Traveling North [DM SteveK] Tuesday September 13th, 2016 6:14:10 AM
Evaris talks of assignments and the Pitchfork Council quickly shake their heads. They don't want a employer/employee relationship, but one of mutual friendship.
Lanliss blithely talks of destroying the Ley Line and Dulcet laughs. "Not so easy nor desirable, dearie. They naturally form where there is life, trickles of the energies of all things. Never heard of one being destroyed, but would hate to be thee if THAT ever happened. No, I would ask you to cleanse it if possible."
Emrys doesn't know Dulcet's motives, but takes her calling him 'pretty' as a compliment. She called again at his words. "If you knew me, you'd never call me a Lady!"
Consensus reached, the heroes waste little time in setting out on their first adventure. A quick stop back at the Manor for adventuring equipment and last minute mute instructions to those who are rapidly becoming the support staff, and the Keepers of the Vale are off! Roel promises to keep an eye on Finn, Glenda, Ghillie, and Willie as they begin to learn thier duties of home and garden. (A private word with Evaris has Roel promise to at least stay sober).
All heroes get 1500xp for excellent role-playing!
....
Travelling north on the trade road, the heroes pass well-maintained farms for an easy two hours to Hnate's Hamlet. Crops and pastures are exceedingly rich, animals are healthy, and people friendly. As the group gets to the border, however, things change. The fields seem less fertile, and the last pastureland before a Hamlet nestled close to deep woods, even a casual look can spot yellowing crops, and lethargic people and animals.
perception DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { there are some cows with masses and boils under the skin } Only if made Perception check can also Know Nature DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {. There is a pox among the animals, but not contagious to the noble races}
At the end of the road is a little hamlet where six farmers, their families and retainers all live together behind a wood and wicker palisade. A sturdy human man meets the group at the gate. “Thank the Sisters you are here! I am Hnate and in charge here. We had one of the Little's watching the road since we got word this morning that Lord Hmitri was back. We’ve been bringing in the livestock every night because undead from the Dread Woods have been roaming again!"
Sense Motive DC 20. Highlight to display spoiler: { Hnate looks like there has been a lot of recent worry now replaced by relief.}
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 28 (T 13 FF 22), CMD:31; HP: 121/121Character Sheet d20+4=11 ; d20+1=10 ; Tuesday September 13th, 2016 10:29:11 AM
Barratore rolls his eyes as Emrys begins to explain. He remembered now, what was this? Lecture #18, no wait this was #8. Lecture #18 was about why using your sleeve to wipe your mouth was unwelcomed. Barratore nods and bares his teeth in a grin to his elf friend, "Yes, yes. Of course Emrys."
Barratore switches gear up, donning his full plate and grabbing his shield. He leaves the extra armor and his second sword at the house with his money
The walk up the trade road does not reveal much to the relatively observant Minotaur. He nods at the woman who greets them and if it is all the same to everyone else, I say he set into the north woods for a poke around and hopefully some action
Perception 11 Local know 10
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65 Tuesday September 13th, 2016 2:18:58 PM
Edson notices the boils, but cant figure what they mean.
" You see that?The cows have those boils that the Pitchfork people were talking about. Maybe it is beginning to spread closer to the people. "
Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 d20+17=33 ; d20+8=26 ; Tuesday September 13th, 2016 5:14:41 PM
Lanliss likes the landscape even more then he thought. As they continue on their way he gets a little bit sad, seeing the leaves less green, to see the ground a little bit weak as if not having all their nutrients and sunshine. This place should not look like this he says as he sees the cows.
When they arrive at the end of the road Lanliss looks at the man, he senses something but he can't explain what he senses only to sense that the man in front of him is extremely worried . Hello, My name is Lanliss, Lanliss Drakeguard and me and my friends here have come to help you people with whatever is roaming or hurting you and the land. After the introduction Lanliss asks Hnate if there was something that made him worried.
Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 Tuesday September 13th, 2016 5:15:30 PM
Perception 33 Sense motive 26
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 30 (33 Raged); HP: 132/132 (165 raged); DR 2/- (DR 4/-) d20+16=18 ; d20+5=17 ; Tuesday September 13th, 2016 6:59:37 PM
Walking to the northern farms, Brom takes in the open, rolling fields. It's a comforting sight, much better than the closed feeling of the Float. He takes out a block of tobacco and cuts a piece and puts it in his mouth. Putting the rest away, he smiles slightly as he puts it in his mouth.
Brom sees the boils too. He takes a closer look at the boils. "I think I remember hearin' something 'bout this. I don't think it's contagious to us, just affects animal. Shouldn't be anything for us ta worry 'bout."
Perception DC 18, KS nature DC 17
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 70/70, extended mage armor(22 hrs) Tuesday September 13th, 2016 8:41:08 PM
Internet down posting this from weak neighbors signal. Will post tomorrow morning once up and running
Evaris (Kathy) d20+5=6 ; d20+20=32 ; Tuesday September 13th, 2016 11:31:41 PM
Evaris doesn't notice the boils until they are pointed out, and even then he's not sure he's seeing them right. He's a city boy; he doesn't even know what cows are supposed to look like [Natural 1 on the Perception].
He is much better with people than cows, and is easily able to read Hnate's mood [Sense Motive 32]. "I know it's been hard," he says, "but with help from the gods we will set things right."
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 118 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+8 W+19 -- CMD 15 d20+12=15 ; d20+22=36 ; Tuesday September 13th, 2016 11:45:31 PM
ooc: Perception 15, Sense Motive 36
Shepherd Baslim reaches out a hand to clasp the man's arm and pats him on the shoulder with the other. "Peace, my brother." A smile that reaches his eyes creases his lined face. "We are here to help." He releases his grip and and his smile fades as he surveys the wicker palisade. "We saw the livestock infected with the pox. If you don't mind, I have a few questions."
He asks his questions one at a time, patiently listening as the goodman answers.
When did you first notice the pox? Did one kind of animal have it first, then it spread? Or did all animals get it at the same time? Has the pox spread to animals close to each other? Or does it seem to spread to animals nearby who never touch? Do the animals share a common water source? Do they all feed in the same pasture? Has the pox affected their appetite or sleep? Has it killed any younglings, elderly, or infirm? May I minister one of your animals with the pox?
He will take 10 on a Heal check to examine the animal and learn about the disease. Heal check 40.
===============
When did you first see the undead? What do the undead look like? How do they act? How many have been seen? Have there been any victims?
He will take 10 on a Knowledge (religion) check to identify the undead. Knowledge (religion) check 24.
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac10 hp23/51 d20+19=24 ; d20+14=29 ; d20+23=41 ; d20+23=40 ; Tuesday September 13th, 2016 11:51:26 PM
(Perception: 24. Knowledge [Nature]: 29. Sense Motive: 41)
As they travel, Emrys tries to pass the time with a song or two on his darkwood lute. Perhaps an uplifting and inspirational hymn about Alemi. How about a work of spoken word, set to music about the Old Gods and dragons fighting in an epic battle. He tries his best to be accommodating to everyone present. Maybe even a drinking song or two.
When they spot the diseased cattle, he too can assess the situation. He agrees with Edson and Brom's observations, but has to add, "It should be a concern, dear Brom. These animals provide sustenance for the people.Their health and well-being are very important.
When they arrive at the hamlet and meet the farmers, he greets them with a warm smile and a hardy handshake. He understands these social conventions to be important and reassuring to these people. This is no time to show his 'fanciful' side. "Good day, kind sir. The name is Emrys Myrridanmyl, pleased to finally make your acquaintance." After hearing his news of undead roaming about, Emrys is quite sympathetic, and tries to reassure them that indeed help has arrived.
(Diplomacy: 40)
Hnate's Hamlet [DM SteveK] Wednesday September 14th, 2016 7:06:56 AM
The arrival of the heroes and especially the diplomatic, soothing words of Emrys soon have the small farming community feeling much better about the situation. There are about 30 people living here, including youngsters, but Hnate is the main spokesman and patiently tries to answer every question. ..... When did you first notice the pox? The pox showed up about a week ago on the cows. They also have fatty lumps. The pigs are sleepy all the time, and the sheep have mange. The chickens won't lay.
Did one kind of animal have it first, then it spread? Or did all animals get it at the same time? Each problem happened to an animal slowly and about the same time with each type of animal.
Has the pox spread to animals close to each other? Or does it seem to spread to animals nearby who never touch? It doesn't spread at all.
Do the animals share a common water source? Do they all feed in the same pasture? Yes and yes.
Has the pox affected their appetite or sleep? As above.
Has it killed any younglings, elderly, or infirm? Hasn't killed any animal or person.
May I minister one of your animals with the pox? By all means! "You can look at the crops too! We've got Yellow Leaf on the alfalfa, Brown Blight hitting the Oats, and Rust Rot on the truck!"
Baslim can look over the different animals and discovers that each animal has fairly common illnesses and that none are life-threatening. The Shepherd can also see someone has been ministering to the animals, the same remedies that Baslim would use himself.
Hnate also talks about the undead. "Came three nights ago. First just a single zombie, we took care of that just fine, threw rocks from the gate until we smashed its head! The next night was more with others things in the dark, and we stayed behind the walls. Last night was different, four of em prowled the grounds outside. They were profoundly disturbing. Thier flesh looked dried, taut, and desiccated, though with a strange, otherworldly sheen. They were disproportionate and distinctly androgynous. Hairless and with only vague hints of facial structure, the eyes were deep set in their sockets and constantly weeped a foul-smelling smoky vapor. Hmarto tried to shoot one and just keeled over dead after crying out 'the eyes!' He lived alone so we have his body laid out in his home."
Know Religion DC 18 Highlight to display spoiler: {identifies them as four Bodaks.}
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 70/70, extended mage armor(22 hrs) d20+11=20 ; d20+12=30 ; d20+14=26 ; Wednesday September 14th, 2016 1:57:17 PM
As the party moves north, and starts to encounter the diseased plants and animals, Velarin notices(perception 20) the boils under the skin of the cows, which is quickly addressed by other party members. Upon arrival, Velarin listens to the questions posed by his friends, and the answers and information provided by Hnate, listening intently to all, and thinking his way through the scenario.
Velarin identifies what he believes to be the undead that were encountered(know religion 30)(assuming my roll was high enough, and a know planes check 26 provides more detail, he will explain, please adjust or add more info i am able to give as needed)
"Bodak's are an extraplanar being who are the remnants of humanoids destroyed by the touch of absolute evil, and their gaze is often fatal. Sunlight is their weakness. If these beings are here, they were either summoned by something very powerful, or we are dealing with something even more powerful and evil than we want to. Not gonna be pretty. We have our work cut out for us on this one. One curious thing to me, is that I would think that these things could breach this palisade if they so desired. But yet, they did not. that is definitely curious."
Velarin takes another moment to ponder and then continues. "It appears that our work begins tonight. Perhaps it would be wise to get some rest in shifts, as it may be a long night. If I may suggest several courses of action by our group. Keep in mind, I am just offering suggestions as to what I believe the smartest plan of action is for now."
"first off, I believe it would be wise to reinforce the palisade as much as possible. The more time we have before they are among us, the better. Brom, Barratore, and anyone with engineering abilty, would you be willing to check it out. If you can get in easily, then they likely can too. Find the areas easy for you to get in, and see if you can change that."
"Second, I believe that centralizing the villagers tonight will make our job much easier. Emrys, if you don't mind, would you get the villagers and Hnate together, and see if we can find a single and/or centralized location that would be suitable for them all to hole up for tonight while we deal with this problem? It would be best if they were happy about the situation, as we are trying to resolve their problem, and they will not leave that location. Edson, and Lanliss, if you don't mind accompanying them, perhaps once you know where they will stay, you could find the best nearby locations to see the bad guys coming from as far as possible, and help choose the best spots around that area for a defensive perimeter of their location if the palisade is breached. It would be best if we could find a location facing the likeliest directions of their approach that we could best see them coming so we can lay down some ranged unpleasantness upon them before they get here and Brom and Barratore wade in. You guys have the eyes, and they will likely be our first line of defense. Advise if their is more we need to do to assist in that matter that would be beneficial."
"Third, Evaris and Shephard, If you would be so kind, could you examine the deceased villager. The last thing we need is him returning as undead to hit us from behind. Beyond that, any preparations that you can make in regards to undead or extra planar beings will likely be useful."
"Those are my suggestions. Are there other things that should be covered?"
Memorized Spells: 1st: Protection from evil, Burning Hands, Mage armor(extended)-C, Shield, Magic missile, Magic missile, Magic missile 2nd: Invisibility, Bulls strength, Mirror image, Scorching ray, Mirror Image, Knock 3rd: Lightning bolt, Haste, Dispel Magic, fireball, Displacement, Fly 4th: Dim Door, Black Tentacles, Ice storm, greater invis., empower scorching ray 5th: Cone of cold, Summon monster 5, empowered lightning bolt, Wall of force 6th: Chain lightning, Greater dispel magic
Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 Wednesday September 14th, 2016 2:43:22 PM
Lanliss volunteers to go to the house. if it is not night already, he suggests an idea or rather choices before he goes. As I see if we have 2 choices Choice number 1 Lanliss says with a curious voice tone. Go to the forest before dark and gather some info with the potential to overstay in the forest if we don't make it to the village before night fall. Choice number 2 Lanliss says less eagerly. We wait for night fall and ambush these undead folks, but be aware that if someone is controlling them our gift of surprise goes.....
Evaris (Kathy) d20+13=20 ; Wednesday September 14th, 2016 3:10:59 PM
"An excellent suggestion, Velarin," Evaris says. He moves to examine the poor undead villager.
[Heal check 20]
"As for fighting extraplanar foes, I do have a spell that would allow me to summon an ally from another plane. However, the spell is expensive to cast, and the ally would require further payment once he or she arrived."
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65 Wednesday September 14th, 2016 5:54:44 PM
" Sure. Heard the people in the house like sheep. I am sure they know how that works. "
Edson goes with the villagers to the house. Once done he looks for a high vantage point to see the creatures coming as well as rain down arrows.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 70/70, extended mage armor(22 hrs) Wednesday September 14th, 2016 6:56:15 PM
"Insightful thoughts Lanliss. The main thought that I was thinking is that our job number one is to protect the people. If we move out now, and do not return before nightfall, it may be catastrophic for them. Here, we can be relatively sure that the enemy will come to us, on our ground, with time to prepare, and we can put ourselves between us and the villagers.
"Not sure on your spell Evaris. expensive monetarily, we may be able to handle, but owing a debt to an extraplanar being might be more of a last resort in my opinion. What do the rest of you think? it might be a good spell to have memorized, but used as a last resort."
"I'm sorry Edson, I wasn't trying to refer to the villagers as sheep to be herded, If that was how it came across, then i worded it improperly. My intention was that not a single one of them should fall during this ordeal, and both our group, and they, would be safer if they were in a centralized location, that could be easily defended while still allowing us to use the majority of our ability and skills. With innocents in the way, we have to be careful. If they are safe and out of the way, we may let the hammer fall."
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 118 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+8 W+19 -- CMD 15 d20+30=48 ; Wednesday September 14th, 2016 10:00:58 PM
Baslim thinks examining the deceased villager is an excellent idea. Assuming the villagers of Hnate's Hamlet are agreeable, he accompanies Emrys and gives the cadaver a thorough look.
Heal check 48
Afterwards, he approaches Hnate and asks him about the burial customs of Cinnamon Valley. "Above all, we want to honor your fallen neighbor. If it will not offend, I believe that building a funeral pyre and burning the body would be the best choice. It would make certain that his body is not fouled by necromancy and brought back as an enemy. Sure he would not want to endanger his neighbors?"
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 118 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+8 W+19 -- CMD 15 d20+20=27 ; Wednesday September 14th, 2016 10:01:40 PM
ooc: Forgot to roll. Diplomacy 27, in case burning the dead is offensive in these lands.
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 30 (33 Raged); HP: 132/132 (165 raged); DR 2/- (DR 4/-) d20+16=18 ; Wednesday September 14th, 2016 11:37:46 PM
Brom gives Emrys an annoyed glance at his comment. "Never said they're not important."
Later, Brom nods in agreement with Velarin. "Sounds good." He heads out to take a look at the existing defenses.
Perception DC 18
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac10 hp51/51, deathwatch d20+14=18 ; d20+12=31 ; d100=37 ; Wednesday September 14th, 2016 11:56:06 PM
(Knowledge [nature]: 18, to determine how many hours until the witching hour.)
Emrys looks up at the position of the sun in the sky. He tries to determine how long they have until witching hour. Some spells that would help a great deal will require much too long casting times.
(Knowledge [religion]: 31. to recognize the description as a Bodak and any other information about the creature.)
"Shepherd Baslim, I will give him a look, but I dread the worst. Many undead create spawn when they take a life, and I'm quite certain bodaks are no exception. We may only have hours before the poor farmer reanimates as one of those wretched creatures. That is our greatest threat we must quickly address at the moment. A funeral pyre sounds like an excellent and respectable plan."
Look to Hnate, he asks in a calm but serious tone, "Where has everyone been staying for the night? ... I suggest everyone stay in the most centrally located, sturdiest structure with doors that can be locked and shuttered windows. I will come and see what's available, kind sir, but I must really take a look at the deceased."
Emrys makes his way to where the good townsfolk are storing the deceased. With a few muttered words of power, his eyes turn black as he turns his gaze upon the poor, dead farmer. He looks to see if the man is well on his path to undeath.
(Leyline check: 37. Casting Deathwatch. Duration: 90min. No save.)
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac10 hp51/51, deathwatch Thursday September 15th, 2016 12:06:35 AM
"My apologies Brom," he says sincerely, "I misunderstood you."
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 28 (T 13 FF 22), CMD:31; HP: 121/121Character Sheet d20+4=22 ; Thursday September 15th, 2016 3:05:27 AM
Barratore nods to Velarin and agrees easily enough to make a circuit about the area and examine the structure of the palisade. Know engineering 22
Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 d20+17=21 ; Thursday September 15th, 2016 8:04:06 AM
Don't forget one thing Velarin, eventually we will have to enter the forest and we will have to leave the villagers for a few hours, Lanliss says. Lanliss tells the group he is going to check the surroundings for a while Lanliss wanders around in the village for a while going to look for any places that might need strengthening, against the invaders, noting for any potential places the invaders might come.
Perception 21
Hnate's Hamlet Preparations [DM SteveK] Thursday September 15th, 2016 8:17:28 AM
Several heroes check the sky. With the lunch date with the Pitchfork Council and the leisurely walk north, a quick glance at the sky still shows (Know Nature or Survival DC 5) Highlight to display spoiler: {several hours before sunset: plenty of time for preparations.}
Between Velarin and Emrys, the heroes know just about all there is to know about the undead creatures; clearly Bodaks. And since all accounts say noble and ignoble races become a Bodak when killed by a Bodak, the dead villager must be the worst danger!
Velarin makes several suggestions that most of the team feels are good enough to implement. A couple of clarifications are asked and resolved, and the heroes spring into action!
Baslim, Evaris, and Emrys quickly go to Hmarto's house and enters. Outside the home, a Glittermint Tree stands, testament that this place should be exceedingly fertile! The house is neat and tidy, with two women sitting vigil by the body of Hmarto laid out on the central table. Both move out of the way as the heroes enter. An examination both mundane and magical ensues and concludes that Hmarto is dead and not an undead creature. A quick question confirms that while Cinnamon Valley usually buries thier dead, burning is not considered bad. Preparations are made. Hmarto's body is brought out, prepared, and burned. The farmers plan to scatter his ashes across his gardens.
Edson and Emrys work with Hnate to gather the farmers into one building. Hnate insists that the animals are brought in too, so the only single big enough place is the threshing barn. A qick look confirms the building is sturdy wood with doors and windows both able to be shuttered and locked. It may be a little itchy, but safe as possible if the undead are able to breech the walls. The farmers and families each have pitchforks, hay hooks, scythes, and threshing flails with youngsters with slings or lighter hunting bows. These are people who are used to taking care of themselves and are not helpless: just out of thier depth!
Edson notes the roof of the threshing barn is the highest point in the hamlet. Edson (two rolls Climb DC 25) gets to the top can see the threshing roof gives Highlight to display spoiler: { near-unobstructed views inside the walls (by moving from spot to spot) and good fields of fire beyond the wall 100' feet away (though he can see creatures would be able to hide from his arrows if they were close to the wall.)}
Lanliss suggests taking the fight into the Dread Woods while the sun lasts to have an advantage. Velarin likes the idea, but thinks protecting the farmers is the most important, and asks to stay at the Hamlet. No one else mentions the decision, but with the spreading out, it is obvious the heroes intend to stay.
Brom and Barratore inspect the Hamlet's wall while Lanliss looks at possible entrances from the outside of the wall. The Minotaur sees that the woven fence is seven feet tall and sturdy. Sturdy enough to keep out anything with near-normal strength (which according to Velarin and Emrys, Bodak's are not very strong). There I s a circular enclosure with a fighting platform for medium sized creatures. The gate is also strong, double-wood paneling; Hnate's Hamlet can take care of normal and even some extraordinary threats! A suggestion here and there along with eager hands makes the wall and gate that much stronger!
The wall reinforcing and funeral pyre and herding everyone into the threshing barn take about the same time, and a quick glance shows the sun kissing the horizon. In a few minutes it will be dark... About 3-4 hours to the mid of night)
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 70/70, extended mage armor(22 hrs) Thursday September 15th, 2016 9:25:08 AM
"Agreed Lanliss. I was thinking that we wait for them to come to us tonight, eliminating the most immediate threat to the village, and then tomorrow, when we have the entire day, start following their trail back from whence they came. Hopefully it will lead us toward where we wish to go. Between that and the Ley Line finder, we should hopefully be able to come up with something in relatively short order."
"It appears that darkness shall soon be on us. If they don't come in the first couple of hours, we should probably sleep in shifts so that we are not too tired for tomorrows activities. remember their gaze. When they come, if anyone has anything to protect against an instant gaze death, it might be wise to employ it. I do not know if these things would have the sense to retreat, but it may be smart to let them get halfway to us before opening up on them"
Velarin moves to take a position allowing him an unobstructed, or mostly unobstructed view of the threat area as located by Edson.
Memorized Spells: 1st: Protection from evil, Burning Hands, Mage armor(extended)-C, Shield, Magic missile, Magic missile, Magic missile 2nd: Invisibility, Bulls strength, Mirror image, Scorching ray, Mirror Image, Knock 3rd: Lightning bolt, Haste, Dispel Magic, fireball, Displacement, Fly 4th: Dim Door, Black Tentacles, Ice storm, greater invis., empower scorching ray 5th: Cone of cold, Summon monster 5, empowered lightning bolt, Wall of force 6th: Chain lightning, Greater dispel magic
Evaris (Kathy) Thursday September 15th, 2016 4:06:57 PM
As the villagers are making their preparations, Evaris takes the time to cast a Divination spell, asking Pantheon for guidance on the best way to help the villagers and end the menace.
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65 d20+14=17 ; d20+14=24 ; d20+14=32 ; d20+14=23 ; d20+14=18 ; d20+14=32 ; d20+14=23 ; d20+14=33 ; d20+14=24 ; d20+14=18 ; d20+14=29 ; d20+14=33 ; Thursday September 15th, 2016 5:30:36 PM
Edson takes a while to get to the top.
Try 1 Fail Try 2 Fail Try 3 Fail on second roll (23) Try 4 Fail Try 5 Fail on Seconf (23) Try 6 Fail on Second (24) Try 7 Fail Try 8 Success
Dont know if he acrues any damage.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 70/70, extended mage armor(22 hrs) Thursday September 15th, 2016 6:28:23 PM
If climbing is involved for Velarin, he will wait until the others say that they are coming and then cast fly to avoid falling off a building numerous times
Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 d20+12=29 ; d20+12=20 ; d20+12=29 ; Thursday September 15th, 2016 7:21:26 PM
Lanliss will climb with the others too if everyone climbs. Lest we forget to be aware of the surroundings, I don't know if those undead can sneak upon us and pass unseen but be aware
Climb 29 Climb 20 Climb 29 ooc: Hope it's enough climbing rolls for the walls ooc: I am assuming we are climbing the wall
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 118 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+8 W+19 -- CMD 15 Thursday September 15th, 2016 11:56:05 PM
Baslim waits for an assessment of the defenses from the martial members of the party.
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac10 hp51/51, deathwatch Friday September 16th, 2016 1:03:43 PM
Emrys will see to everyones comfort in the barn. He will also walk around the barn, inspecting the walls and doors. If he sees anything that looks broken, cracked or deteriorated, he will cast Mend spells and for larger problems he will cast Make Whole, to make sure everything is structurally solid and secure.
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 30 (33 Raged); HP: 132/132 (165 raged); DR 2/- (DR 4/-) Friday September 16th, 2016 10:43:06 PM
Wandering around the walled village with Barratore, he was surprised at the level of engineering knowledge his large friend had. So, Brom deferred to his expertise and observed Barratore's inspection and comments about reinforcements that would improve the defense of the village.
Just before dark, they return and once again Brom defers to Barratore to explain improvements and other suggestions that may be done in the future.
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 118 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+8 W+19 -- CMD 15 Friday September 16th, 2016 11:23:19 PM
ooc: check
First Hour of Darkness [DM SteveK] d6=5 ; Saturday September 17th, 2016 8:29:28 AM
The heroes get ready. The farmers, families, and animals are all penned up in the threshing barn with food, water, and weapons for a last-ditch fight if needed.
Edson and Lanliss climb the high, smooth and vertical walls of the threshing barn both of them getting stuck on the traverse between the wall and roof, but eventually getting to the top. Edson did have one bit of a fall and is bruised (Edson takes 5 damage). The farmers were clearly impressed with the skills of climbing the side of the building, but Hnate mentions that they usually get out a ladder when they need to make repairs...
Evaris comes back from his divination with a vision of dead undead bodies in front of a wattle-and-daub wall. They were killed with blades, arrows, and spells.
Brom and Barratore and Lanliss return from thier outer defense inspection and announce it is sturdy, and unlikely that the undead Velarin and Emrys describe would be able to get through either the wall or the gate. Sense Motive DC20 Highlight to display spoiler: {the hero has a hunch that this is why the Bodaks went away after someone in the hamlet was killed. They were waiting for the dead to rise and kill everyone from the inside tonight!}
Night falls and Lanliss and Edson realize the disadvantage of the roof perch. The problem is the Hamlet Wall is 100 feet away from any location of the threshing barn roof and darkvision doesn't extend that far and low light vision will only show dim figures in the night (giving a 20% miss chance for any attack from the roof)
The walls sturdy and the hamleteers safe. All that is left is for the heroes to choose thier starting positions and wait for the Bodaks to return.
...... (Failing by 5 or less means no progress, not a fall. No damage if falling the First roll because only a few feet off the ground. DM took Edson's rolls of 32,23,33 as begin climb, fail to make progress, and made it to the top)
Each hero please choose your vigil location; at the wall, at the threshing barn, or on the roof.
There will be no map this combat. Just these four locations: 1 Roof. 100 feet from Wall. No line of sight at night. Low Light Vision gets 20% miss chance against other locations. 2 Barn. No line of sight to Roof or Outside Wall. Wall is out of sight at night. Low Light vision gets 20% miss chance. Takes full round to get to Wall 3 Wall. Can attack Outside Wall with ranged or reach. 4 Outside Wall. Can attack Wall with ranged or reach.
All people in the same location are considered within melee range unless specified in a post. (I.e. 5 foot step or withdrawal)
Evaris (Kathy) Saturday September 17th, 2016 2:06:14 PM
"Pantheon seems to think we'll be successful," Evaris reports, "but he declined to say at what cost. Nevertheless, it is encouraging."
Evaris positions himself at the wall. He has two Death Ward spells available, which he will cast on anybody planning to get within melee reach of the Bodaks.
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 118 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+8 W+19 -- CMD 15 Saturday September 17th, 2016 4:42:32 PM
Baslim approaches the rest of the party as they discuss strategy. "I have a plan, if I might be so bold." He seats himself himself on a hay bale near the barn, brushing some stray straw from his pants. "It involves leaving the gate open." He holds up a warding hand. "But please, hear me out." ..... OOC Battle Plan (spoiler by DM): Highlight to display spoiler: {
We purposely keep the front gate open to corral the four bodaks.Light some torches and post them on either side to emphasize the point. The creatures are rather dim-witted.
- The rogues Lanliss and Edson stay on the barn roof keeping lookout. As soon as the bodaks are spotted, they break off and come to the gate. - Evaris and Baslim cast death ward on four characters, which should probably be Brom, Barratore, Lanliss, and Edson. - Emrys casts mass bear's endurance on everyone to help those who do not have the benefit of death ward. Those people would be the arcane and divine spellcasters who will be a healthy ~30 feet behind the warded party members. - When the bodaks enter, the four warded characters shout a challenge.
ROUND 1 - As soon as the bodaks are past the threshold, Velarin drops a wall of force and Baslim drops a wall of stone. The spells are cast to form a 'V', with the opening facing toward the village. - The four warded characters engage in combat. - Emrys begins casting lesser immortal summons. - Evaris casts daylight.
ROUND 2 - Evaris channels energy. Repeat as necessary. - Baslim casts wall of stone to close the 'V' and make a triangle... of destruction! - Everyone else brings the hurt in their own special way.
With their gaze not working against characters within range, unable to escape, and taking constant damage from the daylight spell, our blades and channeled energy should handle them in no time.}
........or someone else has an idea. Please share if you do.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 70/70, extended mage armor(22 hrs) Saturday September 17th, 2016 7:32:57 PM
That's a darn good plan. Only downside i see, other than our combatants having to fight them, is the Wall placement in partially dark conditions to form the size funnel we want at end where they meet our weapons.
If Baslam doesn't want to cast a second wall, or can't, I suppose that we have enough ranged damage to finish them off after a difficult fight, and after they engage the melee combatants, I can drop a black tentacles on their backside to make retreat more difficult, and cause the rear Bodaks issues at the same time. Once I drop the wall of force, I will go to the air so I can oversee what is occurring from above and drop my spells on them while they are occupied in the funnel.
So only thing I think we should do then to follow your plan, is mark the ground where we want the walls to be placed so that it is easy to see in torchlight, and Baslam and I are exactly on same page as to exactly where each of us is putting our wall. How much of a wall can you make Baslam, it will probably need to be at least 10' high, and even then, they may be able to pull themselves up over it. I can do a 20' high wall that is 50' in length.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 70/70, extended mage armor(22 hrs) Saturday September 17th, 2016 7:35:48 PM
Velarin will be at wall currently, depending upon the battle plan taking shape
Evaris (Kathy) Saturday September 17th, 2016 7:42:12 PM
"Velarin, part of the plan involves a Daylight spell," Evaris reminds him. "We should be able to see reasonably well. And I'm afraid my Channel Energy isn't as strong as it could be, but there are other things I can do."
[OOC: Evaris is an Oathbound, which means everybody who participates in the planning session gets +1 to all die rolls as long as the plan remains in effect.]
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 30 (33 Raged); HP: 132/132 (165 raged); DR 2/- (DR 4/-) Sunday September 18th, 2016 12:01:24 AM
Brom listens to the plan, but without knowing the enemy they face, it sounds a little crazy to him.
"Ok, if ya all think the plan will work, just tell me where ya want me. I can be bait, if that's what ya want."
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 118 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+8 W+19 -- CMD 15 Sunday September 18th, 2016 12:18:38 AM
Baslim explains more. Part of the plan involves luring the bodaks with lit torches flanking the gate entrance. I suppose we could put a flat paving stone in the middle or something. I can create a wall that is 10' high and 50' long with wall of stone.
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65 d20+20=26 ; Sunday September 18th, 2016 8:37:52 AM
Plan sounds good Edson calls down from his perch on the roof. He wasn't bout to climb down and have to climb back up. From up top, he does keep an eye on the open gate.
Perception 26
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 28 (T 13 FF 22), CMD:31; HP: 121/121Character Sheet Sunday September 18th, 2016 12:09:58 PM
Barratore listens to the plan and quickly looses the ability to keep up with how it will all work. Brom was game, good enough for him as well. He nods, adding that he will be wherever V thinks is best. "I can see in the dark with a potion and while I am effective at range with my bow, I am more even more so with my blade and will get in close unless we all plan to fight these creatures at range"
Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 d20+8=21 ; Sunday September 18th, 2016 3:20:29 PM
Sounds like a good plan Baslim , Lanliss says with a smile. I am not sure about the death ward ! Lanliss shouts to the group below. I will be able to dodge their attacks, so don't worry. But remember not to think less of them, they are dangerous, they left a person to become an undead, a one of them to help them. They might be dim-witted but they still can somewhat think to some extent !
Sense Motive : 21
Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 Sunday September 18th, 2016 5:53:43 PM
Lanliss will stay up, as the plan dictates.
A Plan in the Darkness [DM SteveK] Sunday September 18th, 2016 7:53:09 PM
Most of the heroes think Baslim's plan is the best chance to get all the undead in a killing zone.
The Gates are opened and two torches posted at the top of each gate post. A paving stone is strategically placed and all but the two rogues on the roof are on the Hamlet side of the gate.
Spells have been discussed, but none have been cast...
Edson and Lanliss stay on the roof (the farmers put up the long ladder without asking in case the heroes wanted to get up or down the roof quickly). Edson starts scanning the darkness. He doesn't see anything yet, but that is sure not to last.
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 28 (T 13 FF 22), CMD:31; HP: 121/121Character Sheet Monday September 19th, 2016 8:05:35 AM
Barratore takes up a position on the inside of the wall 50' from the gate. If the others feel he should shift to another location, he will do so.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 70/70, extended mage armor(22 hrs) Monday September 19th, 2016 8:35:01 AM
We probably don't want, or can't fit 50' long walls inside the gate Baslam. How long do you want to make the funnel? We can make it shorter and higher. 25 feet long?
How wide do you want the opening of the funnel? 10 feet? Just big enough for Brom and Barratore to stand side by side?
Evaris (Kathy) Monday September 19th, 2016 4:59:52 PM
Evaris gets into position, and awaits the coming of the bodaks.
Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 d20+17=31 ; d20+18=23 ; Monday September 19th, 2016 6:23:19 PM
Lanliss sniffs the air and stays alert, Watching out for any bodaks appearance. Keeping himself a little bit invisible (stealthy), putting himself in a crouch position to make sure he is less visible. Perception 31 stealth 23
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 30 (33 Raged); HP: 132/132 (165 raged); DR 2/- (DR 4/-) d20+16=33 ; Monday September 19th, 2016 9:35:08 PM
Brom will take a position opposite Barratore on the wall. He waits for the trap be strung.
Perception DC 33
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65 Monday September 19th, 2016 10:15:51 PM
" Really? " Edson whispers to Lanliss. " You're going to smell the enemy now? You're as bad a Barry... "
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac10 hp51/51, deathwatch Monday September 19th, 2016 10:27:06 PM
Upon hearing the plan, Emrys is impressed, however there is one small wrinkle with his plan, the part where he asks to employ the talents of his Lesser Immortal Friend from the Wherever. This immortal 'friend' has yet to make his acquaintance. So if he were to call out that request into the Wherever, he isn't certain who would answer ... nor would he know if their abilities would be helpful in this situation. He explains this to everyone.
Since his tranmutation magiks don't have infinite durations, he waits until the time when absolutely necessary. He ponders what he can do until then. It's unfortunate that the majority of his abilities requires a living mind to affect. He feels his hands are tied when dealing with the undead ... and oozes ... oh how he hates both these foul creatures.
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 118 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+8 W+19 -- CMD 15 Monday September 19th, 2016 10:58:34 PM
Baslim holds his hands out. "I am not an architect. I think that if we plan on anchoring our walls in the middle of the gate and having them catch the bodaks after they enter, then there is enough space to forgive any errors."
ooc: A 50' equilateral triangle.
A Bodak in the Darkness [DM SteveK] Monday September 19th, 2016 11:48:09 PM
Barratore takes a position halfway between the open gate and the threshing barn. BRom moves opposite his Minotaur pal.
Evaris, Velarin, Emrys, Baslim, and Velarin discuss spells and when they will best be done for effectiveness. No spells have yet been cast.
Lanliss and Edson are on the roof.
And Lanliss and Brom are the only two paying attention to the front gate when the Bodaks walk in... (Good Persception Checks!) ....
Four deformed humanoid creatures stumble out of the darkness and through the open gate. They are well lit by the torches at the moment that both Lanliss and Brom spot the creatures and give warning to the team! At their shout, all four heads turn toward the sound and the begin to shamble forward, smoke coming from their eyes and the foulest invectives in an endless babble from their mouths! ....... Lanliss and Edson are 100' away from the Bodaks in good light. (Please remember your range increment penalties)
All other heroes are 50 feet away on the ground.
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65 d20+16=35 ; d20+10=18 ; d8+2=7 ; d8+2=10 ; Tuesday September 20th, 2016 9:17:43 AM
"Just in range" Edson says to Lanliss. " Good eye by the way, " The elf fires two shots from his bow.
Hit Ac 35, 7 dmg Hit ac 18, 10 dmg
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 70/70, extended mage armor(22 hrs) Tuesday September 20th, 2016 9:48:05 AM
Velarin casts his wall of force as per Shepherds plan, making sure that he and the Bodaks are on opposite sides, and moving first if that is not already the case. Wall is 20' high and 50' long
Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 d20+12=22 ; d20+12=24 ; d20+12=30 ; Tuesday September 20th, 2016 2:39:09 PM
I don't think I will be successful with throwing 2 alchemist fire flasks at those lively folks from this range Lanliss says. I am going down better take them where I can burn them easily. Lanliss proceeds to go down in a safe way to make sure that he won't meet the undead on his way down. Lanliss tries to climb as fast as possible so he can join the other in the fight. Climb 22 Climb 24 Climb 30
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac10 hp73/73, bear's endurance, deathwatch d100=18 ; d100=87 ; Tuesday September 20th, 2016 4:02:17 PM
Emrys begins to cast a powerful spell on the party within range on the ground. A powerful magik that will give them all supernatural vitality and stamina.
(Leyline check: 18, fail. Hero point reroll: 87, free cast ... woot! Casting Mass Bear's Endurance on everyone within range. Everyone within range gets a +4 enhancement bonus to Constitution. This will give you a +2 to Fort Saves and +22 hit points. Duration: 9 min.)
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 28 (T 13 FF 22), CMD:31; HP: 121/121Character Sheet d20+19=31 ; 4d8+17=41 ; Tuesday September 20th, 2016 7:49:39 PM
Barratore grins and moves in on the creatures. The fighter quickly closes on the nearest Bodak to 10' away and delivers a roundhouse midsection slash with his blade
Move up to 40' PA Vital Strike Hit AC 31 Dmg 41
Bears Endurance 9/9 +4 Con 22HP +2 Fort Save
Evaris (Kathy) Tuesday September 20th, 2016 8:22:56 PM
Once the wall is up, Evaris casts Daylight on one of his light hammers.
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 118 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+8 W+19 -- CMD 15 Tuesday September 20th, 2016 9:48:58 PM "I have faced armies with You as my shield, and though I bear scars beyond counting, nothing can break me except Your absence." Baslim thrusts his open palm forward and makes a wave motion across the field. The earth rumbles and a sheet of stone springs from the ground. It meets the edge of Velarin's wall of force near the gate entrance, rising ten feet high and extending fifty feet long.
ooc: Cast wall of stone.
A Bodak Battle! Round 1 [DM SteveK] 2d6=6 ; d4=1 d4=2 Tuesday September 20th, 2016 10:32:44 PM
Edson leads off with a arrow just in normal shooting range for his long now and strikes the lead Bodak. It howls terrible words describing Edson's parentage, but it's smoky eyes are too far away to affect the rogue!
Velarin follows the plan and creates a WLl of Force, can sliding the enemy away from half of the town!
Lanliss sprints for the ladder (Climb DC 5; able to go twice as fast for DC 15) and snakes down to the ground to stand next to the spellcasters.
Emrys gives the endurance of a bull to all heroes! (Note: does not stack with Belts of Constitution or other enhancement bonus!)
Barratorre gleefully begins the slaughter, but as soon as he gets within 30 feet of those smokey eyes, the great Minotaur is assaulted by magical forces seeking to drain his life! His massive stroke still cuts through, slicing a Bodak badly! (Barratore Make 4ea DC 18 Fort Saves. Each failed save gain 1 negative levels!)
Baslim creates a Wall of Stone opposite Velarin's wall, helming the undead in further. If they are to kill the farmers, they will have to go through the Keepers of the Vale!
Evaris waits for both walls to be up, then casts a Daylight spell, making the Bodaks recoil in cursing pain! .....
The Bodaks cringe in the strong light, but only take a step to seek to get up in Barratore's face and just stare at the Minotaur (five foot step). Once again, he can feel magic trying to drain his very life! (Barratore Make 4ea DC 18 Fort Saves. Each failed save gain 2 negative levels!) ....
Bodaks. AC 21 1 - 54 damage 2 -6 3 -6 4 -6
Barratore is in melee with the 4 Bodaks.
Edson is on the roof
Everyone else is 50 feet away.
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 118 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+8 W+19 -- CMD 15 Tuesday September 20th, 2016 10:44:56 PM
Baslim raises his other hand and makes another sweeping gesture, bring a twin wall of stone rising from the earth to join the two walls and form a triangle. "Light preserve you, brave minotaur! Evaris, please protect our friend as we discussed!"
ooc: Casting another wall of stone and trying to not tip off the bodaks. EVARIS, could you drop a death ward on Barratore?
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 30 (33 Raged); HP: 132/132 (165 raged); DR 2/- (DR 4/-) d20+19=35 ; 4d6+25=41 ; Tuesday September 20th, 2016 11:06:11 PM
If possible, (don't know how the walls are placed) Brom charges the nearest Bodak. With a fierce strike, he strikes the Bodak.
If unable to reach the bodak with a charge, he will move in to engage.
Move 30 ft.
Charge Attack, Vital Strike AC 35, damage 41
Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 d20+18=36 ; Wednesday September 21st, 2016 12:33:46 PM
Lanliss puts his hand on the head for the moment, deciding that throwing away the Alchemist Fire flask at the battle when Brom and Barratore are fighting is not going to be a good idea. He proceeds to go near the battle but not engage and stays stealthy waiting for the matters to unfold so he can know when he can strike with an helpful surprise
Stealth 36
Current Bonuses Bulls endurance +22 Con +2 Fort save
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac10 hp73/73, bear's endurance, deathwatch Wednesday September 21st, 2016 3:13:50 PM
Emrys wonders if he can tell how tall these summoned walls are.
DM SteveK Emrys can look at the walls. His Player can read Velarin and Baslim's posts. :-)
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65 d20+16=18 ; d20+10=18 ; Wednesday September 21st, 2016 6:14:59 PM
Edson sends two arrows harmlessly wide of the bodaks. "Bah.... " the elf exclaims as he misses.
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 70/70, extended mage armor(22 hrs) Wednesday September 21st, 2016 7:37:58 PM
Bears Endurance: +2 to Fort Saves and +22 hit points. Duration: 9 min Fly: fly at 60, duration 11 minutes
With a wall of force between him and the Bodaks, Velarin has little choice but to relocate, and the fastest way to do that is by casting fly, and moving 30' straight up. Give me a few seconds barratore, and I'll be hitting them from above
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 28 (T 13 FF 22), CMD:31; HP: 121/121Character Sheet d20+13=30 ; d20+13=16 ; d20+13=27 ; d20+13=31 ; d20+13=14 ; d20+13=26 ; d20+13=32 ; d20+13=23 ; d20+16=33 ; d20+11=21 ; d20+6=18 ; 2d8+17=28 ; 2d8+17=27 ; Wednesday September 21st, 2016 9:43:31 PM
The negative energy pouring off of the Bodak's is too much for the fighter to completely ward off. Barratore pivots left and brings his blade back across the wound he already made in the first creature. If it falls, he slips the blade under and then trusts it into a second. Otherwise he brings the blade into the first one for a second strike to put it down. The fighter's third strike is high and left over the creature's shoulder
Full Attack PA Hit AC 32/21/18 Dmg 28/27/miss
Saves 30/16/27/31/14/26/32/23 3 Negative levels -3 all rolls -15HP Bears Endurance 8/9 +4 Con 22HP +2 Fort Save
Evaris (Kathy) 11d6=36 ; Wednesday September 21st, 2016 9:54:19 PM
"Death Ward is a touch spell," Evaris reminds Shepherd Baslim. But it's true that the melee fighters might need his help, so he begins working his way in that direction. He pauses for a moment, however, to bring down a Flamestrike.
[Obviously, aiming the Flamestrike to target enemies without catching any friendlies. If that means he can only get one Bodak, so be it. 36 damage; DC 20 Reflex save for half.]
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 118 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+8 W+19 -- CMD 15 Wednesday September 21st, 2016 11:17:12 PM
ooc: check
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac10 hp71/73, bear's endurance, deathwatch, spectral hand d100=45 ; d4=2 ; d100=1 ; Wednesday September 21st, 2016 11:20:34 PM
Emrys takes out his Quicken rod and casts a quickened version of a handy spell. A little of his own lifeforce is consumed in the spell.
(Leyline: 45. Casting Quickened Spectral Hand. Duration: 9 min. Emrys takes 2 points of damage.)
Emrys then begins to cast his second spell (Leyline: 1, natural 1 ... FAILURE!), but it just crackles, fizzles and pops into a poof of arcane smoke. His failure was so complete, he had barely begun to utter the words before it fell apart! "PEAS AND CURSES!!" His spectral hand just floats there with nowhere to go.
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 30 (33 Raged); HP: 132/132 (165 raged); DR 2/- (DR 4/-) Wednesday September 21st, 2016 11:22:07 PM
checking in
A Bodak Battle! Round 2 [DM SteveK] 2d6(4+3)=7 d4=1 d4=1 Thursday September 22nd, 2016 1:39:55 PM
Baslim creates a twin wall of stone rising from the earth to join the two walls and form a triangle, trapping the four Bodaks (and Barratore!). He calls for Evaris to protect the minotaur, but the elf informs the Shepherd that he is asking for a touch spell…
Brom now has a 10 foot tall wall of stone, or a 20 foot tall wall of force to contend with, and can’t charge into the fray! It is only 10 feet tall and so with a jump and catch, the barbarian is able to scramble over and drop inside the triangle to contend with the undead. (OOC: Please confirm Brom’s actions for this round and next round he is able to charge.)
Lanliss, on the ground, is in the same position as Brom; outside the magical triangle of walls! Stealthily, he stalks about the outside of the wall of force so he can see what’s happening. There is the possibility of tossing an alchemical fire over the 20 foot high force wall and not strike Barratore. Of course, there is the possibility that his aim would be off and splash the minotaur too!
Edson sends two arrows harmlessly wide of the bodaks. "Bah.... " the elf exclaims as he misses.
Velarin relocates his body with a Fly spell and attempting to move straight up to hover (Velarin make two Fly Skill checks DC15; one to fly vertical and one to hover). He calls reassurances to Barratore.
Barratore is affected by the disturbing eyes of the Bodaks, but tries not to let it slow him down. The minotaur kills the first creature, and slips his blade into a second!
Evaris states it is too late to Death Ward the warriors who have charged into the Triangle, but the wiley elf knows the combat difference between ‘line of sight’ and ‘line of effect’. Looking through the wall of force, Evaris doesn’t need the latter to bring a column of flame down to scorch 2 Bodaks without scorching Barratore! [36 damage; DC 20 Reflex save for half] Evaris’ previous Daylight Spell also shines through the wall of force, causing the skin of the Bodak’s to curl and peel. [7 damage to Bodaks]
Emrys takes out his Quicken rod and casts a quickened version of a ‘handy’ spell. But the Ley Line near the hamlet mischievously darts away from the Witch, forcing him to lose his next planned spell. "PEAS AND CURSES!!" …. Three Bodaks remain, though one seems barely on its feet. Two circle Barratore, grunting and whispering foul words that would make sailors blush, their smoking craters of eyes staring into the minotaur’s soul, feeling like slices of his life force ebbing away. (Barratore Make 2ea DC 18 Fort Saves. Each failed save gain 1 negative levels!)
The third sees Brom arrive over the wall, and it stumbles towards the barbarian (Barratore gets an AOO!). Brom feels the stare of the Bodak boring holes into his own soul! (Brom Make one DC 18 Fort Save. Each failed save gain 1 negative levels!) ....
Bodaks. AC 21 1 - Dead 2 - 76 3 - 49 4 - 13
Barratore is in melee with Bodaks #2 and #3.
Brom is 50 feet away inside the Triangle with Bodak #4 30 feet away from him.
Edson is on the roof.
Everyone else is 50 feet away outside the Triangle with line of sight through the Wall of Force. (Velarin also has line of effect)
Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 d20+18=22 ; Thursday September 22nd, 2016 5:12:14 PM
Lanliss tries to be stealthy and goes towards the sounds of battle. Lanliss goes as nearest and fastest as he can to the battle and help the others. Only if I have been more useful, Lanliss thinks of himself, the fear from the undead still lingers, knowing that not being strong and fast enough against them will bring him extreme hurt and pain. Stealth 22 Fast Stealth (rogue talent) - can move at stealth without penalties.
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65 d20+16=36 ; d20+16=36 ; d20+16=22 ; d20+16=19 ; 3d8+6=17 ; d8+2=8 ; Thursday September 22nd, 2016 7:07:04 PM
Edson unleashes two more arrows at Bodak #4,, one is a picture perfect shot while one almost is as good. (One crit confirmed, one not confirmed). 17 dmg and 8 dmg
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 28 (T 13 FF 22), CMD:31; HP: 121/121Character Sheet d20+10=14 ; d20+10=29 ; d20+15=19 ; d20+15=22 ; d20+10=26 ; d20+5=20 ; 2d8+17=28 ; 2d8+17=26 ; Thursday September 22nd, 2016 7:45:05 PM
Barratore swipes at the Bodak heading towards Brom, even as another tear into his life force hits him. AoO Hit AC 19 / miss
Barratore simply screams back at the Bodaks a thunderous roar. As he strikes the greviously wounded one first. If it falls it attacks the next
Full attack PA hit AC 22/26/20. Dmg 28/26/miss
Saves 14/29 4 negative levels. -4 on all rolls -20 HP Bears endurance 7/9 +4 con +2 fort saves +22 HP
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 70/70, extended mage armor(22 hrs) d20+14=27 ; d20+14=30 ; d20+14=20 ; d20+14=18 ; 10d6=44 ; Thursday September 22nd, 2016 7:59:46 PM
Bears Endurance: +2 to Fort Saves and +22 hit points. Duration: 9 min Fly: fly at 60, duration 11 minutes
(Last rounds fly checks: 27 and 30)
Velarin flies another 10' up, and 40' over( fly check of 20 for up, and 18 to hover upon arrival), to arrive almost 40' straight above the Bodaks. The Elven Wizard then Launches an empowered lightning bolt at Bodak #3. If he doesn't have a good shot at #3, he will pick the target that he has the best shot at.
Damage: 71(44 roll, 22 empower, 5 intense spells), reflex save 22 for 1/2 damage.
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 30 (33 Raged); HP: 132/132 (165 raged); DR 2/- (DR 4/-) d20+14=24 ; d20+21=36 ; 4d6+25=46 ; Thursday September 22nd, 2016 9:10:32 PM
Brom clears the wall and immediately senses the draining gaze of the bodak. He can feel his life draining, but with a great shout he resists the effect. Raising his sword he charges the closest opponent, #4. Brom strikes and feels the solid feel of a good contact on the undead.
Charge attack, vital strike, PA: AC 36, damage 46
Rage: 2
The Night is Quiet [DM SteveK] Thursday September 22nd, 2016 9:46:13 PM
Barratore, Valerin, and the Brom go into action and in a matter of seconds, the remaining Bodaks are dead. The deformed corpses are all that is left of the horror visited upon Hnate's Hamlet.
Well, that and two 50 foot permanent stone walls that form a 45 degree angle in the Hamlet commons.
While it is night, it is bright as day because of Evaris' Daylight spell. And in only a minute, the Eall of Force disappears allowing Barratore and Brom to be free from the 'cage of death'.
Nothing else is seen in the darkness. It Looks like the initiative is all on the side of the heroes!
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac10 hp71/73, bear's endurance, deathwatch, spectral hand d100=73 ; d20+19=36 ; Thursday September 22nd, 2016 10:06:58 PM
Emrys' aggravation from his spell failure quickly melts to concern for Barratore and Brom. "How did you two fare?" Emrys is too impatient to wait for an answer. He quickly recasts Deathwatch and gives both warriors a good scrutiny (Perception: 36). "Barratore, you do appear a bit haggardly ... are you in need of Restoration?" His spectral hand still bobbing in the air behind him ... mimicking his own hand movements.
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 118 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+8 W+19 -- CMD 15 Thursday September 22nd, 2016 11:44:27 PM
Baslim makes a warding sign toward the fallen undead. "Light burn away their foulness." Surveying the scene and seeing that no one is in immediate peril, he bends down and kneels on the ground, placing his staff beside him and bowing his head.
"Maker, my enemies are abundant. Many are those who rise up against me. But my faith sustains me; I shall not fear the legion, should they set themselves against me. In the long hours of the night when hope has abandoned me, I will see the stars and know Your Light remains."
He stands again and takes up his staff. "All right, my new friend Barratore. Let's see what they did to you." The Shepherd ambles over and takes a look at the towering minotaur. "Come here, bend down." He pulls up his eyelids, checks his teeth, feels around his neck, and places an ear against his heart. "Mmhmm. Looks like your vital essence has been drained. Your eyes are cloudy, your gums are gray, and your heartbeat is irregular. But your bravery was stronger." He pats him proudly on the arm. "Here, I can help some, but it will take a few days to rid you of all their foulness."
Baslim holds out both of his hands with his fingers spread wide. After a moment a soft, pearlescent white light surrounds his hands. He reaches up and places his hands on Barratore's chest. He speaks and his voice resonates in a deep, hollow tone. "I am an instrument in Your hands, Maker. Let me take the burdens of another." He pulls back his hands a small, sinuous black thread is drawn from the minotaur's chest. It writhes in the air, searching. Baslim holds it between his hands for a moment. "Light consume you!" He claps his hands together and the black thread pops between his hands like a party favor.
ooc: "Draw Negative Energy (Su): The healer touches a creature that has received a negative level. He makes a heal skill check vs DC 25. Success removes the negative level, but the healer is affected and must save, as if affected just as the original victim had been. If the check is 10 above the DC, the healer gains no negative levels. This ability is usable once per day."
I will take 10 for a total Heal check of 40 vs DC 35.
Evaris (Kathy) Friday September 23rd, 2016 1:02:34 AM
Evaris stands by while Shepherd Baslim examines Barratore. "I can help as well," he says, "starting tomorrow. For now, let us reassure these good folk that the foul undead will trouble them no more."
Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 d20+17=22 ; Friday September 23rd, 2016 4:32:43 AM
Lanliss looks at his surroundings to make sure there is no others that are undead and that every Bodak is truly dead.
perception 22
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 70/70, extended mage armor(22 hrs) d20+11=28 ; Friday September 23rd, 2016 7:27:52 AM
While the majority of the group tends to Barratore, Velarin flies around the perimeter of the village at 20' in the air, making sure that there is nothing else sneaking into the compound, nor approaching it, using the fight with the Bodaks as a diversion(perception check 28).
If no other issues are spotted, he will return to the group. "Well, looks like we made a mess. Suppose we should burn these vile creatures. Anything we can do about the stone walls sticking out into the village and blocking their gate Shephard? Other than leaving them or taking them apart by hand? Suppose we should consult with the villagers to see if they want to have or use them for some other purpose."
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65 d20+18=20 ; Friday September 23rd, 2016 11:13:46 AM
Edson grabs the ladder and slides down without touching a rung. (Acrobatics 20). Once safely on the ground he runs to Brom and Barratore to make sure they are ok.
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 28 (T 13 FF 22), CMD:31; HP: 121/121Character Sheet d20+4=14 ; Friday September 23rd, 2016 3:48:25 PM
Barratore looks about and notices the walls, "you magic types can dispel those now.". The Minotaur takes a piece of close to wipe clean his blade as Emrys and Baslim converge on him. He allows himself to relax a bit and nods to Emrys, "Yes Emrys, I certain could.". He drops to a knee as requested for Baslim, but as the man tries to check him he disengages and stands back up. "Enough of the prodding, Emrys' magic was quite sufficient thank you.". Barratore assures all that he is all right and there is no need to make such a fuss
A quick grin then comes to his face as he groups up with Brom, "Nice of you to join in at the end there"
Barratore heads to the front gate and takes a few strides past the outer wall to look about as well, sliding his sword into its sheath and stowing his shield. There he stands for a few minutes peering into the darkness with his bow in hand
Perception 14
Restoration removes all temp levels as I read it
Hnate's Hamlet Aftermath [DM SteveK] Friday September 23rd, 2016 8:35:08 PM
Emrys checks on Barratore, and with a wave of his Specteal Hand (and a Restoration spell) removes all of the temporary negative effects on the Minotaur.
Baslim checks on Barratore and pronounces him in perfect health!
Evaris goes to reassure the farmers.
Lanliss waits for the wall of force to go down and makes a search of the bodak bodies. One Bodak wears an ancient platinum necklace with moonstone and onyx. It looks extremely expensive!
Velarin takes a spin around the hamlet's wall, and is satisfied there are no other adversaries or other curious beasts about.
Edson does a showy dismount from the rooftop and reunited with the other heroes.
Barratore teases Brom about the battle and the air of a challenge overcome is in the air.
The farmers are also infected by the success of the night. They close the gates again and celebrate the ready-made rock quarry the heroes provided in the form of two permanent stone walls!
Soon, all need sleep, and the night passes uneventfully.
In the morning, the roosters crow and the farm becomes alive way too early in the morning. Hnate welcomes the day and heroes with large mugs of ale and chunks of bread and cheese. "Welladay heroes!" ....
all heroes get 5,000xp and 1,000gp in wealth
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 118 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+8 W+19 -- CMD 15 Friday September 23rd, 2016 11:53:21 PM
ooc: I actually had a post ready explaining to the villagers that they now have 2,000 sqft of perfectly level, 1 in thick stone ready to be cut into tiles. :)
"Welladay, Master Hnate."[/b] Baslim accepts a chunk of bread with grateful thanks and takes a seat to enjoy breakfast. "We're glad to be of service to you and your neighbors." He takes a bite and speaks out of the side of his mouth, being a rather earthy sort of priest. "I think we're supposed to keep investigating the area. Do you think you could draw us a map when you have a chance? Marking areas we could investigate this blight would be helpful, and keep us from wandering in circles."
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 70/70, extended mage armor(22 hrs) Saturday September 24th, 2016 9:11:00 AM
Velarin gets some sleep since the keepers will likely have a busy day tomorrow. Upon waking, he memorizes his spells, and moves out to join the others for breakfast.
"A map would be helpful. We have a limited time frame on the Ley line finder that Emrys carries. We should make use of that first thing this morning, and try and follow it to the Ley line that we are hunting. It is likely that in that process we will encounter the problem or it's minions, or the person trying to help."
Evaris (Kathy) Saturday September 24th, 2016 12:50:13 PM
"Thank you, Hnate!" Evaris says. Turning to his companions, he adds, "Do we have any way of knowing whether the ley lines are back to normal? Were the bodaks a symptom, or a cause?"
Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 d20+15=22 ; Saturday September 24th, 2016 12:57:46 PM
Lanliss tries to Appraise this necklace he found. He looks at the moonstone and onyx signs/symbols. I really don't, Lanliss says to himself, thinking to himself he might lost this object. After he appraises the object, he looks at the Keepers of the Vale for a moments. He makes a sigh and puts the object on table (if there is one) and says: I found this on the undead body, it looks quite nice....Evaris, Velarin, Emrys and Baslim your are the members that deal with magic and divinity, It would be unwise not to share what I have found as this thing might or might not be helpful in understanding what we are dealing with.
Appraise 22
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 70/70, extended mage armor(22 hrs) d20=8 ; Saturday September 24th, 2016 5:42:13 PM
Velarin responds first to Evaris. " From what I understand, the Ley lines never change, they are just used for good or evil by those with the ability. I would say it is likely that the Bodaks were summoned or created by whatever is currently using the bad Ley line for evil power."
Velarin turns to respond to Lanliss. "More than likely, this was a valuable worn by the once living person that possessed it, but you are wise to question such things as they are not necessarily insignificant. We should take a look."
Velarin will cast detect magic upon the item, and then use whatever skill check may apply with an 8 to add to his modifier
Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 28 (T 13 FF 22), CMD:31; HP: 121/121Character Sheet Monday September 26th, 2016 9:20:58 AM
Barratore gets up partially reluctantly with the morning activities as the commotion of life in and around farms is a bit too much to ignore. That, and once partially awake it is nearly impossible to ignore nature's morning call. So the fighter gets up, answers the latter and then wanders out to greet whomever is about. "Good Morning" he replies to Hnate. Barratore yawns once, gives a snort and shake of his head and then accepts some of what Hnate brought.
Barratore welcomes the man to come inside and has a seat up against a wall. "We're going to go further north following the do-hicky-thing-stone right?" he asks Velarin, Evaris, Baslim and any of the others that also might already up and about.. "Council said the stone would work for a week,so we should get going"
Following the Trail [DM SteveK] Monday September 26th, 2016 6:26:07 PM
Baslim greets the day happily and asks for a map. Hnate responds he knows every blade of grass on hi land, "but the Dread? We don't even go there for firewood. Look that way", and he points to the forest nearby. "There, now you know as much as anyone in Cinnamon Valley about the Dread Woods."
Velarin suggests the team follows the Witches bauble because there only five days left. Emrys can confirm that Ley Lines often change, flitting away even from one moment to the next. This Ley Line, however, is still there.
Evaris wants to know if they can tell if the Ley Lines are back to normal. Emrys can answer the elf cleric, for when he touches the Ley Line, it feels... Dirty.
Lanliss looks at the treasure and is certain they can get 7,000gp for the pair. (Already noted above as 1,000gp per hero). A check by the spellcasters can confirm it is not magical or aligned.
Barratore gets up and takes care of more important things before considering the issue before the heroes. The minotaur agrees with Velarin. And with no other opinions, the heroes saddle up shanks mare, and are ready to go.
They follow the Seeker Stone into the Woods. The Dread Woods are close to the Hamlet, and the feeling is decidedly oppressive. Massive trees with huge roots, lichen-covered trunks, and creeper vines all about. At nearly every bush, there are bones. A Know Nature DC 15 can identify and avoid various plant monsters, mostly Assasin Vines and Weed Whip, though they had to skirt an animated Hangman Tree once. There are no animal sounds or sightings at all. ......
About 10 miles north of the hamlet, the forest opens up to a great meadow with copses of trees here and several mounds and even hills. There, the trail the heroes are following, lead to a large grassy hill.
Evaris (Kathy) Monday September 26th, 2016 8:12:08 PM
Very much a city boy, Evaris let the others take the lead as they skirted the dangers of the forest. He is somewhat relieved when they finally reach a clearing--and then he looks around.
"Oh, no, this isn't creepy at all," he says. "What are we thinking? Trap? Ambush? Both?"
Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 70/70, extended mage armor(22 hrs) d20+11=12 ; Monday September 26th, 2016 8:27:52 PM
"The silence of this place is eerie. Almost like it can't tolerate life other than it's own. I wonder if it was like this before, or is the result of what's been happening with the Ley line."
"Both is what I would guess Evaris. Those of us that are good at seeing things, please remember to keep an eye above us in the forested areas"(as He looks around and likely sees little but the forest for the trees-perception of 12)
"Looks like we keep following the pointer thing unless someone sees something that may lead us to our unknown helper, or a fight."
Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac10 hp71/73, bear's endurance, deathwatch, spectral hand d20+19=27 ; d20+10=15 ; Monday September 26th, 2016 8:52:27 PM
Those who look at Emrys may think he is a city boy like Evaris, but he is a creature of the forests ... mainly Culverwood, but he is equally at home in any wooded areas. He greatly enjoys the stroll through the woods and the uneasiness of those not so comfortable. Though he keeps a watchful eye for anything ... including natural dangers.
(Perception: 27. Survival: 15)
Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 30 (33 Raged); HP: 132/132 (165 raged); DR 2/- (DR 4/-) d20+5=7 ; d20+16=20 ; Monday September 26th, 2016 9:33:12 PM
Brom takes the lead through the wood and helps to lead the group through the forest. He keeps an eye out for things that would cause them harm. He keeps his bow out and stows his sword as they travel.
Once they arrive at the grassy knoll, he switches weapons.
Brom crouches down and takes a long look at the field looking for any indications of either of what Evaris had mentioned. Once everyone is satisfied, he will move out towards the hill.
Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 118 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+8 W+19 -- CMD 15 Monday September 26th, 2016 11:30:33 PM "Yes, this would be where I would ambush someone." Baslim stops and wipes sweat from his brow. "If someone would like to flush out anyone who is there, please go right ahead. I'm certain we can support you." He smiles. "Or we can go around."
Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65 d20+19=30 ; Tuesday September 27th, 2016 8:54:08 AM
No buildings to run on, no alleys to hide.. Edson just lets the others lead while he follows. He does keep his eyes scanning, a city wasn't needed in that aspect.
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