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Hellmarr: Arrival
OOC Chat


Jerry 
Saturday December 3rd, 2011 6:10:35 AM

Welcome to Hellmarr. Welcome to Hell. Feel free to post OOC for now. Link your character sheets as usual when you're done with yours. You may talk IC in the GG for now. I want us to enter the "tapestry" together when the time comes.

Email or post any questions that you have.

Vortigern -- Jim C  5d6=14 ; d10=5 d10=1 d10=4 d10=1 d10=8
Saturday December 3rd, 2011 3:30:32 PM

Rolling starting gold. 14=140gp x3=420gp.

HPs= 5 + 8 (used hero point)

Vortigern -- Jim C 
Saturday December 3rd, 2011 4:32:08 PM

Okay, only 3rd level so not much to do :)

Character sheet link above.

Urist - Carl 
Saturday December 3rd, 2011 5:21:35 PM

Mighty Urist is ready for perusal. No spell list or history yet, but here are the numbers for review.

Urist - Carl 
Saturday December 3rd, 2011 5:38:46 PM

Jim's sheet looks good to me. If he's hiding anything, I didn't notice.

Vortigern -- Jim C 
Saturday December 3rd, 2011 6:23:37 PM

I do have one question... Traits. Are we forced to take one Wold Trait minimum? I didn't see it in the campaign rules.

Also, at 3rd level, we get 2 Hero Points, right?

Vortigern -- Jim C 
Saturday December 3rd, 2011 6:30:07 PM

Carl, are your skill ranks right? you should have 6, right? I count 7, one at a +4 which is one too high for 3rd level.

Urist - Carl 
Saturday December 3rd, 2011 6:41:16 PM

Ability mod for perception was in the ranks column. My bad; thanks for pointing it out.

Vortigern -- Jim C 
Saturday December 3rd, 2011 6:45:31 PM

Carl's sheet looks good to me.

Morgrym Gorechylde (David Feest)  d10=4 ; d10=8 ; 5d6=21 ;
Sunday December 4th, 2011 12:49:27 PM

I thought the new Hero point rules didn't allow hp rerolls. If we are allowing that thats fine because I might need it one day.
My sheet is in progress. Morgrym is a Dwarven weaponsmaster. I'll roll his hp and gold and go back to making him.
12 hp for levels 2 and 3 ... see I may want that reroll too )
21x10 for 210 gold at first x3 for 630 gold to buy with

Back to the sheet, should have something to view later today. Glad I looked over your guys sheets because I already made an embarrassing mistake that I am now trying to fix 8)

On other characters
Vortigern looks good, his humanity answered all the questions I had 8) ( saw too many feast, too many hp and too many skills, all answered by his being human)

Urist, don't forget your stability bonuses to CMD and the base 10 it starts out with on the CMD table, they are written in in your racial stuff though.


Bosk of the Fist and Iron Adventurers.  3d6=8 ; d8=5 ; d8=3 ; d8=1 ; d8=6 ;
Sunday December 4th, 2011 2:11:29 PM

Rolling for wealth and hp, not the best. Are we allowing the reroll of HP?
If so, I rerolled my 3 and got a 6. If not, it will stay a 3.

Gold = 6 x10 = 80 x 3 = 240

Vortigern -- Jim C 
Sunday December 4th, 2011 4:04:37 PM

Are you playing Bosk and not Napalm, James? I was looking forward to seeing that combo :)

Lori Rinduff  4d6=17 ; d8=6 ; d8=7 ; d6=2
Sunday December 4th, 2011 5:01:00 PM

190 x 3 = 570 gp to start with (add 4th d6 here)

so, +6 and + 7 hp for leveling

Back to working on Lori.

Napalm - James D  2d4=6 ; 2d4=8 ; 2d4=6 ;
Sunday December 4th, 2011 5:08:29 PM

I am playing Napalm. That was a heading from the tournament Bosk and Zeoll were in a while back.
Rolling age, height and weight.

Morgrym Gorechylde Morgrym Gorechylde 
Sunday December 4th, 2011 6:40:10 PM

OK, I think I am done. His history is a bit sketchy because I don't know that much of the dwarves history in the Wold ( though I read the Scab entry). I would like to take the Giant hunter racial trait which replaces the Hatred trait for dwarves, but it is from an unsupported book and I am not sure if Jerry will allow it. Other than that anyone who clicks the link above should be able to look over my sheet.

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 23/23 (James D) 
Sunday December 4th, 2011 8:58:08 PM

My Character Sheet is still a work in progress, but here is what I have so far.

[link url="https://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dgh939s9_2c3jwtwdn"]Fajen Thygia[/link] (Josh) 29 HP AC = 18/14/15 Saves = +5/+7/+4  d8=1 ; d8=4 ; d8=5 ; 9d6=24 ;
Sunday December 4th, 2011 9:22:24 PM

Average HP, crappy gold. 6 out 9 dice were 2's....ah well.

Attached sheet is a work in progress, copied from my minotaur.

[url="https://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dgh939s9_2c3jwtwdn"]Fajen Thygia[/url] (Josh) 29 HP AC = 18/14/15 Saves = +5/+7/+4 
Sunday December 4th, 2011 9:27:56 PM

That should be better.

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 23/23 (James D) 
Sunday December 4th, 2011 9:47:52 PM

Fajen Thygia

link href="https://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dgh939s9_2c3jwtwdn"]Fajen Thygia[/link]

Josh,
Try this, just add a [ to the beginning.

Fajen Thygia (Josh) 29 HP AC = 18/14/15 Saves = +5/+7/+4 
Sunday December 4th, 2011 9:54:26 PM

Href. Doh.

Ian (No Idea What to Play) 
Sunday December 4th, 2011 11:24:04 PM

Hoooo boy. Sorry about this guys, I'm a little swamped in campaigns right now, and I didn't check my email yesterday. Any suggestions on what the party needs? I'll fill any niche, I just need to know so I can build it. A 3rd level character will take me half an hour tops, I've been excercising my character building skills in the past two days with a 7th level Summoner and a 12th level Half Dragon Summoner under my belt...

Fajen Thygia (Josh) 29 HP AC = 18/14/15 Saves = +5/+7/+4 
Monday December 5th, 2011 12:24:35 AM

1) Napalm/Melee Alchemist/James
2) Fajen Thygia/Bard/Josh
3) Morgrym/Weaponmaster/David F.
4) Urist/Cleric of Domi/Carl
5) ??????/Ranger-Rogue/John C
6) Vortigern the Slayer of Gorbax/Paladin of Pantheon/Jim C
7) Dwaim the Stubborn/Inquisitor of Domi/Keith
8) Spire/??????/Ian

After scanning the many emails and threads, I think this is what we have so far. It looks like we don't have an out-and-out arcanist. A wizard seems like the best option at level 3.

In balance terms, I see a tank, a trapsolver, three or four potential faces, heals, off-heals, four glass cannons, two buff-bots, and a tracker. With a wizard, it's a nicely diverse group. Does anyone see themselves as an off-tank?

Ian (No Idea What to Play) 
Monday December 5th, 2011 1:21:27 AM

I can definitely do wizard. I'll have it done tomorrow.

Fajen Thygia (Josh) 29 HP AC = 18/14/15 Saves = +5/+7/+4 
Monday December 5th, 2011 1:55:31 AM

Huh. Keith just sent an email, saying that he'll be a wizard too.

Honestly, if you like summoners, play that. There's so much you can do with them... Have you tried a mounted one yet?

Keith 
Monday December 5th, 2011 2:33:17 AM

Honestly, since I'm playing a wizard in Hook City, I'm happy to stick with the Inquisitor and let Ian play the wizard. I'm excited to try out the Inquisitor.

Urist - Carl 
Monday December 5th, 2011 9:53:28 AM

I'm building Urist to be able to handle off-tanking. He'll need more armor, but that's easily handled in-game.

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29 
Monday December 5th, 2011 3:13:44 PM

Here the link to Lori, think I'm done, and no, I'm not a face man, err woman.

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29 
Monday December 5th, 2011 3:35:31 PM

Inquisitors are a blast, and be careful what teamwork feats you chose though. Be sure that if you are taking one that requires a shield next to you, that you are indeed in a group that someone has a shield.

Morgrym Gorechylde Morgrym Gorechylde 
Monday December 5th, 2011 4:42:44 PM

BTW I am not a tank, I am a damage dealing fighter. If something lives to round two fighting me though it will either greatly desire to hit me to stop the pain or it will run for it's life, especially with a bard song to help me out.

Fajen Thygia (Josh) 29 HP AC = 18/14/15 Saves = +5/+7/+4 
Monday December 5th, 2011 4:52:14 PM

Yeah, I was refering to the paladin as the tank.

Morgrym Gorechylde Morgrym Gorechylde 
Monday December 5th, 2011 6:12:51 PM

Good, he was the tank I was picturing as well 8). I switched weapons around but the premise still applies, I will hit things fairly hard. A few finishing touches and I am GTG.

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29 
Monday December 5th, 2011 6:24:48 PM

Lori's ready to go as far as I can tell, She's a scout/thief, built for range, but can do melee when needed.
carrying 4 types of ranged weapons may be a bit much, but they all have a purpose when called for.

Dwaim the Stubborn -- Keith  d8=2 ; d8=6 ; 4d6=11 ;
Monday December 5th, 2011 6:49:26 PM

Rolling some hitpoints.... ugh, if re-rolls are available for hero points, Dwaim will gladly take one. Starting gold = 110x3 = 330gp

Dwaim the Stubborn (Keith) AC: 18/12/16 HP: 28/28 CMD: 17 (+4 vs. bull rush/trip) 
Tuesday December 6th, 2011 1:06:56 PM

Character stats for Dwaim should be pretty much good to go, let me know if you notice anything amiss.

Jerry 
Tuesday December 6th, 2011 2:12:19 PM

Start checking each other's sheets. I'll do the same when I get home. Posted in the GG about the tear.

Looks like Josh and Ian are the only ones to not add their class/race/name to the tapestry address list.

Two approvals by a fellow player and we'll consider the sheet approved until well...ya know.

Looks like this will be a combat heavy group for 3rd level, which should be fun.

I did recruit Stephen Fleming from my local group and a former DM here to help me out. He should be posting here soon.

I'll check in later.

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29 
Tuesday December 6th, 2011 5:50:20 PM

Other than Morgrym Gorechylde needing a single skill point added, I approve all else.

(David Feest) Morgrym Gorechylde 
Tuesday December 6th, 2011 6:00:20 PM

Urist and Vortigen I already commented on, I approve both sheets.
Dwaim look at you equipment cost, it's wrong but your sheet is right. I approve this sheet.
Lori, lots of confusing issues on your sheet, I'll call you.
If anyone else is done I'll look at your character too, just post you are done.

(David Feest) Morgrym Gorechylde 
Tuesday December 6th, 2011 7:42:55 PM

Thanks, fixed it.

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 23/23 (James D) 
Wednesday December 7th, 2011 4:02:58 PM

I believe my sheet it ready to be looked at. Did anyone take The Sight as a feat? If not, I may change things around to take it.

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Wednesday December 7th, 2011 4:04:09 PM

Correcting HP

(David Feest) Morgrym Gorechylde 
Wednesday December 7th, 2011 5:32:24 PM

Napalm,
Your xp is off, we are on the fast track.

Craft wondrous item requires CL3...you are CL 1 in 2 classes and do not qualify for the feat. Magical knack will make up the difference right?

You worship Martaues but have a trait from Alemi? How's that work? OK, I see from your description. It was kinda weird until I got that far though.

I see no craft Alchemy skill, how will you make extracts?

You list armor in one place as scalemail, and another as chainmail, which are you wearing? Chainmail allows less dex bonus and would probably not be a good choice. Scale allows all of your dex, but not any augmented dex if you use a mutagen.



Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Wednesday December 7th, 2011 8:50:41 PM

XP has been changed to 3,300 xp

I had Alchemy listed under profession, it is now listed under crafting

Armor should have been Scale mail, which is what I had the costs and stats figured in for, and discrepancy has been corrected

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Wednesday December 7th, 2011 8:51:11 PM

Yes, I believe magical knack should add +2 to the caster level and make up the difference.

(David Feest) Morgrym Gorechylde 
Wednesday December 7th, 2011 10:24:30 PM

Yeah I had to have John point that out to me while I was looking over your character because I missed that the Knack would give you the CL for it. Okie dokie then I approve Naplam.

Fajen Thygia (Josh) 29 HP AC = 18/14/15 Saves = +5/+7/+4 
Thursday December 8th, 2011 4:47:52 PM

I'm taking tomorrow off work. Hopefully I'll be able to get it done then. Sorry for the delays.

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29 
Friday December 9th, 2011 1:35:39 PM

I approve Napalm.

So Napalm has 2 yes'
Morgrym has 1 (me)
Lori has 1 (Dave)

Am I missing anyone?

Jerry 
Friday December 9th, 2011 1:42:54 PM

Ok, I see:

Jim/Vortigern with two approvals. His sheet is approved.
Carl/Urist also with two approvals. His sheet is approved.
David/Morgrym has one approval.
James/Napalm has one approval.
Josh/Fajen no approvals.
Johh/Lori no approvals.
Keith/Dwaim has one approval.
ian/Spire has no sheet up and no posts since Monday. I'll email him.

I'd like to start the game on Monday. So let's stay after it folks.

Sorry for no post since Tuesday. Feel free to scream at me if I miss another day. :)

-----------

Edit: Looks like I missed some, feel free to correct me and update.

(David Feest) Morgrym Gorechylde 
Friday December 9th, 2011 4:17:11 PM

Fajen isn't done, so nothing to approve yet.
Lori has her cash listed differently in 2 places on her sheet, She still has feats listed in more than 1 heading (two weapon fighting), and has no history written up ( not sure if that is required).

Everyone else I have already approved or have no sheet to look at.

Jerry 
Friday December 9th, 2011 4:42:29 PM

Sounds good. Emailed Ian and the rest of you. Planning on starting Monday.

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29 
Friday December 9th, 2011 5:15:46 PM

OK, cash is marked even more clearly. And the Feat is where it is, because it's a Rogue Talent, not a true feat.
Also wrote up a history.

Urist - Carl 
Friday December 9th, 2011 5:18:53 PM

Lori - You're multi-classed, but still have +1 HP for each of your three levels as a favored-class. Other than that, looks fine.

*I'm not an expert on Pathfinder, so grain of salt...

Urist - Carl 
Friday December 9th, 2011 5:21:23 PM

Lori - You're multi-classed, but still have +1 HP for each of your three levels as a favored-class. Other than that, looks fine.

*I'm not an expert on Pathfinder, so grain of salt...

Also, I forgot to add the +1 for each level of favored class with Urist. My sheet's been updated.

Urist - Carl 
Friday December 9th, 2011 5:56:14 PM

Morgrym looks good: approved.

Urist - Carl 
Friday December 9th, 2011 6:01:16 PM

Fajen: I count 28 ranks taken, but your sheet indicates you should have 24.
Dwaim: Looks good - approved

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29 
Friday December 9th, 2011 6:02:47 PM

Lori has +1 hp for each level, because as a half-elf, you chose any 2 classes and they are your favored class. Thus, I get 1 hp or 1 skill point for each level of rogue or ranger I take.
It's called Multitalented under the Racial abilities.
With 6 + int and 8 + int I decided that hp would be more useful.

Dwaim the Stubborn (Keith) AC: 18/12/16 HP: 28/28 CMD: 17 (+4 vs. bull rush/trip) 
Friday December 9th, 2011 6:13:31 PM

James: I'm confused about Napalm's saving throws, I count them up as follows:

Fort: +2 (barb), +2 (alch), +2 (cleric), +1 CON = +7 (vs. +8 on sheet)
Reflex: +2 (alch) +3 DEX = +5 (vs. +4 on sheet)
Will: +2 (cleric) +0 WIS = +2 (vs. +7 on sheet)

Everything else looks good.

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29 
Friday December 9th, 2011 6:51:13 PM

After going back over the math, I agree with Dwain on Napalm's saves.

(David Feest) Morgrym Gorechylde 
Saturday December 10th, 2011 10:37:59 AM

Half Elves are allowed 2 favored classes Urist. That's how Lori gets +1 from 2 classes.
Also I will state again, Fajen isn't finished so I cannot vet him.
He is currently, 2 races, 2 names and playing in the Cthonia game. About halfway down the sheet stops being Fajen and starts being a Minotaur named Stormhorn. I don't know what stats belong to who so I am hesitant.

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Saturday December 10th, 2011 1:02:23 PM

My saves have been fixed

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Saturday December 10th, 2011 10:44:59 PM

Just a head up, I am in medical / chiropractic school and it is finals. I have 11 classes, 15 if you count labs. I have 7 of my 16 finals left (4 lecture and 3 practical / lab exams) with the hardest remaining ones on Monday and Wednesday. It shouldn't effect anything, but if I miss a post on Tuesday evening you'll know it is due to the exams the next day.

(David Feest) Morgrym Gorechylde 
Sunday December 11th, 2011 10:46:00 AM

Wow, good luck man. Hope your exams go smoothly.

Also 1 person has approved my sheet. I need a second approval before I can play.
I have looked Lori over and I approve her.
Fajen remains a duality, and not approved.

Vortigern -- Jim C 
Sunday December 11th, 2011 2:32:27 PM

Morgrym looks good to me, just had to check the chakram/armor penalty and banded mail is good to go.

(David Feest) Morgrym Gorechylde 
Sunday December 11th, 2011 6:14:13 PM

oh, I didn't put my check penalty on my skills. I totally forgot. Thanks for the reminder.

Fajen Thygia (Josh) 29 HP AC = 18/14/15 Saves = +5/+7/+4 
Sunday December 11th, 2011 11:44:03 PM

I'm pretty sure that all the crunch is there. I apologize for the last-minuteness.

Now to work on the description.

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 29 HP AC = 19/14/15 Saves = +5/+7/+4 
Sunday December 11th, 2011 11:54:15 PM

Small change - I'm using the name Seredal instead of Fajen. Something softer just fit the character better.

Jerry 
Monday December 12th, 2011 3:55:27 PM

Ok, I seem to remember that Zach wanted in if we had room. I'm going to go ahead and start the first post soon, but I'll email Ian and tell him nicely that we'll not be needing him in this tapestry. Once we start, we go in character. ;)

Scene 1: Welcome to Hellmarr


Jerry 
Monday December 12th, 2011 5:03:51 PM

As you enter the tapestry, you feel the now familiar "tearing sensation." On the other side, you are hurled forward at great speed. Future paths spring out left and right, but one path that has a reddish tint is obviously the one you are following. Scenes of death fade into sight and then pass you up growing intensity as you leave them. Others seem to snip out as if your passage removes their possibility of ever coming to be.

[Please make Perception Checks to earn extra knowledge from what you see on the trip. The higher you roll, the more enlightening the information.]

After what seems like a few minutes and after a noticeable increase in speed, you see a gateway at the far end. Towering, it has several time lines connected to it. As you approach, you slow. By the end, you are floating above a landing and through the gateway.

As you pass the threshold, you feel the "tearing sensation" again. Then a warm light that seems to make everything alright. A truly amazing feeling. Perhaps this is what arriving in the Lands of Rest is like?

----------

You emerge into a warm summer's morning on top of a hill. The gateway, with sigils and runes is behind you glowing red. In front, several rows of logs cut in half to form places to sit. Birds chirp. Insects buzz. The ocean can be heard from somewhere behind the gateway.

Standing in the gateway are three men, obviously guards of some type. The ones in the center and on the left are minotaurs. The one on the right is a dwarf. Their armor is unusual. Each has small "holes" or divits on the shoulders and chest. A few of these divits are filled with small gems.

The center guard speaks in a basso prof undo voice.

"You have arrived near Hellmarr. You are lucky. We have a cure. You are required by the Powers That Be to come with us to be tested for disease. If you are positive, you will be given the cure. After that, if you wish to enter the town, we will take you to the Powers That Be for judgment. Assuming there are no problems, you should then be released into the public. Welcome to Hellmarr.'

---------------

[Feel welcome to make any skill checks that you desire. The game is yours. Email incoming.]

Vortigern -- Jim C 
Monday December 12th, 2011 5:30:23 PM

Vortigern cocks an eyebrow, "I am Vortigern, a paladin of Pantheon. What sort of disease is this you speak of?"

Vortigern will Detect Evil on the welcome party

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29  d20+9=19
Monday December 12th, 2011 5:41:02 PM

The medium sized female leaves her hood pulled up, hiding her face as she usually does.
She motions for Jinx to stand near her, laying a hand on his broad back. She eventually moves her hand up to his head and scratches behind his ears.
In Tauric, "I was not told of any tests. We were asked to come help, I have arrived, I'm willing to help as needed. I suppose both myself and Jinx will submit to these tests.
My name is Lori, my friend is Jinx."


Perception check 19

(David Feest) Morgrym Gorechylde  d20+5=22 ; d20+5=22 ; d20+10=18 ;
Monday December 12th, 2011 6:23:16 PM

Perception 22 for the ride in, Higher if it has to do with surprise or stonework.

" Disease is it? What kinda disease? And whats this about judgement? I didn't come here to be poked and prodded and have someone sit in judgement of me. The lady asked for help, so I came. Domi helps those that look out for their fellow man. He taught us that when he took the forge from us and made us actually pay attention and show we were able to be kind and gentle when it was called for. I'll take these tests of yours because it will make you trust me to do right by you."
" But by the gods that should have been assumed when we agreed to help. Blast it man, this ones a PALADIN for Domi's sake. They can't even get diseased."


Perception 22 to examine the guards weapons and armor
Craft Armor 18 to examine the armor with the eyes of a craftsman of such.

" Whats with the way your armor is made? Those gems are for more than ornamentation aren't they? What do they do?"
Morgrym will fall in with the guards and go where he is to be tested. He will not be giving up his arms or armor though. That is not something the guards have asked for, and it is NOT a conversation they want to have.

Urist - Carl  d20+4=9 ; d20+11=12 ; d20+6=21 ;
Monday December 12th, 2011 8:59:25 PM

Urist topples out backwards & makes a mental note to enter a tapestry properly next time.

He shakes off the disorientation and tries to get a good grip on his surroundings. Hearing Morgrym examine the guards armor, he heads on over.

"Aye, we came to help, but this is a world where entire species no longer walk the wold. Let's have a little understanding. Interesting armor, though...why the holes? And what of this cure? Is it divine or medicinal?"

***

Craft armor: 9
Sense motive: 12 (natural 1...woo!)
Perception: 21

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 29 HP AC = 19/14/15 Saves = +5/+7/+4  d20+10=22 ; d20+7=13 ;
Monday December 12th, 2011 9:53:22 PM

Seredal pops through, mind reeling from all she saw on her trip (Perception 22), barely even notices Fotia appear on her shoulder. She looks around, trying to match the physical features to what she knows of the Wold (knowledge: Geo 13). Then the conversation starts and her attention is arrested. As the group speaks, she pipes up in a melodious voice, "Perhaps we could ask about the disease after we get the cure? Just in case?"

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D)  d20+6=17 ;
Monday December 12th, 2011 10:26:33 PM

As Napalm feels his soul and heart rip he keeps his hand near his sword as the group travels through the scenes of death prepared to attack anything that looks like it may be affected by some strange mutating and magical disease. As they travel the cleric goes back over what the witch told them.

The gods do not listen--if they live....An evil forgotten god hated all Woldians and cursed the Noble and Ignoble with a mutating magical disease.

Instinctively he tucks his holy symbol under his robes. He was used to dealing with the ignorance of the weak. Those who didn't understand the benifits of disease and suffering, that pain can bring clarity and let a being focus on their true reason for living. Then a smile creeps across his face, he is going to get to see first hand the glorious transformation of the races caused by one of the greatest magical diseases of all time. Surely Marteaus has smiled upon him and destined him for the greatness of the ages to be able to witness such an event! The question was, is the the work of Marteaus or someone corrupting his work and principles. Could this be the work of a heretic that needed to be dealt with?

You are lucky. We have a cure. You are required by the Powers That Be to come with us to be tested for disease. If you are positive, you will be given the cure.

The cleric's heart goes cold. What diseases are they talking about? As a priest of Marteaus he had been stricken with a hideous, but non-harmful, non-debilitating disease. Could a mortal take away this gift of the gods from him? He supposes it doesn't matter. It was his way to inflict the Arrogant Races with sicknesses of the mind. Planting falsehoods and madness via magic and misinformation, to cause the needed suffering of the Arrogant Races. Work needing more skill and finesse than those carriers who focused on physical diseases. He also figures that if Marteaus allows him to be cured that it is the god's will and necessary to carry out his mission. Should it be necessary, he will restore his blessing when the time is right. The disease had already served its purpose in strengthening his mind and body, and the physical effects to his appearance will remain.

Perception = 17

Vortigern -- Jim C 
Monday December 12th, 2011 11:47:52 PM

Vortigern looks at Seredal, "The cure may kill us."

Harden AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 17 -- HP 30/30 (Zach R)  d20+8=25 ; d20+6=25 ;
Tuesday December 13th, 2011 11:39:56 AM

A tall, well armed creature joins the rest of the party moments after their arrival. He doesn't catch all of the exchange but gets a pretty good idea of what is expected. The well armed creature is obviously a Half-Orc though his features are bestial, as if his lineage is closer to that of Orc than of Man. He has several razor sharp circular disks attached to his belt, an eight foot hammer on his back along with a shield-breaking throwing spear. He also has a macabre piece of heavy chain that is almost his height (6'6") with spikes and razors covering all but the "handle".

Harden cranks his neck to the left then right, the vertebrae in his neck popping and cracking as he does so. He then pops his knuckles before speaking.

"What say we go have a little talk with these... Powers That Be."

Harden eyes move around the room slowly but take in every little sight and sound. Darting eyes were a sure sign of nervousness and showing weakness was not on Harden's list of things to do. He pays particularly close attention to the guards and what they say, and even more importantly, what they don't say.

Perception: 25
Sense Motive: 25

OOC: Please look over the CS as it hasn't been vetted yet. Also, our characters all know each other, correct?

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29 
Tuesday December 13th, 2011 12:26:49 PM

I'm assuming we met in the Giggling Ghost. Other than that, I'm not sure.

Dwaim the Stubborn (Keith) AC: 18/12/16 HP: 28/28 CMD: 17 (+4 vs. bull rush/trip)  d20+9=19 ; d20+10=29 ;
Tuesday December 13th, 2011 2:05:23 PM

A light-haired dwarf appears at the rear of the party, he takes a moment to shake off the haziness of time travel. As he gets his bearing, he thinks to himself: well, this future doesn't look so bad to me! Maybe this witch exaggerated, but then, it is a world without humans and elves, might be an improvement.

He takes a look at his new companions, then turns to the guards. "Well then, I suppose that your request seems reasonable enough, I'll go with you. Tell me, do people come through here often?" He gestures at the gateway, keeping an eye on the guardians He pays careful attention to their voice inflections and facial patterns as they speak, hoping to discern their trustworthiness.

---------------------------
Perception: 19
Sense Motive: 29

Urist - Carl 
Tuesday December 13th, 2011 8:59:22 PM

Urist shakes his head slightly. "All this huffing and puffing about making sure we're not diseased before being lead right to their leaders so we can find out what's going on here. Even the stubborn one gets it.

"Let's stop wasting time and get a move on." Urist heads off with the guards...

Well Met! [DM Jerry] 
Tuesday December 13th, 2011 10:40:27 PM

The center guard slaps his chest with his fist. "Well met Vortigern, though I don 't know who this Pantheon is that you speak of. I am Ebineezer. My comrade here to my right is Ibraham. Our dwarf comrade is Vgodd. I will try to answer your many questions."

Vortigrim does not detect evil on any of the three guards.

Ebineezer continues. "First, the disease. You must indeed be the ones that Hegga said to watch for. We have been camping out here for two days waiting for a group to come through the gate. She said you were from a place so far away that you wouldn't know of the The Plague. Some call it Marteaus' Revenge. He's some long lost got that got his final revenge on everyone through this disease, if the stories are true.

One of our few laws is that all who enter our region must go to Hegga to be tested to see if you have the disease. She makes the cure. It doesn't work all the time, but she'll explain all that to ya before you're tested. Yeah, we don't believe in laws much around here. We work too hard at trying to stay alive to fool with all that."

The minotaur to your left, Ibraham, steps forward and addresses Lori. "You speak the ancient tongue. Are you a loremaster? I haven't seen one of your kind since I was a child in the homeland."

He offers his hand.

"We appreciate your cooperation on the testing. We don't enjoy arresting folks we've just met," he concludes.

Finally Vgodd steps forward and greets Morgrym. "I kin that they are all loremasters. I think that's why Hegga sent for them, though this prophesy stuff is boarwash. This one speaks of Domi and the Fhorge. That is old talk indeed! Have you met this king named Domi?"

"Blast it? I like that phrase. What is your name friend? And how is it that this paladin can't get The Plague? That I'd like to see. He'd better watch it. Folks will kill for blood like that. I'd keep that to yourselves."

Vgodd continues "Oh our armor? The circular indentions are called "studs." They add bits of magic to armor. For instance, this purple one gives me extra defense against undead. We gots lots of them around here. The empty ones I can fill later. The more studs designed into the armor, the more expensive it is."

Ebineezer questions Urist. "Entire species extinct. Yes that is true. Lots of creatures and beings that existed before the disease exist no more. We were told to expect differences. But I'm curious. Do any of you have.....pointed ears? Those I'd like to see!"

Ibraham offers his hand to Seredal. "Please speak the rest of your names please. We have a bit of a journey to Hegga's Farm and should know our strengths before hitting the road through the swamp." Then as an afterthought. "No, we've found that it is best to be totally up front about all things, whether the newcomer likes what we say or not."

Ibraham nods at Napalm but detects a need for privacy and doesn't press. He turns back to Vortigern. "Very few have died taking the cure. It does weaken you for a time, however. Hegga will explain....if she's in a good mood."

Vgodd frowns and his hand goes imperceptibly to his weapon as Harden talks so freely about the Powers That Be.

Then Vgodd turns to Dwaim. "Strong grip brother. Folks come through the gateway from the northern continent every now and again. Sometimes weeks, sometimes months. Usually a taur or dwarf right now though."

Ebeneezer turns to Urist. "Beware speaking ill of our leaders. They are indeed powerful. Those who oppose them end up dead--sometimes twice dead."

-----------

Lori perceives that most of the main "time paths" that intersect the "red path" that the party travels have to do with variants on a great catastrophe that seems to be killing millions.

Morgrim confirms Lori's perception. He also realizes that the time stream has been messed with. Parts are erasing and changing AS they pass.

Urist doesn't detect anything with his craft armor check or his sense motive. However, he confirms what Morgrim perceives with his Perception check.

Seredal doesn't recognize where they are at from her Knowledge: Geograhpy. It doesn't match anything she has seen or read about.

Napalm perceives that the mass cataclysm shown in the nearby time paths involve disease and many desperate to stop it. Being a follower of Marteaus he also picks up that his instincts are correct. His god did cause all this. All of it.

Harden perceives that in their "red" time line, all elves and humans are indeed dead. He spots very extreme measures that the elves especially used to try to find a cure. He even sees them injecting troll blood into their own veins and dying of it by the hundreds.

Dwaim confirms the perceptions of Lore and Urist.
His sense motive shows two things: First that the guards are telling the truth as they see it. And second, that they are very paranoid whenever a snide comment concerning the Powers That Be are mentioned.

---------------
--deleted Lori's OOC post now that it has been read.
--sorry I intended to get this done earlier, but it was a long complicated post. Been working on it in pieces since this morning. Lots of ?s to answer. If I missed someone, ask again or shoot me an email. Posting time is usually about 4PM, just as I'm getting home.



Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29  d20+10=12 ;
Wednesday December 14th, 2011 12:18:22 AM

"I speak many tongues, but I'm no Loremaster. I'm just one who's skilled in many areas of random knowledge."
Keeping her hood up, she will in fact shake his hand, but refrain from saying much more about her past.

Escape Artist check if he tries to pin Lori's hand :12

Vortigern -- Jim C 
Wednesday December 14th, 2011 2:23:30 PM

"Your explanations are sastisfactory, I am ready to follow you to Hegga."

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 29 HP AC = 19/14/15 Saves = +5/+7/+4 
Wednesday December 14th, 2011 4:15:40 PM

"My name is Seredal. Please, lead on."

Harden AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 17 -- HP 30/30 (Zach R) 
Wednesday December 14th, 2011 5:14:10 PM

"Harden", says the half-orc offering nothing else.

Urist - Carl 
Wednesday December 14th, 2011 7:12:20 PM

Urist scratches his beard and cocks his head sideways. "Good advice to be sure, but I don't see how anything I said could have been taken as ill spoken. I was the one speaking up about all this being perfectly understandable!" Without further response he turns away towards the one called Vgodd.

"King Domi? Domi is a god a number of us serve, including this one. Is there not even memory of him left in this world?"

(David Feest) Morgrym Gorechylde 
Wednesday December 14th, 2011 8:17:13 PM

" I did not say my name. I apologize. My name is Morgrym of clan Gorechylde. My family have worked the forges of our clanhold for generations, each becoming a master of the creation of weapons and armor in thier time. I am still young, barely more than an accomplished apprentice. I would greatly be interested in learning the technique of making armor with these studs in it."
"Domi holds no such title as King even among the Dwarves to whom he returned the Fhoge and the knowledge of making Arms and Armor. As Urist says, he is a God to us. A man who questioned the way things were done and through his questioning was elevated to become a God. The tales about him are many, but almost all center around his martial ability and how he seeks to resolve conflict. I have not met him in the flesh, but his prayers and deeds are whispered to the steel as our smiths form it. He is a patron of strength, war and protection and his blessing on a weapon or armor can only strengthen the item."
" Among our kind a Paladin is a chosen warrior of the Gods. They are pure, both in mind and body. Disease does not touch them and they are sometimes able to cure diseases in others. Have you no such warriors among your ranks? In a plague like what you have described paladins would be the first line of defense in my mind."
"Lead us to this place so we may be proven. Will there be dangers along the path or is this a safe, settled area?"

Morgrym is prepared to proceed, after getting some wrong impressions on their first meeting. How frightening this must be to meet beings from what to them must seem another world entirely. They speak the same tongue yet have few memories that are the same as those of his companions. They know nothing of Gods and have no knowledge of a paladin, one of the greatest weapons they could have used against this 'plague'. How frightening indeed.

Over the Hill and Through the Swamp [DM Jerry] 
Wednesday December 14th, 2011 9:10:11 PM

Vgodd, "Agreed. You're in a snip today 'Neezer....sir."

Ebineezer says, "Perhaps I am. I don't enjoy being told to cater to Hegga. She keeps too many secrets. Let's go. I want to be back to town before nightfall."

And with that, he is off. Ebineezer in the front, and Ibraham in the back. Once off of the hill, the party is instantly smack in the middle of the swamp. The trail is marked by red cloths tied to trees and moves from high ground to high ground.

The heat of the day arrives by mid-morning as you make your way East/SE and the insects come out looking for bare skin to bite and bother. Vgodd pulls out some horrible smelling fat and begins to apply it liberally to his arms and face. He offers it to you generally to see if any want some. "Welcome to Spirit Swamp in the Land of Downgate. Our town on the other side of Hegga's Farm is called Hellmarr."



Dwaim the Stubborn (Keith) AC: 18/12/16 HP: 28/28 CMD: 17 (+4 vs. bull rush/trip) 
Thursday December 15th, 2011 12:27:43 AM

When Morgrym speaks about Domi, Dwaim looks at him, surprised and merely states "Well said Morgrym, I could hardly have said it better myself. Do you people of Hellmar truly know naught of the gods? Surely you have your own deities that serve as inspiration and protection for you?" He walks in silence for a while, saying a quiet prayer to Domi, hoping that it is being heard.

Dwaim wrinkles his nose at the proffered lard, but decides that he'd rather smell bad than itch horribly or risk disease. He dips his fingers in and slathers some on. "The Spirit Swamp eh? Tell me Vgodd, how did it earn that name? ...although I'm not sure that I want to know."

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Thursday December 15th, 2011 12:29:21 AM

My apologies, you have given us much information to take in. I am Napalm, a warrior of some renown in land. Perhaps you have heard of me and some tales of my adventure's have survived the passage of time. Tell me, what dangers lie in this swamp that we must be so prepared? Can you tell us what you know about this disease and its history? You said that Marteaus got his final revenge. What exactly is it that he is said to have gotten revenge for, and why do you call him a long lost god? Do the people here no longer worship? Do the gods manifest themselves and interact with the Wold any more?

Napalm listens intently as the group follows the trail. He is careful to note as much about the powers that be. Who they are and how they rule. He listen intently, but asks no questions. Between Vgodd reaching for his weapon at the mention of the Powers the Be and Ebeneezer mentioning that those that oppose him can end up dead twice, he decides it wiser not to seem too interested and wonders if the PTB could be a necromancer .

It seems that the more he listens the more questions he has. As the approach the swamp he asks, What type of secrets does Hegga keep, and what type of farm is in a swamp? He also asks what the fat is for, wondering if it might to to ward off some danger of the swamp.

Vortigern -- Jim C 
Thursday December 15th, 2011 3:01:02 AM

Vortigern doesn't talk much, the other's seem to be asking all the right questions. When offered the bug repellent, he politely accepts and applies it as he observed the others had.

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29 
Thursday December 15th, 2011 11:10:22 AM

Lori pulls her cloak more closed, refraining from that stinky salve. Smelling like that, makes it hard to sneak up on someone if the need should arise. She listens as the others ask the questions,if she don't need to ask, why bother, the others seem to be covering all the questions that need to be asked.

Hold! We Got Company. [DM Jerry] 
Thursday December 15th, 2011 4:13:00 PM

Vgodd replies to Morgrym. "I don't make them, but there's a smith in town that does. See Gusli in The Stormy Anvil. I bet she'll teach ya for a few trumps."

He listens to Morgrym's teachings on Domi attentively. "He sounds like a very honorable god. Wish we had one. Just a few powers left now. If there are any gods left alive, they don't care 'bout us. We have paladins, but they fall to this disease like everyone else. They say even the gods were affected."

Answering Dwaim, Vgodd says, "Don't know why they call it Spirit Swamp. Guess it does have its share of spirits. We catch twice deads walking sometimes. Always searching them, but they only know for what."

Ibraham looks in shock at Napalm. "You are THE Napalm? The famous one who saved everyone and everything? Nope never heard of ya."

This causes Vgodd to snort with laughter.

Ibraham says, "Don't know much. Halfast is the priest. Ask him when you get to town. All I know I've already told you. Most people are more into luck and the seer than worshiping gods and such. Gods aren't reliable. Gifted people are. As for the disease, everyone gets it eventually unless you get the cure first and that isn't a certain thing. It works better for some than others. Hegga is the expert on it. She's the only one left that knows how to make it."

Vgodd says, "Hegga is a witch. Witches have secrets. Her farm is near the swamp, not in it."

He spins towards Napalm and grins, "Never new coming here was so complicated until I started being a guard. We kinda have to work on not getting fussy because everyone who comes through always asks lots of questions."

Vortigern notices instant relief from all the gnats and biting insects once he puts on the salve. It even gives some relief to those around him because he has it on.

Lori has a point. Anyone with a good sense of smell would indeed smell the stuff.

A moment after her thought, Ebineezer makes a shout from the front. "Hold! We got company. Back to the island! Swamp Rats! Defend yourselves!" He points to the left where reeds and grass were obscuring clear sight past about 60'.

Emerging from the swamp are indeed some medium sized rats about 4' long. They swim towards you snapping their teeth at a speed that is hard to believe. Their eyes are red and the hair almost as long as a dog.

The front half of the group is in the water about 2 feet deep. The rear potion of the party is still on an island.
-------------------
--Perception check DC 17: You see gills on the side of the rats heads. The teeth look longer than in your time and they are curved a bit like a snake.
--Perception check DC 19: You also notice webbed feet as they literally thrash through the water creating a bit of a hydroplaning effect. They definitely will have an advantage in the water.
--Perception check DC 21: You also notice the snapping sound their teeth make seems to be working to set up positioning by sound. Is it primitive communication?
--If you are small, and in the water, you are in difficult terrain. [don't think anyone is.]
--We are in combat. Map coming via email once I get home--yep I'm primitive. I'm not using a grid so we won't be worrying about "exact" movement and effects. Just describe where you want to go. If it's not a gross error, we'll allow it.
--Swamp Rat AC is 18.
--It is now player initiative.

(David Feest) Morgrym Gorechylde  d20+5=11 ; d20+4=12 ; d20+9=12 ;
Thursday December 15th, 2011 6:23:20 PM

Perception 11(12 if this is surprise, still not enough)
Morgrym follows the guards directions without hesitation. As he backpedals onto the firm ground of the island he pulls his falcion with his left hand and a chakram from his belt with his right. He lets fly at the nearest rat.
Attack 12 miss
The chakram goes flying off into the swamp, never to be seen again most likely. He then takes a two handed grip on his blade and waits for the rats to close.
AoO if needed 12 miss

Morgrym's Vitals
Ac 19 normal, 11 touch, 18 flat footed.
Hp 37

Dwaim the Stubborn (Keith) AC: 18/12/16 HP: 28/28 CMD: 17 (+4 vs. bull rush/trip)  d20+9=28 ;
Thursday December 15th, 2011 8:24:17 PM

"By Domi's hammer those things are ugly! But they might be smarter than they look." Dwaim exclaims, his boots sucking in the muck as he steps back towards the island. He unslings his warhammer and says a prayer to Domi Don't fail me now valiant one as he hopes that his prayers are answered in this strange land.

---------------
Perception: 28
5 foot step back towards the island
move action: Draw warhammer
Standard action: ready an action to cast Cause Fear at the first rat to approach within range (30 feet)

Spell description:
"The affected creature becomes frightened for 1d4 rounds. If the subject succeeds on a Will save, it is shaken for 1 round. Creatures with 6 or more HD are immune to this effect. Cause fear counters and dispels remove "fear.

Urist - AC 17, HP 31/31 Carl  d20+6=13 ;
Thursday December 15th, 2011 9:09:19 PM

Perception 13

Urist doesn't see what the fuss is about; they're just rats, after all.

Still, if the guards think they're an issue, who is he to judge? He heads back to solid ground and pauses briefly, wondering if his magic will work here. "Here goes nothing, he says, and calls on Domi to bless him and his companions.

***

OOC: Bless for 3 minutes

Bless fills your allies with courage. Each ally gains a +1 morale bonus on attack rolls and on saving throws against fear effects.

Harden AC 17/13/14 -- CMD 17 -- HP 30/30 -- Bless(Zach R)  d20+8=22 ; d20+7=27 ; d20+6=16 ;
Thursday December 15th, 2011 9:16:07 PM

With Vgodd and Dwaim between him and his enemies, Harden disappears as he crouches down and moves to a better position. He prepares to strike at any rat who enters into range of his hammer.
-------------------
Perception: 22
Stealth: 27 (Natural 20) while Vgodd and Dwaim block line of sight from the Swamp Rats.
Move 10ft to North of Seredal which should be 20ft moving at half speed.
Draw Lucerne Hammer as part of a move action since it has 10ft reach.
AoO if needed 17 (Miss) Knew I should have just raged instead.


Vortigern AC21/12/19 CMD17 38/38HP -- Jim C 
Thursday December 15th, 2011 9:52:43 PM

Vortigern makes a strategic withdrawal to higher ground, but only if Ebineezer and Morgrim follow suit. Drawing out his shield and scimitar as he moves, he attempts to detect evil on the charging RUS'.

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 29 HP AC = 19/14/15 Saves = +5/+7/+4  d4=2 ; d20+10=14 ; d20+10=20 ; d20+10=20 ;
Thursday December 15th, 2011 10:38:24 PM

(sorry for the missed day, work was murderous today)

As the cry goes up, Seredal had just left the small lake (or swamp as the taller folks would have it).Cursing softly like the sailor she sometimes is, the halfling makes her way to the far edge of the island, (2 squares west of N, 3 squares movement) nearly knocking over Napalm as she unhitched her whip. Once there, she starts to cheer on the group, "Let them taste our ancient steel! Let them learn what they have forgotten!" (Inspire courage, auditory component, +1 competence bonus to attacks/ damage, +1 morale to fear)

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29  d20+9=23 ; d20+7=24 ; d20+10=27 ; d4+3=4 ;
Friday December 16th, 2011 12:54:13 AM

Lori crouches down, attempting to use an cover at all to her benefit. She draws a rapier with her left hand, and pulls a dart from behind her back with the right. She catches Dwain's meaning when he says they might be smarter than they appear.
She snaps her arm forward, releasing the dart at #3, hitting it and doing some damage.

Perception 23
Stealth 27
To Hit 24
Damage 5 (inc Deadly Aim) (forgot to add +1 for inspire courage)

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D)  d20+6=24 ; d20+7=8 ;
Friday December 16th, 2011 6:05:20 PM

Napalm's sharp eyes pick up the differences between these rats and the ones back home instantly. They have gills and webbed feet. Stay on the island, hopefully that will put them at a disadvantage. As he assesses the situation he silently thanks Marteaus that given his small size that he has the good fortune of being on an island rather than slowed down in the swamp.

He quickly moves to the edge of the swamp while drawing his morning star and waits for the rodents to approach. Inside he aches to enhance his abilities and show off a little, but no one was ever made famous for killing rats. There will be more opportune times to use his gifts. Until then he bides his time and waits, should one of the rats gets close enough he will swing his morning star wildly, and miss terribly.

Perception = 24
Hit AC 8 : Rolled a Natural 1


Hold! We Got Company. [DM Jerry] 
Tuesday December 20th, 2011 5:13:56 AM

OK, I've recovered enough that I am going to make a post. Will email when I'm done.

Player Initiative Round 1 [DM Jerry]  d100=20 ;
Saturday December 24th, 2011 1:50:53 PM

Morgrym moves back to the edge of the island missing the attack with his chakram. A small splash is seen, but not heard in the noise of battle.

Dwaim READIES an action to take a step back and cast. He draws his warhammer in anticipation of rat stew and perceives the gills, webbed feet, and clicking of rat teeth, as do others of the group.

Urist looks down and realizes he is already on solid ground and BLESSES the party successfully. He is comforted to know that his spells still work. Let us hope, dear readers, that he can still pray and replace them!

Harden hides using both the swamp and his comrades to assist his stealth and moves forward to the west and north. He is 5' away from the land and in difficult terrain. The water is 3' deep.

Vortigern moves back onto the island and stands to the left of Morgrym. He determines that the Swamp Rats are not evil.

Seredal adjusts her position and then performs INSPIRE COURAGE to boost the morale of the party.

Lori finds no cover in her location on the island and draws rapier and dart. The dart flies through the air overcoming the range increment difficulty only to miss due to concealment [d100=20]. The attack ends her stealth for the moment, but the rat has no idea where the dart came from. Lori sees the slimy thing look around for a second to find the source and then giving up continuing to swim forward.

Napalm draws his morning star and moves 10' forward to stand with one foot on the island and one off.

--------------

Ebineezer moves back to stand NE of Dwaim on the trail. He is still in the water, but it is only 1' deep. He pulls his longsword and prepares for the onslaught.

Ibraham takes a 5' step to his NW and also prepares leaving space for the Swamp Rats to come ashore to meet him.

Vgodd moves back onto the island to stand to Morgrym's right hand. He draws his warhammer.

--------------

--As I understand the rules, Keith, you can't take a 5' move and then ready an action. I figured you were more interested in the readied action than the move so I saved your 5' step and your spell until/if the readied action is triggered.

--Sorry I was confusing concerning the map. Thinking I'm a bit rusty DMing online. The "circles" are dry land. All else is water. The trail is only 1' deep and normal movement and counts as if you are on dry land. If you move into the water, you are in difficult terrain and it is 3' deep. If you move 15' from the land edge square, we will use your swimming speed and it is 6' deep. Swim checks if you're in over your height. You have concealment if you are 15' or further from land and not adjacent to the opponent attacking you.

Monster Initiative Round 1 [DM Jerry]  d20+8=25 ; d6+4=10 ; d20+8=13 ; d20+8=10 ; d20+8=13 ; d20+8=23 ; d6+4=10 ; d20+8=13 ;
Saturday December 24th, 2011 2:11:59 PM

The slimy Swamp Rats swim forward oblivious of the horrible fate that probably awaits them!

#1 closes with Ibraham and attacks hitting easily for 10hpd.

#2 attacks Vortigern missing him badly its teeth closing an inch from his nose.

#3 also attacks Vortigern not even getting close to the mighty Paladin!

#4 attacks Hardin its teeth brushing his cheek as it misses.

#5 also attacks Hardin and hits its teeth biting hard into his left shoulder for 10hpd. [Hardin, make a Fort save of DC 14 please vs disease please.]

#6 attacks Ebineezer missing as Ebineezer dodges to the right.

--------------

--It is the holidays so I will wait until at least Tuesday for the next post, sooner if all have posted. ;)

--send any questions/concerns to me via email please.

--map incoming via email.

[It is now Player Initiative Round 2]

(David Feest) Morgrym Gorechylde  d20+8=13 ; d20+8=15 ;
Saturday December 24th, 2011 7:32:25 PM

Calling to Vortigen as his attack of opportunity misses the one on his side Morgrym claims the rat attacking Vortigen closest to him(rat #3). Morgrym puts his back into it and swings at the rat. Again he misses (Power attacking hit AC 15 with the bard song and the Bless). Unsure why these things are so hard to hit he tries to keep this rat on him giving Vortigen some breathing room. If Vortigen moves to his left Morgrym will also step 5' to his left.
AoO if needed hits AC 17 missing.
( New die roller please... someone blow on it or something, I can't miss this many 50/50 shots in a row) 8)

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 27/37 -- BLESS, RAGE (Zach R)  d20+14=31 ; d20+10=27 ; 2d4+9=15 ;
Saturday December 24th, 2011 10:03:18 PM

Harden shakes off the effects the of creatures bite as blood flows freely down his left arm. He is angry at himself for stepping into the water and worse, at least for the rat, furious at the little mongrel that bit him. Harden drops his hammer and grabs the wicked spiked chain at his belt with both hands. Wrapping it around his right hand once, he bellows in RAGE as he swings with both hands, smacking the rat who bit him.

"RRRRAAAAAARRRRGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!"

---------------------------

Fort Save: 21 (Accidentally hit +14 instead of +4) Pass!
Free Action: Drop Lucerne Hammer
Move Action: Draw Spiked Chain
Free Action: Enter Rage
Standard Action: Attack Rat #5
Attack: Hit AC 29 (Forgot Bless and Inspire)
Damage: 16 Points of Piercing Damage (Forgot Inspire)

---------------------------
OOC: I never intended to step back into the water, I meant to stay on land. Not an issue though. Sorry about that.

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29  d20+7=17 ; d6+2=8 ;
Monday December 26th, 2011 5:53:11 PM

Lori reaches back and grabs the other rapier from over her shoulder. She also moves around behind the others, ending up next to Ibraham. She will then attack the rat thing with her rapier.

(forgot to add the Inspire Courage +1)

Hit AC 18 Damage 8



Seredal Hosah (Josh) 29 HP AC = 19/14/15 Saves = +5/+7/+4  d8+3=11 ; d20+7=16 ;
Monday December 26th, 2011 5:56:06 PM

(Zach, we also have Inspire Courage, so that's +1 to hit, +1 damage.)

Seredal continues her exhortation. "Remember what we have seen! For the floating city and the laughing apparition! For the triumph of heroes past!" With a gesture and a word, she sets her hand on Ibrahim's back, and completely negates the obvious effects of the bite. She then takes a quick step back and whirls her whip at the rat on Ibrahim, hopefully distracting the rat to help the guide land a blow.

The parrot that was on her shoulder has disappeared down her tunic.

-------------------------

Free Action: Continue bard song (9 rounds left)
Standard Action: Cure Light Wounds (healed 11 points), 3 1st level spells left
Free action: 5' step back and away (so MUS are in a row)
Move Action (via trait): Aid Another 16 vs dc10 success (Im gets a +2 to hit the rat that bit him)

Familiar move action: Hides in shirt (total cover?)

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 27/37 -- BLESS, RAGE (Zach R) 
Monday December 26th, 2011 9:36:24 PM

OOC: Checking in. Inspire Competence bonus added to previous post to hit and damage.

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D)  d20+7=20 ; d6+4=10 ;
Monday December 26th, 2011 10:11:49 PM

Inspired by the bard's song, Napalm yells in fury when the rats avoid him and jumps into the swamp after them, landing 5 feet to the West (just right of #3). As he lands in the muck ridden water he swings with all his strength at the head of rat #3.

Move 5ft West
Atk rat #3 Hit AC 21 for 10 dmg
All rats within 5 ft of Napalm must make a dc 15 will save or be shaken

... all who come within five feet of the priest must make a Will save vs. DC 15 or become Shaken. (per the DMG: A shaken character suffers a -2 morale penalty on attack rolls, checks, and saving throw The effect wears off when those affected cannot see the priest again. If you save, you are thereaf unaffected for 24 hours.

Urist - AC 17, HP 31/31 Carl  d20+6=25 ; d8+3=10 ;
Tuesday December 27th, 2011 3:59:12 PM

Seeing one of their guides get attacked, Urist shuffles over to rat #1 and attacks with his axe.

"Let's get these critters squared away, then I'll be happy to tend to yer ouchies."

***

Attack rat#1 - hit AC 25 for 10 hp

Dwaim the Stubborn (Keith) AC: 18/12/16 HP: 28/28 CMD: 17 (+4 vs. bull rush/trip)  d20+6=17 ; d8+8=9 ;
Tuesday December 27th, 2011 5:02:55 PM

"Didn't you say get back to the island? Couldn't resist some action, could you?" Dwaim grins as he squelches through the water next to Ebineezer. He aims a powerful hammer blow at the rat in front of him, but slips on the unsure footing, the hammer blow passing a hair's breadth above the head of the oversized rodent.

------------------------
5 foot step up next to Ebineezer
standard action: Attack Swamprat #6 using power attack, Hit AC 17 for 9 damage, I think that's a miss.

OOC: Did the cause fear spell that Dwaim had readied go off? I didn't see the saving throw mentioned in round 1 results. No worries if it got lost, I just wanted to know whether or not to subtract a spell used.

Player Initiative Round 2 [DM Jerry]  d20+5=13 ; d20+10=23 d8+5=9 d20+10=27 d20+8=28 d20+8=16 d8+4=11
Wednesday December 28th, 2011 12:57:52 AM

Vortigrin nodding at Mortrym withdraws 10' to the rear.

Mortrym takes a 5' step to the left an then strikes at #3 and missing. The rat hisses at him and seems to assess his new target with his red glowing eyes.

Hardin saves vs. the Swamp Rat's attack and returns his attack in kind raging as he goes. He tosses the chain as if it weighs nothing wrapping it around and into the rat's stout neck. With a pull, Rat #5's head simply comes off. The body flies out into the swamp as the head seems to look around for a second before dropping. It slowly bobs and floats in the water the current slowly carrying it away.

Lori draws her 2nd rapier and moves to stand just west of Ibraham and faces the rats in front of her. Slicing with both weapons in opposite motions, she hits #1 causing it to hiss and face her instead of Ibraham.

Seredal heals Ibraham back to his full health and takes a 5' step to the SW. He thinks about whirling her whip at #1, but can't achieve it. Busy, she also AIDS ANOTHER on Ibraham giving him a bonus to his next attack.

Napalm jumps into the swamp and attacks #3 hitting it and bloodying it. It fails the save and is shaken.

Urist sees that all spots save one are full next to #1 so it takes the spot that is left to the E of Ibraham. He attacks and bloodies it!

Dwaim moves 5' up next to Ebeneezer and his hammer whistles as it passes near to the quick Swamp Rat. However, this seems to do the trick as the Swamp Rat thinks better of facing the Holy Man's Mighty Hammer and runs back into the swamp.

----------------

Ebeneezer looks at Dwaim and grins, "Wasn't room on yonder island. And I was not about to stand behind the others." Seeing the fear effect, he dives out into the swamp and makes his way to #4 attacking him doing 9hpd.

Ibraham sees Urist and Lori come to stand beside him. "Time to die rat!" He hits the rat [#1] and slays it!

Vgodd moves 5' to the North and attacks #3 getting a critical threat which it does not confirm. It does 11hpd to #3 slaying it!

----------------

--Serendal: picky I know, but waving a whip is an action since you want a combat effect from it so that didn't take place.

--Sorry Dwaim on the Cause Fear. I made a note to do it at the end and promptly forgot about it. So did it this round to #6 who politely failed its save.

--Jim is still out of town so together we'll keep Vortigern alive for the duration.

Monster Initiative Round 2 [DM Jerry]  d20+9=26 ; d6+5=8 ; d20+9=19 ; d6+5=9 ;
Wednesday December 28th, 2011 1:27:22 AM

#4's eyes seem to go wide as it sees Hardin begin to rage. There is almost a moment of respect!

Then it reacts in kind! Its eyes glow bright red for a second and you see muscles seem to grow. Experienced in such things, Hardin recognizes an effect similar to his own. The other rats seem to notice this as well, somehow and follow suit!

Swamp Rats 1, 3, and 5 are dead.

Raging Swamp Rat #2 attacks Urist [d20+9=26] hitting him for 8hps. [Urist, make a Fort save of DC 14 please vs disease please.]

Raging Swamp Rat #4 attacks Hardin hitting him [d20+9=19] for 9hpd. [Hardin, make a Fort save of DC 14 please vs disease please.]

Swamp Rat #6 continues to run away from Dwaim.

-----

--map incoming via email.

[It is now Player Initiative Round 3.]



Seredal Hosah (Josh) 29 HP AC = 19/14/15 Saves = +5/+7/+4  d8+3=6 ; d20+9=15 ; d20+11=21 ;
Wednesday December 28th, 2011 2:15:32 AM

Seredal, seeing the rat savage Harden again, casts a healing mantra; seeing the rat still there, she lets the parrot deliver it. Lislyn flies through the air and lands on Harden's neck behind his head, saying in a deep voice, "Don't let it kill me, and there's a juicy preying mantis in your future..."

Turning her attention to the other rat, the halfling snaps her whip through the crowd at it, trying to distract it's attention from the dwarf and the dwarf's weapon.

She then backs slowly away, in whatever direction sends her farther from the raging beasts. She is noticibly quieter now...

----------------
Standard Action: Cast CLW (designate familiar as toucher)
Move action: Aid another (+2 to Urist's attack roll against 2
Free action: 5' step away from monsters

Familiar move action - flies 20' to Harden's square
Free action: Deliver touch spell in same turn it was cast
End move action in stealth: 21
Standard action: N/A

Vortigern AC21/12/19 CMD17 38/38HP -- Jim C  d20+6=24 ; d20+6=17 ; d8+2=9 ; d8+2=8 ;
Wednesday December 28th, 2011 11:25:34 AM

Vortigern moves diagonally to his left and slices out at the rat attacking Urist (#2) with his scimitar.


Attack vs #2: Hit AC 24, CritCheck 17; 9hpd, 17 if crit.


Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29  d20+9=26 ; d6+2=7 ;
Wednesday December 28th, 2011 12:52:11 PM

Lori moves diagonally for 15 feet(2 squares) north a step(1 square) then diagonally another step (to square NW of rat #2. That should give flanking to Morgrym, and to her. She then attacks Rat#2 with one of her Rapiers.

Hit AC 26, Damage 7

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 -- BLESS, RAGE (Zach R)  d20+12=18 ; 2d4+10=13 ; d20+4=21
Wednesday December 28th, 2011 3:31:43 PM

Harden is confused by the talking bird for just a moment, but when he feels the healing wash over him, he thinks long enough to yell to his comrades. "They're Raging somehow, beware!" Harden continues as he attacks the rat that bit him, smashing it with his chain.

--------------------------
Full Round Action: Attack Rat #4
Attack: 18 Hit
Damage: 13 Points of Piercing Damage
Fort Save: 21

(David Feest) Morgrym Gorechylde  d20+12=30 ; d20+12=13 ; 2d4+9=16 ; d20+5=20 ;
Wednesday December 28th, 2011 4:39:14 PM

Raging? Berserkers are usually easier to hit, hope the rats are too. Thinks Morgrym. Taking the flanking rogue and the bless and bard song into account Morgrym slashes at the rat again, swinging for all he has (power attack)and connecting solidly, but failing to score a critical hit.
(Hit AC 30, crit chance hit AC 13 failed to crit. Damage 16, non crit)
With the rats nearest the island dead, the dwarf rests a bit and looks for more rats hiding in the swamp. (perception 20)

Urist - AC 17, HP 23/31 Carl  d20+9=10 ; d20+6=11 ;
Wednesday December 28th, 2011 10:47:57 PM

Urist grimaces as the rat's fangs sink in. Still traumatized by the trip through the tapestry, his constitution seems unprepared for the attack (natural 1...right on).

He decides the best course of action is revenge, but his axe swing goes wild. He barely manages to avoid cutting off his own toe.

***

Attack w/ battleaxe: 11 (not my night...)
Fort save: 10



Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D)  d20+7=23 ; d6+4=6 ;
Thursday December 29th, 2011 12:38:26 AM

Napalm grins as rat in front of him falls and chooses his next target. Immediately he moves West 5ft, trudging through the deep water until he gets to Rat #2. Once again he heaves his weapon at the creature's head and hopes to see the beast drop before him.

Move just East of Rat #2
Hit AC 23 for 6 dmg

Dwaim the Stubborn (Keith) AC: 18/12/16 HP: 28/28 CMD: 17 (+4 vs. bull rush/trip)  d20+6=9 ;
Thursday December 29th, 2011 1:49:53 AM

Grinning in satisfaction as the rat flees in fear, Dwaim hurries to follow Ebenezeer. "You can't keep all the glory for yourselves mates!" He wades through the swampwater next to Ebenezeer and swings his hammer at the infuriated swamprat, but to little effect, other than a splash in the water as his blow goes wide.

---------------------------------------
Move 10'
Attack swamprat #4, Hit AC 9

Player Initiative Round 3 [DM Jerry]  d20=11 ; d4=4 ;
Friday December 30th, 2011 9:54:06 AM

Seredal's bird Lislyn bravely flies carrying its owner's Healing Mantra into the swamp and to Hardin who is bravely fighting. Lislyn successfully delivers it touching Harden's neck. Harden, encouraged by the healing touch swings his chain out at #4 where it wraps around the Rat's middle. A powerful ripping pull on the chain rips out the entrails of the Swamp Rap slaying the beast, as Lislyn instantly stealths[opposed roll d20=11]. Dwaim moves to join Hardin and Ebineezer on #4, but finds it dead. Ebineezer grins back at him and shrugs. "Guess we were both too late to get the killing blow, sir."

Vortegern moves forward to assist Urist slicing #2 across the chest. Lori then moves forward and adds her rapier cut in a crossing pattern upon #2 causing more blood to spurt out and splash those in the area. Urist then adds his effort, but misses #2. He fails his save as well suddenly feeling dizzy for a moment. From experience he knows that this means he's failed, and the effects are shortly coming. Morgrym then positioning himself for a flank finishes the beast with his attack! Napalm stops half way through his move realizing that the beast is dead.

Vgodd joins Morgrym at examining the swamp for another group. "You are wise Morgrym. The beasts to tend to wait while the first kills their pray. Then they will come in and try to attack the first group or rats to steal the kill." They do not instantly spot any other groups nearby. Ibraham joins the group and says, "Watch the trees as well. They only need to put their snouts above the water for a moment and they are good for several minutes. Their gills are not complete. They must still breathe air every 10 minutes or so. We should remain here for a few minutes to be sure that no more come.

Vgodd then shouts to his two brothers, "And watch out for Gladys!"

Ibraham answers him, "What? Your girlfriend doesn't like you anymore. Every since you nicked her chin and gave her a scar on her beautiful face. He busts out in laughter! It seems that the guards, now that they have fought with you, are able to relax in their conversation."

Vgodd's face turns crimson and turns to Ibraham, a bit of combat still in his brain.

Ebeneezer puts a hand on Vgodd's shoulder. "Relax soldier." Then to the party, "Gladis is a monster of a rat. Huge thing. Vogodd and Ibraham have faced it twice and lived to tell of the experience. To hear them tell of it, you'd think it was a dragon."

Vgodd adds, "It is as big as one."

Ebineezer adds, "Watch for rats. ALL rats. Then in a minute, we're departing for Hegga's Farm. One has been bitten and has the disease. All who were damaged have it too, even if they saved. We need to get them to Hegga and the cure."

-------

--Serendal's bird officially enters combat this round putting itself at risk. I do not consider familiars a target unless and until the PC sends them into danger, then they become a legitimate target. Combat ended in that same round.

--As combat concludes, Urist is shortly assaulted by a sudden fever and fatique. He collapses to the ground, conscious but weary as he takes 4 points of Constitution Damage [d4=4] and one point of Charisma Damage.

--All receive 208xp for the combat.

--Not sending a new map unless someone really wants it since combat is over.


Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29 
Friday December 30th, 2011 11:29:35 AM

"I assume that my Dart is now lost, is there some where I can replace it. I truly dislike being down on the number of my weapons, because it'll come down to needing it eventually, and since I don't have it, I'll desperately have use for it."

Lori still has her hood pulled up, but she obviously not a halfling or a dwarf so....

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 -- BLESS, RAGE (Zach R)  d20+7=21 ; d20+7=24 ;
Friday December 30th, 2011 2:46:57 PM

"Do you need a hand?" Harden asks Urist when he sees him drop. He will carry or assist Urist with his consent, but will not put a hand on him without it. Otherwise Harden will swish his chain in the swamp water in an effort to clean some of the chunks of blood, entrails, and fur from the spikes.

He then keeps his eyes open for any more creatures. When he gets a chance he makes his way to Serendal. "Thank you for the bit of healing.

-------------------------
Perception: 21
Stealth: 25 (Should have been +8 not +7)

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D)  d20+6=17 ; d20+7=16 ;
Friday December 30th, 2011 7:42:26 PM

Napalm trudges out of the swamp and back onto the island. While the group keeps an eye out for more rats he asks their guides, I suppose if these things are diseased then their meat is also no good too. Following Harden's example, the halfling also cleans his weapon. As they wait and walk to the witches Napalm works on crafting a dose of mutagen, should they find themselves in another battle. Why he had not brought any with him he cannot remember.

Perception = 17
Stealth = 16

Dwaim the Stubborn (Keith) AC: 18/12/16 HP: 28/28 CMD: 17 (+4 vs. bull rush/trip)  d20+7=17 ; d20+7=24 ;
Friday December 30th, 2011 8:28:06 PM

Seeing Urist collapse, Dwaim hurries to his side. "Whoa there! Take it easy, you don't look so good... let's see if we can bring that fever down. He spends several minutes washing Urist's wounds and treating him with a quickly made poultice. "There, now, do you feel good enough to stand, or do we get to lug you the rest of the way?"

-------------------------------------
Dwaim uses the Heal skill to attempt to treat the disease, this takes 10 minutes:

Heal check #1: 17
Heal check #2: 24

Feel free to roll more if necessary.

"To treat a disease means to tend to a single diseased character. Every time the diseased character makes a saving throw against disease effects, you make a Heal check. If your Heal check exceeds the DC of the disease, the character receives a +4 competence bonus on his saving throw against the disease."

Seredal Hosah (Josh)  d20+10=20 ;
Saturday December 31st, 2011 1:41:19 AM

Harden hears a loud squak from behind his head. "Thank her? All she did was stand there! I'm the one that had to fly into danger against the enemy!" The parrot makes the short flight back to the halfling's shoulder and eyes the dwarf. "Still. I'm here. I'll get right on that mantis." Seredal just winces and nods to the warrior, as her eyes continue to scan the swamp (perception=20).

(David Feest) Morgrym Gorechylde 
Sunday January 1st, 2012 7:16:55 AM

Morgrym nods to Vgodd." Some bandits are the same way. They wait for you to relax from surviving the first wave and then hit you a second time. You see I didn't just craft the weapons and armor my family is known for, I traveled with the caravans that deliver it as well. Some, well most deliveries got messy. Once the cure is administered we should look into this Gladis. Maybe it is a source for the corruption."
Once the danger is past, Morgrym quickly and efficiently cleans his weapons and armor, removing any traces of the gore from them.

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl  d8+3=11 ;
Sunday January 1st, 2012 8:29:26 AM

Urist accepts both Hardin's hand up and Dwaim's healing poultice. "By the gods, disease usually takes a while to set in. I could feel this tearing it's way through me almost immediately. Whatever Marteaus unleashed upon the Wold is ugly and potent."

Urist is more unsteady on his feet than usual, but is made of sterner stuff. "I'll be fine to walk the rest of the way back to camp." He nods his head towards Morgrym as he idly cleans bits of rat off his axe, "He's right, though. If taking out this giant rat will help contain the disease, we should look into putting it down."

Once he's situated, Urist sacrifices one of his prepared spells to heal the physical damage done by the rat. He smiles warmly as Domi's blessing completely mends his wounds.

***

Jerry: Not 100% how heal works here. With Dwaim's +4 to my heal check, I make that DC14 heal save. Is Urist still suffering the -4 CON/-1 CHA from the disease?

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29  d20+9=27 ;
Sunday January 1st, 2012 2:22:00 PM

Lori cleans off her rapiers and replaces them in her over the shoulder scabbard that holds both of them.
"Those were some very different rats than I've ever seen before. Even in Dirt City they didn't grow that big, or enrage like that. I've seen some big rats there, but they topped out at around 2 feet and that's including their tail.
Killing the boss rat might be a good idea, but we may have other things that need doing as well, we'll have to decide once we know what is most important."


Lori decides it's important to keep a keener watch on the movements around the group as they travel, she keeps on what could be called high alert.

Perception roll 27


Vortigern AC21/12/19 CMD17 38/38HP -- Jim C  d20+2=20 ;
Sunday January 1st, 2012 3:38:34 PM

Vortigern likewise cleans off his blade and looks about for any other danger.

Perception 20

Scene 2: Hegga's Farm


An Unnatural Silence (DM Stephen) 
Monday January 2nd, 2012 12:24:06 AM

All the surviving combatants converge to the island. Dwain and Harden immediately begin to tend to Urist's wounds. An illness has suddenly manifests itself in Urist. The dwarf can already feel the onset of fever and growing fatigue ... truly a potent affliction. Dwain attempts to treat the disease. His efforts fail to yield any immediate results. Only time will tell.

(Diseases usually require a daily save throw once it becomes onset. Urist failed the first one before receiving the Heal attempt, however you may apply the bonuses from Dwain's heal attempt for the following day.)

Others remain on watch, discuss their options, and clean their weapons and armor. Those on guard notice no other rats in the area, except the ones that are dead or dying. The one thing that becomes painfully obvious is that the only sounds they're hearing is the rattle of their own armor, the squish of their boots in the mud, and the sound of their own voices. All else is still and silent.

"Let get goin'. The smell of blood and fresh dwarf flesh will soon attract more," says an anxious Vgodd.

The group gets back to the trail and after many hours of arduous hiking through the swamp, the adventures find themselves on more solid ground. In the far distance, behind a canopy of trees, you begin to notice a slight rising plume of smoke, like that from a fire pit or chimney. Ibraham points at the spot and says, "We are close ... there be Hegga's farm."

(David Feest) Morgrym Gorechylde  d20+5=16 ;
Monday January 2nd, 2012 11:04:18 AM

" Great, let's get Urist the cure. I wonder though, since the effects are so pronounced in him, wouldn't we feel sick if we had it? Clearly it is magical and very potent, but can it hide that well? I just want to understand what we are up against."
As they enter the farm area, Morgrym drops back and scans the groups backtrail, trying to be sure they are not being followed by any more ratzillas. He then enters the camp last once he is satisfied by their security.
Perception 16

Seredal Hosah (Josh)  d20+10=29 ; d20+7=8 ; d20+7=12 ;
Monday January 2nd, 2012 6:20:41 PM

Seredal continues walking silently, the nervous halfling keeping an eye out of other dangers (perception 29). As the farm comes into view, Seredal attempts to guage her location by the design and adornments of the area (Nat 1 = knowledge (local) 8 ), or, failing that, any clues from her surroundings, such as wind patterns, the scent of the sea, etc (knowledge (geography) 12).

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29  d20+9=28 ; d20+10=20 ;
Monday January 2nd, 2012 7:26:38 PM

Lori keeps her hands free, so she can grab any of her gear as it's needed, or if it's needed. She moves with careful steps, but also keeps her eyes peeled for anything that tries to approach them.

Stealth 20
Perception 28

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D)  d20+6=20 ; d20+9=19 ;
Monday January 2nd, 2012 10:20:56 PM

Napalm watches intently as Dwain and Harden tend to Urist, his mind a blur of thoughts and emotions. For now he contents himself with observing the effects and onset of the disease. Silently he prays that the witch will be able to shed more light on "Marteaus' Revenge" and the story behind it.

A shiver runs down his spine as he wonders what will happen during his next meditation as he prays to Marteaus and regains his spells. Could his god in fact be dead, or could it be that all of his priests were killed when the disease appeared and no one is left to carry our his work. Perhaps the god lies outside time and will answer his prayers. Until he learns more he decides to keep his Holy Symbol hidden out of view and his spell casting to a minimum. For now it would be safer to rely on his strength and alchemy.

Perception = 20
Acrobatics to move through the swamp = 19

Home Stinky Home (DM Stephen)  d20+6=25 ; d20+5=17 ; d20+4=23 ;
Tuesday January 3rd, 2012 2:16:13 AM

With the sight of the farm, Morgrym is thankful that Urist will shortly be able to receive a cure to such a horrible disease.

Seredal walks nervously getting little comfort from the sighting of Hegga's farm. The bard ponders his senses and his knowledge of such places. They can be anywhere. Their situation was baffling. However, the area is reminiscent of the Cursed Swamp (gulp!) in the Elennian Peninsula. Of course, this is only an assumption. Not knowing the size or scope of the swamp, there are many known swamps along a coast, gulf or inland sea. Seredal notices something odd. Is that the partial remains of a small, dead rat hanging from a tree branch?!

Lori stay prepared for anything and lingers back to take advantage of the shadows of trees and thick overgrowth. However while still trying to remain hidden in the shadows of a tree, she notices a small pile of tiny bones of many types of woodland or rodent creatures. Your knowledge of nature lore would immediately assume this could be a feeding site for any number of owls that regurgitate the bones of their prey. However, they look like they were painstakingly stacked and arranged.

Napalm has a lot to think about. The closer they get to Hagga's farm, his deep contemplate is broken by the sounds of brittle "things" crackling under his feet. Their path appears to be littered with little white shards. The closer you get to the farm, the more concentrated they become. What is this ... bones, tiny, crumbled bones?!

The other three travelers, Vgodd, Ibraham, and Ebeneezer continue their way to the farm. They appear completely unfazed by what some of the others are just beginning to notice. However Ibraham become a little concerned. After making a quick count of the party, he asks, "I think we are missing one?!" Vgodd nudges him and mutters, "Naw," and motions in Lori's direction. "Ohh ... good," Ibraham replies with a little bit of relief.

Not being that far away now, the breeze carries to you all a strange blended scent of chimney smoke, fragrant herbs, musky odor that most dwarves would equate to bat guano. The closer you all get, the "bat guano" odor seems to overpower the other more pleasant scents. The tiny bones on the path are rather thick now and its unavoidable not to hear the crunch under your feet. The trees around the farm are decorated with elaborately constructed bone chimes and rat pelts. There are rats on the ends of sticks!

You all arrive to the farm, however Hegga is nowhere in sight, although there is plenty to look at. The farm house appears to be a poorly constructed shanty that is partly dug into the side of a small hillside. A canopy of thick trees hang low and cast a dark shadow over the home which looks comparable to a halfling-styled residence. Smoke from the chimney is barely able to find its way to the sky above. There are coops and cages filled with living rats. There are more rats on a stick, more hanging bone chimes and even more bones scattered around. Some not belonging to rats, and a few humanoid skulls somewhat larger than your own heads. A strange moss grows on these skulls!

You can see a root cellar adjacent to the home. Just outside its opening are all manner of herbs hanging and drying in the wind. There is a table near the cellar with jars and pots. A cauldron sits on the ground nearby on a pile of ash and charred wood.

The home looks even more foreboding as your eyes continue to take stock at what they're seeing. The home, the parts not buried in the hillside, are covered with runes and strange markings. (Everyone make Perception checks or anything else you feel appropriate)

Your three guides look around, a little confused, but not worried. "Hegga, you here," says Ebeneezer? He looks back at the other two and shrugs.

Vortigern AC21/12/19 CMD17 38/38HP -- Jim C 
Tuesday January 3rd, 2012 11:58:56 AM

Vortigern kept quiet so as to not insult his hosts choice of decor, but kept a wary eye out.

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29  d20+10=15 ; d20+9=17 ; d20+7=15 ;
Tuesday January 3rd, 2012 4:27:10 PM

Lori won't say anything, but the looks of the area is what she'd expect from some sort of hedge wizard or from a shaman. She wasn't really familiar with magic, but this certainly fit the image she had in her mind.
She also does her best to try and fade into the shadows, while looking for any tracks made by someone or thing other than the group she's with. She also keeps a wary eye out for trouble.

Stealth = 15
Perception = 17
Survival (as Track) = 15

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 -- BLESS, RAGE (Zach R)  d20+7=24 ; d20+8=10 ;
Tuesday January 3rd, 2012 5:38:09 PM

Harden keeps an eye out on their march and tries to stay hidden but keeps making way too much noise.

------------------------------------

Perception: 24
Stealth: 10

Dwaim the Stubborn (Keith) AC: 18/12/16 HP: 28/28 CMD: 17 (+4 vs. bull rush/trip)  d20+9=21 ; d20+4=23 ;
Tuesday January 3rd, 2012 6:28:20 PM

Dwaim is a bit taken aback by the profusion of bones scattered about. He looks over the runes carefully, curious to see if he can find anything familiar. Gesturing to the humanoid skulls, he grunts to the nearest guard "Were these the last ones that needed the cure? Sure hope we got Urist here in time, it'd be a shame for him to join them."

--------------------------
Perception: 21
Knowledge (Arcana) or Spellcraft: 23 (same ranks in both)


Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Tuesday January 3rd, 2012 6:39:31 PM

Frowning, the halfling catalogues what she sees in her notes. Lislyn, for her part, will run from one of Seredal's shoulders to the other at nearly any loud noise the party makes.

(David Feest) Morgrym Gorechylde  d20+5=14 ;
Tuesday January 3rd, 2012 7:39:34 PM

" Sooo, had you considered that the rats carry the disease, it might not be advisable to live with them, use them as food and as decoration? Just saying, if one bite did THAT to Urist, maybe being near them isn't such a good idea. Though these rats look less...menacing. Anyway, we made it, and you don't seem too concerned to find this place deserted. Whats going on?"
Morgrym's father had always said that he needed to learn more about when to talk and when to be quiet. He had lost some sales on armor by mentioning that the client should lose weight if they expected to fit in the armor. Morgrym still didn't exactly have a handle on the whole 'when to think, when to talk' thing.
He does look around more carefully, looking both for trouble and for Hegga.
Perception 14

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D)  d20+6=24 ; d20+6=15 ; d20+6=19 ; d20+6=7 ; d20+6=17 ;
Tuesday January 3rd, 2012 10:08:08 PM

Napalm looks around in curiosity as the group passes the unusual decorations. He wonders if this is typical behavior for a witch and tries to determine the nature of the ruins. I wonder if these ruins provide her with some sort of protection......where is she? Despite his detailed nature the alchemist finds himself unable to concentrate on any one thing for too long as his mind jumps from mystery to mystery and his list for the witch grows ever longer.

Perception = 24
Spellcraft = 15, 19, 7 to learn about the ruins, rat corpses, moss, etc
Craft Alchemy = 17 to learn about the cauldron, herbs, ash and charred wood

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Tuesday January 3rd, 2012 10:25:08 PM

Urist is unsure of being healed by whomever lives in this shanty, but by now he's willing to do just about anything. Sweat drips down his brow & his breaths are short, raspy, and entirely unhealthy sounding. Having managed to plod along this far to the farm, he's absolutely more than willing to allow himself to be lead to this Hegga person. He'll have time to get chatty and find out what's going on here when he's not near hallucination from the fever.

Meet and greet. (DM Stephen) 
Wednesday January 4th, 2012 1:42:27 AM

Several of you remain quiet and simply observe the scene. Lori notices the area is dominated by humanoid, barefoot tracks. They are short, wide feet, but don't appear to carry much weight.

As he attempts to make the best use of the shadows around him, Harden notices a slight track of white sand that seems to be out of place with the rest of the soil. At close inspection, the white sand contains tiny, glinting flakes of quartz and unidentifiable black specks that look like ground pepper. This thin line of sand seems to mark the ground in arch that could possibly circle the farm.

Dwaim is the first to inquire about the large, mossy skulls. Their three guides chuckle at the comment. Vgodd explains, "I wish! Those are troll skulls. Better dead than chewing on your leg, I always says. Hegga makes good use of them."

Morgrym makes known his concerns. Ibraham answers this time, "The rats are part of the cure. I'll let Hegga explain when she gets back. I'm sure she is about ... checkin' her traps or pickin' herbs."

The cleric, Napalm, lets his curiosity get the best of him. The runes do look like incantations, possibly wards and other protections, but the language and alphabet is completely foreign to you. They certainly don't look like halfling or dwarven script. As far as the herbs are concerned, you being an alchemist recognize almost all of them that are in view. Countless combinations can be used to make a whole host of potions and elixirs. The charred wood and ash is evidence of an open fire that was used to heat whatever was created in the cauldron. Like Harden, you also notice a thin line of white sand circling the farm.

Urist is not especially thrilled with the idea of receiving medical attention in a place like this. The cure may end up being as bad as the disease itself.

"Excuse me, deary. You're standing in front of my tree." Directly behind Lori is the source of this soft voice. If Lori turns around, she sees a middle-aged, halfling woman. However, she looks a little older than she appears from exposure and living in the wild. Her hair is a tangled mess and her clothes are tattered and patched. "If you don't mind, I'd like to get these little nippers put away."

She gingerly negotiates around everyone and wobbles her way over to one of the rat cages. Her hands are like vipers as she snatches squirming rats from her bag and places them in the cage. "Now ... let me see now ... ahhh, I can smell it from here! One of you are green around the gills!! That would be you," and she points at Urist. "The rest of you be unspoiled... then the whole lot of you will be needin' the works."

She looks at your three guides and commands, "Whatcha just doin' standin' there? Where be your manners? Get some stools for our guests."

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Wednesday January 4th, 2012 11:48:27 AM

When the stools materialize, Urist quickly helps himself to one and is finally able to relax and catch his breath. Having little choice now but to hope Hegga knows what she's doing, he lifts his head and addresses her, "Aye, some sort of abominable water rat did this. I imagine bed rest and chicken soup won't be clearing this up anytime soon, either. Impressive diseases you folks have."

He pauses to catch his breath.

"Anyway, I'd rather not pass on in a Wold where my god may not be present to receive me. If there's something you can do, I'd appreciate it."

Ibraham [DM Jerry] 
Wednesday January 4th, 2012 1:40:07 PM

Ebeneezer speaks up and says, "Mistress Hegga, Hardin here was also bitten by the rats we fought on the way here. But he seems to be fighting it off for now. So he shouldn't need to be infected. He already is."

He pushes a stool Hardin's way. "Just in case."

(David Feest) Morgrym Gorechylde 
Wednesday January 4th, 2012 5:23:17 PM

" Fear not Urist, your accomplishments will reach Domi's ears if I must sing them myself. Whoa, wait, what! To get this cure we need to be infected with what he has? What if some of us are not as tough as the half-orc here? are you able to improve our chances of beating the disease and then becoming resistant to it? I have little fear that my hardy dwarven stock will be so frail as to have trouble with it, but you never know, Urist did. I fear for some of our frailer folk though."

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29 
Wednesday January 4th, 2012 7:05:37 PM

As Morgrym speaks up about "out frailer folk", Lori almost stands up, walks over to him and does more than slap him, but she managed to restrain all of her actions, except the head turn.
"Speak for yourself runt, some of us others will deal with it as we come to it, just like everything else in the Wold."
Her body language shows well that she's not very happy with the forth coming battle with a disease, but she's determined to not let it lay her low.

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Wednesday January 4th, 2012 7:05:55 PM

Urist manages a weak smile at Morgrym. "Seems I'm ahead of the game, friends. This is no picnic, but I don't feel like I'm about to pass on just yet. Let's listen to what this one has to say."

He looks on and waits for Hegga to explain just what lunacy she's talking about.

Dwaim the Stubborn (Keith) AC: 18/12/16 HP: 28/28 CMD: 17 (+4 vs. bull rush/trip)  d20+10=21 ;
Wednesday January 4th, 2012 9:45:26 PM

Dwaim shows some displeasure as Hegga pulls out the rats and talks about "unspoiling" the rest of the group. "Hmph! Well then, that's a fine lot of vermin, looks like they might be the ones spreading the disease. And what's this about us being unspoiled? Where we come from that's a good thing."

He watches the halfling closely, trying to detect if she is telling the whole story about this "cure."

------------------------------------
Sense Motive: 21

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D)  d20+6=13 ; d20+6=25 ; d20+6=16 ;
Wednesday January 4th, 2012 9:53:04 PM

Napalm fight the urge to say what doesn't kill you only makes you stronger and instead follows up on Urist's comment. Thank you madam, we appreciate all you are doing for us. Can you please tell us of this disease, where it came from and why they call it Marteaus revenge?

Rolls to observe the witch and learn how to cure the disease
Perception = 13
Spell Craft = 25
Alchemy = 16

Seredal Hosah (Josh)  d20+10=25 ;
Wednesday January 4th, 2012 11:00:23 PM

Seredal is watching the witch and the house carefully (Perception 25)- not suspecting anything underhanded, but just wanting to get all of the details right for her notes.

Tea Time (DM Stephen) 
Thursday January 5th, 2012 2:58:04 AM

"Ahh, two of you are blighted. Thank you Ibraham. We should treat you right away," and she motions towards Urist. Turning to Harden, she adds, "we should wait until tomorrow for the disease to manifest within you. Breakin' the fever is the best way to judge if the cure be workin'. An you will certainly be ailing tomorrow."

Hegga's demeanor was pleasant, even joyful, until Morgrym speaks of Domi and Napalm mentions Marteaus' Revenge. She cringes with the mention of their names, especially the latter. "Where are you from to speak the names of the old gods so openly? Mind your tongues, dearies!!" She seems quite disturbed and a bit shaken upon their utterance. "Most have been blessed with ignorance of their existence, with the exception of the Plaguebringer. However I must be burdened with their lore in order to combat the plague. Why do you know of them?" Then she turns to Napalm and stares at him intently. "Hmmm, how odd ... how odd indeed, the mention of 'his' name doesn't make you shiver!" Hegga seems intrigued by you, and a bit mortified. A curiosity for sure, but she turns away and begins making arrangements for administering a cure to Urist and cooking dinner for the party.

"We can speak more of this later, we need to prepare for afternoon tea, dinner and then evening supper. I'll tell you about my rats and my cure. Take a seat, you're all my guests for the evening. You will be safe here."

She retreats to her root cellar and soon emerges with a round gourd with a cork stuck in one end. She walks over to where Urist is sitting. "Deary, this be a dose of my cure. Best you not smell it, or drink it leisurely. Do it quickly, in one large gulp if you can. I will say no more. Just follow my directions, child." She hands Urist the corked gourd and stares at him intently, waiting to judge the results.

(DM Stephen) 
Thursday January 5th, 2012 3:00:09 AM

(ooc: I will make remarks involving your skill checks in the next post. I waited too late this evening to make my post. They weren't ignored.)

(David Feest) Morgrym Gorechylde  d20=10 ;
Thursday January 5th, 2012 4:04:24 AM

" Where are we from to speak their names ? Why you came for us yourself in the Giggling Ghost, do you not remember? We are from what you said was the past, when the God's are not some fabled rumor but actual beings that take interest, indeed take part in the lives of their followers. It was not only the skill of the healer that saved me when a giant club found my skull on a caravan, but the healing touch of the priest of Ffloy that traveled with us. My families steel is not legendary by our skill alone but from the prayers and stories of deeds whispered to the steel of Domi while the items are being forged. I do not wonder if the Gods exist, I know they do from having seen their works and from simply feeling the comfort that their belief provides. I cannot understand how such a trial as this plague could chase them from your memories. I would think just the opposite. That the power they used to save those who survived would endear them more to you. Tell us why you despise their names. This is a tale I would hear."
Morgrym settles to the offered stool with a creak of leather straps and awaits this tale. More suspicious than ever now he wants to hear how this plague could turn the survivors from the gods.
Sense motive 10

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Thursday January 5th, 2012 10:11:50 AM

Urist is glad Morgrym is here to speak of Domi to these strange people. If ever his message was needed, it's needed here and now.

He looks uneasily at the gourd in his hands. "Well, the entire business at hand has been hard to swallow so far, so it seems fitting that it would come to this." He manages a weak smile & does a fake-toast to his friends before gripping the cork in his teeth & pulling it out before putting it to his lips and drinking quickly.

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29 
Thursday January 5th, 2012 12:12:58 PM

Lori sits on the provided stool, and mentally accesses her options. She agreed to come here, and all that that entailed. It obviously included this so called cure that this witchdoctor wanted to administer. She nodded her head slightly and accepted the fact that it was going to happen.
She then counted her weapons, not physically, but mentally and when she got to the Dart, she marked one off as gone, lost in the swamp.
"Am I correct in assuming that you'll need to infect Jinx as well?" Indicating the large dog wearing leather barding and carrying a backpack.

Vortigern AC21/12/19 CMD17 38/38HP -- Jim C 
Thursday January 5th, 2012 12:14:39 PM

Vortigern sat down, rubbing his bald human head--feeling like an outsider amongst all these demi-humans. Nonetheless, he kept quiet, it seemed the rest had a handle on the situation.

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D)  d20=16 ;
Thursday January 5th, 2012 2:29:05 PM

As Hegga makes no attempt to hide her curiosity of Napalm or her feelings towards the gods the cleric realizes that he is walking a fine line. He knows he needs to learn all he can from the witch about both Marteaus and the disease, but to reveal too much about himself could put the entire group in danger. He wonder's just how much the witch knows about followers of Marteaus.

Sense Motive Check to see if she suspects him to be a follower of Marteaus and if she would biew this as negative= 20

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Thursday January 5th, 2012 4:48:18 PM

Seredal, for her part, continues writing notes. The impending storytelling suits her purposes well.

Lislyn, however, goes stock still at Lori's question.

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 (Zach R) 
Thursday January 5th, 2012 5:57:36 PM

Harden shrugs at the wtiches claims. "If you say so." he says indifferently. He looks as if he is about to say something else but thinks better of it.

(David Feest) Morgrym Gorechylde 
Thursday January 5th, 2012 7:41:58 PM

" As for the cure, we have no choice but to take it. I know that I have been sounding out negatively, but these are the facts as I see them. The cure may infect us and kill us, from what I hear. The alternative is to go without and wait for something, almost anything it seems, to bite us and infect us out in the wilds where we cannot get to the cure before we die. Therefore we need to take the cure now if we are going to help these people. Is is brutal, but simple. Possibly die now, where there is aid for fighting the disease, or certainly die later, cold and alone without aid. I choose now. Madame Hegga, I will take your cure as well, or whatever I need to do to build an immunity or resistance to this plague."
Morgrym is blunt, as his nature has always been. To him the choices are simple black and white. Since the halfling host has declared the area safe, he begins to remove and clean his armor with obvious affection for the gear. he has no wish to foul it with the sweats and other possible effects of the disease. Once this is done, he relaxes and listens to Hegga's tales about the current situation and the loss of the Gods.

Dwaim the Stubborn (Keith) AC: 18/12/16 HP: 28/28 CMD: 17 (+4 vs. bull rush/trip) 
Friday January 6th, 2012 1:14:58 AM

Dwaim waits for further explanations of this cure and is curious to see how it is applied. He is barely able to contain his curiosity about the disappearance of the Gods, but takes a few deep breaths, sensing the suspicions that Hegga may have about the group already.

(DM Stephen) 
Friday January 6th, 2012 8:47:37 AM

(sorry for the delay, I fell asleep early last night. feel free to post again if you like. i will post this evening.)

A little spoon of sugar makes the medicine far worse! (DM Stephen)  d20+13=29 ; d20=1 ; d20=3 ;
Saturday January 7th, 2012 2:24:39 AM

"Giggling Ghost!! Did you say, Giggling Ghost!?" She stops in her tracks. "So it's true, my vision is true!!"

Meanwhile, Urist uncorks the gourd and drinks down Hegga's cure. Black sinuous drops spill away from the corners of his mouth as he makes haste in drinking the potion. The taste and the smell is indescribable. The texture is the consistency of jelly, smooth and yet also lumpy. By the gods, was that a crunch?! It takes every bit of willpower Urist can muster to keep himself from gagging. His stomach begins to burn and his throat soon follows. Oh no, what is that ... gak, squirming feeling? Like something is desperately trying to swim back up his neck! Oh gods! Alas, the movement fade and it slowly slides back down. Urist begins to convulse and grab at his stomach. His skin becomes pale and his veins begin to show through.

Hegga returns to Urst with a bucket and a damp cloth from a bowl of water. "Ahh, that's right, deary. You did good. Things only get better from here on out. So until that time, take this bucket." She sets it beside him, but Urist doesn't look to be in any condition to accept it. She then applies the damp cloth to his forehead.

(Urist, make a Fort Save and add +4 to your roll. You are now Sickened, no matter the roll. Then make a second Fort save 16, with no bonus, or become Nauseated. If you fail the 2nd save my more than 6 points, you become Unconscious.)

Hearing Lori's question, Hegga replies, "No deary. Animals seem not to be affected, but they do become carriers."

Hegga then turns back to Morgrym with restrained glee and asks, "You said I came to this 'Giggling Ghost' and beckoned you here," she says almost clapping. "Then it be true, I soon WILL be traveling to the 'place where the spirit laughs' and where heroes gather. I WILL talk to you ... and call you here ... in three more days under the light of the next full moon!" In her excitement, she begins to pace back and forth. "I wasn't expecting you to arrive yet. Heck, for me, our paths have yet to cross ... but, here you are. Time be so wonderfully unpredictable!"

Vgodd, Ibraham, and Ebeneezer just look at each other in utter confusion.

Urist continues on wrestling with his own demons. The whites of his eyes are completely turned red.

Hegga then turns to Vortigern with amazement. "So you must be humankin. I've never seen one of your kind with my own eyes." She begins to examine each of you more closely. "There were no humankin among the last group that came."

Napalm senses that she is being genuine and honest. Her excitement certainly was. However, you also sense that her awareness is quite keen, more than she lets on, and her curiosity is an equal match.

Hegga turns back to Morgrym and continues to explain, "You are correct, the disease be passed from wounds and it is better to receive the cure here while I can care for you. It be only a matter of time before you be sickened. I believe you all will survive the cure. When death has occurred, the patient be too weak, too old or too near death. You all are none of these things ... the cure will do you well."

Morgrym senses that she is being honest.

Hegga continues, "I know I haven't answered all your questions. I will answer more a little later. The time has passed for afternoon tea. It's almost time for supper. We'll have to combine them, I suppose, so we can be ready for evening dinner later on." She turns to Urist and asks, "Do you think you'll be fit enough for supper? I wouldn't advise drinking tea with the cure. They tend not to mix well. Could make you sick to your stomach!"

She then retreats to her house where the rattling of cups and dishes can be heard.

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl  d20+13=15 ; d4=3 ; d20+9=16 ;
Saturday January 7th, 2012 8:34:40 AM

OOC: Ignore the D4...misclicked.

***

"This is unarguably worse that the disease," is what Urist would have said if he wasn't so intent on keeping things from exiting his mouth.

He grabs the bucket, stares intently into it, and decides the he, no matter what, will not be filling it up. He tastes the bile in the back of his throat, but just barely manages to swallow it back down (2nd save - 16).

He stands to his feet and places the bucket back on the ground. "Seems that won't be necessary, but I'll take the rest of that water and any more you've got on hand. Give me some time and I'll be fine enough for supper, or at least fine enough to join the conversation."

He turns to his companions. He doesn't say a word, but the message in his eyes is unmistakable: "That was just as bad as it looked."

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29 
Saturday January 7th, 2012 7:33:10 PM

"So, we're not the first that you've asked for help? Am I to assume that they all perished attempting what you wish us to do?"
Lori is quite angry at this revelation and with out thinking about it, she slips her hood back, and puts the hat on that she usually wears. He hands are on her thighs, but those near can tell they are there by force of will, and not just because it was comfortable.

(David Feest) Morgrym Gorechylde 
Sunday January 8th, 2012 7:41:17 AM

Far less acusatory than Lori, but definitely curious Morgrym asks, " The last group? How many have tried to help you? And what exactly do you think we can do to help? Is there a place that causes this poisoning of the Wold that we can defeat or what is it we can do that you survivors cannot?"
He stays near Urist. The other Dwarf has on a brave face and has managed to keep down the cure, but his expression was sheer revulsion and the wracking that went through his body, sheer pain. Morgrym isn't sure Urist is out of the woods yet.

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Sunday January 8th, 2012 3:58:06 PM

Napalm looks to Lori with surprise. Did you think that the entire elven and human populations died off without anyone else trying to help them? This is a once in a life time adventure that could save the fate of the Wold, would you have turned down such a request even if you had been told others already failed? Please Hegga, start at the beginning. Help us to understand why your time is so different from ours. What happened that the gods took such wrath on the wold and what can we do about this disease? Looking at Urist he adds, After this cure, are we no longer susceptible to the disease?

As Hegga tells the story and serves dinner Napalm thinks about the little food he packed for the journey and asks for tips about foraging for food and how to prevent spreading the disease.

Questions he will ask include:
Would meat from creatures they kill be safe to eat or contaminated?
Is it spread through being bitten, or would a wound from a sword or fist to the head carry the same risk?
What should they do if wounded in the future?
What if something gets its blood on them or their weapons?


Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Sunday January 8th, 2012 8:23:04 PM

"We're never going home, are we." Seredal looks up from her notes with the beginning of tears. "We'd be carriers."

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 (Zach R) 
Sunday January 8th, 2012 11:20:05 PM

Harden begins to comment but keeps his mouth shut. After a few moments he does something unexpected and quite obviously out of character. He walks over and puts a hand on Seredal's shoulder.

"We be heroes, we figure this out, save the Wold, past, present, and future, and be home before you know it. Trust me." It's obvious the Half-Orc isn't good at giving encouragement and rarely does so. He even seems sincere, doing an odd sort of wink as he finishes. Either that or he has something in his eye.

Vortigern AC21/12/19 CMD17 38/38HP -- Jim C 
Monday January 9th, 2012 12:19:27 PM

Vortigern relazes a bit, confident in the fact that the people he is traveling with are of good hearts and minds.

Dwaim the Stubborn (Keith) AC: 18/12/16 HP: 28/28 CMD: 17 (+4 vs. bull rush/trip) 
Monday January 9th, 2012 8:22:43 PM

"Well, then, like you said Seredal, I think we either find a permanent cure to cleanse this disease from the Wold, or we're stuck here forever. Remember to mention that little tidbit to us in a few days, won't you Hegga? In the meantime, I suppose we might as well eat some supper. Our choice is made, our path is set, no point in worrying about things we can't undo."

Dwaim believes that the best way to treat bad news is to keep moving through it. A busy mind doesn't dwell on despair. He offers to lend a hand to Hegga as she prepares the meal.

(David Feest) Morgrym Gorechylde 
Monday January 9th, 2012 10:09:57 PM

" Would you decide against coming then? If the answer is 'Yes, I wouldn't have come' then you chose wrong in coming the first time since you haven't the stuff of heroes inside you. If the answer is 'No, I would come anyway' Why does it matter if she tells us or not? A matter of semantics eh? Either way, you are here now. Make the best of it. Make your ancestors proud and give your past self something to look forward to in the future."

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Monday January 9th, 2012 10:51:57 PM

The halfling shrugs, not lifting her eyes from the ground. "I didn't come to make history but to record it. I've never claimed to be a hero; I just follow in their wake." After a pause, she swallows and looks up at the group. "So. Permanent cure. Right."

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29 
Monday January 9th, 2012 11:40:47 PM

"I came on this Jaunt, apparently through time, because I had a sort of premonition in the form of a dream, a couple days before You even appeared at the Giggling Ghost. I may be an obstinate pain in the ass, but when your chosen Deity sees fit to send a message that your talents are of use, I take the first hint, and don't wait for a more blunt nudge. I've found that waiting for a more direct indication of what is wished, tends to be rather violent.
I'm also curious as to just what happened to my ancestors. Something drastic I assume to have eliminated them both, as both are, err were rather populous and hardy enough, at least in my mind."

After having said that many words at once, Lori has probably used her allowance of words for the next couple days, at least.
She sits where directed to, and motions Jinx to rest next to her. The very large dog collapses into a pile of flesh, bones, armor and gear, resting his head on his front paws. He's still recovering some from the trip through the tapestry.

Past and Present (DM Stephen) 
Tuesday January 10th, 2012 3:23:51 AM

The air is filled with not only the musky scent of rats, but also the more pleasant aroma of good home cooking. By now everyone has sat down to afternoon tea. Everyone has a cup ... Hegga insists. Except the poor Urist, who has been declined due to medical reasons. The bad taste in his mouth persists, and his stomach a little queasy, but he is beginning to notice that the fever has broken.

Hegga tries her best to answer everyone's questions between trips to her kitchen and refilling tea cups. "I didn't call for the first group that came from the past. They just showed up, much like you did, but without an invitation. Until them, the concept of time travel I believed to be impossible. There were elves among them, and orckin. Their kind had died off ages ago. I didn't know what to think of them, until they revealed themselves to us. They were completely ignorant of the plague that drove their kind into extinction. However, one of them spoke of the plague that killed off the dragons ... a deaf elf ... an oracle with the gift, a soothsayer." Hegga takes a sip and continues.

"Lori deary, these adventurers had no known reason to be here. As far as everyone knew, includin' myself, there presence here was a 'cosmic accident'. They claimed to be merely travelin' to a hamlet, and along the way, ended up here. As far as I can tell, they were quite successful in their ventures. They didn't fail, deary. In fact, there adventurin' became very well known. Then one day, they disappeared ... just as suddenly as they came. They brought to me the troll skulls that you see over there. Not to mention all that blood!"

Hegga turns to Morgrym and replies, "the Wold is completely saturated with the disease ... there is no one source, other than the 'One' who created it! After 'he' unleashed it, even the gods retreated from the Wold, leavin' us all behind to fend for ourselves. Legends say that even one of the gods perished from the plague. I don't know which one, nor do I know all their names. After the Great Betrayal, most of the temples to those gods were sacked, their libraries burned and almost all of their lore destroyed and forgotten in time. Though a few shrines still exist, they're probably not the kind you're familiar with. There is a small one in the neighboring town of Hellmarr. The sanctuary is kept by a kind of priest that revers divinity and deities. He has the largest collection of divine lore, which isnt much. Most of what I know I learned from either him or my visions."

Before Hegga can catch her breath, she listens to Napalm's question and tries to respond to his satisfaction. "No deary. It is remembered that all the noble races attempted to work together. The elves are said to have tried to organize and make use of all their accumulated knowledge. Alas their time ran out. In the end, they knew they were doomed. Their last act of savin' the Wold, they constructed the Gates ... the ones you came through to get here. If it not be for the gates, the remaining survivors couldn't have disbursed to all the far places of the Wold. Now the gates serve a new purpose ... a new hope. All those great minds didn't die in vain."

"You speak of the difference of people from this time and yours. Let me ask you what happens when a man loses his vision ... his other senses sharpen to compensate. Like the deaf oracle I spoke of. The same thing happens when a man looses his faith or his 'light'. The darkness, the void be filled with a new sight ... a new spark of divinity. A spark from within. These 'gifted' learn to seek divinity within themselves. They see the future, they can see from afar without having ever been there. Even seeing places that no longer exist."

"Why did the One take his revenge upon the Wold? I do not know. Why did the other gods flee? I can only assume they feared the plague and simply ran away leaving us all here to die. It gives me so much pride that where gods would run, WE still stand!! And as far as I be concerned ... good riddance!!"

Hegga blows her nose. She has allowed herself to get flustered. After one good snort in her handkerchief, she says, "Once the cure has taken hold, it takes hold for good. Some may need a second or third dose after several moons, but if a year goes by an the disease fails to return ... you be really cured."

Hegga sets her tea down and looks back at her kitchen. "Ahhh, just in time for supper. I'll be gettin' bowls for everyone."



Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Tuesday January 10th, 2012 3:47:34 PM

A disturbing thought crosses Napalms mind....

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29 
Tuesday January 10th, 2012 3:54:13 PM

Lori plans on being quiet, unless something comes up that she can't let pass without getting her comments heard. She will eat some, but not a lot of the dinner that is served, not exactly sure what is being served for dinner.

(David Feest) Morgrym Gorechylde 
Tuesday January 10th, 2012 4:41:26 PM

" OK, I think I understand more now, Thank you. Will you be able to administer the cure to us before we are full blown diseased or do we need to get the disease first?" As he says this he eyes the caged rats. He does not relish allowing one of them to bite him, but being infected far from help and the cure is less desirable by far.
" The way you describe it the only way we could stop the plague is to use your 'gates' to go to a time before the plague and keep it from happening, does that sound right?"

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 (Zach R) 
Tuesday January 10th, 2012 6:00:20 PM

Harden drinks his tea silently, and waits patiently for diner to be served.

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Tuesday January 10th, 2012 11:43:25 PM

Urist silently wonders what will happen when it's time to pray to Domi. Is he now trapped in a world where his years of devotion are for naught? He's unable to think of much else, really. Though he is glad to be feeling somewhat better...

Dwaim the Stubborn (Keith) AC: 18/12/16 HP: 28/28 CMD: 17 (+4 vs. bull rush/trip) 
Wednesday January 11th, 2012 1:22:28 AM

"Hmph! Domi would never run, no matter the danger he faced! The gods may be separated from the Wold, but I doubt it is of their own will." Dwaim constrains himself from further arguments, after all, their host has been nothing but helpful. He eats plentifully of the dinner provided.

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Wednesday January 11th, 2012 1:56:22 AM

Seredal is back to scribing, concentrating very hard on her text.

(David Feest) Morgrym Gorechylde 
Wednesday January 11th, 2012 4:35:00 AM

"No Dwaim, If one God stood and fought, It would be Domi the Protector. She also thought one may have died too." Morgrym is quiet as he says this. It is starting to become clear HOW overreaching this plague really is.

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Wednesday January 11th, 2012 1:49:41 PM

Napalm looks an shock when Hegga speaks and takes a second to gather his thoughts. Hegga, your comments are really really ironic. For despising the creator of the disease so, you sound a surprising amount like his followers. I am an alchemist and a healer, and through my studies of disease I have learned much of ...this god. He thought that the gods of Wold caused weakness and indecision among the people and used his diseases get people to look within to find the true way to power and success.

When the topic turns to Domi standing up for the people Napalm cannot help but adding to the conversation. You guys need to learn your history a little better. Mar...the creator of this plague has fought against the gods in the past, and he has beaten Domi before. It was the power he got in that battle that allowed him to become god. In fact, the only god he couldn't beat at the time was Gargul. Fearing he said too much he quickly adds, In the end it was a group of heroes from the noble races that defeated him, not another god. I think if we are to proceed it would be prudent to learn more about this disease and form from the priest with the collection of divine lore.



Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 (Zach R) 
Wednesday January 11th, 2012 6:32:35 PM

Harden gives Napalm a quizzical look at his comments on the gods.

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Wednesday January 11th, 2012 7:25:34 PM

What are you looking at? I was formally schooled at Maplehurst Academy, one of the best schools in the Wold. You cannot go after the wicked as a follower of Alemi without taking classes and learning something about the gods, and you cannot become a healer without learning about diseases and the god that creates them.

Say what?! (DM Stephen) 
Wednesday January 11th, 2012 8:07:33 PM

(sorry, fell asleep prematurely last night.)

Everyone has their bowls filled and the hardy soup Hegga serves is rather tasty, a bit unusual, but good. The conversation continues amid the slurping and the spoon grating against the bottom of pygg clay bowls. Even Urist is beginning to feel the slightest tinge of appetite. Hegga advises Urist to go ahead and have some soup.

Hegga responds to Morgrym's inquiry about their treatment. "Oh why yes. That is where the rats come in. All manner of creature can spread the disease, but rats seem to have the greatest talent at infecting others. Tomorrow, each of you will need to be scratched or bitten by my most skilled rats and have the plague passed onto you. Once the disease manifests, you will be given the cure. If the first attempt fails to give you the plague, multiple tries will need to be given. Don't worry though, I've bred my rats to be especially potent."

She continues to listen to Morgrym speak of the gates and time travel. "Deary, the gates were originally erected to be portals for travelin' great distances, not time travel. The current fact that you're here, and the last groups arrival, is not understood. What ever it might be, I believe there be other forces at work here. Things that have yet to reveal themselves!"

Hegga addresses Dwain about Domi. "Who is to say what made this, uh Domi ... to leave. I don't know. Although I wonder, which be more troublin', this Domi not being brave or something or someone takin' away a god's will. If Domi carries the mantle of Protector, as Morgrym suggests, then one thing be certain ... Domi was defeated!"

Hegga's eyes widen when Napalm speaks up. She listens intently as the cleric displays his knowledge of ancient lore. "Fascinating!! Please speak more of this. I have never heard these stories. Who were the heroes? Actual mortals stood before the One and triumphed!?" Then she pauses and her tone becomes quite serious. "Now, about comparing me to followers of the One, from anyone else, I would take that as a great insult. However, I don't believe your intent was to do me harm, therefore I will not take it as a slight on my character. I do thank you for taking the effort at not say his name in front of me, for I can tell you have not the slightest trouble at saying it. Although I will have to disagree. I don't create disease ... I cure it, along with a whole host of ailments. I like to think healing is my divine spark."

Hegga removes a miniature jewel-encrusted chest from her pocket. She then takes a tiny key on a chain from around her neck. She unlocks the tiny chest and then opens it. Suddenly a large version of the chest appears on the ground next to her. She turns back to Napalm with a smile and opens the larger chest. As she peruses through the contents, you can hear the rattle of bottles and crumple of paper, among other things. She pulls out a book and a quill and turns to an empty page and begins to take notes. Suddenly she stops as if realizing something. "I almost forgot ... we don't need any eavesdroppers." She speaks a short incantation and the ring that some of you noticed that circled the farm begins to glow slightly. "It's now safe to speak and go about our business."



(David Feest) Morgrym Gorechylde 
Wednesday January 11th, 2012 8:18:04 PM

"You mean normally it is not safe? Who or what listens in on you? Or does something listen Woldwide awaiting a specific word or phrase? Does the One who created the plague still walk the Wold, or did he ever? Would he be able to lift the plague from the Wold then, do you suppose?" Morgrym sits back and listens to what Hegga has to say, and to the stories told by Napalm. Apparently they are quite lucky to have such a scholar of the Wold's divine among them on this mission.

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 (Zach R) 
Wednesday January 11th, 2012 8:55:26 PM

Harden looks back to Napalm. "I think you have the wrong idea. I'm not mad... I'm actually quite impressed."

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Wednesday January 11th, 2012 9:05:05 PM

Napalms heart stops...from anyone else, I would take that as a great insult. How much does the witch suspect about Napalm? Does she suspect him to be a follower of Mareatus and is that why she wouldn't take it to be an insult coming from him. Quickly he tries to smooth things over. I didn't mean it like that. I was referring to your faith in the inner strength of the people here and their not needing to rely on a god in times of need. He decides to leave his comments at that.

Napalm tenses up once again as Hegga activates the circle around the farm, not so much because he is worried about the spell as because he is going to have a hard time explaining why he knows more about Mareatus that Alemi and the other gods.

I'll tell you what I know, but remember that I am not a religious scholar. Like you, I am a healer, and the stories I was taught were those thought relevant to my craft. Before I tell you what I know, what did you mean just then about eavesdroppers, and why must these stories be so protected?

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Wednesday January 11th, 2012 9:24:27 PM

ooc: This week has absolutely blown up in my face. Landlord disputes, mortgage talks, public speaking appearances, meetings with the fine folks at social security...it's a real nightmare, fellow Woldians. My posts will need to be short until I get through this.

***

Urist instinctively bristles at Napalm's words, but truth is truth. "He isn't known as Domi the unstoppable or Domi the Undefeated, he's Domi the Protector. Hegga speaks the truth, though. If Domi's no longer in this world, then he was defeated.

"Hegga, perhaps you can explain to me why all gods are held in such low regards here..."

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29 
Thursday January 12th, 2012 1:33:38 PM

Lori decides not to mention whom it is she has faith in, even though she's not a very devout follower, she knows somewhere he is most likely still out there. She listens in as the rest discuss their points of view.

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Thursday January 12th, 2012 6:05:20 PM

scribble scribble scribble scribble scribble...

Dwaim the Stubborn (Keith) AC: 18/12/16 HP: 28/28 CMD: 17 (+4 vs. bull rush/trip) 
Thursday January 12th, 2012 6:47:35 PM

Visibly troubled by Domi's apparent fate, Dwaim sits back and listens to the conversation, only interjecting near the end. "I too would like to know what we have to beware of eavesdropping on us, trolls don't strike me as the sneaky types. This Wold's theology is strange, I look forward to visiting the shrine in Hellmarr after we receive the cure."

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 (Zach R) 
Thursday January 12th, 2012 7:48:13 PM

Harden keeps his ear open and his mouth shut. He has found that is the best way learn.

Vortigern AC21/12/19 CMD17 38/38HP -- Jim C 
Thursday January 12th, 2012 10:05:19 PM

He wasn't sure when it happened, but he was somewhere else, and there was this strange buzzing sound in the background.

Vortigern has drifted off to sleep.

Peace and carrots (DM Stephen) 
Friday January 13th, 2012 2:12:06 AM

Hegga steps over to to Napalm and places her hand on his shoulder. "No need to be alarmed. You are safe here. The eavesdroppers I mention are the ones I spoke of ... the gifted, the ones with a spark of divinity ... the Powers that be and the Powers that will be. I am sensitive to prying eyes, scryers, viewers from afar. My magical ward blinds these peepers of my farm and diverts their vision to a different location. We are safe here." She hopes this also answers Dwaim's question.

Then Urist asks a question that she has been trying to answer for the past few hours. However, she realizes that he hasn't been in the best shape to listen during that time. "Long story made short, deary. The god of disease set a great plague upon the Wold. The other gods failed to stop him and they ALL retreated from the Wold and have not returned. They abandoned us with a plague that nearly led to all our extinction. Need any other reasons?"

She turns back to Napalm, "I didn't mean to alarm you ... hee hee, you should have seen your face."

Returning to her empty cooking pot she comments, "I think I will start another stew for evening dinner. You all must be tired from your journey. Feel free to bed down for the night. I will keep it simmering for 1st breakfast in the morning.

The rest of the evening stays somewhat peaceful. Only the sounds of nature, the crackle of the fire, and Hegga chopping carrots in her kitchen. Even the rats have calmed down with their bellies filled with whatever mishmash Hegga feeds them. Eventually, everyone goes to sleep and its a peaceful night.

The next morning as the sun rises, the rats begin to stir in their cages. Hegga remains asleep in her rocking chair on the front porch. Her pipe still clutched in her teeth.

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl  d20+11=22 ;
Friday January 13th, 2012 12:54:56 PM

Urist can only shake his head. Domi abandoning the people of the Wold to flee from disease? That absolutely could not be. He's unsure if Hegga is hiding anything (sense motive: 22), or if their lore is mistaken...or maybe Domi really did abandon the Wold.

Having spent decades in service to Domi, Urist will be damned if he'll accept this as truth based on here say. Domi has enough admirers, if not followers, in his group to warrant them finding the whole truth.

That evening, he will pray to Domi for his spells as he always does. He does his best not to let doubt get to him.

(David Feest) Morgrym Gorechylde 
Friday January 13th, 2012 4:09:08 PM

With his armor already removed and cleaned, and his weapon cleaned as well, Morgrym goes to his pack and gets out his blankets. Using his pack as a pillow he gets a good night's sleep, taking Hegga at her word that they are safe here. Once cured he wants to find out more about these gem sockets that the people here set in their armor. He knows he could make them, once he understands how they work.

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29 
Friday January 13th, 2012 5:57:55 PM

Lori follows suit and pulls some gear off Jinx and goes about setting up a 2 person tent. She helps Jinx get out of his armor and the pack attached to his back. She then unrolls a bedroll and then gos to sleep.
She plans on getting up early, and getting stuff packed away, and being ready to go, after surviving the "CURE".

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 (Zach R) 
Friday January 13th, 2012 8:16:05 PM

Harden waits to see what is going to try and kill them first, the rats or the cure.

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Saturday January 14th, 2012 12:30:22 AM

Napalm is glad when everyone goes to bed and at midnight begins praying to Marteaus, not just for his daily spells, but also for a sign as to the god's will and some insight into the events of the past. Where are his fellow clergy? As far as Napalm had been taught, Marteaus diseases were not designed to kill outright, but rather to help people find his Great Need. How were the people to do this without guidance from the god or his followers? From time to time he wonders if Marteaus would even want him to aid in curing the Wold of this disease, but he remembers that although his god didn't heal people, even Marteaus cured diseases to the person the chance to slowly return to their normal health. Could it be that the Wold and even the gods had been purged and tested and now it was time for them to rebuild?

On the other hand, if the stories of Marteaus Revenge were true, what was the revenge for and what did the Marteaus wish for Napalm to do? Did the people need to repent for some forgotten crime against the gods, or perhaps there was something more. Marteaus and his fellow carriers placed great value on planning and manipulation. Perhaps there was something more. How many of his brothers took on the guise as a shepherd of Alemi to help their subjects to a clarity of purpose, and had he not already fallen into the role of claiming to be a healer and follower of Alemi. Was he to help the people find their purpose.

Once again he prays silently for a sign or a vision as to the gods will.

Peace and carrots (DM Stephen) 
Monday January 16th, 2012 1:48:20 AM

Urist senses that whatever she says, no matter how outrageous, she at least believes it. It may not be the truth for you, but it is to her. You pray for your spells, and at first you find it extremely difficult. You just don't feel that connection you once did. In fact, at first you feel nothing at all. You struggle and stain for that bond. Then, the tiniest inkling of a sensation. Like a faint echo carried on the wind from afar. A tenuous connection at best, but you feel your power restored. Although an aspect of the link felt unfamiliar.

The rest of you experience a similar situation when you attempt to pray.

As you all begin to rise and stretch off the mornings slumber, Hegga is still fast asleep in her rocking chair. Her pipe still clutched in her teeth. Then you hear someone approaching from behind one of the distant rat coop. It's Hegga carrying a small cage of rats and walking towards the party. "Good morning, dearies," she says with exuberance! You all look at the sleeping Hegga, then the awake Hegga, then back again! He notices your surprise and she starts to giggle. As she approaches, she looks at her sleeping self and snaps her finger. The sleeping Hegga crumples to the floor and collapses into a scattered pile of random items: a stuffed sack, a broom, a pumpkin and a small cooking pot.

She giggles a little more and explains, "I be gatherin' a few things early this morn, didn't want to alarm you with my absence. Brought my prize rats, you wont be needin' multiple scratches or bites with these." One of the tiny rats hisss menacingly. "I guess we better get started. Best before breakfast. An empty stomach will be a blessing after the cure. Who first?"

(David Feest) Morgrym Gorechylde 
Monday January 16th, 2012 5:27:29 AM

Morgrym had already thought this over. Better a controlled case of the disease than a raging case out where no one could help him. Standing up he says" Me, I'll get the disease and get this cure done with."
He rolls up his sleeves and prepares for the trial to come.

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 (Zach R) 
Monday January 16th, 2012 7:42:50 AM

Harden walks over and holds out an arm for the cure to be administered.

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29 
Monday January 16th, 2012 12:34:38 PM

Lori having packed up when she awoke earlier, is quite surprised when whom she assumed was Hegga turns to various items and falls to pieces.
"I'll take this CURE whenever you get around to me. I'm not in a hurry, but neither am I trying to avoid taking it. I understand it's a necessity."
While she's waiting she readies Jinx for the day by gearing him back up, to which he gives her a slobbering kiss as she's securing his barding. She gives him a hug around the neck and waits once finished.

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Monday January 16th, 2012 2:29:40 PM

Napalm is somewhat disappointed when he doesn't get a clear message from Mareatus, but as his spells are recharged he knows he still has a connection with the god. Silently he thinks to himself, I suppose the only way to figure out his will is to investigate further. When Hegga returns with the rats Napalm offers to go first, not wanting the others to think he might be scared of the treatment.

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Monday January 16th, 2012 4:36:30 PM

Seredal is...not thrilled. She'll wait until the end.

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl  d20+4=17 ; d20+8=12 ; d20+8=25 ; d20+8=20 ; d20+8=23 ; d20+8=9 ;
Monday January 16th, 2012 8:06:04 PM

For the first time, Urist is glad he had to take the cure already. He does his best to put on a happy face to show that they'll all get past it relatively quickly.

When they get a moment of peace, he makes his way to the other divine casters in the group.

"Anyone else feel something different when they prayed last? My connection to Domi was...off some how, but I'm not sure if I can say how."

"Was that even Domi," he thinks silently to himself. "Is it possible for other gods to step up and restore another cleric's power like that? (Knowledge religion: 17).

He'll spend his morning doing what he can to make those who take the cure comfortable...

OOC:
Several heal checks incoming to help with the symptoms of the cure:

12, 25, 20, 23, 9

Dwaim the Stubborn (Keith) AC: 18/12/16 HP: 28/28 CMD: 17 (+4 vs. bull rush/trip)  d20+7=25 ; d20+7=21 ; d20+7=10 ; d20+7=20 ; d20+7=19 ; d20+6=17 ; d20+6=24 ;
Monday January 16th, 2012 11:26:24 PM

Dwaim rises with the sun, he gathers himself with some trepidation and says his morning prayers, fearful that he might not get a response. His relief at the response is tempered heavily by the strangeness of it. When Urist asks, he responds: "It felt very.... odd... like Domi was barely there, perhaps he was gravely wounded defending the Wold, left clinging to life by his battle with the master of disease."

Putting his doubts to the back of his mind, he grits his teeth and prepares for the disease/cure to be administered. He follows Urist's instructions, since he has intimately experienced the cure and helps to tend the symptoms of the disease.

-----------------------
Heal Checks (aid another for Urist): 25, 21, 10, 20, 19
Fortitude save(s) for cure if necessary: 17, 24

This cure bites! (DM Stephen) 
Tuesday January 17th, 2012 12:11:35 AM

(short and sweet tonight, brain has shut down for the evening)

Everyone except Urist submits to the bite of the squirmy, hissing rat. Hegga kindly asks Urist not to interfere with the process by attempting to treat the wounds. "The disease must present itself immediately or the rat will have to continue inflicting wounds until fever sets in."

(It doesn't matter if you save against the rat's bite. In fact, you should hope you fail because Hegga is going to administer bites until the disease manifests itself with fever. Those with high Fort saves may require many bites until you fail. This is more of less a Take 20 for failure :)

Some of you immediately feel the fatigue set in and the fever soon follows. Others require multiple wounds before their stout natures fail to resist. Several of you take pride in this painful fact. Then you all find a nice and restful spot and each of you are given a corked gourd that sloshes with a syrupy liquid. Hegga tells you all the same instructions she told Urist the day before.

The three taurs turn away for not wanting to watch.

(You each take the Cure potion. Everyone make a single Fort save with a +4 bonus. Dwain's fort check has been noted, so you dont have to.)

One last thing ... (DM Stephen) 
Tuesday January 17th, 2012 12:25:52 AM

I forgot to mention ...

Urist doesn't recall any incidences where a deity intervened to provide divine power to followers of another god. It's always been the cleric that solicited the favor of a particular god. In fact, there are many clerics known in history to worship multiple gods. This was definitely a unique experience.

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 (Zach R)  d20+8=17 ;
Tuesday January 17th, 2012 12:58:19 AM

Harden finds a nice shade tree to sit under as he drinks the not so tasty liquid. He is a little quesy buy tries to show no emotion as the fever of the disease wracks his body.

Fort Save: 17

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D)  d20+13=29 ;
Tuesday January 17th, 2012 3:43:34 PM

Napalm holds his arm out for the rat to bite, but nothing seems to happen. After a few minutes he holds his hand out again, but to no effect. It seems the healer and cleric of disease has a high tolerance for such infections. It isn't until his arm is covered in bite marks that the disease takes hold and the fever begins. As he waits for the cure to be brought to him Napalm puts his prayers to good use and casts his the guidance and resistance cantrips before downing the foul tasting cure. Fortunately the halfling proves himself to have an iron stomach and avoids any further nausea.

Fort Save: 29!!!

(David Feest) Morgrym Gorechylde  d20+6=10 ;
Tuesday January 17th, 2012 5:12:23 PM

Morgrym requires several bites before the infection takes him, but when it does it hits hard. Not wearing any of his gear save for normal clothes he takes the offered cure potion and drinks it with a groan. EGADS the stuff is horrible!! He holds the vile liquid inside him as long as he can but the sickening effects of the cure win out. He staggers off to the edge of the swamp and empties his stomach of the contents of last nights dinner. Once he thinks it is all out of him he finds that the nausea has not finished yet and he retches and gags several more times. Finally, weak and wracked by spasms and cramping he crawls back to the hut. He curls up in his blankets and silently prays for the cure to work, he cannot endure doing this again.

Seredal Hosah (Josh)  d20+9=23 ;
Tuesday January 17th, 2012 6:17:29 PM

Seredal takes the flask and begins chanting the words to the ballad Fallen to Dust, which upon further reflection was probably not the best choice for psyching herself up. Strangely, it seems to work; after the initial bucketful of spewage, she did seem to feel better...so far. She looks around at her fellow sufferers, trying to think of the right thing to say to get them through the travail.

------------
(Start Bardic Performance, Inspire Courage
Fort save = 23
Casting Saving Finale on Morgrym if possible; if not, on the next sufferer that rolled a 6 or less on their d20. The bad thing about that spell is there's almost no in-character way to describe that.)


Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29  d20+3=5 ; d20+3=15 ;
Tuesday January 17th, 2012 7:18:24 PM

Lori gets bitten and succumbs on the first bite, unlike some of her companions.
She drinks the vile stuff and proceeds to vomit it right straight back out, egads that's some nasty stuff.
She feels ill and wishes that her stomach was in someone else right about now. She curls up next to Jinx and just lays there moaning and groaning.

First roll was to become sickened (forgot to add +4)
Second roll 15

Dwaim the Stubborn (Keith) AC: 18/12/16 HP: 28/28 CMD: 17 (+4 vs. bull rush/trip) 
Tuesday January 17th, 2012 11:54:23 PM

Although his arm is pocked with several bites, Dwaim finally succumbs to the fever, joining his companions in their misery. He swallows the foul concoction and is glad that he is able to eject it from his system immediately. Washing his mouth with water, he puts on his best stoic face and lies down in one of the dark corners, somewhat ashamed of his inability to contain the extreme discomfort he's in.

Morning Sickness (DM Stephen) 
Wednesday January 18th, 2012 12:32:59 AM

You all eventually feel the fever come on and find a comfortable place to take your cure potion. You all experience the same distasteful and horrific experience that Urist had to endure. Hegga walks about checking on each of you, with a cool compress against your sweating brows. Once the worst is over, she retreats to her house and begins to start preparing breakfast.

As you each lay there, you all eventually begin to notice that your fever appears to be broken. Hegga makes her rounds again, this time with a bucket of cool, clean drinking water and a ladle. She offers you each a drink of water. She explains that you are all cured, for now! However, she warns that while some of you may be cured permanently, others of you might only put their disease into dormancy.

"You all should return within six to eight moons and be examined. You might require a second dose. This disease is quite formidable and persistent, as you may imagine."

Then suddenly Hegga holds her head in what looks to be pain! After a short moment, she regains her wits and looks around startled. "What just happened," she utters? As she looks around taking account of everything, she notices something is wrong. "Where is your humankin ... Vortigern?" She hurries over to where he was resting. You all may decide to do the same. His bedroll and pack and some of his gear remains, however Vortigern is nowhere in sight. The gourd that contained his cure potion is also gone. A beautifully ornate gavel rest upon the ground where he had been. Hegga reaches for it and it fades away when her hand becomes close enough to touch it.

"Dearies .... did you just see that? Does that mallet mean anything to you?"

(Knowledge (religion) check DC 5, simple)

(ooc: Jim Chalder (Vortigern) needed to leave from the game because of time restrains and other commitments. He is more than welcome to return at anytime. For now, other 'entities' have need of him.)

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Wednesday January 18th, 2012 7:33:34 AM

ooc: Heal checks were to comfort those who took the cure, not to help fight the disease.

"Aye. I saw it Hegga, and I'm pretty sure I know what it means..."(Urist can't fail a DC5 religion check)

(David Feest) Morgrym Gorechylde 
Wednesday January 18th, 2012 5:31:45 PM

" To me it means the gods ain't all dead or fled. Pantheon called the paladin to his side, and left a token behind for all of us to see that he still interacts with the Wold. That's how I see it anyways."
"Now that we have been cured and washed the taste of death from our mouths, let us eat your breakfast and see if there are any more questions. Then I would like to see this nearby town. I am keen to see their forge and how they make those socketed armors. Very keen indeed."

Morgrym then retires back to the hut where he begins putting on his armor. As he does so he makes sure that each piece is still clean and not affected by the elements. When breakfast is served he eats and then looks forward to being shown this town.

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Wednesday January 18th, 2012 6:04:46 PM

Seredal writes the event and the impression in her journal, and follows.

Dwaim the Stubborn (Keith) AC: 18/12/16 HP: 28/28 CMD: 17 (+4 vs. bull rush/trip) 
Wednesday January 18th, 2012 6:16:23 PM

"Yeah, but Pantheon when? This time travel stuff makes my head hurt, and this disease doesn't help." Dwaim goes back to his breakfast, holding his head. Later, when done with breakfast he states that he's headed to town. "Well, I'd also like to head to Hellmar and see this shrine."

Morning Beans (DM Stephen) 
Thursday January 19th, 2012 12:35:54 AM

"Bah," fusses Hegga, "More like a thief stealing my cure!" She stomps back toward her house, mumbling the entire way. "Nooo, couldn't come askin' for my cure ... heavens no! Leaves a simple glamour behind ... not impressed ... no, no, NOT impressed!" With a 'SLAM' of her door, she retreats to her small house to sulk.

She calls out from the darkness of her window, "Breakfast is in the pot. Eat up and best be on your way!" There is a bubbling pot of beans on the fire with a collection of bowls and spoons on the table next to it. "Ohh, don't forget ... be back in six moons."

Ebeneezer doesn't waste time grabbing a bowl. He looks back at the group and shrugs. "You heard her. Lets eat breakfast and be on our way to Hellmar."

Ibraham whispers to Vgodd, "what happened to da humankin?!" He answers, "don't know! i think he be hammered into nothingness by one of the powers!" Ibraham shudders at the idea.

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Thursday January 19th, 2012 2:53:59 PM

Napalm thanks Hegga for her hospitality. Thank you, we will see you again before six moons. Is there anything you would like us to tell the guy at the shrine or that you would like us to look up for you?

(David Feest) Morgrym Gorechylde 
Thursday January 19th, 2012 4:58:25 PM

After eating his beans, Morgrym is ready to go to town. He will almost immediately head to the smithy unless someone or something else demands his attention.

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 (Zach R) 
Thursday January 19th, 2012 6:43:47 PM

Harden, never one to turn down a hot meal, eats before preparing to be off on his way.

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Thursday January 19th, 2012 8:14:44 PM

Seredal might not be a hero, but she's sometimes starved like the ones she's followed, and no one's going to be hunting plagued animals on the trail. She digs in.

Dwaim the Stubborn (Keith) AC: 18/12/16 HP: 28/28 CMD: 17 (+4 vs. bull rush/trip) 
Thursday January 19th, 2012 8:55:11 PM

"My thanks for the hospitality and the cure Hegga. Trusting we live that long, we'll be back before six moons have turned." Dwaim gathers his belongings and sets off on the trail to Hellmar. He plans to visit the shrine first when they get there.

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Thursday January 19th, 2012 8:57:39 PM

Urist eats his fair share of beans before hefting his pack and heading off with the party. Mindful of Hegga's beliefs, he offers a silent prayer to Domi for her well-being.

Highway to Hellmar (DM Stephen) 
Friday January 20th, 2012 1:05:51 AM

Hegga calls out again from her window, "Yes ... do not forget, Six moons!! And your welcome. Good day!"

After a nights rest and four meals, you all feel strong, full and well rested. The trip to Hellmar should be a breeze. The road is well traveled. Many sets of tracks and wheel ruts. There are many turn offs and adjoining trails along the way. "Ahh, I'd say we just over 5000 paces from town. Be there in time for a late lunch," claims Ebeneezer. The other two nod in agreement.

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Friday January 20th, 2012 11:29:17 AM

As they approach the town Napalm turns to the groups guides. Before we get there, can you tell us more about Hellmar? Who leads the people, who we should avoid or not trust, and the best place for a good meal and a stiff drink?

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 (Zach R)  d20+8=28 ;
Friday January 20th, 2012 4:31:47 PM

Harden keeps his eyes peeled for something. He has a weird sense of impending doom. He doubts there is anything to worry about this close to Hellmar, but then again, you just never know.

Perception: 28 (Natural 20)

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29  d20+9=25 ;
Friday January 20th, 2012 7:33:05 PM

Lori is feeling much better in the morning and after getting herself and Jinx ready to travel, she once again pulls her hood up over her head, hiding her face and ears from casual looks.
"With a name like Hellmar, this town we are heading to doesn't sound all that inviting to me. Does this place have a weapon shop? I'd like to replace the dart I threw at that rat in the water, I hate being down numbers of weapons I use. It could come down to that very last one in a pinch."
She keeps he eyes and ears peeled for anything that might be a threat as the group travels.

Perception 25


Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Friday January 20th, 2012 10:56:33 PM

"This road seems well-traveled, for a world with a depleted populace...?"

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Saturday January 21st, 2012 8:19:59 AM

Urist nods at Lori's comments. "Aye, who decided to name the place Hellmar, anyway?"

Fully recovered, Urist hangs back as the group continues on. If possible, he'll take rear-guard position so he can keep an eye on everyone.

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 (Zach R)  d20+8=13 ;
Monday January 23rd, 2012 4:02:00 PM

Harden continues trudging along keeping his eyes peeled as they head towards Hellmar.

Perception: 13

Scene 3: The Powers That Be


Welcoming Party 
Tuesday May 29th, 2012 9:03:03 AM

Very quickly after leaving Hegga's Farm, you leave the Spirit Swamp behind, without seeing any spirits, just rats. The party enters a beautiful oak tree covered hilly land heading east paralleling the coastline to the north. Two hours later, the road tops a hill and where a walled town perches near the edge of a cliff leading down to the ocean. A gate is the largest feature standing some 40' tall, looming over the 20' walls of the town.

A sign made of wood has a single word burned into it:

HELLMARR

A contingent of people await the group standing beneath the gate. Villagers carrying baskets of food and drink are flanked by 6 town guards dressed as Ebineezer, Ibraham, and Vgodd.

A slightly plump halfling man smiles hugely as you approach and says, "Welcome to Hellmarr!"

At exactly the same time, the lead soldier, a burly centaur woman, dressed as if she was a descendent of a native amazon tribe says, "Come with us to meet the PTB. By their will, all new arrivals in Hellmarr must appear before them to determine their motives."

The halfling says, "Their will be done."

[Feel free to make any checks and take any actions you wish.]

---------

I will be sending an area map and a town map soon. 'The time is not quite right yet,' the DM said mysteriously.

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl  d20+11=23 ;
Tuesday May 29th, 2012 9:41:13 AM

Spirits buoyed by the pleasant trip & greeting, Urist smiles broadly and clasps hands with the halflings and centaur before some of the group's less diplomatic members blow their first impression. "Certainly! Lead the way and we'd be happy to speak with them. Perhaps you can tell us more about Hellmarr while we walk..."

**

Sense motive: 23 - Urist is trying to get an idea of the town's personality as they walk through it.

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29  d20+9=13 ; d20+1=6 ;
Tuesday May 29th, 2012 11:51:44 AM

Lori having her hood pulled up as normal, keeps her eyes peeled for dangers as they make their way towards Hellmarr.
With the greeting the group gets, she remains quiet and lets the others do the talking. She nods as the group is directed to follow the centaur to these PTB's, and she keeps a careful watch of those around the group as well as the area in general.

Perc 13
Sen motive 6

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D)  d20+6=20 ; d20+4=6 ; d20+4=23 ;
Tuesday May 29th, 2012 1:43:13 PM

ooc: Did Napalm learn anything from his previous question: Before we get there, can you tell us more about Hellmar? Who leads the people, who we should avoid or not trust, and the best place for a good meal and a stiff drink?

As the group approaches the gates Napalm is surprised to see so many people gathered and wonders if such a gathering is a normal occurrence, or if their arrival was expected thanks to Ebineezer, Ibraham, and Vgodd. He didn't like the sight of guards waiting fort hem or their motives being questioned, but the thing that irritated him the most was the stupid halfling parroting [I]"Their will be done." It was as if he was a beneath them in more than just height, a weak disgrace in Napalm's eyes. He would have expected such halflings to have been purged by the disease long ago, but supposed it said something of their race if a guy like that was strong enough to endure.

The halfling simply says, Lead the way as he watches out for pickpockets and scans their surroundings for trouble and a quality bar.

Perception = 20
Sense Motive of guard= 6
Sense Motive of PTB = 23

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation Morgrym Gorechylde  d20+5=11 ; d20+10=17 ; d20+9=15 ;
Tuesday May 29th, 2012 4:40:13 PM

What are the walls made of? What is the gate made of? Are they scarred as if the place is regularly attacked? If so what does it look like made the scars ( axes, fire, magic. I'm asking in general) How are the gates defended? Archers, catapults, oil ? Does it appear that the town can be buttoned up on short notice and defended? What quality of weapons and armor do the townsfolk and guards possess? How old do those townsfolk and guards we see look? Are they dirty or well kept?
Perception 11
Weaponsmithing 17
Armorsmithing 15
All of these questions come to Morgrym's mind as he sees the gate and the people for the first time. He is not sure what a "PTB" might be, maybe their headman or village elder. The others do not seem alarmed so he keeps a calm demeanor. Internally he listens for the sound of their forge and wants desperately to see it and start learning how they craft the sockets into their armor and weapons. He walks along with the group, all the while assessing those that he passes with a warrior's eye. How good do these guards that protect one of the last few towns in the Wold look?

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 (Zach R)  d20+8=28 ; d20+6=7 ;
Tuesday May 29th, 2012 11:07:59 PM

Harden is so intent on noticing everything around Hellmarr that he doesn't get a very good read on the inhabitants of the city.

-------------------
Perception: 28
Sense Motive: 7


Seredal Hosah (Josh)  d20=6 ;
Wednesday May 30th, 2012 3:26:01 AM

Seredal walks along, taking notes of all she can see...

(Perception: 16)

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde 
Wednesday May 30th, 2012 7:06:12 PM

Morgrym waits expectantly.

Perfect Citizens Acting Perfectly [DM Jerry] 
Wednesday May 30th, 2012 11:35:39 PM

The halfling blanches a bit when Urist asks to be told more about Hellmarr. He stutters, "Better to...."

The centaur interrupts him, "Going to see the Powers That Be is serious business. Perhaps we can save the niceties for afterwards, if...."

This sparks Urist's concern as there does seem to be alot of....fear. That's it fear. In general, but specifically towards the PTB. [results of your sense motive check.] The halfling looks at the group closely as if looking for something....hope perhaps?

Lori spots a group of children peeking around a curtain in the distance. A motherly hand forcefully closes the curtain and cuffs the children.

Napalm, is almost sure that Ibraham was avoiding his questions about the town on the way there. He commented with about a dozen variants of, "You'll see." He definitely discerns that strangers to the town is a rare thing. It is indeed strange to see no humans or elves around. The halfling is definitely busting at his considerable seams to try and warn you with his eyes. The eyes definitely project a different message than his smile does. You wonder if he could maintain that smile under torture. The centaur looks at you in a dispassionate way. As if he doesn't want to become emotionally invested in you...yet.

Morgrym imagines that he can hear a tour guide describing the scene to him. 'We're walking....we're walking....The walls of Hellmarr are more beloved than any citizen. They have saved more lives than any number of city guards could. Made of hardwoods, they are polished to a shine to prevent damage from the sun. The gate is huge and easily the tallest structure in the town. Full of secrets, the gates are the first line of defense for Hellmarr. Please mind your head if you're over 60' tall.'

'You'll notice, tourists, that there are guards on the walls and in arrow slits of the gate that are trying their best to look inconspicuous to our new guests. See them smiling at us now? They are very competent, or at least they believe so, if their body language counts for anything. We don't want you scared off. After all, strangers are the most exciting thing that happens around here, if you don't count the disease and Ratzilla roaming around.'

Harden follows along and moves along with the others. He sees signs of recent battles outside the walls, but nothing inside. A pile of bones, mostly humanoid, is smoldering 100' from the gate. A lively trade tent has been placed to cover the smoking bones. He also sees a trace of green blood on the walls. More than one attack has been weathered here recently--since the last rain even.

Serendal also notices the citizens acting just a bit too normal. No one acting out. No children running around. The perfect citizens acting perfectly. Very odd and disconcerting.

The guards, the six new ones in front and the three from your journey in the back guild you under the gate and into the town. The largest building in town is directly in front of you, a pillored rectangle of a building. It is built with much more love and care than any of th other buildings. The entrance is on the far side. The guards, faces with taking the northern road or southern road to circle around to the front of the building, choose the southern route. A small crowd watch from the northern road, a bright red rope setting a boundary that the citizens stay behind.



Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 (Zach R)  d20+8=12 ;
Thursday May 31st, 2012 2:11:09 PM

The brutish half-orc shakes his head slowly as he looks at the ground. "Something's not right here. Be on guard." he whispers keeping his voice low where hopefully only his comrades can hear. Being somewhat paranoid now, Harden's concentration is disrupted.

--------------
Perception: 12

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29  d20+9=22 ;
Thursday May 31st, 2012 2:50:31 PM

Lori is not very comfortable, and each step makes her more and more so. She's not sure how she can let the others know how she feels, not having worked with any of them before this trip.
The only image of what's happening currently is one she once saw at a slaughter house. That being all the cattle getting herded to the slaughter room.
As they move along she keeps a watch for escape routes and updates them with each step of the way....

Perception 22

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Thursday May 31st, 2012 4:48:20 PM

Seredal's pen stops, and the gnome's eyes glance up and around. Carefully, she returns her book to her belt and walks swiftly, trying to find the others.

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde  d20=15 ; d20-1=15 ; d20=4 ;
Thursday May 31st, 2012 5:36:41 PM

Morgrym starts to get the feeling things are...off. A quick survey of his friends, Harden's whispered caution, and the utter silence from the folks he has already fought next to show something is amiss. (Sense Motive 15) The warrior has already noted the archers and the abundance of guards. Most of them looked seasoned and the walls seem to see plenty of combat, so a hostile or perceived hostile action will likely cause more trouble that he wants to get involved in at this juncture. So instead of saying or doing anything hostile, the dwarf simply takes the northern route around the building. He hopes to provoke a reaction that will tell him more about why everyone is being so Nice . He realizes that they may be the first new folk that these people have seen in a long time, but something just isn't right. When called on his incorrect choice of paths, the dwarf, no stranger to new towns since he had helped often with his Father's trade caravans simply looks surprised that he has somehow offended the guards ( Bluff 15). Depending on their reaction he will see what he learns.( 2nd Sense Motive 4)

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Thursday May 31st, 2012 10:27:26 PM

"This isn't right," Urist mutters under his breath. He saunters up to Morgrym as they walk. "Can you feel the fear coming from them? When was the last time there was this many halflings in one place without a hint of mirth?"

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Thursday May 31st, 2012 11:39:10 PM

Napalm dismisses the fear he sees in the halfling's eyes. Clearly he is weak, both in body and spirit. Napalm follows the group figuring that they will have to be cautious around the PTB, but isn't overly concerned about the ordeal. Peasants are often afraid of their dictators.

Do Not Do This [DM Jerry] 
Friday June 1st, 2012 12:27:36 AM

Vgodd, closing the gap to Harden whispers, "Just be respectful, no matter what. They are....powerful." When Ebineezer frowns at the dwarf, he backs off.

Meanwhile, Lori looks for escape routes. The best thing she sees at the moment is a gap in the buildings south of her that lead to the wall and a guard post. It would require 20' of climbing, but other than reversing through the gate, it is the best option she currently sees.

Serendal catches up with the group, only to see Morgrym move towards the crowd and the roped off northern road with Urist on his heels. Instantly Ebineezer shouts, "HALT!"

This causes the centaur to spin around into a combat stance and pull his bow and point it at Morgrym. Almost at the same time, everyone on the wall, the guards in front and behind the party, and even a few folks in the crowd draw weapons. Both Urist and Morgrym are covered.

Vgodd sprints to stand beside the wayward dwarfs. His weapon comes out too, but his voice doesn't match the posture, "Morgrym, do not do this. Urist, you picked the wrong time to follow your friend. They will indeed kill you. No one goes free through the town until they have gone before the Powers That Be. Do not be foolish my friend! Please. See the PTB. Do it right, and the drinks are on me afterwards."

The centaur says, "That's enough Vgodd. Step back to your position....That's an order."

"Now as for you two. Kindly walk back to your group. You are not free to roam our village yet. You have not been CLEARED!"

....CLeared.....Cleared.........cleared.

The centaur's booming voice echoes off the walls of the town.

The crowd begins to back up. They look to the tall Council Building with worried looks. A few break and run for safety.



Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Friday June 1st, 2012 1:34:19 PM

"I gave up a mead at the Giggling Ghost for this? I'm beginning to think this world may not deserve saving..." Urist will indeed join the group again, but any sign of his usual good-natured self has vanished.

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29  d20=5 ; d20+9=29 ;
Friday June 1st, 2012 2:48:40 PM

With the overt threat of the so called guards, Lori's hands become clasped behind her back, under her cloak. She continues to update the escape route if everything goes south. Life at home may have been almost unbearable but this here has yet to prove any different. She also tries to see if anyone might try attacking the group....

Bluff 5
Perception 29 (nat 20)

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde 
Friday June 1st, 2012 3:32:32 PM

Morgrym's hands stay at his side, despite the itch he feels to fill them with the blade on his back. He looks at Vgodd, not unkindly, but not happily either. It almost looks as if Morgrym expected something like this to be the result of his wandering and that he is sad to be proven right. To Vgodd he says, " I don't doubt they would kill me Vgodd, not for a second. Seems that killing rather than talking to strangers is the way of this Wold. Sad, it wasn't always like this. Not in the Wold I came from. Suspicion is good, it keeps you alive. Continual deception and manhandling of those you ask to help you, indeed to SAVE you is another thing. Let's go see your Powers That Be. Perhaps they will be able to speak plainly about this place." He turns and rejoins the group, leading the way toward the meeting house.


Seredal Hosah (Josh)  d20+7=10 ;
Friday June 1st, 2012 9:05:12 PM

As Urist rejoins the group, Seredal distances herself from the provokers, keeping the others of the group between her and them. She calls out to the guards, "Come now, there's no need for this, is there? I'm sure it was just an honest mistake. It's not the end of...the world...or....uh...." (Diplomacy: 10) Seredal winds down as the death glares continue, then bows her head and follows meekly along the path.

No Harm [DM Jerry] 
Sunday June 3rd, 2012 12:02:47 PM

Vgodd smarts at Morgrym's words and hangs his head. He follows along, but there is shame in his movements.

Ebineezer puts a hand on Vgodd and says, "You did nothing wrong my friend. We answered every question that we are allowed to answer and we did not lie. They will understand soon."

The centaur guard in the front of the group answers Serendal, "No harm has been done. It was not harmless, however. The gentlemen walked away intentionally; however, in his stead, I might have done the same. Come."

He rounds the eastern corner and you can now see the entrance to the large Council Chambers. Two additional guards stand at the entrance. Formally, Ebineezer steps forward and says, "Six new visitors to see the Powers That Be. May we enter?"

The Gnome guard is very strange. Gnomes are not supposed to be THIS muscular, especially female ones. She answers with a voice trained in command, "Yes, Ebineezer sir. You may enter. They are prepared."

"Thank you Jinx," Ebineezer answers formally.

Ebineezer, fully in guard mode and walking stiffly, leads the way in.

The first room is a waiting room. Biscuits and a Fruit drink are on a decanter cart.

"If you are in need of refreshment, you may do so. Or you may enter through the doors beyond. The Powers That Be are awaiting you."

Two large 10' doors lead from this room to the next. The wood in this place is amazing! The building shows both the strength of dwarven planning and the craftsmanship of the gnome. The furniture is ancient and has been reupholstered recently. The lavishness of this room doesn't even come close to matching the rustic nature of the rest of the town.

Ebineezer keeps his face and stance completely neutral. It is obvious that he is doing his best to give away nothing. However, the ends of his fingers twitch to the close observer. He picks a spot on the wall and concentrates on it.

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 (Zach R)  d20+8=16 ; d20+6=17 ;
Sunday June 3rd, 2012 6:48:51 PM

The large half-orc stands, arms crossed, as if waiting for something to happen. He acts as if he is bored and uninterested though in truth the large brute is looking for the precursors to any signs of trouble.

----------------------
Perception: 16
Sense Motive: 17


Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29  d20+9=21 ;
Sunday June 3rd, 2012 7:31:57 PM

Lori, after entering the building, does as careful an examination of the room to determine if there are any secret ways out, or just the way they came in and the doors deeper into the building. Having an escape route is still her primary concern.
Since entering she keeps trying to become less and less noticeable, but there is light all around and there really is nothing but those she's with to hide amongst so she feels out in the open. She hasn't felt this without cover since she left her fathers people, the elves. At least while with her mother, they only considered her an outsider, not like someone who had a communicable disease as while with her father.
She pills the hood even further forward and wraps herself with her cloak....

Perception 21

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Monday June 4th, 2012 4:45:08 PM

Seredel mutters to herself as she writes: "Hmm....may have to streamline that walk....this is a great buildup, but after too long a journey scene the impact might be lost..." She starts walking forward eagerly.

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde 
Monday June 4th, 2012 5:42:30 PM

Morgrym does not spare the refreshments even a glance. He steps directly to the indicated door and opens it and steps into the room beyond.

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Monday June 4th, 2012 7:22:50 PM

Taarie glance at the refreshments and waits patiently, hoping the others will eat first. When no one does she follows Morgrym in to meet the PTB.

The Powers That Be [DM Jerry] 
Tuesday June 5th, 2012 12:23:21 AM

Both Hardin and Lori sense concern and worry in the stance of Ebineezer as he waits for you to open the doors and enter. Lori sees no exits other than the way that you came in from this waiting room; however, not much time is given to her to scout the area as Morgrym walks forward directly to the inner doors.

The doors open with a touch. Amazing craftsmanship. He enters. Napalm follows.

Within is a large conference looking room. However, it has trappings of a throne room. Filling the center of the room is a large ornate conference table some 20 feet long. On the far side are three ornate thrones. They pivot allowing access to the conference table.

There are no seats on your side of the conference table. However, there are 10 chairs up against the near wall.

Once everyone is inside, the doors close.

The three chairs are occupied. The left chair is occupied by an attractive dwarven woman. She obviously is in amazing shape. Either that or she pounds on an anvil with a 50 pound hammer all day. She speaks--louder than she has to.

"Greetings. I am Cashandra--Holder of the Seat of Truth. While I hold this seat, no lie can be told to me. It is both a blessing and a curse." She glances at the man in the center seat with disgust as she says this, not even attempting to hide her feelings towards him. "If you lie to us here, you will die. Tell the truth and all go well with me."

In the center throne sits a tall lean Minotaur. Dressed in greens and browns he has a strongbow laying on the table in front of him with a quiver at his back. His face is a perpetual sneer. In a gravelly voice he says. "I am Izmael the Hunter -- Holder of the Seat of Power. While I hold this throne, [emphasis on throne] I cannot be slain or even harmed. I am invulnerable. He turns his head to the man in the right throne.

In the right throne sits a bald halfling with a treasure map on his scalp. He is taller than any halfling you've ever seen coming in at over 5' in height. "Listen up ye baduns! I am Torvah, captain of the Unsinkable. I sit in the seat of Rulership. While I remain in power, I cannot be refused. All my direct commands must and will be obeyed. My goals for Hellmarr are survival and independence. This is not a nice pleasant hamlet. That is not the legacy the long departed gods have left for us. If 'Marteaus' Revenge' was unleashed upon the Wold to toughen us up and test us, then he was successful. At least we survive this day. Tomorrow is a challenge as yet unmet.

"The lesson you are here to learn today is that Rulers of Civilizations and People of Power are in those positions for a reason. In Hellmarr, we are those rulers! Duly elected. We are survival oriented and at times even oppressive. We do not foster heroism, nor get people to do things out of altruism or nobility. We may and will use any means to ensure the survival of Woldkind. We are not your enemies unless you choose to be so. Neither are we your friends."

Izmael interrupts him. "To sit in these chairs is to accrue enemies. Some are jealous [he glances to his left to Cashandra] and yet here we....."

"SILENCE!" Torvah shouts.

Izmael instantly stops talking his face quickly moving from a bright red to purple in his anger. Yet he does not talk. Cashandra snickers her eyes down upon the conference table.

Torvah continues. "You have been summoned before us to determine one and only one thing. Do you represent harm to the Township of Hellmar? Answer our questions and then we will answer some of yours. Cashandra, do your duty."

Cashandra rises on her throne and in turn asks each of you in turn 2 questions:

"Has Hegga cured you of the disease?"

"Do you intent harm to Hellmarr?"

She watches you intently as she listens to your answers.


Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 (Zach R) 
Tuesday June 5th, 2012 5:02:52 AM

Harden replies simply, "Yes. No."

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Tuesday June 5th, 2012 1:36:15 PM

Urist stares at Cashandra for the briefest of moments before a slight sigh escapes him. "Aye, she has. Nay, I do not..."

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29 
Tuesday June 5th, 2012 2:14:33 PM

Still hidden in the shadows of her cloak, "As far as I know, Hegga has cured all of us, We also were asked to come here and assist in some problem that Hellmarr was experiencing. If we came to help, why would we intend to Harm. Our intentions are to help, not to harm. So to answer your questions in a very direct method, I am cured as far as I know and I plan on not harming Hellmarr."
Lori's irritation is clearly showing in her voice, she doesn't even attempt to hide that fact. First they are asked to come and help, then they are given a disease so they can be cured of it and now these three pompous, self serving idiots demand to know why they came here.

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde 
Tuesday June 5th, 2012 4:42:01 PM

Moirgrym listens to what the Powers have to say and is intrigued by abilities thier seats each give them. They speak in a straightforward way, which is the most refreshing thing the dwarf has heard in several days. Most straightforward of them all though seems this Dwarven woman, Cashandra. She says the seat allows no one to lie to her, but does it compel her to speak truly? The fighter ponders this as some of the others step forward and speak their answers. Morgrym is careful when it is his turn. Clearly the laws are different here. What was harmless in his Wold may well be a tragedy here. He frames his reply carefully.
Morgrym takes a step forward and answers the questions posed by Cashandra. He is careful to address her and only her so that her chair may do it's work.
" I am known as Morgrym Gorechylde. I am a smith and a warrior both. I have had one of Hegga's foul rats bite me, making me sick beyond anything I have experienced before. She then gave me a concoction that tested the statement I just made for it was vile beyond description. Taking her at her word that vile drink has cured me of the disease you speak of."
" As for whether I intend harm to your community, I do not. However, the laws of your society here are clearly different than those I know from my Wold. I would ask for a written version of them so that I do not mistakenly transgress your laws and cause harm."
" May I ask you a question? Does your seat likewise compel you to speak only the truth? If so it must be a difficult seat to sit."

He then steps back into line so that the rest may answer. He still had many questions, but thought that listening would serve him better at this point.

OOC
I do have Magic Resistance, though pitifully low at MR8. I doubt that interferes with the seats, but I thought I'd mention it.

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Tuesday June 5th, 2012 5:00:24 PM

"I didn't think I really had it, it was more of a preventative measure, but she certainly did something to us, and it was awful...like a baby ferret eating its way out of your stomache... As to harming Hellmar? No. I don't intend to harm anyone."

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Tuesday June 5th, 2012 5:56:10 PM

Napalm grimaces, contorting his face in disgust as he remembers the cure. Yeah, Hegga gave us the cure. Worst stuff I ever tasted!

In response to the next question he replies, No harm intended. He decides it best to see the PTB reaction to the group before he asks any questions of his own.

We'ze All Baduns Here [DM Jerry] 
Wednesday June 6th, 2012 9:40:02 AM

Cashandra turns to the others. "First, each is telling the truth. Second, as usual, they in their earnestness, tell us more than we asked, which is helpful."

She turns to Lori, "What is your name? Who asked you to come here. That person may be a traitor. No one should be "asking" anyone to come here without our permission."

Izmael interrupts her. "This person will be killed."

"Stop interrupting me! Your ignorance is showing the newcomers information about..." She stops mid sentence and takes a calming breath. She glances at Torvah.

She turns to Morgrym. "What do you mean when you say 'your Wold?' There is only one Wold. And as for rules, Torvah will speak to that...and all three seats are...difficult."

Torvah says, "There are no written laws as such here. We're far too paranoid for that. Dangers come from unpredictable places. Our edicts are always posted. Standing rules are simple and can be summarized with this phrase: "Don't harm the town.

"We'ze all baduns here. [Cashandra and Izmael both roll there eyes] Setting up a law and order town won't work in Hellmarr. Greed and power rules. Get too powerful and you get enemies. Get soft and someone eats you up. Most say its safer out in the wilds. It ain't. Most say there's fortunes to make out there. There isn't. Most stay stupid things."

He pauses to let that sink in.

"We believe in freedom AND slavery here. I don't mean by this that we foster literal slavery, though it is not outlawed. What I mean is that here, everyone is a prisoner and a slave. We're a slave to our environment, to the disease, to the legacy Marteaus the Reviled left for us. We are prisoners to our circumstances, to the trolls, to the undead, to the twice deads. We're the last town left. All the others are....gone, having failed to survive. Now answer Cashandra's questions."

It is obvious that these here in the Seats of Power are much more serious about things than the three guards that brought you into town or Hegga. Perhaps it is perspective. Perhaps a function of position. Much still remains to be seen and understood. Cashandra does not completely answer all of Myrgrym's questions. It is obvious that at the moment, they expect to be asking the questions and you answering them, for the most part.

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29  d20+9=20 ;
Wednesday June 6th, 2012 11:36:12 AM

"My name is Lori, Lori Rinduff. I was one of many in a magical place called the Giggling Ghost. It is, was a location where many from all over go, er went to enjoy each others company, and occasionally places in need of Heroes send representatives to gather help for one reason or another. One of these tapestries, the portals that those seeking help use, opened up to a ripping sound that left all in the Giggling Ghost staring in wonder. The face of a witch appeared on the tapestry and said something about coming from the future and having a gift to see into the future. Also about needing Heroes from our time, there in the Giggling Ghost that is, to bring the time of salvation here, in Hellmarr, into a beginning or a starting of salvation. Well it was something like that.
I volunteered to come to this future, because there was not really anything I couldn't live without in that time, and If I could help here and now, It would be a good thing."


To everyone's surprise that has been with Lori over the past couple of days, she is a lot more loquacious here and now than ever before. Maybe it's the requirement or the compelment to tell the truth, she seems to be using the whole truth as if it were a rapier and she is fencing with an opponent, keeping them at bay.

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Wednesday June 6th, 2012 12:12:16 PM

Having been asked no questions, Urist holds his tongue. He does stop to wonder at how unimpressed these PTB are to be addressing someone who is a mix of two supposedly extinct races...

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde  d20=5 ;
Wednesday June 6th, 2012 4:59:42 PM

Morgrym looks at Torvah. He doesn't particularly like the power that seat is said to hold. He likes his freedom, but he also likes the structure that comes with a societies laws. Seeing that this is going to be a long discussion, the dwarf turns to the gallery seats along the wall and, selecting a sturdy one, picks it up and returns to where he had been standing. He gently rests his armored figure in the chair. In order to accomplish this he unstraps his sheathed falchion and leans it against the chair.
" Ah, that is much better. Now, about your questions. What do I mean by 'my Wold'? In 'my Wold' there are gods that the people turn to in times of trouble, in times of joy, in times of sorrow and in times when the path forward isn't clear. For the most part, the people love these gods and pay them homage. In 'my Wold' these gods grant power to their worshipers. In 'my Wold' there are Humans, and Elves, and Half-elves. In 'my Wold' there are many great cities, populated by thousands upon thousands of people. In 'my Wold' there is no plague. There is no land like the one surrounding this town. To the best of my knowledge there is no place called Hellmarr."
"Your unwritten laws seem to say that if you are not strong enough to keep others from taking your things then you don't deserve them. That is all well and good, but to my eye it violates the law that no one should threaten the well being of Hellmarr. For while a farmer would need to be tough under your ideals, that would not necessarily make him a good farmer. Were he extended the protection of some law he would be able to devote more time to his farming and less time to worrying who was out to get him. Thus he could turn in a higher yield and Hellmarr could support more citizens. With more citizens would come strength due to more folk to defend the walls when trouble comes. This principle is academic and applies to almost every skill and profession you can name."
" You ask Lori who t'was that asked for heroes to come and aid you. Then in the same breath you threaten to kill this person. Oddly enough that would put you in violation of your unwritten law. The person in question is clearly integral to Hellmarr's survival since your first question named her as the one who had to administer the cure to us 'newcomers'. What is the penalty for threatening to harm Hellmarr I wonder. From your stern looks I am pretty sure it isn't pleasant. How long would you like to continue to use circular logic to find out what we know while telling us little more than nothing? I can do this all day until Torvah there either tells me to shut up or to kill myself, both of which, from his description, I would be unable to resist doing."

Inside, Morgrym wonders if he has just signed his own death warrant. All he said is true, to his eyes and logic. Far more could be accomplished by working together as a community than as individuals. Also from what he has seen and heard Hegga is the go to person for administering the cure to newcomers. Threatening her is the same as threatening Hellmarr itself. More and more, Morgrym was beginning to think that these seats held no more power than the chair in which he sat. Their real power lay in these three telling the people before them what they WANTED the chair to do.
OOC
Did Morgrym feel any compulsion to NOT go get a chair and sit down before he answered Cashandra's question? After all, Torvah had ordered him to answer her questions from his chair of power. Is there some check you want me to make to determine this? Sense motive maybe.
Sense motive 5

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 (Zach R) 
Wednesday June 6th, 2012 5:18:45 PM

Harden shakes his head. His comrades are, in his opinion, giving up too much information. Even a brute like him understood that information was the most valuable currency in the Wold. One would gain nothing by giving it away freely.

There is one bit of information Torvah said that Harden agreed with. "Most say stupid things".

The Half-Orc shakes his head... that much was true at least.

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Wednesday June 6th, 2012 11:36:12 PM

Seredal pipes up at Morgrym's statement. "Er, I don't think it was Hegga that summoned us, exactly; according to my notes she was a little surprised too..." Looking to the seats of power, she adds, "Oh, and just to be clear, I'm not a hero like them; I just came along to be able to write their story after. Who I'll be telling it too....I'm not sure anymore."

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Thursday June 7th, 2012 12:21:48 AM

Looking at Seredal, Napalm interjects. Technically, I don't think we have been "summoned" or been contacted by anyone yet. From what I can determine, we have arrived at a time prior to the date that the person who contacted us spoke to us from. It would make sense that they haven't spoken to the PTB yet, since they have not yet set out to contact us.

ooc: Is this correct to the best of our knowledge? This was my interpretation, I'm not trying to lie to the PTB.

From the Antiquated Past Come Heroes Long Extinct [DM Jerry] 
Friday June 8th, 2012 2:59:41 AM

Torvah jumps into the conversation just as soon as Lori is finished with her answer. "So not only did this "witch" looking figure invite you here, but ASKED you to come help with something? That is traitorous!"

Cashandra's mouth drops. "So you're not in a magical disguise? You are really an elf? I thought the ears would be more pointed!" She turns with hope to the other two. "If we could find a mate we could repopulate the race!"

When Morgrym begins talking, Torvah gets very stiff. Then, as seems to be his wont, he turns red--steaming. He sits wrestling with his temper.

Cashandra, looking worried says, "I read that about adventurers from the past. That they would walk into the presence of kings and demand change. Then when the king threw them into the dungeon to be hung the next day, a 2nd group would come and demand their release fighting to the death for their freedom and beliefs. They later called it 'a hero culture.'"

Morgrym shouts, "Get Hegga in here!"

The doors open instantly. Hegga walks in. "I didn't need to have 'the sight' to see this coming. I had--uh have plans to send a message back into the past to see if help would come. Alex the Seer and I have both received a prophesy. She brings out a crystal. "I took the liberty of asking Alex some time ago to record it into my memory crystal. It basically says that if we send a message into the past asking for help, that help would come. That we could change history and save The Wold before we all become extinct. I hadn't sent the message yet. But evidently in the future I will, because these heroes arrived--arrived before I asked for help. And when they came to me for the cure, they said I had asked them to come. They arrived...early as Napalm here has iterated."

All is silent for some time.

Cashandra says, "Play the prophesy."

A cronish looking figure appears in the crystal. She speaks, eyes whirling:

"From the antiquated past come heroes long extinct,
summoned by the brave, who care for the weak.
Heroes may circumvent fate on that holy day,
if they find the key to change our destiny."

Torvah instantly says, "Boarwash."

He spins on Hegga and pointing at her prounces: "Inviting visitors to Hellmar without permission is not allowed. Asking them for help without permission is treason. Hegga, your methods have always been suspect. You have used your position as Prime Healer to advantage, taking actions that repeatedly was against the wishes of the Powers That Be."

He pauses for effect. "

You are under arrest. We will consult privately to determine your fate."

Cashandra objects saying, "You can't! Who will heal the diseased?"

Torvah says, "Watch yourself Cashandra. Halfast Wayfaring is a priest. He'll have to do it for now."

Then with finality, "Hegga, submit to arrest and detention!"

Hegga calmly puts he hands behind her back and quickly the guards waiting outside come in to lead her away, peaceful as a lamb.

Turning to Morgrym Torvah he adds adds, "Watch yourself fighter. Your mouth is your worst enemy. The next time you talk to me in this manner, you will join Hegga and face our judgment, assuming that I don't have Izmael kill you outright!"

Turning to the group, he says. "I do NOT like this entire mess. Heroes stir up trouble. The histories teach us this. We have more trouble than we can currently deal with. However, fools die and it remains to be seen whether you, collectively, are fools. Cashandra says you are not lying to us. That you do not represent a threat. So I am curious as to what fate will hold for you. You are free to enter the township. I have spoken."

He slams his fist upon the table.

With that, Ibraham enters and simply says, "You are free to enter the city. Follow me please.

---------------
OOC:
Morgrym, to this point in time, you have not experienced any compulsions. Email incoming.

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Friday June 8th, 2012 11:20:39 AM

Urist decides it's fairly obvious why this world is going down hill. When those in power care more for their own seat and tradition than bettering the lives of those they should be serving, tragedy and oppression always follow. Something must be done about these louts if this world is to heal.

However, he also values his life and freedom and is happy to follow Ibraham out of this chamber. Once away, Urist turns to Ibraham. "Tell me, this Halfast Wayfaring...is he able to heal the diseased as Hegga is?" Ideas flood the dwarf, but he keeps them within for the time being.

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29 
Friday June 8th, 2012 1:01:04 PM

"I am most assuredly not an ELF! I should know that very well with how I spend my growing up years. I am also not a piece of meat to be bred like a brood mare. I am here to do what is needed to save the Wold, but that is not going to be a possibility."
Still covered up with her hood pulled up as well, Lori turns and heads out of the room.

Hazel [DM Jerry] 
Friday June 8th, 2012 1:54:40 PM

As Urist exits, an old friendly grandmotherly lady approaches him. Very surreal. She hands him a ring.

"Here honey. Take care of this for me."

Instantly, the ring imparts the following information to Urist.

1) This ring, at times, can describe places, people, events etc. It loves to talk. Out loud.
2) This ring creates a map of any location "visited" or "researched" from the knowledge that its current wielder has, which you can alter, add comments to, etc.
3) You may attune the ring to anyone by saying "Hazel this is my friend," yet you will remain the prime wielder.
4) Anyone attuned to the ring can, if they are within 30', say "Gimme Hazel" and the ring will teleport onto their finger and they will be able to use it.

Then she walks away, fading out as she leaves. As she fades, it appears for a moment as if she is an old lady missing her left arm, with warts on her warts. But that's silly right?

------------

OOC: Sorry for the extra post. I thought it would be interesting to give you your maps in a different way. Sending the map of Hellmarr to you via email. Giving you permissions to the map key which is on Googledocs. Both incoming. I'm still working on the "regional" map, which I'm having to recreate to show what you currently know. I'll send it over the next few days.

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 (Zach R) 
Friday June 8th, 2012 2:57:11 PM

The half-orc, who prefers to seem a dull savage says loudly, "I sure could use a drink, what say we head over to the tavern." In his mind he is actually thinking, "We sure could use some information, drunk people give it freely and bartenders know more than they like to let on."

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde 
Friday June 8th, 2012 3:42:14 PM

At the mention of drink, Morgrym's mood lifts, just a little." Fine idea Harden. I have only a few ways to relieve stress like this. Drinking is one, hitting some unsuspecting metal until it becomes what I will it to be is another and beating the snot out of people is a third, but far less socially acceptable method." When he catches up to most of the group, and they are fairly alone, he asks quietly," Did any of you spellcasters get a look at those chairs. If I were a betting dwarf, and I am at that, I would say there wasn't a shred of magic on those chairs.

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Saturday June 9th, 2012 12:04:18 AM

"I didn't think it would be wise to check in front of them. But if they're what they claim, I wouldn't be able to tell anyway. Convenient."

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde 
Saturday June 9th, 2012 7:08:59 PM

" On second thought, the rest of you are far more subtle than I am. Go to the tavern and learn what you can. I will visit Hegga, and then go to the forge. When I am troubled and need to ask the gods of the wold for assistance I am not the kind of dwarf that goes to the temple, but works some steel to find my answers. I will be in one of the two places if something should happen."
Morgrym breaks off from the others at the door to the tavern and heads across the gate, to the guardhouse where he expects to find Hegga. He silently prays that talking to her does not get her, or himself, in more trouble.

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29 
Saturday June 9th, 2012 8:08:13 PM

After leaving the building, Lori decides to tail Morgrym rather than head to a tavern.
She disliked them back home, mostly because when people got drunk any governors they had on their mouths failed and their true feelings came out. After just so much "honesty" Lori is more than likely to bash with a mug than to just take it. "You others can investigate the tavern, I simply hate places like that, I'll go with Morgrym and visit Hegga, afterwards, who knows, I'll be around somewhere."

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Saturday June 9th, 2012 11:14:09 PM

Urist can't help but wonder at the wisdom of the party splitting up when they finally get a chance for a bit of time together without guards present, especially with news of this new ring he's been given. Still, to each his own.

For what it's worth, he thinks they need a base of operations. If this inn has rooms by the week, all the better. Before Morgrym leaves, he'll clasp him on the shoulder and ask, "If you manage to speak with Hegga, see if she's willing to teach me her cure. We can't very well let the people of this backwards Wold suffer because of such short-sightedness."

He does keep his voice down. He's not suicidal, afterall...

He's excited about this new gift, of course. He's just waiting for some privacy to feel it out.

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 (Zach R) 
Sunday June 10th, 2012 3:27:52 PM

Harden visibly winces at hearing the group is splitting up, but says nothing. To Morgrym the Half-Orc responds, "If that is the case, I'll buy our first round."

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Sunday June 10th, 2012 4:56:16 PM

Napalm joins the others and heads to the bar and downs a couple large drinks, making sure to keep up with the others. I suppose finding some lodging should be our next stop. After that we should check out that shrine Hegga mentioned.

ooc: Remember Hegga told us: Though a few shrines still exist, they're probably not the kind you're familiar with. There is a small one in the neighboring town of Hellmarr. The sanctuary is kept by a kind of priest that revers divinity and deities. He has the largest collection of divine lore, which isnt much. Most of what I know I learned from either him or my visions."

Seredal Hosah (Josh)  d20+7=12 ; d20+9=19 ;
Sunday June 10th, 2012 9:15:14 PM

Seredel joins the group heading for the tavern. Inns are where she does her best work, and frankly, some stout sounds marvelous.

(OoC:
Perform (Oratory): 19 These folks could use some good stories, she thinks....
Gather Information for old legends and songs: 12 Meh. She's new in town.



Scene 4: The Red House


Can I Get You Something to Drink Halfling? [DM Jerry] 
Monday June 11th, 2012 1:38:58 AM

Ibraham turns to Urist. "Halfast is more of a historian...I don't know if he can heal the disease."

Vgodd walks up and answers Hardin. "Now we're talkin'! To the Red House!" He seemingly very relieved that the group is still alive and kicking, put his hand on Hardin's shoulder and points the way.

The group travels the northern route, previous blocked on their way in with a rope. The Red House is indeed trimmed with red. The tavern sign shows a woman reclining on a bed.

Vgodd says, "Yeah, it used to be a house of prostitution, back in the day. Now, its the inn.

"Yup."

Vgodd listens carefully to Morgrym. "No sir, those chairs are the real thing. At least the powers they grant. I've felt 'em. Back when Sir Alto sat in the seat, he told me to shut up and I couldn't talk for at least an hour. Almost blacked out tryin'. As to whether there is always magic in those thar' seats, well that doesn't really matter does it?"

It is obvious that Vgodd is trying to lighten the mood. When Morgrym tries to head off alone he quickly interjects. "Um Morgrym, would you....please.....let me buy you a drink first? I sense that you're one that needs to run off alone from time to time, but...."

Then when Lori heads after him, he bumbles, "But.....Oh well. I tried."

As Napalm enters the tavern and inn, he approaches the bar to order his drink. A beautiful strong dwarf in an innkeeper outfit comes up to him. "Can I get you something to drink halfling?" Napalm looks up to see a very familiar face from a few minutes ago.

Cashandra is the innkeeper.

She smiles at the group as if nothing had happened.

--------------------------

Meanwhile, Morgrym and Lori make their way over to the Guard House near the gate. The centaur that led the group before is on duty. "Greetings heroes. That's what you are called, right? I am Zericles, 2nd in command to Ebineezer. How may I help you?"

--------------------



AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde 
Monday June 11th, 2012 4:59:43 PM

" You can call me Morgrym if you would. I don't know that I done nothin' to warrant the hero part, t'home at least. Here a more apt name might be 'Trouble' since that is what seems to follow me. I came to see Hegga. I have questions and even though she dances around the truth she has been more honest than most since I arrived here. May I see her? I have given my word I'll not hurt the town and anything that threatens her, threatens the town's ability to combat the disease. How locking her up isn't the most daft thing under those circumstances I am still trying to puzzle out."
Morgrym looks expectantly at the centaur who moments ago stared down an arrow shaft aimed at his right eye. Clearly there was nothing daft going on here at all.

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Monday June 11th, 2012 6:33:42 PM

Urist has the feeling Morgrym's getting himself in trouble somewhere and decides to deal with it by ordering some mead and finding a nice, quiet corner to sit in with his fellow time-travellers.

Once they're all settled, he decides to take Hazel for a test-run and brings up a map of Hellmar.

***

OOC: So, what happens, exactly? Do I see an image in my mind? Does it pop up a la Star Wars?

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Tuesday June 12th, 2012 12:50:21 AM

Seredal stares at the innkeeper for two seconds before saying, "Amazing" and making a note. "I'll take something that could get a human inebriated in ten glasses, please."

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29  d20=17 ; d20+9=18 ;
Tuesday June 12th, 2012 1:27:19 AM

Lori, knowing she doesn't look like a tough, or like a braggart follows Morgrym to the place Hegga is supposedly held. She quietly looks about as if not really interested in what is going on, but she is looking for alternate ways in if they are needed.

Bluff 17
Perception 18

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Tuesday June 12th, 2012 1:37:44 AM

Napalm is surprised to see Cashandra is the innkeeper, but gladly answers her question. Are there any drinks unique to Hellmarr or the region that you recommend? He will go along with her suggestion, trusting the dwarf to know her liquor. After receiving his drink he tries striking up a conversation with the woman. We meant what we said about wanting to help the city and its people, with the Power's permission of course. Is there anything we could do to aid you and your city?

Napalm wishes to ask Cashandra about the plague, but after Izmael's reaction to Hegga he decides it is better to see if he can get her to bring it up.

So Do You Wanna Know Why? [DM Jerry] 
Tuesday June 12th, 2012 3:00:50 AM

Zericles looks at Morgrym and says, "Why do I get the feeling that it has suddenly become my job to tell you things that you don't want to hear, sir. The PTB have said no one sees Hegga until tomorrow. They plan on grilling her then."

About this time, Ibraham comes running up to the front desk and blurt out. "Zer, she's gone! Just gone! I was taking her food and a blanket for the night and there was a flash and she was gone! Zer, I have a very bad feeling that this is going to go very bad for us! What do we do? I gotta go find Ebineezer!"

Then he pauses, "Morgrym? Lori? What are you two doing here?" A skeptical look crosses his face.

It has now become impossible for Lori to maintain her low profile. A look from Ibraham centers right upon her, searching her eyes. "It is mighty convenient that you two are here as a distraction the moment that Hegga makes a break for it, isn't it?"

His hand edges towards his weapon.

------------------

Meanwhile over in the Red House, Urist examines his new ring. A polite voice says, "I was constructed over 1000 years ago by Bursis the Bard, great-grandon of the greatest bard of all time, Ursis! I can show you a map of this town, at least the parts that you and I have been to. I can show you the same thing for the area around the town that you have seen. I can pick it up from your mind, I think. Just point me at a wall or table and say, "Show me the town of Hellmarr."

Cashandra smiles innocently at Urist. "No mystery, Urist. This was my job before I sat on the 3rd seat. It will be my job afterwards. I walked out the PTB entrance and arrived here just before you. I won't ask you any questions here. One open tab and a house beer coming up!"

Vgodd appears at Urist's elbow. "On me Cashandra. I owe this guy! He saved me from rats!"

Vgodd steers Urist towards an empty table. In a very low voice he says, "So, do you wanna know why we need your help? If so, gather your friends and follow me."

Without another word, he turns picking up a brew from a passing waitresses' platter and disappears through a door in the back of the tavern.

Meanwhile, Cashandra turns to Napalm now approaching the bar. She listens to his question and says, "If you want something unique, try some Troll's Blood. Or there's a very old drink we recently rediscovered called a Dark Green Gnomish. She sets one of each upon the bar shortly and then says to his question about helping the city, "I'm SURE that I wouldn't know anything about that." Then quickly she makes her way into the kitchen. Almost too quickly.

Beside the bar, Napalm notices an announcement board. Several things leap out at him:

---------------

Wanted: Gladys the Gargantuan Rat. Reward given at the Guard House. 500gp. 1000gp extra if the head is returned intact to Bullo's Taxidermy.

---------------

Bullo's Taxidermy is paying 500gp and 1 trump for the remains of a Harvestman Spider of good size. See Bullo to inquire further.

---------------

The Powers that Be hereby commissions a formal exploration of Downgate. Hexmaps available. Paying per hex. Inquire of Cashandra in the Red House if interested. Hiring all who want to participate in the effort.



Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29 
Tuesday June 12th, 2012 10:38:08 AM

"A distraction is it, we only just arrived here. Ask your guard how long we've been standing here. He had just asked us why we were here and Morgrym had finished answering as you came out stating that she vanished.
There is no way you are going to stick us with her escape. This, is all on you, because we can vouch that Zericles was outside and asking us why we were here. That leaves you inside, and no one to verify that you didn't set her free yourself."


With the two of them to back up the Centaur's alibi, they were pretty much covered. Of course Lori has an idea where Hegga went, but it's only a theory and she has no proof, so it wasn't a fact and therefore isn't worth stating....

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl  d20+11=30 ;
Tuesday June 12th, 2012 11:33:37 AM

"Hazel, you and I are going to get along just fine." Urist smiles to himself as he starts to enjoy his mead. Unfortunately, it doesn't seem to last long. The dwarf has no love of intrigue, but realizes it's not always avoidable.

He picks up his mead and abandons the table he just claimed and walks over to the friends who aren't being grilled by guards elsewhere. "Come, friends. Let's enjoy our drinks in the open air for a bit, shall we? It's been a long time since we could relax."

Anyone who argues is met with a firm grasp on their shoulder (should height permit) and a steely-eyed stare while insisting some fresh air would do them well. If Cashandra has concerns about her drinkware leaving the bar, Urist is happy to pony up some coin as a deposit on their tab.

***

Sense motive: 30 - Does this Vgodd character have the Wold's best interests at heart, or are we getting sucked into needless & potentially dangerous subterfuge?

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 (Zach R) 
Tuesday June 12th, 2012 3:06:28 PM

Harden enjoys one each of the Green Gnomish and the Trolls Blood. At Urist's behooval Harden follows him outside.

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde 
Tuesday June 12th, 2012 5:09:30 PM

" Easy Lori, he is just stating a fact about the coincidence. If he thinks for a moment, he will realize I am the least sneaky person he knows. Blunt as a bag of hammers and straightforward when I want something. If I had wanted to free her I wouldn't be talking, I'd be freeing her, blade in hand if needs be. If he thinks about it further, he will take his hand away from that weapon, lest I take it as a slight and teach him I don't like weapons pointed at me. " Morgrym's voice hardens just enough to indicate how much he means the second part of that statement. " The important part, at least to me, is that she is kept safe, which is what I was coming to check on. Now that she is missing I don't know if she is safe or not. If she is harmed there may never be another person cured in this Wold. Think how that might impact any future generations here. Worse, think how that will impact us since she was adamant about us returning in a few months for s second dosing. I know nothing about how magic works, I am a Dwarf and a warrior, not a finger wiggling mage. How far could she go and where inside that distance would she likely go. Think, because I want to be sure she is OK."
At no time does Morgrym's hands leave his side. He remains ready to act if this should go south though.

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Tuesday June 12th, 2012 7:23:05 PM

Seredal starts, "Are you sure that's wise? If rats can become that mutated, I'm sure bats could as well, and on a night like - " Interrupted by the strong arm on her shoulder, the bard's natural curiousity starts to overrule her fear, and she walks outside without resisting.

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Tuesday June 12th, 2012 11:58:02 PM

Napalm is caught off guard by Cashandra's reaction and wonder's if such things are only to be discussed in front of the chairs with all three groups. Either way, he decides it best not to pursue the dwarf or ask more questions. He picks up the two drinks and tastes them both and then walks over to join the group, a drink in each hand, and tells them about what he found on the announcement board.

Screaming at the Sky [DM Jerry] 
Wednesday June 13th, 2012 2:16:14 AM

Urist, after watching Vgodd and reviewing what he knows about him realizes that Vgodd is one of the most up front people he's met here in Hellmarr. He detects no duplicitous actions in the dwarf.

While he is thinking, Urist tries to gather the group outside to talk privately, which he succeeds at.

------------

Meanwhile over at the Guard House, Ibraham listens to what Lori and Morgrym tell him. For a minute, he freezes up and turns red with anger. [Perhaps this internalizing of emotions is a cultural thing?] Then he relaxes and removes his arm from its ready position.

"You are right. Both of you. I am sorry. Zericles, come. We must find Hegga soon or our lives are forfeit. Literally. Morgrym, we'll come find you and let you know when we find her, if we do. If we let you in on the chase, we'll be in worse trouble than we already are."

Then Ibraham looks upward and simply yells. Then pivoting he goes back inside.

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 (Zach R) 
Wednesday June 13th, 2012 4:28:23 PM

Harden waits to see why he was urged outside, enjoying his drink as he does so.

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde 
Wednesday June 13th, 2012 4:55:20 PM

Morgrym goes outside. As Ibraham said, involving the newcomers would cause more trouble than their help would provide. They know of none of the woman's likely haunts and would draw too much attention. As he steps out he touches Zericles on the elbow, likely as high as he can reach and says quietly, " Find her, She is more important to this town than any of us. If you need help or find she was taken rather than escaped, call on me and I will help however I can."
Morgrym looks across the gate at the Inn and sees his friends filing out already. Odd, he thinks, and heads over to see what happened before going to the smithy.

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Wednesday June 13th, 2012 6:07:30 PM

Napalm drinks the Dark Green Gnomish, the taste reminding him of his days back at Maplehurst Academy. The drink had often helped him relax after a hard day of studying, and it didn't take him long to realize that it helped in combat as well. Combustible liquids seemed as vital to him as water itself, and alcohol was no exception.

Thinking back to his discussion with Cashandra he remembers the conversation as if she had been flirting with him, despite his disfigured appearance. Not surprising, he thinks to himself. What woman wouldn't want a big, strong guy like me? Heck, if that halfling is any indication, I am sure to be the most desirable man here!

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29  d20+9=26 ;
Wednesday June 13th, 2012 7:34:55 PM

As Lori and Morgrym head over to join the rest of the group she whispers to him.
"I think I know what happened to Hegga, but there is no way to prove it. I think since she was jailed, and she knew she succeeded in going back to ask for our help, that she took the time and transported herself back to the Giggling Ghost to ask us. That would be how and why she is no longer in jail."
She then quiets down and watches for those who might keep an eye on the group.

Perception 26

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Wednesday June 13th, 2012 9:59:42 PM

Urist smiles as the rest of their group arrives just in time. They've got a taste of how unfortunate the Wold has become, but there's still nothing to save it from that he's aware of. Sure there's this nasty disease, but there's also a cure. Hopefully Vggod can finally shed some light on things.

Urist simply waits for Vggod to start speaking.

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Thursday June 14th, 2012 2:01:41 AM

Seredal's pen has been floating over her journal for what seems a while. Finally she clears her throat and asks, "Well, what is it, Urist?"

apologies for late post, drama at face to face game delayed me from getting home

He Went the Other Way [DM Jerry] 
Thursday June 14th, 2012 3:44:06 AM

Zericles looks at Morgrym with different eyes. "Thank you." He says simply. "We will indeed ask you for help if we need it." Then with a smile for Lori as well, he turns to follow Ibraham quickly inside the Guard House.

--------------

Urist gets everyone outside. Even Morgrym and Lori show up from down the street. Then he looks for Vgodd and doesn't see him anywhere!

One of the party, who shall forever remain anonymous, whispers to him. "Um, Vgodd asked us to follow him in the other direction--through the inner door to the back room inside." [see earlier post]

So the entire group, who is not completely daft, meanders through the room over the next few minutes, and one at a time, so as to not draw attention, makes their way to the back room.

-----------

As each of you enters the back room, you are silently welcomed. Several people are gathered there. Some smile. Some look hesitant and worried. An old beat up table with mismatched chairs dominates the room.

A dagger, bejeweled and ancient, lies in the center of the table.

Vgodd rises and picks up the dagger. "I have the Dagger of Kassan. He who holds the dagger may speak without fear."

He holds up the dagger to display it to everyone. As its name is announced, it glows and the lights in the room become very dim in its presence.

You've never seen Vgodd serious like this. It is as if for the first time, he is in his element. He realizes this and smiles disarmingly for a moment before continuing.

"I welcome the heroes from the past to our midst. I take the responsibility. Bullo, I know you're not happy about this. But this is part of what Alex and Hegga saw."

He nods to the ugliest crone you've ever seen. Warts on her warts. A younger version of Hegga for sure.

"I feel that it is time for us to act. This is the time foretold in Alex's vision. This is the time that Hegga has been dreaming about.

"This is the time of the prophesy."

He pauses and lays the dagger down upon the table.

--------------

OOC: I was under the impression that Urist wanted a private word outside before possibly following Vgodd back inside. Guess I was wrong. :) Carl misread my earlier post concerning where Vgodd went. No worries. Urist was gathering the group, but to the wrong location. Happens. So I directed us to where Urist "really" intended that the group would go. Urist is SOOO much smarter than Carl. ::running away::]



Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Thursday June 14th, 2012 8:43:32 AM

(OOC: Ouch, my pride :P )

"Finally," Urist thinks to himself, "we may actually get to the bottom of this." He's glad he stepped outside to ensure Lori and Morgrym could be here for this (ooc: ha).

He looks down at the dagger and wonders if the other natives will pick it up and continue...

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 (Zach R) 
Thursday June 14th, 2012 1:43:25 PM

The Half-Orc stands back, content as always to let others speak as he absorbs.

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde 
Thursday June 14th, 2012 4:52:45 PM

OOC
Carl, is Urist a dude or a babe dwarf? your sheet doesn't say and I am leaning one way and from his post above Jerry is leaning the other. Which is it?
IC
Morgrym looks at the assembly, then at Hegga, and blinks, twice." You know they are all outside looking for you right?" He says quietly to Hegga. "They seemed mighty perplexed as to how you disappeared from jail. So why are we really here? I'm dying to know, and I let that rat bite me and drank that nasty brew, so dish. What can we do that the rather chaotically survivalist oriented people I have met so far can't?" He keeps his voice low and neutral. He is afraid the search outside will lead to a search in here and isn't sure how that'd pan out since he just swore he didn't help Hegga escape. With that in mind he moves to the doorway and plants his armored dwarven behind against it. No one short of an angry hill giant with a good head of steam on is getting through that door on the first try (assuming it opens into the room). Furthermore he is actually quite interested to find out what it really is they are here for.

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Thursday June 14th, 2012 6:46:07 PM

Seredal pipes up, "Pardon me, but who or what is or was Kassan?"

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Thursday June 14th, 2012 7:42:04 PM

OOC: Urist is quite male.

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29 
Thursday June 14th, 2012 7:48:29 PM

"From the sounds of it, I'd assume the dagger protects the person, so he who had it crafted was most likely afraid of assassination for some reason."
Lori then looks at the 'younger' Hegga.
"I guess that your older self is out doing other tasks? Or is this the true you?"

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde 
Thursday June 14th, 2012 8:15:50 PM

OOC
Then I win! Yay.

Visions and Revelations [DM Jerry] 
Friday June 15th, 2012 12:10:22 AM

When Morgrym and Serendal tries to speak, Vgodd grabs the dagger and says, "Emotions tend to run high here. We've been trying for years to find....a better way.....for Hellmarr. So, we only speak when we're holding the dagger."

He hands it to Morgrym as he prepares to speak. Then Lori asks her questions.

The crone takes the dagger, chuckling. As she does so, her visage changes to that of a young beautiful woman.

"I'm not Hegga, as you can see. One of the dagger's properties is that it reveals all disguises. How would it look for a gypsy fortune teller to not be old and ugly? I am Alyx the Seer, though I can see how you were confused. I have the sight. In fact, as far as seeing the future, I surpass Hegga and she would agree with you.

"About a year ago, I began having visions. Visions of two paths for Hellmarr. In one path, I saw the town of Hellmarr, due to the greed for power of the PTB, suffer greatly and eventually die out. The visions varied as I perceived different possible futures, but those two elements were always present: PTB yearning for power, everyone dies.

"The second path was....unusual. The Spirit Shrine opens and a band of heroes comes. They defeat the Powers That Be and the freedom that comes from that causes Hellmarr to flourish and thrive.

"As for sending the message back in time, that wasn't me. That came from Hegga. She uses a different method for her giftedness. She sees in dreams. I use tarot cards.

"To answer your questions specifically, I don't know what you can do that we can't. But I trust the cards. Hegga trusts her dreams. When the gods left us, giftedness increased. It is "the sight" that guides us now. The divinity within ourselves. No worship of immortal creatures that have to feed off of our worship for THEIR power, then giving only a portion of it back to just their priests."

You can easily tell that this is a sore spot for Alex. She sets down the dagger and returns to her ugly appearance.

When Serendal asks her question, Bullo the Taxidermist, takes the dagger in hand and answers simply, "Kassan was the founder of Hellmarr, long ago. As for the powers of the dagger, one is to hide what we say from the Powers That Be. We don't know the range of it, so we hold it when we speak. As for whether it protects the wielder in any way, ::he shrugs: I have no idea. None of us have ever wielded it in actual combat. It seemed--disrespectful somehow." He sets the dagger down.

The back door opens and everyone tenses. Hegga walks in hooded and quickly closes the door behind her. She smiles, and sits pouring herself some water. After a long draught, she takes the dagger and simply says, "Sorry I'm late. I was delayed."

--------------

OOC: Sorry Urist. ;(



AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde 
Friday June 15th, 2012 5:27:20 AM

Morgrym takes the dagger once Hegga arrives and it is not held by any others.
He says," do you see how long we have to effect this change? Force of arms would likely not be the best course, odd that I say that, but respect is earned, not taken, to form a lasting bond with people. If we have the time, completing the tasks that plague this place might go a long way toward giving us a voice when it comes to removing the Powers. What you and the town will need to decide is WHO replaces them."

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Friday June 15th, 2012 9:25:51 AM

Assuming Morgrym allows others to use the dagger, Urist will pick it up next.

"Agreed. The quality of life for these future Woldians won't improve so long as those in power seek to keep things just as they are. Honestly, what a daft notion; a society doesn't need three powerful rulers to maintain a status quo consisting of 'might makes right.'

"If the people need heroes to see that things can get better, then by Domi let's do it. Only question is where to start. I'm thinking this boss rat's head on a pike would be a good jumping off point."

He'll set the dagger down for those who would like to speak.

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 (Zach R) 
Friday June 15th, 2012 1:18:30 PM

Harden doesn't take the the dagger but nods at Urist's notion that taking down the rat boss would earn them some credibility.

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde 
Friday June 15th, 2012 3:20:58 PM

" Quite right, except we keep him while. Bullo over there wants to stuff and mount him. Having seen the rats around here we might need a draft horse team and a buckboard to get the corpse back but he really wants that corpse." Morgrym says all this with a chuckle in his voice, trying to play nice with his new co-conspirators.

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Friday June 15th, 2012 4:10:59 PM

Seredal takes the dagger when able and asks, "Just to be clear, we're safe from the plague, now, right? We won't need to have Hegga do that awful ritual again, right? That's the way it worked back home, but in this place and with this disease....I had to ask."

History and Sacrilege [DM Jerry] 
Sunday June 17th, 2012 11:34:54 PM

Everyone looks to Hegga to take the dagger, but she sits and makes herself comfortable. The lets the guests say their peace. Once they are done, she finally holds her hand out for the dagger and lets everyone pass it to her.

"As for time, that is dependent upon the secrecy of this group. Cashandra knows--generally- about us. She doesn't know far we plan. She seems to favor the circle. However, one specific question from her, commanded by the 1st Seat and our chances are done.

"As for Hellmarr's problems. They come and we survive them. Then they come again. These are the good times. We only have 4 or 5 enemies right now. And we have children and are not upon the dagger point of extinction."

And with that she pricks her finger with the dagger and lets it drip upon the table.

"As for the Seats and those who inhabit them. A bit of history is in order. A bit over 200 years ago, the first of us came through the gateway from the north. Criminals sent through the gate instead of the usual death sentence. Murderers, kidnappers, extortionists, thieves we were. We were doing a better job of killing each other than the undead or the trolls. Then the crones came among us and gave us the seats. The first sat upon them and control was established. We were made to behave so that we wouldn't die out. It worked.

"2 hundred years later, this circle feels that those seats are our worst enemy. We, once again, will die form within instead of without because of the seats. Those who sit fear the people and the people fear them."

She passes the dagger to Vgodd. "We of the circle wish to destroy the seats. Yet, three attacks over the last 10 years have failed. Do not doubt the power of the seats. My father and uncle died in the last attack."

Vgodd passes the dagger to Bullo. "We would set up an ancient form of government called a...consensus. When a decision would need to be made, those who wished to vote for a thing could. Sort of the opposite to what we have now, I think.

"I don't think they want to tell you this yet, but..."

Alex shakes her head. She makes to grab the dagger, but Bullo hugs it close.

"We invited them here. If they talk, we are dead and the circle is broken. We tell them all or go confess to the Seats that we conspire against them. Which shall it be!!!?"

Alex pounds the table, but Hegga puts a hand upon her shoulder. She turns to Bullo and nods. Then she asks for the dagger.

Hesitating, Bullo gives it up.

Hegga says, "Alex had the vision to bring you here. I had the vision concerning what you were to do. There is a Mausoleum of sorts. A....tomb. Kassan's tomb. There is our solution. The rest I have not told the circle.

Looks of surprise go around the table.

"Yes there is more. Do you recall when I left for about a month last winter?" Heads nod. "I went to Thresh."

Vgodd stands knocking his chair to the door. "You went where?"

"SILENCE!!!" Hegga yells using magic in her voice. "You break your oath! Now the dagger will not protect our words from prying ears."

Hegga sits and thinks motioning all to silence.

Vgodd's shame is evident as he lowers his head and closes his eyes.

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde 
Monday June 18th, 2012 4:42:54 PM

Morgrym thinks during the silence. He needs to know if it was the seats that foiled the previous attempts or guards. Because people died during the attempts to destroy the seats did not mean they couldn't be destroyed. A skilled swordsman could still shatter an opponent's magic blade. True a magic blade would be of finer make to hold the enchantment and thus stronger, and the magic would lend it strength, but it could still be rent asunder by damage. He had heard no oath broken, but waits until he is allowed more questions to form a better plan.

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Monday June 18th, 2012 4:46:37 PM

Urist looks down at his empty mug. "Who else needs a refill?" he asks as he gets to his feet. He's happy to fill any one else's cup when he goes to refill his.

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Monday June 18th, 2012 5:13:50 PM

Seredal is probably the only one in the room with a smile on her face. Even though she doesn't quite understand the conflict right now, she knows that this will be a dynamite scene. If Vgodd has a cup on the floor (especially if it was also knocked over), she'll discretely hand it to Urist in the hopes of getting the players more inebriated. What was Fajen's term for alcohol - "bottled drama?"

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29 
Monday June 18th, 2012 7:14:01 PM

Lori casually steps back a bit allowing the others to settle any differences. She all of a sudden looks for a non standard way out. It's starting to become a habit, but it might extend her life expectancy to a bit longer.
"So, someone mentioned the availability of rooms we could rent or lease or something like that?"
Turning the conversation towards something that would be expected couldn't hurt, and anything that didn't hurt, had to help.

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Monday June 18th, 2012 7:35:08 PM

Awkard... Napalm thinks to himself as he sets down the empty Dark Green Gnomish glass and starts drinking his Troll's blood. The scarred cleric has many questions to ask, but decides it is better to wait until this broken oath and prying ears issue is settled.

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Monday June 18th, 2012 10:17:39 PM

Urist moseys up to the bar with everyone's glasses. "Looks like it's one of those night, eh?" He says to Cashandra with a smile in his eye. "I'm not sure what that Vgodd fellah was drinking," he stops to sniff the empty cup & blinks a few tears from his eyes, "but whatever it is, I'll take one myself. Plus refills for all these.

"Name's Urist in case you don't remember from earlier. My companions and I will be needing rooms for a while. How're your lodgings?"

Beer and Gladys [DM Jerry] 
Monday June 18th, 2012 11:31:31 PM

Urist obtains rooms for his compatriots. He ends up with 3 rooms next to each other and 2 in a room.

Cashandra is pleasant and friendly. "Be careful. Vgodd is quite the experienced imbiber of spirits." She quickly turns to another customer.

When Urist returns, Hegga turns to him and writes on a piece of paper. "Stay."

Publically she says, "Well I think this was fun. Mostly drinking in silence, but fun. Sometimes the silence of new comrades is....comforting."

She shoos the others out and remains with Urist, if he's willing to stay.

Outside, Vgodd sets about getting seriously drunk. He orders an entire keg of beer. They bring him a pitcher. His shame is going down his throat.

"Gladys! I'm coming for you soon. You'ze gonna die you rat face momma!" This type talk seems to be what the drunk Vgodd is mainly concerned about. He starts to talk about what happened in the room several times, but Alex, quickly changes the subject. She stays near him at all times.

"You'ze guys are gonna help me kill Gladys, right?"

Then finally, "I wonder what Gladys would look like ifn she was a dwarf maiden?"

-----------------

Inside, Hegga quietly and with several notes on paper, instructs Urist so he can help her reattune the dagger to keep a 30' silence and scry barrier up. She explains afterwards, "I can do it, but I'm not a proper priest. None of us are really. Your battery of spells really helped, thanks. It would have taken me a week. You did it in an hour."



Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 (Zach R) 
Tuesday June 19th, 2012 2:51:51 PM

OOC: Could have sworn I posted yesterday. My apologies for not.

----------------

Harden enjoyed the drinks. He enjoyed the information more. Seems the group has decides to set off after Gladys so the Half-Orc checks that his gear and order and prepares to follow. He does mention one thing. "Before we go fight some killer rat thing... can anyone throw a cure spell my way?"

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Tuesday June 19th, 2012 3:25:23 PM

Seeing it's now ok to talk, Urist breathes a sigh of relief. "Aye. It was my pleasure Hegga. Before we gather the others and continue hearing what you have to say, I wanted to know if you could teach me your secret to healing the plague that consumes this land. I have the feeling we may be exposed to quite a bit of it..."

Whatever the answer, Urist will follow by gathering his companions so they can hear what Hegga was going to tell them. He'll simply poke his head out the door and motion for them to come back.

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde 
Tuesday June 19th, 2012 3:50:18 PM

Morgrym gets something to drink. Once the recall is issued he will make his way back to the meeting. He still has alot of questions. Foremost being how Vgodd broke his oath. He still wants to examine their forge and begin to learn their method of adding sockets for runes to their gear.

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Tuesday June 19th, 2012 6:41:36 PM

Hearing Urist's request Napalm joins him, making sure that if any secrete knowledge is handed out that he will be there to partake of it. I too would like to learn more about healing this plague. As I mentioned before, I am a dedicated healer and a skilled alchemist with a talent for brewing potions.

When Harden asks for some healing Napalm downs the rest of his Troll's Blood. Don't worry, I'll see to it that everyone is in top shape before we head out. Napalm hopes he understands that he wishes to do the healing in private, worried the locals would not appreciate him pulling out Mareatus holy symbol and praying to the cursed god.

ooc: What time of day is it? This may effect if I use spells or channel energy to heal people.

Seredal Hosah (Josh)  d8+3=6 ;
Tuesday June 19th, 2012 6:44:02 PM

Seredal sends her bird to Harden with the requested spell (Harden heals 6 points) and went back to regarding Vgodd with dismay. The plan had worked too well apparently...well, maybe that would...

"You know," she says to the drunk, "Where I come from, there are mages that could answer that question for you. We might be able to find someone to turn it such, if we capture the rat alive."

It wouldn't make up for the chance to find out what that Thresh business was all about, but it still might make a good drinking song...

Rat Talk and Other Dark Conversations [DM Jerry] 
Wednesday June 20th, 2012 11:48:29 AM

Hegga chuckles and says to Urist. "I'd be glad to baby ducks. But you'll have to visit me out at the farm and spend a week learning what you can of the cure. It has a magical component, but the mixing of the ingredients is the bulk of it. Being a witch helps with that. I was able to teach Halfast, but he didn't fully master the formula. It--requires adjustments--depending on the strength and purity of each ingredient. Sometimes you can substitute materials if one is not at hand or if one is tainted, you can add a bit of this or that. Its like seasoning a meal. You've heard the phrase, "season according to taste?" Well here it is season according to perceiving the concoction.

"Would you do the honors and call them back inside, Brother Urist?"

----------------

Harden talks about killing the giant rat, Gladys, which causes Vgodd to rise out of his misery funk a bit--and to see just a bit more sober.

"If you go, can I come with Hardin? That beastie has been my focus for more than a year now. I keep asking Ibraham to go with me, but he's always busy. I even asked Mithrille and Gusli to go, but they are always hammering on that anvil of theirs. I headed out once by myself and Torvah commanded me to go kill undead near Thresh with a bunch of others."

Napalm glances out the windows to notice for the first time that the sun has set. It is early evening.

Vgodd turns to Serendal with shock on his face. "Capture that beastie? Are you mad? You'd need a net 50' long!"

-------

OOC: No worries Hardin. And sorry for missing my post last night. Was tired and didn't wake up during the night like I usually do.

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29 
Wednesday June 20th, 2012 11:58:05 AM

Lori has still to ask any questions, she picks up the dagger, "Just how does one get the job of sitting in one of those chairs. Is it using might makes right, or is one elected by their piers?"

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Wednesday June 20th, 2012 12:51:16 PM

Urist nods as he listens to Hegga. "Aye, soon as me mates and I kill off this giant rat, I'll see if I can't spend a week out there with ya." He gets to his feet and fetches the others. Returning, he picks up the dagger.

"Well then, let's try this again." He'll hand the dagger to Hegga...

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde 
Wednesday June 20th, 2012 4:11:41 PM

Morgrym waits for the dagger, and once he has it he starts asking what he would need to know about the chairs." Does the power of a seat extend to the person that sits in it when they are not seated in the chair? Could Torvah command someone out here, away from his chair? This might be painful for some of you, and I apologize, but we need to know what we are dealing with here. How did those who rose up before die? Were they killed by the guards or did the chairs themselves somehow kill them? What do you expect us to find in this tomb that could help? It bears the same name as the dagger, am I right?"

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Wednesday June 20th, 2012 6:15:38 PM

When she has a chance at the dagger, Seredal will ask, "Just how strong is their scrying power? Will we be able to discuss this while we're knee or waist deep in the muck searching for this demon rat?"

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 (Zach R) 
Wednesday June 20th, 2012 8:24:14 PM

Harden claps Vgodd on the shoulder. "Certainly... but if we kill her, the next couple of rounds are on you!"

It is Said [DM Jerry] 
Thursday June 21st, 2012 9:55:54 AM

As they reenter the back room, Vgodd smiles wanly at Harden. In a humble voice he says, "That would be nice." He grabs some coffee and begins drinking from the pitcher.

Once inside, Hegga bids everyone sit with a smile.

Alex the Seer takes the dagger an begins. "Lori, the powers are elected to sit in the chairs. However, many folk have given up on voting. It is as if the chairs corrupt those who sit in them. Many make it through the 3rd chair and are still pretty reasonable. But once one becomes invulnerable?....

"Yes, Sir Morgrym, the power of the seats extends to wherever they are. They are indeed godlike powers. Guess the Crones thought the original settlers needed something like that to survive. We did survive, but now we can't get past that stage of development. The last two attacks on the seats were defended by chairs 1 and 2, well as far as we know. I don't know the details as there were no survivors from the attacks. No witnesses either."

[Perception checks to recognize the Crones. Higher rolls will receive more information.]

She glances at Vgodd as she says this. The talk seems to deepen his mood.

With that, Hegga takes up the dagger. "Serendal, the seats have no magical scrying power as of old. They are no mighty wizard or witch. However, it is said that when the gods died from "Marteaus' Revenge," that they bequeathed to us a spark of godliness within ourselves, which we call giftedness. The ability to see the future, to guide with tarot cards or within our own dreams. The dagger here, blocks those who would naturally receive message of import. If we didn't have the dagger, others, both monster and person, would be receiving what we say here through their giftedness the next time they threw the bones or rolled the dice to see the future.

"The tomb is where Kassen is buried, Morgrym. It is said that when the Crones gave the town the seats, that they gave him the means to destroy them. It is also said that it was buried with him. That has always just been legend. Until recently.

"We've told you of Urist's vision she saw with the tarot, we haven't told you of my dream. I received a dream of something glowing bright above Kassem's tomb. And heroes of old dressed in antique manner reaching [she becomes dramatic] up their hands on high to partake of the light. [she stands] Then carrying the light to the Temple of the Ancients, they melted the seats and those who sat upon them!"



Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 (Zach R)  d20+8=19 ;
Thursday June 21st, 2012 3:17:16 PM

Noticing the mood has become serious again, Harden tries to see what he recognises of the Crones.

Perception: 19

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl  d20+6=7 ;
Thursday June 21st, 2012 5:56:28 PM

Urist is too lost in his own thoughts to figure anything out regarding the crones. Instead, he brings his hand towards his face.

"Hazel, show a map of the land surrounding Hellmarr." When the map is displayed, he then turns to Hegga and the others. "Can you point out where this tomb, as well as Gladys, can be found?"



Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Thursday June 21st, 2012 6:15:44 PM

Once daggered, Seredal responds, "So things must remain...discreet even in the field." Seredal looks down at her notebook and swears lightly, immediately [i](using Prestidagation)[i] changing the color of the paper to match the ink. She then puts the book into her bag for what might be the first time since she stepped through that accursed tapestry.

When the map is unfurled (if it is), Seredal will ask (again, daggered) where this Thresh place is and why it is held in such...emotion.

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde  d20+5=21
Thursday June 21st, 2012 6:49:52 PM

Morgrym reaches out a hand as Seredal puts away her book. He shakes his head, points at the dagger and then copies her gesture to change the page color. His meaning seems clear. "Keep writing while in here under the dagger's protection and then hide it. This is important and needs to be known by future people."
Once he regains the dagger he then has a few more questions and statements." Keep writing Seredal, folks will need to know this later, just blank your pages before you leave the dagger's presence."
To the assembly he asks, "So the Minotaur, Izmael the Hunter, He is really invincible? Why does Gladys still live? He is a hunter, by his own title. Once he was unable to be harmed he should have hunted her down, along with any and all other foes this place is plagued by. If he is a leader he should lead, inspire courage not demand it by fear. I think you have hit the point. These seats must truly corrupt, or else he was never a brave one to begin with. If you need the people behind us, indeed behind you, then this sort of information is what Seredal will need for when we return with Gladys' body. We need to show folk that the seats are not the most powerful thing here. Her words can inspire that. Even Cashandra won't be able to dispute them if they are indeed true." A look comes over Morgrym's face. He pauses and then asks," What will happen to the Powers when their chairs are removed? Will it drive them mad? Kill them even? Too bad, she is a fine looking woman. Anyway, that's all I have to ask."
Morgrym sits back and finishes his drink, listening to all that is revealed under the cloaking dagger.
Perception 21 to recognize anything about the Crones

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D)  d20+6=26 ;
Thursday June 21st, 2012 11:42:02 PM

Napalm's face is one of pure doubt when the group is told the chair's powers work even when the powers are not sitting on them. Have any of you experienced any of the three powers using their abilities when not on the chairs? I find it hard to believe the magic could be so strong and radiate so far...and what do you mean the attacks were defended by the chairs, do you mean the furniture itself or the people occupying them? How do you even know such a thing if there were no survivors or witnesses, was this another of your visions? After a moment's pause he adds, If people can have visions of what is happening or has happened, is it possible for people to send messages the same way or create fake visions for others to see?

As he says this he believes he recognizes something about the crones and wonder's if the crones that made the chairs were relates to the crones of the south.

Perception Check = 26, Natural 20!!!

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29  d20+9=27 ;
Friday June 22nd, 2012 12:28:42 AM

When able to, Lori will once again pick up the dagger.
"I have a thought, you said the three thrones were given to protect the city. I would guess that the powers of the thrones extends as far as the city does. Is that right? So getting one of the people who sit upon them, outside the city limits or maybe even the walls, would expose them to being, normal?
Does that make much sense?"


The Crones are definitely something that stands alone, Lori views them again.

(perc roll 27)

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 (Zach R) 
Friday June 22nd, 2012 1:45:08 PM

Harden is still not sure what to think of the chairs. If he was, he doubts he would be able to get his hand on the dagger to speak his mind... after all, everyone else seems so intent on talking at length about it.

Napalm's Revelation [DM Jerry] 
Monday June 25th, 2012 9:30:11 AM

Hardin thinks he remembers something about a group of Powers in the Southern Continent that called themselves The Three Crones, but he's not sure.

Urist opens his mouth as if to talk and someone, very quick with a reaction, thrusts the knife into his hands, just in time. Luckily, the dagger doesn't actually stab him. Hazel silently, rare for her, projects the map onto the table. It shows exactly what it showed before: a mostly empty map of a place called The Downgate with Hellmarr as the only township.

Both Hegga and Alex look at each other in alarm, and freeze for a moment. Then Hegga takes the dagger and simply studies the map. "The tomb is about here, south and a bit west of my farm. I have no idea where Gladys might be. Why do you want to know that?"

When Vgodd moves to take the dagger, Hegga refuses. "Ahh, Vgodd and his obsession. Point it out Vgodd, but you will not get the dagger again this night."

Vgodd, sighing, points in a circular motion all around the Spirit Swamp and The Spirit's Shrine.

When Serendal asks about Thresh, Hegga again balks. Seems her defenses are now up. Alex takes the dagger and says, "Tell them Hegga. All our tarot cards must be on the table."

Hegga thinks it through and shrugs taking the dagger. "Thresh is way west of here. Days away. It is an undead city. It operates like a regular city, when such things existed, but is totally undead. If there is every a need for you to go there, I'll tell you where it is exactly. But not until then."

Bullo answers Morgrym when his turn comes. "Yes, the 2nd seat is invincible. He cannot be harmed. Weapons just bounce off. Magic has no effect. And Lori, there is no distance. They have indeed fought outside the walls. As for Gladys, I guess that's because he's never gone after her. Vgodd is the only one who's ever seen Gladys." He pauses. "Sorry Vgodd, but this must be said. Sometimes I think that Gladys is Vgodd's imaginary friend."

Vgodd hits the table with double fists and fumes.

Alex takes the dagger. "I think that's a wonderful idea Morgrym. The people do need courage. We need it."

Hegga follows, "I disagree. If we draw attention to our heroes here, more than already exists by their coming here today, they will be seen as a threat rather than an asset and the PTB will take them out before they can help us. My trip to Thresh was to visit an ancient library that is there. I found out that in the ancient days, priests of The Crones, when buried could be easily identified. The Crones would light a beacon above their tombs that would burn there for sometimes years. A minor thing perhaps, but it kinda fits with the rest of this. I believe that the reason you are here is to defeat the PTB. I think you believe that too. I would have you go to the tomb, find this means to destroy the seats, and bring it to the temple, as per my vision, and defeat the PTB."

Alex goes next. "That's fine, but what about after? Morgrym is right! If the people are not encouraged, if their strength is not built up, then we will not survive the aftermath. We will, for the first time since our founding, be truly on our own. No protectors. We will...all have to be heroes."

Bullo sighs and takes the dagger. "You doubt Napalm. Try attacking one and perhaps then you'll believe. Their powers are real and are not limited by distance. That's why Izmael doesn't hunt anymore! I'm sure of it. There's no challenge if you can't be hit back."

Hegga answers the rest of Napalms questions. "No one has ever been able to communicate using their giftedness. Not purposefully. It's not impossible. But giftedness doesn't work that way. It is more... subjective."

Then Napalm's mind kicks into overdrive. He sees it all! The Three Crones from his time. 3 females that were a single power in a region called The Gateway Downs containing a town called Heranmar. It was famous as being the first place that folks from the north visited when the Southern Continent was first discovered by those from the Continent of Yrth by a group of adventurers that came to be known as The Children of Chaos!!! [Hey you should get something for a natural 20 at such a moment.]



Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Monday June 25th, 2012 4:31:58 PM

Urist takes the dagger. "Hegga has a point. Going out of our way to prove ourselves the people's favored heroes would attract unwanted attention. Still, someone made mention of an actual bounty on the head of this beast. Collecting bounties is pretty standard adventurer fare. So long as we leave it at that, people see they don't need the PTB, we accept, nay demand the bounty to keep up appearances, then we get to work breaking the power of those chairs."

He then looks to Alex and Hegga, "why the reaction when Hazel here did her thing? She'd introduce herself I'm sure, but we're not certain if it would be safe. If I hold the dagger in the hand she's on, should it be safe?"

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde 
Monday June 25th, 2012 4:57:28 PM

When the dagger is again available, Morgrym motions for it and speaks." You have not all come to an agreement how to rule yourselves it seems once the seats are destroyed. You must have some kind of order, or all you have worked for will wither and die. I will not help cause that. Take the time you need, talk among yourselves and decide how order will be kept. In the meantime, I plan to try and foster brotherhood among your people."
" I can work a forge as well as any dwarf and am better at weapons and armor than many. You have smith's here that know techniques I do not. Every one of your citizens will need the means to defend themselves and defeat whatever threats arise once the seats are no more. That little I can do. Fostering a spirit of teamwork among your citizens should be done as well. If the powers see me as a threat then they will come at me, but I have others here with more subtle talents than mine. Talents that can coat the bitter medicine of teamwork in their eyes with a sugar coating and make it impossible to see what I am doing as anything other than helping. For example, while I work the forge to learn these new techniques my "failures" will need to go somewhere. What better place than to the weakest and least protected settlers among your people. If I "fail" enough, the Powers will view me as a buffoon rather than a threat. A story here and a tale there, planted by a skillful bard lets say, would reinforce that. Not an image I crave, but effective for our purposes. And if I am asked straight on how I can fail so much...well I hold my work to a high standard. Failure in my eyes may well be good steel to another's. Each of us surely has things we can teach in this way, as well as gradually honing our skills in the wild and making this place safer. When you have made your plans fully and thought out all the details you still lack we will be ready for the tomb's challenges and will put your plan in motion. Who else here can help turn this place from survival of the fittest into thriving refuge for all?"

Morgrym offers the dagger to the next speaker. Clearly he thinks this can work, and help build an interdependent community like he is used to from his Wold.

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 (Zach R) 
Monday June 25th, 2012 9:40:24 PM

The Half Orc smiles as the Dwarf speaks. "I usually like to wing it, but the Dwarf makes sense. That doesn't happen often." he thinks to himself. His smile and nod to the group when Morgrym finishes speaking indicates his agreement with the short and stubby fellow.

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Monday June 25th, 2012 9:53:43 PM

Seredal is just...fidgity without her book. Sitting on the floor against a wall, she is concentrating on what everyone is saying, but more on the content than the import. Occasionally she taps a pattern on the wall behind her, left-right, right, both, left, left-left, both...

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D)  d20=18 ;
Tuesday June 26th, 2012 12:49:16 AM

Napalm waits again for the dagger and tells the group what he knows of the crones. Is there a way to keep the PTB from perceiving us as a threat? Perhaps we could take the job of mapping out the surrounding land to explain any traveling we do.

On another note, do anyone of you recall any stories dealing with the plague that ravishes the land? Why it was brought about or what others had done to try to appease the gods or to cure it?


Knowledge check= 18
Does Napalm recall any connection between any of these locations and anything having to do with Marteaus?

I Think That's Perfect [DM Jerry] 
Tuesday June 26th, 2012 1:56:15 AM

Alyx takes her turn. "Napalm, I think that's perfect! You heroes can indulge Vgodd here and go hunt Gladys. She lives in the Spirit Swamp. While there, you can hit the tomb and bring back the means to destroy the PTB. There! What do you think of that Mr Vgodd!"

Vgodd slowly raises his head and looks at Alyx. He is slow to comprehend as he was deep in shame. He smiles wanly and then it grows into a huge grin. He gives Napalm a huge slap on the back. The old Vgodd is back.

Bullo takes the dagger. "Methinks Morgrym that you should have been a bard. You are very fancy with your words and I don't understand exactly what you're wanting to do. If it is plan out a government, we have a plan. No one rules. Everyone votes that cares to whenever there is something to decide. If you're wanting to go visit the forge, that's all find and dandy. Those gals running it are clever, but much has been forgotten from your days. And as for weapons and armor? All citizens have weapons. Armor? Some. All adults that can fight do when the undead or trolls come pounding at the gate."

Hegga ends the meeting with, "I can think of nothing that would bring our folks courage back and give them hope more than to end the Seats. That is what you are meant to do. How and when? We will leave to you to decide. If we make you do anything, my dreams say that you will fail. I think we're at that point. We will leave you now and let you plan how you want to pull this off, or if you would return home."

And with that, they begin saying their thanks, hands shaking all around. All but Hegga leave via the front door. Hegga turns invisible and leaves via the back door.

Vgodd motions that he'll be waiting in the tavern in case they want him to go with them.



AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde 
Tuesday June 26th, 2012 6:36:31 PM

Since it is evening, Morgrym decides to head over to the forge and see what he can, maybe look over the work of the smiths here before turning in for the night. He heads to the bar for 3 ales before heading that way. If there were 2 smiths at the forge, as he had heard suggested they would likely be glad for a bit of a drink after a days work. He heads outside and in the direction of the smithy he had seen earlier.

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29  d20+9=18 ;
Tuesday June 26th, 2012 7:36:44 PM

Lori heads out front to the bar. She orders an ale and then takes up a corner chair. With her back to walls, she just leans back and drinks her ale, listening to the conversations going on. She will limit herself to two ales, unless it's a very strong drink. She still has her hood up, hiding her features from the folk.

perception 18

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 (Zach R) 
Tuesday June 26th, 2012 10:22:03 PM

Harden prepares to make his way back to the tavern... afterall that is where Vgodd is heading... right?

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Tuesday June 26th, 2012 11:45:29 PM

Napalm returns to the bar with the others and looks for Cashandra at the bar. Pulling out his flask tells her that he enjoyed his drinks and he asks her is she would like to try some whiskey from his time period and how much a bottle of troll's blood or Dark Green Gnomish would cost. As she drinks he asks her for more information about the formal exploration of Downgate commissioned by the PTB and what the job entails.

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Wednesday June 27th, 2012 1:49:21 AM

Seredal joins the group for the tavern, and orders the strongest thing they have. Even now, her fingers are tapping senselessly...

I and Mine Will Be Watching [DM Jerry] 
Wednesday June 27th, 2012 1:53:13 PM

Vgodd pulls out a chair for Hardin as he approaches. "I can see that heroes get tired of meetings as I do."

Lori finds a corner to hide in.

Napalm heads to Cashandra. She points him to a price list written on a chalkboard on the wall. She seems very closed. In response to his question she answers, "I don't drink anymore." Then spins and leaves.

A few seconds later, Izmael exits the kitchen. Almost instantly, the bar begins clearing out. Vgodd doesn't move. He catches a glance and turns back to Hardin.

Izmael stares at Napalm. "The deal is this. Go out into the Downgate. Explore. Bring back a map. If you have information we don't have, we pay 50gp for uninteresting map hexes. 100gp for interesting ones. Be sure every time you return that you don't lead something back here. Stay out of trouble. You are an outsider, so I don't trust you. I and mine will be watching....closely."

He observes the mass exodus and smiles, following them out the front door.

---------------

Meanwhile, Morgrym the loner, heads to the Blacksmith, which he discovers is called "The Stormy Anvil." The door is closed, being after hours, but there are lights on and hammering can be heard from within. Upon his knock, the hammering stops. A curtain moves in a window to the right of the door. Soon a voice:

"No, its one of those strangers."

"Don't open it."

"They are not evil."

"You don't know that."

"He's by himself."

"No."

"He's a bald dwarf with a shortbeard. How could he be any danger?"

"Really? Let me see!"

A voice carries.

"Can I help you stranger?"

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Wednesday June 27th, 2012 3:06:39 PM

Urist watches Izmael walk out the door and shakes his head before joining Hardin and Vgodd. "We are a chatty bunch, aren't we?."

He's in no big rush to go stomping around this diseased world at night. After a few drinks and a hopefully quiet evening, he'll retire to his room.

Once inside, he'll start learning what he can. "Hazel, tell me about the woman who gave you to me."

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde  d20=15 ; d20-1=8 ;
Wednesday June 27th, 2012 4:50:36 PM

Morgrym is amused by the back and forth on the other side of the door, but it is only a little different than the exchanges he has heard before when one of the caravans he has traveled with gets to a town after dusk has closed it's gates. People are always nervous in the dark.
Not being the most eloquent dwarf ever to talk through a door he tries to state his case." Good evening. My name is Morgrym and I am indeed one of the strangers welcomed into town today. I am also a weaponsmith and armorsmith. Some of the guards who met our group wore armor of a type I have not laid eyes on before. It had, for lack of a better word, 'sockets' in it. He said it could have different abilities put into those sockets. This fascinated me and I was hoping to discuss the fine art of blacksmithing with you. I brought a bit of ale, my father would always say there was nothing better than a bit of ale after a day at the forge. Would you be open to talking shop?"
Morgrym waits at ease as he listens for an answer from within.

Diplomacy 8 not so good
Sense Motive 15
Wasn't sure if you'd want rolls so there they are.

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 (Zach R) 
Wednesday June 27th, 2012 5:29:25 PM

Harden calls over to Cashandra and asks one of his more involved questions to date. "Cashandra, would you happen to have a drink known as the Lost Halls Porter. It was an ancient Porter from the 2nd Age whose recipe had just been recovered before we came here. If so, I'd like to buy a round for my friends here."

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29 
Wednesday June 27th, 2012 7:56:41 PM

Lori continues to sit in the corner until the second is gone and then she'll head upstairs and select a bed against a wall, and facing either the door or a window.

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Wednesday June 27th, 2012 10:22:25 PM

Napalm tells the others what he learned and will drink with the group until the others are ready to head up to the room for the night.

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Thursday June 28th, 2012 1:47:48 AM

Seredal stares after Imzael as he leaves. "You'd think he could at least tell us which hexes have already been discovered, and what sort of measurements they use in this forsaken place anyway... Watch my butt, jerk..." She turns around, looking for someone to ask those questions of...

Last Call Folks! [DM Jerry] 
Thursday June 28th, 2012 6:06:01 AM

Harden realizes that Cashandra has not returned from the kitchen, which was shortly before Izmael entered from the kitchen. Some asking of the wait staff earns him the answer that she has retired for the evening. They look nervous when answering his questions. Some wine is brought to Hardin, but it is not old nor exceptional.

Vgodd as he sees everyone headed off to bed says, "Don't you guys dare killing Gladys without me coming along. He wishes everyone a good night and departs."

Lori and Napalm heads up to their beds.

Serendal, not getting her questions answered and feeling snubbed, looks around for someone else, but just sees the wait staff left. She sees the bar being closed down and the famous words, "Last call folks!"

It isn't long until sunshine is shining in through the flimsily curtained windows. A brand new day!

---------------

Morgrym hears a "just a sec" and indeed in a few seconds, he hears multiple locks being turned. Shortly, the door opens. A smiling female dwarven face appears and says, "Hi I'm Mithrille Oathshield. Come on in."

Mithrelle is a clean shaven dwarven woman, a bit shorter than normal height.

Inside, is the traditional setup. Forge and Store in front, living quarters above, stairs down to a basement.

The counter has several axes, hammers, and other non-dwarven weapons behind a glass. Others hand on hooks behind. Several semi-ornate boxes sit on a thin piece of velvet leather on the top of the shelf.

At the forge, a second female dwarf, with a long blonde beard, works on folding a sword. She doesn't look up.

Mithrelle asks, "So what armor type are you interested in discussing?"

Morgrym and Mithrelle spend most of the night talking shop and armor techniques. A good time was had by all.

---------------

David, email me and I'll give you a summary of what you learn, answer all your questions, etc. It looks like everyone else was headed to bed and I didn't want to put them into a holding pattern for several days while you continued over at the Stormy Anvil. I do think it would have been fun to roleplay out, but this seemed best.



Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 (Zach R) 
Thursday June 28th, 2012 11:57:47 AM

Harden takes a few minutes to get his gear in order before heading downstairs to get a good hearty breakfast and await his companions arrival.

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Thursday June 28th, 2012 1:22:34 PM

Urist wakes and smiles. The sun is shining, there are heroic works to be done, and friends/breakfast wait downstairs.

He will take an hour praying to Domi, still trying to feel out his link to the divine in this new world. That done, he'll head downstairs.

***

Did Hazel have anything to say about who gave her to me?

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde  d20+9=13 ; d20+10=15 ; d20+5=25 ; d20=10 ; d20-1=19 ;
Thursday June 28th, 2012 3:57:44 PM

weaponsmithing 13
Armorsmithing 15
Perception 25
Sense Motive 10
Diplomacy 19
Rolls for my email
Morgrym comes down to breakfast still tired the next morning. His discussions last night went late, but he has a far better understanding of how weapons and armor are made in this Wold. He has some breakfast and awaits the plan for exploring the areas and finding Gladys to be discussed.

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29 
Thursday June 28th, 2012 5:57:29 PM

Lori repacks her bags and those of Jinx, mostly just to be sure of what gear is packed in them.
Lori saunters down stairs to the tavern area and will order breakfast, for her and the dog laying along side her on the floor.
"Morgrym, you went to visit some smiths, right? Did they have any Darts and Chakrams for sale? I lost one of each back on that island before we took the cure."
After she eats, she takes her time while waiting for the rest by sharpening first the daggers then the chakrams. She's not worried about others seeing her weapons, they are a part of her gear and her life style.

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Thursday June 28th, 2012 7:37:17 PM

Seredal wakes, and wishes she hadn't. She gets some toast at breakfast and a whole pitcher of water.

So, What Are You Guys Doing Today [DM Jerry] 
Friday June 29th, 2012 8:08:54 AM

Urist finds out from Hazel that she was made by the Crones long ago, but won't say anything about the grandmotherly lady that gave her to him.

Morgrym remembers seeing darts at The Storm Anvil, but doesn't remember seeing any chackra.

Breakfast is served buffet style. You drop a few silver into the pot and fill your belly. The coffee is VERY strong and thicker than in your time. But it is good. The thickness may be due to the molasses put into it for sweetner.

Vgodd and Ibraham come in weary and bloody. Turns out there was an undead attack during the night.

"They were just trying to prove themselves. They didn't stay long. Most ran.", Ibraham says.

Vgodd says, "At least it wasn't trolls."

Innocently Vgodd asks, "So what are you guys doing today?"


Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Friday June 29th, 2012 8:56:21 AM

"Should have waken me. The others would have ran too. As for today, I vote we spend some time preparing then head out and see if we can't track down this giant rat of yours."

"Wait...they were trying to prove themselves? What kind of undead are we talking about, here?"

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 24/37 (Zach R) 
Friday June 29th, 2012 4:12:19 PM

Harden eats... and eats... and eats. When he has had his fill, he winks to Vgodd. "What say we go catch us a mouse?"

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde 
Friday June 29th, 2012 4:43:07 PM

" What kind of undead would try to prove themselves? Zombies and Skeletons are mindless animated bodies and anything that could think would have made alot of noise, no?"
"Anyway, I think rat hunting and getting the lay of the land close by town would be a good day. Maybe we could even look at the artifacts out at the shrine outside."

Later, when no one other than the group is around Morgrym says to Urist," Think we can reconsecrate this shrine and perhaps get the gods back on our side here?"

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Friday June 29th, 2012 6:16:10 PM

ooc: Can Harden go ahead and heal himself since I previously stated I would heal him after we were out of sight of the locals who might not appreciate him invoking Mareatus name or displaying his holy symbol.

Napalm quickly elbows Morgrym as soon as he starts trying to talk about artifacts and cuts him off, figuring that is something best not mentioned in public. We are also planning to work on creating that map, the cleric interjects. If undead come back let me know too, I have some special training to help fight them.

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29  d20+9=27 ;
Friday June 29th, 2012 6:27:50 PM

"I'd like to stop by the smithy for a few minutes, but I'm up for some rat hunting." After her weapons are all nicely sharp and clean, she'll head to the smithy to see about some darts and see if they can craft any Chakrams.
(will buy 5 darts if they accept gold, and will order 4 chakrams)
After her quick stop, Lori and Jinx will meet the rest at the gates.
Once there, she looks like she's relaxed, but she's taking in guards positions, guard rounds and patterns.

Perception 27

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Sunday July 1st, 2012 10:50:14 PM

Seredal will follow the group. There's no reason to stir anything up at this point; she can almost hear the heroic battle still to come...

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Monday July 2nd, 2012 8:41:20 AM

Urist nods at Morgrym's suggestion. "Couldn't hurt, but I'm not sure it will actually do anything. Something is hearing my prayers and granting me spells, but it doesn't feel like Domi. There may not be any more gods to get back on our side.

"Still, no reason not to consecrate a shrine what needs consecratin'."


AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde 
Monday July 2nd, 2012 7:32:46 PM

checking in

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Monday July 2nd, 2012 10:07:32 PM

Checking in. Also, not only did Napalm heal Harden, I had sent a heal spell his way too, but not for all of it

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29 
Tuesday July 3rd, 2012 3:03:54 PM

Checking in....

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 32/37 (Zach R) 
Tuesday July 3rd, 2012 3:33:01 PM

Checking in...

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Tuesday July 3rd, 2012 9:11:15 PM

Thrikeen in....

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Thursday July 5th, 2012 5:05:13 PM

Drinkin Inn

Assistant DM Stephen 
Thursday July 5th, 2012 8:47:30 PM

(Sorry for the delay. Jerry asked me sit in for a little while. Im currently getting caught up. I will be posting shortly.)

Scene 5: Gladys


Assistant DM Stephen  d100=84 ; d20+5=12 ; d8=7 ;
Thursday July 5th, 2012 10:15:52 PM

The two minotaurs look at each other with confusion. Vgodd asks, "Mindless? They not the sharpest horns in the herd, but I wouldn't say they mindless." He points to a wound on his arm. "If they be mindless, they not be able to dodge, trick and catch me off guard." Then Ibraham boasts, "Well, that bonehead paid for it! No way it's getting up from that beat down we gave him." Vgodd laughs ... "Yes, with might and main, you got lively wit that one, ha ha ha!"

When asked about what kind, the two look at each other again with the same confusion. Vgodd answers, "Uhhh, they are undead .. you know, not alive but walkin. They once be livin', but not anymore. What do you mean, 'what kind'?"

You all feel invigorated and ready to face the day and the big hunt ahead of you. You discuss privately amongst yourselves about what needs to be done.

Harden is ready for "The Mouse" and gives Vgodd a wink. Vgodd replies, "Sounds like a right good plan. Give us a lil time to clean up an eat, then we be ready. We'll meet ya at the gate."

Lori visits the smithy and she is able to find a number of darts. The smithy looks at your money with confusion at first. "Ohh, you wish to trade this gold for the darts? Hmmm, I guess that is possible. I have a friend who makes jewelry. He can make wonderful pieces from these, and I owe him a favor too. How about five of those round gold pieces for the darts?

The blacksmith listens to Lori's description of the chakram. She seems to have mixed feelings about the project. She explains that she is excited about trying to craft something new, but she isnt quite confident because having never made one. "What you explained is a weapon that must be light and perfectly balanced to work properly. Especially circular forms ... one flaw and you got a mess." The smithy considers it a little longer and then says, "Ok, I'm going to spend a little time practicing with a few ideas ... YOU could do something for me. I hear you be hunting that big mother rat. When out in the swamps and streams, keep your eyes open for a blue colored stone. When you hold it up to the sun, you will see little crystals clustered all through it. Collect those stones for me. Id be most appreciated." Judging by the fine quality of your new darts, you know this smithy knows what she is talking about.

You all finally make your way to the front gate. Any last things you wish to accomplish in town better be done now. You all know the direction to the deep swamp. People watch you when you leave. Most appear to wish you the best of luck, but you see many with less than confident expressions.

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 34/37 (Zach R) 
Thursday July 5th, 2012 11:14:53 PM

Harden, chain in hand, stands by the gate, ready to set out.

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Friday July 6th, 2012 3:30:17 PM

Urist is ready and eager to get underway. He'll strike up a conversation with Hazel and ask her to mark anything that seems interesting on her map.

"Friends, let me know if there's anything you want to add to our map here. Hazel can mark it for later."

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29 
Friday July 6th, 2012 4:20:56 PM

Lori, before she leaves the smithy, will show the blacksmith one of the Chakrams she is carrying, She won't leave it behind, because she knows she'll need it if she does.
She then meets the rest at the front gate.

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde  d20+9=21 ;
Friday July 6th, 2012 4:25:51 PM

While Vgodd makes ready to go out with them Morgrym will help Gusli with how to make a Chakram. After speaking to her and Mithrelle for a good portion of the night last night about smithing techniques he knows she can grasp the concept, she just needs a nudge in the right direction. Being fairly sure what they want the stones for he asks if there are any other stones they might come across that would be of use to the 'Sisters'. ( OOC Stephen, you have all the things Jerry talked to me about from last night in that email he forwarded to you right?)
Morgrym is anxious to get out in the swamp where he can speak more frankly with his friends about what went on the night before. None of that is for saying in town.
Weaponsmithing 21 to teach the Chakram idea

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Saturday July 7th, 2012 3:33:12 AM

Napalm purchases some paper and something to write with so that the group can work on drawing up a map for the PTB in their down time and hopefully get paid a little. As he approaches the gate he checks his pack and makes sure his flask is full before the group heads out. Never thought I would be excited about hunting down a rat, the folks back home will never appreciate this story.

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Monday July 9th, 2012 3:46:19 AM

"Don't worry, Napalm. By the time I'm done with the story, they'll be looking at you like you're the second coming of Domi." Seredal actually looks confident at that.... She looks down at the map materials in her hand, having sought more writing and drawing materials before leaving (Not sure of the price.)

Assistant DM Stephen 
Tuesday July 10th, 2012 12:30:56 AM

After all the additional instructions given by Morgrym and inspecting Lori's remaining chakram, the smithy has a greater grasp of the technique and what's required. She is most grateful for the information. Gusli is able to give Morgrym a very small sample of the kind of stone she was requiring. As you look at the shard, you think it that it's unusual enough to be easily distinguished from the other rocks. "I find them more often at or near the water's edge."

Napalm and Seredal are able to purchase two dozen sheets paper, some quills, a thin, wooden straight edge and a vial of ink. More than enough to fulfill their cartography needs.

The day is warm and pleasant enough as you all follow the well-traveled road back to the swamps. To same swamps where you all first arrived in this strange land. You all eventually arrive back at Hegga's home. The house is vacant, obviously. Hegga didn't leave with you at Hellmar's gate. The place would make an excellent base camp if you wished to make daytime excursions into the swamp. However, most creatures of the swamp become more active at night and it's easy to assume that Gladys would do the same. However, you realize that you may very well end up being the hunted. The choice is for you all to decide.

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Tuesday July 10th, 2012 10:58:39 AM

"Well, what's say we take a rest here and go out huntin' tonight. There's enough daylight to get a good meal in us. Trudging through a disease infested swamp looking for a giant rat is bad enough with a hungry belly."

Urist can't cook, of course. He'll eat rations if no one else is able to as well.

"Vgodd, where do you recommend we start? You're the only one who's seen this baddie."

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde 
Monday July 16th, 2012 6:13:58 PM

Morgrym agrees with Urist, hunting at night is likely the best way to encounter the rat. He will get some rest before sunset so he is ready. If there is any water nearby he will also look for Gusli's stones.

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Monday July 16th, 2012 11:01:46 PM

Seredal will sit at a table with a quill in her hand, before realizing she has no real idea of the distances and all. "If anyone wants to tell me what to write on the map, I'll at least make it look good..."

Assistant DM Stephen 
Monday July 16th, 2012 11:29:58 PM

(My apologies guys. After working all day, and an evening of doing a freelance job, AND not in the habit of posting for this game, I completely forgot I was supposed to make a DM post this evening. I will have something tomorrow. Im just too tired and Im off to bed. Thanks for your patience.)

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29 
Tuesday July 17th, 2012 12:41:30 AM

Lori will catch a quick nap, knowing that it was gonna be a long night, once she gets up, she will either climb a tree or onto the hut so she can keep a lookout, before they head off on the hunt.

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29 
Tuesday July 17th, 2012 12:07:19 PM

Starting tomorrow, Dave will be posting for me, I'll be talking to him about it, but he'll post. I'm not sure how long I'll be in Hospital so....

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Tuesday July 17th, 2012 2:21:43 PM

Napalm double checks his equipment list and verifies his flask is full before the group heads out. Havnig kept his holy symbol out of sight while in town he begins to wonder if anyone would actually recognize Marteaus' Holy Symbol considering people rarely spoke the god's name out loud. Me makes a mental note to look into this. If you want, I can take the first watch for the mouse.

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde 
Tuesday July 17th, 2012 4:48:23 PM

OOC
I was kinda short on time yesterday too Stephen, otherwise my post would have been bigger. But now I still have time....
IC
Morgrym gathers his friends together and tells them what he learned while at the smithy last night." I learned many things about the sisters, as they are called, but the most intriguing is that Mithrelle wants to get Gusli a gift. Not just any gift but a gift that is most likely a family heirloom to the prominent smith. This gift is a book on smithing written by one of Gusli's ancestors, before things in the Wold went downhill. The book is in a library, in Thresh. Yeah the undead city. From what they said it isn't known if the undead there attack the living on sight or if they are willing to trade. Hopefully Vgodd can tell us more. She offered to make us either a socketed armor and a socketed weapon which are the high end smithing she knows how to make, or to make us some stones to put into socketed arms and armor. I think, with alot of work and practice I can make the socketed gear, so I would advise taking the stones. What do we think about trying to get this book? "
The dwarven warrior sits back to listen to what the others think of this mission.

Storm and Smell and Wetness [DM Jerry] 
Wednesday July 18th, 2012 2:34:55 AM

Vgodd shrugs. "Huntin' Gladys by night or day? Either works for me." He seems both nervous and excited. "She's tough guys. Real tough. You sure you wanna do this? I don't wanna her to kill the heroes that are supposed to save us.

I'm following you on this one. You guys decide upon the strategy. She's huge. All I remember is her size. And she...."

He seems about to add to that, but turns red and shuts up.

Soon after arrival, it begins to rain the warn soggy rain of the swamp. Hegga's door stands open, but do our heroes dare use that shelter from the storm?

Morgrym looks around for some stones, and soon is wondering how he's supposed to find stones in a swamp? He doesn't find any and gets soaked in the process.

Serendal fools around with the map and Vgodd helps her fill it in to show the borders of the Spirit Swamp.

Lori keeps a look out during the day for intruders to Hegga's Farm, but nothing moves during this downpour. Napalm offers to help keep watch.

Morgrym fills the party in on his evening spent with Mithrelle and Gusli the local blacksmiths. This undead city sounds too surreal to be a real thing. Undead and city don't belong next to each other in a sentence, that's for sure.

The day is long and dreary accented with the sounds of rats in cages. The sounds are eerie in the rain and seem to be a metaphor of the giant mother of all rats they are hunting. By nightfall, the rain is down to occasional thunder and a light rain. Anyone who remained outside is soaked and miserable. Those who went indoors have deadened senses due to all of Hegga's herbs and other medicinal smells being accentuated with the smell of wet swamp.

Ye gads! There must be no worse smell in the Wold than the stench of Spirit Swamp in the rain--at night. Your senses are dulled from hour after hour of being bombarded with storm and smell and wetness.

------------

[I'll update your map tomorrow if I have the time Josh to show the swamp. Remind me if I forget.]

[Dave, if you'll put a note in the Post Name field each day saying you're subbing for John C., I'd appreciate it.]

[I'm not going to lead you guys. This is your hunt. :)]



Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Wednesday July 18th, 2012 5:37:39 AM

Seredal turns from staring despondently at the sheets of rain, and her gaze settles on one of Hegga's fetishes. Looking around from oddity to oddity, she says, "There has to be something in this house that you all can use as bait...."

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Wednesday July 18th, 2012 12:59:12 PM

"Hazel, this is Seredal. She's a friend," Urist says to no one in particular.

"Seredal, if you need something to map against, ask Hazel to come to you. She'll project the map you need & you can copy it to paper that way." Urist points to a ring on his finger to indicate who this 'Hazel' character is in case she needs it.

Urist does indeed spend the day inside Hegga's home. The witch seems far too practical to expect us to stand outside in the rain all day.

"We're at something of a disadvantage here. Seredal has a good idea, though. Vgodd, these rats didn't trap themselves. What does Hegga use as bait?"



AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde 
Wednesday July 18th, 2012 4:21:50 PM

" I think you are asking the right person Urist, but unless I miss my guess I can also guess what bait will work. Vgodd, you always go silent when you talk about Gladys. Her size, her ferocity, as if the townsfolk don't believe you and make fun of you because of what you have seen. Tell us what happened. Tell us how you encountered Gladys, how many times you have seen her and what if anything has happened betwen the two of you. I think she will come to you but you are afraid to say it to anyone. Tell us the story during this wet rainy day."
Morgrym is sure there is more to this than is being said ant that Vgodd will make the perfect bait. He also wants to be sure the dwarf won't be in danger if he IS the bait.

Lori
Lori heads inside as the rain starts, abandoning her watch. She naps until Vgodd starts his tale, then listens intently to see if she can glean anything from his descriptions.

Black Night [DM Jerry] 
Thursday July 19th, 2012 5:32:14 AM

Vgodd answers. I have no idea what Hegga used for bait if she used bait. She never lets anyone see her hunt. I think she uses magic on them. Strange witch stuff. But perhaps I'm just being wishful that she is as strange in her practices as my imagination thinks she is."

It is obvious that he is reticent to speak of his encounters with Gladys. "I...I.....She's not just a rat overgrown with a big belly. She smart. She....is smart as we are. You can literally feel the ground shake when she walks. No, I'm NOT making that up! But when you see her? Well you won't believe it. No rat should be that big. Dragons shouldn't be that big.

"As to what happened. Well that's personal. I don't really want to relive the worst night of my life. I will tell you this. She let me live. I should have died. I believe she somehow called out for me to be rescued. She wanted her legend to grow so folks would leave her alone. Its like she had feelings and could share them. I still have nightmares.

"She.....picked at me. Hegga had to regrow my right arm. She nibbled it right off while I screamed...."

Vgodd pulls a flask out of his pocket and takes a drink. He leaves the hut and walks out in the rain. He has obviously said all he's going to say. And to say what he did was.... embarrassing.

With the cloud cover, the night is truly black as midnight approaches. Even those with low-light vision sense the darkness of this night. With the softening of the rain, the sounds of the swamp emerge a bit. Owls hoot. The rats in their cages make nibbling sounds.

Will tonight be the hunt of all hunts? Or just a snipe hunt?

-----------------

[Not much more i can do here folks. Again, the lead is here for you to take. I'm not leading you. :)]

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Thursday July 19th, 2012 8:40:33 AM

"Now wait just a minute. No one said anything about this giant rat being intelligent," Urist exclaims, obviously unhappy with the development.

"I was under the impression we were going out to kill us an overgrown rat that was terrorizing the country side, not an intelligent and possibly psychic one who seems to want to be left alone.

"I'm no longer certain this is a good idea, and it surely would have been nice to know this before we spent a soggy day in the swamp..."

Urist rubs is face in the palm of both hands. "We could always hunt out it's lair and note it's location with the intent to avoid it. What do the rest of you think? Do we go forth and try to slaughter this thing regardless? That just doesn't sit well with me."

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Thursday July 19th, 2012 2:18:01 PM

"Yes, something that big that's intelligent could be a useful ally. You could give it Hellmar's trash or something." At this, Seredal shrugs innocently.

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde 
Thursday July 19th, 2012 5:26:20 PM

Morgrym
" If it reasons then it can be dealt with. If it is that big, maybe it know what happened when the plague started. Something that big seems somehow, older, to me. I definitely think we should still go find it. Even if it is to just avoid it. If it is that smart it will likely move once we do find it."
"If it is that big and rats are more active in the dark then tonight is as good a night as any. If Vgodd will lead us to where he remembers seeing it we can start looking or feeling for it's movements there. Lets go."

Morgrym tests his blade to be sure it is ready to go and heads out after Vgodd.

Lori
Since Lori has no skill with any type of creature knowledge, she gains no useful bits of knowledge from Vgodd's tale, other than it is really big and likes Dwarf fingers, and hands, and arms. She definitely wants to go after it and checks her weapon load before heading out the door to follow Vgodd's lead to the old encounter site.

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Thursday July 19th, 2012 5:31:04 PM

Can you tell us what led up to your arm being bitten off? If it was an unprovoked attack, then the thing needs to die before others fall victim to its wrath. I don't care if it is intelligent. Besides, if we turn back now our reputation will be ruined.

Pure and Simple [DM Jerry] 
Friday July 20th, 2012 7:25:28 AM

Vgodd laughs and actually rolls on the floor. "You guys scared of Gladys? She's EVIL! Pure and simple. She slaughtered poor Hezekiel on his first guard tour. Could have let him go! Didn't bother to eat him, just murdered him."

"Hey wait a minute!" He spins on Urist. "You're a priest! You can prove she's evil. Can't ya? I heard you types can."

"And ifn you guys are chicken, I'll go after her myself. I ain't waiting no longer. Ibraham isn't here to talk me down, either!"

"And I can tells ya what happened when the plague started! Marteaus got his revenge! Killed all the elves and humans and giants. People died horribly is what happened. And this giant varmit spreads it! Controls all the rats in the area!"

He spins then on Napalm. "How did I approach it? It approached me! I thought there was an earthquake. Knocked me off my feet! Hezekiel, bless his dead soul, went running. It chased and killed him. Then it came back for me. Chewed off my arm, then messed with my mind. I had to....::sob::....obey it! Hegga says it dominated me. It played with me and ripped my arm off with its pointed teeth! That woke me up. I ran and ran. It chased me. When I hit the road, I ran into undead headed for Hegga's place..I think. It attacked them and I got away."

Evidently, not wanting to kill Gladys has Vgodd's dander up. He's huffing and puffing.

"There, ya gots your story. Happy now?"

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Friday July 20th, 2012 10:20:51 AM

"Aye, I sure can tell if it's evil or not. Don't go getting your panties in a bunch over this. I'm just as eager to put down a giant evil rat that's waylaying guards unprovoked as the last guy, but this is still information we should have been told BEFORE WE SET OUT TO DO THIS."

Urist, it seems, is still unhappy about the situation.

"I have no reason to doubt your story. We'll go on our hunt, but don't wait until we're engaged with her before you tell us she can breath fire or fly or whatever else she can do."

Urist prepares himself to traverse to swamp at night. He is no tracker, so he'll entrust the actual finding of Gladys to those who are.

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Friday July 20th, 2012 3:19:07 PM

Napalm's eyes raise at the mention of his patron god. What do you mean Marteaus got his revenge? Do you know what he was getting revenge for or why he killed all the elves and humans and giant? Such information might be very helpful in curing the disease or stopping Glady. Napalm's curiosity gets the better of him. What lesson was Marteaus trying to teach the people? Did he mean for the people to overcome this disease, or was is deemed necessary to keep theweak and the lazy purged from the wold.

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde  d20+10=21 ;
Friday July 20th, 2012 4:58:27 PM

Morgrym

Morgrym listens to the rest of Vgodd's tale and says " Are you ready to hunt the beast down or are we going to bicker all night that it is intelligent and should be saved. Giants were supposedly intelligent and it never caused me or my kin to spare any that attacked us. Give me a vector to head off in and we can hunt the beast down."
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lori

Lori waits to see the reaction of the rest of the group. Hunt it down or go back to bed seem to be the two things she is interested in doing. Arguing never solved anything that she knew of. She quietly blends into the shadows
Stealth 21

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde 
Saturday July 21st, 2012 10:52:12 PM

posting test


Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Sunday July 22nd, 2012 9:06:52 PM

Seredal is hoping the group will stay for the night, but she'll follow the adventurers regardless.

JonathanT, PC sheet for verification 
Sunday July 22nd, 2012 9:39:40 PM

OOC: After much fighting with Googledocs, here's my PC sheet.
Trollbane, Gnome Sorcerer (Earth Elemental Bloodline):
Trollbane

All I'm missing, I think, are purchase of Magic items.

Burned Swamp Water? [DM Jerry] 
Monday July 23rd, 2012 7:36:10 AM

The ring projects the map of the swamp upon the wall so that the group can make a decision of where to head.

"Clockwise around the swamp? Counter? Smack down the middle and call her name?"

He looks at Urist. "Perhaps we should look for burned swamp water?"

"To be honest, that beastie did something to me. My recollections are....muddy."

Vgodd, still hot, steps outside and lights a cigar.

After a bit, he turns to Morgrym. "Aye. I'm ready. Lead the way."



Trollbane AC 14/14/11; HP23/23; CMD 12 
Monday July 23rd, 2012 11:27:38 AM

Testing. PC sheet updated with magic items purchased.

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde  d20+10=30 ;
Monday July 23rd, 2012 4:37:49 PM

OOC
Jonathan your sheet looks fine to me other than the cash issue being handled in email. 1 question, why do you not get the +1 hp for chosen class at 1st level? did you take the skill point instead?
Also, John left me a message that he was going home today. He should resume posting himself tomorrow.

IC
Morgrym
Morgrym looks at the map, finds a path that looks more or less solid and heads out. If the critter is as big as they are saying, it shouldn't be hard to find, In fact, since it seems to hunt people, it may find them. Morgrym takes no care in being silent, hoping the Rat will hunt them and save them the trouble of looking too hard.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lori
Lori follows Morgrym cringing every time his armor clanks or he splashes through a puddle or snaps a twig. She trails at least 30 feet behind him, quietly, in the shadows. Since dwarves only have 1 speed, and that is slow, she has no trouble remaining hidden and keeping up. she keeps a chakram ready because she has NO intention of closing with something as big as this rat is supposed to be.
Stealth 30 nat 20

Trollbane AC 14/14/11; HP23/23; CMD 12 
Monday July 23rd, 2012 6:59:01 PM

OOC: I took the +1 as a skill pt. at 1st level because I knew I'd get max hit points then. I took the +1 on Hit Points for the next two levels as I didn't know how poorly I'd roll. Turns out I did ok. :)

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Monday July 23rd, 2012 6:59:56 PM

Napalm gets tired of the discussion, ready to fight something. Why don't we just go where Vgodd was attacked in the first place? It seems like as good a place as any to start, probably better than most. Where was it you were attacked exactly? If there are no objections Napalm will take the lead and go in the direction indicated.

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Monday July 23rd, 2012 8:13:12 PM

"Because he doesn't remember where that was," Urist replies. "BUT, it seems we're following Morgrym. Sounds like a good a plan as any to me."

Urist heads out, glad to be doing something that doesn't involve subterfuge or intrigue; just he and a bunch of fellow time travellers going to kill a giant psychic rat.

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Monday July 23rd, 2012 10:09:26 PM

Seredal packs up and follows the others out, humming a bit to herself. She stops suddenly when she realizes its a dirge...

Burned Swamp Water? [DM Jerry] 
Tuesday July 24th, 2012 1:53:10 AM

15,000 miles away and 2000 years in the past, an infamous mage works in an inn called the Giggling Ghost to repair a damaged tapestry. As he works, two heroes arrive saying that they had received a vision in their dreams to come and enter the Mithril Tapestry. As they speak the words, to the mage's great surprise, the tapestry opens again creating a vortex sucking the two in.

Through space, time, and multiple futures, the two heroes fly seeing things that confuse, enlighten, and horrify. Spewing forth from a gateway, the two arrive in a swamp. They see two guard types, sliced and bitten to death by some large creature like say a dragon. A note on one of the guards, a minotaur, says to head to the Spirits' Shrine as it is due to activate with new visitors on the morrow and bring them to town as usual. The guards, obviously, failed in this task.

The two heroes seeing only trail through the swamp head east along it. Emerging from the swamp, they see a quaint house. Coming out of the house they see what could only be a band of adventurers putting on backpacks and heading in their direction!

------------

OOC: There's your entrance Jonathan and Mark. Post away. Guys, vet their sheets. I think we'll handle the money issue in two ways. 1st, no magic for now. 2nd, I'll shower the entire group with either death or treasure soon! ;) Also, now I can reveal why I was delaying your departure a bit. I wanted to get in our new players before leaving. Onward!



(Mark) Chef Ironhand AC20/14/16-- CMD 20 -- HP 27/27 
Tuesday July 24th, 2012 2:58:12 AM

Disorientated by the unexpected transport, the chubby red headed dwarf recoils at the sight of the mauled guards, and turns a sickly shade of green. "Where are we? What happened here?" he mumbles to his unknown travelling partner. Not getting an immediate response he looks impatiently at group emerging from the house.

"Hello... Hello?" Calls chef as he shuffles towards the nearby adventures. "Excuse me? Can anyone please tell me what just happened?"[/b]

OOC: hi

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Tuesday July 24th, 2012 7:59:30 AM

Urist looks around. "Nothing just happened. It's been a long, dull, boring day in a swamp that hopefully isn't going to a long, dull boring snipe hunt.

"Wait, did you two get here from the Giggling Ghost?"

***

OOC: You were summoned here by the FSM? That is awesome.

Trollbane AC 14/14/11; HP23/23; CMD 12 
Tuesday July 24th, 2012 10:40:06 AM

Introductions at the Giggling Ghost were put aside rather abrubtly by the sudden vortex that sucked him and the dwarf in. The votex itself left no desire for speach as Trollbane felt that if he opened his mouth, lunch would come out instead of words. He discovered that if he closed his eyes, the sickning feeling wasn't so bad. Of course, that meant he didn't see when he exited the vortex and couldn't catch himself from flopping into swampy muck.

By the time he had managed to wipe most the mud off himself with leaves and such, the red-headed dwarf was off down a path. Grunting in the discomfort of his traveling clothes with cakes of mud in areas he couldn't reach, Trollbane trotted after the dwarf.

The dwarf was moving very purposely down the path and is all he could do to keep up, much less get a conversation going. The dwarf finally stops as they emerge from the swamp trail into a small clearing with a house. Mingling about were several people looking like they were about to start out on a camping trip.

The red-headed dwarf calls out to them and Trollbane immediately take two steps away from him. You never know what to expect from strangers and it might not be a good idea to be associated with this red-head just yet.

When one of them responds and references the Giggling Ghost, Trollbane figures they can't be all that bad.
"Yup. Although I don't think we were expecting this. I just stopped by for a drink. I did not know I was going on a treasure hunt for my own drink."

Trollbane AC 14/14/11; HP23/23; CMD 12 
Tuesday July 24th, 2012 10:45:17 AM

Trollbane is a gnome, dressed in adventurer's clothes and loaded with backpack, several daggers about his belt and a gnome sized mace hanging from a short strap tethered to his belt. His coloration is rather 'earthy', his skin is brown and his hair is basaltic grey. A few warts here and there are rather colorful, though, as if gemstones were stuck to his skin.

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 34/37 (Zach R) 
Tuesday July 24th, 2012 11:46:32 AM

Harden, spiked chain in hand nods to the newcomers but says nothing. He is a large half-orc wearing light armor and wielding a very nasty looking spiked chain. He looks to have quite the temper but says nothing.

----
OOC: Sorry about lack of posting. I sent an email detailing why.

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde  d20+10=11 ;
Tuesday July 24th, 2012 4:54:45 PM

Morgrym
" This isn't no treasure hunt lad, this is serious business.There is a rat out there big as a house that has a taste for people. We aim that he doesn't get fed ever again. If you want to join the hunt the town is offering a reward. If not you might want to wait here and hope we win. The townsfolk don't like unescorted folks that haven't been 'cured' yet without at least 3 guards vouching for the cure. Oh, and the discourage cooperative effort of any kind. And the gnome they have is bossy and the Minotaur is aloof and the dwarf can see into your words. Your choice if you want to come with us. "
" My name's Morgrym, what do we call the two of you? "

The armored dwarf isn't exactly friendly, but he imparts a gruff version of everything he wished he had known before he got to town.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lori
Lori continues to hide in the back. She tells herself it isn't hiding, it is avoiding becoming emotionally attached to new people that might soon be lunch for a giant rat. If spotted she is a Half elf dressed in muted colors. From her cloaked from hang all manner of thrown weapons, from Chakram to darts. One look in her eyes says she knows exactly how to use them too.
Stealth 11 she isn't as hidden as she thinks she is.

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Tuesday July 24th, 2012 10:17:25 PM

"Forget the public enforcement of the cure....we need to get them the cure itself! If only that witch hadn't left already..." Seredal looks back, then to Vgodd. "Maybe she still has some...? How long does the cure remain potent, do you know?"

Trollbane AC 14/14/11; HP23/23; CMD 12 
Tuesday July 24th, 2012 10:48:25 PM

Another sour dwarf.
Trollbane replies, "A good froth on the lips is serious business."
Trollbane adjusts his backpack and approaches the group so he doesn't have to shout across the way.
"My name is Trollbane. Well, that's the name they gave me after I melted some trolls. My long name isn't important. So what's the deal about this rat again? How big is it? Does it have sharp, pointy teeth? What's its favorite color?

Trollbane looks back down the path they just came along. "Y'know, there's two dead guard-looking things a ways back there. They look like they've been gnawed on. But that shouldn't be unusual for a swamp. Can anyone of you tell by the bite marks if it was this rat you are after?"

Trollbane AC 14/14/11; HP23/23; CMD 12 
Tuesday July 24th, 2012 10:50:41 PM

OOC: my magic items were two 1st level wands and a Cloak of Resistance +1. If I can keep the cloak (1000gp value) it sure would be nice. But I'll remove all of them if that's what's decided.

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Tuesday July 24th, 2012 11:04:33 PM

"Call me Urist, strangers. Chosen of Domi...not that it means much in this place. I'd say a couple of gnawed on guards is absolutely worth checking out. How...fresh were they?"

He motions towards Morgrym. "He's right, by the way. Don't wander into that town without an escort or they'll just end up tossing your body on the pile."

(Mark) Chef Ironhand AC20/14/16-- CMD 20 -- HP 27/27 
Tuesday July 24th, 2012 11:06:25 PM

"My name is Chef Ironhand - Dwarven culinary master. I...I am unsure what I am doing here. I'm not an adventurer per say, but I am a skilled butcher" Chef explains holding up his axe.

"If the locals are wary of strangers I may accompany your hunt, friends. Where exactly is 'local' anyway? And should Mr Trollbane and I be concerned about this 'cure'?"


Gnawed on? [DM Jerry] 
Wednesday July 25th, 2012 3:51:20 AM

"Two dead guards? NO!!!! Vgodd begins "dwarf walking" past them down the trail towards the gateway.

"Gnawed on? Couldn't be that easy. No concentrate. Dead guards."

He breaks into a trot.

As he runs, he says, "Dunno how long her potions stay fresh. Can't cure them until they are sick anyway. Gotta let a rat bite them. I gots a big one that can do that....and it may be this way!

"Come on! If a dwarf beats you there, you guys suck Woldberries.

"Gladys, I'm coming for ya! Ya hear me?"

-----------

OOC: FSM? Don't get it.



(Mark) Chef Ironhand AC20/14/16-- CMD 20 -- HP 27/27 
Wednesday July 25th, 2012 5:45:01 AM

Ooc: FSM = Flying Spaghetti Monster

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Wednesday July 25th, 2012 3:13:44 PM

Napalm introduces himself to the new adventurer's. I am Napalm, a warrior of some renown in land. I am a skilled healer and alchemist. It is thanks to some of my more flammable concoctions that I earned my name, having burned and melted more than a few who have gotten in my way.

When the group learns of the dead guards Napalm charges after the dwarf, drawing one of his special mutagenic potions as he runs.
(Held action to drink potion if combat begins.)

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Wednesday July 25th, 2012 3:18:43 PM

(holding an action means you're only moving 30 a round...)
Seredal did not trudge back into this swamp and two millenia into the future to let the story run away now. She starts running after Vgodd.

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde 
Wednesday July 25th, 2012 3:58:26 PM

Morgrym catches up to Vgodd and draws his Falchion as he goes. " Would she taunt you like this if she knew you meant to hunt her? I know they were your friends but stay back from them. If they are as dead as the newcomers say then you can't help them. But if you disturb the place more than they did walking in we may lose any chance to track them"

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29 
Wednesday July 25th, 2012 4:15:20 PM

Lori drops her hood and puts her floppy hat on, it doesn't block her peripheral vision. When Vgold heads off towards the gate, She decides she'd better get there first.
"Don't disturb the area around the portal, I want to see if I can follow any trail that was left from the attack."

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 34/37 (Zach R) 
Wednesday July 25th, 2012 5:41:31 PM

Harden follows Vgodd trying to find the Giant Rat as soon as possible.

(Mark) Chef Ironhand AC20/14/16-- CMD 20 -- HP 27/27 
Wednesday July 25th, 2012 8:59:50 PM

Heeding the warning from his new aquaintances (who seem to be friendly and have some knowledge of why he was summoned here), Chef trots after the group.

Wherever I am, I better stay close to these guys. A rat hunt doesn't sound too dangerous.

Trollbane AC 14/14/11; HP23/23; CMD 12 
Wednesday July 25th, 2012 10:40:20 PM

Trollbane has to catch himself from an expletive. "Whaa... we just came from that way! Jumping Jiminy Jinglebells!
Trollbane starts huffing and puffing it back the way they came.

Today Is the Day You Die! [DM Jerry] 
Thursday July 26th, 2012 7:37:14 AM

The group continues moving at a good clip back to the Spirits' Shrine, the gateway through which they arrived.

Vgodd exults, "This is awesome! I've dreamed of hunting down this beastie. "Gladys, I"m coming for ya. Today is the day you die! I swear it by my father! And his father! And all the ancestors before them!"

Then. With the party nearly to the Spirits' Shrine, the ground thumps. No scratch that, dear readers. The ground heaves. Nope, not exactly right.

Something hits the ground with such force that it causes all our PCs to be hurled three feet into the air throwing them in all kinds of directions!

[DC 20 to land on your feet. Miss it by more than 5 and you are stunned for a few seconds]

[Feel free to make any checks you wish afterwards.]

-----------

OOC: Please help me vet our two new player's character sheets. We need them approved before we hit combat....and I'm aching for some violence!

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde  d20=5 ; d20+6=21 ;
Thursday July 26th, 2012 3:55:17 PM

OOC
I approved Trollbane a couple of days ago, and Chef's sheet looks fine to me. I particularly like the talking spaghetti and meatballs...8)

a DC20 check vs what stat Jerry? I assume dwarves get the bullrush type bonuses. Even so I didn't make it.

IC
Morgrym does not land on his feet. In fact he lands pretty much flat on his back with a rather impressive imitation of a pantry full of pots and pans suddenly all falling to the ground. The first thing he thinks is " He had to be kidding, giants don't even shake the ground like that, even when they are royally pissed off." The next thought was " Holy mackerel, I am lying on the ground, a perfect place for a rat of any size to run up and try to gnaw MY arm off!!" With these thoughts tumbling around in his skull, along with what passed for his brain, Morgrym quickly rolled into a crouch from which he could stand up. This time he was more ready. He scanned the dark for the outline of the monstrous rat.
Perception 21 with darkvision
He will call out to the others if he spots anything

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29  d20=8 ; d20+10=19 ; d20+6=13 ;
Thursday July 26th, 2012 7:40:22 PM

ooc: I approve both characters.

IC:

Lori, having been knocked to the ground lays there a moment or three.(assume that the DC check was just straight D20? if Ref Save it was very much closer 18)
Getting her sense of balance back she does a tip-up and lands on her feet.
"Did something just jump, or was that something borrowing underneath us?"
She looks at the gate, grabs one of her whips out and flicks it to the top of the gate and will climb up on top.
"Jinx, cover!"
She shouts to her friend as she climbs.
She hopes that a vertical perspective will allow her to spot whatever it was that caused the heaval of the ground.

Save : 8 or 18 if reflex
Acrobatics 19 to stand up
Climb 13 + whip to climb to top of gate.

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl  d20+3=14 ;
Thursday July 26th, 2012 7:42:06 PM

OOC: I assumed it was a reflex save.

Urist is bent over the dead bodies, saying their last rites when the ground heaves. The usually pious dwarf cries out several choice expletives as he is throw feet over head. They stop when his head slams against the ground, causing him to see stars as he desperately tries to recover.

Trollbane AC 14/14/11; HP23/23; CMD 12  d20=8 ; d20+6=17 ; d20+3=19 ;
Thursday July 26th, 2012 9:04:31 PM

Save: d20 = 8: Ref = 14, Dex = 11

Struggling to keep up, Trollbane is caught off guard when the ground heaves. His landing was not particularly anything to brag about as his head knocks against a log alongside the path. A bit woozy, he sits up and rubs the newly formed knot on his noggin.

"Jumping Jimminy Rat Droppings!" he exclaims. Then quickly waves a hand over himself as he utters a few archane verses (Cast Mage Armor).
Concentration Check if necessary d20+6 = 17

He stands up and sniffs and squints into the foliage looking for the cause.
Perception +3 = 19

(Mark) Chef Ironhand AC20/14/16-- CMD 20 -- HP 27/27  d20=15 ; d20+1=5 ; d20+1=18 ;
Thursday July 26th, 2012 10:33:55 PM

As the ground heaves, Chef is thrown into the air and is unable to keep his balance, landing on all fours.(vs straight DC =15, vs reflex=19)

GET UP! his mind screams, however he is not the most nimble of creatures and struggles to heave himself upright (acrobatics=5).

Where did that come from? he exlaims scanning the surrounds for any clues (perception 18)

Seredal Hosah (Josh)  d20+9=24 ; d20+10=23 ;
Thursday July 26th, 2012 11:14:38 PM

Seredal lands neatly on her feet (reflex: 24) Having been thrown for a loop (literally), the bard does waht comes naturally - she tries to observe (perception=23). What the heck is going on?

Combat Begins [DM Jerry]  d20+4=22 ;
Friday July 27th, 2012 8:48:05 AM

Vgodd, stands and seems kinda pleased with himself. He instantly starts helping others up. "Never survived that on my feet before. Kinda cool. This means she's near. Like within a mile or so. Told ya she was..."

He sees the bodies. Rushing forward he yells into the darkness. "Gladys! You killed my comrades. Prepare to die!"

Morgrym instantly spots some very large rat prints heading south into the swamp. They disappear at the edge of the Shrine clearing.

Lori swings up on top of the Spirits' Shrine and surveys the area.

Urist shakes his head and the cobwebs slowly clear.

Trollbane buffs himself and looks out into the swamp. He sees the tracks when Morgrym points them out as does Ironhand. Hard to miss.

Serendal spots more. He sees one and then a second swarm of tiny rats swimming furiously towards the clearing coming from the south, the direction the tracks lead to. They seem headed towards the two bodies.

----------

OOC: Yesterday's save was vs dex. It was not a bullrush, though I can see why you said so. It was an (Ex) ability.

BTW, I prefer the IC stuff first and then a short line and then the OOC stuff. The board should read IC so there is a story. ;)

Folks we're in combat. Emailing the map to you for Round 1 as soon as I get it done. I am placing you on the map. If you absolutely hate your location, well you can move--or email me.

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D)  d20+3=14 ;
Friday July 27th, 2012 3:07:57 PM

Dex check = 14. Napalm's small form is seen flying through the air before he lands stunned on the ground.

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 34/37 (Zach R)  d20+6=17 ; d20+7=20 ; d20+8=12 ;
Friday July 27th, 2012 4:10:06 PM

Harden bites the dirt but stands up quickly. He looks around gets a firm grip on his chain but the fall caught him very much off guard.

---------------
Reflex: 17 Fail
Acrobatics: 20
Perception: 8

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl  d20+4=12 ;
Friday July 27th, 2012 4:58:07 PM

Urist is vaguely aware of Vgodd screaming about killing Gladys, but that's hardly anything new.

"Well Urist, time to get up," he says to himself. No flashy acrobatics for him; he stands one leg at a time and looks around. He does ready his axe in case something needs killing.

He goes to join the rest of his friends, then notices Lori standing on the gate. "Wouldn't be right to leave her by herself now, would it?" Urist stands his ground...

***

I realized the other day how callous Urist must have come off. "Two dead guards? Excellent, we can use them for clues in our hunt for this giant rat."

Perception: 12

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde  d20+6=11 ;
Friday July 27th, 2012 5:33:54 PM

Morgrym starts to follow the tracks. It doesn't look like anyone else is following him out there so he stops at the edge of the clearing, wondering why they all stayed there when there was a gargantuan rat needing killing." You guys coming? She isn't going to kill herself."
Perception 11

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Friday July 27th, 2012 6:07:50 PM

Napalm rises steadily to his feet and draws his weapon. A mile or so away...? Napalm wonders how big the rat could be to cause the ground to shake that hard from a mile a way. His initial instinct is to kill the rats before heading off, but as the others seem to want to tackle Glady first he grudgingly follows the group and hoped the swimming rats do in fact head to feed on the dead guards. If there is a weapon or backpack on the fallen guards that he can easily grab as he runs to follow the group he will scoop it up on his way.

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29  d20+9=23 ; d20+6=18 ; d4+3=5 ;
Friday July 27th, 2012 6:10:18 PM

"Give me a couple minutes before heading off, either we'll follow the rat easily enough or she'll lose us. Waiting a bit won't matter, I wanna see what I can see from up here."
Quickly coiling the whip she stashes it and pulls a dagger, ready to throw if a target appears.

Perception 23
Attack 18 damage 5 (ranged attack /deadly aim, if a target appears)

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Friday July 27th, 2012 9:05:36 PM

Seredal points and then starts to back away from that direction."Maybe you all should deal with those two swarms of rats heading towards your friends' bodies first? Let their tails twitch no more!"

------------
Seredal starts bardsong (+1 damage and attacks)
moves 20' away

Trollbane AC 18/15/11; HP23/23; CMD 12 
Friday July 27th, 2012 9:44:45 PM

Trollbane looks out across the swamp and spots the two rat swarms coming their way. "Feeding the young, eh?"

"Wait! Why go swiming after it? Kill these rats and don't you think the Big Mama rat won't come seeking revenge? I say wait here and see what happens. Then go sloshing in muck if nothing happens. Besides, if we can capture one of those rats I can get information from it that will prove far more valuable than being alligator bait."

OOC: Move 'T' up one square diagonal (under Ironhand), then left 7 squares.

OOC: I really thought Vgodd was going to say "My name is Vgodd, you killed my comrades. Prepare to Die!" Which would fit pretty well with this Rodent of Unusual Size. In a swamp (forgot it's name), nonetheless.

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde 
Friday July 27th, 2012 10:48:22 PM

" What swarm....oh, those swarms." Morgrym backs away from then as far as he can, since he has no area attacks.

(Mark) Chef Ironhand AC20/14/16-- CMD 20 -- HP 27/27 
Saturday July 28th, 2012 6:29:51 AM

Chef sees the rats closing in from the water and heads out towards the shine wanting to keep his feet dry if possible, drawing his axe as he moves.

I've dealt with a few kitchen rats in my time. These should be the same.

--------
Chef moves 20' west

Trollbane AC 18/15/11; HP23/23; CMD 12 
Saturday July 28th, 2012 11:12:05 PM

"I don't think these came from any kitchen, Mr. Chef." Trollbane responds as he surveys how best to hit them where it hurts.



Round 1 Player Results [DM Jerry] 
Monday July 30th, 2012 10:34:00 AM

Napalm and Harden work on standing again after being "thumped" to the ground. Amazing how hard the ground can be.

Urist stands his ground over the bodies, drawing his axe.

Morgrym moves forward towards the edge of the clearing the Shrine creates following Gladys' tracks.

Lori remains on top of the gate readying a dagger to throw.

Serendal points out the rat swarms and starts bardsong.

Trollbane moves towards the shrine with the idea of capturing a rat.

Chef joins Trollbane in moving west towards the shrine.

------

OOC: Do not post yet. I am working on Monster Initiative.

Round 1 Monster Initiative [DM Jerry]  d100=48 ; d100=66 ;
Monday July 30th, 2012 10:46:15 AM

Swarm #1 continues heading for the bodies where Urist stands stalwart.

Swarm #2 changes heading moving towards Morgrym. The gnashing of teeth grows in anticipation of a hunger soon sated!

-----------

You may now post. See the email for further instructions and the map update.

It is now Round 2 Player Initiative.

Trollbane AC 18/15/11; HP23/23; CMD 12 
Monday July 30th, 2012 2:48:21 PM

Question for DM: what's the dimensions of the swarms? 5'x5', 10'x10'? Need to know for spell purposes.

Also, looks like Swarm 2 was not moved on the map as it is still in last map's location. How far is it to Morgrym? Need to know for spell purposes.

thanks.

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Monday July 30th, 2012 3:49:48 PM

Urist looks at the incoming rat swarm and then at the cliff behind him. He decides he'd rather be somewhere else.

Still, he's reluctant to just leave Lori by her lonesome. He'll take a few steps to the east, keeping an eye on the vermin making it's way to them.

***

OOC: Are these rats the big ones that attacked us earlier, or just plain little ones? If it's a swarm of those big ones, Urist's cool demeanor is entirely unjustified.

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde  d20+8=25 ; 2d4+10=17 ;
Monday July 30th, 2012 4:57:19 PM

Morgrym looks at the 10x10 pile of rats swarming at him and realizes that he probably can't kill them all before some of them bite him. He trusts in his armor to keep them out ( what a fool he is, typical dwarven overconfidence in their own creations ) He gets a running start and swings his blade in a wide arc as he reaches the rats. His blade sweeps through the swarm cleaving many of the filthy creatures into rat chow. He killed many of them as the blood on his blade attests, but probably not enough to discourage them from crawling all over him.

( move 20 feet towards them and swing, If I have overestimated their size I'll make it a charge and hope I can reach them before hitting the water which is difficult and stops my charge)
Attack hits AC 25(27 if charging) for 17 damage ( which should be halved to 8 for a swarm of tiny creatures)
AC is only 17 if I need to charge, which doesn't matter vs swarms anyway

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29  d20+6=8 ;
Monday July 30th, 2012 6:49:32 PM

"Urist, don't be stupid, I'm on top of the gate, they'll have to come up here to get me, go get with the others."
Lori then yells out, "In Jinx's pack, not the saddle bags, there's a couple flasks of oil, just avoid the flask of acid!"
Lori then weighs the dagger in her hand and knowing even if she missed, the dagger would still be just on the ground, decides to enter the fight. She first throws the one in her hand and then draws a dart for next round....

Attack 8



(Mark) Chef Ironhand AC20/14/16-- CMD 19 -- HP 27/27  d20-7=7 ;
Monday July 30th, 2012 9:34:05 PM

Chef continues running west and pulls up next to Urist as the rat swarm approaches.

------
ooc: Please ignore the roll I initially was going to do something that I don't think I could actually do after re-reading the rules, So I adjusted the action.


Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 34/37 (Zach R) 
Monday July 30th, 2012 10:17:22 PM

Harden attempts to regain his composure and stand up. He also tries to knock the cobwebs out as he is a bit dazed.

Trollbane AC 18/15/11; HP23/23; CMD 12  3d4=6 ;
Monday July 30th, 2012 10:26:52 PM

Trollbane observes that one of the swarms starts heading towards Morgrym, and as this rat swarm is the closest, Trollbane heads towards it. Morgrym, though, rushes forward to engage the rat swarm, so Trollbane hesitantly follows, the murky water a bit too close for comfort. He tries to find a way to spray the swarm with acid without hurting Morgrym but knows that may not be possible.

OOC: A) If Trollbane has to move more than 20' to get in spell range (15'), then just move him behind Morgrym, and that's all his move. B) If Trollbane can move 20' and still cast his spell to affect the swarm without affecting Morgrym, then place him at such place.
Case B):
Spell: Acidic Spray (same as Burning Hands but acid instead of fire)
Cone shape; 15' burst; damage: searing acid for 3d4 = 6 pts; Ref DC14 save for half.


Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D)  d20+5=21 ; d6+1=4 ;
Tuesday July 31st, 2012 12:46:46 AM

Napalm watches as the rats run in the opposite direction of him and curses as he chases after him. Moving 30 feet towards the bodies (West) he holds out his oil lamp and casts a spark cantrip to light it.

ooc: Ignore the rolls, I was going to throw a bomb, but am out of range.

Seredal Hosah (Josh)  d20+10=29 ;
Tuesday July 31st, 2012 1:06:44 AM

Seredal continues her oration, but in a slightly different vein. "Onward, brave champions. Put all thoughts of a rat that can knock you to the earth a mile away from your mind, and concentrate on these, its weaker cousins. There shall be no thought of retaliation this day!" Otherwise, she's fine where she is. There are enough warm bodies between her and the threat. She will take a look around and make sure they aren't being surrounded...

(OoC: Continue bardsong; active perception check for 29)


AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde 
Tuesday July 31st, 2012 5:15:48 PM

OOC
Please remember Morgrym has SR 8 if spells are cast on him. It is a weird number and odd to have at so low a level, that's why I mention it

Round 2 Player Results [DM Jerry] 
Wednesday August 1st, 2012 9:44:30 AM

Urist backs to the east from the incoming 10' swarm of hundreds of tiny rats.

Morgrym charges the rat swarm and slices the tiny creatures into even smaller pieces showering the area with blood and gore. #2 is dead.

Lori fires a dagger at #1 from her vantage point missing.

Chef moves next to Urist.

Harden regains his composure. He succeeds!

Trollbane moves to join Morgrym, holding an Acidic Burning Hands spell at the ready. He sees it unnecessary as #2 was decimated by the mighty Morgrym.

Napalm lights his oil lamp while moving west towards the bodies.

Serendal continues her Bardsong with a reminder to NOT think of rats that can knock you to the earth.

Vgodd rushes west taking a double move to stand over the bodies. He is relieved when the rats turn away from his fallen comrades

----------

OOC: Swarm is 10 by 10. Have changed that by increasing the size of the number on the map. Sorry. That didn't occur to me. I was going to have #2 stay since I forgot to move it, but didn't want to ruin Morgrym's charge by doing that. So #2 moved forward last time so that it is there to be conveniently damaged by Morgrym's charge. ;)

[Do not post yet. I am working on Monster Initiative.

Round 2 Monster Initiative [DM Jerry]  d20+8=26 ;
Wednesday August 1st, 2012 9:48:58 AM

#1, perceives that there is more here than just a meal and in frustration at having its feeding intentions interrupted, moves towards Urist. It is disappointed, if a rat swarm can indeed be disappointed as it comes up 5' short of its new intended meal.

#2 has met its demise.

---------------

[You may now post. See the email for the map update.]

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D)  d20+5=10 ; d6+1=6 ;
Wednesday August 1st, 2012 2:29:29 PM

As the rat swarm approaches Napalm forgets about the lamp he just lit and grabs a bomb from his belt and throws it in the center of the rat swarm and watches the vial erupt in flames. No matter how many times he hears hears the explosion and feels the sound waves reverberating off his chest it still brings a smile to his face as the heat washes over him.

Throw bomb and hit AC 10 at the center of Swarm #1 (need to hit 5+ range penalty) for 6 dmg

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29  d20+6=22 ; d4+3=6 ;
Wednesday August 1st, 2012 3:08:47 PM

With a Dart in her hand, Lori throws it at the swirling mass of rats, hoping to hit one of them. As soon as it leaves her hand, another is drawn from under her cloak.

Dart attack, 22, damage 6 (piercing)

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl  d20+4=16 ; d8+2=6 ;
Wednesday August 1st, 2012 5:18:33 PM

Urist stands his ground. If the rat swarm approaches, he'll start swingin'. He's not about to wade forward into it when his friends are throwing explosives at them.

***

Hit AC 16 for 6 damage.

Trollbane AC 18/15/11; HP23/23; CMD 12 
Wednesday August 1st, 2012 6:06:29 PM

Trollbane yells out, "Don't kill them all!" Hopping to catch one alive, he tries to pinpoint one rat from the swarm, one measly rat is all he needs, and darts his finger forward while uttering a short arcane phrase.

Cast Flare at a rat in Swarm #1, Close Burst, DC 13 Fort, Save negates, Fail rat is Dazzled for 1 minute.

Trollbane hopes one rat will be incapacitated enough to fall out of the Swarm Formation so it won't be splattered by the others and he can scoop it up into a small bag.

OOC: If one rat does get Dazzled, he moves in (15' Move, 2 diagonal squares and just to the right of Napalm) to scoop it up.

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde  d20+8=20 ; 2d4+9=12 ;
Wednesday August 1st, 2012 6:07:45 PM

from where he stands Morgrym sees the swarm shift directions. With the rats in front of him dead, Morgrym does too. he moves to the new swarm, stepping around Napalm he swings, without charging this time.
Hit AC 20 damage 12 slashing (power attacking already added)

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde 
Wednesday August 1st, 2012 6:09:26 PM

to be clear, Trollbane posted while I was posting too 8), I want to be on Napalm's left.

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 34/37 (Zach R)  d20+10=13 ; 2d4+6=11 ;
Wednesday August 1st, 2012 9:11:23 PM

Harden charges at swarm #1 but can't get a solid swing.

Attack: 13
Damage: 11

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Wednesday August 1st, 2012 11:51:56 PM

Seredal continues backing away, and speaking. "Remember - This is our world! The rats only gained it when we abdicated it. And now we're TAKING IT BACK!"

(OoC: Back up 10 feet, continue bardsong)

(Mark) Chef Ironhand AC20/14/16-- CMD 19 -- HP 27/27  d20+9=10 ;
Thursday August 2nd, 2012 12:03:16 AM

Chef steps forward and swings at the bloodied swarm but misses completely.

----
Nat 1 on the attack roll

Round 3 Player Results [DM Jerry] 
Thursday August 2nd, 2012 11:30:42 AM

The rat swarm continues to move forward hungry and definitely angry.

Napalm throws a bomb at #1 and misses, the explosion echoing out into the swamp. Hopefully it doesn't draw too much attention.

Lori throws a dart which hits and a two tiny rats die as the dart tip goes completely through one and into another.. [perception 15 reveals that the swarm only took half of that]

Urist stands his ground, leery of Napalm's bombs.

Trollbane tries to cast a spell at a single target within the swarm and finds that they squirm around too fast to do so. [spell lost--perception of 15 to realize that a swarm cannot be hit with a single target spell]

Morgrym moves to the left of Napalm and attacks #1 doing damage [perception 15 reveals that it only took half of that]

Hardin charges due west and misses the constantly moving rats. One could grow to hate these nasty disease carrying things!

Serendal moves back 10' and keeps the Bardsong going. It is eerie, the gnashing of teeth set to music designed to inspiring courage.

Ironhand, his direct route to #1 blocked by Hardin, has to move to his south to get his attack in. Unfortunately, he missed as well.

It is obvious that the creatures are bloodied, but they are still alive, gnashing, and very angry!

------------------

[Lori, after combat, roll a d4. If you roll odd, the dart is still usable and you may retrieve it. If even, you will need to repair it if you want to be able to use it again.]

[Do not post yet. I am working on Monster Initiative.]

Round 3 Monster Initiative [DM Jerry]  d6+2=8 ; d6+2=3 ; d6+2=7 ;
Thursday August 2nd, 2012 11:49:10 AM

Swarm #1 fights with itself, undulating, as some rats want to gnaw on Hardin, while others want a bite out of the guy throwing bombs. Napalm wins their inner competition and the rats move towards Napalm encompassing Chef, Morgrym, and Napalm.

Chef feels rats crawling all over and through him. There are rats biting at places that should never be bit by a rat. He takes 8hpd.

Similarly Morgrym feels them swarm all over him, but the pain mostly comes from his face as they seem to like that particular portion of the dwarf. He takes 3hpd.

Finally, the main target of their anger, the guy making all the noise! They flow over Napalm nipping him iin the back of his legs, but mostly on the butt. Tender eating there? Napalm takes 7hpd.

Then each of our bitten party begins to feel hot and warm all over. All three bitten need to make a DC 13 Fort save vs. disease.

Then the swarm rages. Little dots of red appear in their eyes. The intensity of their chewing and the sounds of their anger ramp up to higher levels.

-----------

OOC: Chef, Morgrym, and Napalm all get AAO as the swarm moves over them.

Hardin also gets an AAO as the rats took more than a 5' step through his threatened squares.

[You may now post. See the email for the map update.]

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D)  d20+5=19 ; d6=1 ; d20+6=11 ; d20+7=9 ;
Thursday August 2nd, 2012 2:36:25 PM

Napalm is genuinely surprised when his bomb fails to damage the swarm, but the resounding echo across the swamp is like music to his ears. When the swarm comes after him he swings at them with all his might, but the damage isn't as great as he hoped. As they continue to approach he waits to the last moment to enter into his Rage. The alchemist takes a shot of wiskey from his flask and swings out again at the swarm, but his second swing powered by rage finds nothing but air.

Actions
-------------------------------
AoO Hit AC 20 for 5dmg
Enter Rage
Fort Save = 13
Hit AC 9 - miss
Move Action - drink from flask (drunken brute archetype, prevents expending a round of rage for the day)

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde  d20+8=24 ; d4+9=11 ; d4=2 ; d20+8=27 ; d20+8=12 ; 2d4+3=11 ; d20+6=22 ;
Thursday August 2nd, 2012 4:05:13 PM

OOC
Napalm note what weapon you use, slashing and piercing do 1/2 damage.
Question, if the AoO's kill them do they get to bite us?
IC
Morgrym watches as the swarm turns toward him. When they move every instinct in him forces his weapon to swing at them again.
AoO hits AC 24 for 13 damage ( halved to 6, swarm rules)( power attack still in effect)

The rats are not really able to bite him anywhere other than his face, and they strip away ribbons of flesh from his cheeks and brow. In pain Morgrym swings again. He hits hard, but is unable to cause a critical wound to the swarm because it shifts so much.
Hit AC 27, critical threat, fail to confirm on AC12 for 17 damage(halved to 8, swarm rules)( power attacking)
Fort save 22vs DC13

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Thursday August 2nd, 2012 4:12:33 PM

Napalm looks at his morningstar, a good bludgeoning and peircing weapon, and wishes he had entered his rage prior to making his attack of opportunity. Perhaps if he had he would have been able to kill the swarm before they bit him. :)

(Mark) Chef Ironhand AC20/14/16-- CMD 19 -- HP 27/27  d20+8=9 ; d20+5=10 ;
Thursday August 2nd, 2012 5:21:23 PM

As the rats swarm over him and begin to Chew, a pained Chef seizes an opportunity an again attempts to cut them down with as much power as he can muster. The nibbles are too distracting however as his axe finds nothing but mud.

His wounds begin to burn as the rats lack of oral hygiene works it way into his bloodstream.

------------
AOO: power attack; natural 1 again.
Fort save; 10, fails

Trollbane AC 18/15/11; HP23/23; CMD 12  d20+3=14 ; d20+3=4 ; 3d4=8 ;
Thursday August 2nd, 2012 7:45:59 PM

Perc+3 DC15= 14

Trollbane is very annoyed that he could not catch a rat amongts all those rats! "RATS!" he blurts, not meaning the animal rat, of course. "Holy Swarming Rodents of Unusual Beady Eyes, I've got to catch at least ONE!" he yells and looks around for a single possible survivor of the other swarm.

Perc +3 = 4, to find any possible single barely alive, not quite dead yet, rat from #2.

Trollbane is just too discombobulated to find a live rat amongst the gore of the decimated rat swarm. Wanting to help his new friends, he knows his acid would just melt them away, but that might also hurt his friends if he miscalculates his spell.

A quick mental calcuation and he quickly moves to right behind Morgrym, (a 10' move) and aims his acid at the swarm but to miss his friends.

Spell: Acidic Spray (same as Burning Hands but acid instead of fire) targeting square diagonal upper left; ie: first square immediatley to Morgrym's left. Right side cone border should be the three squares up the left side of Morgrym, Ironhand and Hardin. The spray will cover all but one small part of the '1' area and some to the left of it.

Cone shape; 15' burst; damage: searing acid for 3d4 = 8 pts; Ref DC14 save for half.

Note: if applicable, damage would be 12, as per area effect spell effects on swarms.

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29  d4=1 ; d20+9=11 ;
Thursday August 2nd, 2012 9:45:19 PM

Lori watches as the mass of rats moves and swarms around. She decides it would be a bad idea to to hurl another dart, due to the fact that her new friends are now buried with them.
She spots her dart, notices it looks good from where she is, and plans on picking it up in a minute or two.
She also takes the time to look out over the swamp, looking for the rest of the rats to be coming in.

dart roll a 1, it's fine
Perception roll 11 (like she can see anything right now....)

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 34/37 (Zach R)  d20+8=25 ; 2d4+6=12 ;
Thursday August 2nd, 2012 9:53:21 PM

Harden steps up and attacks the mob of rats whipping his chain out wide.

Attack: 25
Damage: 12

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl  d20+4=5 ;
Thursday August 2nd, 2012 10:45:15 PM

Urist steps up to the edge of the hoard and does...something. He meant to attack the rats that hadn't crawled over his companions yet, but temporarily forgets which end of his axe goes into the enemy.

***

Natural 1 to hit...

Seredal Hosah (Josh)  d20+10=20 ;
Thursday August 2nd, 2012 11:37:22 PM

"And let...well...drat." Distracted by all the blood and by all the blood and anguish, Seredal's voice fails her, and she just hides behind the log.

(stealth check = 20)

Round 4 Player Results [DM Jerry] 
Monday August 6th, 2012 10:54:50 AM

Napalm connects with his morningstar with a glancing blow and a miss.R

Morgrym, not liking how the rats nibble at his face, lays waste around him, both in reaction to the pain [AAO] shredding this swarm as he did the last. Then he purposefully attacks again [normal] decapitating many more. And again, everyone around him gets a blood shower! The smell of gore intensifies as the swarm dies ending combat.

Trollbane looks around for living survivors [One wonders if he's a Monstrologist] and still doesn't find one. He holds his spell as all in the swarm are dead.

Lori looks around for more rats and picks up her dart.

Harden holds his chain attack, realizing it would just splash the gore some more.

Urist approaches, but holds.

Seredal bravely hides behind a log and remains fresh and clean!

Vgodd cries out in his anguish for his comrades.

Then suddenly, the ground receives an even more powerful THUMP lifting everyone off of the ground by at least a foot!

[DC 20 to land on your feet. Miss it by more than 5 and you are stunned for a few seconds]

----------

OOC: Please make any needed OOC comments at the END of the post please, "Under the line." The story should come first.

OOC: No xp yet. Will explain later.

[Combat Ends]

-------

Trollbane AC 18/15/11; HP23/23; CMD 12  d20+3=14 ;
Monday August 6th, 2012 11:23:23 AM

Dex + 3 = 14

Trollbane holds his spell as it is hard to hit flying rat pieces. And it is harder to find live ones after the carnage. "C'mon, guys! I said keep one, at least one, alive! I'd like to talk to it, find out more about this Gladys, where it's lair is!"

Trollbane kicks a rat head in frustration. Before the rat head stops rolling, the gnome finds himself on his butt, the world spinning wildly. "What thuh..." he manages to murmur as he tries to clear his head.

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl  d20+1=15 ;
Monday August 6th, 2012 4:43:18 PM

Urist once again loses his balance, but manages to catch himself before he ends up on his butt.

"I believe that one was closer. Lori, can you head back up and see anything if anything's coming?"

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 37/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde  d20=8 ;
Monday August 6th, 2012 4:53:17 PM

Dexterity save =9
Reflex save =10
either way, even the legendary dwarven stability cannot keep Morgrym on his feet. He smacks his already bloody face into a rather large stone for the swampy grond, the only one to bee seen for miles around likely, and is stunned for a few seconds
As he rises, muttering curses, the words 'mother of all rats' and ' if we can't stand how do we fight it' can be heard.malready noticably flustered he answers Trollbane's question, silly gnome.
" By the shaking of the ground it'll be here momentarily. And without the cure at hand, you and the chef REALLY don't want to be bitten by anything out here, especially not the rats that supposedly carry the plague. I'm not clear how long it would take to kill you, but if the onset and symptoms worsen as fast as they did when we were purposely infected and cured, I doubt we would be able to get you to town, or that you would enjoy the process. All I can really tell yyou about the plague is it kills most people it infects and it makes you feel like the bottom of an old boot after muching out a pig wallow. The cure allows you to live, but the taste makes you wish that the plague had killed you, at least until the symptoms go away."
"Vgodd, help me drag your friends over to the gate where they won't get trampled. Once Gladys is put down we can attend to them in the way your people would lay them to rest. They don't carry any items or weapons that may help us defeat her do they?"

Once standing again, if no threat presents itself Morgrym starts dragging the bodies of the two dead guards over coler to the gate where they shouldn't be trampled.
" It might be hard to find on short notice, but if anyone can find some dry wood and prepare it but not light it that'd be great. We may need it when the queen rat gets here."

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29  d20+10=14 ; d20+5=11 ;
Monday August 6th, 2012 5:07:06 PM

Lori again, gets caught in mid-step and loses her balance when the heaving of the ground once again happens.
After regaining her feet, she will again climb to the top of the gate, taking up a perch there playing lookout.

________________
14 acrobatics
11 dex

(Mark) Chef Ironhand AC20/14/16-- CMD 19 -- HP 19/27  d20+3=15 ;
Monday August 6th, 2012 7:34:23 PM

The shockwave lifts Chef into the air and lands him in the bloody pile that was once a swarm of rats.

Pulling himself to his feet he listens to Morgrym's warning about not being bitten. Oh great. now you tell me not to get bitten. So... how long do I have? he asks the group raising his hand in the dim light to display several small punctures already glowing with infection.

----------
15 dex
ooc: I failed the fort check in my previous post

Seredal Hosah (Josh)  d20+7=24 ;
Monday August 6th, 2012 8:44:56 PM

Seredal manages to catch herself on the log and stay upright as she lands. Glancing quickly at the water and dismembered heads, she tries to see if there's still some motion in them, or if it's just the living being that are getting bounced like halfling babys in a home for old Taurs. If it's not just the breathers, she'll approach the group and ask, "Not to be telling you your business, but how sure are you that the earthquakes and the rat are connected? There might just be some instability in the earth here, and the rats (which we've seen have been smart) might just be using it to burnish their own story. Writers do it all the time...

Because, if the rat really is causing the quakes...are you sure you all are up to it?"


Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D)  d20+3=15 ;
Tuesday August 7th, 2012 2:01:23 AM

Napalm starts blowing out his lamp when he suddenly realizes he is air born. He barley avoids falling on his head, and a loud thunk can be heard as he crashes into the mud.

Dex check = 15

Standard Fare [DM Jerry] 
Tuesday August 7th, 2012 10:37:47 AM

As Chef stands and begins looking at his wound, he feels a wave of dizzyness. [DC 14 Fort save please.]

Vgodd nods at Morgrym and works with him to drag the bodies back behind the gate next to the cliff. He thinks for a moment and starts poking through a pack. "The other pack is missing. See if its around somewhere?"

Then, "Here." He pulls out several vials. "Standard fare for when we come to the gate. This one is a Cure Moderate Wounds Potion. This one a cure." He smiles. "The swamp giveth," he says under his breath.

"The guard "borrows" cures from Hegga when she's not at her Farm on our way out to the gate. Glad these guys were thinking....poor sods."

"One pack is missing! Let's see if we can find the other pack."

He starts to give the cure to Chef, then pulls it back. "If you take it, you'll be sick for hours and unable to fight. Save it in case you yaknow, can't wait any longer or something." He gives Chef a vial that looks like blood, laying his hand on Chef's shoulder. "It ain't fun, but it will save your life."

"Man you don't look so good. Here better sit down." Me maneuvers Chef so that his back is leaning against the right gate pillar.

"Hey Trollbane, did you get bit yet?"

Off in the distance, there is the sound of joyous squeals. "Ah man. Prepare for more guys. That sounds like Rage Rats." He gets to his feet, looks at Chef, shakes his head and draws his axe standing in front of him.

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 34/37 (Zach R)  d20+6=14 ;
Tuesday August 7th, 2012 1:16:52 PM

Harden readys his chain for the arrival of some rats.

Refex: 14

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Tuesday August 7th, 2012 3:25:20 PM

Napalm stands shakily to his feet, fatigued from the short burst of rage. As the guard searches the backpack the drunken alchemist refills his flask. Although the flask holds enough liquid for several drinks, he would hate for it to run out. The flask was much more convenient than pulling out a glass whiskey bottle or bottle of ale mid combat.

Napalm draws his morningstar and asks What should we know about rage rats?

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29  d20+9=15 ;
Tuesday August 7th, 2012 4:18:24 PM

From atop the gate, "I imagine, you should avoid getting bit. But then again, I think that goes unsaid."

Perception 15



(Mark) Chef Ironhand AC20/14/16-- CMD 19 -- HP 27/27  d20+5=7 ; 2d8=9 ;
Tuesday August 7th, 2012 7:42:29 PM

As a wave of dizzyness sweeps over Chef he rests against a pillar as he drinks the CMW potion. Despite the stabs of pain spreading through his body he is determined to wait until the last moment to take the Cure.

Not wanting to go out without a fight he sheaths his axe and pulls out a Chakram and hopes he will still have the strength to throw it when the time comes.
------
Fort save; 7, fail
CMW; 9hp


Trollbane AC 18/15/11; HP23/23; CMD 12  d20+3=19 ;
Tuesday August 7th, 2012 9:09:09 PM

Trollbane scrambles to his feat and shakilly answers Vgodd, "Nnnot yet. Thank the gods.

Then, when the warning is given that more rats are coming, he exclaims "Holy Shaking Ground! I need to get me some of those boots that let you walk on air! Then he utters words of protection upon himself.

Cast Resistance on himself: duration 1 minute, +1 on saves.
If he has time, he'll cast Resistance on Chef as well, then he looks out across the swamp while he makes his way to the right Gate pillar.

Perc +3 = 19

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 34/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde 
Tuesday August 7th, 2012 9:24:32 PM

Morgrym looks about, the others are preparing, but slowly. They do not bear the looks of caravan guards awoken in the night, dashing to the line in whatever gear they can pull on at a moment's notice. They look disorganized. His years on the road and many such wake up calls kick in and he starts giving 'orders' in an even, but commanding voice.
" I expect these are more of the same we fought on the way to Hegga's when we arrived. For you new lads that means rats the size of a dog, with barbed venomous teeth on them. One or two solid hits from a strong person should drop them.These are big enough for your targeted spells Trollbane. If you must hit one of us with an area spell, my dwarven blood might guard me if my heart stays true to my ancestors."( I have a low SR of 8, I MIGHT resist the spell. This applies to healing too so roll Spell Penetration if a spell affects me) I would suggest you hold a spot near Chef and try to keep the nasties off him. At all costs we need to keep these beasties away from the newcomers unless we want to watch one of them die from this plague before we can help them. Harden, Vgodd, and myself will form an outer half moon. Harden take the center and use your skills as Vgodd and I flank your targets. Seredal, if you would give us heart to strike as hard and true as possible that's likely to help. Urist and Napalm, you can heal, aye? Stay in the second rank to either heal us if we look bad or provide some ranged support. If needed step up and fill our spots if we fall, you both can swing a weapon, as I have seen. And Lori, rain death on as many as your elven eyes can see before they reach our line. The more that die out there, the fewer sets of teeth we need face. Lori, designate our target by firing first and the rest of us will use whatever ranged weapons we have to kill that rat before moving to the next closest rat to our line. They wanted heroes when they opened that portal from the Giggling Ghost, by the Gods I say we give them some."
And how is that fire coming? They are beasts, and any beast not made of fire I have ever seen has a healthy respect of it if not a fear."

Morgrym moves about 15 feet out from the gate in the direction of the squealing. He holds his Falchion in his off hand and readies his Chackram to carry out the plan he just mentioned, waiting for Lori with the best vantage point to designate their target. As he waits, Moegrym rubs the back of his hand across his face, wiping away some of the blood from the bites he has already weathered.


Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Tuesday August 7th, 2012 9:58:16 PM

Urist rises to his feet.

"Well, sounds like Morgrym's got it figured out, then. Napalm, you're good at setting things alight. Can you get a fire going?"

He will take up position behind and to the left of Morgrym, able to heal and protect, but still able to step forward and hold the beasts back should the need arise.

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Wednesday August 8th, 2012 1:19:29 AM

"A fine plan, sir." Seredal, looking relieved, quickly heads for the safest side of the formation...

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29  d20+6=22 ; d4+3=7 ; d20+9=25 ;
Wednesday August 8th, 2012 1:45:27 PM

Having recovered the dagger and the dart, Lori is at a full load out, even though it won't last for a real long battle.She pulls a dagger in both hands, ready to launch it at the first target. She'll then prepare to chose the next target and draw her first dart so she is ready after the next dagger attack......

When the first rat shows itself, she'll call out the target as she throws the dagger at it.

Attack 22 damage 7

Perception 25

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 34/37 (Zach R)  d20+8=28 ; d20+8=25 ; 2d4+6=12 ; 2d4+6=14 ;
Wednesday August 8th, 2012 2:39:10 PM

Harden takes the center point of the Half-Moon and readies his spiked chain to inflict some damage.

Ready Action: Attack First Rat to Enter Melee Range
Attack: 28 (Natural 20, Confirm at AC 25)
Damage: 12, (26 if Confirmed)

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Wednesday August 8th, 2012 4:19:22 PM

Napalm lights his lamp and hands it to Urist before pulling out an additional flask of oil. Lighting the fire is easy enough, if we can find enough stuff to burn. Everyone, throw anything see that can burned on a pile. I'll douse it in oil. When the time comes Urist can light it with my lamp or I can use my cantrip. As for my staying in the back, I'll let you have your fun with the little ones, but don't expect me to stand back when the big one comes. I am the most heavily armored and have a saved surprise Glady.

ooc: When Glady comes I plan to to drink my mutagen and enter rage for some serious stat boosts.
+1 to AC against anything bigger than me (mutagen bonus and rage penalty cancel each other out)
+1 to AC against evil melee attacks
+4 STR and Con for Rage
+4 stat boost for mutagen
+4 on Smite Atks
+6 HP for Rage
And anyone within 5ft of Napalm must make a dc 15 will save or become shaken due to his scarred appearance.
(Hopefully this applies to giant intelligent rats.)

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 34/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde 
Wednesday August 8th, 2012 4:53:15 PM

" My apologies. I did not realize you were so heavily armored, both with your faith and the metal hide on your skin. If you'd like, you can swap with Vgodd and let him keep his vigil over Chef. Hegga has not yet taught you to use the cure has she Urist, Napalm? If that is the case then Vgodd knows best how to administer it."
Morgrym takes any remaining time to toss bits and pieces of anything moistly flamable back toward a central pile. If Napalm is planning on dousing it in oil, then even soggy logs would probably catch once the oil burned out. He relies on Lori to warn him of incoming rats.

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Wednesday August 8th, 2012 6:11:40 PM

Napalm holds up a hand, signaling he is fine with the second row for the time being. I have no problem staying back and keeping you guys from bleeding out, for now. I just don't want anyone assuming that because I'm a halfling I can't hold my own in combat. Every time a halfling lives up to the lowered expectations of others the rest of us must prove ourselves ten times more to be recognized as equals. That is why I will be bagging Glady's head. The look in Napalm's eyes makes it clear that no one wishing to live should make a short joke when he mentions lowering the bar, his Napolian Complex more obvious than ever.

As for the cure, Hegga didn't teach me anything about it. However, I think I can administer it easy enough with my training and having had Hegga administer it me the other day. Unfortunately, I can only administer the potions she made. Without her instructions or notes on how to brew it, the odds of me being able to brew more are slim to none.

Trollbane AC 18/15/11; HP23/23; CMD 12 
Wednesday August 8th, 2012 9:44:10 PM

Trollbane accepts his place in the second rank without any objections. He can easily aim his spells through the gaps inbetween his friends.

OOC: DM note_ I don't know how many rounds before they reach us, but Trollbane will cast his Resistance spell on as many as he can until the rats are within 1 round distance. After Chef, he will cast it on the front rank, left to right, as much as he can.

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Thursday August 9th, 2012 1:16:46 PM

(check...check...)

I Can't Find It [DM Jerry]  d20+4=6 ;
Friday August 10th, 2012 12:02:01 AM

Vgodd yells, "Yesh, the same dudes from the first time. But we gots to find that other pack. If they were carrying a cure in one, they have one in the other. Redundancy! Right now, we can only cure one. We have two uncured folks here!"

Dramatically he points towards at Trollbane.

"I can't find it! Help me!"

Meanwhile, the over-hype brings things back to a sense of normalcy as only 2 rats come calling in the distance. There is still time before they arrive.

--------------------------

[Perception Check of 20 to find the other pack.]

(Mark) Chef Ironhand AC20/14/16-- CMD 19 -- HP 27/27  d20+1=13 ;
Friday August 10th, 2012 1:37:41 AM

Chef scans the area the other pack, feeling guilty that he has claimed the one cure the group has, because he was careless.

From his position however he can not see anything but more swamp.

-----
Perception; 13


Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D)  d20+6=25 ;
Friday August 10th, 2012 9:28:35 AM

Napalm glaces around quickly, eyes searching the mud. There it is! I found the pack! The alchemist quickly grabs the pack if he is able to.

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 34/37 (Zach R) 
Friday August 10th, 2012 11:00:06 AM

Harden keeps his eyes glued to the rats, waiting to make paste of them when they get in range.

-------------------

Keeping previous actions readied.

Ready Action: Attack First Rat to Enter Melee Range
Attack: 28 (Natural 20, Confirm at AC 25)
Damage: 12, (26 if Confirmed)

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D) 
Friday August 10th, 2012 11:07:28 AM

Forgot to mention that perception = 25

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl  d20+4=23 ; d8+2=8 ;
Friday August 10th, 2012 1:03:38 PM

Seeing only two rats approaching & hearing Napalm has the pack, Urist moves up.

"With their numbers this small, the best defense against their bite is to just kill them quickly. I'll fall back to protect when we get in real trouble..."

**

Action: Move to front line with ready attack.

Hit AC 23 for 8 damage.



Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29  d20+9=24 ;
Friday August 10th, 2012 4:33:23 PM

"We've only got two rats coming in right this minute, but I expect there to be more on the way. As well as the big one we've been warned about."
Lori continues to stand ready, and will call out the targets as the get close, as well as watch for more incoming targets....

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 34/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde  d20+2=21 ; d8+4=6 ;
Friday August 10th, 2012 4:57:05 PM

Morgrym stops tossing back flammable materials and focuses on the 2 rats that have appeared. If he can see them in the dark nighttime swamp they must be within the 60' range of his darkvision, close enough he thinks. Cocking back his arm he lets fly with a chakram. Even at this distance he scores a hit, drawing blood from the beast.

Hit AC 21 at 60', if it is withing 30' he hits AC 23. Either way the damage is 6 slashing damage.

Reaching to his belt he draws another chakram and prepares for another shot before it closes.

Trollbane AC 18/15/11; HP23/23; CMD 12  2d4+2=8 ;
Friday August 10th, 2012 9:31:56 PM

Relieved that the second backpack was found, Trollbane continues to cast his Resistance on his friends until the rats reach 120' distance. He'll then point his finger at the same one Morgrym sent his chakram at and sends a couple force missiles at it.

Magic Missile, Range 130ft, 2d4+2 = 8 dmg.

I Can't Find It [DM Jerry] 
Saturday August 11th, 2012 1:08:01 PM

Chef looks for the other pack, but does not spot it.

Napalm spots it immediately, over to the west end of the shrine clearing. He runs over to grab it and returns.

Harden remains on guard awaiting the rats, while Urist moves up to help.

Lori stands ready on top of the gateway.

Then Morgrym lets loose with the party following in grand fashion. The rats are hit with an amazing volley and die before they can even hit the shore.

Immediately, there is another thump and in the distance you hear an amazing sound! Something horrendous that combines gnashing, squealing, screaming, and a roar. It grates on one worse than 100 fingernails on a chalkboard.

Gladys is coming!

[DC 20 to land on your feet. Miss it by more than 5 and you are stunned for a few seconds]

------------------

I'm sure I royally messed up where you wanted to be. It was--confusing. :) I added [some] numbers across the top and letters down the side to help out. Sending what I did so you can correct where you want to be. Remember each person has to state their own location to move. Email with map incoming.

Trollbane AC 18/15/11; HP23/23; CMD 12 
Saturday August 11th, 2012 7:09:42 PM

OOC: don't worry about where you put us, with Gladys coming, I'm sure we'll 'scatter' anyway. LOL!

Seredal Hosah (Josh)  d20+7=23 ;
Saturday August 11th, 2012 8:37:50 PM

"....All right then." Seredal takes her place calmly and prepares her most important speech to date. After all, Gladys leaves one person alive to sing her praises, and I'm the best storyteller here... My life's riding on it, but it's still just an audition... I can handle that... right...

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP 24/24 (James D)  d20+3=19 ;
Sunday August 12th, 2012 12:47:19 PM

Hearing the thump Napalm enters into another bout of rage and finds himself landing on his feet for the first time. Pulling the mutagen from his belt, he quickly quaffs it and prepares to put on a show for the story teller.

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 34/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde  d20+3=22 ;
Sunday August 12th, 2012 1:18:15 PM

reflex 22
Morgrym manages to keep his feet this time, how he is not sure. He moves over to Jinx ( not on the map) and pulls the dog's pack off and tosses it to Lori on her perch. " Ye said theres more ammunition in there, use it well." He then moves to the tip of the island, farthest from the cliff(Move to L/25). If she can do that with her step I am betting she will throw us when a hit connects." Anything any of us can do to increase your own or the rest of our defenses, now would be a good time to do it."
Active spells
None (assuming I had resistance before it was spent on the save)

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 34/37 (Zach R) 
Sunday August 12th, 2012 5:40:01 PM

Harden stands his ground waiting on either rage rats or the fat rat.

Ready Action: Attack First Rat to Enter Melee Range
Attack: 28 (Natural 20, Confirm at AC 25)
Damage: 12, (26 if Confirmed)

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29  d20+5=12 ; d20+10=13 ; d20+9=19 ;
Sunday August 12th, 2012 6:01:43 PM

Lori once again gets caught off guard, and winds up sprawled across the gate. She recovers enough to grab the backpack as it's thrown up to her.
After recovering and securing the backpack, she looks around for what's causing the shaking...

Perception 19

Trollbane AC 18/15/11; HP23/23; CMD 12  d20+3=10 ;
Sunday August 12th, 2012 7:03:35 PM

Dex +3 = 10

Trollbane is caught off guard once again when the Big Thump hits. He was busy casting his Resistance spells on his friends and finds himself seeing stars circling above his head. Through his daze he struggles to clear his head, he wants to see this thing that is about to kill them.

After a few moments he gets up again and with one arm holds on to the pillar next to him.
OOC: I'm hoping this will give him a bonus, +2 maybe, next time theres a Thump.

Spells in effect:
Mage Armor, Resistance

OOC: Resistance actually grants the imbued with +1 Ref, Fort, and Will saves for 1 minute regardless of how many times you have to make the save. I don't think it grants any Ability checks.

I don't know how long it will be before Gladys gets here. Maybe the DM will let us know how long it has been since killing the Rage Rats.

(Mark) Chef Ironhand AC20/14/16-- CMD 19 -- HP 27/27  d20+3=18 ; d20+6=13 ;
Sunday August 12th, 2012 10:10:48 PM

The shockwave knocks Chef down but he quickly pulls himself to his feet, using the pillar for support.
Still slightly dizzy from disease Chef remains in place by the pillar.

He remains in place by the pillar awaiting Gladys, as he does not know how long his legs will carry him.

-------------
dex check; 18
fort save vs disease; 13
Chef remains in square 21

The Calm Before the Storm [DM Jerry] 
Monday August 13th, 2012 4:23:04 PM

All of future history, rides in the balance as Gladys comes into view. The size of her is enormous! Perhaps 15' across and 20' long. If she'd been normal sized, she would have remained unseen. What a monster!

V'godd curses and runs up to stand beside Morgrym. He grins a fierce grin at him then turns his attention towards the beast. He is definitely in the moment.

Harden stands ready. Napalm quaffs his mutagen and stands prepared. Lori picks herself up so she is standing on the gate once more.

Trollbane uses the pillar to pull himself back to his feet. Close to him by the other pillar, Chef does the same. He begins to sweat profusely from the disease.

The swamp goes silent and time seems to stop for a time, heroes standing tall, Gladys sniffing her prey. The calm before the storm. She begins to move forward again.

--------------

If you can reach, feel free to attack. That will start combat.

AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 34/37 hp Morgrym Gorechylde  d20+4=12 ; d8+4=8 ;
Monday August 13th, 2012 4:35:01 PM

Morgrym lets fly with his 2nd chakram, hoping to at least wound the beast before she closes. He also hopes to gauge hoe swift she is and how thick her hide might be, things that could save his life in a moment or two. Depending on her distance, he then pulls and readies his third thrown weapon.
Hit AC 12 for 8 damage... I doubt that actually hits

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29  d20+6=23 ; d4+3=5 ;
Monday August 13th, 2012 5:53:10 PM

Lori follows suit, throwing a dart at Gladys.

Attack 23, damage 5

Trollbane AC 18/15/11; HP23/23; CMD 12  2d4+2=7 ; d20+3=12 ;
Monday August 13th, 2012 7:26:12 PM

Spells in effect:
Mage Armor, Resistance

As soon as Gladys pops up in the swamp, Trollbane ponders the meaning of life, happiness, giant rats, everything.

One thing was clear, rats of that size would be hard to kill. He gauges Glady's distance and lets loose with a salvo of magical missiles.

Cast Magic Missile when Gladys is within 130' or as soon as he sees her if she is already closer than that.

2 missiles, 2d4+2 = 7

Perception +3 = 12; how close is she when they first see her? how fast does she move?

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Monday August 13th, 2012 10:08:40 PM

"Domi, if you're still around, see us through this."

Urist takes a step back to be at Morgrym's back before blessing himself and his companions.

***

Bless - +1 to attack rolls and save vs. fear. 3 minutes.

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 34/37 (Zach R) 
Monday August 13th, 2012 10:28:06 PM

Harden will continue to hold his ground, not wanting to be the part of the line that breaks. The tip of the spear so to speak.

Ready Action: Attack First Rat to Enter Melee Range
Attack: 28 (Natural 20, Confirm at AC 25)
Damage: 12, (26 if Confirmed)

(Mark) Chef Ironhand AC20/14/16-- CMD 19 -- HP 27/27  d20+1=8 ; d20+6=20 ;
Monday August 13th, 2012 11:02:05 PM

As the sweat begins to drip from Chef's brow he thinks he can see the monstrous beast heading towards them. Hoping to slow the beast if possible he aims and throws his Chakram in the general direction of Gladys, however it falls short, landing in the mud with a PLOP.

-------
attack based on Gladys being 120' away and having 3 range penalties
attack; 8 (miss)

IN case it is needed, a fort check; 20

Seredal Hosah (Josh) 
Tuesday August 14th, 2012 3:30:51 AM

Seredal launches into her speech as she looses her whip. "You are heroes of the wold! You have fought bigger and nastier! You fought the very fabric of time to get to this point. Are you going to let this vermin negate that? NO! You are going to make your forefathers proud! You are going to make your descendants safe! You are going to KICK that overgrown cat snack's BUTT!"

------------------
All attacks get +1 to hit, +1 damage, and we get +1 to saves vs fear
SA Inspire Courage, MA draw whip, 5' step away


Player Results, Round 1 [DM Jerry] 
Tuesday August 14th, 2012 12:11:41 PM

Both Morgrym and Chef throw chakrams, but both miss, the weapons bouncing off of Gladys and landing in the swamp.

Lori, throws a dart! Due to Gladys being 100' away, the dart falls into the swamp.

Trollbane fires Magic Missiles, which strike the beast doing damage! Gladys swivels her head and looks straight into the eyes of Trollbane as she continues to advance.

Urist utters a very appropriate prayer and moves forward positioning herself behind and to the left of Morgrym.

Harden holds his spot, but notices that Vgodd and Morgrym have moved forward to the edge of the swamp.

Serendal inspires courage, her voice ringing out over the swamp!

---------

OOC: Due to the map not being attached properly, everyone gets their ranged weapons back rather than losing them in the swamp. They are available to use again in this combat.

Gladys Initiative, Round 1 [DM Jerry] 
Tuesday August 14th, 2012 12:18:31 PM

Gladys continues to move forward, pulling a double move to end up 10' away from V'godd and Morgrym. It hisses at both of them, rat spit spraying them both, but its concentration is on V'godd!

------------

[You may post. :) Map incoming with email.]



Morgrym Gorechylde AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 34/37 hp  d20+10=13 ; d4=1 ; d4=4 ;
Tuesday August 14th, 2012 4:29:20 PM

Morgrym knows that Domi still watches them, how else can he explain the giant rat stopping within easy reach of his attacks without her being able to attack as he closes. He steps up 5' ( No AoO) toward her and swings with all his strength and the added clout of both Urist's prayers and Seredal's inspiring oratory. Still his blade, honed for hours until it carried an edge keen enough to shave with, glaces off of her thick hide.

( Power attacking) Hit AC 13 damage 15 ( doubt that connects)

Effects on Morgrym
-Bless +1 Morale bonus to attacks +1 save vs fear Duration 30 rounds
-Bard Song +1 Morale bonus to Charm/Fear effects, +1 competence bonus to Attack and damage


Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 40/37 (Zach R)  d20+11=27 ; 2d4+9=16 ;
Tuesday August 14th, 2012 6:03:42 PM

Harden flies into a rage and charges right up to Gladys swinging his chain at her. "Diiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiieeeee!!!!"

-------------------

Attack: 28 (30 w/ Charge)
Damage: 17 Piercing

Edit: Added +1 Attack/Damage for Bard Song.

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29  d20+6=13 ; d4=3 ; d4+3=5 ; d20+9=15 ;
Tuesday August 14th, 2012 7:11:05 PM

Lori throws a dart again, and then while reloading her hand, looks about to see if there are any other rats coming in.

Attack 14, Damage 6, check to see if recoverable 3 odd = yes
Perception 15

edit, forgot to add +1 to hit and damage from Bard song

Trollbane AC 18/15/11; HP23/23; CMD 12  d20+6=11 ; d6+2=8 ;
Tuesday August 14th, 2012 9:20:43 PM

Mage Armor, Resistance, Bard Song (bonus on Melee attacks), Bless - +1 to attack rolls and save vs. fear. 3 minutes.

Trollbane, sweating, mainly because of the heat of the swampy lowlands (so he makes himself believe), steps forward 10' (H,26: that should put him exactly 30' away from The Beast), and points a nobby finger at Gladys. A 'corruscating ray' springs forth from his hand and heads straight towards the flea infested varmit, giant class.

Cast Ray of Enfeeblement, range 30', Ranged Touch Attack (+1 to hit 'Point Blank shot', +1 to hit Bless), dmg 1d6+2 STR dmg, Fort for 1/2, SR = Y, Duration 3 rounds.

D20 + 6 +1(Bless) = 12, dmg (if hit)= 8 STR of 4 STR if Saved.

(Mark) Chef Ironhand AC20/14/16-- CMD 19 -- HP 27/27  d20+5=18 ; d8+5=11 ; d20+6=15 ;
Tuesday August 14th, 2012 9:52:43 PM

Chef shuffles a few feet towards Gladys while drawing another chakram. "This... This is YOUR fault' he yells at the beast, fighting the disease induced haze settling over him he launches the disc at the rat.

His aim is true, catching Gladys on her flank.

---------------
Move to J23
Attack; 18
Damage; 11
Fortsave; 15


Seredal Hosah (Josh) AC 23/18/19, CMD 17 +2 vs trip, overrun, grapple  d20+2=19 ;
Tuesday August 14th, 2012 10:07:47 PM

Finding strength in her voice, Seredal continues to speak, moving closer to the great beast. "You are not elephants, to frighten so easily at the squeakers! You are adventurers! And YOU SHALL NOT BE DENIED!"

---------------
Move 10' W/SW, ending up just to the right of where the M is on the map
Aid another defensively w/ combat expertise vs AC10: 21 (increase Vgodd's AC by 2) - forgot bless and bardsong. Yes, really.
Continue bardsong


Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl 
Tuesday August 14th, 2012 10:27:11 PM

Urist steps forward with Morgrym and places an arm on his shoulder as his blow fails to connect. He casts his spell, but decides not to fill Morgrym in on what he's done...

***

Domain power: Shield other. Morgrym gets +1 deflection to AC and +1 to saves. Urist takes half the damage Morgrym does.

Napalm AC 22/15/18 HP (30)24/24 (James D)  d20+5=9 ; d20+5=14 ; d6=1 ;
Wednesday August 15th, 2012 1:03:28 AM

Napalm watches the beast saunter up to the group. Instantly he charges the overgrown rat and swings his morningstar wildly at the beast. The attack is sloppy, but the creature's huge size combined with the chemicals coursing through the halflings body may be enough to keep him from looking silly.

Actions
---------------------------------------
Charge to m/24 (Glady's NW corner)
Hit AC 26 for 9 dmg
atk = (9+1bless+2charging+2mutagen+2rage+4 smite+1Bard Song)
Hero Point Used to Reroll atk

DM Sanity Info
+1 to AC against anything bigger than me (mutagen bonus and rage penalty cancel each other out)
+1 to AC against evil melee attacks
+4 STR and Con for Rage
+4 stat boost for mutagen
+4 on Smite Atks
+6 HP for Rage
And anyone within 5ft of Napalm must make a dc 15 will save or become shaken due to his scarred appearance.
(Hopefully this applies to giant intelligent rats.)
+1 Blessed
+1 Inspired by Bard Song

Player Results, Round 2 [DM Jerry]  d20+12=13 ; d20+9=24 ; d20+8=24 ; d20+8=18 d10+5=8
Thursday August 16th, 2012 10:02:48 PM

Morgrym swings trusting in Domi and misses. Perhaps Morgrym is mistaken and Domi is indeed dead?

Hardin rages and charges Gladys only to be met with a waiting attack [AAO.] which luckily misses with Gladys fumbling the attack! [d20+12=13] Hardin finishes his charge and slicing a huge wound in her.

Lori's dart misses. She sees no other rats coming in at the moment.

Trollbane casts Ray of Enfeeblement and hits! Gladys saves, but still suffers 4STR dmg for 3 rounds. [d20+9=24]

Chef throws another Chakram barely hitting Gladys and blood drips from the wound.

Serendal moves SE and aids another to V'godd's AC.

Urist takes a 5' step to remain behind Morgrym. He casts Shield Other on Morgrym. [Urist, I will deal the damage and let you and Morgrym sort out the half each.]

Napalm charges to stand next to Hardin and hits with his morningstar doing damage. Gladys is unaffected by Napalm's appearance. [d20+8=24]

V'godd steps forward 5' and attacks! He hits for 8hpd.

------------------

Gladys is AC18.

Trollbane please put any stat info after your post please under the line. No worries.

[Do not post. Working on Gladys' initiative.]

Gladys Initiative, Round 2 [DM Jerry]  d20+12=32 ; d20+12=26 ; d20+12=18 ; d10+8=12 ; d10+8=13 ; d10+8=15 ; d20+12=24 ; d10+8=13 ;
Thursday August 16th, 2012 10:21:56 PM

Gladys attacks Hardin with two claws: Hitting AC 32 and 26, the first is a possible crit. which is confirmed. The first attack/crit does 25hpd. The 2nd hit does 15. Gladys gnashes her teeth in satisfaction.

Gladys then turns her attention to V'godd and bites him hitting him [d20+12=24] for 13hpd.

--------------

You may post. Map is on the way shortly.

Trollbane AC 18/15/11; HP23/23; CMD 12  d20+7=21 ; d6+2=6 ;
Thursday August 16th, 2012 11:03:02 PM

Trollbane realizes that sapping the monster's strength may have helped but it's like a giant tossing a 1 foot rock instead of a 2 foot rock, it still will kill you just as easy. The best he hopes for is a wound that's just a hair of an inch less deep!

The gnome sorcere takes two steps forward (J26) and points his finger again, this time pulling from within himself, his Elemental 'Taint', and sends forth another ray.

Cast Elemental Ray (Acid): Range 30; Range Touch Attack; DMG 1d6+2; Save NA; SR = Y
D20 + 6 +1(Bless) = 21, dmg = 6 Acid damage.

DM Question: is Gladys classified as Large or Huge. By your description, she would seem to be Huge.

OOC: I like to add these in the front so I don't forget as I usually do when I wait to add the at the end, but here they are. :)

Spells in Effect:
Mage Armor, Resistance, Bard Song (bonus on Melee attacks), Bless - +1 to attack rolls and save vs. fear. 3 minutes.

Ray of Enfeeblement: 1/3

Seredal Hosah (Josh) AC 23/18/19, CMD 17 +2 vs trip, overrun, grapple  d8+3=4 ; d20+2=15 ;
Friday August 17th, 2012 5:37:49 AM

Seredal quickly does her best to heal Hardin, using her whip to distract the rat, as she continues. "Rats build nests. We build castles! We are the ones that touch the sky. Put this monstrosity into the earth!"

[i]Heals Harden via CLW for 4 - rolled a 1 on the healing die. : /
Aids another defensively on Harden's AC: Success, somehow
Continue bardsong.

(Mark) Chef Ironhand AC20/14/16-- CMD 19 -- HP 27/27  d20+5=23 ; d8+5=11 ; d20+6=24 ;
Friday August 17th, 2012 8:19:52 AM

In his weakened state, chef decides to keep clear of the beast until needed. Standing his ground he draws a chakram and hurls it at Gladys again cutting her thick hide.

He lets out a groan as he fights waves of dizziness.

-----
Chef moved to j23 last post but this was not updated on the map
Attack; 23, damage;11
Fort save; 24



Napalm AC (+4: 26/19/22) 22/15/18 HP (30)24/24 (James D)  d20+9=19 ; d6=5 ;
Friday August 17th, 2012 11:21:54 AM

Come on guys, the bigger she is the harder she wull fall!!! Napalm strikes out at the beast again doing even more damage than he did seconds earlier. As his morningstar sinks into the creatures hide Napalm drinks deeply from his flask and extends his rage, uncaring of the toll his body will pay when the adrenalin wears off.

Hit AC 25 for 13 dmg atk = (19+1bless+2mutagen+2rage+1Bard Song)

DM Sanity Info +1 to AC against anything bigger than me (mutagen bonus and rage penalty cancel each other out) +1 to AC against evil melee attacks +4 STR and Con for Rage +4 stat boost for mutagen +4 on Smite Atks +6 HP for Rage +1 Blessed +1 Inspired by Bard Song

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 4/37 (Zach R)  d20+11=16 ; 2d4+10=16 ;
Friday August 17th, 2012 1:28:08 PM

Harden drops to a knee and nearly falls over, only his fury keeps him upright. It takes all of his strength to keep from falling face down in the dirt. When Seredal heals him he stands back up and nods in thanks before continuing to fight.

He knows it is suicide but when everything is on the line and your back is against the wall you attack with everything you've got. Might not be the best of plans but in Hardens mind he'll either live, or buy some time for the others.

Attack: 16
Damage: 16

Morgrym Gorechylde AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 34/37 hp  d20+10=16 ;
Friday August 17th, 2012 3:08:56 PM

Morgrym is shaken by Gladys' sheer size and strength. Her attacks nearly ripped the Half-orc into two bite size pieces. Somehow the man kept his feet and kept swinging Morgrym could do no less. Once again he swings with all of his might and misses yet again. He begins to wonder if the rat's life is somehow charmed.

Power attack hits AC 16 ( can I roll a double digit here? please?)

Lori Rinduff AC 18 , HP 29/29  d20+8=26 ; d20+8=21 ; d8+3=8 ; d20+11=22 ;
Friday August 17th, 2012 3:23:44 PM

Lori decides to throw a chakram, still holding the dart in her other hand. "I don't see any more rats coming, but I'll keep a watching!" She yells out.
Her throw seems to hit a somewhat tender area. She again also keeps a look out for more rats.

Attack 26, Damage 8
Perception 22

ooc ignore second attack roll, it was taking too long so i hit it a second time

Napalm AC (+4: 26/19/22) 22/15/18 HP (30)24/24 (James D) 
Friday August 17th, 2012 3:45:50 PM

Napalm, overcome by his chemically enhanced rage becomes vaguely aware of this others surrounding the creature. Part of him relishes the idea of the half orc dropping as the halfling stands victorious over the rat proving that size does not equal power, and just as much wants to tell the bigger fighters to retreat and to back him up...something he would consider a grave insult if told to do himself. He particularly wants to tell those near death to stand back, and that with their help to boost his AC the creature would have a hard time breaking through his defenses, but the closest thing he can manage between gasps of rage is , Gahh!! Harden...your intestine...is showing!!!

Trollbane AC 18/15/11; HP23/23; CMD 12 
Friday August 17th, 2012 7:11:09 PM

Trollbane shouts out to Harden, "Pull back so you can be healed!"

OOC: You've got your 5' step, use it. Get healed before you go again and then you can step forward again to either attack or Aid Another's attack.

Urist - AC 17, HP 25/25 - Spells - Carl  2d8+3=5 ; 2d8+3=14 ;
Friday August 17th, 2012 10:14:01 PM

"Welp, time to get healing."

Urist heads around Vgodd to just behind Hardin and slaps a hand on his back. "Here, let me tuck those back in for you."

***

Spontaneously casting cure moderate wounds for bear's endurance: 14! (got two 1's on my first roll-rerolled the whole thing)



Trollbane AC 18/15/11; HP23/23; CMD 12 
Saturday August 18th, 2012 11:11:37 AM

OOC: a quick advice on rolling for healing. Since we can re-roll 1's, if there are more than one die, like Urist's CMW, roll each die seperately, that way you will know for sure if you rolled a 1 on any die.

Seredal Hosah (Josh) AC 23/18/19, CMD 17 +2 vs trip, overrun, grapple  d8=8 ;
Saturday August 18th, 2012 4:37:19 PM

checking in. And that means Harden healed 11 points of damage, not 4. I forgot that we used that rule here.

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 25/37 (Zach R) 
Sunday August 19th, 2012 12:42:02 PM

With the healing his friends... is that the word... after all they have been through and with the thought of imminent death, friends did sound nice... anyway, with the healing they gave him, he might just be able to see this fight through.

Trollbane AC 18/15/11; HP23/23; CMD 12 
Monday August 20th, 2012 8:39:09 PM

OOC: just checking to see if we are still alive... ah, yes, for a little while longer...

Seredal Hosah (Josh) AC 23/18/19, CMD 17 +2 vs trip, overrun, grapple 
Tuesday August 21st, 2012 12:38:39 AM

The last time I tried a check-in, I somehow posted a childish gambino rap lyric in the middle of combat. I don't want to go through that again.

Harden AC 15/11/12 -- CMD 19 -- HP 25/37 (Zach R) 
Tuesday August 21st, 2012 8:33:51 AM

Checking in...

Trollbane AC 18/15/11; HP23/23; CMD 12 
Wednesday August 22nd, 2012 10:10:42 PM

That ray of acid slooooooowly inches towards the Giant Rat of Humoungous Porportions, ever so gently, ever so majestically, ever so poetically, ever so... slow...

:)

Morgrym Gorechylde AC 19, touch 11, MR 8, CMD 18 plus bonuses by situation, 34/37 hp 
Thursday August 23rd, 2012 4:50:41 AM

checking each day, just waiting

(Mark) Chef Ironhand AC20/14/16-- CMD 19 -- HP 27/27 
Thursday August 23rd, 2012 5:26:49 AM

For those that dont read the L'n'B board, Jerry will be offline for a while as his mother is ill.

Trollbane AC 18/15/11; HP23/23; CMD 12 
Thursday August 23rd, 2012 11:25:27 PM

Surgery. Hope it goes well.

@Jerry, tell your mother we are all praying for her.

Trollbane AC 18/15/11; HP23/23; CMD 12 
Thursday August 30th, 2012 9:00:37 PM

OOC: just checking in. Anxiously waiting for the kill. :)

Napalm AC (+4: 26/19/22) 22/15/18 HP (30)24/24 (James D) 
Wednesday September 5th, 2012 12:56:43 PM

You are in our prayers.

Trollbane AC 18/15/11; HP23/23; CMD 12 
Tuesday September 11th, 2012 3:03:15 PM

Gladys' death hangs in the ballance of Time.

OOC: Just checking in. We trust you are recuperating well. Keep those stress levels down, eh?

Stay away from sports, politics, food, wife, kids, Wold, work, uhm... something like that. :)

test post  random d100=39 ; random d20=11 ;
Thursday July 3rd, 2014 8:28:50 PM

this is a test post.

this is a test edit

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