24 Patchwall, YR 1 of The Seer's New Greyhawk Orthodox Calendar.  Time: Just past middle-day (1233) on the revised 24 hour-segment clock.

...As the miniature dragon alights upon Zan's arm, all the party, except perhaps Myrrick, stare in wonder.  The little creature takes stock of all of you, her bright eyes intelligent and appraising.  Her head dances in greeting as she notes Myrrick, slows to a more stately bob as she studies the dwarves, then halts as she recognizes Kullonar for what he is.  Her stare is long, imperious.  At last she turns to Weasel and offers the young man a hiss.





The introduction complete, Ginger lifts off from Zan's arm and flies to Myrrick, landing on the scout's shoulder.  She seems to indicate the desire to scout ahead, though she looks at Weasel and again offers a hiss.

As Myrrick steps off, she takes off from his shoulder and darts up the path.  She is fleet, nimble, flying beneath overhanging boughs and through the forested slopes.  The rest of you trudge behind - just shy of two hours pass when you come to a steep slope, atop which sits the ruins of what looks to once have been a watchtower.

It is a rough trek along an overgrown path with large rocks and jagged scree slowing your passage.  Still, eventually you get to a point below the promontory and have a look.  The tower itself looks almost to have been shorn from shoulder to elbow, with the high end some 20' high, the lower end closer to 10'.  A door stands open, though you can see nothing within, and to the right a pathway circles around and down until out of sight.  It is quiet here, though not unnaturally so - birds can be heard in the distance, as well as the chitterings of other animals.

Suddenly the small form of Zan's familiar returns and alights upon his shoulder.

"Good Girl,  Didn't see anyone but you say it smells of rat." Zan lightly tickled Ginger under the chin and offered her a bit more ginger to eat.

Talking to the group, "Ginger here tells me that she noted two rat-fiends headed this way yesterday and that there is a tower not far ahead that smells of rat.  Not sure if they may be hold up in there or not, but I suggest that we check it out with some caution and weapons at the ready"
This message was last edited by the player at 03:14, Tue 04 Oct 2016.

Bruno was no less fascinated by the Pseudodragon that than anyone else. It was a bit off putting that Ginger seems to have given him such a judging look, but when he noted that she seemed to look at Uthecar a similar look, well, it is an elf's pet.

Her reaction to Weasel was concerning, particularly when Zan gives his interpretation of her report about wererats. The lad's comments to Kullonar as they traveled had been a bit clumsy and, well, childish, but it is not lost on him that they have just left a town infested with lycanthropes where he joined them and she was canny enough to spot some of them and her hissing at him....

He thinks to himself, We'll keep an eye on him and she may be imperious, but if she saves us trouble, I'm willing to take whatever looks she cares to shoot my way.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:20, Thu 20 Oct 2016.

Kullonar cocks an eyebrow and returns the red wyrm's gaze. He cares little what a flying lizard thinks of him and moves along with the rest of his companions toward the broken tower. At the report of rats, Kullonar fishes out a silver bullet and loads his sling, awaiting the decision to move in.

Uthecar looked at the pseudo-dragon with wonder, but the only real wonder he had was how much dwarven gold it would steal.  He watched as Zan tickled it lightly under its chin, and felt he might be prepared to do the same, with his ax.

The dragon was the elf's business, he didn't care for it, he knew it didn't care for him, he didn't care.

He nods his head to the information Zan provides.  The fact that the information came from the flying lizard, or so the elf said, not changing his view of the thieving dragon in the slightest.  When Zan had finished he speaks quietly, but so all his companions can hear.

"It is a sound plan.  No point hanging around up here.  Let's go and look down in the sewer.  If Rattus Norvegicus jumps out and things get ugly, we jam with it until it stops jamming.  All peaches?" he questions as he looks to the others.

"Myrrick you think you can guide us in as close as possible  to the tower ruin.  From there Uthecar you mind taking the lead.  Weasel we will likely need you near the front to help check for troubles"
This message was last updated by the player at 04:19, Tue 04 Oct 2016.

Myrrick happily accepts the psuedo-dragon's help scouting. And makes polite conversation as they do so. "I can, and if Weasel wants to move up front with Uthecar, I can keep us from being surprised from the back, Or I can help look for traps... I have many skill sets." Myrrick draws his sword and gives Ginger a nod and a grin.

24 Patchwall, YR 1 of The Seer's New Greyhawk Orthodox Calendar.  Time: 1410 on the revised 24 hour-segment clock.

After their sojourn, the party is winded.  You stand atop a small shelf, with the path following another 100 yards toward the tower.  From where you stand, you cannot see beyond the broken ruins, except for the path winding to the right and out of sight.  Ginger lands on Zan's shoulder and grooms herself. 

Myrrick's in the lead, halts and studies the promontory and the ruins for long moments.   

The rest of the party is restless, a bit nervous as Myrrick survey's the surrounds.

Myrrick eyes the surroundings carefully, "Quiet," he says barely audible.

When they stopped Bruno shifted the gear strapped to him in an effort to resettle it when he catches Myrrick's signal. He readies his crossbow, loaded with a silver quarrel and glances about looking for an ambush or something equally problematic.

Uthecar waits patiently, not a trait that comes easily to him.  The tower was 100 yards from where they crouched.  He was decked out in full armour, and though he was capable of walking or even charging that distance, he wasn't capable of doing either quietly.  This crouching and listening and watching and waiting wasn't the dwarven way, all it allowed was for the wind to swing around and their scent to be carried.

"The tower's not made to be surprised," he offers.  "Unless the flying lizard has found a different angle to approach it, there is the approach," he says pointing to the path up to the tower.  By his tone it is clear he seriously doubts the flying lizard has been of any use.

Spoken softly,"Ginger says that she didn't see anything lurking about on the outside of the tower.  We should only need worry about what's on the inside at this point."


Spoken softly, "Myrrick, are we ready to proceed?"

Weasel didn't much care for the flying lizard.   "I've been hungry enough to eat lizard before.  Won't bother me none to eat it again."

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

He does listen carefully to the discussion about the tower, though.  Especially if he's about to go in to where there were more wer-rats.   "I can check for traps... bashing down a door, though... I'm not built for that.

"Daylight's wasting."

The little dragon flies off to do her master's bidding.  The party gathers to share their thoughts.  Myrrick takes the lead and begins a slow crawl toward the broken tower, followed by the others.

When within fifty yards, you begin to note a dance of shadow and light as details become apparent from within.  The door lies flat, seemingly broken and at the far end light seeps through breaks in a chimney that does not extend beyond the outer walls.

ooc: give me a marching order, state actions, everyone roll a d6 + dexterity adjustment, please.

In reply to Weasel (msg # 13):   Zan gave an odd look upon Weasel's comment about eating lizard.

As the group neared the ruined tower, Zan had his bow along with some arrows ready.  He was extremely silent and letting his eyes and ears help alert him to any lurking troubles.

16:20, Today: Zan rolled 8 using 1d6+2.  reaction roll.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:25, Wed 05 Oct 2016.

Bruno moves forward behind Uthecar with his crossbow ready.

Bruno Rhunthane rolled 2 using 1d6+1.  Initiative/Reaction.

Myrrick, his hand on the sword he was recently given, pauses to study what he's seeing.


17:48, Today: Myrrick rolled 4 using 1d6+2.  d6 plus dex.
and Zan's marching order is good for me.

From within the ruins you sense movement.  Suddenly, a goblin bursts from the doorway and bolts down the path to the right.

ooc: Those of you who readied range weapons get a shot - keep in mind range increments on the particular weapon you're using (for instance, what's the range on a sling?).  You're about 50 yards from the ruins, well within range for a crossbow.

ooc2: My take on range has always been feet inside and yards outside.  I trust no one has a beef with that.  Figure much of the limitations come from the inability to loft missiles to gain range.

With supreme control, Uthecar manages to keep himself still, and not scream out a challenge and bolt down after the hated humanoid.  His battle ax hardly useful as a range weapon he curses the yellow bellied cur under his breath in his mother tongue.

Bruno sees the goblin and lets loose his quarrel.

Bruno Rhunthane rolled 5 using 1d20+2.  Attack with Heavy Crossbow.

I don't think there are any attack adjustments beyond Dex to use here, and given my roll I don't think they'd be much use if there are.

Weasel doesn't bother wasting breath, he just says, "He'd not run from the tower if he had friends aplenty there."

Myrrick turns his head quickly, "Unless he's going to warn more. Let's get inside quickly, see what we can and get ready." Myrrick curses under his breath for not having his bow readied.

Bruno's crossbow bolt ricochets off the facade of the ruins, scattering dust and stone as it deflects to the right.  It misses the goblin by a significant margin.

The little gobbler runs with arms up in attempt to protect it's head.  It looks rather silly to you all...

ooc: think Kullonar readied his sling, if memory serves...

Kullonar does indeed have his sling ready...but he's not going to waste a silver bullet on a gobbler.

20:24, Today: Kullonar rolled 1 using 1d6.

ooc: waiting on Zan

With his bow ready Zan fired two arrows at the rapidly fleeing goblin.  He immediately turned his attention back to the ruin tower and the opening.

14:21, Today: Zan rolled 7,2,10,3 using d20+4,1d6,d20+4,1d6.  run goblin run.

Uthecar pulls himself up at Myrrick's words, agreeing completely.  "It's not all bad," he says.  "Killing gobbers up close is a lot more fun." He looks to the fleeing goblin.  "Awesome!  Look at the little maggot run.  Funny wee thing will notify everyone and hopefully they'll all come to us rather than us having to chase them all down.

Good use of the warning shots guys.  Very effective.  Very effective.  I should have thought of that myself."  He winces a little, kicking himself figuratively for the planning oversight.  "I suggest we move out, troubles coming, that's for sure.  Weasels right, if we make it to that tower, it'll be empty and we can control the doorway, limit their approach and numbers.  Oorah!" He begins marching off, not for a second thinking there was anything left to talk about.

OOC:  I will be the first to say it, I have serious reservations about the longevity of this character.

Zan's two arrows are hurried, and fly wide of the mark. 

Uthecar begins to trudge up the path toward the tower.

ooc: actions please.

Myrrick will keep pace just behind Uthecar, keeping an eye for traps or hidden foes, sword readied.

The party files behind Uthecar and Myrrick.  It is a cautious approach, but eventually you all stand some 10-15 yards from the entrance.  It is dim inside, but you can see a bit, mostly ruin.  It looks as if much of a second floor has fallen in, as noted by the piles of stone on the floor.  As seen, the door lies flat just within.  It is wooden, slowly rotting, with heavily rusted braces barely keeping it intact.

That's all you can see without a closer inspection.

ooc: actions?

Myrrick will cautiously approach the doorway, looking for traps or signs of movement from inside.

Kullonar puts away his sling and hefts his morningstar as they approach the broken tower.
He sidles up to the outer wall and peers inside, hoping his darkvision can see any hidden threats.

Bruno looks about to see if he can obtain his stray bolt, but will not do so if doing so will lead him too far away from the party. While he does this he slings the crossbow over his shoulder while shuffling his shield onto his arm and grabbing his hammer from where it hands from his belt.

Uthecar casts an experienced dwarven eye over the stonework, ascertaining its stability to make sure there is no threat of imminent collapse.  He then looks to Kullonar in particular to see if he indicates he can see anything, as well as a quick glance to the others.  If the general consensus is no, it is good enough for the dwarf, someone needs to go first, and that is obviously dwarven work.

He jumps through the archway with a cry of "Oorah!", ax ready, landing facing the side opposite to which Kullonar can see.  He doesn't stay still, if he sees anything moving that looks threatening, he is charging at it immediately ax raised with a dwarven battle scream, "Az eron da Dwed".

OOC:  That's "Ax of the dwarf" as one dwarven to common translator has told me. :-)

"Shit" he was disappointed that he wasn't able to hit his mark.  "It's clear" Zan occasionally did impulsive things and this was one of them.
"Be right back" He took off at a sprint after the fleeing goblin getting a few more arrows ready.  He followed the path that the goblin took.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:51, Sat 08 Oct 2016.

As you all reach the threshold, a few observations are made:

1- the ruins sit on a high point, so you have a clear view of the surrounds.  about you are forested heights similar to what you walked through to get where you are now.  the trifecta of mountains cradle this area - it becomes apparent how the hold was kept hidden for so long - this is a desolate wilds.

2- there is nothing of interest in the ruins.  A couple of bats squeak in earnest fright as Uthecar jumps in, and fly through the great rent in the second floor.  Through that hole, the sky is visible - along with clouds that are greying as the day grows longer.

3- there are no traps, nor anything of interest in this place.  Uthecar's dwarven senses indicate this ruin is unstable, and he makes a careful retreat.

4- Ginger again flies away, following the trail that descends to your right.  As you draw close, you can see it leads to the bottom of a slope - there you find another door, this one intact, that is closed and set within the rock.  It is some 150 yards away, and looks rock solid.  All of a sudden it dawns upon you that the Mage and the Warrior built their abode beneath the ground.  Hermits indeed!

5- The goblin is 2/3rds of the way to that door.  Anyone with a bow or crossbow can get one shot with no bonuses.  The bugger's in a flat out sprint.

6- Ginger returns, a bat in her mouth.  She drops a small bit near Weasel, then flies over to Zan and alights upon his shoulder.

Uthecar points to the door, "That's where the trash has crawled, but now the cleaners are here."  He smiles delightfully as he sweeps his ax backwards and forwards, the double sided keen edge of the head, fair whistling as it does so.  Knowing those with ranged weapons may want to concentrate on a long shot, he makes sure he is not in their way, and shuts up.  Of to the side he does step from one foot to the other like an impatient child however.  It's clear he is trying his hardest to hold his enthusiasm for a battle charge in check.

Myrrick puts his sword away, draws his bow and one arrow, taking careful aim he let's fly at the goblin.

10:16, Today: Myrrick rolled 14 using 1d20 ((14)).

The Entrance to Quesqueton:

Zan tossed his hands up, "Your right, that was stupid of me to ask, I shall endeavor to do better and my aim could have been better as well."  He gathered another arrow noting the direction of the wind.  He drew back the string of the bow, "Fly true".  Things slowed down as he focused.  The string was released and the arrow took flight.

16:38, Yesterday: Zan rolled 3,23,4,16,4 using d6+2,d20+4,1d6,d20+4,1d6.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:58, Tue 11 Oct 2016.

Uthecar is briefly distraction by Zan.  He squints up at him with a look one does to a person they think is completely off their rocker, bat-crazy-mad.  His replying to questions not voiced was a sure sign he was loopy, as Uthecar had strongly suspected of most elves.

The talking coupled with the flying lizard were starting to add up, he should have noticed sooner.  The guy was obviously a few sandwiches short of a picnic, and needed to be watched carefully.  If he was already starting to come apart at the seams at the sight of just one goblin, what would he do when they were knee deep in their blood.

He would have to talk to the Brother, he hadn't noticed how bad this guy was at the tavern he'd been too busy playing chop-chop with the goblin and bugbear entertainment.

While Zan rushes forward, Myrrick takes careful aim, though both seem able to loose at the same time.  Fortune favors the steady hands of the archers.  Twin arrows descend as one upon the hapless goblin, who falls within mere steps of the closed portal.

ooc: Nice shots.

The rest of the party releases held breath at the sharp shots, grin at one another at their good luck.  Quickly, you follow the goblin's path, find yourselves standing some 10 yards from an entrance.  Emblazoned upon a bronze plaque turned green is a stylized 'Q'.

ooc: Welcome to Quesqueton!  State actions - PLEASE be specific in what you're doing.

Uthecar is keeping a wary eye on the unstable Zan, as he moves forward to the goblin, glancing up to the surrounding hills for possible 'murder hole' type lookouts.  He drops to one knee by the goblin and surprisingly gently feels for a pulse in its neck.  The two arrows sticking out if its back might give a more obvious conclusion, but interrogation might be possible if it still had a tentative bond to this world.  Ax in one hand, while he feels for a pulse with the other, he glances up to the keystone and archway above.

Zan came up to the fallen goblin and collected his arrow and checked the goblin belongings.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:32, Wed 12 Oct 2016.

Myrrick puts his bow away, and draws his sword, he will then check the door for traps and to see if it's locked. "I think this will be more perilous than the ruins above..."

12:33, Today: Myrrick rolled 30 using 1d100.  find trap.
12:32, Today: Myrrick rolled 39 using 1d100.  open lock.

Both fail
This message was last edited by the player at 16:33, Wed 12 Oct 2016.

Bruno is relieved that the goblin was brought down before it managed to get into the fortress, but is still concerned that they, or whomever actually holds the place may still have guardians. He hangs back but loads his crossbow again (with a normal bolt) ready for an ambush.

ooc: for those with the class ability to check for traps, please roll.

Uthecar's prudence shows that the goblin has indeed left this world.  A cursory glance shows no arrow slits or any other defensive architecture, the dwarves in particular wonder at this, though the watchtower perhaps provided enough advance warning, as there are no other apparent paths that lead to this door.

To the left of the path is a steep drop, a difficult passage if you wanted to descend.  At the bottom is scree, dampened by weather and what appears to be a quickly moving stream that doesn't look particularly deep.  There are trees, mostly coniferous, growing along the slope, so your line of sight does not extend very far at all.  You feel strangely isolated and...vulnerable.


ooc2: those of you not looking around can also offer any actions.

Zan will examine the door and around it checking to see if he finds anything unusual about it.

OOC: 23:21, Yesterday: Zan rolled 395 using 7d100 with rolls of 92,44,87,16,35,69,52.  PP/OL/RT/MS/HS/HN/CW
Does the door appear to open in or out?

As Zan examines the door, Uthecar asks suspiciously, "Why'd you answer questions not asked elf?"

The goblin proving useless in death as in life, Uthecar places his ax on the ground as he grabs the goblin with two hands by a leg, and with a one two spin for momentum, launches it out over the ledge like goblin throwing was a sport.  As the carcass spins out over the edge of the drop, not totally unlike a flying squirrel, he picks up his ax as he is heard to encourage his shot to make it over the stream.  "Fly you bugga.  Over the stream, over the stream."   He waits expectantly on a successful landing.

As Bruno stands ready he sees his fellow dwarf throw the goblin. The grimace on his face indicates his distaste for the action and he gives Uthecar a look that suggests his disapproval, but he says nothing not wanting to make unnecessary noise.

"Oh, sorry that was rude of me.  My little friend Ginger, she speaks to me in my thoughts at times.  I forget myself at times and reply out loud to her.  She pointed out to me that my first few shots were misses and that I should have done better."

Zan stopped what he was doing to watch the goblin toss.

Uthecar sees the distasteful stare from Brother Bruno, and shrugs his shoulders as if to say, "What?  Don't tell me you didn't always want to do that."

He continues watching the goblin spinning out over the ledge and as it starts to lose elevation he replies to Zan, "You're a strange one elf, even for an elf."  It is said a little absentmindedly, as his attention is on the final resting place of the goblin shot.

Uthecar's loft is perfect, the trajectory at a slight incline.  The goblin spins, limbs straight out - spread eagle.  Initially it looked to be a clean, admirable throw, but as the body helicoptered, it seemed to gain height and the distance took on monumental proportions.

Now, the downslope is at about 45% decline, easily a good 60, perhaps even 70 yards down to the stream.  The stream is about 10 yards wide.  By the time the goblin crashes to earth, it has cleared the stream by another 15 or so yards.  After bouncing, it settles a clear 20 yards past the stream.

An impressive throw indeed, one that instills awe, and a certain level of humor after the tension of the past couple days.

Once the laughter has died, the party regains their composure and begins the inspection of the portal.  First Myrrick, then Zan take a look at the door, searching in varied form and fashion - both agree there is a lock, though they seem befuddled by it.  Neither is successful in locating a trap, if trap there be.  Stepping back, both give way to Weasel.

He looks at his compatriots, rubs his hands together, and gives the door a study.  Reaching into a small pouch at his side, he pulls forth a small implement with a wooden handle & sharp point.  From the same pouch he pulls forth a small mallet and gives the wooden handle of the first tool a sharp rap.

There is the sound of wood breaking within the small crack in the door, then Weasel steps back and says, "I've disabled the trigger holding the darts in place.  Anyone got the key?"

Bruno watches the throw. He does not laugh. He seems... Embarrassed? Repulsed? Angry? Yes. All three of them simultaneously. He takes a breath and seems about to say something when Weasel speaks.

Looking from the young human to Zan he asks, "You do have a key, do you not?"

Not waiting for an answer he looks back to Uthecar, "Do unto others, stripling, and mind the thin ice you're dancing across."

"That I did, brother, that I did."  Uthecar nods in agreement with a smile of content.  Bruno knows he got his point, even though he makes out Bruno meant he had just done what a goblin would do if the tables were turned. (and they had the strength)

Although they have traveled together for some time, the two dwarves do not know each other very well. Bruno had been warned of Uthecar's lack of discipline and immaturity, but his actions here seem beyond the pale. He's turning out to be just the smart ass, the Sergeant warned he was. And an unfortunate lack of morals to boot.

Help me with this one Soul Forger!

His face remains somber in response to the smile and he turns back to Zan looking for the elf's response to his question.

"I thought dwarf throwing was illegal in most of the Rakers?" said Weasel, as he looks at the body of the goblin across the water, it's limbs spread akimbo.  "Shame t'boot, critter might of had some treasure for us to spoil."

"Impressive throw, though we might could have used the body as a pin cusion were something  shooting back at us but no matter, I'm sure that we will figure out something"

"As for a key, I did check the goblin can't say that he had a key on him.  So if he didn't have a key he would have had to knock or something.  Don't figure knocking would be the best of actions, So I guessing that we may be able to open it without a key."

Zan got out his silk rope and tie it to the door knocker, "We can us the rope to stand at a distance and open the door.  That way if something come spring out, we are ready to deal with it."

OOC: obviously assuming that the door opens out.

"I doubt goblins care for the legality of dwarf throwing." Uthecar observes to Weasels question.  "He was too small to make much of a pincushion mage, but where he is, is sufficient to not warn others that this gate has been challenged once we go through.  Given the distance he obtained, no one will think he has been thrown.  From here it is just another dead goblin who never made it home.  Perhaps wolves will disposed of the corpse before anyone notices."

He turns away from the body, already forgotten.  He wasn't going to explain it further, his methods were often controversial, but he was use to getting things done.  It served to illustrate what the racial hate dwarves and goblins had for each other really meant.

The door handle, such as it is, seems to indicate the need to pull, thus it seems likely the door will pull out.

All that to say: there is a lever to pull down to unhatch the door so that it does open.  Based upon Weasel's claim, the trap's been disabled...

Uthecar holds up his hand as Zan starts to unwind and tie the rope to the door, "A good idea in theory ghost talker, but the mechanism is such that, that will not work.  This one is made so those opening it remain in the danger zone from those beyond.  I lack your smarts, that is clear, or the skill set of the lads," he says with some surprise, as he witnessed the tools Weasel had used, "I'm just the mug that stands in front and gives out a beating"  He shrugs, "I'm dwarven, it's what we do.  You might like to position yourselves again for arrow fire," he says turning to everyone with a ranged weapon.  "as long as you shoot like he did the second time when he took down the gobber.  That was a fine shot.  Don't make me your pincushion, and I will go toe to toe with whatever is beyond and hold them back as you pick them off."

He will wait for others to have their say, or for anyone to propose an alternative or better plan.

"Sounds like you know a thing or two about doors.  Your plan is solid, I'll move to a spot that will give me a clean look.  I would suggest that you try and draw any out that you can so we can help with arrows, if you charge in our ability to support will be limited."
This message was last edited by the player at 13:32, Thu 13 Oct 2016.

Myrrick shrugged and nodded, "I am all in, let's get ready." drawing his bow and knocking an arrow, "Ready when you are."

Bruno says nothing, but it obvious that he too is ready. His crossbow is loaded where it remains on his shoulder and his hammer and shield are to hand and at the ready.

ooc: I'm trying to figure out what you're doing.  Are you affixing the rope to the door to yank it open?  There is a catch mechanism in place that will prevent it from opening without first lifting the catch...fyi.  At this point as well, those who studied the mechanism all think it's locked.

I will say this, however: dwarves have stone-working ability of a sort, and can intuit things of this type of nature.  I'll give each dwarf a wisdom roll (d20 & roll less than wisdom score).  If one or both roll less than their score, I'll let you know what you intuit.

Uthecar is taking point, and opening the latch.  Everyone else is standing back with ranged weapons to pick off whatever comes through.  If they are one of the hated races, there's a very good chance Uthecar is going to see red and get all medieval again.

I must admit I assumed Weasel had also unlocked the mechanism when he disarmed it.  (Joking - Weasel why would you leave it locked man?!!)

Happy to play this out as it is, as truthfully I (= Uthecar) had assumed the lock was open after Weasel had finished, and haven't thought to question it.  We're young and green, possible rookie mistake?

ooc: to clarify, there is an 'open locks' roll that had to be made - he did not.  Low levels tend toward more misses than hits, unfortunately - 'tis a hazardous trade, Sir Dwarf!  Be thankful: Weasel found the trap that was in the door!

Zan looked the door over, "Some of the doors, I come across have a catch mechanism, making it appear to be locked, almost like it requires two people to open the door.  Of couse that makes me wonder how that lone goblin was planning on opening the door.  Maybe he would need to knock to get them to open the door, could always try that.  If we can't figure out how to get it open from this side"


OOC: 08:30, Today: Zan rolled 26 using 1d100.  open lock.  Success   Let us know if this is sufficient to get the door open.
LOL an adventure that can't start cause we can't get the door open.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:42, Fri 14 Oct 2016.

Bruno also takes a look at the door and lock and the stoneworks therein along with everyone else....



I misread the post and added my Wisdom bonus, but it still worked out okay:
Bruno Rhunthane rolled 7 using 1d20+3.  Dwarven Insight Roll.

Both Zan and Bruno have zen moments: the door is locked, but it is an easy mechanism to unlock, especially with the trap being disabled.  The party can now move forward as planned.

ooc: LOL - so right.  'Um, the door's locked.  Let's go home.'

Relieved that they have managed to get through the lock Bruno shifts the crossbow hanging from his shoulder and the rest of his gear as he picks up his shield and gets ready to move forward, "If the door was locked, that goblin, who appeared to be either escaping or a messenger, would have had a key to get back in if he were a messenger, no?

"And if he didn't or was escaping there would've been his fellows on the other side to open it up for him or are running after him, no?

"And if they are others, but have not heard us out here or noted the disabling of their trap... That suggests they may be waiting on the other side, no?

"Let us be ready, comrades!"

"If there're poison darts for a door, what about the first ten steps inside?  Best place to put a trap is right next to another one that is easier to find."

Weasel moves in, odd shortsword in hand, checking the floors and ceilings for more traps, especially pits and dead-falls.

Keeping to the back of the group, Kullonar was shocked to watch Uthecar chuck the dead goblin off the trail and across the river. He made a mental note of it and shook his head at the blatant disregard for the dead...regardless of the species. He thought about the tenets of the Cudgel while the others explored ahead, trying the door...and failing.
"We could have always knocked," he says to no one in particular as he readies to follow his companions inside...

Uthecar places his right hand on the latch mechanism ready to open it, and in his left hand he holds his ax.  He looks to everyone to make sure they are all ready and in position.

OOC:  It isn't clear whether we are about to open a double door or a single door Seer.

ooc: single door, iron bound w/ no rust, wood looks sturdy, as if fairly newly fashioned.  Sorry for the lack of description.

OOC:  No biggie.  I'm going to assume it opens to the right, as that would give the majority of inside defenders the advantage since most people (not sure about goblins et al) are right handed.  As it so happen, Uthecar is left handed (like every character I've ever played) so it serves him as well. If you want it different, it possibly makes little difference, but lets do it your way. :-)

Grabbing the latch mechanism in his right hand, he pulls back on the door, walking back with it as he peeks around.  If he sees hordes he'll duck his head back, and continue to pull and walk back with the door pulling it wide open, before letting go and smoothly transgressing into battle.  With the portal wide, his hope would be they are all exposed to ranged weapon fire.

If he sees one, or only a few, (especially if they are goblins) he'll just give the door a mighty tug with his right arm, so it swings wide open itself, as he then grabs his ax double handed shouting "Oorah!" to be shortly followed by "Az eron da Dwed". Ax of the dwarf as he bolts inside after them, mostly oblivious to such trifling dangers as being outnumbered.  His fear at this stage is that with only a handful, his body count might be light before the range weapons strike.

As the door is opened, Zan pulled back on his bow string making ready to fire his arrow.

Weasel jumps back a bit as the dwarf charges inside.  "Always so loud.... gah."

He waits to see if the dwarf is in battle, dies from a trap, or has completely over-reacted.  Any of the ways, his sword is out.

Kullonar shakes his head once again at the brash dwarf and readies his mace.

The door opens wide.  Behind you see a tunnel leading into darkness.  Those with infravision are 'blinded' by the remaining daylight so that all you can tell is that the passage is smoothly hewn.  The passage looks to range straight ahead, and is about 10' wide.  You can see about 30' within.

There are no goblins, or other such waiting for you.  There is no sound to speak of.

:)

Uthecar soon pulls up short and turns back to the light and the others with a big grin on his face.  "I'd say that was round one to us.  My dwarven challenge probably caused them all to scatter and run deeper into the caverns below, if there was anything here at all in the first place.  Nothing like a good roar to give your enemies the jelly legs."

He runs his right hand along the tunnel wall as he talks and walks back out towards the others, holding his ax in his left attacking hand.  "These walls have been cut with some pride, they're too smooth to be goblin dug."

He stops when he is again at the entrance and looks back into the cavern.  "Right how we gonna do this?  I can see in the dark, I'm encased in tin and I'm as short as shit.  To be fair, you'll probably find out sooner or later anyway, I've knocked friendlies over before in my haste to get to enemies, so I'm probably better at the front." 

Myrrick chuckled at Uthecar, "It was a mighty roar friend, please allow myself or perhaps Weasel in the front with you. I think he and I have an eye for traps and such."

24 Patchwall, YR 1 of The Seer's New Greyhawk Orthodox Calendar.  Time: 1515 on the revised 24 hour-segment clock.

Map 1: as shown 60' inward:



It is mid-afternoon and has been more than an hour since the arrival at the ruins above, what with wandering down to the entrance and varied and sundry searching for traps and picking locks to goblin throwing and such.  Uthecar's roar brings nothing rushing out but silence, and a tunnel mouth that stares at you in daunting challenge.

There is little that stands out about the tunnel - the dwarves in particular find the place to be well crafted, clean with no cobwebs.  There's no smell of musty air like that bottled up for a long time, no sounds to break the silence from within.

ooc: Call your actions, please.  I'll assume Myrrick/Uthecar leading the way unless stated otherwise.  I will wait to post until everyone has stated what they're doing.

ooc2: I'll try to do a better job on making the maps smaller.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:13, Tue 25 Oct 2016.

If Myrrick is up front he will move along cautiously looking for traps or hidden doors, his sword should a foe present itself. "Save the battle roars in the tunnel, please Uthecar." he grins.


If Myrrick isn't in front he will stay completely in the back to make sure they aren't surprised.

Myricck has Uthecar well pegged, if anyone was likely to make a cacophony of noise it was the dwarf.  Surprisingly he appears to have listened to Myricck's suggestion, and will even let the weasel go before him if he wants.  "I always set the traps off," he says in explanation, "every single damn time.  If there is fighting to be had boy, slip behind and move aside, because I will be coming through."

Kullonar walks inside the tunnel, keeping near the middle of the group, mace ready.

Zan is content to bring up the rear as he knows where his talents are best suited

When Myrrick makes his suggestion of moving to the fore Bruno speaks, "Pardon me, friend, Myrrick, but from what we have seen so far would it not seem more likely that what lays before was will require one with skills to disable traps and whatnot? From your current post you may not only fire at enemies before us more easily, but you ensure that we may not be ambushed from behind.

In the meantime he stands next to Kullonar shield and weapon to hand ready to move forward.

Zan pondered, "Still trying to figure out how that lone goblin was going to get the door opened.  With no one waiting on the other side to help open it."

"Goblins are dumb, but it is a good point.  That door was locked and trapped, so where'd it come from and where did it think it was was going to?  Where there is one goblin, there are usually more getting up to no good.  This place has been here forever, and could wait if it needs to.  Do you think we should go and hunt down and kill the others so they do not harm others first?"  He looks to Zan and directs his question to him in the end, though it is open to everyone.

The party moves slowly into the corridor, Myrrick and Uthecar up front, the clerics in the middle and Weasel bringing up the rear with Zan and Ginger.

As Zan enters, he notes Weasel halt suddenly and furiously look around in his sack.  Suddenly crestfallen, the young man glances at Zan and says, "I've no torches."

His adam's apple bobs nervously as he stares at the others.
This message was last updated by the GM at 02:21, Tue 25 Oct 2016.

"Yeah, we need to explore this area some more, and if we run into some goblins at want to test your metal.  I'd say let them have it.  It might serve us best to not announce our location at every turn.  Goblins might be a dumb lot, but they.    Usually make up for it in shear numbers.   "

Zan looked at Weasel at a lost for words at his comment, he had forgotten that not everyone was able to see in darker settings.  "Oh, I had forgotten that human have troubles seeing at night.  Humm..  Anyone got any torches.  If not I may have something that should work."

Uthecar considers the boy with a frown as if he only just realized he was born deformed.  "No torches on me, don't need'em," he replies to Zan's question.

Myrrick nodded, "I have a torch, if you need it Weasel, I have no use for it at the moment." he will hand Weasel the torch to light when needed.

Bruno gives Uthecar a certain look as he responds to Weasel and pulls a bullseye lantern from his belt, "Famous last words, warrior."

Lighting the lantern he looks around the party and responds nodding down the hallway, "Right, then. Shall we? The goblins and whatever else are here thataway, so it seems to me that must be the direction of our hunt."

"Thanks Bruno"

Zan asked of Weasel, "Is there anything that is needed?"

Kullonar steps back a bit from Bruno and his lantern, and keeps his mace ready.

24 Patchwall, YR 1 of The Seer's New Greyhawk Orthodox Calendar.  Time: 1524 on the revised 24 hour-segment clock.

Weasel's admission is a stark one, a reminder that the party, for all it's apparent strength, has much yet to learn.  With patience, the good priest of Moradin lights a lantern, the beam bright and strong and carrying further than the invading daylight down the hall.  The smell of kerosene is thick in the close air despite the open door behind them.

Myrrick takes the lead, Uthecar nearby, both moving carefully forward with Bruno and Kullonar just behind, and Zan, his familiar and Weasel moving carefully forward with an occasional glance toward the exit.  Ahead, in the ruddy glow of the lantern lights the way, and into view some 60' from the entrance stands...another door.


This message was last edited by the GM at 03:16, Wed 26 Oct 2016.

Looking back at the open portal to the surface, Weasel asks, "Should we close it?"

Uthecar stops and considers Weasels words.  "Best you check the back of the door before you go closing it son, but it seems wise.  Make sure you can manipulated and opened the lock from behind."  As he waits he places himself in a little space and warms his ax arm up with some broad swinging strokes.

Myrrick pauses, waiting for Weasel to check the door and close it. His sword is ready, his eyes and ears trained for any sound or movement not from his group.

Zan will go help Weasel close the door.  He handed Weasel a key, "Give this a try I think it might work.  Ginger found it laying about"

Weasel nods his thanks to Zan, whispering, "Bein' easier t' pick a lock when you have t' key, eh wot?"

Weasel checks the door, the floor in front of the door, and the lock.

1. if he finds nothing, he'll gently put the key into the lock, trying not to make noise.  If it fits, he'll turn it.... once again, trying not to make any noise.  If he thinks it will help, he'll drip a little oil on the key and into the lock.

2.  if the key doesn't fit, out come the lock picks.

Weasel and Zan retreat to the entrance.  After a careful look-see, they close the door and secure it, with Zan retrieving the key and stowing it away on his person.

As one, the party moves forward now in earnest.  Myrrick leads, with Uthecar looking closely over his shoulder - almost uncomfortably close, so eager is the dwarven rager to meet the foe.  At last, they come within sight of the door, the golden glow of the lantern bathing it's face, a stylish 'Q' engraved thereon at eye level to greet you with silent query.




ooc: actions?

Uthecar steps to one side so others can pass.  He scrutinized the ceiling and surrounding walls as he does so, looking for any tell tail signs that they might be more than they initially appear from a casual glance.  He had no beef with the door, that would be someone else's job, unless of course it needed to be busted.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:41, Thu 27 Oct 2016.

Myrrick will examine the door for traps before even considering unlocking or opening it.

Myrrick studies the door closely, notes that is of a more common construction - and seemingly significantly older.  It seems well preserved, however, sealed as it is within the fortress.  To the best of his knowledge, it is a simple lever that opens inward into the fortress.  Uthecar, nearby, notes the same.

"A door that opens into a fortress," Uthecar muses, "It stinks as bad as goblin scum.  If it was built proper, it should be opening out.  The engineer was either an idiot or it's a trap." He looks to the walls surrounding the door a little more closely.  "Could be the real door is concealed," he says running his free hand over the stone, "or the engineer was an idiot."

Zan will examine the door as well and listen to find out if there is something on the other side.  "Weasel, your contribution would be most welcomed"

Additionally, he looked for a keyhole, since the last door had one, it made sense that this one might as well.

Myrrick studied the door for traps, again, just to be sure before attempting to open the door, "Rennar opened the door easily enough, if I recall."


12:08, Today: Myrrick rolled 38 using 1d100.  open locks. (fail)

None of you detect traps, locks, secret doors, shifting walls or any of that sort.  Appears to be a normal door, pushing inward.

"Well if none of you can see anything sinister let's just hope the designer never believed the first door could ever be breached......and he was an idiot." he added after a pause for good measure, as he agreed with his own initial assessment of the obviously non-dwarven engineers' ability.

Uthecar signals for everyone to step back out of possible danger as he steps up to the door.  Though he had a few rough edges, he was wordlessly accepting his companions assessments that he was wrong and there was no trap here, and willing to face what might be coming, though not about to have others placed in danger if they turned out to be incorrect.


08:57, Today: Uthecar Hornskin II rolled 3 using 1d8.  open door.  FWIW - The 3 is also good enough to force open a locked, barred, magically held or wizard locked door, so I guess we are going in, or the trap is sprung and the roof is falling in on Uthecar. :-)

Uthecar opens the door with ease.  A block of stone does NOT fall on his head, a pit does NOT open beneath his feet.  The tunnel, lit by the light of Bruno's lantern, extends straight into the darkness, with twin alcoves, apparently guard stations of a sort, extending in ten foot squares to either side of the passage.

Uthecar looks up and around, with a look of annoyance on his face.  As long as everyone is ready to go, Uthecar moves into the passageway testing the ground ahead with the handle of his axe as he does so.  He is obviously still not sold on it not being a trap, as he still can't get his head around the second door opening inwards.  He mutters quietly under his breath in dwarven as he moves to check each alcove.

Kullonar waits patiently, knowing not to rush the usually eager dwarf.

Myrrick follows Uthecar, checking for traps all over, floor/walls/ and ceiling. "Plenty to kill Uthecar, let's not rush."

Uthecar is moving cautiously, the words of his companions mirroring his own thoughts.  He is tapping the floor ahead of himself as he goes, listening for a hollow sound, at least up until the alcoves.  He keeps to the right of the corridor as he approaches the alcoves, looking as much into the one on the left as possible as he approaches.


What height does the ceiling go to in this corridor.  Is it a flat ceiling or domed towards the middle?

Zan will search the alcove for concealed doors

21:28, Yesterday: Zan rolled 5 using 1d6.  Search alcove.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:04, Wed 02 Nov 2016.

Bruno follows along with the group keeping his eyes and ears open.

Uthecar searches both the alcoves and begins moving forward up the passage as he searches for any sort of construction anomaly.  Myrrick follows close behind, as do the two priests.  Following to the rear, Zan spends some time looking about for traps or concealed doors as well, though he finds nothing untoward in his search.  Weasel follows Zan nervously, his eyes darting back into the darkness behind, though he holds a blade steadily in his hand.

There is an odd stillness to the place.  Soft murmurs of sound whisper briefly, than are gone.  Sudden stirrings of air caress the back of your necks, though you cannot discern a source.  Hints of floral fragrances touch your nostrils, fading before you can identify their source.  It is an eerie, uncomfortable feeling as you move up the corridor.




ooc: actions?
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:29, Mon 07 Nov 2016.

"No traps." Myrrick whispers, barely audible. His grip on his sword tightened as his senses picked up traces of scents, and sounds.

Kullonar, never one for tight spaces, grips the handle of his mace a little tighter and moves ahead.

For a dwarf spaces such as they are currently in are.... Well, they're like home. Particularly if they are properly carved/built spaces as this one seems to be. The weird sounds and other stuff would make any home uncomfortable, though.

Bruno moves along keeping his eyes and ears open -- this place was created by a wizard, so doubtless what they are hearing is a reflection of his magical protections, but still...

Zan simply shrugged, "Never hurts to have a good look around"

The party moves slowly past the first set of alcoves, and comes upon a second identical set some forty feet later.  A sudden sound comes from behind, echoing eerily: the door has shut behind you, as if spring loaded.  (No one detected the spring.  FYI: I have you moving about 60' per round, if not a bit less, as I'm assuming you're making a rough map, or at least marking the way, as well as searching for traps/concealed doors and such).

The darkness looms ahead, past the lantern light.  After the echo of the door dies, an uncomfortable silence settles.

ooc: actions?

Uthecar shrugs it was only a door closing.  He is happy to continue on cautiously unless someone else has cause for concern.

Myrrick will keep pace a bit ahead of Uthecar, checking extremely carefully for traps, doors or anything that seems out of place.

Bruno also moves along and when the door springs shut behind them he says aloud, "Did somebody expect that, because I didn't.

"Magic, I suppose. If it was not magic, we ought to expect trouble ahead and soon."

Uthecar enters the second set of alcoves to the left.  Myrrick to the right.

Myrrick holds up a hand, indicating they should halt. "Secret door, gents. I'll give it a look for traps. Weasel, care to help?" Myrrick will give the door a once over for traps.

The door closing behind them didn't help Kullonar's nerves. But he says nothing, clenches his teeth, and moves forward with the rest.

PM

"We are vigilant and ready," Uthecar confirms to Bruno's concern as Myrrick discovers the secret door.  "When you have finished checking there, there's also a hidden way in this alcove." He waits, ax in hand, standing ready facing into the alcove in case something should try to come through as the other alcove is searched.

"Perhaps it was the intent of the engineers to lure invaders deeper with easy access, before coming at them from behind." he states to no one in particular as he still reflects on the last door opening inwards.


OOC:  Woke up this morning to news of an earthquake of 7.8 magnitude 800km's away down country, along with aftershocks around 6.2 magnitude.  Wouldn't concern me normally, except 2 weeks ago we bought a house 650km's closer to the epicentre of the first quake.  Currently Wellington (to be my new city from 9th December) is experiencing aftershocks around 3.8 magnitude.

Fun times ahead, or maybe not.

ooc: Okay folks, you have two alcoves, two secret doors.  Actions...

Myrrick will check the door for traps, then attempts to pick any locks that are in place

22:19, Today: Myrrick rolled 82 using 1d100.  open locks.(miserable failure)

22:19, Today: Myrrick rolled 6 using 1d100.  find traps.(tremendous success)

Zan will give a hand with checking out the door with Myrrick and Weasel.  "I'd like to have a look as well"

10:11, Today: Zan rolled 55 using 1d100.  open .      (fail)
10:11, Today: Zan rolled 10 using 1d100.  find trap.  (success)

"Step aside,  gents.  You need a real street urchin to show you how to wiggle a nimble."

Weasel sets his wooden birch wand in his left hand and a bent piece of wire in his right against the inside of the lock and makes slow, small movements - his eyes are closed and he's doing this mostly by touch and - a little - hearing.


17:29, Today: Weasel rolled 39 using 1d100 ((39))

He starts muttering under his breath.  After a few more attempts, Weasel stands.  "Me and my big mouth."

Myrrick, Zan and Weasel give the doors their best efforts - to the best of their knowledge, neither locks nor traps were found.

Around you, the small, ambient sounds and smells grow more noticeable.  Not by much, but enough to make all of you take note.  A slow drip echoes from somewhere, though muffled so that you don't know which direction it's coming from.

Actions!

Uthecar asks whoever is holding light to shine it around so the ceiling is well checked by everyone.  He considers the door before offering "Shall I smash it?" with a hint of enthusiasm.

Myrrick steps back and shrugs to his dwarven companion, his senses now on over drive, listening, looking... for anything giving away the presence of some vile monster, or demon.

Bruno sighs, "Would somebody just open the damned door? It's a formerly 'secret' door? It's got no locks? No traps?

"Otherwise, I'll move up to the front...."

Zan steps back as well.

Weasel bows.  "Uthecar?  This door stands betwixt us and glory.  Make it go away, please."

Uthecar walks over, addresses the door, and if he can see no obvious way to open it, uses his shoulder to barge it in.


04:35, Today: Uthecar Hornskin II rolled 8 using 1d8.  door opener . Ha ha hah ha ha ha ha.  Oh love it.  He needed a 7 in 8, so he got an 8.

Uthecar leans against the door inset in the wall of the left alcove.  He notes a catch - i.e. the door sticks against a jam or lever.  This he easily slides upward, after which the door opens quietly into a second alcove that opens to a passage that seems to go left and right.  The smell of flora is stronger here, an earthy, nearly pungent smell, although surrounding you are solid stone walls.

Party's actions, please.

Myrrick will, as his usual, take the front and check for traps all around them as they move cautiously along. His sword ready, as always.

Zan will take a few moments to look around before following along after the others.

Bruno also follows the party forward as they move he attempts to determine whether or not there is a slope to the hall.

OOC: 75% to Detect Grade or Slope -- Bruno Rhunthane rolled 66 using 1d100.  Detecting Grade or Slope.

The party notes no flora present, either on the floor, the walls or the ceiling above.  The dwarves, Bruno in particular, note no grades upward or downward,

Before they move off, Uthecar checks the alcove in which he also found a secret door.  He figures the catch will be the same in both.  He checks to make sure they both feed into the same area, and then excitedly join Myrrick at the front.  (I hate leaving things unopened)

Weasel takes a good deep sniff - perhaps his experiences in the kitchen would help?

OOC: Uthecar opened the opposite door as well?

Before everyone moved off down the newly discovered passageway he would certainly open the other secret door for security.  He wouldn't do it by himself, alerting the others to his reasoning.  There's no point in allowing anything to escape to get reinforcements, and it might be the back door to the dungeon where all the treasure is just lying around.

Zan waited and listened, These dungeon crawls were something new to him.

Kullonar watches Uthecar with the doors and hopes nothing slimy falls on him or slithers under their feet. Once the doors are open and the group is on the move again, he follows along quietly, silently praying to St. Cuthbert for protection.

A TALE OF THREE DIRECTIONS:

Uthecar and Myrrick in the lead open first the door on the left.  Beyond is dark, but Bruno brings forth the lantern, and some 20' away, through the door, you can see a wall: it appears a passage runs right and left.

Where the party stands, the passage continues to lead straight on, deeper into the keep.  Some thirty feet ahead, you get the sense that a passage opens right and left as well.

To the right, the door is quickly opened by the curious dwarf fighter.  Looking within, he can dimly see an alcove on the other side, and certainly a passage that runs left and right, however, in this one, a passage also runs straight ahead.

-A few odds and ends:
Left: the smell of flora and a certain damp smell grows stronger here as described earlier.  That smell is not so prevalent in the main hall or the right alcove.

Straight:  There seems more ambient sounds coming from this direction.  None of you can really make heads nor tails of it, though with all of your shuffling, the clinking of your armor and weapons, well, it's enough to make a good thief (or three) cry.

Right: There are no sounds this way, nor noticeable scents beyond 'old, abandoned keep'...of course, that might be on purpose...

Updated Map - and more prose to come tonight, I think.

Near the back of the group, Kullonar closes his eyes and takes a few deep breaths to steady his nerves. While the others decide on the course to follow, Kullonar curiously opens the right-hand passage to take a look...since he didn't get a chance earlier.

Myrrick looks around and sighs... "Shall we follow the sounds and smells then, or do we go into the quiet passage?"

"It seems as the direction from whence the most sound and smell comes from is the one most likely to hold living things. Let us follow that passage."

Uthecar checks about his person one last time and decides he is as ready as he can be ax in hand.  "Right let's have at it then."  He says as he steps forward ready to lead the way.

Myrrick nodded and headed off slowly, cautiously down the corridor, checking for traps or more hidden doors constantly.

Zan took a look at his nails, while the others decided on the needed direction for the group.

Sudden cries and calls to war announce the arrival of...unfriendlies?

Bruno, Zan and Weasel begin to head toward the left alcove where Myrrick and Uthecar turn their heads in sudden shock, when Kullonar calls out in consternation from the right!

Unsure what to do, the three look back and forth in confusion!

Roll initiative, please, Uthecar and Myrrick.   

Although you aren't surprised, nonetheless the figures may have gotten the jump on you:

Surprise 4 (no go)
Initiative 5 (heh)


Surprise 4 (no go)
Initiative 2

OOC: to offer a better picture - as Myrrick and Uthecar went left, Kullonar went right.  Weasel, Zan and Bruno aren't really sure what's going on, but being smart fellas (well, sort of), I'm guessing they're figuring out pretty quick that someone's arrived with ill intent.

Enough to make a DM weep with joy!

:)

Crap:   16:53, Today: Uthecar Hornskin II rolled 6 using 1d6.  Initiative Uthecar.

Uthecar turns to face the noise, battle ax ready in hand.

Myrrick, sword in hand, readies himself for the battle to come. Myrrick leaps to action, slashing at one of the front line foes with his sword.



08:19, Today: Myrrick rolled 7 using 1d8+1.  dmg.
08:18, Today: Myrrick rolled 19 using 1d20+2.  hit with sword.
08:17, Today: Myrrick rolled 7 using 1d6+2.  init.

"We got goblins!" Kullonar shouts, hoping to alert his companions. When able, he takes a swing at the closest one with is morningstar.

11:11, Today: Kullonar rolled 8,6 using 1d20+1,2d4+1.  Attack with morningstar.
11:11, Today: Kullonar rolled 4 using 1d6.  Initiative.

24 Patchwall, YR 1 of The Seer's New Greyhawk Orthodox Calendar.  Time: 1612 on the revised 24 hour-segment clock.

Uthecar and Myrrick are quick to react to the coming onslaught - As two goblins peel off and attack each warrior, Myrrick's first to react and he cleaves one of the goblin's skulls.  The skulker falls with brain matter oozing from the wound.

Uthecar wins initiative - please roll for attack!

The goblins, reinforced with hobgoblin veterans, counter the warriors' attacks:

10:54, Today: The Seer rolled 2 using 1d20 with rolls of 2.  hob att myrrick x1.
10:54, Today: The Seer rolled 33 using 2d20 with rolls of 18,15.  gob attk myrrick x2.
10:53, Today: The Seer rolled 5 using 1d20 with rolls of 5.  Hob attk uthecar x1.
10:53, Today: The Seer rolled 18 using 2d20 with rolls of 7,11.  gob's attk uthecar x2.

Both goblins attacking Myrrick are experienced, each blow offered is solid - but Myrrick dances like a dervish, deflecting both blows with some effort.  Behind them, the hobgoblin's thrust is ineffectual, almost stabbing one of his companions in the back for the effort.

After Uthecar's attack, the goblins/hobgoblin counter-attacks against him are ineffective.

As for Kullonar:

10:55, Today: The Seer rolled 3 using 2d20 with rolls of 1,2.  hob attk kullonar x2.
10:55, Today: The Seer rolled 34 using 4d20 with rolls of 19,5,8,2.  gob attk kullonar x4.

This group growls at the mixed blood priest and attack with a vigor that borders on fury.  Despite their rancor, however, only one of the goblins hits, though the blow is substantial (-3HP to Kullonar).

In the corridor, Bruno, Zan and Weasel look both ways to determine where to go.  Weasel slides to the right, to offer what support he can to the beleaguered priest...

Round sequence:
1 - Myrrick - actions please - you have first initiative
2 - Uthecar - 1st & 2nd round actions please - you have second initiative, so you need to roll attack for both rounds
3 - Goblins/Hobgoblins
4 - Weasel - roll attacks please
5 - Zan Bruno please roll initiative and state your actions
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:18, Sun 18 Dec 2016.

Upon realizing that they are under attack from both doors Bruno pauses and while letting others get by him as necessary he begins to use his hammer to pound out a rhythmic beat against his shield as he calls upon the Soul Forger to bless his comrades in this fight.

OOC: Bruno Rhunthane rolled 6 using 1d6+1 ((5)). I'll decide which way to move next round after the spell is cast.

12:31, Today: Kullonar rolled 3,7 using 1d20+1,2d4+1.  Morningstar attack.

Kullonar winces in pain and tries to strike back, but the goblins are too fast.

Uthecar sees red when the hated enemy falls upon him almost without warning.  Immediately he screams with defiance as their blood lust courses through his veins.  Quickly and cleanly he sweeps his battle ax up, practically carving his assailant apart.  Blood spurts freely from the giant gash created up the middle of the goblin as it falls apart dead before it hits the floor.

09:01, Today: Uthecar Hornskin II rolled 18 using 1d20+4.  to hit. (I added +1 more since its a goblin)
09:02, Today: Uthecar Hornskin II rolled 15 using 1d8+7.  Damage.

2nd attack

09:12, Today: Uthecar Hornskin II rolled 10 using 1d20+4.  to hit.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:13, Mon 19 Dec 2016.

OOC: I should have clarified that I am casting Bless, so don't forget to add +1 to attacks within 5"x5" square, which ought to cover everyone at this point. I think...
This message was last edited by the player at 18:02, Mon 19 Dec 2016.

Zan will attempt to get lost in the fight and get a possible back attack.

11:34, Today: Zan rolled 6 using 1d20.  Back Stab Attempt.
11:33, Today: Zan rolled 68 using 1d100.  hide in shadows.
11:32, Today: Zan rolled 9 using 1d6+3.  init.

Myrrick wades into combat now, full force, slashing away with his longsword at the nearest foe, be it goblin or hobgoblin. The force and accuracy of his strikes might actually make the dwarf battling next to him proud, the thought brought a grim grin to his elven face.


13:34, Today: Myrrick rolled 5 using 1d8+1.  hurt em.
13:33, Today: Myrrick rolled 21 using 1d20+2.  hit em.

Updated Map for your review.  A post is forthcoming.

Attack in the halls:  Round 2

On the left side: Uthecar and Myrrick both score mighty blows, each felling one of the gobblers facing them.  One, however, remains - pushed by his hobgoblin overlords, both of whom ironically miss their targets, the doughty little feller earns Uthecar's rage by scratching him for 2 points of damage (-2).

Myrrick escapes the exchange unscathed.

In the main corridor, Bruno casts bless, and all the party, including Kullonar, feel inspired by Moradin's holy message!  (+1 bonus to hit & saving throws to the party).

Zan attempts subterfuge, realizes it's not his best course of action and considers alternatives.

Weasel...well, those in the center corridor realize that Weasel's disappeared.

On the right, Kullonar reacts to the small horde and swings wildly, then dances and ducks the flurry of blows coming his way.  Unfortunately he does take a blow from one of the goblins.  It's another small scratch, but the small scratches are starting to add up (-2 more - total of -5HP dmg thus far).  He is starting to worry...


There is a squeal of pain and fear from the right passageway!

Kullonar keeps his surprise in check at the arrival of his unseen companion, but turns his wrath upon the foes trying their damnedest to bleed him out!
"A lesson from the Cudgel > he who does not show mercy, receives none!" the half-orc priest says, targeting the closest foe with his morningstar.
12:20, Today: Kullonar rolled 17,3 using 1d20+1,2d4+1.  Attack on goblin.

Uthecar starts his chant in goblin as he hits his stride with the swing of his ax, "Let the bodies hit the floor, let the bodies hit the floor." 

He focuses his hatred on the goblin beating down on it, looking to push the ax through his defenses and sever the head from the body so he could move onto the hobgoblins.


08:18, Today: Uthecar Hornskin II rolled 4 using 1d6.  Initiative .

08:18, Today: Uthecar Hornskin II rolled 17 using 1d20+4.  to hit.

08:19, Today: Uthecar Hornskin II rolled 11 using 1d8+7.  Damage.

Zan instinctively reached for his bow, but quickly realized that it wasn't a good option with all of the fighting in the. "I'm not cut out for this chopping an hacking and on top of that we got trouble on both sides."  With his sword ready Zan gingerly headed right looking to provide what support he could for Kullonar.  He fussed, "Wasn't a whole lot of thought put into this.  I just hope we come out of this ok"  Zan will move to help protect Kullonar's left side (Assuming that he is right handed)


Zan tried to enrage the goblins calling out to them in goblin, "We come for your women"

17:13, Today: Zan rolled 5,19,3 using 1d6+3,1d20+1,1d8+1.  attacking.

Left          Middle          Right
Uthecar       Bruno           Kullonar
Myrrick                       Zan

              Weasel ???    

         
This message was last edited by the player at 07:27, Sun 25 Dec 2016.

Seeing Kullonar in trouble, Bruno moves to his side opposite of Zan. The elf's peculiar, and by his own estimation inappropriate, battle cry ringing in his ears.



14:04, Today: Bruno Rhunthane rolled 12 using 2d5+6.  Damage.
14:03, Today: Bruno Rhunthane rolled 19 using 1d20+5.  Attack.
14:01, Today: Bruno Rhunthane rolled 3 using 1d6+1.  Initiative.

Myrrick moves on to the hobgoblin behind the goblins, chuckling at Uthecar's antics.

14:53, Today: Myrrick rolled 6 using 1d8+1.  hurt.

14:53, Today: Myrrick rolled 12 using 1d20+2.  hit.

The Group on the Right

Bruno and Zan join Kullonar, find that Weasel got there ahead of them.  Zan's suitably impressed, Bruno suitably confused (wait, I just saw you...), while Kullonar lashes out with a brutal looking morning star and crushes the skull of the gobbler just before him.

Weasel's wicked looking blade merges with the surrounding darkness, lashing out though to no affect as he misses a dodging gobbler...

...who dodges right into the path of Zan's blade.

Bruno arrives on the scene to deadly affect, the final gobbler falling to a puissant blow from the good cleric's battle axe.

All three gobblers have fallen in the right corridor - the two hobgoblins throw their spears, one speeding toward Weasel, the other toward Kullonar.  Cuthbert's adherent steps aside, but the young human is not so fortunate - the spear takes him high on the shoulder and he cries out in pain as he falls.

The hobgoblins turn tail and flee!

OOC: I will update Myrrick and Uthecar's round tonight.

The two on the Right:

Uthecar makes quick work of the last goblin.  The headless corpse twitches a few moments before going still.

For his part, Myrrick leaps forward and engages the hobgoblins.  Seeing the ranger standing alone, both attack with fury:

These being the shittiest hobgoblins ever, both miss:  (to hit: 2, 7).  Myrrick and Uthecar smile with unseemly glee at fate's (the dungeon master's) whim.

OOC: Your attack lads...

Seeing Myrrick bravely move forward to engage the hated hobgoblins alone, and seeing their own lust to attack the lone elf spurs Uthecar to greater heights of battle rage.  His ax is fair singing as it swishes through the air battering aside his hapless opponent's defenses.


15:24, Today: Uthecar Hornskin II rolled 4 using 1d6.  Initiative .

15:25, Today: Uthecar Hornskin II rolled 21 using 1d20+4.  to hit. (Including bless)

15:26, Today: Uthecar Hornskin II rolled 12 using 1d8+7.  Damage.

Zan fires off two arrows at the fleeing gobbers, (Provided he has a clean shot)
"Tell your women prepare themselves"(spoken in goblin)


00:05, Today: Zan rolled 9,15,4,21,4 using d6+3,d20+4,1d6,d20+4,1d6.  arrows.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:07, Sun 08 Jan 2017.

Satisfied in their efforts against the goblins, Kullonar grunts in surprise as he evades the hobgoblin's spear by Cuthbert's good graces. But when Weasel cries out beside him and falls, the half-orc priest offers up some choice words for the cowardly hobs as he kneels beside his companion.

Grasping his holy symbol in one hand, and the spear in the other, Kullonar begins to chant softly. With a sudden jerk, he removes the spear and replaces it with his palm...as glowing runes on his bracers bestow healing upon the fallen rogue. "Wake up, young Weasel > we have a lot yet to do!"

When the spear throwers retreat Bruno starts to throw his hammer after them, but they are too quick. He had heard Weasel's cry, but noting Kullonar's quick reaction he glances toward the other doorway as he pulls his crossbow around to ensure that if the spear throwers return they will not be able to use distance to their advantage and offer some cover to Uthecar and Zan.

It looks, however, as if they do not need his help at this point...

Myrrick gives Uthecar a nod, and slashes at the closest hobgoblin to him with his sword.

19:31, Today: Myrrick rolled 9 using 1d8+1.  hurt.

19:31, Today: Myrrick rolled 16 using 1d20+2.  hit.

The two on the left:

Uthecar swings a mighty blow, his mouth frothing as his axe crashes through the stunned hobgoblin's breast plate...and breast.  As the hated foe collapses, blood splashes against the cold stone walls of the eldritch keep.  Blinded by fury, the dwarf looks about for another enemy, only to find...

...Myrrick's sword work has accomplished the same with a tad less brutality: a single thrust penetrated all the way through his victim, the point bursting from his back, before a swift yank pulled the blade free.  Now, the last of their assailants stared sightlessly at the ceiling, bathed in a pool of his own blood, as Myrrick used the unfortunate's tattered cloak to clean the blade...
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:12, Tue 17 Jan 2017.

The four on the right:

"It's just a flesh wound..." muttered Weasel as the grace of St Cuthbert, always unyielding, shocks him into full health.  Kullonar stands from the boy and shares a look with Bruno, whose gauntlets were removed in preparation to sharing the Stone Lord's blessings had the half orc been unable.

For his part, Zan ignored the two holy men...and the not so holy boy...and launched two missiles down the corridor at the fleeing hobgoblins.  Like a scene out of a stage play, the arrows flew unerringly, each piercing a victim mid-stride so that they tumbled like marionettes in a carnival show.

As a flood of adrenaline starts to bleed away, you recognize that there are no more gobblers, and the keep has sunk once again in to silence.  Taking deep breaths, you realize that you're still alive...

OOC: Nice scrap fellas...party actions please.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:14, Tue 17 Jan 2017.

OOC: This probably isn't necessary, but sorry for my last non-action, comrades. I misread the Seer's explanation of last turn and didn't hold my fire intentionally, but because I thought the gobbers were all down on the other side of the hall.

Bruno grunts, "Famous last words." in response to Weasel's comment and turns to see Zan fall the final opponent. Moving towards his dwarven cousin and their elven friend, "Well done fellows."

He gives them both a quick lookover without getting too close knowing that a warrior coming out a melee might still be feeling his blood roil. Still he wants to make sure that they have collected no significant wounds.

Once it is determined whether or not they need help he looks around at the party, "Do we follow the foes that retreated down the right hall? It may be a trap, I suppose."

Uthecar slapes Zan on the back with a good hearty blow after the arrows fall the fleeing goblins, "Keen eye, nice shooting."

He then addresses Bruno's direction question with a chuckle. "That wasn't a retreat, they were trying to get the hell outta the way, piss scared of meeting their deity after such a poor showing I would bet.  There's no hiding this blood bath, it probably doesn't really matter where we go from here, but the right corridor is as good as any, unless anyone has a better idea."  If all are in agreement Uthecar will clean his weapon on whatever material he can find ready to lead out.

Myrrick nodded to Uthecar, "Not bad for a dwarf," he chuckled, "Let's check on the others, make sure they haven't gotten themselves killed you know." If Uthecar agrees, Myrrick will head back to the main hall.

Some clarity:

Uthecar & Myrrick have delved the left side corridors.  That is where they are right now, busy recovering.

Kullonar, Zan, Weasel and Bruno are in the right side corridors.  The same applies to these four characters.

Zan's arrows took down the two fleeing hobgoblins (who tumbled like marionettes yada yada yada)

OOC: one of the problems of lengthy pauses is that I have to read back to front to figure out all the details - sometimes I miss a few, so that kind of hurts all of your perspectives.  I'll try to do a better job staying on point.

"Thanks, Padre'" Weasel says to the burly half-orc.  "I'm feeling much better now..."

The young man pauses, adds, "Let's see what the others are doing."

So saying, he does so, turning to enter the main corridor to see if he can find Myrrick and the BIG dwarf with the nasty ax.

OOC: How many miles distant are we?  Looking at the map it's not more than 30 or 40 feet. I'm assuming that what I posted IC will be heard by our distant dwarven and elven friends.

OOC. I tend to agree with the Brother.

He went about collecting his arrows and checking fallen bodies, "Not like they will be needing any of their stuff any longer"

"Uthecar, how many kills did you get"  Zan grinned when he asked.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:54, Thu 19 Jan 2017.

"They probably stole most of it from others anyway.  Since the Full Pint Inn, I have bettered the world by 6, but only 3 this last romp.  Do you seek to wager a score mage?"

Myrrick arched an eyebrow as the dwarf and mage began to banter, "Oh who to put my coin on... the mighty dwarf warrior or the mysterious mage..." he gave Uthecar a pat on the back, "I think I'll bet on me, if we're taking wagers, I mean... I did kill as many as the mighty dwarf after all."

As the members of the party come down off their collective adrenaline rush, silence once again settles on the surrounds.  Wagers are made, then remade, a couple of handshakes are shared before the discussion of what's next.  The group convenes in the main corridor...

OOC: party actions, please.

Uthecar good-naturedly returns the backslap, somewhat harder, "I have seen you fight Myrrick, you are no slouch and as worthy as any.  Here is my wager then.  Kill more than me, and the difference will be matched in drinks on my tab when we return to town."  He seems pleased with the wager and then he looks to Zan again who doesn't look to be a great drinker to Uthecar's eye at all, "or the equivalent cost of drinks if drinks are not your thing."

With his wager sorted Uthecar discusses their surrounds with the others.

"I don't want to leave areas behind us unchecked.  Both these secret passages branch off to the left and the right (or north and south if you want and we take north as being the top of the page)  The west passage only has two options, the east passage branches further eastwards as well.  Let us knock off each of the areas systematically so we can establish safe known areas, starting with the area that looks like it has the least options."

Happy for the party to also check just a little forward first to see what appears to be just around the corner, as it might connect the tunnels up, but essentially to the left looks to have less options and should be quicker to sort out.

Other than the final decision if anyone has a strong desire to go a certain way over and above the approach suggested Uthecar is ready to trudge on.

"Aye, I'll wager the first two rounds at the next tavern for any takers" Zan grin grew even wider.  "Six is a good start"

Zan frowned, he had hope the searching of the fallen would help turn up a bit more information about what was going on.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:33, Thu 19 Jan 2017.

As the party comes back together after the melee Bruno responds to Uthecar's comments, "Well, from what we have seen so far it suggests that the halls we passed might meet up with wherever these two formerly secret passages lead.

"I have been blessed with the means to augur for the All Father's advice in a matter like this. I might ask him which hall will lead to the most benefit for us.

"Of course, I may only do this once per day, so whatever else occurs today will have to be managed without such aid. What do you fellows think? I suggested heading to the right, but now that I've had a few minutes to think about it maybe heading left where the bolder ones were will lead to something more interesting? Should we move that way now or do you think it is a decision needing divine aid?"
This message was last edited by the player at 16:00, Fri 20 Jan 2017.

"Sure would be nice to find a spot to move all of these bodies, would make is harder for someone to stumble upon them.  Come to think of it, two of them were high tailing it from the fight, happen to catch some arrows.  Might not be a bad idea to check out that passage first was they were obviously headed "

OOC:  Of the two fleeing that Zan sunk arrows into, which hallway or passage did they happen to be headed down.  DM point the way.

"Myself and the others that are lite of foot and go check it out."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:05, Thu 19 Jan 2017.

Myrrick shook hands with Uthecar, "A bet it is my friend. Just remember, I'm better with my bow than these blades." he grinned, "Zan, if you and Weasel want to check the passage I'll stay here in the main area with our more rowdy comrades and make sure no one catches you unawares."

message 176 shows the map of the explored area thus far - the two goblins hit with arrows were on the right.

OOC: Sorry, but I didn't understand this. I thought that the two who'd fled had gotten away and that Zan had gotten two on the other side. This is something that Bruno would certainly have understood better from his perspective there on the right, so I'll edit my previous post.

Uthecar will wait behind.  He shoulders his great ax and goes and fetches the fleeing hobgoblins killed by arrows.  He drags them back by their ankles, and unceremoniously stuffs them in the main front passage side alcoves, along with the other goblins and hogoblins.  He does nothing to hide the pools of blood or smears of blood along the floor.

Kullonar agrees with Zan. "We should make sure there are no others...and if there are, deliver the same brand of justice to their evil souls."

Zan will scout ahead in the direction that the goblins were headed before they fell.


14:14, Today: Zan rolled 60 using 1d100.  hear noise.
14:14, Today: Zan rolled 90 using 1d100.  hide in shadows.
14:14, Today: Zan rolled 59 using 1d100.  move slient.

Updated Map:



PLEASE NOTE SHADED AREAS INDICATE 'DEAD' AREA, IN OTHER WORDS AREAS THAT ARE SOLID STONE OR SIMILAR.

As the party expands their perimeter, they note what seems to be a defined pattern in the construction of Quesqueton.  One great hallway pushes up from the entrance, while two more seem to run parallel to the first, bracketing that same hallway on either side.  Three sets of alcoves are set fairly close together for mutual defense and quick response to invaders.  And on the right side, an offshoot heads perpendicular to the first three major hallways, into darkness.

The middle alcoves have secret doors, a nifty construct that allows for guards to attack from the flank and rear if invaders should breach the main entrance.

In the left corridor running up and down, the loamy smell seems stronger to the down, less so to the up(in the direction which the slain hobgoblins tried unsuccessfully to flee from Myrrick and Uthecar).

In the right corridor, where Kullonar, Bruno, Weasel and Zan withheld the gobbler onslaught, there are no strange smells, just darkness at the edge of the lantern's glow, and silence deep.

For his part, Uthecar goes to work collecting bodies.  Once done piling corpses on atop the other, he places his wager with Myrrick, Zan and anyone else interested in such games of chance.  Kullonar offers prayers to his Stern Lord.  Bruno offers to auger what might be in the coming minutes.

The party mingles briefly.  His bet placed, Zan disappears up the right corridor, followed closely by Weasel, who whispers, "Wait for me - might be some loot on them baddies!"

OOC: Party actions please - at this point, I have Uthecar, Myrrick, Bruno and Kullonar in the central passage between the second set of secret doors and Zan and Weasel going to inspect the bodies of the hobgoblins the elf took down w/ his flight of arrows.  These two are about 20' up from the crossroads back to the others.

I recognize that might not be perfectly precise, but we can continue game play from there - each one of you should post your actions to suit.

Realising he will be no help to anyone trying to scout forward quietly Uthecar stand his ground waiting for word to come back.

Zan got out his long sword and used it on the fallen goblins, making sure that they were indeed dead before checking them.  He whispered to Weasel, "let's track down this hallway a bit, to see if there are any additional signs of activity around here."
This message was last edited by the player at 03:20, Fri 27 Jan 2017.

A quick note: While I've expanded the map a bit, keep in mind you haven't indicated moving up the middle corridor to the third set of alcoves.  The same can be said of corridors right and left, up and down.

In the interest of expediting the exploration, I'm trying to be a bit aggressive so you have a greater idea of the surrounds.

Myrrick will do much the same, he will keep his sword drawn and ready, waiting on those who scouted ahead to return.

As the scouts are scouting Bruno also stands ready, but as he does so he says, "Have you noted, my friends, that from what we can see the layout of this place suggests that continuing down this central hall ought to bring us to some sort of great hall. The parallel halls will probably do the same, I suppose.

"What I am saying is that while it may seem risky, sending one of our stealthier fellows up each side hall as the rest of us move up the main hall might offset future attempts at ambush."

Kullonar nods at Bruno's words, then says, "I do not like splitting up our forces in a strange dungeon. If they get attacked and overwhelmed...well, then we are in a mess. But if you wish, lead on down the central corridor, and I'll follow."

Updated map:

24 Patchwall, YR 1 of The Seer's New Greyhawk Orthodox Calendar.  Time: 1629 on the revised 24 hour-segment clock.

So Zan disappears with Weasel in tow.  They're gone about 10 minutes when Weasel returns through the alcove on the right, silently enough to earn a couple of hard stares from the two brawny priests.

"What?" he asks innocently.

A couple minutes later Myrrick notes a familiar figure about 60' ahead.  Zan notes him staring and waves.

Zan at a corridor intersection of sorts.  The other five members of the party have convened in the second set of alcoves where the secret doors are.

ooc: on the map: you have a central corridor leading up, with three sets of alcoves ALMOST equidistant (not quite).

You have two corridors running parallel with the first - skirmishes occurred in each.  The right hand corridor has a passage running perpendicular to the right into darkness.

At the top of the map it appears the two parallel corridors meet, then move as one corridor up the map.  There appear to be more passages, along w/ two normal looking doors in that direction.

On the lower end of the two parallel corridors, they appear to disappear into dark.

OOC2: party's actions please.  let me know specifically what each of you are doing & where you are going.  Another post coming Thursday or Friday.
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:07, Tue 31 Jan 2017.

Zan will wave for the others to come up to where he's now at.

Uthecar tramps up to Zan, up the corridor Zan has already traveled.  "We gonna go back and check out the corridors and rooms behind, or keep pushing forward?" he questions.  It's pretty clear he's uncomfortable leaving the way they have come only partly checked.

Myrrick slowly makes his way up to Zan, "What did you find? And the dwarf is right, we should follow the side passages as well, just to make sure no one else is hiding in there."

Myrrick and Uthecar stride up the corridor toward Zan.  When they reach the third set of alcoves, a light appears mid corridor as if from nowhere, and twin maws filled with sharp teeth and a lolling tongue appear on the walls of each alcove.

The east maw speaks first: WHO DARES ENTER THIS PLACE AND INTRUDE UPON THE SANCTUARY OF ITS INHABITANTS"

The left maw replies but a moment later: ONLY FOOLHARDY EXPLORERS DOOMED TO CERTAIN DEATH.

Upon completion, and before anyone can answer, both mouths the shout in great booming voices: WOE TO ANY WHO PASS THIS PLACE!  THE WRATH OF ZELLIGAR AND ROGAHN WILL BE UPON THEM!

Finished with their declaration, the mouths begin laughing, a loud and sinister sound that last for some sixty seconds.  As each moment flees, the light dims and the volume decreases until after a minute the corridor is dark, the voices are silent and the dungeon is preternaturally still.

ooc: Spinal tap - volume was up to 11...ACTIONS PLEASE!

Myrrick readies his sword, "Same voices Rennar and I heard... maybe it's just a trap to scare people off, but it bothered him enough to cause us to leave. Everyone prepare."

The mouths were a surprise, but Bruno is unimpressed. Rather he is struck by the fact that while the voices were loud and ominous there did not seem to be any other actions from this place with them, "Given that these have been in place so long, it stands to reason that whatever traps were once here have already been activated by the goblins or other creatures we've seen.

"That said, Uthecar or I ought to be able to detect architectural or structural traps, if there are any."

"Its just a hunch, but I'd suggest getting out of the main hallway"

He points to some bodies,  a grisly scene - five bodies, each in a state of long decay, scattered around the small area where we find ourself.  Skin is stretched taut over faces, fingers are little more than brittle bones, cobwebs have formed as a silken covering to several apparently more juicy subjects.

"Best guess is that they sprung some sort of trap"  Zan looked around for possible traps.

Feeling his throat getting dryer by the minute, Kullonar takes a swig from his waterskin, wipes his mouth, and then grips his morningstar firmly, ready for action.
"Moving out of the main hallway sounds like a solid plan." He eyes the remains of the long dead as he says this.

After the initial shock Uthecar is not so impressed by the booming voices.  He investigates the bodies to see if he can tell what race they may have been or how they may have died.  He also looks to see if the cobwebs are of the giant spider sort.

To Myyrick he asks, "And the warning they shout, is that still the same?

Otherwise the brother is right," he says continuing in agreement to Bruno, "These bodies are long dead, and left undisturbed even by goblins.  Like the voice, they don't serve as a strong deterrent now."

He nods his head in agreement to moving out of the central corridor.  "Let's check the passages behind us are clear first, and then move forward once more.  It makes little difference really, but let us check the corridors down to the left first."

(South west area on the map with north being the top of the page)

Description of the bodies forthcoming today.  Hopefully you all have a pretty good idea of the layout at this point, and have noted via the map the multiple choices where to go.

"I'm good with what Uthecar says, not a good practice to not make sure you backside isn't safe"

Comportment of the bodies:

Body 1: This seems to be a human fighter, slumped against the lower wall to the left, about 4' in.  In his bony grip is a broken sword, the blade sheared about 8' from the hilt.  The body's been stripped of anything useful - rotted small clothes hang in tatters upon his withered corpse, along with a few other personal affects.

Body 2: Here is an unusual sight - what appears a human female impaled upon a blade that's lodged in something behind here - a wooden relief of some sort.  She remains upright, held in place by the sword, her robes little more than blood stained tatters at this point.

Body 3: A dwarven warrior, face down just to the east of the intersection.  In his right hand, he clutches a dwarven war hammer.  The head appears serviceable, the haft appears to show signs of rot and will need to be replaced.

It appears the fallen dwarf crawled to this spot to die, as evidenced by a blood trail leading back to the main corridor.  His armor has long been stripped away, leaving behind tattered small clothes and padding that's gone to rot - for some reason, whomever took the armor left the helm upon the dwarf's head...possibly due to the fact that it had a huge dent that makes it unusable.

Body 4 & 5: What appears to be two human fighters, fallen side by side - perhaps guards?

Body 4: no weapon or armor apparent, though it holds in one hand a broken wooden shield.

Body 5: There is a large rent in this body's skull, the wound similar to that made by a heavy bludgeoning weapon (such as a hammer, maybe?).  It lies face down, stripped of armor and weapons, though along with small clothes, it appears looters left a narrow belt upon the fellow.

OOC: Keep in mind the greater surrounds - Party's actions, please.
This message was last updated by the GM at 16:39, Sat 04 Feb 2017.

'LOOT!' Weasel hissed in glee.

He begins inspecting each body, approaching the female first, checking for traps behind her just in case as he attempts to get a peek at the wooden plaque behind her.  (rolled 18%)

Next he goes from body to body, starting with the corpse leaning against the wall, then going to the two humans, then onto the dwarf holding the hammer in his hand.

OCC: Sorry, but I'm a bit confused about where we are. Are these bodies in the hallway north of the two doors?

"Well, it looks like the goblins have been looting and seeing what we see it appears to have been a proper melee....

"I mean, it does not seem as if whatever happened here was exactly magical or mechanical in nature, does it? Let's see..."

Bruno looks around in an attempt to detect anything like an architectural/engineering trap.


Otherwise, he has an interest in the dwarf's warhammer, not only because of such weapons' significance as a symbol of his god, but because if there are any indications of its provenance there may be some clue to who the bearer was or was from. Accordingly he moves to take a look at it to see if there is a smith's mark or anything else that might provide clues.

Uthecar stands in front of the dwarven body as Weasel pilfers through them simply saying, "Not this one son, his treasures are clearly taken."  He makes no move to interfere with Bruno's inspection, however, instead voicing his thoughts as Bruno checks for markings."Are there any sign of clan or kin?  They should be told he has fallen a warrior."

Myrrick nodded to Uthecar, "Same words exactly. If we can identify his family, we can let them all know their brothers and sisters died bravely. Let's clear the side passages then move on. No point sitting around."

Reference back to the map for clarity: msg 221

You have passed the third set of alcoves up the middle corridor and met with Zan who was waiting for you at the intersection.

Continue 'up' and there are two doors, left and right or continue 'up'

left (where on of the bodies sits slumped against the lower wall)

right (female is affixed to the upper wall by the sword, and dwarf crawled a few feet past her.

in the intersection are the two human bodies.

hope that helps.  for future reference, don't hesitate to pm me, or post in ooc thread for clarification purposes - this is a VERY intricate dungeon with lots of twists and turns, so better to ask than assume.  Bruno: you're on the right track - hope my clarification clarified things!  ;)

Weasel finishes his work swiftly - the wooden relief just spells out Quesqueton, though it is blood stained and cleaved by the sword holding the female up.  Apparently she was a spell caster as there were a couple of hidden pockets the human youngling found out, retrieving 2 gold coins and some components (now gone to rot) from hidden pockets.

He also gains an additional 7 gold 3 silver from the other bodies.

There is a mark on the bottom portion of the hammer w/ the dwarf rune for N and R - could be Norro Ragnar, of the Ragnar clan - you'd have to bring it back to him to be sure.

As you gather, Weasel, looking past the doors notes quietly, "Some'uns comin'."

You look up the corridor past the two doors and see someone approaching you in a crouching shamble, sort of bent over yet moving at a very fast clip...

Time to roll the bones, gents - Initiative and actions, please.  ^{(tee hee hee)}

Uthecar steps forward in between his companions and the shambling thing whatever it is, ready to face the charge.

He gruffly barks out "Ware!" in case it is running and has not seen them, as unlikely as that seems.  If it does not stop and appears aggressive, (or in any way undead) he will meet its charge with a swing of his axe.

12:06, Today: Uthecar Hornskin II rolled 1 using 1d6.  Initiative - bugger

12:06, Today: Uthecar Hornskin II rolled 19 To hit - if required.
12:07, Today: Uthecar Hornskin II rolled 10 Damage - if required.

Bruno was nodding in agreement with Uthecar's comment and had begun to put the remains of the warhammer in his pack when they hear Weasel's warning.

Dropping his bag he grabs his crossbow prepared to fire once they have a better sense of whom the shambler is.

OOC: Could we put the dungeon map in the Game Map thingy? It would be easier to find it there, if so. Thanks for the clarification!

Bruno Rhunthane rolled 2 using 1d6+1.  Initiative.
Bruno Rhunthane rolled 6 using 1d20+1.  Crossbow Attack (If Required).
This is clearly a miss, so I'm not going to bother rolling damage.

Hearing Uthecar's warning, Kullonar fishes his holy symbol out of his robes, and with it in one hand and his morning star in the other, he prepares for whatever is coming toward them.

If it is undead, he will attempt to turn them...if that's possible. If not, he will attempt to brain one with his morningstar.

16:20, Today: Kullonar rolled 3 using 1d6.  Initiative.
16:23, Today: Kullonar rolled 9,4 using 1d20+1,2d4+1.  Morningstar attack.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:27, Sun 05 Feb 2017.

Weasel draws his short sword and steps to the side, using the wall as a sort of shield from where he can backstab.

Init 4

Zan stepped into the shadows, readying his weapon.

22:38, Today: Zan rolled 57 using 1d100.  hide in shadows.

Myrrick readied his sword, swinging once the creature was in range.



11:06, Today: Myrrick rolled 2 using 1d8+1.  hurt.
11:06, Today: Myrrick rolled 13 using 1d20+2.  hit.
11:06, Today: Myrrick rolled 7 using 1d6+2.  init.

The shambler approaches. In the light from the lantern you see a dessicated human with sunken eyes that seem to reflect the sanguine glow of the flame. It has long fingers, clawlike, and black teeth sharpened to wicked points. A black tongue lolls briefly from its mouth, then slides back in, snakelike. As it draws near, it smiles at the group, then darts forward with a quickness that seems unnatural.

Myrrick doesn't hesitate as the figure draws near. In the dimness, his weapon flashes and he scores the beast along its flank, a wound it hardly notes. It turns away from the warrior, seeking one of the hidey folk, the human one who's flesh smells so nice.

He turns the corner, and his attacks are a blur: claw, claw and bite. Weasel goes down before he can even bring his sword to bear, a spreading pool of blood spreading beneath him.  You can hear the sound of the beastie snacking as the rest of you move to attack: (8HP damage to the Weasel)

Zan looks on, aghast at the devastating swiftness of the ghouls attack.

Kull - tries to turn (rolled a 9), but isn't sufficiently prepared to ask the stern one's assistance in banishing this vile creature.

Bruno gets off a round from his crossbow, barely misses Myrrick with his effort.

Uthecar finally charges in, cries WARE! to his fellows, and offers a mighty blow the fell ghoul currently munching on his friend. His axe wreaks havoc, opening a blow that runs parallel to the beast's spine. With nary a word, the glowing light dims from its eyes as it expires...

OOC: Weasel is gravely wounded, below zero HP. The rest of you are startled by your first encounter with what undoubtedly was a ghoul.  Scary stuff - good fight.  Actions please!

Silence descends as shock sets in.  Weren't no gobblers come to pay heed that time. No sirree, no gobblers et'all!

His shot going off and nearly hitting Myrrick works to take take much of the shock away from the realization that the attacking creature is undead. Seeing Weasel fall dispels the whatever remains of shock and he he runs to the lad's side.

Upon arrival he goes to a knee with the intention of healing him, but not wanting to waste the spell he quickly confirms that there is enough life in him to make the spell useful.

OOC: I can't recall how this stuff works in this system -- If it's not too late, I'll cast Cure Light Wounds.

Lifting his foot Uthecar stamps down hard on the head of the supposedly dead undead, crushing the skull to make sure it is completely dead.  "That was an intelligent being once." he says with some remorse.

"Take care, where there is one there could be more."

He watches out into the gloom axe ready as he waits for the brother to see to the weasel.

Zan steps out from the shadows, "Undead, that thing has unnatural speed"  He did not seem pleased by this new develpment

Myrrick nodded, cleaning his blade. "Best we set up somewhere we can defend til Weasel can continue on his own. Or do we want to take him back to town, and resupply ourselves? I think we're gonna need fire. If there are more of those things down here. Undead hate fire, right?" Myrrick watched the dwarven priest do his work.

<orange>OOC: I've got two spells left, so I can cast CLW twice. Bruno Rhunthane rolled 6 using 1d8.  Cure Light Wounds. If I understand correctly the first spell brings him to 0, so I haven't bothered to roll for that.

I'm uncertain I would've done this if Weasel wasn't a PC, because I'm uncertain the little cretin is worth it... ;) /i>

Ascertaining that there are seconds to act, Bruno stops thinking and invokes Moradin's blessing on Weasel and then asks a second time.

Having cast two cure spells he leans back on his heels and looks into the human's eyes speaking in a much wearier and gravelly voice, "Welcome back, lad. The Soul Forger's eyes are upon you now. It would be wise to keep that in mind in the coming days."

Standing he takes a pull from his flask. Turning to the rest of the group, "We could withdraw for a few days and let Weasel recover fully, but it seems to me that there's some kind of intelligence against us here. If we give it time to adjust its defenses we might not be doing ourselves any favors."

Weasel's eyes are aware, but he doesn't react to Bruno's lecture regarding the Soul Forger. He just seems to lie there in his own blood...

Realizing that something is quite wrong, Bruno stops.

"Forgive me comrades, but I don't know what I was thinking. It seems our Weasel is worse than wounded.

"Unless there is something Saint Cuthbert can do for him, perhaps Myrrick was right. Returning to town and taking the lad here with us would be safer than attempt to carry him through this investigation."

Kullonar feels the cold sweat running down the back of his neck and closes his eyes in an attempt to get the sound of the ghoul's feeding out of his head. Taking a few breaths, he kneels beside Weasel and bestows on him some healing from St. Cuthbert.
23:31, Today: Kullonar rolled 4 using 1d8.  CLW.

"Indeed they do, Myrrick, but they hate the living worse! We need to be prepared for more than this one. Never know what we'll run into up ahead."

Zan walked over to Weasle and looked him over seeing that his eyes were open yet he was still unmoving,  He snapped his finger a few times in front of his face.  "He's alive alright, by the looks of it he's been paralyzed.  I've seen it before it will wear of over time"

"I agree with backing out of here, we are not equipped to deal with this.  We are going to need spiked poles and some netting for starters."

"Being properly equiped is half the battle," Uthecar agrees with the others as he retreats keeping his eyes on the darkness.  "There is nothing here that won't keep until we return."

Myrrick nods, "Then let's get Weasel to safety, resupply, get him healed and come back and clean this place up."

Uthecar places his axe in his harness, and easily shoulders Weasel as if he was nothing more than a twig.  "We should also add oil and the sacred water to our supplies," he says as the body is adjusted for his comfort, not really Weasels.  "I revel in the axe work, but the undead are not worthy of dying honourably, that dignity has already been taken from them.  Let's get out of here."  With the light Weasel balanced upon one shoulder he looks to pull forth his axe again.  As disrespectful as ever he swings the weasel around a little on his shoulder as he says with a grin.  "I might still be able to get in some goblin practice, our paralyzed friend makes a protective shield I can work with."

He looks to Weasels face which is dangling upside down his waist balanced over his shoulder.  "Best you don't get bite by undead again son.  This time it's a free ride for you, next time I might have to see what sticky fingers have in their pockets."

The party spends about five minutes discussing their next step - once a course is determined, they retreat down the main hall toward the keep's entrance.

It is a frustrating retreat for those of you who are still quite hale. Two days back to the small hamlet doesn't sit well - even the quickest turn around makes a four day hiatus, after which you wonder what you will encounter upon the return to mighty Quesqueton.

As you exit the keep you find a late afternoon sky hanging low with a deep cover of dark clouds. The temperature has dropped, and looks to be dropping further, fairly announcing that snow will further hinder your return trip. Myrrick's best guess is about an hour of travel time is doable, given the state of the weather and the late hour, though he's skeptical of even that much, especially if the snow begins to fall.

The good news: About 15 minutes after getting bit by the ghoul, Weasel comes around.

"Nay, Master Dwarf, no sticky fingers am I!"

His visage is a mixture of amusement, resentment and (mostly) fear...

OOC: Peril forward, Danger backward. Bad choices either way...Actions?

OOC: Just to confirm: We exited the keep and then Weasel came to? Or Weasel came to before we exited the keep?

With the human's reply and obvious consciousness Bruno stops, "What ho?  You are with us in mind as well as body now, are you, lad? Are you up to carrying on?

"If this is so, perhaps we move forward. I may have no more of Moradin's blessings to share this day, but the Soul Forger has given me enough bodily strength and skill to use my hammer and shield."

OOC: You have just exited the keep. Weasel was carried out by Uthecar. About 8-10 minutes later, Weasel began to stir.

"If there is no more grace to show from the All Father, is it wise to carry on just yet?  Perhaps we all should wait until his blessings are again available.  A strong arm causes injury, and as we have witnessed we are not the only ones with those."

Zan whistles for Ginger.   "Hey you mind doing a bit looking around for us.  Seems that there's a bit more trouble for us than we first thought."

"Weasel you gave us all of scare back there, glad to see your coming around"

Asking of Uthecar, "What kind of time would you be needing?"

Kullonar can't help but smile at the newly revived Weasel. He thumps the young man on the back and says, "Welcome back to us, dear fellow! Indeed you gave us quite a scare. Thought we were going to lose you."

To the rest of his companions, Kullonar says, "I have a few spells remaining, one for healing, one for battle, and one for protection. I can carry on or rest > whichever is best for all of us."

Uthecar considers Zan's question, "Best you be asking the ones that can cast the spells, I've no idea.". He looks to Bruno to see if he is forthcoming with an answer to the question.

"Sorry all dwarves look alike" Zan cracks a grin at Uthecar.  "Just kidding mate"
This message was last edited by the player at 20:39, Tue 21 Feb 2017.

Uthecar holds up his axe, which is almost as big as he is tall, "This should jog your memory if you have trouble in the future.".  He cracks what he thinks is a grin, but it sits on his face more as a scowl.

OOC: I'll let The Seer confirm this, but I believe he is letting us swap out healing spells as in 3rd edition rules. So, if you've got 3 spells unused, Kullonar, you may have 3 Healing spells of appropriate level.

Spells are paid for daily - I do allow for spontaneous healing (as in 3rd edition), so you can pray for a bunch of useful or combat spells, then swap out as healing among the party is needed.


Bruno gives Zan a look that suggests he might not have a sense of humor, but says nothing further.

Turning to the rest of the group, "So, what is it then? I've already stated that I've used the spells I've been granted for the day.

"Are we game to push on or not?"

"How about we find a spot to hold up, to allow the Weas to be back on his feet.  Others to rest up and recover some spells.  And for us to come up a few different tactics for handling things.  If we feel that we are ready we can head back in, if not we head back to town for a few more supplies."

Ginger who had herself draped over Zan shoulder gave a little sort. "Look it was only a thought, I haven't even asked it yet."

"Best we let Weasel rest until he is fully able.  We also need to consider what equipment we have to hand.  I have come less well prepared than I could have if we are to deal with undead."  He uses the harsh dwarven word for those not living.  "The might and blessings of the All-Father stand us in good stead, but that does not mean we should be negligent to the more mundane methods of dealing with them.  I have not fought these creatures before, and have not brought firebrands, spiked poles or netting.  Should we rethink our objective and seek appropriate supplies, or rely solely on the might of Brother Bruno."  He makes no mention of Kullonar's god's power, though it is not clear if that is intentional.

"What about the old watchtower," Weasel said. "It's getting late - not that darkness matters when wandering around a dungeon, but..."

It seems the young master is a bit off his game. He's fidgety, his hand grasping the pommel of his sword hard enough so that white shows at his knuckles.  To his credit, he is offering everyone a brave face, even a grin for Kullonar and Uthecar, who carried him from the depths...

24 Patchwall, YR 1 of The Seer's New Greyhawk Orthodox Calendar.  Time: 1659 on the revised 24 hour-segment clock.


As dusk approaches, the late autumn cold is biting. To Weasel's point, the watchtower isn't far away and affords a small measure of shelter. That said, it is hardly a secure place.

Ginger scouts about, a quick spin before returning to alight upon her partner's shoulder.


OOC: Father Bruno is absolutely correct.  Spontaneous Healing is allowed in my game.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:29, Fri 24 Feb 2017.

Zan lightly scratched Ginger under the chin.  "Good work I think what you found should work quite nicely"

Turning to the others, "Ginger, has located us an area where a thick clump of trees sits against a rising abutment, should help provide enough shelter from the winds and prying eyes"

"Very well. I do not know how you fellows prepared for this mission, but I have several extra flasks of oil and holy water. We could go back and get a cart load of supplies that might be useful, but that does not seem practical. I say we get a night's rest and head back down. Perhaps, Kullonar can heal Weasel a bit more so that he will be healthier in the morn?"

Myrrick nodded, "Lead the way, I would suggest no fire, or we shield it somehow. No reason to make ourselves any more obvious out here than we already are." Myrrick offers Weasel a friendly smile and nod.

"At least it affords some shelter," Kullonar says of the abandoned tower. "Perhaps we can find a way to mask a small fire. I'll need it to boil wine to efficiently clean the wounds from the filthy talons of the ghouls. Else I fear they may fester and threaten the boy's life."

As they leave the complex Uthecar will spike the doors shut from the outside.  He cover their tracks as they depart, standing watch as the others settle into the trees, refueling on iron rations as he keeps an eye out.

Ginger flits from branch to branch, leading the group into a tightly packed copse of trees. There is a narrow way that winds between trunks until you come to a small clearing, just large enough to fit the lot of you. Before you looms a cliff, as per the pseudo-dragon's description, and it seems as if the thicket is as close as indicated.

Myrick notes a slight decline, almost basin-like, that sits against the base of the rise. If it rains, it could collect running water - but thankfully, the failing sky seems clear.

Weasel, exhausted, finds a nook against the cliff and closes his eyes. From the wan mien and haunted look in his eyes, it is apparent that he's not fully recovered from his ordeal.

ooc 1: Okay - please give watch order - reminder: mages and clerics need time for study and meditation - I give a flat rate, which seems fair, of 30 minutes per spell learned, w/ a cap of 4 total hours.

ooc 2: sorry for delay - issues with either the internet or with rpol (or both) this week. it was strange, I could get onto other sites, but not this one??? anyone else have issues?

Marching Order: the one we had while last in the castle seems good to me.

Spells: Makes sense, so remind me if spells unused must be re-meditated for or if it's just a matter of filling the spots emptied during the previous day?

RPOL: I generally keep it open in a tab so that I may check it from time to time and have noted in the past few months that there are 1-4 hour spans at random points that the site is inaccessible for some reason. It generally happens in the afternoons EST, I think.

Bruno takes his watch and when that has passed meditates on Moradin's teachings and prays to the Soul Forger for spells to help when they return to the keep. When he sleeps, regardless of whether it is before his watch or after his watch, he sleeps sufficiently well, but his dreams are not untouched by the day's adventure.

Waking he checks on Weasel, if Kullonar has not already done so (he's not there to mamma the kid, but he does want to be certain that he really is ready to return to the mission), and tucks into his rations ready to get on with the day's efforts.

Zan asks for the first shift so that he can rest and recover spells after that.

OOC: RPOL was acting up, had to make multiple login attempts.  I was doing a bit of traveling though.

Casters resting first then with Uthecar and Myyrick doing the bulk of the active hours whilst the others sleep/meditate and learn spells.  Weasel to not have a watch to gain as much rest as possible.

Uthecar rests dozing among the casters and the Weasel until it is his turn to take a more formal watch when he will pace a path cleared around the perimeter.

He's okay with the shift leading up to the devils hour handing over the graveyard shift to Myyrick in the wee small hours of the early morning, if Myyrick is okay with it.

OOC:  Rpol was down for a bit but I've also noticed the sporadic access is not too uncommon and just take another look later when it fits in with my day/night. 

OOC works for me Uthecar

Myrrick will ensure the casters get proper uninterupted rest.

After cleaning Weasel's wounds, Kullonar "hits the hay" and tries to rest before his watch.

Zan will take the time to set up a few trip wires to help alert if someone or something is nearby.

Ginger will rest while Zan has watched and help watch while he rest

25 Patchwall, YR 1 of The Seer's New Greyhawk Orthodox Calendar.  Time: approximately 0700 in the morning on the revised 24 hour-segment clock.

Once the watches are set, the party settles in for a short winter's nap. The priests pray, the mage(s) study, the fighters fart and pick their noses. Such is the life of the adventurer.

The evening is mostly quiet, the only disturbance a great owl taking a small rabbit in the deepest portion of night. The city dwellers find the sound a rabbit makes when taken to be startling. Zan notices Ginger's interest, but the dragon is content and warm, tucked as she is within his clothing.
Weasel sleeps, though not soundly. His feet are active. Although he's not thrashing about, it's almost like he is dreaming of walking at a fast pace. Eventually, in the deep hours, he settles. When dawn approaches, he is quickly up and ready.

For all, even those of you who manned the graveyard shift, it was a restful night. A new day has dawned.  Party's actions please.

OOC: odds & ends - I play that spells, once prayed for or memorized, are there until cast or discarded.

Zan went and collected his alarm traps.  Returning to the others, "Hey Weez, how are you feeling this morning?".  Zan went about gathering the last of his things, he pulled out a piece of jerky and tore a third of it off and handed it to Ginger.  He ate the rest himself.  Zan waited for the verdict on Weasel.

As did Uthecar as he sat there chewing some jerky.  Their continued mission was hinged on whether he felt capable this morning.

Weasel smiled ruefully at all the attention. 'I'm alright,' he answered those who asked. 'Ready to head out again.'

Kullonar rises and, after relieving himself, washes his hands and face and says his morning prayers, ending with recitation of the some of the tenets of St. Cuthbert. He then sees to Weasel's wounds, checking for infection. If needed, Kullonar will give the lad some healing.
(Weasel?)

He then grabs a hard biscuit and some jerky and gears up for the day. To Zan he mentions quietly, "Remind me to sleep upwind of Uthecar  the next time we camp."

As if on queue Uthecar belches "BRWAAAAAAP" and passes wind as he gets to his feet.  He seems to be completely uncouth, making no effort to hide either event, and it's uncertain whether he even realizes it's not the done thing in company.

"Going for a slash." he announces, as he wanders only a few feet into the bush.

Myrrick will double check all of his gear, making sure blades are cleaned and arrows are ready. "Then do we return to the stronghold, or head back to town?"

Bruno is pleased to see that Weasel seems to be sufficiently recovered spiritually.

In reply to Myrrick, "Weasel is seemingly recovered and returning with a wagon load of supplies would not likely make whatever we have yet to face within much easier.

"Let us return and complete our investigation."

Kullonar rolls his eyes and sighs heavily. "Cuthbert, give me strength." He mutters and then wanders over to Bruno.

"Agreed. Let us purge the evil dead from this place."
This message was last edited by the player at 18:59, Wed 08 Mar 2017.

After morning ablutions and the voiding of bladders (among other things), the group breaks camp and heads back to Quesqueton. Exiting the wooded area, you march along the path, past the old guard house, toward the now closed door that marks the entrance to the keep.  As you draw near...


OOC: Please give me an idea roll. What is an idea roll, you ask? Simply put, you add your wisdom score to your intelligence score and then roll percentile dice. If you score below the sum of INT/WIS, you have an idea. If not, you are, sadly, clueless...

A little taste of a House Rule in my face to face game that seems to work pretty well. I figured I'd play test it here and see how you guys like it...

OOC:  Against all odds Uthecar rolled 13 which surprisingly is lower than his combined intelligence and wisdom.  I hope the thought involves thumping things with an axe, or countering Demi human battle tactics because it could be successfully argued he is relatively clueless on a lot of things other than fighting in spite of his okay INT and WIS scores

OOC: Bruno Rhunthane rolled 56 using 1d100.  Idea Roll.
Nope! Bruno's got nuthin.

Zan was glad to see that Weasel was back to some sort of normal.  "Good to see we didn't lose you."  He glanced over to Uthecar and added, "Ginger was worried about him"

16:42, Today: Zan rolled 22 using 1d100.  Idea.
   Eureka   Zan thunk a thought of some kind

"Aiiii lad, it wouldn't'ave been good to lose you at the first encounter." Uthecar continues the thought to Weasel.  "Best you stick close and don't let things bite and claw you until we know what you're dealing with.  Those that live but are dead are abominations to the world."

Uthecar takes the lead walking with his great axe in hand as he looks around at the old guard house for signs of disturbance when they draw near to where they left the day before.

Myrrick stares off into space blankly while the others chat.

Kullonar looks around at his companions and asks, "So, what's the plan?"

"I pull the spikes out of the floor of the door we jammed, and we have at them again, a little wiser."  Uthecar trudges forward towards the door.

OOC:  Not sure if we're waiting on an 'insight' post from the Seer, but if not Uthecar will do as he says, unspiking the door and again entering the tunnels.

Despite their overwhelming defeat, those of you with ideas feel like there is some method to the gobblers madness, almost as if a real defense was put in place. It seems the ghoul who chowed on Weasel was ravenous - not that ghouls aren't always ravenous, but one would think with gobblers around, there'd be some easy pickins (Gollum, Gollum).

Also unremarked at the first entry into the keep: bushes and undergrowth were sorely lacking around the main entrance to the keep.

"You know, something just occurred to me.  The entrance was fairly easy to find.  What if those crafty goblins set it up for us to do just that.  I mean if I had a place that I didn't want people to come, I would have done something to make the door hidden or at least harder to find.  How about we do a look about and see if those little buggers have another entrance?"

"Maybe it's not that they're trying not to hide the entrance.  Maybe it's just that they don't care if someone finds the entrance.  For all we can tell, they're bottled up pretty good, and we didn't see no signs of a back door.  Makes ya wonder how deep this fortress goes, don't it?"

Uthecar looks at Zan as if awakening to the fact that the elf might actually know a thing or two about the mannerisms of goblins.

"Hammers and tongs, that's just what the crafty little gobbers would do too.  Set others up for grief just for the giggles they'd get from it.  Shall we check around the guard house thoroughly before we head into the maw once more?"

Myrrick nodded, It couldn't hurt to spend a few minutes looking around the guard house."

Bruno considers the elf's insight, "Well... Alternatively, how could they hide the main entrance to this fortress? Being a great fortress it is purposefully big, is it not?

"Good point, though. I had not considered that they might actually have a separate way in and out. I too agree that this bears investigation."

"So, what are we doing?" Kullonar says, ready to move out. None of these ideas were his, so he's just waiting, albeit somewhat impatiently, to be told what to do.

OOC: Just to clarify: you get the sense the fortress is huge, but this entrance appears to lead directly into the heights above you. You don't get a sense of exterior battlements looming above, just natural mountain tops.

The party spends a few minutes about the watch tower, quickly conclude that the decrepit state of the old lookout is in direct contrast to what they discovered within Quesqueton proper.

Do you wish to continue searching the watchtower and it's surrounds?

Hullo?

Myrrick will give the tower area one more quick look, before suggesting they head back down and start back into the door they found originally.

Zan will go back and examine the watch tower once more, checking to make sure that there was nothing that was overlooked the first time.  "Ginger be a lov and give this tower a top down looking over."

"If you recall the last time the the goblin bolted from the tower and for the door down the pathway.  We were able to bring him down before he was able to make it to the door.  There has to be something that we are overlooking"

Zan will search for anything concealed or hidden.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:58, Tue 21 Mar 2017.

Before Zan moved to recon Bruno had looked at both he and Uthecar expectantly when they moved to the tower.

When Zan and Ginger begin to investigate he stands ready with his crossbow.

The tower is still empty, still has a hole in the roof. Nothing has changed since your arrival the previous day.

The party makes it's way back to the front door. Thieves check, find that the locks and the trap have been reset.

I'll give a freebie on the lock, but whomever checks the door has to roll to remove the trap (you know where the trap is, so you don't have to 'find' it again).

Zan works at removing the trap, "Still get this odd feeling that we are overlooking some obvious"




15:57, Today: Zan rolled 84 using 1d100.  remove trap.

Uthecar nods in agreement as Zan addresses the door.  "Locked to keep creatures out, or locked to keep creatures in? he wonders aloud as Zan works the trap.

"Should we look a little harder to see what else is around, or just head in again?  Goblins don't usually co-exist with undead, this just don't add up."



OOC:  Are there any telltale goblin trails around this whole area Seer?  Do any lead off away from the structures?  How is the mountainside to climb to see if there are any other entrances?  I would have thought Ginger might have reported on anything of significance seen from the air, so my line of thought might just be a waste of time, which doesn't need to be pursued if it is.

Bruno stands ready as Zan deals with the trap. He too was frustrated that their extra reconnaissance led to nothing.

In reply to Uthecar, "They do if their master commands undead as well. This place is rife with cursed magic..." he trails off as he scans the area suspiciously.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:11, Sat 25 Mar 2017.

Kullonar waits patiently while gnawing on a strip of jerky.

Myrrick grips his sword, waiting, he checks for traps too and finds nothing.


22:54, Today: Myrrick rolled 41 using 1d100.  find traps... beat 20.

Uthecar growls under his breath at the thought of cursed magic that Bruno mentions.

With the door unlocked and the trap neutralized he will push the door open ready to lead in, battle axe ready.

Ginger had taken up a pirched position on the highest point of the tower while the group made their way to th door.

Weasel's prior effort of removing the trap on this door apparently pays off: he is successful once again!

A young man, he seems a bit embarrassed by his effort, sheepishly opening the door and allowing the folks with the big armor and bigger weapons to precede him.