Here we go!
Somehow in this chaos that is Habrigminster, the two of you have joined forces. More than one head turns as both of you stride mean streets teeming with life and energy. Alliances are being formed all around you on those same streets as hard looking folk join their fortunes together and stream away to the South towards the riches of the Barrowmaze.
At the agreed time and place outside the Brazen Strumpet, Sister Beyla approaches you both with a nod. Her careworn face twitches into a forced smile.
“My greetings to both of you. I am grateful that you both have taken the time to meet and hear my proposal.”
“Simply, I need to get into the Barrowmaze and for that I need your protection. In return I can help with healing your wounds and driving away the lesser dead that prowl those halls. I can also offer you another advantage - I know an entrance that is unguarded by the dead.”
She nods at a raucous group of mercenaries heading out. “Those fools are as good as dead”.
“What say you?”
"Good morning Sister Beyla," Jolly greets her cheerfully.
After listening to her proposal, he says with a smile, "I say that we get going! The early bird gets the worm as they say. My men and I are ready to leave now."
Once everyone has shouldered their gear, the sister leads the way out of the town's southern gate. Continuing down the road for several miles, the party passes an attractive monestary on a gently sloping hilltop bordering the road.
After a single long glance at it Sister Beyla continues marching. Several miles from the Barrowarrens, she moves from the road and continues the march through the forest, dim even under the noon day sun. She halts some 30 minutes later.
Pointing straight ahead, "Just 100 meters beyond is the start of the Barrowarrens. Let one who is crafty steal up and see if the coast is clear."
You hear some odd sounds in that direction, but nothing distinct.
Jolly nods his head in acknowledgment and says, "Peldic, my shield please. Mergo, you'll cover me with my sling from about 10 feet behind me."
"Thank you," Jolly says as he takes his shield from Peldic.
Looking to Mergo and seeing that he is ready to go with sling in hand, he says, "follow me."
With a final nods to his companions, he turns and starts walking cautiously in the direction that Sister Beyla indicated.
Mergo moves quietly with you forward - until your companions are far behind you.
You have come to a spot where a narrow grassy path strikes off from the road and winds away across the moor past your vantage point in the tree line. A steep, boulder-sprinkled hill lays upon the right which had in bygone days been cut into a granite quarry. The face which is turned towards you forms a dark cliff, with ferns and brambles growing in its niches. From over its distant rise there floats a gray plume of smoke.
Jolly will start making his way around the cliff face so that he can move into a position to see what is creating the smoke that is rising over the hill. He moves cautiously and as quietly as possible.
Striking out across the open ground, both you and Mergo make as best use as you can of the available brush and scrub.
Moving to the left to the cliff face, cautious to avoid both the exposed Southern road and the steepness of the cliff itself, you make the slow climb to the top of the weathered hill to a vantage point.
From the crest of the hill you now see the smoke rising from several burning wagons on the roadway below. Some 20 warriors are using those same wagons for cover, desperately attempting to shield themselves from crowds of roaring rotting, shambling corpses.
Every now and then, one particularly quick corpse with glowing blue eyes darts in and snatches a warrior screaming from his mates.
After but a few more such raids, the living line breaks as warriors attempt to flee, each looking out only for himself. At the line's collapse, the blue eyed corpse quickly tapped several others who now also radiate forth an uncanny glow. As one, the glowing pack bursts forward and runs down the few living survivors, tearing them limb from limb, and squatting down to feast on their remains. As the last living warrior is dragged to the ground, the waves of the dead slip into an uneasy stillness.
Rising to his feet and wiping his chin, the blue eyed corpse pushes through the milling crowd of shambling corpses, and stares at the top of the hill, his lips curling into a sneer. You can feel his burning eyes sweeping over the rocks near you.
Oops! Overstayed our welcome, Jolly thinks to himself when he sees the strange blue-eyed undead look in his direction.
Jolly crawls on his belly back down from the vantage point and when he gets to Mergo he stands up.
He says to Mergo, "we have to move now!"
Jolly then starts jogging back toward where he left his companions.
You and Mergo scramble and slide your way back down the hill.
As you jog across the open ground back to the sheltering line of woodland, you spy out of the corner of your eye Mergo darting a glance behind the two of you.
With a low moan, his eyes roll wildly and his running becomes frenzied as he pulls ahead of you!
Jolly doesn't need to look back to know what is going on and so he kicks it up into a full sprint with Mergo.
When they get within 100 yards of what he believes is the position of his companions, Jolly yells out, "undead on our tail! Prepare yourselves!"
Time slows down to a crawl as the sheltering trees ahead drift slowly closer and closer.
You now feel - more than hear - the feet pounding behind you, and as you fling yourselves into the woods roll an individual D20 for both yourself and Mergo!
OOC: Rolled a 19 for Mergo and a 13 for Jolly.
You feel fingers as hard as steel grip at your clothes as you plunge into the trees. Roars of agony blast your ears as those hands falter and release you. Springing free and dodging through the trees, a few seconds of running tells you that you're now alone as you rejoin the party, all waiting at the ready.
Sister Beyla glances at you quizzically, "Is everything alright? We heard you running."
Before you can respond you hear a muffled shout from the moors, "undead on our tail! Prepare yourselves!"
You recognize the voice as your own.
Norda steps forward and points at you, "Hey...what're yer tryin' ta pull?"
With a confused tone and look on his face, Jolly says genuinely, "I... I don't know."
Beyla nods, "I believe you".
Mergo then blurts out an almost incoherent account of what you both saw and later ran from.
Beyla listens quietly, nodding from time to time, while Norda merely rolls her eyes and snorts in disbelief.
Beyla touches Jolly's hand, "Can you lead us back to the pathway?"
She turns to the others, "Please, as you value your lives, stay on the path - nowhere else is safe!"
As everyone once more shoulders their gear, she turns back to you, "We are ready now".
Jolly nods and says in a shaky voice, "alright."
He starts to lead his companions back the way he just came.
Jolly you have no difficulty in retracing your path back to the trail. Carefully looking about and seeing the coast clear, you quietly lead the group to the safety of the trail.
Everyone falls into a single file line, with no one anxious to walk at another's side and risk straying beyond the trail's edge.
After walking on the trail for about an hour, firm ground around the trail gradually gives way to wetland, with tall sword-shaped leaves of swamp plants dotting deep, mist-smoking bogs.
The trail itself begins to blur as the fog-bank builds around it.
"It's never been this bad before", Beyla murmurs...
Soon Beyla reaches out and touches your shoulder, pointing through the fog "There it is, my entrance to the Barrowmaze". She indicates a large crypt with a closed iron door.
You easily guess that the entrance is some 30-40 feet from the trail.
Whatever lies waiting in the mist has chosen to remain hidden thus far.
What do you do?
Quote from: pbj44;735281What do you do?
Foromo just moves past everybody, saying "scuse me, shorty" to Jolly, and walk on up to the door...*mumbling the whole way bout dam swamps and such (mumble, mumble,mumble...)*
Foromo, as you move through the fog to the door, you hear only the sound of your own boots tread. The door you approach is made of well-crafted - though rusting, iron. The door is bulged slightly outward, and a malodorous mist weeps forth from beneath the door.
A heavy sliding bolt holds it fast.
After but a few moments, the silence is broken by a whispered tremulous hiss from somewhere above you, "Jooolllyyyy...come out and plaaaaay". Perched far above on the roof of the tomb, those on the path can see:
(http://i.imgur.com/Of84mI3.jpg)
Those glowing blue eyes...
(OOC - Okay, wait for the others.)
How does it know my name? Jolly thinks in horror upon hearing the Undead creature speak his name.
"Beyla!" Jolly says in a breaking, high-pitched tone, "there it is!"
The Halfling warrior takes a fighting stance with his shield up and ready.
Finding his strength and courage return as action demands it of him, Jolly yells, "Mergo! Stay back and get ready to pelt it with stones on my mark!"
The fiend stands up smirking, "OH JOLLY! I'm just going to have to tear your head off"!
His eyes blaze a blinding blue as he opens his arms wide - daring you to do your worst.
His eyes seek out each of the team-members as he begins to shake with mirth.
"Gonna get ya"!!!
Beyla screams, "You will not GET anyone MONSTER"!
She raises the six pointed star against him, "Get away from us foul creature, I COMMAND it in the name of the HOLY HEXARCHS"!
With a shriek, the beast is blasted back head over heels and tumbles off the roof - all of you can hear it hit the ground with a loud thud.
Then there is silence...
(OOC - Drohem, please roll 2D6 and tell us all the results, thanks!)
Foromo squats down, holding his shield above his head like an umbrella, muttering *axe or hammer, axe or hammer...ok, hammer...*
Quote from: pbj44;735644(OOC - Drohem, please roll 2D6 and tell us all the results, thanks!)
OOC: Rolled a 2 and a 3 for a total of 5.
From behind the crypt building..
(OOC - Undead Turn roll failed...)
A screech of rage pounds you..."OH BEYLA...I'M NOT GOING TO KILL YOU RIGHT AWAY...I'M GOING TO MAKE YOU WATCH WHAT I DO TO JOLLY FIRST."
"THAT WAS MOST UNKIND, THE LOT OF YOU."
The creature calls out into the fog for a few moments in a strange, lilting language and then says:
"THIS IS NOT OVER WITH!"
You remain still for some time, but its now silent...what do you do?
Foromo stands back up, shoulders his Hammer, looks over at the rest of the party..."Good Lord, Man...just what did you do to these freaks???"
Jolly shrugs genuinely as he says, "I just saw that creature a few minutes ago for the first time. It was leading some other undead in attacking a caravan. I watched from a ridge and cover as the undead literally tore apart the terrified guards."
Looking toward the Priestess, he continues, "I was hoping that Beyla could handle it. I don't have any holy water."
Foromo replies 'You must have not been under the cover very well...hmmm"
"Beyla, are you able to Bless Water???"
Foromo muses to himself...*Barrows, Burial Grounds, Undead...and no Holy Water??? Note to self, bring plenty of Holy Water when dealing with UnDead...*
"Oh Beyla...If you can't Bless Water, can you Bless some Mead???"
Beyla nods to both of you, "yes, I do have some flasks of holy water but was hoping to save them against an emergency. I do not know why he is fixated on Jolly, but I think he knows much about the barrows and would be well content if we could capture him and put him to the question. "
"Think on that, but let us be about our business. Doubtless he will be waiting for us upon our return. Let us profit during that respite."
She glances at the door, "will you two do the honors? Norda and I will back you up while the rest cover the rear."
Foromo looks at Beyla, Shrugs, and says "why don't you just say you can't..." then looks over to Jolly..."You want the honors, or should I..."
(OOC: Go into Lurkin...ah...waiting mode...)
Jolly sighs and says, "alright, but keep those flasks of holy water at your fingertips."
Jolly sheathes his sword but keeps his shield in his off hand as he attempts to open the door.
She nods, "I certainly will!"
The bolt slides free easily, but the door is sticking.
OOC - Jolly role 1d6 for a stuck door.
OOC: I rolled a 2.
Man, this thing is really stuck!
Jolly puts his back into it and suddenly, with a tearing, shrieking clatter, the door pulls free!
A wave of fetid fog pours over everyone near the open doorway. Gagging at the smell, you make out some steps descending deep into the blackness of the crypt.
Your ears are still ringing from the crash of the door, so you are unsure if anything might have been attracted to your area.
As he regains his balance and straightens up, Jolly says, "Peldic, strike a torch please. Mergo, stay a step behind with the sling ready."
Turning to Foromo, Jolly says, "if you don't mind, will you take the lead since your dwarven eyes are accustomed to dark and dank places."
Jolly draws his sword and stands ready to follow Foromo's lead with his shield readied as well.
Peldic and Mergo comply. The others fall in behind them with Sister Beyla in the middle of the group, and Norda acting as rear-guard.
Everyone looks at Foromo.
OOC - Foromo, keep in mind that any visible torch or lantern light sources will spoil your infravision, so guys, don't light up yet! Just tell me how you want to make your entrance and generally what you're trying to do and I will then fill in the picture for you. Good Luck!
Phil
Foromo steps up to the door, takes a deep breath, informs all "Don't mind the smell, my great Uncle's home smells worse." steps over the threshold, and peers ahead.
It takes a few moments for your eyes to adjust and your infravision to kick in. Once it does, you can make out the faint outline of a staircase, 20' wide, descending steeply down some 30' to a landing below. An archway is opposite the landing's stairs. You can make out a very small object above the archway, noticeable due to it's slightly different heat signature. What do you do?
OOC - you guys feel free to work out mapping as you see fit.
Foromo relays what he sees back to the rest of the party.
OOC - Working on some mapping software...
"We didn't get all dressed up for nothing," Jolly says in a slightly more jovial tone, "lead on, Foromo."
A hammer in the distance "Tap-tom, tom-tap."
From the back ranks Baldue exclaims, "HEY, DID ONE OF YOU GUYS JUST TOUCH MY FOOT??"
Jolly turns to look behind him at the rear ranks and says, "what is going on back there?"
Baldue says hotly, "CRAP! NORDA, STOP MESSING AROUND!"
Norda hisses, "Shut-up you fool, I'm not touching you!"
She mutters, "Baldue, back up behind me..."
She readies her blade...
Quote from: pbj44;736063A hammer in the distance "Tap-tom, tom-tap."
OCC - From where is the sound coming from, inside or behind us...
Foromo quickly scratches a mark on the wall with one of his metal spikes..."Beyla, Wet your finger with some holy water and trace this mark, please...don't want anybody messing with my mark."
OCC - how far do I need to be in order to use my Infravision and allow the others to use Lantern / Torch??
OOC - The tapping sound is coming from the outside, off in the distance, but you have bigger issues closer to home.
Beyla says, "Right now? Something is getting at Baldue in the back rank!"
The folks in the back rank are recoiling away from something, pressing the team into the crypt. The sole exception being Norda who is standing her ground, flicking her blade back and forth in anticipation of...something.
OOC - To be out of range of the party's light sources well enough to use your infravision, you would likely need to get at least 100' or if less, around a corner or two.
Whatcha doing next?
Jolly says in a commanding tone as he moves toward the back to stand shoulder to waist with Beyla, "Mergo, watch the front and yell if anything comes up from below!"
"Peldic," Jolly commands, "stand with Mergo at the front and give him light!"
Jolly turns to face whatever is causing the uneasy feeling in the rear ranks.
Baldue screams as suddenly a rotting man rises up from the fog directly in front of him!
(http://i.imgur.com/GwrmXC7.jpg)
Oops! (Players must announce that their characters will move during
a melee round, and they must make this announcement prior
to the initiative roll. See page 53 LL)
Baldue is pushing backwards with frantic force and in effect is in full retreat (with all its disadvantages) and all the while screaming!
The rotting man is attacking Baldue and foregoing any fancy movement other than pursuit and eating.
OOC- Roll for Initiative! (GM rolls 4)
OOC: I rolled a 5.
You have won initiative! Players declare your team's actions!
Quote from: Drohem;736139"Mergo, watch the front and yell if anything comes up from below!"
Foromo Hollers "Mergo, stay behind me and don't light a fire yet...I'll keep watch back here..."
OOC- FYI: I can control Beyla, Norda, and Baldue. Army, can you control the others that Drohem is not running?
Quote from: pbj44;736189OOC- FYI: I can control Beyla, Norda, and Baldue. Army, can you control the others that Drohem is not running?
OOC - got it...
Jolly Twofoot [M Hafling Veteran]
• Mergo [M Hafling Men-at-Arms]
• Peldic [M Human Torch-bearer]
Beyla (GM) [F Human Cleric]
• Baldue [M Human Mercenary]
• Norda [F Human Glory Seeker]
Foromo [M Dwarven Veteran]
• Hurtag [M Human Mercenary]
• Hurmak [M Human Failed Temple Acolyte]
Quote from: pbj44;736169You have won initiative! Players declare your team's actions!
OOC - Based on current marching order, and facing the know foe, am assuming I am now at the rear of the group
Foromo moves the the head of the down-going stairs and keeps watch, hollering back at Beyla "Of course not now, but at least before you go down the stairs, please..."
Quote from: pbj44;736156Oops! (Players must announce that their characters will move during a melee round, and they must make this announcement prior
to the initiative roll. See page 53 LL)
OOC- Roll for Initiative! (GM rolls 4)
OOC - Might need to be a little loose here, as by the time I notice a post, Initiative has been already declared and rolled...just saying. Still getting used to this form of gaming...
The Brothers Hurtag and Hurmak are backing up Jolly and Baldue...
OOC- Attack order is as follows:
1 - Jolly
2 - Norda
3- Hurtag
4 - Hurmak
Drohem, roll when ready. Guys, please feel free to be a bit cinematic in you attack descriptions.
Jolly holds his shield high as he darts up to the shambling creature and punctures it groin with his short sword. As he withdraws his sword there is a hiss of gases escaping the cavity and a nauseating and putrid smell slams into the corridor like a wave crashing on rocks.
====================================================
OOC: I rolled a 15 to-hit and he hits AC 4 for 3 damage.
Quote from: Drohem;736295OOC: I rolled a 15 to-hit and he hits AC 4 for 3 damage.
OOC - Will wait till Norda plays...BTW, haven't played for 15+ years. What am I rolling here...D20?
OOC - P.S. figured it out, will roll when Phil goes.
Quote from: rarmy;736306OOC - Will wait till Norda plays...BTW, haven't played for 15+ years. What am I rolling here...D20?
OOC: Yes, roll a d20 to hit in combat and damge die depends on weapon being used. Compare the d20 roll to the table on page 60 of the Labyrinth Lord PDF to see what AC the roll hits.
Quote from: Drohem;736307OOC: Yes, roll a d20 to hit in combat and damge die depends on weapon being used. Compare the d20 roll to the table on page 60 of the Labyrinth Lord PDF to see what AC the roll hits.
OOC - OK, tnks...didn't know the pg number...will have to respond later today as I need to bail for awhile. again, tnks...
OOC - Yes, Roll a 20 sided just like the old days. Combat rules for LL begin on page 52 of the free pdf manual.
Moving on, I have to post Norda's result, 'cause I NEVER roll a great roll, but:
(http://i.imgur.com/ldTixDt.jpg)
and for 7 damage!!!
Screaming, Norda leaps through the air and lands an iron-fisted strike to the foul creature's neck! The head, eyes rolling, and teeth snapping bounces down among the party! Everyone takes a blood bath!
(http://i.imgur.com/kITk7JOs.jpg)
Baldue cries out, "We have WON"! He raises his weapon on high!
Now a litany of hammer taps explodes from the surrounding area!
You hear a growing number of running sounds coming towards you, echoing through the fog!
Jolly yells, "shoulder to shoulder! Shields up! Peldic, Mergo, in the middle for light and stones!"
The halfling veteran looks from side to side looking for any targets to come into his field of vision.
Three creatures, looking more like horrific burn victims than rotting corpses, hurl themselves towards the center of the group’s line! They will come to grips with you in but a moment!
Baldue screams like a child, "OH man, GAME OVER!"
Meanwhile, from the staircase, even as Jolly yells out instructions, Mergo, Foromo, and Peldic all clearly hear the start of a LOUD dragging sound – from just beyond the archway below.
OOC - Guys, declare your desired movements/adjustments for the folks under your control and then Drohem can roll party initiative.
Movement: Baldue, Beyla, and Norda will stand their ground, so no movement from them.
GM Rolls 3.
Quote from: pbj44;736337Three creatures, looking more like horrific burn victims than rotting corpses, hurl themselves towards the center of the group's line! They will come to grips with you in but a moment!
Baldue screams like a child, "OH man, GAME OVER!"
Meanwhile, from the staircase, even as Jolly yells out instructions, Mergo, Foromo, and Peldic all clearly hear the start of a LOUD dragging sound – from just beyond the archway below.
OOC - Guys, declare your desired movements/adjustments for the folks under your control and then Drohem can roll party initiative.
Movement: Baldue, Beyla, and Norda will stand their ground, so no movement from them.
GM Rolls 3.
1. Foromo takes one step down and listens hard, shield up, Axe in hand...Hollering " Uh...Guys..."
2. Hurmak stands ready to back up the engaged fighters, quivering, but quivering not in fear. You notice the spear shaking slightly.
3. Hurtag looks at his Brother, standing there quivering...takes a half-side-step from him...and you would swear you hear him going "Hmmmmm....."
Mergo loads a stone into his sling. Pedric moves into the center of the group with the torch to provide light. Jolly stands his ground with the others and holds his shield and short sword at the ready.
OOC: I rolled a 4 for Round 2 Initiative.
Foromo, as you are speaking, both Peldic and Mergo whirl about and step out of the crypt, moving to obey Jolly's instructions. You are now alone in the crypt as the dragging sound grows in volume. Outside, you hear the renewed sound of combat.
The party has the initiative this round; fire or strike for your characters, I will attack with Baldue, Norda, and Beyla last - if needed.
Mergo quickly twirls the sling around his head to gain momentum and then lets his stone fly at the first shape appearing out of the fog. Jolly braces for the impact of the shapes slamming into the party's line and then quickly stabs at the nearest creature with his short sword.
Jolly yells to Foromo, "get out here and close the door!"
==============================================
OOC: I rolled a 17 (16 + 1) for Mergo's sling's attack and he hits AC 2 for 4 damage!
I rolled a 12 for Jolly's short sword attack and he hits AC 7 for 6 damage.
As the burnt men crash into the line, Mergo’s bullet flies true and strikes the forehead of the far right attacker, who’s head then cracks in two, causing great gouts of flame to shoot up in the sky from his brain cavity as he collapses in front of Norda!
Jolly’s opponent crashes right into him while he in turn buries his sword to the hilt in the monster’s chest! As Jolly pulls his sword free of the shrieking, thrashing monster, the blade bursts into flames as it comes in contact with the air once more! With a gurgling sigh the fiend grows still on the ground - then suddenly bursts into flames, somehow pushing back both the encroaching fog - and revealing a ring of creatures closing in on the party!
OOC – Hurtag and Hurmak can now each roll 1d20 to attack the far left “burnt” man currently rushing in to attack the party. Hurmak and his spear goes first.
- Then let me know what Foromo is doing.
"By the Hexarchs!" Jolly exclaims, "what evil is this?!"
OK...
1 - Foromo - Hollers "Will be right there..." as he peers further into the darkness of the stairs and Archway. (OOC - by my notes, 60' Infravision, Archway only 20' out, 30' down, can I see a little way past the Archway, maybe enough to see what's making that noise??)
2 - Hurtag - (11 to hit AC9 5pts Dmg) Swings his Longsword with great strength, bringing it down on his foes head...
3 - Hurmak - (19 to hit AC1 5pts Dmg) Well, all you see if "Thrust, thrust,whack,whack,pary,thrust,stab,stab,whack,pary,stab,stab" All the time screaming "Die, Die you foul beast...Die again, die some more, just ddiiee!!!"
Foromo spots the outline of something LARGE just easing into range of the archway…
The burnt man ducks under Hurtag's swing and staggers directly into Hurmak's thrusts, causing flaming “liquid” to spray throughout the area, setting nearby grass on fire, as it collapses.
Norda snarls, “NOT ONE STEP BACK!”
Beyla shouts, “COURAGE – THE HEXARCHS STAND WITH US!”
Baldue screams, “OH SHIT, WE’RE ALL GONNA DIE!!!!”
Meanwhile, Jolly’s sword is streaming some kind of flaming ichor that fortunately (for now) is kept from his fingers by the weapon’s crosspiece.
What do you do now?
Hurtag - Taps Hurmak's Head with the hilt of his sword..."You can stop now..." then makes ready to fight some more, you would swear he was mumbling "Hmmm..."
Hurmak - Stops, looks around, "Oh, OK..." See's the rest of the hord, makes ready, spear quivering...
Foromo - Hollers out "What's going on out there...we got something coming out down here..." Looks closer, taking a couple of steps down to see better...
Peering close as you can, you can see "something" propelling itself with one leg through the archway...
(http://i.imgur.com/nu3jmGE.jpg)
headless, it twists its neck and "stares" and you...and drags itself forward - towards the staircase, sparks flying from its axe as it advances.
Foromo - "Hey Jolly...(OCC relays info from post) Do you really want to close the door and fight that horde, or close the door with us inside and take out this already hurt creature...your call
OOC - PS - if not already declared, Jolly is team Leader, Group Calls are his...
Jolly makes a split-second decision and yells, "everyone inside and close the door! We'll face whatever is coming up while trying to keep these things outside!"
Baldue hearing the word "retreat" rushes in to secure the area!
Beyla drags Norda back, "Come sister! Now is not the time!"
Norda snarls at the oncoming hordes of the dead!
The party barely gets the door pulled closed as the crowds crash into it! Thinking quickly, Norda ropes the handle of the door to a heavy sconce nearby.
Panting the party turns to face the staircase.
Baldue screams, "OH SHIT, WHAT'S THAT??????"
Hurtag grabs Hurmak by the coller and retreats
The din outside is terrific as the crowds of the dead alternately tear at the door and one another. The door is holding against the onslaught for now.
The staircase is filling with a "chuffing" noise followed by a crash as the creature hurls itself forward halfway up the staircase! It then pauses, hovers it's free hand lightly over the floor, leans its neck close to the floor, and becomes still. The tips of its horns begins to glow...
What do you do?
OOC - everyone has earned 100XP thus far. Please credit your NPCs accordingly as well.
Quote from: pbj44;736591What do you do?
Hurtag readies himself for battle, occasionally glancing at the dripping icor from Jolley's Sword..."Hmmm..."
Hurmak stands ready, spear quivering Muttering under his breath, "May the Great Deity Diu grant me the strength to wipe the Earth of these foul, Wretched Creatures..."
Foromo readies himself for battle, shield on his left arm, Axe in his right...he looks like he's going to launch himself into the air...maybe...he's thinkin about it...no second thoughts...well, maybe...(What am I doing...)...his legs start quivering with the energy needed...(Maybe Baldue's right...)...no, am going to do this...wait...really???
"Mergo," Jolly yells as he rushes the creature before it can completely get up onto the landing, "let fly at will!"
Jolly rushes the creature with his shield up and flaming short short and is going to attempt to put out the flames by burying his blade in the creature's chest.
=====================================
OOC: I rolled a 6 for Round 1 Initiative. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
Jolly yells to Mergo as he rushes toward the headless creature, "let fly at will!"
Jolly charges the creature with his shield ready before it can fully get up the landing and attempts to extinguish his flaming sword by burying it into the creature's chest.
=========================================
OOC: I rolled a 6 for Round 1 Initiative.
http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze
OOC - Gm rolls 3 for initiative! Okay, guys you can all advance and attack, you have the initiative this round!
OOC - I will go ahead and take care of my NPCs actions...
Baldue shouts, "I'll guard the door!"
Beyla stands ready to help anyone wounded.
Norda roars at the giant and leaps in to attack (to hit roll 16)! She slashes it across the chest for 4HP of damage, causing the crippled giant to writhe and rear up in pain!
Quote from: pbj44;736947OOC - Gm rolls 3 for initiative! Okay, guys you can all advance and attack, you have the initiative this round!
Foromo - With a mighty leap, he launches himself into the air...Swinging his Axe with all his might...and hits...(with a roll of 3) (http://rolz.org/embed?6856350)...the rafters of the overhead with all his might!
Hurmak - leaping upon this foul creature with his flaming icor covered spear starts to...(hehehe...hits for 20)(http://rolz.org/embed?6858358)
invoke his mighty fighting style (OOC Paying homage to Duck Dodgers himself) thrust, stab, stab, parry, parry, slice, stab, thrust, jab, jab parry, parry), and commences to wallop the creature for 5 massive hit points...(http://rolz.org/embed?6858392)
Hurtag - meanwhile hits this creature for a...(with a roll of 8)(http://rolz.org/embed?6858414)...nevermind, as he looks up at his boss's axe stuck in the rafters...(Hmmm...)
OOC - Okay Drohem, bring it home!
As everyone rushes to attack the headless creature the distinctive whirling sound of Mergo's sling is heard and just as they engage the creature a stone whizzes past their heads to slam directly into the creature's chest with solid force.
Jolly rushes into the fray with the others and stabs at the creature viciously but even without a head it somehow sensed the incoming attack and twisted it's torso to avoid Jolly's thrust.
=======================================
OOC: Mergo rolls a 20 and hits AC -1 for 3 damage with a sling attack. Jolly rolled a 2 and missed with his short sword attack.
http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze
The monster is spurting black ichor in all directions!
Like lightning, it swings the enormous axe down on Norda (ATT ROLL = 10)! With astonishing speed Norda dives out of the way!
The noise and shock from the axe's impact blasts your eardrums! Something resembling clotted cream begins to weep from the creature's pores. Occasionally its body trembles - sending droplets flying...
Norda rushes back to the attack - a bit shaken...
OOC - Okay, Round 2 - GM rolls 2 for initiative.
Lay initiative on me Drohem!
Quote from: pbj44;736947OOC - Okay, Round 2 - GM rolls 2 for initiative.
Lay initiative on me Drohem!
OOC - Gonna wait for Drohem, call it, dude...
OOC: Rolled a 1 for Round 2 Initiative.
http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze
The creature makes a titanic overhand swing at Jolly and misses, sending bits of masonary flying! (OOC - GM rolls 8)
Okay, it's time for the party to attack. My folks will go last.
Mergo whirls his sling above his quickly and let's another stone fly at the creature's center mass again.
Jolly changes his tactics and stabs at the creature's inner thigh trying to damage its ability to move.
=======================================
OOC: Mergo rolls a 15 (13 +1 for halfling and +1 for short range) and hits AC 4 for 2 damage.
Jolly rolls a 15 and hits AC 4 for 1 damage.
OK, Hurtag and Hurmak - (OOC Rolls 5 & 3, both misses...)
Well, Hurtag swings at where the Creature was, which is not where it's at now...(Hmmm...)
Hurmak continues with Parry, Parry, whack, stab, stab, parry, thrust...not noticing there is no creature where he's aiming at...
Foromo -
(http://rolz.org/embed?6862226)
So... He wretches his axe from the rafters, landing on top of the Creature, axe head first, unto the back of this creature for :o
(http://rolz.org/embed?6862276) (http://www.rarmy.com/swgr/tmp/banghead.gif)
2 pnts damage...(sigh...)
Norda leaps in with a battle cry and plunges her sword deep in the monsters guts - giving the blade a fierce twist on the way out!
OOC - 16 to hit with 6 damage.
The creature shudders and hits the floor with shattering impact!
The room is now cold and still, the din outside dropping off sharply until it too is quiet.
What do you do now?
Hurtag hits Hurmak on top of his head with the hilt of his sword..."You can stop now..." they both stare at Foromo, remembering the mighty swing into the rafters...Hurmak wondering what kind of boss they have, Hurtag going...again...you guessed it..."Hmmm..."
Jolly plunges his sword repeatedly into the creature's chest to extinguish the flame on sword.
"Good work everyone," he says puffing but with a smile on his face.
Turning to the Priestess, he asks, "what are these undead creatures? They seem unusual compared to what I've heard about zombies and such from adventurers' tales."
Beyla, nods to Jolly, “They are indeed passing strange. I have never seen their like before. This place, already insane, seems to be growing worse. It fits into a pattern I have suspected for sometime.”
She glances about, “Is everyone well? Good, then the archway awaits, though I have never braved it.”
(http://i.imgur.com/p55dtxg.jpg)
Thick fog still continues to spew forth from the archway and up the staircase.
What do you do?
Jolly nods and looks toward the archway as well with a momentary glance of trepidation. However, he steels himself as he sheathes his weapon and straightens his coat and adjusts his belt just right.
"Alright then," he says seemingly more to himself, "let's do this. Any last precautions that anyone wants to talk before we go through it?"
Beyla smiles, "I am ready and will stay in the middle ranks ready to heal and assist."
Norda sneers, "Let's crush them!"
Baldue smirks, "Time to get paid!" Baldue lights a torch.
OOC - everyone gets 50Xp for the strange creature just fought.
Who will be designated as carrying torches, and how many does the team have as a whole? The NPCS each have two.
Lead on Drohem when ready.
OK, Foromo stands up from inspecting the corpe in front of them...(OOC - Cue to give more details bout the creature we just killed, anything found, any observations and such)
I go ahead, putting the Brothers between us for relaying information back and forth. I need to get ahead of your lanterns.
You hear Hurmak give a quick prayer to Diu, then prepares himself to march forward...Hurtag, you guessed it, go (Hmmm...)
Foromo stands at the archway, letting his eyes adjust, peering into the darkness, trying to observe all he can...[• From their experience underground, dwarves have a 2 in 6 (1-2 on 1d6) chance of detecting traps, false walls, hidden construction, or noticing if passages are sloped. Dwarves must be actively searching for these abilities to function. ]
(http://rolz.org/embed?6877855)
Foromo - Examining the creature, you do see certain oddities. The cuts that removed its leg and head look long healed, and the creature’s skin has a faint metallic sheen to it – you guess that when it was “healthy” the skin was much stronger and formidable. There is a odd scent of cloves about the body.
Peering ahead through the archway (before torches are lit), you can faintly perceive a VERY narrow staircase extending out into a black void. Your overall impression is a profound one of cold and darkness. There is also a bit of gusting wind as well, whipping the roiling fog about to and fro.
Jolly and the others wait patiently while Foromo inspects the archway with his keen dwarven senses and stonework knowledge. Once he reports that he doesn't feel its trapped, Jolly orders Peldic to strike a torch for them.
Once everyone is ready and has adjusted their gear properly, Jolly draws his short sword, hefts his shield, and says in a determined voice, "follow me."
He then turns and walks through the dark and cold archway.
=====================================
OOC: Jolly has eight torches. Peldic is carrying a lighted torch in the middle of the group. Mergo will be in front of Peldic in the line with his sling in hand.
As Jolly passes through the archway, the rest of you see the stone above the archway flare briefly.
Jolly – As you step out on to the staircase the chill winds pour themselves over you, setting your shirt sleeves and hair flapping. Your senses seem to be somewhat sharper in this environment without a light source. You can readily identify shapes and outlines of objects near and far.
Looking down at the 5' wide open staircase, you easily see that it descends at a steep angle through the open darkness and then would normally merge into a spiral staircase descending down some 30 feet to a circular platform – except for the fact that the spiral staircase is now gone – you can see the last few feet of it still attached to the platform below. Moving to the end of the staircase and glancing down, you note that you are roughly centered above the platform. The platform tops a column extending up out of the darkness. No other floor or ground is otherwise discernable from your vantage point. Looking back to the archway, you can see no wall that it might be attached to - it looks to be hanging in mid-air. You cannot see your companions on the other side.
A strong gust of wind sways the staircase slightly.
What do you do?
Jolly sits in the middle of the staircase to stabilize himself against the gusts of wind and waits for his companions to come through the archway.
Beyla, Norda, and Baldue cautiously move through the archway and join Jolly.
Beyla pales, "By the Hexarchs!"
Baldue grimaces, "Great! Where's the gold????"
Norda clutches her hilt grimly.
"Anyone have a rope?" Jolly asks wryly.
Baldue looks about in wonder and mutters, "The dwarf has got a ton of rope."
Beyla looks back at the archway, "amazing...I can see perfectly well in this darkness..."
Norda moves to the edge and stares at the platform, "I think I see something on the platform. Hmm...looks like a stick standing on its end."
(OOC - sorry fer the delay, had to think bout this one...so let's do the time warp...)
Quote from: pbj44;737440Foromo - Examining the creature, you do see certain oddities. The cuts that removed its leg and head look long healed, and the creature's skin has a faint metallic sheen to it – you guess that when it was "healthy" the skin was much stronger and formidable. There is a odd scent of cloves about the body.
Foromo sets his round shield on the body, cuts a circle bout a couple of inches larger, then taks some of his silk rope, attaches it (OOC - starts at 12:00, then down to bout 4:30, then to 9:00, over to 3:00, down to bout 7:30, then back up to 12:00) to his shield. He also cuts a couple of strips to wrap around hthe handles of his Axe and Hammer...maybe the skin will absorb the shock of hitting the rafters again...
Now, back to real time...
Quote from: pbj44;737561Baldue looks about in wonder and mutters, "The dwarf has got a ton of rope."
Beyla looks back at the archway, "amazing...I can see perfectly well in this darkness..."
Norda moves to the edge and stares at the platform, "I think I see something on the platform. Hmm...looks like a stick standing on its end."
Foromo joins Jolly, looking around (OOC - how am I seeing, what am I seeing??) and what am I looking at on the landing..."Yes I have some rope"...I also tell my minions to stay in front of the Cleric and quit bunching up on this stair / ramp.
"Where do you want me...shrimp"
Foromo is surprised that he can see very well in this pitch darkness. He is unsure how this is possible, but it certainly looks nothing like infravision. He see's the same things as everyone else: the archway, staircase, and platform below.
Beyla nods encouragingly to Jolly, and gently taking a length of rope from Foromo she ties it off to a rough protrusion on the staircase and nudges the coil off the stairs. The gusting winds swat the rope about.
What do you do?
Jolly sheathes his sword and slings his shield on his back. He ties himself a harness and loops the rope around his chest and under his shoulders for stability. Once he's checked the knots thoroughly, he nods to himself in satisfaction.
"Alright," he says with a quirky smile yet determined tone, "lower me down slowly. Two quick successive tugs means to pull me up immediately."
Quote from: pbj44;737615Beyla nods encouragingly to Jolly, and gently taking a length of rope from Foromo she ties it off to a rough protrusion on the staircase and nudges the coil off the stairs. The gusting winds swat the rope about.
Foromo checks to make sure the anchor point is solid and safe to anchor to...he then tries to get a sense of this wind, what's the source, what does he know bout strong winds inside a cavern or such...trying to remember any stories of a 'Foul Wind" found inside of places like this...
He stands guard over Jolly...
Foromo ensures that the rope is secure, then looks about into the vast darkness. He vaguely remembers some tale from long ago associated with such haunted winds…
Beyla smiles, “We will lower you gently and reel you back in as needed, so just let us know.”
Jolly - The rest of the team lowers you over the side. You sway and spin in the wind gusts and eventually reach the platform which turns out to be made of stone with a concentric rusting iron-plate center. The “Standing stick” is revealed to be a lever.
Foromo! Now it comes to you! Those ancient stories of haunted winds were always associated with accounts of flying Vampires!
What do all of you do now?
Quote from: pbj44;737699Foromo! Now it comes to you! Those ancient stories of haunted winds were always associated with accounts of flying Vampires!
Foromo hollers out..."Vampires! Flying Vampires! ... keep watch out there!!!
Jolly was about to untie the rope around his torso when he hears Foromo shout out. He quickly looks about and above him searching for any flying creatures.
He then chuckles to himself and thinks, just trying to get a rise out of me. Nice try, Foromo!
He proceeds to untie the rope about him and then secure it to the grating in the floor.
Once done and satisfied with the job, he shouts up, "all clear! Start coming down!"
Baldue screams, "OMG! FLYING VAMPIRES! WE ARE SO SCREWED!" He runs back to the archway and then pauses and screams again, "OH SH@$, WE CAN'T GO BACK THROUGH THOSE BURNT GUYS!! WE ARE DOUBLE SCREWED! WE'RE ALL GOING TO DIE!"
He then slinks back to the center of the party and sulks - staring at Beyla moodily.
One by one the party descends the rope to the platform, until all have arrived safely.
What do you do now?
Quote from: pbj44;737718One by one the party descends the rope to the platform, until all have arrived safely.
What do you do now?
Once back together, Foromo recounts the stories he remembers bout the winds and how they always involve Flying Vampires..."All I mean is to be on the look-out, that's all..."
He looks over at Baldue..."And they smell the fear in people..." He smiles an evil smile, then inspects the lever...what does he see?
Baldue fumes and sneers at Foromo, "I AM NOT DYING IN THIS HELLHOLE. COUNT ON THAT!"
The lever is currently leaning out and away from the platform. In sharp contrast to the rusting iron grating, it is greased and in serviceable condition. What do you do?
OOC: So the only way to move off the platform looks to be through the covered hole in the center of the platform?
Quote from: pbj44;737733The lever is currently leaning out and away from the platform. In sharp contrast to the rusting iron grating, it is greased and in serviceable condition. What do you do?
See if I can find out what happens when you pull it, if unable to, then look over to Jolly..."Well?...You or me?"
OOC – It looks like the lever releases a gear into motion when the lever is pulled all the way towards the platform.
What do you do?
Jolly looks to Foromo and shrugs his shoulders as he says casually, "pull it."
Once Foromo pulls the lever, the entire iron center circle begins to descend within the column, groaning and grinding on the way down. It sinks slowly for some time – perhaps for 5 minutes, before slowing to a stuttering halt at the base of the shaft.
You are now once again in pitch darkness. You sense more than see the opening now in front of you.
Lighting a torch you can make out the chamber:
(http://i.imgur.com/alH0aaW.jpg)
The room has partially collapsed along the western wall with the exception of the shaft opening. Worn frescos of a burial procession leading to a barrow mound line the walls. Bones litter the floor. Booted footprints can be seen heading east. Rubble and debris throughout. Smells of dampness, death, and cloves are in the air. The sound of a hammer in the distance "Tap-tom, tom-tap."
Some Graffiti boldly marks the nearest wall: Make no sound. They will seek you out.
Baldue chortles, "So this is what the end looks like!"
Norda glares at him, "Shut up fool!"
Beyla looks at Jolly, "What now my friend?"
Torch Count: 29
As he readies his shield and draws his sword, Jolly says, "marching order. Follow me and Foromo. Keep the chatter down."
Peldic holds the torch in the middle of the line, and Mergo is before him with his sling in hand.
Everyone quiets down as you approach the archway opposite the "elevator". Peldic's torch reveals:
(http://i.imgur.com/1GCygNv.jpg)
Indiscernible shouting, very distant.
Torch Count: 29
Foromo whispers to Jolly..."Hold a minute, let me see what I can..." takes a step through the Archway...
Hurtag and Hurmak Stand side by side just in front of the Torch-bearer, weapons at the ready, you can barely make out Hurmak's mouthing of a prayer...
Foromo, you can see a fresco'd corridor beginning in at about 10 feet on the left. Some 10 feet beyond that you spy a door along the right wall of the hall dead ahead. There is a sharp clap in the distance of a door slamming.
Torch Count: 29
OOC - I will update the map in no less than 10-20' increments so as not to make myself nuts. Let's see how it shakes out.
How long does the party linger at the archway?
Looking at Foromo, Jolly motions with his sword toward the door just at the start of the right corridor.
Quote from: Drohem;737838Looking at Foromo, Jolly motions with his sword toward the door just at the start of the right corridor.
Foromo nods...approaches the door, actively listening (OOC - Trying to find out where the voices and activity is coming from) and inspects the door closer before opening...
OOC - The star on the map marks Peldic's location - which is the location of the group's light source, of course.
Foromo, as the group approaches the door you notice a small rusted cauldron sitting next to it. Glancing inside you see that it is filled to near the brim with rotten teeth.
(http://i.imgur.com/P61bSeH.jpg)
The sound of distant voices has faded, followed by the single tone of a chime. There is a faint ozone odor about the door area. The metal bands on the face of the door all look badly scorched.
Jolly what are you doing?
Next to the door a faint sigil name now appears - "Galstaff".
Torch Count: 29
Quote from: pbj44;737889The sound of distant voices has faded, followed by the single tone of a chime. There is a faint ozone odor about the door area. The metal bands on the face of the door all look badly scorched.
Next to the door a faint sigil name now appears - "Galstaff".
Torch Count: 29
(OOC - Hmmm, does the name Galstaff "Ring a Bell"???)
Foromo passes info back...
Jolly shrugs his shoulders in the universal symbol for not knowing and then motions for Foromo to open the door.
Beyla gets directly behind Foromo, "I am ready to heal you if needed" she murmurs.
Baldue hisses, "Okay you two, get a room...like this one! C'mon, move it!"
Norda whispers, "quiet you idiot!"
Foromo pulls out the hammer, reaches over with his shield arm, and opens the door...
Hurtag and Hurmak make ready...
Foromo - It takes a few hard pushes, but the door finally yields and screeches opens:
(http://i.imgur.com/tNnvtLb.jpg)
This room is full of piles of rubble. In the center of the room, next to one of the few clear areas within, is the body of a halfling adventurer, sitting upright and facing your door - his eyes staring unblinking at you. His features are grey.
Behind him, opposite your door, is another door banded with iron.
Baldue stomps his foot, "Okay, what's in there???!!!"
Torch Count: 29
Peering around Foromo from the doorway, Jolly whispers back, "a corpse."
Jolly moves into the room to inspect the corpse of the poor fellow, and rifle through his pockets and belongings.
The party moves into the room as Jolly inspects the body. After a few minutes of checking Jolly spots two black punctures at the base of the Halfling's neck. These seem to be the culprits in this fellow's demise. Searching the body, you find a dagger with a silvered blade, and some rather nice red-leather boots.
Torch Count: 28
Seeing the puncture marks in the corpse's neck, Jolly quickly turns to the group and says as he looks about the room, "be on the lookout for spiders in the rubble!"
Once the party is alerted, he turns back to the corpse and takes the dagger, and as he is pulling off the boots, he says to the corpse, "sorry, old chap, but I don't think that you will mind, will you?"
As he stands, he puts the dagger on his belt as he says, "if no one objects, I'll just hold onto this for now. It will go into the party loot when we are done."
Baldue eyes the red boots speculatively, "I sure would love them boots Boss!"
Norda begins poking around in the rubble, sword ready for trouble.
Beyla moves over to the opposite door and exclaims, "How odd!"
"My friends, this door was sealed with a holy symbol of the Hexarchs and this bottle of holy water."
She holds up both so as to catch light from the torch.
"What could it mean?"
Torch Count: 28
Jolly says in an insightful tone, "we shouldn't be looking for spiders, but a vampire's coffin! Check the rubble thoroughly, and if it's not here it must in a room nearby."
Jolly then moves to examine the eastern door to see which way it opens and if it's barred or locked from this side.
Baldue, Norda, and Beyla dutifully poke about through the rubble while Jolly examines the eastern door.
The door IS barred from your side. Three great bolts are shot into heavy casements. Taking a cautious sniff, you also discover that the door reeks of dried garlic. Looking at the door's surface, you can see that the whole of it is smeared with once fresh garlic paste.
"Mergo, get a wooden stake and the hammer out of the backpack," Jolly says as turns back to the party, "it looks like the vampire's lair is in this next room. Beyla, stand ready with that vial of holy water too."
==========================
OOC: OK, will wait for Foromo to catch up.
Quote from: pbj44;737941This room is full of piles of rubble. In the center of the room, next to one of the few clear areas within, is the body of a halfling adventurer, sitting upright and facing your door - his eyes staring unblinking at you. His features are grey.
Torch Count: 29
Foromo hollers out - "Jolly, Mergo, get in here..." while he proceeds to inspect the room, carefully going through the rubble, looking for anything of interest or profit.
(OOC - Oh, never mind, just realized all was already done...)
Foromo hefts his lockpick / hammer, pulls out an iron spike...looks over at Jolly, nods..."Wait"...he takes a long pull of Mead, holding it in his mouth, beckoning the Tourch Bearer to be ready...Nods in readiness...
Jolly nods in acknowledgment and says, "Peldic, stand ready for Foromo with the torch. Mergo, stand ready to hand me the hammer and stake."
Jolly moves to the door and unbars it and tries to open it.
Quote from: Drohem;738007Jolly nods in acknowledgment and says, "Peldic, stand ready for Foromo with the torch. Mergo, stand ready to hand me the hammer and stake."
Jolly moves to the door and unbars it and tries to open it.
Foromo positions Peldic so that he can grab the torch if needed...hammer in his right hand, ready to tap Jollys shoulders to duck if needed...
(OOC - Drohem, I hope you had guessed it...Strong Mead, Torch ----> Flamethrower...)
As soon as the door opens a screaming body hurtles through the air towards both of you!
OOC - You have the initiative this round, so go!
Mergo quickly twirls his sling and lets a stone fly, but it misses its mark. Jolly quickly draws the silvered dagger from his belt and stabs the flying creature.
=============================================
OOC: Mergo rolls a 8 to hit and misses. Jolly rolls a natural 20 to hit and hits AC -1 for 3 damage. (http://rolz.org/group)
Jolly - The creature hangs on your blade for but a second and then with a gurgling moan falls at your feet.
OOC - Well played!
The air is now still and quiet, save for the pop and crackle of Peldic's torch. Looking down at the creature you see that it is a pale human, very emaciated and dressed in rags.
Before dying, he moans, "The master will kill all of you...but not quick...no, not quick...slowly...oh so slowly...
He then gasps and expires.
Quote from: pbj44;738187As soon as the door opens a screaming body hurtles through the air towards both of you!
OOC - You have the initiative this round, so go!
Foromo lays the hammer on Jolly's shoulder, pushing down, while grabbing the torch and spitting the mead at the figure, through the torch...
(OOC - Never mind, Jolly posted while I was posting... I guess I swallow the Mead...)
Foromo, you feel refreshed after the large swig of mead.
OOC - The party is standing at the "red dot" location on the map snippet.
(http://i.imgur.com/p4GeDpD.jpg)
Peering into the room you see an empty room, save for a pile of food wrappers near your doorway, evidence that a watch was being maintained on your entryway. A set of doors across from you are facing to the Southeast. they look like:
(http://i.imgur.com/DDGb8lX.jpg)
In the Northeast corner of the room is a statue of a paladin, defaced.
What do you do?
Torch Count: 28
Quote from: pbj44;738205(http://i.imgur.com/DDGb8lX.jpg)
Hmmm, A Great War, Demons and Magic-Users...Gods and Angels.
(OOC - Trying to remember stories told by my elders...)
In the old days there were great conflicts between the Wisse (the men that ruled these lands before the Ondish) and the Fey:
"During the Elder Days, the Fey-folk subscribed to a belief in the balanced dualism between Order and Chaos. However, by the end of that time, many Elder-folk had developed a preference for Chaos and had been led down a dark path thereby. The Wisse, in reaction, threw themselves behind the Lords of Order. After their victory and dominion, the Wissen faith in Law was justified and formalized as a pillar of the Old Kingdom. This institution still survives, albeit in a much lesser form, as the Holy Hexadic Church."
That series of wars mostly wiped out the Onderland Elves. A few such folk still wander the Onderland - lost and far removed from what they once were. These engravings strike you as being from that time of conflict.
Torch Count: 28
"If the vampire master is here," Jolly says, "then we must strike while we have the element of surprise. Foromo, can you check those door to see if they're trapped in some way?"
Quote from: Drohem;738224"If the vampire master is here," Jolly says, "then we must strike while we have the element of surprise. Foromo, can you check those door to see if they're trapped in some way?"
OK (OOC - Check for traps...crap...(http://rolz.org/embed?6927265) any other time I want that 6...(http://www.rarmy.com/swgr/tmp/banghead.gif))
The party moves into the room...
Beyla positions herself somewhat near the doors in case healing is needed.
Norda faces off to the north to guard the party's back.
Baldue moves over to the defaced Paladin and checks it out.
Foromo - Looking over the doors carefully is a bit time consuming, but you see the task through. You are pretty sure they are not trapped as far as you can tell. OOC - see post #155
Near the center of the right door there is a small opening - suitable for the insertion of perhaps your pinkie finger.
What do you do?
Torch Count: 27
Baldue's stomach growls loudly! "Hey, can we break for chow?"
Norda sneers at him, "Oh, you weak little man!"
Beyla nods thoughtfully, "It has been a very long time since we have taken nourishment." She turns to Jolly, "What do you think?"
Torch Count: 27
Quote from: rarmy;738228OK (OOC - Check for traps...crap...(http://rolz.org/embed?6927265) any other time I want that 6...(http://www.rarmy.com/swgr/tmp/banghead.gif))
Hey that's fine for now, but next time when either searching for a secret door or a trap just let me know your intent and I will roll for you. It helps keep the game a bit more suspenseful that way.
Quote from: pbj44;738248Hey that's fine for now, but next time when either searching for a secret door or a trap just let me know your intent and I will roll for you. It helps keep the game a bit more suspenseful that way.
(OOC - Oh, ok, didn't think that through I guess...like I said, been a while...)
OOC - No problem! UDAMAN!
Baldue gasps, "Hey - that tooth was GOLD!"
His stomach forgotten for the moment, he rushes back to the other room, and comes back even faster!
"Holy crap, that guy is GONE!"
He pulls the door shut firmly and eyes it with weapon at the ready, "This place is nuts!"
Sigh...
"Okay, I'm hungry again!"
(OOC - Hmmm... the plot thickens...)
OK, Foromo spends more time going over everything in this room, Starting with the Statue on around till I'm back to the door. Am wondering, based on the types of Material used, the workmanship, the way the room is put together, what can I ascertain...how old is this place, what was it...an old Temple?? Was it built at the time of the Great Wars??
As he looks around, the stories of his great uncles and elders flood back into his memories...
Jolly thinks about it and then says, "alright, take a break and eat dry rations only. Peldic, Mergo, and I will take watch while you all eat and Foromo checks out the room."
Baldue digs into his rations, lips smacking loudly with pleasure, periodically belching with gusto.
Norda drinks a bit of water and maintains watch to the north.
Beyla eats a bit of her dry trail rations and sips some water.
Foromo - The statue of the defaced Paladin is interesting as it depicts a warrior in ancient Wisse armor. The craftsmanship is good, more typical of the Wisse before their decline.
The same goes for the great iron doors - Fairly typical of the ancient Wisse. The small hole you earlier detected is from more recent times with bare metal exposed when it was drilled out.
The stonework of this room (and of the whole complex in general) looks far cruder to you than either the metalwork of the doors or the sculpting of the statue. It seems much older than either.
The position of the statue and the construction of the doors gives you the idea that both were set up to seal the opening to the SE, though what power the statue once had is now lost with time.
Beyla finally stands and speaks to Baldue, "Baldue, it is now time to move on."
Baldue hurridly crams the last of his dinner into his mouth, "OKAY, MMTTTHHH!"
At last all are refreshed and once again ready.
What do you do now?
Torch Count: 26
Norda suddenly hisses, "Something's coming our way from up this Northern corridor - and it's not being quiet about it!!!"
You now hear the sound of running feet!
Beyla hefts her mace and has her symbol of the Hexarchs ready! She steps up behind Norda
Norda falls into a fighting stance at the Northern tunnel entrance, sword on high, ready to strike! She mutters, "Someone to my left side please - to plug up this tunnel!"
Baldue readies his shield and handaxe, shivering with fear! He steps back to near the statue of the Paladin.
Jolly orders as he readies his shield and moves to stand next to Norda, "stand lively now! Mergo, ready with the sling! Peldic keep the torch lighted!"
Peldic Nods and positions himself so as to keep the area bathed in light.
Mergo load his sling and is ready.
Jolly, you and Norda see:
(http://i.imgur.com/gvTkAKZ.jpg)
Six badly burnt creatures - followed by the Emaciated fellow you gutted in the previous room.
"THERE THEY ARE! GET THEM FOR THE MASTER!!"
The burnt creatures pick up the pace upon seeing Peldic's light source and charge to close with the party!
OOC - GM rolls 4 for initiative! Monsters can only attack 2 at a time in this bottleneck!
OOC: I rolled a 3 for Round 1 Initiative (http://rolz.org/group).
Quote from: pbj44;738369Norda falls into a fighting stance at the Northern tunnel entrance, sword on high, ready to strike! She mutters, "Someone to my left side please - to plug up this tunnel!"
Foromo tells Hurtag and Hurmak to do so...then pulls out an oil flask, cuts a short piece of rope, shoving it into the flask like a stopper, then takes a big swig of his strong mead, but not swallowing.
Hurmak falls in behind Jolly (OOC - He can fight with his spear from the second rank - over Jolly's head - with a -1 to hit penalty), ready to strike when he can! Hurtag steps in behind Hurmak at the ready!
OOC - Foromo, it will take you the party's first initiative to get those preparations completed - just wanted to let you know.
The first monster roars and rips at Jolly (ATT 16) for 2HP of damage (HITS AC3 so maybe a miss!)
The Second monster claws at Norda (ATT 12) but fails to break through her maile armor.
The rest of the burnt men are bunched up behind the first two, frantic to get at Jolly and Norda!
Okay, time for the party to respond! OOC-So I don't forget - Jolly you get 50XP for the gutting of the emaciated man in the previous room!
(OOC - will let Drohem go first...)
Norda swings at her opponent, blasting the rags and leather vest from it's chest (OOC - ATT = 13) and wounding it for 2HP of damage!
The familiar whistling sound of Mergo's sling twirling the zing! of a stone being released can be heard just before the monsters crash into Norda's and Jolly's shield wall in the hallway. There is a distinctive thud! sound as Mergo's stone slams into the burnt creature's chest just before it tries to tear into Jolly. However, Jolly is able to block the creature's attack and turn it with his shield at the last moment and avoid being clawed by the creature. Jolly tries to stab the creature but it dodges Jolly's sword thrust.
=========================================
OOC: Jolly is AC 2. Mergo rolls a 21 for his sling attack and does 1 damage. Jolly rolls a 5 for his sword attack and misses. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
OOC - Okay, up next is Hurmak! Git 'em Hurmy!
Quote from: pbj44;738546OOC - Okay, up next is Hurmak! Git 'em Hurmy!
(OOC - OK, the formalities first...Hurmak
(http://rolz.org/embed?6949283)
(http://rolz.org/embed?6949288)
Hits AC-9 for 3 pnts Dmg)
Hurmak goes into his familiar fighting Style...(Thrust, parry, parry, whack, whack, parry, thrust...) and Accidently hits the guy on Jolly.
Hurtag hits
(http://rolz.org/embed?6949304)
(http://rolz.org/embed?6949307)
For 20 dealing 7 pnts damage to the closest fiend that is in need of killing...
Foromo is hopefully finishing up his Malatov...
Hurmak misses with the spear (remember to apply -1 to your attack rolls!), but just as he swings the Paladin begins to glow a soft golden yellow!!! Words begin to form over the huge double doors!
OOC: Hurtag is in the party's third rank and so does not get a swing as he is not close enough. So the hallway looks like:
Monster Monster
Jolly Norda
Hurmak Beyla
Hurtag Mergo
Foromo
Peldic
Okay, GM rolls 1 for new initiative!
Quote from: pbj44;738575Hurmak misses with the spear (remember to apply -1 to your attack rolls!), but just as he swings the Paladin begins to glow a soft golden yellow!!! Words begin to form over the huge double doors!
OOC: Hurtag is in the party's third rank and so does not get a swing as he is not close enough. So the hallway looks like:
Monster Monster
Jolly Norda
Hurmak Beyla
Hurtag Mergo
Foromo
Peldic
Okay, GM rolls 1 for new initiative!
(OOC - If I may, that 11 was with -1 to hit, take a closer look at the roll. just wanted to point that out...though I hate to waste a good roll, will accept Hurtag judgment...)
Quote from: pbj44;738575Hurmak misses with the spear but just as he swings the Paladin begins to glow a soft golden yellow!!! Words begin to form over the huge double doors!
Foromo hollers out - "Hey Guys, not sure what's going on, but we might have some help here...)
Sorry about the -1, just blind as a bat today!
Quote from: pbj44;738585Sorry about the -1, just blind as a bat today!
No problem we all have a bad day or 2...:D
"Damn it!" Jolly says upon hearing Foromo's call, "Peldic, take up Mergo's position! Mergo, draw you sword and stand shoulder to shoulder with Foromo!"
===================================
OOC: I rolled a 5 for Round 2 Initiative. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
"Hurtag, on me..."
Peldic quickly relieves Mergo who along with Hurtag join Foromo in facing off against the statue.
White light now begins to bleed off the statue! Years of dust and neglect begin to peel away! The statue's ruined face begins to morph!
OOC - Okay combatants, get your attacks in!
Norda swings a ferocious strike that somehow fails to kill anything (ATT = 6)!
Quote from: pbj44;738646Peldic quickly relieves Mergo who along with Hurtag join Foromo in facing off against the statue.
White light now begins to bleed off the statue! Years of dust and neglect begin to peel away! The statue's ruined face begins to morph!
OOC - Okay combatants, get your attacks in!
Norda swings a ferocious strike that somehow fails to kill anything (ATT = 6)!
Foromo and his crew stand for now, waiting at the ready in case it don't go their way, but anticipating a helping hand here...while Hurmak starts praying while watching...in wonder, by the way...
Hurtag swings (OOC - am assuming -1 again??) and hits 17-1 for 16 (AC4) for 5 pnts Dmg...
(http://rolz.org/embed?6955983)
(http://rolz.org/embed?6955992)
OOC - I think you mean "Hurmak" thrusts and hits for 5HP of damage. Hurmak is the spear-wielding former acolyte who is currently behind Jolly and is fighting.
Hurmak skewers Jolly's opponent through the face and destroys him! First smoking - and then bursting into flames, he collapses, leaving Hurmak's spear-tip blazing and bubbling away.
OOC - Okay, Jolly is up now,
Words - burning like fire - now become legible above the doors:
"KNOW YE THAT BEYOND THIS PORTAL LIES THE DEMESNE OF THANATOS, THE CURSED, HATER OF LIFE, GOD OF DEATH. SEEK NOT TO PASS THIS GATE FOR IT LEADS ONLY TO HIS BOSOM. THOSE WHO CHERISH LIFE HAVE SEALED THESE CHAMBERS FOR AN ETERNITY. BE WARNED, THERE IS NO RETURN THROUGH THIS DOOR. ONCE PASSED, IT IS PASSED FOREVER."
Seeing that Hurtag steps into line next to Foromo, Mergo loads another stone into his sling and twirls it slowly ready to let fly if anything comes through the doors. Mergo's eyes go wide when he sees the warning in stone flair above the doors.
Jolly thrusts his sword at the creature attacking Norda but the creature moved at the last moment and the strike missed its mark.
=====================================
OOC: Jolly rolled a 5 and missed his attack. I rolled a 2 for Round 3 Initiative. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
OOC – GM rolls 6 for monster's initiative for round 3!
Twisting away from Jolly's strike, the burning man spews flaming drool from his mouth and dives at Norda with teeth snapping! Grabbing her shoulders, he clamps his teeth down on her throat - she screams as he digs in to feed! She take 3HP of damage (ATT = 19)
The next monster rushes Jolly who is forced to duck wild swings (ATT = 2) that would have torn a Grizzly's head off!
Okay, go party!
Jolly attempts to stab the creature on Norda but with their twisting and struggle he misses his strike as he also is trying not to skewer Norda as well.
====================================================
OOC: Jolly rolls a 4 for his attack and misses. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
Hurtag...no, wait...Hurmak...(I'm getting so confused...) attempts to save the adorable Norda
(http://rolz.org/embed?6962573)
to no avail...(sniff...)(and now...back to Whack, whack, twirl, parry, stab, twirl...)
Hurtag is lost, as I have no idea where in hell he is right now...
Foromo...reads the Message and desperately tries to remember anything he can...
OOC - Norda rolls 2 and misses!
Norda screams and staggers back out of the line, crashing to the floor in the center of the room, the moster still biting at her throat! The party's ranks are broken! A burnt man croaches to spring into the new gap and confront Beyla!
Baldue screams like a child and hurls his handaxe at Norda and her attacker, missing them both (ATT= 4)!
Foromo, you and Hurtag can strike at Norda's attacker along with Mergo and Peldic!
Peldic draws his dagger quickly and attempts to stab the creature while holding the lighted torch in his off hand. As he tries to avoid hitting Norda his strike misses.
Mergo quickly moves into action and deftly draws his short sword and moves to stab in a single graceful motion. However, as Norda and the creature struggle his strike misses its mark as well.
==============================================
OOC: Peldic rolls a 2 for his attack roll and misses. Mergo rolls a 5 for his attack roll and misses too. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
OOC- Foromo, it's up to you and Hurtag now!
Quote from: pbj44;738846Foromo, you and Hurtag can strike at Norda's attacker along with Mergo and Peldic!
OK...no matter how you slice and dice it...
(http://rolz.org/embed?6967863)
(http://rolz.org/embed?6967866)
So...Foromo spits his Mead at the creature...(Doh!!! the torch, dammit!!!)
Hurtag sweeps his Sword, looking away so he doesn't get Blood in his eyes...
(*sigh...can I go home now???)
OOC: Round 4 Initiative roll is a 5. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
OOC- GM rolls 4 - Okay, party goes first!
Peldic and Mergo press their attack on the creature on Norda. Peldic stabs at the creature with his dagger and misses as two the struggle on the ground. However, in avoiding Peldic dagger thrust the creature rolls right into Mergo's sword thrust and the halfling man-at-arms feels that distinctive shunk! of steel burying into flesh.
Jolly yells to his companions as he stabs at the nearest incoming creature, "hold the line!"
His attention was divided between the front line and checking the situation behind him, and he thrust missed its mark. Although it did manage to give the creature pause and consider him a worthy threat.
====================================================
OOC: Peldic rolled a 3 for his attack and missed. Mergo rolled a 19 for his attack and hit AC 0 for 2 damage. Jolly rolled a 8 for his attack and missed. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
OOC - OK, rolled 2, 6, & 9 for hits...(http://www.rarmy.com/swgr/tmp/banghead.gif), so here goes...
Foromo - Takes his malatov in his Left Hand, and pulls out his Axe in his right...
Hurmak - "I'll save you, Fair Norda"...(Twirl, twirl, parry, whack, parry...)
Hurtag - flails some more with his sword, still looking away...
Norda's screams are now fading into powerless sighs as the newly wounded creature draped on top of her gibbers and bites deeply into her for 2 more hp.
Beyla's opponent swings wildly at her. She screams as her face is slashed for 1hp!
Jolly's new opponent rushing in slips in the flaming blood of Hurmak's kill and sets itself on fire - after but a moment it explodes, raining smoking black Ichor all about!
GM rolls 1 for new initiative!
(OOC - Hmmm, have an idea...Drohem, what if I lobed the Malatov...and let their blood ignite it...??? your call.)
Go Jolly...
OOC: In the immortal words of Rocky, "go for it." :)
I rolled a 6 for Round 5 Initiative. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
Jolly moves to assist Beyla and attacks the creature on her, but he misses his mark with his sword thrust. Peldic continues to stab at the creature on top of Norda with his dagger, but he also misses. Mergo is successful in hitting the creature on Norda with a glancing blow.
=====================================================
OOC: Peldic rolls a 6 for his attack roll. Mergo rolls a 15 and hits AC 4 for 1 damage. Jolly rolls a 4 for his attack roll. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
Enraged at being cut, Beyla brings her mace down on the Burning man's crown in an iron-fisted strike - and tears his head off! Flaming blood droplets fly about the area.
With one last supreme effort Norda jams her blade through the creature's guts and rips her sword up and out of him. Exhausted, she boots the flaming corpse away from her and falls back panting.
Baldue runs over and gives the monster's corpse a few swift kicks!
OOC - Okay, Foromo and the gang are up! Two burning men are left in the doorway - along with their leader, the emaciated man.
Foromo lobs the Malatov, while not aiming at a specific creature, he does want it to explode at their feet...(OOC - do I need to roll something???)
( Hurmak and Hurtag rolls 4 and 14 (hits AC6)
Hurmak;(http://rolz.org/embed?6981393)
Hurmak continues to help Fail Norda...(parry, parry, twirl, thrust, thrust...and so on...)
Hurtag;(http://rolz.org/embed?6981395) Hurtag actually hits..((http://rolz.org/embed?6981420) for a whopping 2 points...still looking away...
Okay, positions:
(http://i.imgur.com/OB8RPDN.jpg)
Legend:
J = Jolly
B = Beyla
BD = Baldue
H = Hurtag
HM = Hurmak
N = Norda
P = Peldic
Mergo = M
Foromo = F (err...next to N)
EM - Emaciated man
Foromo is standing next to Norda, in front of P, M, and H. You would need to roll a D20 to attack with your flaming cocktail and "good guys" may get hit if your attack roll is crappy - you were warned!
Norda's opponent (that Hurtag was helping with) is now dead.
Hurmak (spear wielder) still has a burned guy in front of him. Red dots are bad guys
Quote from: pbj44;739163Foromo is standing next to Norda, in front of P, M, and H. You would need to roll a D20 to attack with your flaming cocktail and "good guys" may get hit if your attack roll is crappy - you were warned!
OK...I will now officially refrain from fighting any more...
(http://www.rarmy.com/swgr/tmp/banghead.gif)(http://rolz.org/embed?6988555)(http://www.rarmy.com/swgr/tmp/banghead.gif)
sigh...:o
(OOC - ain't saying anything more...just gonna sit here and watch me die...)
OOC - Okay, roll another D20 and let's see what happened!
Quote from: pbj44;739258OOC - Okay, roll another D20 and let's see what happened!
(OOC - Really???...OK...*sigh...)
(http://rolz.org/embed?6989993)
(OOC - Why couldn't I do this when needed???)
OOC - Okay, now roll a D8.
Quote from: pbj44;739269OOC - Okay, now roll a D8.
(http://rolz.org/embed?6991500)
Foromo – As you hurl the bomb everything slows down to a crawl. You watch the bomb spin slowly towards the two monsters standing in front of Jolly and Beyla. As the bomb begins the arc downwards into the gap between the two monsters, you are horrified to see the emaciated man lunge forward and bat the oil bomb behind Beyla.
On impact, Beyla is separated from the party by a wall of fire. She is then grabbed by her burning man opponent and dragged out of the fight and down the hallway, hot on the heels of the emaciated man. Beyla screams out and reaches vainly for Jolly before being pulled through an open door which is then flung shut. Holding back the party for only a few precious seconds, both Jolly and Hurmak vault the dying flames and destroy the final burning man in a rain of steel.
The emaciated man’s mocking shrieks of laughter still ring in your ears as silence now floods the carnage-filled room.
OOC – Note: When fumbling I often play out dramatic consequences instead of simple damage. Everyone earns 100XP for the fight.
Torch Count:27
"NO!" Jolly screams as Beyla is taken before his eyes.
As soon as he pulls his blade from the downed creature, Jolly starts running down the corridor after them and stops at the door.
"COME ON!" he screams down the corridor at his companions as he tries to open the door.
Quote from: pbj44;739322The emaciated man's mocking shrieks of laughter still ring in your ears as silence now floods the carnage-filled room.
All you hear is the loud bellow of a Dwarf..."BULL-CRAP!!!...Not while I'm Alive!!!"
Foromo charges the door with his mighty hammer, smashing the door in a fit of Berserker Rage...
Jolly and Foromo - Racing down the hallway in hot pursuit of Beyla and her kidnappers, you two fly past shadowed doors recessed in the long hall. The Emaciated man roars with laughter as he slams and bolts the heavy iron-bound door, almost in your faces!
The green dot indicates your positions:
(http://i.imgur.com/9fSJynq.jpg)
This door will take 50HP of damage to destroy. Each of you please roll your weapon's damage for this round.
Baldue helps Norda to her feet and she begins to force her feet forward down the hallway, though nearly fainting from loss of blood as well as shock.
What's everyone else doing?
Torch Count: 27
Quote from: pbj44;739365This door will take 50HP of damage to destroy. Each of you please roll your weapon's damage for this round.
(OOC - Just realized had +1 to both Hit and Dmg...(http://www.rarmy.com/swgr/tmp/banghead.gif))
(http://rolz.org/embed?6992535)
Foromo bellows greatly as he bashes the door...
Hurtag Hits Hurmak on the head..."You can stop now..."
Hurmak goes to the aid of the fair maiden Norda...
Foromo - Your power swing takes a mighty chunk out of the door and bends one of the central iron bands! Jolly is attacking the door as well!
Beyla screams from the room beyond the door!!!
OOC: I rolled 5 damage (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze).
OOC - You guys go ahead and roll damage 5 more times each and total It up. I will note the passage of time and tell you the result.
OOC: I rolled 3; 6; 4; 6; 2 damage. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
Heck, use the door breaking rule in LL and make the roll! LOL, forgot about that!
OOC: Since Foromo has the STR bonus, he should roll. He will have a 3-6 chance to break it down. With Jolly assisting, can we get another +1 to the roll? This would give a 4-6 chance to break it down.
OOC - Sounds good for the both of you with bonus. Go for it Foromo and roll your D6!
Quote from: pbj44;739426OOC - Sounds good for the both of you with bonus. Go for it Foromo and roll your D6!
(OOC - OK, 1d6+2 managed to roll 4 total...
(http://rolz.org/embed?7012410)
sorry for delay, just noticed the new posts...)
Both Jolly for Foromo attack the door with berserk swings and with a booming crash the door collapses into the room! You see:
(http://i.imgur.com/479sfwY.jpg)
There is a single door facing you across this room. You also note 4 corpses sitting in a tidy row along the west wall of the room. To the North you hear a sound of stone grinding on stone.
The room is very dark since Peldic is still catching up with his torch.
What do you do?
Torch Count: 27
Quote from: pbj44;739603What do you do?
If Foromo doesn't see Belya, then he goes berserk on the next door...
Charging across the room Foromo begins chopping down the next door!
OOC - Okay roll it - or do you want to wait for Jolly (and his bonus)?
Quote from: pbj44;739608Charging across the room Foromo begins chopping down the next door!
OOC - Okay roll it - or do you want to wait for Jolly (and his bonus)?
(OOC - Wait for Jolly, ain't here to solo, and the way I'm rolling I need all the help I can...)
"I'm with you!" Jolly says as he charges across the room in step with Foromo to the next door.
OOC - Okay Foromo, roll that door bustin' D6!
Quote from: pbj44;739426OOC - Sounds good for the both of you with bonus. Go for it Foromo and roll your D6!
Alright, need to roll between 1-4, so...
(http://rolz.org/embed?7016798)
Door Down...:D
Foromo - You and Jolly break down the second door in a wave of fury! By the time that you are done the rest of the party has caught up with you again and Peldic's torch reveals:
(http://i.imgur.com/4qDvjQw.jpg)
Directly ahead and down the corridor is a vast open pit with a foul, smoking stench boiling out from it. To the left of the pit is a very narrow ledge, perhaps 6 inches wide. The floor from your doorway to the pit is covered in a strange smelling clear gel-like substance. The ledge also appears to be smeared with this same gel.
Just before the pit area and to the left is the site of an old collapsed tunnel.
Norda sighs and grits her teeth, determined to stay awake and help.
Baldue moans, "What the hell is that stuff - snot??!!"
What do you do?
Torch Count: 26
Quote from: pbj44;739648What do you do?
I will defer to Jolly as I'm still pissed off and kinda berserky...
"STOP!" Jolly yells to his companions, "everyone back into the doorway."
As he walks over to Peldic he sheathes his sword and says, "let me see the torch, Peldic."
Once everyone is back beyond the doorway, Jolly moves up the hallway to where the edge of the gel-like substance is located. He then reaches out and puts the burning torch near the substance on the floor.
Let's see if this stuff burns and my hunch that this is a trap is right! he thinks to himself quickly before doubt overtakes him.
Quote from: Drohem;739685Let's see if this stuff burns and my hunch that this is a trap is right! he thinks to himself quickly before doubt overtakes him.
(OOC - My thoughts exactly, just the way I been rolling, didn't need to blow up the party...)
As the torch comes near the gel, suddenly the corridor ahead of the party bursts into flame! The inferno rages for about 10 minutes before it gradually dies.
What do you do?
Torch Count: 26
Quote from: pbj44;739726What do you do?
Foromo, while still agitated, at least comes down from his anger enough to stop and think...he peers down the tunnel, entering enough to kick off his infra-vision...
OOC- To use your infravision Peldic would have to put out the torch and once your eyes adjusted to the darkness your infravision would kick in. Just let me know what you guys want to do.
An arching stream of "snot" shoots out of the pit and hits the wall near your doorway. A grunting sound comes from the pit.
A garbled voice soon emanates from the pit, "RELEASE ME AND I WILL AID YOU IN RECOVERING THE WHITE WITCH!"
Torch Count: 26
As Jolly hands the torch back to Peldic he says, "stay here at the doorway with the torch."
He then walks over to the edge of the pick, avoiding the fresh spot of goo, and peers down into the pit to see what spoke to them.
Standing waist deep in "goo" is a towering "man" or perhaps one who was once a man. He wears a cowled black rope that periodically seems to shift from tattered to fresh in condition. As he looks up at you, you see that his features are like those of a melted white candle.
"You are wise to stop and aid me, for without my assistance she is lost to you. Even now she is being taken to "them"
He stares at you Jolly.
"No, you won't do at all. Someone else must free me, but never you. Bring forth the others for the choosing."
"Now, don't put your cart before your horse," Jolly says to the creature, "an accord between we two must be struck before any 'choosing' will take place. Clearly, you are in this pit for a reason. Who where you and what are you now? Are we dealing with vampires or not? Can you be trusted to aid us in rescuing our friend if I set you free?"
(http://i.imgur.com/O19Q4al.jpg)
The creature eyes you thoughtfully, “Hmm…the only Vampire I know of is the flying one that haunts the broken staircase over the great chasm.”
“As for myself, once long ago I was a man like any other, but made some “poor” choices.” For those choices my masters imprisoned me here with a quite simple containment. There is a shackle about my ankle - below this liquid. The beauty of their trap is this: Its lock may only be opened by a “man” with the same “virtues” that I have. The agony of it all? That is the exact type of man that would and has refused me – countless times over so many years.”
He leans forward.
“Little one, our enemies are one and the same. I will never escape this pit without your aid.”
“This I know.”
“I also know that one of a similar “temperament” to myself is within your ranks.”
His eyes narrow, “But do not seek to deceive or abandon me, for I have the certain means to thoroughly baffle your pursuit of the White Witch.”
Goo pours from his mouth.
Nodding meaningfully, he wipes his mouth, then turns his head to listen, “They will soon begin with her.”
“What say you? We can help each other. I pledge to guide you to your White Witch, though we would now have to hurry to aid her.”
Foromo approaches the pit and peers in...
(OOC - was there a slime trail going into the tunnel??)
OOC - Nope, no slime trail.
The creature swings its baleful gaze onto Foromo.
He sighs, "No, you are not for the choosing."
"Bring to me the one who has lurking within them those low qualities that true men abhor. Let us conclude this bargain."
"Crap...Baldue"...looking at Jolly...
BALDUE SCREAMS, "OH HELL NO!"
He drops Norda and begins backing away.
Looking at Jolly - "sorry, need to work on my whisper..."
Norda grabs Baldue's leg in an iron grip.
Baldue shrieks, "Hey Jolly...Jolly...man...hey, we're buds right?...I mean...COME ON, PULEEEAASSEE!"
Jolly nods thoughtfully at the creature's words, tactfully ignores Baldue's pleas, and then says in a negotiating tone, "what is required of the 'chosen one' to set you free? I mean, you do see my point, after all, right? You can see into my nature, so you know I will not willfully give him over to his demise even to save the White Witch. So, assure me that the Chosen One will not be harmed in releasing you, or after your release, and I may consider your offer. Otherwise, bugger off!"
The creature nods at Jolly, "I give you my word that I will not harm the one chosen. I also promise that I will lead you faithfully to the White Witch, but I will not aid you in any attempt to free her. Once I reveal her location to you we will part in peace."
"The chosen one must go beneath the surface of the liquid in this hole and unlock my ankle's shackle with this key."
He holds forth a slim silver key.
"The chosen one's selfishness, pride, greed, and cowardice will be leeched from him as it both protects him from the liquid's properties and powers the key within the shackle's mechanism."
"Now, have we a bargain?"
"We have an accord then," Jolly says down to the creature.
Turning to Baldue he says genuinely, "you took a risk coming in here with us. Now, prove your metal and free this creature to help us save Beyla and you will never be doubted by any of us here ever."
Foromo looks at Baldue with a poker face...Hurtag looks around and goes "Hmmm..."
The creature sneers at Baldue, "No, he is not chosen."
He points, "He is chosen!"
The creature points at Hurmak.
"Come to me! Let me taste your corruption!"
Torch Count: 26
Jolly takes the news in stride and just shrugs his shoulders at Hurmak and says, "well, I already said what needed to be said. What say you, Hurmak?"
Foromo looks at Jolly and shrugs...then looks over to Hurmak...Hurtag goes "Hmmm..."
Hurmak looks over to Beyla, a question in his eye???
OOC - Not sure who Hurmak is looking at as Beyla was kidnapped and is missing. This is Hurmak's moment to expand character-wise, so feel free to roleplay this out with him.
Quote from: rarmy;739985Foromo looks at Jolly and shrugs...then looks over to Hurmak...Hurtag goes "Hmmm..."
Hurmak looks over to Beyla, a question in his eye???
Beyla??? She got kidnapped, I said Norda the Beautiful...the Fair...the Mighty!!!
(OOC - sorry for the delay, yesterday was Finals, and between failing a student and Internal System glitches...)
Norda the fair, the delicate, the gentle, stares back at Hurmak and lovingly says,
"WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING! SNAP OUT OF IT SCUMBAG AND JUMP INTO THAT PIT WITH THAT MONSTER AND WORK THAT KEY!!! WHAT IS THIS - A GAME TO YOU??? DID YOU TAKE A HIT TO THE HEAD??? WELL, WHAT ARE YOU STANDING THERE FOR PRIVATE SNOWBALL? OH BY THE HEXARCHS, YOU MAKE ME WANT TO PUKE!!! GET GOING YOU PRECIOUS SNOWFLAKE!!"
Ect, ect..
What do you do now?
Torch Count: 26
Quote from: pbj44;740368Norda the fair, the delicate, the gentle,
...gently giving her approval, Hurmak then looks over at his brother, nods, then approaches the edge of the pit. He looks at his brother as he pinches his nose, then he jumps in. He retrieves the silver key, then dives into the glop...searching for the lock he eventually finds it, and with confidence, he unlocks it...pocketing the lock and key...
Hurmak - Diving into the glop, you are astonished at how much it burns. Fumbling in the hellish darkness you finally locate the shackle’s lock. You twist the key about in the lock. Your lungs feel as though they are exploding. Finally, the shackle releases and you are back on the surface gasping for air. The creature grabs your arms and you are pulled from the pit as he leaps out carrying you.
He drops you in a heap on the floor. You feel as though something has been burned out of the core of you.
What do you do now?
Baldue gasps and points at you, "Look at his eyes!"
Torch Count: 26
Quote from: pbj44;740403What do you do now?
Take stock of myself, look at Baldue..."What about my eyes??"
Hurtag looks at his brother..."Hmmm..." what does he see??
Hurtag looks at Hurmak's eyes, "By the Hexarchs! They glow green!"
The creature chuckles quietly, "A mere side effect. It will pass."
"All of you should now use the ledge and cross to this side. Let us be about this business. Your White Witch awaits."
He begins to move down the hallway to the intersection. Once there, he faces to the right wall.
"Our bargain is complete. The Witch is behind this wall. Fare thee well."
He turns to leave.
Torch Count: 25
Foromo Speaks "Hold...What has become of our companion...and is there not a door to where she is???"
He laughs, "Do you not account yourself Dwarven? The stone will tell you it's story if you will but read it."
He walks away.
Torch Count: 25
Foromo---"and our companion??"
what has Hurmak discovered about himself??
The creature calls back over his shoulder, " go to her now and deliver her from a terrible fate. I would...hurry."
Hurmak is unsure how he feels right now, but it is as though something has been purged out of him.
Torch Count: 25
Foromo crosses the 6" ledge with the confidence of a dwarf in his natural element. He precedes to study the wall with purpose.
Hurmak looks around, Proclaims "We need to hurry..." then proceeds to cross the ledge with confidence, having already survived the goop.
Hurtag goes "Hmmm...", then proceeds to follow.
Jolly just nods in acknowledgment when the creature states that he has fulfilled his bargain. Jolly and the others move to the wall that it indicated.
"Peldic," Jolly says as he studies the wall, "bring the torch over here for more light please. Everyone, be silent and listen."
Jolly starts to look down the hallway with the light nearby to see if any visible door is further down the hallway. If not, then he turns attention to the wall and starts looking for a secret door in the stone at the place where the creature pointed.
Peldic maneuvers the light up near the wall. The party is standing at the green dot.
(http://i.imgur.com/PcVIBq3.jpg)
You notice that this wall is of more recent construction than the rest of the tunnel. The brickwork is but a few years old.
Listening carefully at the wall...You hear the faint voice of Beyla, "Monster! I will not submit my soul freely! Do as you will...take my life!"
You hear the mocking laughter of the Emaciated man, "If you will not give up your value to me, then to death I will give you!"
Pause
His voice turns cold, "Very well, dump her into the pit."
Torch Count: 25
"Break it down!" Jolly yells to his companions as he throws his shoulder into the newly laid bricks with all his might.
What did Foromo see when he inspected the wall...
Foromo - Looking over the wall you see it's pretty stoutly constructed. You quickly assess that it would take at least 10 minutes (1 turn) to break it down enough to squeeze someone through, and that would be with at least 3 party member working sledgehammers.
You hear a scream on the other side of the wall! "NO! NO!"
Torch Count: 25
Quote from: pbj44;740599Foromo - Looking over the wall you see it's pretty stoutly constructed. You quickly assess that it would take at least 10 minutes (1 turn) to break it down enough to squeeze someone through, and that would be with at least 3 party member working sledgehammers.
You hear a scream on the other side of the wall! "NO! NO!"
Torch Count: 25
Passing that info to Jolly, he adds "the only pit we know is the one back there, maybe set an ambush there, while myself and 2 others start breaking this down???"
(http://i.imgur.com/QJnwadm.jpg)
Hurmak's eye's blaze as he mutter's, "I think I know this wall."
He steps to the side and presses two stones.
The wall slides to the right and Peldic's torchlight reveals:
(http://i.imgur.com/BOpVgSX.jpg)
The burning man and the Emaciated man (OOC - red dots) see the wall opening and crouch down - ready to defend themselves.
"AH, They come to save the Witch - to no avail."
He sneers at Jolly, "HEH, she begged for her life like a child - little man!"
"She died whining your name!"
OOC - Before I forget, Jolly take 50XP for the goo pit scene.
Torch Count: 25
(OOC - Gonna wait on Drohem...)
Jolly draws the silver dagger at his waist as he charges the Emaciated man silently with a determined look on his face.
Jolly charges the Emaciated Man who screams defiance, "YOU WANT ME??? COME TO ME WORM!!!"
As Jolly gets within 10 feet of the Emaciated Man - Jolly disappears into thin air!
The Emaciated Man smirks, drops his fighting pose, and gives the astonished party a cheery wave, then steps forward together (towards the party) with the Burning Man - and both disappear!
Torch Count: 25
Jolly continues running without missing step and stops at the four-way intersection and scans the other three directions looking for the pit that they overheard the Emaciated man talking about.
Running straight towards the Emaciated Man, you see the corridor shimmer for an instant and then find yourself plunged into darkness and crashing into a suspiciously soft form who gasps on your impact and groans, “What?”
Its Beyla!
And wherever you are - it stinks to high heaven!
Behind the both of you, two sconces burst into flame revealing that the two of you are at the far end of a long crypt. Beneath the two sconces on the opposite end is a stone bier with a web covered body arrayed in black chainmail resting upon it.
Beyla hisses as the body sits up and turns its head towards you two, “We are in trouble!”
Foromo and Hurmak advance as well...Foromo hollering back "Everybody to us!!"
Everyone moves forward with Foromo and Hurmak!
As you advance to the same spot that Jolly disappeared, the corridor shimmers and you are also plunged into darkness!
Peldic's torchlight reveals that you are in a long enclosed crypt room.
You are alone - except for a large bier at the opposite end of the room that two black robed bodies rest upon. The bodies seem to be squirming a bit.
Torch Count: 25
Carefully approach the squirming bodies, description, please...
As all of you approach the bodies a bit more detail is revealed in the torchlight; the bodies are of a man and woman's skeletal remains. Their robes are covered with symbols of the afterlife – symbols that strongly resemble the frescos on the wall of this place. The robes on both bodies ripple in the torchlight as 6 large cobras squirm from beneath the clothing's folds and glide towards the party!
Baldue screams like a child and jumps behind Norda!
OOC- Roll a D6 for initiative!
Since it seems that we are not where Jolly or Beyla is...then for our group...
(http://rolz.org/embed?7081766)
Weapons already at the ready...
Jolly beams at the sight of Beyla and says, "you're alive!"
Turning to the creature rising, he says with a determined tone, "I am not jumping out of the pan into the fire. Beware, creature! I am in no mood for games."
He readies his shield and holds the silvered dagger at the ready.
==================================================
OOC: I rolled a 5 for Round 1 Initiative. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
OOC - GM rolls 4 for initiative!
The chainmailed warrior is wearing a full helm, but blue light pours from his eyeslits! He waves his sword menacingly.
Beyla whispers, "Cut my hands free!"
OOC - Foromo - GM rolls 2 for initiative! You and the team will go first! The cobras rear, spread their hoods and hiss!
Jolly nods and cuts the bonds on her hands with his silvered dagger.
Jolly - Beyla moans with relief, "thank you!"
She hefted her mace and nods to you.
OOC - Okay, G'head!
"You hit it high and I'll hit it low," Jolly says as he rushes forward and attacks the Undead warrior.
He feints an attack to the creature's knee and then quickly buries his slivered blade into the creature's abdomen.
=================================================
OOC: Jolly rolled a 19 and hits AC 0 for 4 damage. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
Beyla rushes in to support you and rolls:
(http://i.imgur.com/qNRraeF.jpg)
The swordsman attempts to block her iron-fisted strike to his helm!
Beyla's furious blow crashes down through his parrying sword and strikes off his helm - with his skull inside (Beyla scores 6HP of Damage) !
The warrior collapses and the torches instantly die. Take 50XP.
You are in darkness.
"Well struck!" Jolly says cheerfully to Beyla.
He continues in a more serious tone, "Peldic is carrying my backpack. I have no flint and steel or torches with me. Do you have flint and steel? Perhaps we can re-light those scones that just flared up?"
====================================
OOC: During the brief time that the crypt was lighted by the torches do we see an exit?
Beyla smiles at the praise, "the Hexarchs lent me the strength for a moment."
"I feel foolish. I have two torches, but no flint & Steel."
"Perhaps there are still some embers in the two sconces?"
"Let us try," Jolly says as puts the dagger back in his belt.
He slowly and carefully walks across the crypt to where the scones were located using his memory while trying not to bang himself too badly into an obstacle.
"I hope Foromo and the others are fairing better than us," he says conversationally to Beyla as she gets the torches out.
With a bit of luck you were able to painstakingly get a torch lit. You can now see the warrior, the room, the bier and an iron-bound door to the south.
As Jolly moves over to examine the body, he says, "since we're here let's see if there's anything of value."
Looking over the body your experienced eye tells you that both the mail and the longsword are of wonderful quality, obviously of the finest craftmanship from the previous age.
As he stands up, Jolly says, "we'll have to come back for his armor and sword after we find the others."
He then moves over to the iron-bound door and attempts to open it.
As is typical, the door is a real bear to open, but finally yields to your tender attentions.
With Beyla holding the torch, you look out and see:
(http://i.imgur.com/wPMDP0P.jpg)
For a moment you hear some shouting, very distant. You are not sure where it came from.
Looking to the left you see a sign with the painted red arrow: "Go this way."
"Do we follow the arrow," Jolly says thoughtfully, "or strike against the obvious marker?"
After a moment he starts walking in the direction of the arrow and stops at the hallway branching off to the east. He takes a moment to look down that direction and also listen carefully for any more distant noises.
OOC - Green dots indicate Jolly and Beyla, green arrow indicates direction looking.
Looking around the corner and down the hall you see:
(http://i.imgur.com/kkkOVyp.jpg)
Somewhere down in that direction you hear the slamming of a door in the distance.
Torch Count: 2
Jolly starts jogging down the hallway in the direction of the noise they just heard.
As you jog forward you pass a small altar dried with blood sitting against a wall. The Fresco above the altar faded away long ago. (OOC - Marked by red dot.)
When you and Beyla get to near the corner you can hear receeding Ondish conversation to the North (OOC - direction of green arrow)
(http://i.imgur.com/V6oUoFN.jpg)
"Enough of this!" Jolly says to Beyla.
He starts banging his shield hard against the wall for a few moments, and then yells, "FOROMO! FOROMO! FOROMO!"
He then repeats this sequence two more times. He stops and then listens carefully for any response.
Foromo - somewhere in the distance you hear your name called!
Jolly - The conversation to the North of you suddenly stops!
Torch Count: 2
Shortly afterwards, you hear the Ondish voices resume, but now growing louder!
Beyla touches your arm and smiles, "They are coming back for us! This is wonderful!"
Jolly beams at Beyla and as he starts walking down the northern hallway, he says, "come on."
As you resume walking up the Northern hallway, your torchlight reveals the source of the Ondish talk:
(http://i.imgur.com/tUwxsTH.jpg)
The creatures roar and begin to trot towards you!
Beyla cries, "By the Hexarchs, what are they?!"
"We hold our ground," Jolly says to Beyla with a determined tone as he draws his short sword.
He slams his shield against the wall three times then yells, "FOROMO! FOROMO! FOROMO!"
Jolly - As you cry out, the creatures slow and hesitate, looking at both beyond you and behind themselves. The leader urges them forward, but they creep forward reluctantly, fearful of ambush, and a distance opens between them and their leader - who rushes forward to attack!
Foromo - you now hear your name distinctly called out nearby!
OOC - GM Rolls 4 for initiative!
Although he was prepared to fight, Jolly misjudged the creature's speed and deftness. He takes a brutish and wild stab trying for an instant kill shot, but the creature easily sees the incoming blow and sidesteps effortlessly.
==================================================
OOC: I rolled a 6 for Round 1 Initiative. Jolly rolled a 1 on his attack and misses. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
Beyla swings her mace with both hands and brains the leader on his crown driving him to one knee.
OOC- ATT= 17 for 6 hp damage
With a roar of fury the monster rips at Jolly, tearing some of the fancywork off his shield!
OOC-Humanoid rolls 10 for attack.
GM rolls 2 for initiative!
OOC: I rolled a 1 for Round 2 Initiative. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
Crouching, the monster aims a terrific cut a Beyla who expertly weaves away from it!
OOC - Monster ATT = 8
Your go!
Now that the creature is on its knees before him, Jolly thrusts a well aimed strike for center mass of the humanoid.
===============================
OOC: Jolly rolled a 14 attack and hits AC 5 for 4 damage. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
As you bury your blade into the monster he groans and collapses dead. Glancing up you see the corridor ahead now empty. Your enemies have fled your presence.
Torch Count: 2
Jolly examines the body closely with the torch and checks through its pouch or pockets.
===========================
OOC: Is it a humanoid race that Jolly has seen or know about?
The monster is wearing some sort of cobbled together armor consisting of leather strips stiffening thick cloth. He looks to be some sort of cross between an Orc and a wolf.
Jolly looks up at Beyla, "I've seen one of these things before. Have you?"
He shrugs as he puts his torch to the creature and tries to set it on fire.
"What ever it is. I don't want it coming back from the dead to try and kill me again," he says to Beyla.
You set the body blazing and the light that was beginning to glow in its eyes dies out.
Beyla nods. "This place is accursed. Whatever dies here quickly comes back as undead!"
Looking at Beyla, he says apologetically, "I took a gamble with making noise, I know, but I didn't see any other option for finding our companions. We could wander around down here until we did of old age before we find them, I'm afraid."
He sighs heavily, and says in a weary tone, "I suppose we should try to find our own way out of this place now."
meanwhile...back in the Snake Pit...
(OOC - First off, sorry bout the delay, over the weekend starting Thur I lost both Web Hosts, 7 Domains, and various sub-domains, as well as my email accounts. all seems to be back to normal now, sooo... back to the game in progress...)
Quote from: pbj44;740710OOC - Foromo - GM rolls 2 for initiative! You and the team will go first! The cobras rear, spread their hoods and hiss!
(http://rolz.org/embed?7139566)
Hmmm...anyway...
Foromo has his Hammer out, so he hollers "Snakes...Why does it have to be Snakes...I HATE Snakes...) and starts smashing...
Hurmak, having a spear, is at a great advantage and starts weaving a deadly wall of sharpness, advancing on the snakes...
Hurtag goes "Hmmm..." and starts twriling his Sword in an effort to ensure he does more damage to the snakes then they give him..."what happens if I get bit???"
Foromo hollers back, "Depends on where you get bit!!"
(OOC - P.S., all this while you swear you hear "Let's do the Time Warp again" in the background...)
Foromo and team - roll your attacks!
Baldue closes his eyes and swings his hand axe, somehow missing. He gibbers with fear. Norda flys to his defense, and leaping in front of him confronts 3 Cobras! Hissing from the pain of her injuries, she neatly decapitates the one confronting Baldue and then settles into a weaving game of maneuver with the other two - desperate to avoid their strikes.
Jolly and Beyla - you hear the sounds of fighting - and the familiar sound of someone screaming like a child - back the way you came from. You also hear the sounds of battle from the direction that the beastmen were coming from!
Quote from: pbj44;741486Foromo and team - roll your attacks!
(OOC - I think it's only fair to handle my 3 chars, OK???)
ok...Hurmak, Hurtag, then me...
(http://rolz.org/embed?7139951)(http://rolz.org/embed?7139999)
(http://rolz.org/embed?7139952)(http://rolz.org/embed?7140002)
(http://rolz.org/embed?7139955)(http://rolz.org/embed?7140007)
for...(am assuming all hit...) 4, 6, and 4
Let the massacre begin...
"That's either the scream of a child," Jolly says excitedly with smile to Beyla, "or Baldue. come on!"
Jolly starts jogging back in the direction of the scream.
Foromo - Four of the six Cobras quickly go down to the party's iron-fisted strikes! One of the snake strikes at Foromo and misses, while the other buries it's fangs into Norda's calf. She groans and collapses on the floor.
Jolly and Beyla- rushing back, you run straight to the heavy door behind which you can hear the sound of your team fighting. Both of you pushing together get it to budge wide enough to slip inside.
OOC- GM roles 5 for new rounds initiative.
Quote from: pbj44;741510OOC- GM roles 5 for new rounds initiative.
and I roll a three (OOC - I need a new dice roller...dag-nabit!!!(http://www.rarmy.com/swgr/tmp/banghead.gif))
alright, go...
One snake strikes at Hurmak and the other at Peldic, with both missing their targets!
OOC - Okay, go!
Quote from: pbj44;741522One snake strikes at Hurmak and the other at Peldic, with both missing their targets!
OOC - Okay, go!
OK, Hurmak, Hurtag, then Foromo
12 - 3 dmg
14 - 3 dmg
15 - 4 dmg
Hurmak - Fearful upon the distress of the Fair Maiden Norda, doubles his effort of snake-spear wrangling.
Hurtag - fearful of getting bit, full fans his sword in a feeble attempt of protecting himself.
Foromo just dances around, banging anything and everything with his hammer, yelling to whole time 'I HATE Snakes, dammit...Die, Die, Die..."
"Help Norda!" Jolly says to Beyla as he rushes to aid Peldic.
Mergo and Jolly both strike at the cobra on Peldic trying to lance with their short swords.
Peldic steps back with the torch in hand.
====================================
OOC: Mergo rolls a 5 and misses. Jolly rolls a 13 and hits AC 6 for 2 damage. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
Hurmak continues to perform the "Dance of the Deadly Spear", while Foromo still screams "Dam Snakes...I HATE Snakes!!! Why does it have to be Snakes!!!"
The Cobras are now dead.
Beyla runs over to the gasping Norda.
Norda whispers, "The poison is running through my veins. You cannot help me now. But watch over Baldue."
She weakly motions Baldue over, "Beyla will watch over you now. So do as she says. She smiles, "Stupid little man..."
Now her smile is fixed and her eyes staring into space - she's gone.
Beyla groans and buries her face in her hands, "NO!"
Torch Count: 24
OOC - Everyone take 100XP to bring you current.
Jolly hangs his head low as he says sagely, "you know what we must do, Beyla."
He hands his torch to Mergo and then moves next to Beyla and Norda.
As he kneels he puts his hand on Beyla's shoulder and says gently, "we must be quick. Help me remove her items of worth."
Norda carries the following:
Clothing
Hard Boots
Maile shirt
Longsword
2 torches
backpack/waterskin (wine)/and 4 days rations
Once the items are removed Beyla says a quiet prayer over her, then nods to Jolly, "Alright, let's get this over with, though it tears at my heart."
Baldue interrupts, "Can I have her sword?"
"Shut up, Baldue," Jolly says over his shoulder as takes the torch from Mergo.
He pauses for a moment, and then put the torch to Norda's body.
Turning to the others, he says, "it is a long and dangerous road home, and there are strange orc-wolf humanoids roaming these hallways too. Beyla and I encountered them just before finding you. Let's not dally."
"Peldic will carry Norda's belongings for now," Jolly says in stronger voice now.
As her body is lit Norda briefly struggles to rise and then collapses back into the flames.
Torch Count: 25
You are here:
(http://i.imgur.com/GElsWhV.jpg)
OOC - The green dot is the partys current location and the green arrow is the direction back to the Beast-men.
Hurmak, with a tear in his eye, takes the snake that bit Norda, cuts off it's head, peals the skin, then throws the rest into the flames, Hurtag picks up the rest and throws them into the flames as well.
Foromo mutters " I hate snakes, lost to many comrades to them..."
"OK, what's the plan, Short Stuff..." [trying to bring some light heartiness to this somber occasion, in his dwarven way...]
"It's time to secure our exit strategy from this accursed place," Jolly replies as he starts walking in the direction of where he last saw the beastmen.
Moving as quietly as possible, the party retraces Jolly and Beyla's steps back to the corner.
(http://i.imgur.com/98CtOt1.jpg)
Ahead, you can hear the sound of fighting in the distance.
Torch Count: 25
Jolly draws his sword as he moves forward at a cautious pace. Mergo loads a stone in his sling as he walks along behind Jolly.
Baldue says from the rear, "Hey, what's going on up there?"
"Get ready for a fight," Jolly says over his shoulder as he continues to move forward down the hallway.
Moving quietly and watching down the corridor you spy a Beastman some ways off confront a red robed figure who blasts him with crackling lightning! He drops like a stone and the robed man darts down a side passage.
The robed man calls back to his would be killer, "Your final mistake was attacking Galstaff!"
Ahead the sounds of a terrible combat continue to grow louder!
Jolly continues at a cautious walk in the direction that the red robed man ran.
You continue to advance down the hallway and the sound of fighting grows louder! Looking to your left you see a portcullis:
(http://i.imgur.com/PMrysvj.jpg)
Torch Count: 25
As we approach the body of the dead beastman, Jolly says to Peldic, "torch that corpse, please."
=========================================
OOC: Is the portcullis up or down? What can we see beyond the portcullis?
Peldic sets the corpse on fire as he passes it. Approaching the end of the corridor you see a staircase going up as well as hearing the terrific din of battle further to the north (OOC - indicated by green arrow).
(http://i.imgur.com/viFgzF7.jpg)
Torch Count: 25
without a word, Jolly heads directly up the stairs to the left and avoids the hallway where the sounds of battle are heard.
Running up an endless set of stairs you finally come to a partially open stone door. Your torch reveals you are now in a crypt plundered years ago. Moving to the iron gate of the crypt you see the rising moon over a vast graveyard.
(http://i.imgur.com/zjvKCGf.jpg)
Beyla sinks to the floor in relief, "Rest for a moment friends. The first foray into the Barrowmaze is over."
OOC - Everyone take 100XP for making it out alive.
OOC: Nice! We made it out. Cool picture. :)
OOC - Thanks! Just let me know what you want to do next, whether it be another foray or a new locale or challenge.
(OOC - Holy crap...was waiting on post notifications, and got none...sorry bout that Drohem...)
Jolly takes a deep breath of fresh air and lets out an audible sigh of relief. He sheathes his short sword and smiles at his companions.
"Let us make a cold camp outside the graveyard and strike out for town at first light," he says in a weary tone yet lighthearted tone.
Quote from: Drohem;742024Jolly takes a deep breath of fresh air and lets out an audible sigh of relief. He sheathes his short sword and smiles at his companions.
"Let us make a cold camp outside the graveyard and strike out for town at first light," he says in a weary tone yet lighthearted tone.
Foromo and the Brothers nod in agreement, sorrowed over the lose of a companion.
This is a suggestion that everyone supports! You are all able to get some sleep and in the morning after a short hike you enter Habrigminster once more. The town is filled to bursting with more mercenaries - each eager to get gold from the Barrowarrens.
What do you do?
Go shopping, after taking stock of current supplies...
Jolly – as you enter town, Beyla motions you over and hands you a bag.
"This is 100 pieces of gold that my order gave me to defray expenses. Please use it to get what supplies we may need. The rest you may spend as you please. Consider it a gift for having saved my life."
She smiles, "It would be horrid manners to refuse!"
With a genuinely surprised look on his face, but with a grateful tone, he replies, "thank you, Beyla."
Turning to Baldue, Jolly asks, "was Norda from around here? Do you know if she has any family in Habrigminster?"
Baldue scratches hi chin and belches, "She has a younger sister in the guard here. Her name is Shirl. She's pretty hot!"
He winks.
"Want me to introduce ya?"
Jolly just shakes his head as he says, "no, I'll find her."
Turning to Beyla, he hands her five gold coins and says, "take everyone and get them a hot breakfast and whatever drinks this will buy. I'm going to go and find Norda's sister."
Jolly will go and look for the town's guard barrack and ask around for Shirl.
Beyla nods and leads, those that want to go, over to the Brazen Strumpet for bath, food, and drinks.
Jolly – Working your way across town you finally arrive at the great courtyard at the city barracks. You see a number of warriors exercising in the courtyard. One warrior, an attractive redhead, catches your eye. You can definitely see a family resemblance to Norda in her features. She spots you eyeing her and wiping the sweat off her face approaches you.
"Can I help you sir?"
OOC – rarmy, what are your guys doing?
Quote from: Drohem;742142Jolly just shakes his head as he says, "no, I'll find her."
Turning to Beyla, he hands her five gold coins and says, "take everyone and get them a hot breakfast and whatever drinks this will buy. I'm going to go and find Norda's sister."
Jolly will go and look for the town's guard barrack and ask around for Shirl.
Foromo hands her an additional 5 gold, looking over at Jolly, "Need some company??"
"Boys, go get breakfast..."
Jolly and Foromo – Working your way across town you finally arrive at the great courtyard at the city barracks. You see a number of warriors exercising in the courtyard. One warrior, an attractive redhead, catches your eye. You can definitely see a family resemblance to Norda in her features. She spots both of you eyeing her and wiping the sweat off her face approaches you.
"Can I help you gents?"
Quote from: pbj44;742152"Can I help you gents?"
(OOC - Gonna let Jolly take the lead here...)
Jolly smiles sadly and says in a resigned tone, "yes, Shirl. I am sorry to bring you the news, but Norda has fallen in the Barrowmaze. She fought bravely and persevered despite great wounds to protect and save our lives. Unfortunately, we could not carry her body out of the Barrowmaze and had to burn her corpse before she turned into one of the Undead. We were able to carry out her sword, armor, and personal items with us. They are with our companions at the Brazen Strumpet right now. We will also help with any funeral expenses that your family wants to give Norda."
Shirl's face is stoic as tears stream down it.
"Funeral expenses?"
She chokes out, "Thank you, but there is no need. I will go to this Barrowmaze and collect her Wergild myself. I thank you for my sister's belongings and will wear her armor and sword to honor her."
As Shirl turns aside in her grief, another person approaches.
Beyla walks up to the both of you. It is obvious that she trailed you two across town.
She speaks to you in a shaking voice, “The other are settled down with their meat and drink. I followed you because I must tell you something before I depart alone back for the Barrowmaze.”
”These risen dead are my fault.”
After the silence she resumes, “It seems like a lifetime ago, but once I was happy as a clerk in the archives at the Huldra monastery – the very one outside this town. When I turned 18 I took my vows as a priestess and took over as First Sister of the archives when the managing Sister retired. As First Sister I typically received several letters each month from visitors requesting permission to access rare or dangerous tomes in our library.
I had received many such requests from a distant scholar named Yardiff Bey, each time requesting permission to examine a particular rare tablet of the Elder Fey folk. Each time I had refused. But three months ago the library was broken into by Beastmen – exactly the same as the ones we defeated in the Barrowmaze. The Sisters of the monastary battled them courageously, but failed to prevent one of the Beasts from escaping with the Elder Tablet.
Immediately after the robbery, the dead began to rise in the Barrowarrens. The head of our order sent an expedition to the Barrowmaze, and although decimated by the ranks of the dead, they discovered that the Elder Tablet had been used to open a great pit deep within the Barrowmaze, and that the dead were now beginning to wake all throughout the warrens. I insisted on going along on the second foray. I will not speak about that attempt other than to state that I failed - and ran - as we were being overrun by the dead.
I returned back to the monastery and reported both the disaster and my shameful behavior to the council. I there learned that Necromancers of Moloche and Acolytes of Shax had recently sent their own forces into the Barrowmaze in an effort to recover the Elder Tablet and harness its power for their own. It was likely them that we heard battling near the graveyard exit.
The council has responded by creating The Fount of Law – a small white orb of pure order. This will close the pit for all time, provided one can get that close to such a hellish place. It has been entrusted to me, and I will finish my mission- come what may.
As I have said before, this situation is my fault. I must return to the Barrowmaze, and I will not have you put your lives in danger. I will go on alone and put the dead back to rest.
Don’t worry – I’ll be fine."
(OOC - Drohem, hold till I get a chance to type out a long response, as I want to stay in timeline...)
Quote from: pbj44;742181Shirl's face is stoic as tears stream down it.
"Funeral expenses?"
She chokes out, "Thank you, but there is no need. I will go to this Barrowmaze and collect her Wergild myself. I thank you for my sister's belongings and will wear her armor and sword to honor her."
As Shirl turns aside in her grief, another person approaches.
Foromo says "Shirl, Hold please..."
Quote from: pbj44;742181Beyla walks up to the both of you. It is obvious that she trailed you two across town.
She speaks to you in a shaking voice, "The other are settled down with their meat and drink. I followed you because I must tell you something before I depart alone back for the Barrowmaze."
"These risen dead are my fault."
After the silence she resumes, "It seems like a lifetime ago, but once I was happy as a clerk in the archives at the Huldra monastery – the very one outside this town. When I turned 18 I took my vows as a priestess and took over as First Sister of the archives when the managing Sister retired. As First Sister I typically received several letters each month from visitors requesting permission to access rare or dangerous tomes in our library.
I had received many such requests from a distant scholar named Yardiff Bey, each time requesting permission to examine a particular rare tablet of the Elder Fey folk. Each time I had refused. But three months ago the library was broken into by Beastmen – exactly the same as the ones we defeated in the Barrowmaze. The Sisters of the monastary battled them courageously, but failed to prevent one of the Beasts from escaping with the Elder Tablet.
Immediately after the robbery, the dead began to rise in the Barrowarrens. The head of our order sent an expedition to the Barrowmaze, and although decimated by the ranks of the dead, they discovered that the Elder Tablet had been used to open a great pit deep within the Barrowmaze, and that the dead were now beginning to wake all throughout the warrens. I insisted on going along on the second foray. I will not speak about that attempt other than to state that I failed - and ran - as we were being overrun by the dead.
I returned back to the monastery and reported both the disaster and my shameful behavior to the council. I there learned that Necromancers of Moloche and Acolytes of Shax had recently sent their own forces into the Barrowmaze in an effort to recover the Elder Tablet and harness its power for their own. It was likely them that we heard battling near the graveyard exit.
The council has responded by creating The Fount of Law – a small white orb of pure order. This will close the pit for all time, provided one can get that close to such a hellish place. It has been entrusted to me, and I will finish my mission- come what may.
As I have said before, this situation is my fault. I must return to the Barrowmaze, and I will not have you put your lives in danger. I will go on alone and put the dead back to rest.
Don't worry – I'll be fine."
"No you won't...and Shirl, as she fell with us, WE are obligated to bring her back, we would be more than happy to help you with that, as well as welcome you to help us." turning to Beyla..."You will need help, and as we have journeyed together so far, we continue..." looks over to Jolly, raises an eyebrow..."???"
Jolly nods at Foromo's words and says to Shirl, "accompany us and you'll have your chance at retribution for Norda."
Looking to Beyla, he says softly, "of course we'll back with you to do this."
Shirl nods her assent, "I will join you when you are ready to depart. Don't worry, I'll know when you are leaving."
She walks back towards her barracks.
Beyla looks at both of you, "I must admit I am glad for the company. I have no idea how we are going to find this pit. It could be anywhere down there, though I would like to search around the area where the enemy priests have clashed. They must have a reason for lurking in the same area, and If we could but capture one we could learn much."
Foromo looks to Beyla, "Belyla, am going to need plenty of Holy Water", to Shirl, "Shirl, I'm sure you might know of a local distiller of some good, strong rot-gut, gonna need some of that" and to Jolly, "While we know that water and oil don't mix, I have watched weaklings cut their whiskey with water, so imagine a flask of Holy Water and Rot-gut, in order to ...Baptize in Fire, so to speak..." Foromo has that evil grin as he then flips a platinum piece to Jolly, "hope this defrays the cost of that..."
"Meanwhile, ladies, I am in need of Drink and food. I hope you two know where we can get other supplies that haven't been picked clean by all these Merc Vultures..."
Shirl has returned back to listen to Foromo, and both she and Beyla actually laugh in delight over his idea to burn the dead up.
Wiping her eyes Shirl nods, "Okay, I will get you the rotgut!"
Beyla chimes in, "I'm off to the monastery for the holy water!"
They both depart.
Jolly hands Beyla the platinum piece and says, "this should get us four vial of holy water, I think."
Speaking to everyone, he says, "I'm going shopping and will met up with you all back at the Brazen Strumpet in about an hour or so."
Jolly strolls off with cheerful stride while whistling a happy tune on his lips.
Almost an hour later Jolly strides into the Brazen Strumpet with two teenage boys in tow who are carrying several burlap packages tied with twine. Seeing the table with his companions, he moves across the common room toward them.
Pointing to the table, he says to the young lads, "please, set them down on the table."
Jolly reaches into his belt pouch and pulls out some copper coins and hands each boy two copper as he says with a pleasant tone and smile, "thank you, lads. Get some candy on me."
As the boys leave, he turns to his companions with a wide, infectious smile and says happily, "I come bearing gifts for all."
As he opens one of the packages revealing three new shields, he hands them out saying, "a new shield for Hurmak, Mergo, and Beyla."
He opens another package and hands a new sling and pouch of stones to Mergo and says, "a proper sling and pouch for you, my friend."
He opens a third package and hands Peldic the items, "a new suit of padded armor and a new short sword."
He pats the last package and says, "I also purchased a proper lantern, ten pints of oil, a crowbar, and miner's pick for us."
Jolly reaches into his money pouch and takes out a handful of gold coins and passes two gold coins each to Hurtag, Hurmak, Baldue, Mergo, Peldic, and Beyla as he says, "here is something extra for you."
Jolly hands Foromo fifteen gold coins and says with a beaming smile, "this is your share of the leftovers, partner."
==========================================
OOC: Before leaving the general store and entering the tavern, Jolly put on the boots that they found. Does he feel anything different as he walks in them for a bit?
OOC - As soon as Jolly puts the boots on he notices that the fit - at first a bit tight - instantly conforms to his feet and are now very comfortable. Now the light in the common room of the inn seems incredibly blinding to him. This perception does not ease until he removes the boots.
Beyla returns to the party beaming, and plunks down three heavy water skins on the table, "I cleaned the monastary out of Holy Water!"
She thanks Jolly for the new shield and gives him a hug!
Everyone at the table seems pleased with their gifts!
Baldue snorts, "Hey, I didn't get nothin'!"
Beyla chides him, "I have purchased something for you Baldue!"
Baldue's eyes light up, "Great! Gimme!"
"Here you are my friend! A new heavy crossbow and 50 bolts in a quiver! Use them in good health!"
Baldue's face drops, "Oh....thanks..."
Foromo - Hmmm, opens his pak..."So, 2 lanterns, 19 flasks of oil...rope, need some more, am thinkin...what else?"
He then eyes the Holy Water..."Hmmm..."He orders the strongest flask of uncut whiskey from the barkeep...takes enough of a draught to lower the level to 3/4 full. He then fills the rest with plain water. He then takes a tack and attaches to long piece of cloth to the cork, then stuffs the cloth into the flask and corks it.
"Jolly, Beyla...come with me a minute"...he then walks out back...pulls the cork lifhts the cloth, then throws the flask up against a stone wall. Does it work???
OOC - I invite you to post some kind of character portrait, it helps me "see" the ongoing movie a bit better. Who knows, maybe it might work for you as well? Here are my folks:
(http://i.imgur.com/WjSLPvP.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/E9HcHRa.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/gA0GG6a.jpg)
"Jolly, Beyla...come with me a minute"...he then walks out back...pulls the cork lifhts the cloth, then throws the flask up against a stone wall. Does it work???
Good heavens, a great bomb has gone off!
(OOC - 4D6 damage will be typical)
Foromo looks to his companions, evil smile, beaming at his "Equalizer"...
(OOC - Noted 4D6 dmg...how many can we make???)
OOC - Each member of the party could carry at least one "bomb" if they so choose - that's 9 right there.
Here is a typical booze jug of the region - with a modern can of soda for scale:
(http://i.imgur.com/Gkfg1lo.jpg)
Note the carrying grip - for easy hurling!
Peldic:
(http://nemoslounge.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/4b02da4ee13b981341d5496cba4360a0.jpg)
Mergo:
(http://whfb.lexicanum.com/mediawiki/images/1/15/HalflingFieldwarden.jpg)
Jolly:
(http://cdn.obsidianportal.com/assets/206512/StrongheartHalfling.jpg)
Foromo
(http://www.rarmy.com/swgr/tmp/Foromo2.png)
Hurtag
(http://www.rarmy.com/swgr/tmp/Hurtag.png)
Hurmak
(http://www.rarmy.com/swgr/tmp/Hurmak.png)
Having witnessed one of the great fire bombs being tested, Beyla returns back to the table and awaits Jolly and Foromo. Once they have returned she asks, "Very well, it looks like we are now supplied and victualed. That being so, when do we leave?"
Foromo says "Hmmm, was so busy with the new toys that I haven't gone shopping yet, I need...[looking over what else was bought] ...another crowbar, a miners hammer so's I won't be bashing my War Hammer...another 50' of silk rope, another 50' hemp rope, couple of wineskins ... with whiskey, not wine...anything else???" looking around to everybody else...
(OOC - is there any holy water left to be put in a wineskin???)
The rest of the team around the table indicates that they are adequately supplied.
Baldue snickers, "Guess YOU still got some shopping to do!"
OOC - There is one skin of Holy Water untouched thus far.
Quote from: pbj44;742457The rest of the team around the table indicates that they are adequately supplied.
(http://www.rarmy.com/tmp/baldue.jpg)Baldue snickers, "Guess YOU still got some shopping to do!"
OOC - There is one skin of Holy Water untouched thus far.
(http://www.rarmy.com/tmp/foromo.jpg)Foromo hands the Holy Skin to Beyla..."If we need to mark our progress underground, trace the mark with this Holy Water to keep those foul undead from tampering with, please???"
He then calls over a strapping lad with shopping list and enough gold to buy, telling him he'll get his pay when he gets back...
(OOC - Made avatars for all 9 chars, uniform height...so ifen you want, when you post use http://www.rarmy.com/tmp/charname.jpg within an image tag. the name is the name of char in all lowercase...enjoy :)
the Cast of Characters...also goes by the Name "Motley Crew"
Baldue(http://www.rarmy.com/tmp/baldue.jpg)Beyla(http://www.rarmy.com/tmp/beyla.jpg)Foromo(http://www.rarmy.com/tmp/foromo.jpg)Hurmak(http://www.rarmy.com/tmp/hurmak.jpg)Hurtag(http://www.rarmy.com/tmp/hurtag.jpg)
Jolly(http://www.rarmy.com/tmp/jolly.jpg)Mergo(http://www.rarmy.com/tmp/mergo.jpg)Peldic(http://www.rarmy.com/tmp/peldic.jpg)Shirl(http://www.rarmy.com/tmp/shirl.jpg)
(OOC - and yes, I was bored...)
Beyla nods, "A wise precaution, I will do exactly that!"
The barkeeps older son takes your list and your coin and heads out the door to make the purchases.
Quote from: pbj44;742465Beyla nods, "A wise precaution, I will do exactly that!"
The barkeeps older son takes your list and your coin and heads out the door to make the purchases.
(http://www.rarmy.com/tmp/foromo.jpg) Nods, and decides to measure how long he takes by how many droughts he can drink...
(http://www.rarmy.com/tmp/foromo.jpg) leans over, and whispers into (http://www.rarmy.com/tmp/beyla.jpg)ear..." do you know where I can get a dobble-edged dagger mounted on a long staff with a head-knocker on the other end??" he motions over to (http://www.rarmy.com/tmp/hurmak.jpg)...probably need a higher quality long sword for (http://www.rarmy.com/tmp/hurtag.jpg), and better shields for both??? he then winks at her...
Beyla flushes, "I know not, but perhaps our friend Jolly knows..."
Foromo goes Hmmm..."Thanks" leans over to Jolly, quietly whispering the same thing to him...
Jolly tells Foromo where to find the merchant that he purchased arms and armor from earlier.
Speaking to everyone, Jolly says cheerfully, "we'll head back out once Foromo has returned. In the meantime, let's drink and eat!"
=============================================
OOC: Jolly just bought a new shield for Hurmak so I'm not sure why Foromo would want to buy another one.
Quote from: Drohem;742538=============================================
OOC: Jolly just bought a new shield for Hurmak so I'm not sure why Foromo would want to buy another one.
(OOC - Because I missed that, as I was playing with fire...geez...:))
Foromo takes off...muttering...
Once Foromo returns, the expedition mounts up once more.
On the way out of town Shirl joins the party and nods a greeting to all.
Following the road to the south, you re-enter the fog of the Barrowdowns.You cautiously pick your way back to the crypt in the graveyard, and still have about two hours of sickly sunlight left to you.
Beyla murmurs as you approach the crypt door, "I put a seal on the crypt door when we were last here. That's now broken, so be wary".
(OOC - I take it we went back to where we exited, and not Vampire Hall???)
Quote from: pbj44;742583Once Foromo returns, the expedition mounts up once more.
I hand Hurmak the spear I had done, how does he like it???
Hurmak twirls and checks the balance, just right...he likes it...(OOC - Damage same as spear??how much damage with skull-crusher?)
OOC - Yes, you are back to the same point you exited.
Hurmak's new spear does 1D6 Bashing damage on the new blunt end. He seems to really like it!
Quote from: pbj44;742594OOC - Yes, you are back to the same point you exited.
Hurmak's new spear does 1D6 Bashing damage on the new blunt end. He seems to really like it!
(OOC - so 1d6 / 1d6 either way?? should make dmg roles easier, roll once and apply to either end...)
Yep, 1D6 either end! So Hurmak now has things covered from bashing skeleton bones to chopping zombie heads!
"Alright, everyone be on the toes," Jolly says as he readies his shield and draws his sword, "Peldic, light the lantern please."
Peldic lights the lantern and opens the hood.
Looking back with a cheerful smile, he says, "once more, we enter. Follow me."
Beyla and Shirl both ready their weapons and enter with the rest. Looking about you notice that someone has recently built a campfire here in the crypt...
Quote from: pbj44;742660Looking about you notice that someone has recently built a campfire here in the crypt...
Foromo - "Crap, look sharp, gonna run into another group, or heaven forbid, we may have to rescue them..."
"Or their animated corpses," Jolly adds dryly.
OOC - Okay, set your marching order for the staircase and we will begin again!
Jolly.......Foromo
Shirl.......Hurmak
Mergo....Baldue
......Peldic.........
Beyla.....Hurtag
Unless Foromo has another idea on it.
As the group forms ranks Baldue chortles, "I wanna walk behind Shirl!". Shirl stares at him until he grows silent.
Jolly, looking down at floor near the staircase you notice in addition to boot tracks in the dust, you see some clawed footprints...
"there's probably more of those Beastmen down here too," Jolly says as he moves down the staircase.
Moving quietly, you soon find yourselves back at the bottom of the staircase:
(http://i.imgur.com/QJDzaq5.jpg)
Jolly moves east down the hallway toward where they last heard the sounds of battle.
Moving down the hallway to the east:
(http://i.imgur.com/Uf1dD7v.jpg)
Looking ahead into the vast space as far as torchlight permits you see a scene of great slaughter. It looks as though hundreds of people have been ripped into pieces. Weapons, armor, clothing, and flesh are strewn about the region, with the floors still slick with entrails and body fluid.
You now hear some faint laughter and Ondish voices due south of your indicated position...
Quote from: Drohem;742771Jolly.......Foromo
Shirl.......Hurmak
Mergo....Baldue
......Peldic.........
Beyla.....Hurtag
Unless Foromo has another idea on it.
I'm good...
(OOC - Have to go teach class today...travel on, will check in tonight...)
As you are pondering your next move, a massive cloud of colored smoke roils up from the south and blankets yourselves as well as the hall. It smells strongly of Sandlewood and is very pungent. The view to the south:
(http://i.imgur.com/1R2xEXM.jpg)
"Back the way we came!" Jolly yells to his companions and moves quickly back down the hall toward the stairs up to the graveyard.
The sandlewood scent seems to cling to your nostrils for some time. At some point you find yourselves all sitting down on the steps up to the crypt - just idling talking and mentally drifting, imbued with a powerful sense of good will.
This whole feeling is more of being drugged than poisoned...after a bit, your heads clear.
Foromo - "What the Hey?? What spell was that?? Everybody OK??? Beyla???"
Hmmm...go through the stories, have I ever heard of the sandlewood smell, and feeling of good before???
"Alright, let's go in again," Jolly says thoughtfully, "but if anyone smells that scent again then speak up immediately and we make for fresh air again."
Moving back to the hallway you recently fled, you find it clear of the smoke, and now hear laughter and drowsy chatter coming from the passage south.
Jolly puts his finger to his lips in the universal sign for silence, and then starts moving down the southern hallway toward the noise.
As you move further down the hall the laughter and chatter grow louder. Soon you find yourself approaching a great room at the end of the corridor. Bright light shines from the room as well as the faint smell of the drug smoke. Baldue snorts, "Sounds like a party!"
Jolly draws his sword from its sheath and moves toward the doorway to the room.
OOC - Are you moving ahead to scout, or is the whole team, light source and all, going with you?
"Peldic," Jolly whispers, "hood the lantern."
He then motions everyone to follow him with his sword.
=====================================
OOC: The whole teams moves toward the door with Jolly, but Peldic will hood the lantern for now.
As you move forward to the threshold of the room you almost fall through the floor! The floor sinks down in the middle, splitting open to reveal two seperate doors! (OOC - You passed your trap roll!)
Stepping back gingerly, the floor resets, and you are able to slip along the side of the wall and peek in:
(http://i60.tinypic.com/atwzmd.jpg)
Sprawled in the room smoking some kind of hemp are three humans dressed in black leather armor. Sported on the front of each black hauberk is a flaming, lidless eye:
(http://i58.tinypic.com/2ypckev.jpg)
Sitting across from them is a rather bored, powerful looking Beastman, at least 8 feet tall, eyeing the edge on his razor sharp halberd.
All are heavily spattered with blood from a recent battle.
Jolly surges forth into the room at a dead run at the huge Beastman in an attempt to catch him and the others in the room off guard.
The Beastman jumps up with a deafening roar to challange you as the three humans flounder about this round, frantically trying to stand.
OOC: Question, if you are closing, then neither of you are allowed to strike for this round. But, if you are charging, you get +2 to hit; but the Beastman with the longer weapon goes first, and you get no dexterity adjustment to AC. Additionally, Jolly runs the risk of meeting a "set" weapon and taking double damage.
Just let me know!
OOC: Jolly just closes with him to attack next round. He will rely on his size AC bonus against the huge Beastman. Mergo moves into the room against the west wall and prepares to fire a stone with his sling. Peldic moves into a position next to Mergo along the west wall and draws his short sword but still holds the hooded lantern in his off hand.
You hear Foromo muttering under his breath..."Hiho, Hiho, it's off to kill we go..."
(OOC - this was written when all I saw was us getting off the steps to reenter after the smoke incident...)
Shirl leaps over the trap door and races up to the Beastman, sword singing for action!
Baldue brings up the rear running into the room, "C'mon guys, let's go kick some aaaaaaaaa!" and disappears through the trap doors!
OOC - GM rolls 3 for initiative!
OOC: I rolled a 1 for Round 1 Initiative. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
The black clad humans jump to their feet and draw their weapons!
As Shirl and Jolly close with the Beastman, he swings a blow that would decapitate an Elephant! Jolly ducks under the blow, but Shirl cannot quite get out of the way and her shield rings like a church bell as the Halbard crashes into it! She cries out with the pain of it's impact!
OOC - Beastman rolls 17 ATT with 2HP DAM
OOC- Okay, it's the party's turn!
Jolly steps in under the large weapon's arc and tries to stab the giant Beastman in the groin, but the Beastman sidesteps the incoming blow at the last moment.
Mergo winds up his sling to gain maximum momentum and targets the human opponent closest to Jolly, Shirl, and the Beastman. With expert precision he lets his stone fly and it hits the man square in the chest with force.
=================================================
OOC: Jolly rolls 4 for his attack and misses. Mergo rolls 21 for his attack roll and hits AC -2 for 3 damage. He targeted thug #3.
Shirl curses the Beastman who snorts with derision as he avoids her sword thrust! He then screams in agony as Beyla darts in and brings her mace down on his left foot with stunning force!
Mergo's thug drops dead from the bullet! The remaining two thugs begin screaming loudly for help!
OOC - Beyla rolls 19 to hit and 4 to DAM. Okay, new round: GM rolls 5!
Whoops! Go Foromo, Hurmak, and Hurtag before the new round!
(OOC - OK, am caught up now, just realized am not getting notifications in a timely manner...sorry guys.)
Foromo, with a mighty dwarven bellow attacks with his axe...rolls 11 (AC8) to hit, 2 for dmg (OOC - I really need a better dice program...*sigh (http://www.rarmy.com/swgr/tmp/banghead.gif))
Hurmak starts his famous fighting style with his new ...Spear??? twirl, parry, thrust, thrust...rolls 14 to hit (AC6) for 5 pnt dmg...
Hurtag wades in with 12 to hit (AC8) for 2 pnts dmg
*sigh...
Wait...+2 to hit for charging...
Foromo - 13 (AC6) for 2
Hurmak - 16 (AC4) for 5
Hurtag - 14 (AC6) for 2
(OOC - I'll figure this out yet...)
The last of the human rabble hits the floor dead! Meanwhile, the enormous Beastman has his back to the wall battling the entire group with massive sweeps of his Halbard!
OOC - Okay Drohem, I rolled 5 for the new round's initiative!
OOC: I rolled a 2 for Round 2 Initiative. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
Quote from: Drohem;743134OOC: I rolled a 2 for Round 2 Initiative. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
(OOC - Looks like we both need new dice programs...)
We show the Beastman how polite we are by letting him go first...:D
Enraged, the Beastman swings a terrific cut at Beyla, who twists aside just in time! Pieces of stone flagging fly through the air!
OOC - Beastman rolls 3 to hit.
Okay team, your go!
Mergo quickly and deftly loads another stone into his sling and sends it flying at the enraged Beastman. However, with so many companions nearby Mergo finds it hard to get a good bead on his target and the missile flies wide and bounces off the stone wall behind the fray.
Once again, Jolly darts under the Beastman's great swing and lunges forward with a piercing stab directly to the Beastman's groin. His blade sinks deep causing a terrible wound.
=================================
OOC: Mergo rolls a 9 for his attack and misses. Jolly rolls a 20 for his attack and hits AC -1 for 6 damage! (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
The Beastman collapses on the floor on his side, pants rapidly for a few moments, and then his eyes glaze over.
It is quiet now.
Just the sound of the team drawing deep breaths.
In the distance there is a muffled sound:
"Hey, help me!"
"Hello, is there anybody there??"
"Hey guys, I'm okay, my helmet broke my fall!"
"Guys...????"
"GUYS! GET ME OUTTA HERE!"
"mommy..."
Sobbing sounds...
50XP for the encounter!
Jolly walks over to the pit and calls down, "hold on, Baldue, we're going to get you out. We're getting a rope out now."
Looking up the tunnel to the North you see the obvious light of a lantern and much movement. Its heading your way...
"hurry up guys," Jolly says as he lowers the rope down to Baldue, "we're going to have company soon."
Baldue scrambles up the rope like a Chimp! Beyla holds her hands over Shirl's hurt arm, who sighs with relief as it is healed!
Beyla then approaches Jolly, "What should we do?"
Foromo says..."I guess we get ready to do this again...Hurtag raps Hutmak on the head..."you can quit now..."
Oh, and we're keeping an eye on the dead, just in case they start moving again...
"Everyone back into the room!" Jolly says in response to Beyla's question, "prepare yourselves for a fight!"
"Mergo," Jolly orders, "get some oil out of Peldic's pack and put those corpses to fire."
Looking at Baldue, Jolly orders, "Baldue, get that fancy new crossbow ready to fire!"
As he draws his sword and readies his shield, Jolly says, "I will stand just beyond the trapped floor and hopefully taunt them into it. The rest of you get behind the east wall and ready a volley of missile fire. On my command, step out and fire."
Foromo goes with Jolly..."Your in my domain..." and stands ready, next to Jolly, oppisite side...
Jolly nods and smiles at Foromo as he says, "good."
Foromo smiles back, evil grin on his face..."Ready??"
You hear a lot of feet approaching!
A cultured, authorative voice can be heard, "Search the room of Enlightenment! They were spotted coming this way."
"Master, I smell death ahead!"
"Very well, summon William to the front!"
"William, go forth and kill them!"
Something huge is now coming down the corridor!
Jolly, You see a foul looking creature dressed up in bits of armor. He carries a huge chopping weapon. Also, he stands about 10 feet tall. He will be on you in but a few seconds!
(http://i.imgur.com/ZeRUjd0.jpg)
"By the Hex, they're getting bigger!" Jolly whispers to Foromo.
Quote from: Drohem;743321"By the Hex, they're getting bigger!" Jolly whispers to Foromo.
"I hope that saying bout the bigger they are is true, but we do have a "small" advantage, hehehe..."
Quote from: pbj44;743271he stands about 10 feet tall. He will be on you in but a few seconds!
Foromo looks to Jolly..."Now???"
William approaches the area of the pit and begins to skirt around it by keeping along the left wall. He grunts with surprise at seeing the two of you and raises his sword to slaughter you!
OOC - GM rolls 5 for initiative!
As he starts to skirt the trapped floor area, Jolly yells to his companions, "NOW!"
================================
OOC: I rolled a 1 for Initiative. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
William is carefully navigating around the pit as your companions spring into action!
Baldue steps out and screams, "OH SHIT, A GIANT!!!!" , and tries to fire as his helmet visor swings shut and his crossbow discharges into the ceiling! (From my fumble chart! Baldue just rolled a "1")
OOC - Okay, the rest of you fire away!
Mergo steps out in the open with his sling twirling and releases his stone at the apex of its arc. The stone flies true and hits the creature square in the chest with force.
============================================
OOC: Mergo rolls a 16 and hits AC 3 for 4 damage. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
William roars with rage as the bullet strikes his chest! He scampers around the barrier to get at Foromo and Jolly! Shirl leaps forward and gets in line with the two of you!
OOC: It looks like Hurtag and Hurmak don't have any missile weapons. The only one left is Beyla who has a sling.
Quote from: Drohem;743464OOC: It looks like Hurtag and Hurmak don't have any missile weapons. The only one left is Beyla who has a sling.
(OOC - Yep, was why was waiting...hehehe...)
OOC - Totally forgot about Beyla's sling!
Beyla cooly eyes the raging giant and winds up and scores a crushing hit right between William's eyes for 2HP of damage! His eyes cross with the impact but he pushes on into the room - ready to kill!
In the distance you can hear others running up, urged on by the cultured voice!
To the rear of the room you hear a door open!
OOC - Beyla rolled a perfect 20! Okay, GM rolls 2 for initiative!
Mergo deftly and quickly loads another stone into his sling, winds it up, and lets fly the missile at center mass of the huge humanoid.
Jolly moves in for the attack and tries to stab the humanoid in its upper thigh, but he misses due to trying avoid the giant's weapon arc.
====================================
OOC: Mergo rolls a 15 and hits AC 4 for 2 damage. Jolly rolls a 3 and misses. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
Baldue screams in frustration as he frantically fiddles about reloading his crossbow, “OMG! This is taking FOREVER! We are so dead!”
Beyla Coolly loads and fires again, swearing under her breath as Baldue jumping in her way causes her shot to miss badly!
Shirl swings a ferocious shot that fortunately for William caroms off his makeshift breastplate!
Hurmak and Hurtag both notice the door on the Southern wall opening!
(http://i60.tinypic.com/atwzmd.jpg)
Go Foromo and crew!
the Brothers whirl to protect the rear, Foromo is calculating his action (OOC - Read that to mean somebody tell me to roll...)
OOC: Yes, Foromo, attack William the giant!
Quote from: Drohem;743479OOC: Yes, Foromo, attack William the giant!
(OOC - OK, OK...was jus being polite...:p
Foromo Attacks, with much vigor and aplomb,...with his mighty axe, He rolls a 15 (AC5) for 5 dmg...
William roars with rage and strikes Jolly (ATT = 18) for 4 HP of damage in savage display of brute force. Jolly is struck so hard that for a moment all of you are shocked to see him stagger to his feet!
William is weaving about drunkenly on his feet, eyes rolling wildly - looking to kill someone...anyone!
Something races in from the Southern door - directly at the back ranks of the party!
(http://i.imgur.com/uUBVEBN.jpg)
Hurtag and Hurmak can jump in it's path!
OOC- Sigh. GM rolls 1 for initiative.
Quote from: pbj44;743485Hurtag and Hurmak can jump in it's path!
OOC- Sigh. GM rolls 1 for initiative.
(OOC - well, we also roll a 1 (http://www.rarmy.com/swgr/tmp/banghead.gif) so here is my rolls and let me know how it goes...)
Hurmak takes his spear, grabbing the skull-crusher end for leverage, impales the beast and pins it against the wall (Hit 18 (AC2) for 6 dmg) while Hurtag tries to cut it's head off (Hit 8 (AC?) for 3 dmg)
Quote from: pbj44;743485William roars with rage and strikes Jolly (ATT = 18) for 4 HP of damage in savage display of brute force. Jolly is struck so hard that for a moment all of you are shocked to see him stagger to his feet!
OOC: What AC does he hit? Jolly is AC 0 against William. It may not make a difference but avoiding 4 damage at 1st level is important. :)
Quote from: Drohem;743494OOC: What AC does he hit? Jolly is AC 0 against William. It may not make a difference but avoiding 4 damage at 1st level is important. :)
(OOC - Yea, what he said, (getting nervous for when I get hit...:boohoo:)
OOC - William is 3HD so I think he hit (sorry, nowhere near my LL core rules!)
OOC: Yeah, that's a hit then.
Mergo loads another bullet into his sling as he turns to see what is assailing them from behind. Seeing the hideous creature coming at them he winds up and lets fly his stone at it.
Jolly fights through the daze and pain of his wound and tries to pierce the giant's stomach with a vicious stab, but his sluggish thrust is easily turned away by the giant's blade.
=================================
OOC: Mergo's Round 3 attack his a 12 and hits AC 7 for 2 damage. Jolly rolls a 2 for his attack and misses William. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
Ok, Foromo hits for 17 (AC2) for 4 pnts dmg...in other word...
Foromo , with a mighty bellow swings his axe at what ever part he can connect with...
Foromo's hit drives William to his knees just in time for Shirl to leap forward and plunge her sword through his heart! William slumps backwards and plows through the pit doors with thunderous crash!
OOC - great job Giant team!
Meanwhile, the fiend pinned against the southern wall claws it's way up Hurmak's spear and tears at his maile shirt, but scores no damage beyond projectile-vomiting stinking black Ichor all over him! It is certainly thrashing about like a Devil!!
OOC- GM rolls 2 for initiative!
Quote from: pbj44;743527OOC- GM rolls 2 for initiative!
Hurmak the Hellion rolls a 5
So...Hurmak maintain his horrendous hold with an 11 (AC9) maintaining 4 pnts dmg, Meanwhile Hurtag Strikes the beast (16 (AC4) for 4 pnts with his mighty Long Sword...
Hurtag's strike beheads the foul creature, ending the fight!
Beyla rushes to Jolly, "You are hurt, we must flee - she looks about - "to somewhere!"
If there is a lull in the battle, Foromo goes over the Giant, looking for anything of worth.
Quote from: pbj44;743552Hurtag's strike beheads the foul creature, ending the fight!
Beyla rushes to Jolly, "You are hurt, we must flee - she looks about - "to somewhere!"
"Quickly," Jolly says biting through the pain, "everyone through the door whence the creature came!"
Looking to Peldic, Jolly says, "as soon as we're through the doors get the mallet and spikes out of the pack!"
(OOC - Did Foromo find anything of value before joining the others???)
Foromo pulls out hammer and spikes, looks at the door, what does he see??? Wood, Stone?? Stout, Weak?
Foromo can hear the approach of the enemy and curses his luck that William the Giant fell down into the pit - the delay to climb down and search William's body would prove disastrous - so Foromo runs to spike the door after the others.
The door is a heavy wooden one banded in iron. Just as the group passes through the door and Foromo pulls it shut, the party hears the howls of the enemy from the room just vacated, and Foromo has a very tense moment while he spikes the door shut against opposition from the other side.
The party is now in a new set of corridors:
(http://i.imgur.com/4TM5avq.jpg)
From the other side of the door the party hears the cultured voice cry out, "Move aside, I will get it open!"
Beyla grabs Foromo's arm and whispers, "Please we must find a hiding place so that Jolly can rest and be healed!"
She turns to Baldue and hisses, "Baldue, you will stand at Jolly's side and carry him as needed!"
Baldue nods silently and moves next to Jolly.
What do you do?
Quote from: pbj44;743706The party is now in a new set of corridors:
(http://i.imgur.com/4TM5avq.jpg)
Beyla grabs Foromo's arm and whispers, "Please we must find a hiding place so that Jolly can rest and be healed!"
What do you do?
Whispers to the Brothers to run ahead, check out the side passages real, real quick...
"Follow them!!!" in a quite voice... as he backs up and gets ready to hold the line..."Everybody, Move!!!", he whispers in a stern voice to all behind them...
Running ahead with a torch lit from Peldic's, the two brothers check out the nearby corridors.
(http://i.imgur.com/YnIeZGr.jpg)
Moving up to a parallel corridor, a quick peek reveals a band of black clad warriors with eye emblazened tunics sneaking down the corridor!
Foromo is guarding the door with Shirl and the rest of the group has moved down to the first corner and is waiting to hear back from the brothers now crouched at the next corner.
What do you do?
Quote from: pbj44;743714Running ahead with a torch lit from Peldic's, the two brothers check out the nearby corridors.
(http://i.imgur.com/YnIeZGr.jpg)
Moving up to a parallel corridor, a quick peek reveals a band of black clad warriors with eye emblazened tunics sneaking down the corridor!
Foromo is guarding the door with Shirl and the rest of the group has moved down to the first corner and is waiting to hear back from the brothers now crouched at the next corner.
What do you do?
From Hurtags perspective, how fast are they moving???
From the brother's perspective they are moving very slowly as they creep quietly down the hall. In about 20 seconds they will be at the same corner the brothers currently hide at.
Baldue calls out, "ARE YOU GUYS OKAY?"
Quote from: pbj44;743716From the brother's perspective they are moving very slowly as they creep quietly down the hall. In about 20 seconds they will be at the same corner the brothers currently hide at.
Hurtag prepares a Jug...sets it up to fire and throw when they get past that other corridor but before they round the corner here...
Quote from: pbj44;743716Baldue calls out, "ARE YOU GUYS OKAY?"
Really??? Hurmak knocks him on the head with his skull-crusher...whispering..."Hush!!!"
OOC - lol, remember, Baldue is back at the other corner with the rest of the party as indicated by the orange dot.The two brothers are watching the enemies approach while the others wait for their signal to proceed or fall back.
(http://i.imgur.com/0P1P163.jpg)
Meanwhile, Foromo begins to feel heat radiate from the door he's guarding!
Okay, Hurmak and Hurtag! The enemy is sneaking past the target corridor!
Jolly says in a hushed tone, "move down the hallway to the south. Now!"
Turning to Foromo, Jolly says in reference to Hurtag and Hurmak, "pull them back as we pass. We must hide or lose them!"
Quote from: pbj44;743719OOC - lol, remember, Baldue is back at the other corner with the rest of the party as indicated by the orange dot.The two brothers are watching the enemies approach while the others wait for their signal to proceed or fall back.
(http://i.imgur.com/0P1P163.jpg)
Meanwhile, Foromo begins to feel heat radiate from the door he's guarding!
Okay, Hurmak and Hurtag! The enemy is sneaking past the target corridor!
Hurtag lights and throws...right in the middle, backs up with Hurmak to the main corridor...then runs to check that back turn...waving the others to head back with them...
Foromo beckons the rest to head back...Axe and shield at the ready...
There is a terric explosion that sends smoke and heat roiling down your corridor - there are also blood-curdling screams from the bomb's area of impact! You seem to have bought yourself a few moments of respite.
Everyone is now moving swiftly down the southern tunnel which ends here:
(http://i.imgur.com/b8vNkkN.jpg)
This room is filled with trash and debris - and crawling with all manner of cockroaches and other bugs! A steady dripping of water from the ceiling has created a stagnant, stinking pool in the center of the room.
Next to the door in the Southern wall is the distinct impression of a bloody handprint!
In the distance behind you, you hear a door crash down!
OOC - 125XP each for the previous battle!
Quote from: pbj44;743733Everyone is now moving swiftly down the southern tunnel which ends here:
(http://i.imgur.com/b8vNkkN.jpg)
Next to the door in the Southern wall is the distinct impression of a bloody handprint!
In the distance behind you, you hear a door crash down!
Alright, once everybody gets into the room, Foromo plants himself just inside, out of view, but ready, he hands over another jug to Hurtag, nodding at him to get ready. In a low voice, he says "Someone check out that door..."
Grabbing a torch Shirl blazes a trail across the floor, bugs scattering at the approach of the torch's flame! She gets to the Southern door.
(http://i.imgur.com/kYgyUvw.jpg)
She prods and pulls for a moment and then hisses:
"There is no lock or bolt on this door - and it's not budging! What do you want to do? Any ideas?"
She leans to the door and sniffs, "Gag! Stinks like Cloves!"
Quote from: pbj44;743739She leans to the door and sniffs, "Gag! Stinks like Cloves!"
Hmmm...Cloves...something about cloves...???
Quote from: rarmy;743741Hmmm...Cloves...something about cloves...???
OOC - Cloves...yessss...?
Quote from: pbj44;743746OOC - Cloves...yessss...?
(OOC - What are the uses of Cloves, besides cooking, what monsters or creatures smell of cloves, what are the dastardly demonic uses of cloves??? What dangers is associated with cloves???)
Foromo whispers..."Cloves?? Be careful, I seem to remember cloves goes with Vampires"
Jolly moves over to the door and reaches up with his own bloody hand and puts his hand over the bloody print already on the arch of the door.
Quote from: Drohem;743809Jolly moves over to the door and reaches up with his own bloody hand and puts his hand over the bloody print already on the arch of the door.
(OOC - thanks, was waiting on somebody to do that...)
Foromo whispers..."Stand Ready!!! We now have 2 fronts..." he then peeks, from a low position, around the entrance he's guarding, where are they???
Foromo - Looking up the hallway you can tell a crowd is creeping up...approximately 35 feet away.
Jolly - the door slides open to the left revealing a cobwebbed hallway:
(http://i.imgur.com/vJhg6iX.jpg)
foromo whispers over to Jolly..."If your going to do something, hurry, they're almost here..." He then preps another Jug of Exploding...
Jolly heads into the strange hallway but crouches under the bull's head decoration.
Once past it he says to his companions, "crawl under these things."
The group gathers in the new corridor and the door is quietly secured behind the party.
As Jolly finishes asking the team to crawl...
OOC - Jolly and Foromo, each of you please roll a D20.
OOC: I rolled a 3. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
OOC - Correction, only Jolly needed to roll.
Jolly, just as you finish speaking, a slight, almost imperceptable movement of the floor tells you a tale that makes your heart sink:
You are standing on a pressure plate - and it has at least partially activated...
Jolly immediately drops to the floor and lies flat on the ground.
Something in the floor makes a "ratcheting" sound and then everything grows quiet once more.
Baldue says, "HEY, WHAT'S THE HOLDUP UP THERE?"
Jolly rolls off the pressure plate and crouches as he says, "pressure plates in the floor. It looks like this hallway is trapped."
Pointing to the pressure plate in the floor that he found, he says, "don't step here."
He will touch the floor in front of him checking for more pressure plates and starting slowly making his way down the hallway in this fashion.
Moving carefully out of the tunnel and avoiding two more pressure plates, you see a large cobwebbed crypt area.
(http://i.imgur.com/B8WDBdB.jpg)
Other passages that you see seem to lead to yet more crypt halls.
Brooding over these graves is a large statue (OOC - marked by star on map)
(http://i.imgur.com/LiJRnOO.jpg)
At the foot of the statue's staircase is a large pile of Gold and Jewels, and a scabbarded sword that gleams in the gloom.
Foromo, after ensuring everybody else was in, closes the door behind him...then moves up fron to help Jolly. When we get to the crypt, takes a good look around..."Don't touch anything till we get a chance to check everything out..."
Beyla nods cooley, "This is a very tortured place. Stay ready for anything."
Baldue chortles at the sight of treasure, "Well, my my, payday has come at last!"
Shirl snorts with disgust, "Sure, go grab some!"
Baldue cackles, "Don't mind if I do!", and rubs his hands together in glee.
Foromo looks over at Baldue..."Not Yet!!" he sternly warns...
Baldue glares at Foromo sullenly, but obeys.
"Okay, I'll wait - a bit! But do something, that statue makes me nervous!"
Quote from: pbj44;743981Baldue glares at Foromo sullenly, but obeys.
"Okay, I'll wait - a bit! But do something, that statue makes me nervous!"
"Pick up that treasure and see how much more nervous he'll make you..."
Baldue starts to sneer, and then looks pensive, "Hey, that feller on the throne looks a lot like the one with missing leg and face that I helped take down! He gulps, "Smells like him too!!!"
Quote from: pbj44;743990Baldue starts to sneer, and then looks pensive, "Hey, that feller on the throne looks a lot like the one with missing leg and face that I helped take down! He gulps, "Smells like him too!!!"
"Hmmm, now that you mention it...I guess we now know where he came from."
Jolly says thoughtfully, "alright, it looks like we've bought ourselves some time so let's use it wisely. I think that we should scout out the side passages before going near the statue."
Foromo, along with the Brothers as support, commences...what do we see...looking very carefully...
The party fans out with torches to check things out! After about 10 minutes of careful exploring the team reports the following: each of the smaller passages look like crypt areas, each housing several bodies in the walls sealed behind embedded funeral lids. The large passage to the West turns North to an iron door.
What do you do?
Quote from: pbj44;744014What do you do?
"Beyla, are you in a position to bless this place??? or maybe turn this area into sacred ground??"
Beyla shakes her head, "Hmmm...to do the job right would take both power and prayer - what Divine power I have has been spent and must be replenished and used to heal Jolly. Let us find a safe harbor and rest. At the same time we can slip our pursuit and resume our mission.
Quote from: pbj44;744030Beyla shakes her head, "Hmmm...to do the job right would take both power and prayer - what Divine power I have has been spent and must be replenished and used to heal Jolly. Let us find a safe harbor and rest. At the same time we can slip our pursuit and resume our mission.
Looks over to Jolly, "Rest Here? or go on?"
"I say we rest here for now," Jolly says, "the treasure before us is tempting but we have a bigger job to do now than just looting. If we get this done right then we can loot the whole stinking place when the dust settles."
Beyla nods, "This seems wise to me. Let us make camp."
Shirl speaks, "Let's make our camp in the corner opposite the statue. This will allow us to watch every approach - and the statue.
Baldue gripes, "Well, I'm tired, so I'm not taking an early watch. Wake me up for the last watch."
Shirl shoves Baldue, "Lazy!!".
She turns to Jolly, "If we can spare the torches I think it would be a good idea to light this hall throughout the night. It will make our rest time safer I think."
Jolly thinks about and says as he gives a sideways glance at Baldue, "yes, good idea. It will help keep those on watch awake. We take watches by twos as well. Shirl and Hurmak will take first watch, Mergo and Hurtag will take second watch, Peldic and Foromo will take third watch, and Baldue and I will take fourth watch."
Foromo takes out his lantern, fills it, then sets it so it shines on the statue...sets one of his "Holy Hand grenades" next to him, then settles down..
(OOC - Have to teach today, so no blood or fighting till 09:00 p.m. PDT, ok???)
Beyla and Shirl nod in agreement with both of you.
Beyla unpacks some gear and makes a stew, which along with some bread, gets something on the team's stomach. After dinner everyone settles in to their watch or sleep.
Jolly and Foromo - You both have the same terrible dream of the statue across the hall sliding closer and closer to you, eyes burning with terrible brilliance as they pierce your brain.
You instinctively know you are dreaming and even feel yourself writhing in your sleep.
While in your dream, you can feel the Demon's position change. Looking up, you see the demon is now presented in the carving as being halfway down the staircase, no longer perched at the top of it.
You are commanded to draw the gleaming sword from it's scabbard.
You feel your feet dragging your exhausted bodies towards the pile of treasure, where the beautiful sword awaits you.
Standing over the sword you glance to the Demon once more, eyes widening as you see it now carved into the base of the statue's stairs, staring directly across the treasure at you.
You reach for the sword as every instinct within you protests. Your fingers are about to close on the scabbard as your will begins to more fiercely resist, and although you can now hear the sound of ragged panting coming from the demon statue - you dare not lift your eyes from the sword - to do so would doom your struggle instantly.
Blood drips from your eyes, ears and nose as your minds are squeezed tighter and tighter during the struggle.
At last broken, you can hold no longer and grasp blindly towards the sword.
Beyla's voice flows over the pain in your mind like a cooling balm - instantly the agony is gone, leaving behind nothing but sweet relief.
"ENOUGH EVIL ONE! I AM RESTORED AND THEY NOW SLEEP UNDER THE PROTECTION OF THE HEXARCHS. BE STILL!"
You instantly fall into deep, peaceful slumber. Everyone wakes at the same time many hours later - even those supposedly on guard duty. A fire is struck up as all of the torches and the lantern are long since expired.
Each babbles on about the Demon carving and tells of experiencing the same nightmare that you and Foromo endured. Beyla says little, but nods as team members thank her;
"I am glad to have helped! I was sleeping too."
Shirl curses, "WHERE'S BALDUE????"
Jolly looks over to the altar to see if the sword is still there.
Both the sword and the treasure are still untouched. Funny, the Demon statue has a smirk to its expression that you had not noticed before.
"Alright," Jolly says as he gets his gear on, "we're going to search every nook and cranny in here for Baldue together as a group. No one gets out of anyone else's sight, understood?"
Beyla and Shirl nod, and Beyla looks to Foromo and murmurs, "Perhaps you can take the lead? I understand your folk can see much which is hidden within stone construction."
Jolly asks Beyla sheepishly, "can you heal me before we get started in case we encounter trouble?"
She nods happily and heals you completely in but a moment!
OOC - heals for 5HP
After a minute the glow departs the air around you and you feel fine again!
"By the Hexarchs!" Jolly exclaims happily as he feels the holy magic heal his wounds.
"Alright," he says confidently, "everyone ready? Let's go find our companion Baldue."
Everyone nods and the group lights several fresh torches in addition to the powerful lantern.
OOC - just let me know the starting point for the search.
OOC: We'll start in the NW crypt and work our way around to the SW crypt.
A quick glance into each crypt tunnel shows all to be empty save for their in-wall burial chambers.
Foromo starts searching, what do I find??? (am goiing over everything very carefully...)
Leading the way, Foromo begins a painstaking check of all the crypt area passages connected to this vast hall, careful not to tamper with the crypts themselves. All of your stonework instincts cry out that something is wrong about the crypt lid at the far end of the northeastern crypt passageway.
You sit close to it and stare at it for a bit before it hits you - it is the only surface in this whole area that is damp.
Quote from: pbj44;744571Leading the way, Foromo begins a painstaking check of all the crypt area passages connected to this vast hall, careful not to tamper with the crypts themselves. All of your stonework instincts cry out that something is wrong about the crypt lid at the far end of the northeastern crypt passageway.
You sit close to it and stare at it for a bit before it hits you - it is the only surface in this whole area that is damp.
Go back to it, then carefully check it out...
OOC - An overview of the crypt areas with green dot indicating Northern "damp" wall location:
(http://i.imgur.com/RWwdGmj.jpg)
Examining this damp wall area more closely you see:
(http://i.imgur.com/fdN9ZYq.jpg)
What do you do? Please let me know if anyone actually touches any of the in-wall crypt areas...
"Peldic," Jolly says casually, "please get out the miner's pick from the pack."
He looks at Foromo with an inquisitive look and says, "do we have any other choice?"
Quote from: pbj44;744662What do you do? Please let me know if anyone actually touches any of the in-wall crypt areas...
Quote from: Drohem;744676"Peldic," Jolly says casually, "please get out the miner's pick from the pack."
He looks at Foromo with an inquisitive look and says, "do we have any other choice?"
"Hang on a minute...something is bothering me..."
A few quick questions...does the dampness have the same smell as the pool of water back in the other room??? Have I smelled cloves anywhere???
The dampness of this wall does indeed have the same rank odor as the pool of the previous room. That said, this whole crypt area stinks of "cloves", but this wet wall area smells of something...older.
Putting your ear to the wall you hear the distant sound of someone sobbing.
"Alright," Jolly says, "Mergo, make ready with the flaming holy water. I think we're dealing with the vampire here now. Let's be prepared. Beyla, you should also prepare a pot too."
Shirl motions to Mergo, "Can you pour some of that concoction over my sword?
Beyla preps a bomb as well, nodding to Jolly, "On your command we'll unleash hell!"
foromo hefts his mighty Hammer in one hand, a Miners pick in the other...looking over to Jolly..."what do you think, pick or hammer??? I'm thinking hammer to bash our way in..." He then looks over to Hurtag, hands him the pick..."OK, I hammer, you use the pick, I do first blow, you second...OK?"
Hurtag looks over at his Brother, "Get that Sticker ready..."
Hurmak set himself at the ready, holding his "Sticker" out like a pole arm...nods.
Foromo looks over to Jolly, that look of, Ready?
Foromo suddenly says "Halt!" "Beyla, squirt some of that holy water on my hammer, his pick, and the wall, please"
Jolly readies his shield and draws his silvered dagger from his belt.
After looking everyone over and seeing that they are ready, he nods at Foromo and says, "let's do this and find Baldue."
With a mighty swing, Foromo bashes the wall, then Hurtag swings, alternating back and forth...
After blasting away at the wall for some time, you finally break through enough stonework that a metal structure and mechanism is finally revealed in the flickering light of your torches.
(http://i.imgur.com/hNWukNJ.jpg)
Pushing away the twisted metal, you poke a torch in, and can now see that this ancient hallway is covered its entire length in brackish, still water. Leaning against a nearby wall, half in and half out of the water, is a familiar crossbow.
It will take but a moment to finish the job and move into the water-covered corridor.
What do you do?
"Hurmak," Jolly says as they finish breaking through the wall, "you should take the lead with your spear to test for pits, traps, and depth."
Quote from: Drohem;744772"Hurmak," Jolly says as they finish breaking through the wall, "you should take the lead with your spear to test for pits, traps, and depth."
Foromo hands his lantern to Hurtag, "Refill this and make ready to back your brother..."
He then looks at Jolly, "hold on a moment..." pulls out an iron spike, and tosses it into the water. Anything???
OOC - Hi guys, before going further please make your NPCs 1st level and max their HP. Max your own PC's HP (should have done that from the start!). This will strengthen the party for the trials ahead!
The thrown spike hits the water and takes a hop into the air before it sinks from view. You guess about six inches of water covers the floor of the corridor at this point.
Quote from: pbj44;744828OOC - Hi guys, before going further please make your NPCs 1st level and max their HP. Max your own PC's HP (should have done that from the start!). This will strengthen the party for the trials ahead!
(OOC - Have question, will post in the Interest thread...meanwhile, back the the carnage at hand...)
Foromo says to the guys..."Be careful, the spike seems to say it's 6 in deep, but Baldue's Crossbow
Quotethe half in and half out of the water, is a familiar crossbow.
is much longer than 6 in...so remember...all is not what you see.."
As you continue to study the corridor you briefly hear splashing in the distance. You also spy a pick handle, and an old platter against the far wall. Higher up on the North wall the stub of a dripping pipe extends out about a foot.
"Alright," Jolly says finally, "let's get this done. Hurmak, lead the way. Peldic, give him the focus of the lantern several feet in front of him so he can see his spear end as he explores before him."
Beyla touches your arm, "Jolly, where do you want me? Also, I have a scroll of Light if needed."
Shirl chimes, "Yeah, Should I guard the rear - or stay up front?"
"Foromo and I will follow Hurmak," Jolly says to the group, "Peldic and Mergo after, then Hurtag and Beyla, and Shirl you bring up the rear."
Shirl whispers into Hurtag's ear, "Guard Beyla!"
Quote from: pbj44;744961Shirl whispers into Hurtag's ear, "Guard Beyla!"
Hurtag nods at Shirl, nods at Foromo, then places himself in a way to bring his shield up to cover Beyla...then nods at Jolly...
Hurmak takes his first step...
Hurmak steps through the opening...
This first step is a shock - the water stings with cold!
Probing ahead with the spear, you find that the crossbow is actually in a spot where the water begins to deepen.
(http://i.imgur.com/3iWPVBN.jpg)
Ahead you see that the the water level in both the North and South tunnels is about 4 feet deep and each leads to a staircase that descends down into the depths of the water - beyond the range of the lantern's light.
In a light, yet somewhat resigned, tone of voice, Jolly says, "looks like I'm going for a swim."
He hands Mergo his sword and shield, and he starts removing his armor and handing the pieces to Peldic. Once done with that he puts on the special boots.
Looking to Foromo, he says with a smile, "if I don't come back up in five minutes then find another way out of here and help Beyla complete the quest."
He dives into the north tunnel and starts swimming down the staircase and into the darkness beyond.
Quote from: Drohem;744990In a light, yet somewhat resigned, tone of voice, Jolly says, "looks like I'm going for a swim."
He hands Mergo his sword and shield, and he starts removing his armor and handing the pieces to Peldic. Once done with that he puts on the special boots.
Looking to Foromo, he says with a smile, "if I don't come back up in five minutes then find another way out of here and help Beyla complete the quest."
He dives into the north tunnel and starts swimming down the staircase and into the darkness beyond.
Foromo says "Hold", pulls out a rope, and starts to rope him up, meanwhile Hurmak looks over to Beyla, pulls out a coin, then asks Beyla to put the light spell on this coin, then drips some hot wax into the scroll case, then hands it to her to place the coinn on the hot wax. (OOC - Now we have a flashlight, that can be capped...)
Jolly smiles at Foromo and says lightly, "I don't want a rope in case it gets tangled or snagged on something. Beyla should save her spell for an emergency. I'll be fine, don't worry, I don't plan on drowning this day. Tomorrow maybe, but definitely not today!"
Beyla says, "Please Jolly, at least take this light tube so that you can signal us if needed. Perhaps 3 short bursts of light? It would ease everyone's mind and would take but a moment to complete right now."
Shirl nods in agreement, "Yes, one burst of light for come ahead. Two bursts for wait, and three bursts for danger. What say you?"
"Alright," he says.
Hang on, then...Foromo coils up the rope, then makes ready, pulling out his Axe, easier to slice water instead of the hammer...
He Nods...
Beyla nods to the both of you, "Good luck and see you again soon!"
You both dive into the icy water and began to torpedo down the staircase propelled by powerful kicks. The "flashlight" plays about crazily, but does reveal a landing at the bottom of the stairs - down perhaps 40 feet from the surface. There is an open doorway and your breath is getting tight.
OOC - Do you enter or return to the surface for more air? If you opt to go for the doorway, roll a D20.
OOC: Jolly goes for it and I rolled a 3. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
Quote from: Drohem;745061OOC: Jolly goes for it and I rolled a 3. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
(OOC - Hurmak rolls a 17 oh, and going for it...)
OOC - lol, What's Hurmak doing here? Foromo is the one down here, please roll for Foromo.
Quote from: Drohem;744960"Foromo and I will follow Hurmak," Jolly says to the group, "Peldic and Mergo after, then Hurtag and Beyla, and Shirl you bring up the rear."
(OOC - maybe I was confused...I thought Hurmak was up front and dove in...)
Quote from: rarmy;745009Hang on, then...Foromo coils up the rope, then makes ready, pulling out his Axe, easier to slice water instead of the hammer...
He Nods...
OOC- This is what I was going by...sounds like he's taking the plunge...
Quote from: pbj44;745119OOC- This is what I was going by...sounds like he's taking the plunge...
(OOC - OK, hehehe...Jolly...who did you dive in with...me, or...me?
p.s. am keeping the roll, they're both my chars...))
OOC: The way I read it I thought that Foromo dived in with Jolly.
Quote from: Drohem;745181OOC: The way I read it I thought that Foromo dived in with Jolly.
(OOC - Alright, alright...Foromo rolls a 17...sheesh...)
Jolly, as you go for the opening, a glance back reveals that Foromo is beginning to drown! You realize you only have a very short window to assist him.
Quote from: pbj44;745232Jolly, as you go for the opening, a glance back reveals that Foromo is beginning to drown! You realize you only have a very short window to assist him.
Foromo heads back up for more air...
OOC - You can dive again after waiting a few minutes or Hurmak can jump in right away. Just roll a fresh D20.
Quote from: pbj44;745235OOC - You can dive again after waiting a few minutes or Hurmak can jump in right away. Just roll a fresh D20.
Foromo, between breaths tell Hurmak to back up Jolly, after brief "What's going on"...
Hurmak dives in...(OOC - gotta roll low, gotta roll low...4 :D)
After noticing Foromo turn back and go for air, Jolly continues swimming forward.
Quote from: Drohem;745256After noticing Foromo turn back and go for air, Jolly continues swimming forward.
Hurmak works on catching up...
Jolly - Swimming on, you enter the opening and with the improvised flashlight can see that its a short tunnel. Just as your air seems to be giving out you see a staircase at the end!
AIR!
Rocketing up the staircase you break the surface and gasp in air for several minutes.
(http://i.imgur.com/ZlmkkpS.jpg)
You are now looking down a corridor covered in ice. Your ragged breath makes fog clouds as you play the flashlight about the tunnel and spot the doors covered with frost. You sense movement behind you and are pleased to discover its only Hurmak arriving.
What do the two of you do now?
As he breathes heavily, he smiles at Hurmak as he says, "stay still for a moment, I am going to dose the light and try something out."
Jolly covers the light and makes it dark.
==========================================
OOC: Do the boots allow him to see in the dark?
Jolly, glancing back at Hurmak, he now appears to look like this:
(http://i.imgur.com/KE91BDM.jpg)
Though pitch black, the corridor and doors now appear in differing shades of blue.
Jolly unblocks the light and hands it to Hurmak as he says, "swim back to the point where the other up top can see the light and give them the signal to follow. I will stay here and if any trouble comes then I will dive in and swim to you and signal to swim up with a thumbs up motion."
Quote from: Drohem;745312Jolly unblocks the light and hands it to Hurmak as he says, "swim back to the point where the other up top can see the light and give them the signal to follow. I will stay here and if any trouble comes then I will dive in and swim to you and signal to swim up with a thumbs up motion."
Hurmak nods in agreement...then dives back in. Upon arriving back to the others, he relays the information, then offers to help Foromo handle the water...ducking as Foromo swats him with his hammer...both Hurmak and Hurtag escorts Beyla through...
Edited:
While waiting quietly in the dark for the group to get back, you hear a faint noise ahead. Something comes around the corner and looks down the hallway directly at you - but gives no sign that it sees you. After a few minutes of staring in your direction it retreats back around the corner. It looked like this in your newfound vision, and moved in a crouching, creeping gait:
(http://i.imgur.com/lOPnQu1.jpg)
What do you do?
OOC: Wait for the others to arrive, and when they do Jolly whispers for them to be quiet.
Soon enough the others arrive, and at your whispered caution, they stand quietly - shivering with cold.
Quote from: Drohem;745320OOC: Wait for the others to arrive, and when they do Jolly whispers for them to be quiet.
When Foromo gets there, he asks, quietly, to have the lights doused, then as his eyes adapt, what does he see...
After waiting a few moments for his eyes to adjust, Foromo begins to see again. The corridor takes on a glowing bluish cast with strange dark shadows. But he sees no sign of the figure that Jolly described.
Quote from: pbj44;745325After waiting a few moments for his eyes to adjust, Foromo begins to see again. The corridor takes on a glowing bluish cast with strange dark shadows. But he sees no sign of the figure that Jolly described.
Foromo stands watch till everyone gets settled in, letting Jolly take the lead...
Beyla whispers, "Can we fire up some torches now?"
Jolly whispers quietly, "Peldic, light the lantern please. Mergo, please help don my armor."
Once Jolly has his armor on just right, he readies his shield. He nods to his companions and moves out into the hallway and looks to the north and crosses the hallway to the first door on the eastern wall. He listens at the door for a minute.
Looking to the north, you can see that the hallway has a rising slope to it, climbing up to the other door. Lining the ceiling on either side of the northern corridor are two 3 ft diameter pipes, each with a strong copper finish.
Now that you stand in front of the first door, you note that, beneath the frost, the door is made of a polished metal that has the sheen of a bright penny. Moving your ear close to the door, you hear the distant drone of some kind of machinery.
Foromo, having followed Jolly, stands there and takes it all in...Hmmm, all this copper...
Jolly shrugs and says to Foromo, "do we try it or move on?"
Quote from: Drohem;745416Jolly shrugs and says to Foromo, "do we try it or move on?"
Foromo looks around, says may as well go on...and starts forward...
OOC - Going through the first door or on up the corridor?
Jolly tries to open the first door.
The large metal door pushes open easily to your slight touch. Ahead is a cavern lit in soft blue by strange fungi growths.
(http://i.imgur.com/POoSuCs.png)
A path to your left drifts up the hill towards a bright light fixture. The air is bitter with cold.
Jolly sucks in breath at the wonder of this strange place, and then says to Beyla, "do you know anything about this place?"
Beyla shakes her head negatively, "No, this is beyond strange to me. I am confident that no one in these parts has every told a story of a place such as this."
"Odd...the plants seem to be swaying. How could there be a breeze down this far below ground?"
Jolly looks to Foromo and genuinely asks him, "is this like your dwarven homeland? Are your caverns similar to this? Do you recognize anything, or does anything look familiar to you?"
Quote from: Drohem;745454Jolly looks to Foromo and genuinely asks him, "is this like your dwarven homeland? Are your caverns similar to this? Do you recognize anything, or does anything look familiar to you?"
Foromo stand there and looks...he absently responds back to Beyla "Remember that Vampire Wind back in the first place we visited???"
and he looks around, he brings his hand up to but not passing the door...is it wind?? or is it water (it looks like water)???
do I feel somewhat at home here??? what is going through my head, dammit...
(added) and Oh, where is that mechanical sound Jolly heard coming from???
Foromo - Raising your hand up, you do feel some air currents at play. Back in your village over the years you have heard tales of Dwarven history, a history that tells of the ancient Dwarven nation - and the wonderful marvels that its immense underground cities held. But no one from your village ever claimed to have seen such. They have been lost for thousands of years.
The mechanical sound is coming from up the slope.
Quote from: pbj44;745487Foromo - Raising your hand up, you do feel some air currents at play. Back in your village over the years you have heard tales of Dwarven history, a history that tells of the ancient Dwarven nation - and the wonderful marvels that its immense underground cities held. But no one from your village ever claimed to have seen such. They have been lost for thousands of years.
The mechanical sound is coming from up the slope.
Foromo, almost like he's in a daze, starts forward...
As you wander forth into the frigid wind you pass graceful, floating, luminous fungi drifting by. Approaching the great sunken statue you are a bit uneasy; the statue depicts some kind of Elf, but the craftmanship is distinctly Dwarven.
Quote from: pbj44;745492As you wander forth into the frigid wind you pass graceful, floating, luminous fungi drifting by. Approaching the great sunken statue you are a bit uneasy; the statue depicts some kind of Elf, but the craftmanship is distinctly Dwarven.
Knowing how the Elven People had turned dark, what can I gleam from this statue...???
This particular statue's stonework looks very old - several thousand years old at least. The chisel marks on the statue are almost invisible, as though the statue was more molded than carved.
I wonder on, working my way up the path...
Getting to the top of the hill you see a great gate set into massive stonework:
(http://i.imgur.com/aNlPDiO.jpg)
Above the gate is a plaque - FahlZhardum Din
Quote from: pbj44;745499Getting to the top of the hill you see a great gate set into massive stonework:
(http://i.imgur.com/aNlPDiO.jpg)
Above the gate is a plaque - FahlZhardum Din
Which means???
In common tongue it would mean - Blackreach.
The name means nothing to you.
As Jolly and the other follow Foromo as he wanders in, he is looking at the path for any foot, or boot, prints. He is looking for any signs or indication that Baldue may have gone this way before them.
Beyond Baldue's crossbow in the original tunnel, there is no indication that he came this way. Jolly feels like he is freezing, while Beyla and Shirl are both turning shades of blue.
Jolly tugs on Foromo's sleeve and says, "we can come back and explore this later. I don't think Baldue came this way. We must find our companion quickly if we hope to save him. It's very cold here especially after being wet."
Quote from: Drohem;745558Jolly tugs on Foromo's sleeve and says, "we can come back and explore this later. I don't think Baldue came this way. We must find our companion quickly if we hope to save him. It's very cold here especially after being wet."
(OOC - OK, folks let's be fair...Tomorrow I teach, thus un-avalable , then wed -sun I will be out of town for a Living History event I am committed to, so why don't we park my char here till I get back??? if all is in agreement, will post my last action till I get back. Sounds good???)
Beyla nods at Foromo, "I can see that being here means much to you. You know how to find us when you are finished. Hurtag will blaze a trail for you to rejoin us."
With that she turns to leave.
Jolly nods at Foromo and says to the rest, "come on, let's go find Baldue."
He then leads them back out to the corridor and moves north toward the second door on eastern wall.
Moving up the corridor you arrive at yet another metal door. Listening carefully at the door you can hear some sort of odd wailing.
Jolly whispers to everyone, "get ready."
He waits a moment for everyone to prepare themselves and then he tries to open this door.
The door opens easily to your touch.
Ahead of you is yet another tunnel leading to an strange open area connecting to several sets of stairs. This area is well lit, and sitting in its center, shackled to some broken machinery is Baldue, head lolling weakly as he wails, "Hello! Hello! Please, I need water..."
(http://i.imgur.com/PRb5q5c.jpg)
Jolly cautiously moves into the chamber and looks to the left and then to the right for any movement.
OOC - Is Jolly in the "lit" area near Baldue, or lurking in the shadows in the corridor?
OOC: At the edge of where the tunnel meets the open area in the picture.
Lost in his misery, Baldue does not notice you as he futilely pulls at his chains. There is no movement in the area - you could hear a pin drop...
Beyla whispers in your ear, "I will go to him and help. Wait here!" and starts past you.
"We do this together," Jolly whispers back as he moves out with her with his sword and shield ready.
Baldue turns to the two of you, and eyes growing wide, weakly tries to mouth something to both of you. It looks like "trap".
Jolly grabs Beyla's arm and stops her in her tracks as he whispers, "get the others ready with missile fire. I'll get Baldue. Cover me."
At your approach Baldue begins to slowly flick his head - in a nodding direction towards the steps behind him. Glancing up that way you see some enormous machinery with many shadowed openings.
Jolly nods to Baldue in acknowledgment and makes the Shh! sound as he approaches. He looks for a way to free Baldue from the chair while making quick glances up the staircase to stop any signs of an ambush.
You see nothi...wait...was that the creak of bows?
You listen...you only hear the sound of Baldue's ragged breathing...
You can see that that chains that bind him to the heavy chair lead from a bolt in the floor to long leather sleeves fastened to his arms. Many small cuts mar Baldue's chest and shoulders.
He sobs, "They're gonna skin you alive - jes like me."
Jolly quickly sheathes his sword and pulls the dagger from his belt.
As he starts cutting the leather sleeve on his right arm he whispers, "quiet."
Once he works the dagger between Baldue's arm and the leather sleeve and start cutting he glances up the staircase and then back to the task at hand. He alternates between looking down at Baldue's arm and up at the staircase while he works on cutting the sleeve off Bladue's arm.
Just as you get one arm free...the light above goes out! The room is plunged into darkness, and Baldue screams, "Oh Gods, you're too late!"
The thunder of running feet blankets the room!
OOC - GM rolls 2 for initiative!
As Jolly hands Baldue the dagger he says, "cut yourself free!"
Jolly readies his shield and draws his short sword from his sheath as he yells, "Peldic! Light!"
Peldic quickly removes the lantern's hood and shines a beam of light on the area of Jolly and Baldue.
Mergo starts whirls his sling to gain momentum and tries to find a target in the room.
==================================================
OOC: I rolled a 5 for Round 1 Initiative. I guess the above would considered the first round actions for my characters. I rolled a 3 for Round 2 Initiative. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
With wild piercing shrieks a crowd boils down both staircases, a few pausing to fire black, dripping bolts from powerful bows!
Out of the corner of your eye you spy enemies dropping down behind you - between you and your companions - whom they rush with chittering screams!
(http://i.imgur.com/brZeFWB.jpg)
Time slows to a crawl as the closest one in front of you leaps a full five meters from the staircase, raising its fanged sword for a strike as it hurtles through the air at you, it's face twisted in fanatic hate!
(http://i.imgur.com/bhy8JQy.jpg)
OOC - GM rolls 2 for round 2 initiative - round one was all movement into killing range. Everyone has an opponent! To expedite the fight I will simply describe party NPCs attack results - skipping administrative dice roll descriptions (though I do roll them!)
Shirl and Beyla rush forward to cover your withdrawal! Beyla swings her mace two-handed like a Titan and tears the head off the creature that leaps in her path!
(http://i.imgur.com/MHIlojT.jpg)
Shirl, but a heartbeat behind, cuts the sword arm off an enemy slipping in to backstabbing Beyla!
Hurmak plants his spear and impales the screaming creature charging him while Hurtag winds up and two hand strikes a creature in two as it leaped past him towards Peldic!
(http://i.imgur.com/IWagk1y.jpg)
OOC - best rolls all game for me! Crushing!
Some distance beyond the staircases there explodes a cacophony of deafening bugles!!!
Some kind of flaming ball arcs into the room and detonates high above the fight in a thunderclap that strikes your ears like a hammer!
Baldue cuts his other arm free and screams "LETS GET THE HELL OUTTA HERE!"
Jolly sees the creature flying at him and tries to stab it in the stomach before it lands in front of him, but the creatures twists in mid-air and avoids the deadly piercing strike.
As the creatures rush toward the group, Mergo targets one that darts into the lantern's stream of light and lets his stone fly. His aim is true and the stone smashes directly into the creature's chest.
==============================================
OOC: Jolly rolls a 5 for his attack and misses. Mergo rolls a 21 for his attack and hits AC -2 for 2 damage. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
Your attack spoils your opponents aim and his sword goes spinning as he crashes stunned at your feet!
Mergo' opponent falls back on his rump gasping up blood as it struggles to gain its toting once more.
You companions have swept the field for a brief moment!
The next wave has reached the top of the staircases howling for vengeance! what now?
Your attack spoils your opponents aim and his sword goes spinning as he crashes stunned at your feet!
Mergo' opponent falls back on his rump gasping up blood as it struggles to gain its toting once more.
You companions have swept the field for a brief moment!
The next wave has reached the top of the staircases howling for vengeance! what now?
GM rolls 3 for round 3!
OOC: I rolled a 2 for Round 3 Initiative. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
As the party gathers it's wits more enemy fighters hurl themselves down the staircases. Jolly's opponent springs at him from a crouch -taloned hands extended for Jolly's face, while Mergo's opponent rushes him!
Somehow Jolly avoid the talons eagerly snapping for his face!
Mergo is struck for 2 HP from a savagely wielded knife! His opponent snarls in triumph!!!!(GM rolled 19 ATT)
The blare of the trumpets is deafening in this high-ceilinged chamber!
Your Go!
Jolly yells to Baldue as he engages the creature to cover his escape, "get to the others!"
As he fights the creature Jolly positions himself to block the creature from chasing Baldue so he can run for the others and the exit. Jolly attempts to stab the creature in it's face, but the creature parries the blow with its weapon.
Mergo steps back quickly as he drops his sling and draws his short sword. He tries to stab the creature in it's leg to stop its advance, but the strange being easily dodges the attack.
Still holding the lantern in his off hand, Peldic deftly draws his short sword from its sheath and stabs the creature in its torso with a glancing blow while it attacks Mergo.
==================================================
OOC: Jolly rolls a 8 and misses his attack. Mergo rolls a 6 and misses his attack. Peldic rolls a 16 and hits AC 3 for 1 damage with his attack. I rolled a 5 for Round 4 Initiative. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
As Baldue runs for the exit Shirl leaps like a panther to your side and lands a wicked cut across the chest of your enemy, dropping it, before wheeling in step with you and racing back towards the exit!
Meanwhile, Hurtag steps up and aims a viscious cut at Mergo's opponent that misses, but Hurmak's spear thrust does not and the enemy screeches and goes down.
Baldue screams, "They's a million comin'!! "
As Jolly races back toward the others he yells, "get out!"
Mergo picks up his sling and races toward the copper door with the others.
Peldic hangs back waiting for Jolly and Shirl to reach him so he can provide them light with the lantern, but as soon as they get within ten feet of him he turns and runs for the copper door too.
The party literally slams the doors shut in the faces of a screaming enemy crowd! Before the doors can be wrenched open Shirl deftly jams a spike into the latch mechanism of both doors!
Hammer blows rock the doors, shaking them in their casements!
Beyla pants, "Go??"
Jolly nods as he pants and says between breaths, "let's go get Foromo!"
He turns and starts jogging down the hallway toward the first copper door they encountered.
You are actually surprised to see Foromo heading towards you!
"A bunch of freak lookin' folk are running about, attacking everything in sight! I just about got separated from my scalp!"
He is more than happy to get to the exit!
OOC - I know this area is of some interest to rarmy but it should take a backseat to the agreed overall mission. You guys can talk about it a bit next week when he returns.
"same here!" Jolly says to Foromo as he runs to the watery exit, "let's go swimming!"
====================================================
OOC: Jolly is cool with it too; the mission is top priority. This scene gave me the mental image of Indiana Jones running from the natives, LOL! Good stuff.
OOC - LOL! I had the same mental image! "REGGIE, START THE PLANE!"
Everyone is very enthusiastic about making the underwater trip and soon enough you find yourselves back in the chamber with the enormous statue, where everyone collapses around a hastily created fire.
Baldue holds his head in his hands and begins to sob, "Them critters are the cruelest bunch I've ever seen! They started cutting me up and was just laughin' and enjoying themselves to a "T".
They pretended not to know how to speak our language when I asked them questions, just slapped me around till I got quiet, but I heard them talkin' when they thought I was knocked out, and they speak it real good.
There aint no good in 'em, and from their talk they took over this whole place long ago from the Dwarves. They killed off all of them folk...this is some kinda ancient outpost of the Dwarves. Sounds like lots of families lived here a long time ago.
This area that we're in is some kind of graveyard to these monsters - holy ground - and they are madder than hornets that there's folk driften around up here. That's how they caught me - one of their spies was slippin' 'round and caught me when I - er - went to go to the can at the end of that hallway.
We aint gotta lot of time to find this here chaos pit. Them critters have got some Shamans stirring them up supthin fierce! They could come boilin' up anytime hellbent on killin' everything.
I just want ta say thanks fur saving my worthless hide. I...I..will try to be a better help to all of ya from now on...I aint never had nobody care enough to come back fur me anytime in my life, and I won't forget this."
Baldue then cries somemore.
Jolly goes over to Baldue and puts his hand on shoulder and says compassionately, "I know you'd do the same for any one of us here too, friend."
Turning to Beyla, he asks, "can you see to his wounds?"
Speaking to everyone he says, "once we get dry we leaving this tomb and continuing our quest."
Baldue nods.
Beyla takes some time out to clean and dress everyone's wounds. After taking some time to eat and dry by the fire everyone stands and shoulders their packs. They wait for Jolly to lead on.
Jolly leads everyone back out to the door that they originally entered that had the bloody hand print on it.
Moving cautiously back the way you came, you eventually pop out into the hallway and can now resume your hunt. Dead ahead is the door you originally entered this hallway by.
(http://i.imgur.com/UQ7r7S5.jpg)
It is very quiet in the corridor, with no sign of your cult pursuers.
What do you do?
We make our way back the large chamber that was littered with bodies and weapons from a battle.
Moving down the hallway and through the door you at last come back to the scene of the recent battle.
(http://i.imgur.com/4Ovj7xS.jpg)
Aside from the dried blood and guts, there are no signs of any gear or bodies, though lots of drag marks obviously head north up the vast tunnel.
On the wall opposite your map-indicated position is a chalk drawing of several constellations with serious effort having been made to erase the work.
What do you do?
Jolly cautiously leads the group to follow the blood smear marks to the northwest of the great chamber.
Moving forward up the vast silent hall the group comes up to a large open pit that stinks horribly! Moans and sighs rise up from the pit along with the wafting odor of death. Ahead your torches reveal two doors opposite each other. The are both closed.
(http://i.imgur.com/jX4YqVk.jpg)
What do you do?
Jolly moves up the edge of the pit and looks down into it. He motions for Peldic to come forward and direct the lantern's light down into the pit for a better view.
The pit itself is deep - very deep! Some 20 meters below your feet, this vast hole is squirming with bodies from the battle. Many are still, while others feed on whatever is within reach. As your lantern's light shines down, the active dead raise their heads and begin roaring at you as they fruitlessly attempt to climb the walls of the pit.
"By the Hexarchs!" Jolly exclaims when he sees the contents of the pit.
As he moves away from the edge of the pit, he whispers to his comrades. "watch the north door. I am going to listen to the south door."
Jolly puts his ear to the southern door and listens intently while the others remain as still as possible.
Listening to the South door does not reveal much; the sound of dripping water...
Jolly tries to open the door as quietly as possible.
You open the door and look in:
(http://i.imgur.com/XhIvkDf.jpg)
Opposite your door is a large mural, lavishly carved from the living rock. One of the mural's hands clutches a dimly glowing, red veined stone. Thin streams of water weep from the mural's many eyes down to the floor.
(http://i.imgur.com/5E660qd.jpg)
There is a hush about the room.
OOC - 200XP earned from the "Indiana Jones" fight, so, rounding up generously, that gives everyone 1000xp so far.
Jolly motions for everyone to come into the room and close the door quietly behind them.
Once everyone is inside, he turns to Beyla and asks, "does this mural and red veined stone mean anything to you?"
==========================================
OOC: Sweet! :) Also, looks to see where the water is going. Is there a drain that it runs into? Or is there a pool in the floor?
Beyla shakes her head no, "I have never heard of the stone or these images."
You note the small fountain in the room that the water drains into.
You now hear a voice in the room:
"JOLLY TWOFOOT, DO NOT BE AFRAID. TOUCH THE STONE AND ALL WILL BE MADE PLAIN."
Jolly - The others around you stand quietly as though they did not hear the voice.
Jolly chuckles to himself and then says, "alright, let's check out the north door on the other side of the pit."
He opens the door and walks around the zombie pit to the north door. He waits for everyone to exit and close the door. Once everyone is quiet he listens at this door for a minute or two.
(OOC - Okay, that made me shoot coffee out of my nose! No strange voices for you, lol!)
Jolly - moving to the North door, you begin to listen...
You hear some muffled music...
(OOC - Somewhat like the music played during the initial serpent cult tower scene in the original Conan the Barbarian film)
Jolly straightens up and readies his shield as he whispers, "get ready for a fight just in case."
He waits until everyone has prepared themselves. Once everyone is ready, he will try to open the door and look inside from the doorway before entering.
Looking inside you see a long corridor:
(http://i.imgur.com/iDwvz2c.jpg)
Ancient statues line the hall, similar to this:
(http://i.imgur.com/IPqnO1F.jpg)
The music is now a bit louder.
Jolly moves into the hallway of statues slowly and cautiously and motions for everyone to follow him.
Moving into the hallway you approach the first set of dust covered statues. Just as you stop to examine them, two dirty disheveled little girls come into view far ahead. You can tell that their hair is fair, they're likely sisters. Their clothes are of obvious fine quality, though torn and filthy. As your lantern beam plays over them they clutch each other tightly and stand still.
Jolly smiles and says to them, "it's alright. We're not going hurt you. How did you get down here?"
They stand still, unsure whether to run or seek from you the help they badly need. Finally Beyla approaches them gently and begins to quietly talk to them.
After she is done she hugs them both and tells them, "Sit here for a bit children and eat this food."
She returns to the group and whispers, "These two girls are sisters named Sarah and Rachel. They are from the town of Six Moons - That's about 30 Kilometers north of here. They do not know how long it has been since they were abducted as they are still very young. Sarah is 5 and Rachel is 6 years old."
Her voice tightens, "These eternally damned cultists have kidnapped these and other children, and have enslaved them. They intend to sacrifice them tonight in a ceremony to their filthy god. Sarah and Rachel escaped by slipping away from the group."
She stares murderously down the hallway of statues, "These cultists have now signed their own death warrants. I will now kill every one of them without an ounce of pity."
Shirl hisses, "Kill them all!"
Baldue curses under his breath, "I won't be afraid no more! Not now!"
Jolly's jaw tightens as he fights back the anger welling up inside him.
Got think clearly in this damned place, boyo! he mentally chides himself.
After a moment he clears his throat and asks Beyla, "can they lead us back the way they came? How many cultists did they see? How many more children are there?"
Beyla talks at length with the two children and finally returns to you, "They tell me that there are at least a dozen more little girls - just like them. They also guessed there were at least 50 cultists. Rachel knows where the cultists went to. They are all gathered in one spot."
"She helped me make a map. She says that she has only gone as far as the great double doors and does not know what is beyond them, but it smells bad..."
"She also says there are usually several guards lurking and watching the great hall that leads to the double doors. I have marked their location in red."
"Here, take a look."
(http://i.imgur.com/38gInmk.jpg)
Foromo indicates to Jolly he has an idea...let you and me go ahead as we don't need light, scout ahead and kill the gaurds. Let Hurtag act as messenger between us as his skill at tavelling silent is quite good. Let us pave the way for retribution from above...Hurmak as you seem to have found your true calling, let you be Beyla's Left Hand of Justice and keep her as safe as you can...you will sate your bloodlust soon...
Jolly nods at Foromo and says, "yes, we'll try to take the guards lightning fast and hope that we have the element of surprise."
There is nothing more to say so both of you move out. Arriving at the door to the great hall you look to your right and both see a large heat image at the opposite end of the hall- the guards are right where Beyla indicated. It's obvious that they have several torches lit to ward off the darkness.
Next move?
Without a word, Jolly charges at the guards with his shield up providing cover from the tip of his nose to his abdomen and his sword ready.
Quote from: Drohem;747314Without a word, Jolly charges at the guards with his shield up providing cover from the tip of his nose to his abdomen and his sword ready.
Foromo is right beside him...axe at the ready, shield up...
As you race down the length of the great hall the wail of the cultists music drowns out your approach! You explode onto the first guards like thunderbolts!
OOC - okay, you have your round of surprise - swing!
Quote from: pbj44;747316As you race down the length of the great hall the wail of the cultists music drowns out your approach! You explode onto the first guards like thunderbolts!
OOC - okay, you have your round of surprise - swing!
(OOC - Played with Rolz and dice rolling...hehehe...)
Foromo - 13 (AC6) for 7 Dmg
(http://rolz.org/embed?7556615) (http://rolz.org/info?7556615)
@Foromo - The four guards are shooting the breeze as you race around the corner! The closest reacts and turns towards you just in time to catch your battleaxe to his face! He never knew what hit him and hits the ground dead!
Jolly rushes in for the attack but the guard caught movement out of the corner of his eye and dodged the incoming strike at the last second.
=================================
OOC: I rolled a 7 for his attack and he misses. I rolled a 5 for Round 1 Initiative. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
The three remaining guards shout in confusion and ready their weapons! Jolly's opponent snarls, "You picked a bad time and place to get lost ya bum, now ya gotta die!"
GM rolls 4 for initiative, so your go!
Quote from: pbj44;747413The three remaining guards shout in confusion and ready their weapons! Jolly's opponent snarls, "You picked a bad time and place to get lost ya bum, now ya gotta die!"
GM rolls 4 for initiative, so your go!
Foromo spins his body 360 Degrees, heaving his axe into the Guard who just spoke... 19 to hit (AC0) for 7 dmg ... Hopefully chopping his head off...
(http://rolz.org/embed?7562121) (http://rolz.org/info?7562121)
Foromo feels a Bloodlust rising, the discovery of a Lost Dwarven Outpost, the People that wiped it out, and now this with the kids???
Enough is Enough!!!
@Jolly - it is obvious that Foromo has gone a bit crackers as he wheels about and decapitates your smirking opponent!
(http://i.imgur.com/Qe3p5YB.jpg)
The two remaining cult guards gasp in horror!
One cries out, "Mercy! I yield!" While the other merely tries to back away.
Jolly ignores the guard's plea for mercy and presses the attack anyway, but the guard is able to parry Jolly's thrust.
==========================
OOC: I rolled a 2 for Jolly's attack and he misses. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
@Jolly - After a short furious exchange with your opponent, you somehow end up with his sword dropped at your feet. Your opponent looks stunned and begins to babble pleas for mercy and spins about to run away!
(OOC - Rolled a fumble!)
Quote from: pbj44;747451@Jolly - After a short furious exchange with your opponent, you somehow end up with his sword dropped at your feet. Your opponent looks stunned and begins to babble pleas for mercy and spins about to run away!
(OOC - Rolled a fumble!)
Foromo is so ...pissed...
(http://rolz.org/embed?7563132) (http://rolz.org/info?7563132)
As he spins away, well...like I said, Foromo is a little upset...
Foromo - Your opponent in front of you screams, "He's gone MAD!"
(http://i.imgur.com/jq8MRbr.jpg)
As you turn and destroy Jolly's remaining opponent, he sneak strikes your back and tears your cloak, though does not pierce your armor.
You turn your attention back to him and spot a child's flute tucked into his belt...
GM rolls 3 for new round's initiative!
Jolly presses his attack without mercy and lunges with a powerful thrust at the remaining guard's stomach.
===================================
OOC: I rolled a 4 for Round 2 Initiative.
I rolled a 13 for Jolly's attack and he hits AC 6 for 6 damage. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
The last guard dies screaming on Jolly's blade and collapses dead on the floor. Nearby you can hear the music wailing from beyond the immense double doors.
(http://i.imgur.com/lqrXBUT.jpg)
Jolly whispers to Foromo, "let's get the others now."
He turns and goes back to bring the others back to this door.
It takes but a few minutes to gather the others to the door. Beyla says, "We cannot take these two children inside with us. Who will stay behind and guard them?"
As the party gets back together, Hurtag playfully taps Foromo on the head, saying "You can quite now..." Hurmak smiles knowingly. both huddle up with Foromo, talking him down...if you weren't sure, it is now obvious that these 3 have been together for some time...
the 3 of them look over to Beyla, "Your right, Baldue, do you still need time to shake the chains off??"
Jolly nods grimly and says, "yes, Baldue, will you watch the girls? If things go badly for us then get the girls out of here through the graveyard and get them back to town."
Baldue nods, "I'll take care of them, I promise. I'm gonna hide with them up in the entrance crypt. If ya'll ain't back by tomorrow I'll head into town."
Jolly smiles at Baldue and says, "I know you will, friend."
Foromo says, "Hurmak, on Belya, Hurtag, your on point, ifen Jolly is OK with that..."
Hurtag nods and pulls open one of the double doors. He sees:
(http://i.imgur.com/UjUmVbi.jpg)
What do you do?
Is this place empty??? Where are the guards??? Where is the music coming from???
The music seems to be coming from up ahead, up the steps. You can make out a doorway from where you are at. It feels like you are being watched...
Suspicious of another trap, Jolly motions for Hurtag to move forward with his sword. Mergo has his sling out and a stone loaded in it. Peldic holds the lantern and has his short sword in his other hand.
Hurmak makes ready, his "Spear-Crusher" at the ready, guarding Beyla as well as avenging the Kids...Foromo, Sheild and Axe, shakes his body in readiness.
with a nod from Jolly, Hurtag works his way across, crouched, weaving back and forth, silently...
(OOC - am assuming that Baldue had retrieved his crossbow???)
OOC- Yes, Baldue got his crossbow back before leaving with the children.
Crossing the vast room, you are soon at the steps. There is a sharp smell of cloves in the air.
As soon as you set your first foot on the steps you hear a Grunting and snarl off to your left followed by the rustle of quick moving armor.
(http://i.imgur.com/ugmy045.jpg)
OOC - GM rolls 3 for initiative!
Quote from: pbj44;747790As soon as you set your first foot on the steps you hear a Grunting and snarl off to your left followed by the rustle of quick moving armor.
Am assuming they have not seen Hurtag yet???He moves to the side, signaling to the others how many and where they are...
The creatures rush the party, missing Hurtag as he lurks off to the side.
Foromo rushes to meet them, swinging his axe...14 for AC5, 4 pnts dmg.
(http://rolz.org/embed?7575742) (http://rolz.org/info?7575742)
Hurmak stays buy Beyla side...at the ready. (But just in case...20 for AC-1, 5 pnts dmg...
(http://rolz.org/embed?7575769) (http://rolz.org/info?7575769)
Hurtag sneaks up on the last guy...21 for AC-Any, 10 pnts Dmg...
(http://rolz.org/embed?7575783) (http://rolz.org/info?7575783)
(OOC - I think the boys are pissed...)
OOC: I rolled a 2 for Round 1 Initiative. The enemy goes before our side in Round 1. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
(OOC - sorry...just wanna kill something...)
OOC - Drohem, tell the party battle order so I can make my round one rolls.
Jolly.......Foromo...................Hurtag
Shirl.......Hurmak
Mergo.....Beyla
......Peldic........
The 6 undead warriors jump the party and attack fiercely up and down the line. For a moment all is confusion with the wildly swinging lantern highlighting the arc of the swings of many blades. As the initial clash ends, both Beyla and Mergo stagger back wounded.
Beyla cries out, "NO! MERGO!"
OOC- @rarmy - your rolls can stand now that the monsters have completed their attack. Beyla was hit for 5hp (1hd monster rolled 18 which hits ac1). Mergo was hit for 8hp (1hd monster rolled 19 which hits ac0).
Shirl strikes her opponents shield but does no damage.
Beyla, sore wounded, strikes her enemy but a feeble tap.
Foromo, Hurmak, and Hurtag each slay their opponents in spectacular displays of violence! Three undead warriors are left.
Go Jolly and Peldic!
GM rolls 4 for round 2 initiative.
Jolly and Peldic try to wound the undead warriors but fail to land a telling blow.
==================================
OOC: Jolly rolled a 9 and missed. Peldic rolled a 7 and missed. Mergo is at -2 HP. I rolled a 3 for Round 2 Initiative. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
The undead warriors press their attack furiously!
One of the monsters is able to plunge his sword through Shirl's leg for 5HP of damage! She moans with the pain but holds the shield line!
Concerning Mergo - Lets say that at 0hp you are unconscious losing 1 hp every round, they can go down to negative half their constitution score before death rounded up.
Thus:
Beyla, gasping with pain, reaches out and lays a healing hand on Mergo for 6HP restored! Mergo stirs and opens his eyes. (OOC -Next round he is active again)
Shirl gives punishment in kind to her attacker - shearing it's head off in a flashing display of swordsmanship!
OOC - Two undead warriors left! Okay party, your go! Finish these guys off!
OOC - GM rolls 3 for round 3 initiative - if needed.
Jolly stabs his sword through the face of one of the Undead warriors with a satsifying thunk! sound. Peldic tries to fend off any enemy going for Mergo as he awakens from his unconscious state by waving his sword menacingly.
Mergo awakes to find himself lying on the cold stone floor and instantly moves to touch his wound but discovered it healed by Beyla's holy magic.
"By the Hexarchs!" he exclaims softly to himself as his weapon instinctively reaches for his fallen sword.
He stands and picks up his shield as the combat swirls around him. He steels himself to protect his friends and fight to the bitter end... again.
======================================
OOC: Jolly rolls a 15 for his attack and hits AC 4 for 5 damage. Peldic rolls a 8 for his attack and misses. I rolled a 4 for Round 3 Initiative. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
Beyla sinks to one knee gasping for breath and clutching her side. The last undead warrior raises his sword on high for a two-handed finishing blow! Beyla snarls, "I do not fear you! Burn in the underworld for your betrayal of the Holy Hexarchs!"
She raises her holy symbol and the creature staggers back ablaze with white fire. It grows still for a moment...and then explodes! For a brief time it is raining armor and bits of body parts. Beyla then collapses on the floor exhausted.
The fight is over.
OOC - 200xp for the fight.
Hurtag does a quick recon of the cavern, ensuring they are alone and nobody else is coming...
Hurmak helps Beyla, apologizing for not helping her as he should of...
Foromo looks to everybody else, "Do we keep going??
Moving up to the steps, the music is getting more shrill, more insistant. You get to the open doorway:
(http://i.imgur.com/uzYECx9.jpg)
(OOC - Hmmm, as I was rereading the Paladin in the Manual, totally forgot that...
They radiate protection from evil in a 10' radius at all times.
Protection from Evil
Level: 1
Duration: 12 turns
Range: Touch
This spell wards a creature from attacks by „evil‰ creatures. It
creates a magical barrier around the subject that moves with the
subject. The subject gains a bonus to AC of –1 and a +1 bonus
on saving throws. Both these bonuses apply against attacks
made or effects created by evil creatures.
In addition, this spell prevents bodily contact by summoned or
created creatures. This causes the natural weapon attacks of
such creatures to fail, and the creatures recoil if such attacks
require touching the warded creature. However, these creatures
can attempt missile attacks. The protection against contact by
summoned creatures ends if the warded creature makes an
attack against or tries to force the barrier against the blocked
creature.
Protection from Evil 10' Radius
Level: 4
Duration: 12 turns
Range: Touch
This spell functions exactly like the spell protection from evil ,
except protection from evil 10Ê radius extends the protective
barrier to a 10Ê radius around the caster or subject, allowing
companions to stay close and gain the benefits of the spell.
I think we need to remember this as we go in...and why Hurmak is next to Beyla w/AC4 vs Evil...hope it helps.)
After Hurtag makes his report, Foromo looks over to Jolly..."Sneak in, Charge in..or just walk in like we own the place??"
OOC: Where did you read that a flute whistle was dropped? Also, several party members are badly wounded. Beyla has -5 HPs, Shirl has -5 HPs, and Mergo has -2 HPs. We need to heal up before we continue forward. I think that Beyla is out of Heal spells after she healed Mergo.
Quote from: Drohem;748125OOC: Where did you read that a flute whistle was dropped? Also, several party members are badly wounded. Beyla has -5 HPs, Shirl has -5 HPs, and Mergo has -2 HPs. We need to heal up before we continue forward. I think that Beyla is out of Heal spells after she healed Mergo.
(OOC - My bad, wrong group...was guards we hit earlier, this is all starting to blend together...will edit post accordingly...
2. Yes we are hurt, can heal either Shirl or Beyla for 2 pnts, tell me who to give it to, also, are we not pressed for time?? can we afford to wait? I was under impression a great child slaughter is about to happen, or did I read that wrong as well???
I bow to you as party leader, your call, just let me know.)
(OOC - Post edited...again, sorry...)
OOC: LOL, no worries. I thought one of the brothers was a cleric, but realized he's paladin. Use his Lay on Hands on Shirl and then we'll move out.
Quote from: Drohem;748177OOC: LOL, no worries. I thought one of the brothers was a cleric, but realized he's paladin. Use his Lay on Hands on Shirl and then we'll move out.
(OOC - Whew, thought I blew it there for a moment...)
Hurmak "Lays his Hand" on Shirl for 2 points of heal...
Foromo and the boys look to Jolly...Foromo saying "What do you want us to do, and how do you want us to do it..."
Jolly says grimly, "if there was a time to use our flaming pots, it's now. Foromo, Hurtag, and Hurmak will form the front line at first to give the rest us time to ignite and toss our flaming pots. Then we draw our weapons and kill everyone left standing."
Foromo nods, and with the boys, makes ready...he hands over the pots they still have, bout 3 more by my reckoning...
Cautiously, carefully, you enter the tunnel. After a few meters you see:
(http://i.imgur.com/6doGB5N.jpg)
The music is amplified somehow in this chamber to a thunder pitch, even drowning out the waterfall in this cavern.
You spot at least one guard...
OOC: How far away from us is the guard?
OOC- The nearest guard looks to be some 25 feet away, busily working a large forge, just as in the picture. The platform above him connects to 1) a narrow trail that steeply climbs up to a larger trail which in turn branches into two paths; a rope bridge (where a guard is posted) crossing the cavern to a tunnel, and a larger trail which circles the cavern over to a cave entrance, and 2) a wooden ramp circling back and above your tunnel entrance to yet another cave opening.
So, in summery, the party has two guards to contend with, one near and one far. The party has three potential paths, one that circles back behind your current location (the wooden ramp to the cave), the branching path ahead which leads to either the rope bridge spanning the cavern, or the trail that continues on, leading to the cave.
Jolly motions for Foromo, Hurtag, and Hurmak to try and move closer toward the guard working at the forge before they attack him.
Hurtag leads the way...Can we get close enough for the kill???
Creeping up behind the warrior working at the forge you get within 6-8 feet from him and he is still busy at work.
Okay...
Hurtag sneaks up and finishes the job... (OOC - When Appropriate...) Rolls 21 (AC-Any) for 7 pnts dmg...
(http://rolz.org/embed?7605141) (http://rolz.org/info?7605141)
Hurtag slips up and gives him the knife. He drops with a groan that is buried in the din of both the wailing music and the waterfall's roar. You all crouch down...
The other guard, is there a way to him??
Foromo - you suspect that the easiest way to get at the other guard would be for someone to pull themselves up onto the platform and then up the trail and around the boulder to get to the guard:
(http://i.imgur.com/m3Ccsl4.jpg)
But you would have to be pretty sneaky about it...
Hurtag nods, and proceeds to take the other guard out...
(http://rolz.org/embed?7606173) (http://rolz.org/info?7606173)
This guard dies hard...Hurtag stabs him about 10 times before he sags lifeless to the dirt...
After hiding the dead...we return back to Jolly...Foromo looks to Jolly, "What now, explore??"
Jolly grimly nods approvingly at Hurtag when he returns from killing the guards silently, and then says softly, "we'll first take the wooden ramp to the cave behind us."
Hurtag leads the way...stealthy mode, of course...
Moving onto the ramp you make quick, silent, progress up the ramp to the cave mouth. From inside the cave you can barely hear:
"SISTER, WHERE'S THE NUTMEG??"
"SHUT UP YOU BRATS!"
sound of fist striking flesh followed by a wail!
Jolly rushes into the cave with his sword drawn and ready to strike the first person he sees who not a child.
Foromo, Hurtag, and Hurmak stop, lower their heads in resignation, and charge in behind him...
Two hidious Hags whirl and face you at the sound of your approach!
One is standing in a makeshift kitchen and snatches up a huge kitchen knife!
(http://i.imgur.com/WZJo5aN.jpg)
The other is standing near a group of cowering children with her hand raised. She flashes an evil grin at the party and you notice steel-like talons emerge from her fingers!
(http://i.imgur.com/2GHnSIY.jpg)
OOC - GM rolls 6 for initiative!
OOC: I rolled a 1 for Round 1 Initiative. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
(OOC - Hmmm...don't we have slight advantage of surprise and we're charging??? Just askin...)
OOC - Them old ladies have some powers, you ain't gonna sneak up on them!
With a shared chuckle both the Hags disappear!
OOC - Your go!
Well, with them hags gone, any other threats?? How many kids??
Foromo - You count nineteen children in the room when suddenly one of them rises up in the air and begins to cry!
"Beyla...Please??" Foromo then post guards for early warning...
Foromo feels the crunching impact of a weapon against his armor that fortunately does not penatrate!!!! Nearby you hear a chuckle of laughter that circles 'round you!
"Hurmak, protect the children!!!" Foromo then twirls around, trying to spot the Hag...
Beyla leaps into the kitchen and flings a jar of flour into the air! For a moment you catch a glimpse of the dimly outlined forms of the two Hags!
OOC - Okay, now lets wait for Drohem.
It was a surreal moment in time as the swirling flour dusted everything in the area, but that moment was gone in a flash of steel and stone. Mergo let fly a stone from his whirling sling at the outline of the hag that was not holding the child in the air. Confident of his target and his aim the stone flies accurately with with force.
A split-second after the stone leaves Mergo's sling both Jolly and Peldic streak across the room to attack the hag holding up the child. They both stab at the hag's torso trying to take her down quickly and avoid hitting the dangling child.
===========================================
OOC: Mergo rolls a 16 and hits AC 3 for 2 damage. Jolly rolls a 15 and hits AC 4 for 6 damage. Peldic rolls a 14 and hits AC 5 for 2 damage. I rolled a 2 for Round 2 Initiative. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
With a ragged gasp the Hag drops the child and collapses!
She points and begins to wheeze a curse at Jolly, "Wither thee...cough...burn thee...cough...
GM rolls 4 for initiative.
Her sister howls at her twin's demise, and then screeches as Mergo's stone strikes her with a solid thump!
"I'LL SPOON YOUR EYEBALLS OUT!" she screams as she leaps through the air at Mergo!
She crashes into Mergo who somehow manages to barely keep his face away from her slashing nails which snap furiously but a fraction of an inch away from his eyes!!
Mergo backpedals as he draws his sword and wildly stabs at the hag trying to claws his eyes out. His attack was defensive and just an attempt to keep her at bay for a moment.
Jolly and Peldic rush to Mergo's aid and stab at the hag furiously. As the hag sidesteps Peldic's thrust she moved directly into Jolly's precision stroke. Jolly's blade pierces the hag's spine with destructive force.
=====================================
OOC: Mergo rolls a 3 and misses. Peldic rolls a 6 and misses. Jolly rolls a 19 and hits AC 0 for 4 damage. I rolled a 3 for Round 3 Initiative. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
Foromo, Hurtag, and Hurmak, being a little tired from the previous encounter, swing and miss anything... (OOC - rolled a 2, 4, and 9...:banghead:)
The Hag screeches as Jolly's blow connects! She then astounds the party by uttering a single word that allows her to dodge all remaining attacks as if they were executed in slow motion! As the last swing is dodged, time returns to normal as the Hag executes a backflip and lands in front of Hurtag, shredding him for 6hp with her terrible iron nails before her outline fades - invisible again!
OOC - GM rolled 4 for initiative, and attack roll of 19. Okay, your go!
Foromo swings and hits...something (OOC - Foromo rolls 20 for AC-1, 7 pnts dmg)
Hurtag swings back (OOC - rolls 18 AC1, for 9 pnts dmg)
Hurmak continues to protect the children...by swinging his spear wildly...(OOC - rolls 5 to hit...)
(OOC - BTW, what word did she speak??)
Foromo connects with something solid, and at once finds the Hag on top of him breathing in his face as though trying to steal his breath...before she slides off of him - dead!
OOC - I could tell you the word but uttering it would turn any character doing so into a Hag!
Back at the doorway, "WHO KILLED MY SISTERS!"
Whirling about you see...nothing...
foromo hollers..."Beyla, more flour!!!"
Beyla barks, "There is no more!"
GM rolls 3 for initiative!
OOC: I rolled a 1 for Round 4 Initiative. (http://rolz.org/myroomlog?r=Barrowmaze)
There is a "whoosh" in the air and then you hear Shirl gasp as she flies backwards to the ground! Her cloak is badly ripped!
An evil chuckle fills the room causing the children to cry out in panic!
OOC- Okay, go party!
Foromo blindly swings, and connects with something...(OOC - rolls 17 (AC2) for 8 pnts dmg)
Hurmak and Hurtag Blindly swings, hitting nothing (OOC - 6 and 4 respectfully)
A sigh fills the room and a form becomes visible on the floor - its the final Hag...
the way things are going, we stand ready, just in case...
Still quiet...Shirl stands up...she then begins to comfort the children.
Hurtag sits down, as he starts dressing his wounds...How many kids??
Counting carefully, you determine that there are 22 children.
Beyla says, "The children say that they are all here, that the bad folk have not taken any yet to the "bad" place. We must get out now! They will surely be back soon for their victims!"
(OOC - Jolly, your up!!)
Jolly says, "let's get these children out of here now. We'll find Baldue and get them to town."
For once you actually catch a break and arrive back in town with the Children safely. The is a tumultuous reception for you as word spreads of your achievement! The Brazen Strumpet's innkeeper informs you all that your money is no good there any more and gets each of you a private room (with tub!). No one allows you to pay for food or drinks and you are begged incessantly to retell the tale - over and over again.
The Lord's Privy Council declares a week of feasting in your honor!
OOC - 625xp for the fight and the rescue. What's next for you guys?
Quote from: pbj44;748999OOC - What's next for you guys?
Hurmak follows Beyla back to the church, thus finalizing his conversion to Paladin, He also upgrades his armor to Chain + Shield.
Hurtag licks his wounds
Foromo sends a letter back to his Chieftain detailing his, the groups, find.
We assure Beyla we are committed to finishing her task, thus we get together to discuss provisions, hiring a new person, what went wrong, what went right...
(OOC - Am thinking of upgrading both Hurtag and Hurmak to Bastard Swords, what say you???(http://www.rarmy.com/tmp/thinking.gif))
OOC - Just checking in guys. Do you guys want to continue, take a break, or switch to Classic Traveller for a while? Just let me know!
Pause
:)Drohem!
P.S. - I can also happily run Traveller and this game in tandem.
No, I totally want to continue this game too! :)
We rest for a couple of days and then get back to our mission for Beyla. Who knows what those dirty cultists have been up to during our downtime these last couple of days!
While in town Jolly will request an audience before the Lord's Privy Council. He will explain to them the circumstances of the children's rescue and Beyla's mission (tactfully leaving out the specific details of it came to pass). He will then respectfully request some funds so that some of his companions can get better arms and armor before returning to finish their mission.
Almost finished with my Traveller character too. He enlisted into the Merchants and spent five tours. He achieved Rank 3 before mustering out of the service.
Quote from: Drohem;749379No, I totally want to continue this game too! :)
We rest for a couple of days and then get back to our mission for Beyla. Who knows what those dirty cultists have been up to during our downtime these last couple of days!
While in town Jolly will request an audience before the Lord's Privy Council. He will explain to them the circumstances of the children's rescue and Beyla's mission (tactfully leaving out the specific details of it came to pass). He will then respectfully request some funds so that some of his companions can get better arms and armor before returning to finish their mission.
Almost finished with my Traveller character too. He enlisted into the Merchants and spent five tours. He achieved Rank 3 before mustering out of the service.
(OOC - Agree, though at this time I can afford most of what I need. yes, we get close but have yet to finish our quest with Beyla, and that weighs heavy...have specific things am thinkin of for my characters...
Traveler, have yet to start, will have to work on that, balanced with what I have going on at this time...)
OOC - Okay, great! We can continue this game and also get the Traveller one going. Just send me your Traveller characters via pm and let me gape in awe at them. This will generally be a loose sandbox style game ala Firefly. I have a suitable backwater planet and a starship in mind.
Jolly, Visiting with the Lord's Privy Council yields good results. The dramatic rescue of the children has convinced them that the party has what it takes to clean out the Barrowmoors of the worst of it's undead.
They give the party 750gp as a reward for services rendered.
OOC - Please purchase what arms and armor you wish while on a couple of days downtime. Let me know when you are each ready to resume and we will have another go. You're right - the bad guys have been VERY active in your absense!
Quote from: pbj44;749408OOC - Okay, great! We can continue this game and also get the Traveller one going. Just send me your Traveller characters via pm and let me gape in awe at them. This will generally be a loose sandbox style game ala Firefly. I have a suitable backwater planet and a starship in mind.
Jolly, Visiting with the Lord's Privy Council yields good results. The dramatic rescue of the children has convinced them that the party has what it takes to clean out the Barrowmoors of the worst of it's undead.
They give the party 750gp as a reward for services rendered.
OOC - Please purchase what arms and armor you wish while on a couple of days downtime. Let me know when you are each ready to resume and we will have another go. You're right - the bad guys have been VERY active in your absense!
(OOC - You want char mods here or in Interest forum???)
You can stick them over in the interest thread, thanks!
OOC - Okay Drohem, I have created the Classic Traveller thread and made the initial post. I will first introduce yours and then a few posts later - rarmy's character.
Having rested for two days the party gathers once more at the Brazen Strumpet.
Beyla nods to the group, "Well, we are all together again and re-equipped to face our foes once more. This meeting concerns how we should best proceed. It is my hope that this time we can find the Pit and lay the dead to rest for good."
"Jolly and Foromo, how should we approach it this time?"
Jolly thinks about it a moment before answering, and then says thoughtfully, "I think that we should go back through the graveyard entrance and scout it out. Let's see if the Cultists are stiffened their defenses since our escape with the children. I think that if we can follow the Cultists' trail it might lead us to the Pit. They may have already discovered its location."
Beyla nods, "Foromo, unless you have something to add, we will head out tomorrow and follow this plan."
(OOC - Swore I posted something here yesterday, but do not see it anywhere...)
Foromo replies "No, nothing to add, unless where we got the children is where the pit is..."
Hurtag is sitting off to the side, listening, working on getting rid of this "New Sword" shine with some soot...
Hurmak is attentive, swearing that Beyla will not be touched this time...
(OOC - OK, let's get back to business...)
The next morning, as everybody gets together and makes ready to head off, you notice the Foromo, Hurtag, and Hurmak are missing. You remember they were huddled together last night, having a very good time, Hmmm, are they hung over?? Late getting up?? Wait, from the back of the Inn, you hear a melodious voice raise, High Tenor you believe, followed by a Low Tenor, being answered by a beautiful bass voice joining in...all in perfect harmony. Soon, you hear, and see the threesome, Foromo in the lead, followed by Hurtag, with Hurmak taking the rear. As they walk toward you, you hear what they're singing..."Hi-Ho, Hi-Ho, it's off to work we go..."followed by the whistling of the catchiest tune, the type that gets stuck in your head for hours. They walk in perfect unison, almost like marching, as they go by you. That's when you realize their heading off, so you all scramble to catch-up.
(OOC - Question, do you fall in line? do you sing, hum, or whistle with them? I mean, come on, it is a funny sight, and I don't care who you are...)
Both Beyla and Shirl look at each other in wonder and then almost shyly join in, and everyone is having a good time until Baldue joins in lustily singing off-key, which causes both of the ladies to break down in gales of laughter. Baldue looks about, "What???"
Marching back to the graveyard you set up a vantage point to spy on the graveyard entrance to the catacombs. You are surprised to see several groups of cultists scattered about the tombs near that entrance. The are keenly watching the entrance, weapons at the ready...
They are a sorry looking, bedraggled bunch, with the appearance of recent hard fighting. As the sun climbs higher an obvious leader emerges from the entrance and waves them back into the dungeon. The do so reluctantly, and soon the graveyard is deserted once more.
What do you do?
Going to send our intrepid Ranger, Hurtag, ahead to scout and investigate...
Hurtag approaches the area, quietly, working his way up to the door...what does he see / hear???
Jolly and the others wait for Hurtag to return with his report. Jolly and Mergo have their slings out and a bullet load in the pouch. They are ready to support Hurtag with missile fire if he comes back to them being chased.
Hurtag moves up to and enters the tomb entrance. There are clear signs of recent fighting in the tomb area. The stairs down into the catacombs are heavily smeared with dried blood.
The area is quiet.
Hurtag, knowing he can be seen from above...waves them on down. He then meets them halfway, giving his report...
Beyla listens and then turns to Jolly, "What do you think?"
Jolly thinks for a moment and then says, "it looks like the Cultists had an encounter with another faction of some kind. If their numbers have been diminished then that is fortuitous for us. Let's go in and have a look."
Moving carefully down the bloody staircase you reach the now familiar landing.
(http://i.imgur.com/BqIONo5.jpg)
The once closed door to the west has been smeared with blood and is now battered ajar.
Jolly motions to the west door with his hand and moves closer to it to inspect it and look inside the room beyond.
(OOC - You guys move to fast...was going to send the Ranger up front...O'well)
Foromo stays with Jolly, Hurtag behind with an Arrow nocked...just in case, while Hurmak makes good by being by Beyla, Pole arm at the ready...
Peering into the doorway with your torch you see the outlines of a large room:
(http://i.imgur.com/peYhDpx.jpg)
The walls are slick with a peculiar condensation which has already fossilized a number of cultist's bodies scattered about the room. In the middle of the North wall is an enormous pile of rubble only partially concealing an archway. There is a steady dripping sound coming from all portions of the room.
Jolly motions to the archway and whispers, "alright, Hurtag, scout it out. We'll cover you."
Mergo loads a bullet into his sling. Jolly readies his shield and sword.
Hurtag approaches the pile of trash and the archway...he stops and inspects the liquid, safely...
As Hurtag approaches the archway, the stench of fetid cloves overwhelms him. He notices the sand withdrawing from the entrance of the archway - as though being vaccuumed away.
Quote from: pbj44;750460As Hurtag approaches the archway, the stench of fetid cloves overwhelms him. He notices the sand withdrawing from the entrance of the archway - as though being vaccuumed away.
He stops, does he feel a wind?? is the stench following the sand??
There is now wind in the chamber and he notices the stench is moving away with the shifting sand.
He reports back with his findings...based on earlier observations, he tells them "I think the Vampire is on the loose...continue on??"
"Follow him," Jolly says grimly, "let's end that creature's existence once and for all."
Hurtag, Hurmak, and Foromo all smile..."Let's go"
Hurtag starts tracking...
Clearing some room in the archway, you are soon able to push through the debris and enter a tunnel.
The tunnel itself has a dry musky smell to it - one reeking with cloves. Moving around the corner, torch on high, you feel a bit odd for a moment.
Glancing back, you see that what was once the archway and tunnel behind you, is now a dusty dead-end.
Jolly whispers to Mergo and Peldic, "get the holy-firebomb ready to toss. If we come across that vampire again, then don't hesitate and toss them."
Turning back to the front, he motions for Hurtag to continue forward with his hand. He then sheathes his sword and readies his silvered dagger as he moves out.
Foromo notices that Hurtag Torch Light disappeared..."By the Gods" he utters, "Hurmak, on Beyla" he commands ... he heads forward.
Quote from: rarmy;751107Foromo notices that Hurtag Torch Light disappeared..
OOC: What? Did I miss something? Anyway, we aren't using torches for light. Peldic has a hooded lantern. Unless someone wants to have lighted torch as well, of course.
Quote from: Drohem;751120OOC: What? Did I miss something? Anyway, we aren't using torches for light. Peldic has a hooded lantern. Unless someone wants to have lighted torch as well, of course.
Quote from: pbj44;750750Clearing some room in the archway, you are soon able to push through the debris and enter a tunnel.
The tunnel itself has a dry musky smell to it - one reeking with cloves. Moving around the corner, torch on high, you feel a bit odd for a moment.
Glancing back, you see that what was once the archway and tunnel behind you, is now a dusty dead-end.
(OOC - Blame Phil...:) )
OOC - Yeah, yeah, blame Phil!:)
The party watches Hurtag move through the debris and move into the tunnel. You are surprised when you see both him and his light source wink out! The tunnel is now empty...
Quote from: pbj44;751405OOC - Yeah, yeah, blame Phil!:)
The party watches Hurtag move through the debris and move into the tunnel. You are surprised when you see both him and his light source wink out! The tunnel is now empty...
Foromo looks over to Jolly as he follows Hurtag...
Jolly nods and motions to move forward. Looking back at everyone else, he waves them forward too.
So, it looks like we all step through...Hurtag senses their coming, so he secures the area...Bow at the ready...
It takes but a moment for the rest of the party to make the transition. The first things you notice is both the stench of cloves and the teeth chattering cold. Hurtag informs all of you that the cold just began the moment all of you arrived.
Looking about, you see you are all in the Southern leg of a rough hewn tunnel leading to a four-way intersection.
Jolly shrugs his shoulders and points toward the western hallway and motions for Hurtag to move forward.
Hurtag heads off, lit torch in hand...
Hurtag moves forward and takes the west corridor. After walking for a short way he arrives at yet another corner. The hallway going forward is nearly frozen! Looking closely you see a heavy iron door hoary with frost. There are two heavy wooden doors opposite it - both covered with frost as well.
(http://i.imgur.com/9iKAjLK.jpg)
Hurtag moves his torch up to some of the frost, does it Melt?? if so, how fast does it re-freeze...
The frost hisses and melts, but with the area being so cold, it soon begins to freeze once more.
any footprints, hand prints, or tracks?? and not just on the floor, wall and ceiling as well...
Jolly points to the iron door and asks, "Foromo, what can you discern about that door?"
Foromo studies the door for several minutes. The only area on the door that seems a bit less iced up is a small bit of decorative ironwork near the top of the door.
Quote from: pbj44;752101Foromo studies the door for several minutes. The only area on the door that seems a bit less iced up is a small bit of decorative ironwork near the top of the door.
Does it look like a release mechanism, or an alarm of some kind???
OOC - Nobody knows what it is...
Well then, I push on it...
Pushing on the iron fancywork causes the door to pop open with a rumble. A frosted-over hallway is revealed to your lantern light:
(http://i.imgur.com/Qki5IiF.jpg)
Foromo and Hurtag both stop and look to Jolly. Foromo says "How do we kill a Vampire??"
Beyla looks at all of you, "Thats a good question! Jolly, you likely know more than me on the subject! What should we do? What should we guard against?"
Jolly says thoughtfully, "I think that Foromo's Flaming Holy Water should do the trick. Also, it seems that silver weapons hurt it too. If we get it down, then should burn it to a crisp just to be sure."
Foromo, Hurtag, and Hurmak pull out their new Silver Daggers, and ready a couple of "Holy Hand Grenades". They then look to Jolly, "We assume you want us to keep going straight then???"
Foromo and Hurtag go forward, looking for traps, Secret Doors, traps, and anything out of the ordinary, and did I say traps???
Taking their time and searching carefully, both quickly discover an enormous trap in the 10' section just before the two doors. Just tapping on the floor in that area causes some fumes to drift up from that section of flooring - from many tiny holes.
What do you do?
Quote from: pbj44;753581Taking their time and searching carefully, both quickly discover an enormous trap in the 10' section just before the two doors. Just tapping on the floor in that area causes some fumes to drift up from that section of flooring - from many tiny holes.
What do you do?
Is there a way around it?? or does it cover the entire 10' square...
The small holes seem to cover the entire 10x10 floor area.
Quote from: pbj44;753602The small holes seem to cover the entire 10x10 floor area.
What happens of I take a small section and pour water on the small holes...
Introducing any kind of liquid down into the holes causes strong fumes to begin to emerge from them. Choke! Choke! Everyone asks you to stop that!
Quote from: pbj44;753605Introducing any kind of liquid down into the holes causes strong fumes to begin to emerge from them. Choke! Choke! Everyone asks you to stop that!
OK, hold the lit torch over the small holes, is the fumes flammable??
Holding the torch over the holes ignites a firestorm the burns for some 10 minutes before snuffing out...
Now when we tap on the floor, no more fumes???
Further tapping does not produce any more fumes. Beyla heaves a sigh of relief that this threat is past. "I can't stand the idea of choking."
Foromo and Hurtag continue on, checking for traps, secret doors, traps, and any secret doors...
Moving carefully up and down the length of the hallway you can see a number of heavy wooden doors bound with iron.
(http://i.imgur.com/2tENOfb.jpg)
At the very end of the passage you inspect a large scene carved into the passage's end wall:
(http://i.imgur.com/pog0dro.jpg)
Just when it seemed you were at a dead end you spotted a clue in the upraised sword of the mural's smaller warrior. It wiggles a bit as though it might be on a hinge of some sort.
First off, having been listening very closely, any sounds coming from the wooden doors?? If so, I mark them...then listen carefully to what's behind the Mural...
You don't hear anything behind the wooden doors, but you can hear a very faint moaning sound from behind the mural.
Quote from: pbj44;754299You don't hear anything behind the wooden doors, but you can hear a very faint moaning sound from behind the mural.
Moaning like somebody in pain?? or like some creature with a limited vocabulary???
Foromo and Hurtag look back, "Do we check all the wooden doors first?? or go straight for the Mural...???"
You cannot make out what is making the moaning, but although it varies in pitch it is constant.
Quote from: pbj44;754367You cannot make out what is making the moaning, but although it varies in pitch it is constant.
the moaning of the wind??? as opposed to a person???
OOC - there is only one way to find out...
Quote from: pbj44;754435OOC - there is only one way to find out...
(OOC - I would really like to check out the other doors first, before we progress further. what say the rest of the party??? Somehow, I think we are losing some chances to gain treasures and drops by not checking out the various rooms...)
Everyone nods to you in agreement.
Beyla murmurs, "It is best I think not to leave potential enemies between us and the exit. Lead us back to the first door you wish to check."
Quote from: pbj44;754516Everyone nods to you in agreement.
Beyla murmurs, "It is best I think not to leave potential enemies between us and the exit. Lead us back to the first door you wish to check."
(OOC - 6 doors in this order...)
(http://www.rarmy.com/tmp/labeled-corr.png)
check out door #1 carefully before opening...
OOC - Some potential action here - let's hold up until Drohem rejoins us.
Quote from: pbj44;754893OOC - Some potential action here - let's hold up until Drohem rejoins us.
(OOC - Was my thinking as well...)
Yep, Frozen!