Asher turns to Dominique, asking the Palonish priest to rendezvous with Garryn and Caylin to the south.  The priest appears a bit doubtful, but complies the request.  "Of course, my friend, if you deem it necessary."

Dominique hurries off, skirting the City Hall, and missing Villhalas as the rogue moves toward Hau'dn and Asher from further to the east.  The sorcerer-rogue arrives where the monk and ranger-bard stand, some 10 feet or so away from the two guards flanking the main entrance to the municipal manor.

"Thank you sirs.  Just one more question if I may so impose.  This stranger that you refer to is he one of the others that came around the man and the hobbit?" Hau'dn asks.

The guard shakes his head, the studded leather armor creaking slightly as he shifts his position a bit.  "Not likely, sirrah.  No...this chap come askin' t' see th' Burgomaster...thin, kinda scruffy lookin'.  Well, sirrah, he weren't expected, an' didn't have an appointment.  Lars didn't like th' stranger's looks, an' told him t' shove off--sorta like what he said t' th' hobbit an' th' human what come 'round just a few moments ago.  This other stranger, though, just smiled an' told us he'd come back at th' Burgomaster's convenience...an' then he left.  I'm thinkin' it may have put Lars in a foul mood, on top o' everthin' else th' man is dealin' with."
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:54, Sat 18 Sept 2004.

[Asher's Action]  Hearing the Guard recount the recent events, he nods his briefly:  "On the order of Savin Perynisos, the man you have just described is not to be allowed entrance to the Manor.  Furthermore, should he return, he is to be detained immediately.  In addition, send one of your runners to find us - we will be in the area - should this occur.  From the events that have taken place thus far, we know this - the man you have described is intent on doing harm to the Burgomaster.  He is capable of wielding magic - so be wary of this should you engage him."

OOC: Well... that's a good tip.  My vote is to separate - assume a low profile (eg. Hide, use concealment, generally try to blend in) - and keep an eye out for his return - or suspicious activity that may look to be a pre-cursor to Barbaras' arrival / next move..  (my thought is to have Asher & Hau'dn keep a lookout outside the Manor (area of the City Hall / Garrison perhaps?) - And have Vil try to gain entry to the Manor and keep an eye out from inside..)

Kev - it looks like you posted for Hau'dn.  Is he out of commission?  If so, I won't wait for any PC's to weigh in...

[Vil's Action]  Once Asher issues the warning to the Guard, Vil adds "Aye - and the Alderman Perisynos requested that I meet with the Burgomaster at once - in order to discuss this situation with him.." Vil waits for the Guard's response.

OOC: no time for flowery dialogue on this one. Busy wrapping up work at the office.  need to run..

15:16, Today: Villhalas of Cameron rolled 17 using 1d20+8. Manor Guard Diplomacy Check.

OOC:  I didn't post for Hau'dn--that was from an earlier post of his own, just copied and pasted into the one I sent.

Please roll 2 Bluff checks for Vil, Jas.  The Diplomacy will also be factored in, but I'll need those 2 rolls for some of the other...errr, claims Vil's made.

Cheers,
Kev

OOC:  Ugh - should have been more mindful of the statements I made.. Ceist La Vie..  Here we go then:

15:50, Today: Villhalas of Cameron rolled 25 using 1d20+6. Guard Bluff Roll 2.
15:50, Today: Villhalas of Cameron rolled 9 using 1d20+6. Guard Bluff Roll 1.


Jas

Twenty turns of the minute glass past seven bells.

The two guardsmen look at one another, and the one who had been speaking last shrugs.  "As y' say, sirrah, addressing Asher.  "We'll keep an eye out f'r th' man, an' we're not lettin' anyone in t' th' manor, t'night."

"Includin' you, 'til Savin hisself comes 'round t' tell us whatfor," says the other guard to Villhalas, as the sorcerer makes his demand.

OOC:  Yeah, that's not good.  Hate to half to revert to those Thieving Skills of mine I vowed to give up so long ago...

Bruce, any thoughts here?  I suppose I could make a more stealthy attempt at gaining entry to the Manor..  I find it unlikely given tonight's events (esp. the failed fire attempts at objectives 3&4) that Barbaras would make another similar attempt.  My guess is that he would either (1) Desguise himself to gain entry and do the deed (which may either be setting the Manor on fire, or attempting to do harm to the Burgomaster himself) -or- (2) Hypnotize someone who would be trusted to make entry (eg. a Guard) - and have them move in to complete Barbaras' plan...

Kev - could I get a brief description of the Manor?  (eg. How many stories, windows on the ground and/or first level, Exterior Make up (looking for climb DC here), vulnerability assessment (from an arson and ninja-type entry perspective)..  Will do a quick recon - nothing too conspicuous or sly - just a good look around..

thanks,
Jas

Should you need them:
22:12, Today: Villhalas of Cameron rolled 13 using 1d20+4. Manor Search.
22:12, Today: Villhalas of Cameron rolled 24 using 1d20+4. Spot.
22:12, Today: Villhalas of Cameron rolled 9 using 1d20+6. Manor Recon - Hide

OOC: Kev, I'm also looking for some info. Tell me about the towers (4 and 7): height compared to the manor, and are they manned? Also would like to know about the ruins N of the jail (if they are within Ashers field of view)

23:52, Today: Asher Willbourne rolled 25 using 1d20+7. Spot: towers 4 and 7, ruins N of jail.

OOC cont: Haud'n and Vill, what are your thoughts on splitting up. Obviously the thief has a recon objective, what about you and I Haud'n? I think we each pick a vantage point and try to disappear for a while.

OOG: I can see a certain advantage to setting up watch and waiting but that leaves us to just react presuming our villian is planning on making a return any time soon and not causing mischief elsewhere.

Also, while a high vantage point may be good, it could impede our response time.

I'd also like to hear the details requested though before putting in an IC response.  Not to mention, I wouldn't mind a clearer head before posting.  :(

OOC: I'm not crazy about the sit, wait and watch idea either; I'm just not sure where we would begin a coordinated search. I'm open to whatever you think might get us the result of finding the guy.

I also agree the high vantage point needs to be weighed out. Does the greater chance of spotting him out weigh our ability to respond? Maybe we need to mix our methods and keep someone on the ground and someone in the air.

Who knows, Kev may  come back and tell us that the towers are filled with guards or he may say we see a thin dishevelled man with a flaming arrow perched in the western outlook.

Vill and I both have spot rolls in; maybe you can post one as well and we'll wait on Kevin's respose before we weigh in with our next moves.

I'm easy - your guys' call on the approach.  I do think, it would be nice if someone could locate the Burgomaster and keep him secure until we're able to detain Barbaras..  Hate to undermine the cause by getting caught sneaking into the Manor, however.

Vil's at your disposal - just let me know what the plan is.

Jas

Garryn, with Dom and Caylin in tow, spots Vil, Asher and the recently arrived bard that was present during Tot's unfortunate incident. He slows his pace as he approaches, "The attempt on the water tower failed. A child was used this time, he threw a flask of burning oil but the flames did not take hold." Garryns report is given primarily to Vil but he includes the two newcomers before asking, "So what is the situation here?"

OOC: Hey Kevin, I'd love to get the results to the spot checks before I weigh in with Asher's comments and proposed actions.

OOC:  *sigh*  You guys want, what, like, information?!  Man, you're killing me ;).  Alright, then.  Bruce, good to have you back...and I'm sorry *about* your back, as well.  Sounds painful.  Hope you heal fast and well.

The manor itself, as indicated on the Borderton map, is sandwiched between two garrisons for the Imperial troops stationed in the town.  The garrisons are low-slung, single story wooden affairs, with narrow windows bisected by an iron bar(i.e. would not afford entry to a Medium sized creature).  The garrisons are obviously arranged around an open square for each one, and it is unclear if entry to the manor can be gained from either garrison.

The municipal manor is two stories, and constructed of granite--probably quarried at some distance from the town and transported here during the building's construction.  The icon representing the manor on the Borderton map should not be taken as physically representing the manor, but simply as a symbol for its locale.

The building is not terribly old (about 150 years or so), but is venerable in comparison to most of the newer, wooden buildings in town.  The design of the manor is essentially Georgian in nature...boxy, square, and with rigid right angles predominating.  I've posted a "sorta like this" facimilie on the website under "Manor" (replace the brick in the photo with granite, and you'll be close)... thanks to the Lee Mansion in the beautiful state of Virginia.

The doors that the guards flank are big, wooden ones studded with brass lozenges, and are currently closed.  A number of widows line the front of the manor--generally, these are tall, relatively narrow windows that are glazed, and that open outward (think narrow french door-type style, except these are windows).  Climbing the walls of the manor would not necessarily be difficult--there are some handholds afforded by decorative masonry, ivy, etc. (DC is a 20).

The guard towers mentioned by Asher are approximately 30 feet high, and appear to be manned.  The ruins in question are what appears to be a partially burned, partially tumbledown edifice overrun with morning glory and goldenrod.

Spot checks do not reveal anything out of the ordinary.  Let me know if you need additional info, or what you wish to do (i.e. if you're going to investigate something, tell me where it is, and I'll position your characters there and give you a rundown on what you see).

Cheers,
Kev

As Asher, Hau'dn, and Villhalas are discussing the current situation, they notice that Garryn, Dominique, and Caylin are moving up one of Borderton's dusty streets, apparently to join them.

Hau'dn nodded as he took in the surroundings, "It would appear that we have a dilemma.  We can either attempt to run all over the town to locate this guy and pray that the fates are with us or we can presume he will eventually be here and wait for his return, hoping that we can catch him before he is able to finish whatever nefarious deed he has in mind."

Shaking his head, he strokes his chin for a moment, "How familiar are either of you with the town?  He has to have a staging area somewhere nearby, perhaps an abandoned building?"

After providing Garryn a quick debriefing, Villhalas adds (in response to Hau'dn's remarks) - "Aye - the stables and the town hall roof may prove to be suitable staging areas.  I would suggest we move out of sight quickly - we're a pretty conspicous crew loitering about as we are.  My recommendation would be to have Caylin posted on the roof of the City Hall - as he is our best Archer - w/ the rest of us posted in the immediate vicinity.  Perhaps split up into two's? Once Caylin is posted on the roof, that would leave us 3 teams of two.  Your call.."

V

OOC:  Bruce, just read the post about your back.  hope you're recovering alright..

Regarding the situation at hand, I need to make a correction - I've asked Aine to stay posted at point #3.  I could either send Mal'ach to retrieve her - or leave her in place.  Thoughts?   Here's my vote for what will hopefully be the endgame for Barbaras:

Scenario 1:
Caylin - post on the roof of a centrally located structure (eg. the town hall) - bow at the ready
First team of 2 - Posted in the vicinity of the Prison (#10)
Second team of 2 - posted in the vicinity of the Stables (#14)
Last party member - posted in the vicinity of the Town Square / Fountain (#32)

Scenario 2:
Add Caylin to the Town Square vicinity to keep from breaking the 'team's of two' principle

Scenario 3:

Same as Scenario 1 - w/the exception of the last party member.  Have him attempt to make entry into the Manor (a bit risky - but may give a much needed inside view of the situation (eg. what if Barbaras or one of his cronies has already made their way inside...)

Jas

"The priest and I could cover the Northwest from the abandoned building. Perhaps someone could cover the North and Northeast by seeking cover near one of these stable buildings. Asher nods towards the buildings south of the stable, "And Caylin will have the Manor covered from the South. But if this be the plan, I suggest we do not take direct routes to our posts, to avoid being spotted by the villian."

Asher addresses Garryn and Haud'n "What say you?"

OOC: I must have been writing this as you posted Jas,

I think we are in agreement, my suggestion that Asher and Dom hit the abandon building would make us team one posted "in the vicinity of the prison".

Bruce, Brett, although Jason and I agree, I'm still open to any suggestions from Haud'n or Garryn.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:46, Tue 21 Sept 2004.

Asher adds, "Where is the Girl fighter? I would prefer she were here with us."

OOC: Can the owl deliver her a note to return? Asher would feel safer if we stuck together, in pairs.

At Asher's suggestion, Villhalas releases Mal'ach into the air - w/orders to recover Aine (via a quick landing on her shoulder - followed by a low, slow flying return to our location..)

Jas

Hau'dn nods slowly, "Given what has been hit then, you are certain this forms the final point of the star and that the Burgomaster is actually here and not elsewhere?"

OOG: Thanks, the recovery is coming along better then I figured it would though I am still light-headed and will probably follow more often then take the lead for the next couple of days.  My posts will likely be short for the next bit as well.

"Well, I would be nearly certain that this was the next target but the last two failures may have changed his plans. I still think this is our best hope. We should remember that with the setting sun so goes much of our visibility, excepting Aine and you, Vil, of course. We should keep that in mind when it comes to splitting up. The real question that I have is what are we looking for? We probably won't find Barbaras this close to the action and the possiblity exists that his victim is already inside. Where do you think the fire will be set? My guess is on the inside and we will be hard pressed to prevent it unless we are there or we notice someone suspicious. I'm not sure how kindly we'll be treated for harrassing visitors to the manor if we guess wrong, but that is a more pleasant thought than the reverse," Garryn replies outlining his view of the situation without realling stating his possition on matters.

"We are clearly sure of nothing." Asher shrugs before addressing Garryn, "except, as you wisely point out, the impending sunset."

Asher thinks a moment and then speaks to Vill and Dom, "each of you know something of these forms of magic trickery; Do you know how Barbarass is influencing his victims? Does he need to be in the area to do so?"

OOC: Jason, how about a know arcana check?
This message was last edited by the player at 22:37, Wed 22 Sept 2004.

"Hmm.." Vil considers Asher's question a moment..

22:47, Today: Villhalas of Cameron rolled 18 using 1d20+3. Know Arcana Check

I'm along for the ride on this one gang - let me know what you're thinking.  However, I would *highly* suggest we move quickly to reduce our footprint here - loitering around the Manor..

Jas

OOC:  BTW, due to the flood of emails I've received protesting my use of C. Manson's image - w/o his permission - has left me with no choice but to change out Vil's appearance a bit.  <sigh> too bad too.  It was such a good match for old Vil.

Jas

Oh yeah - and Kevin, the new picture is actually me this time - so no wise-cracks ok?   hehe

OOC: I have to agree with Jason, our loitering here can't be helping our odds of finding Barbarass and could jepordize any attempt to approach him without raising suspicion, should we have the opportunity.

I'm not sure of what we should do next; it seems we either split up and wait, or we send someone inside to look around. I agree we need to split up Vill and Aine for the nightvision. I would like to take Dom with me. So, how do we divide the troops? And, are one of you rogues going "over the wall" to check out the Manor?

"I do not mean to plant the seeds of distrust," Asher ponders aloud, "but, the girl fighter has been out of our sight for some time now, and I might suggest that those of you who know her well keep an eye on her behavior. Just in case."

G-Mony,  you probably have better reconning abilities than Vil by now.  Although Vil's recon would be augmented by his spell base I suppose.  Anyway, deferring to you - would you like to make the recon of the Manor?

V

"Then let us get off the main street here and into a cross-street where we can at least appear to be a group of friends reuniting while keeping an eye on the manor until we figure out what the plan is and await the arrival of your friend." Hau'dn states, looking around for just such a street and looking to see if this place has any form of night lighting that he had seen in other places.

IGA: Kev, does the bordertown have an equivalent of some type of night lamp/street lamp system?

":Yes, lets move," Garryn says moving off the street. "I don't know much about the magic used. The victims wake up as if from a sleep and cannot recall what they have done. I believe that Barbaras was in the area of the second fire but nobody has seen him since."

OOC to Vil: I was always better at recon than you, (I maxed out those skills and you spread your points around more skills) but I think the manor may be beyond my skill level. Lots of edgy guards and no easy access point spell disaster to me. If you can magically conceal yourself then you'd be the better choice.

The small group of unlikely companions moves away from the front of the manor and the watchful eyes of the guards, skirting the northern edge of the fountain square, and moving to the relatively quiet lane just south of the city stables.  As they do so, a dark shape glides silently down from the evening sky to alight on Vilhallas' shoulder.  In the dim twilight, Aine trots up to the group and glances from face to face, eyes a bit narrowed.  The female ranger has her bow in hand.  "No sign of this guy...Babar, or whatever that crazy fucker goes by.  The two guardsmen are still watching the stables.  What's going on?"

The sun has set, and night is coming on.  The smell of horses and manure are wafted to them on a night breeze from the northeast, and the group is alone for the moment.


Thirty turns of the minute glass past seven bells.

"Naught, lass."  The halfling answers Aine's question.  "We're tryin t' come up wi' some'at o' a plan."

The companions continue their conversation, and the sight of lamps being lit by a couple of guardsmen catches their collective eye.  Borderton's municipal lighting is largely non-existent, except in the immediate vicinity of the square, the municipal manor, and the town hall.  A shuffling old man emerges from the municipal theater and community hall, and lights two large lanterns that flank the steps to the building.  A cassocked priest steps out of the front door of the rectory, and proceeds to a wooden post and inserts a glowing circle into slot at the top of the post--clearly, a simple Mithran device to provide some light to the rectory and library grounds.  The lights act as small islands of illumination amidst a rapidly dimming ocean of surrounding darkness.

Forty turns of the minute glass past seven bells.

OOC:  Some representation of lighting and your positions on the map.

"I would think that the person enspelled to do this wizard's bidding or the wizard himself would approach from the shadows, so those that have some type of night vision, should be positioned to observe the rear of the manor where it can be approached in darkness." Hau'dn comments.

OOG: Kev, what is it like at night here for the stars and moon's illumination?  What type of cloud cover are we looking at as well?

"His puppets usually seem to be people who should be there so I'd expect them to use the front door, actually," Garryn replies to Hau'dn.

"Unless someone has an idea of how to find Barbaras, or even where to begin looking for him, I feel we are going to have to be ready to react to his next move by watching the entire manor. I don't know that we have enough information to prevent his plan. I think that our best hope for finding him is to capture an enchanted servant of Zante's and try to interogate him."

Asher looks around, puzzled, "who has our fire wagon?"

"My thinking is the same as yours, Asher. I had been hoping for a more creative mind to come up with a better suggestion, but it looks like we are stuck with waiting around again. Your right though, where is that water wagon?" Garryn asked a little concerned.

The companions continue to talk, discussing possible strategies and different approaches to apprehending Barbaras or one of his unwitting allies.  No clearly superior approach presents itself, as the moments slip by.

Forty-five turns of the minute glass past seven bells.

Please roll Spot checks for me, everyone.

Garryn keeps his eyes on the manor and the surrounding area as he voices his opinions.

While he is intently listening to Garryn, Asher is clearly keeping his eyes peeled as well.

12:39, Today: Asher Willbourne rolled 27 using 1d20+7. spot roll.

13:07, Today: Villhalas of Cameron rolled 20 using 1d20+5. spot.

OOC:
Stars and moon provide some small bit of illumination--those with low light vision are in better shape to utilize this type of faint light.  As soon as I get all Spot checks, I'll detail the results IC and the underlying game mechanics OOC.

Cheers,
Kev

OOC:  Gonna roll for Hau'dn, and move us along.

19:50, Today: DM, on behalf of Hau'dn Shera rolled 7 using 1d20+5. Spot check.
19:54, Today: Dominique de Vedia rolled 23 using 1d20+5. Spot check.
19:54, Today: Caylin Direbrook rolled 12 using 1d20+2. Spot check.
19:53, Today: Aine Cliodhna rolled 15 using 1d20+11. Spot check.

An eruption of flame occurs in the middle of the small town square--the one that houses the statue of the old Paldorian King Tanoch Dwarffriend and the municipal fountain.  A blossom of orange fire opens to the night sky, and then subsides almost instantly.  One unfortunate man, crossing the square, is caught in the conflagration and is almost instantly slain--as the fireball fades, the man is collapsing, his limbs and torso already curling into the fetal position as the intense heat melts flesh and shrivels muscle and ligament alike.  The two acacia trees nearest to the statue are kindled into flame, as well.

Dominique cries out, "My friends!  There!"  Asher nods before the priest even speaks--the monk had seen the figure move in the darkened shadow of the trees even as whatever was thrown into the square detonated.  Garryn also caught a glimpse of a barely visible someone hurling...something...into the square--from the shadows of those same trees.

OOC:  Opposed checks resolved this round of rolls.  Updated map up on the site.  Asher, Garryn, and Dom will roll initiatives for this first partial round, and we'll move things along accordingly.
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:47, Tue 28 Sept 2004.

Just beginning to wonder whether the fire wagon may have been a target, Hau'dn is caught by surprise as flame blossoms, brightly leaping into the night sky.  "What did you see?"

Hau'dn's gaze seems trapped by the horrid fire washing across the square.

OOG: Sorry for not being around today, I blew out my rotator cuff yesterday and after initial examination today it is feared I may have even torn it.

Kev - did you mean Vil or Garryn for the initiative roll?  Vil rolled the 20 spot check...

09:15, Today: Asher Willbourne rolled 20 using 1d20+3. initiative.

Asher will run (base speed 40') towards the unknown figure and (if he can close the distance this round) attack the figure with an unarmed strike (add "stunning fist") aimed at the upper torso (intentional non-lethal blow).

OOC: Kev, Asher would prefer to "charge" for the +2AB, but I need you to tell me if he has the staight line through the trees or no.

While closing the distance, Asher trys to determine if this figure matches the discription of Zante: thin, dishevelled, bearded, etc.

09:40, Today: Asher Willbourne rolled 14 using 1d20+7. spot  roll /more info.

OOC: sorry about the haste in posting, but I will be out of the office most of today and do not want to hold up the game. Kev, if Asher makes it to the stranger, will you just make the necessary rolls?
This message was last edited by the player at 15:24, Tue 28 Sept 2004.

Haud'n wrote:

OOG: Sorry for not being around today, I blew out my rotator cuff yesterday and after initial examination today it is feared I may have even torn it.

OOC: Oowwww! I'm feeling for ya. I went under the knife to repair mine. There is no pain I know like a dislocation. Take care and good luck on the recovery.

Brian
This message was last edited by the player at 14:46, Tue 28 Sept 2004.

OOC:  That would be Garryn.  If you're curious about things, you can often get a sense for the rolls that underlie the game mechanics by checking out the Dice Roller.  Your DM also uses the Roller, although he doesn't necessarily post clear and complete "reasons for roll".

Bruce, my sympathies for your torn rotator cuff.  Shoulders...the most mobile (and therefore the least stable) joint in the body.

Cheers,
Kev

Garryn will take off running towards the figure but taking a different tact than Dom and Asher, cutting through the trees in the SW corner of the fence surrounding bldg 14. I'll wait to post more until prior actions have been resolved.

OOC

Kevin - ah, thanks for the clarification.  I was looking for G-Mony's roll in the thread (instead of the dice roller).

Bruce - Get some rest and take care of that Shoulder!

Jason

Many people in the vicinity of the explosion yell out and flee, panicked at the sudden fire.  One of the two guards at the manor door starts towards the square, sword in hand.  The other stays by the door with his bow, scanning the area and obviously not seeing the figure that Asher, Dominique, and Garryn have spotted.  The foliage and branches of the acacia trees, set afire by the explosion, are burning hotly--casting weird and shifting shadows and patches of illumination across the square.  The figure in the shadows sets off towards the manor at a relatively quick pace, skillfully keeping to the shadows and using the shifting, flame-lit chiaroscuro of the burning trees to slide through the night.  Asher, Garryn, and Dominique can all see the figure, but are a little disconcerted as to how difficult it is to keep their eyes on him or her.

Dominique, never taking his eyes from the creeping figure, softly chants a simple Mithran prayer--touching one of the crossbow quarrels that are contained in a quarrel case on his belt.  One of the quarrels begins to give off a bright light, which the priest quickly shields with his hand so as not to interfere with others' vision.

Asher sets off as quickly as he can, striving to close some of the distance between the skulking figure and himself.  The monk is still unable to make out details of the figure, other than a certain thinness.  Asher moves purposefully, and the figure glances backwards, and starts slightly.



OOC:  Here are the mechanics--note that the party started approximately 90' from the figure.

Partial, surprise round (only a standard or move action allowed)

28:  Figure moves 25', Hide check w/ -5 penalty
24:  Dominique casts Light on a crossbow bolt
20:  Asher moves his regular movement (40').  Figure Spots monk (DC of 15, no Hiding involved).
12:  Garryn is up.

The others may attempt another Spot check this partial round.  We then move into a full round dynamic, after Garryn's action.

20:06, Today: Aine Cliodhna rolled 14 using 1d20+11. Spot check.
20:06, Today: Caylin Direbrook rolled 17 using 1d20+2. Spot check.

Revised town map up on the site.

Cheers,
Kev

22:22, Today: Villhalas of Cameron rolled 22 using 1d20+5. Vil's second spot check.

OOC: Kevin, just want a quick clarification to sum up the partial round; Asher started 90'approx from stranger and at end of partial round, is still 75' distant from the elusive figure?

OOC:  Because it is a partial round, you can only do a limited number of things--charging is not one of 'em, for example.  Asher moves his full movement as a standard action; he can't move any farther in this partial round.  And yes, he starts 90' away, the figure moves 25', and Asher moves 40', bringing the distance between the two to 75'

Cheers,
Kev

(12) Garryn springs forward, his eyes firmly fixed on the shadowy figure some distance in front of him.  The rogue moves under the trees that overhang the southwest corner of the town corrals, intending to cut through this little copse and continue his pursuit of...whomever.



OOC:  We begin a new, full round

28:  Figure
24:  Dominique
20:  Asher
12:  Garryn

Note that this initiative sequence does not include the other party members.  We'll be rolling initiatives soon enough...see the next post.

(28)  The shadowy figure, glancing back, apparently notes Asher moving forward with some purpose.  The figure hesitates only fractionally, and then speeds off towards the eastern garrison wall.  Nonetheless, the running figure is still attempting to keep to the shadows as much as possible.  Reaching the wall, figure leaps...and in an amazing display of athleticism, manages a *7 foot vertical jump*, arms extended upward, to grasp the top of the 15 foot wall.  The figure hangs there momentarily, preparing to pull itself up and over the wall.

The guard at the manor doors with the bow, scanning the area, still does not spot the figure on its running flight and subsequent leap for the wall.


OOC:  Anyone who has not spotted our lovable "figure", please make another Spot check vs. a Hide check of 10 (w/ the -20 modifier because of running).  If your Spot check is successful, please roll Initiative so I can fit you into this round...we are at segment 28 right now.

16:53, Today: Villhalas of Cameron rolled 13 using 1d20+4. Initiative.

OOC:  please see Vil's earlier spot roll...

Asher will utilize a full round action to *run* after the stranger (160' move) with a vertical leap at the end of his move (understanding that this action will *roll over* into the next round and take up half of the next round for asher-- but if i am reading the PHB correctly, should be  legal move).

Asher rolled a 25 on the jump for just over a 6' vertical leap. Will this enable him to grasp the top of the wall?

Asher muses to himself, "Who is this guy? He's amazing."
This message was last edited by the player at 22:59, Wed 29 Sept 2004.

(28) Figure moved and jumped to grab top of garrison wall.

(24) Dominique loads his crossbow with the Lighted bolt and fires...disastrously.  The bolt is not seated correctly, and the crossbow string, as it fires, merely sends the bolt spinning to the ground.  Additionally, the string snaps with an audible popping sound, and one end whips across the priest's face, leaving a welt on his cheek.

(20) Asher speeds off towards the figure, likewise leaping for the garrison wall...and barely catching himself, by the very tips of his fingers, on a slightly lower section of the wooden pallisade wall some 20 feet or so from the thin figure.  A glance to the monk's left reveals a thin but wiry man with long dark hair, several days' of stubble on his face, armored in studded leather with a long sword at his side and a short bow on his back.

(18) Caylin successfully spots the figure as it runs toward the garrison and leaps and grabs the top of the wall.  The halfling instantly nocks an arrow and trains it on the figure, but holds his fire and glances at Garryn.  "Who's this, rogue?  Foe or nae?  D' ye wish me t' fire on 'em?"  Caylin hesitates only to allow Garryn to respond.


OOC:  Garryn is up on 12.  Caylin is delaying his action (dropping back in the initiative to 17) to allow Garryn to respond.  Remember, the halfling didn't see anything exept the explosion, and has already shot a citizen tonight.  I need a Spot roll from Hau'dn and an initiative roll if successful.  The initiative order appears as follows:

28:  Thin man
24:  Dom (fumbled and is out next round)
20:  Asher
18:  Caylin, drops to 17 this round
12:  Garryn
8:   Aine

Hau'dn--unknown.
Vilhallas--did not make the necessary Spot check to enter into initiative sequence this round.

The latest Borderton map shows updated positions.

Cheers,
Kev

"Kill him!" Garryn calls to his small companion as he runs at full speed towards the retreating figure. Garryn doesn't even consider trying to match the figures jump and instead sets about quickly climbing the wall.

IGA: Hau'dn rolled a 14 on his spot and a 7 on his initiative, which works nicely since yesterday was a complete bust for getting online.

(17)  Caylin, squinting to make out the figure levering itself up over the wall in the dimness, sends an arrow from his short bow thudding home.  Asher hears a muffled curse as the halfling's arrow finds its mark.

(12)  Garryn races towards the garrison wall, closing the distance at a run, but unable to begin climbing the wall until next round.

(8)  Aine, following Garryn's barked imperative and Caylin's lead, lets fly with one of her own arrows.  Another solid hit accompanies the ranger's shot, and the previously muffled curse of the figure turns into a full-throated yell.

(7)  Hau'dn is up, and then we move to a new round.


OOC:  Caylin needed to roll a concealment miss chance (25%) due to the darkness.  Aine, with her half-elven low light vision, did not.

Hau'dn cautiously shakes his head.  Odds are it is this Barnabas character but what if it is not.  What if this is a distraction to pull everyone off the manor.  Is it worth the risk?  It would make a good tale to run after and get a first hand account but if in turn it costs another his life then what?

Hau'dn debates with himself within the silence of his own mind and then makes a decision.  Slipping back into the shadows, he stays to observe the manor, in case this whole thing is indeed a diversion.

(7) Hau'dn slips back into the deeper shadows nearer the stable outbuildings, still keeping an eye on the manor--and focusing much of his attention on other parts of the square and manor building, in search of an attack from elsewhere.

New round:  Villhalas can clearly see the figure now that Aine and Caylin have both struck it with arrow fire.

(28) The figure pulls itself up and over the wall, and the man's torso and head reemerge long enough to seize something from around his neck and hurl it into a spot between Asher and Garryn.  The monk is clinging to the top of the pallisade, and Garryn is poised to begin his ascent of the pallisade.  Another fiery eruption occurs...this time engulfing Asher and Garryn.


OOC:  Figure is able to pull itself over the wall and engage in one additional action.  Garryn and Asher must both make Reflex saves--please roll those.  Asher does NOT receive his Dexterity bonuses, due to his current position.  Dominique loses this round due to his fumble last round, so Asher will be up next.  Please see the Combat Map on the website for location details.

Garryn tries to roll away as the fireball engulfs the area around him.

17:48, Today: Asher Willbourne rolled 7 using 1d20+3. Reflex save (no dex mod).

If Asher can work through the pain (how many hit points are we talking?), he will try to pull himself over the wall and drop to the ground on the other side with a bit of acrobatics to cushion the fall.

17:56, Today: Asher Willbourne rolled 27 using 1d20+10. tumble check-- reduce damage on drop.
17:55, Today: Asher Willbourne rolled 20 using 1d20+10. Jump check -- reduce damage on drop.
17:53, Today: Asher Willbourne rolled 14 using 1d20+7. Climb check.

OOC: Kev, don't have the PHB with me, is Ashers class feat "Evasion" applicable in this situation against the fire damage? If not, and Asher takes more than 12 hp of damage from the fireball, he will make his drop on this side of the wall.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:06, Sun 03 Oct 2004.

The fireball erupts into the night, scorching the wooden pallisade wall of the east garrison.  Garryn manages a quick tumble--tucking and rolling to avoid the hungry flames--but Asher is not so lucky.  The human rogue sustains no damage from the blast, but the monk--from his precarious position clinging to the top of the wall--takes the full brunt of the flames.

(20) Asher relinquishes his hold on the pallisade and drops back to the ground, seriously wounded.  Remarkably, the monk shakes off the pain and reascends the wall, carefully climbing the logs that make up the wooden pallisade.  As he climbs, he can hear voices coming from within the walled garrison yard, and replies from the top of the wall, but Asher cannot make out the precies words.  The monk reaches the top and peers over, easily spotting the figure he had been pursuing--standing upon a catwalk on the inside of the pallisade.
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:03, Mon 04 Oct 2004.

"Owww..."

OOC: I guess a new character's not really broken in until it takes damage.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:21, Mon 04 Oct 2004.

Garryn immediately resumes his attempt to climb the wall once he is clear of the flames.

OOC: Hey G, perhaps you could step on the smoldering body of the monk to lower the DC on the climb. You heartless rogue(JK). Not that I would have done any differently. ;)

(20) Asher relinquishes his hold on the pallisade and drops back to the ground, seriously wounded.  Remarkably, the monk shakes off the pain and reascends the wall, carefully climbing the logs that make up the wooden pallisade.  As he climbs, he can hear voices coming from within the walled garrison yard, and replies from the top of the wall, but Asher cannot make out the precies words.  The monk reaches the top and peers over, easily spotting the figure he had been pursuing--standing upon a catwalk on the inside of the pallisade.

(17) Caylin sends another arrow after his last, hoping to hit the figure that the halfling can just see peering over the pallisade wall.  The halfling's aim is badly off, however, and the arrow thuds into the wooden wall--about three feet from Asher's head.

(12) Garryn tries to clamber up the wall, but the charring and splintering of the wall hampers him, and the rogue cannot make the ascent on his first try.

(8)  Aine likewise fires another of her arrows at the just visible figure.  The arrow is shot well, and takes the figure high in the shoulder.

(7)  Hau'dn is up.
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:04, Mon 04 Oct 2004.

OOC:  I see I've made a bit of a mis-step, in that Villhalas gets to put himself into the Initiative sequence this round.  Jas, please roll for Vil's initiative, and we'll proceed from there.  I don't believe Vil's actions will change the actions of others, but we'll play that out accordingly.

Cheers,
Kev

Asher will get up and try to shake off the pain before ascending the wall. When he reaches the top, he cautiously peers over the top and tries to spot the stranger.

11:49, Today: Asher Willbourne rolled 24 using 1d20+7. Climb.
11:53, Today: Asher Willbourne rolled 12 using 1d20+7. Hide.
11:51, Today: Asher Willbourne rolled 9 using 1d20+7. spot
This message was last edited by the player at 16:55, Mon 04 Oct 2004.

DM wrote:
(20) Asher relinquishes his hold on the pallisade and drops back to the ground, seriously wounded.  Remarkably, the monk shakes off the pain and reascends the wall, carefully climbing the logs that make up the wooden pallisade.  As he climbs, he can hear voices coming from within the walled garrison yard, and replies from the top of the wall, but Asher cannot make out the precies words.  The monk reaches the top and peers over, easily spotting the figure he had been pursuing--standing upon a catwalk on the inside of the pallisade.

OOC: How far from Asher is the figure? Has he seen Asher or is he otherwise distracted?

OOC:  Asher is positioned in the same locale that I've indicated on the map--the assumption is that Asher drops from the pallisade, and then reascends the wall this round, in the same place.  This puts Asher approximately 20' from the figure, as per the Combat Map on the website.  And there is no doubt that the figure sees Asher...he targeted both Garryn and Asher earlier this round.

IC:

As Asher makes his way up the wall and peers over, the thin, long-haired figure in studded leather armor points to him and yells.  Apparently directing his cries to the garrison below, the figure calls out, "Here's one o' 'em now!  Th' arsonist an' his allies are climbin' th' walls t' assault th' garrison!  To arms, brothers, to arms!"

Garryn calls out as he climbs the wall, "Cease! I offer you no resistence. I implore you, take this man into custody! He is not Taegnor, and I am not the arsonist. I am here on behalf of Savin and witnessed the man who calls himself Taegnor throwing fireballs. Detain us both, that way you'll be certain to have captured the right person, summon Savin and he will verify my identity, but please to not let that man get away!" Once he has reached the top of the wall he stays straddling the wall with his arms raised as he finishes his speech.

OOC:  ah the fog of war...  Couple options I'm thinking of for Vil - anyone have a preference?

(1)  Villhalas releases Mal'ach - with orders to make for Barbaras - and claw at any remaining glass orbs hanging about his chest/neck.  If none there - intent is to distract him for a round/partial round.  (IMO - would be better for the malatov cocktail to fall into the courtyard than to be thrown w/a well placed aim by Barbaras)

(2) Cast silent image - summoning a burgeoning cloud of smoke over the courtyard area - in an effort to obscure the guards' view of the party's location..

Thoughts?

Jas

Following Garryns lead, Asher swings a leg over the top of the wall and drops to the catwalk, he raises his hands high in the air attempting his best "I surrender" pose while freeing his hands to "deflect arrows" if necessary.

"Don't shoot! I am not the arsonist!" Asher nods towards the thin man, "I have been retained by Savin Perysinosis to capture this man. Arrest us both, if you do not believe me! Savin or the Burgormeister can identify him as Zante Barbaras! Do not shoot! And do not let this man get away!"

OOC: Take your pick Jas, I'm not sure who I need more protection from. Either way, I'm up here with very few hit points left and need some backup. I'm more afraid of   the big damage from a fireball than I am an arrow or two, truth be told. There's no way Asher can take another hit from the fireball and live. And if you obscure the guards vision, there's nothing stopping him from lobbing fireballs up here.

15:54, Today: Asher Willbourne rolled 18 using 1d20+1. Bluff check. Is that the right check for this Kevin? Otherwise you could call it a dipolmacy (same mods for  either way)
This message was last edited by the player at 21:40, Mon 04 Oct 2004.

sounds like a plan.

Kev - in an effort to keep things moving, Vil will unleash Mal'ach on Barbaras.

Jas

Hau'dn continues to watch the manor, glancing over at the wall on occassion given the noise and flashes of various fireballs.  He winces as Asher is lit up in a shroud of flame but forces his eyes back upon the manor.

I am almost certain that the man they chase is the culprit but... Hau'dn contemplates, glancing at the guard on the manor to see how they are reacting to events.

OOC:  Initiative sequence is as follows:

28  Thin man
24  Dominique
21  Guards
20  Asher
17  Caylin
12  Garryn
9   Villhalas and Mal'ach
8   Aine
7   Hau'dn

As soon as I get some details from Jas re: Mal'ach's movement, we'll move ahead to Hau'dn's observations and the next round

Cheers,
Kev

OOC: the network nazis at Jason's office have filtered out the site; so, he is unable to post from work today and has asked me to post the clarification of Mal'ach/Vil's move.

Vill Wrote:
(1)  Villhalas releases Mal'ach - with orders to make for Barbaras - and claw at any remaining glass orbs hanging about his chest/neck.  If none there - intent is to distract him for a round/partial round.

OOC: the intent is to have Mal'ach *spot* check for anything hanging around Barbaras neck and if found, try to *snatch* (disarm) the item. If the spot check comes up with nothing, Mal'ach will attack Zante to distract him and keep him busy. I do not know what mods to use for Mal'ach and Jason does not have them with him now, so, if you would do the honors on the dice roller Kevin, it would be appreciated.

Jason, let me know if I missed anything.

OOC: Kevin, I forgot to add the proper modifier to my bluff roll vs the guards. What is the appropriate modifier for blackened, blistering flesh and charred apparel? Perhaps you could add the appropriate negative modifier to the guards sense motive check? ;)

Looking for sympathy,

Asher.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 14:20, Thu 07 Oct 2004.

Villhalas eyes Mal'ach briefly, struggling with the thought of sending his familiar into harm's way.   He finds himself a bit bemused at his own reluctance.  Such a small creature to be concerned with - and yet...

With a brief shake of his head, Vil pulls himself out of this distracting reverie.  He realizes he must make a decision - and fast.  With this, Vil focuses his attention back on the Garrison wall.

Considering the lack of options presented by their current situation, Villhalas lowers his head and silently turns his thoughts inward.  Isolating the noise and confusion of battle from the depths of his inner consciousness, Vil begins the increasingly familiar (yet still exhilarating) process of tapping into the maelstrom of inexplicable energy churning at the center of his soul.

Lifting his head again now, Vil breathes in a steady stream of the cool night air & silently calls to the dragon's blood which flows a deep burning black in his veins..

Kev - Vil will cast "Silent Image" - imposed on the figure's position (J8).  The image will be of Barbaras, turning up to the guards - raising a short bow w/two flaming arrows notched, drawn - and ready to fire at their position.  The image will be made just slightly larger than Barbaras - as to accomodate any immediate movements he may make.

V

One alibi here Kevin if you would be so kind -

I would like to have Vil release Mal'ach into the air - over the area of the figure & the guards.  Intent is to keep concentrated on the figure - and move the silent image in lockstep w/him if/when he moves (via Mal'ach's view of the battlefield).  I'm hoping the concentration check I made earlier will accomodate this...(?)

thanks,
Jas

(off to work - will chk in later tonight)

(9) Villhalas focuses on the figure, half-seen in the dim light of the municipal lamps, and only half visible due to the fact that the figure is standing upon a catwalk behind the garrison pallisade.  The sorcerer concentrates, and manages to superimpose a shadowy image, poised with two flickering, flaming arrows nocked on a bowstring, over the real figure.  The image's face is cloaked in shadow--as Villhalas has no idea what the figure's face looks like.

(8) Aine fires her arrow, striking the figure high in the shoulder.

(7) Hau'dn sees the remaining guard at the manor's front door call out to his companion investigating the square, motioning towards the wall where Garryn and Asher are.  Upon the fireball's detonation, both guards had turned their attention to the area.  Now, the other guard sheathes his sword and begins to move from the square towards the garrison wall, drawing his bow as he does so.  The door guard calls something else, but Hau'dn is uanable to make out whatever he might be saying, drowned out by the fierce crackle of the burning acacia trees in the nearby square.

(28)  Figure's action...

OOC:  Enough distance separates the groups, and Villhalas has already some...ahhh...hunches as to what is transpiring beyond the garrison wall that we are moving into separate threads.

(24)

"My Friends!  I go to aid Asher and Garryn!  The madman has more flaming arrows at the ready!"

So saying, the Mithran priest hurries off towards the pallisade wall, moving at a run.

(21)

Spot checks from everyone, please.

(20)
Please make Listen checks during this segment.

(17)

Dominique runs towards the pallisade wall, and the halfling curses.  "Danu's tits!  Th' wild man cloaked up wi' darkness, an' he's got a coupla fire arrows out, now!"

Caylin moves 20', gauging the distance to be enough to put him into a range with the figure that minimizes his chances to miss due to distance.  The halfling fires an arrow, but it arcs low and strikes, thrumming, into the wooden pallisade some 6 feet or so below the top of the wall.

OOC:  Caylin has the Far Shot feet, and thus his range increment in 90' rather than 60'.  A 20' move puts Caylin approximately 170' from the figure.

OOC:  At some point, I should probably work out some code for the team that will allow them to know when I've cast a spell..   For the time being, I'm not that concerned though.  Zante's actual disposition (whether it's prepping to fire, prepping to twiddle his thumbs or prepping to roll a fatty) doesn't really matter too much to me at this point...  Matters more to the guards IMO..

Jas

Hau'dn IGA: Listen: 9. Spot 25.

22:40, Today: Villhalas of Cameron rolled 25 using 1d20+5. Spot.

(Natural 20 Roll..)

(21)
Villhalas, Aine, and Hau'dn can see Asher atop the wooden pallisade wall, arms upraised in apparent supplication.  A hail of arrow flies up from within the garrison--two striking the monk glancing blows while he knocks a third away.

(20)
Asher drops from sight behind the pallisade wall, yelling as he does so.  Neither Villhalas, Hau'dn, nor Caylin can make out the monk's words, but Aine pauses a bit, then says, "That guy from the caravan we've been running around with is yelling about some illusion.  Maybe they got spellcasters over there."

(17)
Caylin fires his arrow and misses.

(12)
Garryn, in the distance, climbs the pallisade wall and is likewise calling out.  Again, Aine interprets the words--heard only indistinctly by the others.  "Garryn's yelling about some powerful wizard, and about some sort of surrender.  Sounds like he's surrendering."

(9)
Villhalas is up.

Villhalas moves at a run for Asher's position (Intent is to use my rope and grappling hook to mount the wall).  As he moves, he calls to the rest of the party - the illusion was mine - cast over Barbaras in an effort to get the guards to focus their attention on him..

(Vil calls out this quick explanation - limiting his volume to that which could be heard by his surrounding party members - and not the guards on the other side of the wall)..

13:20, Today: Villhalas of Cameron rolled 23 using 1d20+5. Use Rope.
13:19, Today: Villhalas of Cameron rolled 9 using 1d20+3. Jump.
13:19, Today: Villhalas of Cameron rolled 9 using 1d20+3. Climb.

Once Vil is in a position to mount the wall - he will call out a warning shot to the Guards:  "HOLD YOUR FIRE - Assistant to Alderman Persinos coming over!" OOC:  A bit of a lame announcement, I know.  However, the guards may be getting pretty edgy w/a bunch of ruffians coming over their garrison walls just after the detonation outside..)


Jas

(9)
Villhalas sets off at a run, and manages to cover 120' of the approximately 190' that separate him from the pallisade wall--drawing even with Dominique.

(8)
Aine, muttering, sends another arrow towards the figure.  The arrow arcs wide and clatters against the stone of the manor.

(7)
Hau'dn is up.
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:53, Sun 10 Oct 2004.

Hau'dn raises an eyebrow, torn between chasing after the fellow that the others seem intent upon and staying here watching the manor.  The situation had flared up but somehow Hau'dn could not shake the feeling that it was merely a distraction, a rather extravagent one but a distraction nonetheless.

Wincing as he watched the two arrows strike the one fellow, he forced his attention away from what was going on at the wall and back toward the manor and its entrance.

(7)
Hau'dn continues his observation of the manor's front doors.  The guardsman at the doors maintains his position, while his partner approaches the wall--moving more quickly as he sees Garryn climbing the pallisade.  The man shouts at Garryn.

(4)
The guard on the outside yells, "Halt!  Git offa th' wall, NOW!"  Neither Caylin nor Dominique can make out the words, but Aine, Hau'dn, and Villhalas hear the man clearly enough.  The guard fires an arrow, deliberately pulling his shot to the left.  An arrow strikes, quivering in the wooden pallisade, about three feet to Garryn's left.

New round:
(28)
The illusion of a man with two fiery arrows has vanished--dissolving into nothingness as Villhalas raced across the square.  The thin man, revealed once again, yells something before he leaps from view--no longer visible.

OOC:  I will pick up the thread, after coordinating with the other group.  Stay tuned...and please roll Listen checks in the meantime.

Should have been in Vegas this week.  Another natural 20...

17:18, Today: Villhalas of Cameron rolled 25 using 1d20+5. Listen.

Hau'dn shakes his head, part of him wanting to let the guard know that they were concerned citizens protecting the town but knowing that doing so would reveal his own position and lose his own element of surprise if this were merely a diversion.

IGA: Listen 9.

PM

Kevin - refresh my memory if you would please:  how many guards are at the front door?

thx,
Jason

OOC:
There are two guards stationed by the manor front doors.  One remains, and the other went to initially investigate the first fireball (detonated at the statue in the square, and responsible for setting the acacia trees on fire), and then detoured to where the second fireball detonated (catching Garryn and Asher near the garrison pallisade).  This second guard is responsible for firing the warning arrow shot at Garryn, and for yelling at Garryn to get down from the wall.  These are the only guards you can see, and their positions are indicated on the Borderton city map.

Cheers,
Kev

OOC:  I think it would be wise to pull back at this point.

Kevin, Vil calls out to the party members on the outside of the Garrison Wall - letting them know of what he was able to hear from the thin man.  At the same time, he will move for the shadows of the SE turret of the keep (not marked on the combat map.  I'm assuming on or about P5..?).  Once there, he will cast Sleep on the remaining guard at the door - using the turret as cover for his actions..

Jas

(Intent is to try to make way into the front door..)

(20)
Asher leaps back over the garrison wall, to land with his back to the wall on the outside.

(17)
With no target in sight, the halfling cradles his bow, nocked with an arrow, and waits.  Caylin moves another 20' closer to the garrison, readying his arrow fire action at the first sign of a likely foe.

(13)
"What goes on here?  What is the meaning of this?"

Hurrying from the west side of the square, the alderman is in the company of four guardsmen.  Savin addresses his questions to no one and everyone, his eyes cutting across the luridly illuminated square lit by lamps and the burning acacia trees.  The remaining guard near the manor doors does not deign to answer, but the guard who had fired the warning arrow at Garryn pipes up.  "Trespassers, sirrah!  Like as not t' be the firebugs y' warned us of, eh?"

Savin takes a second to digest this, his gaze cutting across the outside of the garrison.  Garryn, hanging from the top of the pallisade.  Asher, crouched in a three-point stance at the base of the pallisade.  Dominique, hurrying towards the Garryn and Asher.  Villhalas, tacking west towards the shadows of the main manor.  Caylin, moving slowly but deliberately towards the garrison, bow at the ready.  Aine, in the midst of drawing another arrow for her long bow.  Hau'dn remains hidden and unseen by the alderman.  Savin pauses a mere second more, then replies.  A hint of reluctance and regret tinges his answer, but these are subtle and difficult to detect.  "Nay, goodman.  These are...my...agents, charged with bringing the arsonist in.  Do not impede them."
This message was last edited by the player at 16:47, Mon 18 Oct 2004.

(12)
OOC:
Villhalas is up.  Do you want to modify your actions, Jas?

OOC:  Yes - will modify.

Vil will approach Savin and provide him a debriefing - focusing on the Thin Man's actions & apparent hold over the Guards.  In addition, Vil will tell Savin that Barbaras is by now making his way to the Mansion interior..

Jas

Savin appears grim, nodding slightly as Villhalas briefyl sketches out the recent activities of the night.  The alderman looks a bit doubtful, but his doubt gives way to a reluctant decision.  He grips the sorcerer-rogue's arm.  "Find Barbaras--enter the manor and intercept him, if you can.  I believe the burgomaster's life is in danger."

Savin calls out to the guard remaining by the door, in a voice that Garryn, Asher, Aine, Caylin, Dominique, and Hau'dn can hear clearly.

"Allow my agents access to the manor!  The burgomaster is in danger!"

So saying, alderman snaps to his four guard retainers.  "Surround the manor...now.  Allow no one to exit without detaining them.  Do it."

The guardsmen move off to assume watch positions over the exterior of the manor.  Savin continues, You!  Get reinforcements from the prison!  Tell them the manor is occupied by an assassin!  You!  Get into the garrison, and enlist the aid of the other men!"

Villhalas will draw his rapier and move out w/the party into the Manor...

Jas

"I fear the Captain of the guard is under Zante's control. Approach him with caution." Asher barks before moving to enter the Manor with the rest.

If close enough to Dom, Asher will address him briefly, "Dom, I am badly injured. If I take any more damage, I may be needing you nearby." Asher ends his thought with a wince and a smirk.

"Yes, Asher is correct. I heard the man we suspect of being Barabas cast a spell upon the Captain and then the Captain repeated his words. He is not to be trusted until we are certain the enchantment has been removed," Garryn says as he pulls himself up so he is sitting on the wall. "Let us make haste finding him. And remember to go in pairs at the minimum, nobody goes alone." Garryn moves towards the gate where the others will gain entrance.

Upon hearing Garryn's reminder that we need to stick together, Asher nods and adds, "I'll follow you rogue, I saw which way Zante and the Captain were headed."

Asher scrambles up the wall yet again and follows Garryn to the ladder and off of the catwalk, indicating as they go the direction he believed the Captain was headed.

OOC: Kevin, I am assuming that Savin's directions to allow us entry could be heard by the guards on the catwalk? If Asher doubts this fact, he will address the concern before scaling the wall to meet yet another hail of arrows.

09:35, Today: Asher Willbourne rolled 26 using 1d20+7. climb.

Hau'dn continues to watch from the shadows, listening to what is going on.  A thought strikes him and he shakes his head ruefully.  No one really knows who or what this guy looks like now.  What if he is the Councilman?  Do I declare myself and walk in with them escorting our quarry right into the lair he desires to enter?