Narrative DM Jan Monday September 6th, 2004 2:29:05 AM
In the boats -
Gone are the cares of Life's busy throng Beautiful dreamer Awake unto me Beautiful dreamer, Awake unto me...
A song drifts out onto the water; the voice is light, female, the words in common.
Like a wall, the mist's boundary ends abruptly and the shoreline becomes visible, straight ahead. In the background by the treeline, there's just time to catch sight of a humanoid figure running off into the trees, followed by a rather large, ugly bird. The foreground reveals a group of assorted creatures stood on a pebbly shore; mostly non-orc humanoid - could be elves, could be humans, one of them female, and there's a female halfling, and a female liontaur!! There are three ravens, too! And a small black cat!
They're stood close to a longboat that's carved in bold, crude, but efficient lines. The boat contains a figurehead, and there's a light coming from the carved figurehead's chest.
-------
On the shore -
The cleric of Wardd starts on his journey home and disappears from view, back into Blackbird Forest.
It appears that the mysterious boat has been fully activated after the true password has been given.
Then suddenly, the beginnings of a wake appear in the water, slapping at the sides of the strange boat. Something approaches!
It's another boat, no - two boats appearing out of the mists, both with non-orc humanoids on board. Two females maybe, one male up by one of the masts, and a strange wispy creature floating nearby!
Ashira d20+16=18 Monday September 6th, 2004 10:59:33 AM
Well, this certainly wasn't what Ashira expected to see... quite a diverse group for a bunch of slavers...
And then something catches her eye...the liontaur...something about that figure is very familiar. Without thinking, she calls out to those in the boat "Stand down...await further orders." Moving forward to Rigging, Ashira speaks in Elven. "Love, I think I've seen that liontaur in a dream before. Please, let's move in closer before we launch an attack."
Theodore and Macaw Monday September 6th, 2004 12:27:31 PM
A young rag-a-muffin of a boy stands on the shore with a raven perched on his scruffy head. Theodore appears to be in his late teens. He's below average height, and hunches a bit, making himself look even shorter. The clothes he wears are of plain stock except that they appear to be a bit too big for him. The sleeves of his tunic fall down about his wrists, hiding most of his hands. The cuffs of his trousers flow around his shoes, touching the ground.
Upon seeing the incoming boat, he lets out a shout of warning to the rest of his group and quickly takes up a defensive position, pulling forth a rod of some sort.
"They probably heard the explosion and came to investigate," he says to his friends. "What should we do?"
Shadeos Monday September 6th, 2004 12:52:54 PM
A man with dark curly hair framing deep brown eyes over crooked nose and perpetual five o'clock shadow stands on the shore very close to the longboat's glowing figurehead. He wears a gray shirt over studded leather armor of the same color. A heavy mace hangs from the left side of his belt just as a light crossbow hangs from the right. The fletching from several crossbow bolts can sometimes be seen over Shadeos' right shoulder. An unadorned buckler is attached to his left forearm and a worn leather backpack hangs comfortably on his back.
Shadeos' watches the approaching longboats intently as he reminds the party without shifting his gaze, "It is unlawful to attack strangers." Realizing that they have likely been seen, Shadeos steps closer to the figurehead ready to take cover should arrows fly.
Vauhwyt and Mookie d20+4=21 Monday September 6th, 2004 1:34:39 PM
On the orcish boat with his mistress, Mookie squawks when he sees an approaching vessel with armed figures inside. "Well, Boss, I hope you're happy! You've pulled a ship-load of enemies down on our heads!"
"Watch your tongue, Mookie," Vauhwyt scolds. Besides, I do not think these are enemies!"
She squints (Spot check 21) ... there can be no mistake! She knows that woman!
Suddenly she calls out, loudly, "ASHIRA! WOWSY!! IS THAT YOU!?"
The female liontaur with the longspear starts shifting from paw to paw and waving wildly. It looks like she would like to jump in and swim! Her lashing tail accidently whips Shadeos.
Vorelle Monday September 6th, 2004 2:04:53 PM
Toward the back of the group on shore is a cloaked figure. Between the mist and the concealing cloak, it is difficult to make out too much about this person. Probably female, most likely human or half-elf. She bears a longbow.
Vorelle had been watching down the path, but now turns to face the new arrivals. She pulls an arrow from her quiver and nocks it, but keeps it pointed at the ground. For now.
Rigging Monday September 6th, 2004 2:33:07 PM
Rigging studies the group on shore and thinks to himself that these don't look like slavers, but caution is warranted.
Suddenly the large liontaur is calling to his wife by name. He gives her a puzzled look and then remembers seeing this magnificant creature in a tavern somewhere.
He says to the wildcards, "Stand down but stay ready. I don't think these were the slavers we were after."
As the boat beaches,the nimble young man in his early 20's, jumps from the prow of the ship and glides up the beach. He is dressed in fine clothes and seems well equipped. Shortsword and dagger hang from his belt and he tucks away a wand as he walks up the beach straight to the liontauress.
"Excuse me Miss, haven't we met? My name is Arrack Von Palin, but my friends call me Rigging. I am the Captain of the Sword of Redemption and leader of the Wildcards. I see you recognize my wife?"
The confident young man leaves the question hanging.
Dietrich d20+4=5 d20+2=16 d20+4=14 Monday September 6th, 2004 3:41:37 PM
Dietrich was waiting in expectation for the result of the passwords and gets immediatly on his guard as the two other boats approaches. He nocks an arrow on his longbow and nervously waits for them to come closer.
The young man is very tall and robust and wears platemail with a closed iron helmet. He has a composite longbow in his hands and a great-sword hanging on the right side. Though his clothes are a little weared down, a weapons coat with a red bear on black background can be seen.
Then Dietrich sees that the newcomers are no orcs, what relieves him a lot, and suddenly Vauhwyt starts calling them! Though he relaxes a little, he keeps behind, analyzing the boat crew and ready to fight.
When Rigging arrives and speaks, Dietrich nods to him, but will let others speak first.
Spot 5 Sense motivation 16 Military knowledge 14
Bart Monday September 6th, 2004 3:50:13 PM
Just after Rigging jumps ashore Bart is following him. By the looks of his well made clothes it is visible he has traveled a long time. He wears red pants and a chain shirt under his cloak that looks the same as his friend Rigging, and some other crewmembers in the boat. Bart wears no visible weapons.
Ryan and Neen Monday September 6th, 2004 4:25:18 PM
A hooded figure peers out into the mist, his quiver and bow slung over his back, his black cloak pulled tightly around him to block out the cold of the mists. His right hand grips tightly on his rapier. He pulls his hood from over his face to reveal short, light brown, almost blond hair and pale slender features. "Now Theo, we wait," he says in answer to his friend.
The black cat by his feet, almost as if in spite of what he says, darts off towards the landing party.
Rose Monday September 6th, 2004 5:06:56 PM
Rose gives Olyn a big hug and cries as he leaves. "Bye Olyn, I'll m..m..miss you."
She watches Olyn out of sight when suddenly she hears the others yelling. She spins around and seeing the boat runs towards the others.
You see a small halfling girl. She is wearing a cream blouse and brown pants. Her brown hair is is in two braids wound around her head and she is wearing a straw hat.
Nezamil Monday September 6th, 2004 9:41:15 PM
As the second longboat appears out of the mist a stout looking dwarf will stand up in the stern by the rudder, guiding it in the first's wake.
Glancing back and forth from the shore to the lead longboat several times, "What is going on?" The dwarf shakes his head. "Friends of the Captain I suppose."
Nezamil will raise his hand to his eyes to shade them from the light to view the activity on the beach as his chainmail jingles slightly as he manuevers the longboat to the beach next to the first longboat.
The dwarf smiles as he sees the cat dart towards them but his eyes settle on a cloaked figure in the back nocking an arrow... the smile fades.
Redux Monday September 6th, 2004 10:49:03 PM
Near the top of the mast of the 2nd longboat, those on shore can see a human figure dressed in a black robe with a gray and blue cloak. He is floating next to the mast without any foothold; he has a glare on his face and a wand in one hand. From the scroll case and lack of armor, it is obvious this is a mage. Upon seeing the humanoid figures, without orcs, he wonders who these folks are. Hearing Ashira's name from on shore is a surprise: a friend or a 'seeded-friend' from when she was with the quad. Then there's the halfling girl that shows up; she's familiar to a girl he had a crush on; better to stay up here until they sort things out. Any hostilities and he'll web the largest group possible.
Narrative DM Jan Tuesday September 7th, 2004 12:58:38 AM
It's a tense moment as the two adventuring parties appear before one another. Both are on missions of a dire nature, and this is most unexpected.
Rigging, followed by Bart, leaves the boat, reaches the shoreline and addresses the liontaur, while members of both sides stay on the defensive - just in case - after all, neither group are on a picnic outing.
On the shore, Vauhwyt has spotted a friend on one of the boats! Ryan's cat, Neen, scampers forward, eager and inquisitive, ready to twist around Rigging's feet.
Those in the boats will be able to see a little more of the figurehead on the beached longboat as the creature turns outward toward the lake. Emblazoned on its chest are three, old High Woldian symbols.
The surrounding air is cool, and a little damp; the mist still hangs there, out in the Lake, hiding its secrets.
Ari Tuesday September 7th, 2004 1:09:08 AM
(BTW I need put back on the Adventure's repose)
Helping bring the longboats ashore, the 20 something Ari tries his best to not let a smile overtake the circumstances. Seeing his first liontaur excitedly trying to get Ashiras attention seems to be just to much, in the tenseness of their current mission.
With a quiver on his back, and short swords on each leg, Ari is ever the fighting figure. Looking more closely, one sees that there is a similar looking cloak being worn by most of the members of the long boats, Ari included.
Coming back to his senses and remembering where he is, Ari looks over the new arrivals to look for any tell-tale signs of seeds. With several different animals and animal shapes, Ari is hard pressed to believe any are in the service of Ga'al.
Valanthe Tuesday September 7th, 2004 1:26:42 AM
In front of one of the boats stands an attractive elven woman with long coppery red hair. She wears beautiful elven chain with a matching shield across her back. A green cloak rests loosely about her with a simple wooden brooch on the front. A powerful longbow rests in her hands with a slender sword at her hip. Her face is emotionless, almost cold.
Valanthe slowly brings the taut bowstring forward. Clearly these are not the slavers, especially with a strange lion woman so happy to see Ashira. Valanthe takes the arrow and returns it to the quiver across her back. Her slender eyes scan the group before them. For a moment she thinks Appolo is with them but she realises that is not the case. It is her own hopes turning things to how she wishes they would be. It is not Appolo, but a young man with a raven atop his head that reminded her of him. She's happy that Ashira has ran into a friend of hers and no doubt there will be a celebration that her friends can enjoy. That is a good thing.
Theodore and Macaw Tuesday September 7th, 2004 12:29:02 PM
Theodore lowers his rod as it appears that the newcomers are friendly. All doubts are erased with Vauhwyt's joyous greeting.
Seeing that people on both sides are tense, he offers his own greeting. "My name is Theodore. This is my friend, Macaw." He points to the bird atop his head, who dips his beak. "How are you doing today?" It is obvious that this fellow isn't skilled in the art of communication.
Zayne d20+5=6 d20+5=15 Tuesday September 7th, 2004 12:31:56 PM
Zayne looks past his overly long nose as the newcomers disembark from their boat. Although he is standing quite still, his body language screams with desire to move. His nearly bald head is in need of a fresh shave, and his face appears quite young.
Watching the newcomers intently, he tries to be aware of his surroundings as possible. (Listen 6 Spot 15).
As Vorelle draws an arrow, he shakes his head slightly, and then takes a cautionary step back, wary and curious as to whether or not this accursed forest has conjured up even more trouble.
He thinks to himself, "If it's not one thing it's another."
Dietrich Tuesday September 7th, 2004 2:05:28 PM
The fighter can see that they are dealing with an organized group, though there are indeed very diferent people, elves and dwarfs and wizards, so they're obviously no common warband or traders.
He controls his curiosity and waits for Vauhwyt to speak, staying behind. When he sees that none of them has weapons ready, he puts his arrow back in the quiver too and let his hands remain empty and visible. The warrior glances to Vorelle hoping for her to do the same.
Ashira Tuesday September 7th, 2004 2:31:07 PM
Dressed in black breast plate armor and black pants with a grayish blue cloak matching most of the others, the half-elf is obviously a warrior by trade. Her longsword rests in a tooled brown scabbard with platinum inlay (which should be very familiar to Vauhwyt!!) on her left hip, while a well maintained shortsword is found on her right hip. Standing a full 6 feet tall with shoulder length blue hair and greenish gray skin, Ashira is definitely distinctive... it's no wonder Vauhwyt so easily identified her.
As the longboat is brought in, Ashira's smile grows wider by the minute. Her black breast plate armor clinks lightly as she lands on the shore and sprints past her husband and toward Vauhwyt. "Vauhwyt... it's you!!! But how... I mean... I thought you only existed in my dreams... but here you are!!" Ashira rushes forward and pulls the liontaur into a hug.
After a few minutes, she releases her, a more serious look on her face. "But what are you doing here of all places?" Eyeing the orcish boat, Ashira lowers her voice. "I don't know if you noticed, but this isn't the most friendly of neighborhoods... We've tracked some slavers down to this area... they shouldn't be far..." Ashira looks over Vauhwyt's companions slightly suspiciously. She continues in her lowered tone with her long time friend. "Are these other friends of yours?" She pauses for a few minutes and then continues. "I hate to ask, but can you prove that all of you are not seeded? I hate to be paranoid, but of late, one cannot be too sure when one is in Aisildur." Ashira lowers her eyes in a shameful way.
Bart Tuesday September 7th, 2004 2:42:25 PM
"Hello Theodore my name is Albarth Millar or Bart for short, nice raven you have on your shoulder. It seems to me both of our groups are a little bit surprised. Just as my good friend Rigging says you don't look like as the people we are looking for. We hope to find a group of bandits who takes man, woman an children of any race and age as a slave for the priest of Ga'al."
Ryan and Neen Tuesday September 7th, 2004 4:12:51 PM
Ryan is at a loss as to what to think. Everyone seems to be addressing this strange group with open arms, but on the other hand they have only just met them. He decides to go with the flow.
"Ho there, strangers," he says in the direction of Rigging. "I'm Ryan and that fur ball currently wrapping itself around your legs is Neen."
Nezamil d20+11=23 Tuesday September 7th, 2004 4:24:00 PM
He sees Ashira and the Liontaur embrace. "Wonder how they know each other?" comments the dwarf.
The cloakless dwarf steps up on the seat in the longboat and jumps (d20+11=23 jump ch) off the right side into the surf landing knee deep in water (at least for a 4'6" dwarf ) and sloshes ashore (hands empty), his heavy mace dangling in its ring holster on his right side.
He nods at Ashira and the Liontaur. "Well, looks like it's gonna be a friendly meeting," grins the dwarf. "I'm Nezamil. Good to meet you Theodore and Macaw, good to meet all of you," says Nezamil as he scans the group... eyes coming to rest again on the cloaked figure in the back with the nocked arrow.
Light glints off a pendant shaped as a small anvil hanging around the dwarf's neck.
Vauhwyt Tuesday September 7th, 2004 4:38:08 PM
Vauhwyt hugs Ashira back, and her wide grin shows off the enlarged canine teeth of her race. The smile is entirely pleased, though!
She is dressed in a white shirt and that's about it. Her hair is a thick mane, swept back on one side to expose an earring in the shape of a green leaf; on the other side, her mane covers her ear and a bit of cheek. Aside from the longspear she carries, she does not look too much like an adventurer.
"Wowsy!" she repeats, a little less loudly. "It's wonderful to see you for real!"
"I knew our dreams were more real than not, since sometimes I have woken from them and found I had brought things back with me! So I think it's not amazing that we both walk the Wold. But what happy chance that we walk the same place at once!"
"We are here searching for information about a cult devoted to Marteaus. This cult, favored by orcs and half-orcs, has been causing a lot of trouble in our home town, Dirt City. We tracked them here and defeated a few cultists in battle yesterday. This magical boat" -- and she points -- "belonged to the cult, for surre. And we were just thinking of how to use it."
"I don't know about slavers, but I would love to kill some!"
"And no, none of us has a seed in our chests!"
"Let me introduce you to my friends."
Mookie caws. "Give your voice a rest, Boss! Let them introduce themselves!"
"Okay!" Vauhwyt says.
Rigging and Swirl. Tuesday September 7th, 2004 4:49:11 PM
Rigging sees that Ashira and Vauhwyt are hitting it off and the liontauress is ignoring him so he directs his attention to Ryan.
He stoops down and picks up Neen and smiles, "Is this your familiar? He is very nice. Let me introduce mine." He will call out, "Swirl, say hello to the nice man!"
Ryan will suddenly be bumped by a small air elemental. Swirl will dance around Ryan's head in glee for a few moments and dart around to the other new folks. He will then spot Mookie and race towards him. Swirl loves to chase Talon and wonders if Mookie will provide more of a challenge.
Rigging will continue. "In your travels, have you seen a group of slavers or Ga'alian priests. We are searching them out. Maybe we can help each other. We can band together and eliminate both threats. Tell me more of these cultists."
Shadeos Tuesday September 7th, 2004 5:22:52 PM
Shadeos' eyes harden and his jaw clenches in barely controlled rage at the mention of slavers. He takes a deep breath and exhales before speaking calmly, "I am Shadeos a Justice of Pantheon. If you seek to bring these slavers to justice then you seek to enforce Pantheon's law and I will aid your as best as I am able."
The Justice says a silent prayer that he will be able to deliver these slavers to Pantheon's justice. He says a silent prayer that he will be able to ignore the angry whispers that call for violent revenge on the slavers.
Rose & Piper Tuesday September 7th, 2004 6:02:04 PM
Rose sees Vauhwyt talking to the elf, and figuring that the newcomers aren't enemies, she stops running towards the group. Piper goes to play with the nice air elemental, and seeing this, Rose asks the man if she can play with Swirl as well.
OOC: Rose wants to be lifted a few inches and flown around. If this happens her braids will come down (but stay braided) and stream behind her while she laughs and giggles.
Vorelle d20=7 d20=12 Tuesday September 7th, 2004 6:10:27 PM More strangers.
Still, they seem to be friendly and Vauhwyt, at least, seems to know some of them. Vorelle puts her arrow back in the quiver.
She has not forgotten, though, that orcs use this trail and could still stumble onto the group. She once again faces away from the water, alert for anything the forest and trail might tell her. She hums softly to keep the trees awake.
[Spot 13; Listen 18]
Valanthe Tuesday September 7th, 2004 7:14:59 PM
"Captain perhaps we should find a defensable camp to discuss what to do next. We are all just standing here and this forest is full of who knows what. Plus a warm fire would be nice to fight off this chill." Valanthe says to Rigging.
Redux Tuesday September 7th, 2004 10:17:39 PM
Seeing that these adventurers don't seem to pose a threat, the black robed mage floats gently toward the ground. As he settles on the beach, a small amount of dirt lands on the hem of his robe, but mysteriously slide off, leaving the robes spotlessly clean. He makes a few clicking noises and a small white owl glides down from the mast of the longboat to land gently on his shoulder. Almost reluctantly, Redux stores his wand away as he looks at those around him.
As Valanthe mentions making a campfire, Redux is reminded of the slaver's ship and he shivers involuntarily. "No! Val, remember the ship? I don't think we want to take the chance of angering any of the forest's friends."
Standing back away from most of the group, Redux listens in as the group exchange information. He wonders why in the Wold these two groups managed to bump into each other... perhaps Wardd was up to his old tricks again.
Narrative DM Jan Wednesday September 8th, 2004 1:13:15 AM
Gradually, as greetings and names are exchanged, the tension winds down to the point where bows are lowered, and the Swords join the Dirt City group on the shore.
Back toward the path, Vorelle keeps watch, not forgetting to sing to the surrounding foliage.
The trees immediately near the group seem stable enough; maybe the sound of voices - grim talk of Marteaus, orcs, and the evils of slavery - are enough to keep them in the living Wold, and prevent them from flashing temporarily out of existance.
Not so, further south. As Swirl cavorts playfully with the ravens, and Nezamil's boots hit the pebbles - three tall elms along the southerly shoreline, about 100 feet away, blink out of existance! They're simply not there any more! Startled, a nearby flock of black pigeons takes to the air. The whirling cacophony of beating wings and screeching brings those very same trees back from whence they came (wherever that happened to be), and they reappear moments later with a snapping of branches and a rustling of leaves. It's very odd. It's very unsettling. It's VERY Blackbird Forest.
And thats not all. At the first mention of slaves, the figurehead on the orcish longboat starts to laugh. It's a cold, bloodcurdling sound.
Up above, the late morning sun is struggling to shine through grey clouds.
Theodore and Macaw Wednesday September 8th, 2004 12:52:52 PM
"Perhaps these slavers are associated with the Marteaus cult somehow," Theodore suggests. "We were heading out on the lake. Supposedly, that's where the Marteaus followers have been headed. Maybe we could go together. There's strength in numbers."
He smiles foolishly at everyone, as if he had just told a joke. Macaw hops about on the young wizard's head, eager to be doing something other than standing about.
Dietrich Wednesday September 8th, 2004 1:35:20 PM
As it really turns out that the strangers somehow know Vauhwyt and also are enemies of *&%&^ Ga'al, Dietrich takes off his helmet, showing a young face, blond hair and beard, grey eyes and an ugly scar on the cheek. Although surprised enough by their appearence (blue hair, elementals etc.), the warrior greets them:
"Greetings! I'm Dietrich the Bear of the Windbourne Hills. Though I absolutely don't know what the *(^*% is going on in this *^*&^ forest, it's good to meet friends. We actually saw two of the cursed Aisildurian followers around a week ago. Our friend Theodore here even talked with them and should be able to say more."
He would have agreed with Valanthe, for, like Vorelle, he doesn't like their exposed position, but then he wonders what the black robed wizard might allude to and waits.
He thinks he recognizes Domi's symbol with Nezamil and bows deeper to the cleric. He also perceives Ashira's beautiful weapons, which increases his opinion of the newcomers.
Though the soldier smiles at Shadeos' pathos, he keeps silent in respect for the Justice.
Ryan and Neen Wednesday September 8th, 2004 4:14:38 PM
Ryan greets Swirl readily, his love of small creatures shining through.
"Well your all full of surprises aren't you?" he jokes.
He points at the laughing figurehead on the boat, "Does anyone know orc?"
Rigging d20+12=32 Wednesday September 8th, 2004 4:37:16 PM
Rigging will notice the trees vanish and then reappear and jump at the talking ship. He will look back to the newcomers on the beach and point to the trees.
"Does this happen often? That is remarkable!" his boyish enthusiasm showing through. He will shake his head and get back on point. "We have to find the slavers soon. They were supposed to met some of the others slavers we intercepted and I want to find that Ga'alian priest.
Still it seems we might be able to share knowledge and help each other. You mentioned you saw Aisidurians earlier. Who were they and what did they say?"
Valanthe Wednesday September 8th, 2004 5:46:59 PM
Valanthe pulls her cloak tigher around her body. The chill seems worse with all the moisture in the air. They need some kind of warmth otherwise people could find themselves sick. Besides she would rather have a hot meal that to resort to dried rations yet again.
Vauhwyt and Mookie Wednesday September 8th, 2004 6:45:45 PM
Vauhwyt apologizes to Rigging for ignoring him and explains what they know about the forest. The trees tend to go to sleep, and if they do, they fade out of this place and go somewhere else. Sometimes in their dreams they bring things back, like a giant octopus the group fought a couple days ago.
But the forest likes black birds. It makes them feel happy, and warns them about danger we think, and keeps their friends safer.
"Yeah," interjects Mookie, Vauhwyt's jet-black raven, "a forest with good taste! Go figure!"
"And you can keep safer if you prevent the trees from sleeping. They don't go to sleep if you are singing. We've been singing pretty much nonstop while we've been herre." She has a faint accent, whch comes up now and then.
"We were going to use this orc boat to find cultists. It seems partly intelligent."
Rose Wednesday September 8th, 2004 8:13:59 PM
Rose is a bit disapointed that Swirl wont play with her. She keeps an eye on things and waits to see if Swirl will play.
Zayne d20+5=10 d20+5=15 Wednesday September 8th, 2004 9:33:14 PM
At the sight of the trees disapearing the youth lets out a string of curses that would do any sailor proud. "This forest is not right,I said it before and I'll say it again,we need to hurry up and get back home. Then looking towards Vorelle,plus there are a few loose ends that need tying up."
He looks at each of the newcomers and nods to each one and then,"Hey Vauhwyt I think Vorelle and I should find a safer place to talk,and maybe we could set up camp for lunch while we are at it." He flashes a quick grin and is off,"Come on Vorelle,lets do something productive."(Spot 10 Search 15)
Nezamil Wednesday September 8th, 2004 10:11:40 PM
The dwarf turns at the sound of the whirling cacophony of beating wings and screeching "whoa whats that racket " as the elms return " hmm you say singing puts them to sleep ? might give away our postion too but then again it would be the same for whoever else is out there i suppose " mentions the dwarf " this forest definitly has it's own personality"
Nezamil returns Dietrichs bow " well met my friend , you say you met two Asildurins not long ago , wonder if they are in league with this cult that you been searching for ?"
" when were you planning to head out on the lake ? might be better in the morning light "suggest the Dwarf
"they look to be a well knit band thinks Nezamil to himself
Ashira Wednesday September 8th, 2004 10:21:34 PM
Sighing deeply, Ashira looks over at Val. She was truly worried about her sister. She didn't seem to be getting any better...in fact, in some aspects, she was getting worse the longer Appolo was gone.
Motioning Val over, she introduces her to Vauhwyt. "Val, I want you to me a friend of mine...this is Vauhwyt. We have had many adventures together in my dreams.... Vauhwyt, this is my sister Valanthe." Ashira grins broadly. "I know what you're thinking...we could almost be twins, huh?"
Listening in to all the planning, Ashira shrugs. "I can't speak orcish, but I wonder if the slavers don't have something to do with your cult...did you hear that thing's reaction? I think it's worth investigating."
Redux Wednesday September 8th, 2004 10:42:01 PM
The quiet mage speaks up. "We found 2 humans leading a band of orcs a few days ago. They were bringing some elvin children to be slaves. I flamed the orcs, nasty things and they're dead. The children went home to their families, not being equipped for prisoners, we released the 2 humans to find a different line of work, they were just pawns in this matter. They didn't seem like the type to care much about one god or another, so I'd doubt they had any direct connection to the cult; perhaps their leader, Eric did, or maybe a priest with them. Our information had them selling these slaves to priests of ga'al to either be converted or to be slaves. It doesn't seem out of character for these cults and ga'alian priests to be using each other."
Vorelle d20+6=20 Wednesday September 8th, 2004 11:14:17 PM
Vorelle nods at Zayne's sensible suggestion, and sets off to help find a campsite.
[Successfully Aid Another; Zayne will get a +2 to his Survival check to find a good place.]
As they search, Vorelle asks low, "C-c-can w-we risk a f-f-fire t-tonight? I'd p-p-prefer to ha-ave one."
Narrative DM Jan Thursday September 9th, 2004 1:02:05 AM
The discussion continues, while in the background, the rangers have a look around for a safe place to camp. Slightly north of the path, along the shore, seems the best bet. It's partially hidden away from the path into the forest, and a lookout would have a good hiding place. The pebbly 'beach' provides an excellent surface for a fire, with no danger to the trees. As for dangers coming in from the lake - that's anyone's guess. It's soooo misty out there.
There's plenty of wood to be had, and it'll likely be lunchtime, once everything is set up. There's certainly things to discuss, perhaps a plan to be made.
Amidst the conversation, and Rose trying to attract Swirl's attention, Redux's words seem to trigger off a barrage of orcish from the figurehead.
If you can understand orcish -
Highlight to display spoiler: {Stupid, stupid, stupid orcs... talk funny.... they said only six... stupid orcs can't count... there's more here... slaves... slaves go on another boat... go to island on another boat! Not mine! I can count! yes! Not stupid like you! They wait on island for slaves from another boat! Ha ha ha! You missed the boat, you can't go on mine. Only six! Heads will roll! Ha ha ha!}
It sounds rather disgruntled, and the carved symbols on its chest start to change from green to orange.
Rose Thursday September 9th, 2004 3:31:30 AM
Rose helps set up camp. If she can she will get swirl to lift her up in the air while she practices throwing daggers, darts and using her short bow.
ooc: jan, what (if any) penalties or bonuses would rose have for being in the air and attacking?
Zayne d20+4=19 Thursday September 9th, 2004 11:55:02 AM
Returns,and shares his findings with Vauhwyt.
Walking over to Dietrich,whispering to the warrior,"Hey I think I might have seen a couple rabbit runs and I don't think it would hurt to see if I can catch a couple,can you watch my gear. I will be back by the time the food is ready."
Knowing about her aversion to strangers,he begins walking over to Vorelle,and whispering to her,"I think I saw a rabbit run,would you like to check it out with me?"
(Survival 19)
Theodore and Macaw Thursday September 9th, 2004 12:18:44 PM
Theodore likes the idea of lunch, and so does his stomach. Macaw flies off in search of entertainment and food of his own.
"This ship appears to be sentient. Perhaps we should talk somewhere else." The young man scratches his nose. "We can talk more over lunch."
Theodore pointedly does not speak about the Asildurians. He gets the impression that these new folk aren't terribly friendly towards them.
Nezamil Thursday September 9th, 2004 1:48:11 PM
The dwarf cocks his head to listen to the figure "what is that thing saying ? anybody know ?" turning to the Mage "Redux can you do anything with that " points to the figurehead
Nezamil nods at Zayne's idea of setting up camp " if we set up camp here on the beach , we should set up a shield of some sort to block the flames as much as possible from being viewed from out on the lake , should help from being spotted by others on the lake "
The dwarf will sit down on a stone and take off his boots and shake the water from them, dry his feet " well i'm ready now , what do you think Captain ?"
Dietrich d20+4=22 Thursday September 9th, 2004 2:04:42 PM
Dietrich listens to Vauhwyt's explanation and then to Redux's one. He doesn't know enough about this evil gods, just that they are evil, to avaliate if their servants could be working together, but he starts thinking the `coincidences` of having them both in this exact area are too much to be just that.
When the figure speaks, he trys his best to translate it quick to common.
Than he says: "I understand this as definite proof that our both enemies are cooperating, for this boat was full with MArteus servants and knows about you and the slaves. But whom the *(^(*@ is it talking with?"
He will look after Zayne's gear and wonders what to do with the boats, (military knowledge 22) thinking perhaps to either camouflage them and/or have guards on them at night. He is against a fire, except it is strictly necessary.
Ari Thursday September 9th, 2004 2:10:54 PM
Still feeling out the waters for who is who, and what is what. Ari decides to sit back and let Rigging talk for the group for the time being. Ari doesn't feel threatened by the current circumstance, but he's unsure what is the next step.
He will keep an eye out on the water, in case there is to be any more vessels arriving, though he doubts it.
Shadeos Thursday September 9th, 2004 4:15:01 PM
Shadeos settles into a comfortable silence and listens to the groups' discussions. Although he has his own opinions as to what should be done, Shadeos chooses to listen rather than speak.
Bart Thursday September 9th, 2004 6:43:50 PM
Dietrich can you talk with that boat? It seems that there is an other boat gong to an island withe the slaverers is that correct, Can you find out more where the island is for example? Does the other boat looks like the same?
Valanthe Thursday September 9th, 2004 7:20:52 PM
Valanthe can't help but laugh when Ashira mentions twins. She was a good nine inches shorter than Ashira with coppery red hair. A contrast to Ashira's own aquatic heratige.
"Yeah, twins. It is nice to meet you Vauhwyt. Maybe we could get a fire going and tonight we could share stories. I'm sure that everybody could use a night of enjoyment and relaxation."
Vorelle d20+6=11 Thursday September 9th, 2004 8:13:14 PM
Vorelle nods at Zayne's suggestion and heads out to try to find game for the pot.
[Survival 11]
Vauhwyt Thursday September 9th, 2004 9:58:57 PM
Vauhwyt bows to Valanthe and anyone else who she meets. "I'm proud to know any friend of Ashira's!" Not understanding the twins comment, she chalks it up to biped inscrutibility and passes on commenting.
Vauhwyt helps set up a lunch camp, and gathers firewood, singing as she goes near the edge of the forest.
She is worried about the orc boat. "Can anyone understand what it is saying?"
She continues in common, "Maybe the Cult is selling slaves to the Aisildurians. Gosh, I hate slavers! I would love to work with all of you to stamp them out!"
"Maybe we can convince the orc boat to take us to their lairr. I don't know how we'll find it in this fog, otherwise."
Mookie pipes up. "Boss, the Prince told us to get info, not to fight! These guys are way too tough. We should get out of here. Listen to Zayne!"
The crow seems shocked at himself. "I can't believe I'm telling you to be like Zayne! 'Wowsy,' huh?! But none the less! The boy has the right of it!"
Vauhwyt chides her bird. "Be flexible, Mookie. Surre, alone we couldn't do it, but with Ashira and her friends, it'll be easy!"
In a whisper she adds to Mookie: "Look at them! These guys are professionals! They have a pet air elemental! And two boats! And look at Ashira's gearr! I had no idea she was so keen!"
Rigging Thursday September 9th, 2004 10:59:03 PM
Rigging looks at the other group running around setting up lunch and a frown crosses his face. He will step up and announce, "I am sorry but we don't have time to have lunch. I am afraid our quarry is getting ready to depart and we need to move."
Rigging will remember his directions from the past slavers and go on, "Lets get back into the boats and get moving." He will turn to the other adventurers and say, "I think we should stick together for this adventure. You have knowledge of these woods and their peril. We have experience of getting out of many sticky situations. Do you wish to go with us? It would be our honor but we don't have room for you. Can you sail that strange boat?"
Redux Thursday September 9th, 2004 11:44:00 PM
Redux addresses Dietrich, "I am Redux. It's good you are able to understand this thing. If it's talking to another place and person, let's burn it on the spot. It did react to our word for selling another sentient creature. As Rigging states, we must be going if it will sail with us, it would be easier for us to travel. Do you know if it sails itself given a command in orcish?"
Ashira Friday September 10th, 2004 12:04:41 AM
Ashira smiles at the young adventurer's exuberance. Sometimes it was hard to remember what life was like before the balance of life and death was in the palm of your hand... Though she does blush at Vauhwyt's comment about her gear. She had never really thought that she had all that fancy of stuff, but when you looked at it from a different angle, she supposed she was pretty well off.
As Rigging begins to get antsy, Ashira lays a calming hand on his shoulder. "Wait my love...didn't you hear what Dietrich said that that thing said? The boat knows something about slaves being delivered to an island. What do you think the odds are that there's another shipment of slaves being delivered at the same time? I don't understand how all of the pieces fit together, but I say we should try and see if we can get that boat to lead us to the island. I know the slavers directed us toward the coast for the pickup, but I think we should check out this island first."
Narrative DM Jan Friday September 10th, 2004 1:34:52 AM
The fire starts to take shape, and the rangers go in search of something to eat. A rabbit is caught.
Rose finds that the elemental is far too distracted with whats going on to engage in any flying around with a halfling on board. In fact she gets the feeling that it might take a while of training and trust before that could happen.
The prospect of a hot lunch, and warmth from the fire seems promising. However - Rigging wants to move out.
Is time a factor, here? It could well be. The Swords were giving chase, and going off the comments from the strange boat - it did seem to be waiting for passengers - passengers that fell to the sword, spell, arrow and claw of the Dirt City adventurers back in the forest.
Does the strange boat know any more details of the destination - the island? Funny how it did seem to react, as Redux remarked, to certain words in common.
As he fully expects, Ari sees nothing out of the ordinary on the Lake. Just the mist.
Theodore and Macaw Friday September 10th, 2004 9:25:04 AM
"Just a quick lunch," Theodore whines when Rigging talks of foregoing the meal and moving out on the lake. "We're all hungry and need a moment to collect our thoughts."
After that is said, he moves to the fire that Zayne and Vorelle have prepared to share a bit of rabbit.
Ari Friday September 10th, 2004 11:23:39 AM
Commenting to Rigging
"With rope, or some other way of following, we could possibly follow the magicked boat?! Don't know if we want to put anyone in the boat, or who it might communicate with."
Shadeos Friday September 10th, 2004 11:50:21 AM
Shadeos nods to Rigging, "I think the captain is right and we should not delay. I think this boat was meant to take the slain orcs to an island in the middle of the lake. The boat says it will only take six. Can we find room for everyone in the three boats? Can the other two boats follow?"
(DM Jan) The Orcish translated... Friday September 10th, 2004 1:00:34 PM Stupid, stupid, stupid orcs... talk funny.... they said only six... stupid orcs can't count... there's more here... slaves... slaves go on another boat... go to island on another boat! Not mine! I can count! yes! Not stupid like you! They wait on island for slaves from another boat! Ha ha ha! You missed the boat, you can't go on mine. Only six! Heads will roll! Ha ha ha
Vauhwyt Friday September 10th, 2004 1:41:23 PM
Vauhwyt thanks Dietrich for his translation of what the boat is saying.
Then she does her best to hurry everyone through the half-completed lunch.
"Sorry, Rigging," she tells the guy who seems to be in charge. "We'll be ready to go in a minute. If six of us go on the orc boat, can you carry the other two? Rose is small, and she could be one of the two with you guys."
"I think it might be wise to have a rope to make sure we all stick togetherr." From her accent (and twitching tail), she seems a little nervous.
Mookie looks a little nervous too, and for once keeps his beak shut.
If there are no objections, she helps urge everyone forward, so that as soon as possible there will be an orc boat (with her on it) followed closely by the others heading into the mist.
"Uh, um," Vauhwyt stammers. "Maybe one or two of you more experienced adventurers might want to take point with us in the lead orc boat? If you think that's a good idea?"
Mookie sighs and whispers into Vauhwyt's earringed ear: "Boss, take a pill, huh? You're embarrassing me. Under these feathers I'm all red like."
Dietrich Friday September 10th, 2004 2:58:15 PM
Dietrich too would prefer to continue now, though he absolutely doesn't trust the orcish boat and he almost agrees with Redux, but he also sees the need of it to get to the island. He'll take a fast meal and waits for a decision of the group as a whole for what to do and what to say to the cursed boat.
Rigging Friday September 10th, 2004 6:03:51 PM
Rigging will smile at Vaughwt's words and agree, "Yes I will ride in your boat with you and if my wife consents, she should come along too. Who will take our places on our boat?"
Rigging will call Swirl to him whisper something to him. Swirl then zooms over to Rose and circles her 5 times very fast.
Rigging will start heading down to inspect the strange craft.
Valanthe Friday September 10th, 2004 7:04:41 PM
Valanthe warms herself near the small fire, eating a strip of jerky. She finishes half of the strip before placing it back in her pack.
"I don't know about the rest of you but I'll be glad when we get away from all this water. Luckily orcs are stupid. Otherwise I would be a little more worried that the boat will tip and all of us in armor will sink like a rock."
Nezamil Friday September 10th, 2004 9:47:46 PM
"Good! idea Vauhwyt ....i like the rope idea , we can tie of the 3 longboats in single file, lead one being that orcish floating barge " the pipes in Nezamil
after putting on his now slighly drier boots Nezamil walks over to the fire " making rabbit soup ? may i have a small taste ? i like to try new things " asks the dwarf cheerfully of the rangers cooking the meal
Rose Friday September 10th, 2004 10:07:57 PM
Rose head over to the fire quickly getting some food and then looks astonised as Nezamil says he's never had rabbit soup "Never had rabbit soup?!! Where did you live?"
She goes to the boat she is assigned when everyone is ready to leave.
Redux Friday September 10th, 2004 10:55:44 PM
As the fire is lit and the translation of the boat sinks in a little deeper, a light also pops on for Redux. "Oh, I get it. The boat thinks we talk funny for orcs and it will only take six of us. Yes, yes, I understand. I have a link of rope with a grapple hook on it if needed to tie the boats together." He retrieves a 50' link of silk rope with a small hook at one end. "Rabbit stew is something I've not heard of in quite some time. We've spent so much time on a boat or island, these weren't available. Did ya'll look for any roots to add while you were out or is this a roasted?" Redux also suggests to Rigging that he be in the 2nd boat, so that he might be in the mast again.
rose Friday September 10th, 2004 11:10:22 PM
continued....
as Swirl swirls around her Rose laughs and gets ready to play and practice with her daggers.
Ashira Friday September 10th, 2004 11:36:22 PM
Ashira nods her accent to Rigging's idea of them going in the orc boat. Not wanting to look aloof, Ashira asks for a little bit of the soup...which actually is rather tasty! Smiling, she pats Zayne and Vorelle on the shoulder. "Thank you new friends!!! It has been quite some time since I've had anything fresh. That was wonderful!"
With no other ideas on how to find the slavers, this towing boats idea sounds as good as any. She looks around at the gathered company, a slight frown forming. She turns and speaks to Rigging in whispered Elven "My love, perhaps we should mix up the parties...couple people together...I don't like the idea of having all the younger ones separated from the older fighters. Set up groupings in advance so that if we get surprised..."
Bart Saturday September 11th, 2004 4:01:58 AM
Hmmm the Rabbit tasted good, I will follow with the second boat en Nezamil can drive the last one, no racing today agree Nezamil? I hope the orc boat allows us to tie an rope on to it so we dont lost each other. Dietrich can you talk with the boat and tr to get some more information of it maybe what is powers are and so on?
Vorelle Sunday September 12th, 2004 1:03:54 AM
Miserable, Vorelle looks at the boats drawn up to the shoreline. She's not very familiar with boats, and isn't comfortable at the idea of sailing off across this strange lake. She doesn't want to go in the strange orc boat, and she doesn't want to go on the other boats with the strangers--even though they seem like nice enough people. And she can't figure out which would be worse.
Ryan and Neen Sunday September 12th, 2004 4:05:59 PM
Ryan nods in agreement with the group over lunch, "Maybe we should make the gap between the first and the second boats a large so as to keep the element of surprise against whoever may be on the other side, it could work well in this mist. All we need is for them to hesitate."
Ryan will go in any boat where he is needed favouring the rear because he is more affective at range
DM Board Monday September 13th, 2004 1:50:40 AM
The rabbit turns out to be a little on the chewy side, as it should have been cooked longer. Not the end of the world for a seasoned adventurer who'd no doubt existed on dried up rations from time to time, but for anyone who was particular, it was a minor culinary disaster. But hey, it was hot and edible.
As Rigging inspects the Orc boat, he'll see its quite solid, and should be fairly stable on the water. There are oars, no mast, and there's room for about 8 folk, altogether. The figurehead is at the bow.
Redux will note there is a point at the stern where he will be able to successfully tie one of the Swords boats, to this one. It'll also need a bit of a push to get it off the beach and afloat.
So - it seems the way forward is to climb into the boats and head into the mist, and who knows what danger lies ahead?
Where will the figurehead take you? Will it need someone to row, or not? Does it have any other information that would be useful? Does it only understand orc?
((OOC - folks I need to know which boat you're going to be traveling in. Right now I have - Orc boat - Vauhwyt, Rigging, Ashira? Sword boat 1 - Redux, Bart Sword Boat 2 - Ryan We'll need another rope, too, IF all the boats are to be connected.))
The clouds above are getting thicker, promising a dull afternoon, and maybe some rain.
Valanthe Monday September 13th, 2004 10:05:52 AM
Valanthe keeps her bow tight in her hand. Her fingers constantly rewrap around the grip endlessly searching for that perfect grip. Some might mistake her quiet mood and nervous energy as uneasiness due to the looming battle ahead. Infact it is just the opposite. Valanthe can't wait for the battle. It's the only time when she doesn't think about anything. Her instincts take over and she feels truly free. The danger is that she constantly searches for battle and eventually she will find herself in one she can't win, or may not want to.
Valanthe OOC Monday September 13th, 2004 10:06:53 AM
Oops, forgot the ooc comment. Valanthe will go in sword boat 2
Dietrich Monday September 13th, 2004 11:13:51 AM
Dietrich lends his rope to tie the second boat and agrees with Ryan's suggestion. He'd also like to have the birds flying around the boats, for even with mist they should be able to warn them about possible dangers. He'll go in the first (orcish) boat.
As there is place for 8 people in it and the troop they have intercepted was composed of 7 (1 ogre), there must be another meaning for the figure's speak about "only six". He thinks this means either it was expecting 6 slaves, or 6 enemies, this is, the Swords.
He asks the boat in orcish, threatening if necessary: - Does it understand other languages? - What exactly did it mean with "only six"? - Where will it lead them? - Who exactly is on the Island? - What has it been doing for the last months; how many slaves and/or troops has it transported? How many priests? - Why did the other ships arrive after the password was spoken? - Who created the boat? - Is the boat observed by someone? Is it expected to arrive at a certain time and circumstances? - Are there other similar boats? How many? - Are there patrols on the lake? How many? Procedures, times, zones etc.? - Is there a magical protection for the island?
As well as any other question the group may want to pose.
Theodore and Macaw Monday September 13th, 2004 11:30:29 AM
"I would like to go on the first boat," says Theodore. Always being eager for new sights, he seems to forget that the first boat will probably be the most dangerous one.
Macaw returns from his hunting expedition and perches in a branch overlooking the now larger party.
Zayne d20+5=7 d20+5=21 Monday September 13th, 2004 12:47:39 PM
(OOC sorry about missing tha lasy couple posts,had an emergency meeting in Houston,I;m back now) Retrieving his gear from Dietrich and eating an alarming amount of food,in an alarming amount of time for one only a few inches taller than the dwarf, the young ranger takes the compliment and replies,"I think there are more but I din't have a lot of time to really see what is out there and I didn't want to go too far out,in this place."
Ever the one to explore the young ranger happily volunteers for the orc boat. He walks to Vauhwyt,and whispers to her,"We should keep Vorelle with as many friends as we can,she hasn't said anything to me about it and I doubt she ever would,but I don't think she really trusts your friends all that much." His tone of voice hints that Vorelle isn't the only one that doesn't fully trust anything in this forest." What say we try to put her on a boat with as many of our group as we can."
As the boats embark he takes position at the prow of the boat straining to take in the surroundings,alert for any signs of danger.(Listen 7 Spot 21) He stands there backpacka t his feet. He holds his longbow almost neglegently,but at the same time ready to be used in an instant.
Bart Monday September 13th, 2004 4:40:18 PM
Bart takes control of the first sword boat and asks his strong mate Nezamil to row the second. When he sees Dietrich talking to the boat he tries to understand something but he only can hear grunts and gromms No clue what they are talking about. Dietrich any info aboat the location where we are heading? Did you asked the boat about his magical powers? Maybe it can fly! I dont wanna be connected to an flying boat.
Shadeos Monday September 13th, 2004 5:40:59 PM
Shadeos shakes his head and laughs softly as Dietrich interrogates the magical boat. The excitement and energy of the exuberant warrior is almost contagious. A hint of a grin flashes on Shadeos' face until he remembers the graveness of the current situation.
"I will travel in the magical boat," Shadeos says, "if there are no objections. Provided we can get the boat to move, perhaps we should consider concealing ourselves either magically or by more mundane methods. I would think that, given the mists on the lake, a spell that hides the boat in a magical mist may work."
Shadeos waits for a response from the others.
Rigging Monday September 13th, 2004 6:36:43 PM
Rigging will say, "Ashira and I will take the first boat. I would like the split of the Wildcards to be as follows: Bart, Redux and Ari in the second and Val and Nezamil in the third.
You other should split yourselves up via your strengths and weaknesses. I tried to put a spelluser coupled with a fighter in each of our boats.
I would like the fellow who speaks orcish to be in the lead boat with us. We might need that skill."
OOC How many crewmen from the Sword are with us? I was under the impression we had some rowers.
Vauhwyt and Mookie Monday September 13th, 2004 7:33:58 PM
Vauhwyt and Mookie listen to Zayne. "Good idea," she tells him.
"Yeah, don't be so insensitive, Boss," adds Mookie for good measure.
Ignoring the bird, Vauhwyt calls out to Vorelle, "Hey, Vorelle, come on and ride with us! Let me introduce you to Rigging and Ashira!"
The liontaur says to Ashira and Rigging, "Let me introduce you to my oldest and best friend in the Wold. Unlike me, she is quiet, and unlike me, smart too!"
"I'll say!" quips Mookie.
"Hush up, Mookie!" says Vauhwyt.
Nezamil Monday September 13th, 2004 8:30:05 PM
"Aye Aye Captain " replies the dwarf to Riggings " I'll jump in the 3rd longboat and man the rudder "
Nezamil turns and asks Ryan " any of your friends coming with Val and myself ?"
"Ryan if i may suggest you sit in the prow of the boat and keep tabs on the longboat in front of us.....don't want to crash into it "says the dwarf with a grin " just wave your arms to whatever side you want me to steer it to......I have faith in you young man so don't worry...we're in this thing together "
"oh and have your dagger handy in case you have to cut the rope for any reason
Nezamil climbs in the last longboat and mans the rudder " ready to shove off when ready Captain "
Vorelle Monday September 13th, 2004 10:07:26 PM
Tentatively, Vorelle steps foward when Vauhwyt introduces her. "H-h-h-hello," she manages.
It's still difficult to make out much about Vorelle. Up close, she proves to be human, and wisps of blond hair straggle from beneath the hood into her face. Her eyes are so often downcast that it's difficult to make out their color.
She eyes the boat unhappily, but gets in if that's the one she's assigned to.
Ashira Monday September 13th, 2004 10:34:19 PM
Sticking close to Rigging, Ashira smiles as Vorelle is introduced. She reminded her a lot of Appolo. For a few seconds, she wonders where her friend might be and how he is doing...
Then she helps tie up the boats as Dietrich interrogates the orc ship. Once finished, Ashira will place her only barkskin potion, as well as two cure moderate wound potions into the pouch on her belt. Turning to Rigging, she whispers once more. "My love, perhaps we should loan them our invisibility rings...they might be more helpful to some of them." Awaiting Rigging's answer, Ashira prepares to head out in the orc boat.
Redux Monday September 13th, 2004 11:17:44 PM
Before getting into the 2nd boat, Redux will offer 4 invisibility potions to those in the first boat (he will keep them if they are not used). He explains that they will only last for 3 minutes so they should not be drunk too soon. Possibly everyone could sit low in the boat and drink them when told they were about to come upon something. Redux takes up a position next to the mast. "Bart, will you check the rope, I'm not the best at that sort of thing and wouldn't want to have a problem."
Rose d20+7=21 d20+6=17 d20+7=22 d20+5=21 Monday September 13th, 2004 11:45:35 PM
Rose quits playing with Swirl and gets into the third boat. She quickly settles down to business and makes sure her weapons are ready for anything that may happen.
hide: 21 listen: 17 move silently: 22 spot: 21
Narrative DM Jan Tuesday September 14th, 2004 2:46:08 AM
In spluttering, agitated orcish, the figurehead gives some answers to both Dietrich's and Bart's questions -
It appears to understand a little common, but not much.
"Only six? Pick up six! Was told!" "Masters are on island. Masters. War masters." "Been doing? Pick up stupid orcs, stupid ogres - and goblins - and dogs! Hate dogs. Dogs chew. Lots of orcs. Lots. Slaves new. Too many orcs, no one cooks, no one cleans. Need slaves." It has no answer as to why the Swords' longboats appeared, and seems quite perplexed about that. The figurehead also says it created the boat, itself.
"Yes, yes - expected! Big cleric! Important! Everyone waiting. Waiting now. You have cleric? The dark one." "Yes, more boats, stupid orc. Can't carry everyone. Hahahaha. Stupid."
It doesn't appear to understand the question about any magical protection on the island, and its beligerence increases with its frustration.
"Fly? I'm a boat! A boat! Stupid! You'll see. I float. I move. I know where I'm going!"
As for the question of where - the wooden creature's eyes shift texture, and twin pinpoints of light shine down onto the surface of the lake. Where the light hits the water - a map appears, spread out in a dimension of about 8ft by 12 ft. There is a little orcish lettering, but to add to the strangeness - there appear to be tiny pink dots moving here and there, the biggest concentration of which are at the camp area. Oh, there are a lot of dots, at that particular point. There are seven boats lined up at the jetty too, all uniform in size, except for one, which is larger than the others.
Everyone climbs on board. The boats are tied.
"Well, well, we going now?" the figurehead complains.
((OOC - folks we're a bit crowded in the orc boat - anyone fancy hopping across to the middle boat to join Redux, Bart and Ari? They don't bite. Well, Ari might, perhaps ;) ))
As the group start their journey, a figure familiar to the Dirt City groups emerges from the trees, and runs toward the water. It's Olyn. There's just time for him to get on board, but he's going to get his feet wet.
No sooner is the orc boat clear of the bank, it starts to move into the mist.
((Picture of map is hopefully in your mailbox.))
Dietrich d20+4=15 Tuesday September 14th, 2004 6:28:47 AM
Dietrich is quite satisfied with the cooperation of the figure and amazed at the magic map. "Wow!" He imediatly translates what the boat says to his friends.
He is also very concerned about the information they've got, for there is a considerable concentration of enemies. Actually, as they now have this information, he would prefer to return to Dirt City and convey it to the Prince, rather than risk a dangerous attack. On the other hand, they have a unique opportunity for action now, with the Wildcards and the magic map, and finally his eagerness for battle, curiosity, and the prospect of glory and treasure speak loudlyer and he'll stick to the plan of attacking the orcs.
The warrior also likes Shadeos idea of covering mist and thanks Redux for the potions. He says with excitement:
"We should be able to dictate the terms of battle, choosing where and when to strike with absolute surprise, and when to retreat if necessary!"
Rubbing his hands, Dietrich just wants to start planning the atack with both groups, when Olyn arrives! Surprised, the warrior exclaims: "Olyn, what are you doing here?!"
Military knowledge (analysing map): 15
OOC: with whom are the Dirt City rings (swimming, protection?) Can Dietrich have the swimming ring and Rose the protection?
Theodore and Macaw Tuesday September 14th, 2004 9:34:04 AM
Theodore sighs as he is overlooked. The warriors push into the first boat, so he has little alternative but to retreat to the second boat. It does little to diminish his eagerness though. He stands as close as he can to the front. (Sorry, don't know too much about boat terminology.)
Macaw takes to the skies and flaps ahead of the boat procession, keeping the orc boat in view, under Theodore's strict orders.
Olyn Tuesday September 14th, 2004 10:32:23 AM
Running out of the woods, he races towards the boats.
*picture this*
a half elf, in chainmail, openly wearing a holy symbol to Wardd. rushing towards the boats. stopping briefly and seeing most of the "dirt city" crew in the orc boat. seeing one person barking orders from a boat (rigging). dashing towards that boat, slopping through some water and then diving into the boat.
Landing with a thud on the floor of the boat, Olyn lets out a whoosh, like breath being knocked out of him. Slowly he turns over, looks up at Rigging saying: I am Olyn, spiritual leader to those vagabonds. nice to meetcha.
then quickly getting to his knees he clambers to the edge of the boat, leans over the side and hurls.
Shadeos Tuesday September 14th, 2004 3:43:38 PM
Shadeos studies the map on the water before speaking, "It appears there is an army of orcs on that island. I think it folly to go to the island without a plan."
"I will join the crew of the second boat," Shadeos responds as he moves towards the boat. As he enters the boat, the smell of damp wood and the gentle rocking of the boat invoke the painful memories of the slave ships. The memories harden Shadeos' reslove to see the slaves on the island freed.
Shadeos turns and frowns as Olyn rushes towards the boats. It is clear that Shadeos, a Justice of Pantheon, is not thrilled that the cleric of Wardd, patron of thieves, has returned.
Bart Tuesday September 14th, 2004 4:01:08 PM
Hmm what is that crazy elf dooing cant he see there is no more room in that boat, there is more room in this one! sayas Bart to rest of the people in his boat
Ryan and Neen Tuesday September 14th, 2004 4:38:13 PM
Ryan examins the map closley. He and Neen then jump into the second boat with Theo and the rest.
Valanthe Tuesday September 14th, 2004 4:48:20 PM
Being in the thrid boat, Valanthe can't see the map. But she liked the sound of an orc camp. Orcs were strong and vicious but they were also stupid. She hoped there were many of them.
Vauhwyt and Mookie Tuesday September 14th, 2004 8:38:39 PM
If Vorelle seems reluctant to come on board, Vauhwyt will step out, offer to let her ride, and bring her on board that way.
"Excellent work, Dietrich," she tells her friend, as she gapes at the magic map. "Keep it up."
"And Shadoes, good idea -- magic mist within mist will work wonders!"
"And finally! Olyn! better late than neverr!" her accent reveals her gladness at seeing her friend.
Mookie observes the cleric being sick, and caws, "Macaw! Get away from that! You already had lunch!"
Rigging Tuesday September 14th, 2004 10:11:21 PM
Rigging will look down at the sick newcomer and will look at Ashira with a raised eyebrow. "Interesting allies you found us dear."
He will study the map closely trying to to commit as much as he can to memory. He will add, speaking to all, but mostly to himself, "If we can land on the South Eastern part of the island, we might be able to surprise them. We will have to stay out of the sentry's eyesight."
He will call out to the other boats, "Do we have any masking magic? Fog clouds, mass invisiblities so we can land the boats without being seen."
He will turn to the Vauhwyt and ask, "Who are the spell users in your party? I might be able to juice them up with a few wands. I tend to fight more hand to hand then I should and the wands are kind of neat. Fireball and holdperson."
Ashira d20+16=25 d20+16=32 Tuesday September 14th, 2004 10:49:23 PM
Ashira stares at the map in disbelief...200 or more...shades, those weren't good odds. Lowering her voice to the quietest of whisper, she addresses Rigging once more..."Rigging, I don't like these odds...we can't take on 200...even with Redux's fireballs! We need to make this an in and out kinda thing...get the slaves and run."
Ashira watches the half-elf's performance with a mixture of humor and annoyance. Oh yeah!!! Just about every orc for 100 miles probably heard that racket!! Still, she manages a smile for the young man. At Rigging's comment she shrugs. "Well, I didn't know most of these people...mostly Vauhwyt."
After having received no answer from her husband about the rings of invisibility, Ashira takes matters into her own hands. She scoots gently over to where Vauhwyt sits in the boat and gently pulls a ring from her finger. Handing the ring to her liontaur friend, she smiles. "I'd feel better if you had this for the battle...it's a ring of invisibility... It's got a catch though... We have 4 rings and only 2 can be in use at one time. Val's got one, Rigging's got the other, and a missing member, Appolo, has the fourth. So, if Val and Rigging both activate their rings you might not want to activate yours...it'll make one of them visible instantly... Hmmmm....that's kinda complex, huh? Well, I don't think Rigging's going to use his, so you'll probably be ok."
As the boat glides out into the mist, Ashira unsheathes her weapons and peers into the darkness, trying to keep an eye out for the massive amount of enemies that she knows are out there...(Spot=25, Listen=32)
Ari Tuesday September 14th, 2004 11:00:57 PM
Seeing as how nobody noticed his comments, Ari will quietly move to his assigned position on his boat. Watching the antics of the other, Ari decides to wait and see what people decide for themselves.
Nezamil Tuesday September 14th, 2004 11:10:02 PM
"Welcome aboard " says Nezamil to the halfing as she boards " not sure if you caught my name .... i'm Nezamil and this is Val " the dwarf points to the Elven warrior "
" looks like just the three of us in this longboat " says the dwarf as he settles in the rear of the boat " hmm seems your friend is back " as Nezamil points to the 1/2 elf dashing towards the lead longboat " ah a follower of Wardd i see , hope he brings us some luck " grins the dwarf at the halfing
"Now it seems like there will be trouble soon and Val here will charge in as soon as she can , she is fearless in battle and one of the finest and bravest warriors i've seen " the dwarf pauses" so lets you and i work together once trouble finds us , i'll watch your back and you watch mine ....deal ? "
" i have few ideas that should help us but we can talk about that once we get moving "
Redux Tuesday September 14th, 2004 11:37:37 PM
Redux will ask that his crew oar as best they can to catch the first boat and has someone motion for the 3rd boat to do the same. He sends Talon to get Rigging's attention. Once they are able to converse between the boats he'll begin. "First we must remember that this lead boat will want to go to it's specified dock, meaning we have to get rid of that sentry, that'll be my job with a phantasmal killer. Next we need to have a plan for what we want to do on the island, obviously killing every orc available is not on the list. Suggestions? Third, and most important, if we don't kill every orc, we must be willing to retreat to a location and get out of town without loosing anyone. Oh, and what about needing an extra boat to escape? It might also help to have an idea on where to go once we are in the boats would be good. Oh, just so everyone knows, I'd like to throw some fireballs at the orcs before all the fighters rush in, please." Redux looks around to gauge what he's said and also to listen to anyone's reactions.
Narrative DM Jan Wednesday September 15th, 2004 12:35:44 AM
In the Boats -
Swords Boat 1 - Redux, Bart, Ari, Theodore, Shadeos, Ryan
Swords Boat 2 - Nezamil, Rose, Valanthe
Rings - Dietrich - Swimming Rose - Protection Vauhwyt - invisibility
Let me know if there are changes.
-------
After a quick game of musical boats, everyone gets settled in just as the orc boat picks up speed. There's a slight lurch as the ropes snap taut, and in no time at all, the shoreline disappears and all sides are enveloped in mists. Immediately, the temperature drops slightly and the air becomes clammy. The boats move very quietly through the water in a line, causing few ripples, and visibility is down to about 20 feet.
As some have already pointed out, the enemy is in great number, which perhaps might suggest that an all-out assault could be suicidal. However - both groups of adventurers have goals, and with a bit of careful planning... Redux makes more suggestions. Dietrich's assessment of the map suggests that Rigging's idea might be a good one, but - if, like Redux says, the boat has a fixed course - what then?
The figurehead is muttering, its face holds a disgruntled expression. "Six, not seven. You said six." The boat appears to have no trouble cutting through the water, however, and its markings are shining so bright that they cast a slight green tinge onto the water immediately ahead.
All around is quiet. It seems that the party are entirely alone. For the moment.
((OOC - Folks - let me know your actions on the boat, spot checks etc))
Dietrich Wednesday September 15th, 2004 6:20:03 AM
Dietrich takes his mighty longbow and keeps in a position where he can talk to the figure and shoot at enemies if necessary. He asks the figure if it can bring them to the spot in the south.
He waits for the magic mist cover and for the familiar scouting and, though aware of the danger, is pretty confident in their own power.
He listens to the plans of the more experienced adventures and agrees with landing south, having the sentry neutralized, avoid fighting the whole 200 foes and having fireballs! He also suggests that before leaving the island, they put the enemy fleet on fire.
"Perhaps a small group, with invisibility, sneakyness, magic etc., could perform this action. This would make the enemy's pursuit impossible and unable them to take more slaves for a while. Alternatively, this could also be used as a distraction before attacking the main target. When the enemies head to that direction, the main troop could atack and free the slaves. In any case, both groups rejoin at our boats and we flee the island."
Ari Wednesday September 15th, 2004 9:58:10 AM
Looking around the three boats, Ari notices that the orc boat seems to be pulling everyone without any problems.
"When we get nearer to our goal, what if we were to send most of our party into the water, and let the boat pull us to wshore. Those in the water would be able to keep their heads low, and probably get everyone on the beach with little notice." As he's speaking, Ari drops his hand down to the water to get a feel for the temperature.
"that's if we don't have the benefit of the mists."
Looking towards the one that can talk with the boat Ari asks, "Do we have any control of how fast or where the boat goes? If we cannot get it to stop or steer, most of our planning could be a moot point."
Theodore and Macaw Wednesday September 15th, 2004 11:15:55 AM
Macaw continues to fly ahead, keeping the orc boat in sight.
Theodore decides that fighting is inevitable and summons his power to protect him. Not being in the first boat, and thus not hearing Dietrich's similar suggestion, Theodore says, "Perhaps we should sink their ships when we land. If we have to make a quick getaway, we shouldn't have any trouble. I have a wand that could set the ships on fire." He pulls the wand forth and waves it about to show the others.
Ryan, having known the accident prone mage longer than the rest, might feel a little nervous about Theodore waving the wand.
Zayne d20+5=17 d20+5=18 Wednesday September 15th, 2004 12:11:23 PM
The young ranger is very pleased to see Olyn,he smiles at his friend but his smile seems lacking.
He takes off his cloak,revealing his studded leather armor and what appears to be the beginning of a small armory,his three daggers,a battle axe and a hand axe. He takes a quick inventory of his quiver and says only one word,"Sixteen."
As he stands at the prow of the boat,he looks around wary for trouble. (Listen 17 Spot 18)
Rigging d20+12=26 d20+12=21 Wednesday September 15th, 2004 4:51:17 PM
Rigging's swift mind will be running through battle tactics trying to find ways to accomplish both missions. He sighs and says, "I think we need to scout the camp carefully, find out where the leadership is and take it out with quick and decisive action. It we do this and then retreat, the orcs just become like all other orc raiding parties, a nuisance but something that can be dealt with.
Trying to take on the whole camp will be suicide. We also need to be able to secure our retreat. This is how I see the division of labor."
Rigging will pause and look at Vauhwyt and ask, "What does your group call themselves?" Rigging will continue, "I think the Wildcards should be the ones to strike at the leadership of the camp. Your people need to find a way to sabatoge their shipping and clear a retreat route for us. Hopefully we will only be in camp for a few minutes. If the weight of the whole camp comes against us, we will all perish quickly.
To gather more information, I will use my artifact Wayfinder. With it, I can scry the camp and try to locate pickets, the command tents and potential traps. If no one has any further suggestions...."
If no one does, Rigging will settle in the bottom of the boat and sternly warn, "Please don't disturb me while I use this. You could kill me if not careful." He will look to Ashira and say, "Can you have Nezamil prepare his restoration spell please and don't let anyone disturb me."
Rigging will take out the artifact and bring it to his eye. He will project his etheral body to fly to the camp and scout for the things mentioned above. He will also evesdrop on conversations and take a look at the pier area.
spot roll 26 listen roll 21
Bart d20+4=16 Wednesday September 15th, 2004 5:14:28 PM
Redux can you cast an narcotic mist or something else that makes a lot of orcs sleepy.. he wat about casting several sleeps on several groups of orcs! Theodore you are an wizard also or not? Do you have ane area of effect spells you can use to attack the orcs. I have an potion of bullstrength i will use ion myself does any else has some stuff he can use or cast for the upcomming battle? (spot 16)
Vauhwyt d20+7=10 Wednesday September 15th, 2004 7:44:03 PM
"Oh," Vauhwyt says nonchalantly (Bluff 10), Rose, Theo and I can use arcane wands and scrolls. Especially with this ring -- thanks, Ashira! -- I'm pretty good at sneaking around and attacking with surprise. And Olyn and Shadeos can use divine items."
"We can try to get to the enemy boats and sink them, but we need some sinking tool. Something to damage boats. I don't think we have anything like that on us. Maybe oil and fire spells?"
"Our name? oh, uh, we're the Dirt City ... Rollers! Yeah!"
Mookie cocks his head and just looks at Vauhwyt. Then he chimes in, "Yup! We're on a roll, all right!"
Olyn Wednesday September 15th, 2004 8:37:43 PM
wiping his mouth with his sleeve, Olyn turns back around and regains his composure as much as someone who has never set foot on a boat before can.
slumping to the deck of the boat, his back against the edge.
I seem to of left before these people showed up V, who are they and why are we in boats with them talking about attacking a large grouping of orcs?
*hand signing to Vauhwyt*
tell me exactly what's going on and how we became their lackeys?
Rose Wednesday September 15th, 2004 8:38:40 PM
Rose looks frightened at the approaching orc camp but is ready to do what ever she has to.
Vauhwyt (illegal second post) d20+4=12 Wednesday September 15th, 2004 9:45:31 PM
Clearly indignant and somewhat impolitic, Vauhwyt stands straight up! "Olyn! These are friends! This is Ashira and her husband, Rigging, and their adventurer comrades! They are hunting slavers who may be orcs -- and we are hunting orcs who may be slavers! So be nice, say hi, introduce yourself, and say thanks for joining up with us!"
Mookie caws, "Yeah! And wipe your cheek! You missed some! Gross!"
[untrained spot check 12]
Nezamil Wednesday September 15th, 2004 10:14:07 PM
The dwarf will lean againist the side and peer into the distance " can't see much with all this mist ......but they won't either "
spotting the frightened looking halfing " i'm a little frightened too " says Nezamil trying to reasure the halfling " Domi will help us find courage within ourselves " the Cleric touches his pendant around his neck as he says this
" the 1st and 2nd boat will lead the battle , it will be our job to come in and cover the rear and watch that they won't get flanked from either side .....so just try and stay calm and everything will work out "
" oh and i have something here that you might find helpful " the dwarf reaches into a pouch and fishes out a vial " here take this it's a potion of flying ....should last about 5 mins " the dwarf will hand it to rose
"won't see much in this fog over the water , but i suspect it will be clearer over this island that we will come to shortly"
" have courage and we will carry the day " says the Cleric with a comforting smile
" and Val if you like i can make you bigger , that will put some fear into them orcs if they see you charging them at twice your height ....what say you ? Nezamilasks the elven warrior
Redux d20+5=21 d20+9=24 Wednesday September 15th, 2004 11:52:44 PM
Redux sees the wand that Theodore is waving around and makes a snatch for it (reflex=21) (if he is successful he will inspect it for its type (spellcraft=24), if he is unable to snatch it, he'll make the same observation without holding it re: its type). "Whoa, let's not get too theatrical with that. I like wands too, they hold stuff so you don't have to remember." He smiles over at Bart. "Put your potion away, I have a party wand for Bull Strength that'll help as many as I have time for. Here, Theodore, these are the ones I have currently." Redux will pull out the following wands for Theodore to inspect: Web, Magic Missiles, Bull's Strength, Greater Invisibility. "Rigging has one for Fire Ball. Anyone have a guess when we'll get to the island? I need to get into a better position to get that sentry."
Ashira Thursday September 16th, 2004 12:18:41 AM
Ashira faithfully watches over Rigging's body as his spirit leaves his body....making absolutely positive that no one disturbs him. She tries to catch Nezamil's attention. "Nezamil...Rigging will need you to cast Restoration when he is done...please ready that."
Only half-listening to Vauhwyt, Ashira is taken completely aback at her verbal attack on Olyn..."Huh, what?" is the best that she can manage. Reaching into her pack, she pulls out a Cure Moderate Wounds potion and hands it to the liontaur. "You better take this too...just in case things go south."
Narrative DM Jan Thursday September 16th, 2004 1:05:30 AM
The figurehead sets to with a stream of orcish swear words that turn the air blue, but at the end of its tirade, it says it will land where Dietrich tells it to. Changes in plans obviously do not suit its nature, but it seems to have enjoyed calling the warrior AND Olyn (for throwing up), every bad name under the Woldian sun.
Ari's questions on further control of the boat have yet to be established. In the meantime, Ari discovers that the water is cold, but not to the point where a man would freeze in 30 seconds.
The following events, all happen at once.
Slightly ahead of the boats, Macaw flaps on, accompanied by a rather funny sensation, as though the raven is being pushed along at great speed. The direction seems correct though - heading west. The bird is surrounded by mist and water - then - there's a slight thinning in the mist, and something breaks the surface of the water about 50 feet ahead of the boats. It's huge, wide; a dark surface slick with water, and it's there for only a moment until it sinks beneath the lake once more.
Back at the boat, Nezamil hands a fly potion to Rose, as everyone comes up with the best way to achieve their objectives.
Rigging takes out what looks like a small telescope, settles down into the bottom of the orc boat, and after warning of the consequences, activates it.
Immediately, he feels a wrenching sensation, much more powerful than what he'd been used to before, that propels his etheral form up into the air and onward, traveling like an arrow from a composite long bow. Everyone in the boats sees the mist ahead form into a whirling vortex as the Wildcards' leader 'departs', leaving his body behind on deck.
((OOC - I'm typing out what he sees, assuming Rigging will tell everyone, on returning to his physical form))
Rigging's airborne senses are at once propelled from a grey, misty world to one of riotous colour. There's a large 'thing' under the water, near the boat - he's moving too fast to see what it is. All around are streaks of red. As he travels WEST, over to the south of him is a large channel of red (under the water??), and he feels a pulling sensation from that direction. But then the island arrives - far too quickly (are we that close??). Land. Trees. Camp. Tent - Rigging is still, but he feels like something powerful is tugging on his arm. There are dogs outside. He can hear them barking. He can also hear the sound of raucous partying. The tent looks fairly large inside. There's a creature there, its features hidden by a hood. It's stood at a table.
On the table, a large map of a city by the sea is spread out. Various large metal pins are stuck into it, here and there.
There is also a large book, and the creature is leafing through the pages - maps, writing - the maps seems to be more detailed portions of that on the table. There's a word written in orcish #*$$^!!. The creature raises its arms with the intention of throwing back its hood -
- and right at that moment, Rigging feels himself being pulled away. Tent Camp trees Water.....
Before him is that snake of red, like a raging river after a flood - and beyond, what looks like a giant bloody whirlpool. It's drawing him in, and dread crawls through him, because he knows if he gets any closer, he's going to die.
On the orc boat, those near Rigging will notice his skin pallor change, and his face look thin and brittle. This doesn't look good.
((George - I'll let you roll your CON loss check, but it's 1d7, I'm afraid. You're able to return, but you're also battling a strong flow of woldsblood. Best of luck.))
Also - it's at that point that Zayne, on the lookout, spots an approaching wake on the water. Moments later the boats rise and fall as it passes. What's out there???
Vorelle d20+6=22 Thursday September 16th, 2004 2:06:23 AM
[OOC: I'm so sorry about missing so many posts; I'm battling a cold.]
All Vorelle can do is fit an arrow to her string and wait for a target. She peers into the mist, trying to see what is causing the large wake.
[Spot 22]
Theodore and Macaw HP 8 AC 17 (mage armor & dodge against thing in water) d4+1=4 Thursday September 16th, 2004 9:25:59 AM
Theodore is a little distraught that Redux has snatched his wand, but takes the more experienced man's advice to heart. "It is a wand of burning hands. Probably nothing to compare with what you have, but it's been useful to me." He holds out his hand to take the wand back and replaces it in his pack.
"This is the next spell I plan to learn," says an excited Theodore as he holds Redux's web wand with a strange reverence. "Wow, you really are powerful." He also dotes over the other wands that Redux shows him before returning them to his new friend.
Suddenly, Theodore gets a sensation of danger from his familiar and relays the information to those on the second boat, "There's something big...in the water. Everyone be on guard." That said, the mage pulls out a thin metal rod. He quickly shows it to Redux with a proud smile before turning his attention to the water.
(Theodore has mage armor for two hours. Will cast Magic Missile at thing in water if it is hostile. If it is at a range further than 140 ft, which I would doubt, he will expend a use of his rod of enlarge spells to give the magic missile a distance of up to 240 ft. Damage = 4 if the monster is hostile.)
Olyn Thursday September 16th, 2004 10:00:55 AM
with no emotion showing, he stares at Vauhwyt.
reaching up he wipes the spot of yuk he missed, and quickly wipes it off on Mookie, smiling at the bird's reaction.
when the shout to be on alert for the creature swimming in the water is given, Olyn cocks, and loads his crossbow, and awaits for the order to attack.
Vauhwyt and Mookie d20+3=5 d20+3=7 Thursday September 16th, 2004 11:02:36 AM
Vauhwyt reflexively takes the cure potion, and then looks at the expressions on the faces of her friends Ashira and Olyn. She blushes bright red, stuffs the ruffled Mookie in a bag, and then disappears (activates ring of invisibility). Then she casts a blood armor on herself (mage armor) (shared with Mookie).
She hears Theo's warning and tries to listen and look for trouble (spot 5, listen 7), but she is too distracted by feeling embarrassed.
Shadeos d20+10=28 d20+5=15 Thursday September 16th, 2004 11:53:48 AM
Shadeos searches the mists for any signs of trouble (spot 28, Listen 15)as he slowly loads a bolt into his crossbow. He whispers a silent prayer to Pantheon in an attempt to lift his spirit.
"Why do I feel so uncomfortable?", Shadeos wonders for a moment, "It must be the lay lines. The Witch said there was a nexus in the lake. Perhaps that explains the feeling...."
Ashira Thursday September 16th, 2004 12:09:20 PM
The half-elf pales as she sees the change in Rigging's appearance. "Oh gods! Rigging!! Nezamil, get over here...Rigging's in trouble!!" Too caught up in the drama with her husband to notice anything else, Ashira doesn't even noticing that she is giving voice to her thoughts. "I hate when you use that thing! I've told you time and time again it's too dangerous, but will you listen to me? No... You better not die on me Rigging von Pallin!"
Zayne d20+5=25 d20+6=19 d6=3 Thursday September 16th, 2004 1:15:25 PM
As the water displaces he stares at it looking of the cause.(Spot 25 natural 20)
If whatever it is appears hostile he will in one fluid draw his bow and fire an arrow at the source.( AC 19 Damage 3)
If it is not hostile he will just tell the group what he sees and then go back to scanning the aproaching coast.
Dietrich AC 17; HP 24 d20+4=22 d20+4=12 d8+3=11 Thursday September 16th, 2004 1:59:56 PM
The fighter is relieved as the orc boat will take them to the new spot and doesn't care too much about its cursing. Laughing, he trys to learn new bad words. Orcish is very imaginative in this.
Dietrich easely accepts Rigging's command and is satisfied with the plan. But they must find a way to coordinate their actions. He is sure the magic users can provide for that.
The warrior curiously watches what happens with Rigging, but soon (before the captain 'comes back') return to his watch. Spot 22
He swears when the water thing appears and asks the boat if it knows what it is. 'Of course there would be something like that!' He makes a short prayer to Domi and if the thing is menacing, he fires: ac 12; damage 11
Ryan (AC:17 Hp:11) Neen (AC:19 Hp:5) (Mage Armour) Thursday September 16th, 2004 4:25:04 PM
Ryan aware of the danger reflexively casts Mage Armour on himself and Neen.
"Stay back Neen were going to need you on the island" He says calmly to his familiar.
He pulls his hood up to black out the sun draws his bow and waits.
Bart Thursday September 16th, 2004 6:16:41 PM
Redux cast the bull strength spell on me, Theo wait until it attacks maybe it doesn't do us any harm. I dont want to fight such an big creature if i can avoid it
Nezamil Thursday September 16th, 2004 6:47:24 PM
The Cleric can't see anything past the 20 ft visibilty but hear's the comotion ahead " whats that Ashira ? .... i can't walk between the boats ....gonna have to think of a way to get there " Nezamil scans the longboat he is in but doesn't see anything that will help get him across to the 1st boat " you got any ideas Rose on how to get to Captain rigging ?" the dwarf eyes the halfing " Hey just drink that flying potion i gave ya " The cleric reaches into a pouch and pulls out a scroll case " then fly this up to ashira in the 1st boat" hands Rose the scroll case ....."one of the priests in that boat can use this scroll (2-restoration,lesser spells on scroll) to help Captain Rigging "
" hope they know what to do with this , Domi guide them " prays the cleric " or i'm gonna have to think of another way up there "
"Ashira !! Rose is coming with something the priests aboard you longboat can use to help " shouts Nezamil in Ashira's direction
" Now don't be nervous Rose , i know you can do this .....i have faith in you " says the dwarf
" just follow the ropes tied between the longboats to guide yourself ...ok ? then if you can fly up high and do some recon ahead so we know what we're getting into "
" Now hurry !! " Nezamil will cast Domi's protective ward on Rose (+7 on her next saving throw )(1 hour duration)
" all this yelling is gonna give us away , no surprise attack me thinks " thinks the dwarf to himself "
Valanthe Thursday September 16th, 2004 8:40:49 PM
The commotion snaps Val out of her daze. "I'm sorry Nezamil I was thinking about something. I would like to hold off on...." Valanthe stops speaking as she realises what's going on.
Rigging d8-1=2 Thursday September 16th, 2004 9:16:52 PM
Rigging stares at horror at the Woldblood and his memory snaps back to one of his tutor's droning voice in his youth. He now understands why the forest was so strange.
Woldblood is the essence of magic and many other things. It is also deadly. Rigging wills himself back to his body and arrives with a gasp.
He looks up and sees the loving concern of his wife Ashira and knows he is in trouble again. He reaches up and grabs her by the ears and pulls her in for a kiss. "It will take a little more than a river of magical blood and a giant bloody whirlpool to keep me away from you beloved," he murmers in elvish.
He is tired from the journey but feels it could have been much worse. He will then sit up and call out to the others, "Be careful, their is a big creature in the water. I don't know what it is but it could easily swamp the boats. Let's not antagonize it!"
If he has time, he relates what he saw at the camp. "Something is there. I sense it is evil and directing the orcs. I think it was planning a campaign against the city where our friends are from. I didn't see the cleric of Ga'al and don't know if this is where we should be going but I also sense, this evil man or creature needs killing."
Redux Thursday September 16th, 2004 11:01:23 PM
Redux tells Bart that it is best to wait until they are on land to cast Bull Strength saying, "It'll wear off too soon." He will return the wand to Theodore with a nod. "I will write Web down for you if we have time and help you read it. You're right, it can be a useful way to make things sticky for your foes." When everyone begins to react to the thing in the water, Redux will caution them not to fire. "We are in no position to get into a sea battle. Don't antagonize it." And with that, Redux activates his Ring of Levitation and uses his hands to keep contact with the mast as he goes up.
Rose Thursday September 16th, 2004 11:34:03 PM
Rose squeals and gives Nezamil a hug when he hands her the fly potion "I've always wanted to fly!"
But suddenly Nezamil hears something from the other boats and asks Rose to take a scroll to Rigging and Ashira.
Rose quickly downs the potion takes the scroll and heads as fast as she can for the other boat. this would be so fun, if only other people werent in trouble
Rose looks worried and upon arrival at the boat hands over the scroll. When Rose hands over the scroll she asks "What's the matter? Is he going to be ok?"
When she has been told everything is going to be ok her little face brightens "Good. Hey look I'm flying. It would be so fun to be invisible and shooting the nasty orcs with arrows from the air"
Narrative DM Jan Friday September 17th, 2004 1:12:30 AM
Everyone braces for action! The sides of the boats are suddenly bristling with cocked arrows and bolts, and spells are on the tip of tongues.
Rose does her best to arrive at the orc boat as soon as she can, as Rigging struggles to come back from his trance. (Rose reaches the boat.)
The boats rock and roll as something huge moves through the water.
Suddenly - an enormous expanse of hide appears alongside the boat; slick and dark green, slightly curved and about 25 ft wide. It suggests an ENORMOUS creature swimming beneath the surface.
In moments, it's gone. The boats continue to undulate, something that Olyn's stomach definitely does not appreciate, but that is unlikely to affect the Wildcards too much.
Has it gone completely? That's anyone's guess, and right now - there are other things to worry about. The mists start to thin. Those on the lookout - Shadeos, Zayne and Dietrich - and anyone else rolling a Spot DC 20 see whats ahead - rocks. It's land, and its coming up fast. 30 ft and closing.
Olyn Friday September 17th, 2004 2:09:01 AM
dropping to his knees as the creature rocks the boats, he leans over the railing and hurls whats left in his stomach into the water.
Theodore and Macaw HP 8 AC 17 (mage armor & dodge against sea monster) d20+2=5 Friday September 17th, 2004 10:52:22 AM
Theodore grabs onto the mast to steady himself as the sea monster passes. Just catching a glimpse of the creature, Theodore could tell it was vast. "Oh my..." he gulps. The mage shivers, presses his head against the cool of the wood, and waits for the monster to pass.
He finds himself swallowing air as if it were water. Fear has attacked Theodore's senses causing him to miss the upcoming land.
Ashira d20+16=30 d20+16=34 d20+9=24 Friday September 17th, 2004 12:20:19 PM
Now it is time for Ashira to be embarrassed. The bright red is in contrast to her green skin. She smiles at Rose. "He's not as bad off as I was afraid...though we could use one of those scrolls cast on him." She looks over at Olyn. "Can you cast it on Rigging?"
Ashira comes to the same mental conclusion as Nezamil. In no small part thanks to her own over reaction, they almost definitely won't have the element of surprise. Though Rigging had said there was a large party going on...maybe that would help.
Ashira watches the creature in awe and amazement...as the ship pitches and roll, Ashira barely moves (Reflex=24). Dropping her voice to an appropriate whisper, she speaks to those around her. "It hasn't attacked us, don't attack it. That's the last thing we need!"
Looking over at Redux, Ashira flashes her business smile. "Well Redux, about time you start getting to work with those wands. I'd appreciate a Bull's Strength and a Greater Invisibility if you don't mind..."
As her keen eyes scan the surrounding area, she catches sight of the rocks (Spot=30, Listen=34). Moving in close to Dietrich, she whispers to the young man. "Do you think you can get this thing to slow down? Might not be too fun if we smashed into those rocks!"
Zayne d20+5=25 Friday September 17th, 2004 1:25:43 PM
Zayne watches as the large aquatic beast swims by. He relaxes....slightly. He goes back to watching out for any more unexpected surprises.(Spot 25 Natural 20! thats two out of my last three,I'll take it!)
Dietrich Friday September 17th, 2004 2:19:54 PM
Dietrich very nervously watches the huge monster pass and is still on alert, as it could come back and attack.
He sees that Rigging is weak, but it seems the situation is under control, with an amazing flying halfling, and he directs his attention towards the rocks that suddenly appear! He commands to the figure: ")&(*^, slow down (^&(* demon!! Bring us to a safe landing place!"
Dietrich is not so sure they've lost the surprise element, as they are still relatively far away from the island and in a sector with few enemy activity. He takes his ammullet of Warrd in his hand and prays for luck.
Ryan (AC:17 Hp:11) Neen (AC:19 Hp:5) (Mage Armour) Friday September 17th, 2004 4:16:30 PM
An icy chill runs down his spine as he feels the bustle and confusion rise in the 3 boats. He tightens his grip on his bow.
The command not to shoot is barked by one of the Wildcards.
"Don't shoot!?" he thinks "That's mad!"
He quivers as the fear grabs hold. His mind goes blank, all he can see is white mist.
"Neen? Where are you?" he whispers.
Vauhwyt (invisible, mage armor) d20+3=8 d20+3=16 Friday September 17th, 2004 4:41:29 PM
Vauhwyt stands still and invisible. She waits with her spear in hand but does not use it. She looks and listens but does not hear anything.
Bart d20+4=18 Friday September 17th, 2004 6:29:03 PM
Bart looks to the creature and misses the rocks he probally will find out soon! Ryan hold fire if you sire that arrow we sure have to fight that giant killing river serpent! And you wont do a lot of dammage with that arrow either
Rigging Friday September 17th, 2004 7:48:56 PM
Rigging struggles to his feet and wipes a sweaty brow. "Let's get this these boats ashore, figure where we are on the island and get busy."
He suddenly stops and rubs his stomach, "Did we forget dinner. Suddenly I am starved!"
He will look around at the nervous faces and say, "OK lets not get to crazy with those short term spells. We might have a few minutes march."
He will send a thought to Swirl, "My friend can you do a quick look around for sentries and traps. Please be quick but be careful."
Swirl will dart off, searching the area that the boats look like they are going to land at and then widening his search.
Nezamil Friday September 17th, 2004 8:50:10 PM
Nezamil smiles at Rose's enthusiasm " hope that enthusiasm is contagious to that lead boat....hopefully calm the bunch of nervous nellie's down a little and let them focus on the task at hand " ponders the dwarf
Nezamil stares at the beast swimming by as the longboat roller coasters the waves " Domi protect and watch over us in this coming battle .....help us find the courage to vanquish Ga'als minions...." [/i] the Cleric touches his anvil pendant as he says a prayer
The dwarf remains standing ...manning the rudder to guide it in the wake of the other 2 longboats " almost time for action Val , i can feel it " says Nezamil to the Elven warrior
Redux d20=6 Friday September 17th, 2004 9:37:39 PM
Redux does not see anything out of normal for a completely unfamiliar island in an area far away from what he knows. Yep, trees, sand, water, its an island. Redux will drink a Mage Armor potion and wait for the next directions.
Shadeos d20+10=28 Friday September 17th, 2004 9:54:49 PM
Shadeos warns the members of his boat about the rocks ahead and continues searching the mist and water for trouble. (Spot 28)
Rose d20+5=9 Saturday September 18th, 2004 12:14:29 AM "Ooh, you have an invisibility wand. After you're done how about I take them and use them on the people in the other boats?"
Rose looks excited to be flying and is trying to do summersaults and flips in the air. She does take a minute to cast mage armor on herself, using her belt as the focus.
active spells fly, 5 min mage armor, 1 hr
Vorelle d20+6=22 Sunday September 19th, 2004 10:06:58 PM
Vorelle seas the sea serpent, but knows better than to shoot at it. It's gone back beneath the surface for now, which is good enough for her.
Again, she peers through the gloom ahead of them, trying to make out some indication of where they are going. She sees the rocks ahead [Spot 22], lets out a strangled cry of alarm, and drops to the deck, holding on for dear life.
Narrative DM Jan Monday September 20th, 2004 2:25:30 AM
The figurehead tells the warrior, Dietrich, where to stick it. However, the boat does slow down, and moments later, it's bow thunks gently against a large flat rock. The momentum of the other two boats at the rear, makes the arrival on the island a little clumsy, however. Nezamil's handling of the rudder in the rear boat avoids a direct collision, so that the worst that happens is that the boats end up as a tangle against the rock.
There's a step up from the boats to the rock, of about 2 ft.
Those who failed to notice the upcoming landing face an arrival equally lacking in finesse. Olyn, Theo, Ryan, Vauhwyt, Bart, Rigging, Nezamil, Redux, Ari and Valanthe - must trust to their reflexes when faced with the abrupt arrival. Reflex DC 15 - keep your footing/seat or fall down. Anyone gets below a DC 10 and they fall in the water (unless you're airborne or something).
Up above, Swirl and Macaw see the lie of the land immediately below. It's a mixture of flat rocks, pebbles and rock pools, and providing the pools are shallow, it doesn't seem too difficult to traverse the 50 ft wide shoreline and get to the meadow beyond. At the end of the meadow is a line of trees, and because of the weird twilight, caused by the cocoon of surrounding mists - there's a halo of light, possibly firelight, coming from over the other side of the trees in the distance.
Dietrich d20+4=21 d20+2=13 Monday September 20th, 2004 7:46:29 AM
Dietrich is satisfied with their landing and jumps ashore. He hopes the mists are concealing their approach and waits for the others to come together, while observing the surroundings. Spot 24; listen 13
When everybody is ready, he asks:
"So, how will we coordinate our actions? The 'Rollers' (wondering about this name) will go alone to set the enemy's fleet on fire? When exactly shall we attack? How can we maintain communications?"
Remembering Vauhwyt, he also asks about how burn the ships. Is Theo's wand enough?
Olyn Monday September 20th, 2004 8:33:49 AM
(was sitting in the boat so no balance check should be made)
after the boats hit the shoreline, Olyn will wait and be the last one out of the boat.
when his feet are firmly planted on the shore he reaches into his bag and puts something into his mouth saying: something to help with my belly's queezyness.
turning to Vauhwyt: our job is sabotaging the boats of the orcs. a couple of scouts should be sent into the meadows and along the meadowline towards the boat. let us find a spot where the use of the greater invis wand would be effective. it wont last for long and we need to be in place, ready to strike before it is used. if the boats are relatively unguarded, lets combine the use of oil and other flammable stuff like piling sails and debris in each boat. and when the orcs see their beloved boats in flames, they will rush to them, trying to save them. and while that is happening, the other team will go in and rescue the prisoners. and since we will be invised, we can move safely away, making sure to watch our tracks, and await their return by turning the vessels we rode in on around, and ready to go in a hurry.
Bart d20+3=16 Monday September 20th, 2004 9:27:29 AM
Bart manages to stay on his bench, as soon as he feels the bump. He stands up and jumps ashore. He gets his shield from his back and activates it, it is now hovering around him.
Rigging d20+4=12 Monday September 20th, 2004 12:25:15 PM
Rigging gestering towards the land, pitches out of the boat and on to the land. He gets up and glares at the person who was steering and then starts to brush himself off. He will murmer to Ashira, "That wasn't my most dignified landing."
He will signal to Swirl to go check out the light ahead but to stay high and out of sight.
OOC How long has it been since we picked up the new crew and sailed to this island?
He will gather the others around him after they get themselves picked up and say, "OK we need to here back from Swirl about the camp, but I think we have a solid foundation of a plan started.
The Wildcards will hit the command tents. You guys from Dirt City will circle around and take out the orcish boats. Make sure you take out the sentries from here to there or they might block your path.
Does anyone have a horn or other loud noise maker. We can use that as a signal or go on the release of a fireball spell. Yes that sounds good...when you release your fireball, we will also. Hopefully being attacked on mulitple fronts will confuse them.
Remember this is a hit and run attack. They out number us to much. Once you set fire to the ships, try to get back here. You prepare the boats for pushing off and cover our retreat."
Rigging will turn to the Wildcards and go on, "Redux and I will hit the command tent with fireballs after the signal. Hopefully that will slow down anyone in there. We then go in and do as much damage as we can in 1 minute and then leave. (No more than 10 rounds)
The key to this whole situation is taking out the sentries. If they raise the warning before we are in position, we are gonna get chopped into bait. I feel I can take out the ones in our path with spell and backstab but can you Dirt City folk, take out yours? Or will you need assistance?"
Nezamil d20+3=8 d20+4=20 Monday September 20th, 2004 1:34:17 PM
The dwarf seeing the tow rope go limp " uh oh " sharply turns the rudder to avoid the upcoming collision but loses his balance (d20+3=8 reflex ch )and splashes into the water (hope it's not too deep ;-) ) ACK!
Reacting quickly Nezamil makes a few swim strokes (d20+4=20 swim ch )and grabs onto the flat rock and struggles to drag himself up and sits to catch his breath.
Once up on the flat rock Nezamil listens to the banter " I think it would be a good idea to have a few from each group go with the other " suggest the Dwarf as he takes off his boots and shakes them to dump the water
OOC Rose ,Nezamil cast a Protective ward on Rose a couple of posts back +7 on Rose's next saving throw
Vauhwyt (AC19, HP19) and Mookie (AC19, HP9) (invis, mage armor) d20+4=6 d20+2=16 d20+2=5 d20+7=24 d20+1=11 Monday September 20th, 2004 1:46:24 PM
Vauhwyt slips as the boat hits the rocks and falls out of the vessel. She hits the water with a splash (Reflex save 6) -- the others are treated to the sight of a liontaur-shaped hole in the water splashing and floundering! The invisible Vauhwyt manages to keep her head above water (Swim 16) but fails to climb up the rocks (climb 5). If she has time, she tries to gather her powerful leonine hind legs under her to leap out of the water -- perhaps a 24 will do it?
Vauhwyt becomes visible in all this, and she is revealed to be red from head to toe, but she does not seem to be hurt.
Assuming that Vauhwyt manages to get out of the water eventually, on her own or with help. she will answer Rigging -- "Surre, we're sneaky enough! Especially some of us, and especially with this keen invisibility ring! And even more especially under the cover of my Darkness spell!"
"We'll creep up to the boats, blow my whistle, fireball the boats, and beat a hasty retreat. Rendez-vous back here within a minute after blowing the whistle. Right?"
Vauhwyt takes the time, if she can, to cast blood armor on Mookie. Then she reads her Darkness scroll (11 means no failure), casting it on a small ring that Mookie carries in a cunning little pack he wears.
[Note that under 3.5, Darkenss is not the pitch-black area that it was in earlier versions of the game. Instead, it is a shadowy area of dimness that gives concealment (and a chance to hide) without interfering too much with vision.
Mookie carries the ring with Darkness on it. Vauhwyt becomes invisible again.
Ryan (AC:17 Hp:11) Neen (AC:19 Hp:5) (Mage Armour) d20+5=12 Monday September 20th, 2004 4:06:39 PM
"Ryan hold fire!" shouts Bart, snapping Ryan out of his dream.
The white fades, the boat crashes into the shore and Ryan topples to the floor of the boat.
He scrambles to his feet and out of the boat, thanking Bart for his help as he would probably have been worse of if he hadn't.
Theodore and Macaw d20+2=9 d20=4 Monday September 20th, 2004 4:21:55 PM
Theodore has enough time to hoot before he is sent over the ship's edge in a graceless belly flop. He is too surprised to react properly and promptly sinks below the water's surface.
Mookie becomes agitated at his master's dilemma and begins to swoop about the area that Theodore went under, crowing and flapping.
(Reflex = 0, Swim check = 4)
Shadeos Monday September 20th, 2004 5:23:58 PM
Shadeos braces himself as the boat rapidly approaches the shore. As the boat slams into the shore, Shadeos is thrown forward but he quickly regains his balance and embarks to the shore. He listens as Rigging outlines a plan.
"What of the slaves?", Shadeos questions Rigging, "Fireball spells will surely kill slaves as well as slavers and that is unacceptable. We must free the slaves. I will not leave them to the slavers, by Pantheon, I will not leave them to suffer."
Zayne d20+6=17 d20+6=16 d20+6=19 d20+5=25 d20+5=19 Monday September 20th, 2004 5:45:08 PM
Not really all too surprised at the uneven terrain coming up he handles the collisions without very much grace but he does manange to stay on his feet.
He lends a hand to anyone that wasn't as lucky as he was to stay relatively dry.
When discussion of scouts comes up he asks if anyone will watch the bulk of his equipment(backpack and,his battle axe)so he can skulk and reduce the amount of him that needs to remain hidden. He quietly slips off to see what he can discover,disapearing after only a few yards. (Hide 16 Move Silently 19)
He thinks to himself,"Only sixteen left what was I thinking? Sixteen arrows and nearly two hundred orcs,thats prepared. I only have to kill five or so with each shot." As he thinks to himself he manages to pay fairly close attention to his surroundings.(Listen 25 where are the baddies,it's kind of a shame that all these natural 20's are for listen and spot checks. Spot 19)
(OOC I am looking at the map and trying to pinpoint the gneral location of our landing. As far as I can guess we are on the south western coast of the island near the orc camp. If thats where we are Zayne will head south east into the trees. If not I have to know where we are but he is going to try to find some trees for cover.)
Rigging (illegal second post) Monday September 20th, 2004 6:08:05 PM
Rigging starts to think, "Yeah we can just charge in and kill them all. Won't even break a sweat!"
Suddenly his head is seized in pain...oh the pain is unbearable. He looks up and sees a little man on his shoulder who looks just like him. He says, "You can't just rush in. All these nice Dirt City folks are gonna get slaughtered!"
Suddenly another little fellow appears on Rigging's other shoulder. He has little horns sticking out of his head and he says, "Sure you can. Who cares about those Dirt Farmers anyway. Every good battle needs shock troops. Shoot, they are nobodies. They don't even have a name!"
Rigging is liking the sounds of this when the good little fellow on his right says, "Ashira will have you sleeping on deck for a month if you get her friend Vaughwyt killed! You better rethink this."
With that Rigging shakes his head and the pain is gone. He sighs and calls both groups together and says, "I think Zayne is right. We need more information before we go and attack. We have to find out where the slavers are. Where the command tent is. Where they keep the slaves and how are they guarded and chained. We might not want to destroy the boats either. We might need them to get the slaves off.
I am good at sneaking so I will go take a look. I see Zayne is already going so who else wants to go?"
Vorelle d20+6=14 d20+6=23 Monday September 20th, 2004 7:19:26 PM
Since she was already braced for the shock (and already flat on the deck; see earlier post), Vorelle isn't knocked about too badly by the abrupt landing.
She sees Theo fly overboard, though [I hope; Spot 14], and doesn't see him resurface. She begins looking about for a rope or a float to throw out to him. [Search 23]
Ari d20+3=15 Monday September 20th, 2004 11:22:54 PM
Having expected the landing somewhat, Ari lands on the rock without too much fanfare.
"How many to scout?"
Ari will help with scouting preps if possible. (roll for me please, I don't have character sheet on me right now.)
Redux d20=15 Monday September 20th, 2004 11:38:37 PM
Redux is so very glad to have been up in the air when the boats reached shore; he's sure he would have been thrown into the water as well. From his vantage point he is able to push off the mast and float to the ground, more or less gracefully (tumble=15). He concurs that we shouldn't get rid of all the boats because we'd need to let the slaves transport off somehow. He tries to tell the scouts to come back quickly and not to bring any trouble with them, though he's unsure if they are listening. As they go, he asks those that remain to get together to untangle their boats to be ready for a hasty get-away if they need one.
Ashira (Potion of Hiding) d20+11=22 d20+11=26 d20+16=32 d20+16=36 Tuesday September 21st, 2004 12:13:19 AM
Ashira sighs...for some odd reason she felt so tired at this particular moment. Shaking it off, she hops to the shore and helps any who need the help... like Vauhwyt and Theodore. Listening in, she agrees with Rigging's adapted plan. Pulling out a potion, she downs it quickly (potion of hiding). "You'll probably need my eyes too...I'm coming with you." she says to Rigging in that tone that indicates she won't accept any argument. As the magic kicks in, the half-elf begins to blend in with the surrounding shadows (Hide=22). Amazingly, only the faintest of tinkling from her armor is heard (Move Silently=26) as she heads through the rocky area toward the comfort of the undergrowth. She keeps her eyes and ears trained ahead for signs of danger that she knows are lurking all around them (Spot=32, Listen=36).
Active Spells: Potion of Hiding: +10 to Hide checks for 1 hour.
Valanthe AC 21, HP 100 d20+8=21 Tuesday September 21st, 2004 12:23:52 AM
Valanthe easily shifted her weight and stayed on her feet as the bow shifted. This snapped her out of the fog that she seemed to drift into more and more as time progressed.
"Captain," Valanthe says so Rigging can hear, "please tell me that you need a distraction. I'm rather eager to kill some orcs."
Rose hp: 12/12 AC 14 d20+7=23 d20+6=23 d20+5=15 d20+7=24 Tuesday September 21st, 2004 2:49:15 AM
Rose is startled when the boat bumps into the shore and her friends go flying out of it, but since everyone (or so she thinks) is safe. She flies ahead with piper to find out some info on the orc camp. She will hide up behind some tree branches.
hide: 23 listen: 23 spot: 15 move silently: 24
Active spells Fly 5 min Mage armor +4 ac 1 hr
ooc: nezamil rose is flying & doesnt need to make the save
Narrative DM Jan Tuesday September 21st, 2004 4:00:14 AM
It appears that the decision is made to scout first, and strike fear into the hearts of all orcs, later.
So - there are two possible areas that need scouting attention - the harbour/jetty area, and the orc camp dead ahead. Both areas will take a 15 minute jog to get there.
Zayne notes from the figurehead map, that the boats have landed along the extreme EAST coast. The orc camp is to the west - the harbour is to the north west.
Folk will have to traverse over the rocks and rock pools in order to get anywhere. Dietrich spots small crabs living in the pools, and some pools will have to be waded through.
((OOC anyone wading through the pools Reflex check please DC 15 - if you fail, please roll a D3))
((OOC I need to know were the scouts are going - who's going for the camp? Who's heading for the harbour?))
Those remaining by the boats are left to ponder the exit strategy. And yes - if there are slaves to be rescued - is another boat required?
In the meantime, Vorelle and Ashira pull Theo out of the water, who looks wetter than Nezamil or Vauhwyt, if thats possible. The liontaur, the dwarf and the young human mage all had feelings of extreme depth when they entered the water.
Theodore and Macaw Tuesday September 21st, 2004 9:55:53 AM
Macaw settles down when Theodore is dragged from the water. His master is another matter. The young mage is completely soaked and very cold. He hugs himself and shivers as the group discusses strategy.
"W-w-we can't f-f-f-f-forget to bring b-back inf-f-formation on th-th-th-the cult," Theodore stutters. "Elsewise w-w-w-w-we're fishf-f-f-f-food for the Prince." Hopefully, Theodore's group remembers the stern warnings of the Prince's second to bring back information or not come back.
Dietrich Tuesday September 21st, 2004 11:31:31 AM
Dietrich can't avoid laughing as several friends fall in the water, though he restrains it as far as possible, knowing it's not funny and helps if possible.
He agrees with the scouting first, but doesn't like the idea of letting the boats unharmed and trying to rescue all slaves. Sure, it is noble, but this would make it almost impossible to avoid confrontation with the 200 orcs. The only action (besides reconnaiscance) he finds feasible would be a magic backed surprise attack, hitting hard and running away fast.
He waits for the scout reports and voices his opinion. Regarding Theo's comment, the fighter thinks that they already have more than enough information about the cult. They know where it opperates and how strong it is. Getting more details would be too dangerous.
Zayne d20+6=17 d20+6=20 d20+5=10 d20+5=10 d20+5=6 Tuesday September 21st, 2004 12:37:31 PM
Staying relatively hidden he heads northwest towards the harbour,he wants to know as much about the layout of the are as he can. He doesn't anymore unexpected surprises.(Hide 17 Move Silently 20)
He is also on the lookout for trouble,but as is fairly normal for him when he is byu himself his mind wanders a little,"Sixteen,I am good but not even close to that good,and who knows how experienced these orcs are?"
He will also be on the lookout for a tall tree with dense foilage,to give him a greater field of view,and give him the advantage of higher ground if he come across trouble.(Search 6 OOC guess the luck finally ran out,oh well,it was a great run)
Rigging d20+4=12 d3=1 Tuesday September 21st, 2004 1:29:20 PM
Rigging will say to Val, Redux and Bart. "Work with the Dirt City folks and come up with the beginnings of a plan on hitting the camp and trying to free the prisoners/slaves.
Ashira and I will scout the camp since that Zayne fellow went towards the harbor." He will turn towards Rose and say, "Why don't you back up your friend. Try to get an idea of when they change the guards and if they have any roving patrols."
Turning back to the remain Wildcards, he murmers, "Our friends here from the Dirt City are good, but not in our league. Come up with a plan, where they don't get killed."
Rigging grabs Ashira's hand and says, "Of course you can come dear. Wouldn't think of going without you in your noisy armor. Try not to step on any twigs or anything."
Rigging heads out towards the camp and promptly falls into a waterhole. He sighs and says, "Great omen for the start of this grand adventure."
Bart Tuesday September 21st, 2004 2:55:22 PM
I have an roughly plan for our attack that muast and can be modified whit the info of the scouts. The first task is to kill the guards by some scouts. I want a group of spellcasters that are armed with dammage spells like magic missiles, fireballs and so on to the area where the most orcs are. This group that is lead by Redux is protected by some bowman maybe Ryan and ..., and by me and Val we will rush into the orcs and kill anyone that comes to close to our spellcasters. Hopefully this attack will gives 3 scouts time to free the slaves. Maybe somthing for Zayne, Ashira and.. After the slaves are freed our big battlegroup retreats and protects the slaves. Hopefully, the freed slaves are in good condition and maybe some of them can fight with us as well.
In the time the major group is attacking the orcs and freeing the slaves a small group formed by Rigging, attacks the guards at the harbour and get control of the boats we will use those boats to get from the island.
Vauhwyt and Mookie d20+7=23 d20+4=15 Tuesday September 21st, 2004 6:18:48 PM
A voice speaks from thin air, or from a skinny invisible liontaur, anyway. "I'm sneaky AND invisible with this nifty ring you guys let me borrow. Plus I have the Darkness spell to help conceal us. So 'll come with Rigging and Zayne."
Mookie's muffled voice says, "Are you sure that's a bright idea, Boss?"
"Surre!" Vauhwyt replies.
Then she also casts a message cantrip so that she can whisper and talk to Rigging from far away.
[Invisible, move silent is 23. Vauhwyt navigates the slippery pools without mishap (Save 15).]
Ashira (Potion of Hiding) d20+9=27 d20+11=21 d20+11=16 d20+16=19 d20+16=19 Tuesday September 21st, 2004 6:26:31 PM
The ranger chuckles at Rigging's comments...figures he would remember that time soooo long ago. But then both of them had changed since then...
Ashira navigates the terrain expertly, stepping aside every so often to dodge some of the rock pools as she goes to her husband's side. She unceremoniously pulls her sneaky but clumbsy husband from the pool, chuckling ever so softly. She wades easily through any necessary rock pools (Refl=27).
As they travel toward the enemy camp, Ashira does a decent job of seeking the comforting shadows (Hide=21), but as fortold, her armor is better suited to warfare than recon (Move Silently=16). As she travels into enemy territory, the half-elf keeps her eyes and ears focused ahead (Spot=19, Listen=19).
Shadeos d20+10=26 d20+5=12 Tuesday September 21st, 2004 6:32:40 PM
Shadeos waits with the group that remains. He listens as the group begins to plan. The Pantheon Justice also does his best to keep a watchful eye and ear for any trouble. (Spot 26 Listen 12)
Blackbird Island Player Maps (DM Dominic) Tuesday September 21st, 2004 8:11:20 PM Player Maps
Vorelle d20+6=25 Tuesday September 21st, 2004 9:06:17 PM
Vorelle is no stranger to sneaking and hiding, but others seem to have the task well in hand, and she is worried about Theo. He seems to have taken a chill.
[Heal Check 25]
Vorelle rummages through her pack, pulls out the blanket from her bedroll, and wraps it around the shivering mage.
"D-d-d-do you h-ha-ave a ch-change of c-c-clothes?" she asks, wincing over the irony of the two of them stuttering at one another.
Narrative DM Jan Tuesday September 21st, 2004 11:23:28 PM
On land for a while now, everyone can't fail to notice how 'unstable' the ground seems - as though they've actually stepped off one boat - and on to another! There's a very slight undulation underfoot, as if the island itself is afloat.
It's beginning to go dark, too. Shadeos notes the light halo behind the trees to the west grow brighter, but apart from the group's disappearing scouts, no one else seems to be around.
The mist on the island itself is virtually nonexistant; the phenomenon seems to prefer life out on the lake.
The scouts cross through the rockpools. Although the pools aren't deep, there a creatures within. After his dunking, Rigging discovers a tiny crab, clinging to his pant leg for all it's worth. Zayne discovers two crabs hanging on to his boots.
---------
HARBOUR
The scouts heading north west see a line of trees going north, vaguely in the direction of the harbour. The trees themselves are broad-trunked deciduous, thirty-footers, and quite old. They'll offer cover for a little while at least. From the trees to the jetty - its about 100 yards. Tied to the jetty are 4 boats. One of them is slightly larger, and of a different design to the rest. There doesn't seem to be a whole lot of boats - certainly not enough to carry off a big crowd.
There seems to be a path, running from the jetty, around the shore, toward the orc camp. From this viewpoint, there's no one on it.
Vauhwyt will notice something else via her bare paws. It's quite warm underfoot.
---------
ORC CAMP
The scouts heading toward the camp have to dash through a 200 yard open meadow to a line of trees. They hit them just in time to see a patrol of 4 orcs, to the far right of them - emerging along the path - heading for the harbour/jetty. They have two nasty-looking hounds with them. Right now, the scouts haven't been noticed. Facing them is a similar cluster of large, old deciduous trees, in full leaf. The camp lies beyond, and what looks like a watch tower can be seen.
-------------
SHORE
Meanwhile - back at the shoreline - its getting darker by the minute. Those waiting for the scouts to return feel the tension building, as they wait... and wait... and wait... Vorelle does what she can to make Theodore feel more comfortable, as Ryan's cat crouches at the edge of one of the pools, watching the pond life within, in eager anticipation. Bart and Dietrich discuss tactics, Valanthe's trigger axe finger starts itching. Nezamil gets as dry as he can. The waiting continues; the surrounding silence is quite unnerving, until -
A sharp, resounding *crack!* hits everyone's ears. It's the figurehead on the orc boat. It has it's arms outstretched, it's head thrown back - and it appears to be growing slightly - and changing shape!
((OOC Scouts, ask your questions, please))
((OOC - Sorry I'm having to post early tonight folks, for those who haven't posted yet, if you're joining a scouting party - don't forget your "crab check" - Reflex DC 15, 1D3 will tell you how many of the little blighters are hanging to your clothes.))
Redux Tuesday September 21st, 2004 11:46:55 PM
"Ok folks, we are going to be a while waiting for those doing recon to get back from the looks of things. Let all get as warm as possible. I doubt that we'll see any scouts; those creatures aren't known for tactical mastery and besides, they are on an island and think they're alone, why scout too much. Bart, what you say has a lot of merit, do the groups agree to his breakdown of who's where when we begin the battle?"
rose d20+7=19 d20+6=15 d20+7=25 d20+5=15 d20+5=22 Wednesday September 22nd, 2004 12:36:49 AM
Rose listens to Rigging and flies after Zayne. When she reaches him she flies over head ready to help in any way she can.
Dietrich Wednesday September 22nd, 2004 6:15:22 AM
To tell the truth, though he likes it, Dietrich finds Bart's plan quite dangerous for the still unexperienced Dirt City folk. The main group will face very tough opposition and he worries for their safety. He still finds it too dangerous to try to safe all slaves, but accepts the group consensus and is too proud to fear too much.
With his heavy armour, Dietrich isn't suited for the sneaky tasks, so he will stay with the main group to protect the casters. His bow is strong and he is well able to fight any individual orc that should somehow manage to pass through the barrier of Val and Bart. He also proposes that the 3 clerics stay with the main battlegroup.
But he remembers one thing: if they'll use the orc boats at the jetty to escape, what will they do with their own boats here? Either they divide the group after freeing the slaves, some accompanying them to the orc boats, others coming back to take their own boats. Another possibility is to flee all together with the orc boats and then navigate them to this landing point and get their own boats.
Valanthe Wednesday September 22nd, 2004 9:31:54 AM
Valanthe instinctively draws her sword and rushed the figurehead. Her arm comes down and stops just before the elegant blade would connect.
"Somebody please tell me that I can cut this thing apart."
Theodore and Macaw Wednesday September 22nd, 2004 9:37:44 AM
"Thank you, Vorelle," Theodore smiles at the shy ranger as she wraps a blanket around him. "I feel much better." He shivers violently, once more for good measure, and then seems to regain his composure, if he ever had any to begin with.
He waits patiently with the rest of those who remained with the boats. Every once in a while, he shivers, though not from the cold. He's never been a brave person, and the thought of facing two hundred or more orcs is a frightening task for the young man. Macaw perches on Theodore's shoulder, and for once abstains from aggravating the young mage, sensing his master's turmoil.
When the orc boat begins to change, Theodore starts and nearly drops the blanket that Vorelle had lent him. "What's it doing?" He looks to Dietrich.
Zayne d20+6=21 d3=3 d20+6=18 d20+6=24 d20+5=24 d20+5=7 Wednesday September 22nd, 2004 2:02:06 PM
Looking to the little crabs at his feet he thinks,"I bet these little things are quite tasty,I wonder if Rose knows any recipies for crab." Catching himself as his mind starts to wander,"Stop that,quit thinking with your stomach for once,you have some serious work to do." He knocks the crabs from his boots with his hand.
Zayne spots the trees and move towards them,moving as fast as he dares to not reveal his location to any unfriendly eyes.(Hide 18 Move Silently 24)
As he move forward he tries to make himself very aware of his surroundings.(Listen 24 Spot 7)
Nezamil Wednesday September 22nd, 2004 2:33:03 PM
Nezamil watches as the scouts head off into the night "perhaps we should find some cover , at least a ravine or behind some sand dunes so any patrols will not easily spot us " suggests the dwarf
As the Cleric paces he stops and looks down at his feet " hmm this feels like we are a board a ship .........wonder if this is a floating island ? asks Nezamil to the group
" I also think we should keep our voices down ......that light over the forest is most likely from the enemy camp ......crack what was th..... Nezamil turns and sees the figurehead coming to life and growing larger "everyone watch out..... " i don't know Val lets see what it does ...i mean it's made of wood be like chopping a tree down and swords aren't that good at that " Nezamil will place himself between the figurehead and the chilled mage :) and draws his mace " lets work together people....team work "
Ashira (Potion of Hiding) d20+11=21 d20+11=22 Wednesday September 22nd, 2004 3:13:49 PM
The half-elf's protective instincts kick in at the sign of the orcs and hounds. First, she pulls Rigging into the protective undergrowth of the hardwoods (Hide=21, Move Silently=22). Verbal communication would be suicide, so Ashira reverts to hand signals. She brings her fingers to her eyes and then delicately stretches out her arm in the direction of the guards.
Ashira's mind reels. She knew that in order to be successful, she and Rigging needed to be silent and efficient. But then again, Vauhwyt and Zayne were out there, and the guards were headed that way... What to do? Instinctively Ashira's hand reaches for the bow on her back. You can't kill them all in one shot. And if you attack, it'll just alert the enemy to our presence... Painstakingly, Ashira removes her hand from her bow. She begins to offer up a silent prayer for her friends to Alemi and then catches herself.
Knowing that she needs more detailed information about the camp to be useful to the others, the ranger begins creeping through the forest. She hugs the outskirts of the grove, staying as far away from the path as possible as she searches for a good spot to observe the camp from.
Vauhwyt (AC19, HP19) and Mookie (AC19, HP9) d20+7=14 d20+3=7 d20+3=10 Wednesday September 22nd, 2004 4:38:47 PM
Vauhwyt continues to shadow Ashira and Rigging, keeping about 50 feet to the right of them. [Her move silent roll this time is a 14. Listen 7, spot 10.]
In a very quiet whisper, so quiet you could not hear it ten feet away, Vauhwyt says to Rigging (via message spell), "Rigging, I'm about 50 feet to the right. And did you notice the earth -- warm? Maybe we should wait to see how long it takes the patrol to make a circuit?"
Vorelle d20+6=26 Wednesday September 22nd, 2004 7:07:33 PM
Relieved to see that Theo is doing better, Vorelle stands and begins gathering her things. When the figurehead begins to crack and change, she scrambles hastily to her feet and looks to see what is happening and what might be causing it.
[Spot 26, natural 20]
Rigging d20+14=33 d20+12=22 d20+12=17 Wednesday September 22nd, 2004 9:44:00 PM
Rigging moves deeper into the shadows with Ashira and tries to stay downwind from the dogs. He looks up at the tree and whispers in Ashira's ear. "Dogs keep their attention on the ground. Can you cliimb?"
Placing his magical slippers on the trunk of the tree, he scampers up as quietly as possble and hides among the leaves keeping the base of the tree between him and the orcs.
When he moves up the tree, he will look around to see what he can see from this different view. ooc Boots of spiderclimb up the tree, hide in shadows =33 and move silently 22 spot 17
Narrative DM Jan Thursday September 23rd, 2004 1:45:21 AM
At the Harbour -
Everything seems quiet amongst the four boats. However, Rose spots movement, what looks like four figures in the distance, walking around from the SOUTH WEST toward the boats. Zayne hears the growl of an animal, coming from that direction also.
At the Camp -
Ashira tries her best to ensure everyone keeps silent and hidden as the patrol walks past. In the trees, Vauhwyt can't see much from her position, but as soon as Rigging climbs the tree, he gets a much better picture. He's looking toward a large camp - with perimeter watch towers, and tents scattered throughout. There are dog pens too, and a huge campfire in the middle. Off to his left - is some kind of holding pen - it's pretty big, and there look to be humanoids inside it.
Close to the fire, is another tent, larger than the rest, but it's not the tent that draws his eye, it's what's stood close by - a big crowd of orcs, with the occasional ogre and goblin thrown in for good measure - all ragged, unkempt, and wild-eyed. There could be a few humans in the mix too. It's a big, ugly crowd, and the way they're clustered together, it looks like a town meeting is about to start.
At the Shore -
Redux, Bart and Dietrich's tactical discussion is interrupted somewhat as Nezamil quickly joins Valanthe at the boat, weapons at the ready. The figurehead has it's arms thrown out - it's head thrown back. It's chest looks to have bulged and cracked down the centre. Suddenly, something fires out of the figurehead's chest, and falls *PLOP* into the water. As Vorelle takes a closer look, she'll notice another 'object' about to emerge from the figurehead's chest, similar to the first one. As for the thing fired into the water, it's starting to grow, too. It's about a foot in length and increasing; it floats, and it's boat-shaped. A tiny carved likeness of the figurehead is staring up at the party, it's eyes glowing like hot coals.
Strange Speaker (DM Dominic) Thursday September 23rd, 2004 3:51:17 AM
At the Camp -
Walking out from the large tent Rigging can see a tall robed humanoid. After just a few steps the robes are pulled back and you see a woman dressed in what you think is a very suggestive outfit. Vauhwyt, Ashira, and Rigging hear her beggining to speak. "Friends, companions , allies, we have been walking on a very bold and dangerous path. Soon we will be starting the next phase of our plan to gain the supportive attention of Marteaus." holding up a large book in her right hand as she talks to the crowd. "We must give our thanks to our allies the Follower's of Ga'al for providing us with the necessary slave workforce that we have needed." as she finishes one of the ogre's walks over to one of the humans and hands him a small chest then returns to the womans side. "My firend as agreed your full payment in gems as requested." she tells the human.
Addressing the entire camp agian "Let us have a grand night as in two nights with the setting of the sun we shall start the next phase." With this the entire camp erupts in cheer. Rigging can see that she turns to the ogre and hands him the book then joins in with the rest of the camp . Upon recieving the book the ogre enters the large tent then after a few moments returns to the party that is starting.
Rigging you are feeling a slight sensual arousal for the apparent leader of the camp. Will check vs DC 18 or be stunned for 1d10 minutes
Ashira, and Vauhwyt you feel a slight disgust for the voice of the leader.
At the Harbor and the Shore -
You hear a large eruption of cheering come from the direction of the orc camp.
Rigging d20+7=19 d20+4=16 Thursday September 23rd, 2004 8:03:45 AM
Rigging looks at the beautiful sexy woman and starts to feel aroused. Fantasies start floating through his head, he he looks at her sexy curves and listens to her sweet voice.
Suddenly his ears pick up something about Ga'al. "A priest of Ga'al is in the camp!" All feelings of arousal are gone as they are replaced by hate and loathing. (will save 19)
He quietly scampers down the tree, and says to the girls, "I am beginning to develop a plan. Let's see how quickly those patrols move and then get back to the others."
Once they head back to camp, Rigging is able to keep himself from falling into the ponds and getting eaten by craps.
He does have problems looking at Ashira. He loves his wife tremendously and is ashamed of being so attracted to the leader of the orcs.
Theodore and Macaw d4=3 Thursday September 23rd, 2004 9:38:43 AM
Theodore takes a tentative step back from the magical orc boat. He clutches Vorelle's blanket tighter about himself. "What in the world..." he trails off.
Theodore pulls forth his wand. Should things get nasty, he'll use it.
(If the boat or the boat's "offspring" attacks, Theodore will use a blast from his wand of burning hands for 3 points of damage.)
Dietrich Thursday September 23rd, 2004 12:50:20 PM
Dietrich suddenly sees the figurehead's new strange behaviour and curses. He knew it wasn't to be trusted and woudn't be to sad if Val fulfills her threat. Then he asks it what it is doing.
He'd have agreed with Nezamil about searching cover, but with three boat on the shore he doesn't think this can be done anyway, so he prefers to stay where they are and wait for their friends.
When he hears the noise from the camp, Dietrich remembers that the enemy will have a feast and is a little reassured for their dangerous attack.
Ryan (AC:17 Hp:11) Neen (AC:19 Hp:5) (Mage Armour) d20+6=21 d20+14=17 Thursday September 23rd, 2004 4:32:00 PM
Ryan jumps at the sudden eruption of chearing from inland. "What in the he**s was that!?"
He turnes to Neen "Neen, go and ask Rigging and the others what it was and see how they are doing"
"Finaly" she replys almost in a whisper "Something to do"
Neen will head quickly in the direction of Rigging and ask him what is going on. If she encounters a patroll she will quietly avoid them. (Neen: Hide=17 Move Sliently=21)
Zayne d20+6=24 d20+5=13 d20+5=6 Thursday September 23rd, 2004 5:23:14 PM
Hearing the animal cause him to freze where he is. He does his best to stay hidden without moving.(Hide 24)From his hiding place he tries to catch any signs of what could be approaching.(Listen 13 Spot 6)
He fingers his longbow as he waits. Hoping that he isn't found he waits to see what this horrible forest is going to throw at him now.
Nezamil Thursday September 23rd, 2004 7:09:06 PM
The dwarf stands his ground but lowers his mace to his side " i think it's just making copies of itself.....maybe it was programmed or triggered to activate at a certain time...hmm...don't do anything yet Val ...."
Nezamil stands uneasily...shifting his feet slightly " wonder if this means we will be getting company soon " turning his head to face the others " i think we should at least set up a defensive postion until the scouts come back "
" i'll untangle our two longboats ...just incase " comments the dwarf stepping over and trying to wrangle the two longboats to a decent docking postion " be careful by the water..it's very deep "
" which one of you was able to talk with the figurehead ? " Nezamil looks to his new companions " maybe if you ask it for details on what and why it's doing whatever its doing ?" suggest the Cleric of Domi
Vauhwyt (AC19, HP19) and Mookie (AC19, HP9) d20+3=13 d20+3=6 d20+7=12 Thursday September 23rd, 2004 7:18:39 PM
Vauhwyt stands still and keeps watch. She listens to what is happening and tries to see any movement.
She whispers back to Rigging via the message spell. "Okay, I'll stay here until I know how quickly these patrols move, and then I'll get back to the camp."
The liontaur keeps an eye out for patrols and how often they pass by.
[OOC: No move silent check needed because Vauhwyt is not moving. No hide check needed because Vauhwyt is invisible. Spot is 13 and Listen is 6. If Vauhwyt finds out what she needs to know and then heads back to camp, her Move Silent check is 12, but she won't try that if any enemies are in sight.]
Valanthe Thursday September 23rd, 2004 9:04:21 PM
Valanthe stands before the growing figure, sword at the ready. She isn't sure what this thing is but her instincts tell her to break it apart. For once she's listening to the others and waiting.
Ashira (Potion of Hiding) d20+9=25 d20+11=23 d20+11=24 Thursday September 23rd, 2004 10:14:17 PM
The half-elf's lips curl up in a silent snarl at the words of the woman in the orc camp. She waits for Rigging to return, and stays in the trees for several long minutes, watching the timing of the orc patrols. Then she returns with Rigging, once again having no problem navigating the shore area (Refl.=25). She travels swiftly and silently as she glides through the forest (Hide=23, Move Silent=24).
Redux Thursday September 23rd, 2004 11:22:02 PM
The mage moves to prevent any attacking Theodore might do. Pointing to the big boat, "Look, that parent wouldn't like its young blasted. Besides, its just a tiny one." There's something about those small coal-like eyes that tug on what ever passes for a soul within the necromancer.
Vorelle Thursday September 23rd, 2004 11:45:48 PM
Scrambling back away from the figurehead, Vorelle draws her axes. "D-D-D-D-Dietrich?" she manages.
Make it stop! Make it stop! is what she wants to say, but it's all she can do to stammer out the fighter's name.
Narrative DM Jan Friday September 24th, 2004 1:12:50 AM
The Camp -
Patrols and such - There looks to be an orc on each watchtower. The only patrol seen was the group of four, plus dogs, who went toward the harbour. They're gone about 25 minutes, and then they appear on the path to the north, making their way back toward the camp.
The Harbour -
What made the animal noise becomes clear as the orc patrol gets closer. They have two large dogs with them, mean looking critters, straining on their leashes. The patrol passes Zayne and Rose's position and walks toward the boats. They seem to be looking for something. One of them calls out across the water - and gets a faint reply. It's all in orcish. Then they start back along the path, back toward the camp.
Assuming all scouts return from both Harbour and Camp -
Rigging, Ashira and Vauhwyt are met part way by Ryan's little cat - Neen, who's been sent to find out where they are.
By the time the scouting parties return - they're met with a bit of a commotion. Nezamil has separated the Swords boats and tied them a short distance away. The others are gathered around the Orc boat - no wait - there are now three orc boats!
The figurehead has told Dietrich in an overly patient manner, that it is merely following orders. It had to pick up the priest, bring him to the island, and then create 25 more boats, in readiness for the following day. it follows all that up with a spiteful "Don't you remember, you clod???" The two other orc boats (now full size and shipworthy) have similar figureheads, but only the original has the symbols carved upon its chest.
The figurehead seems about to give birth to another one.
Another distant cheer sounds from the camp.
What now??
Dietrich d20-1=7 Friday September 24th, 2004 7:35:56 AM
When the figurehead explains its actions, Dietrich is astonished with the prospect of 25 new orc boats coming from nothing, but says to it: "Ah, of course! Sorry that I forgot. Whatelse are you going to do again?" (Bluff 7)
He explains it to his friends and looks around a little confused, not knowing what to do. He doesn't like this miraculous boat proliferation and is inclined to stop it, destroying it if necessary, but on the other hand, he fears that the figurehead may warn their enemies if the party attacks it. Also, if they could use the new ships to free the slaves, they wouldn't have to bother with securing the harbour, what would reduce their risks.
Olyn Friday September 24th, 2004 10:49:10 AM
**Sorry for the lack of posting, the new job is requiring more of my time than i anticipated**
Olyn remains with the Harbor group. Watching and waiting for the signal to begin sabotaging the boats.
Theodore and Macaw Friday September 24th, 2004 11:22:43 AM
"Why don't we just tell the boat to stop?" asks Theodore. "It thinks we're orcs, and even thinks one of us is this cleric, probably the one we took care of. Tell it that our plans have changed."
Theodore scratches his head and waits on the others.
Zayne d20+6=23 Friday September 24th, 2004 12:50:24 PM
Staying hidden he waits to see how many orcs are patroling.He will stay where he is,not moving at all.(Hide 23)
Rigging Friday September 24th, 2004 4:30:17 PM
Rigging sees the ship making other ships and his excitment boils over. He literally grabs Redux by the arm and drags him over to inspect the process. "Can you figure out how it is doing this. Think of the possibilities! If we can duplicate its magic, we might be able to make hundreds of warships! It could solve so many of the pirates problems!"
He turns and straightens his shoulders and gives Redux a stern look. "Redux, as Captain of the Sword of Redemption, I am ordering you to figure this out. This could be as important as the Tears of Alemi to the cause."
Rigging will then go and gather the others and say, "It is good that the boat is reproducing. We might be able to use them to help us get the slaves off the island."
He will then explain how the camp is set up and all the obstacles, especially the dogs, and where the slaves are being kept.
"There is a big celebration going on right now. It might behoove us to wait awhile and let them party themselves to exhaustion. Then strike, free the slaves and sting them as best we can before our getaway."
Valanthe Friday September 24th, 2004 6:17:45 PM
"Captain," Valanthe says to Rigging,"I think these boats should be destroyed. Most likely they are created with orcish magic. They are loyal to the orcs and can move on their own. There are probably 25 smaller camps waiting for these boats. They can move on their own so letting so many boats get created might prove to be a big problem."
Nezamil Friday September 24th, 2004 11:09:26 PM
"errr Val has a good point Captain " comments the dwarf to Rigging " but how many slaves are there ? we might need a few of thses orcish boats anyway "
the dwarf pauses as he rubs his chin " but it takes orders from someone " Nezamil looks at dietrich " i wonder if you could give it an order....it might listen....well at least it's worth a try don'tcha think ?"
"i like the Captains idea of striking while they celebrate ...we will have the element of surprses for sure.... i have a wand of silence ,once we get close i can use it to help mask the sound of our attack ....might give us a few minutes to open the slave pen ......hmm " the dwarf smiles " might even silence them dogs so no alarm will sound "
Vauhwyt and Mookie Saturday September 25th, 2004 12:43:30 AM
Vauhwyt listens to Rigging very carefully. She is not surprised to hear him describe himself as the captain of his group -- she had seen how the others look to him for guidance. When he says that the group should wait and strike after the revelries, Vauhwyt nods. "It is a shame that my current magics will all expire before we act again, but better to wait, I think."
"When the time comes to act, I suggest that the Dirt City folk help out in two main areas. First. freeing the slaves and guiding them back here to board the boats. Second, we came for information, and we have to get it. What was that book, I wonderr? I want to sneak into that tent and steal whatever plans I can find. I can do it, if you continue to let me borrow this wonderful ring."
"I think I should sneak into the tent. Maybe with other volunteers? But most of us from Dirt City should rescue the slaves while the rest inflict some real damage to these villains."
Mookie says, "Boss, why do you have to take the most dangerous job? How about letting Rose do it? She's small! No one would notice herr!"
Vauhwyt says, "Mookie! Hush up!"
Rose Sunday September 26th, 2004 12:35:04 AM "Ohh, I agree with Mookie! I want to be invisible & if we do it soon enough maybe I'll still be flying."
Vorelle Sunday September 26th, 2004 2:15:28 AM
Breathing a sigh of relief, Vorelle sheathes her axes. If these boats will do what Dietrich tells them, it could be a way to get the slaves away from the island.
Ari Sunday September 26th, 2004 6:16:38 PM
(aack. I've been distracted. Didn't realize that I didn't post for the week. Sorry everyone)
Ari pipes up, "If they're celebrating, do we have anyway to enhance the camp fire or fires, to make it look like they've gotten out of control, and catch the other tents on fire? Or what about ambushing them as they goto use the privy?"
Redux Sunday September 26th, 2004 9:40:07 PM
Redux frowns at Riggings suggestion. Truth be told, he was already working on that; it was just kind of insulting for him to come in and take over without offering any suggestions. Noting the lack of icons on the new boats, Redux removes his cloak and leaves the cloak on the ground. He will take the broach (having an image identifying the group as the wildcards) and goes to one of the new boats (levitating slightly if necessary using his ring). He will try to speak to the boat. He tries to put his seal onto the boat; he will press the broach into the wood or another that has the logo of the Pirates of Jack. He's really not sure and is just experimenting. As a last idea before returning to shore, he will use his adamantine dagger and test a crude inscribing of the broach or PoJ symbol.
Ashira Sunday September 26th, 2004 11:45:22 PM
After having scouted out the enemy camp, Ashira moves off to a quiet corner for a few minutes to think through what she's seen and Rigging has described. She decides for the moment to let the others figure out what to do with the orc boats.
"Let's see..." she thinks "We've got orcs...lots of them, dogs, and that annoying female thing to deal with. Plus there are a few slavers, maybe even a priest of Ga'al... Hmmm..." After several minutes of thinking, a plan begins to form in Ashira's mind. She rejoins the others.
Going over to Rigging, she smiles at her hubby. "Dear, I think I might have an idea..." she takes a deep breath and then continues. "Everyone knows that there are far too many orcs to get tangled up in a full blown combat. And since we have the element of surprise, we might as well take it. So, here's what I suggest. Let's have a forward group sneak ahead. Then have someone sneaky, like say our new friend Rose, use Nezamil's wand of Silence to take out the closest dog pens and guard posts."
Narrative DM Jan - OOC Monday September 27th, 2004 2:06:09 AM
((Folks, I'll post first thing tomorrow (around Monday 8am Pacific - I see its technically tomorrow already). Sorry about the delay, I've had a really tough weekend, and I'm cross-eyed with exhaustion.))
Bart Monday September 27th, 2004 3:07:07 AM
Bart listens to the info from the scouts and tells the plan he has made. Rigging i think it is a good idear to attack just before the morning light. I think we don't have to attack the harbour. Maybe we have to row the boats a bit closer to the ORc camp. But with that orcish boat I don't know. Probally we can trust it enough to bring us back top the mainland
Narrative DM Jan Monday September 27th, 2004 12:51:37 PM
The group makes plans, while Zayne stays on the periphery, watching out for patrols. So far - there's been only one, and that one has now returned to the main orc camp. Were they looking for something, and have gone back to report? The boat has mentioned something about taking a cleric to the island. Were they looking for him? Of course the cleric in question is actually burned to a crisp on the floor of Blackbird Forest...
The orc boat and it's clones present a perplexing problem. It fires out clone number 4, and then 5, both of whom then start to grow like the others. Will it take orders? It has done so before. The fact that it thinks Dietrich (and the others for that matter) is an orc, may suggest that it has no sense of smell, and that it might be blind.
Redux's own perusal of the vessels may offer some more assumptions - There is certainly a dark magic burning in those seductive little red eyes; so much so that he can almost taste it. His efforts with the newly-born boats prove fruitless, leaving the copy-figureheads looking toward the original with a perplexed expression. Lines can be carved well enough - but they heal in seconds. A spellcaster of his stature will note certain things about the carved inscription on the original boat - The calligraphy is quite sophisticated, even though the meaning Servants of Marteaus Rule (or Dominate) is simple enough. Also - this is High Woldian - a VERY ancient written language, known to very few. The inscription seems to bleed magic - sharp, powerful; initially obvious, but woven with subtleties - something tantalizingly within Redux's grasp except for a few minor nuances - and unfortunately, it's the nuances that are the key. It seems to draw at him, whispering - come, learn, let me show you. The path leads downward into an endless night that would make his spine shiver. But the knowledge! Kinda makes him wonder who had a hand in creating this...
Another roar of brutal merriment erupts from the camp. It's now totally dark, and the light from the distant campfire is a bright halo behind the trees.
Will that first patrol return with more? Perhaps it's time to move.
Group discussion appears to have highlighted the following task areas:
Cover retreat - burn boats? The book. The slaves. The slavers and the orcs.
Theodore and Macaw Monday September 27th, 2004 1:11:40 PM
Theodore agrees with Vauhwyt's decision to retrieve the book she had seen. "This conclave can't be all of the Marteaus followers," begins the mage. "Perhaps the book will give us clues as to what their future plans are, or even where they might be holed up."
Not being a strategist, he has little to offer as to a plan to get the book or to free the slaves. He has his doubts about making themselves known at all, though. With so many enemies in such a little space, it wouldn't take a loud shout to bring everyone running.
Theodore bites his lip and pulls Vorelle's blanket tighter about himself.
Shadeos Monday September 27th, 2004 1:55:54 PM
Shadeos has sense enough to defer to the obviously more experienced Wild Cards. He speaks up only to voice his support for saving the slaves. The Justice can't help but feel that events seem to be beyond his control. His only comfort comes from his faith that Pantheon will guide the just.
Dietrich Monday September 27th, 2004 2:46:35 PM
Dietrich tells the figurehead to stop after the 6xt boat has been produced, saying that plans have changed and the new orders are to have only this six boats.
He starts to get a little impatient as plans are changed all the time and looks for RIgging to have a definite decision. Then he'll make a short prayer to Domi and hopes everything will go allright and none of his friends will die.
Vauhwyt (AC19, HP19) and Mookie (AC19, HP9) Monday September 27th, 2004 4:42:39 PM
Vauhwyt frowns in anger at the way Rose has picked up on Mookie's cowardly suggestion. She shoves him in his bag with a squawk. Then she turns to Rose.
"No, my frriend, you cannot go. The books and papers we want to gather will be too heavy for you. And if there is trouble, I can run twice as fast as you can. And I can last longer in a fight."
If Rose is really insistant, then Vauhwyt asks if anyone has a blanket or large cloak. If so, she tries letting Rose ride on her back under a cloak or blanket. If she does that, can the invisibility ring hide both halfling and liontaur?
Anyway, then she turns to Rigging. "While I'm trying to steal information, who is going to rescue the captives, and who is attacking the encampment? Probably the Dirt City folk would be better at the rescue, maybe with one of your team as firepower in case there is trouble?"
She is receptive to any other details that might work with the plan.
=======
Spells (all to expire in an hour total or less): Mage Armor (V) Mage Armor (Mookie) Darkness Message (Rigging)
Borrowed Items from Ashira: Potion Cure Moderate Wounds Ring of Limited Invisibility.
Zayne d20+6=21 d20+6=25 d20+5=12 d20+5=18 Monday September 27th, 2004 6:21:04 PM
After the orcs have been gone for a little while he goes to where they were to see whatever it is that was so interesting to them.(Hide 21 Move Silently 25 Search 12 Spot 18)
After viewing it he will return to the others and report his findings
Rigging and Swirl Monday September 27th, 2004 7:05:57 PM
Rigging listens to all of the input and says, "I am sorry but I think we need more information. I want to do one more scouting trip before we attempt a plan.
We need a way to neutralize the dogs and one possibly two of the guard towers. We need to know how many slaves there are and if they can fight or even walk."
He turns to Vaughwyt and adds, "I appreciate your wanting to go to the command tent, but I see two problems with it. The invisiblity ring won't last long enough to get you there. It only lasts seconds, not minutes. I am not sure you will even get across the camp without becoming visible. Then everything falls on your head.
I do have a plan to get some of us across the camp. I can quickly study for the alter self spell and then let Redux read it out of my spellbook." He grimaces at the thought but continues, "We can assume the shape of ogres and try to steal the book. We also can both become invisible to help escape if we need to.
While we are trying to sneak into the camp, some of you others can take out the dogs with a sleep spell? and take out the southeastern guard tower quietly. Then free the prisoners, and try to get them away.
I will leave the details up to you but I want a reserve force in the air, ready to pull Redux and me out of the fire if we need it."
Rigging places his hands behind his back and starts to pace. "The other problem I see is this woman leader. I don't think she is human. I found her to beautiful. It was almost like an enchantment was in the air. I am worried that either Redux or I could fall under its spell. Do we have any female mages?"
Rigging will send Swirl on a flyby to scout out what kind of forces are in the guard towers, how many dogs are in the pens and how the party is going.
Ari Monday September 27th, 2004 9:12:28 PM
Hearing Rigging comment about the alter self spell remind Ari. He speaks up, "I do have the spell memorized, so I could come with you. Would we want to start fireballs on our own, or add to the campfire, to give a distraction while the others work on freeing the slaves?"
Nezamil Monday September 27th, 2004 9:54:29 PM
The Cleric of Domi listens to the debate waiting for a moment to speak " If i may say something ......i think our 1st priorty should be freeing the slaves and having an avenue of escape ....i'm of the mind that we should all stick together in this operation...after all there is lot more of them then us " the dwarf pauses a moment
" i say if we can attack the slave pen from the sea we land on the beach ,the fog should cover our movements and do a quick hit and run style of attack that would be to our advantage ......we can nutruelize the dogs and and guardtowers in that area so no alarms sounds my wand of silence can be of good use in that regards....if we can order the boats to do our bidding they can be used to transport the newly freed slaves to freedom"
"if we are suucessful in freeing the slaves we can always continue the attack if things are in our favor "
"now getting the book would be very helpful indeed but i think we can get some of that info from the freed slaves ...i mean after all they have been brought here for a reason , they might have some helpful knowledge too
Ashira Monday September 27th, 2004 10:14:01 PM
Ashira frowns slightly at Rigging's plan. She speaks up lightly. "Rigging, dear... perhaps Vauhwyt could cast the spell and try and sneak into the camp? Sounds like she knows a thing or two about spells..." Ashira's eyes brighten as an idea comes to her. "Wait...what if we let Vauhwyt and Ari alter themselves into the forms of ogres and orcs and then take the main orc boat over to the landing spot... I have a potion here that would allow her to speak ogre... We could disguise Ari to look as if he's been beaten. When they ask where the others are, she will tell them that they got ambushed and were the only survivors..." Ashira looks contemplative for a few minutes "I suppose Vauhwyt or Ari would have to silence the boat to make sure it doesn't spill the beans...." Her eyes brighten a little as she goes forward with her plan. "We'll plant a boat outside in that nice obscuring mist... Maybe use Swirl to give a cue as when to strike... Vauhwyt will make it to the main camp and then Rigging and Redux will nail the coast with fireballs. Then Vauhwyt chimes in..."Oh no...they followed us here!!!" The orcs scramble for the boats at the jetty, which gives us the perfect opportunity to strike at the main camp... If we wanted to, we could hide a few folk in the tree line and then can try and free the slaves. Vauhwyt and Ari could make a raid on the main tent while the orcs are distracted..." Ashira looks up at the others. "I realize I'm brainstorming...any thoughts?"
Vauhwyt (illegal second post) Monday September 27th, 2004 10:33:18 PM
Vauhwyt nods at Nezamil's words. "I hope to get information, but the first job is to free the captives. I agree with your priorities, good sirr."
When Ashira offers her suggestions, a slight tussle in Vauhwyt's pouch suggests that the bagged Mookie might not like Ashira's plan, but Vauhwyt herself loves it! Her eyes are bright with excitement and her tail swishes back and forth. "Great idea, Ashira!"
However, she is not sure she can assume ogre form. "Rigging and Ari can evidently cast Alter Self out of their heads, but I would need to read a scroll. But does anyone have an Alter Self scroll?"
"And I am confused about how this ring of invisibility works. Could someone explain it? [OOC: what the heck is this thing that has a duration of less than a minute?]"
"But on the other hand, I heard that female leaderr, and her voice had no power over me. I am a female spellcaster, as is Rose. It might be useful to have a female along who could pick up an entranced male and drag him away!" She smiles at the thought of that.
Redux Monday September 27th, 2004 10:43:48 PM
Redux returns from his inspection of the boat and reports to the others. Upon hearing the plans, he is surprised to find he's been volunteered to enter the camp. He accepts Ari's idea to go in his place and suggests Rigging read his own spell (natural mage reaction to being sent into harm's way). If Rigging still offers to send Ari and Redux, well...he shoots a very frightened look at the others. He really doesn't like the idea of being an orc that long--the smell, ewe; and how will the others know it's him when he tries to return? He purses his lips..."Who's the best archer here? If we go in, I need them to be the god that covers our back and is able to spot and hit badun's we don't see--especially when we're getting out of the camp."
Rose Monday September 27th, 2004 11:15:17 PM
Rose looks surprised at Vauhwyts words "Vauhwyt they wouldnt be to heavy if I put them in my magic bag. But if you really think it's best I wont do it." Rose looks so disappointed.
Rose listens to the other plans "I could be a prisoner that you bring to camp. Then when I'm in the cage I could pick the lock to help free the others."
active spells fly? mage armor
Vorelle Monday September 27th, 2004 11:53:27 PM
Head down, Vorelle listens intently to the others. It's hard to tell what she might be thinking.
Olyn Tuesday September 28th, 2004 9:16:35 AM
waits for people to make up their minds as to what is going to be done.
stands next to Vorelle, fidgeting.
Narrative DM Jan Tuesday September 28th, 2004 12:46:49 PM
Info, and other things that become apparent -
The boat obeys Dietrich's command and stops at 6, so there are now 6 orc boats (including the command boat) and the two belonging to the Swords. It would appear that the figurehead will respond to any reasonable command.
Zayne gets back with the following info: There doesn't seem to be anyone guarding the boats in the harbour. There WAS a patrol, but its gone back to the main camp. There are thee longboats, and a slightly larger boat, which could be the slaver ship. On the other side of the harbour is what looks like a sentry watchtower - it's manned, but he couldn't see how many.
Swirl takes off and returns quickly - Each watchtower has two orcs. The dog pens each contain 4 dogs. The party is getting to the rowdy and brawling stage.
The Elemental has also seen a party of orcs - six of them, one of whom has two dogs on a leash - set off from the camp and start what looks like an investigative patrol of the southern edge of the island.
They're coming this way.
Valanthe Tuesday September 28th, 2004 1:17:08 PM
Valanthe slips off her invisibility ring and hands it to Rose. "Here now you and Vauhwyt can stay invisible as long as the other two rings aren't used."
Valanthe considers using her bow to pick them off but then they will run. She needs to be in close so the orcs stay to fight.
"Rigging why don't you let me deal with that woman. I'm elven and female so I doubt whatever enchantment you were under would affect me as such. I think we may want to get up close and personal with these orcs. I'm afraid that arrows will convince them to run."
ooc: as far as I know the ring doesn't have a duration to them. They never did before. As long as only two rings are used they should remain invisible until they attack or do something else to cancel the enchantment.
Theodore and Macaw Tuesday September 28th, 2004 1:31:52 PM
With the new information about the approaching orc patrol, Theodore becomes anxious to get something underway. "I think that our most important goal, since we're all good and decent creatures, is to free the slaves. Secondly, is to gather information on why these two separate religious bodies are working together and what their intentions are. The last and least important of all is to pick a fight."
Theodore turns to each person in turn. "We're ridiculously outnumbered. It doesn't matter how strong we are. Fifteen against two hundred doesn't work, any way you look at it. Cut the attack plans, and focus on getting these people free. How can we do that and live to tell about it?"
It is obvious to those who know Theodore that this is quite a rare outburst for the normally timid mage. Something is bothering him. Perhaps the heated discussions of how best to slaughter as many orcs as possible. He never was one for violence except when provoked or defending himself or those he cared for. Senseless slaughter does not sit well with him.
Dietrich Tuesday September 28th, 2004 1:48:15 PM
Dietrich listens to the several different approaches. Then he ads that he prefers a simple plan, in order to avoid surprises and confusion once things start to get hot.
He thinks the group should use the lack of attention of the enemy and strike hard and fast, freeing the slaves and then fleeing, that is, Nezamil's suggestion. Dietrich finds the idea with the alterself spells too risky, as it would direct the enemy's attention to them and could lead to questions etc which the disguised friends could have problems to answer etc. Better wait till they are completely drunk and strike fast, keeping together.
When everybody has given his oppinion, the warrior would like to have the issue closed and will accept whatever the group decides.
Shadeos Tuesday September 28th, 2004 4:42:39 PM
Shadeos listens to the plans before suggesting, "Perhaps we can set the slaves free and even arm them. The may join the fight and even the odds. Many may die but at least they would die free."
Ryan (AC:17 Hp:11) Neen (AC:19 Hp:5) (Mage Armour) d20+5=8 Tuesday September 28th, 2004 5:16:47 PM
"I agree with Theo on this one, we cant take on the whole army head on, not even you Wildcards so we should attempt to split them into more manageable groups using the element of surprise to even out the odds. We, the dirt city group could maybe attempt to draw them out to the stronger of our number." Ryan is obviously eager to get started yet maybe a bit too hasty.
Neen is keeping watch in the direction her back straight and alert.
Spot = 8
Vauhwyt (AC19, HP19) and Mookie (AC19, HP9) Tuesday September 28th, 2004 8:08:54 PM
Vauhwyt listens to the news from Swirl (as recounted by Rigging?) and then stands for a moment amazed that the conversation continues calmly.
"Friends!" she says softly but firmly, "We must now stop our planning, at least for the moment! Did you not hearr? Six orcs and two dogs are almost upon us!"
"We must not let them warn the main host that we are herre!" Vauhwyt's accent betrays her depth of feeling.
"I will go invisible and circle around from behind." She walks up to Nezamil and gently touches his arm. "Use your silence wand on me, friend. Then if any flee, not only will I pounce on them, but the silence I carry will prevent any alarm. I will also use my Darkness spell to help us."
Then the liontaur triggers the ring of invisibility, but Nezamil still feels her hand on his arm, so using the silence should be no problem.
=======
Spells (all to expire in an hour total or less): Mage Armor (V) Mage Armor (Mookie) Darkness Message (Rigging)
Borrowed Items from Ashira: Potion Cure Moderate Wounds Ring of Limited Invisibility.
Rigging d20+12=26 Tuesday September 28th, 2004 9:58:19 PM
Rigging says, "Yes lets try to take out this patrol quickly and quietly. Then we should move on to the camp and free the slaves and see what other opportunities present themselves."
He will hold out his hand to Ashira and say, "Shall we go kill some orcs dear? Archers take care of the dogs first so they don't get to barking.
Don't waste any spells on the patrol. We will need all of our firepower in the camp I fear. I am disappointed that they are still sending out patrols. Was hoping the discipline would get more lack during the party.
Rigging will send Swirl back on high patrol to keep tabs on the orc patrol and feed information to Rigging telepathically and Rigging will tell the others.
He will try to set an ambush up where archers can hide behind trees and sneaks thieves can prepare backstabs.
He will then hide himself in some underbrush along the projected path of the patrol and wait for an opportunity to carve some orcish steaks.
Rigging will have both sword and dagger out and ready.
hide 26
Rose d20+4=19 d4=3 d6=3 d20+7=20 d20+6=17 d20+7=18 d20+5=11 d20+5=18 Tuesday September 28th, 2004 10:30:27 PM
Rose gives Valanthe a big hug but returns it. "You'll need this more right now. I'm going to fly up by that tree and be ready to shoot some orcs. I'd only need to be invisible if we go into the camp."
Rose flies up to a nearby tree in the direction where the orcs will come from and conceals herself behind some branches. she gets ready to shoot the orcs when they have past her by.
short bow, range 60' attack: 19 (+1 if within 30') damage: 3 (+1 if within 30') sneak attack: 3 (if within 30')
Redux Tuesday September 28th, 2004 10:51:29 PM
Redux thinks to himself, 'orders are orders' and hops into one of the nearby boats. He moves to the back and ducks into the shadows. He will try to maintain his concealment while facing the shore. He has his magic missile wand out, should they need it.
Ashira d20+1=13 d20+11=27 Tuesday September 28th, 2004 11:47:37 PM
Ashira sighs...it figured that something like this would happen...they needed more time. Before she leaves with Rigging, she heads over to Nezamil. "Hit them with the silence wand before we attack." she says simply.
With her potion long since expired, Ashira is significantly less stealthy than she was before. She follows Rigging into the undergrowth (Hide=13, Move silently=27), swords at the ready.
Nezamil Wednesday September 29th, 2004 12:14:45 AM
Nezamil smiles at Vauhwty " sure i can do that " he reaches into a pouch and pulls out a wand " where did ya go ? ...oh there ya are " smirks the dwarf " this will last about 5 mins so make quick work of them orcs " then activates the wand of silence and taps Vauhwty on the back
The dwarf stays to the rear of the group with his wand at the ready (wand has a 600 ft range,20 ft radius )giving the warriors room to engage
Nezamil eyes the dogs " i'm gonna silence them puppies 1st " thinks the Cleric to himself ...waiting for signal of the ambush to start
when the ambush starts Nezamil trigger the wand to have a area affect on the orcs and dogs so they can't yell out a warning
Vorelle Wednesday September 29th, 2004 1:17:48 AM
If there is time, Vorelle makes sure she is well concealed (Take 10 Hide for 18 total) before nocking an arrow to her bow. She awaits the approach of the patrol.
Bart Wednesday September 29th, 2004 4:00:53 AM
Ok people dont use to many spells on that small patrol, I hear we have a wand of silence use that on that group to hide the sound of fighting and to prevent them to warn the main camp. I'm ready to fight maybe an bullstrength spell will help me.
Theodore and Macaw d20+4=6 d20+2=19 Wednesday September 29th, 2004 9:22:07 AM
Theodore puffs his cheeks out as everyone moves away to get the jump on the approaching patrol. He pulls forth his own wand and follows after Rigging and Ashira.
The bumbling mage moves quietly enough, but when they get to the designated hiding spot, finds that there isn't enough room for all three of them. In a tizzy, he runs back to the boats, hoping to leave the others to the task and serve as a back up if necessary.
(Hide = 6, Move Silently = 19)
Narrative DM Jan Wednesday September 29th, 2004 2:10:58 PM Immediate surrounding terrain -
The trees are a little too far away to use for cover - however, the ground undulates slightly, and the meadowy grass, being three feet high in some places gives partial cover.
It's dark, which is also good for cover, but will make it hard to hit the targets.
Under cover of silence and invisibility, the liontaur sets off to try and get around the back of the orc group. Redux and Theodore head back to the boats to stay out of sight, while the others try and get into position with weapons at the ready.
The orc's dogs have caught a scent, and are now straining at the leash. That warns the orcs that something is afoot, but they're not sure what.
They come over a slight rise, and are now 30ft away. The silence spell kicks off. The orcs will be allowed their will saves.
Orcs are #1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. Dogs are #1, 2.
((OOC - Ultimately we'll have 3 DMs and 16 characters during the combat stages. My posts will be the key for the next round. Dominic's orcs will just jump in and post with everyone else. This could make things a little chaotic in terms of initiative etc. So - we'll handle individual initiative in this way:
When you attack a foe - state your action, your foe, and roll a standard D20. Your foe will do the same thing. Whoever gets the highest on the D20 - that action will be counted first. Thats about the fairest way I can think of.
Remember to post your AC, HPs, spells and such in your header.))
Vauhwyt (AC19, HP19) and Mookie (AC19, HP9) d20=18 d20+4=21 2d6(2+6)+3=11 d6=3 Wednesday September 29th, 2004 2:48:16 PM
[Roll for initiative: 18]
Vauhwyt moves up to 40 feet in her continuing effort to get between the orcs and the orc base and cut off any retreat.
Then she uses a standard action to ready an attack on any dog or orc that look like they are going to flee.
Note that the Darkness spell cast on a small ceramic ring is hidden away so as not to interfere with a sneak attack.
Not rolling move silent or hide checks since that seems taken care of with magic.
If Vauhwyt gets to fight a fleeing enemy, here is her attack. This is a sneak attack since Vauhwyt is attacking while invisible. That also gives her a +2, and with any luck the opponent might lose Dex bonuses.
Spear: hits AC21 for 11 hp damage plus another 3 hp sneak attack damage. Total 14 hp damage.
=======
Spells (all to expire in an hour total or less): Mage Armor (V) Mage Armor (Mookie) Darkness Message (Rigging) Silence
Borrowed Items from Ashira: Potion Cure Moderate Wounds Ring of Limited Invisibility
Ryan (AC:17 Hp:11) Neen (AC:19 Hp:5) (Mage Armour) d20=4 d20+7=26 d20+10=29 d20+4=22 d6+1=4 d6=3 d20+14=32 Wednesday September 29th, 2004 3:59:52 PM
(Initiative: 4) Ryan will hide behind some partial cover about 30ft from the orcs. (Hide: 26. Move Silently: 29)
He fires an arrow at one of the dogs aiming to silence it.
(Hits AC: 22. Dealing: 4 Hp of damage plus: 3 of sneak attack.)
Vorelle sights and fires at War Dog #2 [Hit AC 18 for 4 points damage].
Nezamil (Ac 21 Hp 53) d20=15 d20+10=12 d8+5=7 Wednesday September 29th, 2004 6:51:43 PM
Once the wand is triggered Nezamil slides it back into his pouch ,then reaches over his shoulder for his shield and slides it into postion.....peering out at the approaching patrol as he stays low in the grass his stout 4'6" frame coiled for action ....once the patrol crests the rise the dwarf draws his mace " lets charge Val ..i'll take the left one (o4) you take the center" charging right by Rose he aims for orc on the left (d20=15 Int) " split this group apart so they can't help each other " murmers the dwarf
Nezamil lashes out with his mace at orc 4 (d20+10=12) think thats a miss
if it is a hit (d8+5=7 dam )
Valanthe AC 23, HP 100 d20+16=33 d20+16=20 2d6(6+6)+16=28 d20=20 Wednesday September 29th, 2004 8:47:11 PM
Sword in one hand, shield in the other, Valanthe heads for Orc #5. She has been itching for a fight for some time and the orc before her would suffer for it.
OOC: Initiative 20, crit hit ac 33 (ac 20 to confirm) for 28 dmg
Ari Wednesday September 29th, 2004 9:34:55 PM
Doing his best to catch up with his family, Ari brings up the rear.
Rigging d20+12=17 Wednesday September 29th, 2004 9:47:22 PM
Rigging will activate his ring of blinking and move closer to the action trying to get ready to attack 02.
Rigging is waiting in ambush waiting for the orcs to get closer and winces when he sees the arrow being shot so soon.
Olyn Wednesday September 29th, 2004 10:01:34 PM
**hotmail is down and i cant access my character sheet**
Olyn moves up slowly from the rear. Healing wand at the ready.
Theodore and Macaw HP 8 AC 16 (mage armor) d20=16 d20+2=6 d4=3 Wednesday September 29th, 2004 10:40:15 PM
Theodore keeps as distant from the ensuing battle as he can. Knowing that he would be of little help, he sticks with the others who remain out of the battle.
He again tries to hide, but finds no decent places to seek cover. Instead, he braces himself and blasts with his wand at any enemy who comes too close.
(Initiative = 16, Hide = 6. Wand of burning hands hits in 15' cone for 3 damage, if enemy gets close enough.)
Ashira (AC 22, HP 87/87...Initiative 13, Casting Entangle...Reflex DC13) d20=13 Thursday September 30th, 2004 12:22:45 AM
As several of the party members go charging off into the fray, Ashira swears mentally. Well, there goes our surprise!!
Sighing, Ashira rises from her position of cover, and begins weaving a spell. Gently, but fervently, she asks mother Wold to restrain the first group of orcs and help prevent any retreat.
Redux Thursday September 30th, 2004 12:54:32 AM
Redux watches the events before him and wonders what made this group of orcs come exactly this way. They wonders if they should transform into orcs in order to return to the compound or try to sneak in.
Orc Patrol - DM Dominic (init)d20=12 (attack on Nezamil) d20+5=23 d12+3=8 (attack on Val) d20+5=21 d8+3=5 (attack on Ryan) d20+5=17 d8+3=5 (attack on Val) d20+3=15 d6+1=3 (saves vs silence) d20+1=19 d20-1=7 d20-1=15 (saves vs entangle) d20=5 d20=3 d20=19 d20+5=11 Thursday September 30th, 2004 5:43:31 AM
**** Initiative: 12 ****
Orcs 4 closes with Nezamil and attacks with his great axe. (hit ac 23 dmg 8)
Orc 5 attacks Val with his longsword (hit ac 21 dmg 5)
Orc 6 moves in and attacks Ryan with his battle axe (hit ac 17 dmg 5)
WD2 attacks Val (hit ac 15 dmg 3)
Orcs 1-3 and WD1 move to attack Ashira
*** Orc 5 save vs silence: 7 WD2 save vs silence: 19 Orc 6 save vs silence:15
Orc 1 save vs entangle: 5 Orc 2 save vs entangle: 3 Orc 3 save vs entangle: 19 WD 1 save vs entangle: 11 ***
Vauhwyt (AC19, HP19) and Mookie (AC19, HP9) d20=7 d20+4=19 3d6(3+3+5)+3=14 d6=6 Thursday September 30th, 2004 6:19:22 AM
[Do we roll for initiative again? V had an 18 last round; 7 this round]
Vauhwyt makes a double move west by northwest, skirting the Entangle, ending her move due north of Orc 3, about 15 feet north of the edge of the Entangle.
Please recall that Vauhwyt, being large, takes up a 10x10 space. And that her longspear has a 10 ft reach. So her reach covers a 30 ft wide gap due north of the entangle. [I mention it because she hopes to take an attack of opportunity on anyone running away (like orc 3 maybe?)]
If Vauhwyt gets an AoO on fleeing enemy, here is her attack. This is a sneak attack since Vauhwyt is attacking while invisible. That also gives her a +2, and with any luck the opponent might lose Dex bonuses.
Spear: hits AC19 for 14 hp damage plus another 6 hp sneak attack damage. Total 20 hp damage. [Darn! I keep wasting these great rolls! lol!]
=======
Spells (all to expire in an hour total or less): Mage Armor (V) Mage Armor (Mookie) Darkness Message (Rigging) Silence
Borrowed Items from Ashira: Potion Cure Moderate Wounds Ring of Limited Invisibility
Dietrich ac 17; HP 24 d20=6 d20+4=23 d8+3=11 d20+4=5 Thursday September 30th, 2004 7:20:35 AM
Dietrich is excited with the fight and hopes they can neutralize this patrol before been detected. Initiative 6
He fires at WarDog 1: hits AC 23; reroll for critical: 5 damage: 11
Then he lets his bow down and draws the great-sword, preparing to charge.
Vorelle d20=2 d20+6=9 Thursday September 30th, 2004 10:19:53 AM
Since the patrol nearest her is engaged in melee combat, Vorelle moves 30 feet to her left and fires at War Dog #1.
[Initiative 2; Hit AC 9]
Ari Thursday September 30th, 2004 11:19:07 AM
(Seeing no progross on the map) Ari continues to bring up the rear.
Zayne (AC 17 Hp 19/19) 1 for initiative d20+4=23 d20+4=22 d6=5 d6=4 d20=1 Thursday September 30th, 2004 2:30:24 PM
As he spots the orcs coming around the corner,he lets one arrow fly soon followed by another,whispering to nobody in particular,"Fourteen."( AC 23 and 22 respectivly damage 5 and 4)
As he watches the arrows in flight he says,"It's them or us now. Lets get this over with." He starts to look at
Zayne d20+5=9 d20+5=21 Thursday September 30th, 2004 2:34:22 PM
Sorry,hit the enter key and it posted before I could finish)
He starts to look around for any signs of being caught in a trap or being flanked by other orcs.( Listen 9 Spot 21)
Rigging will let them get closer and when the move into range, blink behind O2 and backstab him. He slashes in with his keen +1 shortsword first and follows up with his holy dagger. Total of 25
ooc When blinking all attacks are considered surprise/ flanking attacks for rogue. First shortsword does 8 points of damage. Holy dagger does 17 points of damage, 2d6 for backstab and another 2d6 assuming the orcs are evil. 2 100 die rolls were to see if I missed while blinking.
Nezamil (Ac 21 Hp 45/53 ) d20=5 d20+10=25 d8+5=11 Thursday September 30th, 2004 3:58:54 PM
[Initiative:d20=5 ]
"Quick little critter" mumbles the dwarf " just stay still for sec " waiting for an opening....suddenly Nezamil smashes the critter with an overhead swing (d20+10=25)(d8+5=11 damage)" lets see how quick you are now " mutters the dwarf to orc 4
After the the swing Nezamil will take a 5 ft drop to the side and quickly survey the engagement (if the orc 4 drops Nezamil will start to charge over to assit Ryan )
Shadeos ( AC 18 HP 21/21) d20=8 d20=19 d8+4=5 Thursday September 30th, 2004 4:24:20 PM
[Initiative d20=8]
Shadeos stalks towards the orc attacking Ryan (Orc#6)attempting to distract the Orc by making an attack of his own (d20+4=23)(d8+4=5 damage).
Narrative DM Jan Thursday September 30th, 2004 4:46:43 PM
((FOLKS REMEMBER - WAIT UNTIL AFTER MY *NARRATIVE* POST FOR THE NEXT ROUND, AND YEP - ROLL YOUR INDIVIDUAL INIT AGAINST YOUR MONSTER EVERY ROUND. THAT WAY WE KNOW WHO HITS WHO FIRST. ALSO - PLEASE SPECIFY A MONSTER NUMBER. TA VERY MUCH. :) ))
Swords out, dogs straining at the leash, the party of orcs come striding over the rise, only to be met by the combined might of the Wild Cards and the adventurers from Dirt City!! The creatures dash toward their doom!
Vauhwyt circles behind them, invisible and ready to catch anyone who tries to flee.
Ryan gets charged at by ORC #6, takes a nasty blow for 5 DAM, but manages to get an arrow off, which lands in the flank of DOG #1. ORC #6 finds himelf with two opponants however, as Shadeos moves in, hitting the creature for 5 DAM!
Vorelle's arrow sails through the air and hits DOG #2 with a solid THUNK.
Nezamil leaps up out of the grass and takes a powerful swing at ORC#4. He misses, unfortunately by 2 or 3 inches, as his wily opponant, feints to the left and then makes an attack of his own - hitting the dwarf for a teeth-gritting 8 DAM.
Completely fired up, Valanthe weilds her blade and wreaks deadly havoc on ORC #5 - killing the creature in one well-placed, lethal blow!!
Ashira finds herself being charged at by ORCs 1, 2, and 3! And DOG #1! The aquatic elf casts ENTANGLE. ORC #3 just keeps on coming, ready to take a swing. ORC #1 and 2 find themselves partially stuck in the long grass as it wraps around their boots.
DOG #1 gets partially stuck.
Dietrich's arrow hits the struggling DOG #1 with a resounding thwack! the arrow embeds deep into the animal's flank.
Zayne's arrow fires into the midst of the battle, but it's difficult to see where it landed. Right now he can't see any other foes on the gloomy horizon, other than the one's the party is fighting already. Another distant cheer from the camp suggests that for now at least - the sounds of this skirmish here, are being drowned out.
Others get into a decent position to attack or heal the next round.
The orcs are nowhere near the boats yet - so the mages have no need to fire off any spells to protect themselves.
*DING DING* next round starts now!
(( Vauhwyt, Vorelle, Rigging, Nezamil - you've already posted - I'll take what you've posted and work it into this next round. No worries.))
Alive and Kicking Dept: Orcs 1,2,3,4,6. Dogs, 1,2.
Dead and not Buried Dept: orc 5
Ryan (AC:17 Hp:6/11) Neen (AC:19 Hp:5) (Mage Armour) d20=1 d20+2=17 d20+4=6 d6+1=7 Thursday September 30th, 2004 4:48:07 PM
[Init: 1]
Ryan sustains a hit in his chest from Orc 6 causing him to drop his bow in agony. He draws his gleaming Rapier and makes a desperate stab at the foul opponent.
Neen leaps out from behind Ryan with all the ferocity of any wild cat to defend her master.
Shadeos ( AC 18 HP 21/21) d20=19 d20+4=18 d8+4=5 Thursday September 30th, 2004 5:04:15 PM
[Initiative d20=19]
Shadeos circles orc#6 and strikes again with his mace (d20+4=18)(d8+4=5 damage).
Ashira (AC 22, HP 87/87...Initiative 19, Attacking Orc 3) d20=19 d20+11=15 d20+6=22 d20+11=26 d20+8=13 d8+5=10 d8+5=8 d6+3=4 d6+3=8 Thursday September 30th, 2004 6:56:03 PM
Having sheathed her shortsword in order to cast her spell, Ashira now unsheathes it once more. She smiles grimly at the advance of the orc. "Yes, come fool...come to your death!" she mutters quietly as she waits for the orc to make its move...she doubts that she will be able to close with it, since it seemed to be coming for her (ie...woah a 19 init!!). When the creature does engage, Ashira launches a full attack (AC 15 for 10dam, AC 22 for 8dam, AC26 for 4dam, AC 13 for 8 dam). Cold hard steel slices through the darkened night searching for orc blood...and on at least a couple of occasions, finding it.
rushing forward with his healing wand, Olyn makes his way to Ryan, healing him for 9 points upon arriving.
Valanthe AC 23, HP 100 d20=1 d20+16=35 d20+16=18 d20+11=27 2d6(4+6)+16=26 d6+8=14 Thursday September 30th, 2004 9:17:37 PM
Valanthe takes a moment to watch the orc fall. That made her feel so good. Her moment was interrupted by the viscious snapping and snarling of the war dog. Growling herself, Valanthe turns and brings her sword down on the creature.
ooc: Intiative 1, crit hit, ac 18 to comfirm, for 26. Hit ac 27 for 14
Rigging Thursday September 30th, 2004 9:53:44 PM
Rigging mid blink, thinks, "Look at all this pretty grey stuff. Wonder where I am?"
Redux d20=19 Thursday September 30th, 2004 11:39:37 PM
Redux hears the battle going on and rethinks his position as backup. He hops out of the boat and makes a double move towards the orcs caught in the entangle spell. He thinks to himself, we need to wrap this one up fast. He still has his MM wand out. (int=19)
Dietrich AC 15; HP 24 Initiative 4 d20=4 d20+7=25 2d6(5+6)+6=17 d20+7=20 2d6(4+2)+6=12 Friday October 1st, 2004 5:25:49 AM
Dietrich needs some time to draw his great-sword (initiative 4) but then he charges the entangled orc 1 in the flank, while it attacks Ashira. He puts all his strenght in the attack (charge: +2 hit -2 ac, powerattack feat +2 damage), inspired by Ashira's and Val's performance.
Hits ac 25 (27 with flank bonus) ; damage 17
# if this drops the orc, the sword continues at orc 2 (cleave feat): hits ac 20 (22 with flank bonus), damage 12
BigTim aka Olyn Friday October 1st, 2004 8:59:46 AM
**just some input here**
power attack with a 2 handed weapon affords a +2 dam for every point you subtract from your attack.
the only time you get the +2 to flanking is when someone is directly opposite of your target.
and remember, do not post after Dominic, wait for Jan.
Theodore and Macaw HP 8 AC 16 (mage armor) d4=2 d20=20 Friday October 1st, 2004 9:18:26 AM
Theodore watches the battle rage, wincing with every hit that his friends take. He keeps his wand at the ready and fires at any approaching enemies.
He sends Macaw winging towards the encampment to keep an eye on the party and make sure no others are heading their way.
(Initiative = 20, wand of burning hands = 2 damage.)
Vauhwyt/Cayzle OOC Friday October 1st, 2004 10:13:09 AM
Sorry I posted early before.
::waits patiently for the *right* time to post again::
THE ORCS (DM Jan) d20=6 d20+5=25 d8+2=7 d20+5=11 d20+3=6 Friday October 1st, 2004 7:32:15 PM
((I'm assuming Dominic is in the middle of his house move right now - so here goes...)
Enemy Init 6
Orc #1 shifts toward the oncoming Dietrich, heavy sword at the ready. The creature swings hard, battering it's blade against the Dirt City warrior, hitting him for 7 DAM. Dietrich replies in kind, the blow enough to push his blade clean through the orc's heart! It's dead, Jim.
Orc #2 falls down dead also, courtesy of a vicious back stab attack by a 'now you see him, now you don't' Rigging.
Orc #3 charges toward Ashira, only to meet her swift blade, that rips open it's stomach, splattering the aquatic elf with orc blood. 'Uurrkkk....' it gurgles - then dies.
Orc #4's blade clashes with a heavy spark, against the might of Nezamil's axe. The orc pivots and shifts; his blade slides toward the dwarf, getting stuck on his armour. (Missed - rats). That frees up Nezamil's axe, which bites deep into the orc's shoulder, partially severing the head. Orc #4 drops.
Orc #6 - Already wounded by the Justice of Pantheon, Orc 6 is slow off the mark - unable to get a blow in, before a joint stabbing frenzy between Ryan and Shadeos renders the creature in a definite state of deadness. It drops with a thud next to Neen, oozing dark blood onto the grass.
Dog #2 snaps viciously at Valanthe, aiming to bite her leg off. It misses, and earns itself a rather swift decapitation as Valanthe's sword slices relentlessly through the air.
Dog #1 has had enough. Already with an arrow in it's flank, the whistle/thunk of Vorelle's arrow, that embeds itself in the ground six inches away from the animal, is enough to make it turn tail and run.
It's heading home - straight toward the invisible liontaur! It's eyes have barely registered Vauhwyt's existance, when her spear comes out of nowhere and skewers the animal on the end of it!
Narrative DM Jan Friday October 1st, 2004 8:11:13 PM
In the midst of battle - Ryan feels a welcome jolt of energy, coming from Olyn's healing wand ( HEAL 9hps).
By the boats, the mages have their wands at the ready, just in case some of the orcs break through.
Above the fight, MaCaw can see dark shapes dancing, and the bitter scent of blood assails his nostrils. Below him, one of the dark shapes breaks from the group and heads toward the distant camp. But then even that stops abruptly and falls to the ground.
Below, the clash of steel comes to an abrupt end, and is replaced by the stench of death....
Final Score - Group 8, Orcs 0
Rigging mage armor, blinking Friday October 1st, 2004 10:06:44 PM
Rigging spins to the left ready to deal a blow, but the orc goes down. He spins to the right, ready to thrust his holy dagger into another, yet again seeing his prey already taken.
He smiles and deactivates his ring. "Only 194 more to go., he says cheerfully. "Shall we?"
Rigging starts to head towards the camp. As he moves along, he will send Swirl ahead to spy out the slave encampment. He is trying to get a feel for how many slaves there are.
He then orders, "We need to take out the guard tower in the southeast corner first and the dogs closest to the slaves, then free the slaves and start them towards the boats. Then we kill some orcs and run like the shades of all lichdom were upon us."
Redux Friday October 1st, 2004 11:14:46 PM
Redux hustles over to Rigging and walks with him. "Wait up! Let us all get into position first. ARI! Lets move! Val, will you lend your bow to Dietrich? He can back us up as we go to the main camp. Theodore, pick your best arrow, I will cast True Strike on it before we go in. Rigging, give me your book and we will go in as orcs. Is there any clothing they were wearing that's not hacked to bits we may use to aid our disguise? Sheesh, you fighters are messy. Let's all gather up here, back with our plan."
rose, fly? mage armor Saturday October 2nd, 2004 1:13:24 PM
Rose stood stunned at the quickness (and viciousness) of the attack. It was over in mere seconds! Rose looks embarressed that she did nothing as she follows Rigging.
ooc: sorry I didnt post thursday but was busy with school & babysitting niece & nephew and this is friday's post.
Ashira Saturday October 2nd, 2004 1:20:20 PM
Ashira chuckles at Redux's comments. "Well, at least we left some remains... Kinda hard to imitate an orc that you've incinerated!"
The warrior gathers her gear and wipes the orc blood off her blades. She watches as Rigging prepares to go on the war path... Joining up with him, she smiles...that last battle felt good, kinda like the good old days. She puts an arm on her husband's shoulder. "Hey, I'm as anxious to get in there as you are, but I still think we should go the subtle route. As Redux suggested, why don't you and he and Ari disguise yourself as orcs and sneak in. You'll draw less attention that way. The rest of us can go in and try and free the slaves...maybe with the aid of the invisibility potions... But I don't think it'd be a good idea to just march in there as is."
As she waits to listen to Rigging's answer, Ashira turns to Val. She says quietly "Alemi's bow is yours...I gave it to you because I knew that you would yield it well. Still, what Redux says has potential. If you want to lend it to our young archer friend here (she motions to Dietrich) I would be fine with that." Ashira flashes a half-smile to the elven warrior. "Somehow I think we're going to need your sword arm in the field..."
Vorelle Saturday October 2nd, 2004 1:37:11 PM
Watching where her arrow fell, Vorelle moves up to retrieve it, if possible. Like Zayne, she is running low and can't afford to waste any.
Vauhwyt (AC19, HP19) and Mookie (AC19, HP9) Saturday October 2nd, 2004 5:08:30 PM
The liontaur, no longer invisible, appears, colored red from head to paws to tail.
Not knowing what is said (still in silence), she reactivates the ring and follows Rigging, at least for now. She is looking for the best time to break off and head toward the main tent and her target -- the book!
=======
Spells: Mage Armor (V) (15? minutes of 60 used) Mage Armor (Mookie) (15? minutes of 60 used) Darkness (15? minutes of 30 used?) Message (duration only 10 minutes -- surely expired) Silence (3 rounds used of 3 minutes total) Invisible (per ring)
[Jan, could you clarify? How long has it been since the first scouting expedition to the orc camp? 15 minutes, I'm guessing?]
Borrowed Items from Ashira: Potion Cure Moderate Wounds Ring of Limited Invisibility
Rigging Saturday October 2nd, 2004 11:17:37 PM
Rigging looks at Redux and sighs, "I am sorry my friend but I would have had to sleep for a couple of hours to get the spell. I don't believe the orcs will afford us that time. I can still read it out of my spell book or allow you to do so, but who ever does, will be alone."
Rigging then looks at the mage, "I think you and I are better off fighting as ourselves."
Rigging will ask of the Dirt City group, "I have 2 wands for loan. One is a wand of fireballs enchanted at 6th level. I also have a wand of hold person. Anyone interested?"
Dietrich HP 17 of 24 (17 arrows) d20+4=16 d20+2=7 Sunday October 3rd, 2004 6:17:44 AM
Despite his wound, Dietrich is satisfied with the massacre and cleans his blade of the foul orc blood.
At the mention of getting a (probably special) bow lent to him, he is proud of the honour, but suggests that Zayne or Vorelle should get it, as they are better archers than him. Then he goes back to catch his own reinforced longbow.
But again, there is the problem of a definitive battle plan and he still doesn't know what the group will do. Nevertheless, the soldier walks after the main group, observing the surroundings and ready for action.
Spot 16 Listen 7
Ryan and Neen Sunday October 3rd, 2004 2:22:02 PM
After sheathing his Rapier and picking up his Bow Ryan nods at the two Priests.
"Thanks lads" He says.
With a click of his fingers he dismisses his Mage Armour.
Neen pokes suspiciously at the Orc checking that it is absolutely dead.
Valanthe Sunday October 3rd, 2004 3:14:21 PM
The killing of orcs has left the young elven woman in a good mood. She smiles and hugs Ashira, mixing the orc blood covering her armor with the orc blood covering Ashira's.
"I know. It is a good idea and it's the best bow here. I doubt that I'll be in a position or frame of mind to use it. I just had it enchanted and picked up a magical quiver to go with it." Valanthe says as she reaches back and draws the bow out of a long pocket on the quiver's side.
"Besides being magical, I had it enchanted for distance. Now it will shoot twice as far."
Valanthe lets Ashira look at the bow for a moment before walking over to Dietrich. "Here use this. It's magical and is accurate to 220ft. I'll be upfront and not in a position to use it."
Valanthe doesn't give Dietrich a chance to say no. She hands him the bow and walks back toward the front line where she will be most effective.
"Some of you know how I fight and some of you don't. Anybody that finds themselves on the front lines please give me some space. There will be a portion of the battle where I will not be myself and I don't want to mistake any of you for an orc."
Rose Sunday October 3rd, 2004 10:00:48 PM "Oh, I can use wands.
Nezamil Sunday October 3rd, 2004 11:14:03 PM
Nezamil steps away from the dead orc ...with a quick flick of his wrist he shakes the orc's blood from his "MACE" :-)
Walking a few steps towards the Ryan and Shadoes " Nice work " as he eyes orc #6 " I like the teamwork " comments The dwarf
"and the Cat has the courage to make Domi proud" grins the Cleric
"Lets follow Captain Rigging and see what next in the plans ....we're all gonna need teamwork and courage that you two showed to get thru this ...glad we're on the same side "
Nezamil will then turn and follow Riggings lead but staying with the Dirt city duo
Walter OOC Monday October 4th, 2004 1:07:20 AM
I forgot to mention. The Bow is a +1 Distance Composite Longbow (str +3)
Ari Monday October 4th, 2004 1:40:16 AM
"So are we swtiching away from Redux and I walking in as an Orc or Ogre?"
If not, Ari will study the Orcs that the group just killed, in order to get a fair likeness (ooc not sure if it helps or not).
For once Ari is actually feeling good about the carnage the swords have done. It is a rare thing for the Swords to be in a fight, that didn't involve their countrymen.
Theodore and Macaw Monday October 4th, 2004 9:27:12 AM
Theodore and Macaw approach the scene of the battle. The young mage looks on the dead orcs with sad eyes, remembering the orcs they had met at the inn several days ago. He wonders if these orcs could have forsaken their evil ways and lead good lives if given the chance.
He quickly sets those thoughts aside as he replaces his wand in his backpack. He unwraps the blanket from himself and folds it neatly before offering it back to Vorelle. "Thank you, Vorelle. You were very kind and I hope that I can return the favor."
Theodore clears his throat, "I think that I have a suggestion," he begins. "To lessen the risk that we all take, perhaps it would be smart to have a few of our faster and stealthier folks move up to the east side of the camp and draw the enemy's attention. I believe that they'll feel secure in their numbers and rush after those few, who will retreat to the orc boats docked at the northeast. Loose a few fireballs on the orc fleet and then use your invisibility rings or potions and retreat back to our boats. Hopefully, the combination of the burning boats and the disappearance of their quarry will cause the orcs to turn their attention to trying to salvage their fleet. While all this is going on, the rest of us could sneak into the orc camp and set the slaves free and retrieve that book. Then we all quickly return here and set sail. I think that even if the whole orc camp doesn't follow the rabbits, at least some will and the split will make it easier on those going after the slaves with fewer enemies to deal with."
Macaw eyes the corpses hungrily, but Theodore restrains his familiar with empathetic warnings.
Bart Monday October 4th, 2004 10:27:09 AM
Duhhh what happend, says bBart while he his feeling at the bulge on his head, did we win?
OOc sorry i missed the battle, i have just moved to a new home, mommentarely i dont have acces to the net at home. I will post each day from work until then. I assumed Bart was a sleep by divine intervention
Olyn d8+1=7 Monday October 4th, 2004 11:19:39 AM
walking up to Dietrich, Olyn places the tip of the wand on D's chest and BOOM.
heals D for 7 points.
placing the wand in his beltloop Olyn turns to the group saying: I have something that you might want to hear. 1. what happens when this patrol doesnt show up? we should of hid, and watched their time and route before acting hastily. 2. we dont have time now to do anything that requires time because killing that patrol took that time from us. 3. has anyone besides myself realized that this island is alive? perhaps a huge creature of sorts. is there anyone who can communicate with water creatures? if so, perhaps we could convince it to help us free the slaves. it could give us the needed distraction to save the slaves with minimal exposure to ourselves.
Rigging and a third illegal post Monday October 4th, 2004 3:23:33 PM
Rigging will listen to Olyn and smile and say, "I don't think you are correct. I think the island is magical but not alive. The same thing that was causing the forest to act so strangely is also affecting this place.
When I went astral, I was almost trapped in a huge river of blood, that poured a whirlpool. I believe that a vein of Woldsblood runs through here. My studies haven't shown me much about woldsblood, but I believe it is incredible magical. So magical it skews the enviroment around it. I could be wrong, but I wouldn't count on the island fighting for us."
Narrative DM Jan Monday October 4th, 2004 3:42:07 PM
((MACE! LOL sorry Chris)) ((Cayzle - 20 mins))
With everything happening so fast - and in the dark - it's easy to explain why some of the group 'missed the party'. Blood is already congealing as Ari crouches down to examine the corpses. He notes the following: These are SCRUFFY orcs. Even for orcs! A look at the clothing and armour may suggest that it could help put the dogs off any strange scent if it were worn, but it would also hamper movement to some extent. This stuff isn't fine and well-tooled.
As everyone re-groups and dishes out equipment, the small elemental whizzes on ahead for a look-see. Vorelle retirieves her arrow successfully.
In the meantime, plans are discussed -
- The now dead patrol, IF they were undertaking a more thorough search of the island, then perhaps they're not due back for a while. Perhaps.
- There's the matter of the watch towers, the slave pen, and the book.
- Would a diversion help? It might.
- Would disguise of some form help? It might.
Swirl manages to absorb the following info -
A large part of the orc camp are coallescing into a mad drunken horde, still a long way from sleep. However, a few are not - those in the watch towers, and the occasional creature who seems to be of a higher rank perhaps, a few humans (who seem a little out of place) and the slaves - there look to be 11 of them in the pen.
Distance to the orc camp is 10 minutes.
Vauhwyt (AC19, HP19) and Mookie (AC19, HP9) Monday October 4th, 2004 4:01:39 PM
After the Silence expires, Vauhwyt listens to what everybody has to say (asking a few people to repeat themselves, no doubt).
Then she summarizes what she is hearing and repeats it back to Rigging and everybody else for approval.
"It seems to me that we are planning to split into four groups." She goes into detail:
TEAM ONE
Sneak in, create a diversion, set boats on fire, get out without letting the enemy follow you back.
TEAM TWO
Quietly take out the guard tower (Silence? Silence on a familiar who then flies to the tower?) in the southeast corner first and the dogs closest to the slaves.
TEAM THREE
Free the slaves and start them back here towards the boats.
TEAM FOUR
Sneak into the enemy main tent and steal information (and anything else that looks good). Sneak back here.
Borrowed Items from Ashira: Potion Cure Moderate Wounds Ring of Limited Invisibility
Rigging Monday October 4th, 2004 11:19:58 PM
Rigging looks at the two teams and sighs. He is worried about getting the Dirt City group killed and everytime the Wildcards have split up in the past, it always backfires.
He will say, "Please everyone gather around. I really don't think we should break off into four seperate groups. It will be to easy for one of the groups to get cut off, isolated and destroyed."
He will look at the Dirt City group and say, "I am used to giving orders and having them carried out. I can't order you but this is what I think we should do. With teamwork and sharing of powers, I think we can accomplish our goals.
I want us to split into 2 teams. The first team will be tasked with sneaking into the command tent and retrieving the book. This will be the most dangerous task, so I primarly want Wildcards on this mission. I think we should send an all female team on this mission. That woman had a strange effect on me and I don't want to risk a man falling under her spell.
I think Val, Rose, Vaughwyt and Ashira should go on this mission. They will be invisible and moving swiftly. I think we should tap them all with the greater invisiblity wand. We will load them up with whatever spells we can to help protect them. He will look sternly at them all. If it gets rough in there, forget the book and get back to the boats.
The second mission is to few the slaves and get them to safety. I want the rest of the Dirt City crew to take on this responsibilty. We will support you and act as reserves from both groups.
Nezamil, I want you first to cast a silence on the nearest south eastern guard tower (ooc to all dms, my understanding on silence spell is you don't get a saving throw if it is cast in an area. You just have to leave the area. You only get it if the spell is cast directly on you and moves with you.)
The I want you to cast it on the closest dog pen to keep them quiet.
I will blink up into the tower and kill the guards and the Dirt City folks can get busy freeing the slaves.
I am not as concerned about destroying the boats. If fact, I almost relish them chasing us. They will all be bunched up together, on the boats, perfect targets for my fireball wand.
Does everyone agree with this plan? OK lets go." He will lead the group off and when they are in the trees, close to there objectives will he halt the group and start the spellcasters with their thing.
Rose hp: 12/12 AC 14 Monday October 4th, 2004 11:32:30 PM
Rose thinks for a bit. "Sounds good to me. What group should I be in?"
She calls Piper to her "Piper I have a special job for you." "What is it?" inquires Piper.
"I want to have a silence spell cast on you or something you carry and go to a watchtower so that the guards cant let anybody know what's going on. You'd be really brave if you did this and would have to keep hidden."
"Well ok"
Theodore and Macaw Monday October 4th, 2004 11:35:18 PM
Theodore grumbles under his breath at Rigging's plan. He shakes his head. "The odds just aren't good. How are we supposed to wade through all of those orcs to free the slaves? It's just not possible!" He shakes his head again. "We really need something to split the group apart, make them confused. All we need to do is get in and get out. Best case scenario, no one gets hurt. Not even the orcs."
Nezamil Tuesday October 5th, 2004 1:39:38 AM
Nezamil nods as Rigging lays out the plan "yes theo it will be dangerous but the slave pen seems to be in the corner of the compound so we won't have to wade thru all the beasts ...just the ones guarding the slaves "
"but you do have a point , maybe if we wait a little longer they'll be dead drunk and make it easier for us "
turning to Rose the dwarf smiles " yes i can cast silence on a small stone that piper can carry and drop where needed ...Piper can target the dog pen i'll target the guard towers "
turning to Rigging " I think i should help with freeing the slaves ...some of them might require Domi's touch ....my wand of silence has good range i can reach several of the towers and the dog pen too and with Piper helping we can cover that whole slave pen if needed "
"but i think besides the group going after the book we should all help free the slaves ...i would feel better with a good solid fighting force since we facing such a large group "
The Cleric looks around the group " just need to break thru the fencing of the slave pen ...any ideas ?...then bring the slaves to the boats and wait for the Ladies to arrive "
Nezamil will find a couple of small stones that Piper could carry and once Captain Rigging gives the word he will activate his wand twice (once on each stone and hand them to rose to give to Piper) then target the the corner tower (since piper will take the dogs )
Vorelle Tuesday October 5th, 2004 2:28:26 AM
Vorelle offers a rare smile as Theo returns her blanket. She stuffs it back in with her gear; she'll deal with the damp when she has time.
If Dietrich offers her the bow, she shakes her head. "M-m-m-my b-bow is m-magic," she explains. (Also, Dietrich probably knows his companions well enough by now to know that Vorelle isn't strong enough to take advantage of the bow's extra pull.)
Vauhwyt (illegal second post) Tuesday October 5th, 2004 4:07:33 AM
The liontaur says, "Okay, Rigging! Sounds good to me."
When Rose asks what group she will be in, Vauhwyt says, "Rose, you're with me and Val and Ashira. But we have to go fast. Maybe you should ride on my back."
Vauhwyt asks if anyone has a cloak or blanket, and sees if Rose can share the invisibility if she is riding under a cloak on Vauhwyt's back.
Bart Tuesday October 5th, 2004 7:02:10 AM
I will go with the second group freeing the slaves, I think i willmanage to break the fence, has onayone a crowbar or something i dont want tu use my sword to force the lock open. If our group is attacked I will be in the back and cover our retreat
Ari d10=5 Tuesday October 5th, 2004 10:36:54 AM
(roll was accidental)
Ari rummages through the corpses for a couple of pieces of loose clothing.
Listening to Rigging and his plans, Ari adds, "Here are some clothing that can help mask your scent from the dogs, or at least confuse them for a moment."
As preparations are made, Ari will co-ordinate to make sure he has cats grace, bulls strength, and shield on himself.
He readies the alter self spell just in case something goes amiss.
Valanthe Tuesday October 5th, 2004 10:38:48 AM
"These orcs seem to have a pretty decent camp. Let's say we succeed in everything that we intend to do. We free the slaves and split before it gets too rough. So what's to stop the orcs from taking 15 more next week? They have magical boats and what I'm guessing is a good system to aprehend slaves. I don't care if I have to chop off all their drunken heads myself. They need to be stopped permemently." The rest of the wildcards know Val well enough that she's determined and stubborn enough to try and kill all the orcs on her own.
Dietrich Tuesday October 5th, 2004 11:10:07 AM
Dietrich accepts the bow after all and also agrees with the final plan. Concerning the 2 group, he thinks that Bart's former suggestion, to have the spellcasters with archers behind and the toughest fighters (Bart, Val) to cover them is a good idea.
Although he understands Theo's point (actually very similar to his own propose in the beginning), the fighter is happy that there is finally a definitive plan and also sees the danger in splitting the own forces too much, so he is for Riggings plan.
Finally, he doesn't like Val's speech at all and can only hope that there won't be any brave and suicidal actions.
OOC: SOrry folks, but just now that we'll have action I won't be able to post everyday. Jan, please make Dietrich useful when I'm absent.
Ryan and Neen Tuesday October 5th, 2004 2:33:08 PM
Ryan agrees with Riggings plan and also on the fact that he will be with the second group freeing the slaves.
"Nice and simple then," he says to Rigging and the group.
He then turns to Bart "Would it be okay if I picked the lock that we may encounter, I've got a good pair of tools," He then pulls back his cloak to reveal a set of gleaming black metal thieves tools on his belt "Heh, and some more on my belt"
Ashira Tuesday October 5th, 2004 3:13:25 PM
Ashira sighs. She still wasn't convinced, but Rigging had a good point. So she gathers the members of her team. Smiling at Val, she lays a restraining hand on the warrior's shoulder. "Sister, I don't doubt that you would kill all the orcs if you could... and truth be told, I wouldn't shed a single tear if you did. But deep down you know the truth...there are too many orcs out there for all of us. As to the slaves, think about it...I doubt those stupid orcs managed to secure them. From all of what Rigging has told us, I'd put my money on those humans. Remember, the orc boat said that another boat brought the slaves. And those slavers were supposed to meet up with another group of slavers in this area... I'll bet those humans are the one's we're after." A mischievous twinkle appears in Ashira's eye...one that Valanthe hasn't seen in a long time. "I tell you what, let's go get that book and if we get it we'll send Vauhwyt back and we'll see if we can't kill those humans before everything comes crashing down...sound like a deal?"
Ashira turns to Rose and Vauhwyt. "Ok ladies...seems like the men have left the dirty work for us to do again." A impish wink of her eye dispels any notion of the previous comment being taken too seriously. "So, let's make sure we're outfitted to do our job." She reaches into her backpack and pulls out several items. "Alright, I've got several potions that should help out... Here's a potion of Barkskin +3, I'd like either Vauhwyt or Rose to use it... Here's a potion of Cure Moderate Wounds, Rose, you'll need this, since Vauhwyt already has one. Alright, now this cute little thing is Quaal's whip token. Rose, I want you to keep this. If we get into a fight, I want you to activate it. A huge magical whip will appear and attack your enemies. "
Ashira turns her attention to Valanthe "I assume you're pretty much ready to go. I've got one more Cure Moderate Wounds, you want it?"
Once all the equipment is dished out, Ashira summons Redux. "Ok Redux, I need you to wait until we're in the forest area. Then I need you to bump all the girls with Bull's Strength and Greater invisibility. Oh and maybe you can give Vauhwyt and Rose some of your Mage Armor potions?"
Once again Ashira turns to all the summoned ladies. "Alright, anything else we're going to need? Any ideas? Let's get our plan together now."
Olyn Tuesday October 5th, 2004 6:07:47 PM
looking rather disgusted Olyn will turn to the others on the rescue tema.
going after them now, while they are awake and drinking is, like our new friend says, quite foolish but it seems Rigging has decided to start us off now. if we need someone to get past a guard or open a gate pen, without causing a big distraction, then I have something from Wardd that will aid us. at the appropriate time, I will change my form to that of an Orc. my appearance, including clothing and weaponry will look like that of one of those foul beasts. I will get past any guards and make a way for you to get in and rescue the hostages. but be quite about it, it will only last for 20 minutes.
**on a side note, if illegal posts are frowned on, and you all know you arent suppose to do it, why do i see 2 and 3 illegal posts on almost every turn? if the rest of us can wait til our next turn to post, why can't you?**
Narrative DM Jan Tuesday October 5th, 2004 6:34:17 PM
Final plans are put in place! The group approaches the camp quietly, across the meadow, and through the trees, while getting set up with various spells.
The fire is beginning to die down a bit, but there's a lot of singing going on. The group finds itself being able to get within 10 yards of the camp's perimeter while still being under cover.
Is it showtime??
((OOC - I think I've probably mentioned before. I don't mind extra posts so long as it's 'conversation' and not 'action', so long as we don't swamp our fellow players. Planning hasn't been easy in this format. It's cool that we've managed to do what we have. No worries. I'm sure the DM'll take it into account ;) ))
Valanthe Tuesday October 5th, 2004 9:07:26 PM
"No thanks Ashira. I've got two healing potions of my own and you know me. Chances are I'll be bad off after this and need somebody to pour it down my throat." Valanthe sighs before continuing. "I'll do my best to be a good girl but I'm not making any promises. I could very well loose my cool and rush off."
Theodore and Macaw Tuesday October 5th, 2004 9:45:30 PM
Theodore pulls out his wand of burning hands and follows the rest of the group. Though he disagrees with their plan, he will still help the best that he can.
Macaw flaps up to a branch away from the party, having strict orders to sit this one out.
Vauhwyt (AC19, HP19) and Mookie (AC19, HP9) Tuesday October 5th, 2004 10:36:16 PM
Vauhwyt blushes, although no one knows it since she is invisible and -- even if she were not invisible -- colored red by her armor spell. "You are too good to us, Ashira," she says. "Rose, you take the Barkskin -- my hide is already tough as bark.
After the ten-minute walk to the camp, just before the group splits up, Vauhwyt casts two spells and asks in a whisper: "Should we travel under the cover of Silence as well? Perhaps another tap with that wand, good Nezamil?"
The two spells that she casts are Enlarge Person and Messsage on Mookie.
Borrowed Items from Ashira: Potion Cure Moderate Wounds Ring of Limited Invisibility
Rose hp: 12/12 AC 18 Tuesday October 5th, 2004 10:39:52 PM
Rose nimbly (but carefully) hops up on Vauhwyt's back. She frowns and reaches into her bag, leaning farther and farther inside until she finally comes out with a brush. (Picture Mary Poppins) "You know Vauhwyt, you should really get help on the places you cant reach." Rose says as she brushes that small spot that is almost impossible for the wemic to reach. "There all better." she says just as Ashira starts handing out things. She smiles and gives Ashira a hug as she accepts the whip and cure potion but lets Vauhwyt take the barkskin as she's probably going to need it more. "I already have mage armor on, but if you have anything that would help me shoot arrows & stuff that would be nice." She says when Ashira asks Redux to put spells on them. (cats grace)
Rose reaches into her bag and pulls out a sash with almost 20 seals on it, puts it on and is ready to go.
ooc: jan do i get to have the potion I won in the lotto? or do i have to wait till after combat?
rose continued Tuesday October 5th, 2004 10:53:12 PM
Rose makes Vauhwyt take the barkskin potion. "Vauhwyt you can keep me safer if you take the potion. Remember I'm going to be riding you.
If Vauhwyt still refuses she sort of accidently leans forward and pours the potion down Vauhwyts throat as Vauhwyt speaks. :-D
ooc: we really need something to prevent posting at the same time :)
Rigging ac 24 hps 64 Tuesday October 5th, 2004 11:18:59 PM
Hearing the dismay in some of the members voices and attitudes, Rigging will say, "I to would have liked to wait for the camp to be asleep or insensible. Unfortunately some in the camp are keeping their wits about them. Someone sent out that patrol and that same leader will miss them when they don't report back in.
We have to move now before they get suspicous and start preparing. I am trying my best to keep everyone safe and accomplish the mission. Sometimes you have to put it on the line. As you get more experienced, you will realize that."
Rigging will smile and temper his sarcasm with a little wit, "And hope your companions think enough of you to petition Gargul to bring you back when your corpse starts stinking."
Rigging will get to the spot and start casting some spells. He will add cats grace and shield to the mage armor already on, and then activate his ring of blinking.
He will signal Nezamil to do his wand of silence thing, what for his greater invisibility and then move forward to take out the guards in the tower.
Spells on: Blinking Mage armor Shield cats grace
Vauhwyt again Tuesday October 5th, 2004 11:34:42 PM
Vauhwyt will take the barkskin potion. She notices all Rose's seals and whispers, "Hey, Rose, you should start using those! I hear they go bad after a while."
[OOC: recent policy is that seals will begin expiring soon. So use them up, friends! Remember, activating a seal is usually a free action.]
Bart Wednesday October 6th, 2004 11:22:38 AM
Even better Ryan, I think at least you must be invisible too, preferably most of the rest also. After you opend the slavepen, i will enter the pen and become visible and get the people out.
Zayne Wednesday October 6th, 2004 3:28:13 PM
(OOC sorry about the inactivity this week,I things at my store have been fairly chaotic the last few days. Three people quit without any notice so guess who got to cover the shifts,well I think I am back to normal posting,barring any more unpleasant surprises)
Zayne watches Rigging take control of the situation in awe,thinking to himself,"That man has what it takes to lead people,he is considerate of the needs of those under him,but at the same time to the point and does not lose sight of the big picture."
He volunteers to be a part of the second group,seeing as he does have a natural talent to create attention around himself. He moves into position with the rest of his group. Not thinking about the forest but at the job he has to do.
Ryan (AC:17 Hp:11) Neen (AC:19 Hp:5) (Mage Armour) Wednesday October 6th, 2004 4:33:14 PM
Ryan nods "Agreed," he says to Bart and sets off on the ten-minute walk to the camp.
Once there he looks around the group, "Has anyone got any Invisibility spells for us?" he asks.
He then casts the second mage armour of the day on himself and Neen.
Spells Mage Armour: 1hr.
Nezamil Wednesday October 6th, 2004 4:40:17 PM
Nezamil grins at Vauhwty " yes good idea , but i'll cast it on one of these small stones (he picked up two in last post ) this way you can discard it if you need to communicate among those with you....not to mention use it to silence some of those barking puppies you might encounter " once the mission is about to commence Nezamil will activate the wand of silence twice(2) on each stone handing one to Vauhwty and the other to Rose for Piper .
"also i have a wand of dispel magic that might come in handy "(if any of the ladies of the book brigade are willing to take Nezamil will hand it over )
Then upon Riggings word the dwarf aims and activates the wand (3)on the corner guard tower and then the middle guard tower (4)
"everyone try and work in pairs ...this way no one gets left behind ....and mage's behind the warriors ....who's with me ?"
Nezamil will follow the the warriors charge staying in support of them (if no one pairs with Nezamil he will stay near one of the young mages )
Narrative DM Jan Wednesday October 6th, 2004 7:59:27 PM
((Maps - scroll up to 21 Sept - Dominic has a link there))
Party is currently in the trees, facing the camp from the EAST.
Straight ahead, right in front of the group - is a watch tower.
To the left, is a tree, the slave pen, and another watchtower.
Straight ahead in the distance (100ft) is the fire - and a crowd of orcs having a rare old time. Various ramshackle tents are scattered in between. Beyond the fire, the top part of the leaders tent can be seen.
To the right, is a dog pen and a watch tower.
That's all you can see at this level.
I'm assuming you're all spelled up, so the time is ticking.
Please, let me have any skill checks you feel necessary, and don't forget to put your AC, HPs and spell effects in your header.
Valanthe [HP 100, AC 23, Ring of Invisibility] Wednesday October 6th, 2004 8:49:53 PM
"Rigging do you want us to wait for the tower to go down, or should the four of us sneak past? I'll volunteer to clear the tower but I'm sure it will make some noise. I'm sure they realise a patrol vanished. I think that assuming that the guards are drunk or asleep could be fatal."
Rigging ac24 hps 60/60 shield, mage armor, greater invisiblity, blinking, cat's grace d20+8=27 d20+12=22 d20+11=21 d6+1=5 2d6(1+6)=7 d20+11=26 d4+1=4 2d6(4+3)=7 2d6(5+6)=11 d100=55 d100=81 Wednesday October 6th, 2004 10:57:13 PM
Rigging looks at Vauhwyt and says with a feral grin, "Nope the guard tower is my contribution to this endeavor."
Rigging waits to get tapped with the wand from Redux and then sees that Nezamil has cast his silence spell . He will scamper out to the base of the tower and start to climb it. He will be moving fast and when he gets to the base near the top, will draw his weapons and blink through the base and attack the nearest orc with his shortsword hitting ac 21 and doing 13 points of damage to it. He follows up with a holy dagger strike hitting ac 26 and does 22 for a total of 35 points of damage. (I assumed the orcs were evil and took my 2d6 damage, also did backstab damage)
Rigging rolled 27 for climbing but also has slippers of spiderclimbing that help.
Vorelle [AC 17; HP 17/17] d20+8=26 d20+8=19 Thursday October 7th, 2004 12:07:56 AM
Unless she is told to do something else, Vorelle will sneak up to a position near the slave pen and stand by with her bow, ready to cover the retreat of the escaping slaves.
[Hide 26; Move Silently 19]
Olyn ac20, hp19 Thursday October 7th, 2004 12:18:21 AM
waits in the trees.
Rose hp: 12/12 AC 18 d20+5=16 d20+4=6 Thursday October 7th, 2004 1:00:03 AM
Rose holds on tight (but tries not to hurt) as Vauhwyt starts towards the tent.
Spot: 16 ride: 6
active spells: mage armor & what ever else I got tapped with
Theodore and Macaw HP 8 AC 16 (mage armor) d20+2=13 d20+4=12 d20+2=15 d20+2=14 Thursday October 7th, 2004 10:35:42 AM
Theodore moves with Vorelle, trying to keep low to the ground. He stops behind the tree before the slave pen and watchtower to get a closer glimpse of the situation.
Zayne d20+6=20 d20+6=22 d20+5=12 d20+5=15 Thursday October 7th, 2004 12:05:24 PM
As plans are being made he retrieves his equipment from Dietrich,and looks arond for a good place to operate from.
Zayne takes cover near Vorelle,(5ft or so)in a quiet whisper,"This could get nasty." Looking around for any signs that they have been discovered he begins sticking several arrows into the ground in front of him,looking to Vorelle he flashes her a quick grin,"I want to say I am sorry for the way I acted back at the palace. Sometimes I can't control my temper."(Hide 20 Move Silently 22 Listen 12 Spot 15)
Ari HP 50 AC 24 (Bulls strenght, Cats Grace (4 min each), Spider Climb (40 Minutes), Shield 4 min) d20+8=24 d20+7=11 d20+7=21 d20+5=12 d20+3=12 Thursday October 7th, 2004 12:26:21 PM
When Ari finally sees the camp, he will do a quick scan to see if there's anything out of the ordinary. (Knowledge Nature 24, Arcane 11, religion 21, Listen 12, Spot 12).
If there is nothing out of the ordinary, then Ari looks and plans to whether he should cover the slave pen from the Tree that sits right next to it.
Ari feels his fingers itching to do something. But not knowing whether combat or spells is what's needed. Ari schools himself to patience as he waits for the opening moves of this next encounter to happen.
Ashira (AC 22 HP 87/87, Bull's Strength, Greater Invisibility) Thursday October 7th, 2004 2:08:02 PM
Gathering her invisible team to the sound of her voice. "Alright ladies, let's get in there and get the job done. No heroics...got me??" Gathering up her Silenced stone, Ashira begins to thread her way through the enemy camp, toward the leaders tent.
Redux (AC 20, HP 52/52, Greater Invisiblity, Fly) Thursday October 7th, 2004 2:15:26 PM
Having "spread the love" with his wands, Redux casts Fly so that he can keep a bird's eye on the battlefield. He floats up about 20 feet above the others and maintains a position near the trees...wand of magic missiles in one hand...memorized spells ready to go.
Cayzle OOC Thursday October 7th, 2004 2:52:45 PM
Um, jan, the graphic that Dominic put up has the scale at the bottom. By that scale, the fire is about 500 feet from the party, I think. Here is a version of Dominic's graphic that I added a grid to. Every grid marks 60 feet (so a human can travel one square per round at a hustle, or two squares per round at a run).
Vauhwyt (AC20, HP19) and Mookie (AC19, HP9) Thursday October 7th, 2004 3:21:42 PM
[Slight Revision from yesterday, given the size of the map and our placement on it ... that Enlarge is on Vauhwyt, not Mookie. See below. Hope that's ok.]
Vauhwyt takes a good look at the orc camp and rejudges the size and distances. She thinks hard and decides that there is only one way to get to the leader's tent AND force the Ring of Invisibility to cover both Mookie and Rose.
She casts Enlarge Person on herself (not Mookie). She takes her block and tackle out of her backpack. She holds it open for Rose to climb into. She closes it loosely and puts it on. Mookie is in her pouch.
She tells Ashira and Val that she has to move fast to make it in time before the enlarge spell runs out. She says she'll meet them by the tree next to and west of the leader tent.
With the small Rose and the tiny Mookie hidden in her pocket and pack, huge Vauhwyt takes the stone with the Silence on it and starts moving.
That brings us to this turn -- I hope!
Moving 80 feet per round -- invisible and within the silent area, it takes Vauhwyt ten rounds to get all the way over to the far side of the leader tent. At the end of the tenth round, Vauhwyt will have just enough time to let Rose out of her pack before her Enlarge spell ends.
[Of course, that's ten rounds of combat and actions from everyone else. We'll see how far Vauhwyt gets in her planned path.]
[She could run and get there in half the time, but she fears the vibrations of a huge running liontaur would alert the enemy, silence or no!
=======
Spells (as of the end of Vauhwyt's ten round move to the leader's tent): Mage Armor (V) (36 minutes of 60 used) Mage Armor (Mookie) (36 minutes of 60 used) Enlarge (Vauhwyt) (10 rnd of 10 used (just expires at end of total move) Message (Mookie) (1 min of 10 minutes used) Darkness (expired) Message (expired) Silence (1 min of 3 min used) Invisible (per ring) Barkskin +3 potion (long duration, will look up later)
Borrowed Items from Ashira: Potion Cure Moderate Wounds Ring of Limited Invisibility
Ryan (AC:17 Hp:11) Neen (AC:19 Hp:5) (Mage Armour) d20+7=17 d20+10=14 d20+14=26 d20+6=15 Thursday October 7th, 2004 5:42:47 PM
"Er, ha sny one got any invisibility spells to give me?" Ryan askes with an edge of anexity.
He and Neen then follow the group 2 keeping as quiet as he can.
Ryan Hide:17 Move Silently:14
Neen Hide:26 Move Silently:15
Spells Mage Armour 59mn
Nezamil Ac 21 Hp 45/53 Thursday October 7th, 2004 7:20:41 PM
The Dwarf watches as the ladies vanish into thin air " may Domi guide and watch over them " mutters the Cleric
Knowing the Captain has started his attack Nezamil takes a deep breath and exhales slowly " stay calm ...relax....everything will work out" thinks the dwarf to himself
Nezamil eyes the trio of Vorelle,Theodore,Zayne ...edges up to them ..."thats good stick together...if ya see any officers direct troops our way ....shoot em ....sow some confusion in their ranks " the dwarf gives the trio a quick grin " you'll be fine "
Turning his attention to the guard tower Rigging went to Nezamil slides his Mace :) out of his ring holster and prepares to charge the tower .with a quick scan of the area around the tower " lets go " growls the Cleric, the dwarf breaks into a run directly at the silenced corner tower (hoping his companions follow )
OOc what type of fencing surrounds the camp if any , also same for the slave pen ?
Narrative DM Jan Friday October 8th, 2004 12:58:42 AM
((Go with Cayzle's map dimensions folks, I had pink blancmange for brains last night))
Assuming two main groups.....
1) Ashira, Vauhwyt (with poor Rose stuffed in a bag) (Valanthe? Walter, you with this group or the other? Lemme know) - head into the camp, creeping quickly around the shadowy tents toward their target. By the time Vauhwyt and Rose catch up, Ashira will already have caught a glimpse of the following -
A large cloaked mystery figure stood about 15 ft from the leaders tent, looking toward the fire, talking to a group of human males. To the aquatic elf, the humans appearance reminds her a lot of the Slavers roaming around back in Culverwood.
The leaders tent is an haphazard affair - a multitude of skins thrown together and pegged down every now and then, leaving gaps here and there.
Beyond this particular group is an impressive crowd - not particularly impressive in terms of dress sense, but they look a tough bunch, shoving and pushing one another around, milling about and roaring, pouring great pans of beer down their throats, and armed to the teeth with clunky equipment.
Meanwhile.....
2) Everyone else edges through the trees toward the slave pen and the corner Tower. (Chris I'm presuming this is where Nezamil is heading).
From their vantage point - there is no perimeter fence to the camp as such, but there is one around the slave pen - poles and ropes with 6" gaps in between. Theo and Ryan see a gate down the inner side - with a padlock of some kind. But in order to get to it without detection - someone's gonna have to take out the corner watch tower. Ari can see that the tree next to the pen would make a very good vantage point for attack - however, scrambling down it might slow down a man's escape. But you never know. Zayne, Vorelle and Dietrich get ready with thier arrows. Olyn is nearby waiting for the bloodshed he just knows is gonna happen. Bart and Shadeos get ready to do what they can.
Up in the air, Redux can see an orc stood on the corner watchtower, looking longingly toward the revelry at the campfire. He can also see two of the slaves below him move suddenly to the edge of the fence, and look eagerly out toward the trees. Did one of them see something?
Meanwhile....
Rigging ascends the center Tower, and has to bring all his resources to bear in order to bring the guard down. From his vantage point alongside the dead orc, he reckons that if anyone looks over in this direction, they might well notice that the Tower is no longer manned.
Bart Friday October 8th, 2004 4:27:40 AM
Bart waits for the signal of Rigging whos is climbing the tower and killing the guards that the way to the slave pen is free. When he hears or sees his signal Bart goes forward and mention Ryan and the to come with him.
Vauhwyt (AC20, HP19) and Mookie (AC19, HP9) (invisible, Silent) Friday October 8th, 2004 5:56:39 AM
She sees the enemy roaring around the fire, and the mysterious leader talking with slavers, but of course she can hear none of it. Which is a kind of a surreal experience, especially for someone who has never used a remote control or a mute button!
But Vauhwyt has no time to lollygag -- she does not want to shrink back to normal size with Rose still in her pack! The liontaur continues on her path around the fire, behind the leader tent, and under that tree -- making sure that her zone of silence does not pass over any of the enemy.
[OOC: Here is a clean version of the map. Note that the grid has letters and numbers so you can mention places on the map if you want. Remember that each square is 60 feet!]
[Note that Vauhwyt's AC20 is while she is huge. Her AC will shoot up to 22 when she shrinks down to normal size, hopefully as she gets under that tree.
=======
Spells (as of the end of Vauhwyt's ten round move to the leader's tent): Mage Armor (V) (36 minutes of 60 used) Mage Armor (Mookie) (36 minutes of 60 used) Enlarge (Vauhwyt) (10 rnd of 10 used (just expires at end of total move) Message (Mookie) (1 min of 10 minutes used) Darkness (expired) Message (expired) Silence (1 min of 3 min used) Invisible (per ring) Barkskin +3 potion (1 min of 90 used)
Borrowed Items from Ashira: Potion Cure Moderate Wounds Ring of Limited Invisibility
Olyn ac20, hp19, Bless d6=2 d6=3 Friday October 8th, 2004 8:28:13 AM
before any more of the group can head out from the tree line, Olyn will whisper a quick prayer to Wardd asking for safety and swiftness of tonights actions. then, tossing a pair of dice onto the ground : a 2 and a 3, he casts Bless upon the group.
pulling out his healing wand he readies himself to move quickly to heal and quiet any loud noises.
Theodore and Macaw HP 8 AC 16 (mage armor) Friday October 8th, 2004 9:18:57 AM
Theodore sends an empathetic message to Macaw and the raven soars down to perch on a pole in the slave pen.
"Help come," speaks the magic bird to the slaves. "Be quiet. Be ready."
Theodore nods his approval as he sees Macaw descend to inform the slaves of their presence. Then the wizard looks to Ryan, "I could probably burn through those ropes with my wand. Maybe we could set those people free from the side of the pen that no one would notice. First, we have to get there undetected."
He tries to catch the eyes of the waiting archers then jerks his head significantly towards the corner tower overlooking the slave pen.
Valanthe [HP 100, AC 23, Ring of Invisibility, Bull Strength?] Friday October 8th, 2004 9:45:44 AM
Valanthe keeps her hand on Ashira's shoulder as they sneak through the camp. Being invisible and silenced makes it really hard for a group to stay together. Valanthe sees the slavers and the tough crowd drinking in one of the tents and feels the urge to cut loose but that would be stupid and if she lived Ashira would give her hell. Facing Gargul in the afterlife might be the better choice.
OOC: Valanthe is accompanying Ashira, Rose, and Vauhwyt. I remember something about being enchanted with Bull's Strength. Should I just roll the enchantment bonus?
BigTim aka Olyn Friday October 8th, 2004 2:17:48 PM
you no longer roll for bull strength or any other buff on that line, its now just a plain 4 points. difference being, instead of lasting hours, it now lasts minutes.
Nezamil Ac 18 (21 w/shield) Hp 45/53 Friday October 8th, 2004 9:15:43 PM
The Dwarf dashes to the silenced corner tower (mace in one hand, wand in the other) running low to the ground in the high grass , keeping the towers legs between him and the camp.
stopping directly below the tower the Cleric scans for any sign of alarm ....seeing that the slavepen is of wood and rope build "how do i cut thru that "
" if only i had an axe :) to cut the rope " mutters the dwarf
"Zayne has a battle axe !! "
glancing back towards the dirt city trio Nezamil will wave Zayne forward
Rigging shield mage armor, cats grace greater invisiblity, and blinking d20+12=27 d20+10=30 d20+10=27 d6+1=5 2d6(4+4)=8 d4+1=3 2d6(4+5)=9 2d6(4+3)=7 d100=42 d100=77 Friday October 8th, 2004 11:00:32 PM
Rigging will try and prop the guard up in a position where he can be seen and then quickly climb down the tower and head towards the southern tower.
OOC Not sure if we are in combat rounds yet so I will proceed with the assumption that we aren't. Feel free to shut me down if I am pushing things. Just trying to keep the action going.
Rigging will reactivate his blinking ring and climb up the tower (climb check 27), again blink through the floor and attack the guard.
He hits both times and does 32 points of damage to the orc guard.
OOC 2 d100 rolls were to make sure I hit while blinking. Rolled a natural 20 but didn't follow up on it as thief backstabs are considered critical hits anyway.
Rose Saturday October 9th, 2004 12:48:13 PM
Rose gets ready to jump out of the bag if she feels it start to shrink.
mage armor: ?/1hr what other spells were cast upon her?
Zayne d20+6=19 d20+6=16 d20=16 Saturday October 9th, 2004 5:38:17 PM
Looking at the dwarf questioningly,he creeps forward. Not really sure what he could want to talk about,especially right now,when silence is of the utmost importance.(Hide 19 Move Silently 16)
When he gets close enough,he whispers,"Not to sound rude or anything,but now is not really the time to get to know on another." (OOC disregard that third roll not intentional)
Ari HP 50 AC 24 (Bulls strenght, Cats Grace (4 min each), Spider Climb (40 Minutes), Shield 4 min) (2nd post since casting) Sunday October 10th, 2004 12:19:13 PM
(ooc assuming Rigging gets to do his 2nd action)
Ari continues his waiting for Rigging's signal. With the continued silence, that means success for the team. Did Rigging get the first guards? How long do we wait until we figure out that Rigging might have been killed or caught?
Ari reminds himself to keep breathing, and prays to Alemi that Rigging is safe. Not exactly sure of this situation, Ari also adds his prayer for those in the family to watch over those of the family.
Ryan (AC:17 Hp:11) Neen (AC:19 Hp:5) (Mage Armour) d20+7=14 d20+10=21 d20+6=23 d20+14=33 Sunday October 10th, 2004 2:01:09 PM
Ryan waits for some one to take care of that watch tower. He does not attempt to shoot at it himself because even if his bow could reach that range he doesnt trust his aim.
Vorelle d20+6=7 d20+6=24 Sunday October 10th, 2004 3:51:23 PM
Vorelle is a little surprised when Zayne apologizes for what happened back in Dirt City, but hastens to reassure him. "Th-that's all r-r-right," she whispers.
She might perhaps have said more, but Zayne is called away. She remains where she is, alert for any sight or sound of danger.
[Spot 7; natural 1. Listen 24]
Ashira (AC 22 HP 87/87, Bull's Strength, Greater Invisibility) d20+16=20 d20+11=18 Sunday October 10th, 2004 11:12:00 PM
Ashira begins to guide Valanthe toward the back of the leader's tent...and away from the cloaked figure. She has a bad feeling about that character...
As the ranger approaches the tent, she moves cautiously, trying to keep an eye out for danger (Spot=20) as she creeps along in the eerie silence. It was so odd moving around and not hearing the familiar tinkling of her armor...the faint crackle of the fire as they moved steadily closer toward it... Her lack of hearing heightens her sense of danger, and Ashira begins to search (18) the back of the tent for the easiest way to enter without making a big scene... She can only hope that Vauhwyt and Rose are watching her tracks and following her toward the back of the tent.
Erik (Evil NPC...ADM Nellie) d100=40 d100=9 d100=99 d100=51 d100=23 d20+4=21 Monday October 11th, 2004 12:14:21 AM
The firelight brightens briefly for a few moments as a couple of orcs well in their cups throw some unknown flammable liquid into the blaze. The added illumination reveals a tall (6' 9"), well dressed man with short curly hair and a most unusual dark tint to his skin... Standing close to the cloaked leader of the tent, he appears to be in conversation with the leader of the orcs...
The human's smile seems to intensify as the party continues on into the night... Though truth be told, Erik was repulsed by this place...these nasty little creatures...and particularly their leader. Oh sure..she was good looking as far as orcs were concerned, and truth be told, something about her gave the strong desire to seek out a private place for the two of them ...but gods, what a stench!!! And there was just something about those glowing red eyes..." Erik's perfect teeth sparkle in the firelight as he nods at the cloaked figure. "Yes, Ga'al be praise! We are so glad that we could assist you by bringing you these slaves. And your contribution in return is much appreciated." Erik bows deeply, though he holds his breath as he does so, trying not to take in too much of the obnoxious odor coming from the woman. "Perhaps once you have made your strike and are in control of the city, we can bring you others to assist in your cause..." Even as he politely awaits her answer, the man scans the drunken crowd...checking to make sure that his men are ready to go as soon as is politely possible. Gods knows I'm gonna need a long bath after being in this sewer...why if those priest hadn't refused those last few elves, I never would have agreed to this... As he scans the crowd, Erik catches sight of something very odd...something about the shadows over by the side of the tent...he could have sworn he saw something moving...something large. The smile fading partially from his lips, the man shifts his weight slightly and turns toward the tent...scanning the darkness...
Narrative DM Jan Monday October 11th, 2004 12:58:55 AM
((OOC - folks, just so you're aware, we are about to be re-joined by Chris, and joined by Jim - both Game 5 players))
Olyn's blessing of Wardd falls on everyone as they venture forth into danger, settling on the flesh, making it tingle for a moment.
Outside the Slave Pen -
Those watching the Tower near the slave pen wait for the creature up there to be taken out, before they make their move. The waiting is intolerable - then all of a sudden, those looking up at the tower will suddenly see the orc slump. Up in the air, Redux has a better view and sees the thing fall to the wood planking up on the Tower. Is it dead? It's hard to tell, but something is happening up there, and it's obviously time to move - and quickly.
((George - Rigging will be doing the killing part this next round, so if you want to embellish ;), by all means do so.))
Bart begins to step forward. He can see figures milling about inside the pen.
Inside the Slave Pen -
Appolo and Jager are feeling the effects of hunger and dehydration, and so far - no one has approached with a promise of food and water. Listening to the noise around the campfire fills everyone in the pen with dread, for they were to be left alone, doing goodness knows what, for this crowd; the lowest, most menial tasks, and if they thought the Slavers were tough, then they new this was going to be no picnic at all. At least they're not shackled or tied up. There are nine others, one of which has wandered over to the east side of the pen, as though he's heard something. Then - all of a sudden, a cheeky bird - a raven, hops onto the top of the fence, telling everyone to be quiet!
((Chris, Jim - that's your intro.))
Over at the Leader Tent -
Ashira, Valanthe, Vauhwyt and Rose sneak around the back of the tent. The liontaur reaches the tree. They also managed to catch a better glimpse of two of their antagonists as they did so - a tall, strapping human male - who appeared to glance in their direction for a moment, and an even taller, cloaked figure. There was something odd about that one, how the cloak was distorted at the back. There is also a whiff of opened graves in the air.
Okay folks - the clock is now ticking. Actions please.
Appolo Monday October 11th, 2004 1:36:04 AM
Appolo sits in the back corner of the pen quitely sleeping,He had already advised the others to get some sleep,but they had not taken his advice.His sleep is a llight one.When the bird arrives someone disturbs him and he awakes.Agian cursing himself for going waling through the woods unarmed.He was in the elven village visiting and gone berry picking with some children.All he had when he was taken was a single dagger and a basket of berries.Although he did mangae to take two of the orcs out before a dart hit him in the back.He then woke up here.That was two days ago.He decided to by his time and wait.He figured that sooner or later he'd get his shot at escape.Appolo was just glad the orcs and the slavers where to stupid to realize who and what they had.Being aPirate of Jack and all.Appolo still had his Tattoos.
He gets up and walks over two the talikng bird and has a look at it.
Ari HP 50 AC 24 (Bulls strenght, Cats Grace (4 min each), Spider Climb (40 Minutes), Shield 4 min) (3rd post since casting) d20+3=16 Monday October 11th, 2004 4:31:21 AM
Ari seeing the Orc slump, Ari tries to catch at least one person's eyes to make sure that they've seen the orc slump. Ari then begins to climb up the tree, in order to give cover fire if necessary.
(ooc I'll be working 5am to 5pm EST for the week. This is an FYI for me.)
Vauhwyt (AC22, HP19) and Mookie (AC19, HP9) (Invisible, Silent, Mage Armor, Bless, Barkskin) d20+14=33 d20+1=13 d20+1=4 Monday October 11th, 2004 4:37:21 AM
Under the tree behind the Leader Tent, Vauhwyt helps Rose out of her pack before the liontaur shrinks back to regular size. She looks around for Ashira and Val.
Then the invisible liontaur walks to within 20 feet of the back of the leader tent. She then takes Mookie out of her pocket, sets him down, and gives him the silence pebble to hold onto (in his beak). She motions to him to lie down here and hide. [Mookie's Hide check is a 33]
Invisible and still within the silenced area, Vauhwyt creeps toward the tent. She peeks through the holes and patches of the structure into the Leader's Tent. She looks for anyone and anything inside. She also sees if there is a place she could enlarge a hole and enter through the back. Or maybe under the edge of the tent at the ground? [Vauhwyt's Search check is a 13. Her Spot is a 4.]
Spells: Bless (V&M) (from Olyn) (11 rounds of 20 used) Mage Armor (V) (36 minutes of 60 used) Mage Armor (M) (36 minutes of 60 used) Message (Mookie) (11 rounds of 100 used) Silence (11 rounds of 30 used) Barkskin +3 potion (1 min of 90 used) Invisible (12 rounds of 30 used before needing to reactivate ring) Enlarge (V) (expired) Darkness (expired) Message (expired)
Borrowed Items from Ashira: Potion Cure Moderate Wounds Ring of Limited Invisibility
Olyn ac20, hp19, Bless Monday October 11th, 2004 9:15:23 AM
ever so slowly, Olyn will as stealthily as possible make his way behind the fighters. healing wand at the ready.
Theodore and Macaw HP 8 AC 16 (mage armor) d20+2=9 d20+2=17 Monday October 11th, 2004 12:30:02 PM
Theodore waits for Rigging to take out the other orc in the tower overlooking the slave pen before moving. He tries his darndest to be quiet and stay low to the ground. The side of the pen opposite of the orc revelry is his target, hoping to free the slaves from the back and lead them back to the boats without anyone the wiser.
Macaw cocks his head as Appolo approaches. "Help come," the raven repeats. "Stay calm."
(Hide = 9, move silently = 17)
Dietrich Ac 17; HP 24 d20+2=13 d20+4=24 Monday October 11th, 2004 12:30:54 PM
Dietrich waits eagerly for their next move, looking around for other patrols etc. Listen 13, Spot 24
He'll keep behind with Ashira's bow, in order to give cover and not to make noise with his heavy equipment. Dietrich will stay near the spell-casters, so that he can protect them if necessary. The fighter feels encouraged with the presence of the clerics and feels Warrd's protection.
Marteaus Group - DM Dominic d20+5=18 Monday October 11th, 2004 2:39:51 PM
Tharilon (ogre-mage) moves towards the leader Lilia (half-orc). Ynvar (half-orc) looks around the camp from by the fire watching the slavers. Korik (ogre) starts to head towards the slave pens. Miglic (half-orc) moves with Korik towards the slave pens. Gudris (half-orc) looks around the camp. Hormstein (orc) heads towards the leaders tent. Milug (half-orc) wanders over towards Korik. Juggluc (orc) stands near the fire with Ynvar. Quarivor (ogre) stands outside the large tent. Lilia noticing it going quiet she moves over by the fire pulling out a wand then triggering it towards the tent (dispel magic area, dispel check 18.)
Ryan (AC:17 Hp:11) Neen (AC:19 Hp:5) (Mage Armour,Bless) d20+7=15 d20+10=20 d20+14=34 d20+6=23 Monday October 11th, 2004 3:50:45 PM
As soon as the orc in the watchtower falls Ryan moves cautiously towards the slave pen, head down hood up. Neen is but a shadow.
He gestures for the ones with him to follow.
He sees the slaves clearly now, he knows his task.
OOC DM Dominic Monday October 11th, 2004 5:45:58 PM
Everyone please post the corordinates of where you are at on the map.
Nezamil Ac 18 Hp 45/53 (bless) P-13 Monday October 11th, 2004 6:44:15 PM
Nezamil gives Zayne a quizical look " what ?...get to know ......oh by Domi help me " whispers the dwarf
The Cleric points to the nearby slavepen " the fence is of rope design ...we need a sharp weapon to slash it ..." Holds up his mace " this is for bashing not cutting "whispers Nezamil
" think you can cut the rope ? " Nezamil doesn't give him a chance to respond " you slash the rope fence and i'll try and dislodge one of the poles "
hearing a liitle noise up on the tower " Don't worry about that " as Nezamil peeks up " Captain will handle that " whispers the dwarf
" i can impart some of Domi's strength (bull str ) if you think it will help " (if Zayne agrees Nezamil will cast bull str on him )
Once done with that " Lets go " growls the dwarf to Zayne and sprints for the nearby slavepen fence
Ashira (AC 22 HP 87/87, Bull's Strength, Greater Invisibility) d20+16=26 Monday October 11th, 2004 6:57:09 PM
Ashira starts at the sound of her armor clinking (since I figure Mookie's stone was dispelled). Grabbing Valanthe's arm with a tight squeeze. Looks like the game was just about up... Seeing the tent rustle as the invisible Vauhwyt plays with it, Ashira decides the time for subtlety is over. She gently thrusts her shortsword through the tent material and cuts a large slit in the back..then she pops her head through the slit, taking a good look inside (Spot=26). If it looks like the coast is clear, she enters the tent and goes looking for that book...
Ashira's position is F4
Theodore and Macaw Monday October 11th, 2004 9:44:40 PM
OOC - Theodore's position is P11. This is kind of like battleship!!
Vorelle d20+6=11 d20+6=16 Monday October 11th, 2004 9:58:38 PM
Vorelle continues to wait, watch, and listen.
[Spot 11; Listen 16]
[I'm a little turned around, but I think Vorelle is somewhere in the vicinity of Q8]
Ari Monday October 11th, 2004 10:41:14 PM
(ooc working on climbing tree at O:P-9:10 as far as I know it.)
Rigging d20+12=22 Monday October 11th, 2004 10:48:27 PM
Rigging slowly lowers the body of the now dead orc he just killed to the deck. He wipes his blades on the dead sentry's cloak and then swears silently to himself. He got blood on his pants! He really needs to get some clothes like Redux has.
Rigging then takes a good look around and notices some of the enemy taking an interest in the slave pen. He pulls out his wand of fireballs and readies it.
He will call softly down to the slave freeing part of the group, "You have company coming. Get those folks out quickly."
Redux (Fly, Mage Armor, Greater Invis, AC20, hp52) Monday October 11th, 2004 11:59:20 PM
The mage (about Q11) flys down to the door of the cage and offers his dagger to begin slicing the bindings and then will fly back up.
Narrative DM Jan Tuesday October 12th, 2004 1:47:23 AM
Recap on DM Dominic's post - Tharilon (ogre-mage) moves towards the leader Lilia (half-orc). Ynvar (half-orc) looks around the camp from by the fire watching the slavers. Korik (ogre) starts to head towards the slave pens. Miglic (half-orc) moves with Korik towards the slave pens. Gudris (half-orc) looks around the camp. Hormstein (orc) heads towards the leaders tent. Milug (half-orc) wanders over towards Korik. Juggluc (orc) stands near the fire with Ynvar. Quarivor (ogre) stands outside the large tent.
The Leader's Tent -
Vauhwyt peeps through a hole in the tent, and sees a little of the interior, but not much. Jars of 'something' stacked on a table.
(Spell Check 18) if the magic starts to melt, everything becomes a lot more audible. Throwing caution to the wind, Ashira slices open a hole in the tent - there, thats better, she gets a good view of the circular interior - piles of skins, a table full of jars, rolled-up scrolls, and on another table, not too far away - a huge tome.
The tent itself twitches as part of it's wall is sliced open. Lilia (NPC leader), and Erik (NPC Slaver) glance at one another and start to move with a purpose. Something flexes beneath Lilia's cloak. Close by are a motley crew of nasties - Tharilon Ynvar Juggluc Last but not least, and built like a brick outhouse, is the ogre Quarivor No wait - another approaches - orc Hormstein.
The Slaver Pen -
The group moves forward to the rescue! Ari shins up the tree!
It's looking like two poles will need to be taken out, so that the slaves can squeeze through. Each pole is attached top and bottom (basically in two places) with thick rope. It will take one round to saw through one section of rope with a sharp blade - sword or knife. It will take one round to slice vertically downward through two sections of rope. Oh - and there's a big clunky padlock on the gate - DC 15. The gate is 5 poles wide, and if opened, you could get an elephant through it.
On guard - Dietrich spots a distant torch, moving this way. Bet it's not moving of it's own accord, either. Vorelle hears gruff chatter, also coming from that direction.
Rigging, up on the guard Tower, sees Korik, Miglic and Milug (NPCs) moving toward the pen. At their current speed - it's going to be 3 rounds before they're upon the group = even less for their senses to come into play.
Inside the pen, Appolo and the others see faces on the other side of the fence.
Bart d20=16 Tuesday October 12th, 2004 1:58:46 AM
BArt is thje near the slavepen, he sees Appollo hi buddy wonder how you have come here. Suddenly there is a bastard sword in Bart hands (glove of storing) with a mighty slash bart cuts the rope from the top to the bottom.
Valanthe [HP 100, AC 23] Tuesday October 12th, 2004 3:29:57 AM
"Ashira,concentrate on what we came here to do. I shall hand things the best I can." Valanthe says in elvish. "Oh and please step aside."
Valanthe takes several deep breaths, her eyes focused and unblinking. Her hands clench tightly around the grip of her sword and the strap of her shield as the rage takes over.
ooc: Valanthe is spending the round to rage
Vauhwyt (AC19, HP19) and Mookie (AC19, HP9) (Invisible, Silent, Mage Armor, Bless, Barkskin) d20+3=17 d20+9=10 d20+7=27 Tuesday October 12th, 2004 7:26:30 AM
Results of the Dispel Magic on Vauhwyt and Mookie (assuming Area Dispel version): -- Check for Mookie's Silence (caster level 3) is 17 = dispelled. -- Check for Vauhwyt's Barkskin (caster level 9) is 10 = dispelled. (no need for more checks -- the Area Dispel takes down one effect per person and then ends for that person)
The silence ends; Mookie dashes over to Vauhwyt and hides himself away.
Vauhwyt, whose Barkskin potion is also dispelled, is glad that at least the invisibility did not end.
She sneaks invisibly through the big gash Ashira made in the tent, trying hard not to touch the fabric of the tent. "Wowsy!" she thinks to her self as she glides silently through, "I am in the groove!" [Natural 20 on the move silent check = auto success]
She moves to the book, or at least 40 feet closer to it. [That's a double move for Vauhwyt, walking at half speed so as to incur no penalty to the move silent check.] She certainly will not touch it this round, even if she has the chance. She does not have time to both pick it up and to stow it away. To do both of those will take a full round.
Spells: Bless (V&M) (from Olyn) (12 rounds of 20 used) Mage Armor (V) (36 minutes of 60 used) Mage Armor (M) (36 minutes of 60 used) Message (Mookie) (12 rounds of 100 used) Invisible (13 rounds of 30 used before needing to reactivate ring) Silence (dispelled) Barkskin +3 potion (dispelled) Enlarge (V) (expired) Darkness (expired) Message (expired)
Borrowed Items from Ashira: Potion Cure Moderate Wounds Ring of Limited Invisibility
Olyn ac20, hp19, Bless d20=15 d20+3=15 Tuesday October 12th, 2004 8:50:27 AM
moving half his speed when he hears the whisper of incoming trouble, Olyn will head towards the slave pen knowing his healing abilities are soon to be needed.
doing so quietly and hiding in the shadows.
hide: 15 move silently: 15
Jager d20+6=26 Tuesday October 12th, 2004 9:01:35 AM
Jager quickly scans the slave pen and spots (spot 26) the bird and thinks to himself as his belly grumbles "I have to get out of hear, and that bird might make a tasty snack on the way out."
Jager has been a slave for too long to hope for rescue, but what is that he see out in the woods???
Jager chastises himself again for the pleasure of killing that third guard when he should have been escaping, but he would have killed 100 more for his sisters death he consoles himself again.
Appolo Tuesday October 12th, 2004 12:49:21 PM
Appolo nods to the bird and turns to the others,he says quietly"Ok folks looks like the rescue team is here.Get ready to move and move fast.Oh a be quiet."
He then sees Bart and smiles,he notices Barts quizzical look and just puts his hands up and shrugs.As soon as the rope is cut Appolo looks at the rest of the"Ok come people lets pulll this thing open alittle"ONce the post is pulled a little to the side Appolo squirms through."Hey buddy.You wouldn't happen to have an extra dagger or something do ya?"He says to Bart.
Zayne d8+1=9 d20+5=18 d20+5=15 Tuesday October 12th, 2004 12:55:21 PM
Looking at the dwarf and trying a rueful smile he cuts through the rope.(Damage 9)
He watches as the dwarf heads into the camp,and looks back at Vorelle,and Theo. Overexaggerating the words he mouths,"I will be right back."
He then ducks in after the dwarf,careful not to make too much noise.(Hide 18 Move Silently 15)
Theodore and Macaw d20+2=14 d20+2=22 Tuesday October 12th, 2004 2:24:53 PM
Theodore hears Rigging's whispered warning of approaching bad guys and drops his wand while pulling forth a thin rod and a bit of wool.
"I'm going to try to distract the coming guards," he says to Vorelle. "Keep everyone focused on getting the slaves out...and quietly." That said, Theodore crouches and attempts to move along the slave pen to get to the southern side so that he might get a better position for casting a spell.
(Hide = 14, move silently = 22 {natural 20} Essentially trying to get as close to L13 as possible with one round of movement. The next round, depending if the guards still aren't the wiser, he moves closer is he's not already at L13 and will cast a spell.)
Nezamil Ac 18 Hp 45/53 (bless 2nd rd) d20+4=16 Tuesday October 12th, 2004 4:27:41 PM
As Zayne slashes thru the rope fencing the dwarf reaches out and grabs the post with both hands and shakes it violently in a side to side motion then "gggrrrrrr" yanks(d20+4=16 str ch ) it up and out of the hole " if Nezamil can squeeze thru he will if not then " slash again " encourages the dwarf to Zayne " and repeats removing another "ggrrr" post " good going " comments Nezamil to Zayne
The Cleric peeks into the slavepen after hearing Riggings news of impending arrival of enemy forces
postion 0-12 corner of slavepen
OOC can we get a postion report on the bad guys ;-)
Vorelle [AC 17; HP 17/17] d20+8=27 d20+6=23 d20+6=17 d8+1=2 Tuesday October 12th, 2004 4:36:28 PM
Carefully, Vorelle nocks an arrow and half-draws [Move Silently 27]. She peers into the darkness where she hears the voices approaching, trying to make out a target [Spot 23].
If all heck breaks loose and she has a target, she will fire. [Hit AC 17 for 2 points] She will not shoot first, however; only in response to a direct threat or general combat.
Marteaus Group - DM Dominic Tuesday October 12th, 2004 7:17:46 PM
Ynvar (half-orc).readies his long sword while continuing towards the slave pens. Korik (ogre) readies his great axe while continuing towards the slave pens. Miglic (half-orc) readies his great axe while continuing towards the slave pens. Gudris (half-orc) casts bless while continuing towards the slave pens. Milug (half-orc) readies his long sword while continuing towards the slave pens. Juggluc (orc) readies his heavy mace while continuing towards the slave pens.
Hormstein (orc) casts bless Tharilon (ogre-mage) casts mage armor. Quarivor (ogre) turns towards the tent then enters the tent. Lilia casts mage armor.
Rigging ac 24 shield, mage armor, blinking, greater invisiblity, bless 6d6(5+6+6+4+4+3)=28 d100=37 Tuesday October 12th, 2004 8:23:04 PM
Rigging sees Miglic, Koric, and Milug heading for the slave pens readying weapons with another group of 3 not far behind.
With his vantage point, he notices the activity around the command tent and figures that the others might be in trouble. His wife and friends are in there! Time for some distractions
He centers his wand of fireballs on the 3 closest and activates it sending a fireball streaming towards them and exploding amongst them with a roar. (wand is of 6th level ability 28 points of damage, half reflex save of dc 17 versus dex)
rolled for blink spell and it didn't effect the spell.
He will then crouch down to use the tower as cover.
Swirl will circle above to keep his master informed of anything he sees, not yet taking any actions in the combat.
mage armor hours bless ? blinking 8 rounds left greater invisiblity 57 rounds left shield 55 rounds left cat's grace 56 rounds left
Rose d20+9=16 d20+7=19 d20+6=11 d20+7=25 d20+5=12 d20+5=17 d20+6=20 Tuesday October 12th, 2004 8:42:09 PM
Rose has been wiggling and trying to see what's in the tent, but Vauhwyt is hogging the hole. When she notices Vauhwyt start to get mad she scoots over by Ashira and upon seeing the hole Ashira cut into the wall Rose will look through it. If she doesnt see anything dangerous she will wiggle through the hole and grab the tome putting it into her bag of holding. Then take a look at the rest of the room to see if there is anything else that could be useful if she grabbed it.
ooc: sorry for not posting. was rose affected by the dispel?
Walter OOC Tuesday October 12th, 2004 9:11:55 PM
I'm heading to work so I won't be able to respond tonight. Will do my best to post in the morning.
Ashira (AC 22 HP 87/87, Bull's Strength, Greater Invisibility....Position F4...Casting Entangle and Guarding hole in tent) d20=16 d20+16=35 Tuesday October 12th, 2004 10:03:04 PM
The half-elf smiles invisibly as she feels too bodies push past her and into the tent. Ah..youth And then Val heads out for some action... Swearing in hushed whispers, Ashira mutters a few words and casts Entangle directly in front of the tent area (centered on the line between CD 56...Refl. DC 13), hoping to buy a few seconds of time... Swords in hand, Ashira stands outside of the tent, guarding the exit for Vauhwyt and Rose (Spot=35). As Rigging's fireball lights up the night, Ashira winces knowing that in the very near future she would quite literally be in the middle of the lion's den.
greater invisiblity 57 rounds left
OOC....By my figuring, the only thing that should have been dispeled was the silence with Mookie. Ashira, Vauhwyt and Rose should have had the tent between them and Lilia, so they shouldn't have been effected.
What happened to the d20 for initiative??? If we're still doing that, Ashira's initiative is 16.
Redux (Fly, Mage Armor, Greater Invis, AC20, hp52) d20+7=17 d20=20 3d4(1+4+3)+3=11 Tuesday October 12th, 2004 11:42:07 PM
Redux looks to see the approaching collection of bad'uns.(spot=17, initiative=20). When he sees the flash of light he mutters "That must be the signal." With that, he lets loose on the best target he has for 3 magic missiles (11pts dmg). He'll then fly up and at a diagonal left of his present position and prepares his next attack.
Slavers (NPC's....ADM Nellie) d20=12 (Slavers init) d20+4=21 (Erik's Wis check to determine the direction of the fireball) d20+4=22 (Erik's Spot) d20+17=19 (Alton's Hide) d6=4 (Muhammad's Mirror Images) Wednesday October 13th, 2004 12:58:10 AM
Suddenly, there is a flash of light, and the festivities are suddenly interrupted by the smell of burning flesh and various screams...
Erik's attention suddenly changes from the command tent to the sight of the fireball explosion. The giant of a man scans the area and then looks calculatingly into the night.. He points up into the guard tower where Rigging is in and shouts out "Over there...the fireball came from over there!!" His fingers move in intricate lines and tracings, and he suddenly phases out of existence (Casting Blink). A large group of humanoids that were gathered in the general area of CD 5,6,7 look up in confusion and begin to make their way over to the command tent...
Laucivil ,male elf----Casts a spell (Haste) and moves toward Erik Ao, male human---Casts a spell (Resist Energy-Fire)Unsheathes a long and short sword and moves toward Erik Dagerk, male dwarf---Pulls a NASTY looking Great Axe from his back and moves toward Erik Bombia, female dwarf---Pulls a longsword and moves toward Erik Angisz, male half-orc---Looks around rather dimly...searches for his spiked chain...which he must have misplaced in the party Mahmud, male human---Pulls his bastard sword and moves toward...you guessed it...Erik. Alton, male Halfling---Draws a dagger and attempts to blend into the shadows (Hide 19) as he travels to Erik. Alia, female half-orc---Casts a spell (Spell Immunity-Fireball) and heads cautiously toward her leader. Muhammed, male human---Casts a spell (Mirror Image) and all 5 of him head toward Erik.
Erik, male human (Casting blink)
The group appears to be well equipped, and even though most of them are headed toward the same direction, they make sure to spread out among themselves...apparently they been in a combat or two. Enough to know not to bunch up so as to make convenient targets for area spells...
Narrative DM Jan Wednesday October 13th, 2004 1:32:22 AM
The Leaders Tent -
Vauhwyt pushes through the hole in the tent, making it even wider, while Valanthe gets ready to do what she does best, feeling the beast within empower her. Little Rose wriggles through to join Vauhwyt. The book - it's right there! Rose tries to grab it, but goodness gracious - it's heavy! About 20lbs! It drops to the floor, and she reckons she'll have to drag it in order to get into the bag of holding. Ugh... and what's it covered with... feels like flesh.... At least it isn't trapped or anything. THEN - Right at that moment, a huge ogre - Quarivor, enters the tent via the 'official' entrance. The creature looks confused. The book is on the floor, and there's a bloomin' great hole in the tent. Well ya know, he could always wave his weapon around a bit. Might stir something up, and it looks like he might just do that.
Outside, Ashira sees the fireball, shortly followed by some magic missiles, erupting over by the distant slave pen. There seem to be others, milling and gathering around on the other side of the tent, also. Possibly the Slavers she saw.
Shortly after that, is a single, distant roar that seems to be answered by every single orc in the camp.
Things are starting to look lively. Very lively indeed!
The Slave Pen -
Bart's sword slices deftly through the ropes! That's one pole loose! Zayne's axe makes swift work of ropes holding another pole! Nezamil starts hauling away, helped by Appolo and some of the others from inside the pen! There's now a reasonable gap for everyone to squeeze through. So far, so good. It's time to leave - and quickly. THEN -
BAM!!! A fireball lights up the sky just west of the pen! It's followed by 3 magic missiles that scream through the air - illuminating three huge assailants approaching the pen.
From Theo's position, he can see three more figures right on their tail and approaching fast!
Dogs in a nearby pen start barking crazily, and there's a lone cry - one Dietrich will recognize as a call for help, and to arms. it's coming from one of the injured orcs, and it's answered by a great roar from over by the distant campfire - about 190 voices worth of roar. Help is on the way, apparently.
Vorelle looses an arrow. So does Dietrich.
Showtime!
((OOC - Okay, combat city everyone. Don't forget your Init rolls from now on - a straight D20))
((Dam so far, 28 from fireball, 11 from MMs, 2 and 7 from arrows - aimed toward Korik, Miglic and Milug))
Both Swirl and Redux got a good glimpse of what was what up in the air. If the first three creatures are still standing, then they'll be in melee range in the next round - the three that follow them - the round after that. There's also a distant, dark shift over by the campfire, which probably means there's about 190 orcs mobilizing and getting ready to move this way.
Bart d20=14 d20+15=32 d20+15=23 d10+9=19 d10+9=15 Wednesday October 13th, 2004 6:53:46 AM
Ini 14 Sure Appollo you thoughts where mine here you have a dagger, make good use of it, I will cover the retreat. Bart moves towards the Orcs that are comming in his direction, making an spring attack on the Oger (Korick) (threat 32, crit 23 for 19+15)
Vauhwyt (AC19, HP19) and Mookie (AC19, HP9) (Invisible, Silent, Mage Armor, Bless) Wednesday October 13th, 2004 8:20:16 AM
Vauuhwyt, standing next to Rose and the fallen book, takes a five foot step so that she is standing over the book (a free action). Then she drops to the ground (a free action). She does so because when she picks up the book, she does not want it to seem to rise up into the air. Then she picks it up (a move action) -- although in this case, "up" is a relative word since Vauhwyt is prone), and then she stows the book away carefully (it should be invisible now too).
As she handles the thing, she grimaces, but her grip is really secure. She whispers to Rose, "I've got it."
Spells: Bless (V&M) (from Olyn) (13 rounds of 20 used) Mage Armor (V) (36 minutes of 60 used) Mage Armor (M) (36 minutes of 60 used) Message (Mookie) (13 rounds of 100 used) Invisible (14 rounds of 30 used before needing to reactivate ring) Silence (dispelled) Barkskin +3 potion (dispelled) Enlarge (V) (expired) Darkness (expired) Message (expired)
Borrowed Items from Ashira: Potion Cure Moderate Wounds Ring of Limited Invisibility
Olyn ac20, hp19, Bless d20=16 Wednesday October 13th, 2004 8:34:11 AM
muttering idiot when the fireball goes off, and seeing our initiative fade quickly with the attack of magic missiles. not to mention hearing a 190 orcs all screaming their battle cries, and seeing that everyone is here and noone is with the boats, sabotaging them like the plan was, Olyn will race (times 4 movement) to the boats.
Initiative of 16
Jager: AC 21 d20=5 d20+6=17 d20+6=21 d20+2=3 Wednesday October 13th, 2004 9:22:16 AM
Jager is confused. Are these people actually attempting to rescue him. That has never happened before.
Jager gets excited at his chance at freedom and starts moving to the opening.
Once the fireball goes off, Jager's senses go on high alert. (Int. 5, Spot 17 Listen 21, Spellcraft 3). Jager is searching for his tools or any that will help although he knows he needs none in the short term. Jager sees the magic missles and exclaims to himself "Wizards. They are almost as much fun to kill as slavers."
Jager concentrates on getting out of the slave pen and looking for retribution. Through thin lips Jager says "Pay back time!"
Theodore and Macaw HP 8 AC 16 (mage armor) d4+1=5 d20=12 Wednesday October 13th, 2004 11:31:37 AM
"Darn it," he whispers to himself at the exploding fireball, the closest thing to a swear that Theodore could muster.
He quickly stand from his hiding place and fires a single magic missile at one of the approaching half orcs, pointing with his rod as he fires. He then quickly retreats back to the point where his friends are freeing the slaves. "Hurry, bad guys are coming! Back to the ships."
(Initiative = 12, magic missile with help of rod of lesser enlarge spell, giving it a range of 240 ft damage = 5.)
Rose Wednesday October 13th, 2004 12:21:45 PM
When Rose hears Vauhwyt she quickly climbs on top of the warm furry invisible thing in front of her and holds on tightly hoping she doesnt hurt Vauhwyt.
spells: mage armor other spells unknown. what spells if any was rose hit with before taking off with vauhwyt and the others?
Ashira (AC 22 HP 87/87, Bull's Strength, Greater Invisibility....Position F4...Guarding hole in tent) d20=16 d20+16=25 Wednesday October 13th, 2004 2:04:52 PM
Swallowing the lump in her throat, Ashira keeps watch outside...keeping an eye on the slavers and what appears to be the orc leaders (Spot=25). She hopes and prays that Valanthe aims her strike well, cause if she doesn't, it could well cost her her life. Cocking her head slightly, she whispers urgently into the the tent. "Ok...time to go...now!" As she shifts her weight from foot to foot, she wonders about the success of her entangle spell she cast last round. ;)
greater invisiblity 56 rounds left
Zayne d20+6=17 d6=5 d20+5=24 Wednesday October 13th, 2004 4:19:53 PM
Seeing that Nezamil is doing fine he moves up alongside Vorelle and help with "crowd control". (AC 17 damage 6)
Doing his best to keep an eye out for any unpleasent surprises.(Spot 24)
Zayne d20+6=17 d6=5 d20+5=24 d20=11 Wednesday October 13th, 2004 4:20:14 PM
Seeing that Nezamil is doing fine he moves up alongside Vorelle and help with "crowd control". (AC 17 damage 6)
Doing his best to keep an eye out for any unpleasent surprises.(Spot 24)
Initiative 11
Ryan (AC:17 Hp:11) Neen (AC:19 Hp:5) (Mage Armour,Bless) d20=15 d20+8=15 Wednesday October 13th, 2004 4:34:27 PM
Init:15 Ryan crouches down and whispers something in Neens ear. He then stands up and speaks to all the slaves. "Come on this way lads lets go, follow the black cat to freedom" Neen will lead all the slaves out of the camp to the boats with Ryan covering the rear (Ryan Diplomacy: 15)
Vorelle d20+6=13 d20+1=6 Wednesday October 13th, 2004 4:39:01 PM
Vorelle's heart leaps into her throat when she hears the chilling sound of 200 orcs shouting war cries. She holds her ground, though, and fires another arrow--aiming, if possible, for an already-wounded orc.
[Hit AC 13 for 6 points]
Nezamil Ac 21(Ac24 w/shield) Hp 45/53 (bless 3rd rd , shield of faith 60/60) d20=14 Wednesday October 13th, 2004 5:17:33 PM
A surprised look appears on the dwarfs face as he see's Appolo but changes to a smirk " i don't know how you got here but wait till Val finds out "
Nezamil turns and steps thru the hole in the fence and waves franticly for the now freed slaves to hurry thru ...pointing them in the direction of the boats "hurry the boats are that way "
Hearing the whistle of arrows overhead and the roar from the camp " well looks like they know we're here huh Zayne " comments Nezamil
glancing to see that Zayne is joining his quiet but professional compatriot " ah good teamwork those two " as he glances at Bart charge towards the 3 guards
The Cleric knowing battle is at hand reaches into a pouch and pulls out a small piece of parchment " Domi grant a believer a shield of faith " and gestures to release Domi's energy (casting shield of faith )(+3 Ac)
The dwarf then reaches over his shoulder and slides his shield off readying it for action next rd
Int 14 Coordinates 0-12 corner of slavepen
Rigging ac 24 hps cats grace, greater invisiblity, blink, mage armor, shield d20=10 6d6(3+4+4+4+5+5)=25 d100=59 Wednesday October 13th, 2004 7:06:28 PM
Rigging sees a clump of bigger looking bad guys and he launches a fireball at them from his wand. He explodes the fireball centering it on Eric as he is the center of attention. 25 points of damage. dc 17 vs reflex. Made blink check.
He will try and get as many as possible and then decide to get out the tower as he expects it will get very uncomfortable their soon.
For his movement he will use his slippers of spiderclimb and run down the side of the tower to the ground.
mage armor hours bless ? blinking 7 rounds left greater invisiblity 56 rounds left shield 54 rounds left cat's grace 55 rounds left
ooc DM Dominic Wednesday October 13th, 2004 8:27:39 PM
will be posting in the morning.
Ari HP 50 AC 24 (Bulls strenght, Cats Grace (4 min each), Spider Climb (40 Minutes), Shield 4 min) (4th post since casting) d20+6=11 d20+6=23 d6=1 Wednesday October 13th, 2004 8:42:22 PM
Seeing the approaching 3, Ari does his best to pick the closest one and nail his feet to the ground.
Releasing his arrows, Ari moves further out out on the branch he's on, to change position as much as he can.
(AC 11 and 23 thinking maybe one hit. Character sheet not available, for 4 points of dam, I believe)
Valanthe [HP 116, AC 21, Rage 1 of 8] d20+18=36 d20+18=27 d20+13=16 2d6(1+6)+20=27 Wednesday October 13th, 2004 8:55:49 PM
Valanthe stood before the half-orc woman, anger burning in her eyes. She was beyond rational thought at this point so she let out a primal scream and brought down her enchanted blade upon her.
ooc: crit hit for 27, second attack hit ac 16 which I believe misses.
Redux (Fly, Mage Armor, Greater Invis, AC20, hp52) d20=17 3d4(3+2+2)+3=10 Thursday October 14th, 2004 12:02:57 AM
Intit=17 Redux spends half his flight going down to near Bart and lets fly another charge of MM for 10 pts. "Bart, we can't stay and fight. Just hold a line so the others can continue their part of the plan, then back off." He'll then fly towards the other side of Bart and up as fast as he can.
Slavers (NPC's----ADM Nellie) d20+9=16 (Erik's Reflex) d10=2 d10=1 d20+4=19 (Laucivil's Reflex) d8+1=6 (Laucivil's healing) d20+2=4 (Laucivil's spot) d20+17=19 (Alton's Hid) d20=9 (Slaver's Init) Thursday October 14th, 2004 1:11:09 AM
Having gathered round their leader, the slavers make a more than tempting target for Rigging and he obligingly fires off a fireball in their ranks...
Slaver's Initiative....9
Erik---Try as he might, the tall man is unable to dodge the incoming inferno, he grunts in pain as the flames lick his body. Though even from his remote location, Rigging's veteran eyes notice that the man doesn't seem to be as wounded as he should be. Managing a quick bow toward the orc leader, Erik flashes an overly bright smile. "Ga'al be praised... We were pleased to fill your needs, but I am afraid that we must take out leave..." As he turns to make a quick exit toward the dock area, Erik calls over his shoulder "And may Waard watch over you." Motioning to his men, the slaver beat a hasty retreat toward his docked boat.
Laucivil---The lone elf of the company also manages to get caught in the fringe of the fireball. Although he dodges most of the flames, he screams out in pain...he ain't looking so hot...or then again...maybe he is. Moving with unbelievable speed, the elf pulls out and downs a potion (Cure Light Wounds) and some of his wounds heal up. He looks around at the tower, but apparently doesn't spot anything.
Following Erik's lead, all of the slavers begin to make a hasty, but orderly retreat toward the harbor area...
Summary of Slaver's Laucivil (M5) ,male elf----Hasted Ao (J3), male human--- (Resist Energy-Fire)...readied longsword and shortsword Dagerk (L2), male dwarf---Great axe at the ready Bombia (J5), female dwarf---Readied longsword Angisz (H6), male half-orc---Finally finds his spiked chain and makes haste to join up with the others Mahmud (L6), male human---Readied bastard sword Alton(I4), male Halfling---Readied dagger, Hide 19 Alia(O5), female half-orc--- Immunity-Fireball Muhammed (J2ish), male human--- Mirror Image-5 Erik (N3), male humane---Blink
Monster INIT d20=12 Thursday October 14th, 2004 2:16:15 AM
12
Narrative DM Jan d20+5=13 3d8(7+8+2)=17 d4=4 d20+8=15 d8+3=8 Thursday October 14th, 2004 3:03:29 AM
Things start happening way too fast!
The Leaders Tent -
Vauhwyt drags the book beneath her prone body. It's funny how, so close to the ground, her ears pick up a slight ba-dum, ba-dum, ba-dum sound. Or maybe it isn't a sound at all, more like a vibration. Not that she has much chance to ponder on it as the Ogre's club comes crashing down, as the beast flies into a temper, lashing at the book thats just disappeared - missing the liontaur's muzzle by about an inch! It then takes what it hopes to be a five foot step, loses its balance, due to the fact that it's tootsies are all tangled up in some weeds that have appeared from nowhere and falls straight toward the prone liontaur! Vauhwyt - Reflex check DC 13, or have the thing land on top of you for 6 subdual damage.
Rose takes cover with the liontaur, and outside the tent - Ashira sees a distant fireball get closer, and closer and closer - until *BAM!!* - it explodes not too far away, leaving her eyesight full of dancing spots.
The fireball has hit the Slavers and the "Leader". That's it - the Slaver men are off, heading down the path that leads back to the harbour. The aquatic elf might take note that the path may also be their only escape route, because right now - there are about 200 orcs - all riled up and raring to go - between them and the rest of the group over by the slave pen. And to make matters worse - there is Valanthe, an embodiment of rage, taking a vicious, and what looks to be highly effective swipe at the "Leader" - right after the fireball came down.
From Valanthe's point of view, she can see flames from the fireball dance across the Leader's skin like it's no trouble at all. Whack! She gives it all she's got, and the leader spins around, it's hood falling, to reveal a hideous face only it's mother would love. The body of the cloak shifts backward and a rather impressive pair of batwings unfurl. A half-fiend! The creature roars in anger, but then spits out a curse. Suddenly the surrounding air, in a 20ft radius (just missed the tent I think), becomes dark, choking and cloying - unhealthy and unholy. Casting UNHOLY BLIGHT. 17 DAM +4 rounds of Sickness Partial Will Save DC 18 for half dam and no sickness.
At the Slave Pen -
The slaves push and shove their way clear, and set off in hot pursuit of Olyn, and a small black cat! It's going to take about 7 minutes at a flat run to get back to the boats. As Nezamil calls on holy protection, Bart and Redux find themselves at the vanguard of the defense.
Ari stays up the tree, Rigging climbs down from the Tower after the far flung fireball. Arrows, blades and magic missiles fly through the air, as the group try to stop the orcs.
Miglic and Milug are down. The Ogre Korik is made of sterner stuff however and answers Bart in kind with a massive swing of his axe - hitting AC 15 for 8 hps.
Ynvar, Gudris and Juggluk are coming up on melee range.
Two sounds fill the air, the growing roar of the oncoming Horde, and - something like rolling thunder. The thunder sound is accompanied by a slight tremor in the ground that everyone can feel.
((Dominic - dive in for the next round))
Vauhwyt (AC19, HP19 (-6 nonlethal)) and Mookie (AC19, HP9) (Invisible, Silent, Mage Armor, Bless) d20+4=10 Thursday October 14th, 2004 6:17:25 AM
"Oof!" The ogre crashes down on Vauhwyt, and she struggles for a second to catch her breath.
Her first priority is to get away. But Rose is clinging to her, fully visible, which is dangerous both to Rose and to Vauhwyt. But Rose is too big to go back in Vauhwyt's pack -- that only worked when Vauhwyt was enlarged.
"Well, there's nothing for it," Vauhwyt thinks. She stands up (a move action that provokes an attack of opportunity -- but at least there is the 50% miss chance from being invisible). Then she moves 40 feet back and hopefully out of the tent through the hole Ashira cut earlier.
Vauhwyt hopes the book is stowed away, so it will not reveal her position. But Rose, clinging to her, sure will, and so will the movement of the tent as she exits. Well, once again, she just has to hope for that 50% miss chance to save her.
(Note that the ogre, with his 10-foot reach, also might get an attack of opportunity on Vauhwyt or Rose as Vauhwyt makes her getaway. But at least he is prone, so it would be an attack at a penalty.)
Spells: Bless (V&M) (from Olyn) (14 rounds of 20 used) Mage Armor (V) (36 minutes of 60 used) Mage Armor (M) (36 minutes of 60 used) Message (Mookie) (14 rounds of 100 used) Invisible (15 rounds of 30 used before needing to reactivate ring) Silence (dispelled) Barkskin +3 potion (dispelled) Enlarge (V) (expired) Darkness (expired) Message (expired)
Borrowed Items from Ashira: Potion Cure Moderate Wounds Ring of Limited Invisibility
Rigging ac 24 hps cats grace, greater invisiblity, blink, mage armor, shield d100=16 d20=7 Thursday October 14th, 2004 7:47:33 AM
Rigging sees the mass of orcs starting to move towards the slave pens in response to his fireball, smiles almost evilly, and raises his wand again. He launches a beautiful fire ball....off into the etheral plain. (OOC Thanks Nellie, know you would curse me! Didn't make blink roll.)
Rigging wll start moving towards the north to get a better angle on the charging foe. Moves 30'.
mage armor hours bless ? blinking 6 rounds left greater invisiblity 55 rounds left shield 53 rounds left cat's grace 54 rounds left
Initative roll 7
Olyn hp19, ac20, Bless d20=9 Thursday October 14th, 2004 8:11:40 AM
round 2 of a X4 run towards the boat.
(do i need to roll init again, if so, a 9)
Jager: AC 19 (20 vs the dwarf, dodge) HP 58 d20=14 d20+2=18 d20+6=18 Thursday October 14th, 2004 9:47:10 AM
Int 14 Coordinates 012 (???) Just outside the slave pen
Jager exits the slave pen only wearing his simple cloths and hears the dwarf call for all to head for the boats. Jager checks the dwarf as he appears to be a cleric in an attempt to discern his calling (knowledge relgion 18). Once leaving the slave pen Jager addresses the dwarf as he appears to be the leader "Stout one, if you are truely attempting to free the slaves, which it appears, I would prefer to go kill slavers and wizards as opposed to going to the boats."
Jager scans the surrounding area for signs of his tools (spot 18).
Bart Ac 24 hp62/62 d20+14=31 d20+14=31 d20+9=16 d10+9=16 d10+9=11 d6=5 d10+9=19 d20=19 Thursday October 14th, 2004 10:34:36 AM
The ogre missed bart in his last round, Bart is to quick to be hit by him Bart has forgotten his new feature on his sword, he activites its shocking abilitie, suddenly his sword flikkers and bursts in an blue electric light. Bart makes an other attack on the ogre (threat 31 crit 31 for 16+11 physical +5 shock dam) his second attack is not so well aimed as the first on, maybe it has only scratched the armor of the monster (ac 16 for 19) ini 19. BArt aspects the ogre is dead or at least severly wounded and takes a few steps back, ready to react on an other threat and dodging an possible counter attack (another +1 on Ac)
Bart Thursday October 14th, 2004 10:36:00 AM
I forgot to Mention the +3 on Ac from Nezamils spell
Rose hp: 12/12 AC 18 d20+3=11 d3=1 Thursday October 14th, 2004 12:05:03 PM
Rose quickly realizes that she didnt turn invisible when on Vauhwyt and jumps off pointing her finger at the ogre and having a small white light fly towards him.
cast ray of frost ranged touch: 11 damage: 1
rose continued Thursday October 14th, 2004 12:05:56 PM
Rose then runs towards the nearest tree.
Theodore and Macaw HP 8 AC 16 (mage armor) d20+2=13 Thursday October 14th, 2004 12:38:22 PM
Theodore moves along with the retreating party, staying near the rear in case any further distractions are needed. "Don't forget about the others," he says as he passes by any allies remaining behind.
At Theodore's mental command, Macaw flaps off towards the main tent, where the women should be.
Dietrich Ac 17; HP 24, blessed d20+6=19 d20+3=9 Thursday October 14th, 2004 12:47:53 PM
Dietrich (somewhere near Vorelle, P8) whistles and shows his friends the approaching torch (if it wasn't the same group that has been bombed).
He sees the fireball exploding and a big mess get started. Dietrich fires with Ashira's magic bow at the weakest looking of Ynvar, Gudris and Jugluk. Hits AC 19, damage 9
Appolo d20+4=14 d20+12=26 d20+11=20 Thursday October 14th, 2004 1:40:43 PM
Appolo looks at Bart attack the Ogre then turns to Nezamil"Where's Valanthe at.I need to get to her or she'll try to take on the whole horde bu herself.?"Appolo is clearly concernedNezamil can tell that even if he refuses to tell Appolo where she is.Appolo will charge off to find her by himself.
Weather or not Nezamil answers his question Appolo takes off to find Valanthe Moving silently and swiftly.In her direction hopefully.
Initiative 14,Move Silently 26,Hide 20.
Zayne (Initiative 14 AC 17 HP 19/19) d20=14 Thursday October 14th, 2004 2:26:01 PM
Looking around at the scenario,and thinkning to himself,"I don't have enough arrows to be a factor here. How can I stand here shooting arrows almost blindly,I have to know that I am making a difference." Setting down his bow and laying down his quiver near Vorelle's feet,"Use these if you need them. I have to set some people free." His long nose beginning to twitch as it does when he gets excited.
As he heads off to help the dwarf,he yells back over his shoulder,"What do you think Rose will be cooking after this is all over?" Chuckling he ducks back into the slave pen,drawing his battle axe just before.
When he gets back inside he looks around to see where his services can best be put to use.
Ryan (AC:17 Hp:11) Neen (AC:19 Hp:5) (Mage Armour,Bless) d20=10 d20+4=10 d6+1=7 Thursday October 14th, 2004 5:35:21 PM
Init:10 Ryan covers the rear at the rear of the slaves shooting at any pursuers.
Vorelle sees the orcs advancing, but they aren't upon her yet [right?]. She is a little taken aback by Zayne's impetuous actions, but nonetheless nocks another arrow to her bow and fires again, aiming again for a wounded orc, if possible.
[Hit AC 22 for 4 points]
Nezamil Ac 24 Hp 45/53 (bless 4th rd , shield of faith 59/60) d20=10 Thursday October 14th, 2004 9:05:36 PM
As one of the freed slaves stops and asks to help with the fight the dwarf stops and takes a closer look at him " you want to help ?"asks the startled dwarf " ...if you feel up to it by all means join us" nods Nezamil approvingly" ....i have no weapon to give you but you can grab one of the weapons of the dead orcs....Domi would be proud of the courage you show "remarks the Cleric
"they'll be plenty of weapons to choose from soon enough "growls the dwarf " lets go "
As Nezamil starts forward to help Bart he spots Zayne coming to join " Ah another couragous soul coming to help ...Domi will indeed be pleased " comments the dwarf as he moves forward, hefting his mace and tapping his shield
"Zayne i'll take the 1st beast that comes our way head on ...you flank him and we'll make short work of the orcs " Nezamils says the last word with disgust
Shield and Mace at the ready Nezamil will charge towards his shipmate Bart , keeping Zayne on one side and the couragous slave on the other forming a battle line
Int 10 postion 0-12 and charging towards Bart
Redux (Fly, Mage Armor, Greater Invis, AC20, hp52) d20=1 3d4(2+3+1)+3=9 Thursday October 14th, 2004 11:31:01 PM
(Init=1; how often do you 'want' a 1) Redux sends another charge into his next victim (dmg=9). Flying down behind the forming battleline, he strongly suggests that they begin their tactical withdrawal and he'll begin some stronger fireworks. "If the girls are going to have a chance, we need to be safe ourselves; you can't hold a charge of that strength."
Ashira (AC 22 HP 87/87, Bull's Strength, Greater Invisibility....Position F4...Guarding hole in tent) d20=12 d20+16=25 Friday October 15th, 2004 12:18:09 AM
Ashira rubs her eyes and slowly the spots disappear. She glances anxiously around the battlefield (Spot=25) and breaths a small sigh of relief as the slavers exit...at least that was one less thing she they have to worry about for now. Ashira's breath catches in her throat as she sees the hoard headed toward the slave pen, effectively cutting off their escape route. She swears mentally. If Rigging and the others are smart, they'll get to the boats and leave as fast as they can paddle. Unfortunately, the ranger knows that she and the gals can't possibly hope to catch up with the others. And if Rigging and the others leave like they should... Ashira's mind races. Ok...we need a backup plan...We could try and skirt around the orcs, but she doubts they could make it to the ships before the others leave. That left the harbor...if they headed for it now, maybe they could manage to steal a boat before the orcs figure out what's going on and make for the harbor themselves. It was risky, but it beat swimming...
Ashira's thoughts are further troubled at Val's sudden reappearance beside that....gods...that thing. Her grip on her swords tighten to the point that the hilt begins to bite into her flesh. There was no way that Val should a chance alone with that thing. She needed to get in there and help her out... But Vauhwyt and Rose needed to know what was going on, and she certainly didn't want to let them wander off into the night alone... The aquatic elf's musings are cut short by the sudden appearance of Rose and then the invisible Vauhwyt. She quickly fills the gals in on the recent happenings and her backup plan... Then she turns to where she thinks Vauhwyt is. "Look Vauhwyt, I'll be blunt... Val needs help out there. I don't want to leave you guys alone, but I can't leave her to die. The information you guys have is really important, and you need to get it out of here. You decide where we're gonna met up, and I'm gonna try and go get Val out of here..but make up your mind quick!"
greater invisiblity 55 rounds left
Slavers (NPC's---ADM Nellie) d20+4=10 Friday October 15th, 2004 12:24:41 AM
Erik casts a quick glance (Spot=10) at the half-fiend on the way out of dodge, and arches an eyebrow at the sudden appearance of the elf. Still, they got what they came for, and there was noooo way he was sticking around to see how things shook out. He and his crew continue their hasty retreat to the harbor.
Narrative DM Jan d20+3=15 2d4(3+4)=7 d4=2 Friday October 15th, 2004 1:39:50 AM
The Leaders Tent -
((Walter, I need to post, so I'm going to have to make a few assumptions))
Inside the tent - the Ogre falls in a heap, right on top of the liontaur! Vauhwyt and Rose scramble for the exit as the creature flounders and roars angrily. It lashes out, missing. (Rats!)
Outside, both liontaur and halfling find out from Ashira what's going on. Between them and the slave pen is utter chaos, and it will be nigh on impossible to go back the way they came. However, the Slaver group can just be seen disappearing into the gloom along the path that leads around to the harbour.
At the front of the tent, another potentially deadly encounter is taking place, as Valanthe - fearsome with rage, confronts the terrible creature who appears to be in charge of this rabble. The immediate area is clouded in a grey mist, and if Ashira comes close, her mind will be screaming at her to go no further. There is dread, here, and something unholy.
Then suddenly, there's burst of purple flame - a wall of it appears between the two assailants. 7 DAM to anyone within 10 ft 2 DAM to anyone within 20 ft "I zhall deal - with you - LATER!" snarls the creature to Valanthe. With a powerful beating of wings, wafting the heat of the flame toward the others, the half-fiend takes flight and hovers, her vile head looking about - apparently wanting to take stock of the entire situation.
In between the slave pen -
The Orcs, along with a scattering of deranged humans, goblins and ogres, trudge excitedly an masse toward the slave pen. There's an excitement that flits amongst them, gathering momentum and urging them onward. Ah, this was like the old days, where mass battles took place on the Plains, where a bond existed between them, where they died glorious deaths, or massacred thousands of innocents. It had been so long. Too long. But now - "For Glory!" comes the cry somewhere, in orcish. "For Glory!" comes back the howling reply of the masses, followed by "RAAHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!"
They break into a run.
Directly above them, a small raven flies toward the leaders tent. Macaw sees something rise into the air near the tent.
At the Slave Pen -
The vanguard - Bart, Nezamil, Zayne, Jager - are quickly offered battle by the three approaching orcs! (Init 4 - I'll let you guys go first)
The Ogre falls to it's knees as the combined arrows of Dietrich, Vorelle, Ari, Ryan, and magic missiles from Redux, render it unable to continue.
Appolo is all set to run after Valanthe, right up until the battle cry sounds off. It will be suicide to venture in the direction he's thinking of going.
Jager spots a crude, but servicable two-handed sword lying beside a dead orc.
As for a tactical withdrawal? Redux is correct, and from Rigging's position, and the current speed of the orc masses - the group has got 4 rounds. And thats all.
Toward the boats -
Olyn can make out the shore. One of the slaves shouts - "Do we have means of escape??" Ryan's little cat scampers along, caught up in the chase.
Bart (ac 24 hp 62/62) d20=20 d20+14=32 d20+14=30 d20+9=21 d10+9=19 d10+9=16 d6=2 d10+9=18 Friday October 15th, 2004 6:49:20 AM
Bart makes an attack on the approching orks (ini 20). His first attack is well aimed (threat 32 crit 31 for 19+16+2) Hopefully this orc is dead now. If not his second attack surely finish off the beast (ac 21 for 18. Bart is already thinking about retreating, we go after this one guys. With domis help i will cover your retreat if there are still orcs standing No active spels i believe. Shield of faith from Nezamil? Bless?
Rigging cats grace, greater invisiblity, blink, mage armor, shield d100=65 6d6(2+6+1+5+4+2)=20 d20=11 Friday October 15th, 2004 8:22:46 AM
Rigging decides to give the orcs something else to think about if they decide to recklessly charge his friends and hopefully will open up a path for the girls to get back.
He launches a fireball from his wand (made blink check) at the biggest grouping he can get. He does 20 points of damage, 10 if reflex save of 17 is made.
He will then move to the north some more 30' to throw of any area spells that might be coming his way.
Intiative roll of 11
mage armor hours bless ? blinking 5 rounds left greater invisiblity 54 rounds left shield 52 rounds left cat's grace 53 rounds left
Olyn ac20 hp19 Bless d20=3 Friday October 15th, 2004 8:30:44 AM
round 3 of X4 movement.
yelling to the freed hostages following him, he points to the boats that are for their escape. then, dropping his pack to the ground he also yells for some help grabbing flasks of oil out of the backpack, and points at the fleet of ships to pour the oil on to.
(have 8 more flasks in the backpack, in addition to the 2 in his hands) **when he is in range of the boats, to where no to hit is required, he will start opening and pouring 1 flask into each boat until all the oil is used, then, either using a flame already going, or having to make one, he will to set those boats aflame**
Initiative of 3
Valanthe [HP 97, AC 21, Rage 3 of 8] d20+8=27 Friday October 15th, 2004 9:53:37 AM
Valanthe sees her prey take flight. Her hand clenches the hilt of her blade so tightly that her knuckles pop from the strain. She saw the fire wash over the creature but it bled and that means she can kill it. Valanthe is so angry that she does not even notice the unholy feeling nor the sickness. She doesn't even know she's been injured. Screaming in rage, Valanthe runs out of the tent, looking for the leader.
ooc: Will Save 27. I tried to post yesterday but I'm heading out of town this weekend and needed to get some things done before working overnight. I was hoping to slide a post in this morning but I doubt that Valanthe would have killed the leader with another hit or two.
Theodore and Macaw HP 8 AC 16 (mage armor) d20=14 Friday October 15th, 2004 10:30:23 AM
"WAIT!" screams Theodore as he sees Olyn about to light their ships on fire. "Don't burn our boats! The orc boats are docked to the north. If you burn any of these boats, the mother boat might take offense, and we need her to get out of her. There's eight boats. Let's take them all and circle to the west coast of this island to pick up the women. Macaw will tell them to meet us there."
As Theodore speaks, Macaw finds Valanthe and Ashira outside the main tent. The raven alights on Ashira's shoulder and speaks into her ear. "Slaves freed! Orcs go east. Don't go back to boat. Boats come to you. Meet on western shore and boats pick you up. Hurry!"
Jager: AC 19 Dodge 20 Mobility 24 for AoO d20+6=13 d20+3=23 d20+3=18 d20+12=24 d20+5=21 d20+5=17 d8+1=6 d8+1=4 Friday October 15th, 2004 10:55:56 AM
Jager charges with the dwarf and his companion toward one called Bart. Jager keeps finding that he has to slow down his charge as he is much faster than his two now battle mates.
Jager scans the battlefield looking for slavers, but it appears that orcs and ogres will have to do. "Lackys of the slavers die first." Jager says to himself.
Jager sees the fireball and magic missle go off (spellcraft), but not the wizards and thinks to himself that they must be cloaked in magic. "Those are two wizards I will have to consider thanking and not killing." he adds under his breath.
ooc: If necessary Jager will tumble into battle to avoid any AoO's. (Tumble check 24) before engaging.
Jager will attack with a low kick as he comes out of his tumble (AC 21 for 6 dam) and will follow it up with a punch to the same opponent or another in range (AC 17 for 4 dam.)
Vauhwyt (AC19, HP19 (-6 nonlethal)) and Mookie (AC19, HP9) (Invisible, Mage Armor, Bless) d20+7=14 Friday October 15th, 2004 12:21:38 PM
Vauhwyt gasps, relieved to be away with the book! But then she realizes ... "The map! That map of Dirt Cty on that table! We need that! Their plans were marked on that!" she thinks.
Vauhwyt heads back into the tent, dodging any ogres, headed for the table on which she saw that map. [She'll have to pick it up and stow it away next round.]
Spells: Bless (V&M) (from Olyn) (15 rounds of 20 used) Mage Armor (V) (36 minutes of 60 used) Mage Armor (M) (36 minutes of 60 used) Message (Mookie) (15 rounds of 100 used) Invisible (16 rounds of 30 used before needing to reactivate ring) Silence (dispelled) Barkskin +3 potion (dispelled) Enlarge (V) (expired) Darkness (expired) Message (expired)
Borrowed Items from Ashira: Potion Cure Moderate Wounds Ring of Limited Invisibility
Ari HP 50 AC 24 (Bulls strenght, Cats Grace (4 min each), Spider Climb (40 Minutes), Shield 4 min) (5th post since casting) Friday October 15th, 2004 1:13:52 PM
Looking over the scene as it turns to a marching horde, no one sees the sign of pain as it flits over Ari's face. Realizing that time is the only real commodity that they have, Ari yells in common, "Get everyone to the boats. We defend people only, and retreat to the boats. We make no stand until we have to, if at all. Let's move people!!!" Not knowing if there are any language problems, Ari repeats his message in Elven. As he's doing so, he's climbing down the tree, and keeping an eye on the approaching horde. As long as they are not using arrows, Ari will retreat.
Nezamil Ac 24 Hp 45/53 bless 5th rd ,shield of faith 58/60 d20=18 d20+12=16 d8+5=7 Friday October 15th, 2004 5:04:14 PM
Int 18
Nezamil engages the orc ..shield tucked under his chin as he swings his mace in an overhead smash (d20+12=16)(d8+5=7 dam)
" lets make this quick guys " shouts the dwarf " we don't have much time before the whole mangy horde gets here " as the cleric hears Ari's words confirming that they can't hold againist the whole horde
"hope the ladies can figure a way to get to safety " flashes thru Nezamils mind
OOC Bart - shield of faith only covers Nezamil
Olyn Saturday October 16th, 2004 6:40:47 AM
for clarification, as i said before, im torching the orc's armada. i aint stupid enough to burn my way off the island.
Dietrich AC 17, HP 24, blessed d20+6=22 d8+3=7 Saturday October 16th, 2004 11:21:34 AM
Dietrich watches the ogre go down and is satisfied, though he envies his friends in close combat cutting the orcs to pieces. He sends another arrow at the incoming enemies: hits ac 22, damage 7
When the last slave passes, the fighter starts running to the boats, covering the back of the freed slaves. He is sure his friends will disengage and that strong magic will help ther retreat.
Zayne initiative (15 AC 17 HP 19/19) d20=15 d20-1=18 d20-1=19 d20-1=9 d8=1 d6=5 Saturday October 16th, 2004 12:54:31 PM
Just before the orc comes through the door,taking his free hand and drawing his handaxe.As the orc make his first step into the room Zayne makes a horizontal swing with his battleaxe aimed towards the brutes mid section,and swinging the handaxe overhand directed at the orc's shoulder.(AC 18 and a natural 20 for the other but no crit damage 1 and 5)
Looking at the slave that has decided to fight for his freedom,he thinks realizes that he is fighting the good fight right now and all his actions are just,thes orc's must be punished.
"I don't care if you understand me,but pray to whatever gods you worship,I promise today is your last!!!" Yells the young ranger,his nose twitching violently and his voice cracking with anger.
Appolo Saturday October 16th, 2004 1:59:19 PM
Appolo is about to charge off when he sees the horde ofOrc's and assorted bad guys coming,He curses quite violently"Ok folks time to leave.Redux you got anything that can cover us,you no fog or something.Bart fall back,we don't have time to play at the moment."Nezamil get moving."With that Appolo sprints back toward the boats.
Vorelle [AC 17; HP 17/17] d20=18 d20+6=14 d8+1=4 d20+8=11 d20+8=22 Sunday October 17th, 2004 11:38:06 AM
[Initiative 18]
Vorelle fires another shot at the advancing orcs. [Hit AC 14 for 4 points]
Once the slaves are out of the pen and headed toward the boats, she begins to make her own retreat. [Hide 11; Move Silently 22]
Rose d20=2 d20+6=22 d3+2=4 d20+4=16 d4=2 Sunday October 17th, 2004 11:23:45 PM
inititave: 2, if add dex then 5
Rose looks around in confusion Why is Vauhwyt running back into the tent? What is that thing Valanthe is attacking she finally makes up her mind and runs as close as possible before attacking the fiend.
if she can get within 10' she'll use a silver dagger if not then her bow.
attack dagger: 22 damage: 4 attack bow: 16, +1 if within 30' damage: 2, +1 if within 30'
DM Jan Monday October 18th, 2004 1:33:25 AM
((OOC - just got back. Brain dead. I promise a post first thing tomorrow after I've picked up the cat))
William (aka Bart) Monday October 18th, 2004 2:06:16 AM
Jan did you make a to hit roll to catch the cat? (ac16)
Ashira (AC 22 HP 87/87, Bull's Strength, Greater Invisibility....Trying to get the gals to leave) d20=9 Monday October 18th, 2004 11:20:49 AM
Ashira smiles as the Macaw heads over to the leaders tent and makes his proclamation (though how the bird managed to spot her while she was invisible...). "Yes, that's a good plan. We will meet you there, she murmurs, trying to call to much attention to herself. "Go back to your Master. We'll meet you there."
Ashira breathes a sigh of relief as the half-fiend disengages with Valanthe. Time to gather the troops and make good their esca... Wait a minute...wasn't that the invisible form of Vauhwyt brushing past her and headed back into the tent?! What in the Wold was she doing?!! Ashira turns her head toward the tent and whispers hoarsely "C'mon V let's get the shades out of here now!! We gotta go now or we're gonna be trapped." As the invisible Ashira scans the battlefield once more, she spots Rose taking air at the airborne half-fiend. Her invisible arms wave frantically, trying to wave off the attack...which is all for naught. Sighing, she moves over toward Valanthe's current position (which I'm assuming is outside the blighted area). After getting within about 10 feet of the raging barbarian, she calls out quietly in Elven "Let her be, it's time to move it. Time to go."
greater invisiblity 54 rounds left
Slavers (NPC's---ADM Nellie) d20=9 Monday October 18th, 2004 11:24:26 AM
Moving with renewed haste, the slavers head back toward the harbor...and unknowingly..towards Olyn.
Redux (Fly, Mage Armor, Greater Invis, AC20, hp52) d20=6 3d6(1+5+4)=10 Monday October 18th, 2004 11:53:46 AM
Spotting the orc's leader going airborne, a big grin forms on Redux's invisible face. He casts Phantasmal Killer (WilDC17..then Fort. DC17 or die, or if success take 10hp dam), take targeted on the half-fiend and then moves 30 feet toward the orc boats, making sure that he moves at a diagonal.
Narrative DM Jan Monday October 18th, 2004 1:45:31 PM
((Missed my save on the cat, Bart lol))
Amidst the chaos of battle -
At the Leaders Tent -
It becomes immediately obvious that to get the map on the table, Vauhwyt will have to tackle the ogre, who is standing directly in her way.
The half fiend is well out of reach of melee weapons, high in the air, about 60 ft - surveying the chaos that has erupted below her. Directly below stands Valanthe, obessed with her target - her enraged state ignoring the fact that her skin is starting to blacken because of the fire wall (another 7 DAM). Ashira tries to distract her.
Suddenly, another shape appears in the sky, next to the winged monster. It's difficult to know what it is, because it's so dark. But the blood-curdling scream coming from the half-fiend is enough to curdle anyone's blood, and she appears to be struggling with something.
Perhaps now would be a good time to leave.
((Macaw will reach the girls with the message in the next round.))
Over at the Slaver Pen -
Bart's weapon cuts down another of their immediate assailants. Various arrows and axes take down another - that leaves one, who appears to be casting something on himself.
THE ORC HORDE - is now three rounds away in terms of melee. Riggin's fireball howls amongst them, causing some disarray. However - three fireballs in reply, come streaming toward the group. One hits the tree Ari just located. It explodes into flames - hurling burning tree branches everywhere - toward those fighting the orcs, and those starting to make their retreat in this last round. ((Reflex Save DC 15 or take 1D8 flame and bludgeon damage.)) The other two fireballs sail into the trees and start a really good woodland fire, leaving a very small window of opportunity to escape.
At the boats -
Olyn, Neen, the slaves and Theo running up behind reach the boats - then Olyn runs off toward the harbour. It'll take 8 mins at a flat run to get there. The slaves look bemused, but the sight of the escape boats means they're staying right here thank you very much.
As Olyn sets off toward the harbour, the Slaver group are rounding the bottom edge of the harbour, heading toward their own boat at the jetty. Neither the half elf or the Slavers can see one another yet.
Theodore and Macaw HP 8 AC 16 (mage armor) d20=7 Monday October 18th, 2004 2:58:09 PM
"All right," says Theodore rather loudly. "Everyone in the boats. We're going to get ready to leave. Can anyone here use a boat, or speak orcish?" He's concerned that they'll have to wait to get everything started until the rest of the group gets here.
He moves to Ryan to speak privately. "I think that the enemy group coming after us will have cut off the females' retreat. And we can't wait here to find out, allowing the orcs to attack us. I have a plan though. When the rest of the guys get here, we take off. I sent Macaw off to tell the women to meet us on the west coast. All we need is one boat to go in and pick them up. Hopefully, there won't be any enemies about."
(Initiative = 7)
Bart (ac 25 hp 62/62) d20=20 d20+6=22 d20+10=25 d10+13=21 d6=4 Monday October 18th, 2004 3:11:39 PM
Bart yells go now I will keep the this last one busy, go to the boats guys yells Bart to Jager, Nezamil and Ryan. Bart avoids the burning branches and makes an powerfull attack on the orc (Ac 25 for 21+4 shock). After the attack Bart moves away (mobility, spring attack) from the hopefully dead orc. If he isn't dead by now someone will get him with an arrow.
Rigging ac 24 hps 64/64 shield, mage armor, cats grace, blinking, greater invisibility d20+12=22 6d6(6+2+6+5+5+5)=29 d100=21 d20=13 Monday October 18th, 2004 4:18:45 PM
Rigging sees the fireballs launch towards his friends and tries to discover where they came from. (Spot check 22)
If he can tell, he will fire one back in its direction. Otherwise he will fire into the largest group of orcs he sees doing 29 points of damage or 15 depending upon save dc 17 vs reflex. He notices his ball of flame leave his wand a split second before he blinks out and breathes a sigh of relief.
He will then move 30' towards the boat keeping an eye on the action.
Initiative 13
OOC Did my first fireball kill any orcs? Trying to get a feel if they are normal orcs or not?
mage armor hours bless ? blinking 4 rounds left greater invisiblity 53 rounds left shield 51 rounds left cat's grace 52 rounds left
Vorelle twists awkwardly, but is unable to avoid the flaming branch that hits her. Shaking off her injury [Concentration check 18], she sights and fires again.
[Hit AC 16 for 2 points]
She continues to make her way toward the ships, staying out of sight as much as possible.
[Hide 24; Move Silently 12]
Olyn Monday October 18th, 2004 6:39:03 PM
Jan, for clarification, i headed to the orc boats 3 rounds ago, not to our boats then the orc boats.
with that in mind, where the heck am i?
rose d20+6=16 d20+5=22 d20+7=15 d20+7=15 Monday October 18th, 2004 7:35:04 PM
When Rose hears Ashira say it's time to go, but where to go everything is in flames? She looks around for a way to go that isn't in flames and doesnt have alot of enemies and takes off towards the harbor.
Listen: 16 spot: 22 move silently: 15 hide: 15
Nezamil Ac 24 Hp 43/53 bless rd 6 Shield of faith 57/60 d20=10 d20+3=6 d8=2 Monday October 18th, 2004 8:07:10 PM
Int 10
Nezamil stands firm in the center of the battle line (d20+3=6 reflex) ignoring the blast from the fireball and pays the price as a burning branch bounces off him (d8=2 dam)and drops to the ground
With a quick glance around "aye Bart good thinking..make sure your right behind us" replies the dwarf
"lets get outta here "growls the dwarf to Zayne and the couragous ex-slave " and dashes off in the direction of the boats as arrows whiz over his towards the horde
Appolo Monday October 18th, 2004 8:37:55 PM
Appolo continues back to the boats.Once there he will either take a boat and cirle around to the otherside of the Island or skirt the shoreline in an attempt to reach Valanthe.
Vauhwyt and Mookie d20+7=14 Monday October 18th, 2004 10:23:45 PM
Vauhwyt takes off back the way she came. (Invis, move silent 14)
DM Jan Tuesday October 19th, 2004 1:44:03 AM
((OOC Folks, I'll do an updated version of the island map first thing tomorrow morning, then we've a better idea of who is where.
Tim, I thought you were heading a different way. No worries, we'll sort it out.))
Jager: AC 18 HP 58 d20=2 d20+10=23 Tuesday October 19th, 2004 7:20:59 AM
Jager easily side steps the burning branches but feels torn. He wants to kill those that enslaved him and their lackies, but there are an awful lot of those lackies. Jager decides that it is best to fight another day. "I will be back for you" he shakes his fist at them and retreats.
Jager passes those he charged with and turn back to wait for them. Jager comments to the dwarf "Stout one, you must go faster."
Int 2 speed 50 feet Reflex 23
Rigging d20+10=14 d100=6 Tuesday October 19th, 2004 8:52:14 AM
ooc Realized that I didn't roll for flying burning debris. Rigging failed his save but blinked away from the damage.
Ari HP 50 AC 24 (Bulls strenght, Cats Grace (4 min each), Spider Climb (40 Minutes), Shield 4 min) (6th post since casting) d20+6=22 d20+3=7 d20+7=18 d8+3=10 Tuesday October 19th, 2004 11:19:07 AM
Seeing the fireballs inbound, Ari does his best to track them back to their source. (Spot 7) If he has any idea of who they might have come from, Ari will try to answer back with an arrow (AC 18 Dam 10).
Still moving away from the tree, Ari shrugs as the intial explosion goes off. Realizing that there will be falling debris, Ari successfully scoots (reflex=22) around the majority of it.
Narrative DM Jan Tuesday October 19th, 2004 12:15:06 PM
MAP - should be in the mail. It's your 'approximate' position just before this post.
At the Leaders Tent -
(Ladies, I'm assuming you're all getting the heck out?)
The path that winds its way around the lagoon and toward the jetty is clear. The immediate area in the camp is clear, but the trees are full of orcs and flames after the fireballs have done their thing.
The Slaver Pen -
Those guarding the retreat can now see the faces of their quarry. It's a frightening sight. Rigging's previous fireball appeared to have some effect, but the orc Horde has regrouped, filling in the gaps of their fallen comrades. Ari's arrow and another fireball from the Wildcards leader sail over the horde and detonate in an area where perhaps the Horde's own fireballs came from. There are screams of pain, but the masses keep on coming. Vorelle and Dietrich see their arrows hit home, and one of the orc front runners gets tripped. He's immediately trampled on in the frenzy.
The group find themselves running beneath a forest fire that is quickly spreading from tree top to tree top. Flames are beginning to lick down along the trunks, and flaming moats and branches start to drop from above. The horde keeps on coming.
In the open ground of the meadow, the group is harried by flying arrows, as orc bowmen fire as soon as they've cleared the forest. ((Retreating group REflex DC 15 or take 3D4 arrow damage))
At the (group) boats -
Theo gets the slaves organized, who are only too happy to jump inside the boats. They look terrified. The figurine in the command orc boat looks annoyed at the scramble to get on board. From this position, everyone can see the others running across the meadow, with the forest fire as a back drop, and the orcs emerging from beneath it.
((Tim, I have Olyn on his way up toward the jetty and the enemy boats. He'll get there about the same time as the Slavers. Sorry, thought you'd set off toward the group boats originally.))
Appolo right now has no idea where Valanthe is, or whether she is safe. Ahead of him are the groups boats. Far to his left is the harbour.
And then suddenly! -
The ground beneath everyones feet gives a lurch. It's followed by a huge rumbling groan. At the water's edge, a myriad of tiny air bubbles start rising to the surface of the water.
Zayne (REF 21 AC 17 HP 19/19) d20+6=21 d20+5=16 Tuesday October 19th, 2004 3:01:40 PM
Ever light on his feet he manages to avoid being hit by any on the flaming deris. He looks to Nezamil and nods his head in agreement,but as he retreats he looks back over his shoulder,there is a longing to hand out the vengence he promised,but he knows that thiis situation is out of his control at the moment. "Somehow they will get what they deserve." is all that goes through his mind.
Looking around at the slaves that are still around he looks for any injured or lame that need aid and he will help whoever needs it.(Spot 16)
Ryan (AC:17 Hp:11) Neen (AC:19 Hp:5) (Mage Armour,Bless) Tuesday October 19th, 2004 3:39:10 PM
Ryan calls neen back to his side and waits for others, by the boats.
Rigging 6d6(6+4+1+6+6+4)=27 d20+12=24 d20=10 d100=79 Tuesday October 19th, 2004 6:36:51 PM
Rigging feels the lurch beneath his feet and decides that he wants off this island. He scans the area looking for Ashira and the other ladies with concern in his eye.
He head swivels back to the charging orcs and he levels his wand one more time setting off a nasty explosion right among the biggest group of the more common orcs. 27 or 14 points of damage dc 17. made blink roll if necessary
He then decides he has to trust Ashira and heads back to the boats.
Spot check 24 Intitative 10
OOC Jan I am a little confused on the amount time just went by. Was it a combat round or minutes?
~~Jan~~ Minutes, George
Vorelle [AC 17; HP 15/17] d20+6=16 d20=7 Tuesday October 19th, 2004 6:54:51 PM
[Initiative 7]
Vorelle dodges nimbly as the arrows head toward her. They go flying past. She is about to fire off an arrow of her own when she feels the ground lurch.
Seeing that the slaves are nearly to the boats [right?], she abandons any attempts to fight and simply runs for it.
Theodore and Macaw HP 8 AC 16 (mage armor) Tuesday October 19th, 2004 9:07:23 PM
"Let's go!" hollers Theodore, cupping his hands over his mouth as he shouts back into the flames. As everyone comes into range, he goes over his plan to bring in a boat on the west coast of the island to pick up the women. "I've already sent Macaw to tell them to meet us on the western shore. Everyone stay calm and we can get out alive."
He continues to wait at the shore until everyone has arrived safely.
(Jan, was it this round or next that Macaw arrives at the girls' location?)
Valanthe [HP 74, AC 23] Tuesday October 19th, 2004 9:14:54 PM
Valanthe considered herself lucky. Ashira managed to reach her through the anger that filled her mind. There was a strong possibility that she would have charged into the orc horde had the rage still controlled her. She 'woke' to find her skin blackened and burned. The fact that she did not feel it at the time did worry her. But that was a private matter for a later time.
Vauhwyt Tuesday October 19th, 2004 11:28:22 PM
When the island underfoot trembles, Vauhwyt's sneaky retreat becomes a full-fledged run. She heads back, paws a-prancing, to the place they group had landed.
(still invisible)
Jager: AC 17 Dodge 18 mobility for AoO 22 HP 58 d20=5 Tuesday October 19th, 2004 11:38:13 PM
Jager jogs along with his slower rescuers, taking time to look back at the advancing horde. Jager thinks to himself 'with the slavers nowhere in sight he might actually be free, now to hurry up these lead feet'
Jager attempts to spur on the dwarf and human (Zane??) to greater speed. "You do realize that the forest fire may allow the lackies to catch us if you do not attempt to move faster. Throw some of that clunky metal away to speed you up." Jager finishes with a wink.
Redux (Fly, Mage Armor, Greater Invis, AC20, hp52) 8d6(2+2+2+2+5+3+5+4)=25 d20=6 Wednesday October 20th, 2004 12:02:13 AM
Redux casts fireball at the lead of the orcs for 25 pts dmg (1/2 for reflex) and then flies at top speed directly for the boats. (init=6) (ooc: what did Redux see as the result of his last spell?)
rose d20+5=17 Wednesday October 20th, 2004 12:20:27 AM
Rose runs straight out towards the shore and continues along it. she is heading somewhat towards the nw sentry tower, but will stay away from it. when she gets opposite the jetty she will look to see if anyone from the group is over there and can pick her up.
run moving 4x speed = 80'
spot: 17
Nezamil Ac 24 Hp 43/53 bless rd 7 shield of faith 56/60 d20=3 d20+3=20 Wednesday October 20th, 2004 12:36:00 AM
Int 3
Nezamil weaves as he runs as Arrows whiz overhead (d20+3=20 reflex) but none striking him.
The Dwarf looks over at the ex-slave with a smirk " well ya don't say " remarks Nezamil with deep sarcasm :)
The dwarf leans forward as his legs churn to keep pace with Zayne and the ex-slave then stumbles slightly as the island shakes " what by Domi was that??!!" as he retains his balance and charges towards the boats "lets get outta here fast!"
Bart d20+6=23 Wednesday October 20th, 2004 6:47:04 AM
Bart avoids the incomming arrows and retreats towards the boats. He makes sure there is no one left between him and the orc horde, if someone needs help Bart will give it to him or her.
Ashira (Bull's Strength, Greater Invisibility) Wednesday October 20th, 2004 9:26:13 AM
With Valanthe by her side, Ashira begins to follow the visible Rose. As they sprint along, Ashira looks over at Valanthe. "You should probably reactivate your ring." she states simply. Not hearing any sound of Vauhwyt, Ashira hopes she is nearby. As they travel, the invisible Ashira heads for the stand of trees on the NW side of the island...figuring that they can hide out there until the boats arrive. As the ground moves beneath her feet, Ashira wonders whether they're going to make this out alive.
Olyn Wednesday October 20th, 2004 10:20:13 AM
round 4 of my run to the orc boats.
shakes head
Narrative DM Jan Wednesday October 20th, 2004 11:20:46 AM
SOUTH EAST -
The retreating party arrives at the boats. All the slaves are already on board, scattered about the boats, cowering and frightened. Redux and Rigging's fireballs buy some precious moments as they explode into the onward charging horde, causing them to falter and regroup.
And the fireballs aren't the only thing to worry about, because its becoming immediately obvious that the island is starting to sink!
The carved figurine is prattling away in orcish, clearly irritated. Dietrich translates that the creature wants to get the boats away as soon as possible.
NORTH -
Vauhwyt has to skirt around the forest fire before she can get SOUTH EAST toward the boats. There's the edge of the Orc Horde between her and the boats.
A LITTLE FURTHER NORTH -
Olyn arrives at the jetty in the harbour, in time to see the escaping Slavers scrambling into their own boat. There are a few other, slightly smaller longboats tied up at the jetty also. The water appears to be rising and he can hear a bell ringing.
NORTH WEST -
Across the harbour, Ashira, Valanthe and Rose head toward the Sentry Tower. They can see two orcs up in the Tower, one of whom is frantically ringing a bell. The ground here is particularly unstable.
(Ashira got Macaw's message in the last round)
Zayne (REF 23 AC 17 HP 19/19) d20+6=23 d20+5=8 Wednesday October 20th, 2004 12:12:51 PM
Zayne does his best to avoid the arrows as he sprints towards the boats. He thinks to himself,"I hope nobody was left behind."
Still on the lookout for any stragglers,he checks his surroundings as he passes by.(Spot 8)
Dietrich, AC 17, HP 24/24 d20+2=18 d20+6=23 d8+3=5 Wednesday October 20th, 2004 12:22:28 PM
Dietrich managed to get out of hell without beeing hit by arrows and fire and swearing a lot. Never had he seen so many fireballs exploding and he is still stunned. But he is pretty satisfied with the action so far and thanks Domi.
The fighter helps bringing people into the boats and communicating with the figurehead. He keeps an eye backwards and fires at pursuing enemies. Hits ac 23, damage 5
When he realises the island is sincking, he curses again and hastens even more.
Theodore and Macaw HP 8 AC 16 (mage armor) d20=9 Wednesday October 20th, 2004 12:36:48 PM
As everyone begins to board the boats, Theodore hurries on as well. "Macaw found the women and they're headed towards the western shore. We should hurry and meet them there. Take all the boats so the orcs can't come after us. We also need to send a boat north and east around the island. Olyn went off on his own."
Macaw flies above the women, keeping an eye out for trouble and the rescue boats.
Ari HP43 (50-7) AC 24 (Bulls strenght, Cats Grace (4 min each), Spider Climb (40 Minutes), Shield 4 min) (7th post since casting) d20+6=11 3d4(1+2+4)=7 d20+7=23 d20+7=25 d8+3=5 d8+3=10 Wednesday October 20th, 2004 12:52:01 PM
(sorry for slow post)
Looking too intently at the orc horde, Ari gets caught by surprise when he realizes there are inbound arrows. Not good enough to dodge then, Ari takes some minor damage from the arrows.
Having made his way back to the boats, Ari will prop himself up in the front of any boat that is available to him. He wants to be one of the last boats away, so that he can shoot arrows into the horde, hoping to trip up more at the front of the line, so as to try to trip up more orcs as they climb over him. (AC 23 and 25 for 5 and 10 points respectively)
Rigging Wednesday October 20th, 2004 12:52:40 PM
Rigging sprints towards the boats as he feels the island moving. He thinks, "I wonder where the girls are. Ashira where are you?"
He will project to Swirl, "I know they are invisible but see if you can find Ashira and Val. Look for the halfling and liontauress as well."
Appolo Wednesday October 20th, 2004 2:48:39 PM
Appolo jumps into the the nearest boat."Come on people hurry up.We need to go get the women."He is clearly worried and starting to get angry.
Nezamil Ac 24 Hp 43/53 bless rd 8 shield of faith 55/60 d20=16 Wednesday October 20th, 2004 3:05:37 PM
Int 16
Nezamil reaches the boats then turns to see if any of the stragglers needs help "hurry" shouts the dwarf
The Cleric will turn and scan the horde "ah good work Redux "comments the dwarf as the fireballs explode into the horde
Nezamil will climb aboard one of the freshly hatched boats (less crowded ones) as he turns and double checks the hordes intentions .
If the horde continus to fire arrows inmass at the group the Cleric will reach into a pouch ....pull fort a small feather and fan then gesture to release Domi's divine power (casting wind wall 70 ft long 35 ft high in a semi circle around the boats )
"Dietrich once all are aboard lead us out in a single file so Domi's wall of wind will shield us from their attacks " shouts the Cleric over to the other boat
"Then we can follow Theo's plan to pick up the women" says Nezamil all the while focusing on Domi's wall of wind
Bart Wednesday October 20th, 2004 3:48:29 PM
Rigging go to the otherside with one both to get the girls I will wait her yells Bart as i jumps in one of the boats
Olyn Wednesday October 20th, 2004 4:28:24 PM
will pour all the oil ( 6 flasks ) in the remaining orc boats and pulling out a tindertwig will set them on fire, then will race back towards our boats.
Vauhwyt slows as she comes near the orcs in her way. She reactivates the Invisibility ring -- it would sure be unpleasant if it ran out unexpectedly!
Then she makes her way invisibly through the orcs. Her rate is slow, since she is trying to be quiet (40 feet per round with a double move), and she is using her tumble skill to maneuver around orcs she is passing by.
If she is hit, Vauhwyt just keeps on moving. She will not break her invisibility with an attack.
[4 move silent checks -- use as needed: 8 (failed on a 1), 22, 21, 20] [4 tumble checks -- use as needed: 19, 21, 10, 14]
=======
Spells: Mage Armor (V) (38 minutes of 60 used) Mage Armor (M) (38 minutes of 60 used) Message (Mookie) (30 rounds of 100 used) Invisible (30 rounds of 30 used before needing to reactivate ring)
Borrowed Items from Ashira: Potion Cure Moderate Wounds Ring of Limited Invisibility
Vorelle [AC 17; HP 15/17] d20+6=22 d20+6=25 d8+1=6 Wednesday October 20th, 2004 8:30:44 PM
Vorelle runs to the boats, and takes a quick look around to see if she can spot any stragglers. [Spot 22] If everybody seems to be on board or boarding the boats, she will scramble aboard one herself. If there are still people on the run toward the boats, she will instead fire at the oncoming orcs [Hit AC 25 for 6].
Valanthe [HP 74, AC 23] Invisible Wednesday October 20th, 2004 9:05:13 PM
Valanthe places her hand on Ashira's shoulder and activates her invisibility ring. Things aren't looking so good but at least everything went according to plan. Well she assumes so since they were pulling back instead of pressing into a bad situation.
"Things don't look to good Ashira. At least you will be able to make it back."
Jager Wednesday October 20th, 2004 10:46:53 PM
Jager scampers onto the boat with the dwarf and the human he was jogging with (Nezimal and Zane). Glad to be off the now moist island, Jager finds a comfortable spot on the boat that offers a view of the onrushing horde. Jager is very interested to see if the lackies have the pleasure of a short swim to the bottom of the lake.
Rigging cats grace, greater invisibility, mage armor, shield, Wednesday October 20th, 2004 11:40:53 PM
Rigging will listen to Bart and say to himself, "What did he just say?"
He will jump in the boat with Appolo and say, "Hey Appolo, Its me Rigging. Nice to see you again but lets save the reunion for later. We need to launch this boat, and start heading to the other side of the island.
Get Redux and Nezamil, the dwarf, to come with us. They might need healing, but no more. Don't want to swamp the boat when we take on the girls"
Rigging will then launch another fireball into the raging orc horde looking for the biggest number he can get.
Redux (Fly, Mage Armor, Greater Invis, AC20, hp52) 8d6(4+1+6+3+1+4+6+1)=26 Thursday October 21st, 2004 12:08:31 AM
Alighting over the orc boats, the invisible mage smiles at Nezamil's compliment. "You liked that? You ought to love this..." Redux makes sure that no allies are in the way and then casts a lightening bolt aimed at the front ranks of the horde. An evil grin on his face, Redux chuckles as the energy rips a 120 ft. long line through their ranks (for a lousy 26 Dam.--Refl. DC 16 for half).
Ashira d20+10=25 Thursday October 21st, 2004 1:05:55 PM
Noting the unstable ground around them, Ashira searches (25) the immediate area for a good place for them to wait for the pickup. She swears silently. Figures it would go down like this. Serves them right for trying to play the heros... She guides Val over to wherever Rose is and then leads them all over to more stable ground if she can find it. She speaks to Val and Rose in whispers, not wanting to attract the attention of the guards if she can avoid it. "Well ladies, we're certainly in a spot of trouble... My invisibilty will be running out soon, the ground's sinking, the boys are coming, but don't know exactly where to meet us....oh yes, and there are two enemy guards out there. Rose, I don't suppose you have anything on that cloak of yours that can help us out?? Barring that, I suppose we just have to ride out the storm. But if push comes to shove, I want you two to grab hold of me. I can breath underwater, she I'll hold you above the surface for as long as I can. I'll remove my armor and put it in Rose's bag if that's ok? Any other ideas?"
Rose Thursday October 21st, 2004 1:31:04 PM
Rose quickly takes a look at her seals then says "No, but I do have a potion that will help me swim. I don't even have any really good spells for this."
she opens her bag and helps Ashira remove her armor, well as much as she can being that she's short and Ashira's invisible.
active spells: mage armor ?/1 hr
seals that she has seal of liquid sharing: seal of night flying: 2 rounds at night by the light of the 2nd moon seal of curing: everyone can cast cure minor seal of true seeing: everyone gets true seeing seal of fire resistance: seal of dragon speak seal of improved evasion solo seal of substance seal of close quarters seal of drain protection seal of sleep: doubles healing during sleep seal of survival seal of blessed sleep: +1 bonus on all skills and saves next day beautiful dreamer seal, +6 insight on next action, +4 on one following, +2 on third seal of weapon penatration: allows crits on creatures immune to them seal of life guard: breaks at -9hp & stabalizes you seal of helping hand: gets something from backpack
Narrative DM Jan Thursday October 21st, 2004 2:11:53 PM
SOUTH EAST -
Zayne, Dietrich, Theo, Ari, Rigging, Appolo, Nezamil, Bart, Vorelle, Jager, Ryan, Shadeos and Redux, now at the shoreline, get to the boats and scramble aboard (or float above them). Theo is able to pass on info about the girls.
The island is sinking, and very rapidly.
The Orc Horde starts to panic, and arrows no longer fly. (Save your spell, Chris.) Some of them start to turn tail and run in the opposite direction. Amidst the Horde, Vauhwyt finds herself buffeted at bounced as frightened creatures run this way and that. She can see the boats, 80ft away, but it's obvious she's going to have to swim for it, and right now the group can't see her, even though some of them are looking.
((Vauhwyt - Reflex DC 13 or suffer 1d6 subdual))
Rigging and Redux send more fire and lightning into the horde, creating more chaos. Some of the orcs, now knee deep in water, start stripping off their armour and start to swim for it, straight for the boats. Vorelle can see at least 8 of them heading in their direction.
"Where do you want to go?" grumbles the orc figurine, in staccato orcish.
NORTH -
At the harbour, Olyn sets to with oil and tindertwigs! He has to move fast as the water rises and rises. He sets fire to the oil, and - *WHAP!!* some kind of defense mechanism goes off amongst the orc boats, and lightning bolts snake off in all directions. ((Reflex DC 13 or get zapped for 1d8)) The orc boats stay intact. The Slaver's ship however, gets hit with three lightning bolts and catches alight. The water continues to rise, and Olyn realises that if he doesn't find something that floats - he's gonna drown.
NORTH WEST -
Ashira, Valanthe and Rose make their way around the opposite side of the harbour. From their position they see the lightning bolts, and see 'something' catch fire.
As for a good place to wait this out till rescue arrives? As water laps at the girl's feet, Ashira can see that there is only one bit of high ground - and that's the sentry tower, 100 ft away. It's still manned by two orcs, who are ringing that bell for all they're worth.
Swirl takes off from the south east part of the island - heading north west.
Zayne d20+5=14 Thursday October 21st, 2004 2:41:36 PM
Boarding the same boat as Nezamil,the ranger looks at the orcs and watches with a detached look on his face,speaking to no one in particular,"Justice."
He begins scanning the other boats for familiar faces,and is watching for any signs of the girls or anyone being left behind.(Spot 14)
Bart Thursday October 21st, 2004 2:51:00 PM
Bart, get around thos orcs try to get rowing back to the camp to get the girls. Any approching orc i will slash away!
William OOC Thursday October 21st, 2004 2:54:33 PM
'have an operation tomorrow, the remove some titanium and som nutts and bolts from my leg. The post tomorrow i will miss first opportunity will be sunday. If there is an orc that wants to climb aboard Bart will attack him
Ryan (AC:17 Hp:11) Neen (AC:19 Hp:5) (Mage Armour,Bless) Thursday October 21st, 2004 3:49:05 PM
Ryan gets aboard the closest boat and stands facing the chaos that is the panicking horde. He does not knock an arrow because it will do no good against that mass.
Neen does the same readying herself for the next challenge.
Theodore and Macaw HP 8 AC 16 (mage armor) Thursday October 21st, 2004 4:55:23 PM
"Dietrich! Tell the boats to head towards the western coast of the island. That's where we rendezvous with the girls. We also need to send at least one or two boats around the northeast coast. Olyn took off by himself." Theodore watches the island sink. "He won't make it back in time!"
Meanwhile, Macaw continues to hover over the three girls as they wait for the boats.
Vauhwyt (AC19, HP19 (-6 nonlethal)) and Mookie (AC19, HP9) (Invisible, Mage Armor, Enlarged) d20+4=18 d20+3=5 Thursday October 21st, 2004 8:21:20 PM
Vauhwyt dodges nimbly out of the way of the panicking orcs [save 18!] She casts Enlarge Person on herself -- at 20 feet long, she should be able to keep her head above water longer. Plus the strength bonus will help, and a huge liontaur makes a big splash!
But the time comes when she has to make that untrained swim check. At least she doesn't wear armor any more!
She grabs the Book in her hands and swims with all four paws. But her swim check is only a 5! Maybe her new height will let her keep her keep head and arms above water for now.
Mookie wriggles out of the pouch he is in. "I can't breathe water, you know!" he shouts. Then he looks around and sees only water and some tree tops -- "Boss! What did you do to the island!"
Mookie flies over toward the boats and yells, "Hey! Don't leave us! We're over here!"
=======
Spells: Mage Armor (V) (38 minutes of 60 used) Mage Armor (M) (38 minutes of 60 used) Message (Mookie) (31 rounds of 100 used) Invisible (4 rounds of 30 used before needing to reactivate ring) Enlarge Person (1 round of 10 used)
Borrowed Items from Ashira: Potion Cure Moderate Wounds Ring of Limited Invisibility
Olyn ac20, hp19, Bless d20+3=18 Thursday October 21st, 2004 9:15:24 PM
reflex save of 18
pulling out his knife, Olyn begins cutting the morring lines holding the orc boats to the shore, then, hopping into one and using some oars(?), Olyn will begin trying to row his way to the rest of the group.
Nezamil Ac 24 Hp 43/53 bless rd 9 shield of faith 54/60 d20+5=14 Thursday October 21st, 2004 9:42:50 PM
Nezamil stares at the orcs swimming towards them "Dietrich order the boats to sail around the orcs and then head for the high ground ....the tower ...the island is sinking too fast ....safest place is the tower " shouts the dwarf as he points towards the sentry tower
Nezamil lifts his mace ready to smash any orcs that attempt to climb aboard
The Cleric checks his boat to see Zayne and the ex-slave aboard " ya both did well back there...Domi be proud of both of ya " says the dwarf with a touch of respect in his voice.
then he turns and looks to catch sight of the women (d20+5=14 spot ch)
Rigging d20+12=19 d20+10=24 d20+10=25 d6+1=6 d4+1=2 2d6(4+4)=8 d20+13=19 Thursday October 21st, 2004 10:36:08 PM
Rigging hears Mookies cries and guides his boat towards where the girls are. (Listen check 19)
If any of the orcs try to grab on he will simply hack at there hands.
Rolled two strikes and should have gotten two hits. Sword does 6 points of damage and holy dagger does 10.
He will call out, "Ashira, Val!!!! Where are you? Vauhwyt...Rose are you alive?"
Spot check 19
Vorelle d20+6=13 d8+1=3 Thursday October 21st, 2004 10:50:53 PM
Vorelle hates to fire on helpless, panicking creatures who will probably drown anyway. On the other hand, the orcs could easily swamp the boats in their panic. Vorelle nocks an arrow and watches as the orcs approach.
If any orc gets within 20 feet of any of the boats, Vorelle will fire. [Hit AC 13 for 3 points damage]
Jager Thursday October 21st, 2004 11:16:55 PM
Jager easily jumps into a boat with Zayne and Nezamil. "The Lackies are done for." Jager says to himself.
Jager looks to Nezamil and Zayne. "Thank for freeing me. My name is Jager, former X-slave, thanks to you two." Jager looks around and asks "Where are we off to now? I really want to go kill my former masters, if it is not too much trouble. Maybe we can head over to where their boats are." Jager points in the direction of the slaver boats.
Redux Friday October 22nd, 2004 12:20:29 AM
Redux takes his position at the mast of the boat and holds on while encouraging the others to hasten the speed of the boats. "Rigging, we could use some wind in the sails more than you looking over the side for orcs. Dietrich, how about talking these boats to pick up the pace to the other side of the island? We don't want the orcs in the water to figure out they can talk to the boats too."
Valanthe [HP 74, AC 23] Friday October 22nd, 2004 9:34:16 AM
With all the chaos one lone elf will probably be the last thing on the orcs minds. So she deactivates her invisibility so Ashira can follow her movements.
"Well I'm going to clear that tower. After that, worst case we bust out some large logs and use them to stay afloat for as long as we can." Valanthe says and heads for the tower.
Dietrich ac 17, hp 24 d20+6=15 d8+3=6 Friday October 22nd, 2004 10:47:56 AM
DIetrich is amazed with the sincking island and worried about Olyn. What the heck had he to separate himself from the party! He can only hope his friend can swimm.
With so many friends urging him, the fighter commands the boats to swim fast to the west, in the direction Rigging appoints.
Dietrich feels some pity for the orcs, but by far not enough to hinder him from shooting at them. He fires at incoming orcs, hits ac 15, damage 6, and shouts at them in orcish to keep away if they want to live, cursing bad words.
Appolo Friday October 22nd, 2004 11:08:39 AM
Appolo jumps inthe boat with Rigging Nezamil and Redux."Row toward the tower dam it.Redux,Rigging do either of you have something that dispell invissibility and make them visible.I mean if they're using using magic then we can't see them Also how baout something to amplify our voices so they can hear us."
Rose d20+4=11 d4=1 Friday October 22nd, 2004 12:17:20 PM
Rose is VERY relieved when Valanthe sheds the invisibility and she can see someone again. She follows Valanthe as fast as her little legs will carry her. When she can she will fire at the orcs.
range 60' attack: 11, +1 if she's within 30' damage: 1, +1 if she's within 30'
Narrative DM Jan Friday October 22nd, 2004 4:52:30 PM
The island continues to sink.
SOUTH EAST -
The figurine calls Dietrich something unmentionable, but nevertheless starts to move, heading in a northerly direction to avoid the Horde. Mookie arrives abruptly, sqwawking away about Vauhwyt being nearby.
The liontaur (still invisible?) can no longer feel any ground beneath her feet, and it's proving difficult to swim with the water being so choppy. She is managing to keep the book dry.
5 of the orcs swimming toward the boat drop back due to the arrow fire, but 2 make it to the lead boat and grasp the side violently, threatening to turn the boat over.
There's also a scream from one of the slaves in the third boat behind the leader.
Right now it's very difficult to see and hear. There is smoke from the burning trees, and as the island sinks, the mists start to close in. The howling cries of panicing creatures make it nigh on impossible to hear anything else.
Still, the figurine has it's map. Everyone might remember that the Tower is a good three quarters of a mile away. There are also two sets of oars in each boat. No sails.
NORTH -
Swirl continues to fly toward the Tower. The elemental senses a bell ringing in that direction.
Below - Olyn jumps in one of the boats in the harbour. He will note that there is a figurine carved at the head of it, that has it's head bent forward and its hands accross it's chest. It looks inactive. However, he does have two sets of oars to go at, and he starts rowing south.
50 yards to the north of him, the Slavers are running about their own boat, trying to put the fire out.
NORTH WEST -
By the time Valanthe, Rose and Ashira reach the Tower, they're wading through water that's a foot deep. Little Rose has to hold her fire, and keep going, otherwise the rising water is threatening to carry her off her feet. There's a ladder. The bell has stopped ringing. Both orcs are looking down at the girls.
Olyn Friday October 22nd, 2004 11:41:56 PM
rowing with everything Wardd grants him, Olyn heads to the rest of the group.
Vauhwyt (AC19, HP19 (-6 nonlethal)) and Mookie (AC19, HP9) (Invisible, Mage Armor, Enlarged) d20+3=4 d20+3=20 Saturday October 23rd, 2004 1:02:56 AM
Vauhwyt does not have the time to deactivate the invisibility, but she figures that a huge splashing liontaur should make quite a scene. Just to be sure, she activates her Seal of Sunlight (free action), so that the area around her is bright as day! She shines forth like a beacon, and Mookie does his best to direct the boats to his mistress.
But Vauhwyt's full round action is a swim towards the boats! Her efforts, born of desperation, nonetheless fail utterly! [Rolled a 1!] Vauhwyt sinks like lead, and she knows the book is about to get soaked! But with a herculean effort, she summons her inner reserves, and then, she swims! She floats! She churns splashing through the waves to get to the boat! [OOC: Hero point used, got a modified 20 on the re-roll!] And she keeps the book high above the water!
=======
Spells: Mage Armor (V) (38 minutes of 60 used) Mage Armor (M) (38 minutes of 60 used) Message (Mookie) (32 rounds of 100 used) Invisible (5 rounds of 30 used before needing to reactivate ring) Enlarge Person (2 rnd of 10 used)
Borrowed Items from Ashira: Potion Cure Moderate Wounds Ring of Limited Invisibility
Rose Saturday October 23rd, 2004 2:08:11 PM
Poor little Rose the water is up past her hips and the first thing she does when she reaches the tower is to climb up at least a few rungs of the ladder.
Zayne d20+6=21 d4=4 d20+5=12 Saturday October 23rd, 2004 2:23:35 PM
Standing in the boat he sees the orcs grabbing the slave's boat. His thought and action become one. He draws and throws one of his daggers at the brute.(AC 21 Damage 4) Looking around quickly to see how many of the beasts have managed to stay afloat long enough to still be a threat.(Spot 12)
Jager d20+7=13 d8+2=4 Saturday October 23rd, 2004 3:54:39 PM
Jager has not been on boat much his life and when he has it has always been below decks chained to an oar. This is much better. Jagers daydreaming is short lived as orcs are grabing the boats. "Lackies! You just don't know when you are suppose to die. I will help you." (AC 13 for 4 damage stunning fist DC 17 save).
If there are no more orcs grabbing he boat, Jager will grab an oar and have at it. It feels different to row without manacles biting at your flesh.
Kathy OOC Sunday October 24th, 2004 12:23:20 AM
[Sorry; I'm all confused. Which boats are we in? Is everybody in one boat?]
Bart d20+14=34 d20+14=27 d10+9=19 d10+9=13 d6=1 Sunday October 24th, 2004 3:52:56 AM
Bart starts to row, unless there is an orc near the boat then he will slash it with his sword (crit for 19+13+1)
Theodore and Macaw Sunday October 24th, 2004 4:59:07 PM
Getting a sense of immenence from Macaw, Theodore implores his group to move faster. "We must hurry. I feel the women are in danger. Olyn, too."
"Dietrich, get us moving," Theodore pleads. "We need to pick up the women and Olyn."
Nezamil Ac 21 Hp 43/53 bless rd9 shield of faith 53/60 d20+5=17 Sunday October 24th, 2004 8:38:06 PM
Nezamil drops his shield at his feet and grabs an oar at Appolo's urging and starts to row "well!! ya gonna help us row?? " shouts the dwarf at Appolo " grab an oar!! "
Nezamil searches for the ladies (d20+5=17 spot ch ) "whats that" points the dwarf to the flash of light "must be what mookie is trying to get our attention for "
"lets make for the light and all that splashing " encourages the Cleric as his oar digs into the water with powerful strokes
Ari HP43 (50-7) AC 24 (Bulls strenght, Cats Grace (4 min each), Spider Climb (40 Minutes), Shield 4 min) Monday October 25th, 2004 12:04:50 AM
Sensing the urgency of their situation, Ari will pick up the oars in his boat, and lend his augmented strength to the speed of the boat. Should the oars not be available, Ari will stand by to relieve anyone who gets tired.
Dietrich ac 17, hp 24, 13 arrows d20+7=16 2d6(3+5)+4=12 d20+7=27 d20+7=24 2d6(1+6)+4=11 Monday October 25th, 2004 12:13:34 PM
Dietrich is in the leading boat (with the figurehead) and attacks the daring orcs boarding it. He swings his greatsword, hits ac 16, damage 12,
if this drops the first, the blade continues: hits ac 27, reroll critical 24, damage 22
When there are no further enemies, Dietrich will help with the oars. He can see where the girls are and is not too worried abaut them, but the fighter is not so sure about Olyn's fate.
Dave Monday October 25th, 2004 1:13:12 PM
OOC: Kathy I am pretty sure we are for the most part on other boats. I am on ta boat with Nezamil and Apollo,and I think you and Dietrich are on the same one,but that is about all I have been able to work out. I knew sooner or later we were going to get all mixed up.
Hope that helps some.
Appolo Monday October 25th, 2004 3:07:54 PM
Appolo jumps down besides Nezamil and starts rowning for all he's worth.
DM Jan OOC Monday October 25th, 2004 3:34:18 PM
Map is on its way folks, and I'll try and detail the boats
Dm Jan d20+4=14 Monday October 25th, 2004 5:05:28 PM
((OOC - I've sent you all a new map. Take a look, and if some you find yourself on the wrong boat, let me know in your post which boat you should be on.)) -----------------------------
The island continues to sink until only the tops of trees are visible. Horrible screams can be heard from what was once the centre of the island, as creatures finally realize there is nowhere to go but down into the depths. It's an awful sound, that chills the marrow of the hardest warrior.
AT THE MAIN GROUP OF BOATS -
The orc in BOAT 3 growls as Zayne's arrow hits his shoulder, but he manages to get a leg up, and rolls into the boat! The slaves scream.
The orcs in Boat 1 are less fortunate, and fall to Rigging's and Dietrich's blows. Their bodies float away.
There's a sudden flash of light and a lot of splashing just off the bow in between boats 1 and 2, however - and the sqwawking Mookie flying above, that announces that at least Vauhwyt seems to have made it.
Although the figurehad is able to pull the boats along - rowing does seem to help.
What everyone here can see - light from the sun seal - water - mist - something vaguely on fire off to the north west.
MIDDLE OF THE LAKE -
Olyn rows and rows. The slaver ship continues to burn behind him, although not as much as before. perhaps the slavers have finally got some kind of control. Then - in front of him to the south east - about 70 yds away - he spots a bright flare of light (Vauhwyt's seal).
THE TOWER -
The ground has disappeared under water. It's now a 20ft climb to the tower ledge, and two panicing orcs are staring down at Ashira, Valanthe and Rose. One of them throws a dagger at Ashira. It narrowly misses and goes *PLOP* into the water. MaCaw hovers above, and Swirl will be there in the next round.
Olyn Monday October 25th, 2004 8:23:29 PM
starts rowing with all his might towards the flare of light.
Theodore and Macaw Monday October 25th, 2004 10:44:20 PM
Seeing one orc scramble into a boat holding freed slaves, Theodore thrusts forward his right hand in a dramatic gesture and a cone of flashing colors springs forth. "Throw him out!!" he hollers to the slaves.
Macaw continues to circle around the climbing women, cawing and making all sorts of racket.
(Casting color spray on the lone orc that made it into the boat with the slaves. Trying not to hit the slaves, but if he has to, he does. Will save 14 to resist.)
Rigging d20+12=13 d20+12=19 Monday October 25th, 2004 10:58:59 PM
Rigging hears the struggle in boat 3 and looks back but can't see the problem. He will see Ari and call back, "What is the problem back there? Help out those freedmen!"
He will then pick up an oar and start propelling the boat in the direction of the tower, getting some input from Swirl.
OOC I need someone from the Swords to volunteer to play Swirl. Any takers?
spot, rolled natural 1 listen, rolled a 19
Jager d20+10=20 d20+13=17 d20+6=22 d20+10=25 d20+5=23 Monday October 25th, 2004 11:13:21 PM
Jager sees (spot 22) the orc attempt to get into boat 3 and moves into action. Jager stands and runs down his boat and jumps/tumbles into boat 3 to take care of the orc lackie.
Those on his boat he Jager mumble to himself "No one goes back to slavery."
Ashira---armorless (AC14 HP 87/87) d20+13=19 Monday October 25th, 2004 11:52:41 PM
Waking up from the comma she was in as the dagger plops by her shoulder, Ashira sheathes her weapons and grimly charges the tower, sloging through the water. Grabbing the ladder, she begins climbing (19) toward the orcs with a look of firm resolve. Her plan of action is straight forward...climb the ladder..kill the orcs...wait for rescue. Simple, really.
Redux d20+6=7 d20+2=5 Tuesday October 26th, 2004 12:38:17 AM
Redux looks around trying to see what's going on around him but can't make anything out (nat 1). He calls out to Rigging and Dietrich that the girls need to be next on the list to rescue (but has little idea where to look (wis=5)). "Is there any high ground they may have gotten to?"
Vorelle Tuesday October 26th, 2004 1:23:35 AM
Vorelle finds herself on a very exciting boat, where a lot of people are thrashing around and (apparantly) doing their best to pitch everybody into the water. She concentrates on hanging on, and tries to shift her weight to counter some of the movement.
Appolo d20+6=17 d20+2=4 Tuesday October 26th, 2004 2:04:11 AM
Appolo looks up at Redux"There's that glowing patch of water over there and that towerstraight ahead.Looks like the girls are already climbing it."With that sasid he goes back to rowing as fast and as hard as he can.
Spot 17 Please iignore extra roll mistake thank you.
Ari HP43 (50-7) AC 24 (Bulls strenght, Cats Grace (4 min each), Spider Climb (40 Minutes), Shield 4 min) Tuesday October 26th, 2004 4:54:44 AM
Hearing Rigging's call, Ari puts up the oars to look around. Realizing that there is an Orc amongst the slaves, Ari launches a magic missle at him. He's worried about hitting the other slaves, so he hopes that the magic missle can do some damage.
(late for work, please roll for me.)
Valanthe [HP 74, AC 23] Tuesday October 26th, 2004 8:40:53 AM
Valanthe stands ready behind Ashira. The orcs would die that was certain. But how was still unresolved.
"Listen you can die now or swim for it and have a chance at living." Valanthe says in common to the orcs.
Dietrich Tuesday October 26th, 2004 12:20:07 PM
Dietrich excitement at fighting and eliminating the boarding orcs almost made him forget the complete horror of the island's vanishing and the death that comes with it. Still confounded by the fact that they have virtually eliminated the Marteus camp, Dietrich cleans the blood of his sword and puts his thougts aside to row as hard as he can.
As for the orc boarding boat 3, he can onlly pity him...
Nezamil Ac 21 Hp 43/53 bless 10th rd ? shield of faith 52/60 Tuesday October 26th, 2004 3:10:31 PM
OOC : i know Nezamil , Appolo,Zayne and Jagar are in the same boat, according to the posts i read nobody else is with them.
The dwarf seeing Vauhwty between the 2 boats "grab her then we'll head to the tower " shouts the dwarf over all the noise
Nezamil will stick out the oar for Vauhwty to grab onto and drag her closer "careful we don't get swamped "and haul her aboard
OOC:Jan
1.would it be faster to row to the tower or run on the water ? (water walk spell) to save the women ? if it is walking on the water then Nezamil will cast that on the those in his boat (Jagar ,Zayne ,Appolo , Vauahwty , Nezamil)
After pulling the very wet Vauhwty aboard Nezamil turns to check on the tower "we must get there quickly "
The Cleric will touch his holy symbol bringing a brightness to it and then gesture and touch each member in the boat
Vauhwyt and Mookie d20+3=16 Tuesday October 26th, 2004 4:17:19 PM
Vauhwyt tries to swim to and climb into a boat. Her swim check this round is a 16.
Mookie file around squawking, "Hey, can't you see the boss needs a hand! She's right here! Come on, you sods!"
Zayne(AC 17 Hp 19/19) d20+6=21 d4=3 Tuesday October 26th, 2004 4:21:59 PM
Before the orc can get to his feet Zayne draws and hurls the second of his three daggers. Hoping to at least knock him off balance. (AC 21 Damage 3)
Zayne stands poised and ready to throw his last dagger if need be.
DM Jan d20+4=18 d6+3=7 Tuesday October 26th, 2004 7:43:52 PM
Getting the liontaur aboard Boat #1 might be a bit difficult, primarily because it's bit full.
Boat #2 might be a better bet - there's room - just, and folk to haul her aboard. STRENGTH roll, please everyone in Boat 2 and Vauhwyt. DC 11. Three wins, and the liontaur's on board.
In the meantime, Jager does one heck of a job of leaping into Boat #3 to attack the ORC. He's followed in quick succession by a magic missile and a colour spray spell, that stuns the orc, disabling his attack, and has the slaves screaming even louder.
In the middle of the screaming, Olyn arrives out of nowhere, rowing like crazy, arriving roughly at the junction between Boats 3 and 4.
Everyone else seems to be rowing or keeping the boats steady. Consequently the whole flotilla is moving at quite a clip. In fact - on the immediate horizon is another boat (100ft). It has smoke belching from it, and there are men on board.
This boat is directly in between the main group and the girls at the Tower.
At the Tower -
Ashira climbs up quickly, Valanthe and Rose directly behind. Stood at the top - is an orc with a huge sword, who brings it down on the aquatic elf as she and the other girls reach the top. ((Hits AC 18 for 7 DAM))
The water is now 10ft below the Tower deck. Swirl has now arrived to join MaCaw, hovering above the Tower. They can both see Ashira, Valanthe and Rose climb to the top of the Tower, ready to do battle with two ferocious-looking Orcs.
((Chris I'd say boats and your spell would be moving about the same pace right now))
DM Jan - OOC Tuesday October 26th, 2004 7:56:01 PM
((Folks, I heard from Jerry last night - Dominic gave him a call, and told him that he and Eunice would be without power for a while - possibly for as much as a month. No panic right now, but Game 5, you might be stuck with me a little longer than you thought. I'm just grappling with the concept of Norway at this time of year, and no power. Brrrr. Hope they're going to be okay.))
Rigging mage armor, shield, cats grace, bless, greater invisiblity 6d6(6+3+4+5+3+3)=24 Tuesday October 26th, 2004 10:49:02 PM
Ooc Not really sure how much time has passed since the beginning of the battle so I am listing my spells. Assuming blink has worn off.
Rigging sees the other boat on an intercept course and says, "Redux, we have friends trying to crash the party. Lets take them out."
Rigging will fire his fireball wand at the boat hopefully damaging it enough so it sinks.
I do 24 points of damage reflex save for half dc 17
Redux d20+6=23 3d4(2+1+1)+3=7 Tuesday October 26th, 2004 11:40:10 PM
The smoke in Redux eyes clears and he gets a good look around him. He spots the Slaver boat and lets out a round of Magic Missiles at the clearest figure he sees not actively rowing (dmg=7).
Ashira---armorless (AC14 HP 80/87) d20+13=33 d20+13=28 2d8(5+7)+10=22 d8+5=13 Wednesday October 27th, 2004 12:29:58 AM
Blood trickles down her arm from the orc's well placed attack. Ashira, however, does not seem particularly concerned by it. There could be only one outcome from this combat...she and the others would win and live. The orcs would die. In an instant, Ashira unsheathes her swords. Her longsword lashes out with laser like precision seeking orc blood...and is well rewarded (AC33/28...crit??? for 22dam...or 13 if no crit.).
Bart d20+5=19 Wednesday October 27th, 2004 2:31:40 AM
Bart tries the help the liontaur on board (dc 19) en start rowing again
Vauhwyt (AC19, HP19 (-6 nonlethal)) and Mookie (AC19, HP9) (Mage Armor, Invisible) d20+2=13 Wednesday October 27th, 2004 6:46:36 AM
Clinging to the side of the boat and holding her book high, Vauhwyt cancels the enlarge (so she will fit better) and tries to get in the boat. [Str check 13]. She is still invisible, but the big liontaur-shaped hole in the water off the side tells where she is.
With Bart's help the liontaur is almost there, and she needs just one more hand to make it aboard. "Thanks," she says to Bart.
Mookie, flying in circles overhead, caws to the others in boat two to help Vauhwyt aboard. "Grab on, she's right there!," he squawks.
=======
Spells: Mage Armor (V) (38 minutes of 60 used) Mage Armor (M) (38 minutes of 60 used) Message (Mookie) (34 rounds of 100 used) Invisible (7 rounds of 30 used before needing to reactivate ring) Enlarge Person (cancelled)
Borrowed Items from Ashira: Potion Cure Moderate Wounds Ring of Limited Invisibility
Olyn ac20, hp19, bless Wednesday October 27th, 2004 8:35:53 AM
turning his boat around, and making a beeline for the tower, Olyn rows like mad once again, concentrating on nothing else but getting to the tower as soon as possible.
saying aloud and to noone in particular: come on you good for nothing piece of barge, get me to the tower now!
Theodore and Macaw HP 8 AC 16 (mage armor) d20=9 Wednesday October 27th, 2004 9:17:43 AM
Theodore struggles to pull the bulky Vauhwyt into the boat, having trouble finding a handhold on his invisible friend. He sees the enemy boat out of the corner of his eye, but trusts the others to take care of it. Instead, he concentrates his efforts on helping Vauhwyt in. "Here we go."
(Strength check = 9. Theo's a wuss. What can I say?)
Jager d20+2=17 d20+2=17 d8+2=5 d8+2=5 d20+6=19 Wednesday October 27th, 2004 9:42:48 AM
Jager will attempt to make quick work of the orc that got into the slave boat (if the color spray and magic missle spells do not: AC 17 for 5 dam and AC 17 for 5 dam.)
Jager will look to the slaves. "Is everyone alright?" If everyone look ok Jager will add. "Grag an oar and put your backs into it. We are heading for what is let of that tower. There are those on the tower that helped free us. Let us begin payment for our freedom with a rescue!"
Jager (spot 19) see the magic (fireball and magic missle) leave our small boats and strike the slavers boat and smiles, but he is very aware of a possible counter stroke and is ready to dive for cover.
Jager starts rowing, but keeps wary.
Vorelle [AC 17; HP 15/17] d20+6=17 d8+1=6 Wednesday October 27th, 2004 10:39:46 AM
Vorelle pulls an arrow from her quiver and nocks it to the bowstring, peering through the smoke at the slaver boat and searching for a target.
If she sees one, she will fire.
[Hit AC 17 for 6]
Nezamil Ac 21 Hp 43/53 bless rd 10 shield of faith 51/60 Wednesday October 27th, 2004 6:04:02 PM
The dwarf looks up at the sound of the fireball detonating in the distance " whoa" as the slavers ship appears thru the smoke and haze.
"hopefully they'll be to busy putting out fires to do anything .....lets go get the girls " yells out above all the noise to his fellow boat mates
the dwarf's oar cuts thru the waves propelling them forward as he aims straight for the slavers boat " too many targets for them and they should be busy fighting fires " mumbles Nezamil to himself
OOC looking forward to you continuing Dm'ing game #5 Jan , very enjoyable so far! must be a little chaotic for ya .....keep up the evil work ;-)
DM Jan Thursday October 28th, 2004 12:47:15 AM
Out on the lake, both magic missiles and fireball sail toward the Slaver ship.
"$#)%!!" screams someone aboad the vessel as the fire rekindles itself, followed by - "Owww!!" as Vorelle's arrow follows the same trajectory as the firey spells.
The Slaver ship was in the middle of a turn and intercept manouevre. However, as the fire erupts aboard once more, and all hands move from the rudder to the water buckets - the ship sails past the bow of Boat #1, leaving a clear stretch of water to the Tower.
Vauhwyt is now half in and half out of boat #2.
One of the ex-slaves in Boat #3 howls - "I don't think it's dead! What do we do?!" while poking a foot at the unconscious ORC.
The Tower itself can be seen clearly now by those on the boats. At this rate of rowing its three rounds away. There looks to be one heck of a scuffle going on, and - the Tower is sinking fast.
On the Tower -
The water is coming up that fast that by the time Ashira withdraws her swords from the body of ORC #1 - the dead creature splashes into about a foot of water.
ORC #2 looks crazed and frightened. "MER - CEY! MERCY!" it bellows in halting common.
Next round and the water will be over the girl's heads.
Olyn Thursday October 28th, 2004 8:07:35 AM
remembering something, Olyn screams in Orcish:
get us to that tower, NOW!
*if that doesnt waken the boats up, he'll continue to row like hades*
Rigging 6d6(3+3+2+6+4+6)=24 Thursday October 28th, 2004 8:33:26 AM
Rigging smiles and looks at the foes starting to bail, obviously concerned about their boat sinking. He knows his boat is safe from invasion but some of the boats behind might not be.
He sighs and points his wand once again and releases a fireball at the bailing slavers. (He also notices that none of them died in the first and that has him a trifle concerned.)
The fireball explodes for 24 points of damage, 12 if reflex save of 17 is made.
Theodore and Macaw d20=14 Thursday October 28th, 2004 10:03:01 AM
Theodore heaves again, this time with a better grip on Vauhwyt. "Geez!" he exclaims. His face grows red from the exertion.
Over the tower, Macaw catches sight of the friendly boats and begins to crow loudly.
Ashira---armorless (AC14 HP 80/87) Thursday October 28th, 2004 11:17:57 AM
Ashira eyes the orc with a measure of distrust. Pointing to the water she says "Swim or die". Watching the rising water and the slow advance of the orc ships with horror, Ashira is suddenly struck by an idea. "Rose, didn't you say you had a seal of liquid sharing??? Could you break that seal and then drink your swimming potion? Would that allow us to share the potion? Otherwise, we need to get some wood and hold on tight. Looks like the boys, as usual, are gonna be late." Ashira reaches into her pack and pulls out a length of rope (50 foot silk). "Whatever happens, I want us to be together. Quick, tie this around yourselves. If one drowns, we all drown." Ashira ties the rope around her waist and hands it to the girls to do likewise. "Val, see if you can break off some wood. We might need it to hold on to."
Ari HP43 (50-7) AC 24 (Bulls strenght, Cats Grace (4 min each), Spider Climb (40 Minutes), Shield 4 min) d20+3=19 Thursday October 28th, 2004 11:41:53 AM
Looking to make sure that the Liontaur is onboard, Ari will then proceed to join back with the oars. (If She's not onboard, Ari will help out Str roll=19).
(ooc My schedule becomes more regular on Friday. SO I'm hoping my posting will be a bit more continuous starting next week)
Dietrich AC 17, hp 24 d20+6=16 d8+3=6 Thursday October 28th, 2004 12:27:00 PM
When Dietrich sees the slaver boat, he takes Ashira's bow again. He continues with a mixture of respect and amazement for the bombardment of the enemy and it's endurance, hoping the good guys won't be a target for fireballs too.
Dietrich shoots an arrow at the enemy looking most like a spell-caster. Hits ac 16, damage 6
Jager d20+6=16 Thursday October 28th, 2004 12:48:57 PM
Jager is surprised that the Orc in only unconcious after the magic bolts of light and his two fists pummeled it. Most orcs he met in the fighting pits or the arena we only for warm ups. "Over the side you go" Jager says noncalantly as he tosses the orc overboard.
Jager spots (spot 16)one slave if a boat way in the back and motions for him to come forward and calls out "We have to stick together. Work your way forward."
Jager looks to the other slaves in his boat as he sits and grabs an oar again. "Lets put our backs into it."
Bart d20+5=18 Thursday October 28th, 2004 1:06:44 PM
Need another hand Vauhwyt (Str chk 18), says Bart as he helps the liontaur in. Vauhwyt where are the other girls, guide me to them
Zayne d20+5=25 d20+5=17 Thursday October 28th, 2004 1:32:17 PM
Glad to see Vauhwyt almost safely aboard a boat he starts looking for the other ladies.(Spot 25 Search 17)
Vauhwyt (AC19, HP19 (-6 nonlethal)) and Mookie (AC19, HP9) (Mage Armor) d20+2=21 Thursday October 28th, 2004 1:53:54 PM
Helped by Theo and Bart, Vauhwyt makes it into the boat (str check 21), along with the -- mostly -- dry book she has carried from the leaders' tent. She cancels the invisibility and answers Bart. "We got seperated in the chaos! I don't know where they arre!" In the soaked liontaur's distress, her accent comes to the fore.
"Boss, you look like a drowned water rat," Mookie tells her.
"Thanks, Mookie," she replies. "Start looking for Rose, Ashira, and Val, please!"
=======
Spells: Mage Armor (V) (38 minutes of 60 used) Mage Armor (M) (38 minutes of 60 used) Message (Mookie) (35 rounds of 100 used) Enlarge Person (cancelled)
Borrowed Items from Ashira: Potion Cure Moderate Wounds Ring of Limited Invisibility
Appolo Thursday October 28th, 2004 3:47:42 PM
Appolo continues to row for all he's worth.
Vorelle d20+6=24 d8+1=9 Thursday October 28th, 2004 4:09:45 PM
Not much of a rower, Vorelle instead opts to send another arrow at the slaver ship.
[Hit AC 24 for 9 points. Woo!]
Nezamil Ac 21 Hp 43/53 bless rd 11 Shield of faith 50/60 Thursday October 28th, 2004 8:41:02 PM
Nezamil continues to row for the tower keeping in rythym with Appolo.
The dwarf keeps an eye on the slavers boat as they pass waiting for retalition from the fireballs raining down on them
"By Domi " growls the dwarf " gotta rescue the girls again " giving a grin at Appolo " can't wait to see Val's face when she spots you " smirks the Cleric :)
Valanthe [HP 74, AC 23] d20+6=23 Thursday October 28th, 2004 8:50:40 PM
"This is so typical. We do the hard stuff. Get the book, fight some half-demon orc that was killed by something I don't want to know about and now I get to drown." Valanthe says and mutters a string of words in elvish not for the innocent to hear.
Valanthe uses her magicly enhanced strength to start smashing the sides of the tower. If she can tear off a few big logs they would be alright.
ooc: strength check 23
rose d20+12=23 Thursday October 28th, 2004 10:43:39 PM
Rose quickly does as ashira suggests and breaks her seal of liquid sharing & drinking her swimming potion. Hopefully it will work, she even is nice enough to hope that it will help the orc's not drown, as long as they dont endanger her or her friends.
Seal of Liquid Sharing. When you activate this seal with a free-action, you must also use a Standard Action to drink a potion. The magic of this potion is experienced by every being in your party for a duration of one round. Both the potion effect and the seal effect end after that one round.
elixir of swiming: +10 to swim checks for 1 hour
swim check: 23
ooc: sorry for not posting, i havent been feeling well.
Redux Friday October 29th, 2004 12:00:48 AM
Redux is struck by all of what is taking place around them. As he sees their boat fill with people and he knows the time it will take to get to the girls. He makes up his mind to help with the rescue and not with the slavers. Redux reaches under his cloak, retrieves his bag of holding and pulls out his spell book. He reads the spell Fly from his book. As the words disappear from the page he winces slightly. He then flies as fast as possible towards the tower without further action towards the slaver boat. He again acknowledges Waard as fate and chance meet on these waters.
DM Jan d4+1=3 d4+1=5 d4+1=5 d3=1 d6=5 d100=79 d100=12 Friday October 29th, 2004 1:02:03 AM
THE SLAVER BOAT -
With half the deck ablaze, someone barks out orders. "Leave them! Over the side!" There's a cry of agony, followed by a groan. Then - 'YOU B*&&^%%$%#$!' A figure with an arrow in his shoulder unleashes three magic missiles at BOAT #1, before falling backward into the blaze. All the missiles head for Vorelle! BAM! BAM! BAM! 13 DAM
There's a lot of smoke, but it looks like three figures have jumped into the water. The smoke carries an awful charred flesh smell.
The liontaur is now safely in Boat #2. At Jager's urging, the slave in the Wildcards boat starts making his way slowly forward. The party is now two rounds away from the girls. The figurehead is chattering irritably, something about going as fast as it can, after hearing Olyn's call. They can see part of the Tower collapse before the water takes it all. In fact Zayne can see four figure enter the water.
THE TOWER -
Ashira binds the girls together quickly while Valanthe hacks away at the structure. Part of it breaks off, leaving 6 light planks floating on the water. Rose activates her seal and drinks the swim potion.
Suddenly, there's nothing but the water, a few planks, and a panicing ORC for company. The water feels..... terrifyingly deep. And cold. The orc grabs one of the planks and kicks off swimming in a northerly direction. Hanging on to a plank will give a +3 to a swim check. Rose's seal and +10 benefit will last for this next round only.
Swirl and Macaw continue to hover above. And they can see Redux flying toward them. He'll be there the next round.
Ari HP43 (50-7) AC 24 (Bulls strenght, Cats Grace (4 min each), Spider Climb (40 Minutes), Shield 4 min) d20+5=17 Friday October 29th, 2004 2:01:59 AM
Seeing the figures being forced into the water, Ari decides he's better off being a spell caster. Putting down the oars that he has been using. Ari chants out his next spell.
For those paying attention, you can see Ari's outline blur for a little bit. When everything clears, it seems that Ari's ears have changed, and he's aquired gills.
(Aquatic elf, swim speed 40 feet)
As soon as the transformation is complete Ari announces, "I'm headed out for the girls to help". With that he does his best to jump over the side and proceed to helping the girls stay afloat, or join with the boats. (Swim 17)
Olyn Friday October 29th, 2004 8:35:11 AM
same as b4, rowing to save the people at the tower.
Theodore and Macaw Friday October 29th, 2004 10:10:17 AM
Theodore huffs in relief as Vauhwyt is hauled into the boat. His reprieve is interuppted though when he sees the tower holding his friends collapse into the water. He bolts upright with a start. "Oh no!" he exclaims.
Then he notices Redux and Ari using their magic to speed them to the ladies' help. "Let them get there in time," he says under his breath."
Macaw continues to flap and cry, trying to give the coming help a point of rescue.
Vorelle [AC 17; HP 2/17] d20+6=11 d8+1=4 Friday October 29th, 2004 1:57:34 PM
Vorelle gasps as the bolts of magical energy slam into her. Gritting her teeth, she returns fire with her bow [hit AC 11 for 4], then drops prone in the boat, trying to put the gunwhale between herself and whoever's doing the shooting.
Zayne Friday October 29th, 2004 4:43:15 PM
Standing on the boat wit nothing to unleash his anger on he begins to swear in a very "sailoresque" manner. It seems as if what little control of his temper he had is now gone.
Valanthe [HP 74, AC 23] Friday October 29th, 2004 9:11:38 PM
Valanthe stacks three planks together and holds on. Even with her 20lb armor the wood should be more than enough to keep her afloat.
"It's bad enough the island is sinking but the water is freezing as well."
OOC: Um...why do swim checks have to be made at all? Valanthe is holding onto wood that should be more than enough to keep her afloat and she's not actually swimming. Even with all her gear Valanthe is easily under 200lbs. Also I am a little confused on the swimming rule. Valanthe has a light load capacity of 200lbs. She's strong enough so if a man weighed 250 lbs and no armor he has no penalty but Valanthe, who is stronger than a man and wearing armor but weighs less has a pentalty. Can somebody explain this to me because it doesn't make sense.
~~Jan~~ Baffles me too, Walter. However, rules aside, there is the matter of getting three planks together while trying to tread water and stay afloat with all your gear on. In the dark. Amidst a mad orc thrashing around and a drowning halfling. No mean feat. Anyway - looks like the cavalry's arrived :)
Nezamil Ac 21 Hp 43/53 bless rd 11/?? shield if faith 50/60 Friday October 29th, 2004 10:40:30 PM
The dwarf surveys the slavers boat as they pass looking for any who jumped into the water " i think we should help them ....at least this way we can bring them too justice" says the Cleric to those in his boat
knowing the other boats are making good headway to the fallen tower and Redux flying and the enterprising Ari swimming towards the girls the dwarf will stop rowing and look for surviviors from the slavers boat.
looking 1st in the water for any slavers location and then peering aboard the slavers burning ship for any who might need help " burning alive is no way to die " comments Nezamil
"Domi grant them courage to save themselves " growls the Cleric in a quick prayer
" surrender ! and we'll not harm you " shouts the Cleric to the slavers
" surrender! and no harm will come to you " shouts the dwarf again
Rigging d20+12=31 Friday October 29th, 2004 11:58:38 PM
Rigging looks at the crazy dwarf next to him and thinks to himself. "Wow that Nezamil is a good liar. Telling the slavers that we won't kill them. What a hoot! One of them is a priest of Ga'al and we aren't going to kill him."
Suddenly the young Captain breaks out into the giggles but no one really understands why. He quickly calms himself and orders Swirl to keep an eye on the swimming slavers.
He turns his attention to getting the girls on board and will look for Ashira spotting her amongst the wreckage. "Here we come dear!"
Appolo Saturday October 30th, 2004 3:39:01 AM
Appolo yells at Nezamil"Sit back down and keep rowing you crazy dwarf.Leave the Sons and Witches of G'aal to G'aal!!"Appolo doubles his efforts.
Jager Saturday October 30th, 2004 7:27:39 AM
Jager thinks to himself, let the slaver live? What is this dwarf talking about, not a chance. Jager adds is voice to the din and shouts "You only live if the dwarf catches you! If you are lucky you will drown and have a quick death, if not I will hunt you down one by one!"
Jager looks back to the slave that is working his way forward. "Come on, lets get together." as added encouragement.
Vauhwyt (AC19, HP19 (-6 nonlethal)) and Mookie (AC19, HP9) (Mage Armor) Saturday October 30th, 2004 8:28:07 AM
Vauhwyt casts a spell, and four glowing blood-red torchlights appear by the sinking slaver ship. They dance around the swimming swimmers, highlighting them for everyone to see.
=======
Spells: Mage Armor (V) (38 minutes of 60 used) Mage Armor (M) (38 minutes of 60 used) Message (Mookie) (35 rounds of 100 used) Dancing Lights (1 rnd of 10 used) Enlarge Person (cancelled)
Borrowed Items from Ashira: Potion Cure Moderate Wounds Ring of Limited Invisibility
Dietrich AC 17, hp 24 d20+6=20 d8+3=9 Saturday October 30th, 2004 10:38:29 AM
Dietrich gets angry and worried when he sees the spellcaster hurting Vorelle and shoots at him again. Hits ac 20, damage 9
He realizes that Vauhwyt and Olyn are save and is much relieved. The fighter believes the other girls will be picked up soon too and keeps his attention at the enemy at hand, the slavers.
Dietrich hears the shoutings of some Wildcards and freed slavers and doesn't like some of them at all. He only hopes Domi's cleric has enough influence at these pirates to prevent them killing possible prisoners.
Zayne (Illegal second post) Saturday October 30th, 2004 12:20:59 PM
Looking down at disbelief at the dwarf's words,in a very cold voice,"You have clearly lost your senses,they are scum,less than scum! They deserve punishment,to take someone away from their life and force them to toil against their will is murder to the spirit. Look at how many slaves we have freed and of them all only two of them still have the will to fight. The rest have broken spirits. They might as well be dead."
Looking balefuly at the slaver's ship,then shouting across the water,"Fight or surrender,it makes no difference to me. You have seen the sun rise for the last time and I promise you will not see it set. You hae commited crimes,and today you will pay for them,in full!!" His long nose begins to twitch violently and his voice cracks with rage.
rose d20+12=13 Saturday October 30th, 2004 2:40:32 PM
Rose holds on to a piece of wood and tries to keep afloat.
swim check: 13, nat 1
Vauhwyt (second post) Saturday October 30th, 2004 2:51:48 PM
When it becomes clear to the liontaur that the group is faced with slavers, her mouth stiffens, and she begins digging her claws into the deck of the ship.
"No quarter for slavers!" she shouts. And in a whisper, she adds, "or goblins."
Ashira d20+22=41 Saturday October 30th, 2004 11:48:56 PM
Her strong arms clinging tightly to her piece of former watch tower, Ashira kicks off and begins swimming for all she's worth. Waard is apparently with them, because Ashira's strong strokes (Swim=41) combine with Valanthe's and the girls move swiftly toward Rigging's voice.
Bart Monday November 1st, 2004 2:39:06 AM
Does anyone sees one of the grils , we are almost full Nezamillno space left not for an slaverer at this moment our first priority is our family. If we had space enough things would be different
Redux Monday November 1st, 2004 3:25:46 PM
The mage flys in closer to the girls and slips his ring of levitation off his finger and pulls his wand of bull's strength out of his bag. If he is close enough, Redux hands the ring to Ashira or Valanthe and then taps them with the wand. "Use the ring and the extra stenght to levitate you out of the water. The others should be here soon. I'll tow you if I can."
DM Jan Monday November 1st, 2004 4:38:29 PM
Ashira begins to power through the water, dragging Valanthe and Rose along. Valanthe is balanced against some wood planks and managing to keep her head well above water. Not so Rose - who's taking quite a dunking.
Luckily, the others arrive - Redux first, followed by Ari in aquatic elf form, followed by the boats. The levitation ring will help get the girls on board by the end of the next round. Rose'll be incapacitated for an extra round while she throws up the water she swallowed.
The girls are safe! Macaw is exhausted.
The Slaver boat is now fully ablaze, and Dietrich's arrow hits the burning (and dying) spellcaster. Vorelle is badly wounded.
Olyn, Appolo, Nezamil, Bart, Ryan, Shadeos and anyone else who's been rowing like crazy will feel their shoulders and arms start to tingle with exhaustion.
Due to Jager's encouragement, the one slave from the Wildcard's boat, and those in one of the rear orc boats, start to move further forward and into orc Boat #4, figuring they'll be safer there.
As for the Slavers -
While Swirl hovers above, Vauhwyt's dancing lights reveal the sight of one man floundering in the water. "Ugh..... help!" he cries. While the other two are swimming strongly toward the Wiildcard's boat at the back of the line.
Some of the group yell at those in the water, but what will win out? Compassion or vengeance?
Anyone looking up? Spot DC 21
Theodore and Macaw d20=13 Monday November 1st, 2004 4:56:01 PM
Theodore is more than taken aback at some of his fellows' desiring the death of the now helpless slavers. Even more so by Zayne and Vauhwyt's desire, though.
"We must spare them!" he cries. "They have asked for quarter. As good people, we must give it to them."
If any slavers come close to the wizard, he reaches out his hand and attempts to help them onboard.
Macaw alights on the rail of Theodore's boat, happy to have a perch for a few minutes.
(Strength check = 13 to pull in anyone out in the water.)
Rigging d20+12=32 Monday November 1st, 2004 6:32:04 PM
Rigging hugs Ashira as she is pulled aboard and says, "Sorry to be late. I promise a dinner out to make up for it."
He turn back to the slavers and see and feel Swirl darting about safely above them. (spot check 32) "Let's go collect those prisoners and see what they are up too. Regular slavers can be saved, but no mercy to any priest of Ga'al."
Vauhwyt and Mookie d20+3=12 Monday November 1st, 2004 9:28:49 PM
Intent on the slavers, Vauhwyt does not look up (Spot 12). She has no ranged weapon, so she helps by rowing, relieving one of the exhausted rowers.
Olyn d20+6=9 Monday November 1st, 2004 10:14:56 PM
moves as safely as possible from his boat to that with Rose. rendering her compassion and any first aid she might need.
like holding her hair out from in front of her face so she doesnt urp on it. and gently rubbing her neck and talking softly to her.
spot of 9, not that i was looking up anyways.
Valanthe d20+4=16 Monday November 1st, 2004 11:10:33 PM
Valanthe breathes heavily as she rolls into the boat. She thought everything was going pretty good despite the sinking island and the half-demon. She should be thankful that something else grabbed the half orc, half demon but she's not. Valanthe wanted to fight that thing. She wanted to see how strong it really was. In no way did she think that it ran from her. No it was a tactical retreat from a suprise attack.
Valanthe curses as she moves to a sitting position. "So what happened is everybody okay?"
ooc: spot check 16
Jager d20+6=14 d20+10=12 d20+11=19 d20+9=19 d20+8=28 d20+6=16 Monday November 1st, 2004 11:43:30 PM
Jager's blood is up. Slavers in the water and he does not bother to look up (spot 14).
Jager does his best to jump/tumble/balance into the next boat with the slavers swimming toward the back boats.
Jump 12 Tumble 19 Balance 19 Swim 28 (nat 20, lets hope he does not have to use it)
Jager is looking for a cutting weapon, as moves from boat to boat. Jager needs something to cut ropes if necessary.
Jager will attempt to identify the "slavers"in the water, since he was in their "care" recently (spot 16).
Jager yells back to those int he front boats "Getting ready to repel boarders." and to himself "Permanently if I recognize any of them...."
Nezamil Ac 21 Hp 43/53 bless rd 12/?? shield of faith 49/60 Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 12:55:17 AM
The dwarf shakes his head in sadness "are you not better then them ? is this how good people act ??" retorts Nezamil
turning to face Appolo and Zayne " you two are young and think everything can be solved by killing....wisdom has not come to you yet...hopefully time will teach you " says the Cleric with steel in his voice
"yes they have done terrible things and yes! they will be punished for their crimes but i will Not abide by slaughtering them this way! " warns the Cleric !!
"by capturing them we gain not only infomation about how and who they work with but show the people of the region of Ga'als failures and weakness"
Nezamil puts his oar in the water and angles it for steering towards the survivors
" how we act here shows our true character "
with a look at Zayne " your a brave young man but lashing out with anger is not the way ......but Ga'al has plenty of minions you will get your chance to strike them down " finishes the Cleric of Domi
" surrender is the only option " shouts the Cleric to those in the water and on the burning boat
Vorelle [AC 17, HP 2/17] Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 1:59:04 AM
Vorelle lays motionless on the bottom of the boat, staring at the weathered planks just inches from her face. They smell of brine and orc feet, and Vorelle wrinkles her nose in distaste.
She hurts all over from the pummeling of the missiles, and is having a hard time clearing her head. Vaguely, she is aware of an argument raging above her over the fate of the slavers.
It's nice to help people, she thinks muzzily. I hope somebody gets around to helping me. Then, I wonder if its safe to lift my head.
The sounds of combat seem to have faded, but she is afraid to poke her head up over the side in case somebody shoots at it. Another fusillade like that last one would kill her at this point.
Rose Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 2:13:40 AM
Rose throws up over the side of the boat and into the water, she is vaguely aware that someone is holding her hair back and helping her stand so she reaches over the side.
Ari HP43 (50-7) AC 24 (Bulls strenght, Cats Grace (4 min each), Spider Climb (40 Minutes), Shield 4 min) d20+3=23 Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 6:43:08 AM
After Ari finishes helping with the rest of the party. Ari sweeps the area to see if there's anything else to do while he has the sea elf forming. Making sure to turn around Ari searches behind and looks up, to make sure the entire area is clear. (spot=23 critical)
Ashira Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 11:05:36 AM
Shivering from the cold of the water, Ashira kisses Rigging as he pulls her from the water. "Huh....you think you're going to get off with a dinner??? Me thinks it's time to go shopping..." Ashira's mock tirade is cut short by the sight of Appolo. "By the Gods!!! Valanthe, look what the worgs dragged in! Appolo, you son of a jackal!!! What in the Wold are you doing here?"
Catching snipits of the conversation about the slavers, Ashira sighs. "It doesn't do us any good to slaughter them wholesale quite yet. Let's fish them out...see what they know...then decide their fate."
Zayne Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 11:40:37 AM
Looking at the cleric with disgust on his face,"Killing them is no less than they deserve. How many lives have they destroyed? Surely more than we have managed to free today. They have taken away from these people the most valuable thing in the world,their freedom,for some their families,not to mention their spirits,crushed their hope. You speak about showing them mercy. I cannot show mercy to someone that were the situations reversed would tie me up and treat me with less respect than I deserve as a living breathing creature."
Shaking his head,"Would you keep a dog or even a rat in the conditions that we freed the slaves from? I would hope not. If your mother,or father were in these pens I think you would sing a different tune. I don't know any of these people,and I don't care if I ever do. I do know that nothing living deserve to be treated like that. You say I have gained no wisdom,if wisdom means letting murderers not be held accountable for their actions,then I want nothing to do with it."
Dietrich ac 17, hp 24, 10 arrows d20+4=18 Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 12:13:04 PM
Dietrich is relieved to see the enemy's spellcaster die and his friends rescued. He is too concerned about Vorelle to look upwards (spot 18) and even forget the argument about the prisoners for a while to call for some help.
"Hey, Vorelle is gravely hurt! Restrain your bloodlust a litle and help me here!"
The fighter is worried and feels helpless, as he doesn't really know what to do to.
Appolo d20+6=26 Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 1:32:35 PM
By the time they reach the girls Appolo is exhuasted and collapses back on the floor of the boat.He replies to Nezamil and Zayne'Will you two stop agruing,besides I never said kill them just leave them to thier god's clemency.Niether help them nor harm them,besides killing them is to merciful.Turning them over to the Pirates for interrogation and torture well that is merciless,hell leave them alone with me for awhile."He then winks wickedly at Nezamil.
When Ashira comes aboard and calls to him he replies to her by hugging her"I glad to see you as well.You and val still getting in trouble.I'll explian things later."he then looks around for Valanthe,while doing so he spots something in the sky.He has worried look on his face."Some one better help that young women over there,she looks hurt."Pointing to Vorelle"There's also something in the sky."Once he spots Val.He moves quickly to her picking her up and holding her"Ok folks time to get the Flock out off here."
DM Jan Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 8:45:32 PM
The girls are pulled aboard. Olyn helps Rose get back to breathing air instead of water.
Dietrich alerts the others to Vorelle's injuries.
Jager starts working his way back toward the empty Wildcards boat. He meets the slaves coming in the opposite direction in Orc Boat #5. he's now closest to the two Slavers who are swimming frantically toward the Wildcards boat - too intent on getting there to heed any cries from the party. They're too far away for Theo to reach. Jager recognises the leading swimmer as Erik - the Slaver leader. There's another male human behind him.
Out in the water, Ari can see that the third swimmer - the one who shouted for help, is in big trouble and has sunk under the water.
The Slavers boat is still afloat but burning like a torch. There'll be no more survivors out of that inferno.
In the dark sky above, at about 80 ft, Appolo, Ari and Rigging notice a misshapen thing, passing over, flapping it's torn wings. It's making its way north by the looks of it, fairly fast, but erratic.
ETA Slavers reaching Wildcards boat - 2 rounds Nearest characters - Ari, Jager - also two rounds.
Valanthe Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 8:58:03 PM
Valanthe smiles and giggles with delight but that quickly turns to a grimmace of pain. "It's great to see you but I'm a bit tender. Ran into some demonic fire after some demon creature that was orchistrating all of this."
OOC: What boat is Vorelle in BTW?
Theodore and Macaw 2d8(3+2)+1=6 Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 9:27:42 PM
Theodore is visibly relieved to have everyone safely aboard. Then he notices Vorelle hurt and lieing uncomfortably in the bottom of a boat.
"Vorelle!" he cries out as he rushes to her. "Vorelle," he says again, falling to his knees beside her. "Here, take this." Theodore produces a flask from his backpack and removes the stopper. Gently, he tilts Vorelle's head up and brings the nozzle to her lips. "This will help you."
(Potion of cure moderate wounds = 6)
Rigging d20+6=24 3d4(3+2+4)+3=12 d20+12=15 Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 11:11:42 PM
Rigging will notice the fiend trying to run and will point at the sky and yell, "It's getting away! Bring it down!"
He will mumble a couple of words and 3 darts will leap from his fingers striking the creature for 12 points of damage.
He will then notice the 3 slavers and see the drowning one. "Ashira, get the one out of the water. He looks in trouble, but don't risk yourself unnecessarily.
Jagar! We want prisoners! We can always do justice later. We need information. I want the lead slaver alive....for now."
OOC rolled 24 for spell resistance if it was necessary.
George Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 11:13:59 PM
ooc "Need someone willing to play Swirl. I am not allowed to anymore ;-(
Redux d20+7=15 Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 11:26:43 PM
Redux doesn't spot the creature above, otherwise he would have sent some magic missles its way. He's getting tired and looks for a less crowded boat to fly down to and land in. He looks around to see who wound up in what boat--in all the confusion he didn't keep track.
Jager d20+6=7 d20+6=23 d20+10=11 d20+11=12 d20+9=19 d20+8=13 Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 12:33:50 AM
Jager is inscensed at the sight of Erik (listen 7 nat 1) and does not hear Riggings call.
Jager moves closer to where Erik appears to be swimming to and calls to him "Master Erik, it is Jager and I am free again, this time for good! The tables are turned, I am coming for you!"
Jager looks for any kind of weapon in the boats he is traversing and also if he can recognize any of the other swimmers as slavers (spot 23).
OOC: are the oars detachable and usable as potential weapons???? What is there length???
Rose d20+5=22 d20+3=6 d6=6 Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 12:41:11 AM
Rose looks up from puking over the side just as she sees Rigging firing at something, she takes a good look and sends off her only remaining offensive spell even though she doesnt think it will do much good.
disrupt undead spot:22 ranged touch: 6 damage: 6
Olyn d20+6=21 Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 8:16:27 AM
turning and seeing the attack on the winged creature he says: let the beast go, we cannot afford another battle with all these people in boats, we have slavers swimming towards us with god knows what intentions, people who are wigging out after being rescued. do you want these people getting killed cuz you couldnt let it get away? stop your attacks and worry about these poor folks. you'll have time later to go after it if you wish.
carefully moving to where GVorelle is, he will check her wounds, and apply aid where it is needed. heal check of 21
will then start looking at the others who might need his assistance.
Nezamil Ac 21 Hp 43/53 shield of faith 48/60 Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 2:46:51 PM
The dwarf tries to guide the boat towards the surviors in the water.
At Appolo's wicked wink " heh being alone with you would scare anyone " smirks the dwarf " you have quite the reputation "
The Cleric turns at Riggings yell and looks skyward ...seeing the winged creature at 80 ft distance " by Domi you shant get away vile thing " shouts the dwarf
shouting divine words of power the Cleric touches his holy symbol and releases Domi's power (casting hold person on the winged beast )
(170 ft range Dc check 10+2+3=15)
Ashira Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 3:18:09 PM
Ashira goes over to make sure that Rose is ok and then does a quick head count. Seeing that everyone made it ok, Ashira beams. Then she notes Rigging and Nezamil's effort to down the half-fiend and Olyn's objections. She also notes Jager's aggressive moves toward the slavers. Sighing deeply, Ashira calls out to Ari. "Ari, we need those people alive! Make sure the slave doesn't kill them all yet. Get them into a boat and make sure they're secured. I'll get over there as soon as I can."
Not being able to help out with the half-fiend, Ashira motions for one of the other boats to be pulled next to Rigging's and gets ready to head over to the slavers. She shivers as the cold water drips off her body. Her thoroughly soaked tunic clings tightly to her body, making her movements slightly awkward. Catching the brief outline of the jagged scar on her chest just below her breasts, Ashira looks over at disgust at the slavers. Oh, she needed them alive for now...but the time would come when they had gathered all the information they needed... And when that time came, she pitied the poor souls. They had taken these people from their homes and delivered them to Ga'al for seeding. That was something she wouldn't forget, nor would she forgive...
Vorelle [AC 17; HP 8/17] Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 4:08:06 PM
Not hearing anything more from the slavers' spellcaster, Vorelle cautiously raises her head. She sees Theo holding out a potion to her, and takes it gratefully, draining it in a gulp. She replaces the stopper and hands the empty flask back.
"Th-th-thanks," she says.
[OOC: Vorelle is in the first boat.]
[OOC: Shegger, are you sure it's 2d8+1? Cure Moderate is a 2nd-level spell, meaning the minimum caster level should be 3.]
Shegger OOC Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 4:36:34 PM
(It could be. I'm a magician, not a cleric dadgummit!!)
Vauhwyt and Mookie d20+11=16 Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 5:37:21 PM
Lacking any kind of range weapon, Vauhwyt cannot hurt the flying fiend. So she casts a message spell so that she can talk to it. As an icon forms on her forehead, she says to the fiend, "Come back right now or you will be killed! Come back, give us some information, and we will let you live!" [Intimidate check 16]
DM Jan d20+13=20 d20+11=27 d100=28 Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 8:28:38 PM
Despite the spells thrown at the creature aloft - it appears to absorb or shrug off the bulk of it, and in another few seconds - it's disappeared off into the darkness.
While awaiting the fate of the drowning Slaver, the other two are almost at the Wildcards boat. "Parlay!" yells Eric, or something that sounds like that. "Parlay!"
Boat #1 is doing a u-turn, followed by Boat #2 - traveling toward the Wildcards boat.
From above, Redux can see some of the other slaves scrambling forward to join their bretheren in Boat #4. There are 4 slaves in Boat #3 There will be 7 slaves in Boat #4 Boats #5 and #6 are empty.
Boat 7 (next to the Wildcards boat) now contains Jager who's brandishing a 5ft oar that looks like it could do a reasonable 1d4 damage.
Vorelle starts to feel a lot better after the potion (2nd level spell), and is likely to heal up naturally a bit better after Olyn checks her remaining wounds (2hp in 8 hours)
The Slaver boat's fire is now dwindling. It still floats about 50ft away from the main party.
Vauhwyt and Mookie Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 8:51:30 PM
Mookie says to Vauhwyt, "Boss, listen to your formidaable pal, there. Talk to these slavers."
Vauhwyt nods. "Mookie, you are right. Ashira, I'll help you bring these slavers aboard. They will tell us interesting things. Maybe they will earn themselves a quick painless death, rather than a slow lingering one."
As soon as it is safe, Vauhwyt calls to the slaver, "Yes! Parley!" And she will help bring them aboard.
"We should talk after we reach shorre." The tension she feels is echoed in her accent. She makes sure the Book is still secure.
Valanthe Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 9:07:14 PM
Val reaches for her bow before remembering that she lent it out. She curses as the half-fiend dissapears into the darkness. "That thing was behind everything. I so wanted to kill it but something happened back at the tent. Something attacked the half-fiend in mid air, probably saving us from its wrath."
Rigging Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 10:55:29 PM
Rigging will see Jagar readying the oar with dangerous intent and yell, "Jagar, hold off! Don't kill them!"
To the rowers of his craft he will extort, "Put your backs into it boys. I think that crazy slave is gonna be trouble."
Rose Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 11:32:54 PM
Rose huddles in the bottom of the boat cold, wet, and miserable.
Chris Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 11:53:23 PM
OOC: Hey George i'll play swirl ;-) should be fun
Swirl Thursday November 4th, 2004 12:05:43 AM
Swirl hovers near Rigging then zooms out across the water to hover over the swimming slavers marking there location .
racing anxiously in circles above where the one went underwater "hurry" hears Rigging
Nezamil Ac 21 Hp 43/53 shield of faith 47/60 Thursday November 4th, 2004 12:24:49 AM
Nezamil watches as the beast escapes into the darkness " i have a feeling we'll see that vile thing again " comments the dwarf outloud
The dwarf will guide his boat around behind(near swirl) the slavers in the water encircling them .(if he can see the slaver that just went under water, Nezamil will thrust his oar under water for the slaver to grab onto if possible)
Theodore and Macaw Thursday November 4th, 2004 10:49:44 AM
Theodore smiles at Vorelle. "You're welcome. If you don't mind, I believe I'll keep my head down for a bit. I don't think there's much more I can do except provide a target." That said, he hunkers down in the boat to await the end of the action.
Macaw remains on the side of the boat, looking hither and yon as people scatter, swim, and row all over the place.
Dietrich Thursday November 4th, 2004 12:53:49 PM
Dietrich is quite relieved to see Vorelle healed and feels specially stupid, for he forgot that he had healing potion himself...
The soldier is a pragmatic man and knows that, if you want to make prisoners, its no good to give the enemy no mercy. He is satisfied with the captains (Rigging) order and hopes the pirates are disciplined enough to obey it. If the prisoners should be executed later, after a proper trial, or if they continue posing a threat, its rather another question.
When he sees the flying fiend, its only one more dam... strange magic thing, after a sinking island and tonns of fireballs, and Dietrich is glad to have it far from where they are.
Appolo Thursday November 4th, 2004 1:47:00 PM
Appolo watches the creature fly away"That's good.Perhaps some one was looking out for you in my absence.I just glad you're ok.>" Appolo looks over at Nexamil"Nezanil,would you happen to have a healing potion.Val could really use one"Appolo continues to hold Val why he looks around"So who are all these other people?"
Olyn Thursday November 4th, 2004 3:29:26 PM
going back to Rose, he pulls out a wool blanket and wraps it about her, rubbing her arms for warmth.
then pulls out a wineskin and hands it to her saying: drink some of this, itll help warm you up.
Zayne Thursday November 4th, 2004 3:42:08 PM
Walks over to the rear of the boat. To be alone with his thoughts.
Watching with very little concern as the winged creature flies away.
He begins to formulate a plan on making all the slavers pay,and make everyone happy.
Thinking to himself"I am sinking that boat,permanently." He stands there alone clentching his fists. Cold fury clear upon his face.
Jager d20+7=16 d20+2=4 d20+6=20 d20+6=12 d8+2=4 d8+2=9 d20+6=19 d20+6=16 d20+6=10 Thursday November 4th, 2004 5:09:17 PM
Jager is brandishing the oar and will strike and slaver that approaches the boat, which he desparately hopes happens (AC 16 for for 4 dam.).
If a slaver get onto a boat, Jager will attack with fists and feet (AC 20 & 12 for 4 and 9 dam.).
Jager yells out "No parley today, you are just going to have to die for your crimes against humanity!" Jager does not appear to hear anything that Rigging is saying (listen 19).
Jager is trying to get to the slavers, but want to maintain his position of advantage in the boat. Jager will move to another boat if he has a better shot at the slavers, particulally Erik.
Does Jager spot any other slavers he knows (spot 16, etra 10 roll if needed).
Ashira Thursday November 4th, 2004 5:19:36 PM
OOC Alright, right now, I really have nooo idea which boat Ashira is in.
Ashira begins to try and work her way over to the boat that Vauwhyt's in, jumping out of her boat and swimming to the Taurs boat if needed. She knows that she needs to get over to those slavers soon before that ex-slave kills them all. When she arrives, Ashira helps Vauhwyt in pulling the survivors aboard, striping them of any weapons or magical items, and making sure that they are nice and tightly bound.
Valanthe Thursday November 4th, 2004 9:08:55 PM
"Nezamil keep your potion. I have some of my own if I really need it. These are some new friends we ran into looking for the slavers. it turned out that we were both looking for the same people so we worked together. I'm glad we did since this would have been too big for just the Wildcards."
Ari HP43 (50-7) AC 24 (Bulls strenght, Cats Grace (4 min each), Spider Climb (40 Minutes), Shield 4 min) d20+3=23 Thursday November 4th, 2004 10:20:08 PM
Hearing at least one voice of reason out of this motley crew. Ari does his best to try to find the downed swimmer. He hopes he can get to him before he drowns.
(ooc sorry about missed post)
Vorelle Thursday November 4th, 2004 11:06:12 PM
Vorelle picks herself up off the bottom of the boat and looks around. She has a stammered "th-th-thanks" for Olyn as well, and she gives Dietrich a shy smile before ducking her head in embarrassment.
Redux d20+6=24 Thursday November 4th, 2004 11:22:13 PM
Redux listens to those around him. He spots the half-fiend, but too late to do anything about it. At Val's words, he smiles. "Thank you, dear Val for noticing. I did enjoy casting that one. I am too am unsure what the creature saw--something so terrible as to make it flee rather than fight. I only wish I could have completely destroyed it."
DM Jan Thursday November 4th, 2004 11:36:36 PM
Boats 1 and 2 (containing everyone except Jager, Redux and Ari) approach the swimming slavers. Jager cracks Erik on the head with the oar as the Slaver leader grabs for the Wildcard boat. Escape? It's not going to happen, obviously. So... both Slavers find themselves being brought aboard Boat #2.
The boats are now roughly in a circular formation, nose to tail - the nose being Boat #1, the tail being the Wildcards boat.
In the middle of the circle, in the water, Ari finds himself rescuing 250lbs of unconscious female half-orc. Nezamil holds out an oar.
Erik and Ao, the two Slavers currently rescued on the boat (2), gaze sullenly at the party.
The slaves in Boats 3 and 4 look on with haunted eyes.
30ft away, the Slavers boat is now embers. It's still afloat.
As the mist closes in, rolling over the water, it would be all too easy to imagine that the island, and everything that happened on its surface, were merely flights of fancy - or a dream; something that never really happened. Perhaps the mind would prefer that explanation, but the body still held remnants of a different story. Wounds, cold, exhaustion; half fiends and orcs; slavers and slaves: the smouldering slaver boat a small beacon of rememberance, on a lake dark and still.
What now?
Theodore and Macaw Friday November 5th, 2004 10:21:02 AM
Theodore glances up at Vorelle and Deitrich as things get quiet. "What's going on?" he whispers, still huddled in the bowels of the boat.
Vauhwyt and Mookie Friday November 5th, 2004 1:39:01 PM
Vauhwyt looks at the bound slavers and at the Book. "We have a lot to digest friends, and these boats give me the willies. Let's get back to shore and get some information."
"We have a book to read and these slavers to talk to."
Mookie flaps over to a bound slaver and perches next to him on the boat-rail. "Yeah, information!" he caws.
Valanthe Friday November 5th, 2004 5:48:12 PM
"Well I say we find shore, deal with the slavers however we choose to and celebrate. A big fire, lots of food and we definately need some wine."
Nezamil Ac 21 Hp 43/53 shield of faith 46/50 Friday November 5th, 2004 9:47:30 PM
Nezamil will angle the boat towards Ari and the half-orc , upon reaching them the dwarf will grasp the half-orc and drag her into the boat
(Nezamil will use granted power for strength Domain +7) (18+7=25 str)(phb pg 162 carry capacity)(250 pounds shouldn't be a problem )
As the half-orc lands in the boat "Appolo if you could please bind her arms and legs " remarks the dwarf
The Cleric turns back to Ari " Hey Ari can you investigate the slavers boat? " i'll row this closer (only 30 ft away ) and help search what left of the wreck"
rose Friday November 5th, 2004 10:08:13 PM
Rose huddles into the blanket and gratefully sips what olyn hands her to drink. Then suddenly is leaning over the side and she is throwing up again. When she stops she looks at Olyn "Don't you have any tea?"
Rigging Friday November 5th, 2004 11:59:40 PM
Rigging will look grimly at the slavers and then order, "I want them striped, searched and tied up. I will not allow them to be mistreated. If they answer some questions, who knows we even might let them live."
Rigging will turn to the other slaves but really direct his attention to Jagar, "I know you have been mistreated and beaten. You have been cruely used and want revenge. You are free now and we will get you to safety, but understand this. If you want our help, you must subject yourselves to the pirate's authority. I will not allow you to do anything that might jeopardize our mission.
We have been given the mission to stop the Asidurians from converting more to Ga'al. That is a much worse fate then normal slavery. Not only does he take your body, but he also takes your soul and free will. I and my companion's" Rigging points to the other Wildcards," have dedicated our lives to stopping him. Your quick vengence will not be allowed."
Rigging then continues, "Lets check out the other ship and get out of here and back to land. Ari, try and finds some that doesn't sink this time."
Dietrich Saturday November 6th, 2004 12:08:40 PM
The tough warrior is touched by Vorelle's smile and just feels good seeing her ok. He puts his 'bucket' helmet of and gives her a friendly nod.
Dietrich takes a look at Rose too, just conforting her with his simpathy, and assures Theo that the danger has passed, though he knows the young wizard has far more courage than he looks like.
As it seems that everything is all right now, Dietrich keeps ready to comand the figurehead to bring the boats ashore. He'll just wait for the investigation of the burned slavership (perhaps there is even some gold or so...)
He liked the idea of a feast too, as he doesn't think there should be any trouble from the beaten enemy so soon.
Ultimately, Dietrich gives Ashira her magic bow back and thanks her again for the opportunity of using the mighty weapon.
Zayne d20+3=18 d20+5=24 Saturday November 6th, 2004 1:10:54 PM
Zayne takes his remaining dagger and stabs it into the railing of the boat and then begins to take off his armor.
After stripping himself to his skivvies and revealing himself to be quite muscular for his slight build he takes his dagger in his teeh and dives headlong into the water.
Swimming over to the remains of the ship he begins to look around for anything that might be slavageable from the ship,not to mention any pieces that might be remotely salvagable.(Swim 18 Search 24
Zayne d20+3=18 d20+5=24 d20+3=16 Saturday November 6th, 2004 1:12:04 PM
Zayne takes his remaining dagger and stabs it into the railing of the boat and then begins to take off his armor.
After stripping himself to his skivvies and revealing himself to be quite muscular for his slight build he takes his dagger in his teeh and dives headlong into the water.
Swimming over to the remains of the ship he begins to look around for anything that might be slavageable from the ship,not to mention any pieces that might be remotely salvagable.(Swim 18 Search 24 Swim 16 to remain aflot while looking)
Jager d20+6=26 d20+6=24 d8+2=3 d8+2=3 d20+6=14 d8+2=10 d20+7=20 d20+11=23 d20+11=12 Saturday November 6th, 2004 3:34:30 PM
Jager throws himself at Erik and yells "You killed Softig!"
If Jager is close enough to Erik to physically attack him with fists he will droping the oar first(AC 26 critical AC 24 for 6 damage and AC 14 for 10).
If Jager must get past people he will (escape artist 20) as his whole purpose seems bent on killing Erik the slaver.
If Jager is unable to attack Erik this round he will move as close as possible and take a hand axe or dagger or the like on someone he passes (disarm 23).
If anyone attempts to restrain Jager (If he is not close enough to attack Erik this round he will trip them and move on (trip 12, nat 1 not good).
Swirl Saturday November 6th, 2004 4:59:31 PM
As the slavers are pulled from the water swirl swooshes over to Rigging and hovers nearby and watches the angry slave changing boats.
Swirl glances around quickly looking to spot his feathered friend Talon
Vorelle Sunday November 7th, 2004 12:11:24 PM
"S-s-some of the s-s-slaves are a-attacking the s-s-slavers," Vorelle replies to Theo's question. She finds a place to sit and stays out of the way of the rowers.
Vauhwyt d20+1=18 d20+7=10 Monday November 8th, 2004 6:56:35 AM
If Vauhwyt is in the same boat as Jager (I think she is?), then she will try to grab him to stop his attack. She evades his trip attempt and grabs him (hit AC18 as a touch attack). Then she tries to hold him back (grapple check 10, or 6 with a non-pref penalty, is not very good).
She shouts, "Listen to Rigging!"
Ari HP43 (50-7) AC 24 (Bulls strenght, Cats Grace (4 min each), Spider Climb (40 Minutes), Shield 4 min, alter self 40 min) Monday November 8th, 2004 7:22:27 AM
(are we out of combat at this point, then my short spells have probably expired)
Getting an assist from Nezamil, Ari then hears his word of suggestion. "I still have some time on my spell as of yet. Though I wonder if Ashira would be interested in helping out, since she would seem more used to this kind of thing. But I can't remember if she's been out much, since the loss of taker." (ooc her dolphin, I think I got the name right)
Valanthe Monday November 8th, 2004 8:12:34 AM
She takes the bow from Dietrich and slips it back into her enchanted quiver. "I'm just glad that it was some use in the fight."
Valanthe watches Jager and shakes her head. She understands his reaction and thinks the slavers should be gutted and tossed overboard but the Captain just told him not to touch them. Not a good thing to do.
ooc: the bow belongs to Valanthe
DM Jan Monday November 8th, 2004 12:44:25 PM
The half drowned female half-orc slaver is brought aboard. Ari and Zayne swim over to the burned slaver boat and poke through the grisly remains. Amongst the wreck they discover a charred chest. it's locked.
Dietrich orders the figurehead toward the shore, and off it goes, serenely cutting through the water, the other boats behind following in a single line.
The entire fleet now consists of: 3 captured slavers 11 slaves Dirt City party Wildcards party 7 orc boats controlled by the figurehead 1 Wildcards boat being towed behind 1 charred, locked chest 1 skin-covered tome
Boats #1 and #2 are a little low in the water because they now have the slavers aboard. Erik and AO are in Boat 2 Alia (the rescued half orc) is in Boat 1
It's apparent that Jager wants vengeance. At this moment there are too many folk in the boat #2 for Jager to make direct contact with Erik. How will the remaining party deal with it? Rigging has ordered him to desist. The liontaur, Vauhwyt, has tried to stop him.
Boats #1 and #2 are close enough to allow movement between the two.
((OOC - Jim, and anyone who wants to try and stop him, I need calls and rolls against specific characters))
As things are 'discussed' on board, the boats sail east, through the night and the mists. It's an eerie journey, with one big scary moment as the boats lurch suddenly, pushed violently onward by a five foot tidal wave that arrives from behind. What caused it? One has to wonder.
In a little while, the misty skies begin to lighten, the sound of water rolling over pebbles can be heard,and the muddy glow of a small fire can be seen, dead ahead.
Rose Monday November 8th, 2004 1:13:03 PM
Rose is curled up out of the way, maybe on someone's lap if the boat is to full. "Why is there a fire, I know we didnt make it."
Rose then gets ready in case of more trouble.
Theodore and Macaw Monday November 8th, 2004 2:20:03 PM
At Rose's comment, Theodore sits up to peer over the edge of the boat. "Maybe it's Priscilla," he suggests, remembering the witch they had helped not too long ago. "I hope it is, anyway..." he mumbles.
Macaw reminds the wizard to keep his wits about him with a sharp peck on the top of Theodore's head.
Jager AC 17 Dodge vs Taur Mobility for AoO AC 21 or 22 d20+9=11 d20+9=10 d20+9=16 d20+6=24 d20+6=24 d20+6=17 d20+6=12 d20+6=20 d20+6=16 d20+6=16 d8+2=9 d8+2=7 d20+12=15 Monday November 8th, 2004 3:00:22 PM
Years of slavery and the beatings and torture have caught up with Jager. Jager seems bent on ending slavery in this part of the world, or at least these boat, once and for all. Jager yells "I will never go back again!" and again attempts to get at Erik.
Jager will do his best to avoid any of the non slavers and make for Erik the Evil, merchant in human toil and suffering.
Jager will keep his balance as best he can while moving in the boats (balance 11)
Jager will look for an opening to leap at Erik in an effort to squeeze the life out of him (jump 10, nat.1, yuck)
If necessary, Jager will avoid any grabs and if grabbed will attempt to escape (escape artist 16 or opposed grapple 24), in an effort to get at Erik. Jager will not strike any of his rescuers or their friends.
Once at Erik, Jager will attempt to pummel him (AC 24 and 17 for 9 and 7 damage)
OOC: Held down the D20 way too long and got 4 extra rolls, sorry.
In order to avoid being grabbed and to get closer to Erik, Jager will tumble past any of those blocking his path if he feels jumping will not work. (Tumble 15, not great, ugh!)
Appolo Monday November 8th, 2004 3:19:55 PM
After Val gets her bow back Appolo says"Come on just lean back and rest agianst me sunshine."Appolo agian gently wraps his arms around Val and pulls her back on himself while leaning agianst the side of the boat."Well i gues I'm back with the family now.Just as I was meant to be."He says this witha happy smile as watches what is going on around him.
Vauhwyt and Mookie d20+1=12 Monday November 8th, 2004 6:06:31 PM
Vauhwyt attempts to grab the slippery Jager, but he easily evades her.
Mookie caws, "Boss, a grapple attack may be special, but it's no feat! You need improvement!"
Vauhwyt blushes, and replies, "You said it, Mookie! If my grapple were improved, I'd be better at this!"
Rigging Monday November 8th, 2004 6:53:44 PM
Rigging will see the lunatic monk/slave running around like a mad man trying to kill his prisoners. He was warned he thinks, and pulls out a wand and aims it at the monk. He says the command word, "Hold" and shoots his wand at the crazy Jagar.
Hold person will save dc 17.
He will then yell, "Jagar, desist or suffer! Next I use deadly force."
To whoever is in the boats between Jagar and the slaves he will yell, "Hold down that crazy slave or give him a dunking to cool him off!"
Ashira d20+11=28 d20+11=18 d20+8=17 Monday November 8th, 2004 10:01:48 PM
The unarmored half-elf waits to see the result of Rigging's attack. Should it fail to hold the former slave, Ashira lunges at Jager (Grapple=28) and latches onto the the wily man. Smiling, she attempts to pull him overboard (Grapple=18) and into the cool water as Rigging suggested. As she struggles with the man, she whispers into his ear. "Stop this nonsense. I swear to you that those maggots will pay for their crimes, but right now we need them alive. Later we'll slit their throats. Right now we need to find out about their organization so that hunt down every last one of them." (Diplomacy=17) As she speaks, Jager can detect both contempt for the slavers as well as a small touch of blood lust.
Redux Monday November 8th, 2004 10:59:20 PM
Redux watches with interest as Jager tries to get at the (now) ex-slaver. He muses to himself and then shouts to Rigging "Would you mind if I webbed the whole bunch to keep him contained?" He also eyes the chest with interest in monitary rewards. But, then at the sight of the tome, the mage becomes very excited and makes his desire to get his fingers into it clearly known.
Nezamil Tuesday November 9th, 2004 12:32:32 AM
The dwarf will restrain the half-orc in his boat , binding her hand and foot.once that is complete he will peer over to the commotion on the other boat.
"BY DOMI !" shouts the Cleric " RESTRAIN THAT FOOL "
the dwarf glances at the approaching shoreline " hey ! whats that light ? i think we have company "
"with all the racket we're making they'll know we're coming " remarks Nezamil
Swirl Tuesday November 9th, 2004 12:39:03 AM
Swirl gains a little altitude hovering above Riggings boat .buzzing about anxiously
with a quick look at Redux to see if Talon is perched on his shoulder but alas no :(
" where's my friend " wonders Swirl
Talon (George) Tuesday November 9th, 2004 7:40:24 AM
Talon buzzes past Swirl and heads towards land. He wants to check out the light but is also wondering if he might find a stray mouse at the same time.
Olyn Tuesday November 9th, 2004 9:18:02 AM
seeing the mayhem on board the boat with the newly released slave trying to get at his former master, and hearing Rigging spout off at the mouth about stopping or he will use deadly force, Olyn turns to him, looking straight at him, and invokes the will of Wardd upon him.
in a deep, and commanding tone:
!!!!! STOP !!!!!
(cast Command, will save dc 16)
Jager (Second Post) d20+9=20 Tuesday November 9th, 2004 9:26:04 AM
Jager easily shakes off the hold person spell and continues on, but catches a glimps of a half elf rushing at him and doubts he can avoid her in time, much to his chargin.
Zayne d20+3=15 d20+5=14 Tuesday November 9th, 2004 11:27:53 AM
Leaving the chest for Ari to deal with for the time bein he continues to poke through the wreckage.(Swim 15 Search 14)
Valanthe Tuesday November 9th, 2004 12:22:36 PM
Valanthe leans back resting against Appolo. She finds Jager's actions amusing.
"Captain," Valanthe says loudly and with a smile, "Give the word and I'll stick an arrow in all the troublemakers."
DM Jan Tuesday November 9th, 2004 12:57:27 PM
Jager gets a dunking, and the message from the others that beating Erik to a bloody pulp wouldn't necessarily be the best thing right now.
Zayne didn't find anything else in the Slaver boat apart from charred human remains.
The mists clear at the shoreline to reveal a campfire, and two figures stood beside it - a middle aged lady with a wild appearance, accompanied by a large, ugly vulture. The woman waves. There's a smell of cinnamon oatmeal and sausages.
The figurehead boat scrapes it's hull on the pebbles. The party has reached the eastern lakeshore, at the edge of Blackbird Forest.
Vauhwyt and Mookie d20+3=23 Tuesday November 9th, 2004 1:08:39 PM
Mookie flies to shore, cawing, "Hello! Hello! We got rid of the orcs! That's for sure!"
Vauhwyt quickly says to Ashira and Rigging, "That's a good witch, Priscilla, and her familiarr, Warrik. They are good folks. We helped them out in a fight against some orcs that had been headed to the isle."
"And keep in mind that the forest in these parts tends to fall asleep and drift off into other places unless you keep it awake by singing. That's dangerous because the forest might take you away too, or bring back something dangerous, like a giant squid. But with a rousing song, the place stays safely herre."
Vauhwyt sings ...
The best familiar that I know Is Mooookie! Mookie! He kills orcs and ogres too! Mooookie! Mookie! Brave in fights and nimble too! Mooookie! Mookie!
Her improvised song is pretty lame, but at least the liontaur can carry a tune. (Nat 20 on the untrained perform check! Woot!)
The raven familiar actually seems shocked! "Boss! Wowsy!"
Vauhwyt says, "Maybe we can have lunch, look at the book, and check out this trunk?"
Theodore and Macaw Tuesday November 9th, 2004 1:54:41 PM
Theodore is happy to be back on stable land. He tries to leap from the boat to the shore, but catches the hem of his pants on a loose nail and splashes into the shallow water. Macaw flaps his wings and lands gently on the pebbly beach, again keeping his distance from the large bird.
When Theodore has regained his composure, he helps anyone else off the boat who needs it. "Is everyone all right," he asks of the now freed men. "Is anybody sick or hurt? Let us know what we can do to accomodate you." He seems genuinely concerned for their well-being.
"My name is Theodore," he adds offering his hand to anyone else who wants to acquaint themselves.
rose Tuesday November 9th, 2004 2:03:17 PM
Rose quickly gets out of the boat when it's landed, she's getting a bit sea sick. She quickly runs up to the fire and starts to warm up before remembering that the others will need some help with the ex-slaves and the slavers. She turns back and goes to help.
Ashira d20+9=26 Tuesday November 9th, 2004 2:57:29 PM
The aquatic half-elf swims(26) the remaining distance to the shore line, hauling the former slave behind her. She figures that he might need some time to cool down. And the frigid lake water might just do the trick. Once to the shore, Ashira pulls Jager out of the water, helping him to regain his footing. As she does so, she whispers in his ear. "Remember, answers now, vengenance later. Captain Rigging will not allow him to be killed now. Be patient. The time will come." Once again, Ashira shivers from the cold of the lake. She wrings out her wet blue hair as she heads back to Rigging's side. As she does so, she shoots Olyn a whithering look. She lays a goosebump covered hand on the hilt of her longsword as if to send the message "Try that crap on Rigging again and you'll pay."
Appolo Tuesday November 9th, 2004 5:15:03 PM
When they make landfall Appolo stands with Valanthe in his arms.He to finds the antics of the crazy former slave amusing.Luaghing as Ashira drags him to shore.He carries Valanthe to the fire and sits down next to it,while keeping an eye on the witch and it's pet.
He whipsers sweet nothings in Valanthe's ears.
Olyn Tuesday November 9th, 2004 6:40:43 PM
as Rose turns from the fire to help the others he stops her dead in her tracks with a click of his tongue and a stare.
you will do noone any good if you are sending what little is left in your belly into the water. you march yourself back to that fire, get warm, and get some of this fine eats this fine lady has prepared for us.
*hands on hips, like a stern old man*
if she tries to object, Olyn will snap his finger, then sternly point at the campfire.
Olyn will then help everyone else out of the boats, sending them to the campfire, making sure to watch Jager closely. *since nothing was ever said about my casting of command on Jager after Rigging cast his hold person, I will assume I still have that spell prepared, and will have that ready in case Jager tries any funny business.
Jager d20+8=15 d20+9=22 Tuesday November 9th, 2004 7:20:17 PM
Jager does his best to bob and weave between people on his way to the scum Erik, but is caught unaware by the suddeness of Ashira lunge.
"WHOAAA!" Jager screams in surprise and he is tipped overboard by the blue haired half elf grabbing his waist.
Jager lets out a few choice curses, but none can be heard by those above water except for gurgles. Jager gets down to business of extracting himself from this foolish women (grapple 15). Not wanting to hurt this interesting female, Jager trys a new tactic (escape artist 22) and with that proving also unsucessfull he starts to reappraise his opponent.
Jager notices gills and his heart sinks as it appears he will not be getting at Erik any time soon.
Jager is at the end of his endurance when the strange women lets his breath wonderful sweet air and helps him find his feet. While gasping for air Jager asks the blue haired women "Who are you? I am Jager, former slave, and I thank you for not drowning me." Jager gasps again and continues. "I will stand down for now, but see hear, I want to KILL Erik. You have no idea what he has put my sister and me through, not to mention all of my people. For all I know, I am the last of my people, since my sister is now dead and Erik is responsible."
Jager gasps for more air as he has spoken too much. Jager calls to Ashira's back "Who is this Rigging character everyone keeps yelling about?"
Valanthe Tuesday November 9th, 2004 8:56:09 PM
Valanthe giggles softly on ocassion from the sweet nothings Appolo whispers to her. Despite her relaxed state and appearence Val watches Jager and Olyn to see if either of them would cause any more trouble. She thinks that Erik should already be dead but Rigging doesn't bend over matters like this.
"Please tell me somebody has some wine!" Valanthe says loudly.
Vorelle Tuesday November 9th, 2004 9:46:44 PM
[OOC: sorry about the lack of post yesterday. I had connectivity problems and was offline for over 24 hours! Oh, the pain! :) ]
Vorelle is relieved when they reach the shore. She scrambles out of the boat after Theo, and is startled when he loses his balance and falls. She helps him up, then moves toward the fire. She, too, is anxious to see Rose sit down and take it easy for a bit.
Rigging Tuesday November 9th, 2004 10:16:25 PM
Rigging will jump nimbly from the boat and look back at Val and Appolo already falling back into their old patterns. He mumbles to himself, "I am gonna be grey by 25."
"Val, Appolo! You can make moon eyes at each other later. Secure the prisoners, re-search them and make sure they are tied up correctly. I want the stuff that we found, in a pile, so I can detect magic on it."
Rigging then sees his wife pulling the half drowned ex-slave out of the water and marches down to the lake. He glares at the half drowned man and suddenly bursts into laughter, "I see you have met my wife. She can be very persuasive when she sets her mind to it."
He holds out his hand and smiles, "My name is Captain Arrack Von Palin. I am the Captain of the Sword of Redemption, a proud member of the Pirate's of the Jack, and leader of half of the force that freed you called the Wildcards. My friends call me Rigging.
I must admit I admire your persistance, though it has been misplaced at the moment. Justice will be done, I promise you but you will have to trust me. Can you do that? "
Rigging will wait a moment for a response and then move back up the hill to the witch and her vulture. "Pleasure to meet you lady. Any friend of the Diry City folks, I would be proud to call my friend."
Swirl Tuesday November 9th, 2004 10:43:11 PM
Swirl follows Rigging ashore then towards the newly freed slave Ashira dragged ashore .
Circling the trio Swirl sees Rigging laugh and then turn away .
Swirl swooshes by the ex-slave in whirlwind fashion accidently kicking sand up in a vortex spraying the wet ex-slave by mistake as he excitedly follows Rigging. ;-)
Nezamil Tuesday November 9th, 2004 11:18:24 PM
The dwarf will grab and drag the bound half-orc out of the boat and onto the beach,checking to make sure she is secure.
"aye Captain " responds Nezamil to Rigging , then searches the half-orc and tosses anything found into a pile
Once down with dealing with the Half-orc Nezamil heads over to help assit Theodore with the ex-slaves , casting cure minor wounds ( 1 Hp ea) on any in need
Nodding approval of Theodore's thoughtful approach with the ex-slaves " nice work young man .....i smell something cooking lets see if we can get them something good to eat "
with a respectful nod at Theo , Nezamil will guide the ex-slaves towards the fire and food .
Approaching the Lady by the fire " g'day miss , i was wondering if there was a little bit extra in the pot for these poor souls " inquires the dwarf
Redux d20=17 d20=19 Tuesday November 9th, 2004 11:30:40 PM
Redux levitates up slightly and pushes off to dry land trying to jump far enough away not to touch the frigid water (jump=17). This little cast of characters is quite a crew sometimes; he chuckles to himself. He calls to Talon to remind him about how the trees move. As he is introduced to the witch, he nods. "Is there enough of your good smelling food for travelers? We might have something to trade if you'd agree." (diplomacy=19) He looks around noting anyplace to sit and rest on solid ground-or better yet, a chair. As he does, his eyes begin to get heavy and he notices the lack of sleep more.
rose Wednesday November 10th, 2004 1:00:24 AM
rose smiles at olyn and goes gets a bowl of stew, she sits as close to the fire as she can without burning.
Ashira Wednesday November 10th, 2004 8:30:40 AM
The exotic half-elf with the blue hair and greenish-gray skin turns at Jager's questioning. But as often happens, Rigging beats her to the punch. Soaked to the bone and now shivering openly, Ashira faces the ex-slave. "As my dear sweet husband has explain, I am his wife. Though I do have a name of my own..." Ashira shoots Rigging a look of chastisement for his thoughtlessness. "Just call me Ashira...and you're welcome." Though she is soaked through and chilled to the bone, Ashira purposefully stays away from the fire. First she heads over to the captives and checks to make sure they have all been secured. Next, she goes to check on Rose and Vauhwyt...making sure that they are both ok, and offering them her healing potion should they need it. As she checks on Rose, Ashira inquires about her armor. Not that she needed it right now...it's just she felt strange not having it on. As she passes on her rounds, Ashira catches sight of Valanthe and Appolo and grins. "Yep...gonna be having that godchild any time now." she thinks to herself.
Bart Wednesday November 10th, 2004 10:30:04 AM
After the boat is landed, BArt makes sure the boat is secured and cant float away. AFter that he looks for Apollo, his old friend from Ailthmar. Hey Apollo good to see you back. How did you end up between those slaves?
Jager (second Illegal post) Wednesday November 10th, 2004 10:32:52 AM
Jager spits our another mouthful of water before taking the hand of this new laughing human. "Captain Arrack you say, Ah yes I have recently met your wife?!"
Jager shakes the water out of his short cropped hair. "I hope some day to be able to call you Rigging. In the mean time, you are all Pirates and wildcards? I do not understand. Also, who is Jack, point him out so that I can introduce myself."
Jager scans the other members of the rescue team in an attempt to determine which one is Jack.
Zayne d20+3=22 d20+3=23 Wednesday November 10th, 2004 12:09:20 PM
Enjoying the swim somewhat,he decides to leave the wreckage alone. As he heads for boats he thinks about all that has transpired in the last several hours,and decides that he is fairly hungry,and should do something about that soon. As he rasches the boats again and begins to use his blanket to towel off,he catches the sweet smells of food being cooked and immediatly thinks that maybe he should do something about the twinges in his belly as soon as possible.(Swim 22)
After a brief moment's thought he realizes that the smells are coming from a friendly kitchen,he immediatly dives overboard again when he resurfaces he is swimming as fast as he possibly can.(Swim 23)
Dietrich Wednesday November 10th, 2004 12:42:35 PM
Dietrich is first a little worried when Ashira and the revenge crazy former slave fell both into the cold water, but then he laughs as it fulfils its purpose.
When he sees Priscila and smells the food, the fighter rubs his hands and smiles in anticipation, hearing bis stomach groan like a bear. He jumps ashore and, nodding at Priscila and Warrick, heads towards the food, letting the others take care of prisoners and freed people for a while.
At Vals comment, Dietrich is very pleased and says: "That's my man! Let's drink and feast our victory!"
Vauhwyt and Mookie (first Wed post) Wednesday November 10th, 2004 5:54:08 PM
Vauwyt goes over to Ashira and returns to her the Invisibility ring and the healing potion. "Thank you, my friend," she says. "The invisibility is great fun! I can't wait until I can cast that spell!"
She lowers her voice to a whisper. "I am so glad that Val is happy. When I first met her, she was so angry and sad. This is much much betterr. That Appollo fellow better be nice to herr!"
Mookie keeps his voice somewhat low, but still can't help himself. "Blech! Get a room!"
"Hush, Mookie," says the liontaur, "Come eat."
Then she goes over to the fire and joins Rose for some oatmeal and sausages, if Priscilla is serving. She gives Mookie a couple sausages too.
DM Jan Wednesday November 10th, 2004 6:19:24 PM
It becomes obvious to Theo, Olyn and Nezamil, that the rescued slaves spirits are very low. There are 8 men, and three women, all human. Huddled together in bunch, they hardly utter a word, other than thanks for the kindness and healing. They're all skinny, unkempt and fearful. What lives they led under the Slavers rule, one can only imagine.
Erik, Ao and Alia the half orc sit together a ways from the fire. Alia looks ill. Erik and Ao merely glower in defiance.
To add to the book, and the trunk, are the following: 1 longsword 2 shortswords 2 pouches 1 rapier 2 rings Courtesy of the recently frisked Slavers.
Priscilla the witch is glad to see the Dirt City party once more, and eager to meet everyone else. "Help yourself!" she says, regarding breakfast, waving ragged clad arms about in a manner very similar to Theodore's. There's a huge pot of porridge, sacks of cinnamon and brown sugar; a bag of apples, a small sack of hazlenuts, a pot of butter, and some freshly baked loaves. To one side of the fire is some kind of grill contraption, that looks more like a cage, perhaps indicating that grilling wasn't what it was built for originally. It's doing a fine job now though, holding a few dozen fat sausages over the flames.
"Pirates, eh?" she says, fingering one of her many ginger-coloured, bone-laced dreadlocks, as Rigging introduces himself and the Cards. "Well what on earth are you doing up here?" To Redux she says with a mischievous grin - "The only payment I'll take is in the form of tales and stories. Tell me your adventure! And don't tell me you didn't have one. I know you did. A great wave crashed against the shore very early this morning, so I know. I want to know what's going on in the Wold, too! We're a bit cut off here, and it gets lonely with just me and the old buzzard for company. And pirate stories, tell me some pirate stories!"
Warwick the vulture is torn between feigning nonchalence, like he's seen all this before, and trying to satisfy his intense curiosity. He hops around from group to group, beady eyes taking everything in.
Bart manages to secure the Wildcard's boat with a peg on the shore, but when he tries to do the same to the magic boat, he's met with a barrage of abuse in orcish. Those understanding the language will realize that the figurehead has told Bart to go forth and multiply in a rather nasty manner, along with questioning his parentage and suggesting numerous, faily inventive alternatives. The only way to tie it to shore seems to be to put a noose around it's neck. The outburst makes everyone realize something - how better they feel on shore, as opposed to being in the boat. Just a funny little feeling; nothing that can really be pinned down.
When the slaves are offered food - they eat like ravenous wolves.
Valanthe Wednesday November 10th, 2004 7:13:08 PM
"Aye Captain." Valanthe says loudly in a stereotypical pirate voice. She turns and gives Appolo a lingering kiss before heading over to the prisoners. She checks their bonds and researches them for anything that might have been missed. Once the prisoners are secured she'll return to the feast.
"Well I can relate my own tale of how I happened to meet the Pirates of Jack. When I was still very much a child my village was overrun with orcs and goblins. A wave of death took my people and I was the only one to survive. For years I traveled through the deep wilderness surviving anyway I could. I met some good people along the way but our paths were along a different roads. One night I was captured by slavers. That...well that really sucked. I was taken aboard a ship and locked in a room. I was there for many weeks as I was taken to Aisildur where elves are rare. Thanks to a nasty storm and an adventurous crewman I freed myself and made it overbaord. Well I hadn't really considered the gravity of the situation and was knowhere near land. As fate had it, I washed ashore practicly dead but the Wildcards found me in time. Later I nearly got us all killed in an auction house." Valanthe says and laughs after that last part.
Jager Wednesday November 10th, 2004 7:55:08 PM
Jager also eats more than his fill as it appears that he has gone awhile without food. Jager takes a moment to see that the other freed slaves are doing well and briefly talks of freedom with them.
As payment for more food that he is accumstomed to, Jager talks with the strange witch. "My tale is not one of fun and fancy, but I will tell you just the same. My people, the Heit Volken, were attacked 13 years ago and those that lived through the attack were marched to a copper mine to work as slaves. Many of my people died in that acursed place." Jager stops to reflect before going on.
"We thought we were saved when our oppressors were themselves attacked, but we were wrong. These nomads too what they wanted and pited slaves against former masters in the mines for their enjoyment." Jager says the last bit with some relish. "Once the nomads grew board they sold the lot of us off. At this point, there were very few of my people left, but my older sister, Softig, was one. We were sold together, to that evil scum Erik!" Jager ends through gritted teeth.
"Softig was used to control my spirit. If I did not listen, she suffered. Erik sent me to be trained and used me for prize fighting. Erik also occasionally, sent me on missions to kill wizards. If I was late in returning Softig suffered terrible humiliation and pain. Softig could not take the situation and hung herself on my last mission. Once I found out, I killed three slavers and escaped, unfortunately, I was captured. Erik decided not to kill me, but to sell me and that is how I arrived here." Jager turns to Captain Arrack and Ashira.
"That is why I must KILL Erik, for Softig, my people and myself. Not to mention for the other slave that do not have it in their power. So I ask again, may I please kill Erik now." Jager is not longer looking at Captian Arrack or Ashira, but directly at Erik and there is vengence burning in his eyes.
Theodore and Macaw Wednesday November 10th, 2004 8:20:31 PM
Theodore is relieved to see the freed men and women eating. He decides that he should eat as well and takes a bit of porridge and sausage. Macaw is good enough to share the sausage with Theodore.
Ari Wednesday November 10th, 2004 10:12:35 PM
Coming ashore with the others, Ari does a quick inspection of all the freed slaves. Noting the return of Apollo, and noting that his spirit doesn't seem to be as diminished as the rest of the freed-slaves.
Ari helps out with the feeding of the freed-slaves, and sees to all of thier needs before seeing to his. As he does this, he asks them their names, or how they wish to be called. Where they are from, do they have anyone to return to. He then introduces himself, and points to who Rigging is, and the rest of the Wildcards, if the person shows interest.
Rigging Wednesday November 10th, 2004 10:29:53 PM
Rigging will listen to the Jagar's story with a grim mood. He won't answer but will stand up and wipe his hands.
"Thank you kind lady. The food is excellent but I must see to my duties."
First Rigging will pull out his wand of detect magic and point it at the pile. He will activate the magic of the wand and then point out to Redux which are magic and seperate that pile into its own pile.
He will then head over to to the slavers and nudge Eric with his boot. "So it sounds like you have performed some horrible crimes. Jagar wants to kill you. Should I let him? What do you have to say for yourself?"
Rigging will then look to the others and call out to Jagar, "Jagar, Do you know these others as well. Are they guilty of crimes against you also?"
Ashira Wednesday November 10th, 2004 11:06:55 PM
Though her stomach growls with hunger, Ashira leaves the food to the Dirt City group and the former slaves. There'd be time for eating later.
Ashira smiles as Vauhwyt returns her ring. "The pleasure was all mine. And by the way, you did a fine job out there!! Where's that book...I'd like to take a look at it." Ashira laughs out loud at Mookie's comment and then feigns anger. "Look you over grown duster...that's my future godchild in the making over there. Now leave them be..."
Ashira listens to Valanthe's tale with a grimace, but laughs loudly at the elven warrior's last statement. "Oh come now...a certain half-breed was there to bale you out as always... You don't think I'd let you get yourself killed that easily, do you?" Ashira winks mischievously...those were the days.
A frown quickly replaces her smile as Jager relates his tale. She looks over at the dour Erik with meaningful resolve...her grip tightening on her longsword. "Just a matter of time she murmurs...just a matter of time..."
Smiling at the witch, Ashira chimes in...feeling uncharacteristically chatty. "Well, nothing to the story out on the lake, really... We went, we saw a half-fiend, stole a book right from under her nose...got chased by a few hundred orcs...set the place on fire...caused the island to sink...nearly drowned trying to get back to the boats...All in a days work really. About par for a Wildcard mission." Ashira retrieves a blanket from her backpack, but realizing that all her equipment in thoroughly soaked, lays it out near the fire, though she keeps a very respectful distance from the flames. Then she goes over to Rigging is and leans against him...happy to finally have some "down time".
Nezamil Thursday November 11th, 2004 12:24:30 AM
The Cleric waits for the ex-slaves to take their fill 1st before venturing for a plate
a ladle of porridge and few links of sausage, with a hunk of of buttered bread "ah everything smells delicous " remarks the dwarf to the witch
"I'm Nezamil,a pleasure to meet ya " as the dwarf takes a seat near the fire " any friend of our brave and couragous friends from Dirt City is a friend to us "
"It's good to know we aren't the only group out here battling to make the wold a better place " mentions the Cleric as he bites into a sausage "I hope we can continue to work together in some form , i for one would stand with them anytime "
"that one " points Nezamil with a sausage at Zayne " is a force to be reckoned with in battle " and that one as the sausage points to Vorelle " wields that bow with skill " taking a bite of the sausage then pointing half a sausage at Theodore " he's a cool one under pressure " remarks the dwarf
" they seem a modest bunch but Domi would be proud of the courage they displayed " says the Cleric as he touches his anvil pendant around his neck
"make sure you get their tales and stories " grins the dwarf
Nezamil stays by the fire letting Captain Rigging handle the slavers situation
Appolo Thursday November 11th, 2004 3:06:13 AM
When Rigging to Appolo and Val to stop fooling around,AppoloSays"yes Sir."and gets up after sticking his tongue out at Rigging. Hereplies to Bart"Well I was out visiting the elves and playing with some Elven children when the slavers jumped us.At the time the only weapon I had was a small dagger,managed to take a couple of them down and cover the escape of the children,but I wasn't so lucky.Man where they pissed.The beat pretty good.Then brought to the island.I was planning my own escape when you guys showed up."He then pats Barts on the shoulder and smiles genuinely happy to see his large friend healthy and doing well."Now I need to tend to a few thingsYou wouldn't happen to have acouple blankets or something would ya.Ashira,Val and Rose are going to freeze tonight without them."
Appolo then gethers up some hot food and takes it over to Ashira and Rigging"Here you two go.Why don't you two go over by the fire get warm and eat.Ashira you look like your frezing.Go eat and get warm.I'll deal with our new friends.Hey new guy Jager is it.You want to help me here.We need to strip these fools and do some cavity searches>"He then begins to use the dagger Bart gave to cut the Slavers clothing from thier bodies without untieing them.Appolo then proceeds to search then thoroughly and roughly.
rose Thursday November 11th, 2004 4:23:37 AM
Rose quickly eats some oatmeal with bread, butter, lots of brown sugar, and a sausage. She then starts checking her bag to see what if anything got wet. She lays anything wet out to dry. She also returns anything Ashira or anyone else loaned her. Then nice and hyper from all that sugar goes to rigging "Rigging can swirl play?" If swirl will play Rose will get some ribbons out of her bag and play chase.
ooc: can water get into a bag of holding if you dont put it there? & if so how much water would be in that thing?
I forgot what ashira gave rose, could you let me know so I can give them back & remove from my list?
Talon {George} Thursday November 11th, 2004 9:08:05 AM
Talon swoops in front a fruitful hunt and lays a dead mouse on Redux's shoulder. Your getting to skinny," he projects to the mage and continues, "Here eat this mouse and maybe some of that sausage over there. They ruined it by cooking it but it still smells good."
Dietrich Thursday November 11th, 2004 1:44:26 PM
Dietrich eats slowly, enjoying the good meal after the perils, and looks discretely for wine or beer. He listens to the 'stories' and is sad and angry, also remembering the many similar faiths in these tough and cruel times. The fighter can only agree with Nezamil about having people doing something to make the Wold a better place.
Dietrich is proud with the cleric's remarks about the dirt city folk and smiles at Zayne, Vorelle and Theodore. He also watches Priscila's face at the explanation of the action and the sinking of the island.
When the boot is examined, Dietrich observes it with interest.
Olyn Thursday November 11th, 2004 1:53:55 PM
like the cleric of Domi, he too waits for the others to be fed, and fed well, before eating a meal himself. afterwards Olyn will go from slave to slave, tending wounds both physically and spiritually if possible.
Swirl [Chris] Thursday November 11th, 2004 2:24:45 PM
Swirl zigs and zags with excitment as Rose suggests playing :) Swirl chases Rose and plays tag ! tagging Rose with a whirlwind trying to lift her off her feet slightly then quickly buzz about the camp fire .
Wheee!!!
Jager (second Illegal post) Thursday November 11th, 2004 4:45:20 PM
Jager answers Captain Arrack question "Lackies." and then turns his back on the slavers.
Jager seems to be ready to help Appollo, but declines "I will not be able to restrain myself, when within choking distance." Jager puts his hands together and squeezes them to make his point.
Vorelle d20+8=27 d20+8=23 d20+8=27 Thursday November 11th, 2004 7:20:01 PM
Once she is sure that Rose has taken no permanent hurt, Vorelle pulls out her healer's kit and moves to help with the former slaves. She is glad to see them eat, and tends to their hurts as best she can.
[Heal checks 27, 23, 27]
It's just as well she's keeping busy; she does not hear Nezamil sing her praises, and is therefore spared the embarrassment of knowing that everyone is looking at her.
DM Jan Thursday November 11th, 2004 9:44:37 PM
"Get this scum off me!" Erik bellows angrily at Rigging, as Appolo starts roughing him up. "And as for anything I have to say for myself - who do you think YOU are? Stinking pirate! I won't plead with the likes of you, although I am willing to bargain. I can show you how to get the lid off that chest without blowing your head off, and I have some info that might be of interest to you, about 'that one' over there." he nods toward Valanthe.
Olyn and Vorelle start patching up so nasty-looking whip marks and rope burns on the bodies of the slaves, and Ari manages to get the following information -
The three women are Hella, Kirda, and Diana. Diana is the daughter of a rich merchant in Floating City, Kirda and Hella are her maids, and all three would clearly like to get back home, if they knew where home was.
The eight men - Bob, Tam, Bren, Zack and Dai were part of a logging crew up in the Windhorn region, north of Culverwood. They're malnourished and exhausted, but their spirit begins to revive as they talk of home.
Frank is a herbalist from Emerald City.
Tom and Bryan both hail from Plateau City, but don't know one another.
As Rose flies wildly past the campfire, towed by Swirl, stories are exchange and Priscilla listens and nods sympthetically. "An island that sank, you say?" she says as that particular incident is mentioned by Ashira. "Well, well, well. I've heard tales about that before. Some crazed monk passed by here about 4 years ago, with a story about the great Mothers of the Lake. They're fish! And they float, like jellyfish - heads above the lake, everything else down below. They stay there for eons, moss and soil gathers, things start growing. Can you imagine such a thing? Well, now I wonder...."
She snorts at Nezamil's comment about Zayne. "That boy would eat you out of house and home, given the chance. Never seen an appetite like it."
Detect magic brings the following results -
The chest The two rings The longsword All magic.
Everything else, including the book - is not.
Theodore and Macaw Thursday November 11th, 2004 10:54:47 PM
"Clearly you are mistaking me for some other Theodore, good sir," jests Theodore with a smile at Nezamil. He takes another bite of porridge and smiles at Priscilla. He seems to be feeling pretty good about himself. Compliments from a veteran adventurer, freed slaves, and good food. Everything's going well...for the moment at least.
Theodore contents himself with the good conversation about the fire and lets the others tend to the free men and the slavers.
Vauhwyt and Mookie d20+1=12 d20+5=25 Thursday November 11th, 2004 11:18:41 PM
The stories from people who have had encounters with slavers -- or even been enslaved! -- really hit home with Vauhwyt. She reaches up to touch her hair, and she looks like she is about to speak.
But then Mookie, who has been listening to what Erik the Slaver says about the chest, interrupts her. "Hey Boss! A rogue like you knows from traps, right? Take a look at this chest! Just don't touch!"
"Who are you calling a rogue," Vauhwyt asks the bird glad of the distraction, "You're more a rogue than I am!"
"But what the hey, I'll take a look!"
She checks out the chest, being careful not to touch it. [Her untrained search result is a 12.]
"It looks perfectly safe to me! What do you think, Rose?"
Then the liontaur turns her attention to the book. She opens it up and takes a look. If the words are not familiar to her, she tries to catch the gist of it. [Decipher Script check is 25! Natural 20! Woot!]
"Look at this," she says, poring over the tome. "I think i see something very interesting!"
Rose d20+5=20 Thursday November 11th, 2004 11:46:38 PM
Rose stops playing to check out the chest, she tries not to touch it. Then as she overhears what the slaver says about Valanthe she goes to him and watches him carefully so he cant hurt her new friend.
spot/search: 20
Redux d20+14=25 Friday November 12th, 2004 12:02:39 AM
Redux, never one to decline a good meal helps himself. He listens to the slave talk and all those with trials and tribulations to work out in their lives. His life has been much different and it is made starkly clear to him; sometimes he feels so out of place. When the tome finally is opened, he discretely places himself by her side to read over her shoulder. With his arcana knowledge (=25) he too finds the symbols interesting.
Bart Friday November 12th, 2004 5:15:24 AM
Rigging i suggest we held court, as a captain you can speak law, Jager will speak for himself and Erik can defend himself or Nezamil as a man of God or maybe Priscilla can defend him
Jager Friday November 12th, 2004 8:17:53 AM
Jager is shocked at the thought of a trial "Your concept of a trial is too good for that plauge of humanity. Maybe Erik's idea of a trial is better, that is use whips and hot irons until you get what you want for a person. In that case I will stoke the fire so we can get something white hot. Erik always said that the hotest irons get the quickest information....." Jager lets his words sink in and his eyes flash in the fire light. Jager also takes off the tatters of his shirt to show the healed whip and burn marks on his back and chest.
Valanthe Friday November 12th, 2004 9:07:26 AM
Erik's rather fortunate that Valanthe was across the clearing at the time of his comments. Currently she had a smile on her face and was in better spirits than she had been in months.
Valanthe stands in the middle of the freed slaves with a plate of half eaten food in her hand. The firelight reflects off her coppery skin and the wind causes her long hair to sway. She entertains the former captives with tales from her pirate life. Her one free arm is often moving in some mock attack or defense to help illustrate her words.
Olyn Friday November 12th, 2004 9:19:05 AM
walking up and standing in front of Jager.
instead of becoming like the monster that tortured you, perhaps you show to him and to your other former captees that this man, and his minions, did not break you. instead of scaring your former cell mates, inspire them to not let these slavers break their spirit.
I see some of them are already back on the road to health both physically and spiritually but for them to go all the way, they need guidance and who better to get that guidance than from someone, like yourself, who has endured what they have endured.
be mad, by all means be angry, but do not let this creature win at breaking your will, and become like him. show him and the others that you are much much stronger than that.
spit on him, kick him, but dont let your hatred drive you down the other path because as sure as I am standing here right now, the walk back up that path is long and hard, alot harder than you are feeling right now.
*dramatic pause*
now come, I know you are hungry, tired and cold. come to the fire with me and take in sustenance, take the chill out of your bones, and tell me about your people so they may live in someone elses heart.
*smiles at Jager*
Zayne Friday November 12th, 2004 5:20:58 PM
As he reaches the shore he immediatly helps himself to the various foodstuffs that have been prepared.
Taking the dwarf's comments in stride he shows some restraint and doesn't gorge himself with food as is the normal,he actually makes sure that all the slaves have eaten,before helping himself to another helping.
Although during the meal he does glower at the surviving slavers. When he has finished he walks over to the slavers and sits down in front of them and without a word to them he begins sharpening his dagger on a whetstone.
Rigging Friday November 12th, 2004 5:37:59 PM
Rigging will fold Ashira in an embrace and start kissing and nibbling on her neck. He breathes in the scent that is so much her own. A touch of perfume mixed with her sweat, leather and blade oil. Yep definitely her own scent.
He is having such a good time, he almost forgets why he started the embrace, he sighs and remembers his duties. He whispers in her ear, "Dearest, we definitely need some alone time, but for now, could you please distract the others, especially Jagar. I want to have a private conversation with Erik. I want to find out what he knows about Val."
He finishes with a quick kiss to the nape of her neck and sighs lustily. "Yep we need some alone time bad."
Once she heads off he will roughly pull Erik up and lead him a few feet away. He will stare intensely at him for a moment and then say, "Your in trouble. Many here want you dead. Not only dead but to die painfully. I really don't care if you live or die. You have one chance to buy your freedom. I want what is in your head.
First I want to know what you know about Val. She is like a sister to me and is very important.
Second, I want to know how to open that chest. I wouldn't lie because there is a good chance you will be opening it personally.
Third, I want to know about the magic of the rings, chest, and the sword. Also any magic that is in the chest.
Fourth, I want to know anything else you can tell me about the slavers and the priest's of Ga'al's arrangements. Where are the priests now and how do you meet up with them?
If you don't tell me all I ask and truthfully, then you are uselses to me and I will let the slaves kill you. If you tell me all, and I detect no lies or evasions on your lips then I will give you a chance at life. Agreed? Now tell me what I want to know.
Vorelle Friday November 12th, 2004 5:38:53 PM
After tending to the slaves, Vorelle at last has a meal for herself. She listens curiously to the talk about trying the slavers.
I suppose we should try them, she thinks. It's the right thing to do.
Truth be told, though, she doesn't much care what happens to the slavers. She doesn't much what happens to any bullies. Even the ones in her own famly.
I suppose that makes me a bad person, she thinks with a resigned little sigh.
Swirl [Chris] Friday November 12th, 2004 6:07:02 PM
Swirl follows Rose as she heads over to the chest , as Rose inspects it Swirl will hover behind her , 1st looking over Rose's Left then right shoulders , repeating the process several times , occasionally nudging the Halfing ;-), wondering if the game of tag will commence again ;-)
Nezamil Friday November 12th, 2004 6:37:16 PM
Nezamil's intrest is peeked when he finds out Tom and Bryan are from Plateau City " well well fellow Plateau City folks "remarks the dwarf
stepping over to the duo " Hi i'm Nezamil i grew up in Plateau City , my whole family works in the Dragon quarter "
"I trained at the War Cathedral of Domi for many years in learning the teachings of Domi" the dwarf pauses in thought for a moment
"Ah and all the taverns and Inns , my fav was The Green Tortoise Club.....always a good time there " grins the dwarf " so what about you ?" asks the Cleric of Tom and Bryan
Nezamil will sit by the fire chatting with the Plateau city guys and listening to Val's tales of valor
Dietrich Saturday November 13th, 2004 11:56:03 AM
Dietrich listens interested to everything that is spoken and is curious about what will happen. He is startled at Erik's insolence, but will let Rigging do all procedures and will accept his judgement but for the case of letting the slavers free. For Dietrich they are a serious risk if let free and he also feels that they deserve punishment.
The fighter is also very interested in the book and the magic weapons.
Finaly, he suggests that the freed slaves could, if they want, come back to Dirt City with the Dirt City folks when we are going to deliver the information to the Prince. From there they should be able to find their way home.
Appolo Saturday November 13th, 2004 6:45:42 PM
Appolo follows Rigging."You know boss.You should really attend to Ashira.She's going to get sick standing around all wet and cold."Applo then turns back to Erik."Here's the deal you tell us what we want to know or I'll remove your heart seed.You'll live the rest of yor life as a godless wretch.Completely cut off from contact with G'aal."
Ashira Saturday November 13th, 2004 10:04:43 PM
Still shivering, but not looking too concerned, Ashira accepts the food Appolo brings with a warm smile. She revels in Rigging's affections, feeling right for the first time in a long time. She nods at his whispered instructions and heads over to Jager...plate in tow. Handing the food over to the former slave, Ashira sits down next to him. She drops her voice to a low whisper, unwilling for any others to overhear her conversation with the man. "I understand what it's like to hate...and I know what it is to be tortured...but you're going about this all wrong... You need to be subtle. Just be patient...we'll get our chance at the maggot...we just need to be patient."
Ari Sunday November 14th, 2004 11:12:42 AM
Not wanting to be involved in the interrigation, Ari continues to mingle with the slaves.
"It might be time for us to slip from these shores for a little while." as Ari muses to himself aloud.
Ari will then begin to tell some of the stories about the pirates of Jack, and where they come from. If there is enough time, Ari will then transition into what the Swords have done. The un-named village where they came from. How the priests killed one of their members for no apparent reason. Finding out there was someone else than Ga'al. Describing in gory details, what happens when someone gets seeded. What happens with the loss of will. How most of the Swords have families that are subject to Ga'als will.
Ari is doing his best to start up a propraganda machine, using these slaves and thier families as the primary starting source.
When appropriate, Ari will be sure to introduce Rigging to all the slaves. Rigging appears to be busy keeping the bloodthirsty under control.
Pulling Riggings aside Ari mumbles, "I'm thinking we should maybe check some of these cities out, by sailing these people home. Especially the merchants daughter there. I don't know if they'll be helpful with our network or not. They will have a distribution network in place, that we may be able to utilize, outside of our land."
Vauhwyt and Mookie Sunday November 14th, 2004 10:48:54 PM
Vauhwyt feels a lot of sympathy for the former slaves. She goes over to them and does whatever seems like it might make them feel better. She talks with them and finds out what they think would be the right thing to do with Erik and his cohorts.
DM Jan Monday November 15th, 2004 3:31:10 PM
Rigging drags Erik away from the likes of Jager and Zayne, who obviously want to see the Slavers dead and buried. "Think I'd be that stupid?" Erik spits at Appolo, yanking up his own shirt to reveal a heartseedless chest.
"You'd better keep your promise, you &*^%#(* pirate. I have brothers, and word gets around. If I don't get back..." is Erik's preamble before giving the Cards leader Rigging some info. Valanthe - "I recognize her. There's a price on her head, posted up on every rogues and villains board we've come across. Someone called Razer is willing to pay 10,000 GP. So, I'd cash her in, if I were you, once you get back to civilization." Chest - "There's a sigil. It needs a masculine voice to utter the word 'Tag' to dispel it." Magic items - "We've no idea. We took it all from slaves we caught." Ga'al - "Ha! there was a pretense played out here. You see the priests didn't want to buy 'slaves' as such. They wanted 'converts' - those willing to submit to their weird ways. Well, you know what people are like on the whole." Erik smirks. "A little bit of 'conditioning' and they'll submit to anything. THIS particular lot were too bull-headed and resistant to 'persuasion', and so we sold them to the orcs instead for servants. Wold only knows what was going on here."
Over by the magic items and the chest, Rose manages to spot the small sigil glowing faintly just near the lock.
The book turns out to be extremely weird. Some of the pages are parchment, others look like some kind of hide. The script varies between very neat and deliberate, and careless and ham-handed. Some pages look like they've been sewn in later, with a kind of stringy animal gut. The whole thing has a horrible feel to it. Vauhwyt is able to make occasional sense of the pages - mostly orcish, some common. There are comprehensive maps of both upper and lower levels of Dirt City. Both these familiar maps carry small symbols in certain areas. Other pages contain script and a matching symbol to various parts of the map. Within, are plots and plans; a plot to blow up the harbour, stating who and when; assassinations - who, and how, and when; a plan to poison the water wells. It will take hours of work to discover all it's secrets. At the back of the book, Redux will recognize what lies on the three final pages; this in particularly fine common script, accompanied by examples of strange twirly patterns - Symbol of Fear Symbol of Pain Symbol of Death "Oh, $%(^," mutters Warwick the vulture, who's been looking over everyone's shoulder.
Around the campfire, tales of derring do and life as a pirate continue. Priscilla is enthralled, and the slaves - with food in their bellies, are definitely beginning to come around. There is hope in their eyes for the first time in weeks.
"Ohhh," says Tom in response to Nezamil. "Might have been in that tavern - not sure. I was a caretaker at the big Gladiator Arena." "You were?" says Bryan. "What was that like?" A conversation begins to flower.
Ari talks of the pirates mission, and it becomes clear that most folks from these cities have no idea what's happening outside their own little enclave - not being the adventurer types. They are quite horrified and filled with wonder.
As Dietrich mentions Dirt City, Diana and her maid Hella and Kirda looked shocked. "Why would you want to take us there," asks Diana, completely astonished. "We heard it was a very uncivilized place. Full of rogues and villains, like the Fence level in our own dear Floating City. And we never went down there. Father told us not to."
The morning wears on. At the shoreline, the figurine appears to be calling in his extra boats. They're shrinking rapidly.
Theodore and Macaw Monday November 15th, 2004 3:51:34 PM
After finishing his meal, Theodore pats his stomach contentedly. "That was very nice, Priscilla. Thank you."
He gives the witch another smile before meandering over to Vauhwyt and Redux as they scan the pages of the confiscated book. "Oh my," he says with a start. His eyes grow wide as he looks on in fear. "Oh, this is terrible, Vauhwyt! We need to get back to Dirt City at once!"
Jager Monday November 15th, 2004 8:45:14 PM
Jager scowles at Olyn "The only way to cure Erik of his business of human misery is to Kill him" Jager walks of and is met by Ashira.
Jager takes a deep slow breath. "I will be patient Mrs. Arrack, but I can not hold my hand for long, I need retribution and closure for so many. I have an errand to attend to. It will not take too long. I need o retrive my tools. The ones I stashed before Erik and his lackies recaptured me. When I get, back I want to kill Erik, with your leave." Jager bows to the beautiful blue haired warrior and jogs off at high speed.
Rigging Monday November 15th, 2004 11:03:40 PM
Rigging will wince at Val's description and wonder why she is so valuable in these waters so far from home. He is sad that Ga'als influence extends so far.
He will look at the slaver and say, "I want to know where the priests are, how many there were, what kind of ship they were in...any thing you can think of.
If I like your answers, I will give you a shot at your equipment, some gold and a real chance of getting out of here with your life. Otherwise, I will allow Jagar his vengence and cut your throat.
Here is the deal, "I will allow you and Jagar to fight to the death. If you win, you go. I will give you some gold and a decent chance to restart your life. If you die...well you die. Besides, can't let a mere slave get the better of you now can you?" Rigging asks slyly.
Valanthe Monday November 15th, 2004 11:48:18 PM
Valanthe slips away from the celebration now that her apetite is satisfied. She draws her bow from her enchanted quiver and takes up a patrol around the camp.
Redux Tuesday November 16th, 2004 12:19:23 AM
Redux is amazed at the scenes in the book. He is a quick student and understands many of the implications, even though he doesn't know the places. He motions a few over to them and explains what is in the book as they understand it thus far. To those of his crew he adds that it is probably best if they get themselves back to the coast and their own ship. He asks those of Dirt City the best path back to their home, thinking they'd be going along.
Olyn Tuesday November 16th, 2004 12:36:49 AM
turning and walking over to Vauhwyt he mutters: weak minded fool, has already been broke but doesnt know it. may Wardd take pity on his soul when the time comes.
squatting next to Vauhwyt and between mouthfuls of food he asks: whatcha find out in the book so far? anything that can be useful to us?
Ari Tuesday November 16th, 2004 1:01:10 AM
Once finished, Ari decides to some more recon, and asks each of the slaves to tell him about their town, and the surrounding villages. Having not traveled outside of Aisildur that much, Ari is intrigued to learn as much as he can, while he waits for the rest of the bloody business to sort itself out.
Rose Tuesday November 16th, 2004 1:15:24 AM
Rose lets everyone know that the chest is magically trapped then goes to see what Vauhwyt is doing. When she sees the book and what it contains says "Vauhwyt, see what there is about the halfling quarter."
You can tell Rose is upset by this book.
Appolo Tuesday November 16th, 2004 3:51:19 AM
Appolo gets interested when Erik mentions a bounty on Val's head and steps forward"Who is this Razer guy and where can we find him,perhaps we'll collect this bounty you speak of,even give you a piece of the action.10,00 gold.Interesting.Especially if you beat that loud mouthed slave over there in a knife fight."
Ashira Tuesday November 16th, 2004 9:06:32 AM
Wondering if this man might not be a little more sly than he lets on, Ashira rises with him. "Oh no, you don't... I'm sorry, but I'm afraid I'll need to follow you. Don't want you accidently doubling back on us. You might trip and accidently fall on Erik with a dagger or something." The aquatic elf chuckles and then sprints after Jager.
Bart Tuesday November 16th, 2004 11:14:39 AM
Bart hears the conversation of Rigging and Eric he doesn't agree with it, Justice has to be done. It cant be that this monster, according to tales of Jager, walks free and even gets some equipment and gold in his hands! Although we are pirates i still feel that we follow the way of justice. This doesn't feel right
"Rigging can i talk with you in private?"
If so Bart tells his thoughts to Rigging, he tells him that an crimanal cant be set free, a crimanal that has act by his own free will and not controlled by Ga'al.
Dietrich d20+4=6 Tuesday November 16th, 2004 11:55:50 AM
Dietrich has to smile at the merchants daugther comments and wonders that her experience as a slave hasn't make her more humble (though, as a foreiner to Dirt City, he understands its reputation). He just says:
"Well, as far as I know, Dirt City is the nearest more or less secure place in this region, from where you could arrange a way to get home. But of course you can travell with the pirates if you prefer!"
The fighter takes a look at the book too and helps with the parts in Orcish. He also takes a short look at it under a military point of view (military knowledge 6).
Vauhwyt and Mookie d20+4=18 Tuesday November 16th, 2004 11:58:51 AM
Vauhwyt tells Olyn all that she has read in the book.
"With this book and the parchment we found earlier, we have information that has to get back to Dirt City fast."
"But we have some other details to attend to first."
Vauhwyt tells any wizards in the Swords that if they want to copy the Symbol spells out of the book before the groups part, that would be fine with her. She can't use them herself, but her days as Catacombs clerk suggest that powerful mages might.
Mookie pipes up, "What about Theo and Rose? They're wizards too!"
"Hush, Mookie," says Vauhwyt, who does not want to embarass her friends, who are not experienced enough to use Symbol magic.
Vauhwyt tells Redux that she thinks the fastest way home is the way they came. East through Blackbird Forest to the River, then south to the coast, then east again along the coast to Dirt City.
Vauhwyt asks the freed slaves where they want to go. Those who want to go to Plateau City and the area north of there should come with the Dirt City group and then arrange sea passage to New Elenna via merchant ship. Ditto for the guy from the Emerald Kingdom -- come to Dirt City and then take a caravan north through Izen.
At first she has no clue what to tell the Floating City women, but she has an idea.
Vauhwyt reassures them all that if they come with the Dirt City group, they should not have any worries. "We are Wolf-friends," the liontaur says, displaying a silver ring with a wolf's head on it, "and that counts for something in Dirt City. Plus we are working for the Prince. So have no fearr."
"And I have friends," she says to the women, "who specialize in helping people in need, and even in Wayfaring, I hearr. Maybe my friends can help you get home."
Vauwyt asks the slaves if any of them used to own the magic sword or magic rings.
"Let's get that chest open," she says. "Who wants to try the method the slaver has told us." She is excited to see what might be inside.
She grins when she hears the idea of letting the slaver fight for his freedom. "That will give Jager his chance for vengeance, AND it is fairr!" she says.
She goes over everything -- "Book, check. Slaves, check. Slaver, check. Chest, check. Loot?"
"Well, I think the Swords should take the orc boat. That's a great pirate item. If there are any other magic items to divide, the swords should take the lion's share. I think we might claim the non-magic items and maybe a minor magic thing."
Vauhwyt takes a look at the two nonmagic short swords, the nonmagic rapier, and the two nonmagic pouches. Do they seem of better quality? What's in the pouches? [Appraise check 18]
Vorelle Tuesday November 16th, 2004 1:18:40 PM
Vorelle pales when she realizes what the book contains. She's not overly fond of Dirt City, but it's the only home she's ever known.
"W-w-we sh-should g-g-get b-b-back," she tells Vauhwyt in an urgent undertonw.
Nezamil Tuesday November 16th, 2004 1:49:50 PM
The dwarf enjoys chatting with the Plateau city guys "i haven't been home in a few years , we'll help you find a way back to Plateau City " remarks the dwarf
" i hope you can get a message back to my family for me , just to let them know i'm fine , mother worries too much " smiles the Cleric
glancing over to see the Monk dash off into the woods followed by Ashira and others taking up patroling the camp , Nezamil settles in by the fire with the others ,relaxing in conversation with ex-slaves and Dirt City folks alike
Nezamil takes no notice of the Captains ongoings
DM Jan Tuesday November 16th, 2004 4:25:51 PM
In amongst the camp, conversations develop around what is to happen next to the parties and their captives and rescued companions.
Things need to be done. Decisions need to be made.
It's obvious that the Dirt City group, at the very least, need to get back home.
The chest needs to be opened.
What is to be done about Erik? Is mortal combat the solution? At Rigging's further question, about the priests, the Slaver replies - "Oh, now you think I'm dumb. Think I'll give you all my contacts so you can take over? Think again."
The Cards have more of a free hand, as to where they travel next. Dirt City could be a kick off point for where they want to go next, IF they wish it.
As for the magic items found on the Slavers - none of the slaves rescued claim ownership to any of it.
As Jager jogs off - he might remember just how big this forest is, and how much jogging he might have to do. Perhaps the witch could help. Who knows?
Everything seems all quiet to Valanthe, who's on patrol, apart from blue elves and monks running around.
Ari and Nezamil get to know a bit more about Plateau City and Floating City, and it seems there is a bit of friendly rivalry and pride between those two places. The Windhorn lads talk about trees, forests and the lore of giants. The guy from Emerald City is a bit reticent about his own land.
It's starting to look like Vauhwyt and Dietrich are persuading the slaves to go with them to Dirt City.
Rigging Tuesday November 16th, 2004 5:14:48 PM
Rigging will sigh and look at Erik. "Wrong answer my friend." The leader of the Wildcards will circle around the slaver, pulling his dagger out. He will grab his hair roughly and pull back his head.
He will look at Bart and say, "Stand back. Don't want to spray you." He will then slice across the slaver's throat with a quick and clean cut. Rigging will push the slaver down and wipe his blade.
"Justice is done. You will never again sell an unseeded soul into Ga'al's hands." He will look up at the other slavers and then shake his head. "Don't want to get to bloodthirsty. Don't want to turn into them."
He will make his way over to the chest and say. "Tag"
He will then wonder if Erik is a liar as well but decides he must take the risk, not another and tries to open the chest.
Appolo Tuesday November 16th, 2004 5:26:10 PM
Appolo walks over ot Rigging "What was that.I wanted to get some more imformation out of him.Now we'll never find out who this Razer charactor is or where he is."Appolo then pulls out his dagger and walks over to the prisoners"Ok you two what do you know about Razer.Who is he and where is he?If you tell me what I want to know.Then perhaps you'll walk out of here.Instead of being buried here."
Ari Tuesday November 16th, 2004 6:00:53 PM
As he continues to recount various pieces of information to the freed slaves. Ari's voice stumbles a few steps, when he realizes the way in Erik dies. Though there is little he could do to change the outcome, he wonders about the tactics that his family applies. Trying to recover his footing, Ari does his best not to let the butchering get to him.
Valanthe Tuesday November 16th, 2004 6:44:56 PM
Valanthe is happy for the peace and quiet though she keeps up the patrol. Somebody needs to keep watch in case more Orcs arrived for retribution.
Vauhwyt and Mookie Tuesday November 16th, 2004 7:05:05 PM
Vauhwyt runs to Val and anyone else wandering around the fringes. "Please, be careful! This forest is alive and sleepy. It will take you away to some other place if you do not keep it awake! You have to sing to it!"
She sings a little to demonstrate.
She gets back to the beach just in time to see Eric die. "Stupid slaverr! Well, he got what was coming to him. Thank you, Rigging."
Then Rigging opens the chest. "I'm liking your fellow more and morre," the liontaur whispers to Ashira.
She is very curious about the chest, but also aware of the need to get headed back to Dirt City.
"Do any of the Swords want to study this book before we take it away?" she calls out. "Now's the time!"
Jagar [chris) Tuesday November 16th, 2004 9:26:38 PM
Jagar stops in mid-stride as he remembers the dangers of the forest .
Turning to the witch " I have somethings i must retrieve and any advice with locating them would be very helpful "
catching commotion out of the corner of his eye Jagar sees Erik slump to the ground gurgling blood "Nooooooo!!! it was by my hands he should die!! to avenge my sister's death " shouts the Jagar ! turning purple with rage
Jagar stalks over to the dying slaver and with pent up fury delivers a kick to his ribs "that is for my sister Softig" says Jagar with tones of fury in his voice
walking back to the witch Jagar listens to the witchs advice about retriving his tools , once accomplished he heads out swiftly out into the woods with a quick look at the 2 remaining slavers "I'll be back " thinks Jagar to himself
Olyn Tuesday November 16th, 2004 9:59:43 PM
color draining from his face, when Rigging slits the man's throat from ear to ear.
turning to Vauhwyt, and with unassured calm he says: we are at a turning point V. what just happened is for some, beyond our abilities or wants. in my opinion, the slaves needed Justice against the slavers and this Rigging fellow just took that from them. especially that Jager fellow. if you admire this Rigging fellow, then I pity you cuz every time he does that, he takes 1 step closer to that which he supposedly despises. I do not trust him, nor will I travel with him 1 step further and if you cant understand my feelings, and respect them, then perhaps it is time to part company.
Vauhwyt and Mookie (illegal second post) Tuesday November 16th, 2004 10:26:03 PM
Vauhwyt is honestly confused by Olyn.
"Um, the way I see it, Erik was scum that deserved to die. Rigging even gave him a chance to die honorably in battle, but Erik was a jerk about it. He needed killing. That's all."
"Truth is, I don't understand what's to get worked up about. I don't to split with you! Us Dirt City folks need to keep together. I thought the Swords were just about to leave. Then you, me, our friends, and maybe some of the freed slaves could go home. I really want to get this map and book to the Prince. Isn't that what you want? Why would we split up? I thought we were friends."
"If I made you mad somehow, I'm sorry. I still don't get these two-legger ways sometimes."
Redux Tuesday November 16th, 2004 11:38:01 PM
Redux is beginning to get interested in the book when the commotion starts. He sees the blood. Messy they are, those fighters. He has done similar, but, well...differently. As he sees it, as long as the chest is open, the slaver probably wasn't much more good to them. "Olyn, we are fighting for certain things that we see as right. That person was on a different side. We have no other court here. Two other slavers we released previously were on that island; they know no other way."
Rose Wednesday November 17th, 2004 1:52:05 AM
As Vauhwyt isnt looking, Rose takes the book and begins leafing through it to find areas that describe what is being planned for the halfing area and when it will take place. She then calculates how long they have to get back to Dirt City and stop it.
Nezamil Wednesday November 17th, 2004 2:14:16 AM
The dwarf is caught up by the conversation by the fire ........then he hears Jagar yelling and cursing loudly .
"WHAT's all the fuss " says Nezamil but his voice trails off as he see's Rigging wiping the blood from his blade
The Cleric stands up and turns facing the bloody scene " was that nessacary Captain ??" asks the Cleric
" their helpless !! " exclaims the dwarf
" if it was in battle i give no quarter but this ?" the dwarf spreads his hands out and shakes his head "i think this could of been handled differently "
" I suggest we take the other two " the Cleric points to the last 2 slavers " with us and turn them in to the nearest large city and let the deal with them , after all they were in cohoots with that fiend and her dastardly plans .
"Maybe to Dirt City ? " shrugs Nezamil
Theodore and Macaw Wednesday November 17th, 2004 9:19:35 AM
Theodore's jaw drops at the nonchalant way in which Rigging executes Erik. He takes a step back and bumps into Vauhwyt and Olyn.
"I want to leave," he stutters to his friends. "Olyn is right, Vauhwyt. Erik, as horrible as he is, deserved better than that. If we stoop to his level, we are no better than him."
"It is time to leave," he reiterates, an uncharacteristic firmness obvious in his voice. The young man sets about collecting his gear.
Vorelle Wednesday November 17th, 2004 9:53:08 AM
Like Theo, Vorelle finds Captain Rigging's sudden violence very disturbing. It isn't so much that she grieves for the slaver. But in Dirt City, those who can slay so casually rarely bother themselves with such petty nicities as right and wrong. She shifts farther away from Rigging and does her best to be invisible. Her right hand, however, doesn't stray far from the handle of her axe.
Rigging Wednesday November 17th, 2004 12:08:04 PM
Rigging while looking through the chest will hear the comments directed at him and about him. A range of emotions will flash through him quickly. Rage at having his decisions questioned, sorrow at the distrust he sees in some of the others eyes, understanding at their distaste at his actions.
Typically, he decides to confront his accusers and walks over to Olyn ands says calmly, "Do you think I liked killing Erik the slaver? Do you think I derived pleasure from it? Let me assure you I didn't.
It is easy to judge a man without knowing all the facts and taking things at face value. I am Captain of the Pirate of Jack ship "Sword of Redemption". I have been in a battle against slavery since my 12th birthday. The Pirates have been fighting to free a nation from the most vile slavery known to man.
Image being 12 years old and lead into a temple by your parents, whom you love and trust. Being tied down to an alter and having a living plant pressed against your chest. Feeling that plant agonizingly burrow its way through your chest and wrap itself around your heart and spine.
That plant then links you to Ga'al, a god who doesn't love you but just wants to dominate you and the entire world. Your are now his tool and he will willingly sacrifice you and everyone around you in a zombie like fashion to achieve his ends.
I have seen entire towns rise up like zombies, with no free will of there own, and sacrifice their lives to achieve his evil ends. I have seen my wife taken from me and tortured until near death so she could be heartseeded." Tears suddenly spring to the young man's eyes and he chokes back a sob.
He straightens and struggles for a moment but regains his poise. In a calmer voice he says, "I have been given the authority as Captain of my ship to excute my mission and do what is necessary. It isn't always pleasant but it is my responsibility to keep my people safe and to accomplish my goals.
The slaver Erik had one of my crew in a cage like he was cattle." Rigging points to Appolo. "Yes I judged him guilty and carried out the excution. I understand why you have a problem with this. What gives me the right?
What gave you the right to attack the camp and kill the orcs?" he asks retorically. "I will fight evil where ever I see it and eventually I will die in the struggle. Do I wish I didn't have to kill Erik? Yes I do....do I feel bad about it. No I don't. He was totally evil and deserved death."
Rigging will then look around and say, "I think it is time to part company. Whoever wishes to come with us, know we will be going into battle against slavers and priests of Ga'al. If you don't wish that, I suggest you go with these good people back to Dirt City and get on with your lives.
Ashira, Divide up the loot with our friends here. We need to get back to the ship."
Rigging will then detect magic on the insides of the chest to see if the chest is magical or the stuff inside it is or both.
Ashira Wednesday November 17th, 2004 2:17:47 PM
Returning slightly after Jager, Ashira hears all the commotion...and then spots Rigging's dagger, and the lifeless corpse. Altogether, she is not entirely alarmed. She trusted Rigging's judgement, and besides, the slaver had it coming...saved her the trouble later that night anyway. She shrugs as some of the others voice their rejection of Rigging's action. The fact that they needed to part with this group of Dirt City adventurers saddened her slightly, but she doubted that these folk would ever understand the brutal reality of Aisildur...
She moves to Rigging's side for moral support, and listens patiently as he begins another one of his speeches...that is until he begins his description of being seeded. Ashira's face visibly pales. Grabbing her chest Ashira doubles over and vomits. Gods...she could still feel the pain. A look of panic filling her eyes, Ashira makes a dash for the tree line...desperate for escape from her shame and the specters that haunt her still.
DM Jan Wednesday November 17th, 2004 4:35:11 PM
"Eh," mutters Priscilla at Jager's question. "If you've a good description of what's yours, and you can spare something.... organic, I'd be able to tell you the quickest way to get to it from here."
The witch raises an eyebrow as Erik meets his demise via Rigging's blade. "If he's right, or if he's wrong - it'll be down to that old rascal Gargul to judge. He'll sort it all out." With a sigh she starts to put aside all the breakfast paraphenalia.
The chest pops open. Inside is a pile of gold pieces - 5400 to be exact.
The other Slavers don't seem to know who "Razer" is. Just a name on a poster. "Ask her!!" squeaks Ao to Appolo.
Rose can't see anything particularly marked on the map for the halfling quarter. Perhaps the halfling community are considered under the radar, who knows. The main targets seem to be buildings of prominence, house leaders, but in scrawled common on one of the pages is the name of a Bakers Shop, just off the Main Sewer Tunnel. A shop she knows. Everyone goes there for bilberry tarts and scones.
Ashira runs for the trees. There's a small gap ahead, just inside the treeline - when suddenly, a rather solid-looking tree trunk appears out of thin air. Reflex DC 16 or she runs straight into it for 1d6 subdual damage.
As the death of Erik hangs in the air, and the spectre of Ga'al and the heartseeds, perhaps it's time for each group to take the next step in their respective destinies. For now.
Understanding sometimes needs a little time.
Geography: The way to Dirt City is east through the forest, across the Peaseblossom and south east across Izen.
Getting to Aisildurian civilization is much easier - south along the lake shoreline.
Valanthe Wednesday November 17th, 2004 6:52:58 PM
Valanthe walks over to Ashira and puts a comforting arm around her. She looks back at the Dirty City folk praying for them.
"I hope they never learn as to why Erik had to die. They just don't understand how nasty the world is. He would have tried to escape and if he managed to do so while they slept, some of them would die. Come on Ashira lets walk on patrol and let you get some air."
Vauhwyt and Mookie d20+3=8 Wednesday November 17th, 2004 7:13:52 PM
Vauhwyt watches Ashira with concern, but then she is distracted by her familiar. Mookie's caw sounds like a cackle when he sees the gold. "We're rich!" he screeches.
"Hush, Mookie," says Vauhwyt. "We're sharing, and most of it should go to the Swords."
Vauhwyt suggests that 4,000 gold go to the Swords, 1,000 to the Dirt City folk, and 400 to the former slaves to help them pay their ways home. She again suggests that the Swords should take the orc boat. Of the two magic rings and the magic sword, Vauhwyt suggests that the Dirt City crew get the least potent (determined by Detect Magic) and the other two go to the Swords. She suggests that the Dirt City folk take the non-magic items.
Vauhwyt takes a look at the two nonmagic short swords, the nonmagic rapier, and the two nonmagic pouches. Do they seem of better quality? What's in the pouches? [Appraise check 18 from a couple days ago]
Then her thoughts turn to the other gear that was on the island. "There might be other stuff washed up on the beach," she says. "Let's check before we head off."
Carefully stowing the book, Vauhwyt then heads to the beach to see if the big wave Priscilla mentioned before has thrown up anything on the strand. As she goes, she sings,
Please remember to keep singing So the trees will not be sleeping If they are awake that's good now If they sleep they might disappearr!
[Natural untrained perform is an 8.] The tune is not very good.
Appolo Wednesday November 17th, 2004 7:16:04 PM
Appolo looks at the two"Ok then."He then walks away.He hears part of things being said and Riggings reply. Seeing Ashira bolt into the woods,Appolo follows quickly"Don't go in there sister.Look out!!"He is right behind her."Val come back to camp.He is ignoring the comments made by the Dirt City people.Thinking they'll learn sooner or later you can't leave a snake like Erik alive in your garden.
Rose d20+4=11 Wednesday November 17th, 2004 7:23:07 PM
rose is wondering what is the fastest way home. "Does anybody have a map?" When she gets a map she will try to figure out how long it will take to get home by foot (remember horses are at inn) or by ship.
knowledge dirt city: 11
Zayne Wednesday November 17th, 2004 7:48:29 PM
(OOC: Sorry about the two missed days was in the hospital,and heavily medicated. I had an accident at work and came close to losing a finger. Now that that has been taken care of. What is the chest made of? If it is a wooden chest he will take his battle axe and open it the uncivilized way. If it is of some other substance he will leave it up to his more nimble fingered companions)
Other than the actions above he just sits there looking upset at the way things are.
Olyn Wednesday November 17th, 2004 9:43:01 PM
turning to talk to Vauhwyt so only Vauhwyt can hear. *this means im talking loud enough for Vauhwyt, so the rest dont comment like some are prone to* did we not put our lives on the line just like those Sword folks? did you and the other girls from Dirt City not risk your lives just like them? then why do you think we should get anything less than half? I dont think so, and im a little irritated that you would assume the rest of us would agree.
*shaking his head when he hears the swords folks feel that they are better than him and the rest of the group and not able to comprehend what's happening, Olyn gets up and starts gathering his stuff, and readies for the walk back to DC*
Jagar [chris) Wednesday November 17th, 2004 10:16:07 PM
Jagar listens to Pricilla " i have nothing but the tattered clothes on my back so any advice would be helpful " responds Jagar to the witch
Then Jagar heads off into the woods to retrieve his tools , his burning anger within pushing him to his limits.returning as fast as he can.
Theodore and Macaw Wednesday November 17th, 2004 10:53:31 PM
"I don't think that's very fair, Vauhwyt. We were in just as much danger as they were. We should split everything down the middle. And we should do it soon. We need to get back to the city with all possible haste."
Nezamil Wednesday November 17th, 2004 11:15:32 PM
Seeing tempers flare and anger seeping between the two groups the Cleric steps over to Theo and those around him " My friend this has turned ugly i agree, not to my liking at all , it should have been dealt with in a more civilized manner " the dwarf pauses a second
" I'm fairly new to this group of pirates but i understand their anger towards Ga'al and his minions , as i am of the brotherhood of Domi i have seen 1st hand of what vile things Ga'al can make people do and how others react to them ."
"There is much anger in this group because of the hardships they have lived with but i believe Domi has sent me here to help them come to grips with their deepest anguish . they are good people but need some direction in their lives besides the blade , something i believe i can bring to this group for we have a common cause , the defeat of Ga'al "
"I'm sorry this has happened but i'm glad to have met and fought together at this battle of Black Bird lake and hope what was accomplished here will help keep Dirt City safe , perhaps in time we will meet again i hope in a much better situation "
" may you have a safe journey home and hopefully we part as friends"
Redux Thursday November 18th, 2004 12:56:37 AM
"If I may suggest, please allow me to cut out the 3 final pages of the book with the symbols on them. The book obviously has pages added and subtracted; besides, they will not serve you in your use of the book. No doubt there are many items of value we have need to split, but there is no need for you to give our group a lions share."
Bart Thursday November 18th, 2004 4:38:17 AM
No Vauhwt we share equially. I dont need a magic sword i have a good one, and the gold we share equally. And we can get some idear of the prize of the magic items in tha catacombs
Ari d20=8 Thursday November 18th, 2004 7:11:54 AM
Sitting with the freed slaves, Ari just listens to the bantering as the two groups discuss things. Not wanting to upset the forest, Ari sings,
We all try to do what we see is right; We imagine that we can make a better world; Some day we can do this without all this might; and use knowledge and goodness for a better world;
Ashira d20+9=28 Thursday November 18th, 2004 11:19:26 AM
Ashira scoots easily (Refl=28) around the trunk which appears out of no where, but she stops in her tracks, suddenly remembering just how dangerous this forest could be. She smiles as she is joined by Val and then Appolo. "I'm ok...I'm ok...it's ok. I just, ummmm...don't feel so good all of a sudden. Val's right. Some walking would do me good. Don't worry, Appolo, we'll be fine...we'll keep singing. Oh, and tell Rigging that as far as I'm concerned, we should give all the loot to the Dirt City folk...they need it more. We'll be back in a few minutes, don't worry." That being said, Ashira turns and walks the perimeter with Val, making sure to sing as they go.
What do ya do with a drunken Pirate, What do ya do with a drunken Pirate, What do ya do with a drunken Pirate earli in the morning...
As she walks, Ashira turns to Val. "I know why he does it, but I wish he wouldn't say those things in front of me. Gods Val, sometimes I can still feel the pain...I thought it would be gone by now, but it's not. And sometimes...I have the worst nightmares...and I wake up and he's not there...he's out inspecting the ship or whatever..." A slight mist fills the warrior's eyes, and she wipes at her eyes in anger. "I love him. It's just sometimes I wish things could go back to the way they were before. Before he was Captain. Back when we used to have fun together..."
Valanthe Thursday November 18th, 2004 11:50:08 AM
"I know he's an insensative jerk like all men. When I see how much it hurts, I wish that I got grabbed instead of you. I don't dream, I don't have nightmares. When we get back to the ship we'll continue to work with reverie. That way when you sleep you can relive all the good times. Life changes Ashira as we all do. We'll have happy days again." Valanthe says as she tries to comfort her friend.
Dietrich Thursday November 18th, 2004 1:15:04 PM
Dietrich was quite surprised at the way Rigging killed the slaver and the soldier didn't like it very much. After all, he was a prisoner to whom life had been garanteed by his captors.
Dietrich just thinks: 'Pirates! No honour and no word.'
Though he understands their partners rage and even share their realism concerning the necessities of war, Riggings arguments remind Dietrich of some bloodthirsty commanders he's met and of their victims.
He doesn't see what danger the slavers would pose if kept captured, and would at least expect somekind of martial court instead of cold murdering, even if, as captain, Rigging had the authority to do it.
Dietrich's respect for Domi and his cleric is only increased by Nezamil's behavior, but the warrior too finds it best to share the loot, 50-50, and let everybody go its own way. He is a little sad that the great victory they achieved together has been flawed in the end.
DM Jan Thursday November 18th, 2004 5:10:19 PM
Priscilla rolls her eyes at Jager. "You don't know much about witch magic, do you. When I meant organic, I thought perhaps you could give me one of your fingers, or an ear, or something. But if you're squeamish, a lock of hair and a couple of toenail clippings will do." The pot that was used to cook the porridge is washed out and put back on the fire, filled with water. Numerous dubious ingredients are added, including the things she asked for from Jager. "Anyone got anything else missing? Throw something in the pot!" she yells.
The pot boils. The pot cools. Priscillia stares into the pot, says "Eh," and then bursts out laughing. "Well, well, well, someone has been busy." The witch points in a southerly direction along the shore. "That's where your items are. On the south shore. Look for a carving of a 'T' on a tree trunk. It would appear that thieves have been wandering about, using detect magic spells and the like, digging up folks's stuff. There's a band of bad gnomes.... but thats another story. A two day sharp march, and you'll get there. Just watch out for the gnomes. They'll think it's their stuff now."
Diana appears to have emerged as the slaves spokesperson, and says they'd like to go to Dirt City, and find their way home from there.
There are two slaver prisoners to take care of.
Rose reckons the fastest way home appears to be back the way they came.
Warwick the Vulture is busy pecking at the treasure items, as Vauhwyt examines the pouches. "Bleh," he announces, followed by "Hmmmm..." and "Oh, I see...." The bird announces that he knows what the items are. "I wasn't always a vulture, you know," he says sniffily. "I was a great mage in another life, until I was hit on the head by a club and my brains were spilled everywhere. And then that old bag dragged me out of the Lands of Rest." He makes an ominous clicking sound with his beak and stares at Priscilla.
As everyone gets ready to move out, the orc boat figurehead starts swearing once more. "I have been called elsewhere!" - is somewhere in the midst of a barrage of general abuse. In seconds - it's gone, swallowed up by the mists of Blackbird Lake, leaving the Card's boat on it's own at the shore.
It doesn't look as though the overall integrity of the book will be spoiled much if those symbol pages are taken out.
Final treasure count:
Chest 5400 = 300 GP per person 1 longsword +2 2 shortswords non magical 1 rapier non magical 1 ring of sustenance 1 ring of feather fall 1 pouch contains 20 silver 1 pouch contains 18 rubies
Also: Diana clears her throat. "Please, before everyone leaves, tell me where you can be found. I'm sure my father will want to bestow a gift on you when I return safely to the Floating City. Whenever that may be."
((OOC - folks, your next post will be the last for the joint game. Dominic and I will hand out XPs and hero points separately. Well done everyone!))
Valanthe Thursday November 18th, 2004 6:05:20 PM
Valanthe says her goodbies to the folks from Dirty City and wishes them the best on their journey.
As Valanthe loads up their boat she stops next to Rigging and says, "Captain perhaps our friends would like the privelage of escorting the two prisoners back for trial? The less chance that my throat gets cut while I sleep, the better." Valanthe moves on after she's said her piece, continuing to load up the boat.
Vauhwyt and Mookie d100=18 d100=98 Thursday November 18th, 2004 6:28:36 PM
Vauhwyt thanks Priscilla and Warwick for their help figuring out what everything is.
She carefully extracts the three Symbol spells and hands them over to Redux.
The liontaur suggests the following division of treasure:
Each character gets 300 gp and a ruby.
Each person rolls two d100. The first roll determines who wins -- the people with the three highest rolls get the sword, the ring of sustenance, and the ring of feather fall, in that order. If there is a tie, the second d100 roll is the tie-breaker roll, higher roll wins.
Vauhwyt herself rolls an 18 for her chance to win one of the three items. If by some miracle of Ward she ties with someone for a top three spot, her roll of 98 is to break that tie.
The silver and non-magic items can be used to help freed slaves pay to go home.
She asks the Swords if they mind letting the Dirt City folk take the two captive slavers. "The Prince of Dirt City might like to talk with them."
Finally, she says good-by to the Swords, with a few special words to Rigging and Ashira.
"Rigging, it was an honor to adventure with you. Be of good heart, and I know you will succeed!"
"Ashira, my good friend, I know I will see you in my dreams soon. We were blessed to meet in life, and I hope we will meet again! If you are ever in Dirt City, look for us!"
Making sure she has the precious book and the parchment map, she leaves with her friends. She personally holds the rope that binds the two prisoners, watching them closely.
Rose d100=73 d100=77 Thursday November 18th, 2004 7:51:27 PM
Rose hasn't been paying attention to the discussion among the two groups as she was more interested in the book. She goes from person to person amoung the swords crew giving them a hug goodbye, playing one quick final game of tag with Swirl, and lets the others decide how to split things up and deal with the slavers.
When it's time to go you can see her walking with the rest of the group, falling behind and running to catch up.
Appolo Thursday November 18th, 2004 8:05:11 PM
Appolo comes back from the woods.Sees the Longsword and picks it up."Nice sword.You can keep the gold and jewels.I'll take this.Seeing as how I seem to need a weapon."He draws the sword and walks alittle bit awayfrom the others.He takes a few practice swings.It is clear that Appolo knows how to use it.
Zayne d100=91 d100=15 Thursday November 18th, 2004 9:40:01 PM
Zayne decide that he should be in charge of the slaver captives. He promoses not to kill them,but he has decided to tell then about how cruel the prince is to those who he finds breaking the law.
He says his goodbyes to the Wildcards and sincerely wishes them well. He then gaters what is left of his equipment and gives any freed slaves that wish to strike out on their own 10gp.
Not really keen on the sword,but definitly intersted in the rings he casts his lot in. (OOC his roll for the treasure is 91 and 15 to break the tie. Come on 2nd place)
Rigging d100=81 Thursday November 18th, 2004 9:47:02 PM
Rigging will apreciate the hug given by the huge liontauress and will say, "I am sorry if my execution of Erik has upset so many of your friends. I might have been hasty but when he told me to sell my friend Val into slavery, I lost control."
Rigging will see Appolo swinging the sword and say, "Appolo it is all yours if you roll the dice high enough. Otherwise it is someone elses."
Rigging will then tell Diane, "Thank you dearest but I doubt you will be able to find any of the wildcards again. Have your father buy some slaves and then free them with our share."
Rigging will take his turn with the dice.
Rolled an 81
Nezamil d100=35 Thursday November 18th, 2004 9:50:28 PM
Knowing the time has come to part company the dwarf makes it a point to say farewll to all
Nezamil returns Rose's hug " I hope you get a chance to fly again " smiles the dwarf
" Zayne you wield that axe like a dwarf " says Nezamil with a sly grin "Dietrich it's been an honor , take care " says the Cleric with respect in his voice "Theo continue to walk the path with courage , you have a bright future " says the dwarf with warmth "Olyn may Wardd always bless you with good fortune " "Vauhwyt continue to watch over these fine folks " and with a wink at Mookie " of course you'll need a little help "
Stepping over to Vorelle " i know your a bit shy but your courage speaks volumes , you have this quiet strength that helps bind you and your friends together .....al i can say is thank you " says the dwarf with sincerity
Nezamil agrees that all the loot should be diveded evenly " we all did our part and should be appreaciated as such"
Ashira d100=26 d100=39 Thursday November 18th, 2004 9:58:37 PM
Though they part under less than desirable circumstances, Ashira is still proud to have adventured with these folk. She says goodbye to all who would still speak with her and warmly returns Rose's hug. Then she grabs Vauhwyt in a long hug. Pulling back away from her, Ashira looks into her one visible eye. "It was an honor and a privildge to adventure with you. Maybe one day the gods will cross our paths again. Until then, take care of yourself..." Ashira drops her voice to a low whisper. "And take care of the rest of them." As the liontaur hands her her share of the gold, Ashira places it back in Vauhwyt's hand. "No my friend...you and your friends need this more than I do. I cannot take it in good faith. Split it amoung the others, it will be put to better use that way."
Looking very thoughtful, Ashira quickly reaches into her backpack and pulls out a blood red scarf. "Here...I want you to take this... It's the scarf of a Ga'al high priest. I took it off of him after we killed him...and then I died." Ashira sighs. "It's a long and rather morbid story, but I want you to keep it...to remind you of our struggle...and me." Ashira looks her friend in the eye, hoping her odd gift is not offensive.
As Appolo grabs up the sword and claims it as his, Ashira shakes her head. Unsheathing her own shortsword, she hands it to Appolo "Here brother, take the sword you gave me. You can use it until we get you resupplied. That sword belongs to the one who Warrd favors."
As the goodbyes are concluded, Ashira boards the Cards longboat and snuggles up with Rigging. Though she had enjoyed the adventure with the others, it was good to get back to "normal".
Vorelle Thursday November 18th, 2004 9:59:23 PM
Vorelle has been looking troubled and thoughtful since Captain Rigging's impassioned defense of his actions. Now she realizes with a start that she and her friends are about to part ways with these seasoned adventurers.
She looks at them all as they get ready to depart. At Bart and Nezamil, both stalwart, steady companions. At levelheaded Ashira and glib Ari. At the newly freed Appollo, who can rival even Zayne for fits of temper. At Redux, whose casual use of powerful magic Vorelle finds a little intimidating. At Valanthe, whom Vorelle finds downright scary.
Mostly, though, Vorelle watches Captain Rigging, because she hasn't made up her mind about him. It would be easy to think of him as yet another bully like so many she has encountered in Dirt City, someone who leads because everyone is afraid of him. But the Wild Cards don't seem to fear their captain; they seem to follow him out of...respect.
Vorelle is still wondering when the Dirt City group makes ready to depart. She takes no formal leave of the Wild Cards, and barely manages to stammer "g-g-g-g-goodb-b-bye" to anyone who approaches her.
Being uninterested in the magic items, she does not bother with the dice.
Theodore and Macaw Thursday November 18th, 2004 10:57:20 PM
Theodore smiles sulkily. Although he hadn't known this group but a few hours, they had all experienced a terrible battle.
"I know you're not bad," he says timidly as Rigging begins to turn away. "Just different. And that's okay." He never was much for words.
He refrains from tossing the dice for a share of the magical items. He does pick up the rapier and whips it about a couple of times. "I would like to take this, if no one minds, or course." He also accepts his gold and ruby and quickly stashes the loot away.
Redux d100=28 d100=69 Friday November 19th, 2004 1:01:01 AM
Redux accepts the 3 pages from the book. Shaking his head, he carefully stows them in his scroll organizer for later disposal. He does not touch the script but his eyes linger a moment on the Common title given each. 'If anything has ever scared me, these do,' he thinks to himself. He accepts the gold and ruby; he knows the battle they were just in cost him far more than this. He shakes his head.
Trying to smile, he looks around at the groups as they prepare to split up. He accepts the hug from Rose. He finds more pleasure in it than he'd expected; almost a ... feeling (which is somewhat shocking, if you know Redux). Smiling more, he nods to the rest as they leave and says goodbye to each. "You all have fought well. I'd be happy to fight alongside you again. With your help we have found our good friend, Appolo." The last phrase is said a bit wryly; it was good to have the family back together--and it seems to have grown.
"Hey Rigging, do you realize that with all this growth this group is doing, we're going to have to work twice as hard to come back with any sizable treasure."
Redux takes his turn with the dice; Waard did not favor those rolls.
rose (illegal 2nd post) Friday November 19th, 2004 4:08:58 AM
Rose goes around and gives more hugs. Upon seeing Ashira give Vauhwyt a scarf she gets an idea and pulls out a big blanket from her magic bag. She holds it by the corners and lets swirl lift it (and her) up then she gently floats down, laughing all the while...if you didnt know better you would think she was a (very) young human child playing.
Bart d100=82 d100=35 Friday November 19th, 2004 5:37:46 AM
Bart throws some dice and get 82 as a score. He ask what do we do with the silver and the rubies, give the silver to the freed slaves and each of us including the slaves a ruby. If we have rubies left give them to the slaves as well
Vauhwyt and Mookie (illegal second post) Friday November 19th, 2004 7:08:39 AM
Vauhwyt tallies each person's roll:
Vauhwyt 18 Rose 73 Zayne 91 Rigging 81 Nezamil 35 Ashira 26 Vorelle chose not to roll Theo chose not to roll Redux 28 Bart 82
She notes that some people have yet to roll: Olyn, Valanthe, Jager, Dietrich, Ari, Appolo. She urges these folks to try the dice.
Vauhwyt accepts Ashira's gift of the scarf. "Wowsy! This is lovely. Thank you, my friend!" She tells the half-sea-elf that she will use the extra 300 gold to help the freed slaves secure passage home.
Appolo d100=61 Friday November 19th, 2004 10:47:33 AM
Appolo smiles at Rigging"I am sorry.I didn't know.I thought it was unclaimed."he sheaths the sword and places it back in the pile. When ashira gives hin her sword"Thank you sister.I'll return as soon as we pick up my gear.There's an elven village downstream from here.I left my stuf there."
He then walks over to the Dirt City group"I'd like to show you something"He then takes off his shirt and shows them his Tattoo indicating him as a pirate with the rank of a six."^ swords one for every year I've been with the family."He then shows them his right arm "One star for every member of the family or comrade that is no longer with us.There is 8." He makes sure that they see them.Appolo then shows them the left arm"One dagger for every person I've killed on the battle field.There is 25 five of these.If your wondering why I'm showing you this,it's becuase this is the price of freedom.Freedom ain't free.It must be paid for with blood.G'aal and his minions are apparently ready to move on your City.So do not think to harshly of Rigging for what he did to that fool Erik.It needed to be done.Oh by the way I rolled a 61.Good luck and good hunting.My friends."He shakes the hands of then men and gives all the women akiss before gathering up his shirt and shortsword. Appolo then heads back toward the sword's boat.
Jager Friday November 19th, 2004 12:17:43 PM
Jager continues to discuss the whereabouts of his equipment with Pricila. Even though Jager hide his equipment before recapture, he was beaten senseless and was unconcious for part of the trip to the island. "Thank you madam, you have been very helpful with landmarks for the trip south. Two days march, I must have been unconcious for over a day. I will tell the former slave, Appollo, that his equipment is located close by mine." Jager give Pricila a lock of his hair for her purposes.
Jager goes to find Appollo and the realization hits him that Erik in now dead. "WHAT HAPPENED!!" All thought of Appollo is gone as Jager goes to seek out Ashira "Mrs. Arrack you promised that I would be able to get my retribution on Erik for Softig and my people! Now how can I avenge those that I loved that were so wronged!" Jager drops down next to the camp fire, sits cross legged and puts his head in his hands and is murmerring to himself in a language that no one seems to recognize.
Jager seems emotionally and physically spent.
Olyn d100=99 Friday November 19th, 2004 1:06:52 PM
and may Domi always guide your steps and watch your back, Brother. Olyn replies to the cleric of Domi.
turning to the others, Olyn will pull up his sleeves to reveal a pair of dice tattoo'd on his forearm with the numbers 6 and 1 on them, then, reaching into a pouch at his waist he pulls out a pair of dice. rolling them in his hands and blowing on the dice for luck, he closes his eyes and tosses them at Vauhwyt's feet.
first dice, then the second dice, coming to stop right at her feet, a 9 on each, for a 99.
Zayne(illegal second post) Friday November 19th, 2004 3:44:33 PM
He takes Nezamil's compliment,humbly,and gives the dwarf a smile,and extends his hand,"If you are ever in our neck of the woods make it a point to pay us a visit. We aren't hard to find."
He reassures Appollo that he has no need to apologize for his actions,and that he would have done trhe same had he been faced with the same situation.
Dietrich d100=85 Saturday November 20th, 2004 11:29:37 AM
Dietrich is glad with his share of the loot and all in all very satisfied with the results of the joint action. He respects the powerful Wildcards and remembers the impressive fighting and the waves of fireballs. 'Let's not forget the great victory against evil over the death of this &^$% Erik!'
The warrior shakes hands with them all and wishes them luck and steadyfeastness in their fight against Gaal, whom Dietrich surely sees as an enemy too. The pious fighter retributes Nezamil's farewell in Dwarfish and asks for a blessing of Domi.
When it comes to the dices, Dietrich swears at Olyn's favouring by Wardd, but tries his luck too. 85
Dietrich d100=58 Saturday November 20th, 2004 11:32:34 AM
OOC: Just forgot the second dice throw. It is 58
Ari d100=80 Sunday November 21st, 2004 12:53:52 AM
Ari receives the gold and the ruby, and stares at the prize he has been given. While his thoughts are ajumble, Diana disrupts his thoughts. As it seems no one acknowledges the advantages that he had brought up. Ari walks with Diana a little ways off. "I will try to have someone make contact with you and yours. If they arrive faster than you, we will inform your father that you have been found, and making your way to him. If it is afterward, then we will see what happens. I am sorry we weren't able to help you get to your destination."
Walking away from Diana, Ari reminds himself to have the network check up on Diana's progress when he can get in touch with someone.
Ari throws the bones, in order to participate (80), but he doesn't respond to roll.
Cayzle OOC Sunday November 21st, 2004 5:14:53 PM
Here are the final rolls for the magic items:
Olyn 99 -- +2 longsword Zayne 91 -- ring of sustenance Dietrich 85 -- ring of feather fall Bart 82 Rigging 81 Ari 80 Rose 73 Appolo 61 Nezamil 35 Redux 28 Ashira 26 Vauhwyt 18
Jager -- no roll Valanthe -- no post Vorelle chose not to roll Theo chose not to roll
The winners are: Olyn -- +2 longsword Zayne -- ring of sustenance Dietrich -- ring of feather fall
Congrats!
Hidden supplies - DM Dominic Sunday November 21st, 2004 7:41:40 PM
As the Wildcards say good bye to their new friends they realize that they have two members that have equipment to recover. Priscilla walks over to Rigging then tells him "the tree Jager searches for is halfway to the village Appolo mentiond. Keep a close watch out for some mischevious gnomes that have been sighted in the area." She then walks away from the Wildcards towards the forest.
When you think on it you realize that the distance to the tree is about 1 days travel via the boat and the village is 2 days away.
Rigging Monday November 22nd, 2004 10:48:15 AM
Rigging is glad the Dirt City gang won the magic items. He really didn't have a use for them and the young group was gonna need all the help they could get.
Rigging will look at his "Wildcards" and say, "Let's get back to the boats." He will look over at the slave Jagar and offer, "You are welcome to join us. We have to go in your direction to retrieve Appolo's things and the forest is dangerous to travel by yourself."
With a final wave to the Dirt City people, he will help cast off his longboat and climb aboard.
Jager Monday November 22nd, 2004 10:54:56 AM
Jager will rise as he hears Captain Arrack address him and face him. " I would be happy to travel with your group and I am more than pleased and thankful for the rescue. I am also pleased to see that you have no love for slaving, but I am concerned. You killed Erik, which was my right and promised to me by Mrs. Arrack. Do you often disregard your crewmates advice or just your mates? I am used to watching the mistreatment of women and just wanted to know if they are also second class citizens here. I am curious what type of group I am throughing my lot with?" Jager will wait for an answer from the Captain.
Nezamil Monday November 22nd, 2004 2:42:17 PM
Nezamil waves as the Dirt City band take their leave " Good bye "
The dwarf checks his things and is ready to help get back Jagar and Appolo's stuff " well lets get rolling " remarks the dwarf
After hearing Jagar remarks "My friend it was not your right to slay anybody, nobody has that right! " says the Cleric "but i understand your anger but you must temper that , rise above it , be better then Erik was .........i believe your sister ...Softig was her name right ?.... would of wanted that ......make her loss into something that will make the Wold a better place for others , let her and your legacy's be something that future generations will look up too....don't waste your anger on vengence " says The Cleric with compassion is his voice
Sweeping his hand in an arc to encompass all the wildcards " there are many here who have suffered at the hands of Ga'als minions in this battle but we cannot let him darken our souls with vengence and hatred ....we must come together to shine a light on his misdeeds and continue to resist his insidious encroachment of who we are " preaches the Cleric
" We have a good reputation among the people, our deeds have spread across the Wold and we have given many people hope by our actions but we also must look within ourselves and lead not only with our actions but with our hearts and souls ......and of how we want to live ourselves.....let go of the anger and dark thoughts " implores the Cleric
With a look back at Jagar " lets begin anew my friend ...let the journey begin "
"Well Captain i'm ready " then climbs aboard the longship " hmm what happened to the orc boat?? " comments the dwarf
Valanthe Monday November 22nd, 2004 3:54:28 PM
Valanthe sighs and takes a momentary pause from her rowing. "It's Jager, right? Well Jager nobody should have to go through what you did. But the world is far from a nice place and bad things happen to good people. I'm sure that everybody here will agree. But this obsession you have with Erik needs to end. He's dead so get over it. I know it's harsh but so is this world. You are lucky that the Captain has patience to listen to your whining because I know I don't. I really wanted to bash Erik's head in with a large rock and what you feel you were owed doesn't mean a thing to me." She begins rowing once more. She tried to keep her temper in check but she never had much success and probably never will.
Rigging (Illegal post #2) Monday November 22nd, 2004 6:25:01 PM
Rigging will look at Jagar and then listen to Nezamil's response. He ponders..."No one has the right to kill but we kill all the time. Are we violating the laws of the Gods?" He then remembers that Alemi himself blessed them so he feels a little better.
He is raising his hand to get the monk's attention when Val cuts into him. He is grateful at her support but unhappy that she seems so angry. Why was she angry? Appolo has been returned to her. That should make her happy. He files that thought away for future consideration.
He turns to the monk and says, "I shouldn't have killed Erik. I acted in anger and frustration. I should have let the Dirt City folks taken him back for justice. He threatened my sister Val and I lost my temper.
You see some of us have been together for a very long time and have become more than just road companions or comrades in arms but closer to family. I love these people. Am I happy with killing the toad? No...It was a mistake...a rash act. Rash acts can get you killed or worse those you love killed."
Rigging seems to be talking more to himself than Jagar but he lifts his head and stares at the scarred monk. "I try to listen to my companions and especially my wife. She gets real cranky when I don't. I will listen to the advice but then, as Captain, I must decide. My decisions aren't always popular or always right but I try my best to bring my crew and family home alive.
If you join us and we decide we want you, I will always listen, but you have to agree to accept my decisions even if you don't like them."
Redux Monday November 22nd, 2004 11:22:56 PM
Redux finishes with the goodbyes. He's disappointed his roles weren't better, but then he's always been average at games of chance. He suggests they keep the chest with the magical lock for future use. He then climbs aboard and takes his place and awaits the others. He looks thru his items for a spare bottle; he has in mind the old message-in-a-bottle trick once they've made it out to sea.
Ashira Monday November 22nd, 2004 11:34:00 PM
Having collected her gear and once more donned her armor, the shivering half-elf laughs at Rigging's answer to Jager's questions. "Pah, the truth is, he knows I'm a better fighter than he is..." Noting Jager's serious mood, she softens her tone. Laying a hand on the freed slave's shoulder, she moves to comfort him. "I am sorry for Rigging's actions...usually I'm the rash one of late...perhaps I overstreched my station. But as my friends have said... Erik is dead. Although not by your hand, your sister is avenged. Now you must look forward... There are so many others that need vengence and don't have the power to achieve it." Ashira offers the man her hand. "We can give them the power...if you'll join us..."
Bart Tuesday November 23rd, 2004 6:57:35 AM
Nezamil well spoken i cant agree more. And Rigging you may be our captain, and there for in higher rank than me. I see you as the captain of our ship, and i will follow orders concerning that. But in all other matters i always consider ourselves equal. If i dont agree with your decision i will say so. And maybe i wont follow it up either.
Sailing along - DM Doiminic Tuesday November 23rd, 2004 8:27:22 AM
As you head out away from the shore you are not able to spot where the orc boat has gone. Turning south you sail along in sight of the shore noticing that further out on the lake there is a thick fog. After going around half the day each of you begin to wonder if you have been some how sailing in circles as it seems that you have past the same spot several times over the last couple of hours. Eventually you spot a group of trees that look out of place. You estimate that at this point you have sailed for the entire day.
Jager Tuesday November 23rd, 2004 1:36:16 PM
Jager sails/rows with his rescuers the pirates and attempts to explain himself on the excursion. "Capatin Arrack, and his pirates, I was captures from my village when I was 12. I was just entering into the society of men at the time and was being taught to protect the village and the women, children and elders of our clan. We were taught to respect those that we were to protect and were honor bound to do so. We were a small village and were aggressive in defending our own. If a rival village killed one of our own, we were honor bound to kill the oppressor so that he and his village no longer held sway over our village."
Jager reflects for a moment "My 13 years as a slave showed my cruelties I can not even begin to describe. The mistreatment of my people and women in general. These slavers are the embodiment of evil. Captain Arrack with you killing Erik, you have paid my honor debt for my sister, Softig. Unfortunately, I lose face, if not to my people than to myself for not taking care of the debt on my own. Now I must focus myself to avenge the honor debt of my people by striking out at those that hold dominion over others. Now I must attempt to figure out how to accompish my life long task."
To Vals harsh words Jager comments "If it were your man toy, Apollo, that was killed would you not have not been honor bound to avenge his death."
Jager looks to Nezamil "I know very little of Ga'al, that you speak or of other gods. We were a simple people that watched the seasons and the crops and animals we lived off of. Your crew is is much more polished than a simple Heit Volken and former slave can ever espire to. I am greatful for your company and assistance."
Rigging Tuesday November 23rd, 2004 1:59:17 PM
Rigging will look at the trees ahead as he listens to the conversation around him. He will pull out Wayfinder and use the telescope's powers to scan the trees looking for traps and such. He will not activate the astral side of the artifact but just rely upon the 10x vision enhancement.
He will say to Bart, "Bart, you must always follow your heart. Hopefully I never give an order you feel goes against what you believe. I try to let wisdom guide me but I am only human and will make mistakes." Rigging will grin and add, "Of course I am an incredibly gifted human, towering intellect, relexes of a mountain cat, and modesty won't even allow me to get into my good looks. Course not any human can catch the discerning eye of an aquatic elf and get her to marry him, so I will let you come to your own conclusions."
When Rigging hears Jagar's account of his history, he will soften towards the monk. He can't imagine ever owning someone or worse being owned. He will say, "I am sorry to steal your face. I didn't know your customs. You have my apologies. I would say you should stay with us a bit if you want to fight slavers. We are currently trying to put some slavers out of busines.
Our last mission, and I am not sure it is complete yet, was to stop Ga'alian priests from torturing slaves into converts. I heard that you were given the chance to worship Ga'al and refused. That was smart of you. I would like to hear how they made the offer. Can you tell me anything? How about you Appolo. Did you see the priests?"
Valanthe Tuesday November 23rd, 2004 2:05:48 PM
"For one who claims to follow the ways of honor and respect you sure speak like every other low life I've heard. See Jager while I have a bad temper, I have assaulted crewmen for mere comments, I'm not stupid. Getting yourself killed for revenge is plain stupid. Avenging somebody means doing everything you can to make sure the people responsible get what's coming to them regardless of the outcome. Once freed I assume that you fought as hard as you could and did everything that you could given the circumstances to bring down the slavers. Erik was caught and killed. If that's not good enough for you don't whine about it while I'm around because I'm tired of listing to how it was promised to you and it was your right. Oh and speak about Appolo in such a way again and I'll take this oar and knock all the teeth out of you mouth." Val says coldly and keeps rowing.
Appolo Tuesday November 23rd, 2004 6:34:28 PM
Appolo sits comfortably next to valanthe listening and watching.When tempers flare between .Appolo stands up"Jager,Val everyone calm down.Jager whos says she's not my Elf Toy.Now relaxIt's over.We all agree that Erick is dead.We all agree that he deserved ti,let's stop agruing about how and move on in friendship.Jager I promise if you ahng with us you'll get your fill of killing slavers and priests of G'aal.I've been hurting and killing people since I was a small child and beleve me none of it has made me feel any better.The only thing that matters to me is my family.So relax and be thankful for what you have.You're freedom and life.I am sure your sister would want you to be happy and free,but you can only be truly free if you let go of the past and stop blaming yourself for what happened to her.I am sure that is part of the reason you're so angry.Letit go.We're not your enemies."
He then replies to Riggings question"Outside of the Priest that was with the group that captured me.No.Idid manage to put a dagger through him before I went down though and I also allowed the elves I was with to escape.That'sone less priest of G'aal in the world.Surprised they didn't kill be on the spot.When I woke up I was in that pen.I don't think they looked me over all that carefully or they would have seen my tatto's.I was already preparing to escape when you guys arrived.Fools left us practically ungaurded and free to move around.I would have been gone by morning anyway." Smiling he sits back down next Val and puts his arm around her.Sticking his tongue out at Jager"My toy.Not your's."Appolo is quite relaxed and happy.
OOC from ADM Nellie----I wrote this module. It might be nice if ya'll asked me before you went about ad libing...there were no priests of Ga'al with the slavers. The slavers were working on their own and selling to the priests.
Nezamil Tuesday November 23rd, 2004 10:17:41 PM
The dwarf turns to the Captain " we've been rowing all day , we should be near were the witch Pricilla mentioned Jagar's equipment should be .... i say we put in and rest while Jagar searches " says Nezamil as he wipes his brow clean of sweat
Glancing in towards shore "how bout near them thar trees " asks the dwarf
" lets get ashore " remarks Nezamil
Redux Wednesday November 24th, 2004 12:11:08 AM
Redux finds the banter between the crew uninteresting. He sends up Talon and to look around as they travel on to get a birds-eye view of the terrain. He wonders what the size of the lake is and tries to remember the map from the orc boat. He agrees that it would be nice to spend the night on the shore and travel again in the morning.
Ashira Wednesday November 24th, 2004 12:42:39 AM
The half-elf laughs at Rigging's "modesty". Her face breaking out into a wolf grin, she watches as her husband attempts to find his bearings. "You know darling, you don't have to fake being lost for our sakes...we can work out this disagreement without taking extra time." Turning to Val, Ashira shakes her head. "Sister, I think you should ease up on him. He's been through a lot, and that weighs heavy on a person." She gives Valanthe a meaningful glance and then turns her gaze to Jager. "However...I can't believe I'm saying this...Appolo is right. For better or worse, Erik is dead. And you need to find a new reason to live. With all the courage you have shown, I for one would welcome you to the family. We have lots of work to do, and can always use an extra set of hands..." Ashira extends her hands to Jager in a jesture of friendship.
Valanthe Wednesday November 24th, 2004 1:17:58 AM
Valanthe couldn't help but smile and laugh when Appolo sat down and gave him a quick kiss. However that smile vanished when Ashira looked at her. Valanthe couldn't hold Ashira's gaze and looked away. She knew that Ashira was right but the world sucked and it wouldn't do Jager any good to dwell on things that couldn't be changed.
Bart Wednesday November 24th, 2004 6:52:35 AM
"I will acompany Jager to find his things, the witch said something about thieves and bad gnomes. Sounds like trouble. Jager do you have a weapon? Is there anyone else who want's to go as well?"
Jager (second Illegal post) Wednesday November 24th, 2004 1:07:04 PM
Jager takes Mrs. Arrack's hand in friendship and shakes it heartily and adds "My pleasure and well met. I do not believe that I have ever shaken a womens hand before."
Jager Looks at Mrs. Arrack bright blue hair and continues "Growing up, we were taught to greet women that we owe a debt in this manner." Still holding Mrs. Arracks hand, Jager kneels on one knee before her and takes her hand and presses the outside of her palm to his forehead. "I owe you a debt of freedom. My heart, mind and spirit are at your service." Jager lets go of her hand and stands up.
Jager turns to Val and Apollo "I am unsure of your customs, but being a slave so long, I took, Apollo as your property. Powerful masters always kept toys of slaves. I am mistaken as I now see that Apollo is one of your clan. I mean no offense." Jager bows low with hands outstreched, but he keeps his eyes on both Val and Apollo.
Jager looks to Bart. "Thank you for your offer. I can easily find my tools and cloths. I will need to change and bury these rags." Jager points to his slaves cloths. Erik gave me more normal cloths to wear for my missions." Jager spits the word Erik out.
Ari (one legal post behind ;) ) Wednesday November 24th, 2004 4:06:37 PM
Having listened to the exchanges of everyone in the group, and the new comer. Ari pipes up, "We have a similar tale to tell, when we came of age at around the same time. Most of it entails the priests of Ga'al, and their accursed seeds.
The short of it is, we do what we can to get rid of the priests. But we'll do more in the long run, by helping our people, and spreading the word about Ga'al. Vengence seems to cloud the mind over, and you tend to do things very rashly, without thinking, at times. " Ari can't help but look at Val. But before he can be blamed for anything, his eyes move on.
"I just wish we could do more for our people."
Then as Ari takes in some of what Jager says Ari points out, "You seem to have belief system that is something new, that we've never encountered before. We may end up asking each other a lot of questions, before this is all over."
Seeing the handshake, Ari smiles for the offer. But he doesn't think that he can offer his own, at this time.
Strange Grove - DM Dominic Wednesday November 24th, 2004 4:57:35 PM
Looking at the group of trees Rigging sees that it is a small grove of trees that has a small clearing in the middle that you can just make out.
When the Wildcards approach the grove of trees you can see that there are some sounds from the forest indicating that there is plenty of wildlife in the area.
Talon (George) d20=19 Wednesday November 24th, 2004 5:10:12 PM
Obeying Redux's orders the owl flaps on silent wings over the trees scanning the ground looking for things. "Oohhh there is a mouse! No have to keep on my job. Well mabye Redux would want to share him with me. No he never wants to eat mice and everything he eats he burns first. What a disgusting habit!"
Talon will start doing circles around the clearing looking for anything interesting.
Rolled a 19 spot check but don't know his pluses
Nezamil d20+11=29 Wednesday November 24th, 2004 10:39:37 PM
"Eh Captain i think that grove of trees would make an excellent campsite "
As the longboat slides up on the shore the dwarf jumps(d20+11=29 jump ch) out into the surf and helps beach the longboat , once beached Nezamil reaches into the bow of the longboat and grabs the anchor and lodge it in the sand securely " that should stop it from getting away like them orcboats! " comments the dwarf
"who's gonna scrounge us up some fresh meat for dinner ?" suggest the Cleric as he rubs his hands together quickly
" i'll gather some wood from any downed trees or driftwood that has washed ashore......i don't think it would be a good idea to chop any thing down " remarks Nezamil " this is a strange forest indeed so lets be careful"
Nezamil will gather any available wood then dig a firepit for cookin
" maybe we should sing to the forest like Vauhwty and them Dirt City gang did ? "
Appolo Wednesday November 24th, 2004 10:41:50 PM
Appolo sits next to Val and replies to Jager."Non taken my friend.Besides I like being her toy.Just relax and enjoy the ride." He notices Ashira's look and Val's reaction.He nibbles at ears"Don't worry about our mother hen over there.She's just jealous that Rigging isn't nibbling on her ear.That is something I'm going to have to talk to him about.She need to be nibbled."He says all this in a whisper directly into Val's ear.
When they reach the clearing,He stays back.
Swirl [Chris] Wednesday November 24th, 2004 10:43:25 PM
Swirl buzz's about the campsite then gains altitude and joins Talon circling the camp trying to get the owl to play tag
Appolo OOC Wednesday November 24th, 2004 10:45:04 PM
Happy Thanksgiving to one and all.Best wishes to you and yours.
My appologies to Nellie.I thought the Priest where with the slavers.My mistake.Very good adventure Nellie.Thank you.
Redux d20+4=18 d20=4 Wednesday November 24th, 2004 11:58:46 PM
Redux senses that his bird friend is a bit more stressed than he had intended but is unsure as to why. He wonders if the bird's sixth sense picks up something the others miss. He checks around but doesn't find anything out of the ordinary (loosely used for this part of the countryside). He begins to hum to himself--probably sure to scare off the trees rather than put them at ease.
Jager d20+6=14 Thursday November 25th, 2004 12:04:26 AM
Jager takes in Apollo's words but does not comment and only thinks to himself, What ride is Apollo considering?
At Nezamil's request for fresh meat Jager pipes up. "Stout one, if you or someone else can lend me a bow of some sort, I will attempt to get us some food and scout out the area to get my bearing on where my equipment is stashed." (Survival roll 14 to find game and other food for the group)Jager pauses before continueing. "I normally had to live off the land on my missions for Erik, and the hunting skills of my clan certainly helped." Jager again can not help but spit out the name Erik.
Rigging Thursday November 25th, 2004 12:40:22 AM
Rigging will hop lightly from the boats and head into the clearing with his hands on his weapons. He will call out, "Becareful, the witch warned me of bad tempered gnomes in this area. If they found Jagar's and Appolo's equipment, they might have claimed it.
Rigging will walk around the clearing and just to be on the safe side, pull out his wand and detect magic in the area. He has heard gnomes like illusions.
Bart Thursday November 25th, 2004 5:33:04 AM
Jager i guess you are a fighter, or are you more skilled in the silent and stealthy actions, what kind of weapon do you normally use? What knowledge do you have about fighting? Maybe we could train together, learn some new moves from each other. I know some dirty trics you might be interested in.
Finished Campsite - DM Dominic Thursday November 25th, 2004 5:08:07 PM
Landing on shore you notice that the clearing is actually a finely prepared campsite. You can see what looks to be a ready supply of firewood and a source of water that is readily accessable inside the clearing.
One of the trees that makes up the outer surrounding trees you find a mark on one of the trees that matches the one that was described to you as being where Jager's equipment is to be found. Searching reveals a hidden storage compartment containing all of Jager's equipment and what turns out to be Appolo's as well.
After a couple of hours you hear the strange sound of something coming towards the campsite from the direction of the forest. A couple of minutes later in walks casually, three turkeys that stand approximately 5' tall and you would guess each is around 200lbs. After a few moments they start to scratch and then the turkeys start to scratch at the ground and start to look for food ignoring the Wildcards.
OOC: Happy Thanksgiving to all of you in the US.
Nezamil d20+13=23 d8+8=9 Thursday November 25th, 2004 11:50:18 PM
The dwarf checks out the camp site "hmm seems to be all setup by someone " remarks the dwarf
"wonder if it's them thar Gnomes that Pricilla mentioned ....we should keep an eye out for them "
After a few hours pass the Cleric hears some noise " whats that ??......you here that ??? "
The dwarf slowly draws his mace readying himself for a gnomish encounter , as the turkeys enter the campsite Nezamil chuckles and his face turns red " hmm they look dangerous " grins the dwarf
waiting a few minutes to see if the turkeys flee and when they don't he will slowly edge towards one of the birds and unleash his mace in a mighty swing "by Domi we're gonna eat good tonight" whispers the dwarf "Domi grant me strength (feat of str +7, domain)and his mace arcs down upon the bird (d20+13=23 attack )(1d8+8=9 dam )smashing it's head
"Hey get the others " yells the dwarf
"Jagar you mentioned you your skills of living off the land well here's a chance to show your skills in dressing the bird " grins Nezamil with a hearty laugh
Appolo d20+10=30 Friday November 26th, 2004 3:31:24 AM
Appolo sees that the camp is already set,he investigets and finds his gear."Hey I think the elves dropped my stuff for me.Look like we were expected."He quickly dons his clothing and armour,weapons as well several daggers a couple of fine swords and his bow.His bed roll and such are also there.
When the turkeys arrive he readies bow and watches as Nezamil takes one down.That seems to startle the other birds but Appolo is ready and let's fly with his arrow at one of the turkeys just before it decides to make a break for it.Scoring a direct hit taking the bird down."Well now we got two turkeys for dinner.Stupid bird wonder right in amongst us like that."
Natural 20.Pretty much a kill shot on a turkey.
Ari Friday November 26th, 2004 3:38:29 AM
"We were warned that we probably shouldn't stick around that much."
When Jager offers to go out and hunt, Ari pipes up, "I'll go with ya. I want to keep in practice"
Ari almost whistles out of reflex, when he see the turkeys enter the camp. Then he sees Nezamil winding up with his meat grinder.
"Though I like my meat tenderized, I'd like to get the living part out of the way, so there's no bruising. Especially if they don't die after the first shot."
Sighing and smiling, Ari moves into help with the cleaning of the turkey.
Bart Friday November 26th, 2004 11:10:32 AM
Bart looks to the giant turkeys (90 kg each?!!) And watch how Nezamil and Apollo attacks two of them. Bart thinks 2 turkeys much be enough for a group meal. Looks like we have nice roosted turkey today. What comes next a gnome with a basket of sweet chestnuts to fill the turkey?
Rigging Friday November 26th, 2004 1:02:46 PM
Rigging sees the Wildcard's slaughter the birds and pulls out his bag of holding and starts to group around in it. He pulls out a couple bottles of wine and some other food stuffs (mainly dried fruit and hardtack) and adds it to the pile of foods to be prepared.
"We might be able to make some stuffing out of the hardtack. Anybody have anything else to add?"
Rigging will then go about setting up a spit system to roast the birds with.
Ashira d20+13=29 Friday November 26th, 2004 4:24:33 PM
The aquatic elf smiles at the turkey shoot/bashing. As the others have said, looks like they will eat well tonight. Having only the basic cullinary skills, Ashira stays away from the preparation of the birds, opting to keep watch (Spot=29) and snuggle up with Rigging...a rare occurance indeed.
Vanishing Turkeys - DM Dominic d3=2 Friday November 26th, 2004 6:07:52 PM
As Nezamil's swing connects his turkey and one other vanishes. Appolo's arrow strikes true hitting and dropping the turkey giving te Wildcards a nice feast.
As you are eating the turkey you find that it is one of the most tender tasting birds that you have ever had. The stuffing made from Rigging's hardtack along with some wild onions and herbs that Jger and Ari find comes out extreamely good. All of you have an enjoyable meal then settle down and get some much needed rest in this small clearing.
Nezamil Friday November 26th, 2004 9:58:26 PM
"This is delicious " remarks the dwarf as he takes another mouthful of stuffing "mmm good"
Watching his fellow Wildcards enjoy the meal " we have much to be thankful for ...we have met and made many new friends " Nezamil raises his cup "here's to the Dirt City gang ....Vauhwty ,Olyn ,Theo , Dietrich and the always cheerful Rose ...did i miss anyone ? ...ah yes the quiet but valient Vorelle ....cheers " and the dwarf takes a gulp of the wine
"Anybody else have anything else to add ?" the Cleric glances around
as the meal finishes the dwarf stretches and yawns "ah i could use a nap about now " grins Nezamil .grabbing a blanket and finding a warm place by the fire the dwarf promptly falls asleep
Rigging Friday November 26th, 2004 10:01:06 PM
Rigging will have his back against a tree with Ashira leaning against him. He will be strangely sleepy, but shake away the cobwebs. He will call out to the others, "I hate to ruin such a nice feeling with business but I have been waiting for a quiet time to have a discussion with you.
I have been given a lot of thought to the Sword of Redemption, her crew, the Pirates of the Jack,and our family of Wildcards. I am concerned on many levels about our future.
The first thing I am concerned about it us. We haven't been fighting as effectively as we should be. Our opponents are getting tougher and more crafty. I don't want to lose any members, so I am proposing some changes.
The first thing I would like to do is put my lovely wife here." he will engulf her in a hug, "in charge of coordinating our tactics in battle. We have been fighting to much as individuals and not enough team work.
Now Ashira is a fine fighter but doesn't understand the magic end of things as well as she could, so I would like her to work hand in hand with Redux.
I expect you two to drill us, talk with us, and figure out our strengths and weakness. I want recommendations on armor, spells and possible purchase of magic items."
Rigging will look over at the dwarf Nezamil and say, "You are the most versed in healing among us. I want you to work with them closely and give recommendations on items and magic to help us stay health. Should the group buy some more potions or possibly a wand of healing? That will be your area of responsibility."
Von Palin will turn and look at Ari, "Before you went on sabatical, I put you in charge of setting up a network of spies. Have you been getting it organized? What do you need to keep it going and expand it?"
He will turn to Appolo and say, "I want you to help Ari with this. You have a better feel for the streets than he does and a more cynical soul. Necessary tools for spymasters.
Bart, I want you to take possession of Nautoculus and Wayfinder. They still belong to all of us, but I want you to use them and protect them. I have found that I am to busy weaving spells, directing the ship in combat or operations, when I could be using them. I can't think of anyone else I would trust more with their protection."
He will turn and look at Val and smile, "Val I have two jobs for you. First is teaching us all elven. Ashira can help you but it would be an handy battle language for us. Not many Aisidurians know it. Second is recruitment. We have a strong crew, many with skills as great as our own but I want to suppliment them with better sailors. I want sailors who can both sail and fight.
Here is why. I want to either purchase or capture other ships and we will need proven crewman to officer and sail those ships. These crewman would have to be loyal to us and capable of helping us in our sea battles.
Rigging will pause for a second and observe his family and Jagar to see how they are absorbing all of this. He wants to be pacing but his wife is just to comfortable where she is and doesn't want to disturb her.He tries to gauge their mood but decides to plunge on.
"I am not looking for any decisions tonight but I wanted to broach a subject with you. Should we stay in the Pirates or are we ready to branch out on our own?
I am of two minds on the subject. The Pirates are a wonderful source of intelligence for us and a convenient place to recruit and resupply. My problem is the politics. Lately I have had the feeling, that the kings are corrupt and trying to achieve personal power more than fighting Ga'al.
I don't want to totally break from them but I want them more as allies than to work directly with them. Develop our own base, get more ships under us and decide our own missions. I think we are ready but can't make this kind of decision on my own. It affects all of us. What do you think?"
Ashira Saturday November 27th, 2004 11:03:54 PM
A fine meal, the warm closeness of her husband's body...life doesn't get any better than this. It's a shame it doesn't last... Ashira smiles at Rigging's announcement. It would be good to have an assignment...keep her mind occupied.
As talk turns to leaving the Pirates, Ashira sighs. She'd been with the Pirates most of her life. It was her way and leaving them seemed almost heretical. Still, Rigging was right... Right now they could probably get more done on their own... Taking a deep breath, Ashira turns her head to face her husband. "I really don't like to share all that much... I think we should go it on our own... if the Jack will let us go."
Appolo Sunday November 28th, 2004 10:46:59 AM
Appolo eats and drinks while sitting next to Valanthe.When done he wraps himself around her.
Appolo his snuglled up agianst val when Rigging begins his speach and thinks why don't just take some time for Shira.Appolo is looking at Ashira more then paying attention Rigging,He'll talk to Rigging later.Appolo doesn't think they should leave the Pirates.
Jager d20+12=24 d20+17=20 d20+6=20 d20+6=11 Sunday November 28th, 2004 2:47:48 PM
The first thing Jager does when he returns with his gear is to burn his slaves tunic. Jager is dress in a outfit of tight fitting layered cloths with many folds. Jager is now wearing gauntles a pendant and several small weapons.
Jager enjoys the gaint turkey feast and comments "These fat birds do not grow this big on the mountain that I came from. Is everything this enormous around hear? I am not a large man, and I have met and watched larger women fight, but we have a couple of big and exotic ones. What other wonders will I see?"
Jager is 5 feet 9 inches tall give or take.
Once the meal is done and Rigging gives his speech Jager excuses himself. Jager needs a walk and will use it to get the lay of the land.
Once outside the campsite, Jager will slink and scout about: Hide in shadows 24, move silent 20, spot 20 and listen 11.
Ari Sunday November 28th, 2004 2:59:45 PM
Ari sits and to enjoy his meal. When Rigging starts to talk, Ari will continue to eat, but will listen attentively.
When asked Ari will respond, "Yes I've been working on the network and there has been some more development. Once we get off of this assignment, I'll be able to give you more feedback. Once I can get in contact and see the state of affairs. I'm thinking that I need some magic that would allow me to talk to my #2 person almost from anywhere in the world. So I can give and receive thoughts and information."
(ooc Dominic and I have touched on it some. But he would need to give me/us feedback on it's currrent state of affairs)
When Rigging asks for Apollo to join Ari, Ari asks, "Do you want him to develop a seperate network? That would possibly help us out with a seperate source of information. Which might come from a different type of individuals. But if you mean for him to work within my oranization, I'm not sure that would be a wise idea. The less people that involved at the top, the less can be given away. Now if you were talking about Apollo maybe doing some recon in the towns that we visit, then I agree with that. "
When Rigging winds down, Ari will pipe up, "Both have possibilities that are advantageous to us. As much as I'd like to part ways with the pirates. I think we're better off if we can figure out which King, if any, to align with. We're going to need a fighting force to be able to support us. The King will be able to provide that for us, much more, than if we try to develop one on our own.
I just don't know if each of us should pursue being a Captain in turn. This would give us the justification to have crews who were loyal to us. Making our following/fleet that much larger.
I don't think we're ever going to really get a way from Politics. With Ga'al branching out to other people and lands. We're going to be criss-crossing borders many times. Unless we want to stay strictly in Asildurian waters?!
Many of us spent that year in the castle learning about what it's going to take to run a kingdom. I don't think we're going to ever walk away from that kind of responsibility. I don't think the Pirate organization has the idea quite right. I don't know if we want to spend time trying to fix that, or just break off when it becomes convenient.
If we do break off from the Pirates, how are we going to keep outfitted? I think we'll have to have our own ties with these different lands, in order to survive.
So I'm thinking that we want to be promoted a little bit more. So that we may be given more autonomy. Maybe we can also convince someone that we might have to start feeling out these other locations. To see who could possibly work with us or the pirates, and not have a need to turn us in to the priests."
Ari remains thoughtful as he continues to contemplate the ramifications of either decision.
Valanthe Monday November 29th, 2004 1:39:01 AM
"First Rigging if you want more sailors I suggest we get them from places that Ga'al defintely hasn't spread to. While it might be out of the way it will gaurentee that nobody is under his influence one way or another. Second my thoughts are along the same lines as Ari's. I don't trust the entire Pirate orginizaiton anymore, not that I ever really did. There are plenty of ways to get people to work for you without a heartseed. I think there are spies in the orginization that are doing so of their own free will. Plus I get the impression that stopping Ga'al isn't the main objective of all pirates. Remember that friendly non-violent scavenger hunt that we had not to long ago? What were those guys names, copper something or other. Well for those of you that don't know a rival group, similar to our own turned to violence and cheating because we were winning a contest fair and square. Then after that their Captain tried to get us in trouble and he was backed up by a King. Only the Jack saved out butts from their personal vendetta against us. How can we concentrate on Ga'al if we are watching our backs against our own people? We know the Jack has always supported us. We've proven our loyalty to him time and time again. Instead of leaving outright, because we will need help at times, what if we approach the Jack with the idea that we become something like a special expiditary force that reports only to him? That way we get more freedom to pursue our goals and still help the pirates, and get help if the situation calls."
Bart Monday November 29th, 2004 11:13:42 AM
I also have certain thought about the Pirates, I like being a member of that organization. The pirates fight against Ga'al. But I don't like the politics, corruption and sneaky back ways in the top of the organization. I think staying within the Pirates is good, so we have a base to back-up. I see our group as a special taskforce to hit Ga'al on the spots where it hurt most. Such a taskforce must be free to act on their own judgment and not controlled by a king, or a council of kings. I think that we have to persuade the Jack to start a new suit the Suit of Jacks. I don't like the idea to get more ships into our task force. How bigger it becomes, the greater the risk of a leak, and it gets more difficult to control the whole. All the ships we get control off we sent back to base and for the Jack to decide what to do with it. I like the idea to have our base in Isuldur the ruined city we visited, a small base to get our supplies from with one or two small support vessels to get the supplies from the main POJ base.
Rigging I thank you for trusting me the Nauticoulos and the Wayfinder. I promise to use them for our group effort, and I hope I can work as successful with them as you did. (ooc I know we have got a description about the powers of both items, but I cant find it)
Redux Monday November 29th, 2004 3:46:39 PM
Redux smiles at Rigging's assigment. "About time!! You know, I could do a lot more damage if you fighter types didn't always go dashing in..." Redux yawns and stretches. "But then we'll take care of that soon enough. Now...if you all could just kindly write out what type of equipment you have..." Redux's smile grows larger.
As talk of leaving the Pirates comes up, Redux shrugs. "I like Bart's plan the best. Nice to have the backing of the Pirates, but I think we should be independent."
A plan in the works - DM Dominic Monday November 29th, 2004 6:14:04 PM
You spend the rest of the day talking over your ideas for the future of the Wildcards then realize that the rest of the crew aboard the Sword is probably starting to get worried about where you are.
OOC: the ruined city of Ilsidur is approximately half a years sailing from your location. you are on the opposite side of the continent from it. this is according to Jerry.
Valanthe Monday November 29th, 2004 7:02:44 PM
"Captian do we make camp or should we head out now?" Valanthe asked.
Rigging Monday November 29th, 2004 10:45:35 PM
Rigging will look up at the stars and then around at his friends. "I think we should all get a good night sleep and head back in the morning.
We all deserve this one night in peaceful fellowship. We can reflect upon our successes," he will give Ashira another squeeze, "and our futures."
We will head back when we can see. Rigging will hand the artifacts to Bart and finish. You can practice with the telescope if you wish. I wouldn't advise it though. Last time I used it, I was almost sucked into a vortex of woldsblood. Enjoy!" Rigging adds with a grin
Ari Monday November 29th, 2004 10:54:11 PM
Ari tries to patiently wait for Rigging to answer his questions. When no answer is forth coming, Ari assumes they'll be aswered in the morning. Ari continues to muse over the direction that the Wildcards could take.
Rigging (second illegal post) Tuesday November 30th, 2004 12:06:17 AM
Rigging will start making a nice cozy bed for both he and Ashria, near the fire for warmth.
He will look up at Ari and say, "I understand you want secrecy to protect your agents but you will have to choose one of us to have the same information that you do. What happens if you die or is some ways worse, are captured and heartseeded. All your information will be exposed.
Maybe you should write them down in some kind of code, and we can look at the list if the worse happens. I want you to work with Appolo. If you think it is best, that he starts up his own spy network, that is ok. Maybe you should divide areas up. He takes one part of the territory and you the other. You can compare information but not sources. Anyway that is for you to work out."
Jager Tuesday November 30th, 2004 12:35:50 AM
Jager comes back from his scouting stroll with not much to report so he does not. Jager sees his strange new companions settling down and he does the same.
Jager still seems uncomfortable with his new surroundings and speaks up. "Captain Arrack, do we need to set a guard. The witch did warn of potential nasties in the area? Who has responsibilities for camp security?"
Rigging 2nd illegal post Tuesday November 30th, 2004 1:28:09 AM
Rigging will look at Jagar and say, "I don't need much sleep. Wake me in two hours and I will take the rest of the watches."
Nezamil Tuesday November 30th, 2004 1:29:59 AM
The dwarf listens to what Rigging has to say "hmm yes i have afew ideas about helping with combat healing and such "nods Nezamil to Rigging " i'll put some more thought into such areas "
Tapping a pouch on his belt "I have that wand of cures we captured not too long ago also , so i think we ok in that for now but i'll keep an eye on the power of the wand " replies the Cleric
With a look and nod at Redux " once back aboard ship Redux and myself can discuss potions to help our fighting effectiveness with Ashira"
Tapping his mace at his side " I'm not as skilled as our warriors Ashira and Bart....and Val is by far the finest warrior i've seen "
"but i can smash and bash pretty good with mace " grins the dwarf
after listen to the rest talk Nezamil falls off to sleep
Appolo Tuesday November 30th, 2004 4:48:00 PM
Appolo gets up"That's ok Rigging.You stay with Ashira and get some rest.We'll handle the watches.Oh if we're going to set up a spy network,we'll need gold and lots of it.Good imformation isn't cheap.So the first order of business should be to take down some merchant ships.Low risk,high profit."
Ashira Tuesday November 30th, 2004 5:20:48 PM
Ashira smiles warmly at Rigging. Though as he prepares the bed, she makes sure that she is positioned as far away from the fire as possible. Slipping into her plain tunic, Ashira sits next to Rigging while the watches get settled, just happy to be near him without someone waving a sword around. She frowns slightly as Rigging volunteers to take all the watches, but tries to show her support. A good leader bears responsibility on his shoulders, and Rigging was a good leader. As they head to bed, Ashira spoons up next to Rigging and runs her fingers across his chest in a peaceful rythmic manner. Maybe it wasn't perfect, but sometimes this was as good as life got, and she fully expected to enjoy it while it was here. The warmth of Rigging's body lulls her into a peaceful sleep, and just for one blessed night all her dreams are pleasant.
Redux Tuesday November 30th, 2004 7:22:24 PM
After a fresh hot meal and some down time, nothing could be better than a little research. Redux pulls out his spellbook and begins reviewing and memorizing his spells for tomorrow. Never can be too sure. He pays particular attention to Phantasmal Killer. He's not exactly sure why it didn't work on the half-fiend... As he studies, he glances up every once in a while to watch Talon as he hunts. He grins at the dwarf's comment about their work together, but for now, prefers the company of silence.
Valanthe Tuesday November 30th, 2004 9:10:45 PM
Valanthe slips out of her armor, folding it neatly next to her sleeping area. She presses her body back into Appolo's, pulling his arm around her waist.
"Sorry Captain but watches will be divided equally. You need the rest just as much as we do." Valanthe says for Ashira's benefit more than anything.
Rigging Tuesday November 30th, 2004 9:46:23 PM
Rigging will think to himself, "I really don't need the sleep as much as others. This belt of substance helps me out, but it will give me more snuggle time with Ashira."
He will call out...OK I will take the last shift then."
He drifts to sleep and wakes after 2 hours. He will look around and then settle his head back down on his arm and start staring at his wife. He will stroke her hair and wonder at how beautiful she is.
OOC We really need to get into a real good battle. This is getting way to mushy
Talon Tuesday November 30th, 2004 9:50:54 PM
Talon will finish that tasty mouse that he caught and drift down on silent wings to land on Redux's shoulder. He will peer over his shoulder and say in Redux's head, "Make sure you roll your tongue when you say that word. Don't want you goofing up again."
Bart Wednesday December 1st, 2004 2:23:00 AM
Bart eats,rests and smiles when Rigging wants to take the main part of the watches, typically Rigging. He agrees with Val, each of us have to take an equal share of dutys
Returning to the Sword - DM Dominic Wednesday December 1st, 2004 3:00:44 PM
As the night goes by the sounds of the forest fades during the night. The watches go by very quietly and uneventfull.
The next morning you set off to return to the Sword of the Seas. You travel uneventfully the entire day and then into the evening you see the outline of the Sword off in the distance. A short while later you arrive at the Sword. The crew sounds as if they are glad to have you back aboard. Niner tells you that the Sword has been keeping out of sight from other ships by staying close to the shore and hiding in small coves and bays. Checking with the rest of the crew you find that the sword is starting to run short on some supplies and that the crew would like to return to Safeport to resupply.
OOC: Sorry for the missed post yesterday got busy this morning after waiting for others to post.
Rigging d20+10=26 Wednesday December 1st, 2004 4:32:45 PM
Rigging will climb on the ship and look around. "Set sail for Safeport! Get those sails raised! Summon the Sharks! Bart activate Nautacoulus!"
Rigging will calculate the course home and see if it is the same as the sextant follows. (navigation roll 26)
Rigging will look at some of the Wildcards and say, "I want to hear plans for what we discussed before we get back into port."He will look at his wife Ashira, Redux and Nezamil..."fighting tactics." He will point at Appolo and Ari, "Spy networks"
He will look at Val and ask, "When are you starting Elvish classes. Find out how many elvish speakers are on the ship and start the classes. I want to include the crew. We can even make everyone have to speak it on the ship exclusively for a couple of days. Immerse them in the language so to speak.
Rigging will then head over to Jagar and say, "Welcome to the Sword of Redemption! If you are going to stay with us for a while you will need to learn how to sail her and find your place among the crew. We don't have any useless passengers on board my ship."
Rigging will call Niner over (the first mate) and introduce him to Jagar. "Find a place for him to sleep and start teaching him seamanship. He is good with his fists and the fighting arts so you don't need to include him in how to fight the ship but he will need seamanship lessons."
Rigging will smile an almost evil smile and say, "Don't forget to teach him how to scrub the decks."
Jager Wednesday December 1st, 2004 7:38:28 PM
Jager is excited to be included as part of the crew of this new an wonderful ship. Jager is wide eyed as he has never been on such a large ship, at least not above deck. "Thank you Captain Arrack. I will consider it part of my honor debt to you and your crew for freeing me. I will do my best to learn what I can as fast as I can."
Jager will talk with Niner to learn where to sleep and store is meger possessions.
Jager will approach Mrs. Arrack and ask "Pardon my intrusion Mrs. Arrack, but what is the name of the lake that we sail on? I have never seen one so large. I can not even see the outline of land on the other shore." Jager will go on after Mrs. Arrack answers. " I understand that Captain Arrack wants everyone to learn Elvish and I expect that you would be a wonderful teacher, but there are many elves in the land and our enemies may also know elvish. I come from a clan that may have been completly wiped out." Jager adds with great emotion. "Leaving me possibly the only survior. I can teach us the Language of the Heit Volken in place of elvish? This will also be part of my honor debt to the crew and it will give me a way for my people to live on, or at least the language."
Redux 8d6(4+3+5+4+2+5+3+2)=28 Wednesday December 1st, 2004 11:13:14 PM
Redux is so very glad to get back to the boat and his regular sack to sleep in. He also missed his workshop room and wanted to get into his studies and make some more scrolls. He starts out planning out his fund level and what types of scrolls he needs to replace from that last battle. He takes out that stone they received and contemplates its value; he'd better ask, it wasn't his special area. (ooc: did anyone appraise them before?) He'll make a trip to the Catacombs, maybe.
He hunts down a chunk of wood and ties the 3 symbols to it. He glances again at their titles and a shiver goes down his spine. He lets the others know what he's up to: float them away from the boat 100 feet or so, and poach some fish. He explains he's going to hit the wood with a fire-ball to destroy it and burn the symbols. This will release the magic and effectively kill or hurt anything close by (ooc -- actually, 60 feet, I figure it'll bring up some fish they can scoop for another meal or two). Everyone ready? 28 pt fireball.
Ashira Wednesday December 1st, 2004 11:36:08 PM
Ashira looks up at Rigging barking orders and works very hard not to laugh out loud. "Aye Aye Captain!" she shouts before heading to the armory to take a look at the ship's weaponry. As she is approached by Jager, Ashira smiles. "Well, actually, we left Blackbird lake yesterday. We are now on the open seas...and yes, they're rather large..." Ashira's eyebrow's arch at Jager's proposal of learning an obsolete language. "Yes, yes, that will do perfectly. Begin at once." Ashira looks over her shoulder at the Captain and then back at Jager. "He's not the only one who can give orders, you know." she winks mischievously.
As she rounds the corner, Ashira catches sight of Redux and his pouching. "Good lord Redux, what do you think you're do.....ing..." But it's too late. The damage is done, and the ranger simply shakes her head as she walks by. It was amazing how that mage could find so many different ways to exaggerate the term overkill.
Nezamil Thursday December 2nd, 2004 12:24:15 AM
Nezamil climbs aboard the Sword " it's good to be back " remarks the dwarf outloud to no one in particular
"ok we'll work out some details on the voyage back to safeport" replies Nezamil to Rigging " i have a few ideas "
the dwarf walks over to the stern of the ship and leans on the railing watching the shoreline disappear as they sail away "I sense the Wold is a crossroad.......our friends from Dirt City have similar goals in making it a better place to live .....good to know we are not alone in our battle .......hmm wonder who else is on ourside " ponders the Cleric as he looks back towards Blackbird lake
Nezamil's train of thought is broken as Redux fires off his fireball " whoa....looks like we're having fish tonight " grins the dwarf at Redux
" My good man we need to get together and work in your workshop " comments Nezamil to Redux " I would like to work on a few potions for us "looking out at where the fireball detonated " maybe something with fire protection " grins Nezamil
"but lets talk in the morning after we're rested from our days journey " the Cleric will head to his hammock stopping to store his equipment then quickly fast asleep in his hammock swinging with the ebb and flow of the ship .
The Cleric sleeps undisturbed even as his anvil pendant glows with Domi's warmth
Ari Thursday December 2nd, 2004 9:34:29 AM
Waking up the next morning, Ari streches and feels rested.
Ari finds Rigging and says, "I believe having a separate source of information is going to work better for us. It would be an independent source of information, and should I fall for one reason or another, it would be uncompromised, and vice verse. If you believe otherwise, please let me know."
As the Wildcards return to the Sword, Ari smiles and feels the warm fuzzy of the closest thing to home.
Seeing as Rigging throws around the orders, Ari will then touch base with Nines and the crew. To see what has transpired, and how thier supplies are lasting. Getting the report that the supplies are a little on the low side. Ari consults with Nines whether rationing is required just yet?
Once business is conducted, Ari will then relay to Nines, and any crewmember who has time to listen. What the Wildcards were able to achieve on land.
Catching Val a little later, Ari reminds her that he can help out with the Elvish classes.
Valanthe Thursday December 2nd, 2004 10:32:18 AM
Val was wondering hwo she was going to teach the entire crew fluent elvish when Ari offered to help. "That's great. There's just too many people for me to teach quickly. Learning a language is hard and time consuming. Kinda hard to do when almost everybody is needed to run the ship."
Valanthe busies herself about the ship, helping wherever she can. Sometimes good hard work is the best way to clear her mind. As she moves about the ship Valanthe makes a special effort to frequently pass by Ashira, using casual conversation to try and keep her in good spirits.
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