History:

A few generations ago, the kingdom of Kei was ruled by an extremely strict tyrant.  Toward the end of his reign, the severity of King Evan's heavy hand became nothing less than wholesale genocide.  The number of lives lost to the executioner's axe is estimated to be in the hundreds of thousands.  Dirk, a courageous young official in the king's court took it upon himself to punish the king by beheading him and his family.  He met very little resistance.  Before long the official was crowned the new king.

King Dirk ruled in a very fair even-handed manner compared to his predecessor, and the kingdom slowly recuperated.  But he had his own flaws.  He was very suspicious of outsiders, even xenophobic.  When the King's daughter, Princess Hope, fell in love with the elf Prince Eöl Tulcakelumë, he forbade their romance.  She forsook her royal name, ran away from home, and married her lover against his will.

The King Dirk's second eldest son Justin was very hot-headed to begin with, but when he learned of the loss of his sister he was so furious with his father he plotted to overthrow him.  In one night, he and his rebels slew his brothers and the king.  They planted evidence that suggested the elves were to blame.  He took the throne and declared war on his brother-in-law's kingdom.

The war was short lived.  Not only did the kingdom of Kei lack the resources to wage war on the ancient elf kingdom, but the new king was quickly slipping into the tyranny of two generations ago.  When the truth came out that he assassinated his family, he was soon deposed.  The elf King Angrod who conquered Kei had no desire to rule a human realm, so he gave the crown to his son Eöl.

King Eöl shared his crown equally with his wife Hope.  They renamed the capitol city "Unity" and enacted laws to encourage racial equality.  The kingdom grew as elves, dwarfs, halflings, and others integrated into the society.  Though they did away with the official rules of ascension by birthright, their firstborn son Justin proved to be such a natural born leader, they named him king at a relatively early age and served as his advisers.

Himself now a father of a son and daughter, King Justin has been renowned as one of the most lenient kings in all history.  The current immigration law allows anyone who can speak the common tongue to become a citizen.  Even Drow are openly welcomed to join.  At least officially.  Laws don't remove racial and religious tensions.  Some criticize that King Justin's leniency has allowed crime to rise and it may eventually lead to rebellion.

The people's favored heir is King Justin's son, Adam.  He's very charismatic, generous, good looking, etc.  But his family also knows him to be lazy and uninterested in matters of state.  His sister Meren is the parents' favored choice for their heir.  She's strong willed and practical, and cares much for her people's future.  Yet her lack of diplomacy has earned her little favor in the eyes of the court officials or the people.  Some say King Justin may even choose an heir outside his family.

---

UNITY REGIONAL BENEFIT
 Add Diplomacy to your class skill list.
 +2 to Diplomacy checks.
 Add an extra language of your choice (Besides Abyssal and Supernal).

 Despite Unity being relatively new, Unity has been around long enough for anyone who remembers the tyranny before Eöl to be too old for adventuring. Thus, anyone who was born in Unity when it was called "Unity" has benefited from prosperity rather than tyranny. The continued support of racial acceptance, coupled with the fact that more and more races have arrived and even been born in Unity means that the people of Unity are not only used to most races, but have become accustomed to meeting new ones. For this reason, most people in Unity are not racist, but even those who are know well enough how to get along with other races. Therefor, players with the Unity Regional Benefit can add the Diplomacy skill to their class skill list and receive a +2 bonus to Diplomacy checks.  Finally, due to the fact people who live in Unity always hear more than the Common tongue, any player character who grew up in Unity gains one extra language of choice.

---

MILITIA

Every citizen of Unity is expected to take part in it's security against all enemies foreign and domestic.  Officially, the bulk of the army of Unity is made up of it's citizens, both men and women.  One of the responsibilities of every citizen strong enough to wield a weapon is to own one and become proficient enough to use it effectively.  Formal weapons training is part of P.E. and usually begins in a child's first year of school, though by then most parents have already trained the child in the safe use of weapons.  To qualify for graduation, young adults must be proficient in at at least on weapon.  In time of war, they are to present their arms to the local sheriff and carry out his orders.

Law enforcement is handled similarly.  Every resident aware of a crime in progress is expected to assist the authorities in capturing the perpetrators or risk being prosecuted as accomplices.  (Usually, shouting "Suspect sighted!" while running for cover is enough to qualify as assisting the authorities.  If you want to anger the local authorities and be thrown in jail, try using the words "diplomatic immunity" as an excuse.)  If a man-hunt is needed, the sheriff may temporarily deputize citizens (usually volunteers) to supplement the standing force.  Those deputized are required to postpone their other obligations until the are relieved of duty.

---

Kei has the standard laws of a 'Lawful Good' society.  (See Unity laws thread.)
This message was last edited by the player at 02:25, Thu 06 Nov 2008.

I may flesh out the background a little more, but that's the basic idea.  The story begins in Unity, the capital city of Kei.  Feel free to introduce your character as a visitor, a natural-born citizen, or whatever.  Unity is a large city by D&D standards with a population near half a million.  Quests abound for adventurers and are generally commissioned at the nearest sheriff's office.  As with any city, some neighborhoods are more prone to crime, some are known for commerce, some for an abundance of a specific race, etc.  The story will begin at the neighborhood that typifies the rest of the city - the one that is home to the immigration office.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:29, Sun 26 Oct 2008.

Emerald has just been let into the city via the immigration office and is brand new here. She gets a lot of looks even here since she is the first of her race to have come to the city. Emerald smiles as she looks about...

"What a place.." she says confidently. After all... what the immigration office doesn't know is that Emerald herself has a shady history, making her quite familiar with the darker side of places. Meaning she's not scared of any trouble-makers that may be lurking in the dark since they may very well be her friends shortly.

But due to how different Emerald looks, she does wonder if she'll get trouble from the meat headed types who decide to pick on her. Still, Emerald believes she can handle herself well enough. This is the true beginning of Emerald's adventures...

  What the immigration office didn’t know about Blake, was that he did not have a shady history.

  Of course, they (nor Blake) knew that the guy off to his left once tried and failed to run a BBQ’d Prawns cart a few years back. But neither case is very dramatic, so why are we even mentioning it?

  There were good reasons they didn’t know these things about Blake though (unless they had been doing some coincidentally accurate random scrying on the side).  One would be the fact that, as Blake wasn’t exactly intending to do that whole ‘become a citizen’ thing right now, and possibly not later either, he had no reason to consult with immigration services in the first place.

  Well, unless that reputed oh so understanding openness to all people and races etc to Unity city only applied to those who unified themselves with the city officially and abandoning their original homes.  But that would be silly, and they’d never get any visitors or much in the way of business relations that way.

  ‘Of course, it’s not nonstop personal parts dropping off freezing here, so it could have it’s upshots if it were the case.’ Blake thought to himself as he finished considering the general situation of the city, and ridiculous speculations regarding.  ‘And today I learn there are Hafling shifters’ He further considers as he looks past the shorty short Fox at the previously mentioned immigration office.  Wouldn’t hurt to look into the place later at least, to see if their standards really were low enough to accept him.

21:00, Today: Blake rolled 19 using 1d20+18. Blake, for giggles History Check T10. (off to my traditional start.  Thank goodness you can’t crit fail a skill check)
21:01, Today: Blake rolled 21 using 1d20+15. Blake, for giggles StreetWise T10.

An orc in chain mail approaches, grumbling to himself something about "'civic duty' my green behind."

"Welcome to Unity, Traveler," he says with a forced smile, "May I see your passport?"

He holds out his hand expectantly.

(To those characters who aren't native, the city guard would have directed them to the immigration office for a temporary travel visa / passport...  But the office is as crowded and confusing as any modern bureaucracy.)
This message was last edited by the player at 02:04, Tue 28 Oct 2008.

As Gilant is one of those who have just been allowed into the city, he is still suspicious that anyone familiar with Githyanki like him, would likely know that most Githyanki are xenophobic and hostile, although those are two traits that Gilant lacks. However Gilant still hopes that no one will find issue with his race here. Gilant wonders if he is the only Githyanki that has to come to Unity, at least with peaceful intentions that is.

When the orc asks for people's passports, it draws the attention of a tall and gaunt humanoid wearing fine, but simple, clothing that covers most of his body, including a hood which obscures much of his profile. What can be seen of this individual reveals that he has almost skeletal features, and that he definitely is not native to the area.

Gilant pulls out the papers and looks at them, before holding them out with his right hand. After all they are the papers he received at the immigration officer as Gilant wonders if the what he has heard about Unity is true. "I believe you mean these?"

With his left hand, Gilant brushes a stray strand of hair his dark silvery hair out of his face as he glances around and almost seems to grin at the wide variety of races present here.

A shifter in full plate armor named Mittens approaches with a cheerful spring in her step, holding an official looking scroll in her hand.  She ear-twitches in curiosity at the very interesting mix of uncommon races standing in stark contrast next to the unassuming Blake.

"Wow!" she thinks to herself, "And here I thought I was gunna be out of place!"

She stands by, official scroll clearly in view, patiently waiting for Grall to finish his business before interrupting.
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:43, Tue 28 Oct 2008.

Grall glances at Mittens and returns his gaze to Gilant's passport.  He impatiently motions his left hand indicating he wants her to hand over the document which she does.

"STUDENT!" Grall roars in amusement, reading aloud what's written in the 'occupation' field of Gilant's papers, "Student of battle.  I can tell.  You seek audience with the renowned blade-master Derek I'll wager.  Sorry to burst your bubble, Gilant, but Mr. High-And-Mighty doesn't give audience to just anyone..."

He hands Gilant his papers back, then holds up his finger with a glace to Blake, Emerald, and Gilant, indicating "one sec," then begins reading the paper Mittens handed him.

"So you're a for-real Githyanki," he continues, his eyes darting back-and-forth across the page, "No offense, but I thought you guys were a myth, the kind of stuff you tell little ones at night to scare them out of their...  OH FOR TEMPUS' SAKE!"

He clenches his fist around the letter in his hand, making a visible effort to keep from losing his temper.  He takes a deep breath and forces a calmer demeanor.

"Hmmm..." he thinks out loud, "Maybe I can kill two boar with one spear.  YOU THREE!"

He looks between Blake, Emerald, and Gilant with a confident smirk.

"You're in luck!  I can tell you're the kind to not shy away from a challenge, especially one that could put you in a better position to get what you want from this conf...  this lovely city!  Around here we have a program for traveling merc... heroes to prove themselves by completing a quest issued by the office of foreign affairs.  This will fulfill the 'community service' option of your extended residency application, eliminating the need to pay the processing fee.  In short, we go out, kick some bad-guy's behind, and in one day climb a rung higher on the social ladder!  'Course, there's always other options like unclogging the aqueduct."
This message was last edited by the player at 05:25, Tue 28 Oct 2008.

Gilant doesn't look pleased with how Grall thinks so lowly of him as the Githyanki grins slightly as he speaks in the Deep Speech, (Deep Speech)"And I can tell that you are one who speaks without thinking of the ramifications first."(Deep Speech) Gilant then switches to speaking in common as he adds, "You have a strange way of making an offer, first you mock and belittle me, then offer a deal. Is this how those in Unity normally offers deals?"

As Gilant pulls back his hood, revealing his face and that his hair is shoulder length, he calmly adds, "Yes, I am a Githyanki. And most historical myths have a seed of truth. And if your wondering, there are Githyanki that are even more bloodthirsty and sadistic than the myths describe. After all, your myths are told by non-Githyanki witnesses, but the most famous warriors among the Githyanki don't leave non-Githyanki witnesses of their exploits alive." While Gilant thinks Grall doesn't know the meaning of the word tact, but Gilant doesn't show even the slightest hint of hostility as the Githyanki knows that doing so would only be a distraction from his goals, as Gilant wonders if this society he has sought out in order to try and find a place he can live and learn in peace really exists or if it is just a facade. After all his first impression of it reminds himself of the Githyanki society he left behind...do as you are told by those in power, or those in power make your lives miserable and costly.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:37, Tue 28 Oct 2008.

  Hmm.  Slaughter unspecified people he’s never met because they were ‘bad guys’, or pay for something he didn’t particularly feel like paying for.

  Gee, tough call. Really.  Wait, was the other guy saying something?  Oh, from the last few words Blake could make a bet with ridiculously certain odds he could figure what they had been going on about had it even been a novels length of words.  Or summed up in one (if extended for style) word,

  DOOOOOOOOOM.

 ‘Why do I have a sudden urge to curse a Richards?’  Blake mused, he didn’t even know a Richards.  He shrugged and said  “Well, I guess I’ll just have to settle for only being bloodthirsty enough to kill unspecified ‘bad guys’ solely because of monetary convenience.  Oh my, I hope that’s violent enough.  It probably wouldn’t bode well if I wasn’t psychotic enough to handle being a killer for hire.  But alas, the things you do for the good of the city and all that.  Sacrifices must be made, both personal and other people.”

  Moral gray area?  What?  No.  That would suggest that one wasn’t morally color blind from time to time.

Emerald offers her papers to the Orc, figuring she may as well be as upfront and honest with the local guard as possible, even though he is distracted. But upon him saying he can tell they are all the kind who aren't afraid of challenges, she just silently points at herself with an inquisitive look of surprise. She turns an ear towards the Githyanki and makes a note to herself to learn that language.

To Blake's commentary, Emerald seems amused as she snorts from stifling a chuckle. A githyanki, a human and a fox being sent on a mission by an orc? Only in Unity. And yes... that entire time, she doesn't have anything to say yet.

"Well put, Gilant!" Grall answers in surprise with a cheerful chuckle, "You've made your point for both of us!  You can judge Unity by me the same way I can judge all Githyanki by you!  I meant no offense.  In fact, I'd love to test your skills in combat against my own if time allows."

He takes Emerald's offered papers and skims them while listening to Blake.

"'Psychotic?!'" he answers with a grin, "'Killer for hire!?'  An honest man!  I like that!"

He loses his smile.

"Too bad the big-wigs only appreciate honesty to a certain extent.  Be careful what you say around the sheriff.  Use words like 'psychotic killer for hire' around him, and you might raise suspicion."

He turns to Emerald with a confused look, offering her papers back.

"'Tourist?'  Surely you jest.  Use Gilant's 'student' or even 'pilgrim to the temple of so-and-so' if you don't want them asking you a lot of questions."

He then turns back to Joe, holding out his hand expecting Joe to hand him his application.

"And what's you're excuse for leaving your home for this craz...  bustling city of opportunity."

Mittens ears stand straight up and her eyes brighten the moment Grall mentions the word "combat."

"OOH!" she interjects excitedly, raising her fists to her mouth, "If you like, you can use the arena in the Temple of Tempus!  We've got all sorts of sparring gear!  It's not far from here, we could go there now!  You could talk to his excellency about his letter too!  Ooh!  And I get to fight the winner!"

She smiles and wags her tail, eyes darting from Grall to Gilant and back like a cat who's watching two people opening cans of tuna.

(Grall looks annoyed with her.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:36, Wed 29 Oct 2008.

  Blake nods in agreement with Grall's sum up.  "True, official types never like it looked at too closely that they hire any passing stranger to kill people that inconvenience them and their city... Oh, you were talking about me?  Well I had never considered doing such before until you brought it up.  Is it particularly hard to do?"

  He shrugged, and said "As for why I'm here, have you ever been to Narfell?"

  Narfell.  It's freaking freezing up there Mr. Bigglesworth.  And going to warmer climates than home that still have the comforts of home (in this case, getting them in the first place may be the case) is a traditional reason for tourism if there ever was one.

Gilant nods with a slight smirk on his face at Grall's response. The Githyanki is currently trying to not to look at Blake like the human is some sort of weird aberration. On the other hand Gilant isn't paying any real attention to Emerald at the moment since she has done nothing to make herself worth notice.

Mittens on the other hand gets herself almost as much of Gilant's attention as Grall, when she suggests a place where duels can take place as to Gilant, that means there is a place he can get 'practice' as Gilant knows that book experience is important, but it has its limits, and a place where practice with some safeguards can occur is a good place in Gilant's book. However Gilant currently doesn't say anything as he rubs his chin while obviously considering both Grall's and Mitten's respective offers.

Emerald gives a grin to the orc. "No, sir... I'm not kidding. I'm a tourist. When I heard about Unity, I wanted to come check it out. But thanks for the advice anyhow..."

She glances at the conversation going on and starts trying to figure out the people present. Blake seems to be heartless, but with a twisted sense of humor. Grall seems to be gruff, but prolly a real gummibear on the inside. Gilant seems like a smart guy who still has some lingering paranoia from his people... rightfully so. And Mittens seems like a crazed puppy dog stuck in some shifter body. But it's still too early to judge. Either way, Emerald knows she's going to have fun learning new languages here if Gilant is any indication.

To Emerald, Grall raises an eyebrow but doesn't respond.  Perhaps it's common for... whatever she is... to go touring armed to the teeth in leather armor.  To Blake he chuckles.

"Narfell?" he asks, "Nope.  I'm guessing that's where you're from and the conditions aren't too pleasant.  Hard to do?  The paperwork is the worst part of living here in my opinion.  Speaking of which, you do have a completed residency application don't you?  The Sheriff will just send you back here if you show up at his office without one."

To Mittens he just sighs.

"Tempting.  Perhaps after we find out whatever mission the Sheriff gives us.  It could be helpful to be familiar with each other's skills if we wind up on the same team.  In any case, those who are ready come with me."

Grall heads for the exit and from there leads the way to the Sheriff's office.

Mittens follows Grall even though she doesn't need to fulfill any residency requirements.

"Never fought a Githyanki before!" she thinks to herself, her heart pounding with excitement, "Or an Orc.  Or a fox!  And that Human is oozing as much confidence as the rest of them!  I can't wait for the fighting to start!"

For those who choose to join Grall, he leads the way down the cobblestone street to an impressive masonry building crawling with guards and detectives.  He bypasses the long line to the clerk and enters the main office through a side door.  Guards gaze suspiciously at the Grall and his company - except for Mittens who usually apparently commands about as much attention as drying paint.  Grall leans his hand on the desk of some tired looking, overweight, old orc woman and smiles at her.

"What can I do for you, young man?" she asks him in her raspy, slow voice.

"These visitors would like to opt for the more exciting version of 'community service.'  I've already looked over their residency forms, so they're good to go."

"I'll be the judge of that, hun," she answers, indicating for the group to hand over their paperwork, "Let's see your I.D. too."

"OH FOR THE LOVE OF!" Grall bellows, "You know me!  I'm a citizen now!  That's not necessary!"

"Rules are rules, young man," she answers in the same tired tone as before, "You should know the drill by now.  Suppose you were a Doppelganger spy?"

Grall grumbles about citizens shouldn't be treated like suspects and he hands over his I.D.  The old woman answers his grumbling with a deliberate, "Ha. Ha. Ha."
This message was last edited by the player at 01:56, Sat 01 Nov 2008.

Gilant follows Grall, in part since he doesn't have much money so paying the fees would be difficult for him, and also because he doesn't really have much in the way of job skills unless he wanted to be a historian, which really isn't something he wants to be. Not to mention that legal jobs for swordsmen wishing to use their skills in combat aren't all that easy to get if you don't know anyone in the system.

Upon seeing the bureaucratic nonsense that even Grall is having to go through, but keeps quiet for the moment since he figures drawing any extra attention to himself would only be problematic right now.

Emerald follows the bunch and hands over her paperwork to the elderly orc lady and strokes her chin in thought. This city has some decent security. Rightfully so, since the lady has a point... Emerald can't help but wonder how Doppelgangers are treated in this city. After all... even a Doppelganger who is upfront about being such can still shape shift into anyone around and pull all kinds of pranks or even illegal activity. Not to mention steal someone's I.D.

Emerald, of course, doesn't mention how EASY that whole stealing bit would be. But she gives the elderly orc a bright smile, complete with ears perked and tail wagging. Seems the fox is happy enough, bureaucracy or not. And it's this same bureaucracy that might even be making her so happy. After all... what all the other present company sees as an annoying obstacle, Emerald sees as a potential challenge.

"If I were to take a guess, you lost a bet or something and wound up having to do this processing job against your better judgment, eh Grall? Look on the bright side... this is an opportunity to make some potentially powerful future allies as more people pour into the city."

She doubts an orc cares about powerful allies as much as, say, a human would. But orcs always respected powerful people generically... so Emerald figured it was worth a shot pointing that out and maybe later, deliver the punchline by proving how powerful she can be.

  Super confident killer.  That’s Blake.  Because admissions that you’ve never killed for profit and were uncertain how well you’d do attempting so were both wonderful evidence of competence in those areas.

  At least in Sdrawkcab Ssa Yzarc Town.

  “I’m sure she’s as thrilled by this as we are, unless one of us has an unhealthy enthusiasm for this sort of thing.  Incidentally, does this mean I can ignore you when you ask me for my ID?”  This last part in regards to Grall.  Blake wondered how many times people would ask for ID before even the slightest thing actually came to show for it.

  Because so far he’d had nothing practical to show for handing over his ID the umptyninth (is that even a real number?) time other than not getting thrown out every span of thirty seconds through five minutes.  He may just let them if it kept up, as he might get to skip walking if the throwing was literal and they had a nice arc to the toss.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:51, Tue 04 Nov 2008.

Mittens also hands over her I.D.  Grall grunts in reply.  He wasn't stuck with this task by losing a bet.  Rather it's another frustrating episode in his personal fight with the system.  He also doesn't appreciate Blake suggesting ignoring him in the future.

"Only if you want to wind up being interrogated by the intelligence agency," Roz warns Blake, "And I'd say there isn't enough enthusiasm for procedure."  (This said to Emerald as well.)

Roz returns the team their I.D.s and papers then gives Emerald and Gilant a smirk.  "Don't get many of your kind here.  I recommend spending some time at the office of cultural affairs as soon as possible as indicated on your application.  They'll do a better job of showing you how things work around here than Grall has."

She then escorts the team into the Sheriff's office who looks busier than a one-armed archer.

"Got some visiting heroes," Roz says.

The sheriff looks up from his work and stares icicles at the group with his one good eye then returns to his work.

"Give 'em to Bordachelli," he says.

Roz takes them to Bridgett's desk and asks them to wait for her.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:20, Tue 04 Nov 2008.

The Githyanki nods to Roz as he puts away his papers, although Gilant resists the urge to sigh as he doubts the 'office of cultural affairs' would really be happy to hear about Githyanki society if they asked about it, but the swordmage knows that learning about Unity society would be handy since he doubts it is like the society fate has let him escape from.

As Gilant follows along first to the sheriff's desk and then to 'Bridgett's desk' as Gilant wonders what task will be assigned to the group. As such Gilant doesn't see the need to say anything.

  ‘Ah, the joys of kind, civilized cities.  I’ll find one eventually.’ Had a certain Rogue been here instead of some Mysterious Dungeon, they'd wonder why it was more potentially life threatening to them to be in Unity than Luskan, which had an abundance of organized crime, disorganized crime, zombies, and a floating island that dripped acid making regular passes over the city.

  So, they had to wait for yet another thing.  In this case for someone to show up.  So in order to cut a long wait short, Blake got started on a potentially longer task… Wait, what?

  Well it’s like this.  When the universe is trying to waste your time, then it’s a good idea to put that empty space to good use, depriving it of its ability to hassle you.
  A way to add to the effectiveness of this, is to hassle the universe by forcing it’s hand.  The more it has to show, the better.

  So, what was Blake going to do to pass the time?
  Why, he was going to Reread his application (in case there were any other ‘suggestions’ to be faced like Gilant did, etc).
  And he was going to reread the copies of city policy and admissions policy he had been given.
  And the list of prominent legalities.
  And if for some strange reason important legal details that could never have happened unnoticed suddenly pop up for the first time, he was going to start…

  Asking people questions. What?  Were you expecting something evil and sinister?  Not all legal issues require such you know.

  Of course, this was all provided Bridget took more than sixty seconds to show up.  However, considering the incredibly by the book nature everyone has been enforcing so far, it would be rather odd if all of a sudden they did not want him to take some time to review the laws and such before they left (It wouldn't do to have his 'service' not count because of a legal technicality).

  Which he will do if necessary.

  "Any incidental legal quirk any of you was curious over, considering I'm rechecking that sort of thing?" He asked their little group.  Blake wasn't greedy, he could share metaphysical turnabout with others.
This message was last edited by the player at 07:55, Tue 04 Nov 2008.

Emerald scratches behind her ear as she thinks on Blake's question. "Well my papers recommend going to the Cultural Affairs office... does yours?" After all... Emerald is curious if the mere fact Blake is human has some impact on his standing as a citizen by default. Which would be ironic... a city claiming to be all-inclusive and against racism indicating that rare races like hers and Gilant's had to go through an extra hoop...

Bridget enters the room holding a scroll and walks to her desk to drop the scroll off before looking at the people present. She stays standing and locks eyes with the others in the room. She then says, "Welcome to Unity. I have a task here to recover some stolen property that belongs to Unity. If you are here, you must have shown interest in aiding in this procedure. But before you do, you must sign this. Once you do, we can be on our way." she presents the scroll and soon unravels it. It has some simple, blunt statements and a good amount of space to sign in.

The scroll reads thus:

-I agree to follow the orders of Bridget Bordecelli. I agree that if I do not follow her orders, I am liable to not receive the benefits of this mission.
-I agree to return all the treasure found and keep none for myself. Should I take any of the treasure, I understand it would be stealing and accept the legal consequences I will receive.
-Unity is not held responsible for any injuries or death that may occur to me while I am on this mission.


.....well at least she's not asking for I.D. or their papers. Just a signature.

Mittens immediately signs the paper like she's done this before and can't wait to get started.  As it turns out, that's exactly how she feels.  ^.^

Grall signs a little more reluctantly.  He overheard a rumor about how strict this Bordachelli is.

"Legal quirk?" Grall asks, "Only if you find one that can get me into officer training school without a recommendation letter."

Unless Timothius objects,
Once all the formalities are out of the way, Bridgett leads the group to the woods outside the city walls.  On the way, she methodically familiarizes herself with each members offensive and defensive capabilities.  She follows the directions she was given in her intelligence report to the place suspected to be the lair of the bandits.  The occupants didn't do a very good job covering their tracks, and clues point to an outcropping of rock as the entrance.  There are several felled bushes (indicated in dark green on the map) blocking the entrance to a cave.

Addition to the contract: Deputies and their hired help are under strict orders to apprehend criminals without killing them.  They are expected to use the minimum necessary force when enforcing law.

(We've got team members who have the same first initial, so I indicated Grall with a red Gr and Mittens with a blue M.)
http://spreadsheets.google.com...GO9l1BM0Og&hl=en

Other details:  The team was transported via horse-drawn wagon.  The driver is an old human man who lost a leg in the war.  There's room enough in the wagon for the team and many prisoners.  Time of day: mid-afternoon.  Weather: sunny.

This message was last edited by the GM at 03:34, Thu 06 Nov 2008.

  ‘Hmm, judging by the end result, either I’m just that good, or things are just that bad’

  Going straight from skimming through legal documents to try and answer Grall’s question, to all of them standing outside some cave people thought bushes would actually hide.  It’d normally take a good hunk of levels before someone could accomplish such.

  Shame all the legal documents he’d been given aside from the latest one were blank.  But it did explain why nobody knew laws until people had the chance to point out they were breaking one.

 ‘And I’ve apparently signed legally binding documents while reality has been out.  Ah well, at least this time I got to actually look at the thing first.  Progress is progress.’

  “So… Are these evil bushes?  Bushes with Beartraps in them?  Or is it a hopeful sign we are dealing with people even stupider than I am?”

OOC: Even though Blake is starting to go crazier from the parade of ‘LoL why didn’t you know that law?... No you can’t know the laws’ events, skipping right to the mission is the more convenient for all involved option.
Though now he's all curious what will happen if he goes to a library <.<
This message was last edited by the player at 21:22, Wed 05 Nov 2008.

Gilant thinks back to how after reading the scroll Bridget had requested everyone sign that if instead of simply signing it, he should have first asked about what was stolen... after all if the stolen property is something dangerous itself, this could be a suicide run than a recovery mission.

But now that the group is outside the cavern blocked by bushes, Gilant considers Blake's comments and then speaks up, "Well these bushes could conceal a trap, this seems way to easy to have found this place. So either these thieves are stupid, in which case it surprises me they weren't captured in the act of stealing the property. It is probably more likely that they either don't care if anyone follows them as they expect to be able to kill anyone attempting to recover the property via traps or in battle; or this could all a decoy they set up to throw us off the track and they are really somewhere else."

"One way to find out!"

Mittens walks up to the bushes and examines them carefully.
22:40, Today: Mittens rolled 8 using 1d20+2. looking for bush traps.  :p.

"Nope!" she says confidently, "No traps here!"

She grabs a bush and pulls it out of the way.

A slight tug is felt while the bush is moved followed by the sound of breaking pottery echoing loudly from within the cave.  The shimmer of a fishing line can be seen leading into the cave from the trunk of the bush in her hand.

"Oops," Mittens says sheepishly, "Well at least it wasn't a trap."
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:53, Thu 06 Nov 2008.

Grall face-palms.

"No.  Not a trap.  Just an alarm to let them know it's time to escape!"

(OOC: Chris mentioned that Bridget would have collected the information from the characters as to what their battle methods are on the way to the destination, so Bridget essentially knows the IC version of everyone's respective character sheets. At least, those who shared. For now, I'm saying Bridget knows about Emmy knowing how to check and disarm traps. On your posts, let me know if you told anything to Bridget about yourselves and what you told her. This message is approved by Mittens Inc.)

Bridget raises her voice "Don't." she says, clearly and loud enough for anyone (including Mittens) to have heard her. But she's too late and Mittens has activated the trap. After Grall says his peace, Bridget speaks firmly but in a cold tone, "Disarming and checking traps is for Emerald, Mittens. If you do something like that again, you are off the mission." After all... even Bridget allows mistakes. But not too many. It's 2 strikes for her.

Bridget turns to look at the others. "We can't let the enemy run with what belongs to Unity. Whoever is with me, follow. But do not charge ahead. Emerald, keep an eye open for traps or anything related. Stay near me."

Bridget goes inside the cave and keeps Emerald nearby so Emerald can do as told without Bridget falling into a trap (Since Bridget is leading the way now).

At the sight of Mittens setting off a trap, Emerald covers her mouth with an expression like "I can't believe she did that", but in an amused way... she is giggling. She really wants to tease Mittens, but since she wants to make a good first impression for her entry into Unity, she decides against it for now.

Emerald follows alongside Bridget as told and keeps an eye out for traps or anything for that matter.

(OOC: Emerald's foxy ears are wide open. She is using Perception, which is 15. So if the traps are "well hidden" as apposed to "Poorly hidden", I'll actually have to roll dice to see if I can find them. Otherwise, 15 is an automatic find.)

  “Well let’s just hope they didn’t bother with a second exit then.  Of course, fire code has never been a pressing concern for criminal lairs.” Blake comments as he draws his favorite sharp object (because it’s his, and tends not to stab him) while stepping around the remaining bushes.

  “I wonder if this leads anywhere convenient, they’d have to be able to hear it now wouldn’t they?” he wondered as he considered the length of fishing line continuing on into the cave.  Of course, unless it was a surprisingly complicated one, they’d probably arrive at it’s end destination from the wonders of single existing pathway.

Gilant sighs upon seeing Mitten's impatience end up alerting the criminals to the groups presence and mutters, "There goes the element of surprise." as the Gityhanki draws his sword before moving into the cave with Emerald and Bridget.

"I'm not charging ahead!" Mittens asserts as she walks briskly to take her position in front of the group, "Just doing my job of defending.  I thought the team supposed to follow me what with me carrying this big shield and all."

She stares into the tunnel ahead.

"Wow," she whispers, "Sure is dark in there!  I smell smoke and something like a stable."

Dark enough that even with low-light vision, she wouldn't be able to see well enough to fight effectively.

http://spreadsheets.google.com...GO9l1BM0Og&hl=en
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:20, Fri 07 Nov 2008.

Grall follows closely behind Mittens.  When he sees a dark room ahead he activates a sunrod and tosses it inside.  The sunrod lands on the floor revealing that it's covered in straw.  (indicated in yellow on the map)  From where he's standing, all he can see is a few bales of straw, a pitchfork, and a flat shovel.  Growling emerges from somewhere in the otherwise unimpressive room.  On the far side of the room is a long tunnel that leads to a dead end.  (Indicated in darkening grey...  phb 221 - sunrod spreads bright light in all directions to a radius of 20 squares. But since it landed on a straw floor I'll make it slightly less effective.  Areas of total darkness indicated in dark blue since my monitor doesn't show any difference between black and deep grey.)

"That solves the dark problem," he says while loosing his whip, "And if that growling is any indication, we're about to find out where the smell is coming from!  See any traps, Emerald?"
This message was last edited by the player at 15:55, Fri 07 Nov 2008.

Initiative:

Unseen foe(s) - 16.
Gilant, 15 19.  (forgot we had 2 warlords.)
Mittens rolled 13 using 1d20+4. Initiative (included warlord bonuses from now on).
Grall - 11.
Emerald - 22.
Blake - 5.
Bridget - 13.

House rule reminder:  Gilant doesn't have to wait for Emerald to take her turn, but the rest of the team must wait for the foe to take a turn.  This limitation only lasts for the first round of combat.  For the rest of the encounter, every time the foe takes it's turn, any member of the PC team is free to take a turn regardless of PC initiative order.  (Yes, I realize this means combat could wind up with Gilant choosing to take a turn immediately before and immediately after the foe, but such is the trade-off for allowing for differing schedules.)

http://spreadsheets.google.com...GO9l1BM0Og&hl=en
This message was last edited by the player at 16:27, Fri 07 Nov 2008.

Emerald moves to the end of the hallway to get a much better view of the room and keeps her back pressed up against the wall before peering around at said room. Continuing her task at hand, she kept an eye open for traps or such and is especially concerning herself with the makers of those growling noises. Emerald would then hold up a number of fingers equal to her Charisma Modifier how many enemies she saw.

(Emerald readies an action "Sly Flourish" using Short Sword if any one enemy gets too close.)
This message was last edited by the player at 22:55, Fri 07 Nov 2008.

Realizing the danger Emerald is in, Gilant hurries south and stops next to Mittens as he says softly, "If I don't do something quick, Emerald is going to get herself killed out there," as the Githyanki looks at Emerald and using just the power of his mind he safely hurls Emerald through the air over his and Mitten's heads placing Emerald down just north of Mittens as Gilant says, "Foolish girl, you'll get yourself killed up there by yourself, so your coming back here since a group must fight together or its members will die alone," as Gilant isn't stupid enough to charge into a room and be munched by three growling foes, especially after having lost his Cadre to similar rash actions they did thinking that as Githyanki they couldn't loose.

_{[OOC:
Move Action: Move south 3 squares.
Move Action (Instead of Standard Action): Use Telekinetic Leap on Emerald, & moved her 4 squares maintaining line of sight between me and her during the move. (Also, if a wolf moves 1 square east of Mittens it is still adjacent to Emerald and thus Emerald's readied action will still be triggered. Nasty surprise for the poor critter. And much wiser than any other option I had that would result in at least one person being flanked.)
Minor Action: Unused.
]}

The wolves were irritated enough by the crashing of the pottery.  Add to that a sudden extremely bright light and unfamiliar scents and an intruder!  They round the corner and charge!  The hall is too narrow for all 3 wolves to attack.  The instincts of the two that can tell them that the Githyanki is the best target, and they both attack him!

20:46, Today: Gray Wolf rolled 28 using 1d20+8. charge attack vs. Gilant. Critical!  (8 damage)
20:46, Today: Gray Wolf rolled 19 using 1d20+8. charge attack vs. Gilant.
20:48, Today: Gray Wolf rolled 4 using 1d6+2. damage from bite attack.

Emerald's readied sly flourish hits!

20:35, Today: Mittens, on behalf of Emerald, rolled 16 using 1d20+8. readied sly flourish vs. Wolf 1.
20:40, Today: Mittens, on behalf of Emerald, rolled 10 using 1d6+7. sly flourish damage.

Wolf defenses:
AC 16; Fort 14, Reflex 14, Will 13

Wolf 1 HP: 28 of 38
Wolf 2 HP: 38
Wolf 3 HP: 38

Gilant current HP: 19
This message was last edited by the player at 02:02, Sat 08 Nov 2008.

"If you're thinking of payback against my foxy friend," Mittens challenges the wolf in front of her, "Think again!"

She jabs at the wolf with a holy strike, but the wolf evades the attack!

21:17, Today: Mittens rolled 10 using 1d20+7. holy strike vs. Wolf 1.

Wolf 1 is marked with Mittens' divine challenge.

"Gilant!" Grall says, snapping his whip at the injured wolf in front of Mittens, "How 'bout some sweet revenge on this one?!"

(Inspiring word minor power used on Gilant.  Gilant recovers 11 HP.)

21:54, Today: Grall rolled 25 using 1d20+7. furious smash vs. Wolf 1 Fort defense. 4 damage.  Grall grants +3 to Gilant's next attack and damage rolls.  Wolf 1 also takes a -2 penalty to attack rolls agains Mittens until the end of Grall's next turn.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:29, Sat 08 Nov 2008.

After Gilant is struck by both of the wolves that attacked him, he glares angrily and looks injured but not bloodied. When Grall uses his inspiring words to help Gilant recover, the Githyanki looks quite relieved as he says, "Gladly," as the Githyanki strikes at the wolf (Wolf one) and when his blade strikes, a sizzling bolt of lightning leaps
from the wolf, nearly strikes the wolf standing next to it, although the second wolf manages to avoid the bolt.

<sub>[OOC:
Minor Action: Aegis of Shielding on Wolf 2.
Standard Action: Lightning Clash attacks Wolf1, secondary Wolf 2.
Move Action: Not used.
22:04, Today: Gilant rolled 26 using 1d20+10. Lightning Clash vs Wolf 1. Will Suck.
22:06, Today: Gilant rolled 8 using 1d10+7. Lightning Clash dmg to Wolf1. Will Suck.
22:07, Today: Gilant rolled 9 using 1d20+7. Lit. C. 2nd Att vs Ref. Wolf 2 Will Suck.
It seems 'will suck' isn't so effective for Gilant.

Wolf1 16hp left
Wolf2 38hp left
Wolf3 38hp left

Gilant 30 hp left, 10 Surges left.
]</sub>
This message was last edited by the player at 04:38, Sat 08 Nov 2008.

  “Stop trying to eat my recent acquaintances.  Well, unless the alternative is eating me.”  Blake’s commentary was followed up by taking a shot at the Wolf everyone else seemed to be focusing on... Well, at least he showed that patch of wall who’s boss.

  “While it’s good that I’m accurate enough not to hit any of you people in the back of the head,"  Seriously, Blake had to shoot past like, the entire party, but considering the entire party was between him and pointy teeth death, not so bad,  "I think at this rate mild singeing and a blasted enemy would be preferable... So, is the guy outside equipped to handle captured wolves?”

  Of course, there was the possibility that Unity didn't give a damn for things that didn't speak common.  Or have fingers.

  [ (Standard: Eldritch Blast, Miss ;  Minor: Curse Wolf 1 )
  Yet ANOTHER 3 on my die (Even if Bridget had time to boost me, it wouldn’t help).  3 seems to be a magic number alright.  A magic number of I HATE YOU.  And considering the wolves and the rest of our little group, I’ve come to the unfortunate Dejavu feeling of ‘oh *censored*.  Everyone else has ludicrous dodge (AC), so my above average dodge will be useless’ once more in a game.]
This message was last edited by the player at 05:17, Sat 08 Nov 2008.

Emerald lets out a fox yelp as she suddenly gets telekinetically grabbed and thrown aside to a safe place. "Thanks, Gilant." she says in an honestly grateful tone. "Guess my curiosity got the better of me." Once again, temptation arises as she is tempted to say something to the effect of "I can handle myself, though," but knows that such a statement sounds egotistical and would only discourage an ally from bothering to help you whether because the ally believes you or because they are angry at you for being ungrateful. Either way, she doesn't take it for granted when someone is watching her back.

Emerald decides to take Gilant's advice even more and uses her dagger on the wolf of everyone's aggression, slicing a nasty wound in the wolf before weaving between her allies for Bridget to take her place near the wolf.

(11:47, Today: Emerald rolled 23 using 1d20+9. King's Castle.)
(11:49, Today: Emerald rolled 8 using 2d4+5. King's Castle - Damage.)

....maaaaaybe Unity didn't give a care about wolves. But rules are rules. Bridget is one to follow the letter of the law. And while they appear to be wolves, they could be evil druids in wolf form, someone's pet under mind control, doppelgangers with a weird fetish or any number of reasons to be in trouble for killing them.

Bridget doesn't say much on the yanking and Emerald's venturing forward since it's time to fight. Nor does she object to Mittens being in front. Bridget isn't a control freak or a psychologist, nor does she care about either... she simply is someone who does what she can to get the task done in the most efficient way she knows possible. That said, Bridget takes the cue from Emerald and gets into an ideal position. Seeing the wolf has not much left in it, Bridget decides to conserve her harder attack for later and brings her sword down on the wolf, causing not quite enough to finish the thing off. However, as she was harming the wolf, she leaves an obvious opening to Mittens for both the first wolf and the second... her choice.

(11:55, Today: Emerald rolled 21 using 1d20+7. Furious Smash - Attack.)
(Furious Smash does 5 damage. No roll for damage.)
(Mittens now has a +2 vs either Wolf1 or Wolf2)

(OOC note: First off, I goofed and accidentally rolled Bridget's attack with Emerald's name. Secondly, if any of you think I'm going "no kill!" because that's the kind of guy I am OOC, it's coincidence, I swear! Bridget would kill if the law allowed it. But until it's necessary, Bridget is going to just put her enemies into submission since that's the law.)
This message was last edited by the player at 18:01, Sat 08 Nov 2008.

The first wolf is reeling from the team's onslaught, but is still able to retaliate.  It snaps at Mittens but it's teeth don't get around her shin guards.  It decides to cut it's losses and shifts back cautiously, snarling menacingly.

The second wolf answers Gilant's aegis with another vicious bite!  It shifts to it's right to protect the first wolf.

The third wolf happens to be the alpha male of the group.  It's noticed that Emerald is the one who's hurt the first wolf the most, making her the favored target.  Problem is, Mittens is blocking the way.  Only one way to solve that problem - grab her and pull her out of the way.  It snaps it's jaws around Mittens' shin guard and prepares to pull her!


13:16, Today: Gray Wolf rolled 16 using 1d20+7. wolf 1 bite attack vs. Mittens. Miss.
13:27, Today: Gray Wolf rolled 27 using 1d20+7. wolf 2 bite vs. Gilant. Critical!  8 damage.
13:35, Today: Gray Wolf rolled 16 using 1d20+2. wolf 3 grab vs. Gilant. Mittens (str vs. reflex) Grab!  (PHB 290)

Gilant 22 hp left, 10 Surges left.
Wolf1 3hp left
Wolf2 38hp left
Wolf3 38hp left (has Mittens in a grab)
This message was last edited by the player at 20:37, Sat 08 Nov 2008.

Grall notices the third wolf preparing to drag Mittens away.

"That's what you think!" he barks at it while swinging his whip at the wolf, lashing it across the face!

"Mittens!  Strike this one!"

19:27, Today: Grall rolled 16 using 1d20+7. furious smash vs. Wolf 3 Fort defense. Hit!  4 damage.  Target takes a -2 to attack rolls against Mittens.  Mittens gains +3 to next attack and damage roll against Wolf 3.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:46, Sun 09 Nov 2008.

"Thanks for not blasting me, Blake," Mittens answers Blake, "And I'm sure we can handle these dogs without any outside help - especially once they've been subdued."

"Oh that was clever!" she commends the wolves after they use wolf tactics to save their injured member, then looks at the wolf that grabbed her, "But not so clever to get a mouth full of steel, pup!"
(Wolf 3 is marked with Mittens' Divine Challenge.)

She takes Grall's advice and brings her longsword down on the wolf.

19:34, Today: Mittens rolled 19 using 1d20+9. enfeebling strike vs. wolf 3.
19:36, Today: Mittens rolled 8 using 1d8+6. damage from enfeebling strike. Wolf takes -2 to it's attacks.

Wolf1 3hp left (No longer marked)
Wolf2 38hp left (marked with Gilant's Aegis.)
Wolf3 26hp left (has Mittens in a grab, is marked by her divine challenge, takes a -2 to attacks and another -2 to attacks vs. Mittens.)

After taking yet another hit, Gilant notices that a wolf grabs Mittens and then grins as that wolf takes a beating from Mittens and Grall. Gilant snarls, "Let go of her. And if you grab me, I'm sure Mittens will just use her Divine Challenge on you, so try something else. Now, I'm getting tired of you wolves. Fear my sword!" as Gilant sweeps his sword releasing a blast of force against the two wolves adjacent to Gilant.

<sub>[OOC:
Minor Action: Place Aegis of Shielding on Wolf 3 (the wolf that has grabbed Mittens)
Move Action: Not used.
Standard Action: Sword Burst Attacks Wolf 2 and wolf 3.
Dice Result: 12 (With +4 from int bonus it becomes a 16, which hits wolf 2
http://rollr.appspot.com/view/...CxIIRGljZVJvbGwYqDgM
Dice Result: 11 (With +4 from int bonus it becomes a 15, which hits wolf 3
http://rollr.appspot.com/view/...CxIIRGljZVJvbGwYvzUM
Dice Result: 2 (With +4 int bonus it becomes 6 points of force dmg to the wolves.)
http://rollr.appspot.com/view/...CxIIRGljZVJvbGwYszgM

Wolf1 3hp left
Wolf2 32hp left (No longer has aegis of shielding on it)
Wolf3 20hp left (has Mittens in a grab, is marked by Shield of Aegis, takes a -2 to attacks and another -2 to attacks vs. Mittens, plus -2 to everyone but Gilant.)
]</sub>
This message was last edited by the player at 01:43, Sun 09 Nov 2008.

  Another day, another failure to hit a near dead hardly moving target.  “It’s not a good sign when I’m considering attempting to punch it in the face as an alternative means.”

  Look at it this way.  If the wolf was biting his face off, at least then Blake would have succeeded in making contact with the damned thing.

[ (Move: Duh.  Standard: Fail as usual)
I wonder if they would accept ‘Failure: Standard Action’ as a rules update?]

(OOC: Found that the other dice roller won't work unless I have a google account. I'm getting flashbacks to a very expensive and frustrating event. I'd rather miss this time than spend the next 2,000 years signing up for yet another account. It would work, I think, if we were going by the honor system, but I guess not enough people trust each other enough for that. Though personally, I trust everyone here.)

Emerald puts a rock in her sling and hurls it at one of the wolves. Not that it matters which one, since the rock missed so it's anyone's guess which one she was aiming for.

"On the bright side," Emerald said to Blake, "The wolves can't escape at least."


(06:04, Today: Emerald rolled 14 using 1d20+7. Sly Flourish. )

Bridget swings her sword at Wolf 2 again, but misses this time as it steps aside and growls at her. She was going to give Gilant some advice vs Wolf 3, but the miss was so distracting and so bad, it was one of those where Bridget decides not to draw attention to herself at all.

(06:17, Today: Bridget rolled 8 using 1d20+7. Furious Smash - Attack. )
(OOC: Take THAT, suckuz! I rolled a ONE! That's right! I beat all you alls's bad luck! Woooohooo!)

Emerald and Blake's attacks succeed in frightening the first wolf who whimpers at it's leader for permission to retreat.  The alpha wolf decides that it would be a wise tactic, lets go of Mittens and barks a full withdraw.  All wolves shift back cautiously before running around the corner, out of sight.

(Wolf 1 uses a move action and readies a charge against the first foe to enter the room.  Double move for wolf 2 and 3, shift 1 space then standard move.  The team no longer has line of sight to the wolves.  You don't need General Akbar to tell you.  It's a trap.)

http://spreadsheets.google.com...GO9l1BM0Og&hl=en

Wolf1 3hp left
Wolf2 32hp left
Wolf3 20hp left (no longer has Mittens in a grab, is marked by Shield of Aegis.)
This message was last edited by the player at 20:51, Sun 09 Nov 2008.

Gilant shakes his head as he sees the Wolves falling back into what is obviously a trap. "They are probably going to try to ambush the first person that walks into the room, although if we act fast, only one of them will be able to respond fast enough with an attack, and I think we can use that to our advantage."
Gilant then turns to Mittens briefly, speakign with a grin on his face, "Mittens, all you need to do is move just far enough to just enter the room, and be ready to attack one of the wolves as soon as it moves next to you. At the same time moment I'll be marking it  with my Aegis of Shielding as well, which should screw up whatever plans it has, since it'll not know I'm there till its too late to do anything about it," before Gilant moves into a position from which he'll be able to 'assist' Mittens in trying to turn this trap into one against the wolves, without entering the room himself.

_{[OOC:
Standard action: Readied Action to use Aegis of Shielding on the first wolf to move adjacent to Mittens, after Mittens enters the room. (Which Gilant expects would put Mittens one square north and to the east of Gilant.)
Move Action: Moving 2 squares to the east.
Minor Action: Not used.
]}
This message was last edited by the player at 01:33, Mon 10 Nov 2008.

  Blake sighed softly (as opposed to melodramatically) as he stepped closer to the carnage... Or would that be maintained distance with the carnage?

  “I suppose it’s fortunate that Wolves don’t speak common.  But then it would hardly be giving much away if it knew out plans were ‘beat the sheenola out of them’, now would it?”

[ (Move: Duh.  Standard: Ima Chargin Mah Lazer! Ready action, E Blast to first LoS wolf to move closer. As I could hit W3 from here, P. 274 PHB
  Shadow Walk, +2 vs all.  I must remember that any encounter that starts up after we’ve been moving means Blake starts with it on, but he HAS been standing still past few turns, heh.
  Wolf 1 still cursed
  Also, Blake has claim to first 1 rolled this encounter, when Mittens did his Initiative check ;D ]

"Sounds like a good plan!" Mittens answers Gilant.

She readies her shield (full defense) and steps forward cautiously.  As Gilant expected, a wolf charges at Mittens!  But before it's jaws can reach her, Gilant marks it with his Aegis of Shielding.  Blake's readied Eldridge blast hits the ground under the wolf's feet.  The wolf's face meet's Mittens shield, and it yelps.

Since Gilant already marked it, she challenges the pack leader.

"Oh sure!" she snaps at the alpha wolf, "Send in the pup that's nearly dead!  Coward!"

22:16, Today: Gray Wolf rolled 13 using 1d20+5. bite vs. Mittens.
22:07, Today: Mittens, on behalf of Blake, rolled 8 using 1d20+4. Eldrige blast vs. Wolf 1.


Wolf1 3hp left (marked by Gilant's of Aegis.)
Wolf2 32hp left
Wolf3 20hp left (is marked by Divine Challenge.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:31, Mon 10 Nov 2008.

"What the HELL?!" Grall gawks, "I can hardly believe this wolf isn't dead yet.  What?  Does it have some special ninja powers that emerge when it's near dead?!  Well see if you can dodge THIS!  Mittens!  To my right!"

(Mittens shifts down 1 square as a free action.)

He skillfully snaps his whip at the wolf, but the wolf evades the attack!  Grall nearly falls over.

"EYE OF GRUUMSH!" he curses, "What the hell did we do to make Avandra hate us!?"

 yeesh.  rolled a 2 and my last bit of patience with this roller is gone.  this'll be the last round i use rpol's roller.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:52, Mon 10 Nov 2008.

Emerald moves up behind Gilant and whispers a quick prayer, "Please Avandra, bless this attack." before slinging another rock. And missing. Again. "Well I never claimed to be a Cleric, but I think Grall is right. Either one of us ticked off Avandra or this Wolf is a ninja in disguise."

Personally, she thinks Avandra is just a fairytale. After all... as a rogue, she believes you make your own luck. So she's somewhat upset with herself right now since she is failing.

(OOC: Emerald used Deft Strike, moved two squares diagonally to be behind Gilant as per the power's ability. She readies a move action to run away in case a wolf moves in her direction. And yeah... I used the new dice roller this time.)

Bridget moves over to be next to Mittens and says, "Don't give up just yet. None of us are as wounded as the dog. We still have them out-matched." With that said, Bridget swings her sword at the wolf and misses. There are coincidences and then there are miracles. Grall may have a point. The wolf seems able to dodge everything thrown at it. But despite this, she shows neither frustration or embarrassment. Just calm and cold.

(OOC: ..................the previous roll for Emerald was a 3. This time, I've got a 1. Again. Go me! So can I start complaining and say Rollr is broken yet? :p J/K)

http://rollr.appspot.com/view/...CxIIRGljZVJvbGwYyTUM
This message was last edited by the player at 13:38, Mon 10 Nov 2008.

In spite of Mitten's accusations, the alpha wolf didn't order the bloody ninja wolf to attack.  He orders it to back off.  Alpha then commands the healthiest dog to charge at Bridget.  He then moves to the northeast a bit and charges at Mittens head-on.

W1 double move: shift and move down.
W2 move and charge @ Bridget.  (Bridget takes 5 damage.)
W3 move and charge @ Mittens.  (Misses by a wide margin.)

[5] 08-11-10 17:24:39 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Wolf 3 charge vs. Mittens AC.
1d20 +8
4 + 8 = 12

[4] 08-11-10 17:23:04 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
W2 damage vs. Bridget
1d6 +2
3 + 2 = 5

[3] 08-11-10 17:22:04 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Wolf 2 charge attack (+1 to basic melee) vs. Bridget AC.
1d20 +8
18 + 8 = 26

Bridget 17 of 22 hp.
Wolf1 3hp left (marked by Gilant's of Aegis.)
Wolf2 32hp left
Wolf3 20hp left (marked by Divine Challenge.)

http://spreadsheets.google.com...GO9l1BM0Og&hl=en
This message was last edited by the player at 16:30, Mon 10 Nov 2008.

Grall really hates retreat, even if really is just a tactical withdraw, but that's the best option right now if Bridget is to survive for long.

"Everyone focus on Mitten's dog!" he commands, cracking his whip at the third wolf before stepping back, "Blake!  Blast him good!  Bridget!  Step back after your attack so Gilant can take the front!  Gilant!  Pin it down so it can't retreat again!"

[6] 08-11-10 17:48:41 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Grall furious smash vs Wolf 3.
1d20 +7
14 + 7 = 21 4 damage, and Blake gets +3 to next attack and damage roll vs. Wolf 3.  Wolf takes -2 to attack rolls vs. Mittens.

Wolf1 3hp left (marked by Gilant's Aegis.  Cursed by Blake.)
Wolf2 32hp left
Wolf3 16hp left (marked by Divine Challenge.  -2 to attack rolls vs. Mittens)

http://spreadsheets.google.com...GO9l1BM0Og&hl=en

(I'm going to delay Mittens for a bit till after Blake has a chance to blast the alpha wolf.)
This message was last edited by the player at 17:04, Mon 10 Nov 2008.

Bridget nods in agreement as she shifts back and meanwhile gives Mittens a command, "Don't relent, Mittens. Keep at the wolf that's attacking you like Grall said."

(OOC: Bridget uses Commander's Strike on Mittens. +3 to Mittens' damage against Wolf 3.)
This message was last edited by the player at 20:33, Mon 10 Nov 2008.

Bridget's Commander's Strike is a success!  Mittens takes a free swing at the alpha wolf on her command and inflicts a serious wound!

[8] 08-11-10 21:38:14 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Commander Strike damage vs. Wolf 3.
1d8 +7
2 + 7 = 9

[7] 08-11-10 21:37:02 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Mittens basic melee vs. Wolf 3. (Bridget's Commander's strike)
1d20 +7
12 + 7 = 19

Wolf1 3hp left (marked by Gilant's Aegis.  Cursed by Blake.)
Wolf2 32hp left
Wolf3 7hp left (marked by Divine Challenge.  -2 to attack rolls vs. Mittens)

http://spreadsheets.google.com...GO9l1BM0Og&hl=en

  Blake Considered the condition of the two visible wolves, and figured A) to go for the overkill... Well, so far as knocking something unconsious could be overkill, and B) get a head start on preparations to hassle the so far just fine wolf.  Not that it would make a huge diffrence if he saved that for later though, considering there isn't much Blake would want to use a Minor Action fo-OHNO!  The Fourth wall is breaching!  Panic in the Disco!... Ahem.

  But first!  "Let's try a different approach.  Screw, Avandra!"  This said, the target of Blake's more direct ire had a pain in its widdle wolf heart and slumped to the ground with little in the way of fanfare or special effects.

  "Hmm, I wonder if I should insult Pelor's mother next?  Or save it for a special occasion?"

[ (Standard: Vamp Grasp, Wolf 3.  Minor: Curse Wolf 2.)
  Hit Wolf 3
http://rollr.appspot.com/view/...CxIIRGljZVJvbGwY0DgM
  Murphy's inverse law of rolls.  If you have a huge enough bonus for a near guaranteed win, THEN you will roll high (Seriously, I got enough to hit without any +'s).
  KO'd the hell out of Wolf 3 with 18 DMG.
  8 Temp HP for Blake
  Wolf 2 Cursed.
  No more +2 vs all.

The Githyanki swordmage sighs as he listens to the orders given to him as Blake deals with one of the wolves in a most excessive fashion. "Guess you won't mind if I instead try to deal with wolf that Blake hasn't... done whatever it is he has done to it."

Gilant then shifts next to Wolf 2 and takes a mighty swing at the wolf with his bastard sword as he says, "Now stay put you mangy mutt, or it will be more than your ears that ring." as Gilant's blow strikes the wolf with a lot of force while it creates a field of sound which Gilant knows will become loud enough to harm the wolf, if the wolf tries to escape.

Gilant wonders if the wolf will stay put and above taking damage from the field before it dissipates, or if the wolf will flee in an attempt to avoid the wounds the others will inflict on it if it doesn't move.

<sub>[OOC:
Move Action: Shift next to Wolf 2
Standard Action: Attacking Wolf 2 with Booming Blade.
(Used Hamete.org's dice roller as a test, and I do like the results.)
[9] 1d20 +7 => 19 + 7 = 26 [Gilant trying to hit Wolf 2 with Booming Blade.]
[10] 1d10 +4 => 9 + 4 = 13 [Gilant's Booming Blade damage to Wolf 2. Also if Wolf 2 moves away (including if it shifts away) from Gilant on it's next turn, it takes an additional 1d6+3 Thunder Damage.
Minor Action: Not used.

Nice I nearly critted a wolf, and knocked it silly with my sword.
Gilant 22 hp left, 10 Surges left.
Bridget 17 of 22 hp.
Wolf1 3hp left (marked by Gilant's Aegis.  Cursed by Blake.)
Wolf2 19hp left (Cursed by Blake. Will take 1d6+3 Thunder Damage if it moves, including a shift, away from Gilant on its next turn.)
Wolf3 -11hp left (KOed or dead, take your pick this puppy is down)
]</sub>

Mittens just knew holding back a second would pay off!  ^.^

"Darktastic, Blake!" Mittens cheers! "That was the most amazing dog-paddle I've ever seen in any of my 9 lives!"

She turns to face the second wolf and challenges it.

"You're next, pup!"

She then boldly moves into a flanking position, deflecting it's opportunity attack with her shield.  She then brings down her sword on the wolf... but it skillfully evades her strike.  -.-


[12] 08-11-11 00:36:32 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Mittens holy strike +2 for flanking vs. Wolf 2.
1d20 +9
2 + 9 = 11

[11] 08-11-11 00:34:02 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Wolf 2 opportunity attack vs. Mittens.
1d20 +7
4 + 7 = 11

Wolf1 3hp left (marked by Gilant.  Cursed by Blake.)
Wolf2 19hp left (marked by Mittens.  Cursed by Blake. Will take 1d6+3 Thunder Damage if it moves, including a shift, away from Gilant on its next turn.)

Emerald twirls her sling yet again and lets loose one of the stones from her pouch. This time, it actually lands on something besides the ground! "...OK, that's spooky." but she still doesn't believe in gods.

Emerald
Sly Flourish
Sling      : +7 vs AC; 1d6+7 dmg

[14] 08-11-11 02:08:25 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Sly flourish damage vs. Wolf 2.
1d6 +7
3 + 7 = 10

[13] 08-11-11 02:07:44 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Emerald sly flourish vs. Wolf 2.
1d20 +7
18 + 7 = 25

Wolf1 3hp left (marked by Gilant.  Cursed by Blake.)
Wolf2 9hp left (marked by Mittens.  Cursed by Blake. Will take 1d6+3 Thunder Damage if it moves, including a shift, away from Gilant on its next turn.)
This message was last edited by the player at 13:24, Tue 11 Nov 2008.

The first wolf moves to the upper right of Grall's sunrod then charges Mittens.  While the damage it would have caused Mittens is canceled out by Gilant's Aegis, it still succeeds in knocking her down.  The second wolf grabs Mittens by the throat then shakes it's head violently, inflicting deep wounds.  It carefully moves out from between Mittens and Gilant, feeling more comfortable if fewer foes can see it.

[17] 08-11-11 02:23:04 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Wolf 2 bite damage vs. Mittens. (Wolves do bonus damage to prone targets.)
2d6 +2
6 + 6 + 2 = 14

[16] 08-11-11 02:20:04 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Wolf 2 bite vs. Mittens. (+2 for flanking)
1d20 +9
18 + 9 = 27

[15] 08-11-11 02:16:11 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Wolf 1 charge (+1 and +2 for flanking) vs. Mittens.
1d20 +10
17 + 10 = 27 25. forgot to account for Gilant's mark. still hits.

Mittens 13 of 27hp left. (bloodied)
Wolf1 3hp left (marked by Gilant.  Cursed by Blake.)
Wolf2 9hp left (marked by Mittens.  Cursed by Blake. Still adjacent to Gilant, so booming blade doesn't kick in.)
(trying out a new style of indicating where creatures moved during their turn by indicating starting positions in light grey.)
This message was last edited by the player at 01:52, Tue 11 Nov 2008.

Grall races to Mittens side, sharing her rage.  "Mittens!" he commands, cracking his whip at the second wolf, "UP! Retaliate!"

[18] 08-11-11 03:16:16 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Grall furious smash vs. Wolf 2.
1d20 +7
2 + 7 = 9 miss. ;.;  These wolves are legend.  Good thing Blake hit that last one so hard or we'd have another near-dead ninja on our hands.

The call of the wild!  The thrill of the hunt!  It's so... invigorating!  Mittens stands back up, her fur standing on end, her grinning face covered in her own blood, her eyes wide and wild, adrenaline coursing through her veins.  This is what she lives for!  Her feral instincts kick in.  She drops her shield, grabs the base of her longsword with her freed hand, and savagely attacks the second wolf with all her might!  The wolf falls to the ground motionless.  She spins around and grins menacingly at the first wolf.

(Longtooth shifting, minor.  Stand up, move.  Drop shield and 2-hand longsword, free.  Piercing smite marks 2(wis) adjacent foes, though I don't think it counts as a divine challenge.)

[20] 08-11-11 03:28:33 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Piercing smite damage vs. wolf 1. (+1 for using longsword 2handed and +2 for longtooth shifting.)
2d8 +3
6 + 6 + 3 7 oops forgot to add in my Str mod. = 19

[19] 08-11-11 03:25:11 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Mittens piercing smite vs. Wolf 1. (reflex)
1d20 +7
7 + 7 = 14 barely hit... but hit!

Mittens 13 of 27hp left. (bloodied, +2 regen kicks in next turn.)
Wolf1 3hp left (marked by Mittens.  Cursed by Blake.)
Wolf2 -10hp. :P
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:41, Tue 11 Nov 2008.

  "It's nice to see Mitten's can get revenge all by themselves.  I was considering, oy, going out in the open for a better shot."

  "Ima firing mah lazer! Neaaaryg!"  A tiny floating black head appears over the still standing Wolf raining a bright beam of doom down towards it... and scorching a nice line in innocent straw instead.

  "Of course, a better shot may have helped there too, I guess."

[ (Standard: Miss Dire Radiance.  No Shoopdawhoop for me) ]
This message was last edited by the player at 03:00, Tue 11 Nov 2008.

Seeing an opportunity to end this confrontation, Gilant circles around and flanks Wolf1 with Mittens and swings his sword at the wolf and easily manages to strike it hard enough to drop it to the ground. "Finally that is over, so what's next after these ninja wolves? Pirate squirrels?"

_{[OOC:
Move Action:Move around to flank Wolf 1
Standard Action: Booming Blade on Wolf 1.
[21](Gilant using Booming Blade (with flanking) on Wolf 1) 1d20 +9 => 11 + 9 = 20
[22](Gilant's Booming Blade damage to wolf 1.) 1d10 +4 => 7 + 4 = 11
Wolf1 is now at -8hp...
Gilant still at 22 of 31hp and has 10 surges left.
]}

(Since combat is over, I'll post out of turn.  So there.)

Mittens' throat has healed well enough for her to speak, but it's still painful enough that she thinks she can't.  Without a word, she wipes the blood from her sword and sheaths it, smiling cheerfully at her allies.  :)  What an encounter!  She kneels down and prays to Tempus that he grant these worthy foes life that they may fight again some day!

(Mittens takes 10 to apply her healing skill on the wolves to stabilize their condition.)

Should a wolf show signs of life, she then takes out some rope from her S.A.K. and hog-ties it.

(Mittens 15 of 27hp)

Bridget gets to aiding Mittens with helping the wolves out, seemingly unaffected by anything that happened. "Good job, everyone." she says in a cold tone, like encounters with ninja wolves is a standard procedure. "Take a short break, get these wolves patched up and tied up. Then we can proceed farther in."

She looks to Gilant and says, "I had heard that Githyanki have mental abilities similar to the one you demonstrated. How often can you do that and what are it's limits?" After all... telekinetically yanking allies or throwing allies around, much less enemies, is something Bridget can see coming in even more useful than just a simple rescue like what was demonstrated earlier.

Emerald is downright scared of Mittens. For a brief moment, seeing a wolf tear away at Mittens' throat had Emerald horrified at such a gruesome sight and worried for Mittens. But seeing Mittens grin with her own blood on her face and then further expressing her excitement afterwords, Emerald is convinced Mittens is entirely out of her mind. "Well on the bright side, none of you have to worry about me going ahead of any of you." She keeps a good distance from Mittens, using the excuse of taking a rest BEFORE patching wolves up so she doesn't have to be anywhere near that crazed sanguipath. She was GOING to ask if Mittens is OK, but she's afraid of Mittens spinning her head around 180 degrees and saying something like "Of course, my fine young morsel." So she rests, hugs her knees and wonders what the next encounter is going to be like. After all... Mittens may be crazy, but the others don't seem to be. Though clearly, the Githyanki is a paranoid, jumpy one. Not her place to judge, though. She knows she has no idea what this guy's background is. And if she knew, she'd understand him freaking out over her doing her job.

Although Gilant shares some of the same concerns Emerald has about Mittens as the Githyanki thinks that the paladin might enjoy combat a bit to much, which could lead her into making disastrous choices for the group. Fortunately for Gilant, Bridget's question gives him something else to focus on for the moment.

Gilant then tries to explain his racial ability of Telekinetic leap to Bridget,"The ability you saw me use is called Telekinetic Leap, and all Githyanki pocess it. Although it is most often used by Githyanki on themselves which is why it has its name, we can use it on our allies, but not our enemies. I'd say, I can use my Telekinetic Leap as often as an Eladrin can use their innate teleporting ability. However, I have to maintain line of sight on whoever I use it on when not using it on myself. It has a descent range to which it can be used on others, but the flight itself is limited to about how far the average person wearing heavy armor could move in a few seconds."

  It doesn't take an insight check to figure something is wrong for the shortest member of their moderate group (hey, it'd be a little group if there weren't like, six of them).

  "Look at it this way.  Beneficial mental instabilities beat the alternative...  Well, unless you consider the 'completely sane' alternative,  But what are the odds of that happening."

  Some people have a different outlook on 'crazy'.  Such as having higher standards of insanity to be required before they consider someone truly such.  And for some strange reason, Blake sees the ability to kick the ass of something that has taken a hunk out of your neck as good thing.

  Of course, why let that stop you from comments along those lines anyways?  If people did, then hardly anyone would be called complete idiots because 'taker of idiotic actions taken at this moment' doesn't sound as good.

Hp/THp: 30 / 8
Surges: 10
This message was last edited by the player at 23:24, Tue 11 Nov 2008.

"Good work indeed!" Grall agrees with Bridget enthusiastically, "If those bandits don't have a back door, I'd say they have little chance of of excape with this team on the job!

He smiles at Mittens, "Tempus would be proud."  (Inspiring word)

"Thanks for the explanation, Gilant" Grall continues, "I too have a nice little trick from my heritage like you and Mittens.  I can recover about as much health on a successful strike against a foe as if a paladin had used the famous 'lay on hands' prayer on me.  Only fair I should tell you as you've shared.  As far cursing the gods goes..."

He glances at Blake with a look like he thinks Blake to be more crazy than Mittens.

"I'm no devotee, but I'm not one to tempt fate either.  I'd sooner risk offending Bridget here than be cursed with a lifetime of bad luck or even get blacklisted by the clerics of the city."

He picks up his sunrod and holds it high in hopes of getting a better view of what's ahead.  There's hints of rooms branching off from both the lower path and the path to the right.  He then locks his gaze on the broken pottery in the corner of the room.

"Hmmm," he begins, at an unusually low volume, "If we go down one path, and the bandits are down the other, they could escape through here... unless..."

He studies the floor then stoops down.  He picks up the end of the fishing line that used to be tied to the now broken pottery then gives a smirk to Emerald.

"I'll bet rigging alarms is just as much part of your skill set as finding 'em is, isn't it?" he asks rhetorically, "That pitchfork over there would make a nice loud sound if it were to fall over.  You look like you got nimble fingers.  How 'bout you set up a simple trip alarm for us?"

He then sits with his back to a wall, lays the sunrod on the ground in front of him, and digs a snack and drink out of his pack.

[23] 08-11-12 04:53:46 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Grall inspiring word vs Mittens. :P
1d6
6 = 6

(Mittens 27 of 27hp) 10 surges left.

(I'll go ahead and presume everyone in the team is taking a short rest to recuperate.  This encounter will not count toward a milestone, but better to have your encounter powers and HP back.  OOPS!  Looks like it will count!  phb 259.  Speaking of which, I recommend Bridget use inspiring word on Gilant then spend a healing surge to recover her own lost HP.)
This message was last edited by the player at 04:35, Wed 12 Nov 2008.

"From half dead to full health in 12 seconds!" Mittens mews cheerfully, "Thanks, Grall!  I really appreciated that in more ways than one!  And the rest of you too!  Wow!  What fighters!"

(Not to mention raving blood-thirsty werewolf shifter lunatic to cheerful kitten in 12 seconds flat.)

It doesn't escape Mittens' notice that Emerald is uncomfortable with her what with her 17 passive insight and the DC being of the check being 0 according to Blake.  ;p  In any case, she figures the best way to reassure Emerald that this paladin's kind of crazy is the same kind that makes rational people run into a burning building armed with a hose, wearing a heavy asbestos suit and plastic helmet, and carrying an even heavier backpack - is to agree with Emerald.

"Sounds like a good idea, Emerald," she says, "You can check for traps from right behind me from now on.  By Tempus I'll do everything in my power to protect you and the others from harm."

  "And yet if I had insulted Lolth's hairy leg problem"  Hey, Spider Queen. Duh.  "I doubt most of them would care too much."

  "I'm taking fate into my own hands.  Striking back, verbally, against those robbing us of self worth if people cant believe they can even hit animals without divine approval, and encouraging others to fight on their own.  Change is inevitable, and it will take work and faith in skill to improve for the better without gods."  Blake shrugged.

  "Of course, like many times when you are following commandments as listed, it doesn't matter what your own intentions and interpretation are.  So I usually find it easier to ignore this sort of thing, than to try and get into a justification contest that has no real correct answer for either side.  I'd have an easier time trying to get across that killing is still killing, regardless of whether it's a Lamia or an orphan."

  Blake seriously doubted the Raven Queen would quietly die just because it was supposedly 'their time'.  But to be fair, neither would Blake.
This message was last edited by the player at 08:53, Wed 12 Nov 2008.

Bridget nods to Gilant's answer and says, "That will come in very handy in the near future. Rest up. You could be the difference between this group winning or retreating." (Inspiring Word)

Once done with bandaging and tying a wolf, Bridget faces Grall. "That was good thinking under stress, Grall. I will be reporting your reliable actions when this mission is over."

She then looks to Emerald. "Grall has a point. Give it a try, Emerald." Then looks to Blake. "Personally, I don't have problem with you taking your fate into your own hands. But as a team, we hold each others' fates in each others' hands. You did good, but do keep these words in mind."

(Rolled a 4 using a 1d6. Gilant gets an extra 4 HP to his healing surge value)
([24] 08-11-12 16:48:59 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
1d6
4 = 4)
(Bridget rests)
This message was last edited by the player at 16:27, Wed 12 Nov 2008.

Emerald's fur stands on end slightly as she puts on a scared smile. The smiling blood-face is talking to me! she thinks to herself before just nodding.

Upon Grall's suggestion, Emerald heads over to examine the pottery and the line. "You assume correctly, Grall..." she mentions. Emerald then proceeds to look for ways of setting something up. "What were you thinking? Luring them into this room? Keeping this room from becoming an enemy ambush? Or using these materials in another room?"

Her fears are calmed some when near Grall, not to mention when focused on something she prides herself in.

Gilant nods at hearing Bridget's response to his explanation of what Telekinetic Leap is capable of. Gilant then feels refreshed as Bridget uses inspiring words on him, to which Gilant responds with a, "Thank you," Gilant glances at the wolves being 'tended to' and asks, "Okay, so is Unity going to be putting those wolves on trial for aiding the thieves?" as Gilant is a bit confused as to why the wolves are receiving the same treatment he'd expect the thieves to get.

_{[OOC: Taking a short rest now. Back at 31 of 31HP and has 9 Healing surges left.]}

"Hairy legs!" Grall laughs, then tries to contain himself while the others talk, snickering.  But when Gilant asks about putting wolves on trial he breaks down.  He just roars laughing till he's in tears.  Yes... you just saw an orc cry.  He eventually collects himself and calms down, drying his eyes.

"Well!" he pants, "I haven't had a laugh that good in a long time!  A trial for wolves!  That's rich!  Unity gives that impression, doesn't it?  I'd almost think they would!  Ahhh...  Um...  Whew...  No, Emerald.  I meant for you to make an 'alarm' like the one Mittens triggered so we'll know if they're trying to escape while we're elsewhere.  You need only rig the fishing line across there."

He points to the right side of the room.

"Blake...  Wow!  You have a stronger spirit than a lot of orcs I've known!  Well put!  Gods be damned!  Forge your own destiny!  And that comment about killing could have been taken word-for-word from the mouth of the most savage of orc warlords!  Orphans or Lamia!  Kill 'em all!"

Grall punches his two fists together in an orcish salute at Blake with a grin.

Mittens giggles along with Grall until the "gods be damned part" then loses her smile.  Then at his "kill 'em all" comment she looks confused.

"Or word-for-word from the lips of a peace-loving vegetarian," she corrects, "And I don't think Gilant was joking.  More importantly, the gods are real.  And they're real powerful too.  Anyone concerned about their own survival should respect their power if not their ideals.  While Blake is right that it doesn't take a blessing from the gods to take down an animal, there was a great deal of divine intervention in the forging of Unity not the least of which was Tempus' influence in the last war.  Gods be damned?  Sure.  Once you're more powerful than they are.  Defeat Tempus in combat and I'll pay my respect to you.  Until then, be careful who you challenge or you might just be taken up on your offer."

She takes out her canteen and begins to wash the blood from her face in hopes it will make Emerald more comfortable.

OOC:  I'm the RL friend of our favorite Paladin of Tempus, Mittens.  Happy to be joining everyone here.  I'll be stepping into a striker role as a Ranger.  Should be able to post an in-character greeting later today.

*wriggles around furiously*  EVIL STRAITJACKET!!!

Bridget watches the bunch debate and says, "Things don't have to be that complicated. The orders were simple. Detain with minimum necessary force. Try not to kill. Bring back criminals and the things they stole. But whether the gods are real or not, people are." Bridget begins as she faces Blake, "And it would be unwise to offend someone who believes in such gods when they are going to be covering your back in a fight."

Bridget then looks around at the others. "I reiterate. No killing unless you have no choice. I realize killing would be an easier task, so if any of you consider this mission too difficult, you may go back to Unity and find another task."

She's speaking to the group generically, but that last paragraph was mostly meant for Grall. "I doubt that is the case, though, as you all proved more than capable. Now, if you are all ready, we should go farther in."

Her cold tone continues to prove she couldn't care less how the group feels and isn't remotely annoyed with any of them. Never raised her voice.

Emerald finishes creating an "alarm" to let the group know if someone tries escaping the room. "I'm ready." she says, seemingly only slightly relieved by Mittens wiping off her face. She heads over to follow Bridget.

Gilant observes the others reactions to his question, as he didn't mean for it to be a joke as he doesn't know all that much about the bureaucratic nature of Unity so he wouldn't put it past them to try something he finds 'silly'. Given Grall's reaction to the Githyanki's comment, Gilant asks, "Okay, if the wolves aren't going to be put on trial, what will become of them?."

  Blake stops trying to figure out how ignoring the gods is bad, but beating them up is totally cool and respectable after (23:31, Today: Blake rolled 1 using 1d10. Thinks about it how long?) one second.

  "I'm all set to go.  But as I had no plans to rush off ahead of everyone I'll just wait until a direction is actually picked or you start heading somewhere."  Blake doubted he would have to wait long...  Though he also didn't doubt he may wish he had depending on what they see next.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:53, Sun 16 Nov 2008.

Grall just smears his face with his hand.  He should know better than say "Gods be damned" with a paladin around.  At least the sermon was a short one.

"I'm curious to find out, Gilant," Grall answers with a smirk as he stands back up, "And Bridget makes a good point - Time to get moving!"

He moves to the "south" side of the room.

"Mittens.  Take point since you enjoy it so much.  Emerald, to her left, scanning for traps.  Anything happens, you back up.  Behind them, Gilant, me, Bridget, Blake.  Let's move!"

Grall holds up his sunrod to light the way.

(He moves in step with the others as they advance)

http://spreadsheets.google.com...GO9l1BM0Og&hl=en
This message was last edited by the player at 14:01, Sun 16 Nov 2008.

Mittens equips her shield, draws her sword, and moves to the south hall.  There she waits for Emerald before moving further in.

(Mittens readies her further move actions to be in step with Emerald.  She also takes 10 to assist her in her perception checks adding a +2 to Emerald's perception.)

(DM ruling: Characters can "move in step" by readying their move actions to follow the leader - effectively moving as one fig on the map.  See the OOC thread for a more detailed explanation.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:56, Sun 16 Nov 2008.

Bridget goes along with Grall's suggestion and proceeds to also give an answer to Gilant. "If the wolves are found to be non-sentient beings, they will not be put on trial. What else will be decided on their fate is up to the judge. They could be put down if aggression was programmed too deeply into their minds. Or they could be set free deep in the woods where they belong. But what will become of them is not our concern. Ours is to merely bring them in as we were told."

(Bridget also moves in step and takes 10 to perception to aid Emerald, making Emerald's total 19.  Just one more adjacent ally aiding other will take Emerald over 20.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:20, Sun 16 Nov 2008.

Emerald nods to Grall and says, "Sure, Grall." She does what she can to scan for traps. "Any assistance in looking for traps is appreciated. I may be skillful at it, but more eyes are always better."

(Once she has a third adjacent ally to aid her, she is taking 10 to perception for finding traps for a total of 21.  She will advance cautiously, making sure the team advances with her while she watches for trap triggers.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:06, Sun 16 Nov 2008.

Gilant moves himself into the position Grall requested and is ready to move with the others as they advance down the corridor while also trying to aid Emerald in looking for traps, although the swordmage keeps his sword drawn and ready, just in case, "Let's get this over with, I just hope this cave doesn't turn out to be a huge cavern that takes weeks to track down the thieves. Since if it does, odds are we'll run out of rope to tie up our enemies with, and it would take a long time to get them all out of the cave and to Unity."

_{[OOC: Gilant moves in step and takes 10 to perception to aid Emerald, making Emerald's total 21. If that isn't enough to find the traps, we're in over our heads.]}

At the end of the hall Emerald's sharp eyes easily detect the presence of a trap trigger.  She stops the team when when she gets close enough to notice the two pressure plates built into the floor.  There's a narrow gap in the floor filled with a strip of wood in front of the pressure plates.

With Emerald focused on finding traps, Mittens was free to search for her favorite thing: foes!  At the same time Emerald stops the group, Mittens notices the presence of 4 someones in the room ahead.  She holds out four fingers so the rest of the team knows.

Gilant was paying very careful attention too.  An uneasy sense of deja vu crawls across his skin.  The instant Emerald stops the group and Mittens indicates 4 potential foes ahead, he remembers his training with perfect clarity.  The trap trigger at the end of a hall, the presence of foes in a dark room beyond, the gap in the floor ahead - it's probably a spring loaded door with a second door behind the group at the entrance to the hall.  Trap the group in a hall and fire at them through murder holes or fill the hall with deadly gas.  Whether by charging in or by backing off, the group better not be in the hall if the trap trigger is activated.


The enemy notices that Emerald detected their trap and prepares to attack!

(The trap takes a thievery check of 10 to disable.  It takes an athletics check of 10 to jump over, or 5 with a running start.)

INITIATIVE:
Bridget & Gilant > Foe group 2 > Blake, Mittens, & Emerald > Foe group 1 > Grall


[29] 08-11-17 03:08:18 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Bridget initiative (+4 feat, +4 thanks to 2 warlords)
1d20 +8
13 + 8 = 21

[28] 08-11-17 03:06:35 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Gilant initiative. Will suck.
1d20 +4
13 + 4 = 17 21 (+4 thanks to 2 warlords)

[26] 08-11-17 02:56:26 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Foe group 2 initiative
1d20 +5
15 + 5 = 20

[30] 08-11-17 03:09:38 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Mittens initiative (+4 thanks to 2 warlords)
1d20 +4
8 + 4 = 12

[32] 08-11-17 03:12:01 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Blake initiative (+4 thanks to 2 warlords)
1d20 +4
8 + 4 = 12

[27] 08-11-17 03:05:42 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Emerald initiative.
1d20 +5
1 + 5 = 6 10 (+4 thanks to 2 warlords)

[25] 08-11-17 02:56:00 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Foe group 1 initiative.
1d20 +6
3 + 6 = 9

[31] 08-11-17 03:10:59 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Grall initiative (+4 thanks to 2 warlords)
1d20 +5
4 + 5 = 9


This message was last edited by the player at 03:14, Mon 17 Nov 2008.

Gilant quickly explains in a soft voice as soon as he recognizes the trap, "The trap is probably a spring loaded door, I'd expect there should have been a second door behind us at the entrance to the hall, but if there was we would have already found it so I'm not sure about that part. But the idea behind this trap is to get the victims to stay in the hall and fire at them through murder holes or fill the hall with deadly gas.  So either by jumping over the trap with a running jump, or by backing off, we better not be in the hall if the trap trigger is activated..although we should try and focus on protecting Emerald while she finishes disabling the trap," before Gilant moves a bit to the east as he builds up speed turning south and easily jumping over the trap square to land just inside the room, as the Githyanki quickly takes up a defensive position as he adds, "At least one other person will need to jump over the trap to help me protect Emerald. But if you doubt you can make the jump, just wait till the trap is disabled. Better safe than sorry."

_{[OOC:
Move Action: Move East 1 square, then move south one square and running jump over the trap square, and land one square south of the trap square south of Emerald.
[33] (Gilant making an Athletics's check for a running jump over the trap square south of Emerald.) 1d20 +6 => 8 + 6 = 14 (success)
Standard Action: Total Defense (+2 Defenses)
Minor Action: Not used.
]}

Without so much as a second passing by and before Gilant can even finish his request, Bridget runs and jumps over the other trap square and takes a defensive position, leaning closer to Gilant's position in case Mittens decides to jump over the trap also. Like Gilant, Bridget takes the defensive position.

Bridget looks about calmly, despite her soldier-like stance and says, "Be extra careful. I suspect there is more than meets the eye."

(OOC: Made running jump and have an athletics of 8. Don't need to roll since I'd be able to jump at least 1 square with a running jump. Also, took full defense, so I too am +2 to defenses.)

The first Human Guard was carefully aiming his crossbow at Emerald, but shifted his aim at the last second when Gilant got in the way.  The bolt misses Gilant by a long shot.

The second Human Guard was aiming at Mittens but Bridget got in the way.  This time the bolt flew true and wounded Bridget.

(Stealth is part of a move action according to the erratta.  The guards didn't move from their position, so ignore their stealth rolls.)

[34] 08-11-17 13:49:29 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Guard 1 crossbow attack vs Gilant AC 21
1d20 +9
2 + 9 = 11

[35] 08-11-17 13:52:37 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Guard 12 crossbow attack vs Bridget AC 19
1d20 +9
19 + 9 = 28

[36] 08-11-17 13:57:33 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
xbow damage
1d8 +2
3 + 2 = 5

Bridget 17 of 22 HP.

Human Guard defenses:
HP 47
AC 18; Fort 16; Ref 15; Will 14
This message was last edited by the player at 13:23, Mon 17 Nov 2008.

Emerald kneels down and starts on disabling the trap as soon as Gilant starts talking. No sooner than he and Bridget have jumped forward than Emerald has the trap for one square disabled. "This one's disabled, Mittens." she says hurriedly, but somewhat quietly. After all... the less the enemy knows, the better.

(OOC: Emerald has a thievery of 10. She automatically succeeds in disabling the trap. Right side trap disabled.)

That's just what she wanted to hear!  ^.^

"Wheee!!" Mittens shouts as she rushes forward with a big smile on her face!  She charges at the guard that shot Bridget but her sword glances off his chainmail.  She then challenges the less than confident looking foe that was hiding behind him. (bandit 2)

"You're under arrest!" she asserts, "Hands in the air!"

(Divine Challenge vs Bandit 2)

[39] 08-11-17 14:27:37 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Mittens charge(+1) vs Guard 2 AC 18
1d20 +8
8 + 8 = 16

Human Bandit defenses:

HP 37
AC 16; Fort 12; Ref 14; Will 12

  "Bridget, is there any chance you could order Mittens to stop being suicidal?"  While one may as well request Briget order Blake to give up being annoyed people want to kill him, at least 'Don't get killed' has practical combat applications.

  The logic of 'Better them than me' has some practical value, and a reasonable chance of being put to use.
  The logic of 'Better the enemy and none of us' meanwhile, is much more useful, but difficult to get done regardless of the intent and actions of all involved.

  Only slightly less suicidal, considering it was still moving closer to the enemy before there was a convenient Multiple Person Shield between him and everything else, was Blake's own travel into the room as he took a shot at the other heavily armed human.  Well, at least he showed that wall a thing or two.

[(Standard: Failure.  Move: Duh.  Minor: Curse g1, Nearest I can SEE.  Unless I can X-Ray vision Curse either g2 or b2)
  Snags with Fog of War.  You can not make combat decisions based on what your character can see at the end of their movement, because OOCly you're eyeballs don’t work in real time. B1 could be one tile to my right for all I know.  I'd take advantage of this the other way around, but NPC control knows where PC's are at all times ;D  ]
This message was last edited by the player at 02:28, Tue 18 Nov 2008.

Both bandits throw a dagger at Mittens and both miss by a wide margin.  They both then lurk deeper into the shadows hoping to remain hidden from the rest of Bridget's posse.

[43] 08-11-18 03:51:31 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Bandit 2 sneakyness.
1d20 +9
12 + 9 = 21

[42] 08-11-18 03:51:07 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Bandit 1 sneakyness.
1d20 +9
5 + 9 = 14

(To be hidden requires superior cover.  For now, they have superior cover from all but Mittens.  This means that except for Mittens they're effectively invisible to anyone who's passive perception they beat.  A PC who can't see them can make an active Perception check to try and locate them...  or move to a place where they no longer have superior cover.)

"Sometimes rushing the line is a good strategy," Grall says as he himself rushes into the room before charging at the first guard, "This is one of those times!"

He cracks his whip, but it bounces harmlessly off the guard's chainmail.

http://spreadsheets.google.com...GO9l1BM0Og&hl=en
This message was last edited by the player at 03:42, Tue 18 Nov 2008.

Gilant moves forward to make sure that Mittens doesn't get surrounded and upon reacing his destination he turns to face the Guard standing next to him and shouts out in Deep Speach, (Deep Speech)"Time for my blade to dine on flesh and blood,"(Deep Speech) as Gilant strikes the guard with a devastating blow with his bastard sword, which causes Gilant to grin with glee as a field of sound punishes the guard, and Gilant knows that the sound will become louder if the guard tries to back off. Gilant then speaks up in common as he says with a smile on his face, What you now hear is the sound of your defeat, stand your ground and face me and you will fall to my arcane powers. I suggest that you to submit to our request for your surrender. At least then, you won't have to worry that this room will be your tomb.

<sub>[OOC:
Move Action: Move south to be one square west of Mittens
Standard Action: Booming Blade against Guard 1
[47] (Gilant Booming Blade vs Guard 1) 1d20 +7 => 20 + 7 = 27 CRIT!
Guard 1 suffers 14 pts of damage. (Guard 1 takes another 1d6+3 thunder damage if he moves away from Gilant on his turn.)
Minor Action: Aegis of shielding against Guard1

Guard1 has 33hp left, is marked with Aegis of Shielding, and will suffer 1d6+3 thunder damage if he moves away from Gilant on his turn.
]</sub>
This message was last edited by the player at 04:32, Tue 18 Nov 2008.

The guards are so surprised by the sudden onslaught and the power of Gilant's attack, they hesitate.

(Delaying guards till just before the bandits.)

  "Well, I guess I'll take your word for it then Grall."  Hey, its not like it was a bridge and/or cliff everyone was jumping off of here.  Right?

  The slight sense that Blake wasn't completely solid around the edges (how does a three dimensional being have edges anyways?) continued as he paced around the other side of the wall, and found himself looking face to back of skull with a bandit.

  'Jackpot... I find myself wondering about my choice of mental wording.'  Blake thought, as a painful, but unfortunately less than final sensation gripped the bandit's heart.

[ (Move: Duh. Minor: Curse b2.  Standard: Vamp vs b2, 16 DMG. )
Blake Temp HP: 8
b2 HP: 37-16 = 21

You rolled 12,4 using 2d8+4,1d6 ((4,4,4)) Jackpot.
http://rollr.appspot.com/view/...CxIIRGljZVJvbGwY_D8M

This message was last edited by the player at 05:40, Tue 18 Nov 2008.

"Wow!" Mittens cheers, "Nice attack, Gilant!"

She's tempted to try a flashy piercing strike, but decides to go with a more tactical attack.

"The Githyanki is right," she challenges the second guard with a smile, "You should surrender if you want to live, but to be honest... I'd be happier if you didn't surrender!"

(Divine Challenge vs Guard 2)

She jabs at him with her sword but again the attack glances off his armor.

http://spreadsheets.google.com...GO9l1BM0Og&hl=en

Bridget doesn't object to Mittens' statement since deception is the art of war and thus, combat. But she does make it a point to keep an eye on Mittens since Bridget herself isn't entirely sure if Mittens is thinking straight or if she is remembering that they are not to kill... if they can help it.

To Blake's question, Bridget says, "She isn't being suicidal." as she begins to pick up her pace to charge, "Suicidal would be staying back so they can fire more arrows at us."

(Bridget double-moves, using her second move to charge at Human Bandit 2.)
(1d20 -> 11. +8 (Str, charge and Weapon Prof) = 19.)
(1d8 -> 1. +4 (Str) = 5 damage.)
(HB2 HP: 21-5 = 16.)
This message was last edited by the player at 13:00, Tue 18 Nov 2008.

Emerald also hurries forward, figuring it wouldn't do for her to be a target for the ranged attackers. Sure, she has ranged attacks herself, but this is a losing battle for anyone who isn't on the other side of that wall. Maybe, if she was a ranger of legendary proportions, she might have tried shooting through the arrow slits. But she's not. Emerald's job is to get in close and hurt the enemies badly while they are distracted with tanks like, say, a paladin.

Doing much the same as Bridget, Emerald also charges since that is her best bet at the moment, to which she stumbles and misses.

(OOC: Which reminds me.. was wondering where or if I could bring in T'shock, Angel or Liberty.)

(Emerald does the same as Bridget.)
(Rolled epically low.)
This message was last edited by the player at 12:57, Tue 18 Nov 2008.

"Maybe we should listen to them," the first guard suggests.

"NO!" the second guard answers, knocking down Mittens with his halberd, "The strikers are flanking to the right.  Knock down the other defender and come with me to take them out!"

The second guard, still reeling from Gilant's attack, fails to strike Gilant by a wide margin.  Conflicted with the knowledge that moving away from Gilant will be painful, the fear of the Githyanki's curse, and the flanking maneuver of Blake and the others, decides to move with his ally.  He pays the painful consequence of Gilant's booming blade and lets out a curse of his own.

[53] 08-11-18 18:36:55 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Gilant AoO attack vs. Guard 1 AC. Will suck.
1d20 +4
9 + 4 = 13

[52] 08-11-18 18:35:58 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Gilant booming blade damage vs Guard 1
1d6 +3
1 + 3 = 4

[51] 08-11-18 18:32:23 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Guard 1 powerful strike vs. Gilant AC
1d20 +10
5 + 10 = 15

[50] 08-11-18 18:31:29 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
G2 powerful strike damage vs Mittens
1d10 +7
10 + 7 = 17

[49] 08-11-18 18:29:53 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Guard 2 powerful strike vs. Mittens AC
1d20 +10
19 + 10 = 29

Mittens takes 17 damage and is knocked prone.
G1 takes 4 damage.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:22, Wed 19 Nov 2008.

The first bandit tosses a dagger at Emerald and misses, then tries to hide behind the west wall.

The second bandit swings his club at Bridget, misses, then shifts back behind the nearby guard.  "Thanks, Bill."

[56] 08-11-18 18:59:24 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Bandit 1 stealth check.
1d20 +9
9 + 9 = 18

  Mittens would possibly benefit from footwear normally associated with rouges at this point.  That or a spring on their back.

  'It would be a shame if that guy got an extra dose of shock for nothing.'  Blake considered as the first guard (or was that second? It was easy to get them mixed up) dealt with the issues of Booming Blade

  Unfortunately for them, Blake decided to ensure that he had a worse day going for them than they were having.  "Now, purely for academic reasons.  Would you say being shot in the face with Eldritch energies would be considered more of a burning sensation, a stinging sensation, or something else?"

[ (Minor: Curse g2.  Only b1 to go.  Standard, E Blast to g1)
 Gilant did all his stuff to g1, so it'd be g1 who took the 4 damage.  Easy enough mistake to make (I had to reread twice to be sure, and I kept typing g2 in this post -.o) and not like it was a life or KO difference :D
No more Shadow walk ;.;
G1: 29-16 = 13

http://rollr.appspot.com/view/...CxIIRGljZVJvbGwYgUAM ]

"Looks like you got your wish, Mittens!" Grall says with a smirk, moving his whip from his main hand to his off hand, "Bill's not going to surrender!"

(Inspiring word to Mittens.  6+4HP)

"Gilant!" he continues as he moves south, unsheathing his longsword and readying a guarding attack, "Get in there and attack all three!  I got ya covered!  Emerald!  Shift south for Gilant's attack!"

(Drop sunrod: free.  Swap whip to off hand: free.  Unsheath sword: minor.  Gilant readies covering attack.  Attacks bandit 2 and gives the 4 AC bonus to the first ally (presumably Gilant) who goes adjacent to either Grall or the bandit.) defeats the bandit with maximum damage!  o.O I knew there was a good reason the orc was carrying a longsword around!)

[59] 08-11-19 06:09:17 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Grall longsword guarding attack damage vs. bandit 2.
2d8 +4
8 + 8 + 4 = 20

[58] 08-11-19 05:55:22 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Grall guarding attack vs. bandit 2 AC
1d20 +7
15 + 7 = 22

[57] 08-11-19 05:50:12 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Grall inspiring word to Mittens
1d6
4 = 4

Grall expended encounter power: guarding attack.  (Holding whip in off hand)
This message was last edited by the player at 05:34, Wed 19 Nov 2008.

(OOC: Emerald gave the go-ahead for shifting her down a square so Gilant will have flanking on both guards when he moves in.)

Gilant chuckles and says, "You won't escape me that easily. This is your last chance to surrender to us or end up like your fallen comrade," as the Githyanki pursues the Guard he struck earlier, moving into a position that lets him flank both guards as he sweeps his swording sending out a blast of force that due to his positioning smacks into Guard 1 with full force as the swordmage continues to batter Guard1, although Guard 2 manages to avoid being struck by the wave.

_{[OOC:
Move Action: Move South East 3 squares to new position on map.
Standard Action: Sword Burst vs both guards, flanking them with Emerald and Bridget. Sword burst is Int vs. Ref.
[60] Gilant using Sword Burst, with flanking bonus, against Guard 1 1d20 +6 -> 9 + 6 = 15, Hits
[61] Gilant using Sword Burst, with flanking bonus, against Guard 2 1d20 +6 -> 6 + 6 = 12, Misses
[62] Gilant's Sword Burst (Force) Damage (to Guard 1) 1d6 +4 -> 6 + 4 = 10 points of force damage.
G1 13 - 10 = 3hp remaining, and is still marked with Aegis of Shielding.
Minor Action: Unused.
]}

Was asked to clarify the details about the arrow-slit wall... and... discovered my recollection of castle construction was inverted.  The bevel should be facing south, not north like I had indicated.  I'll be correcting the map to better show the orientation of the arrow slits.  Here's a picture of what an arrow slit should look like: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arrow_slit

Top of map is assumed to be north.

The wall is 5' thick and 20' long.  The character ^ indicates an arrow slit - which is a bevel in the face of the wall beginning 4' off the ground rising to about 7' off the ground.  The angle of the bevel is about 45 degrees.  The openings on the north face of the wall are about 6" wide and widen to about 5' wide on the south face.  The wall is designed to give those adjacent to the south side of the wall superior cover against those more than a few feet north of the wall while providing no cover to those north of the wall.  However, anyone north of the wall has superior cover from those south of the wall who are not adjacent to the south face.  Also, those adjacent to an arrow slit on the north side can see those on the south side clearly and suffer no ranged attack penalty.  Melee reach weapons suffer a -5 penalty if used through the arrow slit from either side.

Mittens gets herself up off the ground and charges at the guards but again her sword misses.

"No really," she snaps threateningly at the guard that knocked her down, "Don't surrender!  I want to pay you back!"

(Divine challenge vs. guard 2.  Got a better attack roll when I accidentally used a d10.  Looks like she's not going to get a single hit this encounter.  -.-)
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:49, Thu 20 Nov 2008.

Emerald shifts to her left (As per the earlier action indicated by the DM) and flanks the first guard for Gilant. Even while the guard is distracted with Gilant's attack, Emerald attacks at the same time! The guard lucks out and is moved by Gilant's attack just enough that Emerald's attack glances off his armor. Emerald frowns some, but prepares her dagger for the next attack.

(Rolled a 4. +2 for flank, +9 using dagger. Total of 15 vs AC. Miss. D'oh.)

Taking full advantage of the flanking, Bridget attacks the second guard while also making sure that guard won't attack Gilant. "I'm the leader of this group. If you want to take us down, you should focus on me first." (Combat Challenge)

With those words, Bridget then attacks with a calculated blow, leaving Guard 2 exposed to Gilant while giving Gilant a quick hand gesture to point out the opening!


(Warlord's Favor vs Guard 2. Roll was 15. +10 = I don't care what defenses they have, that hits. Gilant gets +4 to his attack against Guard 2.)
(2d8 dmg = 7. + 4 = 13 total dmg on Guard 2.)
(Guard 2 current HP = 35)
(Guard 2 is marked until the end of Bridget's next turn.)
This message was last edited by the player at 04:31, Thu 20 Nov 2008.

"I SURRENDER!" the first Guard relents.

"Don't be a fool!" the second one objects, "They're private mercs hired by the merchants to recover the treasure!  They'll kill you if you surrender!  Follow me!"

"Good point."

The second guard shifts to the east then tries to escape, evading Bridget and Emerald's attacks of opportunities; but not Blake's.

The first guard shifts northeast and follows his ally while he distracts the others.

[72] 08-11-20 19:25:56 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Blake dagger damage vs. G2. 1d4 +3 1 + 3 = 4

[71] 08-11-20 19:25:06 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Blake dagger AoO vs. G2. 1d20 +6 19 + 6 = 25

[70] 08-11-20 19:22:44 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Emerald dagger AoO vs. G2. 1d20 +4 10 + 4 = 14

[69] 08-11-20 19:21:06 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Bridget AoO vs. G2. 1d20 +7  2 + 7 = 9

[68] 08-11-20 19:20:14 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Mittens AoO vs. G2. 1d20 +7 >= 18 2 + 7 = 9 ... failure

[67] 08-11-20 19:05:46 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Guard 2 recharge powerful strike 1d6 2 = 2 fail.

[66] 08-11-20 19:05:30 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Guard 1 recharge powerful strike 1d6 6 = 6 succeed.

Guard 2 takes 4 damage.

The remaining bandit thinks he'll be clever and moves in to pick up Grall's sunrod then tries to hide it under his leather breastplate.  But between the sunrod's size, how bright it is, and the way his leather armor doesn't co-operate, he only succeeds in dimming the room while making himself the easiest target in the room.

"Aw hell!" he curses, knowing it's pointless to keep quiet, "You'll never find the treasure unless you spare me!"

(Run to Grall's sunrod, granting combat advantage.  Pick up sunrod, minor.  Attempt to hide it, minor.)

(DM ruling: The an area of burst 1 around the bandit is considered bright light.  Most of the the rest of the room is dim light.  Total darkness indicated by deep blue grants superior concealment.  Attack rolls against targets concealed in dim light take a -2 penalty.  Obviously, using a minor action to activate a new light source bright enough to reach your dimly lit target negates the penalty.)
This message was last edited by the player at 19:02, Thu 20 Nov 2008.

"Mittens!" Grall shouts, "Gilant!  Block the door!  Don't let them escape!"

(Delaying the rest of Grall's turn till a more RL convenient time.)

In reaction to the latest changes to the situation, Gilant rushes around towards the door staying far enough away from the guards to avoid drawing attacks from them, but being close enough momentarily to place his aegis of shielding on Guard 2 as Gilant shouts out, "You are mistaken, we are not mercenaries. We are a group sent by Unity to bring you all to justice for your crimes, I don't care about what you stole, just bringing you to justice. Escape is futile, the exit is blocked, surrender and I'm sure the courts in Unity will not be as harsh upon you compared to if you continue to resist us. And if you continue to act so foolishly I'll stop holding back, and I can guarantee that at least one of you would be struck down with my Dimensional Thunder instantly no matter what you do, and the rest would soon follow. So surrender and live, or fight and die... your choice."


<sub>[OOC:
Move Action: Move six squares
Standard Action: used as move action to move six more squares.
Minor Action: use Aegis of Shielding on Guard 2.
ACTION POINT: Bonus Action: Move to final position one square south of the disarmed trap square. (Thus to exit a foe must trigger the trap and suffer an AoO from Gilant.)

Gilant spent his Action Point, to accomplish a wise tactical move without drawing any AoOs. Also if Mittens uses an action point, and 3 movement actions, she can end her turn moving in a similar fashion as I did one square west of Gilant, despite a movement of 5 by moving to the places I marked on the map as *1, *2, *3. Thus blocking off the enemy's escape route as Grall requested.

Gilant's threat isn't an idle boast, if he uses his daily, the 5 ongoing damage that occurs no matter what is enough to drop Guard 1. I don't even want to know what Guard1 is thinking hearing this, given what Gilant has done during this encounter so far.]</sub>
This message was last edited by the player at 22:47, Thu 20 Nov 2008.

  Blake considered where the others were after Grall's suggestion, and how freaking far Gilant just had to go in order to do nothing but stand in front of a door and make threats (if at least ones they could back up).

  Then he considered how far others would have to go in order to just reach the guards.  And how far he would have to go in order to A) provide 'help' by blocking the door.  B) Still maintain that whole 'safer distance' situation for the moment.

  Who said you couldn't mix selfishness with selflessness?

  "Normally I'd be happy to just let people run, less potential injury for me that way.  Unfortunately, I happen to have some slight professional pride."  This said as Blake ran straight up the room past the guards while drawing his still conveniently burning torch, then angled towards Gilant's position as he dropped it to the floor.

  50 Gp, and the best use he'd had for the thing so far was inferior to disposable goods floor lighting. Oy.

[ (Move: Duh.  Standard: Move.  Minor: Draw magic torch.  Free: Drop torch during movements.)
Yes, I'm using a 50 Gp magic item as a cheap flare -.-
Shadow Walk is go, yay!
On top of Dim lighting? I forget how many shades darker it takes to hit that. Or what the scale of darkening past bright lights is.]

Bridget yells out to the brigands, "You have already been defeated! A trap awaits in the other room, set up by our rogue!" and with that, she looks over to the one who said he needs be spared and says, "Don't worry. It is as my comrad said: We are not here to kill. Simply to arrest criminals and bring you to justice. Compliance will only help you in the events to follow. So stay put. Emerald! Arrest this man!" And with that, she hurries after the ones trying to escape, trusting Emerald to watch her back.

....if Bridget had any idea Gilant was preparing to use something he could only use once per day on guys who were all but peeing in their pants, she would probably lecture him. But she doesn't have any idea. Besides... in the end, as long as the job gets done, Bridget won't complain. Each person has their own way of dealing with problems.

(Move Action: Moved over to Guards 1 and 2.)
(Readied Action: If the guards move over towards Gilant, Bridget will use "Commander's Strike" on Gilant to attack whatever guard winds up adjacent to him first.)
(If the DM will allow me a different readied action depending on a different enemy action, then Bridget will use "Furious Smash" and give the bonus to Blake if an enemy attacks Bridget.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:47, Fri 21 Nov 2008.

Emerald decides to run forward a bit and get the one who took Grall's sunrod and first says, "On the ground! Hands behind your head!" with a smirk and her dagger ready. Should the guard refuse, Emerald will be ready. She always wanted to be on the other side of the law, arresting someone for once.

(Move Action to get to guard with sunrod. Readying a standard action to attack with Sly Flourish if the guard tries to run away or attack Emerald. And the guy would provoke the AoO on top of that if he tries to leave the square.)

Mittens rushes around the wall, sword drawn, only to find that Blake and Gilant have already blocked the door, and Bridget is ready to strike down anyone who resists arrest.

"First one to budge gets it!" she threatens, readying a charge against the first foe to move, "And... um... Thanks, Blake."

Grall joins Emerald in approaching the bandit, and to further emphasize the point that they're not killers, sheaths his longsword.

"We've already been more than lenient with you guys," he points out, "I was careful to simply knock out your cohort.  Even your attack dogs were spared.  You're outnumbered, surrounded, and out of your league.  Face it.  If we wanted to kill you you'd be dead already.  And rightfully so.  We coulda claimed self defense.  Just don't expect to be as lucky as the guy I knocked out...  No telling what nightmarish spell the Githyanki swordmage has up his sleeve."

Just in case they don't surrender, Grall readies a furious smash if the bandit should resist arrest.

The first human guard and the bandit drop their weapons and hold up their hands.  The second guard face-palms and does the same.

"The treasure is in the south wall," the bandit reveals, "The panel can only be opened by simultaneously pulling six switches hidden in the arrow wall.  But you better hurry.  I heard there's a timer.  Dunno if it's magical or mechanical, but according to what I heard, any second now and the treasure will fall through a trap door to alert the others that it's time to escape with the loot.  So... since I told ya, that means I get a reduced sentence, right?"

The guards glance at the bandit in surprise, one glances down at his halberd.

(Obviously, you'd need a perception check to find a switch.  There's a time limit, so no taking 10.  I'll set the DC at 10 per switch in bright light, 20 in dim light.)
This message was last edited by the player at 01:50, Sat 22 Nov 2008.

  "So, let me see if I understand this correctly.  There is a timed security measure, set to go off any second that you were not worried about at all until just now.  The only way to keep it from going off is if six, coincidentally how many of checked this room, people all drop everything and pull them at once.  If it's not done, others panic and ditch your hideout."  Blake was considering facepalming, but one of the guards already did such for him.

  "That is an incredibly retarded system considering there are not enough of you to pull all the switches in here, and any sane people you have to reach six would have come at least more than thirty seconds ahead of time to make sure their loot does get ejected.  Or maybe you were planning on having the wolves help seeing how nobody else has bothered to?  Besides, it's hardly helpful to talk about switches, but not obviously point them out.  Maybe if you were actually helpful there might be a chance of leniency"

  In case it wasn't obvious,  Blake thinks they're making things up to make every single one of them go away from the door so the criminals can flee while Unity representatives were to busy being gullible morons.

[ (Minor: Curse b1, that’s all of em.  Standard:  Ready action, E Blast g1 in the face if needed (or someone else if that’s not an option.  Also, as it's a free action,  Swordmage Warding will be used IF any of the enemies reach halberd melee range.) ]
This message was last edited by the player at 20:20, Fri 21 Nov 2008.

(OOC:  Woohoo!  Gratz to Blake for seeing through the bluff!  Rolled a 20 on the bandit's bluff check, but the other two rolled low, hence their reaction.  Was gunna use the "perception roll" as insight for the characters to decide what to give away, but now I don't have to.  :p  Yay!)
This message was last edited by the player at 01:45, Sat 22 Nov 2008.

The githyanki grins when the thieves drop their weapons, but when the bandit starts going on about a timed trap, Gilant is about to speak up to remind them that he is after bringing the criminals to justice, not fetching a treasure, when Blake points out the obvious problems with the 'story' that the bandit made up.

At that point Gilant chuckles and says, "As Blake has pointed out, that sort of security system seems rather stupid... if we didn't show up, how would you keep your 'companions' from running off with your loot as there are only four of you here and as you said six panels? Even if such a stupid setup really existed... I wouldn't care since we are here take you all back to Unity. And if you don't have the stolen goods with you, I'm sure those in unity will just hand out harsher sentences for you, so odds are you'd end up talking and telling the authorities where your 'friends' went with the loot if only to save your own skins."

It is quite obvious that Gilant isn't going to drop his guard until he is sure that the four thieves have been properly detained. Gilant then forms an near demonic looking grin on his face as he says, "So when we tie these guys up and escort them to the others outside, we're supposed to tie each finger separately to insure they don't try some silly rope escape trick right? I mean the alternative would be to chop off their hands, but the authorities in Unity wouldn't appreciate that, even if the hands could be reattached later with magic. The penalties for crimes can be so much harsher in Githyanki society, but I'm still not sure what is allowable and what isn't in these lands. Still you don't hear about Githyanki criminals as they have no hands, and often no heads, and some of them are fed to undead or worse. Although, if these guys do try to escape from the ropes, we may be left with no choice to chop off the hands, so unless you want to be known as the Handless Thieves, please don't try any silly escape tricks, it will only make us mad. And then I might get permission to carry out Githyanki justice."

Bridget sheathes her sword and proceeds to start binding the guards (Unless they interrupt with something). While she is at it, Bridget listens to Gilant and can't help but realize now how useful having a Githyanki can be since they have a reputation that can intimidate foes... especially human ones.

"There is still a chance he speaks the truth and part of the mission is to get the treasure. Emerald, when you are done binding the man in front of you, start searching the room for triggers. Mittens, come help me tie these men up. Gilant, Blake, you two are situated where I need you to be for now. Good work blocking the exit."

She then looks directly to Gilant. "To prevent the risk of escape, the man outside has a special sleeping agent that will keep the prisoners asleep until awakened."

Bridget then looks at the guard she is binding. "But he is correct. Our orders are to bring you in alive. There is nothing in there about bringing you in one piece. But be thankful we are, in fact, from Unity. A place that produces people who even consider bringing you back in one piece as an option. Do not try me or my allies, though, or I will allow Gilant to do as he pleases." she points at Gilant to indicate who she means, knowing full well Gilant is probably the most fearsome person in the room.

(OOC: Figured the king would have a means of keeping said prisoners. And in a world of magic like DnD, a magic sleeping potion seems reasonable for a king's resources. Like the goody-two-shoes version of KILLING these guys. :) )
This message was last edited by the player at 20:30, Mon 24 Nov 2008.

Emerald says, "Sure thing!" as she proceeds to tie the guy up. Should she be met with no resistance, she carries out her new orders and begins scanning the place for triggers.

"Good thinking, Blake," Grall commends with a smile as he disarms the bandit and recovers his sunrod, "You saw through his trick.  As for you, Bandit, if you want to be helpful, how 'bout you tell us more about what's down the other hallway?  More of your gang, no doubt, but how many?  What are their arms?  Are there any traps?  As the warlock pointed out, if you want leniency, try not lying.  If you care a whit about the safety of your allies in the other rooms, you'll give us every possible advantage so we won't be forced to use Githyanki justice on them either."

[76] 08-11-25 17:37:19 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Grall intimidate / diplomacy vs. Bandit Will
1d20 +8 >= 11
7 + 8 = 15 ... success

Mittens carries out Bridget's orders, clearly disappointed that the enemies surrendered.

"Take off that armor," she orders the injured guards after making sure they're completely disarmed.

When they comply, she does her best to help heal their wounds.

"That's one heck of a jab you got there," she commends her foe, "It's a real shame we couldn't finish our fight.  Look me up in the temple of Tempus when you get out of prison so we can have a proper duel."

The bandit winces at the dilemma.  Rat out his allies and risk their vengeance or say nothing and risk they'll get seriously hurt?

"Heal my pal and I'll believe you," he answers with a tilt of his head toward the fallen bandit.

Grall does as he asks, so the bandit spills the beans.

"In the next room there's 2 walls that Jake and his buddies like to use for cover so they can catch intruders by surprise.  His buddies aren't so tough, but Jake's a lunatic.  He likes it when you hit him!  He will not surrender.  Ever!

"There's a room beyond that.  That's where the boss is.  He knows magic, and he fights smart.  He'll blast you into next Tuesday without breaking a sweat.  On top of that his bodyguards are tough as nails.  Oh yeah.  And he booby trapped the room to impale intruders when you least expect it.  Good luck with that fight."

The guards don't add anything to the bandit's info and just stare at Mittens like she's from another planet.

"Church of Tempus?  That figures.  Jake's gunna like you."

  Why would they chop off their hands?  That's needless violence.  It's their legs they would use to run away.

  "Right, do what I'm already doing.  No problem.  Just let me know when we're leaving here so I can grab my stuff."

Gilant rests the tip of his sword on the ground as he mutters,
"Too bad the boss probably also has an escape route planned that uses another exit if the main doors to the chamber are blocked. It would be too easy to just seal them in that room till their supplies run out and then they beg us to let them out. But that doesn't work if there is a second exit to the room we don't know about. And since this guy is so smart, he has to have a second way out of the room, so care to tell us where that method is? Odds are such a passageway wouldn't be trapped as it would only hinder his own escape." Gilant glances at the prisoners and doubts they have an answer as he fully expects them to not know of their superior's secret escape route as the Githyanki expects the boss wold keep it a secret to save his own butt at their expense.

"The boss has a magical portal," the bandit reveals, "but I dunno how it works."

In the back wall of the room, Emerald finds an untrapped panel that opens without having to activate any "switches."  Behind the panel is a locked treasure chest, but the lock is easy enough to open with her thief's tools.  Inside the chest she finds:

Viscious Rod +1, (AV 102),
Heavy Jousting Shield +1, (AV 118),
Swiftshot hand crossbow +1, (AV 79),
Leather Veteran's Armor +1, (AV 55),
Inescapable Longsword +1, (AV 70),
Vanguard Whip +1, (AV 81).

http://spreadsheets.google.com...GO9l1BM0Og&hl=en
This message was last edited by the player at 03:14, Fri 28 Nov 2008.

Emerald peeks inside the chest and grins wide. "Hey guys... I think I found some really nice stuff in here!" She lists off what is in there and then looks in Bridget's direction and asks, "Are we allowed to use these things against our soon-to-be opponents? After all... these could be the stolen property."

Bridget nods. "Yes. We may use them. In the same way one might use a gold brick to throw at an enemy's head in order to keep that enemy from stealing it, we too are permitted to use the stolen goods to our advantage if it means bringing the criminals to justice. According to the law, putting a criminal away takes higher priority than returning what was stolen."

She then looks the items over. "We will return what was stolen. It's just convenient that the stolen items make it easier to do so."

(OOC: I'm making assumptions here since Chris is asleep. So if I'm wrong, the narrator will need to correct me. But what I posted here seems to make sense. A criminal being captured is equal to the goods stolen as well as any future stolen property. Therefor is worth more in the eyes of the law.)

"In that case I think we should divvy the loot according to who can use the items most effectively," Grall suggests, "I'll wager I'm the most skilled with a whip in this group so I'll be borrowing that.  Mittens, heavy shield for you.  Blake, magical rod for you."

Grall takes the whip then hands out the other 2 items to persons mentioned.  He stows his old whip in his pack and gives the new one a few swings to get a feel for it.

Mittens accepts the shield with a smile after strapping her old one to her back.  She too acquaints herself to the feel of the new gear.

"So let's get going!" she suggests, "Adventure awaits!  The badguys could be escaping!"

  Now that the enemies are somewhat dealt with,  Blake recovers his own magical light source before pocketing it and heading back to his original position.
  "Thanks.  I wonder, if I die will people complain that I didn't return this thing?"

  Sharp object in one hand, blunt object not intended to hit people with in the other hand.  He'll continue on when everyone else does.  It's hard to follow up behind the crowd if the crowd doesn't move to follow in the first place.

Bridget looks over the items with Grall and grabs the longsword before sheathing it. She makes no comment concerning her personal choice. Bridget then hands the crossbow back to Emerald. "Cover our backs with this, Emerald." she says before offering the leathery vest to Gilant and saying "You can use this one. It should help you find enough within yourself to do your best attack more than once today."

She looks coldly to Mittens' direction and nods. "Haste is good. But I remind you: Do not hurry too much. Better the criminals get away and you live than risk you dying over being too hasty."

With that said, she heads back to the room they came from in a quickened pace, Emerald following soon after. Of course, Bridget brings the new prisoners along so they can be put into the wagon.

(OOC: Not posting Emerald for now.)
This message was last edited by the player at 13:26, Fri 28 Nov 2008.

Gilant sheaths his sword when Bridget hands him the leathery vest so that the Githyanki can properly don the armor before saying, "So what will be our next move? We know where they are, but simply charging in would be foolish given what we know." as Gilant glances back and forth between those still present in the room.

"Advancing to the next room as soon as possible could be our only option if we don't want them to slip away through that portal," Grall points out, "Though a little strategy could go a long way..."

Grall lays out some crossbow bolts on the ground to represent the borders of the room ahead.  He then uses some gold coins to indicate allies and sling bullets to indicate enemies.

>>>-------> >>>-------> >>>------->
                    GBB
                G   GGB
>>>-------> >>>------->
                      ^
                      |
                      |
                      |
                      |
                      ^
                      ^
                      ^

"I'm thinking we lure them into the hallway so they won't be able to flank us.  Then, if we form an L formation with a defender on either extreme and Bridget at the elbow, we could effectively isolate one foe to focus our attacks on that foe..."

He "kills" one of the foes then shifts the coins back some with pebbles chasing them.

"Then if we give some ground to flip the L into an r, we could give some relief to the forward defender and they might fall for it again."

>>>-------> >>>-------> >>>------->
                  GGB
              G   GB
>>>-------> >>>------->
                      ^
                      |
                      |
                      |
                      |
                      ^
                      ^
                      ^

"If they catch on and back up, then we push in and flank 'em."

>>>-------> >>>-------> >>>------->
                        GBG
                       GBG
>>>-------> >>>------->
                      ^
                      |
                      |
                      |
                      |
                      ^
                      ^
                      ^

He glances at his allies to see if they get the idea before he takes his coins off the floor.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:02, Wed 03 Dec 2008.

"Sounds great!" Mittens says hastily as she takes the front, "I wunna be the front part of the L!"

"That's fine, but stop short of the room," Grall answers, "Emerald should be the one to catch their attention.  She could get the drop on 'em, fire a few bolts, and Gilant could yank her out of trouble just like last time.  I'll be sure to keep the light dim till then so they'll be less likely to see her coming."

(Mittens just answers with a smile and a thumbs-up.)

http://spreadsheets.google.com...GO9l1BM0Og&hl=en
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:54, Wed 03 Dec 2008.

Bridget watches Grall's illustration and nods in agreement. "A solid plan, Grall. Since you're the biggest here, you and Gilant can take the prisoners to the wagon. I'm positive you two can catch up with the rest of us quickly. We'll meet you in the middle of the hall. Don't worry. I will not charge in until everyone is present. If we get charged, I'll retreat to the first room where you can meet us."

She looks to the others and says, "There is a saying: A bird in hand is better than two in the bush. That said, whenever we get prisoners, we will make sure they remain prisoners, even at the cost of letting the others get away. Those are the rules. But nobody is to charge in alone unless specifically told to do so. Each encounter with the enemy can and will be different."

She looks back at Grall. "Far as I can tell, their boss probably knows we are here, but chances are high he doesn't know we've outlasted his front defenses. I doubt he has reason to run just because some pots shattered. A child could have set those off. Or a small animal. Let's do this safely. I agree that time is important, but beware of feeling rushed. That is what we want our enemies to feel... not us."

Emerald shrugs with a smile and follows along with Bridget to the first room as the others come along and hands the reigns of her own captive over to Grall when Bridget indicates for her to do so.

When Grall makes it to the entrance, he slams into an invisible magical barrier that blocks his exit.  No amount of shouting, punching, or kicking budges the barrier.  The prisoners look very surprised.

"Did YOU know the boss could conjure something like that?" one asks.

"No way the boss could pull something like THIS off," the bandit answers, "Hell, if he could, why the heck not seal the entrance BEFORE these intruders came in?"
This message was last edited by the player at 18:23, Thu 04 Dec 2008.

Liking Grall's 'battleplan', and hearing how Mitten's has already volunteered to be the 'front' part of the 'L', Gilant says, "That makes me the upper part of the 'L'."

When Bridget instructs both Grall and himself to escort the prisoners to the wagon, Gilant simply nods and assists Grall in escorting the prisoners. Upon Grall encountering the barrier, Gilant unsheathes his sword and taps it against the barrier as he inspects the barrier before saying, "A barrier like this is definitely beyond anything I'd have expected to see around parts like this. Who ever placed this, doesn't want anyone to leave anytime soon. We should report this to Bridget, as it changes the situation significantly. At least whoever placed it doesn't want us dead as it would be easier to just collapse the cave than to erect a barrier as strong as this one."

_{[OOC: Taking ten on Knowledge: Arcana to try to identify the barrier by seeing it in action, via seeing it block Grall and my sword, since the result is 19 and the DC is 15 + 1/2 (round down) the level of magic, that means if it is level 9 or less I'd be able to identify it. I'm assuming I fail this check, so I'd not know what it is, but I'd also know that it is definitely beyond anything that a group of low level people would normally encounter. If somehow a 19 is enough to Identify the barrier I'll edit my post accordingly but I fully expect it to be a failure. And yes it would be easier to collapse the cave, just damage the roof enough and it would collapse in on itself.]}

(OOC: You assume correctly, Gilant.  But just for giggles, I'll let the players know that I'm basing it off the lvl 10 Wizard encounter power in Dragon 364 pg 62 "Illusary Wall."  Reason I went with magical barrier instead of cave-in is I wanted to keep leaving through the front door today an option instead of having 18 rounds of "Grall clears more rubble.")

Grall nods at Gilant and reports what they discovered to Bridget.

"Well there's always the back door," he points out, "If the wizard doesn't cooperate we can apply some persuasion."

He cracks his knuckles.  His face shows that he's quite annoyed with the situation.

When Gilant and Grall report, Bridget is, as usual, unaffected. She hears them out and says, "Knock them out and be careful not to permanently injure them. Let's get moving." She looks at the prisoners with a cold stare one might expect from a statue. "When you meet your boss in the courtroom, I will see to it you have the chance to thank him for your extra inconvenience."

Bridget leads the way to the next room, doing just like she had indicated earlier: Not enter until everyone is together.

Emerald looks at Grall as if to say she expects Grall to do the knocking out. Then follows behind Bridget. Having heard what Gilant and Grall had to report, she comments, "We must be facing someone powerful. But with our only way out being sealed off, I guess we don't have a choice but to push forward."

  Blake considered the first thing that came to mind that could have caused such a thing... Then the second thing... Then the third thing, then he stopped bothering.

  "Unless Unity has a tendency to jack up prices over time, I'm seriously considering paying cash instead of 'equal worth' community service from now on."

  Become a citizen of Unity.  Risk death.  Fight things you wouldn't expect to have a reasonable chance to survive against.  Have to deal with those who had tried to kill you two minutes ago in a non lethal way that still leaves them nearby and able to wake up in five minutes or less.  Get nothing to show for it on grounds of criminal charges if you take anything.

  All for the low low theoretical equivalent value of Fifty Gold Pieces.  Had Blake known, he wouldn't have bought that torch.

OOC Style: *eyes previous posts*  From here, Assume Blake is following along behind the group until he actually has to do something.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:27, Sat 06 Dec 2008.

Gilant assists Grall in knocking out the prisoners if the orc is willing to accept the githyanki's assistance before Gilant will head off to follow Bridget so he can assume the part of the 'L' position he'll be at once the group is ready to enter the next room.

Once Gilant is near Bridget he asks, "Bridget, I'm guessing that in situations when a mission turns out to be more than what people signed up for, that there will be some sort of compensation for the additional burden or difficulty? Or is it as Blake was hinting at, that the equivalent community service isn't truly equivalent."

Grall does as he's told and joins the team as they advance down the hall.  He stows his sunrod so the enemy won't be quite as alerted to their presence.  This leaves Blake's torch as the only source of light.

(OOC: If Blake hangs back far enough, I think Emerald could use the low light as concealment for a stealth check to try and get the drop on the enemy.)

http://spreadsheets.google.com...GO9l1BM0Og&hl=en
This message was last edited by the player at 03:40, Fri 12 Dec 2008.

Bridget says in response to Gilant, "Compensation is given according to deed. How much compensation or what kind I am not saying until we are done here. Unity is about paying people for their actions. Criminals are payed with jail time. Heroes are payed with praise, gratitude and the knowledge they helped the cause of good. Selfish bounty hunters are payed with gold, but not respect. An eye for an eye and an attitude for an attitude."

She glances to Blake. "But whether you get anything or not should be the least of your worries compared to survival, teamwork and making sure the criminals don't get away."

But once again, the lack of anger or concern in her voice is ice cold. Bridget looks forward and says, "Let's maintain silence for now."

Having the team move with her, Bridget has Mittens continue to take point, but Bridget is not far behind Mittens and makes sure Gilant isn't far behind either.

Emerald continues to follow, looking for traps as they all creep forward. She made no comment on the earlier inquiries, thankful that she is being given a chance in the first place. Her feet seem to move without a sound. She is beside Mittens, but rather than upset Gilant again, doesn't go any farther than that. If anything, Gilant's earlier actions have her keeping an eye on him just as much as she has her eye out for traps.

But when they come upon the next room, Emerald peeks at Bridget and with an inquisitive expression, points at herself and then forward. Bridget simply nods, allowing Emerald to sneak forward ahead of the others.

(Taking 10 in Stealth for a total of 20.)
This message was last edited by the player at 13:31, Fri 12 Dec 2008.

(Frustrated with the lighting game mechanic.  The whole "they can see you, but you can't see them" business...  I think I have an idea that ties into Blake's OOC post.)

The moment Emerald edges forward, Mittens would have followed to remain adjacent, but Blake put away his torch.  The entire group is now cloaked in total darkness, unable to see anything, even with low light vision.  Mittens stifles a giggle at what she thinks is Blake pulling a prank.  Grall rubs his chin thoughtfully, trying to figure out a way to prevent their light from alerting the enemy to the team's approach while still having some way of being able to see.  Just before he can whisper his thoughts to the group, the faint squeak of a tiny hinge can be heard that lights the room ahead ever so slightly.  Whispers can be heard coming from inside the room.

(From the perspective of the bandits:

The intruders were approaching down the hall, talking about risk and reward when suddenly their torch went out and everything went pitch black and completely quiet.  That's just creepy!  Torches don't just blink out completely all of a sudden without a sound!  Jake opens his lantern a tiny bit to see the nervous faces of his cohorts.

"What the hell just happened?" he whispers.

"Something from outside musta got 'em.  Maybe some necromancer just... I dunno... zapped 'em into the shadowfell or something."

*gulp*  "...As if this day could get any worse.")

(OOC: I can't find an example of the lantern I'm thinking of.  It's the medieval version of a flashlight.  The light from the lit candle is completely blocked until you open the little door or slide open a shutter.  It's kinda like this signal lantern: http://home.att.net/~JVNautilu...y/HunleyLantern.html

only instead of a lens there's a mechanism for letting the light out or blocking it kinda like this: http://commons.wikimedia.org/w...dex.html?curid=91632

In any case, the bandits would have snuffed their lights when they heard the crash of their pottery-alarm.  Except for Jake.  I figured Jake to be important enough to have the fancy lantern.

BTW At this point it's too dark for Emerald to scout for traps.  However, the team can approach in total concealment and get the drop on the enemy.  So it's a trade-off.)
This message was last edited by the player at 15:29, Fri 12 Dec 2008.

Bridget points to Emerald, points to where the light is coming from, but instantly holds up her finger as if to say wait. Then points to Gilant and then Emerald before she makes a yanking motion. Then holds up five fingers and counts down. Once her hand is a fist, she points to the light, indicating it's time for the team to charge in.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:54, Mon 15 Dec 2008.

Emerald gets the gist of it and sneaks forward with the intention of turning the corner and attacking with First Strike and Sneak Attack added into the factor. She smiles as she takes her new found friend, the Swiftshot hand crossbow, and fires at the first bandit before firing at the second one so quick, she manages to pull it off before it's time for Gilant to yank her! Though even as she's yanked, she lets off one more shot with the crossbow! She doesn't yelp this time, though, since it was part of the plan and thus, she fully expected it. This time, though, she has a big grin on her face.

(Move Action: Move 6 squares to see around corner)
(Standard Action: Sly Flourish)
-rolled 2 using 1d20. +9=11 total. Miss on bandit 1.)
(Minor Action: Use crossbow's encounter power: Make a ranged basic attack)
-rolled 13 using 1d20. +9=22 total. Hit on Bandit 2 unless he's a god among bandits.
-rolled 3d6 for dmg (1d6 for crossbow, 2d6 for sneak attack) with result of 9. +5 from dex = 14 dmg total vs Bandit 2.

(Standard Action as per next round: Sly Flourish)
please roll for me, DM. the dice roller won't let me load the page that lets me send you the results.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:49, Fri 19 Dec 2008.

Jake defenses: (J)
HP 66; AC 15; Fort 15; Ref 14; Will 14

Bandit defenses: (b1-b2)
HP 37; AC 16; Fort 12; Ref 14; Will 12

Rabble defenses: (r1-r3)
HP 1; (a missed attack never damages a minion)
AC 15; Fort 13; Ref 11; Will 11

  After what seemed like half a month, but clearly couldn't have been as only a few seconds had passed, Blake's temptation to just go and do something for the sake of something happening was resisted.  And he stayed behind all the other people who would hopefully all die before things got to his own personal suffering ready to shoot the first guy to come around a corner.

  Because getting a clear shot in the first place expecting others to come along will repeatedly get called a stupid suicidal thing to do when nobody else goes along with you.

Minor: Mark first guy to enter LoS
Standard: Ready Action, Dire Radiance to First guy to enter LoS
This message was last edited by the player at 05:19, Mon 29 Dec 2008.

After both Mittens and himself get into position, Gilant waits for Emerald to let loose with her ambush/surprise attacks and then uses his Telekinetic Leap ability to move her back so she ends up behind Mittens and next to himself.

_{[OOC: Surprise Round action: use Telekinetic Leap on Emerald after she takes her action for the surprise round.]}

(Thanks to game mechanics, I'll be a little out of character, Mittens not having her sword drawn?!, for the sake of avoiding something that's even more out of character: Mittens NOT ATTACKING?!)

Mittens carefully edges forward with her hand on the wall as a guide.  When she feels the corner of the room she stops, takes out her sling, and lets fly a rock at the nearest foe which misses by a wide margin.  The sound of her clanking plate armor is plenty for the rest of the team to gauge where she is.

(Move, minor, standard.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:01, Mon 29 Dec 2008.

Grall uses a similar strategy to carefully move forward and attack with his sling.

[98] 08-12-29 15:50:10 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Grall basic ranged sling attack vs. bandit 1 AC (cover canceled by surprise combat advantage).
1d20 +1 >= 16
15 + 1 = 16 ... success (oops.  forgot warlords are proficient in simple ranged weapons.  no matter, hits anyway.)

[99] 08-12-29 15:52:55 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
sling damage
1d6 +1
6 + 1 = 7
This message was last edited by the player at 14:54, Mon 29 Dec 2008.

(Bridget didn't take advantage of the surprise round other than to move closer to the action.)

"AN AMBUSH!" Jake bellows angrily as he opens the lantern completely, "Cowardly law dogs!  I'll make you wish you were never born!"

"Where'd they go?" he mutters to his allies under his breath.

They point in the direction Emerald flew off to, not that they can see her anymore.

[DM Ruling: Jake had secretly readied the action "open lantern" for the moment anything startling happening.  PHB 262 says lanterns shed bright light to a distance of 10 squares, (as good as campfire and better than a torch?! :/), so now the bandit team has no low-light concealment.  I started rolling initiative and got irritated with the confusing initiative order / lighting issues.  I'll just rule that the bad-guys delayed their turns waiting for critical-fail-initiative-roll Jake to move the light to where they can actually SEE the enemy.

In other words, good-guys first -> bad guys last.

In the future I think I'll just average the badguys initiative bonuses and roll once which in this case would have been about FOUR for the entire bandit team.

A side note: Now that the surprise round is over, the enemy is no longer "flat-footed" and does not grant combat advantage for being surprised.  Only Emerald has combat advantage against anyone thanks to her "first strike" rogue feature.

Side note 2: Not that bandit 1 will live long enough to see his turn, but if he does, and Joe decided to use Dire radiance a second time and hits, I'll allow the power's secondary effect to double up.  This means he'd take 2d6+8 damage if for some insane reason bandit 1 decides to move closer to Joe.]

Bandit 1 shouts in pain when Blake's readied dire radiance explodes in his face while the rest of his body shudders from the resonating curse.

[94] 08-12-29 15:02:52 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Blake dire radiance vs. bandit 1 fort.
1d20 +4 >= 12  (oops.  forgot to add in cover from the wall.  no matter it hits anyway.)
16 + 4 = 20 ... success

[95] 08-12-29 15:05:41 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
dire radiance damage.
1d6 +4
5 + 4 = 9

[96] 08-12-29 15:10:32 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
curse damage
1d6
6 = 6

Bandit 1 HP: 37-15-7 = 15 (bloodied. will take another 1d6+4 on his turn if he moves closer to Joe)
Bandit 2 HP: 37-14 = 23
Jake     HP: 66
Rabble 1 HP: 1
Rabble 2 HP: 1
Rabble 3 HP: 1

http://spreadsheets.google.com...GO9l1BM0Og&hl=en
This message was last edited by the player at 15:53, Mon 29 Dec 2008.

"Hipocrite!" Mittens retorts furiously, "Your allies told us all about your cowardly ambush tactics!  You're lower than a DOG!  At least your pets at the entrance had the guts to face me head on!"

Mittens lets fly another stone at the closest visible enemy, which again misses by a wide margin.  She then puts her sling away.

(Divine challenge, attack, stow weapon.  Minor, standard, minor.  PHB 91 says nothing about having to have LoS to the target of divine challenge.  Also thanks to quirky wording, since she's challenged a new target on her turn she doesn't have to engage her mark this turn to prevent the power from failing.)

"Heh," Grall says calmly with a smirk, "Don't let him get to you, Mittens.  I realize cats hate being called dogs, but he's just trying to rattle you.  Typical combat tactic."

He raises his voice to make sure Jake can hear.

"Sounds to me like poor Jake is scared.  Understandably so.  We just clobbered his guard dogs and his allies in that trapped room like they weren't even there.  Look.  Jake.  Spare yourself the pain and embarrassment of a crushing defeat.  Surrender."

He slings another well aimed rock at the first bandit.

[102] 08-12-29 16:41:55 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Grall basic ranged sling attack vs. bandit 1 AC (+2 from cover).
1d20 +3 >= 18
20 + 3 = 23 ... success (crit!  That's max damage for the second time in a row!  Go Grall!)

Bandit 1 HP: 15-7 = 8 (bloodied. will take another 1d6+4 on his turn if he moves closer to Joe)

[DM note: Swap this and Emerald's post for making more sense movement order wise]

Bridget listens carefully to the things said and the tones, but mostly for any movement. With Grall taking care of Unity's end of trash-talk, Bridget focuses more on keeping the team stable. She reaches to put a hand on Mittens to pat her shoulder in a reassuring teammate manner. Then moves her gaze towards where Jake and his band is. "Grall is correct." Bridget begins in a soft tone. "The enemy is attempting to get in your head. Don't let them. Stay firm. Solid. And stick to the plan."

Bridget gets into a position and readies herself for the inevitable "frightened animal" lashing out that is about to come.

(Standard: Bridget readies an action: If an enemy gets within melee range, Bridget will use Furious Smash on that enemy. If she needs to move into position via the plan, she does so now as her move action.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:40, Wed 31 Dec 2008.

Emerald whispers "Thanks" with a smile to Gilant, then frowns a bit at Jake's comment. Law dogs? Then in a whisper, she admits with a tone of minor guilt and amusement mingled together, "I think they just called you all dogs since all they've seen so far is me..."

Emerald prepares herself as she steps over to be behind the others to make good use of the crossbow which she has already fallen in love with. Maybe there are perks to working on the side of the law after all... besides the ones everyone else insist on. "I got your backs, everyone..." she whispers with a smile.

She then lets loose another bolt towards the bandit from her current position before backing up to make room for Bridget. :)

(Standard: Emerald uses Sly Flourish on B1 and misses.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:43, Wed 31 Dec 2008.

  Blake recalls said pets also took a significant bite out of Mittens.  That sort of thing wouldn't be very good either.

  He steps past Emerald after she takes her shot in order to A) be slightly closer to the targets if not yet having an easier shot at them.  B) Give the impression you could miss him if you weren't paying attention.

  Some take Shadow Walk literally.  Blake prefers to have his eldritch actions be less obvious, unless it's something that will be regardless like melting someone's face off.

  [ (Move: 3. Standard: Ready Action, Dire Radiance to First Enemy to enter unobscured LoS (Due to scenery, not lighting)
  Shadow Walk Get? only moved 3, not 3 away from start -.-) ]
This message was last edited by the player at 23:10, Fri 09 Jan 2009.

As the Githyanki realizes that there is not much likelihood of any of the thieves coming within his melee range, but there is the significant chance several of them might attack him from afar, Gilant takes a defensive posture focusing on his defense at the expense of an offense right now.

_{[OOC: Standard Action: Total Defense, Gilant has a +2 bonus to all Defenses till the beginning of his next turn.]}

Jake moves around the wall to shed some light on the situation.  Blake fires his readied dire radiance spell, but it fails to harm Jake.

"The rest of you focus on the others," he orders, "The paladin is all mine!"

He places the lantern on the ground then charges Mittens, but she deflects his sword with her shield.

[104] 09-01-10 04:50:54 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Jake charge attack (+1) vs. Mittens AC.
1d20 +8 >= 20
6 + 8 = 14 ... failure

[105] 09-01-10 05:35:01 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Blake readied dire radiance vs. Jake fort.
1d20 +4 >= 15
5 + 4 = 9 ... failure
This message was last edited by the player at 04:54, Sat 10 Jan 2009.

"I don't think I'm gunna make it, boss!" the first bandit says, "I'll do my best."

He tosses a well aimed dagger at Gilant but his foe evades the attack.  He then takes cover behind the wall hoping to stay alive.

[106] 09-01-10 06:13:53 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Bandit 1 dagger throw vs. Gilant AC (who has cover from Mittens, full defense, and is juuust out of close range for a total of +6)
1d20 +6 >= 25
14 + 6 = 20 ... failure

---

"We'll get these guys," the second bandit assures.

He moves out into the open and flicks a dagger with such precision it penetrates Gilant's readied defense.

[107] 09-01-10 06:18:46 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Bandit 1 dagger throw vs. Gilant AC (who has full defense for a total of +2)
1d20 +6 >= 21
20 + 6 = 26 ... success

7 damage to Gilant.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:22, Sat 10 Jan 2009.

The first human rabble charges the closest target, Mittens, and hits her squarely with his club.

[108] 09-01-10 06:43:19 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Rabble 1 charge vs. Mittens AC
1d20 +6 >= 20
17 + 6 = 23 ... success
4 damage to Mittens

---

The second human rabble moves out into the open then charges Mittens, also hitting her soundly with his club.

[109] 09-01-10 06:52:46 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Rabble 2 charge vs. Mittens AC
1d20 +6 >= 20
17 + 6 = 23 ... success
4 damage to Mittens

---

"What the hell did I just tell you oafs?!" Jake barks angrily, "The paladin is MINE!"

---

The third rabble heeds his commander's order and goes after Gilant instead.  But Bridget was ready for him and furiously smashes him into unconsciousness.

[111] 09-01-10 07:00:55 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Bridget readied furious smash vs. Rabble 3 fort (+2 defenses from "Mob Rule" feature)
1d20 +7 >= 15
19 + 7 = 26 ... success

http://spreadsheets.google.com...GO9l1BM0Og&hl=en
This message was last edited by the player at 06:07, Sat 10 Jan 2009.

  Blake dramatically... Just stands there.  My, how helpful.

  Oh, would you look at that?  It seems the first rabble has caught a sudden case of 'OhGodsImOnSuddenlyOnFireForNoGoodReason'.
  Stop, check.
  Drop, check.
  Roll... Hmm, seems they failed that part, instead going to step 'pass out from the pain' (Just as non-lethal as shield based skull fracture.  Of course, your skin isn't a vital organ so much as the brain is)

  Two out of three aint bad?

  [  (Minor: Mark R2.   Standard: Hellish Rebuke VS R1, Hit's for Why Roll Damage?)  ]
http://rollr.appspot.com/view/...CxIIRGljZVJvbGwYpE0M
9+4=13 vs 11
This message was last edited by the player at 07:14, Sat 10 Jan 2009.

Grall grins that the plan is beginning to fall into place.

"Mittens!  You're hurt!" he says sarcastically pretending to be concerned, "And we've only defeated two of them so far!  Looks like we underestimated them!  You'd better fall back, Mittens.  Gilant.  Would you be so kind as to take the front so she can escape?"

(Not taking any actions with Grall yet.)
This message was last edited by the player at 18:47, Sat 10 Jan 2009.

Gilant looks a bit annoyed that one of the two daggers hit him as he says, "I can handle that, although I do think we should continue to thin out the crowd, especially since I suspect that either 'Mr. Honor' here has no honor and he told them to gain up on whoever he attacked, or he has no control over those he supposedly commands. So Human, if you are serious about your request, why not order your lackeys to back off, if your so serious about wanting them to not interfere in your fight with Mittens. Till I see that your 'friends' won't try to stab Mittens in the back, I see no reason to not assist in order to level the playing field." Gilant shifts next to Mittens as the Githyanki places his aegis of shielding on Jake. The Githyanki then swings his bastard sword at Jake, but his swing goes wide as teh Githyanki wonders what Jake will do next.

_{[OOC:
Minor Action: Shield of Aegis on Jake.
Move Action: Shift East 1 square.
Standard Action: Booming Blade vs. Jake
[112] 09-01-10 20:56:08 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
1d20 +7 >= 15
4 + 7 = 11 ... failure
Gilant has 24hp left.]}

Emerald smirks, gets into position and one could almost see a heart fly from her head as she shoots with her new found frien-err... crossbow. With precision and seemingly little effort, Emerald sends a bolt past all her allies and into the the Rabble she was aiming at, making him fall unconscious. She lets out a giggle and says, "Don't worry! He's not dead! Just taking a nap!"

She tilts her head up slightly, perking her ears and letting the light reflect off her eyes back at the human group.

(Rolled a 15. Didn't even need my dex or proficiency! But add +7 and you have 22! Whee!)

Grall's eyes flash as he notices an opportunity to trap Jake.

"Mittens!" he says as he advances to attack Jake with his whip, "Advance!"

When Mittens follows his cue, he further elaborates his plan.

"Now behind him!  Bridget!  Advance!  When you two have him flanked, attack!"

(move: shift east 1.  free: drop sling.  minor: ready whip. standard: attack)

[114] 09-01-11 21:38:35 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Grall Wolf Pack Tactics vs. Jake AC.
1d20 +8 >= 15
12 + 8 = 20 ... success

[115] 09-01-11 21:39:04 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
damage
1d4 +5
4 + 5 = 9 damage

(As a free action Mittens may shift 1 square)
This message was last edited by the player at 20:44, Sun 11 Jan 2009.

"Mittens! Advance!" she parrots with a smile, "Now that's what I like to hear!"

She shifts into position and readies her sword to attack Jake at the moment she was ordered to.

(Free: Shift northeast from Grall's wolf pack tactics.  Move: shift southeast.  Free: drop sling.  Minor: Draw sword.  Free: Student of the sword, +1 to next attack roll.  Standard: Ready Piercing Smite for the moment Bridget flanks Jake.  No divine challenge this turn.)

[Both piercing smite and student of the sword mark a target.  Unfortunately I can find no indication in the PHB that Mittens can choose to not override Gilant's aegis with her own mark. *grumbles*  Gilant's aegis remains]
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:37, Mon 12 Jan 2009.

Bridget scoots forward as per Grall's advice. Of course, she can't argue against flanking in this situation. Bridget quickly raises her voice along with her sword! "Gilant! An opening!" this said as she clashes her sword with Jake's armor in such a fashion as to not only wound him, but cause him to cringe from reflex in such a way as to leave the very opening Bridget was pointing out to Gilant.

(Move Action: Scoot into space Mittens once occupied. Standard Action: Warlord's Favor Encounter Power. No other actions needed. ;) )
(Rolled a 17. A natural 17. Plus 7+2 = win.)
(Damage? I rolled 2d8 and got max. 16. Plus 4 = 20.)
(Gilant now has a +4 to his attack vs Jake)
This message was last edited by the player at 21:18, Sun 11 Jan 2009.

[117] 09-01-11 22:12:03 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Mittens' readied Piercing Smite (+2 from flank, +1 from MC feat) vs. Jake's reflex
1d20 +10 >= 14
14 + 10 = 24 ... success

[119] 09-01-11 22:19:35 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Piercing Smite Damgage
2d8 +4
8 + 1 + 4 = 13 damage.

Jake HP: 66-20-13=33 Jake is bloodied and is marked by Mittens. Gillant
This message was last edited by the player at 01:36, Mon 12 Jan 2009.

Enraged by the pain, Jake lashes out in a fury against Mittens, but she deflects the attack with her trusty new shield.  He lets out a primal battlecry and follows up with a powerful thrust that deals a critical wound to Mittens.  He then shifts south to break the flanking position she and Bridget have against him.

(free: battle fury.  standard: attack.  move: shift)

[120] 09-01-11 22:31:45 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Jake battle fury attack (+4) vs. Mittens' AC
1d20 +11 >= 20
7 + 11 = 18 ... failure

[121] 09-01-11 22:33:40 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Jake basic attack vs. Mittens AC
1d20 +7 >= 20
20 + 7 = 27 ... success

[122] 09-01-11 22:37:21 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
critical damage vs. Mittens
1d12 +16
9 + 16 -8 from Gilant's Aegis of Shielding= 17 damage

Mits HP down to 2.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:31, Mon 12 Jan 2009.

The second bandit considers his options and decides that a chewing out from Jake is better than going to prison.  He moves forward to attack Mittens with his mace and knocks her unconscious.

"Don't be at mad me, Jake," he says in his defense, "They're not fighting fair."

(Dazing Strike: target is dazed until the end of the bandit's next turn, and bandit shifts 1 square.)

[123] 09-01-12 15:49:16 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Bandit 2 Dazing Strike (+2 from flanking) vs. Mittens AC
1d20 +6 >= 20
15 + 6 = 21 ... success

[124] 09-01-12 16:42:16 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
dazing strike damage
1d8 +1
1 + 1 = 2 damage

Mittens HP = 0 dying, and dazed

---

The first bandit rushes forward and stands above the lantern.  He throws a dagger at Bridget then and closes the lantern, enveloping the room in utter darkness.

(move, standard, minor)

[125] 09-01-12 16:57:37 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Bandit 1 dagger throw vs. Bridget AC
1d20 +6 >= 17
17 + 6 = 23 ... success

[126] 09-01-12 16:58:44 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
dagger damage
1d4 +3
4 + 3 = 7

Bridget HP: 22-7=15
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:03, Mon 12 Jan 2009.

"Mittens!" Grall bellows as he fishes out his sunrod, "You got 'em where you want 'em!  Finish him!"

He then charges at the bandit that felled Mittens but the bandit evades.  When his first attack fails, he follows up with a guarding attack, but the bandit defects the attack with his mace.

(Minor: break out the sunrod.  Minor: Inspiring word to Mittens.  Standard: charge.  Spend action point: guarding attack.  Grall now has 1 AP left.)

[127] 09-01-12 17:04:18 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Inspiring word, lol
1d6
1 = 1 (Mittens HP is now 7, but she's still dazed and prone.)

[128] 09-01-12 17:09:54 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Grall charge (+1) vs. Bandit 2 AC
1d20 +9 >= 16
2 + 9 = 11 ... failure

[129] 09-01-12 17:11:46 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Grall guarding attack vs. Bandit 2 AC
1d20 +8 >= 16
3 + 8 = 11 ... failure  Ah well. I suppose Grall can't be uber all the time.

"Nice swing you got there, buddy," Mittens says in a broken voice with bubbles over her head, "Let's see you try that again!"

(Dazed: Can take 1 action in your turn.  Standard action: 2nd wind.)

Mittens HP = 13.  (still bloodied, prone, and dazed.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:33, Mon 12 Jan 2009.

The Githyanki growls in anger as Grall and Mitten's impromptu change in plans results in Mittens momentarily dropping to the ground. "Next time stick with the plan as your improving is only pissing me off."
Gilant then glances momentarily at bandit 2 and Jake before shouting, "And you two will suffer my wraith!" Gilant quickly shifts next to Jake and then capitalizes on the opening created for him slashing into Jake with a massive strike from his bastard sword. As Gilant's blade strikes true, a sizzling bolt of lightning leaps from Jake as Gilant's blade leaves Jake's body and briefly points at Bandit 2. The bolt of lightning then brutally strikes Bandit 2, leaving the bandit blooded.
Gilant cackles as he quickly strikes out at Jake again  with his bastard sword while snarling, "You are a fool, to think that the Paladin was the most dangerous one here. And that shall be your undoing, for there is now no escape for you or your companions." Gilant's second blow strikes almost as hard as the first, but unlike the first it creates a field of sound, that will only grow louder if Jake decides to move away from Gilant on Jake's turn.

<sub>[OOC:
Free Action: Spend Action Point for extra Standard Action, due to Property of Veteran's Armor this also gives Gilant a +1 to all attacks and all defenses until the beginning of his next round. No Action Points remaining.
Minor Action: Not used since Jake is still Marked with Aegis of Shielding.
Move Action: Shift 1 square to move adjacent to Jake
Standard Action 1: Lightning Class vs Jake
[130] 09-01-12 23:48:13 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Gilant using Lightning Clash on Jake (With +4 bonus from Bridgett and +1 from Property of Veteran's armor, so +12 vs AC)
1d20 +12 >= 15
7 + 12 = 19 ... success
[131] 09-01-12 23:51:59 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Lightning Clash Damage to Jake
1d10 +4
10 + 4 = 14
[132] 09-01-13 00:00:14 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Gilant's secondary attack from Lightning Class vs Bandit 2 (since bandit 1 would get cover/concealment due to being behind bandit 2) with +1 from veteran's armor property. +8 vs Reflex
1d20 +8 >= 14
15 + 8 = 23 ... success
[133] 09-01-13 00:00:47 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Lightning Clash secondary attack lightning dmg to bandit 2.
1d6 +4
6 + 4 = 10
Standard Action 2: Booming Blade vs Jake
[134] 09-01-13 00:02:00 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Gilant Extra Attack from Action Point on Jake, Booming Blade (+12 vs AC as same bonuses still apply)
1d20 +12 >= 15
13 + 12 = 25 ... success
[135] 09-01-13 00:03:09 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Booming Blade Damage to Jake (Plus Jake takes 1d6+3 thunder dmg if Jake moves away from Gilant on Jake's turn.)
1d10 +4
9 + 4 = 13

Jake just got the sliced and diced for 14+13=27 damage. Jake now has 33-27=6hp left, and will take another 1d6+3 thunder damage if he moves away from Gilant on his turn from booming Blade.
Bandit 2 has taken 10 damage so 23-10=13hp left and is now blooded.
Gilant still has 24hp left.]</sub>
This message was last edited by the player at 01:42, Tue 13 Jan 2009.

    Considering all the attention Jake was getting from everyone, it seemed only fair that Blake attempt to try his hand at such as he walked forwards in order to get a clearer shot at the guy...  Okay, ANOTHER clearer shot at the guy...

  Blake suspected he knew who trained the wolves.

  [  (AP usage: Standard action.  Standard: fail.  Standard: Fail some more.  Move: duh.  Minor: Curse Jake.)  A 4 and a 3.  Yaaaay wasted AP.  At least I have shadow walk and that single temp HP from the fallen Rabble.]

Bridget can smell Jake's downfall and doesn't like what he's done with Mittens. "Gilant has challenged your resolve, Mittens. Prove your worth and stand your ground!" This said as she can already tell Mittens is the kind who rather than take insult to a challenge like that would be invigorated. She also was getting a command out of the way.

Concerning the plan, Bridget will talk with Grall after to fight while the group rests. But right now, "Channel that annoyance at the enemy, Gilant. Not your teammates." she says in her usual cold tone. She'll congratulate him for his stellar performance, though... when the fight is over.

(Minor: Inspiring Word. Rolled 1d6 for result of 6. Standard: Commander's Strike. Move: Unused)
(Mittens has +3 to her damage and can now make a basic melee attack as part of Bridget's turn against Jake.)

[137] 09-01-14 15:18:39 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Bridget Inspiring word
1d6
6 = 6
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:19, Wed 14 Jan 2009.

Emerald moves up to get a clearer shot at Bandit 2. With a sly smile, she lets forth another bolt and says, "Let's get this fight done. We got bigger fish to fry." she reminds the group, since they all know there is a boss in the near future. "If they haven't already run away, that is."

(Move: Emerald moves up one square. Standard: Sly Flourish. Minor: Unused.)

[138] 09-01-14 15:21:33 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Emerald sly flourish vs. B2 AC
1d20 +7 >= 16
11 + 7 = 18 ... success

[139] 09-01-14 15:22:37 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
sly flourish damage
1d6 +7
4 + 7 = 11

Bandit 2 HP= 2
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:58, Wed 14 Jan 2009.

Still reeling from Gilant's onslaught, Jake is unprepared to defend himself from the paladin he thought was unconcious; dazed at best.  In answer to Bridget's command, Mittens swings her sword up at Jake and hits him squarely between the legs.  Jake lets out a yelp and collapses unconscious from the pain.

"Oh dear," she says in all ernestness, "I hope I didn't cause any permanent damage."

[136] 09-01-14 15:16:04 - c_fewell@hotmail.com
Mittens basic melee attack (-2 for being prone) vs. Jake
1d20 +5 >= 15
20 + 5 = 25 ... success

CRITICAL!  LOL!  XD

Jake HP = -9

Mittens HP = 25
This message was last edited by the player at 18:10, Wed 14 Jan 2009.

Both bandits wince then immediately drop their weapons and put their hands in the air.

"We surrender!" they exclaim, "Have mercy!"
This message was last edited by the player at 18:16, Wed 14 Jan 2009.

Grall begins to bind one of the bandits and smirks at Gilant.   "Well well well!" he says with a slight chuckle, "He did channel it at our enemies!  If this is the result, I need to remember to annoy you more often!  What an attack!"

He looks down at Mittens with a feigned frightened look.  "Maybe not the most dangerous, but dangerous enough to guard my groin!"
This message was last edited by the player at 18:40, Wed 14 Jan 2009.

Mittens glances at Grall and grins awkwardly with a blush before kneeling over Jake to tend to his more serious injuries.  "I didn't mean to...  Any of you men trained in healing?  I don't want to have to...  you know.... poor guy."

She tucks her ears back looking a little sad and begins to pray over him.  Jake groans and begins to regain consciousness.

(Minor: Lay on Hands.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:38, Wed 14 Jan 2009.

  "Considering your luck with violence in here, you should probably take care of yourself more before worrying about those that tried to kill you."

  The consideration of 'Hey, Free lantern' don't occur to Blake, as he has this desire to have his hands free for both stabbing, and lighting people on fire.  And it would be a little hard to have both as an option while holding a lantern.

Gilant grins as Jake ends up being 'disabled' by Mittens in the manner that he is as the other two enemies still conscious surrender. "On the bright side I think the humans might be better off without someone like him fathering children later." Gilant then checks his blade to make sure it is clean before sheathing it.

Gilant then glares at Bridget when she suggests that he should channel his anger against his foes, and was about to speak about how he did, when Grall speaks up and states as much in Grall's own words. However, upon hearing Grall's comment about possibly pissing off the Githyanki swordmage more often, Gilant retorts, "It is not wise to piss off a Githyanki intentionally... In general, we tend to either kill those who piss us off enough, that is if we are in a good mood. If we are in bad mood... expect a fate worse than death. The best example of this is Vlaakith, the githyanki lich-queen in Tu’narath, who is both very skilled in necromancy and enjoys feeding on people's souls." Although by the tone of Gilant's words it is somewhat obvious that he doesn't approve of Vlaakith's methods, but the Githyanki Swordmage can't think of a better example than her of why it is not a good idea to intentionally draw the ire of a Githyanki.

Gilant then glances between Mittens and Grall and softly says, "Next time, when a plan is working, don't abandon it for a reckless spur of the moment maneuver that is just as likely to get one of us killed as it is to work successfuly."

The battle now done, Bridget helps bind the enemy and says, "Well done, everyone. Especially Gilant and Mittens. But Gilant is right: Deviating from the plan is a bad idea. Especially when the plan is working. We won, but we would have done better if we stuck to the plan. I didn't say anything about it during the battle because I did not want the enemy to know we had a plan for them to foil. Grall, what you suggested was sound, quick thinking, but it wasn't the plan."

Of course, never a hint of any emotion behind her words. "I suspect our lives will depend on following a plan in our fight against their boss. But that said, we need more than one plan." She looks back at Gilant. "We've found your telekinesis worked flawlessly. We'll use that again." she looks at Mittens, "Try not to ostracize yourself." she then looks at Grall, "Change the plan with your quick thinking, but only if the plan is not working." she then looks at Emerald, "You heard what I said to Gilant. That means you and him make a good combination for the start of combat." she then looks at Blake. "You've been doing fine, but I have a question. Do any of your attacks involve the elements like Gilant, or are they something else entirely?"

Emerald helps bind the newly captured enemies. She hrms as she feels the emotional dissonance and looks over the various people before trying to figure out whether she should open her mouth or not. "Before we move on, is everyone OK? Are there any other thoughts on how to proceed? Last thing we need is the team to fall apart because of unforeseen pet peeves or other such things. Whatever we decide on, we'll need to all be in agreement and then stick to it as Gilant and Bridget said."

  It showed that Blake's methods had gotten the results he was going for, when someone spontaneously bursting into flames when there were few known magic users nearby didn't suggest he had control of elemental powers.  Useful stuff.

  He still needed to work on the snag of people automatically assuming leather armor and the lack of bow or fancy mystical rune covered garments meant he wanted to steal their wallet and slit their throat.

  "Lighting people a little on fire and extreme sunburn can be done readily enough.  Lighting someone a lot on fire is for special occasions, one of which is probably coming up, and I'll put to use if it seems likely to work.  Though it's less likely faster sorts will get more than singed.  And unlike Gilant's use of such, I can't stab people and use magic at the same time."

  Well, there were spells that did that, but 'sudden giant spike from nowhere' still wasn't the same as stabbing someone with any given sword and frying their brains at the same time.  Blake considered the plain dagger in one hand, and the conveniently on loan rod in the other, before putting the rod away.

  It would be a hindrance for that he had in mind.

OOC Style: Enc powers never turned up, and didn’t get hit, so why bother to rest?  Blake will follow along behind once the party gets going again.

After a brief unsuccessful interrogation of Jake and his men, Grall assists in binding the prisoners.

"I'm sure Jake and his potential progeny will be fine, unfortunately," Grall comments, "Oh well.  As for pet peeves, I think it's safe to say this whole endeavor is petting our peeves and the sooner it's over the better.  Plan?  Without knowing what to expect other than magic and traps...  If there's lots of foes we back up to force 'em into a pinch point.  If there isn't we surround 'em.  Our foxy friend can deal with the traps."

He forces the nearest prisoner to walk in front of him while he searches the room.

"Lucky you.  You get to find traps for me."

No traps are triggered.  Grall finds a door at the southeast end of the room.  Grall tells his team of his find then orders the bandit to open the door.  The bandit looks nervous, and hesitates.

(Short rest for everyone.  Yay.)
This message was last edited by the player at 21:16, Fri 30 Jan 2009.

After tending to her own wounds, Mittens smiles and gives a thumbs-up.

"Ready!"


(I've lost track of how many healing surges she's used, but I doubt she's anywhere near empty.  Perhaps I'll do the math some other time.)

After taking a short rest, Gilant says, "I'm ready, but before we move into the next room, think we should search this room to see if anything of use can be found?  After all we found some stuff in the last room we had to deal with thieves in. Plus we might be able to place some traps in this room and if necessary fall back and use them against the adversaries we will be facing next."

Gilant glances around to see what everyone's reaction to his suggestion is before drawing his sword and making sure he is ready, just in case it is decided to move on without any further hesitation.

Gilant's question was a fair one since there is a balance between staying alive and accomplishing the mission. "No need to place traps unless they are traps you can set quickly. But searching the room is a good idea. We may find something more valuable than weapons, such as information. But keep in mind we are running short on time before this guy decides to escape."

Bridget doesn't let it be known she already suspects the boss has no intention of escaping and that this whole cave is, in fact, a trap. After all... what kind of Arch Magery was that barrier earlier? Bridget believes she and her band of adventurers are outclassed in ways she doesn't even want to imagine. But outclassing can not account for determinations, smart plans and luck. That said, Bridget decides it best to say a quick prayer to Avandra that win or lose, she and her comrades will make it out alive.

Emerald instantly gets to searching, hoping to find something sparkly or shiny. Oh sure, she knows she won't keep any of it. But even holding something sparkly now would be a nice comfort for her until she gets to Unity. "Gilant? I was wondering... what was it that brought you to Unity?" She noticed many people giving Gilant the same kinds of looks they were giving orcs in the town gates. And since Gilant had an even smaller temper than the orc so far, it's perked her curiousity quite a bit.

  "Well, I suppose it's a sign of encouragement that you haven't gotten any group you’ve lead killed yet."  Well, that or she had cut her losses and returned alone.  But naaah.

  Not a whole lot for Blake to do beyond what he had previously stated were his simplistic intentions.  Well, one low effort thing came to mind that anyways.  Blake headed over by the door Grall and the Human Shield prisoner were by, and opted to see if there was anything of Arcane not nearby.

[  While trying to ID plot magic is a sad insanity inducing (to me at least) waste of time (that I still attempt),  general sensing of magic might not be?  Then again, there is the bizarre quirk of how the more powerful and blatant the magic, the harder it is to detect.  Detect tiny little cantrips, easy.  Detect an evil mass of writhing tentacles 5 tiles away from you that takes up 4 tiles, hard.

Aaanyways, DC 20 + Half level of item/effect/ritual/etc.  Blake's current sense range is 6, as our underpaid and overworked staff are still level 1.  The desk clerk is probably higher level than us from intimidate and accounting checks alone ;D

http://rollr.appspot.com/view/...CxIIRGljZVJvbGwY5XMM
...Rolled a 7.  7+10=17... Fail.This is surprisingly hard.  Gale just managed to detect the iron dogs by one.  I'd be less worried if Team Unity wasn't fighting things multiple levels higher than them.

roll Edit. That would be more my making a silly mistake.]
This message was last edited by the player at 15:58, Fri 13 Feb 2009.

Gilant glances at Emerald and relies, "In short, being the last of my cadre with no desire, or a way, to go back to where I came from. There is much more to it than that, but for now that is all that is relevant."

Gilant then looks back to the door and wonders to himself how he should try and deal with the foes on the other side of it.

_{[OOC: Blake, why did you both roll a die and 'take ten'? You can't do both for the same check, or are you assuming the other five people in the group are able to aid you in your check?]}
This message was last edited by the player at 14:41, Fri 13 Feb 2009.

(( Gillant is trained in arcana and could take 10 to assist Blake, who if he also took 10 the total check would be 22.  I'll go ahead and assume they do to reveal the following:  The door is a magical trap!  Surprised?  The trigger is: either attempting to open the door when it's locked or failing an attempt at unlocking the door. ))

Grall's face furrows in a deep frown.  More from Blake's mention of dead subordinates than anything, but he redirects his thoughts to the task at hand.

"Don't like this door, eh?" he asks the prisoner, "Good as dead if you open it, aren't you?  I can be more merciful than a machine, but I have my limits.  Tell us why you hesitate."

---

Mittens after briefly inspecting the lantern on the floor decides it's of no practical use to her.  She heads toward the door and stands guard next to Grall.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:42, Sat 14 Feb 2009.

"It's trapped," the bandit answers, "The boss put some kind of curse on it.  'You try and open this door and you die,' he said.  That's all I know besides the obvious details that he keeps the key on his person and he locked the door after entering that room."

  "Well, unless you manage to unlock it on the first go.  But considering how things have been going today I don't think directly playing with death would be a good plan for Emerald."

  Blake considered the door, ignoring the logistical facepalmings of locking yourself in a room with armed guards who might disagree with this (then again, if they need their boss to get how stabbing him might not be the best plan).  Things to actually consider, if the 'curse' was a one shot deal.  And if so, how picky it was about targets if they just ties some rope to the handle and hucked a rock attached to the other end away from the door.

  "I suppose even if we were allowed to do that sort of thing, threatening to kill you if you don’t open the door that will kill you for us would be a stupid plan even you could see the flaws in."

  In other news, hey.  Free Lantern... Well, unless Unity officials considered THAT loot to turn in as well.

OOC Style: I'm reminded of Thieves Guild literature in Quest For Glory 4.  Regarding Magical traps, it suggests you take up religion.  Fortunately, MacGuyvery worked better than religion.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:43, Fri 10 Apr 2009.

Bridget looks from the bandit to Emerald and then to Blake. "A curse. Blake, see if you can figure out what sort of curse it is. If there is one. If there is no curse, then Emerald can disarm it."

Emerald decides it best to let Gilant tell of himself as he feels comfortable sharing. Besides... she's rarely pushy. She notices the sheer wealth of what she finds in the box she just lockpicked... 12 platinum pieces, 55 gold pieces, 34 silver pieces, and 71 copper pieces. No shiny gems, but plat is nice to caress once in a while. She bites her lower lip, tempted to keep it all. But between this being her first mission within the law AND the fact she's very curious about Unity and how much it rewards good, Emerald decides to be fully honest. This time.

"There's a lot of loot here." she says. "About 12 and a half plat, with more to spare. Who's in charge of holding cash?"

Bridget says, "Me." and quickly takes the money off of Emerald.

Gilant glances at the door and mutters, "Well we need to get past the door, which means the magical trap must be dealt with, as Gilant ponders the situation before turning to Emerald and asking, "Do you think that you and Blake could work together to disable the trap on the door?"

The Githyanki glances at a bandit prisoner and thinks to himself, 'there is no point in using a prisoner to do it. I know enough that would not be tolerated back in Unity,' instead Gilant says, "Okay any suggestions since we can't wait here forever? I guess having the prisoners dig a new entrance into the room to bypass the trap would not only take too long but be a bad idea from a strategic standpoint..."

  "If someone attempts to open it while its locked, or if someone screws up picking the lock it will go off.  Hence my outlook on making Emerald try possibly being a bad plan..."  Blake considered the lantern he had just picked up, and the door with its cheap yet annoyingly enchanted lock.  His and Gilant's observations didn’t indicate mere harm, it indicated Death.  Even legendary methods of killing such as the 'Finger Of Death' left a chance of survival.  But here, a simple lock outdid that by leaving no such chance.

  Have we mentioned Blake finds Unity's exchange rates and outlook on what is 'fair' to be a sad and pathetic joke, merely a few hours into having been to the place?

 "It is however, a wooden door in a stone cave.  And wood burns rather easily, enchanted lock or not.  Yes it would be faster if Emerald could pick the lock, but considering the results if she can't, censored Unity citizenship if taking to time to burn it down makes us too late to catch someone who likely Isn't even here anymore."

  Blake looked over to Emerald and asked "Unless of course you're confident enough of your skill, and the 'how much worse can it get?' pattern today doesn't phase you.  Then sure, see if you can open it.  I'd help if I could, but I don't exactly have any rituals for disenchantment.  And if I did, it would likely be a similar situation to the barrier out front where it's beyond us."

  Blake gestured towards the door with the still oil filled lantern and said "If not, then I'll just burn our way through in a nice, indirect manner.  But it would just figure if the trap also knew who set a fire.    Or I could just try and open the door and hope I live, as methods aside, I'm the most likely to survive of any of us here.  And you do seem to be in such a rush."

---

The death rant is because, seeing how we succeeded in our team Arcana check but got nothing beyond the triggers,  we got nothing to say otherwise that isn't the result.  Considering the 'lol, too high level cause of plot' mechanics of the magical stuff we've been running into, we were probably lucky to confirm that magic was involved at all.

There is a reason Blake wants to pick up disenchant item later on.  Sadly, the whole 'lol, someone higher level than you for plot reasons cast this than you' situation would make that useless even if it could disenchant locks and such.  Just as it would be completely useless to dispose of plot devices before bringing them to the mount doom equivalent of asking nicely for the plot NPC to get rid of them.

As for Helping Emerald, while there is the generic 'aid check' thing, IS there even a way to do a damn thing against magical shenanigans without a ritual?

And as Blake has the largest HP (35 now that he has the feat), fort check, and endurance skill, I'm considering having him just try to open the door himself and take a near death experience at this rate just to get it over with.

And if this goes on for another full round of poses without results, he will.  Unless of course the trap, being magical, can magically trigger an infinite amount of times until it is disarmed.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:35, Tue 14 Apr 2009.

"Niiice looot!" Mittens commends Emerald on her find, "I wonder if we'll get to keep some of it as part of our reward?"

She turns her attention to the locked door.

"Meh," she says sceptically, "I'll bet the guy was probably exaggerating.  I doubt the trap is all THAT powerful.  I'll just bash it down!"

She backs up several feet, readies her shield, and grinds her foot across the floor while grunting trying to imitate a bull ready to charge a matador.

"Hold your horses," Grall tells Mittens, "I've got an idea that's less likely to break bones."

He unpacks a rope from his S.A.K. and hands one end of it to the prisoner.  He backs away, unwinding the rope as he goes to judge the distance.

"We could tie this to the handle, stand at a distance, and yank the darn thing off it's hinges!" he suggests to the team, "Whatever curse is on that door will likely only effect the rope.  If that don't work we could go with the other ideas suggested.  Wuddya say?"

Bridget nods to Grall. "Good idea, Grall." she commends. "Everyone into position for pulling."

Emerald gives Mittens a bright smile and thumbs up to her comment. Then to Grall / Bridget, she grins nervously and rubs behind her head, "Uh... I'll cheer you all on since I'm too little to help. I'd just dangle from the rope."

Gilant moves into position to assist with the rope as he asks, "Once we do this those inside the room will probably attack, so what is the plan? Are we going to stay out of the doorway on this side of the room and have them come to us? Or are we going to do something else? Charging in blindly sounds like a bad idea to me as that is begging to step into a trap or ambush."

  "Oh Grall, you and your making sense."  Credit where it's due and all that.  Blake turns to Gilant (easy enough when grabbing the rope behind them)

  "Well they likely know we are coming anyways.  And unfortunately if we do opt to wait out here for them, what possible reason would they have to come out and meet us without an advantage, if they felt locking themselves where they are now was a good plan.  Beyond initial extra trap considerations if there is nobody on the other side of this door, we should probably hurry as much as is safe so we can actually enter sometime today without more things trying to stop us."

After the rope is secured to the handle and the team steps a respectable distance from the door, everyone pulls together in a nice unified yoink.  The trap is triggered, spraying a cloud of poison all over the end of Grall's rope but nowhere near the adventurers.  When the cloud settles, the door looks like it's seen better days: dangling limply from what's left of the upper hinge.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:53, Sat 18 Apr 2009.

Mittens moves forward and pushes the door open.  There's a hall beyond that turns to the south.

"No ambushes or traps yet," she says to the others, waiting for further orders.

Grall folds his arms and rubs his chin.

"Something tells me the boss wizard won't fall for my 'lure into the hallway so we don't fall into his traps' strategy, so...  I dunno.  Maybe try and talk him into surrender?"

  "Yes, I'm sure this time they will peacefully listen to our request instead of trying to kill us if anything between us and them doesn't do it first... On that note, armored and bigger than Dagger armed people first."

  Hey, he can always blame those 'proper tactics' Gilant was enthusiastic about.

The Githyanki looks at the blade in his hand and then at the now opened doorway as he says, "Then I guess we proceed cautiously and be prepared to deal with the rest of the hostile bandits."

Gilant moves up next to Mittens and adds, "We also have to be on the lookout for ambush attacks, so be on your guard."

Bridget stands to the side of the door, pulls out her sun rod and tosses it through the doorway to see what happens to it. If nothing bad should befall the sun rod, Bridget will then peek a little farther inside.

Emerald holds her crossbow, ready to strike anyone who attacks Bridget.

The light of the sunrod exposes the glint of another fishing line that was apparently attached to the door.  Probably another warning rigged to be triggered when the door moved - as if the noise of a door being yanked off it's hinges wasn't enough to warn the occupant - but one gets the feeling that the one who set the fishing line was expecting a more subtle intrusion.

"Who are you and what do you want?" a hostile sounding voice from somewhere further in calls, "And watch out for the acid pit if you value your life."

The dusty floor criss-crossed with shoe prints conceals no traps that Emerald can see, it only tells of someone who cares little for tiding up.  Peeking carefully around the corner, one can see a pit spanned by a wide wooden plank.  A strange smell seems to be coming from somewhere at the bottom of the pit.  Beyond the plank is another stone floor followed by another pit spanned by another plank, then another stone floor, and a wood panel wall.

(( Still no initiative, so move freely on the map. ))

http://spreadsheets.google.com...GO9l1BM0Og&hl=en
This message was last edited by the player at 17:43, Wed 13 May 2009.

  "Well that rules out omniscience from their growing list of tricks." Blake muttered in regards to the voice's questions.

  It really would have been too much to ask that all the silly death/inconvenience traps were at the front of the place it seems.  But then Blake hasn't built up the proper cynical outlook to such like he has to many things, what with having done not that much Dungeon Crawling Cave searching so far.

"Oh how nice of you to warn us," Grall answers sarcastically, "To answer your question, I'm Grall the mercenary.  I was looking for a decent place to take a nap before slipping into Unity to find my mark, buut I was rudely interrupted.  Me and my gang just brushed aside your attack dogs, both the four leg and the two leg variety.  At least that silly poison door of yours provided some amusement.

"Now, not that I'm not annoyed with the poor welcome we've received, but it seems you and I have a problem in common.  You see, no sooner did we enter this place than a magical wall blocked us in.  Now I know me and my crew will find a way to deal with this minor set-back one way another, but I'm sure it matters to you that we take the way that doesn't include you getting beaten senseless like your puny friend 'Jake.'  So come out here and dispel the barrier and we'll be on our way. You can have this filthy hole all to yourself."

Grall gives a big wink to the rest of the team to indicate what was already obvious.  He's trying to trick the guy into coming out of hiding.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:14, Sat 30 May 2009.

"Oh come ON!" Mittens groans quite audiably, "Why do you always have to try and talk people out of fighting!?  I've been looking forward to fighting 'the boss' this whole time!"

Whether or not she's intentionally playing along with Grall's ruse is anyone's guess.

"Don't listen to him, Mr. Mage!" she calls out, "I'd be more than happy if you take the option that includes us fighting!  I've been saving my best move just for you!"
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:28, Sat 30 May 2009.