzle out.


Concentration lost on round 4.

https://image.ibb.co/kKYvQQ/n_road_rd_4.jpg


=> Party

[danielxcutter]

"Crud, there goes the illusion. Please tell me the invisibility won't fizzle as well..." whispered Adrian frantically. He was one of the closest to the wagon, so he had good reason to be worried.

[Centaurion]

Lisandra

"Let's stick with the plan. We might still have bought as some time to deal with the archers before the rest has returned."

It was moments like these, when she envied those in lighter armor. Then again, she knew about its other advantages.


I guess, we continue moving into charge range?

[Cavir]

Tobias Crane

Tobias Crane couldn't believe the situation. Half riding and half being carried by a minotaur while being the center point of two spells. Fools, we should have stuck with my plan and wait for the archers to also come to us. His hand slips and he reaches again to grab fur to hand on. He is successful but it is too late, the focus on the illusion is lost! "Dammit, why are you running? We had a working plan and now we are surrounded!"

Braqsh

Braqsh had felt the slip and did what he could to help the human not fall. The illusion was lost but the warrior didn't panic. The situation always varies in combat and the group was still in a much better position than before, with a clear route to the archers and the invisibility still intact. They still had the upper hand!

"Shh Keep it down. We are still hidden. Those behind us don't know to hurry back and we are faster. A little more running and we can hit them soon. Grab fur so I know you are all keeping up.When we get there wipe the ones in front of us first then we face the ones behind us."

Trying for another 60' run action to AI20/AJ21. This will be round 3 of running (for Braqsh and Lisandra) so Adrian needs to make a DC 10 Constitution check. If he fails we'll slow to a double move to AI24/AJ25 and still be in charge range for some of us at least.

If we are able to run this round, next round I'll be able to charge to AG15/AH16 to hit SA1 and keep SA2 and SA3 from shooting without offering a fat juicy AoO if they even survive the round somehow.

[J-H]

Round 4, Part 2
The undead stand around in confusion looking, as nothing living is to be seen.

Round 5, Parts 1 (party) and 2 (enemy)

The group moves up under the cloak of invisibility.

The skeleton and the zombies turn around and head back towards the cart. You can hear some grunting, and see motion, as though someone under the cart was fighting to keep the zombies outside. There’s only about 12” of clearance, so the zombies cannot squeeze under, and the archers don’t have room to shoot through the gap.


https://image.ibb.co/hmsxPk/n_road_rd_5.jpg

=> Party

[Cavir]

Braqsh paused their movement and shook Mister Crane off of him. "Here we go, drop'm quick then hit the ones behind us."

Tobias easily kept on his feet. "If you are doing it this way then at least make it fast, they are coming back." He casts a spell, and all in the group are moving faster.

"Fast is what I had in mind." The large minotaur breaks from the group and charges right at the archer to the right, large horns leading the way, smashing at the two archers close to him. He is then covered by a silver mist, making it harder to pick out his form.

Tobias follows Braqsh as not to be left behind.

Crane casts Haste (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/spells/haste.htm) and affects the whole party.
Extra attack with Full Attack. +1 bonus on attack rolls and a +1 dodge bonus to AC and Reflex saves.
After Braqsh's charge, move to AI15

Braqsh:
Charge to AG15/AH16 to use Powerful Charge on SA1
Powerful Charge (horns) crit: [roll1] (with charge and haste bonuses)
Damage: [roll2] [crit: roll]4d6+6

Cleave SA2 if SA1 drops:
Powerful Charge (horns) [roll3] crit: [roll4] (with charge and haste bonuses)
Damage: [roll5] crit: [roll6]

Swift action to activate mithralmist armor (MiC p20). Grants me concealment but doesn't affect my vision. Stays in place for 1 minute.

Braqsh: AC18 (Haste+Charge), 72hp, concealment
Tobias: AC 19 (Haste), 48hp

[Centaurion]

Lisandra

As soon as she gets a free line to the bottom skeleton archer, she charges forward, smashing herself right into SA3 with all her (magically enhanced) speed.


Maneuver: Charging minotaur.
Actions: Charge (fulll round action), replacing the attack with a bull rush attempt. Moving first into AE18, then opposed [roll0] (STR +3, Charge +2).
If successful: [roll1] and pushing back the skeleton by 5ft.

[PeacefulOak]

Davin Stormbrow

Male NG Black Bear Druid, Level 6, Init 1, HP 66/66, Speed 70
AC 20, Touch 13, Flat-footed 18, Fort 7, Ref 4, Will 9, Base Attack Bonus +4
Attack: Claw (+8, 1d4+4) Full Attack: 2 claws (+8, 1d4+4), Bite (+3, 1d6+2)
Segojan's Armor (+4 Armor, +1 Deflect, +3 Natural, +1 Dex)
Abilities Str 19, Dex 13, Con 15, Int 10, Wis 19, Cha 14

Under effect of: Segojan's Armor; Heart of Water; Haste

With a savage roar the strange armored bear speeds towards the zombies at the wagon, lashing out with a heavy paw at the single zombie.

Charge to AC-17, Attack Z1!

[roll0] to hit, [roll1] to confirm, for [roll2] damage,
+ [roll3] on a crit

[danielxcutter]

Adrian charged at the skeleton Lissandra had just smashed into as well, sharply thrusting at the archer's skull with his rapier.

As said in the OOC thread, I prepped Vigor just before we started attacking.

And I did Share Pain earlier, and Animal Affinity.

So:

#10 temporary hit points. Thanks to Share Pain, effectively 20.
#+4 to Str. +2 to damage.
#Half of the damage goes to my Psicrystal instead.

Attack: [roll0] I'm not TWFing during the charge, remember? +2 from the charge, and no -2 penalty from TWFing.
Confirm: [roll1]
Damage roll: [roll2] I added Animal Affinity for Str, remember?

[Rizban]

"George"

Slightly confused as to the plan, George ends up charging the wrong way, and runs straight at zombie Z7, swiping at it with a brutally glowing claw that extends from his fingertips.

[roll0] – [roll1]

"George"
hp 41/41; pp 24/47
Str 14, Dex 14, Con 16, Int 19, Wis 8, Cha 10
Senses Listen +1; Spot +1; Languages Common, Auran, Dwarven, Giant, Terran
AC 21 T 11 FF 19; Fort +5 Ref +5 Will +6
–Inertial Armor (+6), Force Screen (+4), Charging (-2), Haste (+1)
+2 Saves vs sleep/charmPsicrystal
hp 20/20
Str 1, Dex 15, Con –, Int 6, Wis 10, Cha 10
Senses Sighted 40 ft; Listen +6; Spot +6; Languages Common, telepathic speech
AC 26 T 16 FF 24; Fort +2 Ref +4 Will +7
–Inertial Armor (+6), Force Screen Shield (+4)
Hardness 8; Construct Traits, Psicrystal Granted Abilities

[J-H]

Round 6, Part 1

Braqsh charges forward, the impact of his rush shattering one skeleton. He swings his horns to the size, breaking another one (SA1 & SA2 destroyed).
Lisandra crosses right behind him, slamming into the other archer. Adrian follows behind, but doesn’t do any damage with his rapier thrust.

Opposed str check [roll0] vs her 23.
If she succeeds, 10 damage + knockback. success, 5' knockback


Davin also charges, trying but failing to hit one of the zombies by the cart.

George charges away from the group, clawing at a zombie and tearing its flesh. The undead remains upright.




Everyone is hasted

SA3 10 damage
Z7 13 damage

[J-H]

Round 6, Part 2

The skeletal sahuagin charges straight at George, as do the zombies as they attack the closest target. Protected by invisible forcefields, none of their attacks land.

everything misses
SS1 charge attack
Attack [roll0]
Damage [roll1]

Z7 attack
[roll2]
Damage [roll3]

Z2 charge attack
[roll4]
Damage [roll5]

Z6 charge attack
[roll6]
Damage [roll7]


The zombies at the cart cease their attempts to get under it. You think someone inside has been fighting them off. One turns to swipe at Davin, while the other two split their attention between Braqsh and Adrian. Braqsh chops at the zombie as it lurches towards him, but in spite of the injury he inflicts, it still manages to hurt him.


Z1 attack vs Davin miss
[roll8]
Damage [roll9]

Z3 attack vs Adrian miss
[roll10]
Damage [roll11]

Braqsh AOO
Attack [roll12] hit for 17
Damage [roll13]

Z5 charge attack vs Braqsh
[roll14] hit for 6
Damage [roll15]


The archer skeleton sidesteps, firing an arrow at Lisandra, but missing.

Davin AOO miss
Attack [roll16]
Damage [roll17]

SA1 attack miss
Attack [roll18]
Damage [roll19]
Arrow type [roll20]



https://image.ibb.co/kzJvfQ/n_road_rd_6.jpg

Everyone is hasted

Braqsh 6 damage

SA3 10 damage
Z5 17 damage
Z7 13 damage
=> Party

[Cavir]

Heavily injured the zombie somehow makes it past Braqsh's defenses. The minotaur steps to the side of the zombie, working his way towards the cart. "I've got just the thing for you." Braqsh starts cutting his way through the zombies.

Full attack + extra attack from Haste. Focus on Z5 until dead then Z3.

1st attack: [roll0] crit: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2] crit: [roll3]

2nd attack: [roll4] crit: [roll5]
Damage: [roll6] crit: [roll7]

Haste attack: [roll8] crit: [roll9]
Damage: [roll10] crit: [roll11]

Cleave attack: [roll12] crit: [roll13] (-5 if attack is based on the 2nd attack)
Damage: [roll14] crit: [roll15]

66/72hp
AC 20 (with Haste)

[Cavir]

Tobias Bertholdus Crane

Tobias sees George charge off on his own towards the zombies to the south, then get counter-charged by the same. "What the? George, the plan was to stay together. Argh. This 'plan' is broken. Work your way back, I'll cover you."

With a bit of fleece in hand, Crane summons another illusion to throw off the enemy. Out of puffs of smoke reinforcements arrive. 3 minotaurs arrive near the southern battle along with what could be George's twin. To the northeast a pair of bears appear by the zombies and the southern edge of the wagon is suddenly protected by a stockade fence. All 'summoned' except the twin get ready to fight and are focused on dodging and using their shields to avoid being hit. Tobias smiles at himself being able to manage so much at once. He has the twin turn and run, hoping to draw attacks from the undead to cover George's retreat.

Didn't Adrian also charge? Ah well.

Move to AG19
Cast Silent Image. Ten 10' cubes of effect. These are all connected:
AO26/AP27
AM29/AN30
AM24/AN25
AK23/AN24
AI22/AJ23
AG21/AH22
AE20/AF21
AC19/AD20
AB17/AC18
AB15/AC16

Minotaurs with axe and tower shields at:
AO26/AP27
AM29/AN30
AM24/AN25

George's twin at AM26. Move (not withdraw) to AK24 to hopefully suck up AoOs.

Bears like Davin at: (providing flanking for people)
AB16
AC19

[Rizban]

"George"

Slashing at Z7, George does his best to bring it down. Once he does, he switches over to Z2. After attacking, he takes a 5-ft step to the northwest, back towards the rest of the party.

[roll0] – [roll1]
[roll2] – [roll3]
[roll4] – [roll5]

"George"
hp 41/41; pp 24/47
Str 14, Dex 14, Con 16, Int 19, Wis 8, Cha 10
Senses Listen +1; Spot +1; Languages Common, Auran, Dwarven, Giant, Terran
AC 23 T 13 FF 21; Fort +5 Ref +5 Will +6
–Inertial Armor (+6), Force Screen (+4), Haste (+1)
+2 Saves vs sleep/charmPsicrystal
hp 20/20
Str 1, Dex 15, Con –, Int 6, Wis 10, Cha 10
Senses Sighted 40 ft; Listen +6; Spot +6; Languages Common, telepathic speech
AC 26 T 16 FF 24; Fort +2 Ref +4 Will +7
–Inertial Armor (+6), Force Screen (+4), Haste (+1)
Hardness 8; Construct Traits, Psicrystal Granted Abilities

[Centaurion]

Lisandra

She takes a step herself, focuses on her inner conviction to destroy all that threatens her fellow citizens, and closes in on the skeleton skeleton archer.


Move action: Move to AD18.
Standard action: Foehammer with armor spikes
[roll0], if hits does [roll1] overcoming damage reduction
Still in iron guard's glare stance. Hopefully now threatening all remaining enemies of this group after the party turn.
Newly granted maneuvers after round:
1: Charging Minotaur
2: Mountain Hammer
3: Defensive Rebuke
[roll2]
[roll3]

[PeacefulOak]

Davin Stormbrow

Male NG Black Bear Druid, Level 6, Init 1, HP 66/66, Speed 70
AC 20, Touch 13, Flat-footed 18, Fort 7, Ref 4, Will 9, Base Attack Bonus +4
Attack: Claw (+8, 1d4+4) Full Attack: 2 claws (+8, 1d4+4), Bite (+3, 1d6+2)
Segojan's Armor (+4 Armor, +1 Deflect, +3 Natural, +1 Dex)
Abilities Str 19, Dex 13, Con 15, Int 10, Wis 19, Cha 14

Under effect of: Segojan's Armor; Heart of Water; Haste

Several shuffling steps takes Davin to the side of the wagon, and he rears back, unleashing a heavy flurry of blows against the zombie.


5' step to AB16.

Full Attack:
[roll0] for [roll1] Slashing Damage
[roll2] for [roll3] Slashing Damage
[roll4] for [roll5] Slashing Damage
Hasted Attacks (I think I get both? If not, ignore the second one)
[roll6] for [roll7] Slashing Damage
[roll8] for [roll9] Slashing Damage

Confirmation rolls:
[roll10] for [roll11]
[roll12] for [roll13]
[roll14] for [roll15]

[danielxcutter]

Adrian snarls as his rapier glances harmlessly off the skeleton. He jabs at it again followed by a shield bash.

Rapier
Attack: [roll1d20+6[/roll]
Damage: [roll0]
Confirm: [roll1]

Shield
Attack: [roll2]
Damage: [roll3]
Confirm: [roll4]

[J-H]

Round 7, Part 1

Braqsh cuts down two zombies with powerful blows.

Tobias creates a number of illusions. One of the zombies tries to swipe at the duplicate George as it moves past.

More work than the rest of the turn put together!
Z AOO [roll0]
Will [roll1] if needed disbelieved


George claws at one of the zombies, finishing it off (miss, 2 hits, second hit killed Z7)

Lisandra moves up, but both she and Adrian miss in their attacks. Davin attacks, hitting with two claws and his bite (you only get +1 attack from haste; 20 damage).



Braqsh 6 damage

Everyone is hasted

Z1 20 damage
SA3 10 damage

[J-H]

Round 7, Part 2

George bears the brunt of the attack from the remaining undead, as one zombie and the sahuagin skeleton attack him, but their blows are again deflected by his psionic powers. The other zombie nearby turns, swiping at the minotaur.


Z2 AOO [roll0] meh
Will [roll1] if needed

Z6 attack [roll2] miss
Damage [roll3]

SS1
Claw [roll4]
Damage [roll5]
Claw [roll6]
Damage [roll7]
Bite [roll8]
Damage [roll9]


The archer skeleton sidesteps, firing another arrow at Lisandra. The zombie by the cart attacks Davin.


Z1 attack [roll10] hit for 4, crit not confirmed. Zombie is sad.
Damage [roll11]

SA1 attack
Attack [roll12] miss
Damage [roll13]
Arrow type [roll14]


“Thank Lathander!” someone exclaims from under the cart. The tip of a sword appears from under the cart in a clumsy blow at the zombie next to it.

-4 for melee attacking while prone
Attack [roll15] hit for 4! Z1 is killed
Damage [roll16]



https://image.ibb.co/g2fAEk/n_road_rd_7.jpg

Braqsh 6 damage
Davin 4 damage

Everyone is hasted

SA3 10 damage

=> Party

[Cavir]

Tobias Bertholdus Crane

The voice from under the wagon catches Tobias's attention. Keeping his attention and making use of his magically quickened step, he heads over to the wagon while keeping his illusion magic going. The minotaurs threatening the enemies to the south while the bears reposition around the remaining skeletal archer. George's twin disappears in a puff of smoke.

"Come on out, they'll finish the rest off and we can head back to safety."

Tobias moves to AD16.
Bears move to AB19 and AA18.


More work than the rest of the turn put together!
Sorry. First time I got to use Silent Image at more than CL1.

[danielxcutter]

Adrian growls and attacks again, stabbing twice and striking with his shield once.

Sorry, first time someone's used Haste on me so I forgot to apply it last attack.

Attack: [roll0] [roll1] [roll2]
Confirm: [roll3][roll4] [roll5]
Damage: [roll6] [roll7] [roll8]

[Cavir]

Braqsh

The royal guard was just getting warmed up but there were no enemies left around him. He quickly scanned around and determined the wagon area would be secured momentarily. Looking to the south he saw George and what had to be Mister Crane's illusion of several minotaur. Embracing the magic speed the large minotaur takes off in a sprint at the skeletal sahuagin which seemed to be the closest thing to an enemy leader, undead it may be. Almost there he jumps and lands just short of George, with his horns reaching out and crashing down onto the skeleton. He aims to smash the zombie next to it as he raises back up.

"No need to take them on by yourself." Braqsh smiled.

Charge to AK24/AL25 to hit SS1. Cleave attack if available at Z6. Flanking on both from the illusions.

Powerful Charge (horns) at SS1 [roll0] crit: [roll1] (+6 BAB, -1 size, +4 STR, + 2 charge, +1 haste, +2 flanking)
Damage: [roll2] crit: [roll3]

Cleave at Z6 [roll4] crit: [roll5]
Damage: [roll6] crit: [roll7]

Yes, that attack bonus is sick, a perfect storm with buff, charge, and flanking. Hoping everyone's class levels will shine too if not so much in this battle with easy targets.

HP 66/72
AC 18 (charging)

[PeacefulOak]

Davin Stormbrow

Male NG Black Bear Druid, Level 6, Init 1, HP 62/66, Speed 70
AC 20, Touch 13, Flat-footed 18, Fort 7, Ref 4, Will 9, Base Attack Bonus +4
Attack: Claw (+8, 1d4+4) Full Attack: 2 claws (+8, 1d4+4), Bite (+3, 1d6+2)
Segojan's Armor (+4 Armor, +1 Deflect, +3 Natural, +1 Dex)
Abilities Str 19, Dex 13, Con 15, Int 10, Wis 19, Cha 14

Under effect of: Segojan's Armor; Heart of Water; Haste

Seeing the cut of the blade slice through the zombie's legs, Davin lets out a quick laugh. "Well done! We'll be finished soon, so you might as well start coming out!" With that, he lets out a savage roar and bolts across the ground, his claws tearing rents in the earth with his speed. Reaching the second group, he lashes out fiercely at the zombie.


Charge to AL27. Add +2 for flanking(?) with the illusion.
[roll0] to hit (+1 haste, +2 charge) for [roll1] damage
To confirm: [roll2] to hit (+1 haste, +2 charge) for [roll3] damage

[Centaurion]

Lisandra

Slightly frustrated from her previous failed attacks, she stands still for a moment, letting the earth below her giving her the stability, nearly feeling how the earth here connected to the Grayfangs stone... With a single heavy blow, she tries to finally end the miserable existence of the skeleton archer.


Actions:
Swift Action: Change active stance to Martial Spirit
Mountain Hammer on SA 1.
[roll0] (incudes +1 from haste) for [roll1] plus [roll2], all damage overcoming DR.

If she hits, Davin receives 2 points of healing.

Should she destroy the skeleton, she moves 20ft 40ft (hasted!) towards the other part of the encounter, I think she reaches AG21 AI23.
Otherwise, she five foot steps to AC18.

Should you need an AoO for a firing skellie or anything else:
[roll3] for [roll4]

Starting over with maneuvers:
Crusader's Strike
Charging Minotaur
Mountain Hammer
Foehammer
Defensive Rebuke
[roll5]
[roll6]

[J-H]

Round 8, Part 1

Adrian steps forwards, stabbing at the skeletal archer with two quick thrusts and bashing it with his shield (hit for 2 & 0 after DR, then 3 with shield). The skeleton falls apart.

Braqsh charges forward, goring the skeletal sahuagin. Despite not having any flesh for his horns to pierce, he does substantial damage (hit for 18 after DR).
Davin rushes to George’s side (direct path for a charge is blocked by party members).

George doesn’t do anything.



Braqsh 6 damage
Davin 4 damage

Everyone is hasted

SS1 18 damage

Round 8, Part 2

The zombie closest to Braqsh flails at him, perhaps drawn to him as the largest closest living being. The other two remaining undead focus on Davin’s bulky ursine form, clawing several wounds open.


Z6 attack [roll0] miss
Damage [roll1]

SS1
Claw [roll2] miss
Damage [roll3]
Claw [roll4] miss
Damage [roll5]
Bite [roll6] hit for 3
Damage [roll7]

Z2 attack [roll8] hit for 5
Damage [roll9]




https://image.ibb.co/d0WuEk/n_road_rd_8.jpg

Braqsh 6 damage
Davin 12 damage

Everyone is hasted

SS1 18 damage
=> Party

[Centaurion]

Lisandra

Lisandra pushes forward, dropping her ranseur, and now producing her morningstar charged with her conviction to cleanse the world from evil, beginning with the Sahuagin Skeleton.


Actions: Move to AL28, drop ranseur using Defensive Rebuke as a swift action, and then using Foehammer as a standard action against SS.
[roll0]-1 = 14* (including +1 from haste) for [roll1] and [roll2]. All damage overcoming DR.

If required, have three AoOs (Defensive rebuke, combat reflexes): each bludgeoning and piercing damage with non-magical weapon.
[roll3] (including +1 from haste) for [roll4]
[roll5] (including +1 from haste) for [roll6]
[roll7] (including +1 from haste) for [roll8]

For every hit: 2 HP to Davin.

* I had the wrong attack bonus here, because I originally planned to attack with ranseur.

[danielxcutter]

Adrian moves up to the nearest zombie and thrusts at it with his rapier. "Take this!"

Move to nearest zombie, standard action attack. Not TWFing, so no TWF penalties either.

Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[Cavir]

With Lisandra finishing off the skeleton, Braqsh turns his attention to the zombie and started chopping away at it.

Back at the wagon Crane deals with the survivor(s). "Come out, we've got to get you out of here." He examines the wagon.

Full attack on the zombie 6.
Greataxe: [roll0] crit: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2] crit: [roll3]

Greataxe: [roll4] crit: [roll5]
Damage: [roll6] crit: [roll7]

Haste:: [roll8] crit: [roll9]
Damage: [roll10] crit: [roll11]

If it dies move around to AM29/AN30 without attracting AoO.

Wagon: moveable? salvageable? supplies on it? Something we could push/push with the slight downhill back to the base?

[PeacefulOak]

Davin Stormbrow

Male NG Black Bear Druid, Level 6, Init 1, HP 54/66, Speed 70
AC 20, Touch 13, Flat-footed 18, Fort 7, Ref 4, Will 9, Base Attack Bonus +4
Attack: Claw (+8, 1d4+4) Full Attack: 2 claws (+8, 1d4+4), Bite (+3, 1d6+2)
Segojan's Armor (+4 Armor, +1 Deflect, +3 Natural, +1 Dex)
Abilities Str 19, Dex 13, Con 15, Int 10, Wis 19, Cha 14

Under effect of: Segojan's Armor; Heart of Water; Haste

Davin whuffs his appreciation of the solid blow destroying the skeleton before tearing into the closest zombie with claws and teeth.

Attacking Z2, possibly with flanking for an additional +2 to hit.
[roll0] to hit (+1 haste) for [roll1] damage
To confirm: [roll2] to hit (+1 haste) for [roll3] damage
[roll4] to hit (+1 haste) for [roll5] damage
To confirm: [roll6] to hit (+1 haste) for [roll7] damage
[roll8] to hit (+1 haste) for [roll9] damage
To confirm: [roll10] to hit (+1 haste) for [roll11] damage

[J-H]

Round 9, Part 1

Lisandra kills the sahuagin skeleton with her Morningstar, smashing it to flinders. (Davin heals 2)

Braqsh kills one zombie (hit for 11 & 13 after DR on Z6). Davin hits the other (Z2 hit for 8 & 3).

Adrian moves up, stabbing the zombie and creating a tiny hole in its flesh (hit for 0 after DR).




Braqsh 6 damage
Davin 10 damage

Everyone is hasted

Z2 11 damage

Round 9, Part 2

The remaining zombie flails at Davin again, trying to take a bite out of some bear steak.


Z2 attack [roll0] miss
Damage [roll1]

The wagon has a broken axle. A man in armor peeks out from under it and starts to work his way out from under it.




Skipping the map. Z2 is the only enemy.

Braqsh 6 damage
Davin 10 damage

Everyone is hasted

Z2 11 damage
=> Party

[danielxcutter]

Adrian starts up his usual attack routine again, directed at the nearest zombie.


Rapier, hasted extra rapier, spiked shield in that order
Attack: [roll0] [roll1] [roll2]
Damage: [roll3] [roll4] [roll5]

[Cavir]

With Braqsh's magically enhanced speed it is only a briefest move to get into his greataxe's range vs the remaining zombie. The large minotaur cuts down heavily at it.

Tobias Crane helps the armored man out from under the broken wagon and then guides him towards the rest of the party to the south.

5' step then full attack with power attack = 2.

Greataxe: [roll0] crit: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2] crit: [roll3]

Greataxe: [roll4] crit: [roll5]
Damage: [roll6] crit: [roll7]

Haste: [roll8] crit: [roll9]
Damage: [roll10] crit: [roll11]

[J-H]

Adrian stabs the zombie and hits it with the spikes on his shield, but neither blow has much effect (miss, then both piercing damage negated by DR). Braqsh cleaves it from head to toe with a single blow (hit for 20).

The armored man joins the rest of the group as Tobias dispels the images. His longsword is coated in black ichor, his armor isn’t much better, and he’s plainly exhausted. “Thank you! We were fighting our way clear, and found some enemies ahead of us. One of their spellcasters was there – one of my men and I moved to flank him, and a glowing symbol lit up on the wall. By the time I could move again, the rest of my men had escaped another way. If not for Lathander’s grace I would not have been able to heal my wounds time and again by fighting these unending hordes.”

[danielxcutter]

"Well, a good thing we've found you now, then. May I ask what your skills are?"

[Cavir]

Braqsh lowers his axe to not frighten the man. "Spellcaster? Did your men finish it off or where did it go? What magics did it know? Which way did your men go?" While waiting on the answers the royal guards looks around for any possible threat in the distance.

[PeacefulOak]

Davin Stormbrow

Male NG Black Bear Druid, Level 6, Init 1, HP 56/66, Speed 70
AC 20, Touch 13, Flat-footed 18, Fort 7, Ref 4, Will 9, Base Attack Bonus +4
Attack: Claw (+8, 1d4+4) Full Attack: 2 claws (+8, 1d4+4), Bite (+3, 1d6+2)
Segojan's Armor (+4 Armor, +1 Deflect, +3 Natural, +1 Dex)
Abilities Str 19, Dex 13, Con 15, Int 10, Wis 19, Cha 14

Under effect of: Segojan's Armor; Heart of Water; Haste

Davin steps close to the man, lending a shoulder so that he can stand more easily. "You are clearly exhausted, friend. Is there anything below the wagon that should be recovered before we send you home and pursue this caster, if it survived?"

[J-H]

“No, I simply found this as a refuge when I could run no farther.” He looks over at Braqsh, and up. “Many miles ago, in the city…a day and a night ago I believe. I have had to spend some time hiding, as distasteful as it is, sir.” His eyes are shadowed. “My home was there, and is no more. I am a crusader of Lathander, but even with his blessing I am still human. Perhaps my men yet live – some of them. Where can I find someone in charge?”

From his description, the spell was obviously some type of symbol or glyph with a short-duration paralysis effect.

[PeacefulOak]

Davin Stormbrow

"The leadership of the resistance is back a ways, down the main road. Perhaps Master Crane could show you the way back, and lend his support to the troops there while we look closer to the town." Though he words it as a suggestion, there is a tone of command to the statement.

[Centaurion]

Lisandra

While the others were talking to the man, Lisandra was pulling the corpses on a heap, preparing to burn them together with the broken cart.

She returns to the group, mumbling something that sounds like a prayer. "May Lathander bathe the fallen in His light."

"We need to find this spellcaster -- this would give us answers what enemy is behind the attacks. Anything you remember could be helpful. Could you recognize the race of the spellcaster?"

[J-H]

“Undead? I don’t know, it once was living but now isn’t, but it wasn’t a skeleton. You know, I've seen more undead in the last... well, in the last five minutes even than the rest of my life before yesterday.”

The man sticks around to watch the burning of the undead, and then staggers towards the camp with Tobias steadying him.

=> Party any further questions?

[danielxcutter]

“Undead? I don’t know, it once was living but now isn’t, but it wasn’t a skeleton. You know, I've seen more undead in the last... well, in the last five minutes even than the rest of my life before yesterday.”

The man sticks around to watch the burning of the undead, and then staggers towards the camp with Tobias steadying him.

=> Party any further questions?

"Do you have any more warnings or advice to give to us? A weak spot we could strike, a danger we should avoid?" asked Adrian.

[Cavir]

“No, I simply found this as a refuge when I could run no farther.” He looks over at Braqsh, and up. “Many miles ago, in the city…a day and a night ago I believe. I have had to spend some time hiding, as distasteful as it is, sir.” His eyes are shadowed. “My home was there, and is no more. I am a crusader of Lathander, but even with his blessing I am still human. Perhaps my men yet live – some of them. Where can I find someone in charge?”


"You survived to fight another day. The King has many plans in the works to counter the invaders, but it will take time and perseverance. We are part of those plans. I am Braqsh, of the royal guard. Back down the hill is an encampment. Rest yourself there and may Lathander's Light inspire you back into the fight. Help prevent more people from losing their homes and lives."

Braqsh turned to the group before the fire was lit. "Are any of those bows the skeletons had useful? Be a waste to destroy useful weapons if not for us then for the military. Lighting a fire will draw attention from the undead. It may not be wise to draw them this way towards the encampment. A small group like us would be better with quick strikes, like we just did."

"Mister Crane. Your magic was a great aid. Thank you. Several of us have more battlefield experience. It would be useful to combine your magics with our skill in tactics in the future."

The minotaur keeps an eye out for anything of note off in the distance.

[PeacefulOak]

Davin Stormbrow

The bear shuffles up to the top of the hill, looking off towards the beleaguered city in the distance.

"Well then, friends. Shall we be off to strike fear into the fearless? Or do we seek a safer route, such as by sea perhaps?"

[Cavir]

After listening to any last comments by the soldier, Braqsh turns toward enemy territory upon the bear's questions. "The sea? No. No time and no ship. Onward we go." The minotaur heads out, taking the lead.

[J-H]

Tobias returns, escorting the exhausted crusader to friendly lines. The party presses on, knowing that they’ve at made a difference in one man’s life today.

The road goes northward in a straight line, going over several hills and covering several miles. You encounter a group of three zombies, but they are easily dispatched with no effort. The area around you is strangely silent – no birds chirp, and there are few insects.

At around 3 o’clock, you crest a small rise, and can see Bury just ahead. Smoke rises in the eastern side of the city, where a fire seems to be dying out. Aside from that, there’s relatively little damage. The road goes straight ahead in a line past shacks, houses, and shops, ending in the portal, which is visible as a small black circle ahead of you (that’s not the right color…).

There are only a few figures in the road ahead of you, moving towards the portal. It’s too far away to see what they are, although when Braqsh looks to the east, he is able to spot a pair of skeletons dragging something towards the city – likely a body.

The city is shaped vaguely like a teardrop, with the pointy end south where growth has followed the road. On the far side of the city, beyond the portal, are the ocean-facing defenses, composed of a stone wall studded with towers, and a garrison area backing up to the wall. From what you’ve been told, no help is likely to come from there.

=> Party

[Cavir]

"I think we can catch that group ahead before they can reinforce the city, then deal with the skeletons to the right. Who's game for a run?" Braqsh twitches his muscles, getting ready for action.

[PeacefulOak]

Davin

The earth armored black bear digs in its claws, glancing up at the Minotaur and whuffing his agreement. With a surge, the bear begins to run forward at full speed, calling back "Follow quickly! I'll stall them."

[Cavir]

"That's the spirit." He looks to the others. "Let's go!" The minotaur takes off at full speed trying to keep up with the faster bear.

Could someone NPC George until Rizban is back? I'm not that great with psionics but I could do it now that Crane is gone.

[Centaurion]

Lisandra

"Well, you'll be much faster than I am, but that won't keep me from trying!"

She also follows.

[J-H]

Round 1, Part 1

The humanoid skeletons advance, unarmed save for their bony claws. The skeletal bear moves ahead, quicker and more agile than the others. The red-eyed foe follows at a slower pace, casting a spell. Two bolts of magical energy fly from its hand, slamming into Davin.

Skeletons all get Improved Init, a huge bonus when it comes to a group average for going first.
Everyone with spellcraft is 400’ away, but this spell requires no attack roll and does [roll0] damage.



https://image.ibb.co/fDEdPv/run_them_down_rd_1.jpg

Davin 7 damage

=> Party, but mostly Davin unless someone is going to do something other than another round of running

[PeacefulOak]

Davin Stormbrow

Male NG Black Bear Druid, Level 6, Init 1, HP 55/66, Speed 40
AC 19, Touch 13, Flat-footed 18, Fort 7, Ref 4, Will 9, Base Attack Bonus +4
Attack: Claw (+8, 1d4+4) Full Attack: 2 claws (+8, 1d4+4), Bite (+3, 1d6+2)
Segojan's Armor (+4 Armor, +1 Deflect, +3 Natural, +1 Dex)
Abilities Str 19, Dex 13, Con 15, Int 10, Wis 19, Cha 14

Under effect of: Segojan's Armor; Heart of Water

The armored bear grunts in pain and begins to shuffle and whuff, calling on the roots and vines around to grasp his foes.

Casting Entangle, 40' burst centered at X/Y 16/17.

[J-H]

Round 1, Part 2

Davin rears up on his hind legs, somehow managing to cast a spell despite his large, furry, claw-tipped paws. The scrubby grass beside the road, weeds in the cracks, and nearby shrubs suddenly grow into great, waving tendrils which attempt to snare both the living and the unliving. Only the bear shakes them off.


Entangle Reflex DC 15 to prevent entangling.
Still half speed when entangled.
RE [roll0]
SB [roll1]
S1 [roll2]
S2 [roll3]
S3 [roll4]
S4 [roll5]


The rest of the group moves closer.



All enemies except SB entangled

Entangle expires on Round 7 part 2.

Davin 7 damage

[J-H]

Round 2, Part 1

Despite being entangled, the enemy spellcaster begins to incant a spell successfully.

The skeletal bear charges at the fleshy, living bear, drawing blood with its bony claws.

Charge attack [roll0] for [roll1] hit


The skeletons try to break free.

Str check DC 20
S1 [roll2]
S2 [roll3]
S3 [roll4]
S4 [roll5]



https://image.ibb.co/m6ta6a/run_them_down_rd_2.jpg (https://ibb.co/catKXF)
All enemies except SB entangled

Entangle expires on Round 7 part 2.

Davin 14 damage

[PeacefulOak]

Davin Stormbrow

Male NG Black Bear Druid, Level 6, Init 1, HP 48/66, Speed 40
AC 19, Touch 13, Flat-footed 18, Fort 7, Ref 4, Will 9, Base Attack Bonus +4
Attack: Claw (+8, 1d4+4) Full Attack: 2 claws (+8, 1d4+4), Bite (+3, 1d6+2)
Segojan's Armor (+4 Armor, +1 Deflect, +3 Natural, +1 Dex)
Abilities Str 19, Dex 13, Con 15, Int 10, Wis 19, Cha 14

Under effect of: Segojan's Armor; Heart of Water

Davin snarls at the skeletal bear, growling fiercely as he begins to cast another spell, shying back to avoid any potential strikes of the bear.

Following through with the original plan (and wishing I'd started further back)...

Casting SNA3 using my Extended Creeping Cold slot. Casting Defensively, Concentration [roll0] DC 18, success.

[Cavir]

Braqsh sees the fight ahead of him including the use of magic from both sides already. He continues his run to get there before Davin gets overwhelmed. He still has some distance to go but does his best to be heard by the bear ahead of him. "Davin! Take cover!"

I should be going at 120' per round not 90'?

[J-H]

Round 2, Part 2

Davin begins to cast another spell…
The others move up.


Map corrected with 120’/rd for all except Lisandra.

All enemies except SB entangled

Entangle expires on Round 7 part 2.

Davin 14 damage


Round 3, Part 1

The undead finishes his spell, and a devilish-looking snake pops into existence behind Davin. The skeletal bear takes advantage of this new threat to claw and bite at him. Only a single swipe lands, and Davin continues his incantation undisturbed.

Davin can identify it as a fiendish small viper snake.
Bite [roll0] includes +2 for flanking. miss
Damage [roll1] includes +1 damage for Smite Good, woo!.
Poison [roll2] con, Fort DC 10.
Davin Fort [roll3]

Bear full attack w/ flanking
Claw [roll4] miss
Claw damage [roll5]
Claw [roll6] hit for 7
Claw damage [roll7]
Bite [roll8] miss
Bite damage [roll9]

Concentration checks to avoid losing the spell if damaged.
[roll10] success
[roll11]
[roll12]
[roll13]


The undead spellcaster appears to be waiting to cast a spell.

It will need to make a concentration check to cast, if it casts…


The skeletons try to break free, but all fail.

Str check DC 20
S1 [roll14]
S2 [roll15]
S3 [roll16]
S4 [roll17]




https://image.ibb.co/kStkra/run_them_down_rd_3.jpg (https://ibb.co/hi7pHF)

All enemies except SB entangled

Entangle expires on Round 7 part 2.

Davin 21 damage

=> Party

[PeacefulOak]

Davin Stormbrow

Male NG Black Bear Druid, Level 6, Init 1, HP 39/66, Speed 40
AC 19, Touch 13, Flat-footed 18, Fort 7, Ref 4, Will 9, Base Attack Bonus +4
Attack: Claw (+8, 1d4+4) Full Attack: 2 claws (+8, 1d4+4), Bite (+3, 1d6+2)
Segojan's Armor (+4 Armor, +1 Deflect, +3 Natural, +1 Dex)
Abilities Str 19, Dex 13, Con 15, Int 10, Wis 19, Cha 14

Under effect of: Segojan's Armor; Heart of Water

Davin completes his spell, calling out [roll0] hippogryphs, one on either side of the red eyed caster. He then turns and lashes out at the serpent, intent on clearing a path to the nearest house so that he can get some cover.


[roll1] for [roll2]
[roll3] for [roll4]
[roll5] for [roll6]

If the first blow kills the snake, I move into the house on the left, just inside the door.

[J-H]

Round 3, Part 2

Two hippogriffs appear next to the enemy caster, attacking it. It attempts to cast a spell, but botches the motions as it tries to dodge their blows. One of the hippogriffs is entangled, but despite that, all of their blows hit, tearing the enemy to shreds. (RE destroyed).

Davin attacks the viper, missing the small snake twice with his claws and grievously injuring it with his bite.

The rest of the group moves closer.


All enemies except SB entangled
Fiendish small viper 5 damage

Entangle expires on Round 7 part 2.

HG1 entangled
Davin 21 damage

Round 4, Part 1

The snake and skeletal bear attack Davin again, catching him from both sides at once with all of their attacks, and leaving his ursine form covered in blood.

Davin can identify it as a fiendish small viper snake.
Bite [roll0] includes +2 for flanking. hit for 1
Damage 1 (1d2-2, min 1)
Poison [roll1] con, Fort DC 10.
Davin Fort [roll2] save

Bear full attack w/ flanking all hit! 21 damage
Claw [roll3]
Claw damage [roll4]
Claw [roll5]
Claw damage [roll6]
Bite [roll7]
Bite damage [roll8]



The skeletons try to break free.

Str check DC 20
S1 [roll9]
S2 [roll10]
S3 [roll11]
S4 [roll12]



https://image.ibb.co/dv8zHF/run_them_down_rd_4.jpg (https://ibb.co/gtb8Ba)

All enemies except SB entangled
Fiendish small viper 5 damage

Entangle expires on Round 7 part 2.

HG1 entangled
Davin 43 damage

=> Party
You may need to make a Fort save to continue running next round, if CON is 14 or less.

[Cavir]

The minotaur's great endurance allowed him to continue all the way into the fight. He kept his momentum going and as he neared the living bear, Braqsh raised his head then brought his horns crashing down on the skeletal bear.

Power Charge to Y33 attacking the skeletal bear. Cleave the snake if available.

Horns [roll0] crit: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2] crit: [roll3]

Cleave: [roll4] crit: [roll5]
Damage: [roll6] crit: [roll7]

AC 17 (with charging)
HP 66/72

[PeacefulOak]

Davin Stormbrow

Male NG Black Bear Druid, Level 6, Init 1, HP 17/66, Speed 40
AC 19, Touch 13, Flat-footed 18, Fort 7, Ref 4, Will 9, Base Attack Bonus +4
Attack: Claw (+8, 1d4+4) Full Attack: 2 claws (+8, 1d4+4), Bite (+3, 1d6+2)
Segojan's Armor (+4 Armor, +1 Deflect, +3 Natural, +1 Dex)
Abilities Str 19, Dex 13, Con 15, Int 10, Wis 19, Cha 14

Under effect of: Segojan's Armor; Heart of Water

Davin roars with pain as the skeletal bear tears into him, and yelps at the bite from the viper. Grunting with pain, he ducks his head and chants a quick incantation, careful of the blows of both of his enemies.

That done, he makes for the doorway to his left.

I should have 5' stepped last round, that was silly.
Casting Obscuring Mist defensively, DC 16. [roll0] Success!
Move to T32, holding position inside the door. 20% miss chance on the AoO's.

[danielxcutter]

"Take this!" Adrian shouts, flinging a glob of ectoplasm at the skeletal bear.

[roll0] Ranged touch attack.

[J-H]

Round 4, Part 2

Braqsh charges forward, headbutting the skeleton and doing substantial damage (hit for 20 after DR).

Adrian moves up, throwing a glob of ectoplasm, which lodges in the bear’s joints, hindering its movement.

Range is 25’ + 5’/2ML, so I moved you into range.


Davin casts another spell, summoning a blinding mist around himself, encompassing his two foes as well as Braqsh.


SB AOO [roll0] for [roll1], miss chance [roll2], includes +2 for flanking hit for 9
Fsv AOO
Bite [roll3] includes +2 for flanking. miss
Damage 1 (1d2-2, min 1)
Poison [roll4] con, Fort DC 10.
Davin Fort [roll5]
Miss chance [roll6]


Lisandra grows gradually closer, but has to slow as she is growing winded. Her heavy armor is a great burden. (Con check DC 10 [roll7] fail)

The hippogriffs take no action.



All enemies except SB entangled in Entangle
Fiendish small viper 5 damage
SB 20 damage, entangled until round 9, part 2 begins

Entangle expires on Round 7 part 2.

HG1 entangled
Davin 51 damage
Lisandra winded, can't run.

[J-H]

Round 5, Part 1

The viper chases after Davin, attacking him and then vanishing from existence.

Bite [roll0] includes +2 for flanking. hit for 1
Damage 1 (1d2-2, min 1)
Poison [roll1] con, Fort DC 10.
Davin Fort [roll2] save


The skeletal bear steps towards Braqsh, striking at him in the fog.

Bear full attack
Claw [roll3] miss chance [roll4] miss
Claw damage [roll5]
Claw [roll6] miss chance [roll7] miss due to fog
Claw damage [roll8]
Bite [roll9] miss chance [roll10] miss
Bite damage [roll11]


The skeletons try to break free. One of them succeeds and moves forward.

Str check DC 20
S1 [roll12]
S2 [roll13]
S3 [roll14]
S4 [roll15] success



https://image.ibb.co/cSK9K5/run_them_down_rd_5.jpg (https://ibb.co/gwe9K5)
All enemies except SB entangled in Entangle
Fiendish small viper 5 damage
SB 20 damage, entangled until round 9, part 2 begins

Entangle expires on Round 7 part 2.

HG1 entangled
Davin 52 damage
Lisandra winded, can't run.
=> Party

[danielxcutter]

Knowing that his weapons do little against undead, Adrian flicks another glob at the skeleton that just broke out.

[roll0]

[Cavir]

Braqsh calls through the mist towards the living bear that just moved away. "Davin, good job killing their caster. Protect and heal yourself, we'll clean up the rest. Have your summons help?"

Having dodged the skeletal bear's counter attack, the royal guard goes to work to destroy the undead bear with his greataxe.

Attack the skeletal bear. If it goes down on the first hit then move to the edge of the mist (still in it) at X28.

Greataxe: [roll0] crit: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2] crit: [roll3]
Miss chance [roll4]

Greataxe: [roll5] crit: [roll6]
Damage: [roll7] crit: [roll8]
Miss chance [roll9]

[PeacefulOak]

Davin Stormbrow

Male NG Black Bear Druid, Level 6, Init 1, HP 14/66, Speed 40
AC 19, Touch 13, Flat-footed 18, Fort 7, Ref 4, Will 9, Base Attack Bonus +4
Attack: Claw (+8, 1d4+4) Full Attack: 2 claws (+8, 1d4+4), Bite (+3, 1d6+2)
Segojan's Armor (+4 Armor, +1 Deflect, +3 Natural, +1 Dex)
Abilities Str 19, Dex 13, Con 15, Int 10, Wis 19, Cha 14

Under effect of: Segojan's Armor; Heart of Water

Davin whimpers and licks his wounds in the doorway, then peeks his head out and roars a command to the Hippogryphs to attack the skeletons.

The two hippogryphs fly over to attack the skeletons, shaking free of the vines first.

I should have memorized some healing spells! ><

Both Hyppogryphs move (or just one, if it only got free this round) by flying up and over the entangle, attacking from the air! HG2 to Z19, HG1 to W18 (possible even if it only escaped this turn, based on 1/2 movement speed).

[roll0] to hit, for [roll1] damage (HG2 vs S3)
[roll2] to hit, for [roll3] damage (HG1 vs S2, if HG1 broke free last round, otherwise no attack)

[J-H]

Round 5, Part 2

Braqsh kills the skeletal bear, advancing within the mist. Adrian stares through the mist, but is not able to see the skeleton to throw a glob of ectoplasmic goo (invalid action, no pp expended). Lisandra slows from the strain of running in her very heavy armor (double move only now).

The hippogriffs launch themselves up, above the entangling plants, and attack the skeletons below.

S3 hit for 3 after DR.
Map updated, Hippogriffs are large!



Entangle expires on Round 7 part 2.

S3 3 damage

Davin 51 damage
Lisandra winded, can't run.

Round 6, Part 1

The freed skeleton steps towards Braqsh, clawing at the minotaur with its bony fingers, but it fails to harm him through his armor and hide.

S4
Claw 1 attack [roll0] for [roll1]
Claw 2 attack [roll2] for [roll3]


In the vines, one skeleton tries to get free, while the other two claw at their fleshy assailants. Clumsy while trapped, their strikes all go wide.

Str check DC 20
S1 [roll4]

S2 vs HG1, includes -2 for entangle
Claw 1 attack [roll5] for [roll6]
Claw 2 attack [roll7] for [roll8]

S3 vs HG2, includes -2 for entangle
Claw 1 attack [roll9] for [roll10]
Claw 2 attack [roll11] for [roll12]





https://image.ibb.co/dEqtnQ/run_them_down_rd_6.jpg (https://ibb.co/nExHE5)

Entangle expires on Round 7 part 2.

S3 3 damage

Davin 51 damage
Lisandra winded, can't run.
=> Party

[PeacefulOak]

Davin Stormbrow

Male NG Black Bear Druid, Level 6, Init 1, HP 15/66, Speed 40
AC 19, Touch 13, Flat-footed 18, Fort 7, Ref 4, Will 9, Base Attack Bonus +4
Attack: Claw (+8, 1d4+4) Full Attack: 2 claws (+8, 1d4+4), Bite (+3, 1d6+2)
Segojan's Armor (+4 Armor, +1 Deflect, +3 Natural, +1 Dex)
Abilities Str 19, Dex 13, Con 15, Int 10, Wis 19, Cha 14

Under effect of: Segojan's Armor; Heart of Water

Hippogriff (2)
Hp: 3d10+15 (31); AC: 15; Saves: F-8, R-5, W-2
Attack: Claw +11 (1d4+6); Full Attack: 2 claws +11 (1d4+6 each), Bite +7 (1d8+4)

Seeing nothing else immediately threatening him, Davin takes a moment to look around the building he has stepped into, without leaving the door.

The two hippogryph's unleash flurries of attacks on their skeletons before swooping up into the air. Davin yells out: "Go and get the armored one following from behind us, bring her back to us!" One of them heads in that direction, the other circling to attack again.

Both Hyppogryph's full-attack, and then move as much as possible to remain flying.
[roll0] claw for [roll1] damage (HG2 vs S3)
[roll2] claw for [roll3] damage (HG2 vs S3)
[roll4] claw for [roll5] damage (HG2 vs S3)

[roll6] claw for [roll7] damage (HG1 vs S2)
[roll8] claw for [roll9] damage (HG1 vs S2)
[roll10] claw for [roll11] damage (HG1 vs S2)

[Cavir]

Braqshhalf chuckles to himself as his next target saved him the effort of chasing it down. He swung the heavy axe down at the skeleton.

Attack the skeleton. If they first attack kills it then move forward to just short of the entangle spell area. Isn't entangle for minutes not rounds?

Greataxe: [roll0] crit: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2] crit: [roll3]

Greataxe: [roll4] crit: [roll5]
Damage: [roll6] crit: [roll7]

66/72 hp
AC 19

[danielxcutter]

Adrian moves to the doorway to cover Davin. "You alright?"

[J-H]

Round 6, Part 2

Davin looks around the building he’s stepped in. It is a cobbler’s shop, with a small workshop in front and a door standing open to reveal a residence in the back. Both doors were open when he approached the building, and there are no immediately visible bloodstains, so the druid has a reasonable hope that the shoemaker and any family have escaped.

Braqsh destroys the skeleton in front of him, moving forward towards the entangled area.

The hippogriffs each make one attack, and continue flying.

Average maneuverability carries with it a minimum forward speed of 50’; a full attack is incompatible with flight.
HG2 hits S3 for 4 after DR
HG1 hits S2 for 2 after DR



Entangle expires on Round 7 part 2.

S2 2 damage
S3 7 damage

Davin 51 damage
Lisandra winded, can't run.

Moving things along… the 3 remaining skeletons are easy prey for Braqsh and the hippogriffs, and the battlefield is soon silent.
=> Party

[Cavir]

The immediate threat over, Braqsh heads over to the heavily wounded bear and uses his magical belt to start the healing. "Didn't want you to take on the whole group by yourself. Getting their attention then ducking behind a building would have divided their forces and given us time to catch up. With their supposed numbers we need to fight wisely. Speaking of their numbers, where are they? A dozen skeletons with one weak caster couldn't wipe out a whole city." He looks out and checks on Lisandra on her way in. Braqsh then remembers the other skeletons they had seen dragging a body. "Where are those other 2 skeletons?"

Healing Belt on Davin, 1 charge [roll0]
We really need to get our hands on a lesser vigor wand.

Spot [roll1]

[PeacefulOak]

Davin

"Thank you, I needed that. I couldn't hide before locking down that mage, or we would have been in trouble. I wasn't expecting the bear, to be honest." He chuckles at the irony, and with a whuff dispels his entangle and fog cloud spells.

"We should check the body of the mage, along with whatever those skeletons were bringing. They were all clustered together, the body must be there."

[Cavir]

Braqsh uses his healing belt on the bear again. "I only have one more charge on the belt left, need to save that for an emergency. Anyone else have healing supplies?"

"Let's search the bodies here quickly. We know there are two more skeletons off in that direction." He helps search the fallen enemy then moves to get a view to the east.

Search, then move to AB12 to get a view that way, looking to head east from there or some road/alley that heads east.
Healing Belt [roll0]

[J-H]

Checking the bodies, you find several low quality iron weapons. The spellcaster’s fancy cloak may have some value, and it was carrying a flat canvas scroll-sack.

=> Party

[PeacefulOak]

Davin Stormbrow

"Thank you, friend. This cloak looks quite interesting. I will examine it. Would you be so kind as to open the bag for me as well?" He chants a brief incantation.

Casting Detect Magic, examining the loot.

[danielxcutter]

"Is there anything I could use?" asked Adrian. "My weapons aren't that good for fighting these types of enemies."

[Cavir]

"Take whatever weapons they had that you want. We knew it was an undead army. You should have grabbed something for them before we left." Braqsh dumps the contents of the sack onto the ground then goes back to figuring out where the other skeletons would be by now and sniffs the air for any clues of anything else around.

[J-H]

Davin begins to examine the cloak. It has a minor abjuration aura, but that’s all he can determine since he lacks any magical training. Meanwhile, Braqsh picks up the scroll-sack and opens the flap as he tips it over. A glyph on the inside flap flashes with a sickly light, and the minotaur is frozen rigid for [roll0] rounds. His pores immediately begin secreting a noxious substance, and he smells terrible. Locked in paralysis, Braqsh is forced to smell something similar to the stench of a rotting skunk. Everyone else quickly backs away from the nauseating smell (10' radius).

Several scrolls fall out, all apparently identical.


Braqsh Fort to avoid stench [roll1] fail
Davin Search check for cloak [roll2] no clues as to its function have been found. No spellcraft/UMD to use either.


Adrian is able to identify the effect Braqsh triggered as a Ghoul Glyph (LM pg 66).

Weapons found:
Light mace x 1
Longsword x 2
Dagger x 2

=> Party

[danielxcutter]

"Ghoul Glyph." said Adrian, wrinkling his nose at the stench. "Paralyzes and makes you give off a horrible smell. It's going to wear off in less than a minute, though, and it's not even remotely fatal... unless anyone would rather die than keep smelling it. Also, I call dibs on the light mace and dagger. Anyone want the sword?"

[Cavir]

It was only under a minute but the circumstances of that minute filled Braqsh with rage. The paralysis wore off. The large minotaur raised his foot then 850lbs of weight came crashing down on the skeleton mage's... skeleton, flattening it's skull, a collar bone, upper rib cage area, and upper spine in one stomp leaving a deep footprint in the ground. He growled then started to regain his composure.

"Damned thing. Stupid trap- didn't come into play until it was too late. Grab the gear and let's go. We have a pair of skeletons to clean up, then a whole undead army to find."

[danielxcutter]

True to his words, Adrian grabs the light mace and dagger, sticking his crystal rapier and the dagger into his belt. "At least that didn't go off during the fight... anyways, Braqsh is right.
Let's go."

[PeacefulOak]

Davin Stormbrow

Feeling much better as the second surge of healing energy passes through him, Davin snuffles in the direction of the town. "I am somewhat expended, friends, and a bit the worse for wear as well. I was not expecting so many of them to be skeletal, and resistant to my claws. What say you? Do we press on, or should we retreat and recover?"

[danielxcutter]

"Do we have enough healing magic left to press on?" asked Adrian.

[Cavir]

Braqsh is disappointed but does listen. "My healing belt has one use left for the day. We should deal with those 2 skeletons before they can rejoin the ranks and add the corpse to their numbers." The minotaur pauses, remembering their bigger mission. "Hmmm. Two-three more skeletons won't change things much for later. We could follow them to see where they go so we know what we are facing, then make camp here, not giving up our gains." He looks to the others to gauge their responses.

[J-H]

Taking the unidentified magical cloak, the group works their way east. The buildings peter out quickly once away from the road, and they are able to spot two medium-sized skeletons dragging a dead and somewhat shredded bull cow back towards the portal. The skeletons can apparently be dispatched with ease.


The cloak is in someone’s inventory, right?

2x 1HD skeletons, no challenge unless you want to just follow them.

[Cavir]

"Let's follow them a bit to see where they go?" Short of protests, Braqsh does his best to keep quiet while moving, letting the others take the lead if any do.

[J-H]

The group follows at a distance of about 100 yards, easily tracking the skeletons until they reach the outskirts of Bury. At that point, you lose sight of the skeletons now and then, but the undead take a straight-line path towards the portal, and are easy to follow. Based on the size of the town, you figure you are only a couple of hundred yards from the portal, although it’s not quite in view yet. Some buildings are untouched, while others stand open and have obviously seen fighting; a few are burned husks, perhaps from a disturbed cooking fire or a deliberate defense. The skeletons reach a cobblestone road, and the clacking of their bare feet echoes.

=> Party
Attack them?
Continue to follow?
Do something else?

[Cavir]

"Did they not say there was an undead army here? Who were the soldiers and refugees fleeing from? Why would the enemy withdraw its whole force? Let's see where these two go but be on the lookout for patrols and sentries. Anyone else have any ideas?" The large minotaur keeps his voice just loud enough for the party to hear while his eyes, ears, and nose stay alert.

Anything by scent?
Spot [roll0]

[J-H]

Braqsh sniffs at the air, detecting the odor of slightly aged blood – but no decomposition. The air should smell like ocean this close to the water, but there is a hint of dryness in the air, like might be found on a cold winter’s day.

You hear only the clatter and scraping noises of skeletons dragging the body.

[danielxcutter]

"Sounds like a plan." said Adrian.