1e: Tsojcanth to Horror

[Gryndel]

Nearly a century ago the Arch Mage Iggwilv sent her evil minions to conquer the lands around her abode. So successful was she that the Marches of Perrenland were subjugated for a decade, and great indeed was the loot brought to Iggwilv’s lair in answer to her insatiable demands for treasure. Legend states that the Arch Mage gained much of her prowess from discovering the Lost Caverns of Tsojcanth, wherein was hidden magic of unsurpassed might. It is certain that Iggwilv ruled her domain from these caverns. There she also conducted arcane experiments and rituals, trying to further increase her powers.

These experiments were her downfall, for during one she accidentally freed the demon Prince Graz’zat, whom she had imprisoned and forced into servitude. There was a terrible battle, and although the demon Prince was forced to flee to the Abyss, Iggwilv was so stricken from the contest that her powers and strength were forever lost. With the wane of her evil, Iggwilv’s realm was sundered. Her former henchmen and slaves stole her treasure and scattered to the four winds in the face of enemy armies coming to reclaim their nations’ wealth. The Arch Mage, however, used the last of her power to prepare a hiding place in the caverns for her remaining wealth. Legends say that this included several tomes of great power and the fabled lamp called Daoud’s Wondrous Lanthorn. What else might be hidden no one knows, for no one has yet discovered Iggwilv’s hoard.

That Iggwilv is long dead and gone cannot be doubted these days. Until recently, though, the stories of her secret cache of treasure in the Lost Caverns of Tsojcanth were regarded as another grandfathers’ tale to amuse the younglings. Cartloads of rich tapestries and valuable rugs, statues and rare art objects have been recovered over the years, as well as chests of precious metals, sacks of coins, and coffers filled with gems and jewelry. It was believed that all her treasure had ultimately been looted, and that no magic or wealth remained in her old realm.

However, recent investigations and divinations have indicated that the magical lanthorn did exist and that Iggwilv once possessed it. Iggwilv’s hidden lair was definitely located somewhere between the deepest gorge of the Velverdyva River and the hills east of the town of Krestible. The realms of Iuz, Perrinland, and Kat have recently sent expeditions into the Yatil Mountains seeking the exact location of the caverns; the few that have survived have all failed.

******************************
Daryk

Dain Khazad
Mountain Dwarf
Lawful Good
Cleric/Fighter (Clanggedin)
XP 77,500 (next 110,001/125,001)
Level 7/7 (Lama/Myrmidon) [max 8/7]
HP 51
AC 0

S: 12 (19 Girdle, +3 hit, +7 damage, wgt allow +4500, open door 1-7 d10 [3], bb/lg 50%)
I: 10
W: 14
D: 7
C: 15 (+1 hp adj, system shock 91%, res surv 94%)
Ch: 7 (-5% reaction)


Weapons (5)
Bardiche (3 = Double specialization)
Composite Longbow
Morning Star


Dwarf
60' infravision
+4 save vs poison and magic
+1 hit vs half-orc, goblin, hobgoblin, or orc
+4 defense vs ogre, troll, ogre magi, giant, or titan
Languages: common, L/G, dwarf, gnome, goblin, kobold, orc
Detect within 10'
Grade or slope in passage (1-3 d4)
New construction (1-3 d4)
Sliding or shifting walls or rooms (1-4 d6)
pit traps and falling blocks of stone (1-3 d6)
approximate depth underground (1-3 d6)


Spells per Day:
1st (5) Cure Light Wounds x5
2nd (3) Hold Person, Resist Fire, Withdraw
3rd (2) Negative Plane Protection, Dispel Magic
4th (1) Cure Serious Wounds


Magic Items
+1 Full Plate
Girdle of Hill Giant Strength (+3 value)
+3 Bardiche +9/+13, 2/rd
Ring of Sustenance (+1 value)

Potions
Polymorph Self
Philter of Glibness
Elixir of Life
(2) Healing

Scroll (lvl 17)
Holy Word
Restoration
Heal
Stonetell
Flame Strike


Wealth
GP 51
EP 14
SP 13
CP 3

JokesInit Verdal
Grey Elf
Neutral
Magic User/Thief
XP 82,500 (Next: 90,001/110,001)
Level 7/8
HP 28
AC 0

S: 10 (wgt allow +00, open door 1-2 d6, bb/lg 2%)
I: 19 (7 Languages, 95% learn, Min 10, Max All)
W: 6 (-1 save)
D: 18 (+3 reaction, missile adj, -4 defense adj)
C: 10 (system shock 70%, res surv 75%)
Ch: 8 (3 Henchmen, -05% loyalty base, no reaction adj.)


Thievery
Pick Pockets 80%
Open Locks 67%
Find Traps 650%
Move Silently 77%
Hide 63%
Hear Noise 30%
Climb Walls 96%
Read Language 40%
+4 ht/x3 damage backstab


Weapon Profs
Shortsword
Shortbow
Dagger


Spells
Known
Cantrips: Dry, Flavor, Spill, Tarnish, Hide, Wink, Whistle, Distract, Shine, Bluelight, Warm

1st Read Magic, Magic Missile, Detect Magic, Burning Hands, Identify, Sleep, Jump, Hold Portal

2nd Melfs Acid Arrow, Invisibility, Strength, Vocalise, Deep Pockets, Knock, Mirror Image, Levitate

3rd Detect Illusion, Dispel Magic, Protection from Evil 10', Protection from normal missiles, Monster Summoning I, Invisibility 10', Fireball, Fly, Haste

4th Charm Monster, Dimension Door, Fire Shield, Monster Summoning II, Stoneskin, Polymorph Self, Polymorph Other

Memorized (7/5/4/2)
1st Magic Missile, Magic Missile, Detect Magic, Sleep, Detect Magic, Hold Portal
2nd Invisibility, Melfs Acid Arrow, Vocalize
3rd Dispel Magic, Fireball, Invisibility 10'
4th Dimension Door, Stoneskin


Mundane items
Banded mail (AC4)
Exceptional hand-axe (+1 hit/dam)
Composite Shortbow
Wool-on sheepskin-lined tall boots (soft soled)
Wool tunic (dark green) over linen tunic (bright green)
Wool cloak (grey)
buckskin trousers
hunting horn
other equipment as Margrave supplies


Magic Items
Shortsword +2
Ring of Invisibility (+2)
Boots of Elvenkind (+1)
Bracers of Defense AC4 (+3)

Potions
Oil of Sharpness (+3, 5 apps)
Oil of Air Elemental Invulnerability
Oil of Fiery Burning
Healing


Wealth
GP 72
EP 24
SP 10
CP 2

MemnarchDaero
Gnome
Chaotic Good
Thief
XP 166,100 (next 220,001)
Level 10
HP 45
AC 3

Str 12 (Wgt Allow +100, Open Doors 1-2 d6, Bend Bars 4%)
Int 10
Wis 12
Dex 16 (+1 missile adj/reaction, -2 def adj)
Con 12 (System Shock 80%, Res Survival 85%)
Cha 6 (-10% reaction adj)


Weapons (4)
short bow
falchion sword
dagger
caltrops


Gnome
60' infravision
+3 save vs magic
+1 hit vs kobold, goblin
+4 defense vs gnoll, bugbear, ogre, troll, ogre magi, giant, or titan
Languages: common, dwarf, gnome, goblin, kobold, burrowing mammal
Detect within 10'
Grade or slope in passage (1-8 d10)
Unsafe walls, ceilings, and floors (1-7 d10)
Approximate depth underground (1-6 d10)
Direction underground 1-5 d10)


Thief
80 % Pick Pocket
72 % Open Locks
75 % Find & Remove Traps
93 % Move Silently
73 % Hide in Shadows
40 % Hear Noise
94 % Climb Walls
50 % Read Language
+4 hit/x4 Backstab


Magic Items
Falchion +2 (d6+1/2d4)
Bag of Holding (500 lb limit, +2 value)
Bracers AC 6 (+2 value)
Cloak of Protection +1
Ring of Feather Falling (+1 value)

Potions:
Speed
Philter of Persuasiveness
Oil of Disenchantment
(2) Healing
Diminuation


Wealth
GP 91
EP 12
SP 10
CP 7

DiellaMe Lady
Half-Orc (female)
Chaotic Good
Fighter
XP 166,100 (next 250,001)
Level 8 [max 12]
HP 52
AC -2

Str 18 75(gauntlets=00)% (+3 hit, +6 dam, wgt allow +3000, open door 1-5(2) d6, bb/lg 40%)
Int 5
Wis 8
Dex 9
Con 11 (System Shock 75%, Res Survival 80%)
Cha 7 (-5% reaction adj)


Half-Orc
Infravision 60'
Languages common, C/G, orc


Weapons (6)
Battle Axe (3=double spec)
Composite Longbow
Hammer
Throwing Axe


Magic Items
+3 Full Plate Armor
+3 Battle Axe (+9/+12, 2/rd)
Heward’s Handy Haversack (+2 value)

Potions:
Elixir of Life
Oil of Sharpness (+3, 5 applications)
Oil of Acid Resistance
(2) Healing


Wealth
GP 85
EP 12
SP 11
CP 7

[Gryndel]

Your party has been gathered in an opulent room at a private estate by a wealthy agent of the Margrave of the March of Bissel. Citizens of the March or brave adventurer, you have all been screened through an exhaustive and extensive process to ensure only those loyal to the cause of the Margrave are present. After describing the history of the Caverns, the agent tells you that there are ‘political considerations’, which he does not explain, that prevent officials from Bissel from searching for Iggwilv’s trove themselves. However, it is vital that the treasure not fall into the hands of the Margrave’s enemies. Your party’s goal is to get the treasure before Bissel’s enemies do.

The Margrave has provided you with hearty horses and a map showing the most probable locations of the Lost Caverns. The Margrave will also give you an armed and mounted escort from Thornwood to a narrow trail leading from the easternmost arm of the Bramblewood forest northward into the Yatil Mountains - the very heart of Iggwilv’s old domain. You have pledged to repay the Margrave for your horses, as well as any other equipment* he provided, out of the monetary treasure obtained on your quest. You will also be required to pay a treasure tax of 15% on all the money taken. The agent tells you that the remainder, as well as any magical items taken except the Lanthorn, are your reward for undertaking this perilous quest. However, you are warned under threat of dire punishment not to allow any magical items to fall into evil hands, especially the lanthorn, which is to be returned here for the Margrave.

An examination of your map reveals that the track through the mountains has numerous branches. At the end of each track is a number, evidently standing for something unknown. The agents of the Margrave cannot tell you anything about their significance, except that it is likely that at one of the sites are the caverns you seek. Obviously, the map is incomplete, for from what you know of this part of the world, there are mountains where nothing but blank space is shown on the map With this map you must somehow find where the treasure is hidden. The more direct your route to the caverns, the less the likelihood of injury or death from the many perils the journey. A scrap of parchment with a bit of doggerel on it might be a clue, or it might be of no use whatsoever, save to mislead you.

The agent sets the parchment on the table and read the verse:
The horn of Iggwilv
Pierces the heart -
Look over your shoulder
Before you start.
How many somehow
Foolish men,
Because they didn’t
Turn back then.

The agent leaves the scrap and waits to answer any questions. They've been told that after he replies to all queries he'll leave the group to get acquainted and discuss strategies. Each person has a room in the guest quarters of the mansion, with the meeting room at the end of the hall.


*Reasonable amounts of regular equipment and supplies for the mountains are included, and I will presume these are available as you need them. A pair of pack horses or mules are also provided to carry this extra gear and presumably to help carry out booty! Each of you would’ve come here equipped for general adventuring, and that gear should be included on your character sheet.

[Daryk]

Dain

"Hmph. 'Pierces the heart' my foot. If her lair be there, so will we," grumbled the dwarf.

[Diella]

Me Lady listen as she heard what she was suppose to do. She agreed with most she loved the fact she was going to be given a horse. Me Lady had wanted a horse since she was a little girl. When the poem was read she made a face she hated riddle the poem did not make any sense to her. Of course many thing did not make sense to her she just like fighting. Me Lady was not sure why she was there.
::Flashback::
It had all started only a few days ago and Me Lady looked at a page that was her reenlistment paper at least that what Sarge told her they were. She did not want to rejoin but she had no place she wanted to go. The army had been her only home as long as she knew but somehow she felt the need to well stretch her muscles to do more then just be a soldier. Sarge smiled at her he had been a father figure since the day she join as a barefoot half starved orphan who the local priest brought to him. The local priest had dragged her into Sarge’s office with a defeated tone in his voice, “Her you do something about this little hellion I am at wits end.”

Sarge did just that from teaching her to march. That took a long time and he had to tie a stone to her left foot for month before she figured out which one it was. He taught her how to make her mark, how to fight how to drink how to do everything a soldier needed to know. At first Me Lady thought she could never be happier but lately she was dreaming of something more. Sarge knew when she went to write her mark to rejoin he place his hand so she could not.

“As much as I like to have you back I think there something you need to do,” Sarge told her then he told her about a meeting she should attended. So here she was listening to a man talk about treasure and puzzles really wishing she could have a drink and some place to sleep. Of course if she got a black horse to ride it may actually be worth having to listen to all the dry talk and maps and things. ::/end flashback::

Me Lady spoke up," Me not gud at riddle me go me kill me know that gud. Say me where me go that all me have to sayfer now. well maybe me what is da lampathon me never herb of it 'eforesay 'nd where ale me thirsty. "

[Jagg]

Gum takes out a dagger and starts cleaning his nails. He doesn't seem to be paying much attention to the meeting, instead he's watching his new companions.Hmm, typical half orc, more muscle than brains but probably good in a fight.

Gum remains in the background for now, silent and watchful, waiing to see what the other members of this gathering might ask and try to assess their strengths and weaknesses. I wonder which of these alpha males wants to be the leader? he wonders.

[Bayar]

Gordon

One question. What exactly is this lanthorn?

[Gryndel]

[DM]
There was a wide variety of food and drinks of all sorts, and plenty of it, prepared for and offered to the group of brave adventurers. Most any special request was satisfied within minutes by the Unseen Servant operating in the room.


[Arlen]
The agent smiled at the question about the Lanthorn, and replied by rote, as if he was reading it from somewhere, “It is a relic in the shape of a lantern. Its beautifully crafted framework is exquisitely wrought from the finest gold, with huge lenses crafted of gems and crystals imbedded in each face of it which focus the magic power held within. An unwavering pure flame burns within, though what fuels it is a mystery. However, Scholars and sages who know of it believe this it burns souls.”


[Lin Lee]
A human dressed in a plain monk’s robe, his fit frame covered by a fine looking hooded fur cloak, stepped forth. He pulled his hood back, revealing deep blue eyes and a gentle smile on an otherwise stern face, framed by short cropped brown hair. Leaning on a plain looking staff, he said, “Greetings, one and all. My name is Lin Lee. I am a Master in the Order of the Staff, a small monastery nearby. The Margrave requested that one of our Order accompany this mission, and my Master chose this humble servant to fill the honorable post.”

The monk turned to Arlen and commented, “More than one of our brave company is likely to prefer a means of transport other than horseback. Perhaps a wagon and mules could be provided in addition to the horses?” He sat back down at the table and sipped the hot tea the servant had brought him earlier.


[Arlen]
Glancing around at the dwarf and the gnome and the halfling, the agent blushed slightly and smiled, answering with a nod, “Certainly, that is not a problem. In fact it might serve well for hauling supplies there, and hopefully all your bounty on the return trip. I shall instruct a few of the guards to accompany you to the point where the wagon must be left behind, for surely the Caverns would likely be beyond such access. These guards will ensure the safety of the wagon and animals while you press on from there.”

Arlen looked around the room at each of those gathered, “Any other question, before I leave you to your fine feast and evening's leisure?”

[Diella]

Me Lady bite on her knuckle as she thought while her stomach was rumbling and she really like the idea of getting to eat something. There was something she wanted to know first.

Me Lady raised her hand like she remember Sarge always wanting her to do before she had a question. After she was acknowledge Me Lady asked, "Lantern sound preddy and shiny Me Lady likes shinys but Me like to know wat it gud fer?"

[memnarch]

Daero

[short with black hair and grey eyes]

He says, "Yeah, why do you want this lantern thing anyway? And do you have anything smaller than a horse for me?" and continues eating.

[Jagg]

Gum rubs his chin thinking,Hmm so a treasure tax of 15%, we repay the cost of our horses and equipment that is provided and we get a monk tagging along.

Gum looks closely at Lin Lee and one word springs to mind. Policeman. He's here to make sure we don't run off with ALL the treasure and this magic item. Of course if I was a paranoid sort he could just as easily be an assassin, who once we have done our job's slits our throat's for his master. I'll keep an eye on him and decide later.

Gum's green eye's shift to the female half orc. Well at least she uses what intelligence that she has. I wonder how perceptive she is in a fight however?

He switches targets once again and looks at the Human fighter Why do all these fighters look like they could get asked the question of what's your name and get it wrong occasionally? Ok another meat shield, at least he's better looking than the half orc...NOT. Geez he fell outta the ugly tree and hit every branch on the way down didn't he?

His eye's move again to Daero watching him eat with gusto. Hmm a gnome, and unless I miss my guess, a sneaky fellow by the looks of him. With myself that's a lot of stealth needed for a dungeon run. Right. Time to be ultracautious when in the dungeon. Check every door that sort of thing.

The eye's shift to the half elf Blech half elf. Nice rack though. Hmm magic user of some kind...maybe ranger? or even druid? Hmmpf so long as she doesn't sing to celebrate the co-joining of the elemental plane of fire when I light a taper we'll be ok.

He glances over at the dwarf again. So that's two main fighter, Me Lady and the silent human (I wonder if he can speak) one main magic user, a ranger or druid, two sneaky types being myself and the gnome. A monk or assasin for general support...leaving? Cleric. Mental note...Must make friends with the dwarf.

Gum shifts slightly in his chair. Being smaller than everyone else you'd expect his voice to be high pitched and squeaky. It comes out as a rather pleasant sounding tenor and is loud enough for everyone to hear. Ahem! Yes, just a few things if I may. Would there be any chance to have the source materials behind these legends of Iggwilv and the treasure caverns colated and bound into a weatherproof container? We may need them for future reference. I also understand that the legends around the treasure caverns are centred in a river valley? What methods do we have of navigating potential sources of water both above and below the ground or are we expected to construct these from our own resources? I'd also like to know what kinds of animals and maybe even monsters have been sighted in that area before and that may still remain that we might encounter. Also potential rest stops or defensible positions along a preferred route. Gum tries to watch his companions' reactions, looking around the room and trying to get eye contact with all of them. He's watching to see how the others react.

[Diella]

Me Lady listened the talk about the third sentence she lost track of what was being said and started to pick her nose. She kept looking over at the food wondering when they get to eat. Her ears did catch the word Vale she remembered something about vale she took a couple of minutes to try to remember. As she thought she pulled her long thick black braid in front and started to chew on one end of it. Suddenly she remembered.

"Vale! Me Lady know Vale dere vale of litdde peoples like he and he," Me Lady jumped to her feet saying as she pointed to the gnome and dwarf. "It name gnome vale. It 'as dwarfs peoples and gnomes peoples but it not called Dwarfgnome vale I not sure why it not called dat. Maybe gnomes peoples cam first so named town then dwarfs people moved in."

Me Lady sat down with pride she was very pleased with herself for coming up with what she thought important information. She looked around like a puppy that was waiting to be told it was a good girl.

[Daryk]

Dain

The dwarf occupied himself with eating a hearty meal, and drinking the strongest liquor on offer. There would be precious little opportunity to do either on campaign, and the Father of Battle approved of appropriate celebration. A small pair of crossed silver battle axes hung around his neck on a gold chain, proclaiming his service to Clanggedin. When the half-orc mentioned a gnome vale in the mountains, he added, "Aye, there are many clans in the mountains. I'm sure we can be of service to them as well. Once we earn their trust, we may be able to base our explorations from their holds."

[Gryndel]

[Arlen]
The agent nodded to all concerns expressed and smiled as he replied, "Feel free to enjoy whatever refreshments are available. A mountain pony can be provided for those who prefer."

Arlen's face fell into a serious expression as he continued in a more tense tone, "As I've said, the Lanthorn must be kept from our enemies, who also know of its existence. They doubtless have efforts underway to find it as well, and if they succeed it would very likely mean the end of Bissel. As to what its good for, I would leave that question to sages and scholars to debate. However, its the primary focus of the venture, and the most important thing about this business. The Margrave has proposed that our sages and scholars study it and finding a way to destroy it."


[Lin Lee]
The monk added humbly, "My Masters sent me for this very reason. If the powers of Ket or Iuz get the Lanthorn, it will soon be the end of life as we know it here in Bissel. But my Masters know that the Margrave would never allow it to be used for evil ends."


[DM]
Dain and Daero knew the Yatil mountains better than the others, both having grown up in them. The dwarf and gnome also knew that further along this trail, probably 3-4 days away from the foothills on the bottom left corner of the map, was a small valley where the trail split into three distinct paths one could take. The northwest one led to the village in the gnome vale called Rokome, where their families and clans lived in ancient caverns underneath the gnomish community. There were certainly places beyond that where the infamous Caverns of Tsojcanth could be, but most of that part of the vast mountains had been well explored by their own people in recent decades, as well as others. Another trail continued to the northeast, and yet another led to the southeast, both of which were treacherous at best, and often impassable during all but the summer months.

Daero had been born and raised in the village known to others as Rokome, though the gnomes had their own name for the place that only started with that moniker. His family were merchants, ostensibly, and traveled to various locations in Brissel quite often for trade and fun. So he was fairly familiar with the main route between the two locations, including the fact that it was often beset with marauding monsters and humanoids. However, he knew little of other places in the mountains.

From the time he was judged worthy by his superiors, the dwarf had battled foes in tunnels and caverns under these mountains, on their slopes, and in their valleys. He recalled several paths exactly, the ones his own feet had tromped, whether it was last year or decades ago*. Parts of this very trail that was marked on the vellum map he recalled somewhat, having ridden in a wagon from his homeland to Bissel to join this brave company just a few weeks ago. Other familiar paths from his past would only be recalled once he trod on them again.


*Dwarf ability I added from a series of books: Recall any trodden path. Once walked upon with their own feet, dwarves can recall that trek exactly if they go back, no matter how long between the first time and subsequent trips.


OOC: Made a rough map in paint, posted below. The thick blue line is the river valley.


http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3176/2326071815_548d502bd0_o.jpg

[TwoCents]

Ayn

The half-elf sat quietly and listened. Ayn was not a vegetarian, although she abhored waste and ostentation. She gave thanks for the food before her and began to dine. She waited to see if one of the others would ask the question, but when no did, she spoke up in a polite voice, "Master, Lin Lee, is it? Are you to be the ... supervisor of our little jaunt into the mountains? Have you other duties besides accompanying us on our mission?"

[Gryndel]

[Lin Lee]
The monk looked a bit surprised by the druid's question and paused a moment, not because of the question, but because druids were often known to have ulterior motives in everything they did. He replied with sincere humility, "Not at all, honored Initiate, I am only here to aid in the group effort. Indeed, none of us would be here if the agents of the Margrave did not trust each and every one with this vital and sensitive mission."

Looking around the group, Lee added, "You may all call me Lin, by the way. I believe it might be a good idea to have someone as the acknowledged leader, someone other than myself. Any thoughts on this?"

[Jagg]

"Ahem, well my thoughts on the matter are that you have probably assessed all of us during our recruitment. You would be aware of who has leadership skills and who does not. I think you should choose a leader and that gives them additional authority." Gum takes a sip of water and some fresh fruit from a platter and happily begins to munch.

[Daryk]

Dain

"Bah! Brother Lee there was chosen like the rest of us. It's not up to him," interjected Dain, his face ruddy by this point. "If it's up to anyone, it's the Margrave's choice," he added.

[Diella]

Me Lady hearing that she could eat jumped up knocking her chair over in her hurry to get to the food. She made a huge pile of meats cheese and sweets. All of her food was piled together vegetables mixed with meat and even desert under the potatoes. Rushing back to her seat she looked at her chair in confusion almost as if she was confused about why it was on it side not leg like it was suppose to be. She tried to pick up the chair but her hand were full of ale and platter of food. She put the food on the chair then realized that it would fall over if she picked up the chair. So she picked up both plates only to be back at not having a hand free to pick up the chair. Finally she just place both plates and her mug on the floor picked up the chair sat down then stood up picked up her drink and food. Place all of that on the table sat down and began to eat. One arm protectively around her plate her left hand holding a knife she shoveled all the food into her mouth taking a large drink between bites.

Hearing the monk talk Me Lady paused in her eating for a moment, "Okays me calls yous Me Linn yous can call me Me Lady dat me name. Me Lady agree gud have leader den we nodd who blame wen stuff goez wrong. Me Lady may not be smarts buts me smart nuff to knows me bez bad leader choicer."

[Jagg]

Dain

"Bah! Brother Lee there was chosen like the rest of us. It's not up to him," interjected Dain, his face ruddy by this point. "If it's up to anyone, it's the Margrave's choice," he added.

Gum shrugs, "Margrave or his personal representative, what does it matter? Either way we can vote for a leader with no clue as to our relative strengths and weaknesses, or we can have one chosen for us by someone who has at least assessed our abilities". Gum sips his water again and takes a honey cake to eat.

[Daryk]

Dain

"I think I just said that," said the dwarf. Without waiting for a response, he downed a shot of Ulek Elixir and dug into yet another plate of hearty meats. He'd managed to sample just about everything the Margrave's ample kitchens had produced, but returned to the thick, juicy cuts of beef for his seconds and thirds. He showed rather more manners than the half-orc, but probably would have been out of place among those who usually shared the Margrave's table, his clerical rank notwithstanding. The Father of Battle wasn't known for his social graces, and it was only natural that his priests would follow his example, or lack thereof.

[DoNotFearToTread]

Adimus had been attentive during the bulk of the introduction but now he sat silently and pushed a bit of meat around his plate. Gorging oneself before a lengthy trek seemed counter productive and the manners of the half-orc did nothing to raise his appetite. He had zoned out, mind wandering over the most recent inscription in his spell book. A shift in the chair revealed his discomfort, though he wasn't sure if it was the situation or his clothing that brought it about. He'd opted to wear a simple outfit for the meeting, abandoning the easy motion of a belted robe for a tunic and trousers. Despite that, his hair was still in it's usual disarray and the ink stains hadn't quite washed off his fingers. When the conversation turned to leadership, his eyes slid up to the crowd and he pushed the plate further away.

"Would we then have to delve into what makes a good leader? The ability to stab something? Skill at slipping past that same something without being noticed? Knowledge of magical formulae or holy ritual? I can't imagine any of us is fit to lead through every situation, so no matter who we make the face of our little group we are going to be run by commitee." He took up the goblet from the table in front of him, sipping the water and turning is eyes to the glass to mark the completion of his contribution to the conversation.

[Daryk]

Dain

"Committee? Eh, if the Margrave doesn't say otherwise, I suppose it'll have to be, wise or no," the dwarf said around a mouthful of beef. Sighing contentedly, he took a swig of ale and returned to slicing up his latest steak while looking for the bottle of Ulek Elixir to be passed around again. His shot glass was sadly empty.

[Jagg]

Gum shrugs, "Of course a committee would work best, given the time to effectively use one. It's been my experience in dungeons that rarely time is available for impromptue discussions and an aknowledged leader is a valuable asset in these circumstances. I however am not leader material either and could add little more to any discussion on the issue."

Gum stands having eaten his fill in a relatively short period of time.
"Well if we are leaving in the morning, unless anyone has questions that they would like to ask me I would like to turn in and be fully rested before our journey."

He waits patiently by his chair to see if anyone has questions of him.

[Bayar]

I have another question...when do we leave ? says Gordon grining.

[Gryndel]

The rest of the evening was spent enjoying the refreshments provided, and chatting among themselves as long as each desired. Every person retired to their comfortable rooms for the night, and a servant politely woke them all after dawn. After a hearty breakfast, each person was given a pair of healing potions (each cures 2d4+2) before they assembled in the courtyard. There, horses, ponies, the wagons and mules, and their escort waited. A small fanfare from the Lord’s house guard saw them off, and they soon passed into the farmlands of Bissel.

After a peaceful journey of a sen’night (week), your band established a nightly routine* and reached the foothills of the Yatil Mountains without incident. It was midmorning when the escort parted company with the group. Before you is the windswept path leading northeast into the grim mountains, more than wide enough for the wagons. Behind you is the escort of horsemen riding south for home. The remaining guards are in their own wagon, with their own supplies, bringing up the rear. Fortunately, you have sure footed, mountain bred horses and ponies given to you to assure a swift passage to your destination, while the wagons are drawn by stubborn yet sturdy and sure footed mules.

Vellum map secured safely (who has this?), there is naught else to do but proceed with the quest to find the Lost Caverns of Tsojcanth.


OOC: It’s the beginning of summer. I need a marching order, wagons in the back I presume. I also need to know who is riding in the wagon. While the path is wide enough for the wagons, there will be enough space for two mounts to be side by side. Spellcasters, let me know if you want a different set of prepared spells than I have now.


*By now you would have a night shift thing worked out in detail. I propose a 12 hour day of activity, leaving 12 for rest, meaning 4 shifts of 3 hours each. This would mean that 2 people are up on each shift, and each person would get 3 shifts to rest and take care of other things each day as needed. So lets work out a shift schedule in the ooc (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?t=74436) thread, and remember the spell casters need uninterrupted sleep to regain spells. So Lin will take shift 2 or 3.

[Jagg]

Retcon post see below

[Bayar]

Gordon

A spar ?

[Gryndel]

You didn't state a time so I'll assume it's time to set for night
Oh yes, I most certainly did!


After a peaceful journey of a sen’night (week), your band established a nightly routine* and reached the foothills of the Yatil Mountains without incident. It was midmorning when the escort parted company with the group. Before you is the windswept path leading northeast into the grim mountains, more than wide enough for the wagons. Behind you is the escort of horsemen riding south for home. The remaining guards are in their own wagon, with their own supplies, bringing up the rear. Fortunately, you have sure footed, mountain bred horses and ponies given to you to assure a swift passage to your destination, while the wagons are drawn by stubborn yet sturdy and sure footed mules.

[Diella]

Me Lady nearly danced with joy when the mountain horses arrived for the party. There was her favorite Blackie trotting up and nuzzling her looking for the apples she always had hidden in her pocket for him. Me Lady enjoyed being in front of the marching order if she was allowed she like galloping then coming back to the party and riding with them for a while before it slow pace would bore her. Sometimes she lags behind until the party was far enough ahead to give her a good run. Other times she race ahead a little bit then come back. When she rode with the main group Me Lady would sing all the silly song Sarge had taught her. Most of them the only lyrics were right, left and numbers which Me Lady could never get straight even though they were just one through four.

Me Lady ear perked up when she heard someone say spar but since she was not invited to join she just sighed and patted Blackie. When the group left Me Lady jumped off Blackie and rushed over to one of the escort as it was leaving.

“Could you do me a favor nd give this to Sarge tell him I do not ned it any more. Tell him I promise to remember all he taught me and I will make him proud of me. Could yah do dat.” Me Lady said as she gave the escort a large rock about the size of her fist.

She then went back to her horse patting him on the nose as she waited to see if the party would camp for the day or continue onward.

[Jagg]

Oh yes, I most certainly did!

Woops!

Want me to retcon that? and try again?

Gum stood up on the wagon seat as the escort rides away rubbing his rear end. Whilst not as uncomfortable as a horse would have been on his slight frame, it still wasn't exactly luxury on the halfling's back end being stuck on the wagon.

Gods that looks like awful country he thinks to himself. Saddle backs and broken trails. I think the going will be significantly tougher from here on in he looks over at his new companions, wondering who was taking point now that the escort had left. He sat down again and reached back into the wagon and snagged a piece of camp bread to munch on whilst the wagon horse rested.

"Is it time to rest for the midday meal?" he asked he asked the others, "This seat is making my back end hurt and I'd like to spar to work out the kinks." he states.

[Gryndel]

Woops!

Want me to retcon that? and try again?
Sure, what was in the spoiler I take it? That's fine, just post that, or take it out of the spoiler.

[Jagg]

Gordon

A spar ?

"Yeah, you know like practise. We use sticks instead of swords, and wear our armor so it doesn't hurt much. Haven't you ever sparred before?" Gum asks.

[Bayar]

Gordon

Ah, you mean train ! Why yes ! I am honoured to duel you.

[Jagg]

"Great! Lets get some lunch first though eh?" He says.

[memnarch]

Daero

"Lunch sounds good; what do we have to eat?"

[Daryk]

[spoiler]
...
"Is it time to rest for the midday meal?" he asked he asked the others, "This seat is making my back end hurt and I'd like to spar to work out the kinks." he states.

Dain

Looking at the sun still low in the sky, the dwarf replied, "A few hours yet, I think. We can make it past the first tier of hills by then."

[Diella]

MeLady listened to the talk about sparing she look hopefully like a puppy waiting to be asked if it wanted to go for a walk. Since no one mention her she gave a little pout then exhaled deeply.

When the talk of lunch came up Me Lady glanced at the sky then over at those talking about stopping.

"Sillyies it to early to stop Belly not talking we go on if we stop now take forever to get to the fighting."

Me Lady would continue looking back to see if anyone did stop. It could be possible that she did not want to stop because no one had asked her if she wanted to spar and if she was not going to get to fight no one was.

[Jagg]

mumble mumble "Fine, lets go already." Gum says, and sits back down on the uncomfortable wagon seat.

He adjusts his sword belt to a more comfortable position and tries to get as comfortable as possible on the hard seat.

[memnarch]

Daero


Grrrr.... So when are we going to eat??? he says, wearing a nasty look. He lapses back into silence as he gets his pony to start moving again.

[TwoCents]

Ayn, half-elf druid

Ayn finished checking over the animals, ending with "her" pony (coincidentally one of the sturdiest and well mannered of the bunch). She murmured lightly in the ear of Whffin, for that is what he called himself, and tightened the belly band of the saddle.

"I believe we will eat lunch at midday, perhaps? I for one can wait the few hours, but if you wish to nibble on a snack as we travel that is up to you." She tightened her belt and checked her scimitar in its scabbard before climbing into the saddle. The half-elf wore sturdy travelling clothes in unbleached wools and cottons colored with vegetable dyes. Leather boots and gloves and a heavy woolen cloak in a pleasant heather green completed her ensemble. A small back pack held some essential gear and more was stored in two saddlebags on Whffin. A larger pack waited for her in the wagon, and her bedroll was tied behind the saddle.

"Oh, and now that we may be getting closer to combat, let me warn you that many of my spells are area spells. I enchant a place and everything in it. If you run into that place, you too will be affected." Ayn looked carefully at Me Lady to see if she seemed to understand, and then continued, "Do we have a marching order? I would prefer to be in front of the wagon and behind the first row of warriors. I have some short range missiles, and of course, my scimitar." If no one objected, she took her place in the line of travel and readied herself to continue.

[DoNotFearToTread]

Having returned to more comfortable clothing, a slim robe belted at the waist over a pair of simple breeches and some soft boots, Adimus found the trip less discomforting than it might otherwise have been. The jostling and bumping of the horse was something he'd gradually grown accustomed to, but a particularly steep shift in the terrain would often elicit a muttered curse from him. As the group drew to a stop and began to discuss their plans, he gave the horse a pat on the side and cocked his head towards the Daero.

"The smallest among us has the largest stomach? That's quite a feat given how much several among us indulged at the introductory feast. I have always found trail food to be one of the great downsides of our profession. Salted and dry, through and through." When the decision to move on seemed to be made, he urged his mount forward to keep pace somewhere near the wagons. A motion of his head shifted the focus of his words to Ayn. "If the lady wishes to remain ahead of me with sword and spell in hand, I'll not make an issue of it. I tend towards spells of utility, myself, but my combat-oriented options tend to be area-based as well."

[Gryndel]

[DM]
So it was decided to continue on, with the order of march* established. Those who’s belly rumbled were given a small sack of what was commonly called trail mix, which consisted of various nuts and dried fruits. Each had their own waterskin, which could easily be refilled from one of the barrels carried on the supply wagon when needed.

Up the trail they went, ever rising into the increasingly steeper foothills. In less than an hour the trail turned into a rough road that rose into a high pass between two peaks. At first the wide, rocky path wound back and forth up the steep slopes of the mountains. When they crested the pass the road straightened out was smoother. Beyond the edge of the pass it ran down the middle of a small ancient valley between the high mountain peaks to either side. As they progressed these peaks quickly closed in to rise above them on both sides. The road was rough, but still wide enough for the wagons to pass easily.

As the sun rose to shine down directly on them from overhead at noon, the mountains to either side slowly changed to rocky cliffs no more than a few feet from either side of the wagons, the top ranging from 50 to 100 feet above them. Dust and tiny pebbles occasionally fell on them from these cliffs, probably dislodged by the vibrations of their passage. Slowing a bit to ease the impact of their movements, the group nervously made it through this canyon without harm.

Less than an hour later the road rose gently as the cliffs fell away to flatten out into a high meadow. The mountain peaks to either side rose high enough to maintain ice and snow cover all year. But the meadow was filled with the flora found at higher elevations. The road shot straight through the meadow, but was also a good place to stop for a lunch break. They estimated that if they didn’t linger long for lunch, by nightfall they might be able to reach the north end of this meadow, to camp near the next high pass between the next pair of peaks.


[Lin Lee]
Halting their wagon under an aspen tree, the monk climbed down and stretched, “Well so far, so good.”

Lin grabbed a shovel from the wagon and walked a bit away from the wagon and the tree, “I shall make a small fire pit. If some of you could collect some firewood, I shall make us a nice stew with the last of our fresh meat.”

Carefully excavating the sod to replace later, he began to dig a small deep hole.


*Me Lady up front most of the time, with occasional forays to the rear
Dain, Gordon
Adimus, Ayn
Wagon: Lin driving, Gum in seat next to the monk, Daero in back

[Daryk]

Dain

"Stew's a splendid idea, but I think we should take a good look around before we go announcing our presence with a fire," Dain said, hopping down from his horse and unlimbering his great axe. It was good to have solid ground beneath his feet again, but he didn't waste time reveling in the sensation when there was patrolling to be done.

[memnarch]

Memnarch

Jumps of the pony and says "Fine. We'll make a small scout party of one or two people. What do you want me to find out?"


OOCnote (Wants to go scout, either alone or with one other sneaky person)

[Bayar]

OOC: Gordon is not a very good roleplayer, so he will follow up until they reach their destination and he can hack some.

[Jagg]

Gum stretched. The monk was somewhat of a laconic conversationalist, and the miles had seemed to drag. The trail mix was boring, and the hard wagon seat made his back end ache. At least we didn't have to unload the wagons to get through a pass he thought to himself.

Listening to Lin Lee he says "Stew sounds good." He says. He looks around the meadow sighing to himself, as the meadow reminded him forcefully of the fields of his home.

At Dain's suggestion of having a scout before the group has lunch, Gum shakes his head. "That will take a while, this meadow is too large. I suggest you climb one of the large trees at the edge of the meadow for a good look, but we save a full scout for when we settle in for the evening. Pick nice dry old wood for the fire, and there will be little smoke to announce our presence. Actually I'll get the wood." he says, heading back towards the nearest trees.

[Daryk]

Dain

Dain's jaw dropped slightly as the halfling trotted off toward the unexplored trees. Turning quickly to Memnarch, he said, "Just take a quick look around to make there are no orcs about, or visible up on the heights. We could well be ambushed further up the road if we're not careful." Striding as quickly as he could to catch up to Gum, he conducted a quick circuit of the copse to make sure it was safe, then helped gather some fire wood.

[TwoCents]

Ayn McNally, half-elf druid

"There, there, Whffin, lunch is coming," murmured Ayn into her pony's ears as she dismounted. When the others set off to explore, she decided to wait before currying the pony. Ayn tied off Whffin's reins to a handy bush and let him nibble on the meadow grasses while she set up a water bucket and feed bag. After tending to her pony, she moved to the wagon's mules and then other horses and ponies. Ayn stopped frequently to scan the alp to see what, if any, birds or animals might be present and to see if the ponies seemed nervous about anything. If she could spot native fauna, Ayn watched them to see if they seemed disturbed by anything other than their camp.

Once the animals were tended, Ayn walked about the area performing her druidic ability IDENTIFICATION OF PLANT TYPE looking for anything tasty to add to the stew Lin was cooking.

OOC: If nothing happened during the search of the copse and other explorations, Ayn removed the pony's saddle and quickly brushed his back. After she finished her lunch she returned and replaced Whffn's saddle and bridle.

OOC: Assume at most any break Ayn took it upon herself to make sure the animals were cared for. She always started with "her" pony and then the mules, finishing with any other animals not already cared for by their riders. This included checking hooves for stones and making sure all the animals had sufficient water.

[Diella]

Me Lady started to take care of Blackie. Seeing the elf druid also taking care of the animals Me Lady with horse in tow came over to help. Me Lady watch the elf druid take care of the horses with a look like she wanted to say something. When she got the druid attention she smiled.

“Yous wiffin he nice horsie. Me Lady have nice horsie twos. Blackie and me know each other long longs time. He always happy when Me Lady patrol visits here. Me Lady happy he now her horse.”

Me Lady paused as Black nudge her with his noise and did a little snort. Me Lady laughed and patted him.

“You right Blackie that not important ding me come to tell Lady Druid. Me wanted to say Me Lady know what Lady Druid say about spells. You mean you make grass grow big, big and it hold and crush and stop you from moving. You say you make light come from sky and hit ground and all who on ground near it. Me se me dink that grass and light from sky not smart like Me Lady not know friend from foe liker Me Lady know. So when you do no run to fight but wait so you do spell first. Me Lady know dat how Lady druid fight the bestest. Me hope Lady Druid dink about how Me Lady fight bestes and that no be with bow but with dese,” Me Lady said as she patted her melee weapon. “Me Lady hope you leave some for me to fight with axe not bow please.”

Me Lady puffed up her chest proud of her long speech, “Now me done so me ask how Me Ladyhelp you with preddy horses.”

[TwoCents]

Ayn, half-elf druid

Ayn clapped her hands together when Me Lady finished speaking. "Yes, that's it, exactly! Wonderful! Of course I will 'share' our enemies with you. My darts are tiny, but they sting like the slice of a claw. Your ax is like the fierce bite of the beast. Both weapons are part of lion's arsenal, and both have their place." Ayn smiled, content to know that at least two of this little group understood each other.

The druid reached out her hand to the horse, after pausing a moment to get his permission. "I see, Blackie, yes, you are a good boy. Such a handsome beast. Yes, you like Me Lady, don't you. Such good care she takes of you, hmmm." Ayn smiled again at Me Lady and said, "Tis good to have a friend, isn't it? I hope that we will become friends ourselves. I will tend to the wagon mules. Can you get started on feed and water for the other horses?"

[Diella]

“Me Lady glad she remember right. Sarge make me say two many times,” said the half orc gleefully holding up both her hands ( 10 fingers), “So me no forgets he say he hit Me Lady in head many two few( 8 fingers) times if she forget to know it back into her hard head. Me happy Sarge be proud of me for remember it gud.”

Me Lady nodded, “It gud to have friend when Me Lady in army me only have Sarge for friend. Other think Me Lady dumb cause me talk slow have to dink hard to make words right. Sumtime when he dink wat tah say talk river past and al look at me funny for saying something long past. Not Me Lady fault they change what talk is and me dink slow to answer dem. Me Lady big strong me have to dink what me say so udder no get mad causeif dey get mad and fight dey get hurt and me get sad dat me hurts dem. Blackie no care how long me take to say word he wait and when Me Lady talk he ready to listen he good friend. Me hope DruidLady be gud friend too.

Me Lady nodded once again happy to show off her knowledge, “Me know how to fed horse no too much water so they no get sick. How much grain to give how to brush Me Lady knows may dings me not stupid like many dink Me is.”

Me Lady then started to take care of the horse with pleasure even enjoying the more boring task or grooming and checking for stones.

[Gryndel]

[DM]
While the monk dug a small hole for a fire, the half elf and half orc tended to the animals and chatted. Most of the others did a quick check of the immediate area and gathered firewood. Ayn searched for edible flora as Lin started a small fire in the pit, making certain it wasn’t visible unless one was only a few feet away.

The druid found some wild scallions and a few herbs, some of which would add to the flavor of the stew while others she kept for later use. Dain and Daero discovered some unusual marks in the soft ground at the north edge of the meadow. Both thought they were tracks of some sort, though they were scattered and most were obscured by time and rain. Their best guess was that more than one pair of hard boots had made them sometime within the last week or so.


[Lin Lee]
Lunch stewed in the pot, the animals munched on their feed, and the monk joined Me Lady and Ayn to lend aid in tending to the animals. He smiled at the mention of friendship, but said nothing, hoping they would each find time and inspiration to become friends during their quest.


[DM]
Within half an hour the stew was pronounced to be ready. A few at a time ate while the others kept a watch in the area, and soon all had eaten their fill. It seemed to be nothing more than a pleasant picnic in a high mountain meadow, though each knew they were headed towards a dangerous and potentially deadly place. Most also knew well that the mountains were home to many violent and evil monsters, and often served as a refuge to rascals and scoundrels of all sorts.

The snapping of dead wood and a few yips alerted all to the approach of a band of gnolls, so none were surprised and all were prepared for battle when a dozen of the snarling hyena men came rushing into the meadow towards the wagon.

The guards that the Margrave sent pulled their swords and shields and circled their own wagon, leaving it to the group to defend their own.

OOC: Everyone has a round to prepare before the gnolls are seen. For those who just wish to pull weapons and engage in melee as soon as possible, you can spend the first round moving into position near the edge of the meadow, which is about 100 feet away. Everyone please include a d6 roll in your post.


[Lin Lee]
The monk pulled his staff from where it was slung on his back and stood by the group’s wagon.

[roll0]

[TwoCents]

Ayn


The druid looked up at the noise of snapping twigs. She quickly glanced around and saw that the entire camp was alerted.

"Good. Everyone's ready. Let's see what happens...," she thought as she prepared a spell.

ENTANGLE Range: 8" (80 yards); Area of Effect: 4" (40 feet) diameter; Duration: 1 turn; CT: 3 seg; ST: 1/2 (slow)

"<Come grasses, come branches, come little twigs. Come, little brothers of the forest and trap mine enemies. Grab them and hold them and make them yours, and their blood shall nourish thy roots>," she whispered to the meadow in the ancient language of the druids. She aimed the center of the area of effect to be 1" (10 feet) behind the lead element.

OOC: roll d6, aye: [roll0]

[Jagg]

As the Gnolls move towards the group, Gum attracts both fighters attention with a simple hand wave, then points at himself and makes a circling motion with his hand indicating that he would be using his small size and speed to initiate a surprise attack on the gnolls from the rear once they are engaged.

He grins wolfishly and tilts his head from side to side and loosens his shoulders before hiding as best he can.

[roll0]

[Daryk]

Dain

Seeing the gnolls approach, Dain hefted a head-sized rock and hurled it at the lead creature. Even with his short arm, the rock achieved a respectable speed as it flew toward the surprised gnoll. That done, the dwarf then unlimbered his great axe and prepared for battle with a war cry: "Baruk Khazad! Khazad aimenu!"

OOC: Warming up those d4's for engaging Large creatures... woo hoo! And yes, like most of AD&D, that war cry was shamelessly stolen from Tolkien. :smallbiggrin:

Thrown Rock Range: 8"
Darn it... I was going to make some die rolls, then forgot that previewing the post for formats spoils them. Die rolling post to follow... :smallredface:

[Daryk]

Die rolling for Dain...

Unspecified d6: [roll0]

Thrown Rock To Hit: [roll1]
Damage (if necessary): [roll2]

[memnarch]

found it again... 15+ subscriptions and slightly laggy connection do not make good combo with keeping track of things. :smallsigh:

[roll0]

Mutters "<Gnome swear word> soldiers. Going to mirror Gummy. Other side." and checks to make sure his trusted falchion is available for quick drawing if he is unsuccessful.

[Bayar]

Gordon prepares himself for melee.

[roll0]

[DoNotFearToTread]

[roll0]

Pulling himself up onto the wagon, he works to get a good vantage point for his magic. Tracing a quick circle in the air and following it up with a low hum, he extends the fingers of his right hand at the space between the front gnoll and the one that is second in line. Letting the energy coalesce across his hand, he releases it in four shimmering globes of force that streak in pairs towards each of the two targets.

MAGIC MISSILE Range: 14" (140 yards); Area of Effect: One or more creatures in a 10 foot sq area; Duration: Special; CT: 1 Seg; ST: None

Two missiles at each of the first two gnolls.

Gnoll 1 Dmg: [roll1]
Gnoll 2 Dmg: [roll2]

( Sorry this took so long. The game stopped marking posts unread in my subscription page. )

[Diella]

Me Lady sighed she really wanted to go play with the puppy dogs. Still her promise to the Lady druid was still fresh in her memory and she remembered that she promised not to get to close to Lady Druids spells. Me Lady looked over the meadow as the barks came closer if she was lucky she could go to the opposite corner and wait there. Maybe some of the puppy's would be smart enough no to go where the grass attack and come play with her instead.

Me Lady pulled her axe moving to what she hope be a good ambush spot and waited for the puppypeople to show up and come play with her.

[roll0]

[Gryndel]

[DM]
Rd1:

Before any gnolls were seen, everyone made their preparations for the upcoming battle. Gordon and Me Lady moved forward, and at a signal from the half orc both stopped to leave room for the druid to cast her spell without including them. Gum and Daero made their way off to the side of the fighters and hid in the brush at the edge of the meadow. Dain found a rock and positioned himself near Lin and Ayn near the wagon, while Adimus climbed up onto it.

Once the first gnolls appeared in the meadow everyone saw they were armed and jogging, five carried morning stars while the others hefted battle axes. They all howled and yipped in their language, and Ayn was the only one who understood them. They were reporting what they saw, obviously there were more behind them, or something else that also spoke gnollish.

The dozen gnolls entered as a large group, but split up a bit as they progressed into the meadow. A pair ran directly at Me Lady and another pair ran right at Gordon. The remaining eight split into two groups of four and ran around them to either side.

Rd2:
A pair of glowing missiles darted from Adimus’ fingertips and slammed into each of the lead gnolls. Both were wounded, but advanced in pain.

The small boulder thrown by Dain zipped past one of these wounded gnolls, barely missing its head. He then pulled his axe and prepared to defend the wagon.

As the others waited their turn to engage the advancing foes, Ayn cast her spell. All but four gnolls were caught in the area when the druid’s spell caused the grasses and flowers and roots of the meadow to rise up and hinder their movement. Only three of the eight that were affected continued to make any progress, and slowly at that, though they all struggled to break free.

Seeing this, the four gnolls not affected by the Entangle changed direction and ran around to fight Me Lady and Gordon. Just as they were about to clash, Gum and Daero appeared from nowhere and attacked one opponent each by surprise.

Gum sank his shortsword into the back of one gnoll, but thrust at an odd angle as it moved, causing only a minor wound. That gnoll turned to snarl at the halfling and fight, swinging its battle axe around hard. But the experienced little warrior rogue attacked again, stabbing the wounded gnoll in the gut. The tough gnoll survived the damage and swung at Gum, but missed the halfling as he suddenly turned invisible (The ring works instantly, at will, 1/rd).

Daero leaped out and slashed another gnoll across the spine with his falchion, nearly severing the beastie as his magic blade sliced right through. He rolled and avoided the falling corpse, getting a chance to scramble away and try to hide again.

Half a dozen arrows were launched from the woods to the left of the meadow, all aimed at hose near the wagons. One hit Adimus (3 dmg) and another nicked one of the guards (2 dmg).

The other pair of unhindered gnolls closed on Me Lady and Gordon. Their battle axes slid off the plate armor of both harmlessly.

Gordon swung his huge blade overhead and cut his opponent down, slicing nearly through the gnoll’s chest and sending dark blood flying.

Me Lady whirled her own axe around, sinking it deep into the side of her foe. Though it was severely wounded, the strike failed to kill it or keep it from fighting on.

Those near the wagons saw that another group of 13 gnolls ran into the meadow from their left, 3 armed with two handed swords and 10 with polearms. Another half dozen arrows were launched form out of sight, this time none hit anybody.


[Lin]
The monk flicked his staff, releasing a catch in the magic weapon. A spear tip emerged from one end as the shaft extended. He set it, prepared to receive the charging gnolls.

[roll0]


OOC: Everyone roll another d6 please, which is for initiative btw. Also if you know what you need to roll for your attacks go ahead and post them, I just rolled for everyone on the first round.

Summary
There are 5 gnolls (unwounded) entangled and unable to move or break free. Another 3 are slowed by the entangle and moving toward Me Lady and Gordon (2 of these are wounded from the magic missiles). There’s a wounded one fighting the now invisible Gum, and a wounded one fighting Me Lady.
Wounds:
Adimus 3
Guard A 2

[Jagg]

I'll finish off this gnoll, and then I think I'll need to protect the magic users. Gum thinks to himself. I wonder if I can hurt someone on the way though? He risks a quick glance around to find a likely target.

[roll0]

[memnarch]

Daero
[roll0] unfortunately, I don't know what I should roll so...

The smallish gnome thinks for a very brief moment before deciding to attack the closest entangled, but still moving, gnoll from the side opposite the arrows' points of origin, making sure not to touch the grass entangling the enemies.

[TwoCents]

Ayn

[roll0]

The half-elf scanned the area quickly, looking for the best use of her magic*. "They are reporting our dispostion to someone behind them. Apparently this is an organized group of enemies."

*Pls see questions in the OOC thread

[Daryk]

Dain

Seeing the second group of gnolls emerge from their left, Dain moved to intercept them, trusting the guards to cover the wagon from any further attacks.

Initiative: [roll0]
To hit: [roll1]
Damage (if necessary): [roll2] (I love 'large' opponents!)

OOC: This would probably be the best time for that war cry...

[Diella]

Me Lady snorted at the one that continue to attack her. Seeing that some more puppies were coming to play with her she timed her attack so she finish hitting the one in front of her the other would be just arriving.
Init
[roll0]
Attack
[roll1]
Damage
[roll2]
Attack
[roll3]
Damage
[roll4]

Me Lady laughed, "When you die n you go see you god you tell him Me Lady make you gift to him of you."

[DoNotFearToTread]

[roll0]

Pain from the arrow lanced up his side and he twisted to face the source. His eyes scanned over the trees only to catch on the baker's dozen gnolls moving into the meadow. Ayn's words reached him and he dug a hand into one of the pouches on his girdle, pulling out a small piece of spider web. Need to get some cover but first... He twirled the web between his fingers and barked out four quick word.

"Omslag, langzaam, greep, verstik." With a flick of his wrist he tossed the spider web in the direction of the newest group of gnolls, watching it expand. He sought to bind them up with a web attached to groups of opposing trees.

WEB Range: 4" (40 yards); Area of Effect: A 40 yd x 20 yd x 10 yd space; Duration: 16 Turns; CT: 2 Seg; ST: Neg or 1/2

[Gryndel]

[DM]
Rd2:
Arrows flew in again from the west: one nicked the right arm of the wounded wagon guard, causing a minor flesh wound (1 dmg); another sank into the left thigh of another guard, causing a more serious wound (6 dmg) and remaining stuck into his leg; a third hit Adimus on the right shoulder and skimmed off, causing a minor wound (2 dmg) and tearing his robe; and one gouged Ayn’s left shin, causing a minor wound (4 dmg). More yipping and barking could then be heard from that direction briefly, then ceased suddenly.

Ayn judged from the angle of the arrows where she would cast her next spell, another Entangle, but couldn’t see the results. Adimus filled an area between two trees with sticky strands of spidery webs. The spell entrapped one of the sword wielding gnolls and four of the gnolls who each held a bill-guisarme. Lin and Dain prepared their weapons to meet the remaining eight gnolls who charged toward the wagons. The guards stood their ground, even the wounded ones, swords and shields ready. Four of the six gnolls with bill-guisarme engaged the guards at the back wagon while the other two moved to attack Ayn and Adimus. The sword wielding pair ran up to swing at Dain and Lin.

The monk stuck his spear into the gut of the one attacking him, causing a severe wound. That gnoll missed the monk with its counter attack, though not by much. The other gnoll hit Dain on the left wrist, causing a minor yet painful wound (2 dmg). The pair behind them thrust at those in the wagon, one missed Ayn by less than an inch, but the other struck Adimus for a minor wound (5 dmg). The dwarf swung his bardiche around in a deadly arc, cutting his gnoll nearly in half with a killing blow.

One of the guards took a nasty wound to the chest which knocked him down and out, and could possible be a mortal blow. A pair of the guards landed glancing blows with their sword, causing minor wounds to the gnolls they fought.


Meanwhile, near the north end of the meadow, one wounded gnoll fought Me Lady in a fierce exchange of axe attacks as the other swung around trying to hit Gordon. Three others struggled through the grasping grasses and clinging weeds towards this scene, with Daero hidden nearby to attack the first one to emerge.

A stroke of luck brought the free gnoll’s axe down on Gordon’s shoulder, slamming through the enchanted armor to cause a minor wound (7 dmg). The warrior returned the favor, in a more deadly manner, cutting the gnoll down with his big sword.

Me Lady cut her wounded opponent down with a swift stroke of her axe, then turned in time to slice into one of the wounded ones who broke through the entangling flora. The second foe fell to her axe before it could bring its morning star to bear.

Daero leaped out and sliced the spine of the unwounded gnoll who tore through the foliage, dropping it in its tracks. The gnome once again avoided the large corpse falling towards him, dodging aside deftly.

The remaining gnoll swung at me Lady, but its morning star clanged harmlessly off her armor. Gum became visible as he stabbed it twice, bringing it down in death.


Rd3:
With no opponents left to fight, the four group members who had fought the scouts saw only a few gnolls left at the wagons still fighting. As they moved back to the wagons, one gnoll noticed how badly they would soon be outnumbered and yipped something that Ayn understood was a retreat command.

Fleeing combat allowed their opponents to get a free shot in. One of the gnolls fighting the guards never made it far before being cut down, though the other three fled at full speed to escape into the woods. Lin cut his fleeing foe down, and Dain sliced though one of the pair with polearms, though the other managed to flee unhindered.


[Lin Lee]
The monk was faster than the gnolls and chased after them to attack again. He stabbed one of them a couple of times and killed it. But he stopped near the edge of the woods next to the webs and looked back to see what the others were doing.


Summary:
Total killed: 12.

There are 5 unwounded gnolls entangled in the north end of the meadow.

Another 5 unwounded ones are trapped in the webs on the west perimeter of the meadow.

An unknown amount of unseen archers may be entangled in the woods west of the webs.

That left 3 (only 1 was wounded slightly) that ran into the woods.
Wounds:
Adimus 10
Ayn 4.
Dain 2
Gordon 7
Guard A 3
Guard B 6
Guard C 11 (unconscious)

[Daryk]

Dain

Seeing the last of the threat retreat, and assuming others would deal with the entrapped gnolls, Dain returned to the wagon and the wounded thereabout. Bending over the unconscious guard first, he murmured a brief prayer of CLW to Clangeddin, then turned to the others, healing himself last of all.

OOC: CLW for all my friends! Were the more minor wounds healed by binding or something? I didn't see Dain in the list of wounded...

[memnarch]

Daero

"Shall we finish off the rest of them now, or wait for them to get free of the webs and stuff and chase us later?"

[Gryndel]

DainOOC: CLW for all my friends! Were the more minor wounds healed by binding or something? I didn't see Dain in the list of wounded...
Oops, missed Dain in the wounded list, but I edited it just now.

You can bind the wounds of the guard who is down, bringing him to 0 HP, then cast cure spells on him and/or others.

[Jagg]

Gum assesses the situation after eviscerating the gnoll. He decides that the best thing to do would be to take out some of the archers but doesn't want to get caught in a spell, so he moves next to the magic users and says "I'm going for the archers, I'll approach from the southwest, don't fry me." he then moves as quickly as he can out of their lines of fire at an oblique angle and starts circling to the west.

[Diella]

Me Lady stood watching at the edge of the entangle waiting for it to end. She bounced on the balls of her feet impatiently staring at her foe that was to far away for her to attack it. She made little sounds to it like one would call a hunting dog to ones side.

"Here dogie come play I have a nice stick for you... all right not a stick exactly but part of it a stick and you get to play with it. Come here to me you can do it I know you can."

[memnarch]

Daero

"Good enough. Let's KILL 'EM!" and runs to entangled gnolls and attacks, making sure to keep of the entangling plants.

I would prefer to jump onto the gnolls and attack, but I don't know if that is allowed/possible, so it got put in here. Attack rolls for use as well.

[roll0]
[roll1]

[roll2]
[roll3]

[TwoCents]

Ayn, half-elf druid

“<Retreat!>” barked the gnolls.

“Not this time, my friends. There are penalties to audacity,” murmured Ayn.


Me Lady stood watching at the edge of the entangle waiting for it to end. She bounced on the balls of her feet impatiently staring at her foe that was to far away for her to attack it. She made little sounds to it like one would call a hunting dog to one’s side.

"Here doggie come play I have a nice stick for you... all right not a stick exactly but part of it a stick and you get to play with it. Come here to me you can do it I know you can."

“Yes, my friends, great penalties. Welcome to survival of the fittest.” Ayn ran up to Lin Lee, and laughed as she ran. “Good hunting, Me Lady! I go with the monk.”

With scimitar in her right hand and mistletoe in her left, Ayn stopped and turned to Master Lin. “Some one was directing them. I wonder who it was. Shall we make chase?” With a savage smile, she began to … shift. She fell to her knees as her body twisted. Joints bent in new ways; bones lengthened, others shrank; coarse hair erupted over her body as her clothes sank into the new form. Her pale half-elvish face flowed into the sharp fangs and gleaming eyes of a great wolf; she sat, panting slightly for a moment with a very human smile on her lupine features.

She leaped to her paws and bounded after the gnolls, pausing for a second to look back to see if Lin or any of the others were coming along.

OOC:
Druid special ability CHANGE FORM -- DIRE WOLF

AC: 6 (5 with +1 ring)
Move: 18”
Attacks: Bite, 2d4 damage
THAC0: 16
Size: M

hp recovery:
[roll0] x10% = 10% of 4 hp lost = 0.4 = 0? 1?

[Jagg]

Kabump!! Extra text

[Gryndel]

[Lin Lee]
Seeing the druid advance, the monk nodded once and replied, “It may be a diversion or a ruse to draw us away. But if so, we can return rather quickly.”

When Ayn changed into a dire wolf, Lin slung his staff on his back and pulled out and loaded his crossbow. He then set off after the fleeing gnolls.


[DM]
Dain rushed over to tend the wounded, his first efforts were immediate treatment to stem the flow of blood from the dying guard. After ensuring the soldier would live, he began casting cure spells on those nearby. The guard was healed of all but a minor wound (cure 7), but remained unconscious. Adimus received the most that Dain could channel through one spell (cure 8). Ayn had run off, and Gordon remained at the north end of the meadow, leaving the three guards and Adimus still wounded other than himself.

Gum joined those at the wagon and told them his plan, then took off to join the hunt for the gnoll archers.

The druid in wolf form and the monk caught up to the three fleeing gnolls as they ran past the area that Ayn had blindly entangled. Ayn noted the presence of one gnoll archer within, stuck fast in the clinging flora. She also noticed Gum circling around on the other side of the entangled area, though he avoided getting entangled, and nobody else seemed to notice the halfling.

Gum saw the monk and a large wolf attack the three gnolls, who turned to fight once they realized they couldn’t escape. He saw the entangled gnoll, and was fairly sure where the dangerous area was. The battle was about 80 feet from the halfling, with the entangled area between it and him.

OOC: Gum & Ayn roll d6, post action and appropriate rolls for the round please. If Gum used his ring of invisibility he could move over and get into position for a backstab next round or get an attack as fighter this round.


[Lin Lee]
When they first spotted the fleeing gnolls, the monk fired his crossbow at one. He slung the weapon on his back as he ran at the other one, then leaped into the air and aimed a flying kick at its head.

Initiative [roll0]
Crossbow Attack [roll1]
Damage [roll2]
Kick [roll3]
Damage [roll4]

[DM]
Meanwhile, Me Lady and Daero and Gordon waited near the north end of the meadow, taunting the five gnolls who were deeply entangled. Each gnoll could be seen through the cover that the entangling plants provided, struggling in futile efforts to break free. Though it would not be easy, they could be targeted by missile weapons without risking entanglement.

Wounds:
Adimus 2
Ayn 4
Dain 2
Gordon 7
Guard A 3
Guard B 6
Guard C 3 (unconscious)

[memnarch]

Daero

"Hmmm...." Daero thinks a bit then switches to his shortbow and shoots a gnoll.

[TwoCents]

Ayn, half-elf druid (dire wolf)

With a snarl, Ayn leaped at the gnoll Lin had fired upon. Gnashing teeth snapped and fur flew as she tried to bring down her opponent.

Initiative: [roll0]
Bite: [roll1]
Damage [roll2]

edit: I think she bit her tongue...

[Jagg]

Gum looks around suspicious "Hmm only one archer got entangled" he thinks to himself, trying to remember how many arrows had come from this patch of woods. He glances over towards where LinLee and Ayn in wolf form are engaging the fleeing gnolls. "They can handle that, I'm more worried about where the rest of the archers are."

Gum moves towards any likely sniping position confident he can find the other archers and moving with stealth.


[roll0]

[Diella]

Me Lady stamped her foot in frustration.

"Stupid dogmen why you play with plants Me Lady better to play with. Now look what you mades me do. You madesme has to gets bow out. Me no likes dat now me mads at you and me gonna make you pays in pain. You better comes out den you just die not gets hurts."

Me Lady get out her range weapon and looks for a good target

[roll0]
[roll1] Attack #1
[roll2] Damage
[roll3] Attack #2
[roll4] Damage

[Gryndel]

[DM]
Due to the efforts of Me Lady, Daero, and Gordon, a few missiles found gnoll flesh in the entangled area. Coordinating their attacks, they managed to kill one and wounded another.


[Gordon - NPC mode]
Thoroughly bored with shooting at entangled gnolls, and seeing only a few unwounded allies at the wagons, Gordon decided to rejoin those few. He kept his bow in hand as he made his way back to the wagons.


[DM]
Once he returned to the wagon, Gordon benefited from a cure spell cast by Dain (cure 4 dmg). Those at the wagon could hear fighting nearby in the trees to the west, but they couldn’t see the battle.


[Adimus - NPC mode]
The magic user stood on the group’s wagon, waiting and watching.


[DM]
In the trees to the west, Ayn slipped on some moss and mistimed her bite, resulting in biting her own wolf tongue. Though it did no damage, it hurt and caused the wolf to yelp in pain.

Lin had a little better luck, though he missed with his crossbow, at least he didn’t hurt himself. His well aimed kick connected, though it seemed to do little damage to the gnoll.

The gnolls seemed to be affected by the same bad luck, missing both combatants with their polearm attacks.

Gum went invisible and sought the enemies who had fled the scene. His silent passage went unseen by all, and he soon found the spot further to the west where the gnolls had camped recently. But he saw no gnolls, nor any sign of any passing this way in the last few minutes.


[Lin Lee]
The monk attacked again, feet and fists flying as he sought to hit both the gnolls fighting him.

Initiative [roll0]
Attack #1 [roll1]
Damage #1 [roll2]
Attack #2 [roll3]
Damage #2 [roll4]

WoundsAdimus 2
Ayn 4
Dain 2
Gordon 3
Guard A 3
Guard B 6
Guard C 3 (unconscious)

[memnarch]

Daero


"What, bored already? Come on, there's plenty left."

Actions; keep shooting.


(OOC: NPC mode huh? I suppose go with what works.... for now.)

[Daryk]

Dain

Dain continued to dispense the blessings of Clanggedin in the aftermath of the battle. (CLW curing [roll0] damage to the next most damaged character.)

[Diella]

"You die now Sillypuppies of barkiness. You die from Me Lady rain of flying sticks."

Me Lady continued to shoot her bow.

(1d6)
[roll0]

[Diella]

Attack 1
[roll0]

dammage
1d6+3
[roll1]

Attack 2
[roll2]

damage
1d6+3
[roll3]

[TwoCents]

Ayn - Dire Wolf form

The yelp turned to a snarl as Ayn leaped at the gnoll facing Lin. The savage pulse of the wild pounded in her ears; these creatures had threatened her pack, and they must be punished.

Initiative: [roll0]
Attack: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2]

edit: That's better! Rip, tear, shred...

[Jagg]

"Hmm No one home...I'm still worried about those archers but the monk and Druid might have attracted them." Gum thought to himself.

He sneaks around to where they are and engages one of the gnolls

Initiative [roll0]

[Gryndel]

[DM]
Me Lady Killed one helpless gnoll while Daero killed another, each firing a pair of arrows that all hit their mark. This left only an unwounded pair still entangled in the north end of the meadow.

Suddenly, a large boulder appeared in the air as it hurtled towards the pair of bow wielding executioners. It landed between them, only inches from Me Lady, and rolled a few times before coming to rest.


****
[Gordon - NPC mode]
After Dain cured the fighter of the last of the damage he had suffered, he pointed at the gnoll trapped in the magic webs at the west edge of the clearing and asked the magic user, “Can we burn him up without starting the trees on fire?”


[Adimus - NPC mode]
“Probably. But I’d feel better if we wait for the druid and monk to return first.”


[DM]
As the boulder hit the ground to the north, attracting the attention of everyone at the wagon, a trio of boulders flew in from the east.

The first boulder hit an unwounded guard and smashed him into the guards’ wagon, crunching the body into pulp and damaging the wagon so badly it would take a miracle to repair. The flying debris and the boulder landing on him also killed the unconscious guard, and debris wounded another.

The second rock slammed into the ground right next to the dwarf and sunk in several inches from the impact.

The third crunched into the head and shoulders of the human fighter, causing severe injuries (30 dmg) to Gordon. Such a savagely massive blow it was that Gordon fell to the ground, either unconscious and dying, or perhaps even dead already.


[Adimus - NPC mode]
The magic user cast a MIRROR IMAGE spell and stepped away from the remaining wagon.

[roll0]


****
[DM]
Ayn tore a nasty wound in the leg of one gnoll. Lin bludgeoned that gnoll to the ground with a fist to the throat, and a kick to the mid section of another stunned it. As the stunned gnoll hit the ground, the remaining one tried to flee. But the fleeing gnoll ran right past the hidden halfling and was hamstrung at that spot. Gum became visible as his short sword sank into the gnoll’s back and killed it quickly.


[Lin Lee]
The monk pulled out a rope and secured the gnoll’s arms and legs, looping it around the neck so that any struggling would result in choking. He then went over to collect his dropped crossbow and slung it on his back. Looking around a bit, he shrugged, “I suppose we should return to the wagon and report what we found. We can drag this one back, if you wish.”


[DM]
After the monk spoke, he, the wolf, and the halfling all heard the boulder attack, cries of panic and battle, and crunching wood.


WoundsAdimus 2
Ayn 4
Dain 2
Gordon 30
Guard A 7
Guard B 6
Guard C dead!
Guard D dead!

[TwoCents]

Ayn - Druid in Dire Wolf form




The monk pulled out a rope and secured the gnoll’s arms and legs, looping it around the neck so that any struggling would result in choking. He then went over to collect his dropped crossbow and slung it on his back. Looking around a bit, he shrugged, “I suppose we should return to the wagon and report what we found. We can drag this one back, if you wish.”

Ayn grinned wolfishly and wagged her tail in agreement, then scribbled Who? What? Why? in the dust and pointed at the gnoll.




After the monk spoke, he, the wolf, and the halfling all heard the boulder attack, cries of panic and battle, and crunching wood.

Ayn spun on her paws, the thought, "Giants?!" surging into her head. Ayn-wolf surged forward at her best speed, but used whatever concealment the forest provided to hide her approach, even if it added distance -- and time -- to her movement. She allowed herself to embrace the spirit of the hunting wolf as she charged towards the enemy, using all of her senses and ready to dodge away from sudden danger. Her goal was to circle around behind the throwers and see what was going on, trusting to her nature senses to allow her to escape.


move 18"
initiative: [roll0]

[memnarch]

Daero (ooc: don't know where the gnome is at the moment; too confused)

"....stupid gnolls..... stupid rocks.... what else is out here.....?" the gnome mutters to himself. He runs in the direction that the rocks came from for a bit, hides, and sneaks closer, all the while staying alert for any danger coming his direction. (effectively, sneak over there as fast as possible while being watchful)

[Jagg]

[DM]


****
[DM]
Ayn tore a nasty wound in the leg of one gnoll. Lin bludgeoned that gnoll to the ground with a fist to the throat, and a kick to the mid section of another stunned it. As the stunned gnoll hit the ground, the remaining one tried to flee. But the fleeing gnoll ran right past the hidden halfling and was hamstrung at that spot. Daero became visible as his falchion sword sank into the gnoll’s back and killed it quickly.


[DM]
After the monk spoke, he, the wolf, and the halfling all heard the boulder attack, cries of panic and battle, and crunching wood.


((ooc)) Typo? That's me over there with Lin Lee and Ayn not Daero ((/ooc))

Gum focuses on the direction that the rocks came from. "Bet that's where the archers went. They'll be defending whoever or whatever is throwing rocks." he thinks to himself. Seeing the wolf dash off, he sprints off following her, trying to be quiet and maintaining his invisibility. The wolf easily outpaces him however and he thinks to himself. " So five or so archers, and either a team with four trebuchets or 4 giants. Geez that's a lot for a single wolf. I hope she can handle herself for a bit until I can back her up".

He glances back towards Lin Lee, wondering if he'll just skewer the captured Gnoll and follow sicne he now has others to answer questions.

[Daryk]

Dain

"Oh, ho! So they want to play catch, do they?!" shouted Dain, picking up the boulder next to him and hefting it for a throw. Casting about for a target, Dain flung the rock at the first target he saw.

To hit: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[Diella]

Me Lady stared at the rock as if it was a puzzle she had to solve. "Rock fly?? No rocks no fly! Where rock come from who make rock think it could fly? Me go hit him in head so he stop making rock dink they can fly."

Me Lady started to run toward the wood from where the rocks had come from switching her weapons as she ran.

[Gryndel]

[DM]
Me Lady and Daero moved into the woods to the north, the gnome with stealth and the half orc with puissant purpose.


The monk left the bound gnoll where it was and followed the wolf. Both returned to the clearing quickly, though the invisible halfling lagged behind a bit. Ayn made her way around to the north edge of the clearing, to stay out of sight if possible, and to move around to flank the rock throwing enemy (she can be behind them next round, also see below). Lin ran across the clearing towards the wagons.

The two remaining guards went over to aid Gordon and use the other wagon as cover.

Five gnoll archers ran to the east edge of the clearing and fired, then reloaded their bows, A larger gnoll with a metal breastplate and a halberd, apparently their leader, stepped out to defend them against anyone who came near. As the arrows flew to their targets, three more boulders also flew out of the trees, from deeper in the woods.

Dain managed to hit one of the gnoll archers with his boulder, which smashed the creature dead into the ground.

The boulders all slammed into Gordon and the guards, squishing them all into bloody pulp! One of the arrows nicked Dain (2 dmg) on the left shoulder. Another pair of arrows hit images of Adimus, each illusion vanished when struck (6 left). One flew way over their heads, but nearly hit the monk as he approached the wagons.


[Adimus - NPC mode]
The magic user cast a SLEEP spell on the gnolls before they could aim and fire again.


[DM]
All the gnolls fell into a deep slumber, including their leader.

Next Rd:
Gum got to the west edge of the clearing just as three hill giants emerged from the east edge (he’s 200' from them to begin this rd). Each giant held a huge club and moved to engage those at the wagon.


[Adimus - NPC mode]
The magic called out loudly, “Wait for them to come here!”, then began to cast FIREBALL.

Damage:
[roll0]

[Lin Lee]
The monk ran up to take a defensive stance in front of Adimus as the magic user cast. He pulled out his staff and commanded the spear tip out, then extended the weapon to its full length.


[DM]
Me Lady nearly ran into the giant who jogged south, and Daero was right behind and to the side of her. The giant roared and raised its club to attack the half orc, apparently not aware of, or ignoring, the gnome.

Ayn heard this battle also as she moved around the edge of the clearing. Though she couldn't see the combatants at the moment, she could smell the trail left by Me Lady.


Wounds:
Adimus 2
Ayn 4
Dain 4

[Diella]

Me Lady skittered to a stop as she she nearly ran into a gaint. She looked up at him because he was real big. As she started to attack him she laughed, "U big me mum say da bigger dey are dey harder dey fall. Me Lady dink u gonna fall hardz."

Me Lady attack with her battle axe planning on chooping the giant down to her size

Inititive 1 d6
[roll0]

Attack #1 (1d20+8)
[roll1]
Damage (1d8+9)
[roll2]
Attack #2 (1d20+8)
[roll3]
Damage (1d8+9)
[roll4]

[Daryk]

Dain

"Hah! Take, that you mangy whelp!" Dain cried as his stone crushed the life out of a gnoll. Turning to the onrushing giants, he unlimbered his great axe and called out, "Come on you ugly sons 'a trolls! I'll give you what you've got coming!"


OOC:
Initiative: [roll0]
Attack: [roll1]
Damage (if necessary): [roll2]
Please also remember that giants have a -4 penalty to hit dwarves (being that I'm trying to get them to attack me vice anyone else).

[TwoCents]

Ayn - Dire Wolf form

AC: 6 (Natural AC 5 with +1 ring)
Move: 18”
Attacks: Bite, 2d4 damage
THAC0: 16
Size: M
HP 43/47

Ayn's nose registered the scent of her comrade as her ears picked up the half-orc's taunts. Racing on the felt soft pads of her paws, Ayn tried to get behind the enemy. She was unsurprised to see that it was a giant, but worried about what was happening near the wagons. This problem needed to be dealt with quickly. Choking back a snarl, she attempted to surprise the giant with a leap from behind.

Rip, tear, shred some more!
Initiative: [roll0]
Bite: [roll1] possibly with +2 from behind?
Damage [roll2]

[memnarch]

Daero

"Decisions, decisions..." the gnome mutters to himself as he quickly thinks of what to do. "Shoot them from here? not that exciting..... What the hell." Daero takes an offensive posture and shoots 2 arrows at the closest hill giant (preferably in the eyes).

*mutter* "Climbing a bloody tree might get me up high enough, but with any luck the stupid things would move away before I could jump it." *mutter*

[Jagg]

"bloody Giants! I knew it" thought Gum to himself. It's going to take far too long to reach them. Oh look so that's where the archers went. Hey a chief, lets cut the head from the snake and see if the rest run.


(ooc) apologies for delay guys. I'm going after the armor wearing chief (/ooc)

Initiative [roll0]

[Gryndel]

[DM]
As the dire wolf moved around the battle undetected by all. Daero fired his bow as Me Lady swung her axe at the giant.

One arrow launched by the gnome struck true into the chest, but the other flew off into the woods.

The half orc sank her blade twice into the foe, each attack slicing deeply through the flesh and muscle of the hip.

The dire wolf attacked from behind, surprising the giant and her companions, her teeth sank deep into the giant’s leg. Before the giant could react, she bit it again (I rolled, since the first was surprise attack), damaging the other leg.

The giant roared and stepped back and to the side, swinging at Me Lady. The club landed a solid blow on her left shoulder, flesh bruised and bone bruised (15 dmg) from the attack.


Gum moved toward the sleeping gnolls, intent on slaying their leader. He glanced over and noticed the magic user waving his arms around and pointing at the trio of giants that advanced into the clearing. Some sense gave him the inspiration to veer off from a direct path to the gnolls, which saved him from being in the area when a tiny bead streaked forth from Adimus’ outstretched finger and struck the middle giant in the chest. It blossomed instantly into a ball of magic flames that scorched all the giants, and barely missed Gum.

Though burned badly, each giant continued to charge towards the wagon. The dwarf and monk tried to engage them all, and the magic user ran to the north. The halfling moved toward the gnoll leader (he'll get there next rd and can kill it easily).

The dwarf sliced into the giant that came at him, cleaving off a big chunk of its leg off at the hip as the blade of his bardiche sank in to the bone. With a jerk he pulled the weapon free as he dodged the giant’s clumsy attack.

The monk lunged with his spear into the chest of his giant, setting the butt of his weapon in the ground and using the momentum of the giant’s charge to inflict a more serious wound. Though severely damaged now, the giant still swung at Lin as he pulled his spear free. The monk dodged to avoid the blow, but was struck (16 dmg) on the left side with a bone crunching club attack.

Adimus had moved around the wagon and ran from the other giant, avoiding the club attack altogether. Though it seemed clear that the giant would outrun the human soon enough, Adimus dodged and ran in an irregular pattern to take advantage of his agility compared to the ungainly giant as he pulled his wand out.


Next rd
[Lin Lee]
The monk continued to attack with his spear, “Stay away from it Adimus! Run to find Me Lady and the others!”
Initiative[roll0]
Attack[roll1]
Damage[roll2]


[Adimus - NPC mode]
The magic user turned suddenly and aimed his wand at the oncoming giant, “I will Lin, but first!”, he spoke a command word to activate his wand.
Initiative[roll3]


Wounds
Adimus 2
Ayn 4
Dain 4
Lin Lee 16
Me Lady 15

[Daryk]

Dain

"Hah!" the dwarf exclaimed as his axe bit deep into the giant's thigh. Spinning out of the way of the giant's riposte, he brought the weapon to bear again and again.

Initiative: [roll0]
Attack #1 (1d20+9): [roll1]
Damage #1 (3d4+13): [roll2]
Attack #2 (1d20+9): [roll3]
Damage #2 (3d4+13): [roll4]

[TwoCents]

Ayn - Druid in Dire Wolf form

Snarling, Ayn continued to bite and snap at the hill giant, trying to keep it distracted long enough for Me Lady to land the killing blow. Grinning to herself, she thought to try something. "Ssssurrendoooor! Ssurendoo!," she howled, trying to wring giantish words from her wolfish mouth.

Combat stats:
AC: 6 (Natural AC 5 with +1 ring)
Move: 18”
Attacks: Bite, 2d4 damage
THAC0: 16
Size: M
HP 43/47

Initiative: [roll0]
Bite: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2]

Edit: apparently Ayn can't talk and chew giants at the same time.


OOC question: Can Ayn tell how badly this giant is hurt? Slightly dinged? Bleeding from every pore? Somewhere in the middle? Is it time to stop playing and get opposable thumbs back?

Also, do those of us off in the woods see/hear the fireball in the clearing?

[Jagg]

The invisibility ceases as Gum races towards the sleeping chief and archers. The fireball almost scorches his rear end and you can hear his inarticulate cry of "Tsshhaaaa argh hot hot hot." He glances back, seeing that the others are engaging the giants and bellows loudly.

"Hey stupid giants. You wanna get paid? Better protect the chief then. I'm gonna cut his head off. "

initiative [roll0]

(ooc) do I need to roll to coup de grace? Chief first, then archers.(ooc)

[Diella]

"Giant not play fair you hurt me. Not nice now it me turn to hurt you."
Me Lady attacked.

Inititive [roll0]
Attack #1 [roll1]
Damage [roll2]
Attack #2 [roll3]
Damage [roll4]

[memnarch]

Daero

The small gnome charges forward putting away the bow and drawing his favorite sword and, leaping into the air, attacks the closest giant. "RRRAAAAHHHH!!"


OOC:the jumping is just me being descriptive

If needed, initiative [roll0]

[Gryndel]

[DM]
North in Woods
The axe of Me Lady swiped into the giant twice, each strike caused another wound on its torso. Daero dropped his bow and drew his sword, jumping up to slash it into the giant’s knee. Ayn snapped onto nothing but air as she mistimed her bite.

The giant’s club crashed down onto Me Lady again (18 dmg), this time bashing her on top of the head. This blow left a growing knot on her noggin and blurred her vision a moment, but nothing that would hinder her fighting ability just yet.


In the Clearing
Dain sunk the blade of his bardiche into the groin of his foe and brought it down with a gurgling scream. He dodged aside deftly and swung again, this time landing the killing blow on the giant that Lin fought.

This freed up the monk to assist Adimus. The magic user’s wand shot a bright flash of light at the giant that had chased him, blinding it before it could reach him. By the time the giant’s wildly swinging club even threatened the area, the monk was there with his spear, which he stabbed into the giant’s gut. Lin easily dodged the blind attack of the giant as Adimus backed up a bit more to be out of range of the club.

Gum sliced the throat of the gnoll chief and leaped over to repeat the gruesome process on a gnoll archer, killing both before they could wake from the magic slumber.


Next Rd
[Lin Lee]
The monk continued to fight the now blinded giant as he swirled and ducked.

Initiative [roll0]
Attack [roll1]
Damage [roll2]


[Adimus - NPC]
Seeing the monk apparently handling the remaining giant in the meadow, the magic user pulled out his sling and a bullet and carefully aimed a shot at the giant.

Initiative [roll3]
Attack [roll4]
Damage [roll5]


Wounds:
Adimus 2
Ayn 4
Dain 4
Lin Lee 16
Me Lady 33
North Giant - Severe
Clearing Giant - Serious

[memnarch]

Daero

"Hmm... that looked like it could have hurt."

The gnome continues jump around slashing at the engaged enemy. [roll0]

[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]
[roll4]

[Jagg]

Gum resigns himself to be too far away to help his companions, but they seem to have things well in hand. He does the only thing he can think of to distract them further and yells again across at them.

"Whoops Chief's dead now, and you will be too".

He scoops up one of the bows and takes aim at the nearest giant.

initiave [roll0]
attack [roll1]
damage[roll2] I think??? Please correct if I am wrong

[TwoCents]

Ayn, Half-elf Druid

Ayn snarled when she saw the giant's weapon connect -- again -- with Me Lady. She leaped backward just out of the melee and as silently as possible changed back into her elven form. The snarl still on her lips, she drew her scimitar and leaped back into the fray.

Combat Stats:
AC: 4
THAC0: 16
HP 43/47

Initiative: Scimitar of Speed goes first; otherwise [roll0]
Scimitar: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2]
3/2 attacks per round
edit: Okay, maybe next round...

[Daryk]

Dain

"Clangeddin be Praised!" Dain shouted as felled the second giant. Turning to search for another target, he spotted an apparently blinded giant swinging wildly at Lin Lee. With a feral grin, he moved to engage the creature.

Initiative: [roll]1d6[roll]
Attack #1 (1d20+9): [roll0]
Damage #1 (3d4+13): [roll1]

[Diella]

Me Lady attacked she would continue to attack until one of them was eating dirt. She did not pay attention to her wounds. Pain was something to be felt after the battle not during.



Inititive [roll0]
Attack #1[roll1]
Damage [roll2]
Attack #2 [roll3]
Damage [roll4]

[Gryndel]

[DM]
North in Woods
Though it took a good deal of effort and some time to change into animal forms, the druid shifted back to her own form instantly. Her speedy scimitar slashed out at the giant, but missed the mark. Even as her wounds throbbed with every move, Me Lady ignored this agony and attacked again. Her axe sunk in deep on both strikes, the second hit brought the giant crashing down.

OOC: Since Daero went last in initiative, the giant was killed before he could go. By the way, he gets only 1 attack per round with his sword. If he wants to, he could climb into the giant’s bag after it falls dead and start searching for treasure. Or use the round to move back to the meadow.


In the Clearing
Adimus slung his sling bullet with amazing accuracy, smacking the giant in the forehead. Though it left a knot there and made the giant holler, it failed to bring it down. The monk missed with his spear as the dwarf moved to enter the fray. Dain brought his bardiche around in a mighty swing, which sank into the hip of the blinded giant, but it still fought on.

The giant swung its club around blindly, finally aiming a blow at the dwarf. But the blindness and the dwarf’s ability to fight such things caused the giant to miss wildly.

Gum deftly sliced the throat of two more gnolls, leaving only a pair left alive and slumbering from magic.


Next Rd:
[Lin Lee]
The monk maneuvered around the giant and stabbed at it again.

Initiative [roll0]
Attack [roll1]
Damage [roll2]


[Adimus - NPC]
The magic user reloaded his sling and aimed carefully, then launched another bullet at the giant.

Initiative [roll3]
Attack [roll4]
Damage [roll5]


Wounds:
Adimus 2
Ayn 4
Dain 4
Lin Lee 16
Me Lady 33
Clearing Giant - Severe

[Daryk]

Dain

Dain laughed heartily at the giant's wild miss. "Father of Battle, may my aim be true!" he exclaimed as he swung his great axe again and again.

Initiative: [roll0]
Attack #1 (1d20+9): [roll1]
Damage #1 (3d4+13): [roll2]
Attack #2 (1d20+9): [roll3]
Damage #2 (3d4+13): [roll4]

[Jagg]

Gum kills one more of the gnolls and thumps the other one good and hard to make sure he doesn't wake up in a hurry. "Right time to see if anything else is out there." he says to himself, looking around for a handy tree or other vantage point.

[memnarch]

Daero

With a yell of "Treasure!", the gnome jumps into the fallen giant's bag and starts looking for shinies.

[TwoCents]

Ayn

Quickly sheathing her scimitar, Ayn rushed to Me Lady's side. "Stand still and wait a minute, THEN go after the other giant, hmm? Let me try to fix that a bit, first." Ayn quickly squeezed some mistletoe berries in her fist and smeared the juice on Me Lady's forehead, calling on the Power of Nature to heal the warrior's wounds

Casting CURE SERIOUS WOUNDS

[roll0]

[Gryndel]

[DM]
North in Woods
Daero burrowed into the giant’s bag, crawling between the boulders and bits of bone stored there, as he sought the bottom. Various coins were noted, and when he encountered the limit of the bag his hand fell upon the delicate chain of a lady’s bracelet or anklet. He couldn’t tell right away what it was made of, since it was dark this far into the bag and infravision couldn’t determine what type of metal it was. But after collecting the coins on the way and exiting back into the daylight he discovered it was crafted of shiny gold.

Ayn called upon the powers of nature to mend some of Me Lady’s wounds.


In the Clearing
Adimus and Lee both missed terribly! The magic user’s bullet flew off wildly as the sling pocket whipped back and smacked him in the left eye. The monk stuck his spear so deep into the ground that he had to release it to keep from breaking it. But Dain brought his bardiche around in a mighty swing, which sank into the gut of the blinded giant. The force of the blow tipped the dying giant backwards, its gory and gruesome guts spilled out onto the dwarf and monk as it flailed about, then fell dead on its back with a loud thump.

Gum deftly sliced the throat of another gnoll. Ironically, his bash to keep the remaining one asleep was enough to wake it from the magic slumber. But he had the advantage and killed it before it could react. He then sought a handy hiding place behind the nearest tree.


[Lin Lee]
The monk reached over to push the button on his staff to withdraw the spear blade and grabbed his weapon before it fell. As he slung it on his back, he grinned at the dwarf and said, “Well, I certainly am pleased you are with us, Dain. Nobody fights giants like a dwarf!”


[Adimus - NPC]
The magic user put his sling away and remarked, “Indeed, well fought Dain.”


[Lin Lee]
Looking to the north, Lin added, “I will go check on the others, and will call for help if needed.” He sprinted off to the north.


[Adimus - NPC]
Starting with the last to die, then walking over to the other dead giants, Adimus began to search the bags that each had tied to its belt.


Summary:
One wagon was completely destroyed. Some supplies can be salvaged. All the guards are dead, as is Bayar.

There are still living 2 gnolls entangled in the north end of the meadow. Another is entangled in the west woods, about 50 feet from the clearing. A bound one lies near this same area. There are also 5 trapped in the web at the west edge of the clearing.

Bayar will be missed, as he was another powerful fighter. But his items can go to good use among the group. Let me know how you want to split them up.

Its still early afternoon, about 2 PM or so.

Wounds:
Adimus 2
Ayn 4
Dain 4
Lin Lee 16
Me Lady 22

[Jagg]

Gum picks up one of the bows and a sheaf of arrows and casually saunters over to where the five gnolls are trapped in the web. He takes out five arrows and spears them into the ground before him, making a little performance of it and making sure the gnolls can see his preparations. He takes another arrow and slowly draws back the bow and sights down the arrow pointing it at each of them in turn before letting loose the arrow at the centre gnoll.
"Hello." he says cheerfully, giving somewhat of a feral grin and setting another arrow on the bow. "So me young fellows. Who's not feeling talkative? Anyone?" he asks testing the draw of the bow. ((ooc - do I need an intimidate roll?))

"I've got some questions. As you can plainly tell we as a group have a lot of captives, so your current lifespan is measured in how useful you can be to me and the group. This little attack of yours killed our wagon guards and guide. Whilst my arse thanks you for no longer making me ride on that hard wagon seat, my back now complains that I'm going to have to hump all our supplies so you can appreciate that I'm currently not predisposed to treat you with kindness. I'm going to ask you some questions, and the slowest among you to answer will be the first to get an arrow where it hurts. So lets begin..."

"Who ordered this attack?"

"Where is your settlement?"

"How many live there?"

"What other enemies might we face?"

"Where do they live?"

"Who knows where the tomb is we seek?"

"Who feels like wearing a rope around their necks and carrying my bags?"

"Any of you know how to fix a wagon?"

The relentless questioning continues.

((OOC I'll make sure that I kill most of them and leave two alive - I'm not being deliberately cruel, I just don't want to have all five try and rush me if the spell falls unexpectedly.))

[Daryk]

Dain

Casually reversing the stroke of his great axe, Dain beheaded the fallen giant. Covered in gore, he smiled at his companions' compliments and said, "The Father of Battle blesses all his folk, especially against giants. I'll be setting up a warning to others unless there are any more in need of healing."

Dain goes about setting giant and gnoll heads on spikes in rows along the road. If anyone needs healing, Dain will expend his remaining spells.

[TwoCents]

Ayn

"So, it seems that today we shall survive. Your head seems sufficiently whole, Me Lady, but I would like to pray for more healing later, once we see how the others are doing. Shall we return to the clearing?"

Before leaving, Ayn looked over the body of the giant for any tribal tattoos or other distinguishing marks or ornaments to help identify the giants.

[TwoCents]

Ayn

After returning to the wagons, Ayn heard Gum questioning the gnolls. "What are you doing?" she demanded. "Typical biped..." The druid walked over to the gnolls and asked, in gnollish, <"Who wants to live?">

[Gryndel]

[Me Lady - NPC]
The half orc nodded in agreement to the druid and jogged off back into the meadow.


[DM]
North in the Woods
Daero gathered the loot from the giant’s bag (PM me if you do anything other than add it group treasure to split up) and crawled out in time to see Ayn inspecting the giant.

The giant had many scars, and one on the back of its neck was oddly peculiar and stood out. It was shaped like a large I, seemed to be from a branding iron, and Ayn detected the presence of some metallic substance entwined in the scar tissue.


In the Meadow
Ultimately, everyone gathered again in the clearing, near the wagon, or at the west side where the gnolls were trapped in the webs. The treasure was gathered together in the wagon, to be split later. Dain used his last two cure spells, one on Lin Lee (cure 6) and the other on Me Lady (cure 8).

Me Lady checked out what remained of their supplies and then helped Dain, knowing exactly what he was doing and liking the idea. Lin Lee prepared Bayar for some warrior ritual. Adimus joined Gum and Ayn, standing behind them a few feet and watching closely.

The 5 gnolls in the web could barely move, but each one grunted oddly and scrunched up its face when Gum began questioning them under the aim of his bow. When Ayn spoke their language, one spoke up in gnollish, clearly intimidated by the situation and seemingly cooperative, “We all want life! Don’t kill us, we will help you.” They all howled their agreement with that response.


Summary:
There are still living 2 gnolls entangled in the north end of the meadow. Another is entangled in the west woods, about 50 feet from the clearing. A bound one lies near this same area.

Nobody wants Bayar’s items?

Wounds:
Adimus 2
Ayn 4
Dain 4
Lin Lee 10
Me Lady 14

[Diella]

Me Lady gleefully help with he task. When it was all done she walked around and smile at every head.

Me Lady picked up the gauntlets with a look to the group as if daring any one to take them from her. She put them with a big smile.

Once she was done with that she knelt over to their fallen friend and howl a long howl up to the sky.

"We howl to let father in sky know that a great warrior comes to him from the field of dead. Give him good seat at your side and let he battle many foes each day, drink much mead each night. Me Lady say he good figeter and me wish he well in the endless battle in the moonless lands."

[memnarch]

Daero

The gnome says "Oh yeah." and roots around through Bayar's stuff. He takes the Diminuation potion, the Fire giant strength potion, and a Healing potion. "Your life shall not be forgotten. At least until tomorrow morning."

He puts the potions in his bag along with the coins he found in the giant's bag. "Anyone else want the necklace?"

[Daryk]

Dain

Since no one else had claimed the tools of the warrior's trade, Dain took Gordon's sword, armor and other weapons. If magic wouldn't resize the armor, it would still be worth plenty as trade goods. With a short prayer, he said, "Rest easy friend. Know that you were avenged several times over."

[TwoCents]

Ayn McNally, Half-elf Druid

Ayn looked around the area and called to Daero, "What necklace? Yes, I would like to see it after we take care of our obstreperous visitors."

"Jagg, would you keep an eye on these beasties? I'm off to get the gnolls in the tangle. Me Lady, would you give me some assistance?" Signalling to Lin to be ready for trouble in case the gnolls made a break for it, she walked over to the entangled gnolls.

Scimitar in hand, she turned to each of them in turn and offered him the chance to surrender. With whatever help was available, and a supply of rope,
the gnolls were subdued once the entangle was dismissed (or wore off). She returned to the gnolls in the web and carefully cut each one free to be tied up in turn.

Once the gnolls were secured, Ayn packed away the potion of Hill Giant control and Healing from Bayar's gear and then made a small gesture of salute before continuing to deal with more immediate problems.

First, she cast her last curing spell on Me Lady:

CURE LIGHT WOUNDS for 8*

Then, she began the interrogation:

Speaking in gnoll: <"Your only chance for life is to tell me the truth. Lie, and I will discover it; you will die mewling in agony like a newborn babe.">

With that, she began, starting with Jagg's questions.

Again in gnoll:

<"Who ordered this attack?">

<Why?">

<"Is he gnoll, giant, what?">

<"How many were in your warband?">

<"How many escaped?">

<"Who leads your warband?">

More questions to come, but this is a good start.

OOC: Ayn is Neutral. She will kill these creatures in a heartbeat without feeling a bit of remorse if they cross her. They're already on borrowed time for attacking her.

*messed up syntax. See OOC thread for number

[Jagg]

Gum Sighs as twocents Ayn comes over to ask what he was doing and takes over the interrogation. A ticked off expression on his face. He puts down the bow and takes out one of his daggers and a whetstone, proceeding to spit on the whetstone and sharpen the blade with a menacing *snick snick* sound. He stands before the gnolls and begins the following miming actions as Ayn casts her last spell on My Lady.

*Points at gnolls with finger* [You lot] *Holds hand next to mouth and opens and closes both hand and mouth* [will talk] *points at Ayn* [to her]*Motions passing the blade across his belly and pulling out his intestines, before motioning with the blade across his throat and sticking out his tongue* [or I'll torture you] *he grins at them hugely* [and I'll enjoy it] *points towards where the others cluster around Gordon and the dead guards, screws his face up into a snarl and shakes his fist at them* [because you killed my friends and made me angry].

[TwoCents]

Ayn

Ayn glanced at Gum curiously, her head cocked to the side. "Interesting. Good luck." She walked away, leaving him to conduct the interrogation.

[Jagg]

"Hey come back Ayn!" Gum called, "I'm just warming up the crowd for you with a bit of impromptue theatre. Things will go a lot faster if you ask the questions."

[TwoCents]

Ayn

"Hmm? Oh, certainly."

Turning to the gnolls, she began to question them.

OOC: see post #127 for questions.

[Gryndel]

[DM]
Once the items of their fallen companion had been claimed in honor, some focused on the captives while others alertly watched the border of the clearing. The gnolls were released from their magic bondage and placed into mundane captivity with no resistance. Apparently, one or more of those present seemed to intimidate such creatures, who truly were rather easy to dominate.

OOC: The armor does not fit to size by magic. The sword is going to be a bit awkward for the dwarf to carry, but Me Lady could easily manage it. Daero could also put any spare things in his bag, if cautious not to put sharp things inside unsheathed. The giant strength potion only works for fighter types. I’ll edit the sheets and put the magic items from Baya on the appropriate character.

Pardon the format of the following, I arranged them as I thought would make most sense.


[Ayn]
Speaking in gnoll: "Your only chance for life is to tell me the truth. Lie, and I will discover it; you will die mewling in agony like a newborn babe."


[DM]
The gnolls nodded fearfully, most of them glancing around at various members of the group. One focused completely on the druid and answered as respectfully as the language allowed. It was obviously the leader among these gnolls, which Ayn knew they considered a sub-chief.


[Ayn]
With that, she began, starting with Gum’s questions. Again in gnoll:

"Who ordered this attack?"


[DM]
“Our chief.”


[Ayn]
"Why?"


[DM]
“He didn’t say.”


[Ayn]
"Is he gnoll, giant, what?"


[DM]
The gnoll looked a bit confused for a moment, glancing around before lowering its eyes and telling Ayn, “Our chief is a gnoll, yes. Our tribe obeys the commands of another race, as do the giants. The only one I ever saw looks a bit like you, only with black skin. Our chief talks to her a lot, but only at night.”


[Ayn]
"Where is your settlement?"


[DM]
Nodding with his chin toward the west, the gnoll replied, “On the other side of that mountain, in a cave.”


[Ayn]
"How many live there?"


[DM]
“Our tribe, more giants, and some trolls.”


[Ayn]
"What other enemies might we face?"


[DM]
“I don’t know who your enemies are. But this area has many who might be that.”


[Ayn]
"Where do they live?"


[DM]
“North and west, mostly.”


[Ayn]
"Who knows where the tomb is we seek?"


[DM]
The gnoll looked around at his fellow captives and shrugged at their blank and fearful looks. He looked back at Ayn before dropping his eyes again and said, “I don’t know what you mean. We know of no tomb.”


[Ayn]
"Who feels like wearing a rope around their necks and carrying my bags?"


[DM]
All of the gnolls fidgeted a bit at this, but once they figured it out they all looked willing. Their leader said, “We will serve you as we can, as the only other choice now is our death.”


[Ayn]
"Any of you know how to fix a wagon?"


[DM]
“No, we know nothing of such things.”


[Ayn]
"How many were in your warband?"


[DM]
Not certain what she meant by ‘warband’, the gnoll shrugged slightly, “We all attacked.”


[Ayn]
"How many escaped?"


[DM]
“None.”


[Ayn]
"Who leads your warband?"


[DM]
“Me.”


Wounds:
Adimus 2
Ayn 4
Dain 4
Lin Lee 10
Me Lady 6

[memnarch]

Daero

"Get anything useful from the fleabags?"


OOC:ah well, i'll hang onto the potion for now, unless someone else asks for it.

[Jagg]

Once Ayn has communicated the gnolls answers Gum takes her aside for a second.

"Ayn, You keep talking with the gnoll leader and see what else you can get out of him, especially about this dark lady they meet only at night. It sounds suspiciously like a dark elf and I hate those spider kissers. I'll take these others and start loading up the contents of the wagon on their backs and make hobbles for them." he says.

He motions with his hands, pointing at several of the gnolls and motioning them towards the others.

Gum looks at the bodies of his fallen companions and sighs. "Rest in peace fellows." he says mournfully

"Well comrades we seem to be missing a wagon with no way of fixing it. Luckily we have these strong backs to help us carry the weight. Whilst I'm not sure it's wise we allow our enemies to live, we need something to move the supplies so I suggest we pack as much as they can carry on their backs and rope them together. I also think that despite our injuries we should move from this place. Plenty of monsters would be attracted to this amount of blood and I'd rather not be here when they arrive."

He then looks at the gnolls and mimes the following actions.

"Motions taking something out of the wagon and then points at the gnolls. [you lot unpack the wagon] points at the ground several times after pointing at each of the gnolls [and line up] motions to his companions and mimes placing things on their backs. we will load you up Motions tying their hands [and then tie you together] wiggles his fingers like a small man running away, shakes his head and draws a finger across his throat If you try and escape I'll kill you. and claps his hands together and points at the wagon hurry up

[Daryk]

Dain

All the interesting post-battle work complete, Dain set to salvaging what could be saved from the destroyed wagon and packing it aboard the remaining one. With that accomplished, he tried to figure out how to hitch the now redundant mules into a double sized team to bear the extra load.

Salvaging includes pieces of the wagon, like spare wheels or axles.

[Diella]

Me Lady listened to the talk with interest. Occasionaly she would nod her head as if she understood what was being said. Of course to anyone who knew what was being said the fact she was nodding at the wrong time spoiled that effect.

Me lady stood meanacing over some of the prisioner laughing when ever one look at her and gave them a evil simle. Well what she thought of as evil.

Once it was decided what they were going to do she help load up the 2foooted horses giving them all silly names like Pony, Horsie, Black Pony, White horse, Horse number 3 and other nonsensically names.

[TwoCents]

Once Ayn has communicated the gnolls answers Gum takes her aside for a second.

"Ayn, You keep talking with the gnoll leader and see what else you can get out of him, especially about this dark lady they meet only at night. It sounds suspiciously like a dark elf... " he says.

"No, really?," the half-elven druid asked, dryly.

Shaking her head slightly, she waited to see if anyone else had any questions to add, and then asked a few of her own:

ooc: In gnoll:

"Where is Igglwv's treasure?"

"Where are the Caverns of Tsojcanth?"

"Which way to the Velverdyva River?"

"Who branded you?"

"Why?"

"With what?"

"Did your chief come with you on this attack?"

"Someone was calling orders from behind, while you risked your lives against us. Who was that?"

"Tell me more about this dark lady."

[Gryndel]

[DM]
As the wagon was loaded with extra supplies and some bulky less valuable items were packed on the gnoll captives, the interrogation continued with the Sub-Chief. With all the threatening people in the group, and given the chance of further attacks here, it was decided to continue on while the questioning went on. Lin Lee helped hitch up all the mules to the remaining wagon, then hopped up in the seat to drive it.


[Lin Lee]
The monk used his ability to heal himself a bit as he prepared to set the wagon in motion.

[roll0]


[DM]
For safety and convenience, the gnoll Sub-Chief was loaded into the back of the wagon, joined by Ayn and others (Dain up front next to Lin, Daero and Gum in the back of the wagon?). As the wagon and the loaded captives moved out at the command of the group, under the supervision of those on horseback (Me Lady and Adimus), the questioning continued in the wagon.


[Ayn]
"Where is Igglwv's treasure?"


[DM]
The gnoll shrugged, apparently misunderstanding the question, “Treasure kept at home.”


[Ayn]
"Where are the Caverns of Tsojcanth?"


[DM]
“Many caverns in these mountains, but I don’t know that name.”


[Ayn]
"Which way to the Velverdyva River?"


[DM]
“River on other side of that mountain, maybe the river you name.”


[Ayn]
"Who branded you?"


[DM]
“Nobody, but the dark lady branded the giants. Its the symbol to identify her most loyal and powerful minions.”


OOC: Only the giants were branded, none of the gnolls. So I just skipped the other related question.


[Ayn]
"Did your chief come with you on this attack?"


[DM]
“No, he stayed at settlement..”


[Ayn]
"Someone was calling orders from behind, while you risked your lives against us. Who was that?"

[DM]
“It was me.”


[Ayn]
"Tell me more about this dark lady."


[DM]
The gnoll shrugged slightly, “More? Hmm, dark lady wears little clothing, she has a pretty sword and an ugly mace. Not know more about her.”

Wounds:
Adimus 2
Ayn 4
Dain 4
Lin Lee 6
Me Lady 6

[Diella]

[Me Lady]

Me Lady watched the loaded captives with an eagle eye. Whenever one of them slow down or look back at them she yell in common.

"Horsie one you move to slow you horse not turtle move faster. Blackleg you stop looking back you fall on face if you no look where you going. Spotty you stop pulling on you chain. No make me have to get off me horse and smack you you no like that."

[Daryk]

Dain

Dain scooped up a rock before climbing aboard the wagon. The head sized stone would come in handy the next time they were ambushed. He left the guarding of the gnolls to those that showed the most interest in the task, and focused instead on the trail and surroundings. One ambush was enough for one day.

[memnarch]

Daero

The gnome cleans off his blades and climbs up into the wagon and goes to sleep.

[TwoCents]

Ayn

Once the questioning was done, Ayn saw no reason to sit next to a gnoll sub-chief. At the next rest break she swung down from the wagon and saddled her horse. Before setting out again, she strolled over to the gnolls and said, "<Your survival depends on not pissing off her>," pointing to Me Lady, "<or him>," with a wave to Gum. "<Good luck with that.>"

As evening approached, Ayn began to look for a defensible campsite.

[Diella]

[Me Lady]

Seeing Ayn pointing at her while talking to the gnoll sub chief. She did not know what was being said but if Aryn was pointing at her and Gum it was likely some type of threat. Me Lady smiled a toothy grin as she patted her weapon in a threatening manor.

[Gryndel]

[DM]
With the captive gnolls well under their intimidated control, the group made their way deeper into the mountains as the interrogation of the gnoll sub chief continued. Me Lady and Adimus, mounted on horses, led the way north through the remainder of the heavily wooded valley. Once Ayn concluded the questioning to her satisfaction, she remounted her horse and joined her fellow mounted companions. The others in the wagon ensured that the gnoll sub chief was secured, and some even got some rest during the afternoon while the wagon rolled along fairly smoothly.

The rest of the day passed with naught but a chill breeze to break the monotony. Ayn soon noticed the return of small creatures to the area, after the battle and monstrous disturbance had passed and the vicinity grew quieter. The steep cliffs to either side of the valley closed in, funneling the travelers toward the only pass into the higher ranges of the Yatil Mountains beyond. They approached the narrow pass as the sun set and found a place about 100 yards from it to make camp.

With the death of Gordon, the night shifts were altered to 4 hours each. Daero and Ayn took the first watch, which included settling the gnolls. Gum, Lin, and Me Lady were on the second, passing the middle of the night together in alertness that went undisturbed. Adimus and Dain were awakened for the last shift, splitting time between them to study and pray for their spells respectively.

Dain used his remaining cure spell to heal Ayn's remaining wounds before sleeping to regain his ability to pray for and use more healing spells the next day. With the assistance of herbs and tender care from Ayn and Dain, everyone who was wounded healed a bit overnight.

Despite actively watching the gnolls and closely guarding everything the group valued, as the sun lightened the sky the next morning it was discovered that every gnoll was dead. There were no signs of violence done to them, and no clues were discovered as to how their lives had expired.

OOC: Let me know if Dain or Ayn want to change any of their spells from before. If Dain wants to cast his Cure Serious Wounds on someone before the night is over, they would likely be fully healed, and he would be able to regain that spell the next day as well. DONE & Edited below!


[Lin Lee]
The monk checked the dead gnolls over carefully, then announced, “My best guess would be that it is likely some dark curse from that drow that slowly took affect after her minions were under our control. It is of no great importance. In fact, it saves us from having to deal with them later.”

Seemingly uncaring about the incident, Lin proceeded to make breakfast. After consuming a brief meal he fed the animals and prepared the wagon to continue their journey.


[Adimus]
Keeping what he thought was a safe distance from the inexplicably dead gnolls, the magic user said, “True, I suppose. But if what you surmise is so, there should be a subtle yet detectable taint of magic about them that might give us some clue as to what happened.”

After casting a spell to detect any such remnant of magic, Adimus shrugged, “Not even a hint of magic about them, odd that.” He shrugged, but continued to look disturbed by this event, obviously deep in thought about the possible cause while he ate.

Wounds:
Adimus 1
Dain 2
Lin Lee 3

[memnarch]

Daero

"Hehehe. Looks like something got to the gnolls before we could. Suppose if we cut'em open we might find out if it was something growing inside them?"

[Daryk]

Dain

Looking over the dead gnolls, and hearing Daero's suggestion, Dain said, "I think we're better off just burning or burying them. If they're truly cursed, they may rise again."

Yes, Dain will cast CSW before regaining his spells. On Ayn, I think (our other healer).

[TwoCents]

Ayn

Ayn stared at the bodies in consternation. "Death itself is a part of the natural cycle. The sudden death of the strong and healthy is a disturbance." After carefully examining the bodies using all of her druidical skills, she rose from the ground and carefully dusted her hands. "I suggest we burn them, if there are enough fallen branches in this forest to make a pyre. I must prepare my spells now."

After looking ahead to estimate whether the day's travel would involve more heavy forest, she prayed to the Spirit of Nature for her spells. If more heavy forest, use the "forest" list; if rocky, use the "mountain" list.

[Diella]

[Me Lady]

Staring at the dead gnolls she picked up a stick and poked them a couple of times to make sure they were truly dead.

"Mother always say me Me Lady always clean up your messes. Never leave live foes behind you always kill dem before you move on. Me Lady think Dark lady get same word from her mom toozes."

Me Lady was not to worried about what happened to the bodies she just wanted to move on. So she ran around the camp like an excited puppy wanting to be taken for a walk.

Every couple of minutes she ask, "Ready we go now yes?"

[Daryk]

Dain

"No, not yet... we need some fire wood first," Dain said the first time Me Lady asked. He let someone else answer her the second and subsequent times, as he was busy gathering wood.

[memnarch]

Daero

The gnome exclaims, "Hey! If you wanna get outta this place faster, why don't you make you make yourself useful?" when Me Lady asks him as he gathers wood.

ooc
Is what I've done (RPing) so far good as a really low charisma character? :smallconfused:

[Gryndel]

[Lin Lee]
“Agreed, we should just burn the corpses and be on our way.”


[Adimus]
The magic user looked skeptical but said nothing negative about the pyre idea.


[DM]
A sufficient supply of dry wood was soon collected and a pyre was ignited to dispose of the gnoll corpses. While the fire burned under close supervision, spells were replenished, sustenance was consumed, and everything was made ready to travel onward to their goal.

Though the exact location of the Caverns was still not known, the path ahead left few options of direction to choose from, for now. With Me Lady, Ayn, and Adimus leading the way on horseback, the wagon followed closely. The narrow pass was barely wide enough for the wagon, and only the cautious guidance of the monk kept it from being damaged or tuck in several places.

About a mile past where the camp had been the night before, they came to an area where a small ledge was seen on the right, about 15 feet above the trail. When those in front were about 50 feet from the ledge they noticed that a gaunt, dirty, disheveled man with matted hair and beard sat just outside the entrance a small cave. He wore a tattered cloak over soiled loincloth, hair shirt, and rough leggings, with well worn sandals strapped to his feet.


[Adimus]
The magic user stopped his horse and dismounted as he said softly, “It seems odd to me that a single person would sitting outside a cave in this environment. We had better use caution and see what this is all about.”


[Lin Lee]
The monk stopped the wagon and said, “Agreed.” Lowering his voice to barely above a whisper, he spoke so that only Daero and Gum would hear, “Maybe you two should try to sneak around out the back of the wagon and climb up behind him.”


[Gum - NPC mode]
The halfling nodded to Daero and snuck out the back of the wagon, trying to remain unnoticed as he looked for a way to climb the cliff.

65 % Move Silently[roll0]
58 % Hide In Shadows[roll1]
79 % Climb Walls[roll2]

Wounds:
Adimus 1
Dain 2
Lin Lee 3

[memnarch]

Daero

The gnome is puzzled at the halfling's forgetfulness, but shakes it off and moves into action.

Pausing for a moment to listen for any strange sounds, Daero dittos Gum.
Hope I did this correctly.

85 % Move Silently [roll0]
66 % Hide in Shadows [roll1]
40 % Hear Noise [roll2]
93 % Climb Walls [roll3]

[Daryk]

Dain

The dwarf looked up at the hermit curiously. He didn't recall the man from his previous travels here. While Gum and Daero scaled the cliff, Dain paced back and forth a bit to fix the cave and ledge in his memory. He tucked his rock under an arm as he did so to keep it close to hand.

[TwoCents]

Ayn McNally, Half-elven Druid of the 7th Circle

Curious about the hermit, Ayn spent a few minutes observing the fauna around him, as well as checking to see his reactions to the arrival of a wagon a few hundred feet from his cave mouth.

If he was looking at them or otherwise seemed aware of them, Ayn slowly trotted her horse forward and called out quietly, "Hello, good sir, and may Nature's Blessing be yours."

If the hermit seemed to be unaware, Ayn slid from her horse, looped the reins over a handy bush, and slipped back out of sight. Once hidden from the cave mouth, she Changed Form into a bird. She was a normal sized songbird, of a swift and agile species common to the area -- a swallow, a swift, or jay. Flitting into the trees, she flew in the erratic way common to birds ever closer to the hermit. Unlike ordinary birds, however, Ayn kept a close eye out for traps, weapons, and spell casting.

[Gryndel]

[Me Lady - NPC mode]
Suddenly fascinated with a butterfly that fluttered near her face, the half orc jumped off her horse and tried to catch the insect.


[Hermit]
Glancing over at the wagon when he heard some noise there, the old man shrugged almost imperceptibly and looked down at the others mounted on horseback. (OOC: I’ll judge that he looked at Ayn before she changed shape, since nobody else spoke directly to him.) He spoke softly, yet somehow was heard easily by all in the area, “Greetings, adventurous travelers. Presumably you are here looking for something in particular, and you are not the first in recent times to seek something in this vicinity. Tell me, if you will, what do you seek?”


[Gum - NPC mode]
Unaware that he had made enough noise to attract the hermit’s attention, the halfling glanced over at the gnome and motioned in thieves’ cant for him to be quieter. Trying to remain out of sight and stay as quiet as possible , the halfling continued to climb up the cliff slowly.

65% Move Silently[roll0]
58% Hide In Shadows[roll1]
30% Hear Noise[roll2]
79% Climb Walls[roll3]

[Lin Lee]
Knowing he was not the leader of the group, and that more than one of his companions had expressed concern about that very issue when they first started, the monk waited to see if anybody else would say anything in response.


[Adimus]
The magic user stepped forth and spoke in a serious tone, “We seek the famous lair of a most infamous evil creature. Who are you? Why are you here alone? Who else has sought something in the vicinity recently?”


[Hermit]
The old man chuckled softly and replied, “I see, just as I thought. As to who I am, my name is lost in obscure antiquity, and matters not. I am simply a hermit who chooses to live here in the mountains. You are likely seeking Iggwilv’s lair then, as others have in the distant past, and recently as well,.including another group from the March of Bissel ”

Nodding once to indicate the cave behind him, he added with a slight grin, “But what makes you believe I am alone here right now?”


[Lin Lee]
Still sitting on the wagon, the monk asked calmly, "Well then, why not tell us, or better yet show us, who, or what, else is in the cave behind you?"


OOC: Jokes and Another_Poet, feel free to jump in here, if you wish.

Wounds:
Adimus 1
Dain 2
Lin Lee 3

[Another_Poet]

Nevard stays low in the cave, listening to the hermit and wondering who he speaks to. He mentioned Bissel, but the youth is not yet ready to completely trust the old man.

[memnarch]

Daero

The gnome continues to sneak around, now moving stealthily to the cave entrance and checking to see if he can hear anything thing inside
85 % Move Silently [roll0]
66 % Hide in Shadows [roll1]
40 % Hear Noise [roll2]
93 % Climb Walls [roll3]

[Jokes]

Hearing voices outside, Init slides a ring onto his finger, vanishing from sight, then slips out of the cave, trying to see who is out there.

70% Move Silently [roll0]

[TwoCents]

Ayn McNally, Half-elven Druid of the 7th Circle

"Alone? Grandfather, no one is ever alone when he lives in the midst of all this life." Ayn gestured vaguely towards the forest. She sat calm and friendly on her horse, but busily calculated potential threats. She paid close attention to the activities of the local fauna. "Have you any, more traditional, companions? I am curious; why does one so isolated as you seem to be have knowledge of our commission from the Margrave of Bissel?"

[Daryk]

Dain

The dwarf continued to pace about, fixing the spot in his memory. It troubled him he had no previous recollection of the hermit, despite having travelled this way. Perhaps too much time on the wagon, and not enough on his own two feet.

[Gryndel]

[Me Lady - NPC mode]
The half-orc failed to catch the butterfly. She smashed her gauntlet covered fists in frustration against the cliff on the side of the pass opposite the ledge as the insect flew above her grasp. She shrugged and laughed as she went back to her horse, glancing up seriously at the hermit.


[DM]
Neither Gum nor Daero heard anything inside the cave. Both managed to make it to the south edge of the ledge, about 20 feet from the cave and the hermit. Whether it was the good use of his skills or the enchanted Ring and Boots Init wore, nobody seemed to notice the elf as he slipped out of the cave to see the group below.


[Hermit]
The old man smiled slightly as he glanced at the half orc, then over at the gnome who failed to hide well. He shrugged and looked at the magic user as he responded flatly, “I leave it to them to reveal themselves at their leisure. They are simply guests of mine, resting in my cave.”


[Gum - NPC mode]
The halfling paused once he got his footing on the ledge, looking back at the gnome briefly.

65% Move Silently[roll0]
58% Hide In Shadows[roll1]
30% Hear Noise[roll2]

[Adimus]
After a the hermit spoke, the human magic user glanced in the general direction where Nevard stood and slowly seemed to scan the area. The elf quickly deduced that it was most likely that the human was able to detect the magic being used.


[Hermit]
Looking at the druid with a disappointed expression, as if anyone would know the answer, the old hermit replied to her words in a coldly logical tone, “I have no such knowledge, but your query would seem to confirm my simple deduction. It is merely a simple matter of putting together several easily observable clues, none of which is proof of your origin, but taken all together would lead one to believe you are sent by the Margrave. The direction you come from is the most direct route to the March of Bissel. Your wagon is of the style made exclusively in Bissel. The horses and mules you have, and the trappings of the riding equipment, are all likewise only bred and made in Bissel. Besides, I know the Margrave has desired certain items reputed to be inside Iggwilv’s lair for years now.”

Glancing back over his shoulder briefly, the hermit added, “Companions, no. Visitors and guests, yes, though not necessarily traditional.”


[Lin Lee]
The monk spoke softly to the hermit, “Very astute observations, old one, and all true.”

Raising his voice a bit to be heard by anyone in the cave, Lin added, “Please show yourself to us, as hiding will not foster trust at this point. We have lost a companion on our quest to find Iggwilv's lair already. If you have the same goal as we do, your assistance would likely be welcomed by all. I am Lin Lee, a humble monk.”


[Adimus]
The human smiled slightly as he said, “Indeed, I can detect magic up there, which was not present when we first arrived. You have nothing to fear from us. Given the nature of what we seek, we could use all the help we can get. I am Adimus, a not so humble magic user.”


Wounds:
Adimus 1
Dain 2
Lin Lee 3

[Diella]

Me Lady

“Friends? You have friends in cave? Me lady like meet friends? Me think Friend good when fight comes alway bedder to fight with friends to help youz."

The holaf orc started walking towards the cave yelling, "Friends come out me lady wants to meet you. Me promise me no hurt come out pleasez"

[Another_Poet]

Note:
Nevard is the human ranger in the cave. The elf who came outside with the invisibility ring is Init.

Nevard
Sensing that Init has been spotted despite his invisibility, Nevard lets his own magic ring alone for the time being. As quietly as he can he sidles to the cave entrance and looks out at the newcomers.

"The weeks don't grow long before the Margrave gives up hope," he says. "We were sent for the same reason within the last month. We and quite a few others."

[memnarch]

Daero

The gnome scowls and walks over to the human (ranger). "And what's yer name?" he says, still a bit hostile while looking up at him.

[Another_Poet]

Nevard

Nevard has to peer over the ledge he's on to see the little man below him, but he keeps his hand on his sword-hilt.

"Why should I tell you? What's your name?"

His voice is still somewhat boyish - he's strong but he probably can't even grow a full beard yet.

[memnarch]

Daero

"I asked ya first ya whiner."

[Another_Poet]

Nevard

The young ranger looks around at those gathered on the mountain trail and decides there's no harm. "Nevard Nemerdred."

[memnarch]

Daero

"See? That wasn't so hard. I'm Daero."

[Daryk]

Dain

"Dain Khazad," the dwarf said gruffly, seeing that names were being exchanged.

[TwoCents]

Ayn

Bowing slightly from atop her horse, Ayn smiled and said, "I am called Ayn."

[Another_Poet]

Nevard

The youth is clearly surprised to see anyone bow toward him. "If the old man trusts you are from Bissel, I'll believe it too," he says. He makes sure he has his belt pouch and anything else he took into the cave with him and then scrambls down the stones to the path with everyone else. "And I was sent on an expedition similar to yours. I figure having some new hands will make it easier."

It doesn't seem to even occur to the boy that he might be the one joining the larger expedition, or that they might all go separate ways; it's clear that he still considers himself to be on an important mission, which the newcomers can now be a part of.

[Jokes]

Init

Init silently follows Nevard toward the group, but doesn't dismiss the invisibility.

[roll0]

[Gryndel]

[Hermit]
The old man sat quietly as members of the group and his two guests made introductions and began an initial conversation about their mission.


[Lin Lee]
With a slight smile at Nevard, the monk shrugged, “I am pleased to meet you, Nevard. Apparently the Margrave is very anxious to find the Lanthorn. It concerns me slightly, as to how we could send word back if we do manage to obtain this item. But first we must find the caverns, before we even begin to search for the coveted relic.”


[Adimus]
“Yes Nevard, we do seem to have the same mission, though apparently yours failed to even find the caverns. However, you are welcome to join us, if you wish. If your companion that is using magic to hide from sight could show them self, it would foster more trust on our part.”


[Gum - NPC mode]
The halfling stepped from his hiding spot and said, “Yeah, no point in hiding anymore, for any of us.”

He grinned and walked up to the hermit, narrowing his eyes as he said, “Say, you seem to know a lot about all this. Anything else you care to share with us?”


[Hermit]
The old man pulled a small piece of paper from his robe pocket and said, “I have a page from a journal you can read, if any of you can read. I suspect at least the magic user can read, if not the monk.”

Offering the page to the halfling, he added, “I can also tell you that a tall mountain nearby is called Iggwilv’s Horn. A few miles north of here you will find a small pass to the east. Follow that and you will find Iggwilv’s Horn. The Lost Caverns of Tsojcanth are said to lie south of that peak. A narrow track does go to the caverns, for when Iggwilv ruled there was much coming and going to and from the caverns. There are at least two levels of caverns in the place.”


[Adimus]
“Indeed, I can read quite well actually. Gum, would you be so kind as to bring down that to me?”


[Gum - NPC mode]
“Sure thing, Adimus.” Taking the page from the hermit, the halfling climbed back down and walked over to hand the paper to the magic user.


[Adimus]
The magic user read from the page, “The small cave was the secret, for in the back, hidden by (here the text is blurred beyond any reading)... and we descended. There was no certain path, so we (smudged)... and this is told of above, for it is where Yaim and Brelid met their end. Our persistence paid. The right way was beyond and narrow, so (writing covered with dark stain)... -earn lies straight pass- (more stains)... -pe the span swiftly to plunge to doom where the wat- (here smudges and stains obliterate several lines)... They were right, it is more dismal here than above. Only the two of us su- (blotch)... We pray that the lucky (smudge)... is true, for we are now going to attempt entry fo- (large rusty smears have wiped out the next words)... of no help. I managed to escape. Why did we (here the remaining few words are smeared and unreadable, save for the last word)... beautiful.”

Looking up at the hermit after he finished, Adimus said, “Do you mind if we keep this?”


[Hermit]
“I would prefer to keep it, for posterity, if naught else. You may copy it, if you like.”


[Adimus]
“Very well, though it will take a few minutes to get the supplies I need from my pack and copy this.” He got down from his horse and went to the back of the wagon. Pulling down the tailgate to use as a makeshift desk, he pulled off his pack and got a piece of paper, pen, and inkpot from it, then started to copy the journal page.


[Gum - NPC mode]
The halfing followed the mgic user and watched him curiously.


Wounds:
Adimus 1
Dain 2
Lin Lee 3

[memnarch]

Daero

Looking at the hermit, the gnome says, "You the person in the letter?"

[Jokes]

Init

A disembodied voice comes from somewhere behind Nevard. "Magic? I don't know what you're talking about."

[Another_Poet]

Nevard steps aside, as if doing so will grant the newcomers a better view of his invisible companion. He waits to hear the hermit's response about the map.

[Diella]

[Me Lady]

Me Lady listened to the talk then proudly told anyone who listen, "Me Lady no know howes to read but me can writes name."

She proved this by writing a big x in the dirth with her foot then pointing to it she proclaimed, "Dat mean me lady me mudder say me write dat fer me name."

[Gryndel]

OOC: Since one or more of you are/were waiting for this...


[Hermit]
The old man shrugged and answered simply, “No, it is not me. I found that page on a corpse a year or so ago.”


[Lin Lee]
“Well, I suppose after Adimus finishes copying the letter, we should get going. Now that we have a clue about which way to go, it should only be a matter of getting there and dealing with anything we encounter on the way.”

The monk closed his eyes nearly all the way and seemed to meditate a moment. When he opened his eyes fully again he looked to be in better health somehow.

Self Heal:[roll0]


[Gum - NPC mode]
The halfling walked back to rejoin the majority of the group and said, “He's nearly done now. Will you and your invisible companion be joining us, Nevard?”

Looking at the X in the dirt that Me Lady had made, Gum crouched near it and chuckled, “Is that where you buried your treasures?”

Grinning as he looked up at the ledge, the halfling used his own ring to go invisible, “Hey look, I can do that too!”


OOC: Any other role playing to join the newcomers into the group? If not, my next post will continue with the group moving on to find the path to the Caverns of Tsojcanth!


Wounds:
Adimus 1
Dain 2

[Another_Poet]

Nevard

When asked about his "invisible companion" Nevard shrugs. "I don't know about that. I wouldn't mind if you want to team up. Keep the monsters off my back and I'll do the same for you."

He checks his belt pouch and his bundle and makes sure he has everything - including a full waterskin with spring water from the cave. He thanks the hermit for his hospitality and wishes him well. "Mind your health, old one," he says with a sort of crude reverence. "I'd like to share stories with you when I come this way again."

((I am ready to go.))

[memnarch]

Daero

"Blah de da de da; ok. Now that the good-bye have been said, let's move."

[TwoCents]

Ayn, Half-elven druid

"You have the appearance of a ranger, Nevard, and I have always appreciated the efforts of the rangers to keep the wilds safe," said Ayn with an ironic smile. "I would welcome your companionship in our quest. On the other hand, trust is difficult enough to give to chance-met strangers. I see no need to give someone unwilling to show himself anything more than the back of my hand." Ayn waited to see what effect her words had on the others, and then prepared to leave.

Before she left she bowed low to the hermit and said, "Thank you for speaking with us, grandfather. Is there anything I can do for you before I leave?"

[Jokes]

Init

Init shrugs, expecting you to see it. "I don't have anything better to do."

"Maybe I don't show myself because I don't fully trust you? Of course," He starts shuffling around, obviously moving his feet, wafts of dust rising from the disturbed ground, "I'd like to see you try and hit me." Before anyone can take him up, he shuts off the magic, materialising behind Nevard. The grey elf is lean and somewhat short, though the first thing you might notice is the burn-scars that cover his face, leaving only a patch across his eyes and down the left side of his face.

"Or maybe there are other reasons to be invisible.

Woo, characterisation on the fly

[Another_Poet]

"You have the appearance of a ranger, Nevard, and I have always appreciated the efforts of the rangers to keep the wilds safe,"

A quizzical expression crosses Nevard's face. "Never been called that before. I just hunt goblins, and whatever else won't leave man in peace." He surveys Ayn's gear and clothing more carefully and realises he's talking to a person of some importance. "M'lady," he adds.


"Or maybe there are other reasons to be invisible."

"He means monsters. We were ambushed by quite a few. Trolls, and some other things I haven't seen before. Bigger than goblins, and nastier. They ate our dead..." He seems truly affected by the memory as he looks from face to face, and his gaze falls on Me Lady.

He tilts his head, and his eyes narrow. His hand goes to his sword-hilt.

[memnarch]

Daero

"Are we going to just sit here jabbering our heads off? Come on; let's move it! ... lazy people..." he finishes in a mutter.

[TwoCents]

Ayn, half-elf druid

The half-elf laughed lightly at Daero's comment. "Yes, let us be on our way! But first..." she turned and looked at the two newcomers, waiting until she had made eye contact with each in turn. "Me Lady is our companion and a trusted member of our band. Although I have known her a short time in the astronomical sense, I consider her a friend and equal partner." With a glance at Init's hand, she added. "If you have trouble trusting her as an ally, then perhaps you should wait here for another party to join."

Her point made, she wheeled her horse and trotted over to the wagon, waiting for the group to leave.

[Another_Poet]

Nevard

Nevard's hand wavers on his sword-hilt as he stares down the beast that the woman just referred to as an ally.

For the time being, he edges away from the company and sticks to the side of the trail as they push on.

((I assume we all leave))

When the opportunity presents itself he approaches Ayn and looks up at her atop her horse.

"M'lady, that... that 'friend' is of the same sort who butchered us!"

[TwoCents]

Ayn

Ayn looked at Nevard, non-plussed for a moment. After a bit she smiled. "Ah! Consider two berries. One is tart but nutritious. The other is deadly poison. Both are small, red, and shiny. Do you throw out all the berries, or pick the ones you trust? Me Lady is one to trust."

[Another_Poet]

Nevard

Nevard looks down at the ground and scowls. "Yes, m'lady," he mutters.

He falls to the back of the group, keeping a suspicious eye on the beast woman but also scanning their surroundings every few paces.

[Diella]

[Me Lady]

Me Lady noticed the look she was being given she had seen that look before. She did not speak or react to it. She had learned in the past anything she could say or do would just make matters worse. She may not be smart but she was not stupid.

Me Lady started to dig a hole were the x was in the dirt. Maybe she had placed some treasure under it and had forgotten, either way it was fun to dig and it gave her something to do while the angry one decide she was not going to bite his head off.

She was so busy digging and not finding any treasure she did not notice the group decide to go until they started moving. Running she cought up with them and move to talk to Gum.


"Me no dink me buried shinies under X Gum. Me no find any."

[Gryndel]

Dain keeps his mouth judiciously shut and observes the newcomers integration into the group. With a low charisma, he's not exactly one to be building bridges, and Ayn seems to have that end of the business well in hand.
Reposted here in the game thread, from the ooc thread.:smallamused:

[Gryndel]

[Gum - NPC mode]
Unseen and unheard by all, the halfling returned to watch Adimus finish copying the journal page.


[Adimus]
After finishing his copy of the journal page, the magic user packed up his gear and returned to his horse, “I am ready to continue on, if everyone else is.”


[Gum - NPC mode]
As everyone mounted up, the halfling became visible for the moment and climbed up to the ledge to return the journal page to the hermit as he called out cheerfully, “Be right with you.” He chuckled and went invisible again, just for fun.


[DM]
Mounted up again, with the new pair now included (OOC: Are Init and Nevard walking, riding in the wagon, or what?), the group left the area where the hermit lived. For the wagon and those mounted on horses ahead of it, there was no choice but to follow the restricted pass. Only a careful and lengthy climb up the cliff on either side could allow anyone to choose another path. An hour or so later the path ascended a steeper grade, which soon led them to the top of the cliff and higher into the Yatil mountains.

The sun set behind the west peak to their left before the group reached the top of the pass. The sky darkened as they neared the point where they could see into the next valley, only dimly lit by the stars and the waning moon. Finding a place to camp for the night, the newcomers observed the routine the group had developed. It was at this point that everyone became aware that Gum had never returned to the wagon.

OOC:We need to review the night shifts with the new characters added in. Here’s what we had worked out before:
Night shifts (4 hours each)
Daero, Ayn
Gum, Lin, Me Lady
Adimus, Dain

Taking out Gum, that leaves two on the second shift, which is fine. Unless someone disagrees, we could add a 4th shift, making each shift only 3 hours and giving everyone 9 hours to rest. If anyone has other ideas, disagrees, or wants to discuss this, go to the ooc thread.

Also let me know if any of you spell casters want to change any prepared spells from what’s listed in the character sheet thread.

The next morning dawned clear and cool, and everyone was at full health after a peaceful night’s rest. After a hearty and warm meal, the group readied themselves, mounted up, and set off again. According to what they had been told by the hermit, they anticipated reaching the point by day’s end where they would turn off the main path into the smaller pass that would lead them to the Caverns of Tsojcanth. They calculated that they should reach the entrance to the Caverns sometime during the day after that.

[memnarch]

Daero

"Stupid Gum. At the very least he could have let us know he was leaving or come back to die wounds he sustained," the gnome growls having awakened from a slightly unpleasant dream. "Some of that stuff could have been really useful," trailing off in a mutter.

[TwoCents]

Ayn

"Yes, it is unfortunate that he chose to sneak away like that. Oh, well. It is better than leaving in the middle of a fight, hmm?" asked Ayn with a dry chuckle. After a quick trip exploring the area for edible plants to add to their breakfast stew pot, Ayn checked over the animals and readied them for another day of travel.

[Jokes]

Init

Init jumps into the back of the cart. "Ah, this is much better than that dingy cave." He closes his eyes and folds his hands behind his head. "Wake me up when we arrive."

Sorry for late reply, I had this typed out a week ago but I guess I forgot to post (or the forum ate it...)

[Another_Poet]

Nevard

Night Shift:

Nevard agrees to join Ayn for the first shift of the night watch. He kept a close eye on which wild plants she had harvested to add to the evening dinner and he had questions about some of them, either because he hadn't seen them before or because he had never been taught they were edible.

"We tear that one into strips and use it to sand woodwork. It's pretty tough. Are you sure we can eat the tips?"

"Whoa! Those roots are poisonous! A lookalike? Really?"

"Ha, it looks like Elfbell but with round leaves. What do you call it?"

Once the others go to bed he quiets down and keeps a sharp eye on the dark surroundings, and a special ear for any night noises that seem out of place. He still has no idea that Ayn is a druid, unless she mentions it. It wouldn't occur to him that such an important person would be traveling on this kind of expedition.

When his shift is over, he tacitly turns over his place by the fire to Me Lady. The others might not notice it but once he crawls into his bedroll he remains fully awake for the entire second shift, wary of the orc's treachery. Not until her shift is over and he hears her snoring does he let himself fall asleep as well.

Looking less rested than the others, Nevard helps prepare breakfast and follows beside the horses and wagon, walking at a good pace.

[Gryndel]

[DM]
After a breakfast enhanced by what natural goodies Ayn found, the group packed up, mounted their respective conveyances, and set off in the bright morning sunshine. The trail led them further north, then turned slightly to the east for a while. Some knew it was not much farther to the crude side road that would lead to the village that was home to many gnomes and a few dwarves when they came upon the passage to the east they sought.

Turning onto this path, the party soon heard a faint splintering sound followed by a rocky clattering and rumbling above them.


[Lin Lee]
The monk hollered, “Avalanche! Lets try to outrun it, no way to turn the wagon around now.”


[Adimus]
The magic user didn’t even wait until the monk finished his suggestion before spurring his horse into a run forward on the trail.

[memnarch]

Daero

"What a lovely way to start this bloody day," the gnome says as he urges his mount on. "Suppose someone is trying to do us in?"

[Jokes]

Init

[Since I have no idea who's driving the wagon, I'll assume Init is]

Init slaps the reins and orders a mighty "hya," almost tumbling back as the wagon surges forth.

[Gryndel]

[Since I have no idea who's driving the wagon, I'll assume Init is]
OOC: Oh, it was posted before, but not since you joined I guess. Lin Lee has been driving it. But if Init wants to, the monk will give over the reigns.

[TwoCents]

Ayn

The druid wasted a split second glancing up at the rocks before urging her horse to dash out of the way. Using her knowledge of the natural world, she directed the animal in the most efficient way out of danger. "<Run, my friend, run!>" she murmured into the horse's ear as she bent low over him, driving him to greater speed. While most of her attention was on escape, a small portion of her mind reviewed the events just prior to the rock fall. Was this a natural event, or had something -- or some thing -- started it?

As they galloped away, she mentally reviewed her Stone Shape and Transmute Rock to Mud spells in case they might be needed. Could she perhaps shape the side of the roadway and deflect the flow of the rocks away from the party?

[Diella]

Me Lady did not need any urging to get away from the falling rock,She called to her horse, "Run Horsie me no wanded us to be bug smushie we gots to go fast so no roxs snushie us."

[Another_Poet]

Nevard joins the others in running. He knows a thing or two about avalanches, and if this one fills in the ravine-like roadway, a gap or cave should form on the uphill side as the rock and snow overshoots it. Therefore, he stays close the side that the avalanche is coming from as he runs.


This is what I'm talking about, based on the deascription we've been given of the road as having straight cliffs on either side.

http://img140.imageshack.us/img140/8932/avalancheshelteruw8.jpg
Dangerous, but less deadly.

[Gryndel]

[DM]
Everyone made it past the danger zone of the avalanche, but just barely in time. The wagon was struck by a few small stones, though it sustained no damage. Some rocks bounced near a few of those on horseback, and everyone was covered in dust and dirt. Looking back and up, nobody could spot any cause for the avalanche. Though the timing was a bit suspicious, especially to those who knew little of the mountains, others knew that such things happened on occasion from natural causes. The results blocked the path behind them, meaning that many hours worth of dangerous work would be needed to go back that way.

The rest of the day passed uneventfully, with the group stopping once to enjoy a midday meal. The pass closed in around them as the path descended slightly, leading them into a ravine with steep cliffs to either side. An hour or so before the sun sank below the high peaks above them, they saw a small cave entrance ahead.


[Adimus]
The magic user tossed the reins off his horse to the monk and cast a few spells. First he cast DETECT MAGIC, shaking his head to indicate negative results from the cave entrance. He then cast LEVITATE, followed by INVISIBILITY. As he rose above the ground unseen, he said, “Just in case there’s any dangerous creatures hidden within.”
[roll0]


[Lin Lee]
Catching the reins of Adimus’ horse, the monk tied them off to the wagon and climbed down. Clutching his enchanted staff, he slowly and cautiously approached the cave entrance as Adimus performed his rituals for activating magic.
[roll1]


[Dain - NPC mode]
The dwarf dismounted and held his bardiche ready as he accompanied the monk to the cave entrance.
[roll2]


OOC:
Everyone include a d6 roll in your next post.

[memnarch]

Daero

"How long does that levitation spell last Adimus?" the gnome says as he readies his falchion and mentally reviews the best ways to move quietly in the shadows in his head.

1d6

hm, didn't work. :smallannoyed:

[Jokes]

Init

"There's a good idea." Init activates his ring of invisibility and follows the group to the caves entrance.


[roll0]

[TwoCents]

Ayn, half-elf druid

The druid removed her horse's saddle, bit, and bridle, leaving it tied loosely by a halter to a small bush off the path. "Unless you expect to be back in an hour or two, I suggest we leave the animals able to browse. Else we might find nothing but sacks of bone and horsehide when we return." Ayn collected her backpack and shouldered her gear, ready to move into the depths of the cave.

[roll0]

[Another_Poet]

Nevard

Nevard helps Ayn with the horses, then follows the other.

[roll0]

[Gryndel]

[Adimus]
The magic user shrugged at the gnome’s question and replied, “Over an hour.”


[Me Lady - NPC mode]
The brash half orc laughed at the preparations of the others and said to Ayn, “Yes, you take good care of horsies.”

She pulled out her sword as she moved past Lin Lee and directly into the cave as she added enthusiastically, “Me good cave checker!”
[roll0]


[Adimus]
The magic user shook his head and said, “One of these times she is going to run right into trouble she cannot handle.”


[Dain - NPC mode]
The dwarf allowed Me Lady to lead the way, but followed immediately after her.


[Lin Lee]
The monk entered the cave behind the others after a glance back and a nod to Adimus, Aryn, and Nevard, “I’ll call out if we need you right away.”


[DM]
Just past the small entrance the cave opened up into a much larger space. It was about 30 feet deep and 30 feet wide, roughly circular, and about 20 feet high in the middle. The floor was uneven and slanted down slightly towards the back of the cave.

Dimly lit by the enchanted light of Me Lady’s magic sword as she moved forward, those who entered could see that the floor was strewn with rocky debris, a few fragments of shattered bone, and bits of coarse brown fur. As the half orc advanced further in they could see that there was an area near the back that seemed cleared out, where more of the same fur was found. Nothing else seemed to be within.


[Lin Lee]
After a quick scan of the cave, the monk ducked back outside and said, “I am not certain, but it looks like a bear laired in here recently. Otherwise, it appears empty, and a good place to rest safely before we reach the Lost Caverns we seek. I doubt we could get the horses inside, though there is room for them within if we can.” He went back inside and stood by the entrance as he lit a torch.


[Dain - NPC mode]
The dwarf checked the perimeter of the cave, searching for any sign there might be hidden doors or anything else he could detect with his finely tuned racial skills with stone.


[Adimus]
Though still unseen, the magic floated down to the top of the entrance and pulled himself inside as he said, “I better have a look to see if there is any magic within.”


OOC: The cave can be used for resting, with those on each guard shift outside with the horses and mules. The next day you should reach the entrance to the Lost Caverns of Tsojcanth! So adjust spells and such as appropriate for that info.

[Another_Poet]

Nevard

"I don't like leaving the horses outside at night. Even with a guard." The young ranger folds his arms and surveys the horses. He knew they weren't going to like the smell of the cave. "If we put on blinders and put some sweet herbs by their nostrils until they are inside..."

He nods thoughtfully, then sets about gathering the nicest and strongest flowers or sweet-grasses he can. He'll mince the herbs into a pleasant poutporri and use feedbags to bind the mixture to the horse's noses.

Once the horses are ready he'll take them (one by one if needed, otherwise with cart and all if that'll fit) into the cave. He intentionally doesn't ask for Ayn's help; he wants to do it himself and figures it might impress his fellow outdoorsperson.

Last, he'll position the cart to block the cave entrance, either from the inside (if it'll fit) or the outside (if we have to leave it out).


My D&D character just made poutporri. As part of a session. I WIN !!

[memnarch]

Daero

"Yeah, leaving the horses outside is a bad idea." The gnome starts examining the refuse in the cave and the walls for anything out of the ordinary.

it's spelled "potpourri" :smalltongue:

[Another_Poet]

Hey, at least I didn't write "popori". Darn French.

[Jokes]

Init (invisible)

Init watches silently as Nevard attempts to bring the horses in. "Great, another cave..." He sits at the cave entrance, and dismisses the invisibility. "If you don't mind, may I take first watch?"

After his watch, Init explores the cave more thoroughly before reading his spellbook and turning in for the night.


I'm not sure what spells to memorize, I think I have a good selection, but anyone have any advice?

[TwoCents]

Ayn watched the efforts of Nevard to convince domestic animals to sleep in a bear's den, and shook her head in puzzlement. "Are you planning on taking them with us into the Lost Caverns? Well, we shall see." She slept outside the cave in a nest she made within sight of the cave mouth. Before and after her shifts she took a walk around the area and spent some time with the animals.

"I would prefer to take first or last watch, but I don't care between the two. Does anyone object if I stand last watch with Adimus?"

Let's not put both NPC spellcasters on watch together :smallbiggrin:

[memnarch]

Daero

"Bleh. Go right head."

[Another_Poet]

Nevard

Nevard shakes his head at Ayn's scepticism. "No, if the caves are as big as we've heard we'll be in there a lot more than one night. In the meanwhile we need to keep these fellers safe."

Later, once the horses are inside, he goes out to Ayn's nest and crouches down beside it. "Listen, if I had my choice I would sleep out here too. But all alone you're a sitting pheasant. If you'd come in tonight you - and all of us - would be a lot safer."

Once night falls, he takes his guard shift and then, once again, remains awake in his bedroll while Me Lady takes her shift. In the morning he looks mighty weary....

[TwoCents]

Ayn listened, politely, to Nevard's argument and then replied, in a calm and even tone. "I appreciate your concern for my well being. I will be fine." Waiting until he returned to the cave, she left her nest and made another one, once again hiding again in the brush where she could watch the cave entrance.

[Another_Poet]

Nevard

Nevard seems to grow angry at Ayn's response. Setting his jaw, he repeats, "All of us would be safer if none of us took fool risks."

But as he walks away, he looks more sad than angry.

[Gryndel]

[DM]
There were some troubles getting the animals inside the cave, and no way beyond dismantling it to get the wagon inside. After an hour or so of effort, a few stomped toes, nipped shoulders, and kicked shins (everyone involved took 3 damage total, which will be healed by the next day) they were secured within. This meant there was only a small space for the characters to rest near the entrance, and much shuffling of hooves and nervous neighing and braying throughout the night. The potpourri seemed to keep the animals calmer than they would’ve been otherwise, but only barely. Despite all this, everyone got the rest they required to operate properly the next day.

During the night, toward the end of the second shift, the sky started filling with clouds. By dawn of the next day it was raining, and by the time the group was ready to move on the weather had turned even worse. Wind whipped the deluging rain around, limited vision to no more than a few yards, and made the trail treacherously slippery.

The intrepid and determined group pressed on stoically, and within a little more than an hour the trail led them into a dead end where they another cave entrance was seen. This cave entrance was even small than the last one, which meant there was no mundane means to get the animals or wagon inside. Just beyond the entrance a set of ancient stone stairs angled down steeply.


[Lin Lee]
The monk stopped the wagon about 20 feet from the cave, “I suppose this is it. We will have to leave the wagon here. I suggest that we set up food and water for the animals, in case we get the chance to return.”

Lin climbed into the back and started packing what supplies remained that they would need.


[Adimus - NPC]
“Yes, and we can only hope nothing comes by that will disturb the animals.”

The magic user climbed off his horse and transferred all his gear to his pack, keeping a nervous watch on the cave entrance the whole time.


[Dain - NPC mode]
The dwarf left the care of the animals to others and went to stand near the entrance. Gripping his bardiche, he had a look at the stone and inside as he waited for the others to join him, “Who’s leading the way?”


OOC: Let me know if you want any change in prepared spells.

I also need a marching order for single file. Once this is established I’ll use it in general, unless someone posts an action that changes it. Also, if the area allows, you can go double file, but still based on the original order. Initial suggestion is:

Nevard (best surprise and such)
Dain
Me Lady
Daero
Ayn
Init
Adimus
Lin Lee

If anyone has ideas to change this, please direct such discussions to the ooc thread.

[memnarch]

Daero

"Not me. :smallyuk: I'll be in the middle or back so you people can provide cover if i need to hide and sneak up on something we find."

[Jokes]

Init

Init looks down at the stairs. "No way am I going in first." He looks back at the group. "But I guess I could go somewhere near the front..."

[TwoCents]

Ayn

After Ayn had memorized her spells* for the day, she spoke quietly, "I would prefer to stay in the middle, where I had been before. It seemed to work well. Init, would you like to precede or follow me?" Ayn packed up her gear and picked up a stout piece of wood to use as a walking stick and pit trap tester.

Once the marching order had been settled, she took her place in line and gave a short blessing, "May the Spirit of All Life guide and protect us this day."**


*No more Call Lightning. :smalleek: Switch to the Underground spell list
**A few words of encouragement, not the spell :smallsmile:

[Jokes]

Init

Init bows slightly to Ayn. "It'd be an honour to step on a trap before you do."

[TwoCents]

Ayn laughed heartily, and returned Init's bow.

[Another_Poet]

((The suggested marching order works for me.))

Nevard

"Doubt the horses will last long out here on their own. Couldn't we leave half of us here to guard the horses, gear and entrance?"

After the party explains the numerous reasons why that is a Bad Idea, Nevard shrugs and gives in.

"Alright, at least leave the poor things untied."

He draws his two melee weapons and heads toward the entrance of the tunnel. "I can take lead," he offers.

He activates his ring of invisibility and enters, then moves at a normal walking pace at the front of the group. He relies on someone behind him to have a light source and sweeps his sharp eyes over the walls, ceiling and floor as he goes.

((Gryndel, how long does the ring of invis work each day again? I can't recall.))

[Diella]

"Me think horse not be safes here me think sumthin come eats horse if they be left alone all tied up wid no pace to run.

Me Lady listened to talk about marching order. She was eager to get going now all the fun stuff was about to start.

"Me take lead two. Me like be in front front were all the fun stuff happen. Me watch youz back. Nevard me make sure hey were he go me no see him any more??"

"Guess me be lead one then."

Me Lady walked into the cave drawing her weapon with a happy grin on her face.

"Me like cave it dark me see gooz in dark."

[Daryk]

Dain

Dain opened his mouth to object to MeLady taking the lead, but then thought better of it. Nevard being so far ahead made his knowledge of stone work moot, so he fell in behind MeLady, his great axe at the ready, and a head sized stone perched on his pack.

[Gryndel]

[DM]
After descending the long flight of steps, you pass north about 20' into a natural chamber some 70' wide and 50' deep. You have ignored a narrow passageway to your left (west) in order to enter this area, for your light has glinted off something on the far wall of the place.

Now you see that there are weird faces carved in bas-relief around the walls of this cavern. There are, in fact, six such visages hewn from the rock itself. Each face is by the side of one of six tunnels leading off in one direction or another from the cavern to unknown. Although each face is slightly different from its fellows, all are strange and doleful looking: one has doglike ears, another protuding tusks, a third drooping wattles, etc. There seems to be no relationship between the size of the passageway and the stony visage beside it.

Nothing else in the chamber seems remarkable. There are a few stalactites on the ceiling above, a few fallen to the floor amid a handful of stalagmites.

MAP:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3555/3292584145_3f9fafff97_o.jpg


[Lin Lee]
The monk stayed by the narrow passage that others had bypassed.


[Adimus - NPC]
Staying behind Init, the magic user gazed around the chamber with interest, “Fascinating. Looks like a variety of choices from here.”


OOC:If I have this right, the current marching order is now:

Nevard (invisible right now)
Me Lady
Dain
Daero
Init
Ayn
Adimus
Lin Lee

Checkeroony on the spells folks

[Another_Poet]

Nevard

Nevard closes with the other party members, still invisible, and
whispers, "I say we check each of 'em clockwise, starting with the one we walked past."

If no one objects, he moves past the others (keeping the same marching order) and heads down the hall that Lin Lee is standing by.

[Daryk]

Dain

Dain carefully surveyed the room for unusual stonework before agreeing with Nevard's suggestion. An orderly investigation was certainly a good idea, after all.

[memnarch]

Daero

"Sounds like a plan"

[TwoCents]

Ayn

"An excellent suggestion, Nevard. But first, let me examine the walls of this chamber..." So saying, the half-elf began to examine the room for secret or concealed doors. She moved in the clockwise direction suggested, following behind Dain if possible.

[Jokes]

Init

Init stays close to Nevard, or at least where he thinks Nevard is.

[Diella]

Me Lady
"Melady say me dink we should go to one widtusk.Megottusk me knowz dey special me wantsto go dare please."

She then gave the group a sad puppydoglook as she waited to see if anyone would agree with her. It would have looiked better if the creature doing it did not look as if it could rip your arm off with little trouble.

[Gryndel]

[DM]
OOC:The tunnel where Lin is standing is the one before entering the main chamber, just at the bottom of the stairs on the map. Nothing comes out of it. Though Nevard stated he was going into that tunnel, I think there was some misunderstanding there. So until someone specifically posts going there he’ll just guard it, not wanting anything sneaking up behind the group. Meanwhile, to move things along, I’ll presume the chamber was checked out thoroughly...

Though Ayn searched carefully, no secret doors were found. Each of the bas-relief carvings had an animated mouth that activated when any party member came within three feet of one. The mouth moved and it said with a bass, mournfully dire tone, “Turn back ... this is not the way!”

This was repeated endlessly each time the same or another individual came within three feet. Those who watched the stone mouth noted that it had something glittering within it.


[Adimus]
As the others entered the chamber, the magic user remained near the entrance. After hearing a few of the statues ‘speak’ he said, “How interesting. They seem enchanted with a permanent magic mouth spell cast upon each.”

Upon hearing them all say the same thing, Adimus added, “Obviously, one or more of them are stating lies. But which is not?”

[Another_Poet]

Yes, I meant the one Lin is guarding, specifically because it's not in the room with the spooky faces. I don't know why we would've walked past it without checking it out in the first place; anything could be hiding down there.

Nevard waits for Ayn's search of the room and ignores the half-orc. When Adimus begins pondering which of the doors may be the right way, he speaks up.

"There's one door that's already behind our backs and it hasn't said anything to us at all. I'm checking it out and I'd like backup."

If someone else will go with him, he'll lead the way staying 20' ahead of the party at the edge of their torchlight, still invisible. If the whole party comes I presume we keep the same marching order.

[TwoCents]

Ayn, Half-elf druid

"Certainly. I think that's an excellent plan. Me Lady, we'll check the tusked door in order, but let's make sure no one is sneaking up on us first, shall we?" Ayn smiled at the half-orc and prepared to followed Nevard (as best she could, since she could not see him) down the passage.

[memnarch]

Daero

"Hey... Anyone else notice something weird about the mouths when they speak?"

[Daryk]

Dain

"Aye, something glitters in there. But we can look into that later. We've another door to look at now," the dwarf said.

[Jokes]

Init

"Glitters?" Init pulls an arrow from his quiver and walks over to the nearest statue. Using the arrow, he carefully prods around in the mouth, searching for traps and trying to set off any that might be in there. If he finds no traps, he will try and pry out whatever is glimmering with the arrow.

[TwoCents]

Ayn, when she saw Init poking at the magic mouth and actively attempting to set off traps, dodged around the corner into the side passage and grabbed her spell components.

ooc: If there is nothing down the corridor, just say so and we'll move on, but I'm NOT moving forward leaving a potential threat behind me.

[Diella]

Me Lady plopped herself on to the ground the problem was to close to being a riddle and she was never very good at riddles. While the others talked she sat scratching under her arm with one hand.

"Me dee shiny in mouth maybe shiny is what makes mouth talk you dink dat be so?"

[Gryndel]

[DM]
As most of the others return to check out the tunnel where Lin stood, the arrow that Init stuck into one of the stone mouths was crushed as the statue bit down hard.

While Me Lady sat in the middle of the cavern, Nevard led the way into the first tunnel they had passed. Dain (who apparently has more than one name, now called Tarag? :smalltongue:) followed the ranger, with Ayn behind him, and Lin Lee bringing up the rear. Turning sharply to the left, then back to the right, it led to a small cave-perhaps 20' or so wide by 30' in length. Its walls and floor are covered with streaks and blotches and there seemed to be no other exit.

As Dain entered, with Nevard near the center of the cave, the sound of small flapping wings was heard as a group of stirges flew down to attack them. Ayn was just entering the cave, though none of the strange little creatures seemed to fly at her or Lee, who was right behind her.


MAP: (http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3588/3346548643_37821e90a1_o.jpg)


[Lin Lee]
The monk dodged past Ayn and swiftly entered the fray, ready to use his martial arts skill to attack the stirges fluttering around the ranger and dwarf.

Initiative:[roll0]
Attack:[roll1]
Damage(if hit):[roll2]


OOC:Need initiative (d6) and roll(s) for any actions taken this round. Init, Daero, and Me Lady can be there next round if they move this round.

[Another_Poet]

Nevard sees the wretched insectoids and gives no thought to slaying them... he swipes with a hard upward blow of his bastard sword at the closest one.


initiative [roll0]

I'm not sure what my options are here or what to roll. I see "surprise other 1-3 d6" on my sheet, so can I gain some advantage by surprising these guys? I am invisible after all. If so here is my roll...

surprise! [roll1]

As far as my attack roll, what do I add? it's a +3 bastard sword and I'm double specialised. I'll just roll the d20 and add the modifiers once you tell me what they are.

attack - [roll2]

(damage?)

[Diella]

As the group left the chamber Me Lady sat for a bit then nervously got up and paced for a few steps. The possibility that they discover something she would want in on ate at the back of her mind. If they were attack and she was not there the fight could be over before she learn about it.

She ran after the party, "No go wid out mez. No fight wid out mez me wanna cums twozz."

[Gryndel]

initiative [roll0]

I'm not sure what my options are here or what to roll. I see "surprise other 1-3 d6" on my sheet, so can I gain some advantage by surprising these guys? I am invisible after all. If so here is my roll...

surprise! [roll1]
Yes, you'd get surprise attack on that roll, and I totally forgot about it, and that you were invisible. So go ahead and count that first attack roll as surprise, then add another for your initiative turn this round.

Attacking makes you visible, but you can turn invisible again after you attack as a free action.


As far as my attack roll, what do I add? it's a +3 bastard sword and I'm double specialised. I'll just roll the d20 and add the modifiers once you tell me what they are.

attack - [roll2]
Yes, attack totals are +6 hit and damage is also +6. I'll just add it in when I resolve the round.


(damage?)
Damage is 2d4 for bastardsword vs small/medium foes & 2d8 for large foes, if used with both hands. If used in one hand (with another weapon in the other, as rangers can do?) its 1d8\1d12.

[Daryk]

Dain

"Bah! Foul pests!" Dain said laying into the swarm with his great axe.

Fixed that earlier identity crisis. :smalleek: Thanks for pointing it out. I'm down to once a week access or so, since the nearest computer lab is now a half mile walk out of my way.

Die rolls:
Initiative: [roll0]
To Hit: [roll1] (I think those bonuses are right... almost midnight here after a LONG week)
Damage: [roll2] (ditto)

[Jokes]

Init

As the face chomps down on his arrow, Init stops and scratches his head. "Hoo, that was lucky," he holds his hand out in front of him, "after all, I need you for magickin'."

He considers the statue for a moment longer until Me Lady runs past and he hears Dain's shout. "Speaking of." He draws his bow, notches an arrow, turns invisible, then follows after Me Lady.

[memnarch]

Daero

"Hey, wait!" the gnome cries as he pulls out his falchion and charges after them.
[roll0]

[TwoCents]

Ayn

Ayn stepped into the cave and spoke a magical phrase. Suddenly the flying creatures were outlined in a blue glow, making them easier to see -- and easier to hit.



[roll0]
Faerie Fire spell: One man-sized, two kobold-sized, or three 2' long creatures per level; duration 4 rds/level; +2 to hit

[Another_Poet]

You're right, I forgot abotu the hand-axe in my offhand. Of course I'll attack with both.

here is damage on the bastard sword:

attack with handaxe: 'roll]1d20 plus modifiers
damage??

If it's not too much to ask, if you edit in my attack & damage modifiers on my char sheet I can just take care of them myself from now on. Otherwise I'm worried I'll forget...